#to be clear we do get hung up on stuff the other person doesn't care about as much

[etirabys]

something I like about my husband is that I'll "well technically" at him about something plenty of people would wave off or be annoyed by, but he'll go "oh you're right" and sincerely correct himself because he is in agreement with me that the error could not be waved away, and warrants correction... when I was young I was vaguely aware one ought to "find a spouse who shares your values" but I had no idea what values really meant here. when I tried to list some of my major ones, I came up with e.g. "pro abortion", but this seemed suspicious to me. it's more of a position or a conclusion than a value per se. but the quibbling thing, that's a value

[the-togepi-man]

The boy you (and maybe shawn?) have a crush on

Sure, im a little high and he wont see this since he doesn't use tumblr. Dunno if I'll ever get the chance to tell him all this so

I cant speak for Sean, who I knows really enjoys his company but falls for people a lot slower-

But I think he's a great guy. He's gives off this very aloof vibe, but he's incredibly smart and very sharp with his wit and observations. The first time He, Sean, and I hung out together - those two talked about how they listen to NPR and the Economist in the morning. It was goofy but thats when I first noticed myself getting flustered. He cares about his friends and his relationships very much, as do I. SO while polyamours people don't HAVE to all date each other it's insanely important to me that Sean enjoys their company too

He and Sean also have this rapport and bounce off each other so well that it's just hard to not roll your eyes but get caught up in it. He's got this really cute smile, and when you make a jab at him or catch him off guard his opens his mouth with this goofy smile and his cheeks turn bright red. His eyes also twinkle a little when he gets excited. And even though he doesn't like eye contact, if the conversation is important he maintains it to show how much he's listening. Also after he does his hair - a few hours in to the day the very front of it has one curl that drops down on to his forehead and its adorable as all fuck

He's passionate about the things he's interested in, and even more passionate about staying true to himself. It's very clear that he wants to live his life as who he is, and I think that more people should aspire to do. He puts his passions and his friends first and does his absolute best to make sure he sticks to all the plans he makes with them. When i first asked him to make plans with us, I was thinking "ah yeah he might fade away like everyone else" but then the next day he followed up with plans for a happy hour. When I point out things I am really interested in he asks questions and says "oh we will have to watch that some time" or "or ill have to try that." He and Sean inspire me to try new foods and do new things I normally wouldn't. Sean's helped me grow a lot, but when he and Sean both commit to something I start to see how much I was missing out on

Small break from his personality- he's also SUPER hot. Like just tall, gorgeous, great body, hairy chest, great cuddle buddy, beautiful eyes, comforting smile, and from what I recall a good kisser- among other things.

He has a lot of parts to his personality and every time we hang out I feel like a learn more in a good way. Like every time we hang out it's a new discovery. With that said, he's also not high maintenance. I love going out and doing fun stuff with him and Sean, but I also love that we can just grab some drinks, hop on the couch, cuddle up and watch something together or listen to music together. He puts on songs sometimes that remind me of my childhood and sitting around at my grandparents house listening to my family talk while I fell asleep to the music

That might be the hardest part about not saying all this to him, - but he feels like he really fits right in to place with Sean and I, not like I've ever felt before. And of course I've talked to Sean about all this (Because Sean is the fucking BEST- and someone would have to really be awesome to have an impact on both of us). Anyhow, he just seems like such a wonderful person that we'd both fight the standards of society to have in our lives.

So all in all, I am just glad I can be his friend more than anything. Thanks anon for letting me get this out! It felt good to type it since again, dunno if he will ever get to hear me say it- nor would he need to hear it. He can handle his life on his own- I just hope I get to be a supporting member for the rest of it :)

[ivoryminitower]

Echoes of Home: 55 - Steve ("boom")

Echoes of Home: FFXIV AU OC – WoLs on Earth

Tsu'na said she found a place to work on the gasoline, so we headed out after the Tuesday night diner shift to camp.  It was a beat-up building in what looked like the edge of an industrial area.  Not a lot of cover for a tent, so we set up in some trees about a mile away with plans to hoof it in in the morning.

In the daylight, the building looked more than beat-up.  It looked like it might have been a small factory or machine shop, but something had torn right through the middle of it.  The owner apparently called it a write-off, gutted it for anything useful, and left it to rot.

"What might have done this, Husband?"

"Wild guess?  Maybe an F2 tornado."

"Eff two?"

"They come in categories.  The stuff we saw in Eorzea would compare to F1.  F2's bigger and might tear through a building that doesn't have a lot of internal support.  They go all the way up to F5…I hear some of those can be a mile across."

Tsu'na stared at me with wide eyes.  "Do those happen often?"

"The really big ones?  Not too, I think.  The smaller ones, there's places where they happen kind of a lot.  Needs big flat areas for the winds to get up to speed."

"Tornado Alley."

"Yeah."  I studied the bisected building.  "Guessing someone got unlucky."

The remaining sheet metal walls were well-corroded.  Windows were up high, with maybe half the glass remaining; someone might've thought it a personal challenge to throw rocks that high up.  Slightly surprising not to see any tagging, but I guess graffiti artists would have to actually care to go out that far.

The inside (for certain values of "inside") didn't have much to show.  The smashed-out middle was flat and empty.  The remaining "wings" had a couple crossbeams, one of which had some chain hanging from it.  What looked like the remains of an HVAC system, which may have fallen from the roof, lay in a heap on the floor.  A few empty cabinets hung on the walls with their doors open.  A corner was closed off with chain link caging, probably for storage, but nothing was stored in it now.

Another corner was closed off as a room…guessing that was whatever-this-was's "office".  A cheap but heavy desk remained in it.  The opposite wing had a long metal worktable.  That was about it for furniture.

There was broken glass on the floor, but it was flat and clear, so likely from the windows.  No bottle glass.  No beer cans or other trash.  Which seemed kind of odd.  Sure, the building was roof-deficient, but still, vacant building.  Concrete floor, so it's not like someone would fall or anything.  So why was no one using it as a hangout or shelter?

"Hey!"

We turned to see a man in a sky-blue shirt, black pants and a beige cowboy hat.  He had a gun, but it was still in its holster with his hand resting on it.  I didn't see a badge.

"This is private property!"

I smiled and held up a hand.  "Hey, sorry, we were just hiking by and saw this.  What was it, a tornado?"

"Don't know, don't care.  Get lost."

He had a patch on the arm of his shirt.  I guessed he was a rental.  "They pay you to guard this place?  Seriously, what's there to guard?"

"Less talking, more walking."

We walked.  Mr. Guard followed us out of the shell and out into the parking lot.  I turned back to the building.  "See, I was just telling my wife this had to be an F2.  Not like I'm an expert or anything…"

"F1," muttered Mr. Guard.

"F1?  Really?  They can do this?"

"Skinnier.  They're movin' fast, they can tear right through something like this. F2 woulda taken the whole building down.  Y'ain't from around here, are you?"

"East coast.  Guess you folks know tornadoes, huh?"

"Yeah, we get enough of them."  

He was still gruff, but at least he was letting me engage him.  I turned to Tsu'na.  "Cider?"  She brought out a bottle and opened it for me, then another for herself.  I gestured to the building with my bottle.  "And they're not fixing it or tearing it down?  Just leaving it there?"  I saw his eyes following the bottle and paused before drinking.  "Hey, you want one?"

He accepted the bottle, a little startled when he touched it.  He took a slow sip and closed his eyes.  "Oh Lord, that's good on a day like this.  How you keepin' it cold?"

"Insulated fanny pack."

"Maybe I gotta get me one of those."

Tsu'na handed me a fresh bottle.  I asked,  "So how much are they paying you to guard an empty shell?"

"Fifty a day."

"Side job?"

"Retiree."

"Nice."  I sipped my cider and gazed at the building.  "You know...we could really use a place like this…"

"You wanna buy it?"

"Nah, can't afford it.  But we've got a line on some corn oil and we've been thinking about developing alternative fuel…"

"Like corn ethanol?"

Oklahomans really know their tornadoes and their gas.  "Like that, yeah.  Course, it's not the sort of thing we want to do in our garage, but a place like this where there's, like, nothing to burn…"

"'Cept for the part where it's private property."

"Yeah, there's that."  I looked around the parking lot and saw a faded blue SUV not too far away.  "That yours?"

"Yeah…?"

"Looks like a fifty dollar gas tank you're driving around."

He eyed me suspiciously.  "Sixty."

"Huh.  Well, tell you what...we're still working out the process, but when we get it right, the first two tankfuls are yours.  What do you say?"

"What part of 'private property' are you not getting?"

"The part where it's not yours but the gas will be?  You can come by and have another cider too."

"And what if you start a fire?"

"Is there anything there that can burn?"

He looked at me.  He looked at the building.  He looked at his car.  He looked at me.  "Three tanks."

I tried to look resigned.  "Three tanks."

"No drugs.  No cookin' meth or anything."

"Just gasoline."

"And don't get caught by someone who ain't me."

"You ran us off, we snuck back in.  Totally not your fault."

"Don't make me regret this.  Don't make me lose my job."

"We'll keep an eye out.  Don't worry."

We clinked bottles in agreement.  His name was Leon.  I gave ours as Stan and Tina.  I didn't understand the serious look Tsu'na gave me.

She did have a concern.  "I did not see a bathroom in the building."

"Crap.  Guessing that was in the middle."

Leon pointed south.  "Shell station a half mile down."

"Yeah, that works.  Okay, we'll be back with our stuff tomorrow and get to work.  Pleasure doing business with you."  As we walked away toward the gas station I turned back and waved with a smile. "Three tanks."

We could have gotten started right away, but that would have involved Leon wondering how we pulled equipment out of our asses.  So we found the gas station, got soft drink chasers for our ciders and Returned to Wyatt.  The diner kids weren't thrilled with my selection of Earth, Wind and Fire that evening, but I was feeling festive.

So, after another night camping near the shell (we were going to be making gasoline in a building shell…would it be our shell station?), we got to work yesterday morning trying to devise the recipe.

There were two hard parts.  One was adequate visualization and conceptualization of exactly what we were trying to do.  The Eorzean Alchemy process for making muddy water into distilled water is obvious: you want water without mud in it.  The process for going from corn oil to gasoline should have been similar, but what exactly were we filtering out?  And how to visualize it in order to visualize gasoline as something that doesn't contain it?

The other problem was what aetheric aspect was involved.  Most Alchemy recipes use water shards, including turning latex into rubber.  I shied away from this idea because neither corn oil nor gasoline mixed with water, but Tsu'na leaned toward it, comparing the water aspect to the liquid state of matter rather than water per se.  

I also thought that since we were making flammable liquid it meant fire shards should be involved, but it needed to be a delicate balance to not produce, say, nitroglycerine, or highly unstable jet fuel.  At least, unintentionally.

So we labored.  We wrote, we tried, we failed, over and over.  Most of our trials produced nothing; some produced thick, viscous and decidedly non-flammable sludge.  We kept track of the recipes in case it was sludge we'd ever have a use for, like perhaps a form of axle grease.  Strongly corn-scented axle grease.

It was frustrating.  It was tiresome.  I was getting annoyed, but it looked like Tsu'na was getting pissed.  I remembered the determination she'd show when trying to get an experiment right and the celebratory affection she was up for when she did.  At this rate I wondered if we were getting a second honeymoon.

Leon stopped by, making his regular rounds.  The first time he came he insisted on seeing what we were working on, so I brought him to the workbench and showed him our alembics and a paint tray full of sludge.  Apparently satisfied we weren't cooking meth, he accepted a cider and left us alone for most of the day.

In the afternoon I brought a cider out to him in the parking lot.  I probably stank of corn oil…good thing we were wearing our crafting gear and could switch out of it as soon as we were done.  As I drank he asked, "So…how long's this gonna take?"

"Dunno.  We've never done it before.  I mean, chemistry, yeah, but not this particular chemistry."

"Cuz I dunno when the owner's gonna wanna come by or something."

"What's he even doing with the place?"

"Something 'bout insurance, they said.  Mighta been people got hurt when the twister came through, and they gotta settle."

"And in the meantime this is frozen assets.  Gotcha.  You'd think if it was a going business they'd at least try to repair or something."

"Jobs been disappearin' round here.  They mighta sent the whole thing off to Hindustan or whatever."

"Yeah, maybe.  Well, at least it means we…"

I saw the yellow light splash across his face before I heard it.

BOOM

I was frozen in place.  I took a deep breath, forced a smile on my face and raised a hand.  "I should probably check on her.  Why don't you wait here?"

I turned and walked -- I did not run -- back to the building.  Leon looked panicky, but he stayed behind…smart man, thinking one explosion wasn't the end of things.

Tsu'na was steadying herself against the workbench when I got to her.  I'd seen her Fierce pose in Eorzea when she needed to face someone down.  This wasn't that.  She was furious.  Smoke was shedding from her, as were bits of her clothing.  We recover quickly from damage, so once she had some time she'd be fine, but her crafting gear was singed.  I was glad her hair wasn't on fire.

"Are you all right, my love?"

"Cotton."

"Cotton…?"

"A lot of cotton."

"For the recipe?"

"For clothes."  She grabbed the front of her hempen crafting doublet and yanked; it was burned enough that it came off easily.  "Better crafting clothes.  A lot of clothes.  I will make your gasoline.  I do not care how many gearsets I need to burn to do it.  It will not defeat me!"  She breathed heavily.  "What was it you called this in Eorzea?"

I smiled. "A point of honor."

"Yes.  This is a point of honor.  Where is cotton?"

"Caddo County.  Southwest of Wyatt, toward Oklahoma City."

"We leave tonight."

"Yes, my love."

"Why are you smiling like that?"

"I just think it's cute to see you all fired up about this."

She glared at me.  I just smiled.

"Perhaps I will laugh at that tomorrow."

"Yes, my love."

[the-firebird69]

There's a few more things going on firstly these people are harassing our son a lot over the past few days has been harsh and it's not getting any better we need to trim them down

-the talk is exhausting and it's that way in purpose and we need to stop them from doing it they're renting and raving and they can do with each other and that's fine but not to us let's try doing it to us your order to terminate them we're not fools and we're not going to look like fools

-I've had enough of this whining from these two they're not on people you don't have them doing anything that doesn't get rid of them I don't want to see them here and I've ordered them out many many times I'll continue to do so until they're gone and please understand the standing order is to move them out of this apartment we don't want them near our son

-there are several of them in the neighborhood to realize that they're being pulled out of their houses almost every night and it's been happening and you're not wanting here that's why it's happening there are 110 households this morning 10 went to the back side 200,000 troops and the 10 are dead some of them are some new from westborough and they're not from the neighborhood he hung out with them only briefly and they are gone in the group was a person named Peter and he was not the friend of Scott go Bay it was a different Peter and he was kind of a nasty kid and he used to do my screen stuff all the time so your son had to stop hanging out with him and his son said not that I don't do those things since yesterday I can't get caught because they'll put me in prison and he said oh that's not good so you didn't bother asking anymore cuz he didn't want to get caught and he thought he was a criminal then he found out he's sort of his and he couldn't believe it and other people were saying it too he's not one of them he's like one of them and you said no we know that but that he was kind of a criminal and they do understand that and they did then but our son is worrying about it a little and because these people are massive criminals and he's stuck to them so we are coming in there and we have to and we're doing it now and from here forwards

-this guy Trump is a real a****** and he doesn't care what happens to her son at all is not really a gung ho about the plan and he needs to pay for this life for what he's doing is comments and his ass behavior he's a huge spoiled jerk he's a massive f**** we're moving in and we're going to take care of the problem and we are also going to make sure he doesn't come back he's ridiculous

-we have several things in place and we're going to use them to get them out of here it's taking way too much effort I don't want him here

-it's a huge costly effort to continuously talk about this idiot. If we have to have another meeting we will and he says we should all agree in a way to get them out a message to use and stick to it and devastated once he's out because he'll try and get back and we think we'll do that it's a good idea

-several other people have to go and we're going to put them on the list and we decide what to do with them and that way it'll work

-the max working a lot on doing just that and they have now targeted land and houses owned by morlock that are not rented out and there's a lot of it they found out and there's these camper cities and they are going after them several of them have been shut down everyone there was arrested they're going to place my place and they're finding out there's millions of people in them and they're hiring people here of their own and they're going after them I'm sorry they stay hard and they're hiring a ton of people and so are we are getting them on board and tonight most of those places will be either cleared out or cordoned off and empty and we're going after houses the people own all right they say and there's probably 4,500 of them in each county and that's a lot it adds up pretty quick but it's not that many it won't take as long as people think other things with other people mostly it's more like living with more luck but they're in houses their buildings that are occupied but they're going to clear it every night they're going to be out of here shortly probably tomorrow most of them will be out and this outrageous behavior here is going to be rewarded to these with death row on them here

-we have a few few people that are in a sights right now and we're going to pull the trigger on it

-a huge huge crowd is coming from up North and it is more lock and they say to resettle here and they're going to be very very disappointed they're all bunched up and they're coming north of Virginia right now and we can't believe it they're being evicted up there and here comes this group of idiots to come to Florida right now we can see the military surrounding them in minutes they're going to be dead

-out west forces are preparing for the move to take California and it is by violence I'm in the South they according to off and they're waiting for the crabs to come ashore and some huge of idiots most of them are moving there from here and saying they'll move back and you're moving there from the East

We don't see any huge ships that didn't push the skeletons out but these little ones push some out it's nowhere near enough and the edges are going to be finishing up getting all that stuff out of there probably by tomorrow morning and there's nothing huge there's nothing really huge coming out of the cone and big chips are not required huge stuff is up in the upper Midwest and can't go to the Saint Laurent and they say they're waiting for people to leave because when they come down with four Mile ships it's going to devastate a couple miles and that's what they're doing

More shortly

And yes that rain is now coming in and it's going to cost some localized flooding all over western Florida from almost a panhandle down to a stereo in minutes and it will be flooding around our son's house yes hopefully be minimal

Thor Freya

The base is in Oregon and Washington State are going to be shaken and there's nothing holding up the ship like we're saying earlier if it's ready they will launch the next group but it doesn't have anything to do with things on the outside and it's going to be probably within the next few days or tonight and there will be earthquakes and we're not in the upper Midwest so we don't care and it's going to take place hopefully tonight more shortly

Thor Freya

Olympus

Be nice if you have something that is healthy even if fruit cup would help hydrate you

Hera

[worldismyne]

The Longest Sleepover: Ch 3

Summary: The first year of school did not go as planned for Harv and he’s never felt more alone. That is, until a loud kid from the saga studies course decides they’re best friends now.

(Year 1 AU, Harv deals with homophobia, Finn is oblivious.)

Series: Warrior U

Pairing: HarvFinn

Rating: T

Ao3 Link

Now that Finn could enjoy the comforts of home, he was flourishing. There really was nothing quite like turning heads with his loud attire or the amount of money he chose to spend. Especially when he could rub someone else's nose in it. It was for that reason that Finn had chosen to invite Shad and Beatus over for afternoon tea right when his impulse purchases were said to arrive. He was going to make those classmates of his rue the day they ever suggested he was overexaggerating his lavish lifestyle.

"As you can see," Finn said as he sipped from a gold rimmed cup, "being a bard is a passion of mine, rather than a necessity. I could have a position in the court, but making music is what calls to me. Like any real artist, I just couldn't stay away." He waited like a wild cat stalking its prey to see what beads of jealousy he could squeeze out of the self-important bards.

