#to see such a contrast between how i know i used to be and how i am now.

[tender-rosiey]

Broooo i need more of sukuna and his shy daughter. PLEASE🙏

quiet strings — ryomen sukuna x f!reader

your daughter sits in the corner, her small figure nearly swallowed by the shadows as she stares at the koto placed on its low stand in the middle of the room.

the delicate strings, taut and gleaming, shimmer in the fading light, waiting for the timid touch of her fingers.

sukuna leans against the doorframe, his imposing figure filling the space as he observes her with a sharp, unreadable gaze.

the contrast between his crimson eyes and the softness of the room’s light is almost startling.

he tilts his head slightly, breaking the silence with a muttered, “how long is she going to sit there staring at it?”

you turn to him, shooting him a look that carries years of unspoken understanding.

“she’s just nervous,” you say softly, the familiar warmth in your voice tempering the sharpness of his. “give her a moment.”

“nervous?” sukuna snorts, his lips curling into a smirk that reveals a glint of his sharp teeth. “over a bunch of strings? she’s my daughter, isn’t she? she should be tearing that thing apart by now.”

at his words, your daughter flinches ever so slightly, her small shoulders hunching as she curls inward, her fingers gripping the hem of her sleeve.

you sigh, brushing past sukuna as you cross the room to kneel beside her. the subtle rustle of your robes is the only sound as you reach out, gently tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear.

“sweetheart?” you call, your voice as gentle as the breeze filtering through the open window.

her wide eyes, so much like her father’s but lacking his imposing intensity, flick up to meet yours.

“yes, mama?” she whispers, her voice barely audible over the cicadas.

you smile, radiating a quiet reassurance that you know she needs. “you’ve been looking at the koto for a while,” you say. “do you want to try playing it?”

her small hands fidget with the hem of her sleeve as her cheeks flush a soft pink. she shakes her head quickly. “no… I can’t. I won’t be good at it.”

from the doorframe, sukuna lets out a low grunt, but you silence him with a quick glare over your shoulder.

he raises an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth twitching in faint amusement. you turn back to your daughter, cupping her cheek in your palm, your thumb brushing lightly over her soft skin.

“you don’t know that,” you say with quiet conviction. “why don’t you try just one string? I’ll stay with you.”

her gaze darts to sukuna, who stands silently watching. his expression is as inscrutable as ever, but the weight of his attention seems to unnerve her.

still, she gives you a small nod, and you smile, helping her to her feet.

as you guide her to the koto, sukuna pushes off the doorframe and strolls lazily into the room, his presence looming as he stops a few steps away, arms crossed.

“you’re coddling her,” he mutters under his breath.

“she’s learning,” you counter without missing a beat, glancing at him over your shoulder. “not everyone leaps straight into things like you.”

his smirk deepens, but he says nothing more.

your daughter kneels beside the koto, her tiny hands hovering uncertainly above the strings. “just one,” you encourage gently, sitting beside her to offer your steady presence.

her small fingers tremble as they pluck a single string. the note rings out, soft and clear, hanging in the air like a fragile thread.

she freezes, her wide eyes staring at the koto in awe as the sound resonates and fades.

“see?” you say, smiling warmly. “you can do it.”

she glances up at you, her lips parting in a tiny, hopeful smile. encouraged, she plucks another string, then another. a tentative melody begins to form, its simplicity endearing.

from his spot a few paces away, sukuna raises an eyebrow. “is that supposed to be music?” he drawls, his tone sharp and teasing.

your daughter’s hands falter immediately, her shoulders tensing as she shrinks back.

“sukuna,” you snap, your voice low but firm. it’s the same tone you use when reining him in—something none other than you would dare.

he shrugs, completely unrepentant. “what? if she’s going to play, she might as well do it properly.”

your daughter begins to pull her hands away from the koto, her confidence shaken, but you place your hands gently over hers. “don’t listen to him,” you say softly, giving her an encouraging squeeze. “you’re doing wonderfully.”

she hesitates, her gaze flicking between you and sukuna before nodding timidly. “really?”

“really,” you say firmly, shooting sukuna a pointed look. “and I think you should keep going.”

her small hands return to the strings, and this time her melody grows steadier, her confidence building with each note.

sukuna lets out a low grunt of approval. “not terrible,” he admits begrudgingly.

your daughter’s face lights up, a shy but bright smile breaking through as she turns to him. “papa?”

he steps closer, crouching down to her level. his crimson gaze bores into hers, but his gruff tone softens slightly. “you’re still not that good,” he says, resting an arm on his knee, “but at least you’re trying.”

her eyes sparkle, her voice earnest as she promises, “I’ll practice more, papa!”

“good,” he replies, standing to his full height again.

you are silently encouraging d/n to play more, before you’re whisked up in your husband’s arms.

you look back at your daughter—who did not notice your absence—and then at your husband before frowning, “hey, what gives?!”

“I want another one.”

“what.”

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[zoofzoofxx]

—The art of eyecontact —

Pairings ; Axel Kovacevic x fem!reader

Summary ; After spending a night together, Axel made a mistake, regretting his actions soon after. His friend Zara, seeing the tension between them, steps in to help by offering advice and encouragement. She urges Y/n to reconsider the situation, emphasizing that Axel’s feelings are genuine despite his hesitation, and suggests that Y/n give him another chance to explain himself.

Warnings ; none (I think)

Mentions ; @oscarisdaddy69 @babylambdietcoke @karmaswitch

Pt. 2

୨୧・・・・♡・・・・୨୧

I woke up feeling completely drained, as though I had been transformed into a zombie overnight. A quick glance at the clock revealed it was already 8 a.m., and the harsh reality hit me- I had only managed to get one hour of sleep. My mind, still foggy with exhaustion, was suddenly flooded with memories of the night before, replaying every detail vividly.

Turning to the side of the bed, I noticed Axel was nowhere to be seen. However, the sound of running water from the bathroom confirmed he was in the shower. Deciding not to waste time, I slipped back into the clothes I had worn the previous night. Once Axel emerged, I planned to let him know that I would head back to my own room to get ready.

'Hi.' I turned around to see Axel standing there in simple, casual clothes. I offered him a small smile and a quick wave, keeping it light. He didn't say much as he walked closer to me, his presence commanding yet calm. Instead of a kiss, he pulled me into a hug.

The embrace was warm and steady, and I couldn't help but notice the distinct, luxurious scent of his cologne—it was rich and captivating, lingering in the air between us. His warmth was comforting, a stark contrast to the exhaustion I was still feeling.

'I should get going. The next event is in four hours,' I said, my eyes drifting toward the bed where, just an hour ago, we had been sleeping together. On the chair nearby were the folded clothes he had lent me to sleep in. They were neatly arranged, a small but thoughtful gesture that didn't go unnoticed.

When I looked back at Axel, I noticed a soft pink hue coloring his cheeks, a hint of shyness that made the moment feel unexpectedly tender.

'Thank you for everything,' I added, my voice gentle as I tried to ease the subtle awkwardness lingering between us. I wanted to make the atmosphere feel more comfortable, even as I prepared to leave.

He gave a small nod, his demeanor calm and composed. 'No problem at all. I enjoyed your company,' he replied, his voice relaxed and warm. He seemed far more at ease than he had been the day before, when tension had defined his every movement. This softer side of him made me smile, even if just inwardly.

—

'Oh my god, no way!' Sam exclaimed, pacing back and forth across the room while I sat silently on the edge of my bed, unsure of how to respond.

'So, are you two like... a thing now?' she asked, stopping abruptly to look at me, her hands firmly planted on her hips and one eyebrow arched high.

I bit the inside of my cheek, the question hanging heavily in the air. I didn't have an answer—not for her, not even for myself. Instead, I shrugged, a silent gesture that conveyed my uncertainty. My lips pressed into a straight line as my thoughts drifted to the tournament happening in just a few hours, offering a convenient distraction from her probing stare.

'Let's just get ready,' I said, standing up and reaching for my karate uniform, eager to shift the conversation away from Sam's relentless curiosity.

'We'll have this talk later, young lady!' she yelled after me, her voice full of mock authority. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw her pointing at me, as if to emphasize her determination.

I couldn't help but laugh at her over-the-top seriousness as I walked to the bathroom. Once inside, I locked the door and stepped into the shower, letting the warm water wash over me, clearing my head before the day ahead.

—

As Robby and I walked into the building where the Sekai Taikai event was taking place, my eyes immediately landed on Tory standing in the lobby. She looked composed but intense, her focus evident. Robby sighed beside me, already taking a step in her direction, but I gently stopped him, deciding to approach her myself.

'Y/n,' she greeted, her tone serious, her expression unreadable. The captain's headband was already tied firmly around her head, a symbol of her leadership and resolve.

'Tory... how are you feeling?' I asked, letting out a small sigh, my voice softer than usual. She didn't respond right away, standing in silence as if weighing her words. The tension in the air was palpable, and I found myself stepping forward without hesitation, wrapping her in a hug.

At first, she didn't move, her arms stiff at her sides, clearly hesitant. But after a few seconds, I felt her hands rest on my back. She sighed deeply, the kind of sigh that seemed to carry everything she couldn't say. Her grip tightened, and for a brief moment, she hugged me back fiercely before pulling away.

'Everyone on your team is mad at me,' Tory said, her voice quiet as she shifted her gaze from the ground back to me. There was a flicker of guilt in her eyes, a vulnerability she rarely let show.

'They're not,' I replied, giving her shoulder a reassuring pat. 'They understand how you feel and why you left.' My words came out gently, hoping to ease her mind. I was about to say more when a group of Tory's teammates, including Kwon, walked up to her. Their eyes darted toward me, filled with disdain and unspoken accusations.

Sensing the rising tension, I offered Tory a quick goodbye and stepped away, heading toward the locker rooms where I assumed my team would be waiting. On the way, I nearly bumped into Zara. Seeing her brought back the memory of yesterday, when she'd helped me with the water. Her kindness lingered in my mind, making the chance encounter feel a little less coincidental.

'Hi Zara, I wanted to thank you so much for the water and—' I started, but she cut me off before I could finish.

'It was Axel's idea,' she said matter-of-factly. 'But he was too shy to bring it to you himself, so he asked me to do it for him. Which I did.' Her tone was short, almost dismissive, leaving me momentarily speechless.

'Still, thank you,' I managed, offering a small smile while my thoughts drifted elsewhere. I couldn't help but wonder where Axel was now and why he hadn't just come to me himself.

'Do you know where he might be?' I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me.

Zara turned slightly and gestured toward the direction of her team's locker room. 'He's in our locker room,' she said with a small, knowing smile before walking off without another word.

