#to be fair since I’ve been so busy I haven’t been on as much as I’d like | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

rollinouttahere-writes · 5 days ago

Note

Hi for the Halloween event can I please request yandere slasher trio (Zoro , Nami and Luffy please ) where Reader decided to stay with Nami since all their friends are dropping like flies ; turns out Luffy and Zoro have been doing it and Nami is the mastermind of it all please . (I’ve been watching to much scream lately XD )

I really love how you make reader interact with this trio in the lucky fic and the one where reader has a crush on Buggy ; honestly fair enough Buggy has got it going on 😔👌

If possible can reader be female please ; if not no worries , gn is fine ❤️

Platonic maybe please ❤️💛🧡

Okay so... remember how I mentioned that I didn't want these fics being too long because I want to get to as many as I can? Yeah... y'all probably aren't going to be surprised that I have immediately failed at that. This story is going to be split into two maybe three parts because it's getting really long and I have accepted that I will not be finishing it tonight.

Also I hope you don't mind, but the rest of the East Blue gang managed to worm their way into this fic, though they won't appear until part two. This part is Romance Dawn Trio centric. Also, I really leaned into the Scream angle, so this takes place in the 90's and everyone is in high school.

East Blue Ripper(s)

Yandere East Blue Gang x Fem Reader

4.5k words

Summary: A night home alone turns spooky when you hear screaming coming from the neighbor's house, but fortunately your friends are there to comfort you.

Warnings: light drug mentions, gendered (female presenting) reader, talk of teenage angst, pretty tame chapter but it gets more intense in the next one so stay with me

“Did you finish the reading assignment?”

The question makes you snort out a laugh. You twirl the phone cord around your finger while kicking your feet up in the air as they’re resting over the back of the couch, “Nope! I’ll skim through the chapters during lunch or something.”

“Aw, come on! I was counting on you being able to sum it up for me!” Nami’s voice crackled through the phone as she whined over your answer, “You’re usually on top of this stuff, how could you fail me like this? You know that I’m busy helping my mom with the orchard, especially with Nojiko being away at college now.”

“Hey, don’t pin that on me! You know that I’ve been stressing over the calculus test, I needed to study for it. Failing that test would be way worse than bombing some reading comprehension quiz for Catcher in the Rye.” Briefly, your eyes glance towards the backpack leaning against the couch. The book is in there, and you contemplate taking it out to at least try to read it, but you shake your head and skim your fingers over the calculus notebook propped up on your lap.

“Hey!”

“Ugh, fine. I’ll forgive you this time, but you’re on thin ice.”

Another voice comes through the phone, slightly muffled from being further away, “Be nice, Nami. It’s not (Y/N)’s fault that you were too lazy to read it yourself.”

You chuckle as Nami starts bickering with her mom. You rest the phone on the couch cushion and decide to refocus on your notes while they argue. You’re a couple of equations in when you hear something. The notebook is tossed aside, and you cover the earpiece of the phone to hear better.

It sounds like screaming.

For a moment, you stay on the couch. Yelling and screaming coming from the house next door was hardly a new thing. Bellamy, an upperclassman who graduated a couple of years ago, rented it with his gaggle of followers. If the rumors were true, it was a trap house, and you had little reason to doubt that based on all the people coming and going from it in rapid succession. It was all shockingly blatant, and it was beyond you how they haven’t been caught yet.

Just when you’re about to go back to studying, you hear more screams. These screams sound different from the usual noise you hear over there. This doesn’t sound like a party or a fight between them breaking out. Whoever just screamed sounded terrified. You set down the phone and toss your notebook aside before rolling off the couch and onto your feet.

Hesitantly, you make your way to a window facing the house and lift up one of the slats of the blinds and peer through. It’s pitch black outside, with only dim lights coming from the neighboring home. You stare harder, but you don’t see anything weird. The strangest thing is that the house seems quieter than usual, but that isn’t exactly enough for you to get worried. You sigh and drop the slat back into place. It was probably nothing. Just some stupid fight between the delinquents you live next to.

You walk back over to the couch and sit on it, properly this time, and pick the phone up to see if Nami and Bellemere are still bickering.

“-llo?! (Y/N)?! If you don’t answer me I’m going to call the police!”

“I’m here! Calm down!”

A loud, exasperated sigh comes through the phone, then the scolding begins, “What is wrong with you?! I was worried when you wouldn’t answer me! I was still holding the phone, you could have at least said that you were going to the bathroom or whatever instead of scaring me like that!”

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to worry you. I just thought I heard something and had to go check it out.”

There is a pause, then Nami’s dumbfounded voice comes through the phone, “You heard a weird noise and went to investigate? What are you? The first person that dies in a horror movie?”

Your face felt hot at her pointing out how much of a horror movie faux pas you just committed, and you scramble to defend yourself, “It’s not like I went outside! I just peeked through the blinds!”

Nami sighs and you just know that she’s pinching the bridge of her nose. “What did you even hear?”

“I… I could have sworn that I heard screaming coming from next door. Where Bellamy and his cronies live.”

Once again, Nami pauses. You’re about to ask if she heard you when she finally speaks up, “... Did you see anything?”

“No, I didn’t. I couldn’t see anyone through the windows, and I haven’t heard anything else since I went to go look.”

“They were probably just fighting about something stupid like usual, or maybe a drug deal went south. Don’t worry about them.” The previous hesitancy in her voice vanished and she was now very quick to dismiss the noises you had heard as nothing, much like you.

“Yeah, you’re probably right…” You heave a sigh and rub your eyes. Perhaps you’ve had a few too many late nights and it’s making you paranoid. Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to call it a night here? “It’s been fun chatting with you tonight, but I think I’m going to-”

Another noise came from outside, but not from next door. It’s coming from one of the windows in your living room. Heavy footsteps approached the window, followed by a scraping noise. You’re paralyzed on the couch, all words caught in your throat. This would be a scary experience on its own, but after hearing screaming coming from next door, it was bone-chilling.

“Going to what? Did you cut out on me?”

Nami’s voice instantly snaps you out of your terror-induced stupor. The phone is clutched tightly in your hands as you whisper yell into the receiver, “Someone is outside my window!”

“What?!” Any nonchalance she had previously was wiped away in an instant as she all but shrieked into the phone.

“I can hear someone trying to open the window! I don’t know what to-”

The lock on the window clicked open.

Your mind is screaming at you to run, to scream for help, to find a weapon, literally anything but what you’re doing right now. Yet all your body can do is cower on the sofa while gripping the phone for dear life as if it will save you. Tears sting at your eyes and you can distantly register that Nami is shouting something at you, but you’ll be damned if you can understand any of it over the pounding of your heart.

The window is slid open, rattling loudly and catching on the sides repeatedly as it’s pushed up. Glimpses of an arm can be spotted through the billowing sea foam green curtains, but the rest of the intruder is obscured from view.

Both arms come through the curtains and push them aside so that the person can grab both sides of the window to pull themself through. As this person pulls themself through, you can finally see the face of your soon to be attacker and-

“Oh, god damnit! Zoro! You scared the shit out of me!”

Zoro, your classmate and friend, finishes climbing through your window and looks around your home, not once acknowledging you yelling at him. “This isn’t the dojo…”

The adrenaline leaves your system and you slump back against the couch as a wave of relief competes with the burst of irritation you’re feeling. Are you glad that a serial killer didn’t just climb through your window? Yes. Are you still mad that Zoro just scared you like that? Absolutely. You lift your head up to glower at him.

In the time that it took for you to calm your raising heart, Zoro had wandered over from the window to the couch and plopped down next to you. He was entirely unbothered. He looked over at you and nodded his head, “Hey, (Y/N).”

You want to yell at him, or hit him over the head with the phone, but you choose a different tactic. Your voice is cold as you speak, “Nami. Yell at Zoro for me.” With that, you prop up the phone at his ear and stand up, leaving him to the wrath of Nami while you go to the bathroom to refresh yourself after that ordeal.

As a lecture of epic proportions takes place behind you, you can’t help but chuckle at being able to hear Nami even from here. You step into the bathroom and close the door behind you while flicking the lights on. They flicker briefly before shining down on and illuminating the small bathroom. You only need to take one step before you’re face to face with the sink and staring at your own reflection in the mirror. The faucet knob for cold water is twisted, and you quickly splash your face with it and rub at your eye.

The water is turned off, and you return to your full height to look at your reflection again. While you dry your face and fix your hair, your mind drifts to the unexpected guest in your living room. Zoro was a friend of yours, but a very new one. You would be lying if you said that you felt particularly close to him, especially when compared to your lifelong friendship with Nami.

Both of your moms were friends, so you have pretty much been friends since birth. Well, birth for you, adoption for her. She’s been a consistent part of your life for as long as you can remember. There isn’t anyone that you feel closer to than her.

That’s why it hurt so bad when she started pulling away from you a few years ago. You two grew up being thick as thieves, only for her to suddenly stop hanging out with you and barely speak to you at school. It was around the same time when she started working at some shady restaurant that everyone knew was a front. The “restaurant” was run by a man named Arlong, someone with a horrendous reputation thanks to his short temper and the rumors that he was part of a gang.

It was beyond you why she would choose to work there, and it was even more confusing as to why that seemingly meant that you two couldn’t be friends anymore. It was a massive blow to you, especially when any attempt at confronting her on it led to her shutting down and not saying anything, which later escalated into her snapping at you to just leave her the hell alone and to go bother someone else for once in your life… You aren’t proud to admit that those words completely broke you and led to your own flurry of unkind words that you would spend years deeply regretting. It also led to your friendship officially ending.

This was, of course, a very painful point in your life, though you had at least one good thing come out of it. While you were mourning the death of your friendship with Nami, a new one had developed in its place. After the explosive fight with Nami, you accepted that you needed a new table to sit at during lunch. A part of you wanted to hide away in a bathroom stall, but even while in the throes of teenage angst, you couldn’t bring yourself to eat on a toilet. That led you to finding the quietest, most empty table and sitting at it. There was only one other person on it, and she immediately took you sitting with her as a proposition for friendship and surprised you by dragging you to the mall after school to hang out. At the time, you had been annoyed to have your solitude forcibly intruded upon like that, but you quickly realized how nice it felt to finally have someone to spend time with again.

That friend you made was a girl named Perona. You had only ever seen her in passing before, and while you never had a problem with her, you never went out of your way to get to know her either. She was something of an outcast at the school. Not for any good reason, though the reasons usually never are, she was merely a victim of circumstance. Her father ran the Moria Funeral Home, and that was enough to make everyone else deem her weird and creepy. The labels never seemed to bother her. If anything, she leaned into it. Perona fully embraced the weird girl aesthetic and by all accounts had fun with it. It was a trait that you really came to admire in her as you two grew closer. Perona became a rock for you when you were at your lowest and helped to make you feel like you could move on from Nami and leave all that friend drama in the past.

So imagine your surprise when at the beginning of this school year, Nami approached you to make amends and to “pick up where you left off”. At first, you were rightfully dubious of this abrupt change of heart. You thought that she was fucking with you. That concern was only intensified when you saw that she had a whole entourage of new friends. You thought for sure that she was going to mock and make a fool out of you again for the sake of looking cool in front of them. You had every intention of brushing her off like she had done to you all those years ago.

But, obviously, that isn’t how it went. Not only was Nami persistent, so were all of her new friends. They were all aggressively trying to befriend you and vouch for Nami. Zoro, tonight’s intruder, was by far the most aloof about it. He just kinda… started following you around. It was mostly creepy to begin with, but it did come with the pleasant side effect of all of the school bullies leaving you alone thanks to how intimidating he was.

Sanji’s approach was the polar opposite. You had been aware of him in passing before, and even caught a handful of stray compliments from him on occasion, but now you are pretty sure that he has deluded himself into believing that he’s your boyfriend. The second you come into view, your ears are greeted by him all but screaming “(Y/N), my love!” through the crowded hallway. A more than mortifying experience that had unfortunately become a daily occurrence. At least he made up for it by bringing you admittedly delicious lunches for school.

Usopp had inserted himself into your life as if you had been best friends for years, including by sharing stories of past moments together that literally never happened. He had a reputation for being a liar, and while that was accurate, he’s also a funny and genuinely nice guy now that you’ve gotten to know him. He even helps you out with your homework if you ask. Out of all of the new people introduced to you through Nami’s return, he was probably the one you got along with the best.

And then there was Luffy. He was an interesting character to say the least. Much like Usopp, he was also acting like you two were best friends right off the bat. He’s always slinging an arm around your shoulders and trying to drag you off to whatever adventure he’s concocted that day, or inviting himself over to your house. Sometimes during the day like a normal person, or sometimes he scares the hell out of you by crawling through your window in the middle of the night like some sort of sleep paralysis demon so he can recruit you into whatever late night scheme he came up with.

Perhaps it was a testament to how much you missed Nami, but in the end they managed to get through to you and become people you considered friends. More importantly, they helped to bridge the gap between you and Nami so you two could finally make up and be friends again. Having Nami’s friendship back was all that you had ever wanted in your years apart, and words could not describe the relief that you felt when you could finally put all of that pain and misery behind you.

But, now really wasn’t the time to be dwelling on the past. You still had to deal with Zoro, didn’t you? You slap your cheeks a few times to get yourself back into the present moment, then exit the bathroom. Nami’s voice can no longer be heard echoing down the halls, so you guess she either calmed down, or -more likely- Zoro hung up on her. You step into the living room only to be greeted by a whole other problem grinning at you.

“Hi, (Y/N)!”

There, sitting cross-legged in front of the shelf containing your family’s collection of VHS tapes, was Luffy. He smiled and waved at you, completely carefree and offering zero explanation as to what he’s doing in your house.

“When did you get here?”

Luffy went back to going through the tapes. “A few minutes ago. You left the window open, so I let myself in.” He started humming to himself while pulling out tapes to examine them.

Actually, Zoro left the window open, but you decided not to harp on the details. God knows that Luffy wouldn’t care. The much more important thing to get to the bottom of was why Luffy and Zoro were even here. You glance back at the couch to see that Zoro is still there. He’s sprawled out with his arms crossed behind his head. The landline had been tossed haphazardly onto the side table, and had indeed been hung up. You’re sure that Nami is going to have a word or two to say about that in person when she sees Zoro at school tomorrow.

“Okay, why are you two here at,” you look up at the clock on the wall, “almost 11 at night?”

Luffy was quick to pipe up with an answer, “We were walking back home after hanging out with Usopp.”

That made no sense, and you quickly point that out, “He lives on the other side of town. How the hell did you end up over here?”

“Zoro said he knew a shortcut, so I let him lead the way. That was pretty dumb of me, huh?” Luffy chuckled after his explanation, which evolved into full on laughter when Zoro threw a pillow at him from across the room.

While you were still annoyed, you had to admit that his story made sense. Zoro could get lost in a paper bag, so it isn’t at all shocking that he could have wandered over to your place while trying to get back to the kendo dojo he lived out of.

“It’s cool if we crash here for the night, right? I don’t want Zoro getting us even more lost.”

The question surprised you. Shocked you even. While you’ve had them over to hang out before, typically with everyone else, the only people you’ve ever had stay overnight were Nami and Perona for obvious reasons, ones that you’re quick to voice, “No way! My mom will freak out if she finds out that I let boys spend the night!”

Luffy pouts at your answer, but it’s Zoro who speaks up this time, “Her shift doesn’t end until 8, right? We’ll already be at school by the time she gets home. She’ll have no way of knowing that we were ever here.”

What Zoro said was true. Your mom worked overnight shifts as an ER nurse at the local hospital. She probably won’t know so long as you all clean up and neither of them leave any evidence behind. Still… it feels risky, and you really don’t want to risk pissing off your mom by surprising her with two unexpected guests if she comes home early for whatever reason.

Sensing your unease at the idea, Luffy springs up and hurries over to you. He takes both of your hands into his own and stares into your eyes with a pleading gaze. “Come on, please! We’ve never gotten to have a sleepover before! It’ll be fun! We can watch a movie or something! Please!” Luffy is begging you as if you’re Sanji and he’s trying to get more Baratie leftovers.

You don’t really want to say yes… but you know that Luffy isn’t the kind of person to take no for an answer. This would probably be fine. Your mom basically never came home early. You should be able to keep them having been here a secret. You take a deep breath, then relent, “Fine. You guys can spend the night.”

Before you can even blink, Luffy is scooping you up into a hug. Your feet are lifted off the ground as he spins you around and cheers victoriously. You’re dropped back onto your feet, and Luffy wastes absolutely no time before sprinting over to the shelf to grab a movie to watch.

“Hey, wait. It’s really late. Shouldn’t we just go to sleep now?” Your protest was weak, and you could practically hear the answer before Luffy even said it.

“I thought you’ve had sleepovers before. You know that you aren’t supposed to sleep at sleepovers!” Luffy pulled a VHS case off the shelf and hurried over to the TV to put it in. It would seem that his mind was made up. Looks like you’re having an impromptu movie night. Luffy turned on the VHS player and cracked open the case. As he pushes the tape into the player, he looks over his shoulder at you with another one of his infectious smiles, “Do you have any popcorn?”

“Yeah… I’ll go make some.” With a sigh, you straighten up and wander into the kitchen to get started on the popcorn. Sock clad feet pad across the linoleum floor as you make your way to the pantry to grab a stovetop popcorn pan. Typically, you would only make one of these if Nami or Perona was over, or if you and your mom were having a movie night on one of her rare nights home, but it wasn’t unheard of for you to knock back one of these on your own. It shouldn’t raise any suspicion from your mom when she comes back home in the morning.

The pan is dropped onto the front right burner and you grab the temperature control knob, turning on the gas, then quickly igniting it into a controlled fire to heat the popcorn. From here, you can faintly hear the distinct sound of the tape being rewound. Ah, yeah, you and your mom do have a tendency to forget to do that when the movie is over.

You can’t help but wonder which movie Luffy picked out. He was partial to action movies. Stuff like Jurassic Park, the Terminator movies, Star Wars, that kind of thing. Though with it being October, he was on a bit of a horror movie kick. Last week, you guys watched both Predator movies and made it through the first two Alien movies while hanging out at Usopp’s place. None of you were particularly big fans of the third one, so Usopp didn’t even bother renting it from Blockbuster.

Popping kernels snap you out of your pondering and you glance down to see the aluminum top rapidly expanding. You quickly start shaking the pan to help circulate the kernels to keep them from heating unevenly and burning. Before long, the popping subsides and you know that the popcorn is ready. You cut the gas and move the pan to another burner, then crouch down to dig the large popcorn bowl out from its place in the cabinet.

As soon as the popcorn is dumped in, you pick up the bowl to bring it to the living room and find the lights already off and the movie playing. Luffy and Zoro are seated on either side of the couch, leaving only the space between them open. You sit down, and your ass has barely hit the cushion before Luffy is grabbing a fistful of popcorn.

You look up at the screen, and it takes you a minute to clock which movie is playing. A man is getting into a car in a snow covered setting and speeding down the road. Realization dawns on you as the driver begins losing control of the car.

“Is this Misery?”

Luffy nods enthusiastically, “I heard Nami talking about it. She said it was really good!” He turns his head away from the screen to look at you properly. “Why? Do you not like it?”

“I like it well enough, I’m just not sure you will. I think you’ll find it a bit boring compared to what you usually watch, that’s all.” You quickly toss some popcorn into your mouth, eyes flicking back to the screen as the door to famed writer Paul Sheldon’s car is pried open by his obsessed fan, Annie Wilkes. The first time you watched this movie was when you were spending the night at Perona’s house. She was something of a horror movie buff and would watch them year round. Naturally, your friendship with her meant partaking in her interest. You’d seen a handful before, but she really got you into the genre and would bring you with her to the theater every time there was a new one.

Your reminiscing is cut short by Luffy. “But it’s a horror movie. How can it be boring?”

“I mean, it’s not boring boring, it’s just more of a psychological thriller rather than the gorey action horror movies you tend to gravitate towards.” You eat another handful of popcorn and spare a glance at Zoro, only to find that he has already fallen asleep. Whatever. You’re sure that Luffy will happily eat Zoro’s share of popcorn and most of yours.

“If it’s a thriller, it has to be fun, right?” Luffy throws his legs over your lap and you have to act fast to lift the popcorn bowl and prevent it from getting spilled everywhere. You move it to rest in the gap between yours and Luffy’s laps since it’s just going to be you two eating it.

