#to his credit if i was fighting with someone and they just started laughing i’d be a little startled too so i get his point

[sieglinde-freud]

doing soleil’s paralogue and im at the part where you talk to soleil with laslow to recruit her and laslows like “if i’m in battle and i cant find it in myself to smile, i just start laughing to confuse the enemy” as if thats sane advice. what the fuck man you just start giggling on the battlefield??? mr retainer to the crown prince of nohr?? this is war, laslow. do you guys think that’s how he almost won the match with xander

[seravphs]

ੈ♡˳·˖✶ — TEEN DAD! GOJO SATORU x FEM READER

The Zenins want Megumi. Gojo isn’t having it.

wc — 1.7k

tags — one suggestive line after “those girls are better off without you” if you want to avoid it, set after 棠, part of teen dad gojoverse, in which you and Gojo raise Megumi together

Gojo’s been in the doghouse since last night. Not literally, obviously - though he might have preferred it if you were there with him, at least. He’d take anything over being kicked out of your shared bedroom and being forced to sleep on the couch. 

If you had it your way, you’d prolong his punishment, but you can’t. Not when, as he told you last night, the Zenins are coming today to wrest Megumi from your custody. 

Fat chance. 

You’d die before you let that happen. 

Gojo’s not too keen on either of those outcomes. For the first time in his life, he’s taking the pacifist’s route and talking it out, though you’re sure his version of talking involves more insults than most people’s. 

He thought about simply having it out with the elders, but it’s not worth it. Not when he has a plan for the future of Jujutsu Society. Not when he has you, Megumi, and Tsumiki. He’s playing the long game. He can’t afford to screw it up now. 

Being a family man really has ruined him. 

Zenin Keiko is a tall woman with a severe black bob and the characteristic Zenin look of perpetual contempt. She’s Naoya’s cousin, alright. 

“Twice-removed,” Gojo whispers to you. “Or illegitimate. Something like that, I can’t remember.” 

“Shut up,” you whisper back out of the corner of your mouth. “She’s going to hear you.” 

Welcoming a Zenin into your home feels like blasphemy, though you suppose Gojo is the closest thing Jujutsu society has to a god. 

Gojo’s unimpressed by her, mostly because he feels like the Zenins are mocking him. It’s not like anyone can take him on, but to send someone who has no battle capabilities feels like an insult.  

Keiko is an auxiliary manager with no cursed technique to speak of besides a weak barrier. It’s a wonder she has the nerve to speak to Gojo. The Zenins truly did not care about her if they sent her as the proxy to undermine your roles as the Fushiguro children’s guardians. In fact, you suspect that’s the precise reason she was chosen - because she’s expendable. 

Keiko, to her credit, shows no sign of fear. 

“I’d like to meet the children, Mr. Gojo. It’ll give me a good grasp of what the situation is.” 

“Hell no,” Gojo outright laughs in her face. “I’m not letting a Zenin near my brats. Your-“

“Gojo.” You squeeze his knee. Cooperate. 

“I’ll go get them,” he says begrudgingly.

The two of you sandwich the children between you on the couch. Tsumiki sits on Gojo’s left. Megumi sits on your right. That way, the two that are most likely to fight are separated. It’s a strategized united front. 

“Megumi, do you like your guardians? Do you like staying here?” 

Megumi looks at you. You smile at him encouragingly - and there Keiko goes, scribbling away in her notebook. She’s probably saying something about how Megumi is so scared of you he won’t answer the question unless you give him permission. 

“Are you sure? Forgive me, but Gojo seems a little…immature for a parent.” 

A direct attack right out of the gates. Gojo objects to this very accurate assessment of his character. 

“He’s fine, I guess,” Megumi says. There’s more scribbling. You’re starting to hate the sound of pen on paper. “I like-“ 

He looks at you. There’s a tiny blush on his cheeks, just the faintest hint of red. More quietly, he says, “It’s fine, cause she takes care of us.” 

Gojo stares at him, slack-jawed. “Are you kidding me? You are one ungrateful brat. Who found you? Who took you in?” 

Tsumiki chimes in, “We like Gojo a lot too! He’s fun.” 

Keiko ignores her completely, focusing on Megumi instead. Your distaste for her grows. 

“Would you say that Gojo has an active role in taking care of you?” 

“Why aren’t you asking Tsumiki anything?” Megumi interrupts. “Her opinion’s important too.” 

Keiko gives him a strained smile. Gojo reaches behind Tsumiki on the couch to ruffle Megumi’s hair. He only tolerates this for five seconds before he shakes his head to get him off. 

“He loves me,” Gojo says. 

“I have Stockholm syndrome,” Megumi says. ‘Help,’ he mouthes. 

“He’s joking,” Tsumiki says nervously.

You’ve given up on making them behave. It’s just not happening. 

Keiko seems to have given up too. Rather than continue prodding Megumi, she turns to Gojo. 

“How often are you home?”

“Basically every day,” Gojo lies. He does try his best, but it’s more like every other day. Such is the fate of the strongest sorcerer. 

“Don’t want my baby all alone, poor little thing.” 

He catches your look and cackles. “No, the other one. My other baby,” and the kiss he presses to your knuckles is so tender it melts your heart. 

Keiko makes an uncomfortable expression. “Please try to stay focused, Mr. Gojo.” 

Megumi gags loudly. Tsumiki pinches his arm to get him to shut up and he yelps. Keiko narrows her eyes and makes another note. 

“I understand how Gojo might take responsibility for the children,” Keiko says, directing her attention to you, “but how did you come into the picture. Are you a girlfriend-“

“Wife,” Gojo interjects. 

Keiko’s entire body does an approximation of what it would look if a human had a screenshot function. 

“Aren’t you children?”

You don’t like Keiko at all, but you respect the balls it takes to talk to Gojo like that. All the Zenins seem to have that death wish of wanting to mouth off to the strongest. Maybe it’s a genetic thing. 

Gojo shrugs. “If I’m old enough for the missions you send me on, I’m old enough to take care of kids, right? How hard can it be?”

You pinch his thigh. “Gojo.” 

“What? It is easy. You just give them a bunch of lollipops and call it a day.” 

Keiko’s writing is now background noise to you. “Are you still doing that? I told you-“

“It’s fine! All kids need sugar to grow. I had a sweet tooth when I was their age.”

“And that’s probably the reason why you still have one now! Except it’s rotting your teeth-“

“It’s not-“

“It is!”

“Don’t be so uptight!”

“How does it look if I’m always saying no to him and you’re always saying yes? It isn’t fair, Satoru. Parenting has to be a team effort.” 

“What are you talking about?” 

“I’m talking about you playing good cop, bad cop with him!” 

“Have you gone insane? We went over this! He likes you more than me! There is no good cop, bad cop when he just takes your side every single time.” 

“Excuse me,” Keiko says. She’s somehow managed to look a complex combination of perplexed, annoyed, and satisfied. “Please take care of your lovers’ tiffs outside of this interview. I will say that this doesn’t seem like an environment particularly conducive to raising children, however.” 

“What do you know?” Gojo says rudely. “The only reason you’re even doing this interview is because I’m letting you.” 

Normally, you would tell him off, but in front of the Zenins? You’re a united front. You place a hand on his forearm and look down your nose at the woman in front of you as best as you can when she’s taller than most people you meet. 

“I think you’ve overstayed your welcome,” you say. 

“You agreed to an interview,” she says. 

“An interview, not an inquisition.”

“You can’t refuse a request from the elders without consequences,” she says, as patiently as she would speak to a child. It’s condescending. 

“Are you threatening my wife?” 

When you look to your side, Gojo’s face is shadowed. His eyes are storm dark and frightening. Keiko can’t hide her visceral reaction. 

She forgets her coat on her way out, she’s in such a hurry to leave. Gojo takes it and disappears. 

While he’s away, you let Megumi and Tsumiki return to their rooms. They’re muttering amongst themselves, but you don’t pry. Children need their space, too. You’ll talk to them about it later. 

He’s back within a minute. 

“What did you do with it?” You’re bracing yourself for the answer. 

“I just sent a message,” he says, as cheerily as if nothing had happened. “Think we passed that?” 

“Gojo, I think that’s the first test you’ve ever failed. Did you see the way she was writing during the last twenty minutes? And Megumi and Tsumiki! Every time they said something, she made a face!” 

Gojo shrugs, still so certain of his place in the hierarchy. One day, the elders will get tired of him throwing his weight around like Jujutsu’s one and only tyrant, but not someday soon if they want to keep their heads. 

“It’s fine,” he says. “I’m not going to make Megumi and Tsumiki act like repressed little puppet children just so that they can find some way to snipe them out from under us anyways. Who knows, maybe we’ll teach the Zenins a thing or two about healthy child raising. I hear they have two girls now. One of them has no cursed energy. Should we kidnap some more children?” 

“Like you know anything about healthy parenting,” you snark. “Those girls are better off without you.” 

“Does being mean to me get you off or something?” 

“Do you want to find out?” 

“I would love to,” he purrs, sliding a hand under your shirt just so slightly so his nails prick at your lower stomach. You grab his wrist. 

“Sorry,” you say, your stomach churning at the joke gone wrong. “I can’t.”

He stops immediately. “What’s wrong?” 

“I just- They want Megumi badly enough to go to the higher ups. I know what they do to their children. I can’t let him go there, Satoru. I can’t.” 

“I won’t let that happen.”

“I can’t stop thinking about those girls.”

“Come here,” he says. 

You lean closer to him. He lifts his arm so easily, without thinking. When you slide under it, you fit into him perfectly. 

Now that you’re safely tucked under his arm, you feel sheltered from anything that could happen.  “I don’t want to give the kids to the Zenins. They’re monsters. And they would make monsters out of them.” 

“That’s only if they take them away,” Gojo says, his smile fanged and vicious. 

“And if they do?”

“I hope they try.”

You trust him. 

You know he’ll keep his word. If Gojo says Megumi and Tsumiki won’t be going to the Zenins as long as he’s alive, then they won’t be going at all. 

[libraryofgage]

PJO Steddie Eight

One | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six | Seven

This series was line-jumped on ko-fi! Thank you for the ko-fis <3

To learn more about line-jumping, please refer to this post

Anyway, another series was also line-jumped and I'm hoping to have that one posted by this time next week as long as life doesn't take me out lmao

as always, if you see any typos, no you didn't :^)

-----

Steve is an awful, horrible, terrible person. Not only did he kiss Eddie without making sure it was okay, but he even spent the entire fight before that wrapping lightning around Eddie. He even let his control slip enough to shock Eddie when he was too distracted by lips and teeth and tongue. Worst of all, he can't stop thinking about it, his fingers twitching every so often with the urge to find Eddie and kiss him until they're both stupid. 

What's he supposed to do in this situation? Talk to Eddie like he's an emotionally mature person capable of communicating his thoughts and feelings? Steve would laugh at the thought if he weren't so busy sulking by the lake. 

It's a nice night for a sulk. The moon is full, its reflection wavering in the water that gently laps against the shore. He can barely hear the victory celebration around the bonfire, singing and laughter and joyful white noise drifting through the trees behind him. Steve lets it wash over him, his chin on his knees as he stares blankly at the water and tries to figure out what he's doing with his life.

“I gotta admit, that is some impressive sulking.”

Steve jolts, twisting around to see a man in cut-off shorts and a crop top lounging on a boulder next to him. The man looks chiseled, but not overly buff, with his arms being the most defined. His skin is a deep brown, and his smile is blinding. He appeared out of nowhere, and if that didn't give away his godliness, the bow and heart-tipped arrows would have.

“Eros,” Steve says, forcing his shoulders to relax. “What are you doing here?”

“Not even a hello? Am I not pretty enough for you right now?” Eros asks.

“Hello, Eros. What are you doing here?”

That earns him a laugh, the sound lingering in Steve's ears and trying to worm its way into his brain. “Fair enough,” Eros says, idly twirling one of his arrows between his fingers. “I’m here on my mother’s behalf, actually.”

Steve tenses, studying Eros with renewed suspicion. “What does Aphrodite want?” he asks.

“You know Mother and her wagers,” Eros replies, shrugging when he meets Steve’s gaze. “She’s sent me to make sure she wins it. Her wager, that is. The one about you and a certain son of Hermes.”

That does absolutely nothing to assuage Steve’s worries. In fact, it makes them stronger. He pushes himself up, brushing pebbles and dirt off his jeans. “I hope you’re not planning to use your arrows.”

Eros blinks, looking from Steve to the arrow he’s been twirling. And then he laughs again, nearly doubling over. “No, no, I wouldn’t waste an arrow on you two. Puh-lease, Sparky, give me a little more credit than that.”

“Sparky?”

“Isn’t it fitting?” Eros asks, flashing a shit-eating grin that still manages to come off as charming. Steve would call it impish and mischievous, if someone asked him. Thankfully, nobody is. “Anyway, no, consider this more of a friendly nudge so Mother doesn’t throw a fit.”

“What are you even trying to nudge me about?” Steve asks. He thinks he’s lost the plot somewhere between Eros showing up and getting called Sparky. 

Eros sighs and looks up at the sky like the stars will help him. “I usually enjoy watching people dance around each other, but I’d greatly appreciate it if you and Eddie could start dancing with each other now. Preferably starting tonight. Selene has given you a particularly beautiful moon to work with, you know.”

Steve looks up at the moon for less than a second, but that’s more than enough for Eros to be gone by the time he looks back. He sighs, frowning at the vacant boulder.

He isn’t stupid. He knows what Eros was getting at. The thought is just terrifying, is all. He doesn’t trust himself to not hurt Eddie. Just being around Eddie makes his fingertips buzz with energy, and his control has slipped more in the past few weeks than ever before. Eddie might say he doesn’t mind or that he trusts Steve, but the problem is that Steve doesn’t trust himself.

That fact just frustrates him more. He frowns, runs a hand through his hair, and sits down on the boulder. Steve would love to just throw caution to the wind. He’d love to just hope for the best and hold Eddie’s hand and not worry about things. But that’s not the kind of person he is. Steve does what’s best for those around him, he works himself into a frenzy thinking about their safety, and doesn’t hesitate to sacrifice himself in the process.

It’s probably not healthy, but it’s kept him and the kids alive and mostly happy, and that’s what really matters. 

Right?

Right.

But gods is that tiring. Maybe...maybe he can be a tiny bit selfish. He won't throw caution to the wind, but maybe he can test the waters. And if nothing explodes on him, he can see where it goes.

-----------------

Eddie is almost impressed by how well Steve can avoid a person when he puts his mind to it. He hasn’t seen a glimpse of the other boy since he ran off. And it’s not for lack of trying, either. Eddie has practically scoured the camp from top to bottom as everyone else helped set up the Victory Bonfire. 

He ultimately decides that searching like this is pointless, so he finds a scrap of paper in his tent and folds it into an airplane. He writes Steve’s name on one wing and doodles a guitar and bat on the other before sending it flying. It’s not the flashiest power a demigod can receive from their parent, but Eddie has never been happier to have it as he follows.

The paper airplane leads him past the huge bonfire, skirts around the woods, and really starts to pick up speed as it gets closer to the lake. A wave of relief surges through Eddie when he sees a familiar figure past the tree line. Before the plane can zoom onto the rocky beach, Eddie snatches it from the air and shoves it into his pocket. 

Steve is sitting on a boulder by the lake, knees pulled up to his chest as he stares out at the water. For a moment, Eddie gets the feeling he’d like to just sink into the water and disappear for a while. Maybe it wouldn’t be a bad idea if Steve was a Poseidon kid, but he’s more likely to drown than find peace as a son of Zeus. 

Eddie hesitates, wondering if he should interrupt, when Steve looks over his shoulder at him and says, “Hey.”

That’s all the invitation Eddie needs for tension to drain from his shoulders as he walks over. “Hey,” he says, climbing the rock to sit next to Steve. They’re not close enough for their shoulders to brush, but a small lean is all it would take. “You’re missing out on some legendary s’mores at the bonfire.”

Steve snorts, propping his chin on his knees. He’s silent for a few seconds before whispering, “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, Stevie, I’m fine,” Eddie promises, leaning forward so he can get a better look at Steve’s expression. His eyebrows are pulled together, and Eddie has to suppress the urge to rub his thumb over the wrinkle that forms between them. “You didn’t actually hurt me, you know.”