"No, I totally get you, being an astronomer was not nearly as fulfilling as learning about music." Shad agreed with a shrug. Finn had to suppress the urge to throw the tea set on the ground. "Doesn't all this stuff make it hard to talk to people though? Most of the best stories are spread through folk songs."

"I told you, I'm a people person, I'm friends with everyone." Finn laughed as he fidgeted with the cup. Neither of his fellow bards looked jealous at all.

"Feels like you're overcompensating." Beatus shrugged as he munched on a scone.

"I am not!" Finn shouted. He slammed his hands on the table and stood up. "I'll have you know, you're lucky I had time to see you at all. What would I even have to compensate for?"

"I dunno." Beatus rolled his eyes. "Something." Just as Finn was ready to crawl across the table to grab him by the shirt, his mother popped her head in.

"Phone for you dear." She said. Finn relaxed a little. Who on earth would be calling him? Perhaps there was something wrong with his shipment of perfumes, they were running late. Finn snatched up the golden can phone.

"Hello?" Finn took a cursory glance at his fellow bards. Immediately his eyes lit up when he heard who was on the other line. "Harv!" He then covered the mouthpiece and leaned towards his friends. "You both remember Harv, my new best friend?" He returned his attention to the phone call. "Yes, how are you? I wasn't expecting you to call back so soon... No, no it's fine, a delight really. You couldn't have called at a better time... Well, I don't see why not. If you come a little earlier, we could do something in town as well..." Finn paused, his overexaggerated act slipped a bit. "I have other people over at the moment, but if you don't mind... Yes, that should be fine. See you soon." As soon as Harv hung up, Finn slammed down the phone with zeal. "That was Harv."

"We know." Beatus said with a sigh. There were no more blueberry scones.

"He had so much fun hanging out with me yesterday that he wants to do it again tonight." Finn leaned back in his chair with a self-satisfied smirk.

"Well, that's great Finn," Shad said, "but as we mentioned before, we really just came to drop off your stuff. So, we should be going." He was trying to be nice, but it was clear he really could care less. "You have fun with your new friend though."

"Best friend." Finn emphasized, still acting as if he'd won. After all, he didn't have people calling his house looking for them. The two continued to collect their things. Finn opened the door and there was Harv with an overstuffed satchel bag. His eyes were still puffy from earlier in the day, though one would have to look closely. "That was fast."

"Sorry." Harv shuffled to the side as the other bards filed out. When they looked at his bag curiously, he glared at them. "Can I come in?"

"Of course, you can Harvey." Finn said loud enough for the other bards to hear. "You're always welcome here." As soon as the two were inside, Finn slammed the door shut and leaned on it for support and let out an exhausted sigh. "You're a lifesaver Harv, really. I think I'm starting to lose my edge." Harv couldn't help but gape at the lavish tea set and tower of tiny pastries. "See, that was the reaction I was expecting. They just raided the thing like starving racoons. No appreciation of the aesthetic whatsoever."

"May I have one?" Harv had thought they were tiny decorations at first, not food.

"Have as many as you'd like." Finn sat back down, loading up another cup with excessive amounts of sugar and creme. Tea was best when you didn't have to taste it in his opinion.

"How long am I allowed to stay?" Harv asked quietly. Finn registered the size of the bag Harv packed. Peasants traditionally didn't have much, yet he packed enough for two nights in Finn's estimation.

"Well, you already said you were staying the night." Finn shrugged. Harv's shoulders went up and he avoided making eye contact.

"How many nights?"

"I... I'm not sure." Finn said. Harv continued to look away. "The knights sometimes have these little training missions they go on. They're always so proud of themselves, all their dumb little inside jokes. It's not exactly a sleepover, but..." Finn clapped his hands together and startled the would-be warrior. "We could break their record!" Harv looked up at him, a little color returning to his cheeks as Finn spoke. "Yeah, we could have the longest sleepover ever. Last time they were training in the mountains for five or six days, we could double that easy."

"Really!?" Harv straightened up in his chair. "I could stay that long?"

"Sure." Finn smiled. "What are friends for?"

Twelve days was more than Harv could have hoped to ask for, he knew he should feel grateful, but all he could feel was uneasy. It wasn't enough time to save up money given hardly anyone in town would hire him without telling his parents where he was. If he was clever, he could work some odd jobs around the castle under a pseudonym, but that would only work if he could get some time alone. Which at this point, seemed highly unlikely as Finn excitably scribbled in a tiny calendar all the things they'd do on their 'longest sleepover ever'. Quite a few of them involved going into town.

"Didn't you already go out today?" Harv nervously shifted as he saw a third shipment of excess arrive at the doorstep.

"Oh that, most of that is for mother's garden, I just had them wrap it nicely to make those two... reconsider how they treated me." Finn closed up his little book. "It's not the same as going shopping with someone. Besides, I imagine you'll need something to wear for the opera."

"The what?" Harv had only caught brief glimpses into Finn's thought process while he made the tiny checklist of things to do. Many of them were things Harv had rarely heard of or that only nobles attended. Yet, Finn seemed to think Harv could read minds as he squeezed Harv's bicep.

"How many boxes do you think you can carry?" Finn asked. Harv pulled his arm back. "I was thinking we could hit at least five stores, but that would only cover the necessities. If we want to bring home anything fun, someone will need to carry it." Finn fluttered his lashes sweetly and Harv couldn't find the strength to object. "Well don't just stand there, come on!" Finn grabbed him by the wrist and half-dragged him out of the house.

-

Town square at mid-day was a labor of humiliation for Harv, more so than it had in the past six months. Before he would dodge looks of polite pity or put up with being outright ignored, it made errands difficult but not impossible. With Finn at his side, he could sense people glaring, judging him every time the blond bard got too close to him or casually touched him. Finn was none the wiser as he excitedly pointed at displays or dragged Harv to the nearest sale. An hour in it was clear Harv was just a pack mule to his companion, but people still gave them looks.

Finn dragged him to the tailor's guild to have Harv fitted for a suit. Something that was obviously outside of Harv's price range or social status. A stout woman greeted them in the main lobby with a sugary sweet smile.

"It'll be about forty-five minutes before someone will be available to do the measurements, sorry." She said. No one was waiting ahead of them. Harv started to look towards the door, wishing to be far away from prying eyes.

"I want to talk to Emet." Finn rolled his eyes.

"As I said, we're very busy." The woman smiled again.

"Yes." Finn snapped. "I can see that. But Emet has personally designed all of my mother Leenan's gowns, I'd like to speak with her now please." At the mention of the witch's name, the woman's face paled. "Emet will tell us whether she's too busy; we have no need for the rest of you." The older woman scurried upstairs. "Sorry about that Harv, this happens sometimes. New people, am I right?" Finn glared at some staff members that were loitering in the wings, they scurried off to get back to work. Harv couldn't tell if Finn just didn't know or didn't care that they had been asked to leave. Either way, it didn't seem to matter, he was still getting what he wanted. Even if it was through fear. A young girl with wild hair peered over the banister and snapped her fingers. "That's her. Don't worry Harv, you're in good hands."

They ran up the stairs and into Emet's office, if you could call it that, since it clearly was her room. There was a row of fabric swatches hanging from the wall and a book of patterns to flip through on her desk. She picked up the applique she had been embroidering before they came.

"How many times have I told you to call instead of coming in, Finn." Emet rolled her eyes. "You don't need to manhandle the samples every time. What is it this time."

"It's not for me, it's for him." Finn gestured to Harv who was having a hard time finding an appropriate place to sit. "My friends' tastes run on the more... rugged side, nothing ready-made has quite captured it. I figured since you're always complaining about sewing dresses, you'd love to make something more adventurous in nature. Though I will need something suitable for nobility in the mix." Emet nodded and pulled out a stack of papers from a hidden drawer in the desk.

"I keep half." Was all she asked for, for payment. " Alright you, come over here so I can measure..." She looked up and froze. "Harv?"

"Do I know you?" Harv asked, she relaxed immediately.

"Nope, just wagered a guess." She said and collected her tape measure and pin cushion. "Out of the room Finn."

"What!?" Finn turned from the sample wall he had been fondling. "Why do I have to leave?"

"A man deserves his privacy. I don't think Harv here would take kindly to you knowing exactly how big his butt is." Emet crossed her arms and waited for Finn to stomp out of the room like a little kid. Harv looked everywhere else, feeling his face grow warm. "It'll take a week for your half to be ready. Do you think you can keep him entertained that long?"

"What do you mean?" Harv said. Emet was looking up at him, her arms still crossed and waiting.

"Finn," she says "he doesn't bring his friends out in public to show off to people often. Do you think you can keep it up long enough for me to finish the suits? I mean, if something happens, I can always deliver them to your home." Harv flinched. "Well?"

"I don't like what you're insinuating." Harv said. This seemed to be an acceptable answer as Emet grabbed him by the wrist and roughly started measuring the length of his arm. "And what do you mean showing off?"

"The boxes." Emet tilted her head toward the leaning tower of Finn's indulgences. "Finn did the same thing at those places too, yeah? Saying you were friends?"

"Well... yeah, so?" Harv shifted a little.

"Finn likes to brag about things, a lot." Emet said as she rolled her eyes. "He likes to think he has the best of everything: clothes, talent, and now you I guess." She shook her head. "No one's been able to put up with it longer than a day. More power to you if you can." She finished scribbling down her numbers and handed Harv the stack of designs. "Pick ones you like before Finn thinks about something that would look 'better'." As Harv flipped through the pages his shoulders sank. Fur, leather armors, and heavy tunics; it was all things a warrior was expected to wear. He heard Emet crack her knuckles. "What's wrong with them?"

"They're nice, I just don't think- armors should go to people who'll use them." He just couldn't picture himself in those kinds of clothes anymore.

"It's just clothes." Emet snatched back the pile. "You want these or what Finn picks out? Those are your options."

"Whatever's fine." Harv looked tiredly at Emet. "Is that all you need us for?"

"Yeah..." Emet folded up the designs and carefully put them away. Harv collected up the boxes and exited the room. Finn, who had been sitting on the floor outside, jumped to his feet.

"How did it go?" Finn asked. "No wait, what colors did you pick? We'll have to coordinate your accessories accordingly."

"Finn, I don't know…" Harv felt the weight of the stares more than the boxes in his arms.

"Alright, you don't have to know the exact shade, but a color family at least." Finn hopped down the stairs and waited for Harv to follow. "Warm or cool colors? You'll give me that at least, won't you?"

"Browns and blacks, I guess." Harv shrugged.

"Then silver should be fine." Finn exited the tailors guild as soon as Harv made it down to the lobby.

"Silver?" Harv gripped the boxes tight. "You mean like the color right?" Harv walked backwards against the front door into the street. Finn was already a block ahead of him. "Finn!? Wait up."

[venusstorm]

More Than Friends

Part Four

Fear. It drove apart your friendship with Chris, it prevented him from telling you how he feels, and after a big argument, you’re left wondering if he had ever even cared.

Note: Italics indicate past events

Warnings: 18+, angst, fluff

<Series Masterlist> Masterlist

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Time stops when Chris sees you. It was something like a dream, all the noise on set comes to a halt, a deafening silence ringing in his ears as he watches you ramble on to the person in front of you. Not a word you said reaches his ears but it doesn't need to.

He smiles to himself as he envisions your fast-paced tone, probably getting carried away and skipping to a million different subjects in the span of a minute. Then you break out into a wide grin, the other person giggling loudly at whatever you had said.

His mouth hung a gap, blinking slowly to make sure you weren't just a figment of his imagination and indeed right there in front of him. Someone calls out his name but it vanishes into background noise.

You were here. That's all that matters in this very moment.

From the corner of your eyes, you see Chris watching you. If he hadn't known that you were working on the same film then he sure as hell knows now. You quickly turn back towards the person, ignoring his blatant stares as you burst into a fit of giggles.

He swore his heart stopped when your eyes lingered on him.

Chris couldn't remember the last time that he heard you laugh. The thought alone sent stakes into his heart because once upon a time, the two of you laid out on the floor in a fit of laughter, wheezing and trying your hardest to breathe just to start the cycle all over again after another joke was said.

The nagging voice returns. Louder this time. "Hey uh, Chris wardrobe needs you..."

He shakes his head, "Just give me a second."

"It's urgent, we can't continue filming unless they get you fitted for the next scene."

Mindlessly he nods, reluctantly allowing his feet to take him away in the opposite direction of you. But he can't help but take one last look, eyes softening after realizing you were staring at him too.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

"And cut!"

Chris inhales deeply. It had been hell trying to film while you sat watching. It took him several takes to finally push you from his mind, engulfing himself in his role and letting real life become a minuscule thought.

You rise from your chair next to the directors, hurriedly walking over to a table covered in desserts to stuff your mouth before break ends.

Chris was tugging with his subconscious, debating if sparking a conversation on the job was truly the best idea. But heart defeats his mind and he finds himself walking over to you without an ounce of confidence.

You don't notice him at first. After all, the powdered donuts are really good.

"Hi," he states breathlessly.

You stare up at him. His face beads with sweat causing a sheer glow across his skin. Black "dust" coats his cheeks to mimic the effects of a grenade and minutes’ worth of gruesome fighting. But still, he looks like the Chris you know...even if everything else has changed.

"Nice mustache," you snort.

He doesn't say anything at first. He's too caught up in taking in every aspect of your being. "It's kinda growing on me," he shrugs.

A painfully long silence sparks. Too much history and too many words waiting to be said on the edge of your tongues.

Chris clears his throat. "I uh— I didn't know you were working on this movie too. You never told me."

Your response comes out muffled as you bite into a brownie. "And when would I have had the chance to do that?"

"Right..." he trails off. "Well congrats, I know you've always wanted to work on a big project like this."

Another awkward silence blooms and Chris can't help but remember a time when nothing was ever tense. For years he had looked forward to the day when both of you were hired for the same film. He got so excited from thinking about seeing you every day, not having to suffice with FaceTime calls and texts until he could return home.

You'd be right there with him the entire time. Exploring whatever city you found yourselves in until it felt like a second home.

But instead, you're on the same set with nothing but animosity and regret.

Finally, you break your silence. "Look. We don't have to pretend to be on good terms. We're here for work and that's it. Whatever baggage we have should remain back home because honestly, I'm sick of carrying it around."

His hand clenches, he has so much to say to you and not enough time to do so. "I—"

A rush of people come crowding towards the table, extras and film-crew members pushing their way through to get in a quick snack before the cameras start rolling again.

His words become stuck. He can't say what he needs to with a slew of people in earshot. "Yea, of course," he sighs.

You grab a few more treats before turning to leave when he touches your arm softly, whispering your name to catch your attention.

His eyes are watery, emotions piling up after seeing your face again. He had envisioned the first time he saw you again and it went nothing like this.

He takes a deep breath. "I'm sorry."

"I know Chris."

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

You weren't too sure how you ended up in this situation. The Russo Brothers had invited everyone out to eat and of course, you agreed. You thought it would just be the directors, producers, and a few other people on your team headed out for dinner but apparently, the universe had other plans.

"Uhm there's like a million seats at this table." You stare down, chuckling because there were more plates than ten times your group combined.

"Gotta have room for the cast," Anthony shrugs. 

Cast?

And that's how you found yourself anxiously waiting for Chris to show up. You took every second to eye the door, preparing yourself to be stuck at a dinner table with him all night.

Slowly time ticks by until nearly all the seats are filled. A sigh of relief escapes your lips but quickly you suck it back in when the sight of Chris in a fitted button-up shirt comes waltzing into the restaurant. Fuck.

He greets everyone, eyes landing on yours and then on the last empty seat beside you. No, no, no.

Hesitantly he walks over to the chair, sliding it out and sitting down before shooting you a remorseful look. "Just business right?"

"Right," you grit, teeth stuck together as you try to hide your conversation from any listening ears.

As the night goes on and the food finally comes to the table, you find yourself staring off into space. Every time Chris speaks you’re sent spiraling. When he laughs you can't help but think “how is he so okay right now?” And every glance he shoots your way has you caving into your seat.

Mistakingly, his leg brushes against yours. He mumbles out a quick apology but you're too stuck in your head to reply. His scent was devouring you. His presence was making your head spin and suddenly your stomach began to churn.

You need space. Now.

The place is far too loud and everyone is too distracted to notice the way you push out of your chair to leave. Not even your bosses spare you a glance as you attempt to tiptoe away from the scene.

Sensing your quick movements Chris turns towards you. "You okay?"

"Just a little warm in here...I'm gonna step out for a bit."

Warily he nods, watching you disappear within the crowded restaurant until his intuition kicks in. "I'll be back," he mutters to nobody in particular.

Dropping his fork he races out of the restaurant, searching for your figure on the crowded sidewalk. "Hey!" He shouts, jogging to the other side of the street to catch up to your fleeting form.

Pausing, you turn around. "Hey," you say sullenly.

He scratches the back of his neck, eyes looking everywhere but you. "I know we're not at our best right now but I was thinking we could go for a walk maybe?"

"Chris..."

"Please," he begs." Another day of acting like everything's fine when it's not is gonna make me go insane."

Hesitantly you accept. "Okay."

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The cool night air was chilly as the two of you walked along the streets of Prague. After visiting one time you had already fallen in love. The nightlife was vibrant and everything made your eyes widen in awe.

Chris couldn't help but steal glances at your awe-stricken expression. Your eyes glazed with adoration as you scanned the architecture that surrounded the beautiful Vltava River, blissfully unaware of the way he's taking in every part of you.

"I always wanted to take you to Europe," Chris begins.

"Yea?"

"Every time I'm here I think about how much you'd love it. Every country I've been to has something beautiful to offer and it's hard to fully enjoy it when all I'm thinking about is being back in Boston."

"With you" he wanted to add.

You knew Chris missed you when he was away, it's why he sent a gazillion postcards of every place he went to. A little message was scribbled on the back of each one with a lopsided smiley face at the end.

"I'm sure it's not that bad," you shoo.

"Are you kidding me? Everywhere I go I'm trying to enjoy it the way you would."

You avoid his gaze, terrified that if you made eye contact your heart would beat out of your chest. "Really?"

"If I'm at an art museum I'm paying extra close attention to the descriptions because I know you'd read every last one. And I always make sure to stop by a bakery and get anything with chocolate since that's your favorite flavor. And let there be a pretty sunset, I pull out my phone and take a photo immediately for our collection.

You and Chris have a shared album filled with photos of skylines. The beach, mountains, even your backyard. Before everything, he planned to print the prettiest ones out and place them in a scrapbook just for you. To the person always willing to chase sunsets.

"I didn't know you did all that," you whisper.

"You make everything better," he beams. "Sure hanging out with my cast mates is always fun but they aren't you. Honestly, It gets lonely after a while."

The chilly night air blows past your body causing a shiver to run down your spine. "You never told me you felt that way."

He grabs your hand gently and leads you to a bench overlooking the river. The water was still, unlike your thoughts which were whirling a mile a minute.

"I haven't told you how I felt about a lot of things actually," he confesses.

Your eyes broaden with panic. "Let's not do this now, please. We still have months left of filming and I don't think I can handle reopening old wounds right now."

Chris watches how your face fills with anxiety. Eyebrows knitted together, lips in a tight frown, even your hands are fumbling together as you thought about the rollercoaster of emotions you've experienced this year alone.