“I guess so. Maybe I’m wrong and you’ll like it.” You sink further into the back of the couch, eyes already feeling heavy. It’s pretty unlikely that you’ll make it through the entire movie, and knowing Luffy, he will probably get bored and be out not long after you.

While you may have gone into this forced hangout a little annoyed by the whole situation, all in all, this wasn’t a terrible way to spend the night. If it weren’t for these two showing up, you likely would have spent the night being paranoid about the screaming you thought you heard earlier that was now little more than a distant memory.

You felt safe. You could trust them. There is absolutely nothing to fear.

#yandere one piece #one piece x reader #one piece x y/n #one piece x you #monkey d luffy #roronoa zoro #nami #cat burglar nami #usopp #sanji #black leg sanji #perona #halloween event 2024

67 notes · View notes

mynicosensesaretingling · 2 months ago

Text

One glance, A Second Chance

Nico Rosberg x fem! reader

Summary: Nico and (Y/N) unexpectedly cross paths at a charity event in Monaco. Old feelings resurface and they wonder if they might be able to give love a second chance.

Warnings: none

Note: Just a little thing that came to mind. I hope my fellow Nico enthusiasts enjoy this <3

————-

The Monaco Charity Gala was in full swing, the grand hall filled with the glittering elite of the racing world and beyond. Chandeliers cast a golden glow across the room, while the soft hum of conversation and clinking glasses blended with the sound of an orchestra playing softly in the background. Amidst the glitz and glamour, (Y/N) stood confidently, her black gown hugging her figure as she scanned the room with ease.

She was no stranger to events like these. Her success in the business world had made her a regular at high-profile galas, but tonight carried an extra layer of significance. It had been years since she’d been in the same room as Nico Rosberg. Their paths had diverged sharply after their brief, intense relationship years ago, back when his racing career was in full swing and her career was just taking off.

"Still can’t believe you got me to come here," (Y/N) murmured to her friend beside her, holding a champagne flute in hand. "I thought I was done with these types of events."

Her friend laughed lightheartedly. "Oh, come on. It's Monaco! And you look like you own the place."

With a small subtle smirk forming on her lips, (Y/N) clinked her glass with hers. "Fine, you win this one."

As they chatted, (Y/N)'s gaze drifted across the room—until her eyes came to an abrupt stop. There he was. Nico Rosberg. He hadn’t changed much since she’d last seen him: still the same confident, relaxed demeanour, his blonde hair swept back, and those striking blue eyes that had always drawn attention, were still holding the same sparkle that she remembered so fondly. He was deep in conversation with someone, but almost as if sensing her gaze, his eyes found hers across the room.

For a moment, time seemed to freeze. Nico’s expression shifted, surprise flickering across his face, quickly replaced by something more unreadable. His lips curved into a small smile as he excused himself from his conversation and made his way toward her.

(Y/N) took a steadying breath, not out of nerves, but to prepare herself for the inevitable conversation. She wasn’t the starry-eyed girl she had been when they first met. She had changed, and so had he. But there was a history between them, a spark that never fully faded, no matter how hard she tried to ignore it.

"Surreal. But seeing a friendly face makes it a bit more real," Nico said as he approached her, his smile soft but genuine.

"Oh, really?" (Y/N) teased, raising an eyebrow. "Just a friendly face? I’m wounded, Rosberg."

Nico chuckled, his eyes lighting up with amusement. "Okay, maybe a little more than just a friendly face." He paused, letting his gaze linger on her for a moment. "You look stunning, by the way."

(Y/N) smirked. "I always do."

There it was—the banter that had always come so naturally between them. Nico's grin widened, clearly enjoying the back-and-forth. "Fair enough. But you still surprised me. I didn’t think I’d see you here in Monaco of all places."

"Surprised myself, honestly," she admitted, taking a sip of her champagne. "But it’s Monaco, as you said. And it’s always fun to see old friends."

"Is that what we are now? Old friends?" Nico leaned in slightly, his tone low, playful even.

(Y/N) met his gaze head-on, her smile unwavering. "Well, considering you haven’t spoken to me in what… three years? Yeah, I'd say old friends is a good place to start."

Nico laughed, clearly not fazed by her confidence. "Touché. But to be fair, you’ve been busy conquering the world, and I’ve been—"

"Retired?" she finished, her eyes sparkling. "Yes, I noticed."

He raised a brow, clearly amused by her boldness. "I prefer 'champion-turned-entrepreneur,' thank you very much."

(Y/N) gave him a slow, approving nod. "That does indeed sound better."

Nico flashed a smile, clearly enjoying the subtle praise, but there was something more behind his eyes. “So, what about you? I remember you always had a million things going on. What’s kept you busy lately?”

(Y/N) leaned against the bar, turning her body slightly toward him. “Busy would be an understatement. Expanding the company, travelling... you know how it is.”

Nico tilted his head, curiosity piqued. “You always were ambitious. But what brought you to Monaco? I mean, it’s not just for the racing, right?”

She chuckled, swirling the champagne in her glass. “You’d be surprised. I’ve always had a soft spot for Monaco, and not just for the obvious reasons. It’s got charm, a pace I can appreciate now.”

“Now?” Nico raised a brow. “Has something changed?”

“More like I’ve changed,” (Y/N) replied, her gaze briefly meeting his, her expression softening. “Life moves fast. Sometimes you have to slow down and appreciate what’s right in front of you.”

Nico’s smile widened. “You sound like someone who’s finally found balance.”

“Maybe I have.” Her eyes flicked toward the stage where guests were mingling. “But enough about me. Tell me, does retired life suit you?”

Nico leaned in slightly, his voice lowering in a conspiratorial whisper. “Retired isn’t the word I’d use. More like… strategically exited.”

(Y/N) laughed, the sound drawing a few glances from the nearby tables. “Strategically exited? Wow, that sounds like something you’d put on a résumé.”

“Hey, if I’m going to leave on a high, might as well make it sound good, right?” Nico grinned, clearly amused by their back-and-forth. But then his tone softened, and he glanced at her with a more genuine expression. “But seriously… life after racing, it’s different. Calmer. But I can’t lie—I do miss it sometimes.”

(Y/N) nodded, understanding more than he knew. “It must be hard to step away from something that’s been your entire life for so long. But you seem to have transitioned well.”

“I’m doing my best.” Nico shrugged, his eyes never leaving hers. “And honestly, moments like this—seeing old friends again—they make it a little easier.”

There was a pause, the weight of his words settling between them. (Y/N) felt the familiar spark, the one that had been there years ago, flickering again.

“You know,” she said, breaking the silence with a smirk, “you’ve become quite the charmer since your ‘strategic exit.’ Was it part of your post-racing training?”

Nico laughed, shaking his head. “No, no training required. I just remember how to keep up with you.”

Before (Y/N) could respond, a voice interrupted the moment. "Nico!" A fellow guest had come up to greet him, and Nico gave them a polite smile before turning back to her.

“Duty calls,” he said, a hint of reluctance in his tone. “But don’t disappear on me, okay?”

(Y/N) gave him a playful smile. “I’ll try not to, but no promises.”

Nico’s grin widened as he stood, but before he walked away, he leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear. “I’ll hold you to that.”

As he moved back into the crowd, (Y/N) watched him go, feeling the undeniable pull of their connection. It had been years, but something about tonight felt different—more electric, more certain.

The night continued, with flashes of conversation and laughter, but her mind kept drifting back to Nico. They hadn’t crossed paths in so long, but now that they had, the chemistry between them was undeniable.

Later, as the event began to wind down, (Y/N) stepped outside to get some fresh air. The cool night breeze was refreshing against her skin, a welcome reprieve from the warmth of the crowded gala hall.

She heard footsteps behind her and wasn’t surprised when Nico appeared at her side, his hands casually tucked into his pockets. “Escaping the madness too?”

“Just needed a moment,” she replied with a smile. “It’s been quite the night.”

Nico nodded, standing close enough that their shoulders almost touched. “It really has.”

They stood there for a few moments in comfortable silence, gazing out at the city lights twinkling over Monaco’s famous harbour. The night felt peaceful, but there was an undeniable tension between them—one that neither of them seemed eager to break.

Eventually, Nico spoke, his voice softer than before. “You know, I’ve been thinking about something.”

(Y/N) turned to look at him, curiosity in her eyes. “Oh? What’s that?”

He hesitated for a second as if weighing his words. “We’ve both changed. A lot. But standing here with you, it feels… easy. Like no time has passed.”

Her heart skipped a beat, and she felt the pull again—stronger this time. “It does,” she agreed, her voice just above a whisper.

Nico turned to face her fully, his blue eyes locking onto hers. “I don’t want to miss the chance to reconnect. To see where this goes.”

(Y/N)’s breath caught in her throat, the weight of his words sinking in. She had always been confident, in control, but right now, with him, she felt the stirrings of something more—something she hadn’t felt in a long time.

She smiled softly, her heart pounding in her chest. “I’d like that, Nico.”

The smile that spread across Nico’s face was genuine, full of warmth and something more—something hopeful. He reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, his touch sending a shiver down her spine. “Sunday, after the race. Let me take you out. No galas, no crowds—just us.”

(Y/N) didn’t hesitate this time. “It’s a date.”

Nico’s eyes sparkled with satisfaction, and he took a step closer, his presence intoxicating, as he repeated his words from earlier, “I’ll hold you to that.”

As the night wrapped around them, the moment between them lingered—filled with the promise of something new, something that had been waiting to be reignited all along.

#nico rosberg x you #nico rosberg x reader #nico rosberg imagine #f1 fandom #f1blr #f1 random #f1 x y/n #f1 x female reader #f1 x you #f1 x reader #f1 imagine #f1 driver x reader

91 notes · View notes

redrose10 · 1 month ago

Text

Here is #6 from the photo game!

Warnings: Swearing, hints of cheating, anxiety, depression

A relaxing weekend spent at a cabin with your boyfriend sounded like an amazing idea at the time. No distractions, no work, just you and Yoongi spending a few days together. The fall time was the busiest time of the year thanks to the leaves changing and the brisk air making cuddling by the fireplace more desirable. To make sure you got the reservation and to get the best deal you booked the cabin six months in advance.

Then life happened and you and Yoongi got in an argument. It wasn’t anything new. You two had been together for four years and had arguments every now and then like any couple. You could tell something was different this time though. He seemed angrier, less willing to communicate and more closed off. You walked into the bedroom to give each other some space expecting to work things out later. Ten minutes went by and Yoongi walked in with red eyes and his cheeks soaked with tears.

“I’m sorry Y/N, I can’t do this any more.”, he whispered before shoving some of his clothes in a bag and running out the door. That was two months ago and you haven’t spoken since.

“Y/N you should go on the trip. Take a relaxing weekend for yourself. You deserve it.”, your best friend said over dinner.

The romantic trip you had planned with Yoongi was coming up. After all that happened you had forgotten to cancel it before the required date and now it was too late. The trip was non-refundable at this point. You thought about just loosing out but it was a lot of money.

“I don’t know. I wish you were available to go with me. Isn’t it kind of weird to go alone? Yoongi also helped pay so I don’t really think it’s fair for only me to go and even worse what if he shows up?”, you questioned.

“Y/N first off you paid for half the trip too so it’s just as much yours as it is his. Secondly I really doubt he even remembers it’s coming up. He looks pretty busy right now anyways.”

You followed her line of sight until your stomach dropped at what you saw. While you were barely able to function the last couple months Yoongi appeared to happily be on a date with another woman across the restaurant like he had moved on with no issue.

“How could he move on from me so fast?”, you asked rhetorically.

Your friend shrugged, “Maybe he’s known her for a while. He could’ve been cheating on you for all we know.”

“No he wouldn’t have done that to me. He wouldn’t have cheated.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that.”, she said pointing over in Yoongi’s direction. The woman he was with had turned around to grab her bag and you gasped, “Nari?”

You bit your lip trying not to cry. Nari was a producer that worked for the same company as Yoongi. She made you feel really insecure from the moment you met her. She was beautiful and smart and funny and worked as a producer just like Yoongi so they had a lot in common. You were suspicious from the first time you met her. It definitely crossed your mind a few times that maybe he liked her more than he lead on. He assured you over and over that she was nothing more than a coworker though and that you had absolutely nothing to worry about. You believed him. And now here he was staring into her eyes just two short months after breaking your heart into a million pieces. You started to wonder if maybe he really had been cheating on you that whole time. Your sadness and hurt began to change to anger the more you pondered that.

Suddenly you stood up grabbing your things. “Where are you going?”, your friend questioned confused.

“Home. I’ve got a trip to pack for.”, you gritted through your teeth.

The drive up the mountain to your cabin was a little scarier than you expected. You took your bag out of the back seat and entered in the code that the rental company had given you to gain access to the front door.

The cabin was adorable and you were really happy with your choice. It was tiny but enough for two people and more than enough for just one. The bedroom and the bathroom were at the back of the cabin and after your long stressful drive you wanted nothing more than to take a hot shower and lay in bed and relax for a while before dinner.

You were drying your hair after your shower when you heard the front door open and shut followed by some jingling keys. Immediately you went into panic mode. You were alone in a cabin in the middle of the mountains. You couldn’t run anywhere and no one would hear you scream. You grabbed the fire poker from the bedroom fire place to use as a weapon and then slowly tiptoed down the hall ready to fight whomever was entering the cabin.

“What are you doing here?”, a deep familiar voice asked before you could speak. “Me?! What are you doing here?”, you spat back at Yoongi who was glaring at you.

For a brief moment you were a little relieved to see him and not a serial killer ready to claim their next victim but that relief was quickly replaced with anger.

“Seriously Yoongi, why are you here?”

Suddenly it hit you, what if he was here with Nari? Like what if he brought her here to enjoy the romantic couples trip you had planned for the two of you. You felt sick at the thought.

“I paid for half of this trip too. I need some time alone so I can work and get some stuff done.”

“What too many “distractions” at home?”, you rolled your eyes immediately thinking about him and another woman.

“Yeah actually there are. Not that it’s any of your business.”, he clapped back.

That hurt and your angry confidence faltered. Your lip began to quiver. You knew you needed to get away from him before he could see you cry.

“Fine. Do what you want. I’ll be in the bedroom.”, you said storming off and slamming the door shut behind you.

When you woke up the room was completely dark. The curtains were still open and it was clearly the middle of the night. You didn’t mean to cry yourself to sleep but you must’ve been more exhausted than you thought.

You were stretching out on the bed when your stomach started to rumble reminding you that you hadn’t eaten since the morning. Slowly cracking open the bedroom door you were met with silent darkness. Maybe you got lucky and Yoongi decided to go back home. That would be ideal you thought.

You tiptoed down the hall only to be met with the sound of soft snores coming from the couch. You peaked over finding Yoongi sound asleep all wrapped up in a blanket. He looked so cuddly and warm and you missed falling asleep with his arms wrapped around you.

Thankfully your stomach grumbled again getting you back on the right track. Yoongi was not yours to cuddle any more anyways.

The kitchen was small but livable. As quietly as possible you poked around hoping to find something you could quickly turn into a meal. Unfortunately thanks to the events earlier you didn’t even think to go to the grocery store to stock up so the kitchen was bare. You chugged a large glass of water hoping it would hold you over a few more hours until you could go get breakfast somewhere.

You turned to rinse out your glass when you saw a note sitting on the counter. The handwriting familiar,

“Pizza in the fridge. Promise I didn’t poison it. Just didn’t want to wake you. -Yoongi.”

You wanted to cry. You wanted to be angry. You wanted to run into the living room and hug him. But instead you chose to just take a slice of pizza, conveniently with your favorite toppings which only made you want to cry more, and headed back to your room to hideout until the morning.

Somehow you managed to doze off again for another few hours. The bright sun shining through the crack in your curtains waking you up this time. You got ready for the day, putting a little more effort into your appearance than you had for the last couple months. You kept telling yourself it had absolutely nothing to do with Yoongi.

The kitchen was filled with the scent of pepperoni and garlic. Just as you walked in Yoongi was pulling what was left of the pizza out of the oven.

“This will have to do for breakfast. We’ll have to go into town and get some groceries.”, he said when he noticed you.

“Oh if you want to make a list I can just go. You said you had a lot of work to do.”, you replied wanting to avoid having to spend so much time with him.

But he shook his head, “It rained quite a bit last night. The roads might be rough. We’ll go together.”

You knew there was no use in arguing with him and maybe a small part of your heart warmed up at the thought that he still worried about you like that.

“Okay. We can leave after breakfast.”, you nodded.

The drive into town was silent and uneventful. The little town was cute to say the least. You even took note of the realty company there because you wouldn’t mind moving there some day.

At the grocery store you both quickly gathered what you needed. Mostly snacks since you were only there for one more night. You grabbed some fruit and a giant tub of ice cream. Yoongi grabbed a six pack and some instant noodles.

He surprised you when he suggested you both stop for lunch. You really wanted to say no but he was driving so you didn’t have much of choice anyways. You ended up at a quaint little cafe. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming even though the tension between you and Yoongi was ice cold.

You were sat on the back patio over looking the beautiful fall foliage. Several outdoor fire pits provided more than enough warmth.

“So how have you been?”, Yoongi awkwardly asked.

“Fine I guess. Not as good as you apparently.”, you replied harsher than you meant to.

“What is that supposed to mean?”, he asked confused.

You went to apologize but were interrupted.

“Alright did you two decide what you’re having today?”, the waiter Jin asked.

“Uh yeah just the classic burger for me.”, Yoongi replied.

“The harvest soup please.”, you said handing him your menu.

After he walked away the tension between you both was thicker than before.

You realized that Yoongi had been kind through the whole trip. Saving pizza for you, sleeping on the couch without argument so you could have the bed, heating up breakfast, taking you into town and paying for the groceries, now taking you to a nice cafe and trying to have a civil conversation. You realized you had been the one making things difficult.

“Hey Yoongi I’m sorry about what I sa-“, you began but his phone started ringing. He took it out of his pocket and you felt your blood boil when you saw the contact name flashing on the screen, Nari.

“Sorry Y/N. I have to take this.”, he said walking away from the table.

“Of course.”, you scoffed thankful that you didn’t fully apologize yet.

Feeling anxious and not wanting to just sit there any more you walked over to the balcony so you could look out over the property.

“They’re beautiful aren’t they?”, a guy said next to you. He pointed out to the field after noticing your confusion, “The trees.”

“Oh yeah. They’re gorgeous.”, you chuckled.

“They’re tulip trees. They’re even more beautiful when they bloom in the spring.”, he said, “I’m Namjoon by the way.”

He smiled flashing you the prettiest dimples you’d ever seen.

“Y/N”, you said, “Maybe I’ll have to come back in the spring to see them in bloom. That sounds quite nice actually.”

“Oh you’re not a local?”, he asked, “You know… if you want I could show you around the town a little.”

“I’d like that, but I’m just here on a little weekend trip. I leave tomorrow.”

“Oh Uhh are you here on a trip with your boyfriend?”

Your brows furrowed, “What? No I don’t have a boyfriend.”

Namjoon awkwardly chuckled, “Well um does that guy know that because he’s currently staring at us like he wants to kill me?”

You looked where he was pointing to see Yoongi standing there. His hands in his pockets while he ran his tongue along the inside of his cheek. And he was in fact staring daggers at you. You knew just from that look that he was furious.

“Don’t worry. He’s just a complicated friend thing person….”, you cringed.

“Okay well if you want to give me call I’d be happy to show you around. Maybe don’t bring your friend thing though.”, he laughed handing you his number.

You walked back to the table just as Jin dropped off your meals. You both ate in silence and that carried over to the drive back to the cabin too.

Once the groceries were unloaded Yoongi grabbed his headphones and laptop and went out to the back deck without a word.

You stood and watched him work for a while. The Yoongi that you knew all these years would never just give you the silent treatment. He discussed what was bothering him so that you could work together to solve it.

He answered another phone call. You figured it was Nari again so you walked away to give him some privacy.

You had just finished plating up dinner when Yoongi came walking back inside. He eyed the food and then you. “We didn’t have much to make a big meal but I put together what I could.”, you said shifting awkwardly under his gaze.

