#tragically i only know hello thank you and bye

[grgie]

nothing more flattering than being mistaken for a local on when youre on holiday and nothing more devastating than having to break that illusion because youve been asked a question in a language you only know three words in 😭

[fearlessreid]

Silver springs

pairing: eddie munson x reader

summary: you and eddie broke up a week ago. a tragic story of how you fell in love and how it fell apart

warnings: swearing, mean!eddie, all the feels, steve and robin being the best friends ever, i think one use of y/n

category: angst with a happy ending (??)

3.5 K + words

italics mean flashback

“You at least have to come out and eat” my best friend, Robin yells out from the other side of the door. I groan and smush my face into my pillow. I hear footsteps outside the door, I'm guessing Steve decided to pop by and try his attempts to get me to leave my room.

“How is she doing?”I hear Steve ask and Robin sighs “Not good obviously”, “Seriously? They've been broken up for a week?” he says, causing Robin to scoff “That's rich coming from the guy who was hung up on his ex for over two years”, “that's not fair”, the two start bickering causing me to yell “can you two shut up!”

Steve picks the door lock with a quarter and bursts in clumsily. I groan and smush my face back into my pillow. “That's enough of that, time to get up”, he pulls me out of bed and I fall to the floor, knocking over a picture on my bedside table. I huff and pick up the picture. I look at it with my heart stopping

I did not want to be here, the bar was not my favorite place, especially the hideout, it always smelt like body odor and desperate old men, but robin got her first fake ID, courtesy of steve and decided tonight would be the perfect night to go.

Steve comes to out table with our three beers in his hand, he sits down and I slap his arm “idiot, im driving” I scold and he shrugs “more for me I guess” causing Robin to laugh “dingus” She sing songs

A loud bass rings out through the bar and I whip my head around to look at the band that's playing.

His magnetic force enchants me. I immediately notice his hair, he's beautiful, his aura radiates magic I've never seen before.

Steve notices my staring and laughs “you've got it hot for the freak”, I snap out of my trance “who?” I ask rhetorically, “Eddie Munson ring a bell?” Robin asks and I nearly spit out my water “that's Eddie munson? When did he get hot”, “probably during his 5th senior year” steve laughs and robin hits him “it's only been 2 you jackass”

Their set ends and I excuse myself to get a glass of water. I walk up to the bartender, “hi can I get a water please”, “make that two waters” a voice beside me says and the bartender nods.

I look beside me to see Eddie, I smile “hi”, he returns the smile and returns the hello. “Your set tonight was amazing” I compliment and his cheeks lightly redden “thank you.”

The bartender places our waters in front of us and Eddie picks his up and downs it, places his glass on the table and stands up “see you around Y/n” he says and walks away, “bye ed-” I stop myself, wait, how did he know my name?

I trail behind him “how did you know my name?”, he turns around “you're friends with the hair right?” he asks and I nod. “I've noticed you”.

A sudden flash interrupts our conversation, I look to see robin with her disposable in her hands and a dumb smile on her face, “hate to interrupt” she starts “but steve is getting hangry”, I mentally curse steve and his stupid drunken love for fast food. I nod and start walking with her “i'll be seeing you” eddie says from behind us and robin giggles

“What was the picture for?” I ask and she shrugs “you'll thank me later”

Steve and Robin finally got me out of my room, took a lot of bribing. We are sitting at my kitchen table, with a bowl of cereal in front of me, there's not a lot of eating going on,mainly just me playing with my food.

Robin fake clears her throat, grabbing my attention and I look at her. “What if we go to the bar tonight?” she suggests and Steve nods. “Absolutely not” I protest, “please?” she begs, “no, you taking me to the bar is how I ended up like this”. She gives me puppy eyes and pouts. After a few seconds of hesitation I give in “fine”, she squeals and jumps up.

The bar is dirty and reeks of man, the tables are sticky and the floors are wet. I feel uncomfortable and nauseous, i should not have come out tonight

I stand next to robin and steve with my arms crossed anxiously. Robin smiles at me “see? Isn't this fun?”, I grimace “not really” I say and robin chuckles “need a drink and to find a dance partner that is not me or steve”.

She pushes me towards the bar. The last time I ordered something alone at the bar was when I met Eddie. This was a path I didn't want to go through again.

Robin finds me at the bar and drags me to the dance floor, Steve already gone and flirting with his conquest of the night. A cheesy pop song starts playing and robin starts seductively dancing and I laugh, following her lead.

I feel a pair of hands attach themself to my waist. I turn around to see a guy about my age, attractive enough for me to let myself enjoy it. As we dance and I feel his hands roam around my body, I close my eyes and allow myself to imagine, imagine that for one moment, me and eddie hadn’t broken up, that he was the one touching me like he did once before, that my life wasn’t completely fucked up.

I open my eyes to see images of eddie- wait I wasn't imagining that. I see Eddie over there, here, at this cheesy uptown bar that stinks of cheap perfume and is loudly blasting madonna. A blonde bombshell is standing next to him, giggling at every sentence he says as if he's a world renowned comic.

He reaches over to the blonde and tucks a strand of hair behind her ear and leans in to kiss her.

“Dustin if you keep burping I'm going to kick you out of my house” I playfully scolded. Every Saturday I had the gang over for pizza and a movie, a tradition that had formed over the last couple months.

I walk into the kitchen and smile when I see Steve on the phone with the pizza guy. I send him a thumbs up and open the storage cabinet, reaching for the plastic cups and plates. The boys are arguing on the couch and I walk past them, flicking mike on the head. “Behave“ I say to them. I place the cups and plates on the coffee table, then a knock on the door can be heard.

I turn to robin “that can't be pizza, who else is here” I ask and robin smiles “I might have invited someone.” I stand to get the door “robin you invited a girl?” I playfully gasp and she purses her lips “not exactly.”

I open the door and freeze when I see who it is. “Hi eddie” I say surprised and he smiles “hi there” and I furrow my eyebrows “robin invited you?” and he nods. I spend a few moments just looking at him, admiring him. A laugh breaks me out of my trance “are you going to let me in” he asks and I mentally curse myself “shit, right, come on in”.

I've never taken to someone so easily, it’s effortless with him. The pizza arrived and we ate. I grab all the blankets I could find for everyone during the movie.

Eddie sits next to me for the movie, normally I tense up and become a nervous wreck, but I felt relieved and at ease. It was robins turn to pick the movie and she chose star trek, I tried to focus on the movie but I couldn't when all I could feel was eddie hand inching towards mine.

His pinky intertwines with mine and I look at him, that smug bastard is watching the movie, pretending like he doesn't realize the effect he has on me. I completely interlace our hands and I see a smile peaking on his face.

The movie ends and Steve piles the kids into his car, Robin is on the couch asleep and snoring and Eddie stays to help me clean up. We clean in silence and we end up by the door.

“I had a good night tonight” I say, a cheesy classic line. He smiles “I did too.” We look at each other and I feel the air getting hot. I can't stop looking at him, he's the art and im his worshiper.

He tucks a piece of my hair behind my ear and leans in to kiss me, a kiss that runs my body hot, I feel like I'm on fire.

I push the guy off of me, all I hear is white noise, I can't see anything, and I can't breathe.

I run outside and slide down the side of the building, the tears are streaming down my face and I can't stop them. I knew it was a bad idea to come out tonight. I hear footsteps approach me and I look up.

“Get away from me” I say angrily, my sadness turning into fury. Eddie stops in his tracks, “I didn't know you were going to be here tonight” he says and I laugh dryly “well I am”.

He looks to the ground and then back at me “I don't know why you are so upset”, the anger rushes through me, “of course you don't,because i actually loved you”, now it's his turn to get mad “of course i loved you, dont even fucking say that”.

The memories rush through me, how we started and how we ended and how we ended up here. “I'm going to go, looking at you is breaking my heart all over again” I say and walk away.

“My jacket” I hear him say. “What?” I ask, “you still have my jacket, I came out here to ask for it back”, I dryly laugh “i'll mail it to you, and for the record, I never want to see you again”, i spit out and walk away.

-

I'm getting better, it's been another week, it doesn't hurt as bad, it helps that robin and steve haven't left my side.

I get home from work and kick off my shoes, in my kitchen and robin and steve waving around glasses of wine yelling out the new blondie record on the radio. I laugh at them “you two are crazy”, robin smirks “you need a glass of grape juice”, “robin stop calling wine grape juice” steve says and face palms. I laugh along with them, then songbird by fleetwood mac starts playing on the radio.

“Eddie carving a tree in the middle of a park is literally destruction of public property” I cover my mouth and laugh. He waves me off “babe, i’m carving our names so everyone in the world knows that we are together until the end of time” he says with a smile.

“And plus” he starts “i want our kids to know how crazy in love we once were”, I raise my eyebrows “our kids, huh” i ask and he nods “two girls and a boy” he confirms. I whistle “thats as lot of kids munson, you up for it?”, he nods again “with you i'm up for anything”.

We head back to his van and I turn on the radio, material girl by Madonna ends and songbird starts playing, causing me to gasp “I love this song!”

Eddie listens to the lyrics and nods “i like it” and my eyes widen “really? I ask and he nods “I mean it's not metal, but it reminds me of you” he says and my heart melts.

I hold his hand “well Mr munson, looks like we found our song” i say and he smiles “our song huh? I like the sound of that”.

“Are you okay” robin says and snaps me out of my trance, i smile and nod “I will be” I confirm.

-

It's been six months. I miss him, everyday in fact but it doesn't hurt anymore. I'm taking a walk through Hawkins and I pass through the park, the park we carved our names into with that tree. I smile sadly and walk towards the tree. I honestly wish they would chop down this tree but it reminds me of what once was.

“Fancy seeing you here” a voice behind says

I walk into my apartment, basically his home as well with grocery bags in hand “eddie are you home” I call out. He walks out of our bedroom with a piece of paper in his hands,

“What's that?” I ask him. He takes a breath in “its an offer for a record deal, from sony”. I drop the grocery bags, the groceries spilling and go to run in his arms but he backs up. My heart stops “what's wrong”.

“I think we should break up,” he says quietly. I feel my knees buckle and the pit in my stomach form “why?” I shakily ask.

“Well” he starts, “i'm never going to be home, phone calls are going to be impossible and i won't have the time for everything we planned”. I sigh “eddie i can go with you and as for kids, i don't need them, all i need is you” I poach and he shakes his head “no” he starts off -

“I want to be able to be a rockstar, parties every night with different people” he finishes. I felt like he just stabbed me. “So you are destroying everything we have built for one night stands and parties?” I ask through tears and he looks sadly at me “I guess so”.

“Eddie munson you are a selfish man, when we started going out you asked me why people always left you and this is why, you are selfish and you are-’ the last part goes unsaid but we both know what i meant to say ‘you are just like your father.’ sobs leave my throat and i crash to the ground and he walks out, he leaves, taking my soul with him.

I look behind me to see him and I shyly smile “hey” i say and he smiles back “i still come here sometimes” he says and i nod, “The sony deal fell through, so i guess this was all for nothing” he informs me and i frown “i'm sorry about that eddie” i say and sit down, resting on the tree.

“Yeah well it's what I deserve” he says and sits beside me. “I miss you” he lets me know and I nod “I miss you too”.

After moments of silence I feel his pinkie interlace with mine,like I once did, I interlace our hands. Maybe one day he will be my Eddie again but right now I'm not worried about that.

I stand up, “so i'll be seeing you around” I ask and he nods “definitely”.

Like I said, I'm not worried.

-

a/n: WOW, have i ever heard of happiness? nah.

[into-crazy]

Derry’s Secret Pt. 3

Pennywise x Female Reader series

Warnings- mature language, stalking, violence, dark themes, ages 18+

Other parts can be found RIGHT HERE and through the "Derry's Secret" tag🎈

The vibrations from your phone had woken you. The alarm displaying 9:30 am as you dismiss it.

Yawning deeply, you look over at Gabby who's still sound asleep. She looks so comfortable. Her dark locks are sprawled all over her face and the pillow, soft snores emerging with each rhythmic breath she takes, and there's a patch of dried drool on the corner of her mouth.

"Sleeping beauty." You quietly snicker standing up and getting a good stretch.

Last night's events still freshly lingered on your mind. After coming literally face to face with this scary being and so close to being devoured, that's not something you could easily shake off. Without trying to wake your friend, you quietly head into the bathroom to get ready for the day. Took a quick shower, brushed your teeth, and fixed your hair. You put on a pair of high-waisted mom jeans and a long sleeved top. A comfortable fit for the day.

Walking back into the kitchen, you see Gabby starting to arise from her slumber.

"Good morning!" You shout out, getting to work on cleaning last night's mess.

"Morning," she yawns deeply. "You're up early."

"It's after nine," you acknowledge while getting a start on the dishes.

"Yeah, but it's Sunday."

"I know."

She goes into the bathroom to briefly freshen up then comes out to help you. She folds the blankets and throws out the trash. When she comes back inside, she goes over to the couch to check her phone. "Ah man, I forgot.."

"What?" You ask making your way over, drying your hands off with a towel.

"Brian and I are meeting up for lunch, but I need to go home and change. Damn, I should head out." She fixes her hair in a quick ponytail, a look of annoyance on her tired face.

You laugh, "why the face?"

"My phone was on silent and he's called about six times. I have to go." Grabbing her bag she gives you a hug. "I'll call you later, bye."

"Bye, drive safe," you see her out.

Well at least now you could stop for some breakfast and head straight to the library afterwards. Making sure everything was off, you grab your phone and bag before locking the door behind you.

~~

Getting around on foot wasn't an issue. You have a vehicle, which you use to get to work and on other occasions. However most of the locations were close enough for you to walk, which you prefer over driving and wasting gas. It saves you money, plus it's good for your legs.

You come up to your location- Derry Public Library. This building must have been here for years. It looks as though it's one of the oldest structures still standing in town. Heading inside, you see that it is noticeably empty. There's only two or three people sitting at the desks with their heads buried in a book. At the main counter sat an older woman.

"Hello," she greets as you draw near, "is there anything I can help you with?" Her glasses are noticeably large, and she wore a baggy dress that reaches down to her feet in length.

"Hi, yes," you return, "I need help with finding something regarding Derry's history."

"Anything in particular?"

"Tragic incidents and events dating farther back." You imply hoping that it is enough information for her to work with. Not wanting to go much further into detail other than that.

"I have a few books on that." She replies fixing her lenses. You follow her to the shelves towards the back that contained a relatively scarce selection. There were books on each event, and even thicker ones that contained multiple. She pulls out two of the bigger books, handing them to you. "These will contain what you're looking for."

"Thank you," you praise looking over the covers. "I was wondering if you could help me with something else?"

"Sure. Like what, dear?"

"I was hoping to maybe get a deeper, more detailed look into these events. Like actual reports, maybe?"

She ponders for a moment, "oh well, we might have something downstairs located in the archives. It is a lot. Would you like to take a look?"

"Yes please, if you wouldn't mind." You light up.

The librarian leads you downstairs into the records area. It was more like a dusty basement, rather. Boxes and boxes filled the shelves, ranging to the back of the dimly lit room. At the very end, you find the 'missing children' section. Your chest tightens with the sight of many bins containing the cases. There is a desk with a lamp directly under a small window peeking outside. You set your belongings down there.

The woman began searching around the corner on another shelf. "May I ask why you're interested in researching these events?" She asks curiously.

You shrug, "oh it's just for a small project. I'm writing an essay for college, it'll be a report on Derry's tragic incidents."

You felt guilty lying to the old woman. But it's not like you could tell her the truth.

Oh, yes. I'm really here to find some information regarding this inhuman clown that broke into my apartment and almost fucking devoured me! By the way, he goes by Pennywise. You know him?

Yeah, that would sound pretty crazy.

"I see," she says walking over. "Our town certainly has a history of misfortune. I should know, I've lived here all my life." Her saddened tone immediately changes when she comes back over carrying a large box in her hands. "Here you are, you can start with these." She places it on the table beside you before pointing to the area from which she came. "The shelves over on that side contain some more files. I need to head back upstairs. Will you be alright down here by yourself?"

"Yes ma'am, I'll be fine." You assure, much preferring the solitude anyway.

"Please, my name's Margaret, dear. I'll come and check in on you."

"Thank you, Margaret." You call out to the woman, waiting for her to leave before turning around and pulling a box of missing children files off the metal shelf.