I stood there for a moment, processing her answer, before deciding what to do next. Her casual demeanor left me feeling more curious than ever about Axel and why he seemed so hesitant to approach me directly.

I sighed as I made my way to their locker room, hesitating briefly before giving the door a soft knock. It opened to reveal their sensei, who looked at me with a mix of confusion and curiosity.

'May I help you?' he asked, his tone formal as he opened the door wider. Over his shoulder, I saw Axel deep in conversation with one of his teammates. The moment they noticed me, their chatter stopped, and all eyes turned in my direction.

'May I speak with Axel?' I asked, my voice tinged with stress. Memories of what had happened to him resurfaced, and a wave of discomfort washed over me.

Axel stood up almost immediately, but before he could step out, the sensei placed a hand on his shoulder, holding him back.

'One minute,' the sensei instructed, his tone firm. Axel nodded and quickly walked toward me once he was released. His gaze met mine briefly before darting around, scanning the area as if checking for prying eyes. Without a word, he grabbed my wrist gently but firmly and led me down the hall, pulling me into an empty locker room.

'Axel, I—' I began, but he interrupted me, his tone sharp and distant.

'Yesterday was a mistake. We shouldn't be hanging around with each other. You're my opponent, and there's nothing going on between us,' he said coldly, his posture stiff, the same tense demeanor he had shown the day before.

For a moment, I stood there, speechless. I didn't know what to feel—whether I should be hurt, relieved, or indifferent. Deep down, I had seen it coming. Kissing someone you barely know, someone you'd only met yesterday, was bound to lead to complications. It was a reality I couldn't ignore.

A soft sigh escaped me as I nodded, silently acknowledging his words. I kept my gaze fixed on the walls of the empty locker room, avoiding his piercing eyes. 'I understand,' I said quietly, my voice steady, though my thoughts felt scattered.

I opened my mouth to say something, to call him back, but no words came out. Axel had already turned around and walked away, his steps deliberate and unyielding. I stood there, frozen in place, unable to move or stop him.

A heavy sigh escaped me as I sank onto a nearby bench, my thoughts swirling. The weight of his words lingered, leaving an uncomfortable ache in their wake. I stared at the floor, trying to make sense of the unfamiliar feeling that had settled in my chest.

Had I attached too quickly? Maybe he had, too—at least for a moment. It all felt like a whirlwind, a connection that had sparked so suddenly and burned out just as fast. I pressed my palms together, trying to steady myself and figure out how to let go of something that hadn't even begun.

I sat still for a moment, trying to collect myself. I reminded myself that crying or stressing over a boy who thought it was okay to toy with someone's feelings wasn't worth it. Just as I started to steel my resolve, a chuckle broke the silence.

Looking up, I saw Kwon leaning against the doorway, watching me with an amused expression. I rolled my eyes and stood, ready to walk past him, but he stepped in front of me, blocking my way.

'Heartbroken?' he asked, his tone dripping with mock sympathy. His attempt at puppy dog eyes made my annoyance spike even higher.

I pushed against him, but he didn't even flinch, instead bursting into laughter.

'That's cute,' he said, finally calming down and giving my shoulder a playful pat. I stood silently, my irritation already at its peak.

'I heard everything that guy said,' he added casually, his tone shifting slightly. His words made me bite the inside of my cheek, discomfort creeping in. I didn't like the idea of anyone eavesdropping on such a moment, especially not someone like Kwon.

I took a deep breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly in an attempt to calm myself.

'Move, Kwon,' I said firmly, brushing past him and walking out of the locker room. I could still feel his eyes fixed on my back, but I ignored the weight of his stare and continued toward our team's locker room.

Inside, I found Sam, Devon, Hawk, and Robby sitting together. They were deep in conversation, their energy noticeably lighter than mine.

'Did you hear the news?' Devon asked excitedly, his eyes practically lighting up.

I tilted my head to the side, confused, as I walked to the nearest locker and began putting my things away.

'No?' I replied, my curiosity piqued.

Devon's enthusiasm was clear, and Sam and Robby seemed just as thrilled. Hawk, on the other hand, looked far less amused, sitting silently with a faint scowl. His expression was enough to make me wonder what exactly this "news" could be.

'So, Miguel is back in Los Angeles, right? Kenny is taking his place,' Devon said cheerfully, practically bouncing in her seat.

'Oh, that's awesome news!' I replied, matching her excitement. Despite my happiness for Miguel, a flicker of worry for his mother crossed my mind. 'When will he arrive?' I added, glancing at Sam, who seemed just as eager to hear more.

As Devon started talking again, I reached for my phone, pulling it out to quickly text Miguel. Hey, is everything alright with your mom? I stared at the screen for a second before pressing send, hoping to hear good news soon.

Almost immediately after sending the message, my phone buzzed with a response. Everything is alright, thanks for asking, and good luck, Miguel's reply read. I let out a sigh of relief, the tension in my chest easing slightly. At least one worry had been lifted, and I was glad to know he and his family were doing okay.

I sat down and leaned back, letting my eyes drift shut for a moment, hoping to clear my mind or maybe even steal a few minutes of rest. But the weight of what had happened with Axel lingered, refusing to let me relax. The memory of his cold words and the way he walked away without looking back gnawed at me, twisting into an uneasy knot inside me.

'I'm going to the training room,' I murmured quietly, standing up and grabbing my water bottle. My teammates were still deep in conversation, so I slipped out unnoticed, grateful for a moment alone.

The training room was empty when I arrived, and the sight of the silent, open space was a relief. The quietness felt like a balm to my frayed nerves, and I welcomed the solitude. Setting my water bottle down in the corner, I began moving through a series of taka drills. Each strike and kick became a release, a way to channel the emotions swirling inside me.

The repetition of the movements steadied me, grounding me in their familiar rhythm. For the first time since the conversation with Axel, I felt some of the weight begin to lift. The stress and confusion didn't completely disappear, but with every precise move, I could feel my mind slowly clearing, piece by piece.

—

After the event, our team ended up ranking second. The Iron Dragons claimed first place, while Tiger Strike secured third. This outcome meant that Cobra Kai, unfortunately, had to leave Barcelona. The news shocked me, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness for Tory. She had worked so hard to get her team to this level, and it felt unfair for it to end this way.

Later, as I walked into the hotel lobby, I saw Tory sitting with her luggage, waiting with an air of quiet resignation. It was clear she was preparing to leave. Just then, an announcement came over the hotel's intercom, instructing all participants to gather in the lobby for an important update.

Curiosity buzzed through the crowd as everyone assembled. The room quieted as Gunther Braun, the head of the tournament, stepped forward to deliver the news. His expression was serious, commanding everyone's full attention.

'We have received credible information that members of the Tiger Strike team used performance-enhancing drugs during the tournament,' he announced, his voice grave. A collective gasp spread through the room, followed by murmurs of shock and disbelief.

Gunther continued, 'As a result, Tiger Strike has been disqualified, and their rankings nullified. This adjustment means Cobra Kai will retain their place in the tournament.'

The announcement hit like a bolt of lightning. Cobra Kai, instead of being eliminated, could now remain in the competition.

On the surface, I felt genuine happiness for Tory. She had given her all to this competition, and she deserved to see it through. But deep down, I couldn't ignore the anxiety creeping in. Cobra Kai was back in the running, and I knew all too well how formidable they could be as opponents. Their return wasn't just a stroke of luck for them—it was a reminder that the path ahead was about to get even more challenging.

I glanced over at Tory, and to my surprise, she smiled at me. Her teammates were cheering loudly, celebrating their unexpected chance to stay in the competition. Despite the chaos around her, Tory seemed calm, her expression soft with relief.

Turning my head, I caught Demetri rolling his eyes, clearly unimpressed by the situation. Hawk, on the other hand, looked furious, his jaw clenched tightly and his arms crossed as he glared toward the Cobra Kai group. Our senseis stood nearby, their expressions a mix of stress and unease. It was clear they weren't thrilled with the announcement either; this development added more pressure to an already intense situation.

The atmosphere felt stifling, the noise and tension overwhelming. Needing a break, I decided to step outside for some fresh air. Without saying a word, I slipped out of the building and started walking.

The cool air was a welcome relief as I wandered toward a nearby grocery store. The quiet of the streets contrasted sharply with the buzzing energy I had just left behind. Once inside the store, I browsed the aisles absentmindedly, grabbing something small to eat. It wasn't much, but the act of doing something mundane helped calm my mind, even if only for a moment.

—

Sitting on a random bench in the park, I tore off a piece of my croissant, savoring the flaky pastry as I let the quiet surroundings ease some of my stress. The fresh air and serene atmosphere helped clear my mind, if only a little. Tomorrow was the semi-finals, and I knew I needed to be completely focused and calm to give my best performance.

As I took another bite, my phone buzzed, pulling me out of my thoughts. I glanced at the screen and saw a notification—Kwon from Cobra Kai has followed you. I rolled my eyes, unimpressed. Of course, he'd find a way to insert himself into my day.

Before I could put my phone away, another notification caught my attention: a message request. It was from Zara.

Curious, I hesitated for a moment before accepting the request. Almost immediately, her message popped up. We need to meet up as soon as possible.

Her words were short and cryptic, making me frown. What could she possibly want to discuss, and why the urgency? Whatever it was, I had a feeling it wasn't something I could ignore.

Sure, when do you have time? I quickly typed and hit send. Not even a moment later, Zara replied: I have time now or later at the club.

I frowned. The thought of going to a loud, crowded club didn't appeal to me—I needed rest, especially with the semi-finals tomorrow. Instead, I texted back, suggesting we meet at Parc de la Ciutadella. The response came almost immediately: she liked my message, confirming she'd meet me there.

I leaned back on the bench, finishing off the rest of my croissant. The peace didn't last long, though, as I suddenly felt a pat on my shoulder. Startled, I turned around only to see Kwon standing there, a smug grin plastered across his face.

I let out a deep sigh, rolling my eyes at his intrusion, hoping he'd take the hint that I wasn't in the mood for his antics. Instead, he just laughed and casually plopped down next to me.

'Aw, did Axel leave my poor Y/n all alone?' he teased, his tone dripping with mock sympathy.

I shot him a cold, unimpressed glare. 'Just leave,' I said, my voice sharp.

Kwon held his hands up in mock defense, clearly enjoying my irritation. To my annoyance, he stayed planted in place, looking far too amused.

As I reached for the last piece of my croissant, he snatched it out of my hand with a mischievous grin and stood up.

'Thanks for the snack,' he said, walking off without a care in the world.

I clenched my fists, biting the inside of my cheek to stop myself from yelling something back at him. The only consolation was that he was finally gone.

'I see you're juggling two boys at once.'