“You were surrounded by lightning, Eddie,” Steve says, frowning at him. “You probably have a burn somewhere you can’t see. It couldn’t have been good for your heart, either.”

No, it probably wasn’t good for Eddie’s heart, but not for the reason Steve is worrying about. Eddie got too excited fighting with Steve; the lightning that crackled and arched between them made his adrenaline surge. For the first time, he actually enjoyed combat instead of dreading it.

“Well, let’s check,” he says, sliding off the boulder. Before Steve can question him, he shrugs off his vest and yanks his shirt over his head. He holds his arms out to the side and looks at Steve expectantly. “Go ahead.”

A few seconds pass before Steve gets off the rock and moves to stand behind him. Eddie can feel Steve’s eyes passing over every inch of his back, searching meticulously for any signs of lightning-related injury. When a few silent minutes pass without finding anything, Steve stands in front of him to continue his search.

Eddie gets to watch him in return this time. Steve’s lips press together when he’s concentrating, his eyebrows twitching and shifting with whatever thoughts are passing through his head. He stands with one hand on his hip, the other hovering as though he wants to brush his fingers across any suspected bruises. 

“See?” Eddie says, “All good. You didn’t hurt me, Stevie.”

A few seconds pass before Steve slowly exhales and nods, tension draining from his shoulders. “What about your heart?” he asks, glancing at Eddie’s chest. 

It’s such a perfect invitation, isn’t it? Eddie would be a fool to not take advantage, right? He’s not always the smoothest demigod in camp, but even he can see the perfect moment in front of him.

He grins and takes Steve’s hand, bringing it to his chest. He places Steve’s palm over his heart. “What do you think?” he asks.

Steve frowns, tilting his head slightly. “Your heart is beating faster,” he says, looking up with concern clear in his eyes.

“That’s not because of lightning, sweetheart.”

Eddie feels the exact moment Steve understands what he means. It’s the moment his control slips just enough for a tiny spark to pass from palm to chest. It makes Eddie’s skin prickle as he grins. 

“Sorry,” Steve whispers, trying to pull his hand away.

Eddie holds tighter, stepping closer until Steve is leaning against the boulder with nowhere to go. “I like when you shock me. It doesn’t hurt. It tingles, but it doesn’t hurt. In fact, it felt good when you kissed me,” he says.

“I’m sorry about that, too,” Steve says, grimacing as he looks at the lake over Eddie’s shoulder. “I didn’t…I should’ve asked.”

“That’s okay,” Eddie tells him, leaning in until their noses are almost brushing. 

“Seriously?”

“Yeah, Stevie. In case you couldn’t tell by now, I like like you. Since the moment I saw you, really.”

Steve blinks, and then he starts laughing. “Really? Like like? What, are we in middle school?” he asks.

“You can’t knock the simplicity of the middle school confession, sweetheart. It’s got no room for misunderstanding.”

With an amused eye roll, Steve says, “Sure, if you say so.” He’s still smiling, his gaze focused on Eddie now instead of the lake. A faint blush has colored his cheeks. “In that case, I like like you, too.”

Eddie grins. “Does that mean I can kiss you now?”

In answer, Steve places his free hand on Eddie’s shoulder and tugs him the last few inches closer. Their lips connect, a tiny static shock passing between them and making Eddie shudder. He pushes closer before Steve can pull away, trapping Steve’s hand between them and bracing himself on the boulder. 

The kiss starts and stays slow, a gentle push and pull. Eddie would be happy if it never ended, but Steve pulls away after a few seconds. "You're sure?" he asks.

"Yeah, Stevie, I'm sure," Eddie promises, studying him for a moment before pulling back and leading Steve away from the boulder. "Wanna dance?"

"There's no music," Steve says.

"Who cares?" Eddie asks, tugging Steve closer. He watches Steve glance up at the moon, hesitating for a few seconds before nodding. "Just follow my lead."

Steve smiles, letting Eddie lead him along the beach, dancing to music he can't hear.

------

Tag List

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@bxnghy

[tototalks]

Here we are, the last short story! I have absolutely adored this entire series and short stories, and will probably be re-reading in the near future!

Without further ado: ⚜️ The Adventures of Charls, the Veretian Cloth Merchant ⚜️

- I really like that Veretians and Akielons are adopting each other’s fashions with the merging of cultures… Akielons are still rejecting the sleeves though. I bet “to reject the sleeves” or to “have no sleeves” becomes some kind of dirty euphemism later down the line. 😂

- Laurent and Damen really are leaders that give back to their people and don’t put themselves on a massively high pedestal. If they want to run away for a bit and be Cousin Charls and Lamen, they’re gonna do it. The council are going to have such massive headaches for the entirety of their reign lol

- And Charls is such an MVP for carting around the King of Vere masquerading as his cousin who is also called Charls 💀

- It will literally never not be funny to see Charls NOT figure out who Damen is.

- It will also literally never not be funny when Charls starts to get suspicious and comes to a conclusion that is also wildly wrong. “He’s a merchant’s assistant!” 😮

- Credit to Damen for playing along. Were he not born a royal, this kind of life would suit him.

- Laurent and Damen sneaking off before the ascension is also fantastic. At the end of the day they’re both just people and enjoy freedom and adventure.

- No one was gonna tell me Damen has a dimple?! This is crucial information people!!

- “Wow, Lamen’s clothes suck and he’s clearly poor, but damn his Veretian is great!”

- Damen there trying to defend Charls surrounding the rumours he was deceived and Charls literally just tells him to stfu 💀

- Makon. We’re gonna have problems. Your seams? Wonky. Your fabric? Low quality. Your business? Dodgy. You are talking smack about the literal blood-related cousin to the King of Vere. They are a FAMILY.

- Every time Laurent uses his snakey qualities for good, an angel gains its wings. Undercutting Makon for the fabric was so satisfying, and everyone handled that with more grace than I would have. I would have literally laughed in Makon’s face.

- I really like the implication that Laurent has a soft spot for animals, horses especially, and generally creatures that are innocent (children included). Makes Damen’s gift super special, and this horse poisoning scene really sad 😢

- And in all the chaos, Damen is still finding time to flirt. Priorities.

- Another detail I adore is that Charls notices clothes before he notices physical appearance. He’s far more likely to say “the guy in the poorly woven woollen cloak” than “the guy with brown hair.”

- Laurent really hit the jackpot with Damen and the scary dog privileges that came with him. Someone need only tip a drink on this man and Damen’s started a whole bar fight.

- Also. Totally real that Akielons and Veretians still hold animosity between one another even after the merging of the kingdoms. Integration doesn’t happen overnight.

- This bar fight is everything. Damen is there absolutely murking everyone he sees and Laurent is ducked behind a table tossing olives and stealing lamb legs. Play to your strengths I guess!

- I can picture exactly no situation in which geese could make it better. Evil cobra chickens.

- We have adopted Alexon. He’s invited to the wedding.

- “A Prince’s hands are for refinement” I bet Charls and Damen keep this as a running joke even after everything is out in the open. Laurent lifts a pea and he’s like “Lamen! The king cannot possibly!!”

- If I was sat in disguise around a campfire with some borderline strangers and they started talking about my sex life, I’d simply ✨pass away✨. At least it was all good things and no scandalous rumours about Nikandros teaching Laurent how to wrestle 💀

- Seven hours? That’s cute. He barely survived one with Halvik’s girls 💀

- ALEXON!! Be the kind of nepo baby that uses their status like this.

- Literally need an entire book of Damen and Laurent sneaking out undercover in disguise to free slaves and bring down those trading them. ‼️📢Bring back the blue dress 2k24‼️📢

- Love that Charls always takes the opportunity to mention how strong and young and virile Lamen is, and how him and Laurent must be fucking like rabbits. Which, to be fair, is not too far from the truth lol

- It hurts my heart that the conversation Damen has with Charls could have happened with Auguste or Laurent’s father had Damen had the opportunity to court Laurent like he wanted.

- Laurent in gold looking absolutely ethereal at his coronation. That’s the post.

- HE FINALLY FOUND OUT 😂 WELCOME TO THE ROYAL FAMILY CHARLS!! You definitely know who’s getting to make the wedding trousseau 😉

This entire series has been an absolute ride, and thanks to everyone who’s shared in my (annoying) enthusiasm 😂 AO3 will be my new home, and any fic recommendations are 100% welcome! Love y’all! ♥️

[raineandsky]

Ur writing is soooo delicious 🤌 love it

Could u write a story about hero who is villain’s older brother and who is desperately trying to protect his little bro despite their completely different life attitudes . So villain is getting hurt and of course his older brother comes to his aid

Bonus points if there also is sidekick who doesn’t like villain but is still helping, cause he literally admires hero

I’d be really happy to read such story🩷

oooooh i loved this!! cant go wrong with some messed up family dynamics - thank you, hope you enjoy :)

(part 1) (part 2)

No one wants to see their brother hurt. Not even the hero, not even when his brother has so clearly already chosen his side.

It had happened so fast. The villain was facing off with someone. Another hero, at the distracted villain’s back. A kick, the slash of a blade. The two heroes had laughed and shared a friendly high-five when the villain had gone down.

Heroism hasn’t been what the hero had expected—it seems the hero is one of the only ones that doesn’t hunt villains down in the name of fun.

Waiting for the other heroes to leave had felt like an eternity. The villain—his brother—left suffering on the pavement whilst the pair look for food places on their phones. Eventually, though, finally, they make a decision and casually make their way to the end of the block.

The hero can’t leap up fast enough. His sidekick lags slightly behind, glancing nervously at the road around like it might eat him.

The hero sinks to his knees in front of the villain, earning half a second of attention before the villain scoffs irritably. “Oh my god,” he says flatly. “Go away.”

The hero fights a roll of bandages out of his bag. “I’m helping, you moron.”

“I don’t want you to.”

“Well I want to.”

Despite the attitude, the villain’s breathing is laboured, his face scrunched up slightly in pain. Blood is smeared on his clothes like the world’s ugliest, most heart wrenching painting.

“Ugh,” the villain says faintly. “You always had a thing for showing me up, didn’t you?”

“Saving your life isn’t me showing you up. I’m saving your goddamn life.”

“Don’t give yourself so much credit.”

The hero laughs, and the villain manages a a weak smile. The sidekick lingers awkwardly behind the hero, watching with wide eyes when the hero beckons him onto the ground next to him. “Hold that,” the hero says, holding the bundle of bandages to the sidekick, and he takes it without question so the hero can sever a strip from the roll.

The villain’s gaze flits up to him momentarily, like he’s just realising the sidekick’s there. He probably is, given the state he’s in. “Wow,” he says in the tones of brash sarcasm. “You brought your agency-sanctioned child with you and all.”

“I’m not a child!” the sidekick snaps, even though his voice has that traitorous childish squeak to it. “I’m a hero in training.”

“You go ahead and believe that, kid,” the villain says with a laugh that seems to pain him the moment it comes out.

The hero lays the bandage to the villain’s side, trying to ignore the way he winces at the contact. “Where’s your base?” the hero cuts in. If he didn’t, his brother would start an argument and then he’d never get a word in edgeways.

The villain rolls his eyes. “I don’t like you enough to tell you.”

“I’m trying to get you home, [Villain], I swear to god—”

“Give me one good reason to tell you.”

The hero thinks for a moment as he pulls the villain’s shirt back down and takes the roll back from the sidekick. “I’ll tell dad you ate his last cinnamon bun last year.”

The villain doesn’t look any less like shit, but he suddenly looks a little more alive. “You wouldn’t.”

“Where’s your base?”

“[Hero], that wasn’t me, I didn’t—”

“I saw you come in through the window and take it off the kitchen counter. Where is it?”

“You saw that?”

“[Villain].”

The villain groans in defeat. “You suck. It’s in that abandoned library at the other end of town.”

“Thank you. Right, [Sidekick], get his other side.”

The sidekick hesitates for a moment. “Is there a policy that we can drop villains off at home?”

“Of course not.” The hero fights off a slap as he helps the villain sit upright. “But if we don’t make sure people don’t die, who will?”

The ghost of a smile pulls at the sidekick’s lips. “That’s why I wanted to train with you. It’s just, I don’t know…”

He glances at the villain, who happily gives him a cold glare in return. “Only the best familial relations,” the villain says coolly.

“He’s my brother.” The hero ruffles the villain’s hair a little, earning a second, much harder slap. “We’re not on the same side, but at least he’s alive to be on the other side. I try to think of everyone we help as someone else’s brother.”

“I wish you were someone else’s brother,” the villain snaps, much to the hero’s amusement.

“Ah, that’s too bad for you then.” The hero gestures for the sidekick to take his spot, and together they heft the villain to his feet. “Because even when we’re on different sides of this war, you’re still my little brother.”

“Ew.” The villain makes an attempt to kick the hero and misses. “Don’t say that in front of your child.”

The hero laughs, and for a moment, it feels like they’re young again. Still at home. Still on the same side.

(next part)

[laura1633]

Laura, we need a fic based on that comment (Max can suck lec‘s d).

Like someone showing one of them this comment and Max/Charles then goes slightly insane over it and can’t stop thinking about it or something like that.

No, seriously I would love if you’d be up to write this 😍

Haha, love it anon 😂 I was going to write a very quick drabble about it because I have so many one shots lined up that I wouldn't have time for more but it turned out to be almost 2000 words somehow.

-

“George probably argued the wall turned in on him” Daniel cackles as George reads out the tweet, to the Brit’s credit he is still smiling but he doesn’t look particularly pleased. 

“Whose idea was this again?!” Alex tries not to laugh but some of the online comments have been pretty on the nose so far. 

“Mine” Max grins, “It is best not to take these things too seriously” the Dutchman takes another swig from his gin and tonic and reclines back in his seat as the group take turns reading out mean, rude or just downright hilarious comments about themselves. 

“Then I think it’s your turn again” Daniel grabs his phone, “I found a great one, a whole account that seems to have been set up just to let everyone know what a douchebag you are. Their words not mine” 

“I think you’ll find there are a lot of those accounts” Max laughs as he takes the phone from Daniel and reads the comments the Aussie has found. 

“Max better get used to looking at Charles’ rear end this year. Charles WDC incoming” Max snorts as he reads it. 

“Is that so funny?” Charles frowns.

“No” Max hums, “But as much as I would love to spend the year looking at your “rear end” I unfortunately will be a few tenths ahead by the end of the first lap” Max grins

“Few tenths” Charles rolls his eyes. 

“Oh here” Max starts laughing again, “Max can suck Leclerc’s D, I am gonna assume they mean dick” 

Charles almost chokes on his drink. 

“I’d make quick work of that too” Max says with a ridiculously huge grin on his face, “Get you off a few tenths quicker than anyone else can” 

Charles’ face heats up, red spreading all the way to the tips of his ears. 

“What?” Max glances at the mixture of expressions around the table, from shocked to confused to laughing hilariously and then to Charles who looks - well a little like he is going to pass out, “You all think I don’t know how to suck dick? Look at these lips”

Max pouts, pushing his lips together to make them look plumper, as if that is necessary. Charles tries not to look but he can’t help himself, they do look like they belong around a dick. Fat and juicy and nice and pink. Charles shuffles in his seat and tries not to think about it because he’s starting to feel his cock straining in his boxers and he is absolutely not walking out of here with a hard on about Max dropping to his knees. 

The thought doesn’t leave him though. Not when the conversation moves on. Not when he’s making his way back to the hotel. Not when he’s sitting in bed and pulling up videos of the Dutchman. He tells himself it is research, which would be far more truthful if he was watching race replays rather than interviews. He ends up down a rabbit hole, once he has watched one tiktok edit dedicated to Max’s mouth his phone knows that he needs more. More and more and more until he’s found a slow motion shot zeroed in on those lips. 

And fuck, they really are blow job lips.

If Charles were a more sensible person he would just jerk off to the video. He’s not sensible though and he’s not content with coming over his own hand. Which is why he finds himself pacing up and down outside Max’s hotel room door before knocking and fighting off the urge to run away. 

“You need something?” 

Charles’ brain short circuits because Max is stripped down to a tight pair of boxer briefs, unsurprising really given it is 4am and Charles knows full well he has gotten the Dutchman up out of bed. 