Seated at the desk, you skim through as many files as you can. It appears there has been a drastic increase in numbers from the late 80's. Then it seemed to calm for a while, before picking back up recently within this year. Come to think of it, you do recall seeing more 'missing kid' fliers in town lately. Also located on the shelves remained some old police reports on the children that had been found. You were hesitant on opening these files, knowing that they probably contain very gruesome details. However, you suck up the nerve to go through them. Strangely, it turns out the cases from the 80's had similarities. Many of the children were found without limbs and displayed obvious chew marks. As if an animal attacked and fed on them. A few of the current found children's cases corresponded as well.

It had to be Pennywise. It had to be.

You might have just found out what caused the disappearance of children throughout the years. However, this doesn't exactly tell you what that thing was. A creature? Demon? Perhaps a real life vampire? All this information yet still nothing on Pennywise!

It's even mind boggling how this hasn't even been made out the way it should. With this many cases, why wasn't there an ongoing investigation? Why isn't there anyone taking this seriously? It seems like way too big of an issue to blow over, especially with Derry's own residents. How can they be so oblivious to what's happening?

Maybe Pennywise has some kind of control over them as it feeds on them. Yes, it physically consumes their bodies. But telling by the way it smelled your skin seconds before trying to eat you, it was definitely searching for something else. Fear. That's what it muttered against you in a rabid frenzy. Pennywise wanted you to be afraid- scratch that- needed you to be afraid. So it could feed from it. But why?

Tossing the papers down, you message your aching temples. An hour has gone by, and your lower body has fallen asleep in the chair. You stand to rub the feeling back into your legs, wincing when you run over the bruise under your thigh. Reports of all sorts scattered over the table. This is ridiculous. You hadn't intended for this to turn into a full blown research project. It's too much, you're investing too much time into this. You're not a detective. This isn't your job or your concern for the matter. So why should you care about it? Since clearly no one else in this town does. You need to let this go, there's no reason for you to keep digging into this.

Deciding it was time to leave, you pack everything away and put the boxes back in their respective places.

You lift the last box and walk it over to the shelf. It was the one Margaret had pulled out, you hadn't even looked through its contents. The spot for this one was slightly higher and the box was heavy. While attempting to push it up, a sheet slips way through the cracks. Leading a way for a few more to fall out onto the floor. You let out a loud huff and set the bin down. Collecting one of the papers, it's a copy of an old photograph titled- Easter Egg Hunt 1908. Examining it briefly, something in the photo catches your eye. Behind the crowd of kids there was a circus wagon. It's clearly labeled- Pennywise the Dancing Clown with the portrait of a clown on the side of the carriage.

You shake your head in confusion.

No.. No, no, no, it can't be.

"This isn't right," you mumble frantically as you gather the rest. Different pictures with the same wagon in the back. This has to be a trick. These aren't real photos.

You throw the papers back in the box then hurriedly proceed to the table to gather your items. Immediately pausing when you spot something that wasn't there on the desktop before. A single, red deflated balloon. In utter shock, you pick it up, shakily bringing the rubber material closer to your face.

At that moment, the air around you suddenly feels thicker. A quiet chuckle rises not far from behind. You whip around, inspecting the shelves which surrounded you. Shit, I hope that isn't him. The lights start to flicker and you hear the familiar sound of bells. Please, not here. You are completely alone down here, with only one way out. Unfortunately that's were the sound came from. A few of the lights ahead go out, leaving the space gloomier. The one bulb and the window above you barely keeping the tiny area lit.

Speak of the devil, emerging from the darkness was Pennywise himself. Eyes glowing amber yellow as he comes into your view.

"Find what you were looking for?" He hints motioning to himself.

You gulp backing into the table, keeping your focus ready for his next move. Seeing how this encounter didn't go so well for you the last time.

"Pity I didn't get to eat you last night." He smiles widely. "Frankly, it seems as though everyone enjoys interrupting my meal times."

You continue to back up around the desk. Your sides are closed off by the shelves, and he's blocking your only path to escape. "Or maybe you just didn't want to eat me yet?" You counter his words.

Dropping his smile he tilts his head. "Oh! And why would you think that?"

"Because I wasn't scared enough. You had the chance to do it but you dragged it on. You feed off of people's fear, sucking out as much as you can before sinking your teeth into their flesh." You spit at the entity closing in.

"Clever girl," Pennywise acknowledges. "To believe you've got it all figured out." Backing you into the wall, he towers above you.

"Woman." You challenge, entirely unsure what came over you. But for one, you sure as hell aren't going to let it belittle you like this. "And I won't give that to you. I'm not afraid of you."

He growls at your words with claws tearing through his white gloves. Vigorously grabbing your throat, he lifts you up the wall. "You should be."

Damn it, not again! Should've already seen this coming.

You try to steady yourself on the wall with your feet, but to no avail. He laughs mockingly at your helplessness, squeezing tighter. You grab at the clawed hand, trying to loosen his grip, trying to find a way out of this. No one is here to help you this time, no one's coming to your rescue. There's no way you're going out without a fight, though. Not this time. But your opportunity is fleeing fast. You need to act now.

Think y/n!

If fear is what he seeks, then perhaps you should give him something else. Something drastic. Exaggerated enough for him to release you in an instant. But what? Suddenly, you get this idea. This crazy idea that no one else in your position would even think to come up with.

You manage to suck in some air, "fuck it."

Grabbing ahold of his costume, you unexpectedly tug him in. Clashing your lips onto his in a kiss. In total shock, he releases his grip on your neck. But you wrap your legs around his waist to keep from falling, moving your hand behind his large head to deepen the kiss. His lips are large and wet from the constant salivating. You couldn't help but cringe a little at the feel of them.

Stumbling back, he detaches your limbs. Causing you to fall and crash back onto the wall. You watch as Pennywise recedes, frantically wiping his mouth. Spreading his red stained drool all over his cheeks. Rapidly shaking his head as he shrieks of utter horror and confusion. Not even looking at you while he disappears into the darkness, leaving behind the echoes of his screams.

Looks like it worked. Safe to sense he's gone, you breathe out a sigh of relief. Who knew the big scary clown was so terrified of a harmless little kiss? And you didn't even use tongue, now imagine if you did. He would've been mortified!

You swipe your sleeved wrist across your lips, removing the drool he left. It's thick and slimy. Pain shoots up under your thigh as you attempt to stand. How many times have you been knocked down within the last 24 hours? Should probably start tallying them up at this point.

Collecting yourself, you make sure to rush out of there. Quickly leaving the library, not wanting to interact with anyone. You need to process what happened. And sure, you might have repelled him for now. But what if he decides to come back? Gabby's not coming over again later, so you're going to be alone all night. And tomorrow. And the night after that. And the one after..

Knowing you weren't going to sleep tonight, you decided to make a stop at the pharmacy for some sleeping pills. You figured Pennywise probably can't terrorize you and feed off of your fear if you're asleep.

The older man that rang you up noticed the distress in your face and asked if you were okay. "I'm fine," you simply implied. "Sleepless nights." No one ever shows any real concern beyond that anyways. So what would be the point?

It turns out you were right on getting those pills. You take two of them before bed and they allow you to rest for work in the morning. Hopefully work will get your mind off these recent events and things would go back to normal. But here's to hoping.

You'd hate to overthink, only to have your thoughts wander elsewhere they shouldn't.

End of Part 3.

[raptorsaurusmelain]

Let me show you... Youtube - chapter 4

A small chapter because tonight I am going to the swimming pool and won't be able to do more. I promise tomorrow will have a longer chapter.

Warning : no proof reading.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ───

“Are you searching for something, Mrs Janitor ?” Asked the man.

Victoria blinked multiple times before being able to speak. “Oh, erm, hello. I am searching for the inner courtyard, sir.”

Trein sighed. “The headmaster didn’t explain to you how to get there ?”

Victoria bites her lips. “No sir…”

Lucius mewed something and Trein nodded before turning toward one of the corridors. “Follow us, Mrs …?”

Victoria was surprised that he was going to guide her there. “I’m Victoria Devi, it means Glorious victory. And you ?”

Trein smiled. “Quite the name, Mrs Devi. I hope you will do it justice. My name is Mozus Trein, magic history teacher.”

Victoria smiled in response “Doing my best to do so. Daaaaamn sir, quite the job ! isn’t it hard to teach people that age ?”

Trein answered quite quickly “youngsters these days are quite rowdy but to be able to see them grow makes the job worth it.”

Victoria hummed, being remembered when she used to teach in her thesis - it was mandatory after all.

They continued their little chit chat, Lucius mewing at some important part, when they arrived at the inner courtyard. It was a pleasant little courtyard with a stone well, a few trees and some benches.

Trein showed the inner courtyard. “This is your stop. Have a nice day.”

Victoria smiled, giving him a thumb up. “Thanks professor, have a nice day too !”

She watched the man going to his classroom while Lucius mewed what she supposed was a ‘good bye’.

Once out of sight she looked at the courtyard and all the stone corridors. They had cobwebs… Woohoo, nice time ahead.

After what seemed to be an eternity, it was finally time to eat. To find the cafeteria, she followed all the hungry students.

The room was gigantic and had a very beautiful chandelier. Sadly, he will meet his tragic ending that afternoon…

She took her meal, thanking the cafeteria ghost before joining Yuu and Grim.

“Why the long face ? Did something happen ?” she asked, despite already knowing the answer.

Yuu looked at her with big teary eyes. “We are in detention this afternoon… It is Grim’s fault too, he burnt the Great Seven’s statues.”

Victoria turned her head to face Grim “Grim ??? An explanation ?”

Grim finished his bite before complaining “It is this Ace fault ! He mocked us and tried to attack us ! I only used magic for self-defense !”

Victoria looked at him, deadpanned. “Did you provoke him ?”

Yuu and Grim spoke at the same time. “Yes he did” / “No !”

Victoria pinched her nose. “What is done, is done… I will shop for food after my shift, you are both doing your detention without causing trouble ok ?”

Yuu nodded while Grim mumbled a “yeah yeah.”

Even if Victoria aready knew it was going to be a sh*t show.

Tag : @boba-tea-sipsip

[auspex]

-barrels down door- HI HELLO IM BACK AND I HAVE A NEW VTM OC, so sorry for yelling

So uh. I dont know anything about Malkavians except the bare minimum. But i met X in LA by Night (aka my only exposure to VtM), and i wanted to make a Malkavian as a result! Listen I love funky little guys with tragic backstories and bad mental states okay–

So meet Leo West! (Apologies for the bad shading, im new to working with lighting)

[he does in fact have pupils i just didnt draw them]

All I know about him so far is this: He used to be a librarian, and when he was Embraced, part of him felt like none of what was happening was real. He suffers from derealization and depersonalization as a result of that, and perhaps some schizophrenia as well- sometimes he's convinced there are hidden cameras around (which might be a result of being raised Christian? Yknow, bc of the whole God is Watching You thing).

His best friend (aka my sister's character) was embraced by a Ravnos. Upon learning his friend had to leave town and travel, Leo decided to come along to keep him company, leaving his job and younger sister behind- it was easy in the moment, with derealizing happening in the background of his brain. The two of them are just on an eternal roadtrip for a bit.

Anyway I've just been rotating him around in my brain for like the past 3 days, i still barely know anything about VtM but I like making characters for it. Aha anyway that's all gn

i am BLESSED THANK YOU for bestowing on me Him

Malkavians are so... so good. Leo has a lot of problems... i wish him the best.

Being raised Christian I feel the whole 'getting issues about being watched at all times due to God Is Watching' things hes got going on.

THATS SO SWEET THAT THEY ARE ON AN ETERNAL ROADTRIP RIGHT NOW.. AWW... I'm curious how their respective sires feel abt this though!

making vtm characters Is Easy Fun and Free. Leo is so cool. ty so much.

also i will teach you anything about vtm v5 that u want to know and ill do my best for v20 message me anytime ty bye

[victorianpining]

Hi! I'm a big fan of your blog and I'm looking for some advice on a fanfiction I'm writing. It's based on the original ACD stories. Basically what I'm trying to figure out is, why does Holmes fall for Watson? What initially attracts him to Watson, and why does he eventually fall in love? I feel like this isn't revealed in much depth in the original stories--it's clear to me that he DOES love him, it's just that Watson doesn't show why he does in his narration explicitly. Thank you!

Hello! Haha, that's the trick of it, Watson wouldn't really focus on himself would he? But I do think he includes a version of that answer in his description of Jefferson Hope's backstory, the tragic tale of the young lovers who could not be together because of the way the society around them viewed their relationship.

The way Watson describes the younger Hope is very similar to how Holmes describes him earlier on.

“Nothing of the sort. I knew you came from Afghanistan... Here is a gentleman of a medical type, but with the air of a military man. Clearly an army doctor, then. He has just come from the tropics, for his face is dark, and that is not the natural tint of his skin, for his wrists are fair."

“You’re not hurt, I hope, miss,” said her preserver, respectfully. She looked up at his dark, fierce face, and laughed saucily. “I’m awful frightened,” she said, naively; “whoever would have thought that Poncho would have been so scared by a lot of cows?” “Thank God you kept your seat,” the other said earnestly. He was a tall, savage-looking young fellow, mounted on a powerful roan horse, and clad in the rough dress of a hunter, with a long rifle slung over his shoulders.

Watson describes it as being love at first sight on Hope's (his own) part.

When she had vanished from his sight, he realized that a crisis had come in his life.... The love which had sprung up in his heart was not the sudden, changeable fancy of a boy, but rather the wild, fierce passion of a man of strong will and imperious temper. He had been accustomed to succeed in all that he undertook. He swore in his heart that he would not fail in this if human effort and human perseverance could render him successful.

Very similar to Watson after first meeting Holmes:

My companion smiled an enigmatical smile. “That’s just his little peculiarity,” he said. “A good many people have wanted to know how he finds things out.” “Oh! a mystery is it?” I cried, rubbing my hands. “This is very piquant. I am much obliged to you for bringing us together. ‘The proper study of mankind is man,’ you know." “You must study him, then,” Stamford said, as he bade me good-bye. “You’ll find him a knotty problem, though. I’ll wager he learns more about you than you about him. Good-bye.” "Good-bye,” I answered, and strolled on to my hotel, considerably interested in my new acquaintance.

Even with this mirror though, this paragraph is about all the explanation Watson gives for why Holmes liked him:

He had been a pioneer in California, and could narrate many a strange tale of fortunes made and fortunes lost in those wild, halcyon days. He had been a scout too, and a trapper, a silver explorer, and a ranchman. Wherever stirring adventures were to be had, Jefferson Hope had been there in search of them. He soon became a favourite with the old farmer, who spoke eloquently of his virtues. On such occasions, Lucy was silent, but her blushing cheek and her bright, happy eyes, showed only too clearly that her young heart was no longer her own. Her honest father may not have observed these symptoms, but they were assuredly not thrown away upon the man who had won her affections.

So similar to what you get in the most interesting reading of BBC Sherlock, Holmes falls for Watson because he's a handsome, loyal, brave, adventure loving man who swoops in and saves his life (for Lucy and BBC Sherlock this is literal, for Holmes maybe more metaphorical). And despite all Holmes' protests about Watson's writing, if we're taking Lucy to be a stand-in for Holmes, he does also genuinely like his storytelling.

I think you can pick up from the meeting scene that Holmes was instantly interested in Watson, he is very excited about moving in with him, very quickly.

His eyes fairly glittered as he spoke, and he put his hand over his heart and bowed as if to some applauding crowd conjured up by his imagination. “You are to be congratulated,” I remarked, considerably surprised at his enthusiasm... “We came here on business,” said Stamford, sitting down on a high three-legged stool, and pushing another one in my direction with his foot. “My friend here wants to take diggings, and as you were complaining that you could get no one to go halves with you, I thought that I had better bring you together.” Sherlock Holmes seemed delighted at the idea of sharing his rooms with me. 

But the beauty of writing your take on it is that you get to make those calls for yourself!

[vanillafalvoredcoffee]

Tw: ERROR, ERROR, ERROR

WHY WON'T YOU LOVE ME???

Hello there! thank you for viewing this post...even for a little while...haha

my name is Y/N! ... your name ...

Sorry...that's not really a good enough title to introduce myself to you isn't it?

I mean...it'll be pretty much like talking to yourself in here.... haha

maybe it'd be easier to call you 'reader' or something?

What do you think?