“Not hungry.”, he scoffed before turning to walk back outside.

“Seriously Yoongi, what the fuck is your problem?”

He stopped and turned to look at you, “I don’t have a problem. Why don’t you go out and have a nice dinner with your little friend you met earlier.”

You hated that you could feel tears already begin to form, “You’re one to talk.”

With three long strides he was right in front of you giving you somewhat of a startle, “Me? I haven’t done anything other than be a heartbroken mess these last two months without you but the minute a cute guy flirts with you then you’re practically trying to fuck him right there.”

You stared at him in disbelief. Your heart rate was skyrocketing. From his pocket you could hear his phone ringing again and it all came back to you.

“At least I waited until you broke up with me. You are the asshole who was cheating on me the whole time.”, you whispered as the realization of your words hit you. Tears began freely falling as you turned and ran back into the bedroom closing the door behind you.

You never expected that this trip would be filled with so much crying and hurt. It was supposed to be relaxing and fun.

You waited a while until you had calmed down and then decided you weren’t spending another night in the same cabin with Yoongi so you grabbed your bag and packed up your clothes. You did a double check making sure you had everything and with your car keys in hand you pulled open the bedroom door only to hear a loud thud followed by a groan.

Quickly you found the hall light switch flipping it on only to find a very buzzed Yoongi rolling around on the floor. The six pack he had gotten at the store now empty and tossed around him.

“Y/N please don’t leave. I need you.”, he slurred.

You looked over his face. He looked just as bad as you did if not worse. Clearly he had been crying. His nose was bright red and his eyes still teary.

“Come on. Let’s get you to bed.”, you sighed while helping him up thankful you talked him out of the twelve pack.

Worried that he would roll off the couch you decided to let him have the bed. You were leaving anyways so it didn’t matter. Once he was all tucked in you tried once again to leave but he grabbed your wrist, “Y/N you can’t leave. I already lost you once and I can’t…I can’t do it again.”

He started to cry. You started to cry. You agreed to stay.

When you woke up the next morning Yoongi was already staring at you.

“I never cheated on you with Nari. I know that’s what you think happened.”, he said getting right to the point like the Yoongi you knew.

You stared at him in silence. Your throat was sore and your head hurt from all the crying.

He took a deep breath before continuing, “Y/N, I broke up with you because that’s what I thought was best for you. Just it’s just that the last couple months I felt like I was drowning. Work was piling up, I was spending less and less time with you. My mental and physical health were deteriorating. I saw how worried you were about me. I saw how sad you were. How tired you were. All because of me. And then I had a realization that I didn’t bring anything positive to our relationship. So when we got into that fight I saw it as my way to get you out of this. To free you from me.”

He paused for a second. He used his thumb to wipe away some of your tears that you hadn’t even realized were there again.

“But after we broke up I realized how much you held me together. I couldn’t function without you but every time I’d pick up my phone to call you or every time I’d stand outside your door ready to knock I would remind myself that this was what’s best for you. You wouldn’t be able to live your life if I was there dragging you down. But I’ve been a complete mess since that night. I couldn’t eat, couldn’t sleep. My work was slipping so bad and that’s why I had that dinner with Nari. The one you saw me at. She’s a head producer now and technically my boss. She told me that if I didn’t get my shit together that they would have to terminate my contract. That’s why she keeps calling me, to check in and see how my progress is coming along. And I’m sorry about what I said about you and that guy. If you want to go out with him it’s none of my business. I’ll work through my feelings alone.”

You sat for a moment trying to process everything that you just heard because you had no idea that he was feeling that way.

“Yoongi I’m sorry that you felt like that but you don’t get to make that decision for me. I would go to hell and back for you and with you. Part of being in a relationship is being there through not only the good times but the difficult ones too.”

After you heard sniffles coming from next to you, you noticed that he was crying. You pulled him into your lap which he happily allowed wrapping his arms around you and pulling himself as flush against you as he could. He nuzzled his face into the crook of your next to soothe himself.

“I’m so sorry Y/N. I never meant to hurt you. I actually wanted was trying to do the opposite.”, he spoke through sobs.

“Shhh shhh I know. We can talk more about it later.”

And you did have a long discussion about all of the events that lead up to that moment. It was much needed and helped you both to open up and put all of your feelings out there.

You agreed to take things slow but you spent the rest of the day happily wrapped in each others arms by the fireplace just like you had originally planned .

#bts #yoongi x reader #yoongi fanfic #min yoongi #bts fanfic #bts x reader #yoongi x y/n #yoongi fic #yoongi angst #yoongi fluff #suga #bts yoongi

80 notes · View notes

linghxr · 10 months ago

Text

My 2023 in Mandopop/Chinese music (update & recs)

It’s been too long since I last shared some music recommendations/updates on what I’m listening to! Admittedly, I haven’t been discovering as many new artists because I’m busy listening to 薛之谦 on repeat. But we'll focus on the new.

You can check out my Spotify playlist featuring these songs (plus bonus ones). In addition, I’ve included YouTube links below.

五月天 / Mayday 五月天 is a legendary band, so of course I knew of them and had heard a few of their songs over the years. But I never proactively sought out their music until recently. I still haven’t had time to dive into their back catalog, but I’ve already found some songs I really love.

《我又初恋了》 I actually really didn’t like this song the first time I heard it, but it wormed its way into my brain. It’s just a lot of fun! Non-serious songs can be good too.

《转眼》 My favorite 五月天 song <3. I’m probably too young to fully appreciate the lyrics, but they make me feel so nostalgic and bittersweet, like transitioning to a new chapter of life and leaving the old behind.

《因为你所以我》 This song didn’t stand out to me at first, but it grew on me! I caught myself humming it a lot. It‘s kind of corny, but it sounds so full of hope.

陈奕迅 / Eason Chan I first started listening to 陈奕迅 a couple years ago after my Album a Day August challenge, but I’ve found that his music has grown on me over time. I believe I’ve only mentioned him once before, so I thought now was a good time to highlight my favorite of his songs.

《之外》 This is probably my favorite 陈奕迅 song. The lyrics convey a sense of hopelessness, but the overall song has a smooth, light sound.

《娱乐天空》 You know a song is good when it’s over 6 minutes long but feels like it flies by! It makes me want to get up, get moving, and be productive.

《烟味》 This song is dramatic, and I love it for that. Also has a hint of orchestral flavor.

《淘汰》 One of 陈奕迅’s most well-known songs—for a good reason. It has big Cpop ballad vibes but is definitely livelier.

白举纲 / Bai Jugang You’re going to notice several mentions of 披荆斩棘 in this post. That’s where I “met” 白举纲. I instantly liked his voice and loved seeing him with his “brother” 高瀚宇 and “dad” 张晋! You may also see his music under his English name, Pax Congo.

《被动失控》 This is the only song on the list you could headbang to.

《Shy Boy》 I love this song because it’s cute and includes a children’s rhyme that I learned as a kid: 找啊找啊找朋友找到一个好朋友.

苏诗丁 / Su Shiding At some point last year I did a one-month free trial of Apple Music. It was an interesting experience because the recommendations were very different from what Spotify tends to show me. I’m glad Apple Music led me to 苏诗丁!

《LUCIFER（傲慢宗罪）》 All I can say is that this song exudes coolness and confidence. It also has a fair bit of English, but honestly I had to look up the lyrics to tell what some of it was.

《梦幻病》 This song is from the same album. It’s dreamlike but gets more frantic as it builds. Overall, it’s just a bit…unsettling.

队长 / Young Captain I learned about 队长 from a random post on Instagram about his concert in Malaysia. I think these songs might have gone viral on 抖音 or something. I was surprised I liked them so much because they both have some rap (I’m not a rap fan), but it was love at first listen.

《11》 I love how this song builds towards the end. I spend the whole song waiting for the crescendo, and it’s great payoff.

《楼顶上的小斑鸠》 This song is like the slightly mellower sibling of the one above. But I ended up liking this one even more.

金志文 / Jin Zhiwen 金志文 was another artist who Apple Music recommended to me. I definitely need to explore his discography more but haven’t had the chance to do so yet. But he has some good stuff so far!

《自娱自乐》 Smooth and relaxing but in a fun way. Simple and no-frills but will put a smile on your face!

《远走高飞》 This one feels like enjoying the breeze on a beautiful sunny day. I also enjoy the duet with 徐佳莹 version.

163braces 163braces started out as a YouTuber posting song covers. I have watched a couple of her covers, but they didn’t leave much of an impression on me. I was pleasantly surprised by her foray into original music. I look forward to hearing what she does next!

《控制》 The song I would want as my “soundtrack” if I were a video game character. It’s energetic and loud.

《murmur》 Honestly this song is pretty similar to the first one. Sometimes I have trouble distinguishing them. But hey, if ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

小鬼 / Lil Ghost 小鬼 did what I can best describe as “pulling an MGK” by going from more rap to kinda pop-punk? That MGK album was my guilty pleasure when in came out, so I’m all for 小鬼’s new direction.

《Last Day》 This song really gave me MGK vibes. It’s about half in English, but I often don't even notice when he switches between languages.

《不良少年》 I just know I would have loved this song so much in high school. It’s an angsty teen anthem.

《为明天写封信》 I can totally imagine this song playing at the end of a 2000s teen movie! Maybe while showing a montage of the main characters graduating.

《无所求必满载而归》 by 陈粒 / Chen Li This is technically cheating because I have recommended 陈粒 songs before, but it was at least a couple years ago. I heard this song covered on 披荆斩棘的哥哥 and immediately looked up the original. Honestly I should have known it was a 陈粒 song because you can totally tell it’s her style.

《轻红》 by 曹杨 / Young I keep coming back to this song! It’s from a drama soundtrack. I was super surprised the first time I listened to it because I thought it was going to be a typical ballad based on the first ~45 seconds or so—it wasn’t. There is also another version by 陈雪燃 (the king of cdrama OSTs). But I actually prefer the 曹杨 version.

《时光机》 by 吴克群 / Kenji Wu I was introduced to 吴克群 via 披荆斩棘2. He was instantly one of my favorite contestants after his team’s amazing 《新地球》 performance (check it out). This song is bouncy and a little dreamy. I kinda want to hear a remix with Harry Styles’ As It Was. I just wish it were longer than 3 minutes!

My Spotify Wrapped

I have a tradition of sharing my Spotify Wrapped, and I wanted to continue the streak in some form. So here's a quick rundown.

Top genre: 华语流行音乐 Representative city: Taipei Minutes: 21,750

Top artists

薛之谦 / Xue Zhiqian

林宥嘉 / Yoga Lin

五月天 / Mayday

李荣浩 / Li Ronghao

陈奕迅 / Eason Chan

Top songs

《木偶人》 - 薛之谦

《狐狸》 - 薛之谦

《骆驼》 - 薛之谦

《转眼》 - 五月天

《后来的我们》 - 五月天

Also, fellow Mandopop fans should check out the Mando Gap newsletter. I stumbled upon it this year, and I know it’s going to be a great resource for discovering new artists in 2024!

#chinese music recs #cpop #c-pop #c pop #mandopop #chinese music #chinese #mandarin #mandarin chinese #chinese language #studyblr #langblr #learning languages #language learning #chinese langblr #mandarin langblr #languageblr

202 notes · View notes

brandyllyn · 5 months ago

Text

Silk from their soul (04)

The Ghoul / Cooper Howard x f!reader [no use of y/n]

Rated: Teen (series will be explicit) Words: 1.3k Summary: At the Gate

Series Masterlist My Masterlist

He has no idea what has come over him.

Sure, he’d found the bounty. That part had been easy. But what the hell was he doing following her off to the Sierra Nevadas? The money was the other way, and every step they took was another chance for her to run away from him. Or get hurt.

It made no damn sense.

“So where you headed, Cowboy?”

He can’t resist. “Mountains.”

Another one of those laughs flows out of her. It does something to him, halfway between soothing his soul and grating on his damn nerves. “I meant before you decided to come with me.”

He considers just telling her the truth. It’d make things easier. No way she’d get away from him out here, the area is too flat with nowhere to hide. The best she could hope for would be to outrun him for a spell. Hell, she might not even do that much. She seemed more the type to try to talk him out of it. Beg a little and maybe try to use her wiles to get him to let her go.

The thought was tempting, he had to admit.

He lets his mind wander, ignoring the stream of consciousness chatter coming from her. He’d tie her up first, that usually got folks to start considering their options real quick. She’d look up at him with those glossy eyes and, hell, she’d already be on knees. Wouldn’t be the work of a moment to slip his thumb between those plush lips and-

“Where are you going?”

The thoughts scatter and he scowls at the landscape, reaching down to adjust himself. “The fucking mountains, like you said.”

“The mountains are that way,” she gestures, about thirty degrees to the right of where he’d been taking them.

“There’s a trading post this way, unless you got enough on you for the trip.”

She makes a face at him but starts walking in the direction he’d set. With a sigh he reaches out and grabs her arm, correcting her a bit.

“This a’ways, darlin’.”

He doesn’t hold on. Doesn’t wrap the rope on his belt around her wrists and tell her she’s just a job for him. Doesn’t fess up to how and why he found her.

If he did that, he wouldn’t get to hear that bone-jarring laugh again.

She also didn’t seem to care. Striding beside him companionably, as though they’d known each other years. Fuck, she was going to get herself killed.

Not that it mattered to him. Would be a waste of a few thousand caps though.

“How do you know?”

“How do I know what?” he drawls back.

“The trading post, are there landmarks?”

Adjusting the pack slung over his shoulder he glances at the sun. “I’ve been there a fair few times over the years.”

“Do they take anything besides caps?”

He cocks his head, “Why, you not got any?”

She’s frowning at the ground ahead of her, studying it like it insulted her momma. “Some. Would they accept trades?”

“I do not know,” he responds truthfully. It’d been a good forty years since the last time he was there. Who the fuck knew how they ran their business now. “But we should get there around sunset. You can ask them yourself.”

“That close?” she seems surprised. “I didn’t see anything from the tower.”

“You wouldn’t.”

She doesn’t ask for clarification and he doesn’t bother to give it. She’d see for herself soon enough.

He spots the first guard before long, back to a boulder not far off the path. He flashes the signal, middle and ring finger straight up. The man squints but lets them pass.

He’d just have to hope the signals haven’t changed in the last few decades.

Another mile and she actually sees the guard first. “To the left, behind the ridge.”

Squinting, he spots them, rifle tracking their movements. “Good eye.”

“You gonna signal them too?”

Huh, he didn’t think she’d noticed last time. “You want do the honors?”

She waves her hand at the person on the ridge, middle two fingers up in a ‘V’. Again they don’t get shot.

Yet the gates to the post remain closed as they approach, no wave from the ramparts or shout of greeting. The post blends into the landscape, half buried in the rubble of an old visitor center. Someone had dug it out a while back, created caverns and fortified it against people like him.

“I seem to remember a rather warmer welcome.”

She glances at him, then the wall of sheet metal. “Should I be worried?”

“Maybe.” He takes a step forward, holding his hands up. “We’re here to trade, Martha still around?”

“Martha’s been dead sixteen years,” a voice calls back. “And we don’t take to ghouls in these parts. Move along.”

A growl threatens to escape from his throat, his vision going red at the edges. He needs another hit of chem but now isn’t the time. “Just looking for some supplies for my cold-blooded friend here.”

“Cold-blooded?” she mutters defensively.

“She’s welcome, you ain’t.”

“I’m not coming in without him.” She steps up next to him, putting a hand on his wrist and gently pushing it down. He lowers both hands, giving her an assessing look. “We’re just passing through, we don’t mean any harm.”

“That’s what people who mean harm say.”

“Fair,” she mumbles under her breath.

“Maybe this is where we part ways,” he tells her. It’s not as though he wouldn’t know where she was. He could wait for her to come back out - hell it wouldn’t even be the work of a moment to follow her in. He could think of at least three ways into the place he’d bet his left nut no one remembered anymore.

“No,” she snaps, taking him aback. “We both go in or neither. This is ridiculous.” Louder she says, “I’ve got some old world gear. It’s not a lot, but you let us in and I’ll offer you a fair deal.”

“Leave the ghoul outside.”

“We go in together or not at all.”

Something shifts in him and he presses the heel of his hand to his chest for a moment. He couldn’t remember the last time someone had laid a claim to him. Not that he worked with others often - but most people were as eager to get away from him as he was to be rid of them.

There’s silence from the post, then a new voice. “What you got?”

“Circuit board,” she calls back easily, “ultracite, gold.” The Ghoul’s eyes widen and he takes a step to block her from view.

“The fuck you have?” he snaps in a low snarl.

“I told you I needed to trade.”

“You didn’t fucking tell me you were carrying fucking gold in your damn pack, they’re liable to kill us on the spot.”

“I’ll trade,” she calls past him, “in exchange for supplies for us both for two weeks. And meds.”

“What if we just take it?”

“Told you.” he grunts, but she lays a steadying hand on his sleeve.

“I’m tougher than I look,” her voice is strong and loud and suddenly he believes her, “and my friend is… well you know what he is. He isn’t going to go down easy either.”

“I won’t,” he chimes in, letting them see his wide grin. “I got a lot of miles on me, if I take a mind to it y’all ain’t gonna live to see the sun rise.”

“See?” she sounds charming, like she’s listing the brunch specials at one of those old Hollywood restaurants he used to take his wife to. “We can all die, or we can all live. Personally I’d prefer the latter. Why don’t we agree to be friends for a bit then we can all move on?”

Silence hangs heavy in the air for a full minute before a loud squealing noise breaks through. The gates slowly part and a woman steps through with a rifle slung over her shoulder.

“Well, you’d best be getting on. Once the sun goes down ain’t nobody coming in, I don’t care what you have.”

☢ ☢ ☢

For updates follow and turn on notifications for @brandyllyn-writes

#fallout series #the ghoul x reader #the ghoul x you #the ghoul

78 notes · View notes

daisyblog · 2 years ago

Text

Will You Go On A Date With Me?