Whatever he had to say now would have to wait. You don't think your heart can take any more breakage.

Your feet tap the ground repetitively, thoughts racing as you feel yourself treading back to old habits. One’s spent walking around your room in circles for hours wondering why the hell you had to ruin a perfectly good thing. 

And for the first time up close, he truly saw what he had done to you. You look fearful sitting next to him.

He goes to touch your hand but you quickly pull away.

"This was a mistake," you murmur.

Chris shakes his head vigorously as you stand up from the bench, hands wrapping around your body protectively against the wind. He watches helplessly as you begin to walk away and suddenly everything begins to feel far too final. This isn't how it's supposed to end.

"I was scared!" He shouts.

Your feet come to a halt. Back still faced towards him, he continues. "I was scared of losing you for good."

Slowly you turn around, tears fighting to come loose as you stare at your best friend. The one person who you truly had believed could never hurt you.

"When you told me how you felt every possible ending came tumbling into my head. Do you know how badly I'd been aching to hear those words come from your lips? Thought I was gonna pass out right then and there because finally, I had some confirmation that everything I've ever felt towards you wasn't one-sided."

A few onlookers walk by but you're too engulfed in your world with Chris to care. These raw emotions had been clawing their way out for years and it was finally time to let them loose.

"But every time I allow myself to tempt the idea of being with you an immense fear of losing you washes over me. I've seen so many relationships crumble...and the thought of you leaving my life because I can't fulfill your needs—" He chokes out a sob, eyes fluttering away from yours as he stares at the ground.

"Being your best friend and nothing more guaranteed that I'd never lose you...that I'd never disappoint you."

He takes a step closer until only a few feet distance you from each other.

"You don't think I was scared too? Telling my best friend that I love him was absolutely terrifying. I spent months thinking of how to tell you. It ate me alive but not telling you was killing me more. I'd try to talk myself out, convince myself that I'd just make it all worse but something deep inside of me told me to take a chance."

He searches for your gaze, a strong desire to hold you tight and utter apology after apology as if it'll make everything better.

"And you know what happened? You called us unrealistic," you shout. "You let me think you were in a full-on relationship while I sat at home wondering why the fuck I wasn't good enough to be something more to you."

His breathing halts. You? not being good enough for him? If only you knew how many days he spent telling himself you deserved better than anything he had to offer. But still, he was shameful.  You were right. Every last word was true and he couldn't express how much he thought about taking every last mistake back.

"It's not unrealistic," he states.

"What?" Your voice is exasperated.

"I shouldn't have said what I did that day. Rejecting you, leaving without a word, allowing myself to grow weak and fall into a PR stunt without consulting you...all of it combined make up the biggest regret of my life. And if I could go back—"

"No," you sob.

Shaking your head you turn away from him. He doesn't get to do this. Not now, not ever. You had spent months broken and defeated, thousands of tears shed because he had left you in the dust.

"You can't just confess after what you did," you spat.

"I know. Trust me I know. I was scared, you gotta know that. I didn't wanna lose you!" He couldn't tell if his eyes were watering from the wind or his turbulent emotions. But suddenly his cheeks grew wet and eyelashes heavy.

It wasn't fair. None of this was fair. "And now I'm scared," you cry. "I can't just give my heart to you again Chris. Not fully."

Words were slipping from his lips without thought. He was grappling for you to stay, even if it meant arguing until the sun came up, he couldn't let you leave. Because the moment you stopped fighting he knew you were done.

"Is it Henry?"

Your eyebrows furrow with confusion. How the fuck is he still stuck on Henry, especially at this very moment. "Why would this be about Henry?"

He was cursing at himself to shut up but his mouth disregarded every warning.

"Because I saw him! He was sitting on your porch. If you're seeing him just tell me now and I'll back away. I shouldn't have reacted so harshly the first time I found out but—"

Your gaze hardens. "What do you mean you saw him on my porch?"

His mind continues to pump out two single words. Shut up, shut up, shut up!

"I came to say goodbye and that's when I saw him. I know I have no right to—"

"Damn straight!"

He wipes his cheeks, hand now wet from the action. "I just had to see you before I left. Being miles away overseas knowing how we ended would've killed me."

Scoffing, you flail your hands into the air. "But you didn't. You saw Henry and fucking ran because that’s all you ever do."

He had run away the moment you spoke the words "I love you." He ran away after the explosive argument in your living room. He ran away after seeing Henry knowing there was a possibility that he wouldn't see you again for months.

"I wanted to give you space. I didn't think you'd want me intruding into your life after what happened!"

"Space? Oh, C’mon Chris. We both know the real reason why you never made an effort to come and see me— even if we weren't on speaking terms. You said it yourself."

"You're scared," you speak slowly, pronouncing each word carefully.

"Henry being there gave you a way out and you took it and I'm going to assume that's exactly why you took up that PR relationship too. It's easier to run away than truly confront what you did.”

His head was spinning. The cold hard truth is being shouted in his face. He calls out your name desperately, unsure of what to say as he frantically watches you take steps backward.

"All of this talk of fear, regret, and still you can't bring yourself to tell me how you feel. I would've settled for being friends no matter the outcome. But you left me. When will you get it through your head that I just needed you, Chris."

“Always just needed you.”

It was pouring outside. Lightning and thunder continue to strike as you lay nuzzled in Chris's lap fast asleep. It was only a week before you had so mistakenly confessed your feelings. Before everything went to shit and wanting Chris to hold you would always come true.

You were dreaming about him. Mumbling incoherently about being at the beach with him, the waves crashing hard as the two of you ran into the sea.

Chris felt you stir in his lap. His fingers trailed down your back, stopping at your waist before making his way back up. You always claimed his touch "helped you sleep better."

He stares down at you, your lips parted, light snores coming from your body as your breathing labored. "Chris," you mumbled.

"M'right here," he stated.

But you don't respond. You're fast asleep and quickly he realizes that you're not speaking to him. You're speaking of him, dreaming about him.

"Don't swim too far," you mutter. "So many clouds."

He chuckles to himself as your words come to a halt and become replaced by a loud snore.

"Where are you going," you whimper. "It's starting to rain."

Your body shifts in his lap, tossing to the other side and placing your hands underneath your head. "Chris! Where'd you go!"

Panic strikes you. Your words are filled with distress as you dreamt of Chris's body disappearing beneath the waves. The sky was turning dark, more clouds appeared as the rain began to fall harder.

You lose yourself in the waves, your body being tossed around as you screamed for Chris.

"Where are you!" You sob aloud.

Chris's eyebrows furrow with worry. You're shaking. He nudges your body, whispering your name in a panicked tone until your eyes began to flutter open.

"Don't leave me," you murmured.

You woke up with a jolt, your eyes were wet with tears and Chris was staring down at you with a sorrowful look. "I'm never leaving you, sweetheart."

"Promise me?"

"I promise."

He's always loved you. No matter how hard he tried to bury his feelings they've always been there. Deep down he knew your friendship always crossed boundaries but he shoved those thoughts away. Taking risks terrifies him, let alone with the people he loves.

You were right. He does run away.

In every relationship he's ever been in his subconscious can only think about you. You're his priority, and it's why every last one ended in flames, and yet he never pushed himself to pursue you. He was more content with being romantically alone than risking you leaving forever.

But now as he stands before you every desire to worship you, make you his, finally comes floating above the water.

He had tried so hard to resist showing you every physical act of love in the book. After all, he had the emotional part nailed down.

In a sense, he was your protector. Your best friend.

There were moments where his front faltered and he found himself wondering about a life where he gave you all of him, where you were his entirely. As much as he tried to convince himself that friendship was long-term and relationships were guaranteed to cease, there was always a sliver of hope that the two of you could work out.

Now that hope is hanging by a thread and maybe it's time for Chris to finally latch onto it.

He had no control over life's plans and he shouldn't be fearful because of it. There was no amount of apologies he could give that would excuse his actions, yet still, he grew hopeful.

At last, he found it in himself to dig up his desires and lay them out on the table. He loves you. Not just as a best friend but also as a lover, a confidant, a person willing to do any and everything to make you happy.

His voice wavers, but for once he feels confident in his choice of words.

"I don’t want to run anymore.”

You release a shaky breath. “Then don’t.”

Without another thought, he walks forwards. You choke out a sob while he embraces you, tears flowing rapidly from his touch. His hand cradles your head as he rocks the both of you back and forth. Passively he presses soft kisses against your forehead. “I’m so sorry,” he weeps.

���You’re all I’ve ever wanted. Every fucking part of you is engraved into my soul. You’ve always been my life partner and nothing's gonna change that. Nothing you hear me?”

You choke out a small “yes.”

“You’re beautiful, smart, and the only damn person who willingly puts up with me. This entire time I was scared of losing you just to end up letting you slip from my grasp anyways. And I’m never gonna forgive myself for that sweetheart but there’s something I’ve been aching to say that I should’ve said a long time ago.”

Sniffling, you stare up at him. His eyes are bloodshot, months' worth of worry and stress showing itself clearly.

“I love you. And not just as my best friend, but as everything you are and ever will be to me. I love you so damn much that it hurts and I’ll spend every day on my knees begging for your forgiveness regardless of whether or not we end up together.”

You let out a disheartening laugh as he sinks to the ground without a care about who sees.

His hand slips into his shirt, pulling out a little silver chain necklace with a familiar ring in the center. He unclasps the jewelry, letting it pool into his palm to show you.

“I’ve made so many promises over the years and every single one I’ve intended on keeping. Regardless of what you say, I need you to keep this for me. I swore it to you.”

He places the ring into your hand, closing your fingers around the metal forcefully. “I love you.”

You stare down at the cheap arcade ring solemnly. Slowly you slip it onto your ring finger until it can’t go any further. “It’s a little tight.” Your light laughter turns into a sob and Chris can’t help but chuckle too.

The two of you must look idiotic right now.

Grabbing his arm for him to stand up, you hold his gaze before pressing your lips against his. His eyes widen in shock before allowing himself to drown in your affection. Wrapping his arms around you, he moans softly. Your touch has always been euphoric but now more than ever he craves it.

“Say it again,” you whisper.

He presses his forehead against yours. “I love you.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

About damn time Chris stopped playing. Anyways— one more chapter left!

Taglist:  @littlemarvelmenfan @amorisxx @kiki-bridges @aoifex @lizzzaaaaaaaaaaa @kissme-hs @pbeckn26 @fallinallinmendes @katiebby04 @smackmyassseb @youngblood199456 @ashpeace888 @ljej95 @rexit-mo @captainchrisstan @sarahdonald87 @bambamwolf87

[falloutjay]

Craig x cheery reader please (a little context: team Craig saved her from a bully, reader secretly thinks Craig doesn't actually care about her and Clyde and her are close but like platonically)

I had such a joy writing this, I just hope it still fits the request, as I am unsure if I hit the prompt.

I hope you enjoy it nevertheless! <3

__________________________________

Craig x Cheery!Reader

“Can’t you just leave me alone?” You said annoyed.

Why wouldn’t Francis just leave you alone you wondered. You never said anything mean, more like the opposite. You were just a really friendly classmate that never said anything mean to anyone. So why out of all people Francis decided to pick you to bully was a mystery to you.

“I bet you’re only so friendly because in reality, no one loves you.” You decided that just ignoring him would probably be the best course of action, but once you kept quiet, it agitated Francis only more.

He slammed you against the lockers to your right and kept you trapped there. You actually felt terrified. Before anything could happen, a monotonous and nasal voice to your left demanded your attention.

“Francis, you’re blocking my locker.”

“Fuck off Craig, I’m busy.” Behind Craig was his gang, consisting of Clyde Donovan, Token Black, Tweek Tweak, and Jimmy Valmer.

You never really interacted with them, as they just stayed in their small group. “You’re blocking my locker.” Craig repeated. “And I said I don’t-“ Francis couldn’t get any further before Craig shoved him.

“Fuck off asshole. Get lost before we hurt you.” Craig's expression was bored as always and he flipped Francis the middle finger, his trademark.

“This ain’t over (L/N)!” Francis cursed under his breath before he took off. Nervously you turned to Craig and his friends with a big smile stretched across your face.

“Oh, thank you, Craig!” He just shrugged and carefully pushed you aside to get to his locker, which you just were pinned against. “You can’t get pushed around like that Y/N.” Clyde said with worry in his voice.

“I-Its fine, really.” You laughed nervously. “No, it’s not. Clyde is right, you shouldn’t be pushed around like that. Why don’t you sit at lunch with us?” Token now chirped in too and your eyes widened at the proposition. “I’d love too!” You beamed.

It had been ages since that day, and you still thought about that day ever so often. Francis left you alone after that day since you always hung around Craig and those guys now. You had become great friends with the guys, and you were really close with Clyde.

You rested with him next to you on his bed in just this moment. “Whatcha thinking about, Happy?” Happy was a special nickname given to you by Clyde.

You two were born mood makers and could make anyone smile, even the stoic Craig Tucker. “Nothing important. Just thinking about when you guys invited me to come sit with you.”

“Ahh, that was a great day.” Clyde mumbled. It was a regular thing for you and Clyde to just hang out in one of your bedrooms, chilling on the bed, and talk about all kinds of stuff.

“So, how’s it going with Bebe?” You asked him. “Great, thanks for that restaurant tip. She loved it there.”

“I went there with my parents, and I thought you could impress her with it.” You two high-fived, without getting up. You really couldn’t wish for a better friend than Clyde.

“So, how’s your love life going?” Aaand now you hated him. “Ahh, don’t ask. It’s shit.” Clyde furrowed his eyebrows; not like you could see. “Is it really that bad?”

“Yeah.”

“But why?”

“Clyde! You can’t just ask people that!” You said in a whiney tone.

“Ah come on Happy, tell me. I’m your best friend. Who are you gonna tell besides me?” He had a point, you thought. You propped yourself up on one elbow and gave him a death glare.

“If you talk, you’re a dead man, Donovan.” Clyde sat up and leaned on the bedframe.

“I won’t say a word.” You took a deep breath and began explaining. “So, you know…I mean I…ehhh…I kinda like someone from our friends’ group.”

“I’m sorry, Happy, but I’m already taken.” Clyde said in a dramatic fashion. You flipped him the bird, something you copied from Craig but you only used it against Clyde, since he never took it personally.

“No. Not you… Its… I like…Craig, even if I don’t think he cares that much about me.” When you said the name, it was barely more than a whisper, but Clyde still heard it. His grin widened and he seemed hyped.

His hands landed on his cheeks with a faint slapping noise.

“Oh my god. My two best friends wanna bang each other.”

“What.”

“What.” Clyde’s happy expression became a shocked one, once he noticed what he just blurted out. “So, Craig likes me?” You asked confused.

“No! I mean…Yes, but I didn’t say it!” He stressed the “I” in particular. You felt shocked. You always thought Craig didn’t like you all that much, because he was always a little cold to you and he barely interacted with you.

“But I thought he didn’t like me.” Clyde gave himself a facepalm, cursing himself out for having spilled the tea. “Well, since I am already fucked… He does like you and shit. He is just…Bad at showing it. Like, he tries to interact so little with you, because he’s afraid you will notice how you make him blush and shit.”

“I-” You pointed with your finger at yourself. “Make him blush?” You questioned. “Yes, Happy, you do. Didn’t know you’re blind.” He said and you two heard the doorbell. The others had arrived.

You had gone with Clyde immediately after school, while the other wanted to join later for the video game night. Clyde got up from the bed and stopped at his room door.

“I swear, if you snitch on me, I'll kill you. I love you, but I won't hesitate bitch.” He pointed a finger pistol at you and pretended to shoot you. You pretended to get shot and rolled off the bed in a slow and dramatic manner.

You two laughed before Clyde sprinted downstairs to let the others in. You remained on the floor, pretending to be a corpse. When the others came into the room, Token was the one to question what you were doing.

“Clyde shot me.” You explained and pretended to be in severe pain. “Cl-Clyde. Don’t shoot o-our only o-o-other fu-funny friend.” Jimmy mocked him and Clyde pretended to laugh.

“Haha, very funny.” He commented dryly. You got up and sat back down on the bed.

“You can put your sleeping bags down here and then you can help me make your pizza in the kitchen.” Clyde instructed and gave you a wink. You quickly caught onto what he was trying to do and mouthed a big fat “NO.” to him, but he just smiled.

“Ah fuck you, Clyde.” You thought. You loved him to death, but right now he was being an annoying bitch, that tried saving his skin by having you confess so Craig wouldn’t figure out that the brown-haired snitched.

You just kept sitting on the bed, while the guys one by one left the room. Craig was the last one to leave but he stopped once he saw that you stayed on the bed.

“Y/N, don’t you wanna come with us?” He questioned, but you shrugged. “I dunno. Kinda busy thinking about stuff.” You smiled warmly. “Thinking about what?” Craig left the door ajar and stepped back into the room to lean on Clyde’s white Ikea dresser, which was opposite of you.

“I think I wanna ask a guy o-out, but I don’t really know how to do that. Any tips?” You asked in your sweetest and innocent voice. You really prayed that Clyde was correct but why shouldn’t he be.

But there still was this tiny fear in the back of your head that you were gonna make a fool of yourself in a few seconds.

“Well…” Craig seemed to think about it for a second. “Personally, I would just appreciate it if someone would just straight up ask me, you know? This whole playing around shit is stupid if you ask me.” You nodded.

“Hey, Craig?”

“Yeah?” He asked and shifted his gaze from the window to your innocent face.

“Would you maybe go out with me?” You asked and felt like you just lost all ground beneath your feet. For a short second, you felt like you were going to faint.

But once you saw that a faint shade of pink appeared on his face, you felt giddy, the butterflies in your stomach were going wild. Craig cleared his throat, before answering with a red face; “Y-Yeah sure. What about tomorrow? If you want, I’ll walk you home and we can hang out alone.”

You nodded; a big grin spread across your face. “That sounds amazing.” Craig offered you his hand and you stared at it for a second.

“Maybe we should go downstairs. You know…Otherwise, Clyde will choose our pizza toppings.”

“And we don’t want that, do we?” You asked you both laughed. You took Craig's hand and admired how warm it was.

“I’m surprised you like me. I always thought you didn’t care about me.” You whispered. Craig laughed, which caught you by surprise. “I'm just not good at these type of things.” He admitted sheepishly and scratched his neck.

“I guess.” You laughed to make the situation less awkward. Craig started leading you downstairs, not letting go of your hand. In the kitchen you found the others, fighting about their pizza toppings. Clyde was the only one to notice how you both had that light shade of pink lingering on your cheeks and that you held hands.

He smiled brightly and then made space for you two to also make your own pizza. The rest of the night went by peacefully, you guys played video games, snacked food, and talked about stupid stuff. The main entertainment was Jimmy, Clyde and you of course, as you were just the life of every get-together.

Craig watched you and Clyde in glee, as you and Clyde were playing Just Dance together like your life depended on it. He was sooo happy to now have you, someone who could break his stoic façade.

[mminttae]

Clandestine | 02

-> Pairing : Jeon Jungkook x reader

-> Genre : tattoo!artist Jungkook, mafia! JJK,mafia au, bloody!missions, slight violence, got secrets they can't tell, angst, romance, Jungkook's part time job is flirting, sad (backstory), Y/N is strong!