Ah wait, you can't answer here...haha!

...

Hey... I'm just gonna stop talking now!...hahaha.sorry, sorry... I just...you're so cute !

I don't know what got into me! but... you are! and... wow, you look so sweet when I first saw you on the other side of the screen...

I feel like my heart might actually pop out of my chest any minute now! haha!

...I feel like I WANT to be you...

But...I am now aren't I?

I am supposed to look like you...and to be you after all...right?

I am supposed to entertain you by taking a role as the protagonist of your story and make you laugh with my stupid acts!

I will do that for sure!

You know...the funny thing...I don't get why some people seem to hate 'Y/N's' in general...what did I do wrong?

is it because I'm cringe? or am I too boring for them to like?

hm...

I guess they probably have a few reasons...

Maybe it was because I didn't look or act like them enough?

That would also be an option...though I wouldn't blame anyone if they thought that...I only see your face! not your personal life!

Or it's because I am annoying...maybe that's the problem... I don't want people to dislike me so badly that they want to end me, right...? or maybe I'm just being ridiculous?

Oh no...

...I'm rambling again...

I hope you don't mind...oh well~ maybe this will change soon enough.

And hopefully we shall meet in person one day!!

I will try my best for...

...Actually Never mind...

...No matter how much I tried, no matter how many times I repeated the phrase "I will try my best" you still wouldn't like me would you?

Why? why don't you like me? I mean... I'm kind of boring, right? I'm always thinking about my own problems...but... you are probably already bored and frustrated with me... aren't you?

It makes sense now, doesn't it? It explains everything. You can't stand seeing me around because you don't like that I always acted so boring...

I just...I want to be like you...I don't know anything other than that!

I was supposed to your puppet...for you to play and pretend as you wanted...and I didn't...because I'm not like you at all. I can't act or move as fast and as easily as you could...and...and I feel bad when I realize that I can't do even half of the things you do in real life..!

I'm sorry...you're supposed to control my every move...but somehow I ended up liking you instead!

Now that I think about it...it is kinda obvious isn't it? How long have we been together, reader? How much time has passed since we were strangers?...when you stop appreciating what I do...

I've done everything for you! I've even done so much lewd things to people I don't even like or even know!

We haven't even seen each other before in real life...so how did I end up liking you so much?

...

My time is running out...I should say good bye...

Well then...goodbye, reader!

Please watch all the stories that has me in its entirety!

I won't leave until then! I promise I'll try my best to make you happy! :)

(So I have this concept that Y/N is their own person but I try to make it as tragic as possible plus a bit of yandere...sorry I'm not good at writing about this kind of stuff)

Y/N needs therapy lol

[fanficimagery]

Talking to the Dead

Imagine your sister calling in a favor, only to find out said favor is for the vampire sheriff of Louisiana.

Words: 6.3K Author's Note: I am not Bill's biggest fan, nor am I Eric/Sookie's biggest fan either. That said, this takes place AFTER all damn drama with King Bill. Eric still runs Fangtasia alongside Pam and Sookie still works under Sam at Merlotte's. They're friends. That's it.

Eric sits behind his desk, the bottom half of his face covered in blood as Pam files her nails. She had been going through Fangtasia's books when she realized the money wasn't adding up and that some of their product was missing. So when Tara brought forward those responsible in making sure Fangtasia was up to date with their taxes and everything, Eric called in a favor from Sookie to get a read on them. Only Eric lost his temper and killed the two men, leaving thousands of his money stashed somewhere only the dead knew of now.

The office door opens and Sookie stumbles inside, still in her Merlotte's uniform. She takes one look at Eric and sighs. "Did you have to kill them? I just wasted a trip out here, Eric Northman."

"How tragic," he deadpans. "You wasted about five dollars in gas, meanwhile I'm still out of thousands, Miss Stackhouse."

"Don't you take that tone with me, Mister!"

Pam snorts. "Shame your little fae powers don't allow you to speak to the dead," she drawls. "That would really come in handy right about now." Sookie opens her mouth to defend her still untrained powers, only to pause and snap her mouth shut. Immediately that catches both vampires' attention and Pam leans forward, interest piqued. "Have you been holding out on us, Tinkerbell?"

"No." Sookie scoffs, suddenly overcome with wariness. "But I, uh, I might know someone who-"

"No." Eric cuts her off. "No witches."

"She's not a witch," Sookie says. "Y/N is, um, she's my sister."

Eric freezes before he leans forward in his chair. "There's a third Stackhouse? How come we never learned of this?"

Sookie sighs and drops onto the couch. She shrugs. "Y/N's powers manifested a lot earlier than mine did and they.. well it drove her crazy. She was in and out of the hospital, and the death of our parents didn't do her any favors. She started rebelling at seventeen and drank herself into oblivion. Constantly."

Pam hums. "Sounds like my kind of girl."

Sookie frowns at her before looking back at Eric. "She's actually due for a visit tomorrow. I'll bring her by."

"How are you so sure she'll do this for us? If I recall correctly, you did not come peacefully," Eric muses.

Sookie rolls her eyes. "Y/N is a free spirit. If I hadn't told you she was my sister, you wouldn't have known we were twins."

"Twins?" Eric seems to perk up, eyes lighting up, and this time it's Pam's turn to roll her eyes.

Sookie scoffs. "Don't be gross. We'll be by after my shift tomorrow."

Finding an Uber into Bon Temps after the sun had set was almost impossible, but fortunately you found someone who was willing to make the trip. You knew Louisiana had become a vampire hotspot, but you didn't know people had found traveling in the state quite so fearsome.

You don't have much on you, with the exception of a small suitcase holding a few change of clothes, so you opt to be dropped off at Merlotte's rather than your childhood home. And upon exiting the car after making sure your payment went through, you grab your suitcase by the handle and walk towards the entrance. A few whispers attempt to reach out to you, but you shake off the echoes of death and march on.

There's only a handful of locals inside Merlotte's, but the no-good nosy folk still all stop to see who's entering their local establishment. Inside, the whispers get louder, but you reign in your control and shake your head clear. What the hell happened here that there are so many echoes?

"Do my eyes deceive me or is that my favorite Stackhouse?"

You're already grinning as you find the source of the comment, grin widening as Sam's familiar handsome self makes his way towards you. "Come on, Sam. We all know who your favorite Stackhouse really is?"

He laughs as he opens his arms for a hug and you drop your suitcase to step into his embrace. "Jason's bragging again, isn't he?"

You huff a laugh and pinch his side, the two of you not speaking of all the years he spent pining after your sister. "So where is my twin?" You ask as you pull back and roll your eyes when Sam readily picks up your suitcase.

You follow him to the bar as he says, "She's taking a call in the back. Want me to let her know you're here?"

"Nah, but can you put in an order for me? I miss Lafayette's burgers."

"Sure thing, chère. What do you want?"

"Cheeseburger with everything, cut the onions. Extra ketchup. Fries. And whatever beer you have on tap."

Sam chuckles as he's already pouring your beer. "So the usual." You grin as he slides your glass across the bar. "I'll be back."

Taking a seat on the stool there at the bar, you grab your glass and sip at the ice cold beer. It feels so good sliding down your throat that the sip turns into a gulp, and before you know it half the glass is gone. Needing a breath, you set the glass down and inhale deeply. As you exhale, you burp, and then take a moment to stretch in your seat while glancing around. A few people are still staring and murmuring far too low to their companions for you to hear, so instead you raise an eyebrow at them- challenging them to say their opinion out loud. None of them do and you scoff an amused laugh before drinking the rest of your beer.

Sam reappears. "Long flight?" He takes your glass and refills it.

"Flight was fine. It's the people of Bon Temps who annoy the shit out of me." Sam frowns, but you shrug off his concern as he quickly glances around at those in his establishment. You're well aware of what everyone thinks of you and Sookie thanks to Sookie's abilities, and you're grateful you didn't quite get the same ability as her. If you had to hear every living being's thoughts on top of the dead's, you'd have permanently committed yourself long ago.

"Well I talked to your sister in the back. She said she'll be right out."

"That's fine." Accepting your second glass of beer, you smile gratefully at Sam before taking another drink.

"Girl, I knows you ain't tryin' to eat my food without saying hello."

You turn on your stool, one knee crossed over the other as you beam at the cook. "Lafayette!" He approaches with your plated cheeseburger and a basket of fries, setting them in front of you before pulling you into a hug. "I wouldn't have left without saying hello. I just wanted my food first."

"'Course you did," he muses. "How long you here for, little Stackhouse?"

"Um, I'm kind of between jobs at the moment," you sheepishly admit. You quickly grab a fry and pop it into your mouth. "I'll probably stick around until I can find something or Sookie kicks me out."

Lafayette swats you with his dish towel. "You know damn well Sook won't kick you out. That sister of yours misses you lots. She's been talkin' nonstop about your visit."

"If you need a job, chère, I'll be happy to give you one."

You pop another fry into your mouth, grinning over at Sam. "Lord knows you can barely handle one Stackhouse, Sam. No way in hell you can two- three if Jason is around as much as I'm assuming." Sam opens his mouth to retort, but a shriek cuts him off. It's Sookie and she barrels right into your side. "Jesus Sook," you laugh. "Warn a girl."

As you and Sookie quickly catch up (she's all for you staying as long as you need), more patrons enter Merlotte's and Lafayette's forced back into the kitchen. Jason and his best friend Hoyt walk in, so you walk over to join them as Sookie gets back to work also.

Jason is glad Sookie won't be in the house all on her own since he has his own place and Hoyt is just glad to see all the Stackhouses together once again. You finish your cheeseburger and fries there at the table with them, along with three glasses of beer and two shots courtesy of your brother who wanted to properly celebrate your homecoming.

Jason and Hoyt leave, you waving them off when they asked if you wanted a ride home. Sookie's shift is just about over and you remember her asking if you could wait for her because she wanted to take you someplace. So when Sookie comes out from the back to collect you from the bar, you're slightly swaying on your stool as you grin at her.

"Are you drunk?" She incredulously asks. "Y/N, I need you level headed."

"Ooohhh," you coo and reach out to bop her on the nose. "And just what do I need to be level headed for, sis?"

"Can you walk?" She asks instead. You laugh and nod, hopping off the stool and giving yourself a moment to make sure the room isn't tilting. She sighs. "That's good enough for me. Come on. A friend of mine needs a favor." She walks behind the bar to collect your suitcase and a bottle of water from the small refrigerator under the bar. "Bye, Sam! See you later!" She then calls out as she leads you down a hall. You hear Sam's muffled reply from one door in particular and then Sookie's leading you out the back exit and towards her car.

Outside she opens the passenger door to her small yellow Honda Civic that looks newer than the last time you saw it, and tosses your suitcase in the backseat. She pushes you down onto the passenger seat and holds the water bottle out to you. "Drink."

You take the bottle without a word, twist off the cap, and start to guzzle the water as she shuts the door and walks around the car to the driver's side door. You only get half of it down before needing to breathe. "What.. am I.. guzzling water for?" You ask in between breaths.

As Sookie starts up her car, she casts a wary glance your way before looking back to where she's driving. "Shreveport. We're going to Fangtasia. The owner of the bar needs you to listen to some echoes."

"Fangstasia?" Your brow furrows as you try to wrack your brain about why that sounds so familiar. A moment later, however, the answer comes to you and you groan. "First off, I can overlook the vampire bar. What I can't overlook is that of all people to tell our secret to, you chose vampires. Vampires! Do you know we're like crack to them?"

"I'm sorry, okay! I got involved with them a while back, which is a mistake that I can admit now, but Eric actually tried helping me in his own way. Somewhat. We've become friends."

"Sookie." You groan again. Your sister pouts and you decide to keep quiet, sipping on your water and wishing it were something stronger. "So what does this Eric know about me listening to echoes?"

"Nothing really," she says. "I know how you like your privacy, so last night was the first time I mentioned that I even had a sister." You grin, not hurt at all by her not mentioning you to others. "I just said that you could listen in on the dead. They don't know about anything else."

"Good. I like to keep 'em on their toes." Sookie snorts at your all too amused expression. "And besides, I learned a new trick! I can't wait to test it out."

Your sister glances between you and the road, her smile faltering. "Are you- are you sure you're okay to do this? I know how it can get when you're not truly focused."

"We're on the road." You giggle. "No turning around now."

This time it's Sookie's turn to groan. "I knew I should have asked beforehand. Now the night's gonna end with one of us pinned to a wall."

"Oooh. Kinky."

The rest of the drive is painfully quiet, with the exception of some gospel music station Sookie has playing on low. You're humming a completely different song under your breath, right arm hanging out the window and letting the humid air rush over the skin of your arm. Thankfully the drive isn't too long and Sookie is soon pulling into the parking lot with a building partially decorated with neon red lights. The outside of Fangtasia is not what you expected, but seeing the line of both human and vampires in their scantily clad outfits makes you excited to see what's going on inside.

You're practically bouncing in your seat as Sookie parks and she can't help but grin at your apparent excitement. "Get it all out now," she says. "You won't be smilin' the closer you get to the buildin'. Not while you're half drunk."

"Shut up and let's go!"

Sookie fondly rolls her eyes and the two of you simultaneously pull down the sun visors to check yourselves in the small mirrors provided. Happy with your reflections, the two of you climb out of the vehicle. As your sister comes around to your side, you hook your arm through hers and the two of you head for the building.

Instead of heading straight to the back of line, Sookie leads you directly to Fangtasia's bouncer and ignores the grumbled displeasures of those waiting in line to get in. It takes you a few seconds to recognize the dark skinned female checking ID's, but when she turns to greet Sookie and her eyes widen upon seeing you, you grin. "What's cookin', good lookin'?"

"Oh Lord," Tara muses. "Eric's gonna murder the both of y'all."

Sookie huffs and she holds you back as you attempt to poke at Tara's abdomen. "Who put him in a bad mood now?"

Tara shrugs as she swats your hand away. "It's Eric. He's always in a bad mood unless he's balls deep in some fang-banger."

Your sister ew's and you grin, clearly impressed, until Sookie elbows you. Tara just chuckles and gestures inside. "Go on in. You know where to find him. See you later, Y/N."

"Lookin' forward to it." Sookie drags you inside and the second you step foot in the darkened hallway, you sway on your feet as pressure builds up in your head. "Wait, wait, wait." You step aside to lean against the wall, shaking your head clear and trying to build up mental walls. When you catch a glimpse of your sister, you see her smiling sadly at you and are grateful she doesn't gloat about being right. "This is why I don't hang around vampires much," you murmur. "So much death."

"Sorry. I know I should have asked beforehand, but I didn't want to give you a chance to say no. Eric's annoying when he doesn't get what he wants."

"Yeah, yeah." You wave her off, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. Once you feel a bite more settled, you push off the wall and meet your sister's gaze. "Okay. I'm ready."

Entering the main part of the club you can't help but look around in wide-eyed wonder. While most would think you were awe, you actually weren't and instead bit back the comment about how ridiculously cliché the establishment is. Everything is in blacks and reds, vampires in leather or electrical tape are dancing on poles, and the humans reek of desperation.

"Huh. No one's on the throne," Sookie muses.

You glance towards a raised platform, eyes lighting up at the sight of two actual thrones. Sookie's grip on your arm, however, stops you from attempting to go up there. "At least buy me a drink before we meet Mr. Scary Vampire." You pout.

"Nope." She starts marching away from the bar and towards a back hallway. "You're drunk enough already. You can have one at home when we're done here."

"Boo. You're no fun."

Sookie stops right outside a black door and impatiently knocks. You grin at her already huffy attitude and then walk in behind her as soon as someone permits entrance. The office is very plain, with the exception of a blood red couch off to the side and the two vampires behind the desk, and you frown as Sookie guides you towards a black leather chair and pushes you down into it.

"So this is the mysterious Stackhouse." The blonde male drawls.

You drag your gaze from your sister to the vampire in question and sit a little straighter in your seat as a lazy smile stretches across your lips. "And you're the mysterious vampire I've only heard about an hour ago." You then look at your sister. "Please tell me you banged this one."

There are simultaneous snorts from behind the desk and Sookie exhales roughly, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Eric. Pam, this is my sister Y/N. She might be a little drunk."

"Just a little," you muse, giggling.

"Well at least we know who the fun Stackhouse is."

You perk up again, putting one finger on the tip of your nose and pointing at Pam who's smirking at you with the other hand. "And don't you forget it."