“Charles?” Max’s voice is all rough and raspy, his hair all over the place. 

“You would not get me off faster than anyone else” Charles mumbles, it is the single worst chat up line he has ever used. He thinks it might be the worst chat up line anyone has ever used. He’s not even sure if it is a chat up line. Max’s eyes light up though and there’s a wicked grin on his face as he welcomes the Monegasque into his hotel room. 

“Sorry Charles” Max flicks on the light in the room, “You might have to repeat that for me” 

“I just - , what you said earlier. You are not an expert at everything you know” Charles isn’t sure what he is really doing, riling Max up was the plan but it seems silly now. 

“I never said I was” Max is wetting his lips with his tongue, “Just a few things - racing and sucking dick I guess” 

Charles tries to catch the whimper before it leaves his mouth but it fights its way out anyway. 

“I don’t believe you” Charles chokes out. He does believe it though. For some reason he fully believes it when Max says he’s good at sucking dick. Which is crazy really because until a few hours ago he’d always thought Max was straight. Then again he still considers himself straight and yet he’s in the Dutchman’s hotel room trying to goad him down on to his knees. 

“Charles” Max laughs faintly, “I am not going to suck your dick just to prove that I am telling the truth. If you want something you should ask nicely”

Charles feels his knees buckle, at this rate he’s going to be the only one dropping to the floor. Max is looking at him, his gaze unwavering, his stupid perfect dick sucking lips right there all wet and shiny now he’s run his tongue across them obscenely. 

“So Charles, is there something you would like to ask me?”

Charles’ skin burns under the embarrassment, “Max “ is all he manages to get out before his throat and mouth dry out. 

“It’s not quite time for you to moan my name, that comes later” Max smiles as he closes the space between them, “I am going to need you to ask for what you want Charles” 

Charles isn’t sure when Max became this -, this - 

Hot. 

Fuck Charles realises he might need to rethink everything he knows about himself because he’s always liked to be in control but right now his body is vibrating at the thought of Max making him beg for it. 

“I want you to do it” Charles mumbles quietly, his gaze flicking between Max’s mouth and his body. He’s all nice and broad and muscular, Charles has never quite appreciated that so much before. 

“Do what? You want me to do what for you?” Max steps closer again until his breath is warm as it fans over Charles’ lips.  

“I want you to suck my dick” Charles breathes out unsteadily but keeps his head held high. 

“See, that was not so hard was it” Max smiles, “Unlike this” Max palms over Charles’ cock making the Monegasque’s hips buck forward.

Charles wants to come up with some clever little retort but he can’t because Max is already sinking down to his knees and he’s fucking maintaining eye contact whilst he does it. The Dutchman eases Charles joggers and pants down in one go and licks right across his lips again. 

And Charles thinks he might either have heart failure or burst into flames. Either way he thinks this might be what kills him - the sight of Max on his knees looking so fucking confident. 

“Nice” Max hums. 

Charles isn’t even sure if that is a compliment. Nice. It sounds rather - bland. 

“Very nice. I always thought you would be big but you are even bigger than I thought you would be” Max muses as he runs his thumb right over the head of Charles' cock and collects up some of the pre-come. Charles makes a strange gargled sound but isn’t quite sure what is turning him on more -  the thought that Max has even given his dick any sort of passing consideration or the fact the Dutchman is now sucking the pre-come from his thumb like a fucking porn star. 

“I can still take you all though” Max looks up and gives Charles a filthy look. The Monegasque goes to say something but the second he opens his mouth Max slides his lips right around his cock and he’s left throwing his head back and moaning Max’s name like a fucking man possessed. 

Max seems intent on making him come as soon as possible. His mouth warm and wet and working further down Charles’ cock each time he bobs his head. The Monegasque is strangely aware of his own arms just dangling down by his sides and tentatively reaches out and tangles his fingers into Max’s hair. The Dutchman doesn’t need any guiding though, he’s doing pretty well all by himself. 

And for once Charles is glad Max was not all talk. 

The Dutch driver switches it up a little, runs his tongue up the underside of Charles’ cock before giving the head a little attention, sucking and kissing and making patterns with his tongue. Everything sounds wet. Looks wet. There’s saliva and pre-come dripping from the sides of Max’s mouth. He certainly seems to know what he is doing though. As he goes back in Charles gasps as he feels his cock hit the back of Max’s throat. Max makes the faintest gagging sound but pushes down even further until his nose is almost buried against the soft hairs around Charles’ cock. 

It’s at that exact moment that Max looks up again, his eyes a little watery but dark and intense and Charles feels his whole body clenching as it really hits home that Max is sucking his dick. Happily sucking his dick. Sucking his dick with as much passion and skill as he seems to apply to everything else. 

And it’s too much - 

Charles comes without any sort of warning and just hopes that Max is cool with swallowing because his come is most likely already flowing down the Dutchman’s throat as he bucks forward and tightens his grip in Max’s hair to hold him steady. 

Charles feels his legs go to jelly beneath him as Max pulls off slowly, the Dutchman’s lips still clasped tight as he moves. There’s even more saliva now, Max seems to have swallowed down most of the come though, not that Charles really gave him much choice. He would apologise but Max looks far from bothered. 

“Pretty quick” Max smiles, “I mean that as a compliment” the Dutchman laughs, “You are sensitive, are you that sensitive when you fuck?” 

“No” Charles huffs out a little breathless, he’s not normally quite so sensitive but he’s also not used to guys sucking him off and its - 

Well the results speak for themselves. 

“Cool” Max nods and gets to his feet and clambers into bed, “If you want to stick around until morning maybe we can test that out”

“Test. Out” Charles repeats the words like they are completely alien to him. His brain is still fuzzy and floaty and Max is laid out on the bed in front of him like this whole thing is the most natural set up in the whole world. 

“Yeah” Max shrugs, “I am excellent at sucking dicks but I’m world champion level when it comes to riding them” The Dutchman laughs and flicks the lights off in the room which is just as well because Charles’ face is  cherry red as he tentatively climbs into bed next to Max ready for the morning. 

[somasbrianrot]

I Like You

Inspired by : I Like You, Post Malone ft Doja Cat

Requests are open!

Darby Allin x Seamstress! Reader

Fem Reader

Gif Credit to : sydsaint

Summary: In which reader is a seamstress for AEW and also Sting’s youngest daughter, Sting drops by for a visit to introduce someone.

Being the senior seamstress of All Elite Wrestling could be stressful sometimes, you did love getting to meet all of the different personalities and energies the wrestler’s brought to the table, From Ricky Starks’ charm to Danhausen’s weird jokes that somehow managed to make you laugh every time but it just wore you out, especially when MJF comes in upset about how his gear didn’t look like how he envisioned or the JAS’ general annoyingness.

You were finishing the last pin on a skirt for Tay Conti when you heard a knock on your door frame “Yes?” you asked without turning “It’s Dad” you turned around with a huge smile, you had always been a father’s girl and you loved when he would visit you during work, you placed the skirt down along with the needle you were using, walking over to give him a hug “How was your match?” you asked and he shrugged “same old, just dropped in to say hi and introduce you to someone” you then notice the much smaller frame of a man who was standing behind your dad, he seemed to be cloaked in a black jacket but you couldn’t see his face.

“Come in then!” you stepped back and let your father walk in, revealing the man standing behind him. Darby Allin. you had seen him come in here from time to time, he’d never once talked to you though, opting to talk to some of the juniors whenever he needed gear sewed up or fixed, you thought it was weird but decided to disregard it a while ago, you stuck your hand out “My name is Y/N, everyone knows me as Sting Jr though” he shook your hand and stood next to your dad.

“I just wanted to introduce my quote un quote adopted kid to my real kid” you nodded and looked at Darby who had seemed to be staring at you the whole time “Well if you need anything gear wise I’m your girl, I also come and help with make-up from time to time, so if you’re ever struggling with your face paint I'm also your girl!” Darby nodded along to what you were saying, you turned back to your skirt and needle picking them up “You guys are welcome to stay here” you hear Sting say okay “I need to go grab something, I’ll leave her with you Darby” you nod and then continue your sewing job.

You turn around and see Darby’s taken a seat on one of the many couches there was sitting around the room “So, what made you want to be my dad’s apprentice?” you questioned “I’ve looked up to him all my life” He chuckled “I’d always love when Sting was fighting and I would see you in the crowd while I watched as a kid, Sting really tried to show off for you, I also...kind of had a crush on you” you giggle at the revelation “Yeah, and I used to have a crush on Dominik Mysterio when we were little!” you and him laugh together until you accidentally stab yourself in the finger with your needle “Ah fuck!” you groan as blood starts to surface.

“Let me see” you hear Darby say and you look up to see he’s right in front of you holding his hand out, you gently lay your hand in his and he looks at it “Here” he grabs a pack of wipes from his pocket “I keep these on me to clean my paint after I’m done” you nod and he pulls one out, wiping your finger down as the blood slowed down, the area was still red but there was no blood, you smile at him and he smiles back, the closeness of him has your breath hitching as you leave your hand in his, facing it down to be palm down in his hand, his eyes flicker from your eyes to your lips.

You close your eyes and lean in, his lips softly connecting with yours, he presses you against one of the desks as he devours your lips, your arms instinctively wrapping around the back of his neck, deepening the kiss, your legs fly to wrap around his waist and pull him closer, tugging at his tufts of hair to urge him to kiss you more, he pulls away “I...I like you, I really do, and I wanna stay like this”

before you can say anything someone clearing their throat broke the two of you up, you look over and see your dad in the frame of the door, you quickly push Darby away and clear your throat “Dad I-” “I was waiting for the day you finally got a boyfriend and the day he finally manned up and made the first move” “Dad!” you laugh and Sting congratulates the two of you.

[black-arcana]

"Rock'n'roll is alive, and I need it to stay that way": The Pretty Reckless are on the road with AC/DC, and Taylor Momsen is more than ready to rock

Supporting the Rolling Stones and AC/DC in the same week? Sounds like a pretty good few days

(Image credit: Sergione Infuso / Corbis via Getty Images)

Fronted by model/actress-turned-singer and rhythm guitarist Taylor Momsen, The Pretty Reckless formed in New York City in 2009. With their critically praised fourth album, 2021’s Death By Rock And Roll, the quartet ventured beyond alt.rock boundaries to embrace a more mature sound. Below, Momsen talks about the band’s current European tour as guests of AC/DC. 

How did you greet the news that The Pretty Reckless would be opening for AC/DC? 

One of the band members was driving when he heard, and he almost crashed his car [laughs]. Here’s a great story. Last November my agent asked me about touring. We were starting to make a record, and told him no – not unless AC/DC, The Who or the Rolling Stones called. Christmas and New Year passed, and we were in the studio. Then I get a text from Neil [Warnock, the agent] that says: ‘AC/DC, plus The Pretty Reckless. All [European] shows.’ And I go: ‘Oh shit.’ So we put the record on hold, and I guess we are going on tour. 

That’s amazing. 

Yeah, but here’s the thing. A week ago, the Rolling Stones called too. We are playing a stadium with the Stones in Las Vegas, then flying to Germany to join a tour with AC/DC in the same week. My mind is truly blown. 

AC/DC’s audiences can be pretty unforgiving of support acts. Does that bother you? 

We just get up there and do our thing. In that sense we have the same ethic as AC/DC. We’re loud – almost a bar band at the core. I can’t control how others view or perceive us, so I’m not really worried. I get to play music and then watch my favourite band every night. What’s not to love? 

You quit acting for music at the age of fourteen. What was the reason? 

Being in bands and writing songs was something I’d done since before I could even remember, but finally I reached an age where I realised I could do it. It was a bit of a fight to quit my day job, but I did it and it was the best decision I ever made. 

There’s probably a type of person who thinks of you as ‘playing at’ music, rather than playing it. 

Actually, I think the hate and negativity has kind of gone away. I was on a TV show that was a hit across the world [Gossip Girl], but we’ve been a band for almost sixteen years, we’ve toured the world relentlessly and made four records. To all those people who doubted us… [laughs] did I mention we are touring with AC/DC? You don’t get an AC/DC tour for being on a television show. It comes from paying your dues.

Kim Thayil and Matt Cameron from Soundgarden both guested on The Pretty Reckless’s most recent album, Death By Rock And Roll, as did Audioslave’s Tom Morello. Do these elder statesmen offer advice? 

Not really. We just play music together. I don’t see music as a business. It really isn’t like that any more. 

The Death By Rock And Roll album seemed to take The Pretty Reckless up several levels. 

I really like all of our records, but Death By Rock And Roll is my favourite. 

Of the track Harley Darling, Classic Rock said: “If someone said this song had fallen off Neil Young’s Harvest sessions, you’d believe it.” 

That’s an amazing compliment. Thank you. 

When might we hear the follow-up?

The record’s on hold, but we’ll get right back on to it when we finish this tour. 

Our legendary older bands are retiring, and older heroes passing away – the latest, recently, was Dickey Betts from the Allman Brothers. 

That was devastating. We had Warren Haynes [former Allmans guitarist, now with Gov’t Mule] play on Back To The River from our record Who You Selling For [ 2016]. 

Do you feel a responsibility towards keeping rock’n’roll alive? 

Rock'n'roll is alive, and I need it to stay that way. So if I can contribute to that, it’s what I’m going to do.

The Pretty Reckless are currently supporting AC/DC in Europe, with London shows on July 3 and 7, and Dublin on August 17.

[deathofpeaceofmiiind]

high infidelity | five

It only feels this raw right now, lost in the labyrinth of my mind. *Elliots POV* After a couple of anxiety ridden hours we had finally made it to Seattle. The anticipation of seeing Noah again was consuming me to the point that I could hardly sit still. Danielle kept reassuring me that everything was going to work out but it didn’t help whatsoever. I just had to ride this feeling out until I saw Noah again. Seattle was so beautiful but Noah was right, it’s not Canada.  I only ever came down here for sporting events or concerts so I’ve never had a chance to really sightsee. Our hotel room was right around the corner from the venue so we walked down the road to find somewhere to eat since we couldn’t check in for another hour. We were talking about our game plan for tonight and not paying attention cause as soon as we turned the corner we ran into Matt and Bryan. “Oh fuck.” Danielle cursed. “What are you two doing here?”  

“Ok you can’t say a fucking thing to Noah but little miss over here wanted to surprise him.” Danielle piped back as she pointed at me. “How romantic.” Matt sarcastically replied as he put his hand over his heart. “If you guys want we get you in to watch from the side stage but I don’t want any credit cause the idea of love makes me want to puke. Especially the idea of Noah being in love.” “Yeah, it’s super nauseating.” Bryan chimed in.

“So fucking thoughtful Matthew, thank you!” I mocked as I put my hand over my heart. “Or I could just tell Noah.” he replies shrugging his shoulders at us. “Not one word, Dierkes, you got it?” I got right in his face and he just winked at me before promising me he would stay silent. We exchanged numbers so we could meet up later to sneak in. They walked back into the venue and I just shook my head. Danielle even looked over at me with a concerning look on her face. “What?” “You know if things don’t work out with you and Noah. You and Matt have some weird ass chemistry going on here.” “He is not my type.” I scoffed. “True, but he was totally flirting with you.” “If that was him flirting he has a lot of work to do.” I laughed as we walked down the road to find a restaurant. *Noahs POV* The last time I was this nervous for a show was opening night of our first headliner two years ago. I felt like I had lived 10 different lives since then and thanks to Covid I’m pretty sure I had. I was still in denial that I would get to talk to Elliot after the show and it was making it hard for me to stay focused. A part of me was scared she was just going to tell me to fuck off and I’d never hear from her again, but then again maybe she’ll give me a second chance. The crowd in Seattle was one of the best we had all tour. There was no altercations and everyone looked like they were having an incredible time. Some nights I still got flashbacks of our Warped Tour days where people would watch our sets just to tell us we sounded like shit or to start fights with our fans or even us sometimes. This tour was really showing me people cared about our band, which was something I was having a hard time wrapping around my head still.

“So before I start this next song I uh, I wanted to dedicate this to someone, even though she’s not here to hear me out. I hope you guys can help me out, this is ‘Just Pretend.’” 