-> Summary : who would have known that just doing a part time job at a night club would lead you to the tattoo artist Jeon Jungkook's messed up world. One letter related to the secret comes out of your mouth you'll be laying in Jungkook's arms but alive or not, that's not guaranteed...

-> Word Count : 4.286 K ( A/N: I’m increasing words )

-> T/W body language, killing, curse words and intimacy are included in the story (you may read if you're comfortable with these)

Part : 2

<< previous chap

.・゜-: ✧ :-playlist -: ✧ :-゜・．

Jungkook's mouth opened and closed like a goldfish. Even if me saying that line didn't flatten him enough I knew the nickname did as it always have been doing. It was clearly visible that he didn't expect me to be this bold suddenly. But he being himself smirked after a couple of seconds as his hand snaked up to grab my wrist pulling me more closer "Sure princess.. Do you want to go to the trip now? " His tongue rolling over his bottom lip as his piercing doe eyes holding so many thoughts looked at my lips then to my eyes.

"I don't want to interrupt but the trip has to be postponed "Jimin interferes in the moment, his eyes narrowed and only looking at me as if scared that the younger guy would throw him out if he locked eyes with his. Making a 'tch' sound Jungkook raises his eyebrows at Jimin in a manner that reads he's asking why postpone. I yeet his hand which was holding my wrist and get off from the table clearing my throat while fixing the skirt and apron. Jungkook clearly disappointed for not being able to hear my answer gets up from the seat while putting the black leather jacket around his shoulders. Jimin and Taehyung following him gets up too grabbing their bags. Jungkook walked up to me while fixing his bangs with his index finger.

"Gotta go princess a client's waiting" Nodding I proceeded to walk away but I could hear Jungkook saying with a sad dramatic tone. "Atleast act that you don't want me to go". I'm afraid I won't be able to because I myself don't know what this client of yours gonna do if you don't go on time. Is the person waiting even a client or not? Knitting my eyebrows I look back only to meet with strangers taking up the seat. The three tall mesmerizing men with inks on their body not to be seen anywhere. I don't know what's going on in that foolish yet extremely clever brain of yours but...

Be careful Mr. Artbook..

End of YOUR POV

Mid summer yet the night breeze is able to run shivers down your spine. Not a single soul in sight.

10 at night maybe the shopkeepers closed down the shutters and went to bed. Not many shops here in this area to even begin with. The only workshop's bell which rings here is the Jeon's Tattoo corner which has been ringing from the morning today , seemed to have stopped in the evening but now making its sound again. "Argh I should really break down this bell "

With an annoyed expression the black haired guy opens the drawers searching for a fresh towel. The tall man who just entered the shop walked past the desk table, turning the door knob and allowing himself inside the cozy room. His loud footsteps on the wooden floor telling Jungkook that the guest has arrived.

"Where were you? I waited here for five minutes then went inside the nearby plant store to kill time"

Taking off the long coat the tall silver haired guy walks up to the chair positioned in the middle of the room beside the various tools. "Sorry hyung, Taehyung and Jimin wanted a new tattoo so went to hear out their designs"

Jungkook says, eyebrows knitted while he fishes out the stencil of the beautiful clematis he has drawn beforehand of the leader's arrival. Smiling to himself he walks up to the seated boss whose like a big brother to him, he puts the stencil aside. Taking out a black rubber band from his pocket he takes his hair and ties it up to a small ponytail before taking out a drawer full of tattoo needles and inks. "Heard that Yoongi started boxing classes with you"

The older male speaks as his lip corners slowly moves upwards. Jungkook giving out a laugh says, "Yea Yoongi hyung be moving like a turtle. "

The thought of his hyung boxing and whining that it's hard is enough to make the little one giggle. Taking out a small wooden stool with one hand as the other one was holding the tattoo gun, Jungkook sits himself beside the strong looking man who rolls up his shirt's sleeves revealing all the different type of arts and words of different languages tattooed on his arm.

"Need chewing gum?"

The younger one asks at the thought that it might hurt but the older one replies plainly that he's fine after all his skin had been coming in contact with this gun for a long time now. Jungkook nods before resting the needle on the free space on the top of the man's biceps before starting to draw on it, the awestrucking clematis. "Was thinking of getting a lip piercing but not being able to get it cuz of the adults in the house"

The man says while his dimples makes visits to his cheeks.

"The exact same reason why am postponing on getting an eyebrow piercing"

Jungkook replies as he carefully moves the tattoo gun sideways on the man's bicep.

"So when are you planning on telling your sister?"

He asks as the silver haired guy closes his eyes once realizing what Jungkook meant.

"When the time's right.. "

He replies, slowly opening his eyes his gaze meeting the ceiling.

"But first we need to pinpoint Mr. Choi's location"

Replying with a small and quiet yes Jungkook draws the details on the flower carefully.

"Seokjin has been checking the cctvs regularly and the only thing he found was the black hyundai stopping at a night club at exactly 7pm every Tuesday and Wednesday"

"What's the night club's name? "

Jungkook asks as he draws on the small leaves.

"Hell's night club"

With just the mention of the night club's name Jungkook's hand stops moving as his eyes widened. "Isn't that the club you often visit with the others? "

The silver haired man asks making Jungkook quietly nod his head. If the most feared mafia in the country slash his team's biggest rival had been going to the exact same club at the exact same time as his how come he never saw the familiar old man's face? He thought.

What kind of person does the man disguise him as that even Jimin who encountered him multiple times doesn't notice. "You should be careful and try to see your clients faces carefully and see if they match that old fart's face or not"

Jungkook humming a response continued on giving the clematis it's final touch. Finishing the tattoo he removes the gun making the silver haired man sit up straight and fix his shirt.

"You know what to do right?"

Jungkook asks referring to putting on Vaseline ointment on the tattoo and stuffs. The older guy nods while fetching his coat. "I'll get going then. Thanks for the tattoo kook"

Jungkook simply nods his mind stuck in a different topic. Putting the equipments away and tidying up the towels as the older guy leaves the shop and disappears into the darkness of the night in the empty alleyway, Jungkook couldn't help but think about what you were up to. His mind stitching up different negative thoughts together.

"If Mr. Choi is really going to that club then he must have seen Y/N always talking to us..... What if he does something to her? " Jungkook asks to himself and the next thing he does is take his bag, turn off the lights, lock the doors and run off to meet you.

• -

"I'll be off then"

Bowing politely you take hold of the two big disposable bags and huff out a breathe when you realize how heavy both of them were. Kicking the back staff door with your leg open the first thing you see is Jeon Jungkook leaning on the wall infront. His hair tied up in a small ponytail, a bag hung around his shoulder and inked hands resting inside his jeans pockets. His eyes falls on your hands holding the disposable garbage bags, sighing he walks up to you.

"I thought your job was to serve and take orders not bring out garbages" You looked down at the bags in your hands while saying, "I was coming out anyways it's no biggie"

You flashed him a small smile but his eyes looked worried and his face tensed. You wondered what happened but didn't dare to ask thinking that he will only answer with 'none of your business' . Yes Jeon Jungkook unknowingly says harsh things without thinking when he's tensed. Jungkook takes the garbage bags from your hands and put it beside the door when his eyes lands on your right hand which was bandaged. His eyes widen and he quickly took your right hand examining it while asking

"How did this happen? Are you okay? "

Embarrassed you put your hand away from his warm ones and answer while smiling, not making eye contact

"It's okay I'm fine these kind of injuries are meant to happen if you work in a bar." Jungkook not convinced took your hand again now keeping it infront of him not letting you pull it back. His eyebrows knitted . "You were totally fine this evening tell me what happened". Chewing on your bottom lip you look down, fiddling with the hem of your shirt.

"Y/N tell me what happened.." Jungkook says once again this time his voice laced with concern as his hands caressed your hair. You were actually a bit taken aback at how the always dominant voice of Jungkook is making its way to you in a concerned and soft way.

"A drunk guy harshly pulled my hand wanting me to sit beside him but I fought back and he suddenly let go of me making me loose my balance at hit the edge of the glass table behind and that's how I got this"

You say while looking at your bandaged hand which was now resting in jungkook's warm palm. He softly held your injured hand and lower down a bit to meet your height. Looking at your eyes he said

"Tell me who did this. Tell me who did this to you I'm gonna fucking kill him"

In a calm soft voice but the last part obviously didn't come out in a soft way. You laughed and pushed him a bit away from you. "It's okay am fine don't overreact he was drunk" But Jungkook not buying the answer walked closer to you and again with a serious tone asked you . "Tell me how he looked like"

Knowing that he won't let go of the topic unless you give him a proper answer you sigh, rolling your eyes while describing the drunk man you happened to meet inside the club. "He had small eyes , a sharp nose and dark stubble on his face and.." You trailed off thinking what else did the man have but Jungkook interrupted asking in a quick manner

"Did he have any sort of tattoo on his wrist? " Replaying the moment inside your head you widen your eyes a bit and nod your head, "Yea he did.. Was that a crown? A crown maybe"

Exactly knowing who that drunk man you encountered was Jungkook's chest sank at the thought that the old man touched you with his dirty hands. Gulping down the saliva that formed in his mouth he without thinking pulled you to his chest engulfing you in a hug. He wasn't sure why he felt like protecting you but he wanted to . He wasn't supposed to feel this way now that he set his mind on the plan his brain made up on the way here but..he did. He wanted to make sure you were safe.

Widening your eyes at how Jungkook suddenly hugged you, your mind went blank. There's no doubt in how fast your heart was beating. To be honest to yourself you were actually frightened when that man tried touching you in an ill manner but now being in Jungkook's arms you felt safe. You felt safe when he was around. Jungkook's arms around you got tighter as he nuzzled his face in the crook of your neck.

So this is how you gonna play it Mr. Choi

He thinks.

•-

Flashback 5 weeks back

Stretching your arms you give out a small yawn before grabbing the books from the table and making your way out of the auditorium. Walking while looking at your  surroundings you didn't notice the tall man standing infront of you. Too immersed in the same old paintings hanging on the walls you hit something hard making the copies and books in your hands fall down. Without looking up at the person you bumped into you quickly said 'sorry' while kneeling down to pick up your supplies. The tall gentleman kneeled down too helping you with picking up your stationerys. You got up, the man following you soon. This time facing the guy properly as both of you made eye contact you were about to say thank you when your voice abruptly decided to not come out.

The man had soft long black hair .The kind of hair you would want to play with all day. His baby doe eyes staring at you, his lips parted. The oversized hoodie he was wearing made him the grizzly huggable bear image more.

As your eyes scanned him from head to toe, your lips a bit parted, the guy not being able to control his laughter at how cute you looked when your eyes went big as if you saw something really interesting and you'd like to study that thing more, he gave out small giggles making you quickly close your mouth and look at him. Noticing how every students in tha hall were staring at both of you, you shifted your weight from one leg to another leg uncomfortably. But the guy's Adorable bunny smile didn't go out of your notice. His eyes wrinkled as he tilted his face and asked you softly

"You okay? "

Blinking couple of times you nodded your head making him shyly scratch his nape and mumble 'thank god'. Your lips automatically curved up when your eyes landed on the ID card hung around his neck

"Jeon Jungkook"

Once realization hit you that you were now standing infront of your college's hearthrob while looking like a whole mess which you didn't care about that much until you bumped into him, your cheeks got tinted in a light blush. Pulling your lips in you tilted your head a bit to the side making your baby hairs fall over your face.

"Hey kook!"

A loud deep voice entered the ears of the people standing in the hall making them turn their heads to the two seniors waving their hands at Jungkook's direction, a big wide smile plastered know their face. Jungkook takes out his bracelet covered wrist from his pocket and waves at them. Jimin running towards us and wrapping his arm around the tall guy's shoulders he notices me and flashes me a smile

"Hey Y/N"

Waving your sweater paw at him as a hey you smiled. You met Jimin and Taehyung a couple of times before in some group works with seniors. You not really interested in gossips of the college noticed just a few days ago that Park Jimin, Kim Taehyung and Jeon Jungkook are the well known hot trio of this college.

"Y/N.."

Jungkook repeats your name to himself before looking at you once again , smiling while saying

"Sweet name"

His sweet honey voice saying your name was enough to melt you. If it was any other guy right now you would have simply said thank you for helping you pick up the books and walk away without saying anything but surprisingly Jeon Jungkook made you stop. "I'm hungry didn't have breakfast this morning" Taehyung whines while holding his tummy earning a slap on his head from Jimin. "we are going for lunch wanna join us? "

Jungkook asks you making you widen your eyes at the sudden invitation and Jungkook earning some smirks from the seniors beside him, Jimin elbowing his arm while wiggling his eyebrows. Jungkook simply rolled his eyes at his hyungs before looking at you for a reply. You glancing at your silver wrist watch said "I would love to but I should get going. I have some stuffs to do"

Jungkook quietly nods his head before flashing you a smile.

Is he always smiling?

You thought noticing that he had been smiling since the moment both of you met. "Y/N's always studying hard"

Taehyung says earning a nod from Jimin making you shyly scratch your nape.

The Brunnete haired approached you giving you a pat on your shoulder before saying "Study well but don't forget to have lunch okay? "

You flashed him a smile while nodding. Jungkook waving his hands at you as a 'bye' walked past you with the two boys. You looked back at three of them noticing that two of them were wearing hoodies and one of them were wearing full sleeved tees.

It's so hot these days why are they wearing hoodies on top of tees?

Shaking your head you quickened your pace and quickly got out of the college grounds. Walking to the bus stand while looking around at the cozy coffee shops on the streets you keep glancing at your watch from time to time to make sure that you're going on time or not.

Now here's a secret about you that no one knows

You're a student at an art college but you are also a student at a law school. Your father runs the family business of electronics. Yes the electronics company ranking the second best in the country out of all the other electronic companies, which he wants to hand over to your big brother after he retires. Your mother always wanted a child of her to be a sculptor. Borning late in the family with the talent of art you were forced to study this subject whereas you were interested in prosecution, catching criminals and stuffs. What you were most interested in were being a mafia or an assassin but you gave up on those dreams and decided to study law. Your parents only giving their all attention and care to their first born, didn't care about you that much. The only thing they wanted from you was becoming a great sculptor and bringing praise to your family.

After nights of confusion and judgement you decided to study in the law school that you got admitted, secretly with the money your grandparents left you. Your grandparents left some money for you and your brother before passing away and thankfully they were enough to pay for your study books expenses. But maintaining time for your law school as well as the art school was hard but you managed to make time after dropping off from some extra courses of the art college without telling your parents. But it was hectic. Your college hours starts from 7 am. And you have classes till 9am then a break at 9:15 am to 10:30 due to dropping off from some extra class. Your law classes starts from 9:30 so during the break you quickly leave the grounds and head off to the law classes. Then you return to the art college at 10:20 when it's a break at your law school. Then once again when it's a lunch break at the art school you head off to the law school while munching on some snacks, obviously not getting time to have proper lunch. And when it comes to events you had to make up excuses at the law school for not attending as your parents would obviously not skip their daughter's presentations.

It would be more hectic from today cuz you just applied to a job at a night club. There's a course for learning shooting at the law school but you don't have enough money to pay for that so it's time to earn some money.

•••

Stretching your arms while getting up from the seat you had been sitting on straight for 2 hours, you give a yawn before taking out a scrunchie and putting your hair up. All the classes for the day are done. Putting the back pack around your shoulder you bow at the teacher before leaving the school premises. Walking inside the bus and sitting on one of the seat you take out your phone and start typing to your mother , 'Mom I'll be late tonight as I got some extra lessons. Don't worry for me and you don't have to send car I'll come by bus'

"No one's gonna worry about me though"

You say to yourself while letting out a small laugh and looking out at the window. Everything vanishing from your sight at a fast pace as the vehicle picks up its speed upon seeing the empty road. Some of the street lights flickering due to not being fixed for several days now. You take out the 'guideline' paper of the bar you're gonna work in from backpack, going through the structure of the building in your mind and remembering all the rules explained to you yesterday when you went to apply for the job. This night club only seemed to be safe for you to work in now. By safe means you would have no worries of the common students who spends time in bars and clubs to see you. If anyone recognizes you then it's game over. Plus the pay is high too.

The phone screen lighting up as a notification popped up you unlocked the phone before seeing from whom the text is from.

Bro: heard you're coming late at night should I pick you up from the way while coming home?

"Geez already told him?"

You say to yourself once realizing that your mom told your brother to pick up but your brother being nice asked if you want to be picked up first or not. Smiling at his text before typing your reply It's ok you don't have to come. The office is far away from my college anyways. Get home safely.

Waiting for a few minutes to see his reply which you didn't get you turned off your phone and put it inside your bag. Looking out from the window thinking why he didn't reply when he saw your text whereas usually he would try to come pick you up, being the 'protective' brother. You got down from the bus as soon as the bus came to its stop. You walked for a few more minutes from the bus stop till arriving at your destination.

Hell's night club

•••

It's been only five minutes of you serving drinks but you're already tired. How can a human body and mind work for 13 hours straight without any rest. You did mess up some tables a couple of times for which you were now getting a scolding from the manager. You looking down bowing slightly while your hands in front of you.

"Miss Lee Y/N did you properly see the table numbers today? "

The old man asks to which you nod. "Then why are you messing up? " He asks in a raised voice making you flinch and quickly mumble a sorry. You lift your head up a bit to see the old man sighing while pinching his forehead, clearly visible that he's angry. "I'm letting you go as this is your first time don't make mistakes anymore"

He says making you bow and say

"Thank you"

He looked around trying to see if any waitresses are free. Sighing at how there's no one free without counting you he gave you a look before handing you a tray of various kinds of drinks. "Take this to table no. 14. And  do not  make any mistakes. They are regulars here I don't want them gone" Nodding at him you set off to find this table no. 14 . Noticing how your skirt got up a bit you tried pulling the skirt a bit down with one hand as the other one was holding the tray, you quickly withdraw your hand without fixing the skirt upon seeing the tray tremble in one hand. Quickly holding the tray in place and scanning if any drinks were spilled, you sigh in relief. You looked back to only lock eyes with the manager . He staring straight at you with his cold eyes. You gave a small awkward smile and walked towards table 14.

The table no. 14 seemed to be surrounded by many big men. All had some sort of tattoos on them. A familiar man sitting in the middle holding a pen and scribbling something on a notebook. His inked arms full on display as the silver earrings were still being able to shine despite the dullness in the scene. His long bangs falling before his eyes not letting anyone see the face beneath it.

You quietly approached the table and when you raised your eyes from the ground to the man sitting in the middle, your legs automatic came to a halt and your breath hitched.

Jeon Jungkook right there was sitting. The table in front occupied with various weapons and him sitting like a whole five course meal, fingers playing with the dangly earrings

This is totally not what I expected

[a-pretty-nerd]

Tomura Shigaraki x AllMight!Daughter!Reader

Chapter 9

Premis:

When The League of Villains discovers that AllMight has a daughter, they are quick to snatch you up and hold you hostage. Shigaraki had a careful and thought out plan, but that was before you got there. Now you’re in the mood for some not-so-healthy rebellion.

Word count: 2,756

Warnings: Cursing

A/N:

Oh dear lord I'm slow at getting these out. Life's been kickin' my ass lately. But thank you to everyone who's been giving me feedback on my stuff, I really love to hear from you guys!

Taglist: 

(So sorry, I forgot when I originally posted!) 