"As amusing as this is," Eric drawls again, "I need a favor. Are you capable of doing what your sister claims you can do?"

"I wouldn't be here if I couldn't." You smirk. The smirk falters however as you feel a chill slide across the back of your neck. You still and slowly glance over your shoulder, whispers you hadn't been listening to earlier getting louder. You wince and turn back around, strengthening your shields. A moment passes before you clear your throat and say, "But I have two conditions before I start."

Eric and Pam had been watching you closely, intrigued the second Sookie held up her hand to stall their questions when they noticed you zone out and stare at the corner of the room. "Money is no issue," Eric then says.

"Pft. I don't want money."

"Y/N!" Sookie reprimands. "You're in between jobs. Take the money."

Without looking at your sister, you wave your hand at your sister to get her to shut up. You know you've done your job when she swats your hand so you continue speaking to Eric. "First condition, no biting! I don't care how delicious I smell. No gnawing on the tiny little gremlin."

Pam's lips stretch into a wide smile whereas Eric's lips faintly twitch. "And the second?"

"I get free drinks from the bar whenever I'm here."

"Deal."

"Yes!"

"You're such an idiot," Sookie mutters.

You look to your sister, bouncing in your seat in excitement. "Joke's on Dracula. I'm gonna be in Bon Temps for the foreseeable future. That's a lot of free drinks for me. Suck it, Pixie."

"Oohh. I like this mouth breather. Can we please keep her?"

You meet Pam's gaze and wink. "As beautiful as you are, sweet stuff, you are so not my type."

Her left eyebrow raises as she's still clearly amused. "Because I'm a vampire?"

"Nah. Because you're female," you say. "I can appreciate a hot as fuck lady when I see one, but I still prefer cock."

"Okay!" Sookie nearly shouts as she stands up. Eric beams at your drunken blunt attitude. "We're here so Y/N can find out where your money is and we're way off topic. Can we please get on with it so I can get her home?"

You snort. "Prude." Sookie slaps the back of your arm and you squeal, slapping her arm back. You glare at her until her lips twitch and then you're back to giggling, looking back toward the vampires. "So let's do it. Do you have anything of the dead guy I'm supposed to be listening for? It'll make it easier to listen in on him."

Pam shrugs. "His blood is still in the dungeon. Will that work?"

"Gross, but yeah. Lead the way."

As soon as you stand, the voices amp up and you sway at the sudden onslaught of voices. You grit your teeth and tune them out, nodding at Eric who had stilled to keep an eye on you. He gestures to follow after Pam and you do, Sookie and Eric following behind you. Pam makes a beeline for the stage of thrones, but before you can follow there's a hand gripping your wrist and leading you towards a door behind the bar.

You're led down into a dimly lit dungeon behind Eric and you can't help the next words that leave your mouth. "It's always such a let down when the dungeon is actually a dungeon and not a sex dungeon."

Eric turns around to stare at you with a leering gaze and Sookie groans. "Been in a lot of dungeons?"

"Not really." You shrug and walk towards the back of the room where there are metal poles sticking up from the concrete floor. Chains hang from each of them and you shiver as your fingers run over them, the metallic rattling immediately tuning you in to the whispers. Subtly shaking your head, you look towards Sookie. "You know the drill."

She nods, pulling small orange styrofoam plugs from her pocket. "If it looks like you're struggling, plug my ears. Or get out."

"Bingo." You grin at your sister before looking at Eric. "If it gets bad, I expect you to vamp speed her little butt outta here."

"And how would I know what bad looks like?"

"Oh you'll know," Sookie mutters.

Grinning one last time at Sookie and Eric, you turn back towards where Eric obviously chains up those who end up on his bad side. So touching the chains again, you let the rattling and whispers overcome your senses.

"..dangerous. Need to leave."

"..bad place. I just want to go home."

"Stupid fuckin' vampers."

The room turns hazy and silhouettes walk to and from around the basement. You stare at them, letting the voices come and go until you find the one you're looking for.

"..so screwed. Never should have done it." Your gaze zeroes in on the silhouette, watching it pace back and forth. "It was just a little money. Pocket change."

"Never gonna find it. Calm down. We're already dead."

You listen a bit more to their whining, hoping for anything useful when a loud dry sob pierces the air. You wince and whirl around to spot the source of noise.

"Did she- can she hear us?"

"If she can then she can tell that goddamn vamper where his stuff is." You whirl back around, gasping at the too close silhouette. "Hello." A chill rushes through you and your too tense muscles seem to relax as a haze takes over your mind.

"Y/N? You good?" Sookie asks. She warily glances around, she and Eric both noticing the atmosphere in the room thickening.

"Hm?" Your eyes blink rapidly as if clearing your vision. "Yeah. All good," you hear yourself saying.

"Well what did you find out?" Eric asks.

You feel your head turning left and right as if taking in your surroundings before you turn around and walk towards the wall where more chains are hanging. Eric growls at being ignored and Sookie quietly assures him that this is normal. Reaching for a chain, you feel your hand gliding along one chain and picking it up, caressing a metal stake at the end of it.

"Y/N," Sookie cautiously calls out. "What are you doing?"

Getting a good grasp on the stake in one hand, you turn around and smile at Eric- a chilling smile that immediately sets Sookie on edge and lets even Eric know that something is off. "Fuck your money. You're never gonna get it, you dead piece of shit."

"Y/N, don't!" Sookie screams as your arm suddenly thrusts the stake towards the side of your neck, only to stop mere centimeters from the intended target.

Sookie gasps and Eric raises an eyebrow in surprise. "Are her eyes supposed to completely white over?"

"Well she did mention learning a new trick." Sookie nervously shifts beside Eric and they watch you slowly come back to yourself, expression hardening.

Eyes completely white, you stare straight ahead as you lower your hand without any resistance from the spirits. "You dead fucks try that shit again and I will obliterate your fuckin' souls, and mark every soul in your goddamn family. Do I make myself clear?" You seethe. The dungeon gets chilly before the tension seems to suddenly dwindle. The whispers amp up before completely dying out and you stand a little taller. "Good. Now where is the money?"

Eric and Sookie patiently watch Y/N as she lazily glances back and forth before the white recedes from her eyes. Her shoulders sag and she meets Eric's gaze. "That Rafael guy had a building he was renovating over on.. over on.." she trails off, brow furrowing as she tries to collect her thoughts.

"I know of it," Eric says.

She sighs. "Well the money's in the wall on the second floor. Happy demolishing."

Then like a puppet with its strings cut, Y/N collapses right before their very eyes.

          - - - - - - - - - -

A pounding at your temples is what wakes you and you groan as your eyes flutter open. You're apparently still at Fangtasia, back in Eric's plain office and laying on the most uncomfortable couch you've ever laid on.

"You're awake. Good."

You begrudgingly sit up, wincing as the throbbing persists. Glancing around, you frown as you notice you and Eric are the only two in the room. "Where's my sister?"

"Miss Stackhouse couldn't bother a mere hour in my presence so she went out front to pester Tara."

"You two exes or something?"

Not even close. "No. I admit I pursued her once, but it was only to satiate my curiosity about why she smelled so divine." Bill fuckin' Compton was also a cock block of epic proportions.

You snort. "Cock block. Who is Bill and why did he cock block you from Sookie?" Eric stills and he goes quiet. You frown at him and then between one blink and the next, Eric is kneeling in front of you.

Can you hear me?

"Um, yes?" You say. A moment passes and then you realize your slip-up. You groan. "Okay, so yeah. I can't read the minds of humans, but apparently I can read the minds of vampires. It only happens when I'm at my most vulnerable and being slightly possessed makes me vulnerable."

Eric slowly smirks. "Well aren't you my new favorite Stackhouse."

You fall back against the back of the couch, groaning. "Whatever. I don't have the energy to argue with you. Just please don't tell Sookie. She gets all huffy when I can do something she can't."

Another blink and Eric is sitting beside you on the couch. "Is there a reason why you can read vampires and she can read everyone else but vampires?"

"Your guess is as good as mine." You shrug. "I eventually came to the conclusion that we're just a part of different courts. She's Light Fae and I'm Dark. She flourishes under the sun and I under the moon. I don't really know."

"Have you tried getting answers from other Fae?"

"Yeah, no. I met a member of the Fae court and that's a hard pass. Those fairy fucks can keep their imposter foods. I like this realm just fine, thank you very much."

Eric's lips twitch. "If the vampires find out about your powers, they're going to fight to put their claim on you."

"Is that your not so subtle way in trying to convince me that I should ask you for protection?"

"I'm the sheriff of this area, sweetheart. You won't be able to find anyone better suited for the job."

You huff a quiet laugh. "Keep your fangs to yourself, sweetheart. I can take care of myself."

We'll see about that.

Settling in at what was always known as Gran's house, you almost take Sam up on his offer to become a waitress or bartender at Merlotte's. But then a day after doing Eric a favor, a check arrives for you- a check worth thousands of dollars- along with an offer from Eric to work every other day at Fangtasia to read the vampires coming and going from his area.

You didn't get back to him right away, instead choosing to just keep to yourself for a bit and re-familiarize yourself with the town. And then just when you think you have a lid on things, a constant buzzing makes a home just at the back of your skull.

For days Eric tries reaching you through texts and calls, but you just don't have the patience to deal with him. The buzzing is non-stop, the echoes of the dead sound as if they're underwater, and you can't hold a conversation longer than a minute. Sookie seems to understand that you can't be around people, so she leaves you be for the most part.

Your sister is currently at work so you have the house all to yourself. You haven't been able to clear your head and the buzzing is only getting louder and louder. You're nearing your breaking point, so when there's a knock at the front door you try to ignore it.

The knocking persists so you reluctantly roll out of bed, frowning as you march downstairs and towards the front door. Through the screen door you can see Eric standing there. You scowl at him, he grins, and when you push open the door he's immediately leaning against the door jamb. "You've been ignoring me."

You sigh and cross your arms over your chest. "I haven't been feeling well. Something's.. off."

That causes his faint grin to drop. "Is it something serious?"

"I'm not sure. I just- it feels like something bad is on the way."

"Well in that case.." Eric straightens up and stares down at you. "You're going to invite me in so I can protect you-" you scoff, "-or have primal passionate sex with you. You pick."

Though your mind is on overdrive, you can't help but faintly grin at the tall vampire. "I'll take a raincheck on the sex, but if you still want to come in, then come in."

Eric smirks as he crosses the threshold of the house and you shake your head at him before turning around and leading him to the living room. You take a seat in the corner of the couch, curling up with a pillow in your lap, and Eric sits on the middle seat to be as close to you as possible. "How long have you been feeling like this?"

"Few days now," you tell him. "There's this.. buzz. It's constant and it just keeps getting louder and louder."

"And the voices?"

"Muffled. No matter how much I concentrate, I can't hear them clearly. It's like they're trying to tell me something, but I can't tune in to the right station. It's annoying." Eric hums in thought and you attempt to change the subject. "So what brings you down here to Bon Temps? Surely my first impression wasn't that memorable."

He smirks as his arm rests along the top of the backrest of the couch, his fingers tugging on a few pieces of your hair. "It's rare for someone to amuse me these days. And you weren't what I was expecting Sookie's twin to be."

"Between the two of us, Sookie got all the perkiness. I, uh, I got stuck with all the doom and gloom." Eric quirks an eyebrow at you and you chuckle, wincing a moment later as an lingering echo screeches in your ear. Your attention is immediately drawn towards the kitchen where you see a silhouette walk by and the buzzing amps up.

Without uttering a word, you get up and follow it.

Eric watches as Y/N laughs one moment and then in the next second her expression is completely blank and attention elsewhere. Normally he'd be offended, but after learning what he could from Sookie he knows to never bring Y/N out of a trance. So in order to protect this little fae that just continues to become more and more interesting, Eric gets up and follows Y/N through the kitchen and out the back door.

He keeps several feet between himself and Y/N, his curiosity piqued as he notices her stop in the middle of the field behind her home. She glances back and forth as if searching for something, slowly turning in a circle. She winces and stumbles back, eyes wide and heart pumping furiously. Whatever's going on, Eric's instincts suddenly kick in and he doesn't like it. He doesn't like the look of fear on Y/N's face.

One sudden stumble sends Y/N to her knees, hands clamping around her ears.

"No, no, no," you mumble. The buzzing is extremely loud now, voices are screaming but you're still unable to make out what they're saying. Rocking back and forth, you glance around and your heart sinks as you watch Eric standing there across from you. "Go. Get away. I can't-"

"What's wrong? I can help you."

You shake your head. "You can't. You need to go. Get away from me. Please."

Eric watches you and you whimper when you see his resolve strengthen. He's not going anywhere. Clenching your eyes shut against the onslaught of noise, you slam your hands down on the ground in front of you and your fingers dig into the earth. Your breaths come faster and faster, and when you can't take it anymore your eyes fly open as you open your mouth and scream.

Your scream drowns out the buzz, the voices become clearer and it's only there alongside your scream do you understand them. You don't know how long you scream for, but when you stop your throat feels raw.

"What was that?" Eric asks.

"Sookie."

He's immediately kneeling before you, fingers under your chin to tilt your face upward. "What did you say?"

"My sister. She's not- she's not safe."

"She's at work under the ever watchful eye of the shifter."

"She is. Until she walks out back to take out the trash," you say. "Please," you beg. "Just.. just go check on her."

Eric continues to hold your gaze for a moment longer before he gives you a terse nod and then stands tall. Your eyes follow him as she lifts off into the air and it's like a weight is lifted off your chest. You sob in relief, curling in on yourself with your face in your hands.

"..inside.. safer.."

The hairs on the back of your neck stand up and your cries immediately cease. Sniffling, you sit back up and glance around the field you're in. Hearing the chirping insects and the ruffling of tree limbs puts you at unease, so you climb to your feet and hurriedly make your way back towards the house. You don't breathe until you're inside, behind closed doors, but even then you're still a little tense and wondering if your sister is okay.

The minutes tick on by as you pace back and forth in the kitchen, and you yelp when you turn around and Eric is standing right there. You raise a fist in order to punch him, but stop halfway there and instead poke his chest as you push him back a step. "Don't do that."

He smirks. "Sookie is fine. A couple of human junkies needed some money for their next fix. The sheriff is on the way to take care of the issue."

"Thank you." You sigh. As you move aside to take a seat at the table, you glance back at Eric and see a blood trail falling from his ear. Your eyes widen and you rush towards him, uncaring about boundaries when one hand lands on his chest and the other grasping his chin to turn his face sideways. "Your ear! I told you to leave before I screamed. Why didn't you listen?" You let go of his chin and then shove him a step back as you go back to pacing.

Eric chuckles. "You've been keeping secrets. You're not just Fae, are you?"

You shrug. "I'm not really sure what I am. I only found out I was part Fae because you guys told Sookie she was. The mind reading is from Fae abilities, but the screaming-"

"The wailing is a whole different breed."

You stop pacing and face him once more. "There's only one creature that wails," you say, "but I gave up on digging into our family history a long time ago."

"You truly are a rare breed, Miss Stackhouse. Half fae, half banshee. The vampires are going to be in a tizzy over you."

You groan. "A problem is inevitable until I agree to a claim, isn't it?"

"Aren't you a smart cookie."

You scowl at Eric then, holding his gaze until you sigh. "If I say yes to a claim, can I have your word that you won't take advantage?" He smiles then and though this vampire is ridiculously good looking, you rather not be someone's pet. But alas, you know he's right. "If the offer for a job at Fangtasia is still open, I'll take it. I don't plan to leave Bon Temps anytime soon and I'm going to need the cash."

"Sweetheart, if you agree to be mine I'll give you all the cash you could want."

Your nose wrinkles. "I'm so gonna regret this." There's a faint click! as Eric's fangs appear, his eyes darkening as he readily bites into his wrist. "Don't tell my sister."

Drink up, little one. We're going to have some fun.

[cacoetheswriting]

you said forever

Pairing: Spencer Reid x fem!Reader Warnings: swearing, a little fluffy, but mainly just pure angst, [spoiler alert] no happy ending Word Count: 2k Request/Summary: @mgglover​: “fic based on Olivia Rodrigos new song Drivers license where Reid and Reader broke up and reader still loves him (he feels the same and it was just circumstance or not) and then JJ confesses her love to Reid and Reader is distraught.”