Startled, I looked up from my phone to see Zara standing there, her expression a mix of teasing and seriousness.

'What do you mean by two boys at once?' I asked, genuinely confused.

She sighed, crossing her arms. 'It's obvious, even from a mile away, that boy from Cobra Kai likes you.' She gestured vaguely, then pulled out her phone, snapping a picture of the fountain in front of us as if this were just a casual chat.

I furrowed my brows, unsure where she was going with this.

'You know... Axel told me about you,' she began. 'That first day we got here, when you bumped into him, he mentioned you. He said you caught his eye.' She glanced at me to gauge my reaction but didn't pause long enough for me to respond.

'I didn't believe him at first,' she continued. 'I didn't really want him to fall for someone, especially not an opponent. I've known him since high school, and I can tell you—he didn't exactly have a social life back then. He never really experienced liking someone, let alone pursuing them.'

She paused, looking more thoughtful now. 'But then today, he told me about what happened yesterday. And... well, I saw his lock screen. It's a picture of you.'

I blinked in surprise, not sure what to say.

'That's when I thought, okay, maybe he really does like you,' Zara admitted. 'But just after the announcement earlier, he told me he said something harsh to you—about not wanting to know you. He regrets it, by the way. And now he's asked me to talk to you about it.'

I listened carefully, trying to process everything. Zara's voice softened. 'Look, I know this is probably a lot, but Axel isn't a bad guy. He's just... inexperienced. And a little scared, I think.'

For a moment, we sat in silence. It wasn't uncomfortable, but it wasn't exactly easy, either. I could feel her waiting for me to say something, but I didn't know where to start.

Finally, Zara broke the silence. 'You have three choices here. I know two of them,' she said, leaning back slightly.

'The first,' she continued, counting on her fingers, 'is that you talk to him, work things out, and become this epic, soulmate, love-of-your-life couple with a fairytale future and all that.' She waved her hand dramatically, clearly poking fun but also being sincere.

'The second option is that you just decide you don't want anything to do with him. You let it go, cut the cord, and move on.'

I tilted my head slightly, processing her words. 'What about the third option?' I asked.

She sighed, shrugging as if it were obvious. 'That's the one you have to figure out for yourself,' she said simply.

I looked down at the ground, the weight of her words settling over me. I didn't have an answer yet, but I knew I had to decide soon.

'And don't get Axel wrong, Y/n,' Zara said, her tone soft but firm. 'He just... doesn't really know how everything works. He's figuring it out. And honestly, I didn't expect you two to work out when he first mentioned you. You're such different people.'

She paused, tilting her head thoughtfully. 'When he told me you caught his eye, I decided to pay more attention to how you act. Don't get me wrong, I'm not some creepy stalker or anything,' she said with a small laugh, trying to lighten the mood.

'But you remind me of a golden retriever,' she said with a teasing grin. 'And while Axel's not quite a black cat, he's more like a doberman.' Her laughter was awkward but genuine, as if she was trying to make sense of her own analogy.

I raised an eyebrow, unable to suppress a small smile. 'So you're comparing us to dogs now?' I asked, mildly amused by her unexpected metaphor.

'Basically, yeah,' she said with a sheepish shrug. 'But what I mean is, you two are so different. We've always known Axel to keep to himself—he's never been the kind of person to share his feelings. At least, not until the past few days when he started asking me for advice. You should've seen him when he asked me to bring you those water bottles—he was blushing so hard it was like he turned into a different person.'

Zara smiled warmly. 'I just want you to know that I'm genuinely happy for you both. I really hope you rethink everything I've said because I think there's something special here.'

She stood up, brushing her hands off and glancing at the fountain. I looked up at her, surprised when she leaned down and hugged me gently.

'It's going to be okay, Y/n,' she said softly. 'Don't stress too much about it.'

Before walking off, she turned and blew a quick kiss in my direction, her usual playful attitude peeking through. I waved at her, unable to find the right words to respond.

Once she was gone, I sighed and sank back onto the bench behind me. My mind was swirling with everything she'd said. I sat there for a while, staring at the fountain, trying to figure out what I should do next. The decision wasn't going to be easy.

[greengoblinswifey]

𝑭𝒂𝒎𝒆’𝒔 𝑬𝒅𝒈𝒆 ・₊✧🩶 Part II

Pairing— Nicholas Chavez x Model!Reader

Summary— You’re thrusted into a PR relationship with your new neighbor, Nicholas Chavez, you’re hesitant at first not knowing how it will benefit you but you warm up to it and find out he’s not the cold and detached person the media says he is.

Warnings— Fake relationship, Fluff, Sexual Tension, Mentions of Substance Use, Smoking.

Series Masterlist

The following morning, you were up earlier than usual. The events of the past day still loomed over you, from the damaging headlines to your ex-best friend slandering your name. Thankfully, it was mostly small blogs and gossip sites spreading her story, and you were confident you’d rise above it all. The photos of you shopping downtown were taking off on social media, and for once, the narrative seemed to favor you. You just hoped Angela’s so-called plan would center on building you back up.

Determined to present your best self, you called in your stylists to give you the ultimate morning glow-up. You chose a sleek off duty model look, an oversized Chanel tweed jacket paired with high-waisted tailored shorts and classic black ballet flats. The cream and beige color palette contrasted beautifully against your dark skin, which practically shimmered under the lighting. You felt put together, and it was a good feeling—one you hadn’t experienced in weeks.

At exactly 10 a.m., Angela called to let you know she was at the gate. “By the way,” she said casually, “I’m bringing a guest.”

“A guest?” you asked, glancing at yourself in the mirror one last time. “Who?”

“You’ll see,” she replied, then hung up.

You stood in the foyer, waiting for the sound of the bell. When it came, you smoothed down your jacket and opened the door, only to freeze in surprise. Standing next to Angela was your neighbor, Nicholas Chavez, looking annoyingly polished in a leather jacket, dark jeans, and a crisp white tee that screamed effortless charm.

Angela was all business. “Morning,” she said, breezing past you into the house. Nicholas followed, offering you a small smile.

“Uh, morning,” you said, closing the door. “Why’s my neighbor your guest? Wasn’t the cake enough?”

Angela turned to you with an exasperated look. “This isn’t about the damn cake. And Nicholas, thank you for humoring us this morning,” she added, motioning for him to sit.

Nicholas smirked as he lowered himself onto your couch. “The cake was really good, by the way. Thanks again.”

You folded your arms, leaning against the armrest of the sofa. “Okay, so why is my neighbor in my house? What’s the plan here?”

Angela gave you a pointed look, as if the answer should’ve been obvious. “The plan,” she began dramatically, “is a relationship.”

You blinked, then burst into laughter, the sound echoing off your high ceilings. Angela didn’t laugh. She just stood there, unimpressed, until you finally composed yourself.

“You know I don’t do relationships,” you said, raising a brow. “What are you talking about?”

“A PR relationship,” she clarified. “Very public. Very strategic.”

You tilted your head, glancing between her and Nicholas, who was casually leaning back on your couch, arms stretched out along the cushions. “I don’t get it. Why would either of us need that?”

Angela crossed her arms. “Because you are in damage control, and Nicholas here is the perfect solution.” She gestured to him. “He’s new, popular, fresh, clean-cut. Hollywood’s golden boy in the making. A rising star who just scored a breakout role and needs the right kind of visibility to stay in the conversation. You, on the other hand, are…” She trailed off and gestured vaguely at you.

You scowled. “A supermodel? A party girl?”

“A mess,” she corrected. “A rich, famous, gorgeous mess, sure, but still a mess. The public loves a redemption arc, and this will give them one. The troubled supermodel tamed by the sweet, boy-next-door actor. It’s a PR dream.”

Nicholas finally spoke, his voice calm and low. “I’m not exactly boy-next-door, Angela.”

“Close enough,” she shot back, waving him off.

You shook your head. “This sounds ridiculous. And I don’t see how being tied to me helps him. I mean, I’m in the middle of a PR crisis.”

Angela didn’t flinch. “It helps him because you’re you. You’re a household name, a media darling, even with all the drama. Being seen with you puts Nicholas on magazine covers, gets him into rooms that will skyrocket his career. And for you, it softens your image. It shows stability, maturity, and lets people focus on something positive for once.”

Nicholas turned to you, his expression unreadable. “And for the record, I’m not opposed. If it helps both of us.”

You frowned, unsure how to respond. “And what? We just pretend to be in love?”

Angela nodded, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “Exactly. Dates, appearances together, a few staged paparazzi moments. Maybe even some cryptic Instagram posts.”

“That sounds exhausting,” you muttered.

Angela stepped closer. “It’s not forever. Just a few months. Long enough to shift the narrative. You’re already halfway there with those shopping photos from yesterday. Let’s seal the deal.”

You looked at Nicholas, who shrugged, a small smirk playing on his lips. “Could be fun,” he said lightly.

“You think this is fun?” you asked.

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. “I think it’s an opportunity. For both of us. And honestly,” He paused, his eyes locking with yours. “You don’t strike me as the type to back down from a challenge.”

You rolled your eyes but felt your resolve wavering. The way Angela had laid it out, it almost made sense. And Nicholas, well, he was easy on the eyes. You could admit he was fine. If nothing else, he might distract you from the chaos for a while.

You sighed, finally throwing your hands up. “Fine. I’ll think about it.”

Angela grinned. “Good. That’s all I need for now.”

Nicholas stood, adjusting his jacket. “Let me know what you decide. I’ll be next door.”

As you walked them to the door, you couldn’t help but feel like you were being dragged into something much bigger than you anticipated.

You screamed out in frustration, the weight of Angela’s plan sinking in. You didn’t have a choice. If you didn’t make a big move to salvage your image, your agency would drop you. Bookings would dry up, shows would pass you over, and the fashion world would leave you behind. You’d be finished. And you couldn’t let that happen. You’d worked too hard to get here.

The thought of smoking on the balcony crossed your mind, but you shook it off. Paparazzi were probably camped out in the bushes beyond your gates, waiting for any misstep to capture and sell. You’d come too far to give them an easy headline. Instead, you lit up inside, taking a long drag from your joint as the familiar calm washed over you. You were making changes, after all. No hard drugs anymore, just weed. Baby steps.

The high brought clarity. A PR relationship wasn’t just an idea—it was a necessity. As much as it stung to think about Nicholas Chavez leeching off your fame, you knew it would be mutually beneficial. But still, the thought of tying yourself, even temporarily, to someone like him made your stomach twist. Sure, he was very attractive but he wasn’t in your league. You were scared of how much you’d have to give to make this work.