@craftybean13 @babayaga67 @imjustverable

@bat-eclecticwolfbouquet-love

@kamenoyaki @hentaiqween101 @skzero-99 @justanotherlifeff

@witch-o-memes​

Chapter 8 Chapter 10

Two months. You've been "missing" for two months now. The days flew by, your time occupied by quirk training Shigaraki insisted on but never told you why. The times you tried to ask he'd brush it off, or say something like:

"So you don’t throw another fit." His words were harsh but he said them with a flat and bored tone. Like it was a poorly acted line.

So now you had better control. You could move things on command, you knew basic combat, you certainly knew how to kick Dabi's ass by now, that didn't take too long. You were being allowed more and more freedom. Even allowed to leave for a convenience store runs with Toga once or twice. No one policed you, told you what you could and could not do anymore. You could have easily ran away by now. You supposed they really didn't need you either. For their plan to work all they would need was some blood and Toga could easily pass as you.

That idea sent a shiver down your spine. You're sure Shigaraki has thought of that already, so why hadn't he? Why was he training you? Would he use your quirk against the heroes in some way? Was he grooming you to turn and fight your father? You wouldn't. No matter what you wouldn't fight your father. Would you? You shook yourself of this thought as you walked down the ally to the back door of the hide out.

Toga unlocked the door and you stepped in, greeted by a dark and dingy back room. You made your way through the dark halls, following closely behind her as she led you up the stairs that finally led to the parts of the building with power. Soon you found yourself walking to the familiar living space where a few people rested. Dabi laid himself out on one of the couches, Spinner sat fiddling with his burner phone, and Twice had started yelling at the TV before you arrived.

"Luuuunch!" Toga shouted. Toga was often used as the errand girl, she brought back necessary supplies, oftentimes food. Today Toga asked you to tag along and help out, and there wasn't a single objection to the hostage going out on the town. You sat the heavy bags down on the coffee table, taking out the contents as you spoke.

"Where are the others?" You asked.

"Mr. Compress was sent on an errand of his own. And Shigaraki's probably pouting in his room. He'll come out when he's hungry." Dabi groaned as he took his meal from your hand.

"Oh. I'll just bring it to him." You said, absent-minded. All eyes turned to you, looking confused and shocked. "What?" You asked.

"Nothing! It's just-"

"He doesn't like to be disturbed." Toga and Twice spoke. You paused and looked at the box in your hand. It would get cold if he didn't eat soon, and besides, none of you had had much to eat lately, you were sure he was hungry. You knew you were.

"I'll just leave it at the door and knock. It'll get cold and then he'll be in an even worse mood." You told them. They watched you turn and walk up the stairs to his "room". You stood in front of the door, with such thin walls you could hear furious typing on the other side. Loud clicking of a mouse, and the sound of a computer's fan. You took a deep breath and softly knocked on the door. Suddenly the sounds abruptly stopped, followed by a bark.

"What!?"

"Foods here." You called back. You heard footsteps on the other side growing louder and louder until the door flew open. You stared up at the tall man as he looked down on you. His hair hung over his face, his eyes hardly visible. Your heart rate quickened the longer you looked at him. What the hell is wrong with you?

"Give it to me." He held out his hand, his pinky holding out in preparation to receive the box.

"You said you liked spice stuff, right?" You asked as you placed it in his hand.

"Yeah."

"We got you their spicy special. I hope it's not too much. The sign said 'caution' on it." He scoffed at you, turning the box and looking at the writing on it. He fell very quiet. Inspecting the box, you suddenly worried that something was wrong with it. That maybe you'd messed up somehow. But before your anxiety could reach its peak-

"Thank you." His voice was low and soft. You could hardly hear him. Then before you could respond he closed the door and left you alone again. Did he really say that? You never heard him say that to anyone. Granted, you hardly knew him but still, the way he said it, it made you feel... special in some way. You shook yourself from your train of thought and shuffled down the hallway, pausing when you heard movement and the door to Shigaraki's room open. You froze.

"Wait a minute." He barked. You turned too look at him. He hung out of the doorway to stare at you.

"W-What?" You asked. Shigaraki had a way of making people feel like they were in trouble. His ability to easily become an authority figure was something you were beginning to understand now.

"You...went out?" You nodded. He paused and looked away, his eyes shifting as the gears spun in his head. He turned back into his room as he spoke, "come here for a second." He asked. You slowly made your way to his room, the door left wide for you to peak inside. A dark room lit by portable light fixtures and a laptop computer which sat on an old desk. A cot thrown to the corner covered by the same old and tattered blankets the rest of you had.

"Am I... in trouble?" You croaked.

"What? No. Close the door behind you, you'll let in a draft." He ordered, seeming genuinely confused by your question. You closed the door behind you, leaving you completely alone with him in his space. Your heart raced.

You watched him turn and look up at the wall which he had decorated with plans. Pictures of heroes and villains cut out and pinned. Newspaper clippings, printed out articles and research essays. He was planning something, but what it was was difficult to determine. You did notice however, a cut out of an empty figure with your name on it pinned to the center of it all. You stared at it for a second before he broke you from your train of thought.

"Well?"

"Huh!?"

"What do you think?" He asked. His attention turned to his meal, he picked at it, taking a few bites.

"Of what?"

"...the plan." You looked back at the wall, puzzled you tried your best to gain any sort of information from it. Only being able to find bits and pieces. You knew it involved you, your father, and the take down of hero society. A cut out piece of article said something about the rise of villains, that more and more people were turning to villain work. How those rates have a correlation with classes. You slowly turned back to look at him.

"I'm sorry you're gonna have to explain this to me." You told him. He rolled his eyes and stood, directing his attention to his work as he spoke.

"This is the second part of the plan."

"What was the first?"

"Taking you as a hostage."

"Right. But, didn't you say the plan was to expose the heroes after they weren't able to rescue me and not only expose the faulty heroes but also my father as a neglectful and flawed individual not worthy of the hero title?" He paused.

"Yes."

"But that didn't go as planned."

"....."

"Didn't you say something about making a video to broadcast outing myself as All Might's daughter and causing panic? What happened to that plan?"

"It became leverage. If they attempt to come for you, then we'll go with that. But if we do that now, they'll come for you now and we'll be forced to fight."

"Isn't a fight...a good thing? You'd get news coverage and You'd no doubt gain supporters."

"Normally it would. But a fight isn't what we need right now. The heroes have us surrounded. If we make any move at all, we're in their hands. We won't be able to win."

"Not even with your quirk? Couldn't you-"

"Not with everyone here. As strong as I've gotten, I'm not strong enough to keep them from getting swept up and dusted too."

"Right."

"We're in a tight spot. One wrong move and we'll be wiped out."

"What about your supporters? Couldn't you get help from the outside."

"I could, but the heroes would see it coming. They have our signal tapped. Any sort of communication has to be verbal or written."

"Homing pigeon?" You offered. It made him smirk.

"Right now we're like a fox trapped in its own hole by hunters."

"So... we dig?" That made him smile, wide.

"Dig. If we could smuggle ourselves out of the city, we could reach a clear spot where we can call for backup to get us."

"Why not send one person to smuggle themselves out? Toga could easily disguise herself and leave."

"They have a barrier."

"What?"

"Part of the city is closed off until further notice. They know exactly where we are. If one gets out, they won't hesitate to come for all of us. We all have to get out at once and they can't notice until it's too late."

"But how the hell are you gonna do that?" His smile widened. He looked truly excited and happy. For the first time you saw your capture seem truly excited about something.

"We have a few secret recruits in the city. Spies." He turned his attention back to his meal box, reaching in to pull out the inner box that held the food, to reveal a piece of paper sitting underneath in the flimsy take out box. "I didn't know they were letting you out of the base now." He spoke as he opened and read the note within the box.

"I thought, you knew. I thought you were the one that said I could. Dabi said it was fine." He read the note and stood to pin it up on the wall before speaking.

"I've been too busy with this to worry about you. You shouldn't believe everything that Dabi says. I told him to make sure you just don't have another episode and cause a scene before we leave. I thought assigning him babysitting duty would keep him busy." He chuckled. "There's just one thing I don't understand." He turned back to you. "Why didn't you leave?"

"I...I..."

"You had the opportunity, but you're still here. Why?" You froze. Why? Why didn't you run?

"I was scared I'd be killed." You lied. He laughed at you.

"Don't lie to me. You lost that fear a long time ago. You know that's not true. If I wanted you dead I would have killed you a long time ago."

"You've kept me alive to use me as bate. To, to expose the truth." You argued.

"With Toga, we wouldn't need to." You swallowed hard. You knew he had thought about this.

"I'll tell you why I stayed, if you tell me why you've been training me." He scoffed.

"To keep you busy, to keep you from having another episode."

"That doesn't make sense. You could have drugged me, killed me, you said it yourself. But you kept me alive, you kept me busy. You could have kept me on my meds, unable to use it at all but you insisted I learn my quirk. You trained me yourself. Why?" His smile faded and his expression became dark.

"I asked you first." He growled. You looked away from him and thought for a moment before gaining the strength to answer. You knew the truth for a while now. You never wanted to say it out loud. You refused to look at him as you spoke.

"I don't wanna go back. But you probably already knew that by now. You just wanted to hear me say it, huh?" His smirk returned.

"Had a hunch." He snickered.

"Now you answer me."

"Why don't you wanna go back?"

"We had a deal. Answer my question now." You barked at him. It took him a long pause. A full minute of waiting in silence felt like agony.

"I thought it would help you feel better." He muttered in a surprisingly husky tone. "Keep you from asking me to dust you again." That's right, during your episode...

"I'm sorry." You blurted.

"What?"

"I'm sorry I... I asked you to kill me." You hid your face from him. He shifted and crossed his arms across his chest.

"It's not a big deal, I dust people all the time."

"No, I know. But like, I can't imagine being asked to by someone having a fucking break down happens all the time too. I kinda...kinda put you in a shitty position." When you looked up, he looked confused. Comically so. "What?"

"I took you hostage." He reminded you. You couldn't help but chuckle, that made him more confused.

"Shit, yeah, you're right. Guess I shouldn't be so hard on myself huh?" He looked away. "Still. My intentions weren't to upset you."

"You didn't upset me."

"It seems like I upset you." You toyed. His guard was down, he was vulnerable, and allowing you to be there.

"Shut up. You didn't answer my other question!" He shouted in an almost playful tone. You couldn't help but smile, only to have it slowly fade as you thought about your second answer.

"I don't want to go back because..." you stopped, the words getting stuck in your throat. You were unable to speak. He looked down at you, waiting for an answer. He seemed almost relaxed. He seemed normal. Like a normal guy leaning against the wall of his bedroom with his arms folded across his chest. Your eyes wandered up to his scarred neck, bright red scabs forming. Inflamed and fresh. He had recently scratched at it again, clearly in an upset state too. When he blinked you got a clear view of the scarring around his eyes.

"Boss!" A familiar voice shouted from outside the door. "Boss!" Before you could move the door was thrown open, Spinner's wide eyes finding you standing there. He shook his confusion loose before turning back to Shigaraki who quickly changed his position to attention. "Come quick!"

You followed him back to the living space where the old television sat. The news playing loudly as everyone gathered around to watch in panic. Swat teams and heroes decorated the screen as shot after shot showed them surrounding your building. Fear ran from your toes to your head, making you feel nauseous and dizzy. Shit. Shit. Shit. They're here for you. But you...you weren't ready to leave. And what about-

"Not again! - We can take 'em'!" Twice shouted at it like a sport was playing.

"Tomura, what are we going to do!?" Toga asked, frantically bobbing up and down in panic. He watched the TV intently listening in.

"After receiving a tip from an anonymous source, police and heroes found missing tourist Y/L/N Y/N being held captive by The League of Villains in this abandoned office building. Officials are working now to safely rescue the hostage."

Suddenly a loud voice was heard both on TV and through the halls of the building.

"League of Villains. We have you surrounded. Please let Y/L/N go and no one will be hurt." A cop shouted through a megaphone.

"C'mon Shigaraki, what's the plan?" Dabi asked, clearly starting to get uncomfortable. Before Shigaraki could respond, you spoke.

"Well, looks like this is it for me." You began walking away, only to be stopped by a strong, four-fingered grip pulling you back.

"Where do you think you're going!?" He growled.

"The jig is up, Shigaraki! Let me go! I'm not useful anymore. All they want is me, if I'm out of your hair you'll be able to escape easier." His grip tightened, pulling you closer as his red eyes bore into yours.

"So long as you're here they won't dare make a move. You're still my most valuable player. You're staying right here."

[stargaze-issei]

— "𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞" (𝐛. 𝐤𝐚𝐭𝐬𝐮𝐤𝐢 𝐱 𝐟𝐞𝐦!𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫)

𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐭; when your father, the head of the japanese mafia, was killed, your childhood friend swore to protect you till his death. now, you're the empress of the underground world, and he doesn't know what's harder, to keep you safe or manage to hide his feelings. what will he do when, for the first time, your life's at risk and he isn't anywhere near?

𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞; mafia!au, angst.

𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬; swearing, mentions of blood, guns, murder, kidnap, yk... mafia stuff.

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭; 2.7k

𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞; lemme know if u want a part two bc i felt like it was getting too long and i don't know if anyone will read it or like it 👉🏻👈🏻

"where the fuck are you?" bakugou's voice stroke over the phone, noticeably angry. he had told you several times to never go anywhere without him, which you mostly did, if it weren't for him being away a lot of times. nothing less was expected from your right hand, who handled every dirty job, and considering your line of work, it wasn't scarce. but you did had other bodyguards, just as trained as katsuki, willing to give their lifes for you, which was extremely better than having bakugou giving his life.

to his eyes, you were still the little girl from before. he saw you as a someone who needed protection. at first, you agreed. your father was murdered, someone managed to get through all his security and killed him, none of the guns he and his security team carried around could protect him, killing you would be like stealing a sweet from a baby. bakugou had always kept you safe, despite his agressive usual safe, he cared about you more than he cared for himself. so you stuck to his side, believing, hoping, he'd die for you. but that was a long time ago, now, you could defend yourself, and had raised a sense of loyalty in your people by your own. your father's empire was based in fear, yours? by admiration. you didn't see your people as working ants, but as important parts of a whole. still, anyone who was a threat to you, bakugou made sure to erase them forever.

"don't talk to me like that, i'm your boss" you could feel him losing his shit, a smile began to form in your face. even when everyone respected you, he was still the same.

"you can't boss anyone if you're fucking dead, you dumb shit" a laugh came out of your throat, he couldn't avoid smiling at the sound "wait, oh, okay, i know we're you are. stay there, i'll be in three" he hung up before you could reply.

you looked back, at one of your guards who was just putting away his phone. of course they told him. why couldn't you go get your own coffee? being in the office all day was tiring, to be five minutes outside was all you asked for. a few seconds after, they handed you your coffee, obviously, a guard had to try it first, in case that barista wanted to suddenly murder you. of course he didn't.

"who let her go outside without me knowing, huh?" a furious katsuki appeared through the door, making a scene in the place. you gave him a warning look. if there was something you hated, was that. everyone in the area knew who you were, but why make it any more obvious. those people were just living their usual lifes, and people tend to get nervous around you. "the car is waiting outside" he understood, but you knew he was going to scold you anyways.

you walked outside, smiling, and got into the car, followed by katsuki and one of his subordinates, the other one got in the front sit, next to the driver.

"save it, i'm n–"

"the fuck you are" he cut you "your safety is my responsibility, if i say you can't go out without me, then you fucking don't. specially not when there are people after your head" there was no denying he was right, but still, it upset you.

"there's always people after my head, bakugou".

two weeks ago, two men went into your office. they were in charge of some dealing territories, though small, important. most contraband had to pass those places, you controlled those police departments making everything easier to your truck drivers. they were beaten, cover in blood and barely standing.

"our men, all of them... they all..." only one of them could talk, the other being too shocked to even look at you. "kazuhito's men, it was them... they said we had to tell you, they're coming after you" you couldn't show any fear in front of your so called soldiers, and your template remained at ease. a shout was enough to get those men the help they needed, after holding their hands, you promised to go see them once they were checked by doctors. you called bakugou as soon as they left, he was the first who should know and help you decide what to do next.

the kazuhito family had always been rivals, enemies of the worst kind. everyone suspect they were behind your father's assassination, but with no proof, even you knew it would be the biggest mistake to charge against them, despite your personal desires.

"i already told the drivers they had to take rout b for a while, but we can't let them just keep what's our" you explained to katsuki once he arrived. "those drugs have to get in town by us, damnit". it was clear how frustrated you were, those assholes had mess with your and your father's hardwork.

"if we retaliate, a war will unchain. your father tried to avoid that for years"

"and see how he ended up" bakugou didn't know if it was the anger, or you talking. "we will lose everyone's respect if we don't do something, they killed dozens of our people, katsuki".

he was trying hard to stay objective in that situation, but it was near impossible. a war would put you in more danger than ever, your life was at stake, and bakugou wasn't sure if he was willing to risk it. growing up by your side, your father taking him in when his parents died, you were his only family. more than that, he loved you. the only reason he was able to do his job right, was the fear of losing you. your head was already valued in millions, how could he protect you in the middle of a conflict, that would end only with your death or the kazuhito's leader's death? your power was bigger than theirs by little, but they did something that reckless, which meant they thought they had out powered you. had they? or were they just bluffing? had they miscalculated?.

"we're taking action, wether you support me or not" you looked into each other's eyes, you knew him enough to understand his fear, just not the reason behind it. your voice softened "but i'd much rather do it with you by my side".

"you're the boss" he spoke, already regretting it "i'll schedule a meeting so the high charges let everyone else know, i'm staying at your place so we can trace a plan".

and there you were now, being reprimanded by bakugou. he was extremely tired, he decided to stay with you until things were calmer, which could be several months from then. getting up at six a.m, going to sleep past midnight, being always looking for possible threats, it had given him bags under his eyes.

"i'm sorry" you said once you were alone with him, it was only then that you could let your guard down "i'm making this harder for you".

"yeah, you are. but it's my job, after all" that came out wrong, he thought. it wasn't his job, it was his fucking life purpose. he wanted you to live a long, happy life, as hard as it seemed.

"i guess it is" deep down, his response disappointed you.

"hey, look at me" out of nowhere, his body was insanely close to yours, you felt his breath in your face as he lifted your chin with his finger "there's nothing i wouldn't do for you, got that, dumbass?"

for a brief moment, the taste of his lips was all you could think about. i bet they're soft. but as fast as it started, it was over, katsuki pulled away harshly, inventing an excuse to leave. he had flown too close to the sun, so close that it burned his skin.

a few more people went to see you that day, asking for diverse permissions, advice and stuff like that. since it had been slow, compared to other times, you decided to home early. a call to your team, and the car was already outside. bakugou left instructions for your departure, because he had things to do somewhere else, much to his displeasure. you were accompanied by your escorts to the doors of the building, that seemed like a normal office compound. there were waiting two other guards, making a total of six people protecting you. way to go, bakugou.

"how's your wife, ryota?" you asked the driver. of course, not everyone fitted in the same car, so you got into the second one, middle seat, between a built up woman and a big man. you tried to remember everyone's name, but it was difficult.

"she's good, ma'am, sends her regards" he smiled at you over the mirror.