Our Story Masterlist Summary: YN and Harry spend time together and their feelings start to grow. Warning: swearing Since YN's brother Louis auditioned on The X Factor and was put into a band with four other boys, she didn’t get to see him much which she found incredibly hard considering how close they are. They called and text a lot but it just wasn’t the same, so when Louis invited YN to go to Leeds Festival with him and Harry she was absolutely thrilled. Although YN had met Harry a couple of times before, she hadn’t got the chance to chat with him properly, so she was excited to be able to get to know her brother's bandmate. On the day of the festival, YN had agreed to meet Louis and his friends inside the field as she was travelling from their hometown whilst the two boys were going to arrive a bit later due to band rehearsals. Once YN had arrived at the field, she spotted some of her brother's friends that she knew including Oli and Danny. YN was chatting to Oli when she felt a pair of hands cover both her eyes and her brother's voice saying, “Guess who”. She immediately turned around and jumped into his embrace. “Oh I’ve missed you so much” YN expressed whilst she wrapped her arms around his neck with a tight squeeze. “I’ve missed you too, Kiddo” Louis said as he held her in his arms. Letting her go, he introduced Harry to his friends “Hey guys…this is Harry…Harry these are me mates...and you remember YN” “Hey” Harry spoke, whilst Louis’s friends replied with a nod of their heads or “Alright mate”. After having a catch-up with her brother about what he and the band had been up to and how he’s going to try and visit their family back in Doncaster soon, the group decided to move closer to one of the stages where the acts were performing. As the group walked towards where a band YN hadn’t heard of was performing, Louis was walking a little ahead talking to Danny and Stan, whilst YN kept Harry company at the back. “So..how’s living with my brother?” YN tried to make conversation with the curly-haired boy. “Uh..yeah it’s good…to be fair we’ve been so busy lately that we haven’t spent too much time in the flat” Harry explained whilst glancing down at YN. “I miss him..but I don’t miss his mess and dirty clothes hangin’ around everywhere” YN joked and Harry chuckled. “He really misses you..you know” Harry replied, whilst giving his head a shake to move his curls “You should come..maybe come up and visit us one day…we could show you around London or something” YN gave Harry a grateful smile “I’d really like that thank you…I miss just hangin’ out with him..we’d do almost everythin’ together”

“He’s told me some stories…you sound like a mischievous pair”

“You’ll just have to wait and see” YN stated with a cheeky smirk. YN was standing in line waiting to get a bottle of water with Harry and some of Louis's friends. Music from different artists was blasting through the open field and YN began to dance around, waving her hands in the air and singing along loudly to the music playing. Harry couldn’t help but admire her, he’d never got the chance to talk to her properly, only getting to know her through things Louis would tell him when they would talk amongst the band. Looking at YN, Harry could see the resemblance between her and Louis, they had the same shape nose and their eyes would crinkle when they both smiled. He’d never admit it, how could he, she's his bandmate's sister but he couldn’t help but think how pretty she is. Before he had the chance to advert his eyes elsewhere, YN caught him staring. “Whot?” YN asked whilst still jumping around, enjoying the music playing in the background. Sassy and full of attitude, just like her brother Harry thought to himself. Quickly thinking “I-I..was just thinking about how similar you and Louis are…like you're so carefree and..I don’t know..you just don’t care what people think about you..you just enjoy yourself” “What’s the point in worrying about what other people think?” YN asked. “It’s just..everyone seems to have an opinion about you.. don't they?” “And it’s just that…an opinion” YN quickly replied, she was now at the front of the queue so quickly ordered a few bottles of water as Harry stood behind thinking about the words she just spoke. --- It had been a few weeks since the festival and although YN spoke to Louis nearly every day, either on the phone or by messaging, she still missed him. Spending the weekend with him at the festival reminded her of the times when he was just her brother, and she didn’t have to share him with the rest of the world. But he had invited YN to visit him at his flat for the weekend because he wanted her to meet his new girlfriend, Eleanor and it was Niall’s birthday and he was having a party to celebrate and of course, YN said yes. It was the night before she was travelling up to London on the train to stay with Louis at his flat that he shared with Harry. YN was sitting on a stool at the kitchen island that was standing in the middle of the open plan kitchen and dining room, chatting to her sister Lottie and Mum whilst she cooked dinner. “So are you lookin’ forward to goin’ down to London tomorrow?” Jay asked whilst she stirred the pasta in the saucepan in front of her. “Yeah..I can’t wait..I’m so excited”

“I’m so jealous” Lottie said with a sad pout “Can I go to?” “When you’re a bit older” their Mum answered her. “That’s not fair” Lottie said and stomped out of the room. YN and their Mum looked at each other and YN rolled your eyes at her sister's dramatic behaviour. “So fookin’ dramatic” YN said. “YN! Language” her Mum scolded with a frown. With that, YN's phone buzzed in front of her with a Twitter notification. At first, she ignored it thinking it was probably another fan mentioning her in a tweet or trying to message her, but as she took another glance she saw the username @Harry_Styles, he had sent her a DM. @Harry_Styles Hey! Louis said that you are coming to visit this weekend and you’re coming to Niall’s birthday. It’ll be nice to see you again, maybe we could do that tour of London like we talked about :) She stared at the message for a while, unsure about how to reply. Did Louis ask him to message her, she wondered. After a few minutes of thinking about how to reply, she began to type a message back. @YNTomlinson Hi Harry. Yeah I’m travelling down tomorrow, I arrive around 5pm. I’d really like that but only if you’re not too busy x After pressing the send button, she realised she had put an ‘x’ at the end out of habit. Her eyes widened and she could feel her heart beat faster. But before she could overthink anymore, another message appeared.

@Harry_Styles We’ve got the weekend off so I’ll look forward to being your tour guide for the day. We’re gonna be the youngest at the party and the only ones not allowed to drink. So we’ll be the sober ones haha! X

He sent an ‘x’ back, maybe he didn’t find it weird as she had thought. Not wanting to keep him waiting she typed out a quick reply. @YNTomlinson I can’t wait! Waters on me x @HarryStyles Water? Aw I thought we could be a bit more adventurous and maybe have a lemonade x

She couldn’t help but let out a little giggle at his sarcasm. For a moment she had forgotten that her Mum was still in the room cooking. “Who’s got you giggling?” Lifting her head and looking at her Mum she panicked and said “Aww..I-I..It’s just Mia..she sent me a funny photo that’s all” she smiled as her fingers tapped against the screen. Her Mum eyed her suspiciously not quite believing her but decided not to say anything. @YNTomlinson Adventurous is my middle name x

--- YN had arrived at Louis and Harry’s shared flat, last night, around five o'clock after taking a two-hour train journey to get there. When she arrived Louis, Eleanor and Harry were all hanging out in the lounge area of the flat. Louis introduced her to his new girlfriend and Harry welcomed YN with a warm hug. “How was the train ride Kiddo?” Louis asked as he sat back down and placed his hand on Eleanor's thigh. Harry had gone to the kitchen to get everyone a drink and YN sat cross-legged on the chair close to the window. “Yeah it was alright…a bit boring on me own..but I just put me earphones in” “Well we’re gonna try and come down soon…I want Mum and the girls to meet El” Louis turned to smile at the girl next to him. “Please do..Lottie stomped out the room last night ‘cause Mum said she couldn’t come wiv me” YN explained “’onestly it was so fookin’ dramatic…so yeah please come down” which made Eleanor giggle. “I wonder who she’s followin’ ey” Louis stared at YN with raised eyebrows. “I wasn’t tha’ bad Lou” YN wined. “You fookin’ were…nobody could even look at ya without you bitin’ their fookin’ head off” YN rolled her eyes at her brother before he continued “I feel sorry for whoever decides to date you” he laughed as YN rolled her eyes again. With that Harry walked back into the room with drinks for each of them, he handed YN hers and she thanked him. He sat on the black sofa opposite and watched as YN took a sip..lemondade she thought. As she looked up, Harry gave her a wink which made her stomach flutter. The night passed as they spent it eating pizza, telling stories, and watching a movie. YN even got to know Eleanor a little bit more and learnt that she was an only child, so she was really looking forward to meeting the rest of the Tomlinson family. YN and Eleanor both chatted about what they were going to wear to Niall’s party, Eleanor explaining she still wasn’t sure and brought a few outfits to choose from as she was staying the night. She asked if YN wanted to get ready together and said she would even help to curl her hair and do her makeup.

That’s where they are now, both sitting on the bed in the guest room which is YN's for the weekend. Eleanor had curled her hair in loose curls as they chatted about make-up, and fashion and even planned to go on a shopping trip together soon. YN had decided on wearing a plain simple black dress with some ankle strap sandals. Whilst looking in the mirror YN couldn’t help but look at her stomach and legs and began to compare herrself to Eleanor whose tummy was flat in her dress and her legs just looked flawless. In the bathroom next door, Harry was dressed in a smart black shirt, paired with some black skinny jeans and brown Chelsea boots, he was brushing his teeth and he didn’t mean to listen but the door was slightly ajar and he could hear them both chatting away. He could hear YN quietly ask Eleanor “Uhh..El..can I ask you something?” “Yeah of course” “Do..do I look okay in this..it’s just I can’t help…but..but..I dunno..think maybe me stomach and legs are too big for it” Harry heard YN stutter. At her words, Harry couldn’t help but frown, he actually felt upset that YN thought about herself that way. “YN..you’ve got to be joking babe..you look absolutely beautiful and your figure is just..well perfect” Harry smiled at Eleanor’s compliment and couldn’t help but agree. “Uhh..thanks El..I just..sometimes I get in me own head…ya know” “We all do babe..but I meant what I said” Harry had decided he had eavesdropped enough and moved into the lounge area to wait for them both with Louis as they needed to leave in the next ten minutes. As he was chatting with Louis about the football scores, YN and Eleanor walked into the lounge giggling together about something. Harry gulped when he was YN, wearing a fitted black dress that hugged her figure perfectly and her loose curls framing her face and lips painted a dark red. Louis interrupted his thoughts “Oi oi! Look at you pretty gals” and pecked Eleanor’s forehead. YN walked behind the couple heading towards Harry’s car when she heard Harry’s voice next to her “I like your hair..it really suits you” which caused a blush to creep up onto her cheeks. Harry noticed the slight colour on YN's cheeks as she thanked him with a shy smile. He always thought she was confident and especially after their conversation at the festival about not worrying about what others think. But looking at her shy smile and thinking about the conversation with Eleanor, he concluded that maybe she hid her insecurities well behind a loud and sassy personality. ---

They had arrived at Niall’s party which was at the Sanderson Hotel and found Niall surrounded by a group of unfamiliar people, that Louis and Harry seemed to know. “YN!” Niall shouted as he noticed her standing between her brother and Harry. He had pulled YN into a tight squeeze. “Thanks for comin’ love” “’appy Birthday Niall” her Doncaster accent was heard “’ere’s your card..there’s a little something inside..I didn’t know what you liked so..” The Irishman interrupted her “Aww darlin’ you didn’t need to get me anything..thanks love”. He pulled her into another embrace and left a platonic peck on top of her head. Harry felt a little confused when he felt jealous of Niall being able to act so casually towards YN. When Harry welcomed her yesterday when she arrived, with a hug, he couldn’t help but think afterwards if it was awkward or if he had sprayed too much aftershave, but here the other boys were hugging her like they’d known her for ages. Why was he overthinking everything towards her, he wondered to himself. As the night went on, Harry found himself tucked in the corner chatting with James, as James was telling him a story about his recent holiday, Harry’s eyes couldn’t help but find YN in the crowd. She was dancing along to ‘I Gotta Feeling’ with Louis and Niall and his eyes landed on her hips swaying along to the beat. “Oooo…has our Harry got a little crush” James teased, making Harry look back at him. “Piss off Corden…she’s Louis's sister” “Didn’t deny it” James continued teasing and laughing at the young lad's glare. ”Ooo she’s coming over…I’ll leave you to it” and before Harry could say anything, James had disappeared into the crowd. “Alright…where’s the lemonade you promised then?” YN asked with a giggle. “They ran out…their most popular drink apparently” Harry teased. “Aww yeah, I can fookin’ imagine..must be flying off the shelf” Harry couldn’t help but noticed how similar YN and Louis were with your quick comebacks and witty humour.

The party had decided to move on to Movida and do a pub crawl to celebrate Niall’s 18th Birthday. Being the youngest member of the band and still being seventeen, Harry decided he was going to go home early. Louis had suggested YN go back to the flat with Harry as she wouldn’t be able to get into the pubs and clubs as she wasn't old enough. So YN found yourself back at the flat, and she explained that she was going to change into something comfy. After changing into some comfy pyjamas and washing her make-up off, she walked back to the lounge area where she found Harry sitting on the sofa scrolling on his phone. As YN entered, Harry lifted his head “Hey, I was going to watch a movie..and chill if you want to join” “Yeah..I’d love to” but Harry sensed she wanted to say more. “You alright?” he asked as YN awkwardly stood in the doorway. “Uhh..yeah..um..I was just wondering if..um I could make a cup of tea please?” She stuttered out, almost sounding embarrassed. “Only if I can have one too” Harry replied with a cheeky smile. “milk and two sugars please”. YN only smiled and went to the boys' kitchen and got two mugs out of the cupboard and switched the kettle on to boil. She carried the two mugs of tea back into the room where Harry was scrolling through the movie options on the screen in front of him. She passed him his mug and he muttered a thank you as he took a sip. “Must be a Tomlinson thing..you can all make a good cup of tea” Harry joked, making YN chuckle. “Yeah..we’re a bit obsessed with tea...can’t beat a good cup of Yorkshire tea” YN said with a smile. For some reason, she carried on talking about her love for tea and then let her secret out that only her family knew about “…yeah I can’t sleep if I don’t have a cup of tea before bed” instantly regretting it because he’s probably going to think she's a bit strange now. “I’ll remember that…maybe I should start drinking some before I sleep..see if it works” he thought out loud.

---

As promised, Harry took her on a little tour of London the next day before she was heading back to Doncaster. If YN was honest, she didn’t want your time in London to end, she has really enjoyed herself. Harry was already showered and dressed when YN walked into the kitchen on Sunday morning. He was pouring some milk into a mug and using a spoon to stir it. “Morning” he greeted. “Morning Harry” YN smiled. “I’ve made you a cup of tea…I’m sorry if it's not as nice as yours” he joked. YN laughed at his joked and took the mug from his grip “Thanks Harry…maybe I can teach you the Tomlinson way one day” “Letting me in on the family secrets” he said before taking a sip from the white mug in his hand “I was thinking maybe we could walk to Hampstead Heath..it is about an hour's walk but we could stop on the way for some breakfast” Harry suggested. “I did ask Lou if he wanted to join us but I don’t think he even lifted his head from the pillow..looks like they had an eventful night". “Yeah..sounds good” YN smiled as she took a sip from her mug “I’m goin’ to go and have a shower and get dressed". YN and Harry had stopped for a takeaway coffee and a breakfast toastie in a little cafe that was near the boys flat. Harry insisted he paid despite YN's effort of trying to swipe her card before he could. They were walking along the busy road of London, heading towards the park. “So..tell me all about YN Tomlinson” Harry began as they walked side by side holding their cups in your hands, taking a sip as they walked. “I’m sure you’ve heard enough from Lou” “Well..yeah he told me some things..but I want to know YN and not..I don’t know...what Louis wants me to know” he explained and took a glance down at her presence next to him. YN thought before speaking “Uhh..what do you want to know?..I think I’m pretty borin’” YNlaughed. “Boring is not how I’d describe you…you’re full of life and energy and you..you seem to just live for the moment” “Well yeah..you only live once so..you know…may as well live while we’re young ey” “See…you're good at giving life advice” Harry observed “Louis told me you’re studying at the moment..Business wasn’t it?” “Yeah..I fookin’ hate it” YN said with a frown “I didn’t know what to study so I just pciked that…I really like being creative and I wanted to do something with like hair or beauty or..I dunno something where I can show my ideas..you know” “It’s never too late to start…take your own advice…no point spending your time in a job or whatever that you don’t like” Harry spoke. “Hmm..true” YN agreed “I just haven’t got the experience you know and nobody wants to take you on or..like help when you don’t know what you're doin’” “Why don’t you speak to Louise?” Harry suggested “She’s going to be coming on tour with us..maybe she could help or something” “Yeah” YN thought “I could, couldn’t I” “Never know..maybe you’ll end up on the road with us now” Harry teased and bumped her shoulder with his.

YN didn’t realise how the time went so quickly, YN and Harry spoke all the way to the park about families, childhoods, friends, the band…everything and everything. Once they got back to the flat, Louis was laying across the sofa. “Hey..you two enjoy?” he asked. “Yeah…it was nice to just walk around” YN said “I’m gonna have to leave soon…me train leaves at three” YN said as she checked the time on her phone. Before YN left, Louis wrapped his arms around her “Let me know when you’re ‘ome safe alright…and look after Mum and the girls for me” “I will..thanks for letting me come down and stay wiv you” YN said “Thanks for showing me around too Harry…breakfasts on me next time though”. Harry couldn’t help but smile at the words ‘next time’, he had really enjoyed just getting to know her today and he was excited at the thought of doing it again. ---

Once YN got home that evening and spent some time with her Mum and younger sisters, filing them in on what she got up to on the weekend and all about Eleanor and how they're going to come and visit them soon, YN was laying in her bed, covered with pink covers, and of course a cup of tea in her hand. As she was taking a sip from her mug, her fingers started typing out a message to her new contact. Harry had given YN his number to send Louise’s number to her. YN Hey Harry! Just wanted to say thank you again for this weekend. I really enjoyed myself xx After sending the message YN began scrolling through Instagram and liking some of her friend's posts that they put up over the weekend. Harry Hey, glad you got home safe. I had a great time too! I took your advice and I’m having a cup of tea before bed x YN You’re in for a good night's sleep xx Harry Sweet dreams YN x

--- After Harry’s last message, YN didn’t think she would speak to him much after that. How wrong was she? They text every moment of the day they could, she found yourself checking her phone every few minutes to see if the curly-haired boy had replied, feeling instantly disappointed when she didn’t see his name on her screen. Little did YN know, Harry was doing the exact same thing, checking his phone every moment to see if she had replied to the funny video he had sent her or listened to the song he suggested she listen to. Louis had teased him about who he was constantly texting and who was making him smile like a giggly schoolgirl every time his phoned buzzed. Each time he replied “It’s just a friend”, because how could he tell his bandmate..and best friend that he was falling for his sister. Harry was back at his Mum’s house visiting before the Up All Night tour began in late December. He was sat at the dining table whilst his Mum cooked him and Robin some breakfast. Since coming home the night before, Anne noticed her son’s attachment to his phone, if he wasn’t typing on the screen he was checking it before putting it back in his pocket. She was about to ask who was making him smile like that but Harry interrupted her thoughts. “Uhh..can I ask you both something?” “Of course my love” Anne replied, whilst Robin said “Anything son” Harry paused and thought before trying to get his words out “I-I..What do you do when you..you really like someone..but shouldn’t” “It depends on why you shouldn’t” Robin replied “Like..you just shouldn’t think of them that way..because well you're going to upset people” “Darlin’ If you like someone..and I mean really like someone then…something you have to be selfish and if you and the person like each other..and you know want to give it a go then..go for it because you have one life, so don’t let other people stop you from doing anything you feel is right” Anne advised.

“Your Mums right, Harry” Robin spoke as Harry sat and listened to his Mum’s advice, thinking how YN had given him similar advice a few weeks ago. Before Harry could change his mind or overthink he began to type out a message. YN was sitting at the dining table, eating a piece of toast with her sisters when she felt her phone buzz in her pocket. Harry I’m really scared to ask you this because Louis will probably kill me, but will you go on a date with me? X

457 notes · View notes

webshooterrr9 · 3 days ago

Text

merman diary 4

[TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. ORIGINAL WRITING IN THE LOCAL LANGUAGE OF THE MERFOLK]

w.c: 0.8k

content warning: brief mentions of war/conflict

written with no specific character in mind - so imagine this as a mermaid!au with whoever you want! male!char x fem!reader

Diary Entry - 11/2/2024

I haven’t seen her in a while.

It’s not her fault, it’s mine. I’ve been too busy with colonial affairs to visit her lately. The colony has been preparing for conflict with the Octocrae. Those tentacled freaks have always weirded me out, but that’s not my problem. I’m not in the colony’s Leader Council - I’m just a regular merman. But if the colony did descend into war, I’d be expected to fight alongside any other able-bodied merfolk. If I had it my way, I’d spend all of my time on the shore talking with my human. But life isn’t fair, I guess.

“Hey, ule! Come here.” I turn around to see Tasi gesturing towards me, his tail swaying excitedly side-to-side. I swim over, shaking my head.

“What’s all the fuss about? And I told you, there’s no need to use honorifics when referring to me. We’ve been friends long enough.” I say, crossing my arms.

“Aegean sent for all the eligible merfolk to come to the council meeting,” he said, leading me away towards the center of the colony’s settlement. “They want us all to be present for the discussion over war preparations.”

“We’re not actually going to war, are we?” A look of concern crosses my face, but Tasi just seems to consider this normal. “I thought the Council was trying to avoid conflict with the eight-tails.”

“Steady your shells, man. It’s not a big deal. They just want to discuss preparations for if conflict were to actually happen; we were only called so that we could be informed.”

We kept swimming, entering the council building. Our settlement has been around for thousands of years, with this edifice being one of the oldest. Grand archways and spirals decorate every wall of the council building, with details so delicate that only the gentlest of hands could craft them over the centuries that the colony has been around. There are merfolk swimming all around, rushing to the auditorium to get the best seats in front of the Leaders.

I almost get smacked by the tail of one of my scurrying peers. “Do we have to go? These meetings always take forever to end.” I whine, giving Tasi a pleading look. “Why don’t we just ditch? It’s not like they’ll realize we’re missing with all the people crowding the seats.”

My best friend looks at me like I’ve lost my head, but it quickly shifts into a look of curiosity. “Why do you care? You got somewhere else to be, something else to do? Someone else to do?” he interrogates. I shove him in the shoulder, earning a chuckle.

“Don’t be an ass. I just don’t feel like it, is all. I’m not particularly interested in listening to the Leaders drone on about information I already know.”

“Relax, ule,” there’s that title again. “It won’t take long. Then you can go back to whatever it is you think is so important.”