But it was fake. That’s what you told yourself. It was all for PR. Nothing more. Nothing less. He wouldn’t ruin your image, and you wouldn’t ruin his. It was transactional. Professional. It would be fine. Right?

You stubbed out the joint and made your way to Nicholas’ house next door. You barely had to ring the doorbell before he opened it, an actual smile lighting up his face. It threw you off. You’d never seen him smile in person or even in interviews. His reputation for playing cold, detached roles, especially after his breakout as Lyle Menendez—preceded him. Maybe Angela was right. He needed this just as much as you did.

He led you into his sleek, modern living room. The place was clean, organized, and clearly decorated by someone with taste. He motioned for you to sit, and you took a spot on the plush sofa.

“I hope you’ll be seeing more of this place,” he started, his voice smooth but slightly nervous. “And have you thought about our manager’s plan?”

You raised an eyebrow. “Wait, Angela’s your manager too?”

He nodded, and you rolled your eyes. Of course, she had orchestrated this from every angle.

You leaned back, crossing your legs. “Yeah, I’ve thought about it. I don’t have a choice, do I? It’s the best move for you.”

He looked a little taken aback, his ego clearly bruised. “For both of us, I think you’d benefit too,” he replied, his tone defensive.

You smirked, brushing him off. “Sure. But we both know you’re the one getting the most out of this. Let’s not kid ourselves.”

He let it go, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. “Fine. So, are we starting this now? What’s the first move?”

His eyes flickered to your lips briefly, and you caught it. Clearing his throat, he added, “I was thinking we could stage something big to kick things off. Flowers, candles, the whole deal. I’ll set up a space, maybe on your balcony or one of your other properties, and ask you to be my girlfriend. We’ll take pictures and post them to soft-launch the relationship a few days from now but first we’ll get paparazzi to snap a few candids of us but making sure to not get my face. Just enough to get people speculating.”

Your brow arched. “You’ve really thought this through, haven’t you?”

He grinned, a hint of smugness in his expression. “Guess I’m cut out for this Hollywood life after all.”

“Or you just really want to be seen with me,” you shot back, and he laughed.

“Can you blame me? You’ve been my celebrity crush for years,” he admitted, his tone playful but honest.

You laughed, shaking your head. “Expected.”

By the time you left his house, the plan was in motion. You both snuck off to one of your properties near the beach, Nicholas’ team working quickly to decorate the space with candles, roses, and twinkling lights. You’d gone home to change into a white Chanel dress that flattered you perfectly and made your skin glow under the evening light.

Once the setup was complete, you snapped a picture, careful to keep Nicholas out of frame. The photo went into your drafts, ready to post in a few days. Before leaving, you called your paparazzi contacts, making sure they’d capture strategic shots of you on the decorated balcony with your “mystery man” in the background, his face obscured.

The photos hit the internet within hours. By the time you were back home, your phone was blowing up with texts and notifications. Every media outlet, TMZ, Page Six, even Vogue—was talking about the “romantic mystery” surrounding your evening.

You and Nicholas sat close together on your bed, scrolling through the headlines. Angela called, her voice practically buzzing through the phone.

“Congratulations, to the new couple! This was perfect. Everyone’s talking about it. I knew you could pull it off.”

“Not like I had a choice,” you muttered, rolling your eyes.

Angela laughed. “Well, keep it up. Keep the image clean. And, Nicholas, I trust you to handle this.”

“What about me?” you snapped. “Don’t you trust me?”

“Not as much as I trust him,” Angela teased before hanging up.

You scoffed, tossing your phone onto the bed. “Great. Well, since we’re here, we might as well stay the night. But stay away from the windows. Last thing we need is more candid shots.”

Nicholas nodded in agreement. “Makes sense. Where should I sleep?”

“In here,” you replied nonchalantly. “We’re going to have to share hotel rooms eventually for appearances. Might as well practice now.”

He blinked, a little surprised, but didn’t argue.

You decided to shower first, stripping out of your dress and walking into the bathroom, fully aware of his eyes on you. You smirked to yourself, knowing he was watching your naked figure from behind. When you returned, towel-clad and refreshed, he took his turn. You couldn’t help but notice his muscular back and firm figure as he disappeared into the bathroom.

By the time he returned, you were both in bed, lying on opposite sides in a comfortable silence, the glow of the TV casting soft light across the room.

Nicholas broke the quiet, turning his head to you. “Alright, girlfriend. Since we skipped the talking and dating stage, tell me about yourself.”

You chuckled, rolling onto your side to face him. “What do you want to know?”

“Everything, you can start off with your modeling career if you’d like,” he said simply. His expression was soft, genuine. For the first time, he didn’t look like the detached actor or the PR project Angela had roped you into.

And, against your better judgment, you started talking, hesitantly at first. “I started because—I wanted to feel like I was someone, like I mattered, I want to be appreciated for what I had to offer. But it wasn’t easy,” you said, your voice steady but tinged with vulnerability. “It took years of hard work, long nights, endless rejection, and now it feels like it’s all slipping through my fingers.” You swallowed hard, your chest tightening. “The scandals, the rumors, it’s like everything I built is crumbling, and the worst part is they don’t even know the real me. I’m not that person they paint me as—some careless, drug-addicted mess.”

Nicholas’ expression didn’t waver. He didn’t interrupt or glance away. Instead, he shifted slightly closer, his elbow resting on the mattress as he propped his head on his hand. “And now,” you continued, your voice breaking slightly, “I just feel like a failure. Like I’ve disappointed everyone who ever believed in me.”

He reached out, his fingers brushing lightly against your cheek as he tucked a strand of hair behind your ear. The gesture was so gentle, so uncharacteristic, that it caught you off guard. You froze, your breath hitching as you stared at him, unsure of how to respond. “It’s going to be okay,” he said softly, his deep voice laced with sincerity. “You’re not what they say you are. I see you for who you really are—a hard worker, talented, smart, beautiful, and so much more. We’ll figure this out. We’ll fix your reputation together.”

Your throat tightened at his words. You didn’t know how to react—this wasn’t the detached, unfeeling Nicholas the world talked about. He was warm, reassuring, and entirely present. “Thank you,” you said quietly, your voice barely above a whisper. “You’re not like what people say you are either.” You managed a small smile. “Detached with dead eyes? Doesn’t seem to fit right now.”

He chuckled, a low, genuine sound that made your chest feel lighter. “Guess they don’t know me that well either, huh?”

You laughed softly, the tension between you easing. He hesitated for a moment before clearing his throat. “So, uh, do you maybe want to cuddle?” he asked nervously, his usual confidence replaced with uncertainty.

You raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at your lips. “Why do you wanna do that, Chavez? Ain’t no media or paparazzi in here to see what’s going on.”

He paused, his mouth twitching into an embarrassed smile. “Just practicing,” he said with a shrug.

You couldn’t help but laugh again, rolling your eyes as you shifted closer to him, resting your head against his chest. His strong arm wrapped loosely around your shoulders, and you let yourself relax, his steady heartbeat soothing you. “You’re something else,” you murmured before sleep claimed you both.

Hours later, you woke to the soft rise and fall of his chest against yours. The room was still dark, the quiet hum of waves beyond the windows faint in the background. His arms were wrapped firmly around you, his body pressing against yours in a way that felt impossibly warm and secure. You blinked groggily, realizing your legs were tangled with his, your face nestled against his chest. And then, you felt it—a firm pressure against your hip.

Your cheeks heated as you carefully shifted, trying to move without waking him. You turned away slightly, hoping to create some distance, but before you could, his arm tightened around your waist, pulling you flush against him once more. He shifted in his sleep, his breath brushing against the back of your neck as he spooned you. You froze, hyper-aware of every inch of contact, his solid frame molding against you and the unmistakable hardness pressing against you.

“It’s just—early morning wood,” you muttered quietly to yourself, trying to convince your racing thoughts to settle. “That’s all it is.” You closed your eyes, willing yourself to ignore the heat creeping up your neck. After a few moments of stillness, his steady breathing calmed you again, and you drifted off, lulled by the warmth and weight of him enveloping you.

Maybe this PR relationship thing wouldn’t be so bad, he was tolerable—just a bit, for now.

︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵‿

Taglist: @blackynsupremacy @rafeysslut

[my-religion-greek-myth]

Freedom far away - H

I think I'm nearly there; the end! Though, I feel personality changes in as I keep write Agatha and Rio ... SSSSHT

Fem Reader X Agatha X Rio

Part A | Part B | Part C&D | Part E | Part F | Part G | Part H | Part I&J | Part K | Part L | Part M | Part ?

The longer you stayed, the more the strange tension that had first hung between you all began to dissolve, replaced by an ease that both comforted and unsettled you. It wasn’t the answers you had come for, but it was something else—something warmer, something real.

Rio sprawled out on cushions on the wooden floor, her head propped up by her hand as she laughed at something Agatha had said. The sound was bright, almost childlike in its glee, though there was an edge to it that made your pulse quicken. Agatha, in contrast, sat with her legs crossed, her expression carefully composed, though the occasional smirk betrayed her amusement.

"You two are impossible," you said, shaking your head as you watched them bicker over some trivial detail. "Sometimes, I don’t know how you can stand each other less love each other."

"Oh, it’s not standing—it’s thriving," Rio quipped, her dark eyes glinting mischievously as she threw a casual arm over the back of a mountain of cushions. "Agatha keeps me on my toes, and I keep her… entertained."

"Entertained?" Agatha scoffed, raising a brow, not taking her eyes off her book. "Try exasperated."

"You love it," Rio teased, her grin widening as she reached over to tug at Agatha’s sleeve playfully.

Agatha’s sharp gaze softened ever so slightly, and for a moment, you caught a flicker of something raw and unguarded in her eyes. She quickly masked it with a roll of her eyes, brushing Rio’s hand away with feigned annoyance. "You’re incorrigible," she muttered, though the corners of her mouth curved into a faint smile.

You watched them with a strange mix of emotions swirling in your chest. Their connection was undeniable—intense, magnetic, and filled with a depth that made your heart ache. You wanted to be a part of that, to share in the love they so clearly had for each other. Your cheeks burned as you took it all in. Their ease with each other was too different the rigid decorum you were accustomed to, and yet it only deepened the strange love you felt growing for them.

Rio tilted her head, clearly sensing your lingering look. "Still reacting like this after everything, pretty lady?" she teased, her grin widening. "You’ve already chased us down, asked all these questions, and even admitted you love us. Surely, a little casual behaviour isn’t going to scare you off."

You couldn’t deny the lingering culture shock of seeing Rio lounging so casually, her feet almost carelessly close to the table. You exhaled slowly, shaking your head at your own absurdity.

"You’re so different, and sometimes it feels like I’m the one out of place here."