"and the baby? he must be a month old, right?" at the memory of his child, his face lightened "you should take some days off, i bet your wife and son miss you"

"i have a duty with you, m–" a loud impact interrupted him, the front glass had exploded. the car had an abrupt movement back and forward, all you could see was blood, everywhere.

the woman next to you took her gun out, in order to protect you , you thought, completely wrong. before everyone could react to her act, she shot the guard in front of you.  you looked at your side, searching for someone alive, the same bullet that had killed ryota was in the guard's at your right forehead. besides you , the only other person was that woman. if she hadn't glasses on, that stare could've seen throughout your soul. then you remembered, katsuki made you bare with a knife under your sleeve. with a weird move, you felt its sharpness against your skin, it was there, but she read you like a book. before you could even pull it out, another shot stroke followed by a intense pain in you thight. the bitch had shot you. you blamed it on the adrenaline, because nothing hurt. what happened after was a couple of blurry images in your memory.

bakugou had called you more than a hundred times, you, the drivers, the guards, everyone in his fucking team, but no one knew anything. the cameras at your house never showed you arriving, your phone's location was off. he was out of his head, if he didn't hear from you in the next five minutes, someone's going to die. he rushed into his car, following your rout at a dangerous speed. 

both cars were full of bullet holes, and every guard he had hired was dead. there wasn't a place without blood. tears of pure rage came to his eyes, fuck, it was his fault. he started to look for you, but the whole world was spinning around him. where were you? where was your body? were you alive?, this couldn't be happening. he had left you unprotected, alone, and now you could be dead, because of his uselessness. his phone vibrated in his pocket.

"sir, we– we have– the kazuhito's are here" he left as fast as he came. they had touch you, they had taken you away from him, and he wasn't going to let them get away with it, even if he had to go against a whole army, whoever was behind it all was going to pay.

a man in a suit was sitting in the chair of your office, smoking a cigarette, as calm as a rock. katsuki was so close to rip his head of right there, that somebody had to hold him down. his own people updated him, saying that he had gone into the building alone, with no weapons of any kind, not even a cellphone.

"where the fuck is she?" he crashed his hand against the desk.

"ah, mr. bakugou, please take a se–"

"tell me where she is right now if you want to keep your head, fucking bastard" his hand had wondered to the tip of the gun in his belt, menacing to blow up at any second.

"you won't do that, mr., if i don't return to my people in one hour, she'll be so fucked up that not even you will recognize her" a laugh surge grom bakugou, a dark, cold laugh.

"i don't have to kill you, then" one of the man's hand rested in the desk, like asking for katsuki to rip it off his body. as you did, he also carried knifes under his shirt. in less than a second, one of them was buried into the man's hand. he screamed, both in shock and pain, giving your bodyguard a hatred look. "what do you want, shitface?"

"i-it's quite simple, actually" his face was white as paper, and even though he wanted to talk normally, his voice shivered "we want you to take over the y/l/n's business, under our command of course" he let out a sigh, trying to keep his composure and ignoring his bleeding hand "if you– if you agree, she will have to leave japan and never..."

bakugou won't agree to that. not now and not ever. to give away what you and your father built from scratch, and spent decades keeping safe, was like killing your child, and your father's memory. to send you away, alone, where he most likely won't see you again in years, was also off the table. it wasn't funny anymore. he started walking around the man's chair, picking up his sleeves. he checked the clock in the office, he had forty-five minutes with the man, meaning, forty-five minutes to make him talk. he ressourced to every fast interrogation method he knew. the people outside the door weren't surprised when they heard the man's screams, even wondering what had taken so long for the boss to start acting. katsuki was never a patient man. his senses were blocked, he couldn't hear anything but screams and begging, all his eyes could see was pain through all the man's body, his hands felt nothing but warm blood. but for the first time in a while, he wasn't enjoying it. he was doing it out of need, the need to save you. every minute that went by, was a minute were your life risked. he never felt so close to losing his sanity.

"outside the city! she's in one of our safe houses outside the city! i don't know which, please stop!" ten minutes before the timeline he finally gave up. your intelligence had all their safe houses, storages, garages, every location needed. not a second passed when one of yours men delivered a map with all the points marked. there were five in total.

"throw him outside in ten minutes" he shouted, walking to the armory "two teams, six people each, my fucking people, hear me? now, dammit! we're leaving in a minute, if i have to go by my fucking self, i'll do it"

when he was armed to the teeth, almost a dozen of people followed him outside. they were his most trusted men and women, being trained together, he knew they were as skilled as him, and they were all willing to put their life's at stake for you, their boss. in the car, bakugou barked the instructions. he had narrowed it down to two possible locations with all the information he had. if they had to kill every person in those places, then be it. he's going to get you back.

[desertofsnowflakes]

Incorrect Order Chapter 5 (Nessian AU)

A/N: Do inform me if you wanna be added/removed from the taglist! If you happen to find my storyline similar to another fic or one of yours, I'm extremely sorry, I might've just not known. All characters belong to the author Sarah J. Mass. Enjoy!

Summary: Don't first impressions always affect the way you see someone? Well, what more with the Nesta Archeron? Nesta meets Cassian at few unexpected places and to say it didn't go well was a major understatement. Certain circumstances make them become enemies to tolerable company to friends to lovers.

Trigger Warnings: Swearing, an angry Nesta and a heart-broken Cassian

2094 words | Incorrect Order Masterlist | Read on AO3

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Nesta had never been one for small talk but in his presence she spoke as if she was excellent in small talk. They spoke of all unimportant things and ended up forgetting the important stuff; their names. Again.

Feyre sent an invitation for her first anniversary party as she did for every other occasion. The only thing different was that Nesta never bothered to pay heed to her invitations before. After the day in the alley, however, she decided she was going to turn over a new leaf. This was her first step.

She checked her reflection on the side-mirror. She tried to keep her outfit and make-up as simple as possible. She only wore a white ruffled-sleeved blouse with a black pencil skirt. Her hair was braided into a coronet. She looked good, but not as good as she’ll look if she took her own time to do a detailed make-over. She let out a breath and braced herself for the inevitable little chat with her sisters.

“Nesta?” a bewildered voice breathed. She whirled around to face her younger sister, Elain, looking up at her, a small smile playing about her lips. “You’re here,” she said and flung her arms around Nesta. Nesta automatically wrapped her arms around Elain’s smaller frame. Eventually, Elain pulled back.

“No offense, but I really thought you wouldn’t be coming,” Elain said.

Nesta felt as if the smile on her face couldn't be wiped out for the next few hours. “Honestly, I didn't think I'd come either. But here I am.”

She nodded and pulled Nesta to the garden the party was held at.

“I did this,” Elain said. “This garden, I planted and groomed all this.”

“No wonder why it looks so beautiful,” Nesta replied.

She flushed and said contemplatively, “You're so different now, Nesta.”

“I hope in a good way. Where's Feyre?”

“Let's go meet everyone first.”

Nesta shook her head. “I— I need to talk to both of you before I meet everyone else. ”

Elain hesitated then said, “Can you wait in that room? I'll fetch Feyre and come.”

Nesta nodded and headed to the door at the end of the garden Elain pointed at. The room was classy, much like the exterior of the house. She was struck by the simple yet grand theme of Feyre's house. She knew he and his brothers were rich but she just didn't understand the extent of their wealth. Till now.

“What are you thinking?” Feyre wasn't the type to blindly trust people. It took more than coming for her anniversary to persuade her that Nesta's intentions were good.

Nesta faced Feyre, her youngest sister, who stood before her, gorgeous yet fierce in a simple but elegant blue gown. She shrugged, “Just thinking that I'm glad my sisters were well-provided when I couldn't take care of them.”

Feyre’s face didn’t change, she just gestured towards the couches. “Have a seat,” she said.

Nesta sat down, “You both look splendid,” she said. Feyre said that the gown was a gift, Elain thanked Nesta and offered the same.

Nesta cleared her throat. “I need to tell the both of you something. Many things, actually.”

Elain nodded encouragingly. Feyre said, “Go on.”

So Nesta spoke. She apologised. For how she wasn't there to fulfill the role of an elder sister. For how she failed to attend Feyre's marriage and many other occasions. For all the rude words she spoke to them. For shunning them. She apologised for being self consumed. For everything else.

She also promised. To try harder. To become better. To be a good sister and sister-in-law. To be with them at all times, especially when they needed her. And they listened.

“I know these words aren't enough, but I'll try to make it so,” she finished, her hands clasped with both her sisters on her sides.

“You said you'll try, Nesta. We will too,” Feyre said.

“I see a very bright future ahead of us,” Elain said.

Nesta couldn't help the tears anymore. She folded her arms around her sisters and tucked them close. Her sisters. Her beloved sisters she now knew she'd do anything to protect.

“I see a very bright future too,” Nesta said.

Nesta pulled back after what felt like an hour and looked at her sisters' tear-streaked faces.

“I love you,” the three of them said simultaneously. Nesta giggled. Elain laughed. Feyre stared.

Nesta gently brushed the tears from both of their cheeks. “I don't want to see any of you crying.”

She hugged them again, willing the hug to convey everything she didn't say out loud.

“Now, now, enough snuggling. We've got a party to attend and people to meet, remember?” Feyre said.

***

Cassian was anxious. He had always hoped Nesta, his sister-in-law, would come for the gatherings they had; be it family dinners, or birthday parties, or the random meetings they had when they just got tipsy and played games. He hadn't seen her face-to-face before. All he knows about Nesta are from the descriptions from Feyre and Elain. That, too, was minimal. One of them would quickly change the topic to something pleasant the moment traces of an emotional breakdown were visible. Every time he hoped, he was let down. She never came. He vowed he would stop hoping and instead just go about and act as if she didn't exist. But that never happened. Every time his family met, his treacherous heart would start hoping only to have a chunk of it fall off when she failed to attend. Today was no different.

Then there’s the woman who he’d been talking to the whole afternoon. He was a tangled up mess of emotions and doubt and confusion. He had been sort-of pining after Nesta. She was exactly the person he’d like. Apparently she was drop-dead gorgeous, witty and… feral. Feyre said that. Feral. She’d be someone worth seeing. She was totally a worthy opponent. It’d be fun. But the other woman? Mother above, she was ethereal. More than ethereal, in fact. Words can't contain what he had to say about her.

He was damn near killing Az for calling him right when they were about to exchange names. He really can't believe he was a hairsbreadth away from knowing her before it was all ripped away. Now they were back to square one. He didn't know anything about her.

Azriel clapped him on his back so hard that he almost stumbled and fell. Or probably that was because he was too distracted. “All good Somm?”

“Mmm-hmm,” he replied noncommittally. He busied his hands with re-rinsing the champagne flutes and wiping them clean again. He did this two times already. Still.

“Mood is sour today, Cass?” Az teased, mock-frowning.

“Nah,” Cassian said wryly, “it's as sweet as honeydew. Especially today, when my chat got interrupted.” He glared at Azriel.

“Now, now, that is a story for another day. For now though, I think I've got something that can cheer up your brooding self.”

“What is it?” he mumbled.

Az grinned. “Nesta is here.”

***

Feyre and Elain took Nesta on a quick tour around the house. Feyre’s paintings were hung on the walls throughout the whole house. Nesta grimly noticed that there wasn't a single picture of her. There were even paintings of their father whose heart had long stopped beating. But none of hers. If only she didn’t push herself away, Nesta would’ve been a happy part of her sisters’ lives.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered. Feyre took her hand in hers. Elain tucked herself to Nesta’s side, wrapping her arms over her slender shoulders.

Nesta already met Mor, a stunning blonde woman, and Amren, a slightly intimidating and short person. Now she only had to meet her brother-in-laws.

“Let’s go meet the boys!” Elain said brightly.

We walked back to the garden. Feyre seemed to get more and more elated the closer we got to the garden. Huh. Probably falling in love would do that to someone. Anyway, as long as her sisters were happy.

They stepped through the doorway. The garden was decorated with more banners and streamers hung on the back of chairs and on the low branches. Again, it looked opulent in a simple way.

There were three men in the centre of the garden, gathered around a table. They all were slightly similar, broad shouldered, tapered waists, muscular limbs. Three of them wore formal shirts and pants clinging to their frames. The one in the middle was Rhysand, she supposed. She smirked internally. Of course Feyre ended up with this guy. She's got a good taste. Must've gotten it from the oldest sister.

The one on the right, though. His figure felt familiar. Very, very familiar. She couldn't quite put a finger on it yet.

“The one on the left is Azriel, the one on the right is Cassian,” Feyre said, and Nesta nodded.

The boys must be really engrossed with their conversation. They hadn't noticed the three of them yet.

The guy she thought was familiar threw his head back and laughed. She gasped. That laugh. She'd know the laugh anywhere. Indeed, when he angled his face so that she could get a glimpse, she knew she was done for. She swallowed with much difficulty.

“I need to go,” she said quickly.

“Go? But— but we haven't cut the cake yet. It's still early. We've got lots more fun stuff,” Elain said.

“You said you'll try, Nesta. Only, this doesn't feel like 'trying',” Feyre said.

They sounded… hurt.

Mother above, I'm doing this wrong.

“Nesta?” Elain asked. “Is something wrong?”

“Yeah,” Feyre added, “you look pale.”

“Y-yeah it's f-fine. Kinda. My head hurts,” she said, accidentally clutching her stomach. “I-I mean, yeah my head hurts. Very badly. I gotta go.” She looked helplessly at both of them. “I'm so sorry. I really am. It's just— I think I need rest. I'll recompense. Probably dinner in three days?” They both shared a look and agreed.

Nesta was already walking away. “Love you both,” she threw over her shoulder.

***

“Feyre!” Rhys called. He beckoned Feyre and Elain to the table. He didn't see Nesta.

Cassian lightly kissed Feyre on her cheek once they made their way to the table and said, “Gorgeous as always. Happy anniversary!”

Feyre grinned, but it showed traces of disappointment.

He frowned. “Hey, what's wrong?”

She just shook her head and mumbled, “Nesta.” Rhys's face hardened. His brother was never fond of Nesta. He said that she was why Feyre was always worried.

“Where's Nesta?” Az asked, craning his neck to see behind farther.

“She… left,” Elain pointed, revealing a figure disappearing behind the gates. A figure he knew all too well. Shitshitshitshit.

His head snapped back to his brothers. “That is Nesta?” he damn near shouted.

Rhys scowled, “Yeah.”

No wonder why she's so beautiful, he thought dumbly before running after her with a quick “I'll be back.”

***

Nesta was wrong. In all her happiness of being reunited with her sisters, she completely forgot how even a small thing can break one's smile. She felt like she couldn't breathe. She kept her calm demeanour, but inside, she was a raging storm of emotions.

One step in front of the other, she kept reminding herself.

She kept walking. Even when she heard footsteps. Even when the steps got louder. Even as he got close enough to cease running.

But not when he called her name. She halted. Locked up her emotions. She knew she shouldn't but she turned around anyway.

“What do you want?” she snapped.

“Nesta,” he breathed. She tried to hold back her shudder. It was from the night air, she told herself.

“If you have nothing to say, do let me know. I'm not going to wait forever,” she said. Harsher than she intended to. But she didn't care, at least, that's what she told herself.

Cassian winked, “I'm honored you came, sweetheart. I'll pass the credit to my influence on you. ”

She ground her teeth against the truth threatening to fall off her lips. Yes, I came here because you made me happy. And I thought that if I tried, as I did with you, I can rebuild my relationship with my sisters.

***

Cassian did something stupid. He grabbed her hand. Her eyes snapped to his, burning with anger. Like the day they first met.

He gave her a crooked grin that he knew would drive her mad. Well, more than she already was. He tilted his head to the garden, “The party is that way, love.”

She snatched back her hand at continued walking. Like a fool, he followed. “I spoke to my sisters. Told them I won't be staying tonight. And that we'll have dinner in three day's time. Does that satisfy you? Now, can you stop following me?”

“Something's wrong. What's wrong, Nes?”

“One,” she ground out, “don't call me that. Two, I'm a grown-ass woman; I know how to take care of myself. I don't need a babysitter.”

“You did. That day,” he said quietly.

She whirled on him, “Is this you taking back favours? Because I'm not interested. You want money? Take it. Tell me your price and fucking take it! Don't tread on my heels because you helped me, okay? I've got way better things to do.” She paused, “And don't follow me, Cassian.”

She turned and stalked away.

You want money? Take it. 'Take it.' As if he were a beggar, asking for alms. As if they weren't laughing at each other's jokes not more than an hour ago. As if he didn't spend a week taking care of her as if she were a part of his soul. Maybe she was.

But that was before, Cassian thought as his heart cleaved into two perfect halves. No— it smashed to a million tiny pieces.

He waited till Nesta was out of his line of sight. He turned and walked back to the garden, leaving his heart behind.

taglist: @shadowsinger07 @im-someone-i-guess @saltyfortunes @cressjacquine @julian-blackthorn-supremacy @champanheandluxxury @zemiraa @ladygabrielli1997 @nehemikkele @heartless--aromantic @sv0430 @ddsworldofbooks @irenethaleia @sjm-things @dontgetsalmonella

[flamingredanon]

Endgame Copperrightmin au idea. Right goes on a raid with some newer recruits and gets both injured and left behind. Disoriented he just wonders avoiding people because he knows he needs to do that until he runs into henry who knowing what it's like to be hurt and have no one to help takes him in. Right gets better but his memories are heavily fogged. He knows he's a theif (maybe a good one) and that he's married (the ring helped with that) but beyond that nothing. Henry lonely for some form of friend offers to let Right stay with him until he figures something out. Obviously over the course of this they steal stuff and henry falls for right but doesn't say anything because he's married its not happening.

Meanwhile reginald has gone basically feral looking for his husband and the government is actually getting a little concerned with how dangerous copperbottom is turning out to be.

It was a normally quiet day in this small town. Henry Stickmin hadn't bother learning the name of the town, but it was a town that didn't know Henry and the former Government soldier wanted to keep it that way. Turns out the military life wasn't even close to what Henry wanted or could handle, so he just packed his bags and left.

Henry soon fell back to his old lifestyle of stealing, but he had gotten much better at it. Though Henry did notice someone familiar shambling through the street. It was the Toppat's own Right Hand Man, and he looked beyond awful. His right arm hung limp, there were major gashes and gunshot wounds littered across his body and he looked like a lost wounded dog.

Henry couldn't just let Right walk around aimlessly like this, there seemed to be no other Toppats around and Henry knew that those wounds would only get worse. So Henry took Right's left hand and slowly led him back to his small apartment. Henry did the best he could, cleaning out wounds and wrapping them up. Luckily Right's right arm was only dislocated and Henry got it popped back into place and wrapped up as well.

---

A few weeks had passed and physically, Right healed up fine. Mentally though, his mind was drawing a huge blank. He knew his name was Right, he had a nice gold ring on his left hand which meant he was married to someone, the name and face of the person escaped him and he was pretty knowledgeable with stealing things.

Henry continued to let Right live with him until he could remember more. The biggest hurdle Henry knew of was that the Toppats were in space and he had no idea how to communicate with them. He also knew jack shit about Right, not even knowing he was married until Right made a mention of the ring, meaning he couldn't really help Right with his problems.

Henry did know he was enjoying the time spent with Right. They both made a great team when it came to stealing and did enjoy hanging out with him. Right made Henry's heart flutter and while he would love to confess his feelings, Right was a taken man and Henry didn't want to be a homewrecker to whoever was Right's one and only. So Henry kept his feelings to himself and continued to enjoy Right's company.