“We’ll try again when we’re not so different. We’ll make amends, till then I’ll just pretend.“

I was on my knees belting this song out with every emotion I had. I know I wrote this song as a joke to show how easy it was to write a popular song but it hit different after everything that’s happened since last night. I could feel tears wanting to form but they stopped when saw Elliot and Danielle on the side of the stage with Bryan. I froze and my heart was pounding so fucking hard that I could feel it in my ears. I looked over at Nick and he was just as surprised when he saw them. I brought my attention back to her and she smiled at me through her tears. If I wasn’t already on my knees that goddamn smile of hers would’ve buckled me right over. I stayed on my knees and didn’t break our eye contact while we finished the song. 

“Weigh down on me, stay till morning, way down…would you say I’m worthy?” 

We finished our set a couple songs later and I ran to the side of the stage but she was already gone. I was confused at first and wondered if I hallucinated her being here but when I turned the corner she was waiting for me in the hallway. I couldn’t help but smirk as the guys walked by and said hi to her, exposing how short she really was. It was adorable. I couldn’t get enough. As she high-fived Nick she saw me from the corner of her eye and met my stare. I forgot how bright her eyes were and it sent a shock wave through my body. “What are you doing here?” “I-“ I didn’t even let her answer, the anticipation was killing me. I grabbed a fistful of her hair and kissed her with no hesitation. I wanted to fully blame the adrenaline from the show on this but I couldn’t wait any longer. I pressed her against the wall as the kiss deepened. She was standing on her tallest tip toes and it caused me to smile against her lips. “I thought a grand gesture was needed.” She said as we broke apart.

“Elliot, I am so sorry about last night. I know once we figure this out it will all make sense.” “Ellie.” “What?” “You can call me Ellie. I think you’ve earned that privilege now that you’ve dedicated a song to me.” she joked before kissing my cheek. “Also, you guys were amazing tonight.” She adds as she wraps me into a hug. I guess my sweat didn’t seem to bother her as she held onto to me tighter.  “So it’s kind of tradition after Seattle shows that we play some kind of game, with drinking rules obviously.” Folio said rudely interrupting us. “I’m thinking we play Uno.” “I’m gonna mop the floor with your tears Folio.” Ellie shot back at him as she gave him the middle finger. “You’re so on.” He says as gives us both the finger before walking away. She laughs before turning her attention back to me. I kissed her again, this time I was little more gentle since my adrenaline was wearing off. I never wanted to stop kissing her, it felt like seeing the closing fireworks at Disneyworld for the first time. We broke apart and I planted a soft kiss on her nose and forehead as I caught my breath. Yeah, I’m falling in love and I’m fucking terrified.

[faewritesfanfic]

Prelude

Here ya go, you perverts! Enjoy!

Credit goes to @necroticguts for coming up with this AU. And of course, to @bound-tosydney who wanted outdoor sex. I hope you're both happy with yourselves.

˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

TW: Predator/prey, sex, mentions of fertility.

The forest thrummed with excitement as the hunter chased his wife through the woods. She might prove worthy prey, but the wife can’t stop giggling and giving away her position. She wants the hunter to catch her, and he is prepared to give her exactly what she wants.

The hunter cornered his wife in a glade, and as he tackled her to the ground he had the absurd thought that she was unlike any beast he had ever caught before. Hunting her was like hunting a fairy.

“Oh no! You got me!” The wife openly laughs as the hunter pins her to the forest floor. Her smiles are warm, and affectionate, and only for him, him, him. “Please, dear hunter! Mercy!” She shrieks in laughter as the hunter smothers her with kisses, any fight she puts up purely for show.

The hunter likes this game, and takes a moment to look down at his wife in consideration. Just to play along. “If I give you half a chance, you’ll slip away again.” The hunter moves his hand to his wife’s throat, gently rubbing her jaw with his thumb.

“Oh, you darling man.” The wife said wistfully. “I am exactly where I want to be. Listen.” She flicks her eyes to the forest around them, and the hunter listens closely for sounds around them. “No one’s around. We are completely alone.”

The hunter feels his heart swell, but he tries to continue. “What are you suggesting?”

She grins at him, kissing the tip of his nose. “You should take full advantage of your prey.”

The hunter stared at his wife in open adoration. Before her he had never imagined another person could want him, or find joy in his presence. She was everything to him. “You are so, so very beautiful.” He whispers, a little breathless and overwhelmed by the moment.

The wife lifted her hands to cup the hunter’s face, her expression blissful. “I am in love with the most wonderful man in the world.”

It’s too much emotion. The hunter swoops down and fiercely kisses his wife. She makes happy little sounds and holds on tight as he starts bunching the skirt of her dress up to her thighs. She quietly begs him to go faster between kisses, and when he reaches for her core she’s already soaking.

“How are you so wet?” The hunter groans, marvelling at her arousal. The wife gasped as he ran his fingers over her, pressing down on her clit too briefly.

“No reason!” The wife protested, her cheeks flushed scarlet.

“What’s the matter?” The hunter grins and slowly rubs his wife’s clit again. Her breathing catches and she starts to let out adorable little sounds that make him want to tease her more. “Having impure thoughts? Maybe you were thinking about what I’d do to you once I caught you?” She whines and grinds her hips up against his hand, holding on tight to his shoulders. “Poor thing.” The hunter murmured to his wife. “Tell me what you need.”

Her blush deepens, and she struggles to speak between little gasps and moans. “Please.” She mewls.

“Please what?” The hunter gently ran his fingers over her, running lower to play with her entrance.

The wife let out a long moan that the hunter relished in. “Please, I need you.” She said breathlessly. “Please, I need you. I want you, I love you. Please.” She murmured these words over and over again, leaning up to nuzzle against the hunter and kiss his stubbly jaw.

Despite his bravado, the hunter closes his eyes as the moment threatens to overwhelm him. It strikes him sometimes just how much his wife loves him. It’s a little scary. The hunter had never considered that someone else could love him because he could not imagine loving himself. He had gotten so unbelievably lucky with his wife. She openly adored him, and found the idea that she might prefer someone else one day both insulting and disgusting. She was devoted to him and he loved her so unfathomably much it hurt sometimes. He has no words to express his love, so he reaches for the laces on his trousers to give his wife what she wants.

The wife lets out a high pitched whine as the hunter presses his hardened length against her, rubbing to slick himself up. “So warm.” She gasped.

“You just run cold.” He said with a small laugh. If he were a patient man he would draw this part out and enjoy his wife’s expressions. He’d toy with her and make her beg for him, but she’s ready for him and he’s never been able to resist her.

The fat, leaking head of the hunter’s cock slips into his wife with ease, and she clings to him and mewls in response. “Easy, love.” He soothed and rubbed her back as he slowly eased himself into her. When the hunter is fully seated in his wife he takes a moment to marvel at how good she feels around him. He loves the way she clamps down on him, and gives little thrusts against him.

“S’good. It’s so good.” The wife moaned, burying her face in the hunter’s neck. “Move, please. Please, I need you to move. Please.”

The hunter lay gentle kisses all over his wife’s face as he began to move his hips. She let out a long, happy sound as he began to thrust into her, his hands gripping her hips and pulling her against him. 

“You feel so, so good.” The wife breathed, trying to thrust back against him as she lay kiss after kiss against his lips.

The hunter loved how she talked when they were together like this. He revelled in the idea that she wanted him, that he was desirable in her eyes and wanted this as much as he did. The hunter set a thumb to her clit and began to rub as he fucked her.

“I get to do whatever I want with my prey.” He grunted, grinding into his wife as she gasped and cried for him. “And I want you to cum.”

“Eden, please!” She moans his name, and he gives a particularly hard thrust that sends her over the edge. Her moans ring in his ears as he focuses on the pleasure of driving his cock into her again and again. She squelches and squeezes him as the hunter feels something white hot building in his abdomen. He grinds against her as he cums, nestled up as close as he can get to her cervix. It was important he fill her as much as possible.

The hunter and his wife lay there, clinging to each other for a while. Finally the wife said, “I told you trying for a baby would be fun.”

He huffed a breathless laugh at her. “I never doubted it would be.” He grinned at her, at the silliness of the moment. “This was a really fun idea, though.” The hunter kissed his wife gently, and pulled her into his arms as they lay in the grass.

It was a beautiful Summer day, and the hunter loved his wife. He loved her more than any god had ever loved another, and he wanted to be with her forever. As they lay in the soft grass she nuzzled against him. She was probably going to doze off again. That was just fine. The hunter could carry his wife home. She’d been so good for him, after all.

He would do anything for her, and he was her world.

[eviltiddyproductions]

I already know the endgame to Reply 1988 because I was initially avoiding the series because I’ve heard it being described as heartbreaking, emotional and a tear-jerking experience.

I’m 4 episodes in and I realise they meant it in a positive sense. 💀

It’s a truly moving show because tell me why Deoksun is getting treated as a middle child, Junghwan’s dad is getting ignored by his family and I’m the one fighting tears 😭

⚠️ SPOILERS! (In the year of our lord 2024, I was blissfully unaware of this show and it’s dynamics so if you’re too I spoil an important thing in this paragraph, LEAVE ! )

Anyway, I presumed the worst of this show before watching it thinking everyone was going to break up and go there separate ways and reconcile a little in the finale. I do not know why my mind went there seeing some random posts 💀 till my sister told me that she does end up with someone and it’s a wholesome series! She just doesn’t end up with Junghwan (he’s the male lead) and I started watching it immediately!

I’ve seen way too many shows recently where people have chemistry but they don’t end up together because people platonic relationships exists or, I’ve seen fantasy shows where one of the leads die or both do so it hasn’t been live, laugh, love in this house for a while!

I guess Reply 1988 makes up for that, they have enough love going on for everybody! I adore everyone.

What I’ve noticed up until now is that everywhere you look Junghwan is considered as the second male lead and I’m left scratching my head because I’d like to know how? 😭

He’s credited before Park Bogum, is the only person we’ve seen for the last 4 episodes through 90% of the show and we get things from his perspective???? Does that not make him the first male lead ? 😭

I was surprised because knowing the ending I assumed Bogum had an equally important character. But up until now, in these 4 episodes you only see him come and go for a few minutes. The majority of the show is focused on Junghwan, Deoksun and Sunwoo. They get to do all the main leads stuff too!

They’ve been to field trips together (loved that episode), they get alone time together, they have moments with and without the group, we see every minute interaction between them!

Taek (Bogum) is adored and just kinda exists ? Maybe he gets more and more screen time as the show progresses but if we pull up the basic characteristics of a leading man isn’t it Junghwan? 😭

All of this is alleged as of now though, I’ll re log another wonderful post I read which detailed how we see so many things from his perspective and that it isn’t really correct to call him the SML and I found myself agreeing because you don’t see most of the SML’s make decisions. They’re just there most of the time, existing and figuring things out in the limited amount of time they have.

We see Junghwan take initiative, we see his family a lot, we all find out he’s begun to like her because of the scenes that are written together and we watch him take initiative for things after noticing things with Deoksun. (the bus scene <3 )

I feel like if he was the SML he would’ve just done things without us knowing why he’s doing them lol.

I yap a lot !!! But I truly presumed that he was the second male lead in this show because people say he’s the reason they understand that syndrome but I think…. he might be one of the rare leads who doesn’t get the girl.

Not getting the girl doesn’t automatically make you the SML 😭 ???

Anyway I have like 16 episodes to go so I’ll let y’all know if I’ve done all this yapping to be wrong.

[cinewhore]

Starfish

pairing: Doug Renetti x fem!reader word count: 4k warnings: fluff, angst, smut: vaginal penetration, cumshot a/n: in a minx mood! I just finished the second season and fell in love with the characters again. Folks have also been asking me about this so I guess this can live on here again. no beta and this is kind of old lolz. Enjoy & give credits to the gif creators!

Popping your grape flavored gum, your eyes fly across the screen of the game you were currently engrossed in, hips swaying back and forth to KC & The Sunshine Band “Get Down Tonight”.  You came to the Hot Spot bar often, checking the high score of space invaders. You were the top player of the famed game ever since Charlie installed it and he always made sure to tuck away tokens for you whenever you showed up. 

It wasn’t your thing, playing video games. With the increase of working days and a higher demand for adult content, you were always looking to blow off steam that wasn’t sex related. You drunkenly stumbled upon the flashy box and were hooked. 

“C’mon, you piece of shit, eat my dust!” you mutter, tongue poking out a bit as your concentration deepens. The colored aliens jump around, narrowly avoiding your blazing ray gun. You weren’t going down without a fight and with a quick flip of your wrist, the last three aliens on your screen were blasted to hell. The machine dings as NEW HIGH SCORE appears, prompting you to input your initials for the scoreboard. You continue to hum to the song, jerking the joystick around the alphabet to claim your rightful throne. 

F.U.K

“Whew momma, I’d know those hips anywhere.” 

You bite a smile as you finish your gaming session, tossing your purse back over your shoulder. Turning around, you come face to face with Doug Renetti. He holds up two shot glasses filled with brown liquor, shaking them a bit to entice you. 

“You’re late.” 

Doug laughs and it pings your heart. You hated how much you liked to hear his laughter. 

“What can I say, I’m a busy guy.” 

You permit the rugged looking man to escort you to a booth, sliding in across from him and accepting the drink. 

“Too busy for me even? Wow!” you joke, signaling to the bartender for another round. 

“Never too busy for my favorite girl.” Doug flashes you a smile, dazzling you with his pearly whites. You bite your lip and lean back against the plush seat. 

“You go to work today?” 

Doug nods, thanking the waitress for the new set of drinks. “Yeah. I, uh, actually got this new magazine in the works. It’s gonna be big, I can feel it.” 

“So I heard.” 

Doug raises an eyebrow, massaging his sharp nose. “Oh yeah? Tony keeping tabs on me now?” 

You let out a nervous chuckle, rolling your eyes. Tony was always a sore subject of conversation. Your current boss, Tony Delgatto owned one of the biggest adult production companies in L.A. Tony and Doug started in the industry together but lines were crossed and the two went their separate ways. Tony and Doug both refuse to discuss what exactly happened between them and you knew better than to ask. Something about men with their dicks and egos. 

“No, the porn industry is just very small. Word travels fast.” you shrug but Doug wasn’t buying it. 

“How much did Bambi tell you?” 

You giggle into your glass. “Everything.” 

Doug groans. “She never stops talking, that Bambi.” 

“We go to the same hair salon! What else are we supposed to talk about, the weather?” 

“Yeah, that’d be nice for a change.” 

You scoff. “Oh, geez, maybe next time I’ll lead off with a: Hi Bambi, how’s the weather today? Oh! It’s mid-70s? Again? Someone call the press!”

“Yeah, alright. I get it.” 

A moment of silence passes by and you know exactly where this is going. 

“The offer still stands-” 

“Doug! Can we not do this today?” 

Doug’s face softens, his normal joking demeanor changing into something serious. “You’re a goddamn sex symbol and instead of becoming a household name, you’re wasting potential by showing your ass on a calendar spread where February has thirty days in it!” 

“Hey! Gertrude apologized for that and got new ones printed.” 

Doug sighs. “What I’m saying is that I can take good care of ya and present you to the world in the right way. You need to be on magazine covers, video tapes, television, not that other shit.” 

You clear your throat, gazing down at your hands in your lap. Doug was right. He tends to be, having done this for such a long time. Even as a high school dropout, Doug always felt that he was smarter than any test could prove. His business started off a tad rocky but once both of his feet were planted firmly on the ground, it took off. You always teased that he was hiding all his secrets in his hair. 

“I know my worth,” you assert. “And I’ve been working with Tony for years, if I just up and left for his biggest competitor he’d blackball me before I even left the parking lot.” 

Doug downs his drink. “Yeah….maybe.” He takes in your sullen expression. “I didn’t mean to make you upset, let me make it up to you.” 

You give him a half smirk. “Oh yeah? And just how do you plan to do that, Douglas?” 

The walls to the single stall squeal as you get fucked against it, holding onto Doug for dear life. You were happy that you decided to wear a dress for the occasion, forgoing the bright colored tights due to the warm weather. Your underwear was currently dangling off of your right foot, legs thrown across Doug’s arms. 

“Now this,” Doug grunts, shifting his angle and hitting a deeper spot that made you cry out. “Is some grade-A pussy.” 