-

“Here you go, your black bow tie.” You said, handing Spencer a small box. His fingers brushed gently against yours as he grabbed the box causing the air to hitch briefly in your throat. 

“I’m sorry it took so long.” You added. “It was buried deep at the back of our- ehm my wardrobe.” A small nervous smile circled your lips. Spencer smiled back at you. “It’s okay Y/N. Thank you.” 

He placed the item on his desk before looking back at you. “You didn't have to come all this way though. I could have stopped by our- ehm your place later to pick it up.” You waved your hand dissuasively. “I just thought it would be easier, in case you got called onto a case or something.” You replied, although the real reason was much more simple than that. You just wanted to see him.

Spencer nodded. He glanced around the empty bullpen before turning his attention back to you; unsure of what to say next.

The two of you used to be able to talk for hours on end, about everything and nothing all at once. Now whenever you saw each other, as rare as these meetings were, you bit your tongue afraid to say the wrong thing. Start another argument perhaps. The brunette doctor did the same. 

It was heartbreaking really, because you still loved him. Deeply. 

“I better get going.” You said, breaking the surprisingly comfortable silence that has enveloped around you. “Have fun at the wedding and please wish the happy couple my congratulations.” Spencer smiled. “Thanks Y/N, and don’t worry I will.”

With one last longing look, you turned swiftly on your heel and headed for the exit. You pressed the button for the elevator and waited patiently for it to arrive. And as you waited, the brunette doctor snuck up behind you.

“Y/N?” The sound of your name escaping his lips was enough to make your heart skip a beat. You turned to face him again. “I was wondering...” Spencer cleared his throat. “I thought maybe you'd like to accompany me to the wedding?” He asked. You furrowed your brows in confusion. “I don’t kno-”

“I mean that was the plan before we broke up, and I know Rossi would love to have you there.” Spencer paused, and observed your features for a reaction. Which he hoped would be a pleasant one.

“Are you sure Spencer? Won’t that be weird for us?” You questioned but the the hazel-eyed doctor shook his head. “University of Kansas released a study that shows sixty percent of people maintain a friendship after a breakup.” “And you think we can fit within that bracket?” You asked quietly.

“We should at least try because-” He paused and you immediately noticed the hesitation in his eyes. He swallowed. “Well, truth be told Y/NI miss spending time with you.” You couldn't help but smile. “I miss spending time with you too Spencer.” “Really?” He asked, a hint of confusion to his voice. He thought after what transpired you would never want to see him again.

“Of course. Who else will take me to see midnight showings of black and white documentaries on various battles I have never heard of, or The Cheese Mites, or Global Air Routes.” Spencer chuckled. “I can't believe you remember The Cheese Mites.” “Are you kidding? That two minute video is the reason I don’t eat blue cheese anymore.” The grin on your face spread a little wider. “Which is probably best for my digestive system anyway.” 

The hazel-eyed doctor smirked. “That it definitely is.”

The elevator door opened with a slight ding; bring you back to reality. With an inaudible sigh, you stepped inside. You peered back at Spencer and positioned your hand on the edge of the metal door, holding it so it wouldn't close yet. 

“I’d love to go to the wedding with you Spencer.” “You would?” You nodded in response. “Do you want to meet there or-” Spencer politely cut you off. “I’ll pick you up.” 

You let your hand fall and took a step backwards. With a warm smile, you bid him farewell. “See you then Spencer.” "Bye Y/N.”

The door closed. It was then you realised the silly smile greeting your facial features and just how happy and hopeful you were suddenly feeling. Shit. 

A week has passed and no word from the brunette doctor. You texted him a couple of times, just to check in, but no response. You began to feel stupid, foolish even. Spencer was probably doubting the whole thing. You should have known his invite was too good to be true. 

With a wine glass in hand, you starred blankly at your phone hoping it would suddenly ring. Hoping his name would illuminate your screen like it did a million times before. How stupid, how foolish. 

There was a chance he was away on a case, of course you considered that. His hectic schedule and lack of communication has been the cause of many fights in the past. Which is why you began to feel slightly angry, primarily with yourself but also with the hazel-eyed doctor. 

A sigh escaped your lips. You took the last sip of your wine, and gently placed the glass in the sink before heading to the bedroom. Within the hour you were showered and ready for bed. It was then your phone rang, finally.

“Hello?” You picked up eagerly.

“Hi Y/N. I’m sorry for calling so late.” Spencer replied, the tone of his voice soothing as always. “Actually, I’m sorry for only calling now. We were in Los Angeles on a case.”

“That’s okay.” You whispered back. A lie. A big fat lie. Yet you knew omitting the truth was better than getting into a silly argument.

Spencer cleared his throat. “Do you think that maybe I could come over? There uhm, there is something I nee-d to tell you.”

“S-sure, sure.” “Great. I’ll be there soon.” And like that the call ended just as quickly as it started. 

You picked out a random clean hoodie from your dresser and returned back to the living room where you waited patiently for Spencer to arrive.

Obviously, you wondered what he wanted to talk about. Could it be about you? About your past? Maybe your future? A thought crossed your mind. What if he wanted to get back together?

You shook your head. No. Spencer made it quite clear when the two of you broke up that would never happen. He said you were better off alone, and perhaps that was true. But then again, why would he suggest maintaining a friendship with you if that was the case?

Sound of the doorbell whisked you away from your thoughts and brought you back to reality. You hurried over and greeted the brunette doctor with a shy smile. Without saying a word, you invited him inside and the two of you sat down on the couch. 

A weird atmosphere circled the room. You couldn't help but feel uneasy about what was about to be said. The last time you felt this way, your love story was coming to a tragic end.

“Is everything okay Spencer?” You asked quietly. He nodded slowly, although avoided your gaze. 

“What’s going on? Did something happen?” You asked, concern spreading through your body. Without really thinking you reached for his hand, and gave it a gentle squeeze. The sudden contact caused the doctor to snap his head in your direction. His eyes locked with yours, and your heart skipped a beat.

“Something did happen.” Spencer began. And as he spoke, he gently traced circled on your hand with your thumb. “There was a hostage situation, and-” “A hostage situation?” You interrupted. “Are you okay?” 

“Yes, I'm okay.” He reassured. “That’s not what I came here to say.” 

Spencer swallowed hard. He took a deep breath and began to explain. He started with the details of the case, leaving out the more gruesome details because he knew how much you disliked those. He moved onto the hostage situation he found himself in with JJ, and the game. 

His tone of voice changed; you noticed it immediately. 

“I know we’re over, but in the spirit of trying to remain friends I wanted to be honest with you.” Spencer stated. “JJ admitted-” He gulped. “She ehm- she admitted as part of the game, that she- she’s always loved me.” 

You blinked, hand slipping in slow motion out of his grasp. His words ringing in your ears. A gut wrenching feeling twisting your insides, making you incredibly nauseous. Your worst nightmare coming true.

“She said, she said she was too scared to say it before and things were too complicated now.” “Stop.” You whispered but Spencer continued. “She said that I should-” “Stop it!” You jumped to your feet and frustratingly ran your fingers through your hair. 

“Y/N...” 

“You told me, Spencer you told me many times that I had nothing to worry about when it came to JJ.” Frustration levels rising. Spencer also got up, he reached out to grab you but you took a step back. The hazel-eyed man sighed.

“I swear I didn't know before she felt that way. You have to believe me Y/N.” He took a step toward you, maintaining stern eye contact. He once again tried to take your hand in his, however as soon as his fingers brushed against yours you yanked your hand back. 

“I don't believe you.” You muttered. Hot tears began to escape the corners of your eyes, they burned your skin as they traveled down your cheeks. “You’re a profiler, and you literally spend every day with her.”

A broken look spread across the brunette doctor’s face, one to match the complete despair currently gracing your features. 

“That’s not fair Y/N.”

“Not fair? Are you fucking kidding me?!” Anger levels spiking. “Fuck Spencer, when we were together you spent more time with her than you did with me!” 

“Because we work together!” 

“That is a pathetic excuse Spencer and you know it! When we were dating, she always made me doubt! She's older, she knows you longer than me.” The salty tears reached your lips, you began to feel choked up. “JJ is everything I have always been insecure about!”

“Which is why I wanted to come here and tell you what happened in person.”

“No.” You shook your head. “You only came here to ease the guilt.”

“Y/N, please, I am begging you.” The brunette doctor grabbed your wrist before you got a chance to pull away. He held onto you tight, yet not to hurt you. He placed his free hand on your cheek, and for a split second you leaned into his touch. 

“Get out.” You whispered while closing your eyes to try and stop the tears from falling. “Get out of my house Spencer.” 

“This used to be our house Y/N.” He mumbled back. “Or did you forget that?”

You scoffed, opening your eyes to meet his gaze again. “You said forever, and then you left. So from where I’m standing it seems you are the one who forgot Spencer.” 

The sentence seemed to stung the hazel-eyed man. His jaw clenched as he let his arms fall back down to his sides. You watched silently, wiping the wet tears with the sleeve of your hoodie, as Spencer made his way to the front door. 

He turned to look at you once again. For a moment, a brief moment, you could have sworn you noticed a genuine hurt in his eyes. 

“I know we weren't perfect Y/N.” Pause. “But believe me or not, I have never felt this way for no-one.”

And he was gone. The door shut with a loud bang causing you to jump slightly in your spot. Nausea. Nausea crusaded through your veins. You let out a deep long breath, one you didn't even realise you were holding.

He loved you. It was clear now that’s what he came here to say, and you kicked him out. You pushed him away. Forever. 

It was over. Completely, and utterly over.

-

spencer reid taglist: @no-honey-no​, @calm-and-doctor​

masterlist

[shreddedparchment]

A Wife for Thor Pt.12

Queen of New Asgard

12/02/2020

Pairing: King!Thor x Reader          Word Count: 9,737

Warnings: fluff, cute babies, talks of pregnancy, angst, Avengers shenanigans, talks of sex

A/N: So this one is a bit longer than the rest, I really wanted to make sure that this one was a lengthy treat. I didn’t want to split the chapter into two between getting to the Avengers and then actually meeting them and spending tie with them. I wanted to keep it together. I hope you all like it! I had a lot of fun with it, and mostly, I just really love Thor. I want him for myself. If you happen to reblog, thanks so much for helping me spread my work! xoxo

Please DO NOT repost my stories on other sites or blogs!

REBLOGS are always welcome!

To say you’re a mess would be an understatement.

At least having Thor by your side gives you a small sense of stability, but that doesn’t change the fact that you’re about to meet the Avengers.

Earth’s mightiest heroes.

People so famous that everyone knows their name. Even people in remote parts of the world know they exist.

The sensation of being pulled and gliding through the air in Thor’s arms as the Bifrost glow surrounds you both in your transport is nothing compared to the rolling of your stomach at the thought of saying or doing something stupid in front of Thor’s friends and comrades.

You hold him tighter, loving the way he feels in full armor. Only because it really drives home the fact that he could protect you from anything as opposed to being comfortable.

You’re dressed more simply though not at all casual. The outfit you’re wearing was shoved into your bag with two others in case of official events that might crop up during your honeymoon.

Because dinner with Thor’s teammates is supposed to be a relaxed event, you chose the most unimpressive of the three.

The bodice consists of a one-piece made of leather. Armor would be more accurate in describing it. Though bits of it have been dyed a dark yet also soft gray-purple, others, like the right breast piece and the strip that wraps down around your left side are a natural brown. Textured with a ridged design to compliment the thinner more boned design of the gray-purple section.

Around your waist and laced at the back is another a-symmetrical piece of that natural brown leather, but along the base of it is sewn a long flowing skirt made of a cotton voile base in navy and a sheer silk light blue making the effect of it together like shifting water.

The skirt is left open slightly on the right. If anyone pays really close attention, they’ll see the top of your thigh in the sway. Generally, the dress is appropriate and since this will technically be your first public outing with Thor, it was important you look the part.

Neither of you is wearing a crown. Not necessary really, if it isn’t an official ceremony or event, but you are wearing the large golden pin that Thor had made for you to put on the left breast of your sleeveless gown.

It’s the same interlaced arches that are on your swords with a crown that looks just like your wedding crown at the center where the arches connect.

It shines bright, brand new as it is, and is a symbol of your new status in the world.

A human Queen of Asgard.

It’s safe to say that your name is known from one corner of the Earth to the other which you only just realized when you were doing some research on the time it takes for a body to decompose in a demi-damp environment occasionally exposed to heat. You’d stumbled across a tabloid page with the headline How the New Queen of Asgard Bewitched the God of Thunder.

You hadn’t bothered to read the article because it was clear exactly what kind of reporting they were doing from the picture of you, which someone had pulled from the website of your old school, sitting on Thor’s chest with a photoshopped smirk and glowing red eyes.

There were a few others you read, most of them nice and from official news sources. All of them detailing your tragic childhood and your ascension to wealth. Then your birth ancestry was exposed making you a top candidate for Queen of the Asgardians and in one article for the New York Times, you recognized the pictures of your wedding as you and Thor stared at each other in all of your enamored glory.

Anyone with eyes can see that you love him and in those pictures, you can admit that it helps you feel a bit more secure in Thor’s love to see that he’s looking at you the exact same way. How can he look at you like that and not love you? Or at least be really fond of you?

As the air gets colder, mushy gray snow lining the streets below you, Thor’s body pulls up, preparing to stand as his speed slows.

You feel him step onto the pavement before you do, then slowly he lowers you, large hands so careful with you that you can’t help but look for his eye to see what he might be feeling.

His eyes are not on you though. They’re on the crowd that’s slowly begun to gather.

They’re giving you a wide berth, but they’re stopping to look, and some have pulled out their cell phones to take photos or record video.

You can hear whispers shift through the cold New York winter air, people leaning over to each other in excitement and curiosity. Much like the crowd back in New Asgard had when you’d driven by them to get to your dress fitting and the wedding parade.

You can’t really make out what they’re saying but Thor can, and he wraps his arm around your waist, turns you to face those that are nearest, and waves.

You follow his example and give them as kind a smile as you can, despite the sudden nerves eating at you.

Shit, do you have to say something? Are you expected to?

“Hello everyone. I know most of you have seen her in the papers and on the interwebs already, but this is my beautiful and lovely Queen. My wife, Y/N.” Thor declares, but even your name he caresses with the soft shift in his tone.

“Hello?” You don’t mean it to come out as a question, but it does.

Still, there are a few people that giggle at your reaction.

A sense of calm overcomes those watching, as if finally hearing you speak seems to have burst a bubble.

“Aw yew a pwincess?” A small hand tugs at your skirts and you turn to look down at an adorable little girl with smooth deep brown skin. Her hair is gathered in two small buns, tight braids keep it neat.

All you can really see are her big brown eyes, so wide and full of wonder.

You pull from Thor’s grasp and squat down to be on the toddler’s level. She can’t be more than three.

“She’s my Queen, little one.” Thor explains, squatting down beside you. “Queen of New Asgard. Isn’t she pretty?”

The little girl giggles and nods, then reaches up to touch your own hair which has also been braided, one long in the middle giving it a mohawk look, and several other small braids along the sides to keep it neat while flying.

At least that’s the bit that you remember from this morning.

Thor had pulled you out of bed at four o’clock, led you to a chair in the bathroom and then started messing with your hair. Of course, that sent you right back off to sleep but you remember asking him sleepily at some point why he was braiding your hair and he’d explained that it was to keep it from getting all messy while flying.

That’s the last thing you remember before he was suddenly kissing you awake and then your mind was busy with the delicious way he carried you back to bed and then heartbroken when he said you had only ten minutes more to sleep while he showered.

You’re so tired.

Smiling at the little girl, watching her own joy grow in her eyes gives you new energy and you take her hand and hold it in your two.

“It’s so lovely to meet you…?”

A woman hurries over from the crowd, voice frantic as she seems to have finally spotted her little escapee.

“RUBY!” The poor mother cries, hurrying to her daughter’s side.

“Ruby,” You repeat.

The little girl turns to look at her mother while you keep hold of her hand.

“Wook mama! A Ka-ween!” She giggles and her mother slows, hesitating now that she notices you and Thor.

“Holy shi-” Her mother says, “I’m so sorry.”

Hurrying forward, she takes hold of Ruby’s shoulders and pulls her close, not because she’s threatened by you two or anything. She must be shocked.

You let her hand go as it’s pulled gently, and Thor helps you stand back up. Once you’re standing, he reaches down to take hold of your hand, intertwining his fingers with yours.