---

General Galeforce had never seen Copperbottom so, unhinged. Apparently his husband went missing and Reginald was practically raising hell on Earth to get him back. Galeforce didn't know where Reginald's husband was, but Reginald didn't like that as an answer.

Galeforce was now forced to cooperate with the Toppats to find this Right Hand Man, or else two of his best soldiers, Charles Calvin and Rupert Price would suffer. It took a bit but they found video footage of Right Hand Man at some park... with Henry Stickmin... kissing.

The good news in all this was that Galeforce got his men back. Though it would be awhile before the General would even think about messing with the Toppat clan.

---

Reginald Copperbottom went to Earth personally. That Henry Stickmin first tried to get the Airship division arrested, and now he has somehow taken advantage of his husband. When the former new recruits came back without Right, freaking out because he got hurt and they panicked, Reginald calmly threw them out the airlock. Reginald barely rested since then, forcing the Government to help find his dear Righty.

They found him alright, the video showed Right pulling Henry in and kissing him in some small town park. Reginald would make sure Henry would pay for whatever he did to Right.

---

Henry found himself pinned against his apartment wall by none other then the Toppat leader himself, Reginald Copperbottom. There was nothing but murderous intent in his eyes before Right pulled Reginald off. "Righty dear, I don't know what this bastard has told you, but I'm going to go take care of him and then take you back home."

Right put himself infront of Henry before speaking "Listen stranger, Henry over here has told me nothing. He helped me when I was hurt really bad and gave me a place to stay while my brain fixes itself. Henry has only been a very very kind friend." Reginald spoke up "Darling, I saw a video of you two kissing. Henry is taking advantage of-" "I kissed him. I wanted to kiss him. I thought that I was married to Henry and that kissing him would jog something. Henry was surprised as hell and explained that we weren't married."

Henry hide behind Right like a scared child facing a bully. "Listen, it seems like you might be the person I married and you have been worried about me. And I'm sure once this mud clears from my head I'll remember you. But I've also kind of grown attached to Henry and I like him alot. If I go back with you, I want Henry with me."

Reginald just wanted to snap Stickmin like a twig, but his beloved Righty was saved by him. And Henry didn't take advantage of Right's current state to do anything foul. The old saying goes "Toppats help those who help them" and what noble leader would ignore a good deed done. So Reginald let Right take Henry along and soon they were all on the Toppat Space Station.

---

A few months have passed since that day. Right's memories have been slowly returning and Reginald soon found himself growing fond of Henry. Eventually, Reginald had decided to have a whole new wedding, remarrying Right but also marrying Henry, making their duo a trio. Henry was glad he was no longer alone and could show his love to not only Right, but to Reginald as well.

[rainywritingsx]

scenario: Beelzebub & Asmodeus trying to get reader back

Request: wOAH your cheater head cannons were AMAZING dude!! if you want, could you write the rest of the brothers? or if that's too much could you do beel and asmo trying their hardest to get MC to forgive them but it just doesn't work and MC gets with someone else and it's super a n g s t y ?

ahh thank you so so much!! Seriously, to everyone who read that, I was so surprised by the response it received. I’m not very experienced with writing angst which is why I was actually terrified of posting it at all since I was worried I might’ve been too dramatic. But all of the positive feedback made me feel at ease, so thank you all so much for giving the scenarios this much love!

I only write for a maximum of 3 characters per request, I’m sorry :/ buuttt this means I will write part 2 for Asmo and Beel! Also you didn’t specify who this other person would be so,,, I decided to use one of the undateables, since I’ve been playing the game for a longer time now and kinda figured out their characters. Also,,,, the thought of MC ending up with one of the other brothers hurts me oof

++ I just noticed that I kinda went somewhere else with your request, I’m so sorry. I only realised this afterwards and well, throwing this away completely isn’t really what I want to do ;-; my dearest apologies, I’ll make sure to be more careful nex time. Now, have fun reading, I hope you’re still able to enjoy it despite the fact that I kind of changed it up a bit!

Total word count: 2498

Beelzebub

To say the demon was absolutely devastated, would be an understatement. His sadness had gotten to the point where his appetite was way less than usual, which did not go unnoticed by the other brothers. They all got worried about him.

It got to the point where Belphegor was fed up with it, which he made clear to his twin brother. They were now in their room, Beel was just staring at the wall without saying anything. His eyes were teary and his cheeks were puffy. The sight was heartbreaking, but Belphie was tired of this and worried, because it’s been at least a week since you two broke up and he hadn’t gotten any better. So he knew something had to change now.

“Beel, listen up,” Belphegor said, his voice low but sharp. Beelzebub looked at Belphegor, indicating that he could go on. “You can’t keep being like this. I get that you’re sad but this won’t get you anywhere. You miss y/n and want her back? Then you have to work for it. She’s not going to come back to you if you don’t even put effort into showing how sorry you are. Stupid humans aren’t that smart.”

Beel didn’t reply for a while, taking in his brother’s words. Belphegor let out an annoyed sigh before mumbling quietly “I’m gonna take a nap.” He didn’t wait for his twin brother to reply and soon dozed off into a deep slumber.

Beelzebub tried his best to concentrate, but his never-ending hunger seemed to be unbearable right now. He made the decision to go to the kitchen and find some food in the fridge to eat. However, even on his way to the kitchen Beel couldn’t stop thinking about Y/n. Since they had broken up with him, he had barely seem them. It seemed they either ate breakfast early as a way to avoid him and at school he barely had any chances to talk to them either. So how was he going to be able to apologise to them? He had to find a way to be with them alone. But what was he even going to do? What was he going to say? A small pout had formed on his face at this point as he looked through the fridge for something tasty.

Upon seeing his custard, his face lit up. And that was also the moment he realised what he could do for y/n. When they were still together, the two would hang out very often and there were so many times where they’d eat custard together, to the point where Beel did not eat it alone anymore. It showed how much he cared about them, as he didn’t share his custard that easily. It also felt like a thing the two of them had at this point. So when Beel grabbed the custard and devoured it, he felt empty. It was different now that he was eating it on his own.

He knew it. He was going to buy the two of them custard, ask y/n to hang out with him and if they don’t want to he will give them space. If they do want to however, he will give them the little surprise and talk to them. He just had to find the right moment. And while on one hand Beel wanted to wait, his heart told him to do it as soon as possible.

“Tomorrow it is, then.” he mumbled to himself.

The next day Beelzebub felt nervous. It had been a while since he talked to y/n and he had no idea how they were feeling right now. But he wouldn’t know unless he tried to find out, right?

So, after their classes, during lunch, he couldn’t take it anymore and tried looking for y/n. He was thinking they were maybe with Mammon, so he tried to find him. Though, when he did find his brother, he noticed he was alone.

“Lookin’ for Y/n?” Mammon asked. Beel almost slightly flinched at how sharp his tone was. It was clear that Mammon was angry at him for what he had done. Without saying a word he nodded.

“I think I saw them walkin’ somewhere with Asmo, towards his locker.” Beel nodded and quickly thanked his brother before leaving to find Y/n. He knew where Asmodeus’ locker was, or at least the area it was at so it wasn’t very difficult to find. When he found them a small smile played on his lips. However, as he took more and more steps forward, he saw that Asmo wasn’t the only one accompanying them. Solomon was there too. He had an arm wrapped around Y/n’s shoulder and laughed as he pressed a kiss to their cheek. Beel could feel his heart drop at the sight. He wasn’t expecting this at all and felt incredibly hurt.

Asmodeus somehow caught sight of his brother, and his eyes widened slightly when he saw his heartbroken standing there like a sad puppy who had just been kicked. Y/n and Solomon noticed their friend looking at something, so they turned their gaze into the direction he was facing. But before the two could see him, Beel quickly walked back.

“Asmo, is something wrong?” Y/n asked, their voice laced with concern. The demon was caught off guard by the question, not even realising he was staring but then smiled and nodded.

“Oh yes! I just suddenly remembered I forgot to close my purple nail polish jar in my room, I’m sure it’s all dried up now.”

“Oh that’s okay! How about we buy a new one after school? I have to get some stuff anyway. Solomon does too, right babe?” Y/n said and looked up at their boyfriend with a small smile. The boy nodded in agreement.

“Alright, sounds great!” Asmo nodded and smiled at the two. Soon his thoughts drifted back to his brother. While Asmodeus definitely did not think what he did was okay, he couldn’t help but feel bad for him. He was still his brother. Part of him wanted to check up on him but he felt like Beel probably needed time alone to process what he had seen.

In the meantime, Beelzebub was walking towards the cafeteria, shoulders hung low, gaze towards the ground and eyes filled with tears. Y/n had the right to move on, of course they did. He just wasn’t prepared to see it happening already. He felt like now there was no way of getting them back.

Of course Y/n would rather be with Solomon. He was a human just like them, they’d be able to live their regular life in their own world while also having a boyfriend. Of course they wouldn’t want a sinful demon like him. He decided to just give up. Maybe it was best for them both, or it was just best for Y/n. He wasn’t sure. But he knew they were happier with Solomon than with him. He saw a sparkle in their eyes, the one that had left when Y/n caught him cheating on them. Anyone that could make them that happy was worthy of being with them to Beel.

But if it was the right thing, why did it still hurt this much? The emptiness that he felt was bigger than any hunger he had felt in his entire life. But he had to accept it because at the end of the day, it was his own fault for making that horrible mistake.

Asmodeus

To any outsider, Asmo seemed completely fine, as if he wasn’t sad at all. But his brothers all knew it was the exact opposite. Asmodeus tried doing even more self care, went shopping even more than usual and spent an extra amount of times around succubi and witches. It was all to get Y/n off of his mind because as soon as soon as he would get to the house of Lamentation and had nothing to do, thoughts about them filled his head. Something in him wanted to find them and almost beg them to take him back, but there’s this other part of him that’s incredibly ashamed of himself.

And as mentioned before, his brothers could notice his change in mood. Though they condemned his actions, he was still their brother and they couldn’t  just ignore him. Of course Asmo was going to make some very stupid mistakes with heavy consequences, but he would learn from those.

So at one point Satan made the decision to talk to his brother about the problem that hadn’t been talked about just yet. Satan knew Asmo regretted what he did and wanted Y/n back and he also knew that his brother was stuck on what to do now.

“How have you been, Asmo?” Satan asked as he entered his brother’s room after having knocked on the door. The younger demon quickly forced a smile as he looked at his brother, hoping that he would fall for his trick. But knowing Satan, it wouldn’t be long before he noticed Asmo’s facade. Still, he wanted to try.

“I’ve been doing great Satan! Oh, I bought some new makeup and accessories today and some would look lovely on you! Wanna try them on?”

“That does sound nice, but I need to talk to you about something right now.” Asmodeus could feel himself sulking as he knew where this conversation was heading. He also was aware of the fact that avoiding it would be pointless, so he decided not to protest and just nodded.

“We’ve all been worried about you Asmo. Of course I do know how you are, but we can all tell that something is off.” Asmodeus bit his lip as he averted his gaze, his eyes falling on a shirt that seemed to have fallon the ground. And of course, it was Y/n’s… They had probably left it here once and forgot to bring it back.

His brother’s eyes followed the direction in which he was looking, and he quickly realised what the piece of clothing was.

“Hey, how about you bring it back to them and talk about what happened?” Satan proposed. Asmo shook his head immediately, not wanting to be confronted with his disgusting actions again. He was already ashamed of what he had done.

“Satan, they will never forgive me. I hurt them so badly even though I never meant to. There is no way that this will be fixed.” Satan sighed softly and shook his head at his brother's words.

“But hey, you’re Asmodeus, aren’t you? Who can resist you? Who can not love you? Has anyone truly hated you for a long time?” He edged on, knowing that Asmo needed little confidence boosts like this. He knew these would cheer him up eventually, it just took some time and patience.

“Well there was a witch one time…. no nevermind she forgave me after 100 years so it ended up totally fine.” His brother chuckled and nodded.

“See? And on top of that, humans have a shorter lifespan, so I think everything will be okay soon. Y/n definitely loved you while you two were together and I find it hard to imagine that they have lost all of their feelings for you by now.”  Satan could be right… After all, he was very smart, so he would not say something if he hadn’t thought about it or hadn’t put some logic to it. Perhaps he was right. Maybe trying to talk it out was a good idea. If they wouldn’t take him back, maybe they could still be at least friends. But first he had to find them of course.

“Do you happen to know if Y/n is here?” Asmo asked Satan, who pondered for a moment before replying.

“I think they went somewhere with Luke, Simeon and Mammon. They said they’d be back soon though.” Mammon too? That was an interesting combination. “Mammon went along because ‘a weak human and two angels aren’t safe here’” Asmo chuckled, yeah that does sound like Mammon and explains a lot.

“Well, I will be taking my leave now then. Tell me how it went later, okay?”

While Asmo waited for Y/n, he could slowly feel a slight feeling of anxiety creeping in. He hadn’t felt this way in a very long time. It scared him a little even. He always felt like he was in control in some way, since it was always people fawning over him, being nervous around him, but now it seemed to be the other way around. How could a mortal human have this influence on him? Maybe it was their presence, their uniqueness, he didn’t know. He couldn’t pinpoint what exactly it was.

However, he didn’t have more time to think about it now, because he heard the sound of a few voices in a conversation. Immediately his head perked up and he couldn’t help but smile when his eyes caught Y/n walking in his direction. That smile fell soon though, because then his gaze fell on the angel walking next to them. He was holding their hand as his eyes looked lovingly into theirs. He knew exactly what that look meant, and the fact that Y/n had a similar sparkle in their eyes said a lot.

Asmodeus felt defeated. He wasn’t expecting this and maybe that was why it hurt so much. The two radiated so much joy. It seemed like Y/n was completely healed from the pain Asmo had caused them. Soon his throat felt dry and his eyes quickly filled with tears. Before anyone noticed, Asmo quickly went to his room and locked the door before plopping down on his bed. He finally let out sobs which he tried to muffle by covering his hand with his mouth.

Why was he even crying? He was the one who hurt them. This was his fault, not theirs. He was the last person who was allowed to cry over this. But still, he couldn’t help but feel his heart crumble when he tried to process what he saw. They moved on. He messed up and now there was definitely no way that they were going to take him back. And he only had himself to blame for this mess.

[maraudersbutmuggle]

Sirius is Disowned, Part 1:

London, July 12th, 2012.

Content Warning: Mentions of Abuse in upbringing, Toxic masculinity, Homophobia.

"Jo! Jamie, has he answered you?"

"Hey Padsie, good morning. What can I do for you on this day?"

"Wanker"

James laughed "Who are you talking about?"

"Amm... Moony"

Sirius had been calling him all summer. He always answered. Not this time. Sirius didn't know how to talk to him after the Snape Incident. Sirius was embarrassed. James had been the one to talk and apologize. James was always the brave one. Sirius didn't know why he panicked and couldn't speak. It felt like every word he said, would be misunderstood. So he prefered to not speak.

"Nop, mate" James sighed in response.

"What if he hates us forever?"

"He doesn't hate us" James tried to be comfortive "He said it was okay"

"Yeah okay..." he snorted "You know nothing is the same now"

And Sirius missed him. Remus was quiet when he clearly could make a sarcastic comment. Remus didn't smile at Sirius during class, or exchange notes with him anymore. Remus used to tell Sirius he was acting like an idiot when he was. Now nobody did. Not like Remus. Nobody shared a cigarette with him. Sirius missed how he laughed, or got angry, or relaxed around Remus.

Exams and the week after were torture for The Marauders. And Snape walking around with his purple eye and swollen lip, reminded them of their mistake.

"Yeah you are right, let's talk about something else"

"Okaay...How's your summer?"

"Like hell"

"Mine is boring. Uuh, the other day I was walking with dad..."

But Sirius couldn't concentrate. His mind drove to Remus again.

"I mean it's not like we did something wrong..." Sirius interrupted

"Uh..."

"We were bloody defending him! He should be thankful instead of angry, you know? What the fuck?"

"Just to be clear, are you talking about Remus or my dad?"

"FUCKING REMUS, MATE"

"Okaay, handsome. No need to yell"

"Sorry..."

"You care a lot about Remus, ha?"

"He is my friend. Our friend. He's a friend"

James laughed and Sirius detested that. It was as if James knew something Sirius didn't.

"What?"

"Nothing" James continued laughing, "I mean, you care. You're sensitive and adorable..."

"Shut up!"

James laughed more.

"Don't worry, you'll be able to apologize and give Remus a kiss"

"Fuck you, Prongs. I am not a puff"

James stopped laughing "I was joking, mate"

"Me too"

"Fine"

"Fine" Sirius sighed "Sorry, I wish I could escape this hellhole"

"Please come to mine. You know my parents love you more than me"

Sirius laughed relaxing "True"

"Wanker..."

KNOCK, KNOCK, KNOCK. Sirius froze. Sirius had tried to spend most of his time in his room. Everytime he went out, he ended up fighting with his mother, or being yelled by his father, or being reminded how much of a good son Regulus was, and how Sirius should be more like him. So Sirius prefered to remain in his room the whole summer.

"I have to go, Jamieboy" Sirius whispered

James must've noticed the nervousness in his voice, because he asked:

"Is everything okay?"

"Yeah" Sirius snorted fakely "Probably mother to complain about how my hair is too long or something"

"Pads..."

"Bye, Prongs" he hung up.

KNOCK, KNOCK.

"WHAT?? FUCK OFF I'M BUSY!!"

"I hope you're not doing something indecent, kid"

Sirius smiled, recognizing the voice. It wasn't his mother, or worse his father. It was Uncle Alphard.

For Sirius, Alphard was the coolest person alive, after David Bowie of course. Thanks to that man, Sirius had learned to have fun at family gatherings. Last summer, Alphard had taken Sirius to the coolest clubs and places in Paris. Alphard knew how to enjoy life. No wife, no kids. Just himself and his freedom. And the best part was that nobody caught him. Sirius wanted to be just like him.

Sirius ran to open the door. Alphard was always casually elegant, with a half smile on his face, and hands in his trouser pockets.

"Uncle Alphard!"

"Kid..."

Although Alphard hated physical contact. Hugging and stuff. So Sirius contained himself.

"What are you doing here?"

Alphard's smile disappear.

"Do you have some time?"

Sirius smiled "Are you gonna take me somewhere? A party? A festival? Lunch with friends?"

"Not this time, kid"

"Oh..."

Alphard had never been in Sirius' room. He stepped in observing everything with a smile on his face. Sirius' room was everything that his parents disliked: rock band posters, David Bowie with makeup, Motorbikes with half naked girls on them. The room was messy, everything on the floor. The bed unmade.

"If you want to live like a fucking pig, then that's how you're going to live, Sirius" Walburga had said. Actually yelled. And no one from service had come to clean it. And Sirius didn't clean as well. Just to drive his mother more crazy.

Alphard laughed and turned to Sirius.

"My sister complained about your room"

"Are you here to scold me?"

Alphard shook his head "I'm here to say goodbye"

Sirius raised an eyebrow "Where are you going?"