You laugh breathlessly. “Don’t you fucking forget it, sweetheart.” you grab a handful of his hair, tugging on it hard to spur him on further. 

The bass of the music playing seeps into the restroom, helping to conceal the moaning you were doing. Doug licks at your throat, analyzing your facial expressions. Even though you were a performer, he could tell from certain ticks that this wasn’t an act. Doug knew how to fuck you good and he was cocky about it. Some days he took it for granted but today he wanted to savor the moment, he wanted to make you unravel as many times as he possibly could. 

Creeping over to the sink, Doug sets you down and flips you over, spreading your legs with his foot. He doesn’t warn you as he enters you again, slowing down his pace in order to catch his breath. 

Your eyes meet in the mirror and you grin, eyes half open. He towers over you and tugs at the front of your dress, yanking it down enough to release your breasts. Doug kneads your tits, fingers pulling at your nipple. You whine, arching your back more. 

“I’m a pretty girl, say it.” 

Your eyes open all the way as you stare at Doug who doesn’t skip a beat. 

“Say it or I swear to God I’ll stop.” 

He thrust forward more harshly and you shuffle your feet around to accommodate him more. 

“I’m-oh-I’m a-” 

Doug smacks your ass. “Eyes on me when you say it.” 

You force yourself to glance at Doug. “I’m a pretty girl.” 

Doug nods. “Again.”

“I’m a pretty girl.”

He grabs your neck, pulling you up straight against his chest. “The prettiest fucking girl with the best pussy, ain’t that right.” 

You mumble and whimper affirmations, losing yourself to an orgasm. “I’m comin’, Doug, please.” 

“Uh huh, honey, I’m not done with you yet.” 

Doug slips out and prompts you to sit on the sink, positioning himself in between your legs. You groan as he enters you again, your immense amount of wetness making it an easy process. 

You surge forward kiss Doug, licking into his mouth. Your tongues fight for domination, Doug devouring all of your soft moans. 

“You want my cum?” 

Your head bobbles as you say yes. 

“How much you want it?”

“Bad. I want you to cum so badly, Doug.” 

Doug pumps his cock into you a few more times before he pulls out, snatching the condom off. He jerks his shaft, gasping as he spills his seed across your open legs. 

He drops his head on your shoulder, arms locking around your hips. You take a hand and lace it through his hair, humming lowly as your body simmers down from its tiny spasms. 

“Come work for me. Please.” he utters, pressing kisses to your bare shoulders. 

“You know I don’t talk business with your dick out.” 

Doug laughs softly, leaving one last kiss on your cheek before he makes himself decent. You adjust your dress, thanking Doug when he hands you your panties. 

“Doug, you know I can’t work for you.” 

Doug stares off into the distance, nodding to himself. 

“Ok.” 

The whole Tony excuse was played out. You could give a rats ass what Tony thought, you were fucking scared of Doug. You were head over heels for your oldest friend in the city who you sometimes had sex with. Ok, so you had sex a lot but it wasn’t like he was asking you for more and you were happy not to enter that unknown territory. You didn’t want people to think that you were fucking him for special privleges. You didn’t want to admit your true feelings. You didn’t want to get hurt. Not by anyone but definitely not him. 

Doug goes to leave the restroom but stops himself, digging in his suit pocket. He produces a small velvet cloth bag, handing it to you. 

You grab it, looking at him confused. “What’s this?” 

He gestures for you to open it. You gasp openly, a hand flying to your mouth. Inside the bag was a silver starfish necklace. Simple and beautiful. 

Doug takes the necklace from you, fastening it around your neck. He admires the charm, touching it gently. “Saw it and couldn’t stop thinking about how much you would like it. Happy birthday.” 

Doug says nothing else as he leaves you alone in the bathroom, closing out his tab and exiting the bar. 

Tony hadn’t said anything to you all day. 

It was a tough business. Not the industry you’d thought you would be a part of when you first moved out west. You wanted to go to school for marine biology but your parents didn’t approve, saying that the money wasn’t there and you should do something more practical with your life. They agreed to let you go to L.A. but set a hard rule that they weren’t going to support you so you had to find a job while applying to schools. 

Balancing rent, tuition, books, and other bills proved to be too much so you took up a call girl job when an older woman you came across in a bar one night told you that you were wasting your pretty over the phone. 

“Film is where it’s hot, sweet cheeks.” she advised, handing you a business card for Tony. Doug offered to help but you turned him down, saying that phone sex was better because you didn’t want your image to be broadcasted everywhere. 

You weren’t exactly sure when your beliefs changed but talking sexy over the phone wasn’t putting food on your table. 

A Week Later.

You slip your sunglasses on top of your head, popping your gum noisily. You mosey up to the front desk of Bottom Dollar, smiling at the receptionist. The poor girl couldn’t get a word out before Bambi rushes past her, engulfing you in a tight hug. 

“I knew you would show up!” Bambi steps back, grabbing your hand and dragging you through the office. “Doug was adamant that you were not going to come but I just kept telling him that you’d end up here and here you are! My horoscope said that good things come to those who wait.” 

Bambi leads you into the photo area where Doug, Tina, and Richie were observing a new layout. They all turn when you enter with Bambi. Doug sits up straighter when he sees you, eyes zooming in on your neck. 

The necklace was still there. 

“Well would you look at what the cat brought in!” Bambi shrieks. 

You wave, surveying the scene. 

“You came.” Doug says, walking over to greet you with a hug. You hug him back, inhaling his familiar scent. 

“I heard you were struggling to stay afloat so I figured I’d offer a helping hand.” 

Doug chuckles and pulls you over to the table. “Oh really? Wonder where you heard that.” he side eyes Bambi. 

Gazing at the boards on the table, you whip your head up to look at Doug. “Is this for me?” 

Bambi holds up the layout for you to see it clearer. “I came up with the idea!” 

“Well, that’s half true.” Doug points to the board. “With the new magazine we got coming, it’s all about the female gaze. Intellect. What a better way to gain knowledge than having your own fun fact spread! We would feature you in every other issue and we’d use the space to feature fun trivia and facts about the ocean. We could even give some proceeds to a sealife charity of your choice.” 

Tears well up on your eyes as you gaze at Doug’s work. Setting down your purse, you shed off your jacket. 

“Where do I stand?” 

[asoundofdrop]

Coolness

A/N: Trying to write Aventurine on top of a very energetic OC for the first time was... an experience LMAO. If you happen to enjoy this work, thank you very much. CW: Xiwu gets hit by a car but it's all dandy, brief mentions of alcohol, OOC-ness and not beta read, pre-2.2 release

Before coming to Penacony, Xiwu had no idea that price tags could be so long. But then again, a lot of these clothes and accessories were shinier and fancier than what she normally saw. Such a thing couldn’t be helped, she supposed, though it did make her think about how many centuries of saving credits it would take before she could afford a piece.

What was it that March said? Something like, if it was made completely from scratch, it was bound to be expensive because it means they were… they were… “hot culture”? Sounded close enough. But aren’t all things made from scratch? What’s the difference?

She couldn’t remember how the conversation continued from there.

“Ms. Xiwu?”

“Hm? This voice…” She turned around, and was met with a blonde man wearing a fancy blue-green suit and a pair of gold-rimmed shades. With a cheery grin, she greeted, “Mr. Jinkou!”

The man blinked and awkwardly laughed.

“Ah… pardon?”

Xiwu hadn’t intended to blurt that out. She corrected herself, “Um… Mr. Aventurine!”

With how purposefully she said it, he wondered if “Mr. Jinkou” was his designated nickname… Perhaps he should ask later how she came upon it.

“I didn’t think I would run into you here,” she remarked.

“Neither did I, my friend.” Aventurine then noticed the mess of ice cream at the corner of her mouth. “Maybe I should have expected that even a doctor cannot resist Penacony’s finest treats.”

Seeing her confusion, he tapped his own face with a finger.

“Ah…!” Xiwu hurriedly swiped off the mess with a thumb and cleared her throat, pretending her face wasn’t flushed with embarrassment. “Ahem… so, what brings you here?”

“It seems, after completing my mission, the IPC saw fit to give me the next few weeks off as vacation. I thought I’d start off by visiting the boutiques here. The watches they sell here are one-of-a-kind, or so I’ve been told by many.”

She gasped. With a hand to her mouth, she panicked, “Watches? Is yours broken? We didn’t break it earlier, did we—?”

Aventurine chuckled and waved it off.

“You’re working yourself up over nothing, my friend. It’s still perfectly fine, which is rather lucky with all things considered. But… it doesn’t hurt to add to my collection.”

“Ohh, I see.”

Xiwu sighed in relief.

Her relaxed cheeriness immediately came back, as if their “fight to the death” in the plaza never happened. Aventurine approached her with the expectation that she would warily watch every move he made. Even if she wasn’t the particularly cautious type, she knew nothing about him.

So to be proven wrong like this… was a strange surprise.

“Say, how about you join me for today?” he suggested.

“Hmm…” Xiwu tilted her head as she contemplated the choice. “I’m happy with the offer, but I don’t really know how to… what’s the word… appraise? I don’t really know how to appraise these things. Maybe someone else from the Express could make better company for this.”

“That’s perfectly fine,” he assured her. “I wanted to invite you specifically to relax and chat with me. Such opportunities are rare in this line of work anyway, especially in my position.”

“When you put it that way, sure! I’ll come along.”

With her hands tucked behind her back and large exaggerated steps, Xiwu followed beside him. Her head constantly turned as she looked at the displays. On the other hand, Aventurine seemed much more accustomed to the scenery.

She began to wonder if he was bored already.

“You’re staring at me,” he playfully said. “What’s on your mind, dear Nameless?”

“Oh, well, it’s just that you don’t seem very impressed. I guess when you’re so high up with a company like the IPC, you see these kinds of sparkly things everyday.”

“Perhaps. It’s certainly important to be knowledgable and well-acquainted with the finer things in life to establish relations with the wealthy,” he agreed. “But it’s not like this is all I surround myself with. I did agree to a friendship with you and the Express, didn’t I?”

“That’s true, even if it’s difficult to imagine you… well, somewhere else.”

“Haha! I suppose that’s a compliment.”

Before Aventurine could continue, Xiwu suddenly stopped in her tracks and pointed past him: “Ah! Look at that!”

“Huh?”

She approached the display, hovering so close that her breath left a light fog on the glass. The Stoneheart stood beside her to take a closer look.

“I suppose the craftsmanship is decent… Though I’m surprised something like this caught your eye,” he said.

“Cause it looks like the one you wore when we first met.”

Aventurine inspected it again. It was a dark blue top hat, most likely made of satin—he assumes. The black band was decorated with a matching half-ribbon, a buckle embedded with a bright blue jewel, and two overtly large feathers. Goose feathers? He couldn’t help but wonder if Xiwu rarely saw such hats before to immediately compare this to his.

“Doesn’t it?” she pressed, her eyes large and expectant.

“Ah. I’m… flattered.”

And certainly, there was… some respect, if that was the word he had to use, to be had for how Xiwu could turn conversations as she pleased.

“Why don’t we look inside this one?” she suggested. “Maybe we’ll find a good watch for you!”

She was already running into the boutique, not that Aventurine had a particular reason to refuse. As soon as the store worker noticed the Stoneheart, he quickly bowed low and eagerly greeted, “Welcome, esteemed guest! Please feel free to ask for assistance!”

Of course, Aventurine saw how the worker eyed his accessories so closely. No one could miss such a flagrant flash of gold.

“Certainly,” he said as he nonchalantly handed over a wad of credits.

He didn’t keep exact count, but it was somewhere around ten thousand credits. That was the amount he usually passed out as goodwill.

“Mr. Aventurine, look at this!”

Xiwu gestured at him from the back of the store, where they kept the array of watches for sale in a glass case. Her eyes were focused on a pale yellow watch with green-tipped feathers—thankfully not too bright to look at for a long time. Though if Aventurine had to comment, he was beginning to think that she had come to associate him with all birds regardless of the kind or color.

“An ordinary watch, it seems. Or rather…”

The store worker from before shuffled over to assist: “The madam has a wonderful eye! You see, our Dreamscape watchmakers took inspiration from the Origami birds that helped build Penacony. This watch can be folded and tucked into any place for safekeeping.”

He was watching them like a hawk.

Aventurine redirected his attention to the watch. It wasn’t cheaply made, to be sure, and Xiwu seemed so proud of her find.

He eventually settled with: “A kind suggestion, Ms. Xiwu, but I’m not particularly concerned about misplacing my things.”

She took it well in stride and nodded. She then furrowed her brows as she continued looking over the display, while Aventurine kept her in his peripherals.

The Stoneheart definitely had his fair share of people kissing up to him, hoping for a chance to borrow or even take some of his influence. With those years of observation, he could only say… Xiwu’s attempts, if it could be called that, are comparably… earnest. Why? What was the point of it?

“What about this one, Mr. Aventurine?”

“Which one?”

The store worker realized which one Xiwu had been pointing at and spoke up, “Ah, another excellent suggestion from the madam! It is made to reflect the wearer’s mood, you see. This is a feat that only Penacony’s finest watchmakers can achieve!”

“That sounds cool, doesn’t it!” Xiwu asked, rather giddy.

“Why don’t you try it on for yourself?” the store worker suggested. “Perhaps the madam can go first?”

“Sure!”

The store worker took the watch from the case and adeptly tied the band around Xiwu’s wrist. Within seconds, the case changed colors and the band became sparkling gold.

“It appears that the madam is quite happy,” he announced.

“Whoaa! Mr. Aventurine, look, look! I wonder how they did that… C’mon, you should try it too.”

“Well, I can’t possibly refuse such enthusiasm. If you don’t mind, sir.”

Aventurine himself was becoming curious what the watch would sense in him. He held out his own wrist and the store worker quickly transferred it over. Suddenly, the seconds felt like minutes as he stared at the case intensely. Surely it would say the same thing as it did for Xiwu…?

The case grew dark and the band became a dull silver. As if that wasn’t enough, it felt as though the small clock hands were trembling within the case.

“Ah, um… it appears the esteemed guest is feeling anxious,” the store worker announced after checking several times.

“Hm? Anxious…?” Xiwu repeated.

Laughter filled the corner of the boutique as Aventurine swiftly took off the watch and returned it to the store worker’s hands.

“Perhaps there might be a manufacturing error,” he said. “Either way, it would be much more easier if I were to just switch out my watches.”

“That can’t possibly—.”

Aventurine placed a stack of twenty thousand credits in the store worker’s hands. Yes, that had to be the explanation, he was sure of it. What could he be anxious about in this moment? There was nothing at stake, nothing to be gambled for. The watch had to have been broken someway somehow.

“Thank you for your service. Hopefully, you will re-examine the watch in a timely manner, and I just might return to this lovely establishment another day.” He then faced Xiwu and gestured towards the door. “I’m feeling a bit parched at the moment. Why don’t we go for some refreshments before we continue?”

Xiwu blinked, confused at the change of pace.

“Oh um, okay.”

Aventurine was quiet as they stepped out. His face hadn’t changed at all, but Xiwu couldn’t shake off the possibility that he was displeased.

Could it be…? That she wasn’t a good enough shopping partner?! That had to be it, it must be because her choices were so awful that his mood had been horribly soured beyond repair! He was only saying all those things to be polite! This wouldn’t have happened if it was Mr. Yang or Ms. Himeko! Quick, how would they help him feel better?

“Um… uh, so where did you want to go for refreshments, Mr. Aventurine?” she sheepishly asked.

He must have been deep in thought. It took a while for him to answer.

“There’s a small bar in Aideen Park. I’m sure you’ll enjoy their selections.”

“Oh… bleh, beer.” Xiwu realized what she had said aloud and backtracked, “I mean! Um… it sounds like a… very sophisticated place to be…?”

Aventurine chuckled. It was still difficult to gauge his mood, but maybe he wasn’t as angry as she initially thought.

“You have no need to worry, my friend. Bars don’t only serve alcohol, especially the ones here in Penacony. They’ll hardly mind serving you SoulGlad straight from the bottle.”

He caught onto the way she tried to tiptoe around him. She must still be wary from earlier as expected, and she was only trying to stay in his good graces out of caution.

“Wait, Mr. Aventurine.”

But then again, as he thought back on it, she didn’t look that terrified during the confrontation… How much did it really weigh on her mind?