***

I spent the entire meeting zoning out. How could I not? There’s no way to focus when my human plagues my mind. Besides, there wasn’t anything of substance to be heard, anyway. The second that the meeting was over, I swam towards the shore. When my head breached the surface, she wasn’t there. I expected as such, since she told me that humans normally don’t go out at night - due to the fact that they need more rest than we do. But rather than retreating to my home, I stayed on the beach to admire the world above. I don’t know how long I spent there, lying in the sand and looking up at the Earth. The sky was ink black, adorned with clouds and the occasional star here and there. It’s hard to see the sky from under the water, so I never really took the time to admire it. I wiggled my webbed fingers, feeling the sand fall in between them and exfoliate my hands with the miniscule rocks that made up the scratchy dust. The world was so much warmer above the surface - it was as if I was lying on a volcano rock that never cooled. But it was pleasant. I enjoyed the rare privilege of being on the land. If my peers knew, if Tasi knew, if the Leaders knew, I’d surely be chastised for straying so far from the line of what’s acceptable.

But I can’t help it. I’m addicted. I’m infatuated. My human showed me a world that I had never known, and there was no way that I could go back now. I can’t wait to see her again. I know I say that every time, but it’s true. No one intrigues me like she does. And if Tasi and Aegean and all the others punish me for being so in love with the world above, then that’s just my fate.

I love her.

a/n: will update this whenever i feel like it. no regular schedule set. sorry that reader wasn't present in this one, it was more lore-based for the merman lol

dividers by: @cafekitsune

taglist: @ninani-nanina

comment if u wanna be added to the taglist!

#webshooterrr9 #fanfic #mermaid #merfolk #merman #ocean #fem reader #gojo x reader #jjk gojo #astarion x reader #bg3 astarion #oikawa x reader #hq oikawa #rafayel x reader #lnds rafayel

27 notes · View notes

am-i-the-asshole-official · 1 year ago

Note

(Warning for rape mentions, this one’s a little heavy)

🚩

(So I can find it later)

AITA for hardblocking my former friend and did I overreact over a roleplay blog?

Basically, I found a roleplay on Tumblr while I was scrolling through some NSFW tags. The post I first saw that drew me to it was tame sexual fantasies in comparison to what I found on the rest of the blog.

Basically it was a rape-fetish blog, which on its own is none of my business but I was reading a few of their posts and something stuck out about them.

They kept talking about one specific person they want to rape, and at first I didn’t think much of it, but the details got creepier as I read. It weirdly seemed like they were describing me, or at least that the descriptions were very similar to me.

The girl they fantasized about had the same hair colour and length as me (as far as I could tell), was about my height (they were described as short and I am short), even things down to a shirt I happen to own, and a recent post described her smelling like a specific new perfume, a scent that I just so happen to have bought and tried a few days before the date on that post.

I tried to shake it off as nothing but the name was all too much. They censored the name a a letter then a bunch of asterisks (for example S*****) and the letter they used and the number of asterisks lined up way too perfectly for my own actual name.

Then I found an old post on the account that was a rant about how the user had themselves been sexually assaulted and then described the attack in fair detail.

That stuck out because somebody I thought was a friend had gone through an assault like that, very similar (as far as I knew) to how it was described.

I blocked and reported the account, then I blocked them on everything, from Tumblr to Facebook. They’ve been trying to contact me since but I’ve ignored every attempt.

Maybe I overreacted and am seeing patterns that really aren’t there? As far as I know that blog has been deleted off Tumblr, or at least I hope it has. I know that people can be into different things, and that being raped can make you want to take that control back, but now I’m paranoid that what if this actually happens, they act out these fantasies? I want to believe they wouldn’t, they’re not like that, but I can’t. I can’t contact the police because they haven’t actually done anything, and in my area you need reasons for restraining orders and all that stuff. Rape victims aren’t taken seriously where I’m from.

Should I have heard them out? AITA for overreacting?

What are these acronyms?

#aita #am i the asshole #rape cw

140 notes · View notes

aloonaram · 4 months ago

Text

Here’s an edited wip of my Birdflash oneshot.

Fair warning, this will probably change in the final product as I try to figure out at what point in the timeline I want this fic to take place.

“You look like shit, Dickie.”

“Gee, thanks, Walls. You’re such a loving boyfriend,” Dick retorted. He tried for a smile, but Wally watched sadly as it twitched and fell before it could become what it once was–what Dick’s smile used to be.

Dick opened his door wider in invitation and Wally rushed in and examined the place. Gotham wasn’t ever known for its beauty, but even with that in mind, Dick’s apartment looked pretty rough. Empty containers of takeout and miscellaneous trash littered the floor and countertops. His couch was sprinkled with brown spots that he almost assumed were polka dots before he realized they were most definitely patches of dried blood. Clothes were strewn across every surface, their musk permeating his senses. Dick brushed past his side and made his way to the kitchen, opening his rickety fridge to expose the meager amount of food he had. Wally would bet his life savings that each of the five items had gone bad too, based on the state of the place.

Dick turned to toss Wally a water, “So…what, uh, brings you here?” Dick’s awkward tone hangs heavy between the two. Now that Wally could get a good look, his lover was in rough shape. Even worse than his apartment; which was a feat, his mind whispered. His hair laid limp and greasy along his neck and his bags seemed to have bags of their own. A couple of dark bruises peeked through the collar of his shirt, some leading down to his left arm if the strange way he seemed to carry it was anything to go by. Dick clutched his own water bottle, doing his best to look anywhere but at him.

“You haven’t been responding to my messages,” Wally started, “I texted the other Robin, uh Tim, I think? But he never got back to me either, so I got worried, you know? Figured I’d take matters into my own hands. I don’t have super speed for nothing.” He waved his hands around, doing his best to lighten the mood. “It’s been a long time since we’ve gotten to talk, let alone seen each other in person, but, you know, if this isn’t the best time, I can totally leave. I know this is kinda spur of the moment.” Wally wished he could slap himself the moment his lips stopped moving. Some of the younger heroes had started calling him a professional yapper and he wished it didn’t fit so damn well.

Wally watched as Dick took a breath and rubbed his temple as if he had a headache. He winced. Yeah, this probably wasn’t the best time to show up out of the blue.

“No, I…You don’t need to leave, “ Dick sighed. “I’m sorry I haven’t been responding, Walls. Everything’s just been… a lot, to put it simply. I’ve been so busy trying to balance my day job, Bludhaven, and…and being Batman. I just haven’t had much time to myself lately, if you can’t tell by the state of my apartment.” Dick laughed pitifully and winced when it shook his aching arm.

He couldn’t help moving forward into the kitchen and enveloping Dick in a hug, something he definitely should’ve done the moment he’d arrived. His partner sighed shakily and moved to wrap his arms around Wally’s middle. He felt Dick’s face pressed against his chest and hooked his chin to the top of his greasy head. Dick had always been one for physical comfort, a miracle considering who he’d grown up with and the environment he’d been forced into at the ripe age of nine. Wally would be lying if he didn’t say Dick’s need for physical affection didn’t bring him relief and make him feel needed. Sometimes, he felt powerless amidst his lover's strife–Batman’s rule against metas in Gotham limiting his ability to help. Providing Dick a simple hug; feeling the tense muscles in his shoulders loosen and his breath hit Wally’s neck as he sighed in relief, was Wally’s respite from his perpetual guilt.

Wally knew about Batman’s…death. He’d been there when Dick hosted Bruce’s funeral, letting Dick squeeze the life from his hand as he listened to the speech from Alfred. With Bruce gone, the natural order of Dick’s family had seemed to fall apart. Dick had taken the mantle of Batman, a title Wally knew he had never wanted–never felt right for him. He’d be lying if he said he fully understood the magnitude of such a change–that he knew how large the chasms carved by trauma had grown to separate Dick and his siblings. And yet despite that, he knew one thing for a fact. Dick, his lover and the man he’s known for well over a decade now was not the type of person to let others shoulder pain on their own. He took and took and took until he knew only he carried the weight of the sky on his shoulders, letting his muscles feel relief only when his family no longer felt pain. And he’d continue to carry that weight with a smile as long as he knew his family would smile back, unaware of the sky creeping in on Dick’s tense shoulders.

Wally squeezed his arms tighter around Dick’s back, supporting him as his breaths became ragged in their silent embrace. As Wally did so, a sick thought entered his mind, fueled by the anger and pain he felt for his partner; a small part of him–microscopic even–was glad Bruce wasn’t here. Not because he reveled in the effects his passing had on Dick, nor because he wanted Dick to be forced into the role of Batman, but because despite his struggles, Bruce had never been good for Dick. Yes, he played the parental figure Dick needed when he was younger and yes, he provided the necessities for Dick to survive, but he never provided what Wally knew Dick needed most.

“Do you wanna move to the couch, babe?” Wally whispered, cheek pressed against Dick’s head. He feels Dick nod silently and Wally zipped them to the couch in less than half a second. Wally sat and patted the spot next to him, watching as Dick laid his head on his lap, pressing his cheek to Wally’s stomach while letting his legs hang off the side of the couch.

Never one comfortable with silence, Wally broke it first. “If you don’t wanna talk, I won’t push. We can chill, watch the Office, eat popcorn–whatever you want. I just worry…you know? Not being able to be here to help and hearing on the news, Batman and Robin this and Joker and Two-Face that…I just wish I could do more for you.”

Wally looks down to meet Dick’s pained stare and internally winces as Dick opens and closes his mouth, struggling to respond.

“Me and the bats have it handled over here, okay?” Dick starts quietly, aimlessly running his hand over Wally’s knuckles. “You don’t need to worry about me, honey. I know you have more than enough to deal with back at Central and I don’t want to stress you out with problems I have handled.”

Wally lets his free hand run through Dick’s hair, quickly relishing in the way Dick warms to his touch. “I can’t lie and say I wouldn’t be stressed, you know me too well for that, but I’m here to support you, Dick. To be your listener when you’re stressed.” He paused for only a moment before speaking again, “I know you, Dick. I’ve known you for almost every era of your life as you have, mine. I knew you when you were my scrawny, baby leader-”

“Hey-” Dick tried to interject, but Wally kept going.

“I knew you when you wore that god awful blue and yellow disco Nightwing suit-”

“It really wasn’t that bad-”

“And I know what it looks like when you don’t have things handled. You don’t need to soften the blow for me Dickie and you don’t need to play the perfect soldier.” Wally paused. Let it be known even the Flash is out of breath from time to time. “You were always there for me during rough times, so please let me be there for you.”

#dc fanfic #dick grayson #dick grayson fanfiction #nightwing #dc comics #nightwing fanfiction #birdflash #wally west #wally west fanfiction #wally west flash #kid flash #im having a lot of fun writing this so far and its already much better than the og #that i wrote at like 4 am LMFOA #however im only uploading this now because i think i’m going to rewrite half of it LMAO #while i do think exploring dick as batman would be interestingg it just doesnt work for what i want with birdlfash #at least i dont think itll work #that whole arc is such a mess that i’m honestly not knowledgable on as i only just started the comics #and already dick feels too soft for that arc #so might change it for something idk yet #maybe i can make it work tho we’ll see #also just realized all my italicized words r gone after i copied and pasted from google docs #curse you google docs #curse you tumblr #dc #batman #batman fanfiction #bruce wayne

39 notes · View notes

nikkento-writes · 2 months ago

Text

Chapter 2 - Someone New

I can be a little much, I overthink, I scared you off, my spiral begins right on cue. I wonder if I’ll ever find someone new.

Previous Chapter | Masterlist | Next Chapter (coming soon)

Pairing: Nanami x f!reader

Word Count: ~8.3k

cw: switching POVs (2nd person for reader, third person for Nanami), angst, fluff, alcohol consumption, explicit language

Summary: Nanami normally likes to keep to himself during vacation, preferring not to forge any needless bonds with people he’ll never meet again. But a silly encounter at a bar leads him to find an unlikely vacation buddy at Crystal Shores.

Author's Note: Thank you so much for the love and support on this so far! I also appreciate your patience with this. I’ve been very busy with work and my personal life, so I haven’t had much time to write. I’m slowly but surely making my way through! This story is very dear to my heart, so I appreciate you taking the time to read it. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Divider credit to @/cafekitsune.

Nanami arrives to his destination after sunset, when the last boat of the day finally docks. He’s in his typical work attire, having completed an early morning mission right before his departure. Tan blazer with matching slacks, a spotted tie akin to leopard print, mahogany brown dress shoes. He’s aware how severely overdressed he is for this type of environment, more apparent now as he traverses through the delicate sand, collecting more and more of the beach with each step of his oxfords. Despite his serious demeanor, Nanami couldn’t be more ecstatic to finally be here. As his feet grow heavy with the diamond dust leading to Crystal Shores, the burden of reality that weighs hefty on his shoulders is gradually lifted. Finally, he gets to indulge in this temporary escape for the next few days.

Since the devastating attack on Christmas Eve six months ago, an event they’re now referring to as The Night Parade of a Hundred Demons, tensions within the Jujutsu community have been high. Nanami’s former upperclassman, Suguru Geto, launched this attack in an attempt to carry out his diabolical plan of eradicating humans and non-curse users from the earth. That night, Nanami performed four consecutive black flashes, a record that’s impressive on paper, though in all honestly, Nanami is tired. He usually plans a summer trip annually, ever since he returned to Jujutsu Sorcery. With all the activity happening recently, he’s in dire need for a vacation now more than ever. Satoru Gojo, a teacher at Jujutsu High and Nanami’s senior (though he doesn’t act it) has already begun his recruitment to build a strong class of first years. He suspects the white-haired idiot is going to enlist him to help these kids at some point, so he’s mentally preparing himself for that. And while Nanami has already gotten accustomed to taking the youthful Takuma Ino under his wing, he’s not sure how well he’ll fair with sorcerers that are even younger.

Sorcerers, especially those associated with both Tokyo and Kyoto Jujutsu High, remain vigilant in order to protect the students, who were targeted for recruitment to carry out Geto’s plan. While dealing with the aftermath, they continue to actively scout young sorcerers, though Nanami is against it, believing children shouldn’t be subjected to this tragic world. He can’t help thinking about his old classmate Yu Haibara, whose life was taken from him too suddenly and too quickly. It wasn’t fair then, and it isn’t fair now, expecting children to take on the considerable responsibility of saving the world from the hidden evil that plagues it. Training them to kill and preparing them to be killed for the sake of humanity. All of it is cruel and unfair, for adults and especially for these kids. However, Nanami doesn’t have much of a say in the matters of Jujutsu High, so he makes a personal vow to himself to do what he can: protect and help others who need it. This power is a blessing and a curse; he might as well use it for good.

Crystal Shores is surrounded by a vast garden of native plants and trees, creating the ideal canopy of green above him. The path leading to the lobby is lit up with torches, the flames waving in the gentle breeze. Every staff member on his way to the check-in desk greets him, their smiles welcoming and genuine. He’s read plenty about this world-class resort, about its breathtaking beaches, five-star service, and their highly-rated amenities. As a self-proclaimed foodie, the part he’s particularly excited for is the local cuisine the island is famous for. Somehow, he managed to secure a reservation at their only Michelin-rated restaurant, having gotten lucky at the time he booked his hotel. Aside from that, Nanami is most looking forward to some much-needed rest and relaxation, whether it be by the pool or by the sea. He’s certain he’ll be in perfect harmony wherever he is here at this resort.

When he approaches the front desk, he realizes his tan blazer is damp from the choppy waters on the way here, so he removes it, folding neatly over his arm. His skin is tacky with perspiration from the day’s travel, the styling gel in his hair worn off, stray strands sticking to his forehead. He’s left his own trail of sand behind him, some of it still mingled with the fabric of his socks. Despite his unusually disheveled state, Nanami couldn’t be more thrilled to be here. He nods at the woman behind the counter, greeting her. “Hello. I’m here to check in.”

Jasmine, according to her nametag, responds cheerfully. “Welcome to the Crystal Shores, sir! We are so excited to have you! Your name please?”

He gives it, trying to inconspicuously tap the rest of the debris from his shoes to no avail. As Jasmine types on her keyboard, a different staff member, a young man with a genial face, approaches him to offer a crisp glass of fruit-infused water. Another soon arrives to drape a floral necklace around his collar. Nanami already feels at peace and he hasn’t even been officially checked in yet.

“Alright Mr. Nanami!” Jasmine claps her hands once, beaming at him. “We’ve got you on the seventh floor, room 727, all the way down the hall, farthest from the elevator per your request. And, of course, with the beachside view. How many keys will you be needing?”

“It’s just me,” he answers, downing the rest of his drink. “So one is fine.”

Jasmine tips her head a bit, seemingly intrigued by this information. “Will your partner be joining us later on during your stay or…?”

Nanami narrows his eyes at her, though she can’t tell through his tinted glasses. What an odd question, he thinks to himself. Still, he answers it, his hackles raised slightly. “I don’t have a partner.”

“Oh! My apologies, I didn’t mean to assume. I was only thinking that if you did have a partner, there’s a couples mixer we like to host on Friday nights down in Event Hall D.” She rummages through a stack of papers, eventually pulling out a flyer with a schedule of events taking place throughout the week. “Our singles mixers are on Monday nights, so you won’t be able to make that. However, if you do happen to meet someone during your stay here, it’s a wonderful little party with all-you-can-eat hors d’oeuvres and unlimited wine, free of charge for our guests.”

He takes the paper, looking at it skeptically. Even he can admit that the words “all-you-can-eat” and “unlimited” are enticing enough to have his curiosity piqued. “Will they let me in if I’m alone?”

“Unfortunately, it is a couples mixers, so the minimum requirement is that you are part of a couple. But who knows? Maybe you’ll meet someone while you’re here. They don’t call this the ‘Island of Passion’ for nothing.” Jasmine’s professional smile doesn’t waver, though Nanami can tell the cogs are turning in her brain. For what, he’s not sure, and quite frankly, he doesn’t want to know given the direction this conversation is going.

Nanami doesn’t do relationships. He doesn’t do dating. It’s a vow he made to himself ever since he returned to Jujutsu Sorcery. Involving another person in his already risky world is complicated, adding love into the mix makes it all the more dangerous. It wouldn’t be fair to himself or to his potential partner to invest in a life together that can be so quickly destroyed every time he fights a new demon or curse. He constantly puts his life on the line without question, and when he has nobody but himself to think about, it makes this job that much easier. A partner would only distract him, force him to think twice before running into battle, make him weak. It’s better this way.

This mindset, however, doesn’t stop him from the occasional fling, especially during his temporary escapes from reality. In this particular case, the alluring promise of endless appetizers is also an added bonus.

He stuffs the flyer in his pocket, not saying anything more about it. “Thank you,” he mutters, no longer suspicious of Jasmine, who only seems to want to push this agenda of finding romance on this so-called “Island of Passion”. Nanami uses all the willpower he has to resist gagging from the ridiculous nickname.

Upstairs on the seventh floor, Nanami rolls his luggage all the way down to Room 727, relieved to finally be settled in. His stomach gurgles, hungry after not having a proper meal all day. He does a quick refresh in the bathroom, not bothering to change out of his dress shirt and slacks. Though, he does remove his spotted tie, not trying to look too much like a man on business rather than a man on vacation.

Just as he’s about to leave his room, his phone buzzes in his pocket. As soon as he sees who’s calling, he immediately rejects it. When it vibrates a second time as he halfway down the corridor, he groans, answering it reluctantly. “I told you to call twice for emergencies.”

“This is an emergency!” Gojo yells into the phone. There’s the distinct sound of background chatter on the other line, as if he’s at a bar, which he most likely is on a Wednesday night in Tokyo. “I thought you were dead!”

Nanami clenches his jaw, restraining from unleashing his wrath on this idiot he unfortunately considers a friend. “Why would you think that?”

“You never responded to my texts!”

A vein throbs in his forehead. “When do I ever respond to your texts?”

Gojo ignores that. “Shoko was worried about you too, Nanamin. Right? Right?!”

Ieiri’s languid voice comes in quietly amidst the chaos. “We wanted to make sure you got there safely.”

The tension in his shoulders ease, knowing this is coming from a good place, at least on Ieiri’s end. He’s convinced Gojo called just to annoy him. Sighing, he responds, “I’m fine.”

“Good. Go and enjoy yourself. We’ve got everything handled here.” For someone as laid-back and seemingly uninterested as Ieiri, she is surprisingly perceptive. Her tone is gentle, reassuring. “Not that you need reminding.” She adds the last part in, her smirk audible through the phone, trying not to give away Nanami’s secret concerns.