"Rome" Alphard took a seat on Sirius' messy bed

"Can I go with you?" Sirius beamed "You can convince mother, just like you did two years ago"

Summer of 2010, when Sirius went to The Potter's Beach House at Camber Sands. Alphard had told Walburga Sirius would spend the summer with him. Orion had been reluctant, he didn't like uncle Alphard. Walburga had shrugged "I'm taking Regulus to Paris anyway"

"I need to go alone, Sirius" Alphard sighed "I have important business to do there"

Sirius sighed frustrated "When will you be back? By the end of summer?"

Alphard shook his head.

"By Christmas, then?"

Alphard didn't answer.

"Uncle Alphard, Are you even coming back?"

Panic on Sirius' voice. Alphard was the only one that Sirius considered family. Regulus was far from what he used to be. Sirius' cousins were annoying and hypocritical, now that they were adults. Well Andy was cool. It had been awesome how she left Lestrange on the altar to run away with that Tonks lad. And she wrote emails to Sirius occasionally, but Sirius wasn't that close to her as he was with Alphard.

"I don't think so, kid" Alphard answered carefully

Sirius swallowed his tears. This summer was getting even worse. Remus was angry. Sirius was stuck in his room. Alphard was leaving. Alphard was leaving...

"Fuck you Alphard, you can't just leave me"

Alphard's eyes widened by the bad word, but then he smiled.

"Are we gonna lose respect for each other now?"

"I'll come with you" Sirius assured "I don't care. I can live in Rome"

Alphard shook his head "No kid, you have your life here"

"A shitty life"

"What about your friends?" Alphard asked "You like your friends"

Sirius did. The Marauders were his chosen family. Even if Remus hated him now. And Marlene was cool. Mary was acceptable and funny. And Evans... Evans was not that bad.

"They can come and visit me"

Alphard smiled "I wish I could take you with me, but I can't" he said "Not this time, kid"

Sirius was trying so hard not to break down crying. He had to be a man.

"What would I do without you?" Sirius' voice broke. He maintained his gaze on the floor, otherwise, he was going to cry.

Alphard stood up. He walked towards Sirius and put a hand on his shoulder. Sirius wished he could hug him.

"You are the cool one" Sirius continued "You're...you're..." My only family.

"You are way cooler and braver than me, Sirius" Alphard said

Sirius looked up. And stared into the same grey-blue eyes that he owned. The ones every Black owned.

"I want you to promise me something, kid" Alphard continued "Don't let them change you. Don't let them mold you. Okay?"

"What do you mean?" Sirius asked confused

Alphard sighed he turned away and began pacing.

"I was never brave enough to face my parents and tell them what I hate. I wasn't brave enough to tell them who I was, what I liked and what I didn't like" Alphard sniffed "I wasn't brave enough to defend others from injustice. All I did was hide. Deceive. Lie" he faced Sirius again "I don't want that happening to you, Sirius"

Sirius didn't know what to say. All his life he had admired the way Alphard sneaked out of a family dinner to go to a club. The way Alphard knew how to control everyone. The way Alphard didn't lose patience when Orion accused him of "corrupting" Sirius.

And now, his uncle was telling him that he regretted all that.

"I've always admired you, Sirius" Alphard continued "You say what you think, and do what you think is right. And you're not scared of the consequences"

Sirius was scared of the consequences. The thing was that he didn't think before speaking or acting. Walburga's nasty reactions and Orion's horrible punishments, made Sirius regret everything in an instant. But it was too late.

"I'm not sure about that" Sirius murmured

"Yes, I am sure" Alphard smiled "Sirius, your parents, and your uncle Cygnus perhaps as well, will try to turn you into what they want. But Sirius, being a man is not about being tough, never crying and shagging girls..."

Sirius blushed. That's exactly what Orion had told Sirius last year. The father-to-son talk. Orion had even been nice for a minute. "I'm gonna show you how to be a man, son. Men are not weak. Men do not cry like girls or pussies, okay? Manhood is about toughness and courage. Women don't like pussies. They like men who are strong and who can control their feelings"

"It doesn't matter if you are different, or who you feel attracted to" Alphard added.

Sirius shook his head "I'm not gay"

Alphard laughed "I wasn't saying that. But if you were, it would be okay"

"I like girls, Uncle Alphard" Sirius repeated "I'm just a free spirit, like you"

Alphard didn't answer. He just smiled.

"I want to give you this..."

Alphard took a ring out of his finger. And gave it to Sirius. Sirius recognized it immediately. A silver ring. It had carved a warrior riding on a horse killing a beast, something like a dragon. Sirius had been fascinated the first time he saw his uncle wear it. Alphard had brought it from one of his trips.

"I thought you were never giving this to anyone" Sirius said

"I guess I could make an exception for my favorite nephew" Alphard smiled.

And Sirius couldn't take it anymore. He hugged Alphard tightly. A few tears running down his face.

"I'm gonna miss you"

"Me too, kid" Alphard gave into the hug and patted his nephew's back "Me too"

Sirius broke apart after a while. And cleared his throat.

"Promise me you will write"

"As long as you promise me to be yourself, no matter what" Alphard smiled.

Sirius still didn't understand what he meant. But he nodded.

"I promise"

***************************************

This is how I imagine the ring that Alphard gives Sirius.

[watchinglikeafangirl]

Light on me Ep 9&10

Well if this week hasn't been an up and down of emotions... I got all worked up in front of the screen and cried out of frustration. The writers sure know how to keep the excitement up and I still can't fully wrap my head around how realistic all these characters are. They all have flaws and it depends on how close they are to Tae-Gyeong or what side of themselves they are showing him in how dominating the bad habits are. It is visible this story is told from one perspective. All characters act in the way Tae-Gyeong expects from them or in the way he feels their vibe. Namgung is the funny but wholesome guy. This scene at the end showed him in different light, his loyal side. It truly is a hard job portrayinng a realistic world and characters acting as stupid and desperate as high school students do.

So-Hee

This week, we learn a lot about Da-On and his biggest flaw:

This man has no priorities and I'm on So-Hee's side when it comes to being hurt about it because I can relate to that very much. I had a friend once whom I just vibed with and I felt like I was a special friend to him, but then we didn't talk as much any more and it didn't bother him at all. My place was filled with someone else and I came to realise he treats everyone the same, tells the same amout of secrets. So no one is closer to him than the others and he's not just the way he is around you, he shows everyone the same side. I was really hurt by that, so I can feel So-Hee's point and why that hurts. It gives you the feeling of not mattering enough. But that's only as far as I can go because the other stuff she does is really respectless and disgusting.

In the end, she's just hung up on the idea of being with Da-On and waits for him constantly even though it's a lost hope. She doesn't move on and still pretends she's special to him even though she knows she isn't. She never was. But this lie she told herself became her own truth and that's why she's so very jealous of Tae-Gyeong and tries to join forces with Shin-Woo. But thankfully Namgung steps up and at least says something against her hysterically harsh words.

You think you know Da-On the most, but you don't know anything. You let your feelings get ahead of you and act like a child. What do you know?

But there's no more hope for So-Hee and she decides to do the btchmove by releasing that photo. I'm not gonna talk much about it because I'm already getting mad again. In what worl is a forced outing fair?!

Namgung

There's not much to say about Namgung. Only that he loves food, is funny and probably quotes every possible source that gave love advice. He's charming and seems pretty harmless until he talks to So-Hee. His voice suddenly turns calm and deep. He has a very accusatory look on his face and his eyes widen a bit when So-Hee asks him if he's gay. I don't even think he's gay. He just got really defensive and was done with her at that moment because of the way she says it, I guess. She pronounces it in a very harsh and unfair manner. It sounds like an insult which is just crossing a line. And Namgung thankfully made clear she did.

Da-On

Da-On is a very complicated and closeted character. He never opens up to anyone but you can see he tries sometimes but not enough. You have to lur information out of him and even then, you don't get a real answer. It's mainly why I think he will end up alone in the end. He's not ready to open up yet because he doesn't even see in what way his behavior hurts others.

He treats everyone the same, lets them interrupt moments and seeks excuses in tasks. I don't really know why he does that to be honest. Why would he never prioritize his friends over other people? It doesn't add up to me. You could lie in the hospital and he would still leave because someone asked him to. It is very frustrating and instead of inviting others in, he pushes them away, keeps everyone at a distance he can manage but never learns about borders and signs. There are things you simply don't do with people who are not your friends plus you only adjust to a group as far as you can stay your true self. Denying and hiding is not what having friends means. Da-On constantly trying to adjust to people to seem as appealing, hurts Tae-Gyeong. It means Da-On doesn't wear his bracelet. It means Da-On takes his hand away. It means Da-On cares too much.

To be honest, I feel uncomfortable around Tae-Gyeog. He's too honest. I don't know how to treat him.

This was probably the most real Da-On has been in a very long time. I think Tae-Gyeong fascinates and intimidates him at the same time. Da-On has a lot of secrets, so he tried adjusting to Tae-Gyeong by telling him one but he finds it makes him feel uncomfortable but now he doesn't know how to pull away. He's not good at being honest but he gave Tae-Gyeong false hope.

Like I said, there are always borders. Da-On touches Tae-Gyeong a lot which Tae-Gyeong countes as physical contact in a romantic way because not much time passed since they met. It wasn't clear Da-On only tried to cover his uncomfortness. He is not honest. And why is that? Because of expectations. I meantioned the problem with Da-On and expectataions nearly every week now and it fits more and more. He's nice to everybody because they expect him to. That's why he will never change or will have a hard time changing for a person because he feels pressured to be what the others need him to be, feels like he needs to be there.

Shin-Woo

Shin-Woo is always so quiet and shy and calm but I truly laughed out of malicious joy when he talked So-Hee down. She wants to join forces with him, wants them both to manipulate Tae-Gyeong and Da-On in the way they want them to be and Shin-Woo just says something like "I decide when I give up" and just walks away. So-Hee doesn't know what to say and Shin-Woo just seems like a badass.

Now, I like Shin-Woo even more. He even gives Da-On advice and you can see he talks from his heart. The entire talk between Da-On and Shin-Woo was tense and I was on the tip of my toes waiting for them to build sentences.

After the advice, Shin-Woo kind of works as a wingman here. Da-On looks like "please stay, it's uncomfortable" and Shin-Woo's face is just like "no, I told you to be honest".

But yeah, he's the same grumpy person as before. Tae-Gyeong more and more discovers his good sides and since Tae-Gyeong doesn't know him because Shin-Woo is so quiet, he doesn't seem to have flaws, he's flawless in his eyes.

Tae-Gyeong

Tae-Gyeong really frustrated me this week, honestly. when he said:

And went down to the beach afterwards to talk to Shin-Woo, I had so much hope I'd get a confession from him. I thought he meant Shin-Woo because he was the one who didn't talk about feelings and all. Da-On said something about liking and then Tae-Gyeong says his feelings are one-sided? Sorry, but I didn't get it at that point. It makes sense later but that really urked me until he confessed to Da-On. Even that, I didn't like at all.

But I feel sorry for TAe-Gyeong. He waits and waits and nothing good comes with it. He realizes he has to move on. Da-On won't change for him. Da-On has to find the right person to change for and that one is not Tae-Gyeong. (it's not So-Hee either but who am I telling this)

In that episode, we have some sort of change in the storytelling. After that scene in the cafeteria, something about the atmosphere changes and I can't really name it. It's like we're back at the beginning. Tae-Gyeong was so caught up with Da-On, his perspective on other things changed and even lacked because he didn't pay attention any more. Now, he's trying to move on and spends time with Shin-Woo and the atmosphere changes. It's like his eyes opened to world again.

Conclusion

Let's see how the posted picture So-Hee released will play out. Probably not in a good way. Just like all forced outings. Everyone cares and I still don't know why they should. I hope So-Hee will leaarn her lesson because I can't bear her any longer...

But until that, here an example of Shin-Woo's love language:

Hurtiing/bumping into other people on purpose.

[xtrash-writing-trashx420]

Cheeky Minx || John Shelby x OC

//Welcoming the New Recruit//

"Makenna Aoife MacTavish, A.K.A. Makenna Muldoon; Duchess of Glenbrook, Aged 23

Served at the Somme as a field nurse and,"

The man before me takes a pause and looks up at me in faux surprise, as if the information on the paper he's gawking at isn't exactly why he's come seeking me out, and then continues in an almost condescending manner;

"Hm... and soforth was awarded title as Duchess and Sole Proprietor of Glenbrook Estates and Enterprises in Boston for her acts of valor.," He pauses again to throw down the file he was reading and light himself a cigarette.

I take in every detail, knowing that this meeting can end up only one of two ways, and assess the scenario. Tilting my head slightly and leaning back into the armchair in front of his desk, I cross my legs; his eyes glance from his ministrations with the box of matches he's holding and zip down to my left thigh where one strip of honeyed milk lies perfectly exposed between my black leather garter holster and my thigh-high nylon stockings.

I see the slight glint of mirth cross his steel blue eyes as he catches my not-so-subtle warning and continues to light his cigarette. I watch as he pulls his drag, the way his fingers just barely drape the stick of tobacco between them without effort, the way his eyes study mine, the way his free hand keeps switching between his knee and the top of the desk.

'A gangster like this doesn't get nervous over one woman with a snubnose purse pistol... Who is he waiting for?'

"I'll take one, while your at it." He smirks at this, and goes to hand me the one he's smoking. It's my turn to smirk, as I nod to his pack.

"A new one, if you don't mind." He raises his eyebrow, but nevertheless, complies. As I lean forward to take the cigarette, he lights another match and lights it for me, leaning over his desk so I don't have to.

'A gentlemanly gangster, not too hard on the eyes either.,' I admit to myself, studying his sharp features and piercing eyes.

Finally, after what seems like ages of simply sitting across and analyzing eachother, he continues.

"You're titled Duchess of Glenbrook but the common people call you Miss Kenna. You have 15 bars, 2 breeders farms, a horse track and 27 plots of real estate, and that's just in London alone. Glenbrook Estates is what, a mansion? And it says here you have 3 vacation homes as well." He scoffs and throws the file down on his desk.

"Well, let's get on with it, Mr. Shelby, as you well know, I'm a busy woman.," My voice is far too suave for my liking, but the situation calls for a little theater. "I would assume you called me here for a reason, this is hardly the place for a business meeting with someone of my status."

I sound like a proper posh cunt, and it seems as if he's taking the bait as he groans out a sigh and leans back into his chair. He lifts a hand to rub his temples, and then slams his fist on his desk in a motion so fast and loud, I was almost startled.

Almost.

He seems unfazed my lack of reaction, and continues on.

"Let's not pretend like you don't know what I want. You have influence all over, spies everywhere, and a very high standing. Everyone knows who you are. Nothing happens without you knowing about it.-"

"-As if I don't already know that-" I snappily interject.

"And I want your men, and your cooperation when we take over London. You're the most untouchable woman in all of North America. If you tell someone not to fuck with us, they won't. And those that do, you have ways of making it so they never existed."

I frown, sinking into the armchair infront of his desk once more and taking a long drag of my smoke.

"I see."

For the next few minutes we simply stare at eachother while we finish off our smokes, picking, analyzing, contemplating. Finally, after he offers me the crystal ashtray to put out, I appraise him and ask one simple question.

"What do you want from me?"

~~~~~~~

It's been 2 months since my meeting with Thomas Shelby at his gambling den, and 6 days since our last correspondence.

"Pack what you can in a suitcase and my men will come to collect you on Thursday. You're not safe."

No explanation, no reasoning, just that little tidbit over the phone while gunshots rang true and the sounds of men fighting grumbled in the background before he abruptly hung up. And since Thursday had come and gone the day after the call, I had resorted to relieving all of my staff save for my most trusted.

The only ones left on premises were my gate guards, my doormen, and my butler amd personal guard Carleton, who had only worked for me for 2 years but I was rather well aquanted with. We had hit it off rather well, and I considered him more friend than staff. He was a tall, broad shouldered Jewish man with a scruffy, large beard and bright eyes that reminded me of a child's, with a contradictory scowl that would make a grizzly piss himself.

Initially after receiving the warning, I had brushed it off without care. Being hunted was nothing new to me after all, being a woman who had served in the war and in other more internal battles of politics. But this was different.

I remember after the call I had snorted in laughter, summing it up as a joke and continuing on with my day. I had been untouchable, faceless and anonymous since the war. Only the most internal government files and most skilled intelligence organizations even knew what I looked like, let alone my real name. That was what had led me to agree to take up business with Thomas in the first place. But 2 months into business with the bloke and I show up to my race track to find every single one of my employees and horses shot and beat to hell.

Since then, I had taken to locking myself in my art studio with my easels and paints to distract myself; though it did little to nothing to soothe my racing mind. For the millionth time in just that day, I wondered why I wasn't safe, I wondered if Thomas and his Blinders had been picked off by their enemies, I wondered if my name had been let slip by one of his lackies in a braw deal that ended badly. I couldn't understand how I had gone from being untouchable, to going into hiding.

The only constant in each equation was none other than Thomas Shelby, and I made a mental note to tear him a new asshole when I got the chance.

I gave a start, knocked from my thoughts as Carleton entered with my afternoon tea, and my paintbrush skewed off stroke.

"Oh, fuck." I swore crassly, looking around my desk to find the paint I had used on the background to cover my mistake; not noticing my butler's sarcastic and smug grin over my classless use of vulgarity.

"Your tea, and lunch, Miss Muldoon." He presented my tray with grandiose show of putting it on my desk and lifting the cover to reveal my tea and what looked to be ladyfingers and some sort of meat sandwich. I didn't care, I was starving and anxious, so I sat and ate, thankful for the distraction.

"Don't be so smug, Carleton, I'm going mad up here." I complained as I ate, gesturing around me. "That smug bastard Shelby is going to pay for this. I've lived so comfortably until now."

"Speaking of, madam, you received a telegram."

"Oh bother, burn it."

"It seems important, ma'am. It mentions the race track."

At this I lean back to look over at him, he's moved clear halfway across the room to speak, and he's shifting his weight and wringing his hands. I sigh, and wave him on. He reads it out slowly, and I "tsk" in disappointment.

"You haven't been practicing," I chastise him, pulling a "give it here" motion with my fingers and taking the telegraph from him as soon as he's close enough. "Have you even read any of the practice books I've given you?"

"...No, ma'am, it's more difficult when you're not helping."

I glance at him with an incredulous look.

"That's no excuse, and you know it." I say, finally taking a moment to look at and read the telegraph in my hands, but it doesn't matter, because as soon as I go to focus, a gunshot resounds from outside the estate by the gates.

With a start, I get up and run to the window, moving the curtains to get a better view. I hear Carleton move the opposite way, closing the doors behind him as he leaves.

I continue to watch out the window, trying to see whats happening, though not to much success. The large fountain in my front garden is centre view from this room and all I can see behind it is a motorcar at my gate and my gatemen pointing their rifles at it. As I walk along the windows to try to catch a better view, I just barely see an arm come out the window of the motorcar with a piece of paper clutched in their outstretched hand before my gatemen move to unlock the gate and let the car through.

That's all I need to see to know.

The Peaky Blinders are outside my house.

(SO this will be a series based off of a slightly Mary-Sue character but it just is part of the story, please don't hate me for it lol. It'll make sense as to why she's this massive standing character later on. She's still a normal ass broad with hormones and issues so its okay lmfao. But anywhoooo, this is basically just a filler character intro to explain why Kenna is around and stuff. John will be in the next chapter, don't worry 😉 also my dumbass didn't proof-read this because its 6:00am and I NEED sleep. )