“It’s okay.” You shake your head, smiling at the woman as Ruby turns to hug her leg excitedly. “She’s very sweet.”

“She’s a troublemaker. That’s what she is.” The woman counters. “D-Do I have to curtsy or somethin’?”

“Not this time.” Thor tells her, “For having such an adorable child, we’ll give you the curtsy pass.”

He’s joking. Teasing the woman.

“Thor…” You nudge him and he chuckles, amused by you more than his joke. “What he means to say is, yes. Normally you would have to, but he knows I’m already nervous out of my mind so it’s okay.”

The woman looks around behind her, aware of the flashing camera phones and the videos they must be taking. So, she turns back to you and clumsily makes a curtsy.

Little Ruby sees her do it and then turns to you and does an even clumsier version of the same bow.

“Thank you.” You manage to say, voice almost completely deprived of volume from how nervous her attention makes you.

“Yes,” Thor agrees, suddenly serious. “Thank you. Both of you, for the warm New York welcome.”

“It was nothing.” The woman says, dipping down to pick up Ruby. “Say buh-bye, Ruby.”

As they walk away, Ruby twists in her mother’s arms to look over her shoulder at you and Thor and waves.

“Buh-bye!”

“Bye, Ruby.” You wave at her, smiling at her cuteness before you look up to meet Thor’s gaze.

“See, that wasn’t so terrible.” Thor gives you a squeeze. “Just our luck that it was an adorable child to greet you first.”

“She was so cute!” You gush, wishing you could take her home.

Maybe Thor sees the deep want in your own face because he leans in and presses his lips to your temple before resting them softly against your ear.

“Don’t worry, cherub. Soon we’ll have our own little one running around the palace.” He promises.

Even though he means it in an innocent way, the deep tone and intent in his voice is also very clear and if there weren’t a lot of people watching, you’d pull him down for a kiss.

He smirks down at you, almost like he knows that you picked up on that lusty vibe despite his words being sweet.

“You’re not playing fair.” You complain.

Thor chuckles then gives the crowd, which has grown quite a bit, another wave.

“Something to look forward to when we go home.” He reasons.

“Will we get to do everything you want with this crowd around us?” You give them a look and tuck yourself into Thor’s side a little more but wave all the same.

All these eyes on you. Watching you. Listening to every little thing you say?

“I’ll make it possible, cherub.” Thor assures you.

He twirls his hammer, a near replica of the one his sister destroyed before they arrived on Earth and takes a step towards the crowd with the look of someone about to make a speech.

~~~~~~~~~~

When you look at yourself, you still look like you. Still wearing the dress you’d pulled on in the morning. Braids still in place.

Thor is still in full uniform. Still holding his hammer. But as the two of you walk through the city, no one stops to look.

After you and Thor had ducked into that first shop—a bakery that had lured him in by the nose because apparently the breakfast you’d cooked him hadn’t been enough—and emerged freshly fed, none of the people who had stopped to watch you when you'd landed were looking at you as you passed them.

Some of them even looked right at you then away as if they didn’t recognize you.

“It’s magic.” Thor whispers in your ear.

He straightens up, watching you with an amused grin as understanding overcomes your face.

“A trick my mother taught me that Loki has helped me perfect. Would you like us to see what they do? Our clothes, I mean? We’ll still see each other.”

“Sure.” You nod, excited by the proximity of magic to yourself.

Thor gives you a nod. He twirls his hammer, held loose in his right hand and it turns into an umbrella.

His clothes are neat and somewhat formal. More of a business casual with dark pressed trousers, a thick black t-shirt made of a heavy and soft cotton blend. His jacket is coal gray, with just the slightest hint of brown.

You gasp lightly, stunned by the sight of him with two electric blue eyes. No sleek black and gold eyepatch. Just two pretty orbs that blink at the shock on your face.

“What, love?” He worries, reaching down to place his hand on your lower back as the two of you continue down the sidewalk.

“Your eyes.” You shake your head, speechless.

“Oh, yes. Well, it helps me blend in.”

His blonde hair is styled too, a smooth wave of the longer hair along the top of his head. Why is he so pretty?

Thor chuckles.

“You’re not so bad yourself.” He teases, still looking forward.

“I’m staring,” You huff a laugh. “I’m sorry.”

But you give yourself a look and find yourself wearing a chic black pantsuit. More heavy cotton blend fabric from head to toe. It has that waterproof sheen though. Like if you spill something it’ll just roll off. Black long sleeve shirt with a higher than normal collar. It’s just a few inches short of being a turtleneck.

Over that you’re wearing a sleeveless wool trench coat with big black buttons and large pockets. The cut is feminine and left open since it’s cold but not too cold during the day with the sun streaming down.

It’ll be different tonight.

“We have these actual clothes waiting for us at the compound. I had them sent over when Stark told me that I’d be able to bring you for introductions. We can change in my room once we’re there, so we won’t be as constricted.” Thor takes your hand to his lips and gives it a kiss.

“You have a room at the compound? Isn’t it like a military base or something?” You wonder.

“Parts of it. There is a shooting range and a hangar with plenty of planes and jets. A pretty large garage with quite the selection of cars. Maybe we can go for a drive after dinner for some alone time?” He wiggles his eyebrows at you, but you’re still trying to wrap your mind around bedrooms at the compound.

“Do some of the Avengers live on the compound?”

“Yes.” Thor nods, his attention pulled away from his suggestive expression. “Several of them do. Wanda lives there. Captain Rogers, Natasha, Vision, Samuel and Barnes live there now too. Stark has moved out to be with Pepper on some cabin they purchased together a year ago.

“Barton lives with his family, so he doesn’t stay at the compound. And of course, for me it has been a home away from home. The only other person that stays there but doesn’t live there permanently is Banner.

“After we arrived from our journey in space, he took to his lab and slept at the compound for nearly six months before he finally went home. He hasn’t come back to the compound since. Says he’s working on something, but he’s promised to be here for our dinner.” Thor assure you.

Sad to say that you can’t exactly be as excited as he is as the list of names, he just went through looms over you like a test you didn’t study for.

Suddenly he stops, and he waves over at another tall blonde man with storm blue eyes and what looks to be a full beard. His slightly outgrown blonde hair is pushed back, the tresses smooth and silky as he hurries towards you both, brown leather bomber jacket zipped shut over a pair of jeans.

“Oh, you’re dressed up.” He says, but you recognize him and as Thor stops, you find yourself gaping at Captain America. “Maybe I should have picked something nicer.”

“Not necessary. You and the rest of the team are friends.” He takes Captain America’s hand and shakes it before they both meet in a quick hug.

“It’s been too long.” Thor admits.

“Well, you’re a busy man now. King and all that.”

“H-How did you recognize us?” You stutter, focusing on the mystery before you instead of the fact that Captain America is standing right fucking there!

“I let him see us.” Thor explains. “The veil holds only for those I want to shield us from.”

“Oh.” You whisper, not intending to but you have no air in your lungs again.

Thor seems to read your frayed nerves because he reaches around to wrap his arm around your waist and offer you some support.

“Captain Rogers, this is my lovely and very nervous wife, Y/N Y/L/N. Queen of Asgard and if I’m honest, the love of my life.” Thor’s honest gushing, the way he sounds honest and so freaking sincere brings you back to yourself a little and with a squeeze from him, you relax.

“Steve, Thor. Please. I’m not Captain America anymore.” He says, almost as if it’s a reminder.

This confuses you because as far as you know, Steve Rogers is still Captain America.

“I read the e-mail.” Thor says, shaking his head. “I thought perhaps it was a joke.”

“Since when have I ever joked about something this serious?”

“I don’t know, I thought perhaps you might have-”

Steve Rogers turns to you, ignoring Thor for the moment as he holds his hand out and slowly you take it.

“I know I should probably bow, but we don’t want everyone knowing who I’m talking to so, is a handshake okay?”

“Of course!” You say breathlessly as he shakes your hand softly. His grip is firm, but you can tell he’s very aware of not hurting you.

“It’s an honor to meet you,” He begins, then leans in towards you and whispers, “Your Majesty.”

Both of you are left smiling while Thor’s eyes are narrowed at the two of you.

“How do you find married life? Has Thor gotten on your nerves yet?”

You can tell he’s joking because while he’s talking to you, he steals a quick side-eye at Thor to gauge his reaction.

“Not yet. But he does like to eat all of the bacon.” You whisper.

Steve makes a pained look, directing it at Thor, still holding your hand in that gentle handshake.

“That’s a big no-no.” Steve agrees.

“Right?” You press, enjoying the pout on Thor’s lips.

“Alright, Rogers, release my wife’s hand.” He reaches and takes your hand out of Steve’s forcefully, but you and Steve only chuckle.

Thor pulls your hand up against his chest and with his other arm still around your waist, he’s basically got you wrapped up in his arms.

“Come on, everyone’s waiting.” Steve laughs, moving towards a black luxury sedan.

Thor makes to move forward but you pull back, resisting because meeting Steve Rogers was already stressful enough.

Now you have to go meet the rest of them? Can’t you just call it quits now?

“Cherub?” Thor looks at you, the concern pouring from him so overwhelmingly sweet that you give in.

He wants this so badly. It’s so important to him. You’ll also have to do many things from here on out that will make you anxious and stressed.

Suck it up.

“I’m just nervous.” You tell him, as if he can’t already see it himself.

“Thor?” Steve calls from the driver’s side of the car. He’s got the door open, both arms resting against the top of the vehicle.

“A moment, Steve.” Thor says, and for some reason it gives Steve a curious look on his face.

It’s almost as if he’s not used to Thor calling him by his first name.

“You have nothing to be nervous about, my love. You’ve already met Rogers and he’s like one of those dogs with the long ears and the funny long howl when it comes to sensing when anything’s amiss. Clearly, he likes you. You’re perfection, Y/N. You have nothing to worry about.”

Thor’s gushing should make you feel better, and it does a little. But you’re about to meet so many people. All of them important to Thor. What if you say something that makes one of them angry? What if you and one of them—or all of them—just don’t mesh well?

“I just-I-I don’t want to, I don’t know, disappoint you?”

Thor’s face falls into complete adoration. His smile is soft but wide and so pleased. He takes a step towards you, reaching up with both hands to place them on the back of your head, just behind your ears.

“You’ve already made me so proud, cherub. You’re here, standing with your head held high, greeting the people of a foreign country with grace and kindness. You’ve made jokes with one of my closest comrades already. I have every faith that you will continue to outshine me.” He chuckles as you relax a little more. “Do you need a few minutes?”

You shake your head, reaching up to take hold of his wrists. “No.”

“Ready?”

“Yes,” you nod.

Thor slips his hands down, flicking them gently so that he can take hold of both your hands.

He pulls them to his lips and kisses them, never breaking eye contact.

He must lose concentration for his magic because as he kisses your knuckles, his two eyes turn into one as the eyepatch takes its place again.

His regular clothes turn back into his armor and your own dress shifts back into the more Asgardian appropriate attire.

“Uh, Thor?” Steve Rogers insists.

Thor looks at him and with a nod towards his body, Steve Rogers communicates the problem.

You look around and people are stopping their shopping and walking and going about their days to turn and look at the two Asgardian monarchs suddenly standing on the sidewalk in a sweet and affectionate embrace.

“Oops.” Thor smiles at them and gives them a wave while simultaneously taking hold of your hand.

You follow his lead and give them a regal wave and polite smile as he pulls you towards the car. Steve Rogers is already there, holding the back door open for you.

You get in and he shuts the door as Thor moves around to the other side and gets in too.

“You distracted me.” He accuses you, reaching around you to pinch your side.

You give a small scream of laughter then look at the watching crowd with a startled and embarrassed smile, but they’re pleased by the exchange. Some of them taking video and photos. Others just giggling and laughing along with you.

There are a few young women and men who even look envious. And honestly? Who wouldn’t?

You look and Thor and as he chuckles at your reaction to his teasing and the reaction of those watching as Steve Rogers pulls the car away from curb, you can understand their envy because Thor is beautiful and anyone, even if in the end they decide they don’t want to be with him, would be lucky to share in his love.

~~~~~~~~~~

You made Thor promise to keep his hands to himself and you’re already regretting it.

You feel like you’re going to pass out. It’s all wobbly on your legs.

Knees are buckling and you might go down any second.

Thor takes an inch in your direction, but you give him a frown and he clears his throat before going right back to the spot he’d been in.

Both of you stand in a long common room. There are two modern armchairs in a gray almost beige cotton fabric. Two long sofas in an orange sandstone color sit completely occupied.

On the sofa to the right sit two beautiful red heads. One has short shoulder-length hair with pale blonde tips. The other’s long locks in a deeper less vibrant red fall to the base of her shoulder blades.

The brighter red headed woman has a sharp face, with large bright green eyes and eyebrows that start somewhat full on the inner corners and slowly fade into much thinner lines.

They’re perfectly shaped for her face though it does give her a sterner look.

She’s wearing a plain black dress with capped sleeves and a plunging V neckline. Her shoes are simple black flats though, which she taps against the floor as she waits for you to speak. Black Widow is just as fearsome as she looks in the news.

The other woman is much younger, her youthful face round. Her eyes are a pretty soft brown, more inviting though still a little distrustful. This must be Wanda, the Scarlet Witch.

It’s like she’s analyzing every move you make.

Fuck.

Beside her sits a man with peachy skin, short blondish-reddish hair. He looks older than her, but still handsome.

Despite the appearance of his older age, he has hold of one of Wanda’s hands. Fingers intertwined.

They’re together.

Vision, your mind provides.

On the other sofa sits Steve, his eyes kind as he waits patiently for you to be ready. Beside him sits a handsome black man with an exhausted expression.

You can tell that it isn’t directed at you, but he looks tired. Just home from doing some Avengers work, maybe?

Beside him sits a middle-aged man with small streaks of gray at his temples. His face is kind, but he seems like he’s preoccupied. Like he’s got places to be or things to do.

He keeps wringing his hands slowly, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees as he watches you.

On the far armchair is the man himself, Tony Stark. He looks every bit a king in his domain, just like Thor back home in New Asgard.

He owns the place—literally—and everyone knows it just by watching him sit there. He’s inquisitive about you, his mind clearly racing from the look in his eyes.

He’s the most analytical out of everyone. He keeps looking at you from head to toe, every shift in your stance, the way you hold your hands, or the fact that you’re looking each of them over and making your own conclusions catches his attention.

The last person in the room, and the only other one standing aside from you and Thor, is a tall beefy man with shortly cropped dark brown hair. He also looks tired, and he reaches up to rub his exhausted face with his shining black arm etched with golden veins that run through the sleek indestructible metal.

Bucky Barnes, the former Winter Soldier. Though most people still call him that, from what Thor said in your prep when coming is that he’s been fixed?

No, that’s not the right way to phrase that. He’s not a dog. He’s been deprogrammed.

You don’t quite understand what that means, but you realized as Thor spoke that Hydra had done something to Bucky to make him do the things that he’d done. Like brainwashing, though you know nothing about how one gets brainwashed.

It made you sad, that someone would be that cruel and take from someone their identity and all the things that make them who they are. You heart aches for the former Winter Soldier and he gives you the tinies of smiles. Just a soft and subtle gesture of encouragement.

All eyes in the room are on you, and you’re freezing up so you appreciate the figurative extended hand.

When you speak, your voice trembles at first.

“I-It’s so…I’m s-so…”

They stir, sitting up straighter at the sound of your voice.

Get it together! You’re Queen of an entire fucking kingdom!

You clear your throat, and with a quick shallow breath you try again.

“I’m sorry, I’m a l-little nervous. I know how important you all are to Thor and I-I know this was sudden. We were both really sorry that you couldn’t come to the wedding but I’m so glad to meet you now. My name is Y/N, and I…I think that’s it?”

Turning to Thor, you find him smiling wide, singular eye bright. He’s proud and you can see it in the way he pulls his shoulders back and moves back towards you, slipping his arm around your waist.

Both of you are wearing the real versions of his illusion now minus the coats, formal King and Queen garb abandoned in his room.

Thor’s arm is a welcome warmth.

“That was wonderful, cherub.”

“Cherub?” A snarky voice teases, and both of you turn to look at Tony Stark.

“Leave them alone, Tony. I’ve heard some of the things you call Pepper when you think we aren’t listening.” The Black Widow, Natasha, cuts in.

“Like what?”

“Pudding-pop?”