Agatha’s sharp gaze softened ever so slightly, her smirk deepening as if she found your flustered honesty amusing. "Out of place?" she echoed, tilting her head. "Doll, you’re sitting here with us, aren’t you? That’s hardly out of place."

Rio stretched out further, her posture even more relaxed as she flashed you a knowing grin. "Exactly. You fit in here more than you think, pretty lady."

You glanced between them, feeling the tension that had been knotting in your chest begin to ease. Their casual confidence was infectious, and though part of you still felt out of your depth, another part began to wonder if they were right. Maybe you weren’t as out of place as you feared.

Shaking your head, you let out a breathy laugh. "You two… I don’t even know how to describe it."

"Describe us?" Rio interjected, her grin widening with exaggerated enthusiasm. "Oh, please do. I’m dying to hear how utterly charming we are."

"Charming isn’t the word I’d use," you said, narrowing your eyes playfully. "Frustrating might be more accurate."

"Frustratingly charming," Rio corrected without missing a beat, her dark eyes glinting with mischief. "But go on, don’t stop now."

Agatha chuckled softly, the sound low and rich. "She’s catching on," she murmured, her sharp gaze flicking to you with amusement. "Doll, you might just surprise us."

"Do you two ever stop?" you asked, exasperation laced with affection as you leaned back in your chair.

"Stop what? Being devastatingly and frustratingly charming?" Rio asked, feigning wide-eyed innocence that only made her grin more infectious.

Agatha rolled her eyes but smirked nonetheless. "Infuriating is the word you’re looking for, doll," she said dryly, though there was no mistaking the fondness in her tone.

"Infuriatingly charming," Rio declared triumphantly. "I’ll take it."

Agatha let out a soft chuckle, the sound low and rich. "Careful, doll. Keep this up, and you might actually start enjoying our company."

"Too late," you admitted without any hesitation. The words hung in the air for a moment, and you felt your cheeks flush under their combined gazes.

Rio’s smile softened, and for once, there was no teasing in her expression. "Well, that’s good," she said, her voice warm and genuine. "Because we’re starting to enjoy yours too."

A quiet laugh escaped you, and before you could overthink it, you stood and crossed to where Agatha sat. Without ceremony, you flopped down beside her, the cushion beneath you sinking slightly as you settled in. Your shoulder brushed against hers, and you couldn’t help but notice the faint scent of floral clinging to her.

Agatha arched a brow, her sharp blue eyes flicking to you as a smirk tugged at the corner of her lips. "Comfortable, doll?" she drawled, though there was no real bite in her tone.

"Yes, actually," you replied, tilting your head to meet her gaze with a small, teasing smile. "You make a good shield."

"A shield?" she echoed, amusement lacing her voice as she leaned back, closing her book. "From what, exactly?"

You didn’t answer, instead glancing over at Rio, who was watching the two of you with an expression that could only be described as delighted. Her dark eyes sparkled with mischief, and she didn’t hesitate to shift closer, effectively sandwiching Agatha between you.

"Perfect," Rio said brightly, her grin wide and unapologetic. "Now I get to see you both up close. It’s like my birthday."

Agatha rolled her eyes but didn’t move, though you noticed the slight stiffening of her shoulders. After a moment, she let out an exaggerated sigh, feigning discomfort. "Honestly," she muttered, "if you’re going to crowd me like this…"

She trailed off, her arm lifting and draping casually around your shoulders. The motion was fluid, almost dismissive, but the weight of her arm sent a rush of heat to your cheeks. You stiffened, the warmth rising from your neck to the tips of your ears as you tried to focus on anything but the fact that Agatha was now holding you like it was the most natural thing in the world.

Rio’s grin widened as she leaned her chin on her palm, clearly enjoying the scene. "Well, isn’t this cosy," she remarked, her tone dripping with amusement.

Agatha’s smirk deepened, her fingers tapping lightly against your shoulder. "Cosy enough for you, doll?" she asked, her voice low and teasing.

"I…" You faltered, the words catching in your throat as your face grew impossibly hotter. "It’s… fine," you managed, though your voice sounded embarrassingly high-pitched even to your own ears.

Rio laughed, the sound rich and unrestrained as she reclined against her cushion. "Oh, you’re precious," she said, her dark eyes twinkling. "I think I like this side of you, pretty lady."

Agatha chuckled, the sound low and warm. "She’s full of surprises," she murmured, her gaze flicking to you briefly before returning to Rio. "Wouldn’t you agree?"

The conversation shifted after that, flowing naturally as you all fell into an easy rhythm. Rio’s wild gestures and exaggerated stories filled the space with laughter, her energy infectious even when it bordered on overwhelming. Agatha, in contrast, remained sharp and composed, though her biting humour and occasional soft chuckles hinted at a depth she kept carefully guarded.

Despite their differences, their connection was undeniable, and you couldn’t help but feel the strange love toward them grow stronger with each passing moment. Sitting there between them, with Agatha’s arm still draped around you and Rio’s teasing gaze never straying far, you felt something you hadn’t in a long time: belonging.

"You’re awfully quiet," Agatha remarked suddenly, her piercing gaze cutting through your thoughts. "Something on your mind, doll?"

You hesitated, your fingers playing with the edge of the blanket draped over your lap. "Just… thinking," you said softly, glancing between the two of them. "About how different you are. And yet, how… perfectly you fit."

Rio raised a brow, her grin turning sly. "Are you saying you admire us, pretty lady?"

"Maybe," you replied, your voice steady despite the warmth rising to your cheeks. "Or maybe I’m just trying to figure out how you haven’t driven each other mad yet."

Agatha laughed, the sound unguarded and rich. "Oh, trust me, we’ve come close," she said, her tone lighter than you’d ever heard it. "But somehow, we always find our way back to each other."

Her words struck a chord deep within you, and you wondered if they felt the same way about you. Did they notice the connection forming between the three of you? It felt fragile yet undeniable, and for now, you chose not to ask, content to let the moment linger, warm and unhurried.

Time had passed, and the tension that had once defined your visits to Agatha and Rio’s surreal home had softened into something far more comfortable. You spent more time in their world, wrapped in their unique blend of wit, charm, and enigmatic allure. You had begun to understand their quirks—the way Agatha masked her emotions with biting humour and Rio’s unpredictable energy could shift from playful to commanding in a heartbeat.

Sometimes, both women disappeared, citing 'business' that required their attention. Though they never explained in detail, you suspected it was tied to their magic. Occasionally, you heard whispers of Lord Rio at your household—visiting the court or being spotted in the city. Those moments left you both flustered and intrigued as you wondered what she was up to in your world while you lingered in theirs.

One morning, your grandfather summoned you to his chambers. The moment you stepped inside, the heavy atmosphere made your chest tighten. He sat at his desk, a letter open before him, his expression as stern as ever.

"You wanted to see me, Grandfather?" you asked politely, though a part of you already dreaded what was coming.

He gestured for you to sit, and you obeyed, folding your hands neatly in your lap. For a moment, he studied you, his piercing gaze weighing heavily on you.

"There is an important matter to discuss," he said finally. "A marriage proposal has been brought to my attention. From the royal family."

Your stomach dropped, and your carefully composed expression faltered. "The royal family?" you echoed, your voice quieter than you intended.

He nodded, leaning back in his chair. "It is a significant opportunity for our family. To marry into the royal line is an honour and a privilege."

Your thoughts raced, panic clawing at your chest. The idea of marrying someone from the royal family—someone you did not know, someone who was not Agatha or Rio—felt like a weight pressing down on you.

"I…" You hesitated, searching for an escape. "What about Lord Rio?" The words tumbled out before you could stop them, and you immediately regretted your impulsiveness, knowing your grandfather would not accept.

Your grandfather frowned, his eyes narrowing as he studied you. "Lord Rio?"

You nodded quickly, forcing yourself to sound composed. "He is well-respected, is he not? A foreign lord with influence and intelligence. Surely, he would make a suitable match."

For a moment, your grandfather said nothing, his expression unreadable. Then he let out a slow breath, shaking his head. "Lord Rio is indeed an impressive individual," he admitted. "But he is a foreigner. Marrying him would not bring the same advantages as joining the royal family."

Your heart sank, though you struggled to keep your disappointment from showing. "But surely… there is value in forging alliances beyond our borders," you argued weakly, knowing your words held little weight against his unwavering logic.

"Enough," he said firmly, cutting off any further protest. "You are a noble daughter of this household. Your duty is to strengthen our family’s position. A marriage to the royal line achieves that."

You bit your lip, your hands clenching in your lap. "And what if I do not wish to marry at all?" you asked quietly, the words slipping out in one breath.

Your grandfather’s eyes darkened, his gaze sharp and unyielding. "Wishes have little place in matters of duty," he said coldly. "You would do well to remember that."

The conversation left you feeling both trapped and defiant. Your mind swirled with thoughts of Agatha and Rio. Their world felt like freedom compared to the suffocating expectations of your family. But what could you do? The love you felt toward them had only grown stronger, but it seemed the ties of duty were tightening around you with every passing day.

You needed to see them, to be in their presence again. Perhaps they would know what to do—or perhaps simply being near them would remind you of the courage you so desperately needed to find within yourself.

You did not even realise you ran out of your grandfather's study and were running until your lungs began to burn. The sound of your grandfather’s angry shouting echoed faintly behind you, but you did not care. You just kept going, your feet carrying you instinctively toward the only place that felt safe anymore.

The entrance to their realm came into view, the shimmering gate glowing faintly in the daylight. Without hesitation, you passed through, the familiar sense of comfort washing over you like a warm embrace. It was as though the air was cradling you, soothing your frayed nerves even as your emotions overwhelmed you.

Tears welled in your eyes, and before you could stop them, they began to fall—slow, silent drops rolling down your cheeks. Tears started falling drop by drop, staining the collar of your dress as you walked toward their house. It stood there as it always did, serene and otherworldly, its soft glow contrasting with your turmoil.

The door creaked softly as you pushed it open. The silence inside was palpable, the air still and expectant. You stepped inside, your legs feeling heavier with each step. When you reached the corner of the room, you could no longer hold yourself up. You sank to your knees, wrapping your arms around them as you waited for them to return.

You did not know how long you stayed like that, your tears soaking into the fabric of your dress as you sat in the stillness of their home. Exhaustion weighed heavily on you, and before you realised it, sleep claimed you.

A soft touch pulled you from the haze of slumber. Gentle fingers brushed your shoulder, shaking you awake with a care that felt almost reverent.

You blinked your eyes open, and the first thing you saw was Agatha’s face hovering above you. Her piercing blue eyes, usually guarded, were filled with an unspoken concern. There was no smirk, no teasing remark—just raw, unfiltered emotion. It startled you almost as much as the tenderness in her touch.