“Mr. Aventurine?”

Understanding each Express member will help in future collaborations, certainly, but two of the members thus far have proven to be slightly more difficult than Aventurine anticipated.

“Mr. Aventurine, move over!”

He was jarred out of his head when he was pushed forward. He quickly regained balance, but he heard a loud yelp and honking from just behind him.

“M-Ms. Xiwu??”

By the time he turned around, Xiwu was already on the floor. The vehicle swerved around her fallen body and drove off without losing speed. Before he could reach a hand out, she sat up with large tears welling up in her eyes.

“Owww!! That hurts a lot!!” she cried.

“Apologies, my friend. I was… preoccupied and…”

Xiwu gingerly rubbed at her hip for a few moments. She then blinked and slowly stood up, her tears disappearing just as quickly.

“Oh, right… They said things don’t really hurt in this dream world. Phew, but that was a bit scary. At least it wasn’t that big of a car.” She looked into Aventurine’s eyes, so directly he was nearly startled, and asked, “What about you? I didn’t push you too hard, did I?”

“No...? You didn’t.”

“Okay, back to Aideen Park then!”

A genuine burst of laughter unexpectedly left Aventurine’s mouth, earning a stare of bewilderment.

“You’re too funny, Ms. Xiwu! I wasn’t expecting your concern was… for me, I suppose. And I must say… how should I put it? You certainly have a talent for brushing things off.”

Xiwu puffed up her chest as if she was rather proud. Mr. Aventurine wasn’t angry with her after all! Or if he was, he certainly isn’t right now. This made her quite relieved.

“Hehe! I’m very mature like Ms. Himeko and Mr. Yang, right? You see, with age comes wisdom!” she said. “ ‘You mustn’t let grudges ruin the beauty of flowers’! Or… uh, wait… that line didn’t come out right. How did they say it in the drama… Mrgh… I can’t remember…”

Wait... with age? Aventurine repeated to himself. He had no time to properly ponder this new piece of information.

She grew embarrassed again as she struggled with her memory. To fill the suddenly unbearable silence, Xiwu started tugging on his sleeves forward—which he had to note, was not in the direction of Aideen Park.

“Anyways! Let’s go, Mr. Aventurine! Some ice cream will make anyone feel better and then we can go back to shopping until you find something you like! And then your trip won’t be a waste and you won’t regret hanging out with me!”

“Wait, wait, Ms. Xiwu! You’re stretching the sleeve!”

[beelzebuddy-catan]

The Not Entirely Human-Human Exchange Student pt. 2

Summary: Cass manages to shock the student body at RAD when she makes her first pact with Mammon. She doesn't have time to think about it as she begins uncovering the dark secrets haunting the House of Lamentation. Warnings: Swearing, mentions of death, heavily implied sexual content Spoilers: Lesson two and Lilith's status Characters: Cass (OC), Lucifer, Mammon, Levi, Satan, Asmo, Beel, Lilith, Diavolo, Barbatos, Solomon, Luke, Simeon, Preta (OC), and Vassago (OC). Notes: (1) Lilith is absolutely a little shit (affectionate) who just likes pulling pranks and messing with people she loves. (2) I love the idea of MC finding Mammon's credit card without Lucifer's hint. Part One • Next Part

“Call me by my name,” she demanded.

“Fuck,” Mammon hissed, eyes wide. “Is this all ‘cause of the pact?! Listen to me hum-” he stopped, as if he physically couldn’t finish the word. “Hu-hum-FINE, Cass!” They stared at each other, Mammon catching his breath. Cass wondered how much energy it took to fight off whatever control the pact had over him. “Look, just because may be in control of my body doesn’t mean you own my mind.”

“I don’t want to own you,” Cass said, surprising him. “I literally only asked you to call me by my name. I’d expect even demons to have that level of decorum.”

He didn’t say anything at first, but his frustration seemed to fade. “Where is it?” Cass tilted her head in confusion. She already gave him his credit card, what else did he want. “The mark?” Silence. “You really don’t know anything about pacts do ya? When you make a pact, you have a mark to show it.”

His eyes fell to her hand, as if he already knew it would be there. She followed his gaze to her left hand. Oh. Wrapping around her pointer finger was an intricate golden design. It faded towards the top, the design tightening at the base. It almost looked like a ring, a sigil resting in the middle like a stone. Cass gasped, taken aback at how beautiful it was.

Cass glanced down at the map Lucifer had given her and back up at the hallway. At this point she’d be lucky if she found her classes, let alone found them on time. Apparently giving the new student a tour was too kind for demons.

Her morning hadn’t gone great. Besides having no idea where she was going and Mammon being missing, she’d been assigned to wake him up earlier. She’d ended up just poking him in the face, only to be thrown to the floor. Now, she was lost in a giant school, no idea where to go. She shoved the map in her bag, deciding to go in what she thought was the right direction and hope she got lucky enough to run into someone she knew.

“Hey, that’s the human everyone’s talking about.” She heard someone whisper but opted to stay still. “Can’t believe Mammon got assigned to watch over her.”

“Doncha think that’s pretty lucky for us? We can devour this human before even Beel does, and they won’t know it was us.”

The first demon snickered in response. Before she could take a step, they started to jeer and catcall. Cass swung her backpack over her other shoulder, walking up to the demons with a cheery smile. Their cocky demeanors only grew.

“If you so much as even try to touch me, I will rip off whatever appendage of yours I can find, be it your arm, leg, horn, tail, whatever, and shove it so far up your ass I can pull it back out your throat. Then, I’ll pour holy oil into any open orifice and light it on fire while you’re still alive. And, as you burn and the light leave your eyes, the last thing you’ll see is me enjoying a glass of ice water.” Cass blinked her eyes innocently, her smile never faltering. “Do you happen to know what the cafeteria serving today?” Her smile finally fell as she stared into the second demon’s eyes, not blinking as she finished. “I’m caving barbecue.”

Neither of them moved, shock rooting them in their place. A third demon, standing off to the side stifled a laugh. Their black horns and eyes stood out against their pale skin and white hair.  Whoever they talking to looked equal parts impressed and disinterested. Cass flashed them a smile before walking towards where she hoped her class was. She only took a few steps before someone fell into step next to her.

“Hey, you’re Cass, right?” She cast him a look but didn’t respond. He laughed before continuing. “You don’t have to be suspicious of me.  I’m Solomon, the other exchange student. When I heard Mammon was looking after you, I thought Lucifer was just messing with you. Now, I’m not so sure.”

Cass stopped and crossed her arms. Something felt too convenient about the only other human showing up next to her right when she needed help. “I can handle myself with demons. Mind telling me where 2122b is?”

“You’re asking for my help? But you’ve got the great Mammon!” Cass didn’t miss the sarcasm lacing his tone. “Why should I just give you that information?”

“Help another human out? You are human still, aren’t you?”

“Hmm,” he smiled. “There are times even I’m not so sure. After obtaining the ring of wisdom from someone in a very high position and forming 72 pacts,” he paused glancing at her, “I became a wicked sorcerer. Or, that’s what they say about me. I am fairly sure I am still human. I’m happy to prove it to you if needed.”

Cass twirled a piece of her hair and giggled, taking a wild guess he was the same Solomon written about in theology. “It’s no wonder you got 700 women to marry you, you’re so charming.” She rolled her eyes and walked away without giving him another glance. She was stopped again after a few steps by Lucifer. “Morning?”

“It seems you’ve already become something of a celebrity. Is your plan to simply threaten any demon who talks about you?” Cass hummed, not really caring to have a conversation when she still didn’t know where her fucking class was. Honestly, if threatening demons who treated her like dirt or a meal was how she survived, that’s how she survived. “While I understand it is inevitable you associated with Solomon, you should know he can’t be trusted. Unlike you, he can wield powerful magic and will try to subjugate even a powerful demon given the chance.”

“Got it, I can’t trust the only human here, but demons are good.” Cass went to step around him before pausing, remembering her conversation with Levi yesterday. Lucifer had hidden Mammon’s credit card, the credit card needed to make a pact with Mammon. Maybe she should just come out and ask him where it was.

“Is there something you want to ask me?” Lucifer smirked, as if knowing she needed something from him.

“Where is room 2122b?” She asked. Maybe she could get Lilith to tell her.

“Is that all? I would have thought you had question about Mammon.” Cass didn’t answer, not giving him the satisfaction. “If you go down this hall and take the first right and it’ll be the second door on the left.”

“Great, thank you,” Cass said, going to her first class of the day.

As much as she wanted to focus, she couldn’t. While the material was interesting, it was too much being thrown into a new world. Especially considering she’d been told she’d be living with seven brothers but had only met six.

At this point, all she knew about the final brother was he had long, greyish indigo hair with white tips and was comfortable enough to fall asleep leaning against Beel. Given his brothers were avatars of the six of the seven deadly sins, she assumed he was the avatar of sloth. It probably wasn’t abnormal for him to fall asleep against anyone.

The rest of the day was a cycle of thinking about each of the brothers and how to find Mammon’s credit card. She should have just asked Lucifer. She had to look up what a credit card was. How was she supposed to find one hidden in a strange, unknown house by a strange, unknown demon? The only seemingly valuable thing she’d come across was freezing credit, which seemed like a good option if Lucifer didn’t want Mammon to spend money.

“If I was going to hide a credit card to freeze someone’s spending, where would I put it?” Cass said out loud. She was lying upside down on her couch, head hanging off the edge. “It’s not literally frozen. He’s been around for centuries. It has to mean something else.”

“Does it though?” A voice interrupted her thoughts. Cass opened her eyes to see Lilith floating upside down, staring at her. “Look, I love Lucifer, but he finds dad jokes a bit too funny.” Cass didn’t answer, unsure what dad jokes were. “Predictable jokes, puns?”

Cass spun around. “Are you saying he literally froze Mammon’s credit card? Wouldn’t someone have found it by now?”

Lilith didn’t answer, simply giving Cass a look before disappearing. Was everyone in the Devildom cryptic as hell? It was past midnight. If she went to the kitchen now, there was a chance she wouldn’t run into anyone. It was probably safter to go now than in the middle of the day.

Cass tried to be as quiet as possible going to the kitchen. Luckily, she didn’t run into anyone. Part of her had debated texting Levi but decided against it. If Lilith was messing with her or her hunch was wrong, she’d rather he not know about it. She managed not to scream when she ran into Beel as she walked into the kitchen.

“Why you going to the kitchen so late?”

 She was drawn to Beel. Despite the fact that he expressed less emotions than the other brothers and was harder to read, something about him felt safe. She could tell he was a caring person, or demon, he just had a harder time of showing it.

“I was just getting a glass of water,” Cass lied. She wasn’t sure why. Something told her Beel wouldn’t care why she was in the kitchen. He huffed in response, going to leave. Suddenly she remembered the picture, the indigo haired demon slumped against Beel in the picture. “Hey, Beel, can I ask you something?”

“What?”

“Diavolo said I’d be living here with you and your brothers. He said there were seven of you, but I haven’t met your youngest brother. I was wondering–”

“Don’t ever mention him in front of Lucifer” Beel cut her off “ and don’t bother asking the rest of us. We don’t talk about him. Even though he’s our brother, we have to treat him like he doesn’t exist, it’s not fair,” Beel trailed off. Another crack. “But since no one can defy Lucifer, that’s that. Besides, it’s not any of your business.”

Cass reached out, grabbing Beel’s arm as he went to leave. “I know it doesn’t mean anything, and I’m just this random human forced to live with you, but if you need someone to talk to,” Cass paused, looking up at Beel. He didn’t say anything, but for a moment, it looked like he wanted to. “Have a nice night, Beel.”

He didn’t say anything, just nodded before walking out of the room. She should ask Lilith next time she appeared. Despite not talking about the seventh brother, it clearly weighed on Beel. The longer she was in the Devildom, the more she started to think she might be an empath. She was trapped in a house with six broken demons who needed help and was beginning to feel like her purpose was to help them.

“That’s not important right now,” she whispered. One thing at a time Cass, damn. Start with the credit card and pact and move on to whatever the fuck was haunting these demons after.

She checked to make sure Beel had actually left before opening the freezer. She was certain Lilith was messing with her when she looked into the nearly empty freezer. Beel must have eaten everything possible, because it looked like the only thing left was ice. Well, ice and what looked like freezer burnt ice cream from God knows how long ago. She shoved it out of the way in frustration.

As she went to slam the door shut, a glint of light caught her eye. Buried in ice, underneath the ice cream was a golden credit card. She pulled it out, but was unable to read the name. It had to be Mammon’s. Why else would there be a credit card in the freezer. She threw the frozen card in the sink, running hot water over it.

As the ice melted, she sighed. Step one, complete. Now she just needed to get Mammon to agree to a pact. When Levi first suggested it, she hadn’t really cared much either way. Pact or not, she was still stuck here with no memory. As she thought about it at school, though, she realized it would be nice to have some level of control over her situation, as well as someone on her side in the Devildom, willingly or not.

Cass sat on the edge of the counter, waiting for the ice to melt. When the ice was almost gone, she picked the card up. Sure enough, in silver lettering was Mammon’s name. Cass stared at the card, wondering what her next move was. It wasn’t until she heard his gasp that she realized Mammon had walked into the kitchen.

“IS THAT GOLDIE? DIDJA FIND MY CARD HUMAN?” Mammon yelled, rushing towards her. He went to grab the card, but Cass shoved it into her back pocket before he could. “Whadda think you’re doin’?”

“Leveraging your card for my benefit?” Mammon looked at her in disbelief. “Make a pact with me, and I’ll give you your precious card.”

“NO WAY!” Mammon snapped. “What makes you think The Great Mammon, one of the rulers of the Devildom would ever make a pact? Let some human be the boss of me?”

”Oh Luuuuccccifffeeeer,” Cass called.

Mammon’s eyes widened in fear, hand going to cover her mouth. He stepped between her legs, eyes pleading with her to be quiet. He didn’t move for a while, maybe waiting for his fear to subside or until he felt he could trust Cass not to say anything.

“You’re serious right now?” He asked, pulling his hand away. Cass nodded, though she wasn’t. “Fuck, fine.”

He stepped back, hand going to his belt. It took a second for Cass to register what he was doing. “Um, what the fuck are you doing?”

He glanced at her in disbelief. “What do you think?” Cass stared at him, eyes wide in confusion. “I thought ya wanted to make a pact.”

“Yeah?”

Mammon threw his hands up in frustration. “Are ya aware of a different way to make a pact?”

“I guess I don’t know how to make one.” Mammon stared at her. “I literally don’t even know my last name, what makes you think I’d know how to make a pact with a demon?!”

“I’d expect ya to look it up at the very least.” When Cass didn’t answer, Mammon rolled his eyes and continued, “pacts gotta be consummated.”

“Oh,” Cass answered, “OH!”

“Havin’ second thoughts?” Mammon asked, hand going to grab his credit card from her back pocket. “We don’t have to do anything ya know? You can give me my card and we can forget this ever happened.”

Cass smacked his hand away. “It’s not a second thought. It’s just,” she paused, not sure how to phrase it. “I just, I don’t have my memories.” Mammon didn’t answer, waiting for her to continue. “I don’t know if I’ve done, if I’ve ever, you know.” She gestured in the space between them.

Before she knew what was happening, Mammon’s hands flew to the counter beside her. His grasp was so tight that the butcher block split in his grip. “Don’t, don’t say things like that to a demon.” His voice was quiet, like he was trying his hardest to restrain himself. Cass didn’t answer, not sure what he meant. He continued, not meeting her eyes. “I’m a demon.”

“Oh really?”

Mammon scoffed, the counter cracking more under his grip. “Ya can’t say things like that to a demon. Our whole thing is corruptin’ humans. Do ya realize what your doing to me right now?”

“Oh,” she repeated, “OH!” Mammon didn’t answer, almost as if he was trying to calm his erratic breathing. “Fuck it,” she breathed. Mammon’s head snapped up, finally meeting her gaze. “Let’s make a pact.

His hands left the counter at the speed of light, grabbing her hips pulling her closer. Their lips met in a bruising kiss. Before Cass had time to process what was happening, he had lifted her off the counter and was moving towards the door. Her arms tightened around his neck, clutching to him as if he was going to drop her.