He’d be lying to himself if he said a small part of him isn’t worried. As much as he’s trying to remove himself from work while on vacation, there’s always going to be that fear lingering in the back of his mind. What if there’s another attack in Tokyo while he’s not there? What if something happens to his peers? Ieiri, Ino, Ijichi, and yes, even that blubbering idiot Gojo, who he usually doesn’t worry about because he’s that confident in his power. Still, what if?

“Thank you, Ieiri,” he says, genuinely meaning it. Her words don’t completely eliminate his apprehension, though for the time-being, he’s alleviated.

“What about me, Nanamin?! I’m the one who called you first! Shoko didn’t even want to bother you!” He can tell by the whining that Gojo is at that point of the night where he’s on a sugar rush from popping unlimited candied cherries and chugging mocktails courtesy of flirtatious bartenders. And the sooner Nanami placates this nuisance, the sooner he can get off the line to eat dinner.

Through gritted teeth, Nanami murmurs, “Thank you for checking in, Gojo.”

Gojo laughs, appeased. “You’re welcome buddy!”

“And don’t call me again.”

“But – ”

Before he gets another word out, Nanami hangs up the call with a pleased grin on his face, continuing his path to dinner in peace.

~~~

It’s been almost an hour now since you watched the beautiful sunset from the balcony of your hotel room. You’ve been going back and forth with yourself about what you should do for dinner, ultimately deciding to venture out to explore the hotel’s top-notch restaurants. Staying in and ordering room service was the second option, though the thought of eating alone in a room that already feels too big for one makes you depressed. On the other hand, the idea of dining solo gives you a sense of dread that you aren’t proud of.

There’s nothing wrong with having a dinner date all by yourself. People do it all the time. However, you’re ashamed to admit that when you see that, you make up sad stories in your head about why they’re alone. An elderly man slowly eating his split pea soup, who recently lost his wife after fifty lovely years together. A middle-aged salaryman scarfing down a bowl of ramen because he’s on a business trip. A young women all alone, cutting her steak into smaller pieces, wishing she had a partner to share it with.

For goodness sake, why do you do this? It’s unfair to make these assumptions about strangers, who are perfectly content having a meal without a companion. It’s never crossed your mind that people rather be alone than not, only because you could never imagine choosing that for yourself. You’re so used to clinging to someone to prevent the loneliness you’ve always feared throughout life. Your parents, your childhood best friend Kim, and worst of all, Jun. Because of this, you were willing to ignore the warning signs of your failing relationship with your ex. As long as you had somebody, anybody, things would we okay, right?

Nope. Wrong. Very wrong.

You’ve changed outfits four times since you decided to dine at one of the restaurants on the first level. Anything you can do to keep avoiding the most mundane activity of eating dinner alone. You glare at yourself in the bathroom mirror, giving yourself a pathetic little peptalk. Come on. Just go down there and eat something. It’s not a big deal!

Before you can psyche yourself out any further, you leave the room in a sundress, one of many that you packed for this trip, and make your way down the hall towards the elevators.

Nighttime at the Crystal Shores has the lobby buzzing with activity. Some vacationers are dressed to the nines, ready to go out and party at the local hot spots. Others are in comfortable clothes, lounging on couches with colorful drinks in their hands. You’re aware that the resort is home to at least ten different restaurants, so you scope out the front desk, hoping to ask somebody what they suggest for a casual meal, nothing too fancy but satisfying.

Jasmine, the poor woman you unloaded your relationship woes to just hours ago, catches your eye. She greets you like an old friend, beckoning you over and calling out your name. “I was hoping to see you again!”

You approach her hesitantly like a dog with their tail between their legs, still embarrassed about before. “I’m so sorry about earlier. I didn’t mean to trauma dump on you like that.”

She waves it off. “No need to apologize! I’m sorry about all the lovey-dovey décor in there.”

“No, please don’t be,” you insist. “It was…it was actually really nice. Please tell the staff thank you.”

She smiles brightly at you, nodding. “I will. Anyways, I forgot to mention to you about our weekly mixers here at the resort.” She slides a piece of paper out from one of the piles on her desk, handing it to you. “Mondays are our singles mixers, so you won’t be able to make that. Fridays, we host a couples mixer. All-you-can-eat appetizers and wine, free of charge for our lovely guests.”

You open your mouth to protest, but she doesn’t let you, holding up her hand and continuing. “And yes, I know I said couples. But if you just so happen to meet someone until then, you should definitely go!”

Huffing out a laugh, you say, “Jasmine, you know better than I do that your guests here are already couples. I’m not going to be meeting anyone.”

She shakes her head adamantly. “That’s not true! Between you and me, I have checked-in several eligible bachelors today. You’re on the ‘Island of Passion’! You never know, your new love could be waiting for you down the hall.” Her eyes twinkle, as if she’s using you as reference to write a cliché romance novel in her head.

Aside from how bizarre this all is, especially coming from a staff member you only just met, you find her eagerness to mend your broken heart endearing. You know it’s not going to happen the way she wishes it would, though. Tapping your finger to your chin, you pretend to show consideration for whatever story she’s trying to manifest. “The free wine does sound enticing. That doesn’t really matter though, since my ex is paying for everything while I’m here.”

Her jaw drops, enthralled by this new information. “Really?! Everything?”

You nod, a satisfied grin on your face. “Everything.”

Excited, Jasmine flexes her fingers, directing her attention back to the computer screen, typing away vigorously on her keyboard. “In that case, let me see what activities I can squeeze you into. We’ve got cooking classes, paddleboard yoga, spa treatments…I see you’ve already got a few things scheduled. Great! Oh! How about wine-tasting at a private estate? Hiking on a mountain with a waterfall? You’re sure to meet sexy singles there!”

Before she gets even more carried away than she already is, you hold up a hand, politely stopping her. “Jasmine, while I really appreciate your,” you stall, trying to find the correct word for it, “involvement in this, I don’t think I’m ready to mingle with people yet.”

“But – ”

“Actually, I know I’m not ready,” you reiterate, making your point final.

After some obvious disappointment, she resigns from her little fantasy. “I understand. I’m sorry for meddling so much. When you told me your situation, I really wanted to help. And if helping you meet someone is all I can do from behind this desk, then I figured I should just go for it.”

You smile warmly at her. “Thank you for the concern, but I’ll be okay. Don’t worry about me.”

Jasmine’s meddling, while well-intentioned, is indeed unwarranted. Maybe if this were in reality and not on this stunning island vacation, you’d be annoyed, even offended by her intervention. But this is paradise, where nothing goes wrong, and you’re just another guest passing through. In a few days, you’ll check-out and Jasmine will forget all about you and your sorry situation. No harm in finding comfort over this tiny morsel of camaraderie with a staff member who’s already invested in your love life, or the lack thereof.

Not wanting to continue the topic any further, you change the subject. “Anyways, I’m starving. Is there a place for me to grab a bite to eat? Something comforting, nothing too fancy.”

“Yes!” Back to professional mode, Jasmine points you in the right direction. “Bruno’s Bistro has excellent food and tonight, they have one of the island’s beloved local bands performing. I highly recommend.”

“Bruno’s. Got it. Thank you!”

You follow her instructions, taking the short walk to Bruno’s, where you can already hear the live music playing as you approach the entrance. A hostess wearing a polo button-up with a palm tree pattern greets you. “Welcome to Bruno’s! How can we help you?”

“I’d like a table for one, please.” Saying it out loud brings back the dread in your chest about dining alone, but you stand your ground, determined to conquer this ridiculous fear once and for all.

“Unfortunately, all our tables are occupied at the moment,” she regretfully informs you. “The Bario Brothers are performing tonight, so we don’t expect any availability until an hour from now, when they’re done. I’m so sorry.”

You start to think to yourself that maybe it would have been better to order room-service. Before you can turn around to leave disappointed, the hostess adds, “We have plenty of seating at the bar! You won’t be able to see the Bario Brothers from there, but you can certainly still hear them. And you can order the full menu there. Would you like to do that?”

Relieved, you agree and follow her inside towards the bar, where there is ample seating for you to choose from. You opt for the bar stool in the middle, four seats to the right of an older couple finishing up their meal.

“Enjoy!” the hostess says, leaving you with the young bartender who’s currently pouring a guava-pink cocktail into two highball glasses. Jin, according to his nametag, acknowledges you with a nod and a smile, carefully garnishing his concoctions with mint leaves. “Good evening. I’ll be with you in just a second.”

You think to yourself at how fitting his name for his profession and how ironically similar it is to your ex, Jun. As usual, he comes creeping back into your mind like a never-ending itch lodged in the tiniest, unreachable corner of your brain. Maybe you’re the one keeping him in there, finding parts of him in every single thing you do, every different place you go, always feeling sorry for yourself. Lost in this reverie, you watch Jin place the drink onto a tray on the other end of the bar, where he signals for a waiter in the same palm tree patterned polo to pick it up. He lifts it up gracefully in one hand, heading into the dining area, ready to serve a beautiful couple who’s enjoying the soothing tunes of the Bario Brothers. Fingers entwined beneath the table, taking subtle glances at one another until they both meet each other’s gaze. They hold it there for a second, smiling like they’re sharing a private joke without having to verbally communicate it. It’s moments like this, where nothing spectacular is really happening, surrounded by noise and strangers. And yet, they feel like the only two people in the world because they’re so in love.

“Hello? Miss?”

You snap out of it, Jin waving a hand in front of you to bring you back from your trance. It seems he’s been in front of you long enough to have a concerned look on his face.

Embarrassed, you apologize, giving him your full attention. “I’m sorry. I spaced out for a second. It’s been a long day.”

His expression relaxes, relieved to finally hear a response from you. “I’m sure. Are you visiting from far away?”

You tell him where you’re from, to which he responds, “Oh lovely! I’m visiting family there next year. Have you lived there your whole life?” He pours you a glass of ice-cold water, sliding it towards you.

Taking a sip, you answer, “I have. But I actually just moved.”

“Where to?”

Something about his pleasant and genial demeanor puts you at ease, so you’re honest with him, telling him where you’re now residing as of a week ago, right before you left for this trip.

“How fun! I’ve always wanted to visit there. The food, the fashion, the culture.”

“Yeah,” you agree with him. “I’m excited.”

The couple to the left leaves, bidding farewell to Jin, who waves goodbye to them as he grabs the generous tip they left for him and puts it in the tip jar beside the register. Focusing back on you, he asks, “So what made you leave? School? Work?”

You could easily lie. Not even that, you could withhold the entire truth, keep your answers simple and uncomplicated. However, at this point, you decide to be an open book. Similar to with Jasmine, you feed off this feeling of telling your story to a kind soul who’s willing to listen. “Yeah, it’s for work. That and a breakup.”

You hold back a laugh at the way his eyes widen at this, yearning to know more. But he keeps his reaction tame. “Well, good riddance. Everyone deserves a fresh start, right?”

Thankful he doesn’t push it, you smile at him, nodding. “You’re right.”

He holds your gaze for a split-second longer, showing his solidary to you, before he points you to the menu. “Anyways, can I get you started with any drinks? We’ve got a wide variety of signature cocktails to choose from.”

Remembering the pretty drink from earlier, you ask, “What’s the one you just made? The pink one?”

“Ah! That’s the Guava Goddess. It’s guava nectar we make fresh each morning mixed with the island’s signature rum and a squeeze of citrus. It’s our most popular drink here.”

Sold by his mouthwatering description, you say, “That sounds perfect. I’ll take one of those.”

“Sounds good. How about some food?”

Too hungry and impatient to look through the options, you ask, “What do you recommend?”

“Well, if you’re looking to a try a few different things off our menu, I’d recommend Polly’s Paradise Platter. It’s basically a sampler of our three most popular dishes.” He taps on his fingers, listing each item’s description from memory. “The juiciest sliders made with grass-fed beef, topped with grilled pineapple, all in a freshly baked mini taro bun. Deep fried spring rolls perfectly crispy on the outside and super flavorful and meaty on the inside. And our special veggie fritters made of several types of root vegetables we grow right here at the resort, in the Cornucopia Garden. It’s paired beautifully with our sweet chili sauce, which is also made in-house. It’ll leave you happy and full, I can assure you that.”

You swallow the drool pooling on your tongue, more ravenous now that he’s described the food so vividly. “I’ll take that too!”

“Excellent! Charging to the room or would you like me to open a tab?”

“Room charge is fine. Room 703,” you tell him, pleased that this is actually going on your ex’s bill instead of yours. With that in mind, you add, “Also, make that two Guava Goddesses. I’m feeling extra thirsty tonight.”

Jin gives you a sly wink. “Coming right up.”

It’s empty at the bar now, though you can tell from the ambient noise behind you how packed it is in the dining area. People let out cheers for the Bario Brothers, who strum their guitars expertly while they croon into the microphone, harmonizing with one another in perfect pitch. Jin begins making your cocktails, his hands fluid and graceful as he works his magic.

“So, who’s Polly?” you ask, thinking about the name of the appetizer platter you ordered.

He grins, generously measuring three shots of rum into a cocktail shaker. “Well, as you know, this restaurant is called Bruno’s Bistro. Polly is Bruno’s beloved wife, who inspired all of his recipes. They grew up together right here on the island and got separated when he went overseas to work as a chef. They wrote love letters to each other every day until they were finally reunited back home, where he opened his own restaurant. Now, they live in a private estate up in the mountains. They visit sometimes to see how things are going, but their son is the one who’s taken over almost everything, and he’s great. Next year, they’ll be celebrating fifty wonderful years together, so we’re going to have a big party for both the staff and the guests.” He pours in the nectar next, eye-balling it, before covering it with the lid, ready to mix. “Pretty sweet, huh?”

“Very sweet,” you mimic him, watching him shake the bottle, not knowing what else to say. You think of Jasmine calling this place the “Island of Passion”, which you scoff at. If it is, with love hiding in every little nook and cranny this place has to offer, who’s to say that you’re even capable of receiving it? Maybe you’re not meant to be in love. Maybe it’s not in the cards for you to grow old with somebody, to spend the rest of your life by someone’s side. Why bother looking for love when there’s no guarantee that you’ll attain it, sustain it? You were with Jun for five years only for him to fall in love with somebody else. And while your track record isn’t very long, it basically yields a 100% fail rate. Might as well quit now.

You’re too busy sulking to notice Jin has pushed two attractive cocktails into your line of vision. “Your Guava Goddesses.” He holds up his own glass filled with water towards you. “To fresh starts.”

His tiny toast gives you a small glimmer of hope. You grab one of your cocktails to cheers him. “To fresh starts.”

You take a big swig of your drink, enjoying the bitter taste of liquor balanced by the sweet tartness of the guava and citrus. Another couple arrives, sitting three stools away from you, canoodling each other shamelessly. And that little ray of hope suddenly fades away, once again convinced that you’ll never love again.

Jin is busy with the canoodling customers, so you spare him from listening to your tiresome misery the deeper you get into your cocktails. You should have known that alcohol, a depressant, would sour your mood further, especially as a light-weight. Thankfully, your food arrives when you’re halfway through your second Guava Goddess, so you stuff your mouth with delicious sliders and fritters to stop yourself from using another unsuspecting staff member as your temporary therapist.

Polly’s Paradise Platter lives up to Jin’s high praise of it. Each item satisfies your hunger and leaves you craving more of it until you’re happily stuffed, about a third of the platter left for you to take back to room. You’re feeling better now that you have food in you to soak up the liquor that was sending you into a spiral. Now, you’re enjoying yourself, listening to the live music, which is wrapping up soon, and chatting to Jin about other restaurants to check out at the resort.

Suddenly, a young woman plops into the seat beside you, dressed stylishly in a white jumpsuit with a bejeweled plastic tiara on her head that displays the word Bride. She crosses her arms, grunting loudly, clearly upset.

Not wanting to pry, you avoid her, picking at the last melting ice cube in your drink. She lets out another groan, swiveling in her chair to face you entirely. “Do I look like an idiot right now?”

Startled, you immediately respond, “No, of course not.”

She bites her lip, eyes watering, holding back tears. “Then why is everyone treating me like I’m a fucking idiot?!”

Jin tries to step in to intervene, though you shoot him glance, telepathically telling him that you’ve got this handled. Leaning in closer, you talk to her calmly. “What happened?”

She takes a deep breath, smelling faintly of liquor. “I’m so sick and tired of everything. I’m ready for this whole wedding to be over with. I just want to marry Kai so we can start our lives together already. Everything else is stupid.”

A tear streams down one of her eyes and you hand her a napkin to wipe it. She does carefully, making sure not to mess up her makeup. “I’m pretty sure Lin and Jen hate each other and I know they’re not trying to show it for my sake, but they don’t even talk. This romper is so fucking annoying because I have to strip completely naked just to take a fucking piss. And dinner was four hours ago and nobody brought any snacks, so I’m going to be fucking starving while we’re dancing at the club! This sucks!”

You look at your plate of leftovers, then back at her, presenting her the only solace you can offer her at this time. “Do you want the rest of my food?

She stares at you, contemplating your bizarre suggestion. “Are you serious?”

“I promise it’s clean,” you mention, worried she’ll start yelling at you at how gross this is. “I did double-dip in the sauce, so maybe don’t use that.”

She cracks a smile, some of the stress on her face easing as she pulls the platter towards her, grabbing the last slider. “Thank you. You’re a real life-saver.”

You relax now that her wrath has subsided. “I was already finished anyways, so it’s really no big deal.”

Through a mouthful of food, she muffles, “You’re being a better friend to me than my bridesmaids right now."

“That’s not true,” you say, attempting to mend whatever drama is brewing between strangers. “They took you here, right? That seems really nice to me.”

She nods, biting into a spring roll, bits of the wrapper flying off. “Yeah, I guess you’re right.”

A blonde-haired man in a blue dress shirt and tinted spectacles takes the empty seat on the other side of the bar. You notice him from your peripheral as you chat with the crying bride-to-be. Still, you continue your pep talk. “Sure, Jen and Lin might hate each other, but they’re not trying to ruin your party. Maybe them not talking is better than them fighting.” It’s weird talking about these people like you know them, but you continue to roll with it, hoping to console her.

She nods, listening to you intently, stuffing the rest of the burger in her mouth. “Yeah, I can tell they’re doing their best.”

“Rompers are super annoying, but you know what? You look incredible. You’re going to be the star at the club tonight.”

She sniffles, giggling at the compliment. “I’d like that.”

“And you know what the best part is? Sure, all of this is overwhelming right now, but you get to spend the rest of your life with Kai. That’s all the matters, right?” You smile at her, hoping whatever you’re saying is resonating. In the background, Jin greets the handsome man with the glasses, offering him a menu.

The entire platter finished now, she smiles back at you. “Yeah. I love him so much.”

You ignore the pang of jealously in your chest as you hand her one more napkin to wipe her mouth, covered in crumbs.

Crisis averted, she lets out a sigh of relief. “I feel so much better. Thank you. I’m Kali by the way,” she introduces herself, offering her hand, oily from your leftovers. You do the same, grinning at her. As if just realizing something, she smacks her forehead with her palm. “Oh my god, I’m so sorry!” She glances down at the empty plate, giving you a guilty look. “You were probably saving all this food for someone else, weren’t you? I’m the worst!”

You laugh, waving your hands at her in reassurance. “Don’t be sorry! I wasn’t saving that for anyone. I was only going to bring it back to the room with me.”

She props her elbow up on the counter, resting her chin on her palm. “Are you here on vacation? Or business?”

“Vacation.”

“Are you here with your boyfriend? Girlfriend? Husband? Wife?”

You shake your head. “Nope. I’m here alone.”

A brow quirks as she studies you intently. “By choice?”

“Well…no,” you admit nervously. “But there’s nothing wrong with vacationing solo!”

“I’m not saying there is!” Kali explains. “I figured an angel like you would definitely be with someone.”

The truth is on the tip of your tongue. You managed the whole dinner without mentioning it to anyone else, and you’re proud of yourself for that. Now you’ve made another new friend and think that maybe she’d be willing to offer you some comfort too. You swallow thickly, admitting, “I was supposed to be here with my boyfriend, but then he broke up with me. Now he’s paying for this vacation we had already planned as a way to make up for it.” You let out a chuckle, knowing it sounds ridiculous.

Kali stares at you, dumbfounded and unsure how to respond. Jin, who’s been in-and-out of earshot this whole time, happens to catch this and joins in. “Are you serious? Your ex is paying for your entire vacation?” By the looks of it, he’s making an old-fashioned for the attractive fellow, who thankfully doesn’t seem to be aware of your conversation.

You nod, confirming it. “Yup. Pretty pathetic, huh?”

Jin shrugs, pouring the amber liquid into a rocks glass, topping it off with a candied cherry. “Definitely not. You get a paid vacation and you don’t have to deal with a loser boyfriend? Good riddance.” His words he said to you earlier are said with more conviction this time.

“Jun isn’t a loser,” you argue, coming to his defense on instinct. “He��he fell out of love with me and fell in love with someone else. It happens.”

“Jun?! His name is Jun?! I’m even more ashamed to have a name so similar to his!” He groans in exaggerated outrage, leaving to serve his drink to the customer.

Kali comes out of her shock to hold your hand in both of hers, a soft expression on her face. “The bartender is right. Good riddance. I don’t know you and I obviously don’t know this ex of yours. If it was so easy for him to fall out of love, maybe it isn’t meant to be. And if it is, he’ll find his way back to you. But at the end of the day, you should be with someone who can’t even stand the thought of ever being without you.” She squeezes you gently, her gaze filled with earnest.

“What if I never meet anyone who feels that way about me?” You swallow thickly, blinking away the tears starting to well in your eyes. “What if I’m meant to be alone?”

Her look of earnest turns into determination. “If you want to be alone, then there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. People live their lives happy being single, and that’s great! But if you want love, you will find it. It may not be now, it may not even be soon. But it’ll happen, I promise you.”

You want to deny her, tell her that she can’t make promises like this because she doesn’t know what the future holds for you. Nobody does, not even yourself. But there’s so much tenacity in her voice that makes you actually believe it. You keep teetering on gaining hope and losing it all at the sight of a happy couple fondling each other in one corner of the bar. Maybe this time, with this new support from Kali, Jin, and Jasmine, you’ll make the effort to keep it. “Okay,” you answer, squeezing her back. “If you say so.”

Kali grins. “That’s the spirit! Now, let’s find you another man!” She glances around, searching until her eyes land on the gentleman minding his own business, the stout glass of whiskey tipped to his lips. Spotting him, she leans in close, barely whispering. “This guy’s a little grumpy looking, but we’re going to change that.”

It takes you a split-second too late to catch her drift. Horrified, you try to stop her. “Kali, wait, don’t – ”

“You there!” She points directly at him. “Blond man in glasses!”

You hide your face behind your hands, cheeks scorching hot, mortified. Peeking through your fingers, you watch his head turn towards you, confused by this stranger addressing him so blatantly.

“What’s your name?”

Hesitant, he responds, “Nanami,” taking a sip of his whiskey.

“Nanami. Are you single?”

He chokes on his alcohol, quickly retrieving a napkin to wipe his mouth dry from the sputtering.

Kali claps her hands once. “I’ll take that as a yes! Well, you’re in luck good sir! My dear friend here is also single and is very ready to mingle. Are you interested? I bet she’s a real firecracker in bed – ”

Using physical force now, you grab onto Kali’s shoulders and turn her to face you, interrupting whatever nonsense she’s going to spew out next. “Okay Kali, that’s enough!” You mouth a guilty I’m sorry to him before returning your attention to your friend. “Please stop.”

“But why? He’s hot!” she whines, not bothering to lower the volume of her voice. You’re too embarrassed to look at Nanami again, certain you hear him choke on his whiskey once more at her bold proclamation.

You tighten your grip on her, desperate to make her shut up. “Kali, I appreciate the help, but I’m not here to look for another man. I’m here to relax, okay? I’m fine. I’m totally fine.”

“What about love – ”

You stop her. “If it happens, it happens. You said it yourself: It may not be now, it may not even be soon. But it’ll happen. So let’s just let it happen. Naturally,” you emphasize.

She opens and closes her mouth, trying to find a way to argue with you, though she can’t, especially now that you’ve recited a line from her very own peptalk. Eventually, she relents, nodding with you in agreement. “Naturally. Got it.” Picking aimlessly at the crumbs on the plate, she adds, “But you think he’s hot right?”

In perfect timing, a woman in a black cocktail dress comes stomping towards you, shouting, “Oh my god, Kali! We’ve been looking everywhere for you!” She hauls Kali up to her feet, giving you an apologetic look. “I’m so sorry, I hope she wasn’t bothering you.”

“Hey!” Kali protests, nudging her bridesmaid with her elbow. “We’re practically besties now!”

You smile at them, relieved and a little sad to see your new bestie go. “Not at all. It was nice meeting you Kali, and congratulations. I hope you and Kai live happily ever after.”

She beams at you, waving goodbye enthusiastically as her friend drags her away out the restaurant with surprising strength.

The Bario Brothers have since left and more people seem to congregate at the bar, so it seems like the perfect time for you to leave. Exhausted from all of tonight’s drama, you reach into your purse for cash, leaving a sizeable tip for Jin, who’s busy tending to the other customers now. You glance over to Nanami, who’s currently immersed in a basket of freshly baked focaccia bread. Hopefully he’s already forgotten, or at least disregarded, the little exchange from earlier.

Back inside your room, you change into pajamas and get ready for bed. When you’re tucked comfortably in the covers, you close your eyes, letting yourself sink into the mattress that seems to mold around your body. It’s the most comfortable bed you’ve ever been on, and yet, you find it difficult to fall asleep. Insomnia is another condition you’ve been plagued with post-breakup. The empty space surrounding you is unnerving. You’re so used to having another person beside you, a small sense of security that provided you significant comfort. You never realized how much you needed that until now.

Twenty minutes pass, tossing and turning, switching out pillows, changing positions. Desperate, you get up to walk over to the balcony, opening the sliding door. The natural symphony of paradise outside fills you with ease. You listen to the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore, the gentle breeze ruffling through the fronds of palm trees. Thankfully, it’s enough to lull you to sleep and by the time the sun rises, you’re relieved to make it to a new day in one piece.