"Are you alright?" she asked softly, her voice laced with worry. She crouched down in front of you, her hand lingering on your shoulder as her eyes searched yours.

The flood of emotions you had been holding back broke free. Without thinking, you threw yourself into her arms, your hands clutching at the back of her robe as you buried your face in her shoulder. A sob tore from your throat, followed by another, and another. Sobbing, you tightened your embrace around her.

Agatha froze for a moment, clearly startled by the sudden embrace. But then, slowly, her arms came up to wrap around you, holding you close as you cried. Her hands were gentle, one resting on the back of your head while the other rubbed soothing circles against your back.

"Shh," she murmured, her voice softer than you had ever heard. "It’s alright, doll. Let it out."

The sound of her voice only made you cry harder, the weight of everything crashing down on you at once. The pressure of your family’s expectations, the suffocating proposal, and the fear of losing the connection you had built with these two women poured out in a torrent of tears.

Agatha didn’t pull away or try to quiet you. She simply held you, her embrace firm and reassuring as you let the storm within you rage. For the first time in what felt like forever, you allowed yourself to feel everything without restraint, knowing you were safe in her arms.

When your sobs finally subsided, you pulled back slightly, your face flushed and tear-streaked as you met her gaze. Agatha’s thumb brushed against your cheek, wiping away the remnants of your tears. Her expression was soft, her sharp features unusually tender as she looked at you.

"You’ve been holding this in for a while, haven’t you?" she asked gently, her tone free of its usual teasing edge.

You nodded, your throat too tight to form words. Her hand lingered on your cheek for a moment longer before she pulled you back into a hug, resting her chin lightly on the top of your head.

"Good," she said softly. "I’d hate to think you didn’t trust us enough to let it out."

The words hit you harder than they should have, and you clung to her even tighter. For the first time in days, you felt like you could breathe again.

You hadn’t realised Rio was there until her voice broke the quiet behind Agatha. Turning your head slightly, you met her gaze, and what you saw there startled you—a mix of anger… and was that jealousy?

Rio said nothing as she stepped closer, her movements fluid and purposeful. She reached out, her hand resting lightly on the top of your head in an almost comforting gesture, though her intense expression said otherwise. Her dark eyes seemed to shimmer before they glinted fiercely, a predatory light flickering within them.

Her eyes gleamed sharply.

Without a word, Rio drew a dagger from her robes—a weapon you hadn’t seen for some time, its sleek blade catching the faint light of the room. She tilted her head, her voice dangerously soft as she asked, "Who do I need to torture?"

Despite the tension of the moment, a soft laugh escaped you. The absurdity of her statement and the fact that Agatha’s arm was still wrapped securely around you made the situation feel oddly surreal. Your laughter was light but genuine, and it caught Rio off guard.

Rio pouted dramatically, her expression shifting into something almost petulant. "I’m not joking," she whined, her fingers tightening around the hilt of her dagger. "If you don’t want me to do it, Agatha always can. She’s much better at getting rid of problems anyway."

Agatha sighed, her hand moving to rub your back as she spoke gently. "Rio," she said, her tone laced with exasperation, though a fondness was underlying it. "You’re not helping."

"But look at her!" Rio retorted, gesturing toward you with her free hand. "Someone made her cry. That deserves retribution, doesn’t it?"

You shook your head, a faint smile still tugging at your lips despite the lingering ache in your chest. "I don’t need anyone to be tortured," you said softly, your voice steady but kind. "I just… needed to be here."

Rio huffed, crossing her arms as she tucked the dagger back into her robes. "Fine," she muttered, though her tone was far from resigned. She leaned down slightly, her face close to yours, as she added, "But if anyone so much as looks at you the wrong way, you let me know."

Her declaration was so fierce, so unapologetically protective, that it sent a strange warmth coursing through you. You glanced up at Agatha, who was watching Rio with a bemused expression, her lips quirking into a half-smile.

"She’s serious, you know," Agatha said, her tone carrying a teasing edge. "It’s not often she gets this… worked up."

Rio straightened, her pout returning. "Worked up? I’m perfectly calm."

Agatha chuckled, the sound low and rich. "Of course you are," she said, her voice dripping with amusement. "Perfectly calm, with a dagger in hand and murder in your eyes."

Rio rolled her eyes but said nothing, choosing instead to plop herself down on the floor beside you and Agatha. She rested her chin on her palm, her gaze softening as it lingered on you. "Still," she murmured, her tone quieter now, "whoever hurt you better hope they never cross me."

You couldn’t help but smile at her words, though they were spoken with deadly sincerity. The knot in your chest began to loosen for the first time since you’d arrived. Here, in their surreal, star-lit realm, you felt a strange sense of belonging—a place where you could fall apart and still be held together.

You felt Agatha’s lips press gently against the crown of your head, a gesture so unexpected it sent a pleasant warmth coursing through you. The soft touch of her lips against your hair lingered, and you realised, to your own surprise, how much you liked it.

Agatha pulled back slightly, her gaze meeting yours momentarily before flicking to Rio. "Help her up," she said simply, though her tone had an unspoken tenderness.

Rio moved to your side, her hands firm yet gentle as she helped you to your feet. But before you could steady yourself, she pulled you into her embrace, her arms wrapping around you with an almost possessive edge. The unexpected closeness made your heart race, and before you could process the moment, Rio leaned down and kissed your forehead.

It wasn’t soft or fleeting. It was deliberate, lingering, and filled with an intensity that made your breath catch. The way her lips pressed against your skin spoke volumes, and you could feel your face flush deeply.

"Rio," Agatha said, her tone carrying a mix of exasperation and amusement. She crossed her arms and raised a brow at her companion. "Really? You kiss her forehead before I do?"

Rio pulled back slightly, her grin wide and unapologetic. She glanced down at you, her dark eyes twinkling with mischief. "First one wins," she said playfully, directing the comment at Agatha rather than you.

Your cheeks burned hotter at the exchange, but Rio didn’t seem to notice—or perhaps she enjoyed your reaction too much to stop. She shot Agatha a challenging look, her grin growing wider as she added, "You snooze, you lose."

Agatha rolled her eyes dramatically but didn’t bother to hide the smirk tugging at her lips. "Oh, how mature," she drawled, turning away with a flick of her wrist. "Perhaps I should let you handle this, then."

You watched as Agatha moved toward a small cabinet in the corner of the room. With her usual flourish, she waved her hand, the faint purple haze of her magic shimmering in the air as a teacup floated toward her. It settled gently on the table, steam rising from the fragrant brew within.

She returned with the tea in hand, her expression softening as she offered it to you. "Drink," she said, her voice calm but firm. "It’ll help."

This time, you didn't hesitate and took the cup, the warmth seeping into your hands as you cradled it. Agatha sat down beside you, her gaze steady and encouraging, while Rio settled on your other side, her playful grin giving way to a quieter curiosity.

"What happened?" Agatha coaxed gently, her eyes searching yours. Her tone was free of its usual sharpness, replaced instead by a genuine concern that made it hard to look away.

Rio leaned in slightly, her presence as steady and reassuring as Agatha’s, though her approach was more casual. "Take your time, my lady," she said softly, her voice carrying an edge of protectiveness that sent a shiver down your spine. "We’re not going anywhere."

Their combined attention was overwhelming but in the best way. You felt safe enough to speak for the first time in what felt like hours.

You took a deep breath, the warmth of the tea in your hands steadying you just enough to begin. "It’s… about the marriage proposal," you started, your voice faltering slightly as their attention sharpened on you. "A royal family has made an offer for me."

Rio’s brow lifted, her casual demeanour shifting into something more focused. Agatha’s expression darkened, her sharp gaze growing colder.

"My grandfather called me into his study to discuss it," you continued, your words spilling out faster now. "He talked about alliances and duty, all those things I’ve heard before. And then—" you hesitated, the memory of your desperation making your cheeks burn "—I panicked. I told him to consider… to consider Lord Rio instead."

Rio’s eyes widened, her grin spreading so quickly that it was almost comical. She leaned back with a triumphant laugh, her dark eyes glinting with pride. "Did you now?" she drawled, her voice thick with amusement. "Oh, my lady, I knew you had excellent taste." She turned to Agatha, her grin practically splitting her face. "Did you hear that? She picked me."

Agatha rolled her eyes, though the corner of her mouth twitched in what might have been a smirk. "Yes, Rio, we’re all terribly impressed," she said dryly, though her attention quickly shifted back to you, her piercing gaze softening slightly.

Rio didn’t stop, clearly relishing the moment. "Marrying into the royal family, huh?" she mused, her voice playful but carrying a dangerous undertone. "And yet, you suggested me. I’m flattered, my lady. Truly."

You couldn’t help but feel flustered under her burning gaze, her words only adding to the heat already burning in your cheeks. "It wasn’t—" you started to protest, but Rio’s grin silenced you, her satisfaction radiating like a tangible force.

The playful air around Rio didn’t seem to extend to Agatha. Her expression had grown darker as you spoke, her hand tightening slightly around her teacup. Her voice was low and firm when she finally spoke, carrying a possessiveness that sent a shiver down your spine.

"He has no right to force you into anything," Agatha said, her tone leaving no room for argument. She set her tea aside and reached for your hand, her touch warm and steady. "You are not a bargaining chip, not some prize to be traded for alliances."

Her words were fierce, but the kiss she pressed to your hand was surprisingly gentle, the contrast leaving you breathless. When she looked up at you again, her blue eyes glinted sharply. "You’re ours," she declared, her voice quiet but filled with a conviction that made your heart race.

Rio’s grin softened into something warmer, though no less mischievous. "Agatha’s right," she said, leaning in slightly. "You’re not going anywhere, my lady. Not unless it’s with us."

You felt the weight of their words settle over you, heavy but not unwelcome. Despite the whirlwind of emotions swirling inside you—confusion, fear, longing—you couldn’t deny the comfort their presence brought. Here, with their unwavering attention and fierce protectiveness, you felt more at home than you ever had in the confines of your own family.

Agatha’s fingers lingered against yours, her touch steady as she studied your face. "You don’t have to decide anything now," she said softly, her voice losing some of its earlier edge. "But know this—we won’t let anyone take you away from us."

Rio reached out, her hand brushing lightly against your shoulder. "And if your grandfather insists on pushing this," she added, her voice carrying a dangerous undertone, "he’ll find that he’s underestimated just how far we’re willing to go to keep you safe."

You couldn’t help but smile, their words filling you with a strange, undeniable sense of belonging. For the first time since your grandfather had brought up the proposal, you felt… at peace.