“Wh-what, what are you doing?”

“You think I want any of my brothers comin’ in and seein’ ya this,” he scoffed, “fuck I’m surprised Asmo didn’t smell you and come down here already.”

“SMELL?” She gasped, but Mammon didn’t answer. Before she knew it, they were in his room and she was being thrown on his bed. Levi wasn’t kidding when he said he was fast. She barely had time to catch her breath, let alone stop her head from spinning before Mammon was kissing her again. And so, her first pact was made.

---

Cass stared at the ceiling of Mammon’s room. She’d expected there to be something more to making a pact besides saying something in Latin and sleeping with the demon. Cass glanced at Mammon, who was lying next to her, also avoiding her gaze.

“That was,” he started.

“Unexpected?”

“Sure,” he answered, but something in his voice told her that wasn’t what he was thinking.

He got up and started getting dressed. Cass sat up, holding the sheet up against her, not really sure what to say that could break the tension. She didn’t know how pacts work, much less what it meant to make one. Was this Mammon’s first pact with human? She almost asked but stopped herself. Why did it matter? 

“Um,” Cass said, breaking the silence. Mammon looked over his shoulder but didn’t say anything. “Is it, can demons, can I get pregnant?”

Mammon’s movement froze, eyes widening. After a moment, he started dressing, moving faster than before. Cass didn’t move, terror rushing through her. Something in his response told her it wasn’t the risk of pregnancy that had him moving like that.

“Mammon?” He didn’t respond. “MAMMON!” Finally, he looked at her. Her voice fell quiet under his gaze, “what happens to humans who are pregnant with demons?” Again, he didn’t answer, her question only making him move faster. Panic rushed through her. For the first time since arriving in the Devildom she honestly felt afraid. “MAMMON!” She said, summing as much energy as he could. “Am I going to die?”

He kneeled next to her, hands cupping her face. He looked at her with genuine emotions, and it scared the hell out of her. “No, do you think the Great Mammon would let that happen?”

Cass fought back tears. He looked as unsure as she felt. Fuck. Why hadn’t she thought of that earlier? It hadn’t even crossed her mind. Why would it have? She didn’t know anything about demons and humans. It was the uncertainty in Mammon’s answer that scared her. Had he acted like he didn’t care about her, that would have been better, more comforting.

“Stop.” Mammon’s voice pulled her from her thoughts. He held her eye contact, concern laced in his gaze. “You’re gonna be fine, okay? I’ll talk to Lucifer, and he’ll know what to do. It’ll be fine.” It sounded like he was trying to convince himself more than her. “I’ll go now, okay?”

Mammon made a move towards the door and Cass stood, grabbing the closest shirt she could find. Mammon opened his mouth to say something, but stopped when he saw her dressing. She didn’t notice his staring at first, flinching under his gaze when she finally looked up.

“Sorry, I just grabbed something. I figured it’d be faster than trying to find mine,” she said, pulling at the edge of his button up nervously. It was large enough that it was falling off one shoulder, the hem landing midthigh.

She tried taking a step towards Mammon but lost her footing. He was by her side in an instant, catching her. “Ya really think your going to be able to walk to Lucifer’s room?”

“Well, I’m not just going to sit around here waiting.” Mammon and Cass held a silent starting contest before he finally resigned, scooping her up bridal style. “Wha–?”

“I’ll just carry you.”

Cass didn’t bother arguing, knowing already how much faster it would be. She closed her eyes, turning her head into Mammon’s chest feeling a wave of motion sickness at his movement. It wasn’t until she heard a knock that she opened her eyes. A moment later, the door swung open revealing a disappointed Lucifer. It looked like he was about to start scolding whoever had knocked on the door when he must have realized why they were there.

---

Cass stared at the fire behind Lucifer. He’d been lecturing Mammon for the last hour, occasionally passing a condescending comment her way. She was having a hard time concentrating on anything he said, though. She couldn’t shake Mammon’s reaction to her earlier from her thoughts.

“Can’t ya do this later?” Mammon hissed. “There are more pressing issues.”

“If you had any semblance of self-control, there wouldn’t be.”

“I had self-control, considerin’ she was going on about being a virgin. Don’t act like you wouldn’t have done the same–”

“I wasn’t going on about being a virgin. I literally said I have no memories–”

“I don’t care what the circumstances were.” Cass looked away from Mammon, trying not to roll her eyes. Lucifer handed her a small vial. “This potion will prevent pregnancy. I had some made on the off chance you surprised us and made a pact. Though, I didn’t expect it to be so quick.”

As she drank the potion, Lucifer muttered something in what sounded like Latin. “Well, the potion is most effective before being intimate, it won’t hurt to take it after.” He handed her a piece of paper with something written in a foreign language. “This is a spell to help strengthen the effects. Any demon will be able to perform it with ease. Well, any demon worth making a pact with. I’ll work with Barbatos to make more potion, should you end up needing more. Please try to refrain yourself until then, no matter how hard you find it.”

“EXCUSE ME? Thanks for the potion, though I could do without the haughty tone.” She stood up, glaring at Lucifer. “Ass,” she said under her breath as she stormed towards the door, letting it slam behind her.  

Cass groaned, falling into her bed. Of all the things she expected to happen that evening, that wasn’t one of them. She rolled over to look at the time when she saw Lilith sitting on the edge of her table. She was grinning, feet swinging beneath her.

“He likes you,” she laughed. “Lucifer.”

“He has a funny way of showing it.”

“Yeah.”

“Wait, Lilith, you’ve been here for a while, right?” The ghost nodded. “Can you tell me about their seventh brother?”

Lilith’s feet stopped moving. She sighed, jumping off the table to start pacing. “No.”

“Seriously?” Cass demanded.

“shhhh.” Lilith glared at her. “They can’t know I’m here.”

“I thought you wanted me to help them! I can’t help them if I don’t know anything. Why is everything a secret?”

Lilith looked at her with understanding, but it only made Cass angrier. Why did it feel like she was playing a game where everyone knew the rules except her. It was frustrating enough talking to the brothers, but at least she could understand their perspective.

They didn’t ask her to be here, Diavolo did. Lilith, on the other hand, asked her to help. Cass’s only goal was to survive for the year and try to get her memories back. Despite wanting to help the brothers, if they didn’t let her, she couldn’t force them to accept her help.

“I want to tell you, I do, really.” Against her better judgement, Cass believed her. “If you know too much about them though, they won’t trust you. You have to earn their trust, or they’ll just shut you out more. They’ve been burned in the past, which is why they act that way.”

“Can you tell me anything? How do you know them? Why can’t they know you’re here? You told me you’ve tried contacting them before. What changed?”

She didn’t say anything for a minute. “Fine, but you can’t tell them. At least not yet.”

---

Asmo had been laughing for the last ten minutes, despite Satan telling him to quiet down. Apparently, Cass making a pact with Mammon was one of the funniest things he’d heard in a while. She was too busy replaying her conversation with Lilith to care about the little insults he was making towards her.

So, Lilith was their sister from the Celestial Realm. Well, that explained her ethereal nature and why she cared so much about them. Honestly, Cass should have seen it sooner given how many similar features she had to the brothers.

“If they know you knew about me, they won’t trust you. They’ll be angry and resent you.” It made sense. While Lilith wouldn’t tell her what happened that led to her being a ghost in the Devildom that her brothers couldn’t see nor what made their dynamics so bizarre, Cass understood why she couldn’t tell them. She knew they all had their defenses built so strong it would take a miracle to break through them.

“I don’t know what’s more surprising, an average human like you making a pact with Mammon so fast or you teaming up with Levi to make it happen.”

“All that matters is I got my money back from Mammon AND my figurine. I’ll finally be able to buy the Blu-ray box set of Journey to the Devildom: The Tale of a Little She-Devil and her Reluctant Companio! The initial rounds even have tickets to a live event,” Levi said.

“I never thought I’d see a human win over Levi, but here we are,” Satan mused, speaking over Levi.

Levi stopped mid rant. “Excuse me?! Nobody won me over. Especially not some non-otaku normie human. We had a purely business relationship due to our aligned interests.”

Levi huffed, crossing his arms and glaring at the center of the table, refusing to meet anyone’s eyes. Cass didn’t miss the blush appearing at Satan’s words though. She also didn’t miss the way Beel was trying to sneak food off her plate, though she used sneak lightly. She pushed her plate towards him, not having much of an appetite.

“You know, we should be careful or we might find ourselves in a pact with Cass as well. If you had to choose one of us to forge a pact with next, who would it be, Cass?”

She glanced at Asmo before her eyes flashed to the other demons at the table. She didn’t care to have the pact she had, let alone more of them. Besides, the question seemed like a trap. She’s certain no matter how she answered it would end with one of them insulting her.

“None of you, I’m not interested.”

“WHAT?! Do you know how offensive that is? It’s as if you think we’re not worth making a pact with. Yet you made one with that stupid, poor excuse of a dem-” Asmo was interrupted by Mammon smacking the back of his head. “OW! I can’t believe you STRUCK my beautiful, beautiful head! Not even Lucifer has done something like that!”

“Stop callin’ me a poor excuse for a demon, you pea brain. Y’all think you’re so great. None of this would’ve happened if Lucifer hadn’t taken my precious Goldie away from me and hidden her against her will.”

The brothers responded in disgust to Mammon personifying his credit card. Cass wasn’t sure Levi was one to talk considering his unnerving infatuation with an animation or Asmo given his self-obsession. She was just grateful the conversation was no longer focused on her. She wasn’t in much of a mood to talk. Besides, Mammon seemed to have more of knack of sticking his foot in his mouth than her. His mocking of Lucifer continuing despite him standing behind Mammon.

“You know, he’s so stupid it’s almost sad,” Asmo noted as Mammon rubbed his head where Lucifer had hit him.

“It’s almost like we’re being punished by having him as our brother.”

Lucifer sat down, speaking directly to her, ignoring his brothers’ continued squabbling. “Cass, I didn’t say it last night, but it’s quite the accomplishment managing a pact in such a short time.”

“Well, I supposed if you hadn’t been too busy implying I was a whore, you would have gotten around to it.”

Lucifer chuckled, shaking his head. “Perhaps, but Diavolo will be pleased regardless.”

“Oi, human!” Cass rolled her eyes at Mammon’s voice. “Don’t sit there with your heads in the clouds, we gotta go.”

Cass pushed her chair out, knowing her three options were to walk with Mammon, with the other brothers, or alone. Surprisingly, Mammon was the safest or quietest option. She followed him out of the dining room towards the door, not bothering to tune into his complaints.

“Hey, don’t go thinkin’ you can ignore the Great Mammon just ‘cause you managed to make some pact, human!”

Cass stopped in her tracks glaring at him. “Seriously?” He huffed, sticking his arms out. “You still won’t call me by my name?”

“No, I won’t. You’re just a lowly human, come back in a million years and maybe I’ll consider calling ya by your name. Learn your place, ‘cause if you don’t, I swear I’ll make you my next meal. Let’s go, human.”

“Call me by my name or I’m not going,” Cass said, crossing her arms.

“What makes you think I care if you go?”

“Call me by my name,” she demanded.

“Fuck,” Mammon hissed, eyes wide. “Is this all ‘cause of the pact?! Listen to me hum-” he stopped, as if he physically couldn’t finish the word. “Hu-hum-FINE, Cass!” They stared at each other, Mammon catching his breath. Cass wondered how much energy it took to fight off whatever control the pact had over him. “Look, just because may be in control of my body doesn’t mean you own my mind.”

“I don’t want to own you,” Cass said, surprising him. “I literally only asked you to call me by my name. I’d expect even demons to have that level of decorum.”

He didn’t say anything at first, but his frustration seemed to fade. “Where is it?” Cass tilted her head in confusion. She already gave him his credit card, what else did he want. “The mark?” Silence. “You really don’t know anything about pacts do ya? When you make a pact, you have a mark to show it.”

His eyes fell to her hand, as if he already knew it would be there. She followed his gaze to her left hand. Oh. Wrapping around her pointer finger was an intricate golden design. It faded towards the top, the design tightening at the base. It almost looked like a ring, a sigil resting in the middle like a stone. Cass gasped, taken aback at how beautiful it was.

“How did–”

“When you woke me up yesterday,” Mammon answered, not looking away from her hand. “The mark appears where you first touch a demon.”

---

Mammon didn’t say much after they left. He did keep looking at her hand, taking in the mark. Cass didn’t blame him. It almost seemed to catch the light like real gold. She traced over it, but it didn’t feel like anything. She had been starting at it since she’d gotten to her first class.

“Whenever an important announcement is made, the demons around here couldn’t care less. Yet, rumors spread like wildfire. The uproar about the new exchange student hadn’t even subsided, and now this.”

“Don’t say that Barbatos! This gossip ensures everyone is watching this human, making it harder for any demon to go after Cass’s soul.”

“Which is especially important given Mammon’s not doing a very good job as a guardian.”

Diavolo sat across from Cass. “I must say, I can’t believe you managed to forge a pact with Mammon. That’s no small feat.”

“I suppose it stands as proof that you chose well bringing this human here, Lord Diavolo,” Barbatos praised.

“Sometimes I wish I could trade a certain idiot brother of mine for Barbatos,” Lucifer said.

“It is sometimes said that a truly wise man does not flaunt his talents, he keeps them secret.”

Barbatos smiled at Lucifer, but it had a mocking aura to it. Lucifer scoffed, as if the very thought of Mammon having any talents was laughable. Cass tried not to smile at the reaction. He really did act like the protective older brother.

“I’ve heard it said that the most thick-headed child is always the cutest.”

“I don’t even want to think of Mammon as my child.”

“See how he doesn’t deny the part of Mammon being cute.” Cass looked up at the unknown voice. His laugh sounded almost like music. “Out of all seven of you brothers, you are, without a doubt, the most troublesome.”  

“That almost sounds like a compliment, Simeon.”

“Well, it’s not,” another unknown voice interjected. Cass was surprised to see what looked like a ten-year child in front of her.

“Allow me to introduce you, Cass,” Diavolo said, noticing her surprise. “This is Simeon and Luke. They are our exchange students from the Celestial Realm. As you can probably guess, they are angels.”

“Well, Simeon is an angel. Luke is more of a chihuahua.”

“I am NOT a chihuahua,” Luke yelled. “I may be a low-ranking angel, but I’ll have you know that I report directly to Michael the Archangel!”

“Luke, calm down, there’s no need to make such a fuss.” Simeon turned to Cass, flashing a dazzling smile. Unlike the demons, there was genuine warmth behind the action. “It is a pleasure to meet you Cass, we’ve heard a lot of rumors!” The warning bell rang through the room. “I apologize for any trouble we’ve caused, Cass, but I look forward to getting to know you better.”

Diavolo and Barbatos followed Simeon out of the room. Lucifer looked like he was about to say something to Cass, but decided against it. Luke stayed behind, glaring at the door Lucifer had just exited through.

“Are you okay?”

“Never trust a demon, Cass, especially if that demon is Lucifer. I was against this exchange program from the beginning, especially bringing humans to the Devildom. You need to be safe, and Mammon certainly isn’t going to help.”

Luke’s hand landed on hers and he looked at her with so much concern it warmed her heart. For the first time since arriving, she felt there was someone that genuinely cared about her, not just cared about her surviving because Diavolo wanted the exchange program to succeed. Luke left without another word, leaving her to wonder how much him and Simeon and him knew about the brothers.

---

Solomon laughed, laughing down his cards. “Read ‘em and reap. It’s a straight flush.” Asmo groaned, throwing his loosing hand on the table. “That’s 183 wins for me!”

“Are you using magic?”

“I am but a simple human, an innocent lamb. I’d appreciate if you wouldn’t accuse me of behaving like you demons.”

“How can you say that with a straight face, Solomon? I think you may be the least innocent of all of us.”

“Is that truly what you think of me, Satan?” Solomon joked, shuffling the cards. “I must say, it’s lucky Mammon isn’t here, he likely would have broken my record-breaking winning streak by now.”

Satan nodded in agreement. “You’re right, considering he’s usually such dolt, he is surprisingly good at making money.”

“Shouldn’t you be a bit more respectful towards Mammon? You’re always putting him down, despite him being your older brother.”

A third demon sat down next to Solomon at his question. “Have you met Mammon?”