~~~

When Jasmine at the front desk suggested Bruno’s Bistro to Nanami last night, he wasn’t expecting his dinner to be so lively. He’s been so used to keeping to himself during these little trips of his. That’s why it was especially alarming when a random bride-to-be at the bar called out to him, propositioning him to date the woman beside her, who looked absolutely mortified. It shocked him at first, sure. He was eavesdropping on their conversation as soon as he took his seat. While he’s vacationing solo, he likes to people watch as his own form of entertainment, make-up stories in his head or indulge the ones that strangers tell each other out loud. And luckily for him, there was plenty of that just a couple seats away from him.

He found the bachelorette’s insistent interrogation of that poor woman amusing at first, thankful that he wasn’t in the hot seat himself. Then, she revealed her story about her breakup, how her ex is paying for her to be on this vacation as some sort of consolation for breaking her heart. At that, he couldn’t help but feel sorry for her. Nanami is used to being alone, prefers it. For others, it may not be so easy. Although her smile was warm, there was pain behind it, an aura of hopelessness that he’s used to sensing after so many years of dealing with curses who are drawn to energy like that. If they were anywhere else, he’d worry that she’d be an easy target to feed on.

It's because he was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t realize he was being called out to until the bride-to-be accurately described him as the “blond man in glasses”. From there, it was all downhill.

Luckily, the heartbroken woman with the pretty smile found a way to stop the madness, even finding the time to mouth a quick apology to him while she subdued the culprit. Normally, Nanami would be annoyed being bothered by strangers; this, however, he didn’t mind.

He smiles to himself as he takes another sip of his coffee, his eyes glued to the same words on the newspaper for the past ten minutes. His mind is replaying last night’s events, wondering if that woman is okay. He’s sure she’s embarrassed, though she seemed to take it in stride. Will he ever run into her again during his stay here? Part of him hopes to, just to make sure she’s enjoying this vacation to the fullest. After all, her shitty ex is the one paying for it all.

“Nanami?”

For the second time on this trip, his name is called out. He folds the newspaper down to see who it is and he’s shocked to find the very woman he had in mind standing in front of him.

“I’m not sure if you remember me from last night,” she starts, hands behind her back, chuckling nervously. “I’m actually hoping you don’t.”

“I do,” he admits, setting aside the paper, giving his full attention.

Her smile slackens a bit, disappointed that he actually does remember. “Okay, well then, I’m here with a peace offering.” She reveals a small bag, holding it out to him. “Consider this my formal apology for last night.”

He takes it, skeptical about what this could possibly be. It seems that she’s waiting for him to open it, so without further ado, he does. The aroma immediately piques his interest, and when he peeks inside, he can’t contain his excitement. “Is this…”

“Yeah, it is,” she answers before he can finish. It’s the famous almond croissant that sells out within minutes of the café opening. There’s countless of articles about this elusive treat, made specially by the resort’s most well-regarded pastry chef, who studied for years in France before returning back to their home island. Nanami had attempted a shot at it first thing this morning, but was met with disappointment when he was told it was all sold out.

Amazed, he asks, “How did you get this? Did you wake up early to stand in line?”

She huffs a laugh. “No. I sort of have this friend at the front desk now, Jasmine. She told me that the pastry chef bakes a special batch just for the staff. When I passed by her this morning, she gave me hers.”

He takes a big whiff of it, inhaling the intoxicating aroma into his bloodstream. “Really? That’s nice of her.”

“Yeah it is.”

There’s that sad smile again, hiding the pain within. He wants to ask her what’s wrong, wants to console her in any way he can. But he knows that would be crossing a line. Besides, why should he care so much for a stranger? Normally, he wouldn’t, so why now? What makes her so special?

He hands her back the bag, shaking his head. “I can’t accept his.”

“What?”

“This croissant is very sought after. I don’t know if you know that,” he explains, holding it even farther from him, refusing to be seduced by the scent. “It wouldn’t be right if I just took it from you.”

She waves him off, taking a step back as if touching it will make it hers again. “Seriously, it’s not that big of a deal. Please just take it.”

“No. I can’t deprive you of this special moment. It might be life-changing.” As much as it pains him, he’s absolutely determined to deny this croissant. He’s that serious about it.

They stare at each other for a split second, not knowing what else to do. Then, she laughs. A real one, genuine and hearty, warm and full. Her smile is even more pure, cheeks rounded, eyes crinkled at the corners. “Okay. If it means that much to you, then why don’t we share it?"

His chest does a strange thing, something he’s not familiar with. He ignores it to respond with a simple, “Fine,” pointing to the seat across from him at this small table. A compromise. Something the both of them can benefit from.

She sits down, taking a few napkins to surround the croissant as she splits it down the middle, giving him the slightly bigger half. “Bon appétit,” she grins, digging in.

Well, Nanami thinks to himself, taking his own bite into his share. It’s even better than he imagined, the dough perfectly flakey, the center sweet and nutty from the marzipan. It fills him with warmth and comfort as he chews it slowly, watching the women across from him do the same. Maybe this isn’t so bad.

#nanami kento x you #nanami kento x reader #nanami kento fluff #nanami kento #nanami x reader #nanami x you #nanami fluff

45 notes · View notes

caapsiizzereads · 1 year ago

Note

I lvoe how a majority of the jamie tartt fic readers/writers are swifties, so i was wondering if you wanted to write a fic based on labyrinth? One of them has a tumultuous relationship with romance and doesn’t know how to react to a good partner and the possibility of falling in love again but ultimately ending up embracing it. Love your fics!

I ALWAYS want to write a fic based on a Taylor song. This one is for all of my self-sabotaging girlies. Also, anon, congrats and thank you for being my first request! Hope you like this🫶

You never bring the guys that you’re dating to your friend gatherings, but this is a special occasion. It’s your best friend’s boyfriend’s birthday this weekend, and he’s a huge Richmond fan, and you know you will get some major brownie points if you bring Jamie with you. Well, also, Erin insisted that you have to bring him “while he’s still here.”

God, this is embarrassing. You and Jamie met less than a month ago and have only been on a few dates.

“…You totally don’t have to–”

“No, no, sure! I’ll come! I love meeting fans,” he grins cockily.

“I regret this already,” you sigh.

—

“He seems nice,” Erin says when you get the chance to talk alone.

You shrug. “I guess he is.”

Jamie meets your eyes across the room and smiles at you.

“I think he really likes you,” she gives you a suggestive look.

You roll your eyes. “We’ve been, like, on three dates.”

“It leaves him with what, two more?” she jokes. She knows how it goes for you. You go out with a guy a few times, have a good time, and then dump him before it can turn into something else.

—

You’re on your way from the party when you notice Jamie sparing you careful glances, like he has something on his mind but second-guesses saying it.

“What?”

“I’ve been talking to Matt, and he, uh, mentioned a guy named Owen,” he starts cautiously. You sigh loudly. “You can totally tell me to fuck off, it’s none of my business…”

“It’s fine. You can ask if you want. It’s not like it’s a secret or anything.”

“So, what’s the story there?”

“We met when I was in my third year of uni, two years later, we got married, lived supposedly happily for three more years, until he cheated on me.” You say it all so casually, like you’re just reciting some story you’ve told many times before. “And then had the fucking audacity to say that I had changed too much. But what really happened was that I was making more money than him, and he couldn’t fucking deal with it.” Okay, now you sound petty. “Anyways, fuck him.” The resentful tone of your voice lets Jamie know that this was as much as you are willing to talk about it. You leave out the part where you really loved the guy, and you haven’t been in even a remotely committed relationship ever since.

—

You don’t really care much about Jamie knowing about your shitshow of a marriage, it’s not like it matters anyway. If anything, maybe he won’t be as surprised or disappointed when you inevitably cut him off. You like him: he’s cute, he’s funny, he’s pretty, and you enjoy your time together. You’ve never had any complaints about the quality of the time that you provide for your dates either, so by the end of the day, it’s a fair trade.

Except that Jamie doesn’t seem to get the hint at all. He keeps asking you out and somehow every time manages to make you say yes. He keeps finding new ways to make you laugh, keeps remembering all the little things he gets to learn about you, keeps finding his way into your embrace. It’s so easy to be around Jamie that your attempts to say no become more and more inauthentic.

So here you are, coming back from your seventh date in as many weeks. That’s the record amount of time you’ve kept a guy around in the past two years.

“The weather is nice, let’s take a walk,” you mock. “Let’s take a walk my ass!” You’re grumbling as you and Jamie make it inside your house soaking wet from the pouring rain outside.

“How was I supposed to know?!” He tries to defend himself.

“By the sound of the fucking thunder!” You throw a towel at him.

“I thought we were gonna make it in time!” He takes off his sweatshirt and starts drying himself. “You could’ve talked me out of it!”

“Oh, so that’s my fault?” You’re not really that mad, more like just annoyed, but if Jamie wants to argue, you can argue. He’s grinning at you. “The fuck are you smiling about?”

“I’m sorry!” He raises his hands defensively. “But you’re, like, really hot when you’re mad.”

This fucker. And he’s standing there half naked and wet. “Oh, you’re gonna regret saying this.” You close the distance between you and smash your lips on his.

You keep pushing him backwards until his knees meet the bed and he plops down on it, looking up at you with his eyes dazed. You take a second to appreciate the view, and it gives you this weird feeling inside.

Uh-oh, you’re fallin' in love

—

It’s all fine, all good. You have it under control. You are not catching feelings for Jamie Tartt.

Even when you do, and it scares the shit out of you.

Jamie has been a constant presence in your life for almost three months now. And he’s always so patient, and considerate, and attentive. He starts asking you more questions, wants to really get to know you, emotional baggage and everything, and it doesn’t seem to bother him one bit. He never asks of you anything more than you can give, never makes you feel like you’re too much or not enough.

You’re lying on your couch with Jamie on top of you, slotted between your legs with his head on your chest. You’re absent-mindedly running your fingers through his hair while you’re watching a movie. Predictably, forty minutes into the movie, he’s dead asleep. You know that he’s been very tired this season, with all the travel and extra matches and practices that playing in the Champions League requires. Honestly, you were surprised that he can make as much time for you as he does, considering all of that.

You let him stay like this, trying not to move your body too much, until the end credits roll and half of your body goes numb. You gently shake him awake, and he looks adorably sleepish. You tell him that you should move it to bed because it’s late anyway. He furrows his brows for a moment in surprise. He’s never stayed over like this before, only if you were having sex. He’s definitely not going to complain, though. He makes his way to your bedroom, and by the time you’re out of the shower, he’s already asleep again. Or at least half-asleep, because when you get in bed next to him, he still snuggles closer to you.

You lie awake for another hour.

In the morning, you wake up first and, quickly disentangling yourself from Jamie, get out of bed.

Jamie notices that you’re acting weird: your smile is tense and you keep looking away, but he doesn’t comment on it. Eventually, he gives you a goodbye kiss and leaves for practice. The moment you close the door behind him and he’s a safe distance away, you let out a loud groan.

Oh no, you’re fallin' in love again

—

You’ve been ignoring Jamie’s calls for two weeks now. There hasn’t been a single one in two days, though, so maybe he just finally gave up. You can’t help but feel a little bit disappointed, but what right do you have? It was your choice. You’ve been wrapped in your cynicism for so long that you no longer know how to just let yourself be happy again. You tell yourself that you’re better off, and probably so is Jamie.

Your doorbell rings, and when you open the door, you don't know whether you’re relieved or uneasy to see Jamie standing at your doorstep.

“Hey.”

“You don’t pick up your phone.”

“Yeah, I…” You don’t actually have any logical explanation for yourself.

“You don’t need to explain.” He collects himself. “I’ve been trying to give you space. But I think it’s becoming too much space for me.”

“Jamie–“

“No, wait. Let me say something. And if you still want me to leave, then I will.” The remorseful look on your face was probably enough of a giveaway of what you were about to say. Well, here goes nothing. You nod at him to continue. “I am in love with you. And I don’t care that you think you’re a mess or whatever. I mean, so am I, but you don’t seem to mind either. You’re fucking amazing. And I will tell you that every day, if you want. No, I will tell you that every day, whether you want it or not. Just let me stay.”

The following silent seconds might be the longest in Jamie’s life, but then you pull him in and kiss him breathless, and it was absolutely worth the wait.

You’ve been lying awake for a few minutes now, thinking back to the previous night. You’re facing away from Jamie, but chances are he’s still asleep, you still have time to flee. You don’t want to, though.

As if reading your thoughts, Jamie speaks up. “I know you’re awake.” Here goes your escape plan. He softly runs his fingers along your back. “Stay with me.” He places a kiss between your shoulder blades. “Please.”

You take a deep breath and turn to face him. You’ve seen Jamie in the morning many times, but it was never like this. He’s never looked so vulnerable and unsure. You don’t want him to look like this. You gently brush your fingers against his cheek, and he leans into your hand before taking it in his and kissing your knuckles.

It’s been so long since you’ve really felt something for the person next to you, since you’ve let yourself feel something for the person next to you. You forgot how nice it is, how good it feels. That it doesn’t always have to end in hurt. Maybe if Jamie can offer you his heart like this, then you can trust him with yours too. You want to. This realization feels like letting out a breath you have been holding for years.

“Where would I go? We’re in my bed,” you smile, and Jamie huffs a laugh of relief. Alright, then, let’s give it a shot. You lean in and kiss him.

Oh, you’re fallin' in love

#jamie tartt x reader #jamie tartt x you #jamie tartt imagine #ted lasso fic

257 notes · View notes

onsunnyside · 2 years ago

Text

Here it is !! Flamingo King snippet for part 7, originally from part 6 but moved to the epilogue/bonus chapter 🦩❤️‍🔥 I’ve never loved a fic this much and am so thankful for all of your support !! I hope you all enjoy 🥰🫶

“Hey, sugar, you know you don’t gotta knock.”

“I just thought it would only be fair for tonight.” You shyly hold out a bouquet of flowers, vibrant red and yellow tulips from the best florist in the city. “These are for you. I was thinkin’ we could stop by the bakery after dinner? They brought back your favourite pie and I told them to save us a good one.”

Ari stands there for a moment, looking between you and the flowers. Then, he slaps the door, “awh shit, that was today? I thought—” he groans, “I thought it was tomorrow, Friday right?”