[jayparked]

No. 86 from those um prompts? of jay please🥲

"are you nervous?" jay's eyes frantically search yours for any indication that you've changed your mind, any slight flicker of your eyes, any nervous lip biting, but he doesn't see anything past the pure love in your eyes. you're lying back comfortably on his bed, his hands on either side of your head as he holds himself upright over your body.

"i'm not nervous," you say with a soft smile. you reach up to cup his cheeks, taking a moment to admire the contrast between his sharp facial features and soft gaze before guiding his face down to yours and kissing his lips slowly. jay's arms are shaking slightly and your heart swells with how safe you feel sharing your first time with him, knowing how much he cares about your wellbeing.

"if at any point you change your mind or want to stop-"

"i'll tell you. but i want this, jay. i want you." you brush your thumbs along his cheeks, unable to look away from his gaze. jay leans into your touch, taking a moment to close his eyes and sigh.

jay opens his eyes again slowly, shifting his weight onto one hand so he can use the free one to mimic your actions; cupping your face and gently tracing the edges of your mouth with his thumb.

your breath hitches in your throat, suddenly overwhelmed by all the emotions you have festered inside your chest. "i love you, jay," you whisper to him softly. the words don't feel like enough to truly express the magnitude of feelings you feel for this man. and you could spend all night confessing your declaration until all the stars in the galaxy faded into dust, but something about the complex simplicity of the three words alongside his name is enough right now.

"i love you too, honey. so, so much." he gives you one last passionate kiss before he lines himself up to your entrance. you inhale slowly, bracing yourself for the foreign feeling.

"tell me if it hurts, okay? it shouldn't since we prepped really well. but it might feel uncomfortable. i'll go slow just-"

you interrupt him with a kiss, wrapping your arms around his neck and bringing one leg around his waist, pressing slightly until he moves closer to you, the tip of his cock breaching your walls for the first time.

for part of my 1k follower celebration send me a member and a number from this list and i'll write a short drabble about it ♡ masterlist

[ofmdrecaps]

11/17-18/2024 Daily OFMD Recap

TLDR; Rhys Darby; Taika Waititi; Con O'Neill; Samba Schutte; Vico Ortiz; Minnie Driver; Dominic Burgess; Anapela Polata'ivao; Brian Gattas & Connor Barrett; Nat Torress; Articles; Transgender Awarness Week; Last Chance for OFMD Buys Boats!!; Fan Spotlight: Frames for the New Unicorn; Our Flag Means Fanfiction; Love Notes;

Hey crew! Sorry it's been a bit of a week over here between work and home stuff so I'm always like 4 days behind. I'm trying to catch up and will when I can. For now, here's a big ol pile of news!

= Rhys Darby =

Well as you can probably tell Rhys is super busy at the moment! Two interviews today! Now that's overkill! You're a lunatic and I love it!

More show dates!

Aotearoa dates!

WGN - 27 MAR, Opera House

CHC - 29 Mar, Isaac Theatre Royal

AKL - 3-4 APR, Bruce Mason Centre

You can get tickets on Rhysdarby.com w/password ROBOT

for UK / Ireland Tickets:

Order tickets on Mickperrin.com w/password RDPRIORITY24

Source: Rhys' Instagram

More Daily Doodles!

Sad news Daily Doodle Fans:

Source: Rhys Darby's Free Substack

= Taika Waititi =

More Interior Chinatown interviews!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Movie Podcast (@themoviepodcast)

Source: TheMoviePodcast Instagram

Source: Coastal House Media

= Con O'Neill =

PSA from Con on Bsky!

Source: Con O'Neill's bsky

= Samba Schutte =

Samba attended the Hell Hath No Fury Premiere!!

Source: Samba's Instagram Stories

= Minnie Driver =

Happy 6th anniversary to Minnie and Addison (Nov 17th!)

Source: Minnie Driver Instagram

= Vico Ortiz =

Vico is on Bluesky!

Source: Vico's Bluesky (Special thanks to Chloe, aka gheyandwoke for bringing it to my attention! It's also Vico and Ane's 3 year anniversary! Congrats you two <3

Source: Vico's Instagram

More news for Vico-- they will be performing in “Tales of the Transcestors: The Divine” in the Greenway Court Theatre in CA! "Tales of the Transcestors: The Divine is a must-see World Premiere that reimagines folklore, mythologies, and spiritual guides across time and cultures. Through three interwoven stories rooted in Native Hawaiian tradition (Kapaemahu), Islamic mysticism (djinn), and spiritual alchemy (the Rebis), the production unearths personal and cultural histories to reclaim trans wisdom, healing, power, and joy. Tales of the Transcestors: The Divine captures the tension between inherited memory and lived experience, building a portal for audiences to enter a "world between worlds"—where lineage, desire, time, and space are fluid and ever-shifting."

Show Dates and Times:

Thursday December 12th - Doors: 7:30pm, Show 8pm.

Friday December 13th - Doors: 7:30pm, Show 8pm

Saturday December 14th - Doors: 2:30pm, Show 3pm - *ASL Interpreted* Show followed by Talkback

Saturday December 14th - Doors: 7:30pm, Show 8pm

Ticket information

Source: Celebrationthtr and Vico's Instagram Stories

= Anapela Polata'ivao =

Official Tinā poster is up!

Source: Tinā Film Instagram

= Brian Gattas & Connor Barrett =

I am feeling like a goober but I forgot the context of where our Hornberry and Siegfried were at! If you happen to know please let me know-- getting to see Mr. Barrett dance though really made my day!

Source: Brian Gattas Instagram Stories

= Nat Torres =

Nat once again keeping us fed with the adorable pup content.

Source: Nat Torres Instagram

= Dominic Burgess =

Dominic doesn't just collect kitties, he collects physical media as well! He was kind enough to share some of it with us! (I'm a physical media hoarder so I was excited).

Source: Dominic's Bluesky

== Articles ==

Thank you so @adoptourcrew for sharing this article from The Geekiary!

Source: Adopt Our Crew Bsky

== Transgender Awareness Week ==

The fabulous These/Thems have shared a very instructional video with out bestie Vico on the differences between cis, genderqueer and trans! Check it out below!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by THESE THEMS Queer TV (@these_thems)

Source: These Thems Instagram

== Tiny Crew Big Raffle ==

More updates from OFMD Buys Boats! The raffle closes 23:59 Thursday 21st November 2024 (GMT)! So if you want to donate and enter for the raffle remember to get to it right away!

How to Enter

Source: OFMD Buys Boats Instagram

== Fan Spotlight ==

= Frames For The New Unicorn =

This beautiful collaboration by so many of our crewmates is finally up! Check out this beautiful dedication to Izzy and Con O'Neill! To learn more about the project, see the individual frames and who made them, please check out their linktr.ee!

Source: So Many Places, going with the Youtube Channel

= Other Frames Projects =

I'm waiting on permission to share.. but there's another frames project in the works! This time the moonlight scene! If you'd like to learn more you can go to Ram's Bsky Does anyone know of any other frames projects going on? I would absolutely LOVE to see something for like Oluwande, or Lucius, or Jim, or Spanish Jackie! I'm just curious if I'm missing some!

= Our Flag Means Fanfiction =

New episode of Our Flag Means Fanfiction-- and it's the #AssTonight episode! An "Oral history" (tee hee). Oh and Alex Sherman shared it on Bluesky!

Source: Our Flag Means FanFiction Instagram

== Love Notes ==

Hey there lovelies. This week has already somehow been pretty crazytown on my end, how bout yours?

I know a lot of you are going through it. I am so sorry it's so hard. This is just a gentle reminder that you are allowed to be upset, and you are allowed to be stressed or depressed. Life isn't all sunshine and rainbows, and it's okay to not be okay for a while. Please just remember that even when the darkest days are here, there is ALWAYS some light. Find some things that bring small bits of light to your life-- maybe a walk, or a special treat, a hug from a friend on or offline, or taking a moment out of your day to give someone a compliment -- whatever it is that brings that dopamine to your brain. Little things help train our brain to know that good things CAN happen, so exposing yourself to those little things day by day can help build what's sort of like a good things muscle. As more and more happen, the rough times become easier to tolerate because they are sprinkled with good things.

You are so very strong, and I know you can get through whatever you are going through. I know you don't feel like it, but you are, even when you feel your lowest. I believe in you, the crew believes in you, even if we've never spoken, we want you to be okay, okay?

Please take care of yourselves lovely, you make the world a better place by being here <3

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A post shared by @thelatestkate

Source: The Latest Kate's Instagram

[mediocre-shark-tales]

Autumn Break

Masterlist

The soft crunch of tires on gravel filled the air as Lando’s car rolled up the winding driveway of his family’s countryside estate. The sprawling stone cottage came into view, its warm lights glowing against the backdrop of an overcast autumn sky. The surrounding hills were painted in hues of orange and gold, leaves fluttering down with the breeze.

“This is it!” Lando announced with a grin, pulling the handbrake and hopping out. “Welcome to paradise, everyone.”

Franco was the first to step out, immediately stretching his arms. “Lando, mate, you’ve outdone yourself. This is incredible.”

Oscar followed, giving an approving nod. “I can see why you wanted to host. Feels like we’re in a painting.”

I slid out of the car last, my eyes trailing across the rolling fields. “It’s beautiful. Quiet, too.”

“Exactly the point,” Lando replied, clapping his hands. “No media, no fans, just us.”

Alex was the last to step out, his expression guarded as he adjusted his hoodie. His eyes flicked to me for a brief moment before quickly looking away. He’d been distant ever since the invite had been extended, and it wasn’t hard to guess why.

Lando caught the tension and quickly ushered everyone toward the house. “Let’s get inside and warm up. I’ll give you the grand tour.”

Inside, the estate was as cozy as I had imagined—stone walls, exposed wooden beams, and a massive fireplace crackling in the living room. The smell of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air, and a stack of blankets was already piled on the sofa.

As Lando launched into a detailed history of his family’s estate, I couldn’t help but notice Alex keeping his distance. He hovered near the back of the group, his arms crossed, his eyes scanning the room but never settling on me.

The awkwardness between us was palpable, but I decided to give him space. Franco, ever the entertainer, kept the mood light with his exaggerated reactions to Lando’s stories.

By the time dinner rolled around, everyone had settled into their respective corners of the house. Franco had claimed the spot by the fireplace, Oscar was engrossed in a book, and Lando was in the kitchen preparing snacks. I wandered outside for some fresh air, finding myself on a stone patio overlooking the garden. The quiet was comforting, a stark contrast to the chaos of the paddock.

“You okay?” Franco’s voice broke through my thoughts.

I turned to see him leaning against the doorframe, his easy smile reassuring.