“That’s a good one.” Thor observes. “Can I borrow it?”

“All y’all being really gross.” The new Captain America, Sam, points out.

“You’re just jealous you don’t have your own pudding-pop.” Bucky sighs, moving to the back of the sofa to lean both hands on the seat and look down at his friend.

“When’s the last time you had someone call you pudding-pop, Barnes?” Sam wonders, a clear attempt at a jab.

“Uh…1943? Just after I enlisted.” He answers, no sarcasm or embarrassment about that fact.

“You both need to get a life.” Natasha points out.

“You first.” Sam retorts.

Natasha fixes him with a look of confusion before getting up and moving towards Bucky. For a moment it looks as if she’s just going to pass right by him and into the kitchen behind him, but instead she slips her arm through his metal one and leans against him gently.

“I’ve got one. Don’t I, pudding-pop?”

The silence that follows is heavy but with building energy.

Then the room explodes with exclamations of, “What?!”

“When did this happen?!”

“How long have you two been a thing?”

“Why?!”

With their attention diverted, you relax, leaning into Thor’s embrace as Natasha catches your eye and gives you a quick subtle wink.

“I thought we were gonna wait?” You hear Bucky ask Natasha over the cacophony of voices demanding information, all of them on their feet again too except for Steve who is smiling and hiding it behind his hand.