“See, even Vas knows how impossible that is, and he’s not even Mammon’s brother!” The warning bell rang. “You’re running a bit late today, Vas, Preta make you late again?”

“Actually, we ran into Beel and he was telling us about the pact the new exchange student managed to make with Mammon.” At his words, Satan and Asmo started laughing. “How did she manage that?”

“I honestly don’t know. She found Mammon’s hidden credit card on her own. Lucifer was quite impressed. He kept mentioning his surprise at breakfast,” Satan answered. “I think the rest of are just as surprised that Mammon actually agreed to make a pact.”

“It seems like everyone is acting like making a pact is a huge thing. Sure, it’s funny Cass tricked Mammon, but the pact itself isn’t that big of a deal. Take Solomon and me, we’re in a pact. You also have one with Barabtos and Vasago!” Vas scoffed at Asmo. “What? You must have had a reason to make a pact.”

“I lost a bet with Preta, I didn’t exactly want to make one.” Solomon smiled at Vas, knowing despite the reason behind the pact, they were actually quite close.

“I have to agree with Vas. Generally, demons are too proud to make pacts.”

“I’ve been very fortunate but can’t afford to be complacent. Otherwise, Cass might make a pact with Lucifer before I can.”  

Asmo giggled at Solomon’s words, his demeanor showing a lack of concern. Both him and Vas were well aware of how Solomon was at this point. Satan shot Solomon a curious glance, but let it go. Solomon likely wasn’t concerned given he didn’t need to rush in making Lucifer like him. Though Satan doubted he’d ever win Lucifer over enough to agree to that.

“Judging from how Beel was talking, Lucifer is already growing fond of the human. Preta took a liking to her yesterday too. I wouldn’t be surprised if they tried to befriend her.”

“We may need to give Cass a bit of a warning. We were already joking about Beel eating her, but Preta is a whole different story. Given Lucifer’s added a new favorite person to his list along with Mammon, he wouldn’t take to kindly to her being eaten.”

Solomon pocketed the pack of cards as Satan took his seat and the final bell rung. They were in for a much more interesting semester than any of them had expected when Cass was first chosen. Hopefully it continued to be positive surprises.

---

“Never trust a demon.”

Cass kept thinking about Luke’s warning. When Luke had left the classroom, the calming aura he and Simeon had lingered. She wanted to hold them at arm’s length. Being angels didn’t make her immediately trust them. Both of them had a sincerity about them that made it hard not to though.

It reminded her of Lilith. Just like Lilith, Luke’s warning held some hidden knowledge that he wasn’t willing to share. She didn’t need his warning though. She didn’t need to know his reasoning behind it. She already distrusted Lucifer. Unlike his brothers, it always felt like he was playing a game, never revealing his hand even though everyone else’s cards were showing. Lucifer had a hidden card up his sleeve that he wasn’t sharing with his family.

A soft voice echoed through the room, startling her. Lilith was nowhere to be seen. Though Cass wouldn’t put it past the ghost to pull a prank, the voice was unfamiliar. She stood on her bed, trying to get closer to the vent.

“Someone, please, help me.”

The voice was just as faint. She could barely make on the words. Why was there someone calling for help? Was it another ghost that nobody could hear? Or was it something all the brothers were aware of and just learned to ignore? Well, she couldn’t sleep anyways.

Cass walked through the halls on her toes, praying to whatever higher power might be listening that she didn’t wake any of the brothers. She paused every so often to check that she could still hear the voice, letting it guide her towards the source.

When the voice was at its loudest, she realized the path was a dead end. She wasn’t even sure what part of the house she was in. She stood in a short hall that ended with a window. There was a large family portrait hanging on one wall, opposite was the only door. It wasn’t unlocked but it was only a closet for storage.

“Help! Please!”

“I’m trying,” Cass whispered, not sure if they could even hear her. “Maybe there’s another hall I missed?” She closed the closet door, ready to backtrack when Lilith appeared beside the family portrait. “About time you showed up. Want to give me a hint to how to find the person in the vents?”

Lilith laughed, tapping the edge of the painting. Cass gave her a skeptical look before inspecting the frame. No fucking way. She pushed the painting to the side revealing an indent from a hidden door. Of course, this creepy house would have hidden doors and secret passageways.

Luckily the picture was light despite the size. Cass pressed on the door, not sure how it opened. There was a click and the door swung backwards, revealing a small room with a stone, spiral staircase with an iron railing. Cass’s jaw dropped staring up into the darkness.

Before she could even take a step, a gloved hand wrapped around her wrist, and pulled her back. She suppressed a surprise scream. Lucifer’s ruby eyes glistened in the dark. A smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. It seemed he was just as surprised as Cass to find someone in the room.

“This is no place for humans, you need to go back to your room.” He stepped around her, blocking the way to the stairs. Lilith lounged on the stairs behind him, rolling her eyes at his warning.

“Okay,” Cass said.

Lucifer took a step towards her, expecting to follow her out. Before she second guessed herself, she rushed under his outstretched arm, towards the stairs. Within a second, Lucifer had pulled her back, wrapping his arms around her, constricting her movement. His breath ghosting over her ear as he chuckled softly.

“You are quite brazen. You do know that don’t you?”

“I figured at least saying the answer you wanted would help you save face,” Cass answered, failing to escape his grasp.

“I’m not giving you a choice, Cass. Go back to your room if you value your life. This is the Devildom after all, you need to follow certain rules to ensure your safety.” He let Cass go without warning, causing her to stumble out of the room. She turned around in time to see the door close behind her.

“What are you hiding, Lucifer?” She whispered, staring at the door.  

[the-void-writes]

“   somehow,  out of everyone.  even my own damn friends,  you know me more.  ”

Thank you so much 🥰💖 I’ve been toying with the vibes for Ash and Dante’s starting relationship, so I hope you enjoy it!

For All Eternity - You Know Me

Anyone would have told Ash that it wasn’t the best time to make out with the man he had only met a week ago, but he didn’t care. His only other friends had gone to fight, and he knew why they had left him— because he had no powers or useful skills against an army like Vesely’s. He had no real purpose with them.

His purpose was with someone else; the man who told him the truth about his condition, who opened his club to him, and who stared at him in a way that only Dan ever had.

Ash laid across the couch with Dante resting on his chest, kissing him gently. His lips were much warmer than Dan’s, with a small, burning hint of whiskey. Everything from his gentle smile to the way he held Ash made his heart soar for the first time in months. He wrapped his arms around Dante’s neck and pulled him closer, making him flash that beautiful smile of his.

“Enjoying yourself?” he asked.

Ash nodded. “Thank you.”

Dante chuckled against his neck. “So polite. I like you, Ash.”

He shuddered. “Could you… say that again, please?”

“Which part?”

“That you like me.”

“Aww, you poor thing. No one tells you that enough, do they?”

Not since Dan had left, no, but Dante could probably tell that already. His lips trailed up Ash’s neck to his ear, nibbling at it lightly to make the young hermit giggle. Dante leaned close and whispered to him.

“I really like you, Ash.”

He didn’t expect him to start crying. Ash hated himself for breaking down so easily, but the emotions were so overwhelming. No one ever spoke to him like this, like he was someone desirable. Dante cupped his face, a look of worry and concern erasing his “charming, mischievous party guy” image completely.

“Are you okay? Did I hurt you?”

Ash held his hands. “I just don’t want this to go away. It’s so nice to be wanted again.”

Dante leaned back down to kiss him. Each of his kisses seemed more intoxicating than the last, no empathy powers required.

“Do you want to go upstairs?” Dante asked.

“You— you mean, to your room?”

“No pressure, obviously. We don’t have to do anything you don’t want. I’m just saying, if it feels nice, I’d like to keep treating you.”

His golden eyes shone with sincerity, and Ash found himself nodding in excitement.

“Yes, please.”

Dante smiled. “Come on, then. Don’t want to hurt you on this small-ass sofa.”

Ash chuckled and followed him out of his office and up several stairs. He still felt guilty, getting to hang out with Dante while the others fought, but they didn’t even want him there, anyway. Besides, he never got to be spoiled like this by someone as sweet— and as gorgeous— as Dante. Just once, Ash wanted to enjoy feeling loved.

Dante led him to a floor with only one apartment and helped him inside. It looked much more expensive than what Ash was used to; a big kitchen, tall windows, and a bedroom with a fireplace. The glamor was intimidating, but the view of the stars and galaxies over the bustling city was breathtaking. Ash found himself drawn to the cosmic glow of the windows.

“You’ve got your own galaxy.”

Dante chuckled. “You like it? Most of Paradise has a view like that.”

“It’s different up here, though. It feels like you’re a part of it. You live in heaven.”

“If that’s what you want to call it.”

Ash shrugged. “I’m sure it gets tiring after several decades, but I’ve never been in a building this high before— Not that I can remember.”

He felt Dante’s hands fall on his hips, and his lips across his neck.

“There’s an observatory by the palace,” he whispered. “I can take you there someday, if you want.”

“You’d do that?”

“Yeah, it sounds fun.”

“I’d probably talk your ears off the whole time.”

Dante laughed. “You don’t give yourself any credit, do you?”

“I’ve never found a reason to.”

“I can see plenty of reasons right now.”

Ash wheezed. “Like what?”

“Like your curiosity. Your politeness and sincerity.” He stopped for another kiss. “That beautiful face of yours.”

“You— Do you really mean all of that?”

“Absolutely, baby.”

He shuddered. “Thank you, my Host.”

Dante chuckled and shook his head. “You don’t have to call me that. Dante’s fine.”

“I didn’t think you liked it.”

“Just old memories and stuff.” He smiled. “But I don’t really mind you saying it.”

Ash turned to face him, tracing the side of his jaw. “It’s a beautiful name.”

“Aww, thank you. Just don’t go blabbing about it, please. I’m not giving Gaz the pleasure.”

Ash chuckled. “Sure thing, Dante.”

He sighed in pure bliss. “Can you say that again?”

“Dante?”

“It’s just been so long since I’ve heard it, and you say it so nicely.”

Ash kissed his cheek. “I’ll say it as many times as you want.”

Dante grinned. “I can’t see why anyone would ever leave someone like you.”

“You’re too sweet, you know?”

He smiled warmly. “So are you. I’m sorry no one else bothered to see that. You deserve better than all the lies and judgment and shit.”

Ash shook his head. “How are you so nice? How do you understand me better than my own friends?”

“Our pain’s very specific, baby. You and I are all we really have. So whatever you need, I’ll help you… because no one should have to go it alone.”

Sadness dulled his golden eyes. Ash pulled him in for another kiss, much more intensely than before. Each bit of affection and validation was driving him wild. Dante pulled him back towards the bed, sat him down on his lap, and gently removed his sweater and shirt for him. The first things he noticed were all the marks on Ash’s body from over the years. He gently ghosted his hands over the long scar running down his torso, the one from his surgery.

“What happened to you?”

“A lot of stuff.” Ash pointed at the surgery scar. “They had to fix some things after the campers attacked— Which I guess is when they found the disease.”

“And then kept it from you.”

Ash sighed. “Yes.”

Dante held him close and tenderly kissed around his scars. Ash shivered and chuckled, but also relaxed against him, brushing his dreads gently.

“Are you still okay with this?” Dante asked.

Ash nodded. “I don’t think I’ve ever been more sure of anything.”

[lab-trash]

Spin-Centric (Trans Spin Fic)

I hope you guys don't mind me having an oc in this story, but if you do, I can try to avoid featuring them heavily.

Spin spent the next few days training exclusively with Leo, Bree or Chase. It was nice, having these people who supported him.

Chase told him that he was trans too. Spin tried to argue this, as he’d seen Chase shirtless before. Chase explained that he came out so early that he was able to get on puberty blockers and then T, so he went through an average male puberty. 

Spin envied that. It was too late for him. 

Part of Spin was happy for Chase, because he didn’t have to go through what Spin was going through. But that didn’t mean he was okay with going through it either. 

It was still nice to know that Spin wasn’t alone. 

He wondered if Bree knew that her brother was trans, as she’d mentioned earlier not knowing many trans people. Was Chase one of the few she knew, or was she not even including him because he had a mostly masculine childhood.

After a week, Spin was cleared to bind and train again. 

He took a single, tiny dose pain reliever before training. Just in case. His ribs were still a bit tender. He’d stop in a couple of days, it was temporary. 

When he arrived in class, he noticed something. Jaime. 

The colour on their shoulders was green now. 

Are you… fucking kidding…

“Did you seriously get fucking credit for fighting me while I was injured?” Spin asked, shoving the blonde back. 

“What? No, I—”

“You’re wearing a colour up,” He said, shoving Jaime’s shoulder where the colour started. 

“That’s because I—”

“You didn’t beat me because you’re skilled, you beat me because I was already hurt!”

“Spin!” Jaime practically yelled. “I fought someone else to get green,” They said. “Even if they’d offered me green for ‘beating,’ you, I wouldn’t have taken it. I want it fairly.” 

“Oh,” Spin said quietly. He backed up. “Sorry,” He admitted. 

“It’s okay,” Jaime said with a small laugh. “Are you okay, by the way? I know I was tough on you, you seemed really hurt.” 

“Yeah,” Spin said, “I’m feeling better now,” he said, running his hand over the side of his ribcage. It was true. He was feeling better now. 

“Good,” Jaime said, crossing their arms, “Wouldn’t want to kick your ass while you’re hurt, now would I,” They said with a small laugh. 

“You wish,” Spin retorted. 

“Hey, I’m serious. I don’t want to injure a fellow classmate just because they’re already injured. I’d rather leave a few bruises than break a few bones,” Jaime said. Spin shook his head realising that Jaime definitely didn’t get the point of that quip, but let it go. 

“So, who’d you fight to get it?” He asked, changing the subject. 

“Thomas,” Jaime said, admittedly smug. Spin’s eyes widened in shock. 

Jaime and Spin were among the shorter students. In fact, Jaime was a year older than Spin and was only 2 inches taller. Thomas on the other hand was 5’10, about 10 inches taller than Jaime, and a full foot taller than Spin. 

“Seriously? Dude, that is so cool!” He exclaimed. Jaime shrugged.

“Yeah,” They said, not even trying to be humble about it. “I honestly don’t know why I was ever put in yellow. I think it’s just because we’re young, y’know?”

“Yeah,” Spin agreed, although he did feel guilty when he was automatically bumped up by Mr Davenport when he showed off. It felt… icky. Sure, it was a nice feeling to one-up Leo, but sometimes it felt like Mr Davenport pitied him.

It was like he was ranking him not as a bionic hero, but as a child. He was better than your average child, so that’s what made him good. 

“I mean, you probably should’ve been in green to begin with; you’ve always had really good control of your powers.”

“I mean, I only really have the one,” Spin admitted. “So it’s not like I have to practise with multiple powers to master all of them. I can only practise with one, so I get the most practice with one.”

“Hey, you know we get more bionics as we grow up,” Jaime said, poking Spin in the arm. Spin looked at Jaime, confused. “You did know that, right?”

“No,” Spin said, confused.

“Yeah, dude. Like, Before I only had super speed. But now I have plasma spheres too,” Jaime said excitedly. “I think I might also have superstrength, but I haven’t talked to anyone about it,” They said quieter. 

“I thought you always had plasma spheres. I don’t remember seeing you without them,” Spin said, still confused. Jaime laughed nervously. 

“Right,” They said. “I probably was just bumped back down to yellow since I got new powers that I needed to master.”

Jaime themselves sounded unsure about the excuse they’d generated.

Spin raised a brow but didn’t get a chance to interrogate them, as the class started. 

As Spin thought back, he realised that he really hadn’t seen Jaime when he first went there. He only really saw them pop up after… hm. Oh, after he and Bob helped the police catch those robbers. 

Only then did he see them around. He figured he’d remember hair that obnoxiously bright blonde and the oddly confident stature. 

But at the same time, Jaime had numerous scars that they wore happily on display that could’ve only formed if they were there the whole time; if they were part of the bionic army from the beginning— if they had been going to the academy the whole time.

Various half-healed cuts, gashes and burns, and a single frozen scar on their left bicep. There’s no way they’d only been there for the few months between now and visiting the mainland for the first time. 

And to Spin, that just begged the question… where the fuck did this person come from?