“Yeah,” I said, forcing a smile. “Just... taking it all in.”

He nodded knowingly. “It’s a lot, huh? Don’t let Alex get to you, by the way. He’s just cautious.”

“I get it,” I replied. “I just wish people would take the time to know me instead of believing everything they hear.”

“They will,” Franco said confidently. “Starting with us.”

The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, Lando proposed a hike to “explore the vast wilderness.”

“It’s a three-mile loop,” he explained, tying his boots. “Should take us a couple of hours if we don’t stop too much. Franco, try not to sprint ahead this time.”

Franco smirked, slinging his backpack over one shoulder. “No promises.”

As the group set off, the crisp autumn air filled my lungs, and the sound of rustling leaves accompanied every step. Lando and Franco led the way, their laughter echoing through the trees as they debated the fastest route. Oscar stayed in the middle, occasionally chiming in, while I found myself at the back—again, next to Alex.

“Some view, huh?” I said, breaking the silence.

“Yeah,” Alex replied shortly, not meeting my gaze.

Deciding to keep things light, I continued, “I think Lando’s underestimating how bad Franco’s sense of direction is. We might end up doing double the distance.”

That earned a faint chuckle from Alex. “Wouldn’t be the first time.”

Encouraged, I pressed on. “Have you been on many of these trips with him?”

“A few,” he admitted. “Lando loves this kind of thing—getting everyone together, playing host.”

“And you?”

Alex hesitated, his eyes fixed on the path ahead. “I prefer to keep things simple.”

The trail eventually led to a small clearing at the top of a hill, offering a panoramic view of the countryside. Lando and Franco were already there, Franco snapping pictures while Lando struck ridiculous poses.

“Finally!” Franco called out as Alex and I arrived. “Took you long enough.”

“We weren’t the ones who got lost halfway up,” I shot back, earning a laugh from Oscar.

As everyone took a moment to catch their breath, Alex wandered to the edge of the clearing, his hands in his pockets. I hesitated before approaching, the silence between us growing heavier.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” I said softly, standing beside Alex.

He nodded but didn’t respond.

Taking a deep breath, I decided to address the elephant in the room. “Look, Alex... I know you’ve probably heard a lot about me, and I can’t control what people say. But I’d appreciate it if you gave me a chance to prove who I really am.”

Alex’s jaw tightened, his gaze fixed on the horizon. “It’s not just the rumors. It’s... hard to trust people in this sport. Everyone’s looking out for themselves.”

“I get that,” I said, my tone as earnest as I could be. “But trust has to start somewhere, right?”

For a moment, Alex didn’t say anything. Then, finally, he looked at me, his expression softening. “Maybe.”

It wasn’t much, but it was a start.

That evening, the group gathered in the living room for game night. Lando had pulled out a stack of board games and a console, insisting on a Mario Kart tournament.

“I’m warning you now,” Lando said, wagging a finger, “I’m undefeated on this track.”

“You’ve met your match,” I replied with a grin, grabbing a controller.

The games were chaotic and loud, with Franco yelling at the screen every time he crashed and Oscar quietly dominating round after round. Alex was surprisingly competitive, his focus laser-sharp as he maneuvered through the tracks.

When Alex and I were paired up for a doubles match, I couldn’t help but notice how the tension between us had eased. He even laughed when I accidentally sent a blue shell his way, shaking his head in mock exasperation.

By the end of the night, the room was filled with laughter and empty snack bags. As everyone started to drift off to bed, Alex lingered for a moment, his gaze meeting mine.

“You’re not bad at this,” he said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

“High praise from the great Alex Albon,” I teased, earning a quiet chuckle.

“Goodnight,” he said softly before heading upstairs.

“Goodnight,” I replied, feeling a small sense of accomplishment.

The next morning, I woke early and found Alex sitting on the patio, a steaming mug of coffee in his hands.

“Mind if I join?” I asked, holding up my own mug.

He gestured to the chair beside him. “Go ahead.”

The two of us sat in silence for a while, watching the sun rise over the hills. Finally, Alex spoke.

“You’re different from what I expected,” he admitted, his tone thoughtful.

“Is that a good thing?” I asked with a small smile.

He nodded. “Yeah, it is.”

The conversation that followed was easy, flowing naturally as Alex asked about my journey into racing and the challenges I’d faced. For the first time, he seemed genuinely interested, his walls starting to come down.

By the time the others woke up, I felt like I’d made real progress. And as Lando teased Alex about his newfound friendliness, I couldn’t help but smile.

For the first time, it felt like maybe, just maybe, Alex was starting to see me for who I truly was.

After breakfast, I found myself lounging on the couch, the warmth of the fireplace making it almost too comfortable to move. But an idea had been brewing in the back of my mind since the night before. I turned to the group, a sly smile creeping onto my face.

“You know what this place needs?” I asked.

“What’s that?” Lando replied, lounging dramatically in an armchair like he owned the place (which, technically, he did).

“Cookies,” I said simply.

Franco perked up immediately. “You mean the fresh, warm, melt-in-your-mouth kind?”

“The only kind,” I confirmed. “But we’re going to make them ourselves.”

“Uh-oh,” Lando said with mock concern. “Do we trust you in a kitchen?”

I shot him a playful glare. “I can bake, thank you very much. But it’s a team effort.”

Alex, sitting in the corner with a book, raised an eyebrow. “You really think we’re capable of that kind of coordination?”

“That’s half the fun,” I replied, already grabbing my jacket. “But first, we need supplies. Who’s coming with me to the store?”

The trip to the local store was far from calm. Lando insisted on driving, which was a mistake given his tendency to take every turn like it was a hairpin on a race track. Franco and I were crammed into the backseat, laughing as Oscar tried to argue with Lando about his “questionable” navigation skills.

The store itself was no better. Franco and Lando raced down the aisles with shopping baskets, grabbing random ingredients that definitely weren’t on my list.

“Why do we need gummy worms for cookies?” I asked, holding up the package Lando had thrown in.

“They’re for me,” he said with a grin, tossing another bag into the basket.

Alex, who had been surprisingly quiet, handed me a small bag of chocolate chips. “These are the good ones,” he said, his tone oddly serious.

“Noted,” I replied, smiling. “Thank you, cookie connoisseur.”

By the time we left, we had enough supplies to bake cookies for an army—or maybe just for Franco, given his appetite.

Back at the house, we divided into makeshift teams: Franco and Lando were on “mixing duty,” Alex and I handled measurements, and Oscar claimed the role of “quality control,” which mostly involved sneaking chocolate chips when he thought no one was looking.

“Why is this so sticky?” Franco asked, holding up a spatula covered in dough.

“Because you’re not mixing it right,” Lando replied, trying to wrestle the bowl from him.

“You’re not mixing it right!” Franco shot back, prompting an all-out tug-of-war over the bowl.

“Guys!” I intervened, laughing. “Just stir it gently. It’s cookie dough, not cement.”

Alex smirked from across the counter. “They’re hopeless.”

“And you’re not helping,” I teased, nudging him with my elbow. He shook his head, but I caught the faint smile on his face.

After what felt like an eternity—and a small flour fight initiated by Franco—we finally managed to get the dough onto baking sheets and into the oven.

As the cookies baked, the smell of chocolate and vanilla filled the kitchen. Lando set a timer and then plopped onto the couch, visibly exhausted from the “hard labor.”

“This better be worth it,” he said dramatically.

“Oh, it will be,” I assured him.

When the timer dinged, everyone crowded around as I carefully pulled the trays from the oven. The cookies were golden brown, the chocolate chips glistening.

“Moment of truth,” Franco announced, grabbing one before they’d even had a chance to cool. “Hot! Hot!” he yelped, tossing it between his hands.

“Patience, Franco,” Alex said, shaking his head.

But once the cookies had cooled enough to eat, the chaos turned to quiet as everyone took their first bite.

“These are... amazing,” Oscar said, his eyes wide.

“I told you,” I replied smugly.

Even Alex looked impressed. “Not bad,” he said, his voice light.

“High praise from the great Alex Albon,” I teased, earning a chuckle and a slap to the arm.

With the cookies devoured and the kitchen a mess, we all collapsed in the living room, full and content. Lando had a plate of extras balanced on his lap, and Franco was already eyeing them.

“This,” Franco declared, “needs to be a tradition.”

“I’m not cleaning next time,” Oscar said firmly, though his smile betrayed him.

Alex, sitting on the armrest of the couch, glanced at me. “You were right,” he said softly. “This was fun.”

“See? Told you baking isn’t so bad,” I replied.

For the rest of the evening, the house was filled with laughter, the smell of cookies lingering in the air. And as I looked around at my friends, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. These moments—messy, imperfect, and full of heart—were what made everything worth it.

[ofswordsandpens]

I fear that "fire bending didn't come easy to zuko" and "zuko isn't a prodigy" (both true) has somehow snowballed into "zuko is a bad or at best average fire bender".... which simply isn't true, especially by the end of book 3

[rotisseries]

planet of love

[stagefoureddiediaz]

Thinking thoughts about Abuela being back and with this backstory about her being taken in by charlatans and Eddies whole catholic guilt thing and how the two things kind of play into one another as an exploration of faith and being taken in by something.

Abuela giving all her money to the tarot card readers etc because she was searching for something - for connection (with Abuelo) - trying to recapture what she had lost, and How Eddie has spoken about trying to re-find the magic he had with Shannon - how Eddie hasn't actually fully reconciled the Shannon of it all when it comes to relationships and how his Catholic guilt connects into that.

How Marisol as a physical representation of Catholicism is part of that narrative - how Eddie is entering a place where he has to chose his path - in order to move on from Shannon he needs to fully square the hole - catholic or non catholic. And how that needs to happen first - before he can begin his queer journey!

[averlym]

,,, sun-dappled sheets...

[theotherrichardpapen]

...because any moment may be our last. everything is more beautiful because we're doomed.

[longagoitwastuesday]

I was tagged to do one of those top ten ship polls, but it's being kinda hard. Do I even care about ten ships?

[jaevy]

your room was square

i once noticed from there

in your bed, as you slept

and i held my breath

everything had its own place

and i wondered what space would i take

in the order you kept

[inthecompanyofabengaltiger]

man am i over people who've never actually read asoiaf shitting on it lmao

[eugeniedanglars]

not people on reddit saying episode 5 of tlou was better than episode 3 because episode 3 was too “sentimental” while episode 5 captured the brutality of the game as though a huge part of what made episode 3 great wasn’t the fact that it was an unexpected spot of beauty and tenderness and love in the middle of an otherwise bleak story the same way bill and frank’s town was an oasis of peace and comfort in a harsh world