“Today is Friday.”

“Shit.” He curses, “The Den has been a fuckin’ zoo with all the college kids being back in town, my brain is fried and my eyes fuckin’ hurt from staring at a screen all day. Aside from bartending, Curtis has us doing all this paperwork and—” he shoulders sag, “nevermind. No need to be standing out there, come in, baby.”

The light flickers on and you can finally see him properly.

Eyeglasses are on the tip of his nose, his hair is messy and pulled out of his face with a small clip, one you recognize from your small vanity at home. His normally glowy skin is dull and tired, and dark bags make his eyes appear sunken into his face.

You’ve seen him dishevelled, but nothing this exhausted.

He’s still as pretty as ever, but just so terribly tired.

“Give me a few minutes, I’ll get ready quickly.” Then he’s off to his bedroom, abandoning his laptop and coffee table cluttered with dirty dishes, and plenty of papers.

A blanket and pillow that used to occupy his big, comfy bed are on the couch, along with a spare t-shirt and a pair of sweatpants. His record player is off, no slow rock song filling his trailer like usually.

You hear several slams and bangs before peeking into his bedroom and it’s a mess, far worse than the living room. Clothes skewed over his bed, the laundry bin overflowing and more stacks of empty dishes on his nightstands, although outnumbered by takeout containers.

Ever since you met Ari, he took pride in his spotless home and kept his things organized. He was diligent with weekly cleans, and often reminded you of laundry day so you could do your chores together.

It’s been quite wild for you too from sports season and the rush of people coming in after school or work. Even Andy had to hire new staff just to keep up with the hoard of customers.

Despite being busy, you’ve still made time for each other, going out for late night ice cream, or hanging out in your trailer watching movies on the laptop that you got for a massive discount (from a particular blond cutie with a goatee). But you haven’t been over in a few days, a week at most, and you didn’t know it was this bad.

“Ari.”

“Hold on!” he calls out, digging through his dressers as clothes fall to the floor.

“Ari.”

“Where the fuck are my jeans?” He sweeps through the hangers again, squinting behind his glasses, “Why do I have so many flannels?”

You step behind him, wrapping your arms around his torso. Pressing your cheek against his bare back, you can feel his rigid muscles under his skin. Poor baby, he’s so overworked and drained, yet he was still trying to put you first.

“We don’t have to go tonight.”

“We do. You got all dolled up and bought me flowers. You were gonna wine and dine me, and you can’t do that if we’re stuck in this pigsty.”

You squeeze him tighter, refusing to let go. You know he could easily overpower you, throw you on the bed and continue getting ready. But instead, he just sinks into your touch, slumping over and bracing himself on the dresser.

“I’m so fuckin’ sorry, sugar.”

“Don’t be.”

He always took care of you. Making sure you ate during the day, stayed hydrated and out of the harsh sun. He wouldn’t eat until you took a first bite, and always put snacks and water in your bag before you went to work. Sometimes on his days off, he’d get into your trailer by using the key you gave him and tidy up, wanting you to come home and be able to relax.

Ari has done so much for you.

It takes a few more kisses, some affectionate squeezing and running your hands up and down his chest for him to turn around.

His eyebrows are knotted tight, and a deep solemn frown plays on his lips. You notice his beard is thicker too, a smidge longer than his usual trim.

“I’m so tired—I don’t know what the hell is happening.” He sags forward, slinging his arms over your shoulders and tugging you closer.

You turn your head, kissing his bicep. “Wanna talk about it?”

He shrugs. “It’s work, work and work. That’s all I fuckin’ do now. I love The Den and working with my friends, and it always gets busy this time of year but shit…” he huffs, squeezing his eyes shut. “It was fine before because I had nothin’ else to do but now I have you.” He leans down, pressing his forehead to yours, “You're my girl—how the hell can I give you the attention, time and love that you deserve if I can’t even remember what day it is?”

Your heart aches as you stare into his disappointed blue eyes. Framed by thick lashes, they blink so slowly and sleepily.

“I don’t—I refuse to lose you because of something stupid like this.”

“You’re not going to lose me over one missed date.” You promise, meaning every word.

He chuckles dryly and turns back around to search through the closet again. “It starts like that. Then it’s another and another, and soon we aren’t even seeing each other for days at a time and resort to texts and five minute calls.” He rambles, “And then we’re just two strangers who had something great and you’re gonna get swept off your feet by some douchebag who can’t even remember your favourite colour. While you’re off with him in a big and bright city, I’m gonna be an old man still at The Den, talking about how I lost the girl of my dreams to drunk guys who have a million better things to do—”

“—would you be quiet!”

He looks over his shoulder with wide eyes.

“We aren’t going, so put down those jeans and sit on your bed.” You cross your arms.

Ari doesn’t move, his long fingers still clutching the denim. “Uh—”

“Shush.” You snatch the jeans from his hands and toss it on the dresser, and point to the unmade bed. “Go. Now.”

“Yes ma’am.” He mutters under his breath, cautiously walking around you to his bedroom. With a heavy breath, he plops on the mattress, leaning back with his legs spread wide.

His thin shorts ride up his thick thighs, displaying the built muscle and coarse hair. Quickly glancing over his shameless bulge, you admire his cute tummy and the chain dangling between his pecs.

You step towards him, cupping his bearded face in your hands and squishing his cheeks, making his lips pucker. “You have to take a break or else you’re gonna burn out.”

His eyes close peacefully, your touch silencing all of those pesky worries and looming fears. He was normally very reflective about his thoughts, and kept those stupid, useless, noisy ones to himself.

One of your hands moves to his hair, taking out the clip and running your fingers through the dark strands. “You always take care of me. You’re always so sweet and attentive, the best daddy I could’ve ever asked for.” You say softly and lean down, gently pulling his head back to kiss his cheek, trailing closer to his pink, plump lips. “Now I wanna take care of you.”

A low groan rumbles from his chest, “yeah, baby? You gonna take care of daddy tonight?”

“Mhm.” You hum with a chaste kiss. “Work out all those knots in your back, clear your head…” Your hands fall to his shoulders, tenderly pressing into the tense muscles. “Tonight is all about you, daddy. You deserve it.”

It’s about time we get back to the hot and steamy Flamingo Trailer Park !! The posting date would be earlier but your girl has exams 🥸 I hope you’re all as excited as me 🤩 pls feel free to share your thoughts !!

562 notes · View notes

lovetaroandtaemin · 6 months ago

Text

The Start of Something New?

Bang Chan x Reader

Word Count: 2,900

THIS FIC IS NSFW, MINORS DNI! If your age cannot be clearly seen on your blog you will be blocked unless I know who you are!

Warnings: Suggestive flirting, smut (fingering, dirty talk), Chan and reader are exes, possessive Chan, mentions of past cheating, mentions of past toxic relationship. If there are any warnings that you think I missed let me know!

There WILL be a part 2 to this fic. I split it up because I'm still deciding where I want the story to go, and I really wanted to post something this week.

Thank you so much to @leejenowrld for beta reading this! Your feedback was so helpful, and I really appreciate you.

Fic is under the cut.

“I promise you Chan won’t be there. He was insistent on going to the studio tonight. Please, (Y/N),” Felix pleaded. He had called you to convince you to come to the dorm for a movie night, but so far, his attempts had been unsuccessful.

“I don’t want to risk seeing him.”

“I promise you that you won’t see him. He told me that he’ll be in the studio, and when does he ever change his mind about work unless someone makes him?”

“You make a good point, his constant need to be in the studio is part of what led to us breaking up.”

“Plus, I haven’t gotten to spend time with you since you and Chan broke up! I miss hanging out with you and watching movies.”

“Alright, Lix, I’ll go.”

“Yes! Thank you, (Y/N)!” he said before hanging up the phone.

You sighed and started to get ready. Nothing crazy was planned, just a movie and some snacks, so you decided to wear something comfortable. A plain black t-shirt and leggings were perfect for a chill night with friends. You decided against makeup since this was a casual hangout, and once you had your favorite sneakers on you were out the door.

When you got to the dorm, Felix was waiting for you outside. It had been too long since you had seen him and the rest of Stray Kids. You knew it wasn’t fair, but you had been avoiding everyone since you and Chan broke up. Seeing your friend again made you smile, but your smile quickly faded as you saw the worry etched onto his face.

“What’s wrong, Lix?”

“Um, there’s something I need to tell you.”

“Did something bad happen?”

“Well, no, but there’s been a slight change of plans.”

“What do you mean? Are we not watching the movie?”

“We’re still watching a movie, but Chan is here. Turns out Minho and Changbin made him stay here for the movie night. I swear I didn’t know about it when I invited you.”

“It’s ok, Lix. I figured it would happen. Binnie wants us back together, I think.”

“Are you gonna leave?”

“No, I’ve missed you and the rest of the guys too much for that. I can deal with a little bit of awkwardness for one night.”

“Awesome! Then follow me.”

The two of you entered the dorm, and the soft lighting and table full of your favorite snacks made you feel right at home. The cozy feeling only increased when you were bombarded with hugs from all of Stray Kids. Well, all of Stray Kids except Chan. He maintained a decent amount of space from the door, but you really couldn’t blame him. If the look on his face was any indication, he had been missing you. Even though you were the one that ended the relationship, you had to admit that you missed him too.

“(Y/N), where have you been?” Hyunjin asked.

“We missed you!” Jisung almost yelled.

“I’m sorry, I’ve been busy, but I’ve missed you guys too,” you said with a laugh.

Once hugs and greetings were out of the way, you took a seat between Felix and Changbin on the couch. Jisung grabbed the remote, and “My Neighbor Totoro” began to play on the TV. You leaned your head on Felix’s shoulder and started to relax as the opening played. Felix had always been your best friend in Stray Kids; it was something that frequently made Chan jealous when you were together.

Halfway through the movie you sat up and noticed that Chan had been staring at you. If looks could kill, you and Felix would surely be dead. You had to admit though that a small part of you enjoyed that you could still get that kind of reaction from him. You were slightly embarrassed by it, but you had always found it sexy when Chan was angry. Turns out you still thought it was sexy even after you two were no longer together.

You decided to distract yourself from the thoughts you were having about Chan by getting drinks for everyone. While you were in the kitchen looking for some soda, you heard someone clear their throat behind you. You turned around to see who it was, and Chan was standing in front of you. You did your best to muster a smile and asked him if he would help you carry everyone’s drinks back to the living room. He agreed, and you hoped that was the end of it.

Once everyone had their drinks, you heard Chan’s voice again. “(Y/N)? Can I talk to you for a minute?”

“Oh, uh sure.” You followed him back to the kitchen, wondering what was so important. Once the two of you were alone, however, you didn’t have to wonder anymore. He told you exactly what was on his mind.

“What the fuck is going on with you and Felix? Are you two dating?”

“No, we haven’t even seen each other since you and I broke up.”

“Then why were the two of you getting all cozy during the movie, huh? There’s something else going on, I know it.”

“There isn’t. Even if there was, why do you care? We’re not dating anymore. I’m allowed to see other people.”

“What if I don’t want you to see other people? What if I want to get back together?”

“What you want doesn’t matter in this scenario. We are not getting back together.”

“Why?”

“Gee, I wonder!” you said, voice dripping with venom, “Do you think it was the fact that you stopped treating me like your partner once I got comfortable around you? Or do you think it was the fact that I saw the text messages between you and Ryujin? Oh, I know! It must have been the fact that when I called you out on your bullshit you told me that I was crazy and that nothing was wrong.”

He stepped closer to you, eyes darkening. “You know that nothing happened between me and Ryujin.”

“Do I? All I know is that I saw texts where you told her that you loved her and that you would rather be with her than be with me.”

“That is not what the texts said,” he growled and stepped toward you again, effectively cornering you.

“Do you think that I’m stupid, Chan?”

“No, I think that you don’t listen.”

“There it is again! That’s the same thing you said when I confronted you about this when we were dating.”

“Just shut up, (Y/N).”

“No, you can’t tell me what to do!”

“Funny, you used to like it when I told you what to do,” he said with a chuckle.

His words caught you off guard, to say the least. But you maintained your composure. In the heat of the moment, you grabbed his jaw and said “We are done. Get that through your head.”

When you grabbed him, something inside Chan snapped. He was angry, but more than that he just wanted you. So, he took advantage of how close your faces were and kissed you with everything that he had. You let out a small noise of surprise, but you didn’t pull away. In fact, you moved your arms to his waist and pulled him closer. Despite everything that had happened between you, and the problems that you had, you still missed Chan. You had missed the feeling of his lips on yours, and now both of you knew it.

After what felt like hours, he pulled away and said, “Are you sure about that?” and walked away to re-join everyone in the living room. After you regained your composure, you followed him and once again sat between Felix and Changbin. Once you were settled, Felix leaned over and asked what happened.

“Nothing important. We were just catching up a bit.” You were lying through your teeth, but you hoped he wouldn’t catch on.

“You know I don’t believe that (Y/N).”

You chose to simply ignore him and turn your attention back to the movie. Once it was over, the lights went back to full brightness, and everyone went to their rooms except Chan and Felix, who had agreed earlier to clean up. You offered to stay and help, an offer that both of them happily accepted. Cleaning up didn’t take long at all, which you were grateful for. After it was all done, Felix went to his room, leaving you and Chan alone again.

The second Felix’s door closed; your lips were back on his. This time he was the one caught by surprise, but it was obvious that he loved it. His arms wrapped around your waist, and he held onto you like he was afraid you were gonna disappear at any second. Your arms found their way to his neck, and you pulled him as close as you possibly could. He pulled away for air and whispered, “I missed you so much.”

“Missed you too, Channie.”

“Channie? You haven’t called me that in a while,” he said in that teasing tone that made your heart melt.

“You haven’t kissed me like that in a while.”

He gave you a gentle smile and moved his hands down to your ass. You let out a small whimper at the contact and he smirked. “So, I guess that means you liked it?” he asked, obviously enjoying your reactions.

“Oh, shut up,” you replied, though you clearly did like it.

“Fine, then I guess I won’t do it again,” he said, moving his hands away.

“I didn’t say stop.”

He smiled and put his hands back on your ass. This time though, he squeezed, pulling another moan from you. It had only been a few minutes, but you were already sick of his teasing. So, you grabbed his hand and pulled him toward the bathroom. Plus, it felt too risky to be kissing like this when anyone could walk back into the living room at any time.

The second the door was shut Chan had you pinned against it, and he was back to kissing you like he never would again. For all he knew he wouldn’t, so he wanted to enjoy this moment with you while it lasted. You were kissing him with just as much fervor, and in that moment, you were regretting leaving him. Your hands found their way to his hair and took hold, and a low groan slipped out of his mouth. You loved the noises he made in moments like this, you always had. He stopped briefly to breathe, and you were suddenly struck by how beautiful he looked. Though the lack of light in the bathroom made it hard to see, you could still see his plump, kiss-swollen lips, and his beautiful brown eyes that were staring into your soul.

“You are so beautiful,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

“You know I’m not wearing makeup, right?”

“I know. That doesn’t change what I said. You’re beautiful. I missed telling you that, and I missed kissing you.”

“I missed kissing you, too.”

“I missed you.”

“I missed you too.”

“What do you wanna do now?”

“Can we get coffee tomorrow? I’d really like to just talk about everything that’s happened.”

“Coffee sounds good. Can I keep kissing you?”

“Please.”

The second the word was out of your mouth; his lips were on yours again. Your hands gripped his hair tighter, and the noise he made as you did turned you on beyond belief. His hands gripped your ass again, but this time he squeezed harder. The moans that were coming out of you as you made out were like music to his ears. Both you and Chan were sure that the rest of the guys could hear you, but at this point neither of you cared. You were too lost in how it felt to kiss each other again. Eventually he pulled away, and you could tell that he wanted to ask you something. So, this time you were the first to break the silence.

“What do you want, Channie?”

“Can I please touch you?”

“Fuck, I thought you’d never ask. Please?”

“Of course, baby,” he whispered as he started to rub you over your leggings. His touch felt incredible, but you needed more. You grabbed his hand and moved it under your clothes, and he was shocked at how wet you were. Before anything else happened, he quietly asked, “Are you sure?” You nodded, so he started to gently rub your clit. As he did, his lips found their way to your neck, and you were a mess.

“Channie, feels so good, please don’t stop,” you begged as you pulled on his hair.

He let out another beautiful groan and stopped kissing your neck just long enough to whisper “I’m not stopping until you cum, baby. Do you want me to keep playing with your clit, or do you want my fingers inside you?”

“Inside, please,” you moaned, “Wanna cum around your fingers.”

“Your wish is my command, baby.” Typically, you were the one saying that to him, but tonight all he wanted was to touch you again and make you feel good. He didn’t care who was in control in that moment. So, he wasted no time inserting two fingers into you and thrusting them in and out gently. You were a whining mess before he put his fingers in, but now that he was actually fucking you, it was only a matter of time before your release. You grabbed his face and kissed him again, desperate to feel his lips on yours. The kiss only slightly muffled the moans coming from both of you, but both of you were too fucked out to care.

He started to move his fingers a bit faster, curling them perfectly to hit your sweet spots. After a few minutes of this you could feel the knot that was forming in your stomach begin to tighten. You tried to warn him that you were close, but before the words could come out your orgasm hit you like a truck. Chan kissed you while you screamed, hoping to muffle the sound a little bit, and continued to gently move his fingers in and out of you as you rode out your high.

It took you a while to recover after that, which is probably why you didn’t notice right away when Chan picked you up and carried you to his room. The lighting was soft, and the cozy feeling you had when you first entered the dorm returned. He gently placed you on his bed before lying down next to you and holding you close while you calmed down. With a gentle kiss to your forehead, he asked you if you were ok. You didn’t say anything; you just nodded.

You wanted to talk to him, but you were still having difficulty processing what had just happened. Plans for the night went out the window the second Felix told you that Chan would be watching “My Neighbor Totoro” with you, but you still didn’t expect for him to pin you to the bathroom door and make you cum with his fingers. The night’s events had left you with a lot to think about. Right now, however, you didn’t really care about the fights that had occurred between the two of you, or the late nights by yourself while he was in the studio. You missed the way his arms felt around you. You missed his laugh, and the way he smiled when he knew he was doing something that you thought was dumb. You missed your Channie.

While you pondered the past, Chan pondered the future. No one had told him that Felix invited you to watch a movie. Knowing his members, he figured that it was intentional. As he considered what had happened, he wondered if this was the beginning of a second chance. He hated the way that he treated you when you were dating. He knew that he fucked up, and he really wanted the opportunity to make it right. He hoped that one day he could explain that he had never been unfaithful to you. He hoped that one day you would allow him back into your life. He hoped that one day he would get to be the partner that you deserved.

Both of you were quiet for a while, too lost in your thoughts to acknowledge each other. Eventually, though, Chan spoke up. “What time are we getting coffee tomorrow? I’d really like to talk about what just happened, as well as a few other things.” The casual nature of his question after everything that had happened that evening made you laugh. You didn’t notice it, but when he heard your laugh, he smiled and started to tear up. “That doesn’t answer my question, (Y/N),” he said.

Once you stopped laughing, you responded by saying “How about we go whenever we wake up? I’m really tired and I really don’t want to make any more decisions tonight.”

“I understand, baby. Sleep well. I’m right here if you need anything.”

“Good night, Channie” was the last thing you said before drifting off into a peaceful sleep. Chan gently kissed your forehead again before falling asleep himself. As he slept, he had dreams of a future where he could be yours again.

Thank you so much for reading! So sorry I haven't posted any fics in a while, writer's block and depression have been kicking my ass. I am doing better, though, so right now my plan is to post new fics once a week! Next week will either be a Sungchan one shot that's been in the works for a bit or the next chapter of All I Wanted.

Once again, thank you so much to @leejenowrld for beta reading! You guys should really check out her fics if you haven't, they're incredible!

If you would like to be tagged in part 2 of this fic, part 2 of my Johnny fic, or the next chapter of All I Wanted; either comment or dm me with the username that you'd like tagged and the work that you would like to be tagged in. Once again, thanks for reading!

#kpop fanfic #stray kids fanfic #stray kids smut #stray kids x reader #bang chan smut #bang chan x reader #exes to lovers #or exes to fuck buddies #we will see

53 notes · View notes