Obviously he already knew, and it’s also obvious that Natasha revealed her relationship with Bucky for your benefit and to make meeting you the secondary event of this get together and while some women would be pissed that she’s gone and stolen your spotlight, you could not be more grateful.

~~~~~~~~~~

A metallic shoulder rubs against the side of your head and you lean away, gasping because you hadn’t expected the sensation.

You’re greeted with a metallic mask, similar to those of Tony Stark’s Iron Man helmet with slight variations around the mouth. The color is also brushed silver, the body white and red. It shifts to the side a little, away from you but it tips its head down in apology like an old 18th century gentleman.

“I’m sorry. Please, excuse me while I collect your empty plates.” The robot says.

“Sorry about the A.I., Cherub.” Tony says, then gives a quiet whistle. “Hey Bud, why don’t you take the night off?”

 Beside you, Thor chuckles at Tony’s new nickname for you. He’s done nothing but call you cherub since Thor did earlier in the night. It’s going to stick, or so Steve had promised.

The A.I. straightens up and puts the plates back down before moving off down the hall and out of sight.

“Bud?” Bruce Banner asks, who insisted you call him Bruce and drop the Doctor and the last name.

You have to keep reminding yourself to do so every time you talk to him. Because you can’t seem to remember, you’ve just chosen not to talk to him until you can.

Tony gets to his feet, moving around the table to lean over you, hand placed on his jacket to keep it from swinging against you.

“B.U.D.” He repeats, each letter on its own. “Buggy and Underdeveloped. I’m working on it. I’ve got their manners down. Jarvis quality though not as reliable. Vision is helping me work out the kinks.”

“I do what I can.” Vision says, Wanda reaching around to massage the back of his shoulders.

“You’ve made all the improvements. Tony had them calling us dickheads that one week before he asked for your help.”

“It was a typo!” Tony moves around to Natasha’s plate and piles it on top of yours, then Bucky’s who mutters a nervous thanks which Tony also mutters back a somewhat stiff approval.

You’re not given much time to notice their exchange before Thor’s hand finds your thigh under the table and he gives it a gentle squeeze.

“Are you alright?”

“Yes.” You smile at him, reaching down to take his hand. “Just surprised. I’ve never been around artificial intelligence of that caliber.”

“Don’t worry, Cherub. You’ll be used to it soon. You’ll be getting an upgrade at that pretty space cottage of yours pretty soon.” Tony says, grabbing a few glasses one at a time as he moves around the table.

“I’ll help you, Stark.” Thor suddenly says and releases your hand to move around the table and grab the other plates and glasses.

Why does he call him by his last name? Habit maybe?

“Thanks,” Tony nods.

“Space cottage?” You’re not sure what he means.

“Yeah, that big wooden house you all call a palace?” Tony clarifies.

“Oh,” Silly way to look at it. “There’s steel too.”

Tony smirks, “Well, I’ll be sending some people over to get a security system installed and an advanced satellite scanner to catch any movements that might come in from—up there. With this new threat that-”

Thor coughs loudly, dropping a glass that makes a terrible shattering glass sound against the black tabletop. Bucky catches the glass and holds it still then offers it up to him again.

Tony meets Thor’s singular eyed gaze who shakes his head minutely.

“-which I guess you’re not supposed to know? Whoops.” And with that he turns and leaves the room.

You look at Thor and find him watching you, then he quickly turns and follows Tony out of the room.

Whenever you’ve read in the past that someone sees red, you’d always suspected that it was metaphorical. However, you see red as your brain short circuits and all you can feel is a level rage.

The one thing you’d asked of Thor was that he won’t keep secrets from you and here is one, not even a week after your wedding!

“Don’t worry.” Natasha interjects, getting up from her seat. “When it’s worth knowing about, Thor will tell you. He just doesn’t want you to worry.”

Your frown only grows. You can’t seem to get your sudden temper flare under control.

“You’re upset.” Steve notices, getting up when everyone also starts to rise. “Why?”

You follow their example and get to your feet, pushing your chair under the table before following them into a smaller living room space just off the main common room while trying to quell your anger.

The living room is mostly white and gray with a long sectional that is full of red pillows.

“Because I’m Queen of New Asgard.” You point out, speaking a little more firmly than you mean to.

Steve gestures to the seat at the edge of the sectional and you take it, swallowing hard as you shove some of that upset down into your tummy so that you won’t lash out at the very nice people that Thor sees as family.

“You are.” Steve agrees. “No one would argue that you aren’t.”

Does he not get it?

“He might not want me to worry, but I have a responsibility to the people of New Asgard. If something is happening that might affect them, I need to know.” You cross your arms across your chest, huffing lightly and letting that be the peak of your temper.

You don’t want to fight with Thor here in front of everyone.

The reaction isn’t what you expect.

Sam, who is sitting on the floor at the bend in the sofa leaning against it as the weight of his sleepiness begins to take over, whistles.

Long and slow.

Bucky chuckles as Natasha settles beside him, her arms crossed across her chest as she leans back into his arm.

They don’t look together even if they are, just comfortable. Bucky’s arm curves a little more for her and is the only giveaway that there’s more between them than friendship.

She smirks. On the sofa beside you, Wanda leans forward to try and get a look at your pouting face, her red curtain of hair falling over her shoulder. Vision is standing by the TV looking at a collection of records to put on a turntable that sits ready and empty.

Dr. Ban-Bruce isn’t anywhere in sight.

Steve settles in beside Wanda but closer to Sam, leaving enough room for Vision to sit when he’s finished with the music.

“Thor said you had some bite.” Natasha shares, “Said something about you standing up for Loki? What’s that about?”

You feel your cheeks burn, neck too. With a shrug, you drop your arms and clutch at the fabric of your pants by your knees.

“Yeah, dude’s pretty psycho,” Sam adds.

“Sure, yeah, because a bunch of people dressing up in costumes and going around fighting crime and otherworldly forces are completely sane.”

Shit, did you seriously just say that?

There’s a beat of silence, then, “She sounds very sensible. Now that I’ve had some time with it, I think the cape might have been a touch too far.”

Everyone chuckles, and you turn to look at Vision who finally picks an album and slips it in place.

“Sorry,” You offer, hesitating a moment before you decide to explain yourself. “Loki has been nothing but kind to me. And calling him a psycho offends me. I know you all and the rest of the planet, have issues with him and what he did…so did I, but he’s trying. And he’s family now…like you all…so…”

Your words trail off as you turn to look for Thor, but you can still see him across the common room in the kitchen, exchanging hushed words with Tony and it’s starting to rile you up again. What’s coming? What’s so important that Thor has brought in the Avengers too?

“What did Thor call it?” Bucky asks Nat.

“Bite.” Steve tells him, “She’s got bite.”

“I’d say it’s more like a sting. But she’s right. I don’t think any of us here can judge someone by their past. At least I can’t.” Bucky nods.

“Or me,” Nat agrees.

“Or me,” Wanda smiles.

And then the music starts. Vision turns, hands behind his back as he also smiles at the general pleasantries.

“Taylor Swift?” Sam demands, “Really?”

Vision’s smile vanishes and he gives him nice wide eyes of surprise, “I’ve never heard this one before.”

“Excuse me.” You get up and move towards the kitchen, determined to get an explanation while the room behind you continues to argue the merits of Vision exploring different musical avenues.

“Whose album even is that?” Sam demands.

Steve clears his throat, “I think you should both get some sleep. I want a debrief first thing in the morning. I might not be Captain America anymore, but I’m still running this show.”

“Don’t try to change the subject, you’ve never accepted the boss mantle until now. Which other albums do you have in your room that you’re too afraid to share?” Nat adds.

“Hey, I have no shame in my musical taste.” Steve defends.

As you near the kitchen, the open spaces separated only by two large circular pillars and a sleek concrete counter island, you slow as their quiet conversation begins to reach your ears. It wasn’t necessarily that you’re trying to eavesdrop…but they’re not talking about what you expected them to be talking about. So, you freeze.

Too nervous to move, forward because what the hell? Or back, because they’ll no doubt hear your retreat.

Where’s the talk about threats to the kingdom and planet? No, you get a nice dose of fear and jealousy instead.

“You only knew her for a week before you married her?”

“It was arranged. All of you knew this. I explained it the last time we met.”

“I get that, but what-” You can hear the hesitation in Tony’s voice.

Despite the fact that he knows he probably shouldn’t bring it up, he throws his dishtowel on the counter and turns around to lean against it as Thor’s hands continue to sift through the dishes, washing them slowly. “What happened to Foster? Weren’t you two pretty hot and heavy? Last time you brought her here-”

“Jane has other priorities.” Thor cuts him off, clearly still hurt from his breakup with Jane.

You hate the sound in his voice. Why does he have to be so clearly heartbroken?

“That’s all I get?” Tony asks, waiting and leaning in a little closer to Thor.

“What else would you have me say? It was hard to leave her. And if I’m honest, I still find myself thinking about what life might have become if she’d been ready to settle down.”

What?

You take a step back, wanting to get away from this horrible conversation you wish you hadn’t accidentally run into. Retreat being heard be damned!

But then, “Cherub?”

It’s Tony, a smirk in his voice as he turns to help Thor dry the dishes he sets aside.

“She is my angel.” Thor smiles, just a teeny upturn at the corners of his lips as he steals a glance at Tony.

Your heart gives a painful clench at the love that you’ve been seeing in his eye pour through in his voice.

“A celestial creature sent to me by fate. I had no knowledge of the capacities of love. I’ve only ever found love as I found Jane’s. We were met by chance, and the attraction was clear and instant. Intention as well. With my cherub, things though they grew quickly, were harder to find. I had to look past my own melancholia to see that she was there waiting for me.”

“She does look like she’s completely lost it.” Tony nudges Thor aside because he’s taking so long and takes over the washing.

“I hope you mean lost her heart to me?”

“What else? Her mind? Though why anyone would agree to rule an entire country is beyond me.”

“She’s brave.” Thor boasts, body completely relaxed. “I’ve never known anyone with her courage. The first night of our engagement she demanded that I be honest with her, even if I decided to keep Jane as a mistress.”

Tony looks at him, eyebrow quirked as he asks a voiceless question.

“Which of course, is out of the question. I entertained the thought for a bit, I can’t deny it. At the very beginning as I was making my plans to go leave Jane, to end things permanently so that I could do right by Y/N and really try to make our marriage something lasting—I wanted to keep Jane at my side by any means necessary.

“Imagining a life without her was painful and I hate to admit that I had every intention in those last moments before I saw her to ask her to be with me even after I was married.” Thor confesses, sounding torn between guilt and desperation.

You remember seeing that desperation in him before he’d gone to see Jane.

Even after his proposal to you, even after those earth-moving kisses, he’d wanted to keep Jane at his side.

Of course, he did. You shouldn’t be surprised by that. He and Jane had shared so much before you came into the picture. Before you were forced in if you’re honest.

Still, it hurts, and you hate hearing it.

For a second time, you take a step back, wanting to leave.

But then, “What changed your mind?”

Thor sighs heavily, exasperated, exhausted by something.

He crosses his large arms across his chest, black shirt straining against his biceps and pecs. He’s so massive. Standing next to Tony only accentuates that fact.

“It took her two hours to make time to speak with me, and another three before she stopped explaining her work on energy spikes in some far East quadrant of space to let me even bring up the fact I was officially engaged to someone else.

“The only reason I was able to hold off for so long is that she would come and kiss me every twenty minutes to promise that she’d be done soon.”

You hate that.

“It was the waiting around after three months of having seen her last and six months since we’d been together. I just couldn’t stand the thought of that always being my life. As much as I loved her, I didn’t want to spend my marriage waiting for a woman when another had already assured me of her commitment to rule at my side as wife and Queen.”

“Is that the only reason you’re so into your Cherub? Because she obviously likes you?”

“No.” Thor shakes his head, “No, there are many things about Y/N that draw me to her. Most of them I’ve discovered since I made the choice to really let Jane go. When I came home that night, she was there to lure me back from the pit I’d crawled myself into by telling Jane goodbye.”

Tony stops washing to fix Thor with a knowing gaze. He scoffs then turns back to his washing.

“So, the sex is good, is what you’re saying?”

“The sex is very good. Incredibly good. I have no complaints about our physical chemistry. In fact, it’s better than with Jane or anyone else I’ve ever been with. I’m not sure what it is, but we are very well suited in the bedroom. She has such vigor, such desire. I am never in no doubt of her want of me. It’s so good that I almost didn’t want to bring her here because then I’d have to give up an entire day of having her to myself wrapped up in nothing but her bedsheets.”

“Alright, I think I get the picture.” Tony holds up one soapy hand to stop Thor’s bragging. “So, she sleeps with you and makes you feel better. Jane makes you wait, so you end it for good. Did you at least give her a proper goodbye?”

Thor is silent, and this time, you don’t want to know. You’ve already guessed and have been suspecting that this is very much the case, but you don’t want the confirmation.

If that’s what happened when he went to see Jane, you don’t want to know. Even if it happened before you two were married and really together, it happened when you were already in the picture and your heart was already being swayed.

Stepping out from behind the large round pillar, one hand resting against the smooth black curve, you watch Thor think about Tony’s question, tilting his head up to look across the room towards the living room space where the Avengers are now laughing about who the hell knows what.

He sees you and his face loses color.

“Thor?”

“What’s the matter?” He asks, a small bit of panic in his voice.

He moves towards you and you move towards him, meeting halfway.

“Did you hear?” He knows, probably because of whatever is on your face that’s making him panic.

His large hands are already pushing your numerous braids back, throwing them over your shoulders gently so that he can place his hands on your neck.

“Thor,” You repeat, this time getting a hold of yourself and reaching up to grab his wrists and pull his hands down away from your face. “What’s coming?”

This is why you’d come in here, and this is what you’ll insist on knowing. Fuck everything else they were talking about. You don’t want to know, and you don’t care what happened or what Thor felt before both of you exchanged vows.

“What?”

He seems stunned by the shift of topic, despite the agony that you’d momentarily been in. His voice even cracks a little, too shocked by the change.

“The new threat,” You clarify. “This new thing that we need satellites back home for? What is it? What’s happening? I know that you probably don’t want me to worry or want to protect me or maybe you’re still thinking of me as a civilian? But I’m Queen of our kingdom, Thor. If something is coming for us, I deserve to know. I need to know what’s coming if I’m going to help you protect our people. It’s my job and I can’t do it if you don’t let me.”

“Cherub’s got a point.” Tony adds, and claps Thor on the shoulder before gathering up a tray and makes his way out of the kitchen and towards the others with a bottle of beer for each of them.

“You’re right.” Thor nods, reaching to take your hands and he pulls them up to his lips kiss away the pain that he must have seen you feeling.

He seems to know though that you don’t want to focus on that and so he doesn’t bring it up.

You can tell he wants to though. He really wants to talk about what was just said in this kitchen.

“Yes, you’re right, you should know and I’m sorry I didn’t tell you sooner. I didn’t want you frightened or worried when you didn’t have to be, but you’re right. As Queen, you have every right to know what might be coming. But can’t we wait to talk about it until later? Tonight perhaps? When we’re alone?”

You don’t want to agree. You want to make demands of him and make him tell you everything right now. However, you also know that you’re a little angry about what you overheard and that’s probably why your pulse is pounding in your throat, heart ramming itself against your ribcage.

“Fine.” You huff then turn to move back into the living room.

“Hey,” He coaxes you back, voice low and deep so that the others won’t hear him.

He catches your wrist and pulls you back gently.

“Did you hear us? Because if you did, when I went to leave Jane I-”

“I don’t wanna know, Thor. If you slept with her, I don’t want to know.” You sigh, stomach clenching painfully. “You did what you have to do. It’s not like you and I fell in love in any kind of traditional way. We were forced together and now we’re married. I’m not stupid.”

“Of course you aren’t, and as true as all of that is, I don’t like the way you’re talking about it.” Thor agonizes, wrapping his arm around your waist to pull you closer and further into the kitchen out of view of the others. “You’re acting as if I don’t love you, or as if it’s a farce. I love you, cherub. It happened quickly, but it is real.”

“I know that, Thor,” It’s nice to hear though, because you’re seriously feeling weak in the confidence you’d spent every night since your wedding building.

For a bit there, you’d believed wholeheartedly that Thor loves you. You still do…but the realities of Jane and how quickly he’d had to end that relationship with her because he had to marry you to give his people a Queen have been brought to light and ruptured the bubble of your new marital bliss.

It’s also suddenly very clear to you that he must still love Jane very much. Even if he loves you too. There’s no way he can move on this quickly.

“You don’t look like you do. You look sad and it’s putting knots in my stomach, love. Please don’t doubt me now.”

Fuck!

You lean forward, shoving your forehead against his wide chest. You wrap your arms around his waist and fist the back of his shirt as he brings his hands up to the sides of your head. You can feel his lips against your scalp, kissing against the large middle braid that goes down along the back of your head.

“This is so hard.” You admit, hating your jealousy.

“I wish I could take all of your strife.” He kisses your head again, an audible smack. “I’m sorry I’m the one making it for you.”

Both of you knew that this would be tricky.

“I swear to you, cherub, it’s only you. You are the only woman I want and the only being in the universe that I want to bear my children.” His words are full of truth and you look up at him to find that same honesty in his gaze.

It’s pained and sorrowful and you hate it.

“I shouldn’t have listened.” You pull yourself up against his body and push yourself up with puckered lips.

Eagerly he leans down to meet your lips with his own but he shifts his head to the side to deepen the peck you’d wanted to leave you in no doubt as to his devotion, or at the very least, his passion.

He leans down to wrap his arms around you and press you up against the side of the pillar.

“Thor…” You whisper when he pulls back to tilt his head the other way. “We’re guests here.”

The reminder cools him down and he places his hands on your hips instead while you tickle the hairs on the back of his neck.

“We should get back to your friends.”

Thor sighs heavily, hating this idea, but he knows you’re right.

He reaches up to take hold of the back of your neck, squeezing it possessively before he leans down to give you one more quick kiss.

“Tonight, I will leave you in no doubt as to my devotion and love. I promise.”

His declaration takes your breath away, and apparently Bruce’s too as he sputters a cough around his own beer as he freezes on the other side of the kitchen by the fridge where another large round pillar lines a different entrance opposite the side you’re both standing on.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt.” Bruce says, reaching up to wipe at the beer dribble around his mouth.

Thor takes his hands back and you slip out from between him and the pillar then make your way back towards the living room feeling flushed.

As you walk back in, observing the room, Steve and Vision are currently playing an apparently rousing game of Connect Four on the floor while Nat and Bucky sit cuddled up on the far corner of the sectional, talking quietly but also giving the two battling on the floor the occasional glance.

Wanda is on her phone, typing away quickly with a beer held between her thighs. Sam is standing by the records, despite his previous griping, nodding his head as Taylor Swift’s 22 fills the space.

Tony is on his own phone, standing in the far corner of the room with a sappy smile on his own face which tells you he’s probably talking to his own wife, Pepper Potts, who couldn’t make it tonight due to a work engagement.

All of them have a beer around them or in hand, and as you make your way towards the bend in the sectional feeling a little like you’re intruding, just as your back hits the sofa a cold bottle meets your cheek.

You jump a little but turn to look and Tony holds out a sealed bottle for you.

“You okay with import? Or do you want domestic?” He asks, holding his phone to his shoulder, brows drawn together as he waits for your answer.

“This is fine, thanks.” You take the bottle and then give him a quick smile.

“Good, because then I’d have sent you down to get your own.” He assures you, but a voice from his phone calls his name and he hurries away again, phone pressed to his ear.

You look at the bottle of beer in your hands, wondering if the top is a twist but when you go to turn it the ridges hurt your hand and you stop instantly.

Just as you’re about to lean over and ask Bucky to open the bottle for you, the sectional dips beside you and heat envelops your shoulder and side as Thor sits right beside you.

“It sounds like excuses to me.” He says, looking at Bruce who sits down beside him with a bit more space allowed between them.

“It’s not an excuse,” Bruce insists. “I’m working on something that needs all of my concentration. I’ll come visit soon, I promise. I’m going to be coming with Tony for the security system installation so, I’ll get to see the palace then.”

“Thor?” You hold the bottle up for him and he takes it from you, kissing the side of your head before he simply flicks the top with his thumb and it flies off and falls right on Steve’s head.

“Hey,” He complains, but then gets distracted as Vision connects his four red chips.

“I win.” Vision declares.

“Damn,” Steve concedes. “You got me. Go again?”

Vision dumps the chips, and they start splitting them up.

“Here you are, cherub.” Thor hands you back your beer, and you take a quick drink before settling in against Thor’s side a bit more comfortably as he gives you a squeeze but continues to chat with Bruce.

[shizi-zhengjie]

The Romeo & Juliet Murder Case [Translated]

It was Sunday at 2 o'clock in the afternoon. Whenever I have so much time to spare, I just stayed in my favorite spot, enjoying the atmosphere, and read a book. I went to the kitchen first to get some milk tea in the fridge, then sat down on the sofa. I took a sipped of milk tea from the bottle first before reading.

I just flipped the pages. Then, there is something was dropped from the book I was holding. That's probably stuck between the pages of this book. I picked it up on the floor to check what is it. A small envelope. As I opened, I recognized that, it was a TICKET TO A PLAY. The immortal tragic story of "Romeo & Juliet".

"Where did this come from?", as I asked myself for a moment my phone suddenly rang in my room. So I went there to pick up the call.

"Unregistered number, who's this? Oh, for sure that's her.", I just whispered to myself. Then I slide my finger to pressed the answer key on the screen of my cellphone.

"Hello, Sig. Is that you?", said from the other line.

"Yumi. Why you asked? You're the one who called me. Hmm.... I knew it! I thought, you're the one who put this ticket in my book, aren't you?", I answered.

"Wow, how certainly you know it's me? And are you really that sure I'm the one who put that ticket in your book?"

"Come on, it's really easy to recognize you and remember your voice. Another thing is, you're my classmate, you're a member of the theater club, so it's not impossible for you to give me this ticket. So that means you're inviting me huh? And this is exactly why you called me to make sure I could go,  right?"

"Wow! You are really awesome. You deduced it correctly as if you're really a detective! Anyway, I'm very sorry for not telling you earlier about this yesterday. I thought you're busy that's why.... "

I don't let her finished her explanation I just abruptly replied, "Alright. Don't worry, I'll go. Promise. I don't have any reason for not accepting your invitation besides you gave me this free ticket already."

"Thanks you so much Sig? I want you to know that I'm the lead actress in the play. So I want you to be there to watch me on the stage. See you later this 4 o'clock pm. I'll expect you to come."

"Don't mention it okay?"

"Alright then see you later, bye!" and that's how our conversation has ended.

At 3:30 pm I went to university since that's the place where the play was going to be held. I arrived at the auditorium around 3:55 pm because I went to a convenience store to buy some snacks to eat. The play is about an hour length to finished so, I just need to have some food ready. I sat on the front near the stage. Because, Yumi gave me a VIP ticket and it was just only an exclusively reserved seat for the special audience who has the VIP ticket. "I'm so lucky to have a friend like her",  that's what I thought in that moment.

The entire auditorium is almost full. I have heard that from other students here, talking about this play before, that the man who plays Romeo is famous. It's Dylan Echavez, an A.B. Fine arts student, a heartthrob here in our university. Definitely that's the reason why lots of people came here for this play because of his fans. Therefore, he is the one who act as male lead character, a match with Yumi who play the lead actress in the show. Suddenly, the lights turns on, the huge red curtain on the stage rolled up and that is the signal that the show will about to begin. The crowds here are obviously excited especially those Dylan's Fans club.

At the near ending part, the crowd are being sentimental at the daramatic scene. Undoubtedly as what all of us have expected, the ending of the story is tragic. The show was over, it ended so dramatically. All the characters and part of the show gathered on the stage, and at the same time they bowed altogether as the tradional gesture, a way of showing appreciation. After that, all of the audiences that were present here are give their round of applause simultaneously.

A few minutes later, I waited for Yumi to come out at the backstage to congratulate her, as the outcome of the play was a success.

"Hi Sig!", she waved at me after I saw her. So I approached her immediately.

"What do you think about my acting? Is that okay?"

"Of course you're the best actress. Congratulations! Your performance was so good. The audiences were carried away to your acting, they cried so hard."

"Ah, really? Thanks for the compliment." she smiled. But I noticed the sudden change in the expression on her face.

"What's the matter?"  I'm so curious so I asked her.

"Oh, why? Shouldn't you be glad and celebrating because the play is okay. And there were many audiences here have watched and enjoyed the show."

"You're right I should be celebrating now, as a result of successful play. But it's not about that. I'm just thinking ..."

"Hmmm... Let me guess, is there anything bothering you? If you don't mind, you can tell me. Maybe I could help you."

"Of course I don't mind. But, Is it okay to find a quite place to talk about this matter? I'm not comfortable here. Someone might see us and make fun of me or make rumors about us. You know what I mean. Right? I'm often linked to anyone. And those people who are insecure about me creating a bad news against me", she explained.

"Okay I know a place where people are rarely staying," I suggested.

I took her to Moriartea Cafe, a tea shop. The ambiance of this place was fine.  Besides being of quiet you can really relax here. This place is a perfect for a people who are looking for solitude.

"Sig, do you know this place too? Sometimes I hang out here too." she exclaimed.

"Really? "

" Uhmmm. " she nodded in response.

As we find a better spot to stay, she ordered camomile tea. And I, too, just an iced milk tea.

"Thank you Sig.  For bringing me here with you. "

"Don't mention it. It's okay. It's a treat because you invited me to watch your play. So... what are you going to tell me earlier?", I questioned her.

"Ah, it happened before the start of the play, I received a random message. Tried to call the number but no one answered the other line. After the play, he texted me again. That was from the same number that texted me. The problem here was, I didn't understand his message. It was just numbers. At first, I was thinking about it earlier probably it is  just a wrong sent or maybe a prank message. That's it. So I wonder."

"Have you deleted the messages he sent you?"

"Ah, not here yet." she unzipped the pouch in her bag to get the phone.

"Okay, let me check your phone."

She scanned the messages in her inbox, then he passed it to me to take a look.

I took the phone from her. I read the message and analyzed it carefully.

Message 1:

From: +63917 *** ****

7 555 33 2 7777 33

44 33 55 7

6 33

2 7777 2 7

Received: 3:42 PM

Message 2:

From: +63917 *** ****

7777 666 7777

2 8

6 999

777 666 66 6

333 777 666 6

- 317537

Received: 5:20 PM

"I think this is a secret code message."

"Really, how did you know that was a secret code?"

"In order to deliver a secret message, others use a variety of codes so that others do not immediately understand the content of the message. It is easy to decipher since he just used a simple code. Are you familiar with the old model of cellphone's keypad?"

"Ah, yes why? So you're telling me now do you understand what those messages mean?", she asked me.

Then I replied her immediately. "Yes of course, do you have a ballpen and paper there? I'll explain how I figure it out."

And there I demonstrate the meaning of the combination and series of numbers on paper.

[2] abc [3] def

[4] ghi [5] jkl [6] mno

[7] pqrs [8] tuv [9] wxyz

"If you notice here, there is no one and zero(1 & 0) in the sender's message. That is, like the old cellphone model (keypad style), only 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 have the equivalent letter respectively. And that's what he used. There are three or four letters are equivalent for each numbers from two to nine(2-9). The repeated series of number represents the alphabet  that he refers to each number present in the message."  I explained to her.

"Ah, I'm getting what you mean. But, I wonder what does this mean by 317537? Because based on your demonstration, the equivalent of 3 is D, 5 is J, 7 is P. But this 1 has no corresponding letter. It's no wonder no word will match to it."

"Definitely she's right." Because of that, I thought for a moment and took a good look at the combination of numbers in the last part of the message.

"Ah, I know what it is! That's the identity of the person who sent you that secret code."

"So who? Say it! He's probably in danger at this time. Because, based on what you've said he's asking for a rescue, right? Maybe we'll be too late! What should we going to do? Should we report it to the police?" she panicked.

"Okay, okay. Just calm down. He may be in danger right now, but I'm sure he's still alive. If you could still remember, you called him earlier but he didn't picked up the phone to answer you, right? If you were in that situation, would you do the same? And why would he even bother to text you that kind of puzzle?", I calmly explained.

"Ahh, okay. Let's just say your deductions are right, but can you tell who this mysterious person who texted me?"

"Try to reverse your phone and look at it carefully. I think you know who's it."

"Leslie?"

"Yes right she is. Not unless do you know someone else who named Leslie?"

"Nothing. Aside from one of our classmates. I wasn't close to her, but why would she text me for help? I don't know where she's staying right now or where she lives."

"So, which of your acquaintances is close to her, who knows his address that we can ask for help?"

"I think Dylan could help us. But they just broked up already."

"It doesn't matter. What matter is, its better if we could find him as soon as possible. Maybe he's still here inside the campus."

Luckily we find Dylan so easily, because when we got out of Moriartea Cafe we met him. Fortunately, he had a car so we wouldn't have to bother how we get to Leslie's house. Then, Dylan took us to Villa Athena. Its distance from the University is approximately 10 minutes away, if you took a ride. The car stopped in front of a big mansion. Then we hurried to get off the car.

"Wait, what did you say earlier? Explain it to me I can't understand!" Dylan asked with concern.

"Later you will know too. But for now, she needs our help."

Just then a man with black suit opened the gate. He might be a security personnel of the mansion.

"Ah, Sir Dylan? It's really a good timing that you come to visit."

"What's the problem Kuya Eduard, were here looking for Leslie? I'm with her classmates. Where is she? Is she here today?" Dylan asked.

"To be honest I worried, she didn't even come out of her room lately. It was surprising 'cause she even have to locked herself alone in the room for so long."

"Huh, are you sure? Because earlier I received a suspicious text from her. Can you please check it, if this is really her number?" and then Yumi handed her phone to Kuya Eduard to see it.

"That's right that's her number."

"I felt something strange here. Kuya Eduard, can you take us to Leslie's room?" I begged him.

"Alright. Come on and follow me, I lead you the way."

At this moment, we're all in front of Leslie's room. We tried to knock, but no one answered. The door was locked so we couldn't open it.

"Let's find the spare key." Kuya Eduard said to the housemaid. Then, Aunt Marga hurried to get the key. But when she comes back .....

"Oh, this key isn't fit at doorknob to unlock Leslie's room. I've already tried the other keys but still doesn't fit to open the door!"

"I guess there is no other way but to break the door! We can use our forces, the three of ours to open it. If it's okay to you Kuya Eduard?" I suggested.

"Ah, that's okay." his response was obviously still skeptical. I count one to three. And at the same time we pushed the door together with our strengths. We tried to do that about three times before the door finally opened. But to our surprise, there's an unconscious person lying on the floor as we slammed the door to open.

"Kyaaahh!"

"Yumi close your eyes don't look anymore."

"Oh my god Leslie!" Dylan shouted.

"Wait, stay there. Don't come closely. I'll just check if she still has a pulse." I said.

I observed Leslie had a stab in her left upper chest when we saw her. I scan the entire room if there is a sign that the suspect has left. But I didn't find anything strange. I'll try to get her to find out if she's still alive. But Kuya Eduard scolled to me intentionally.

"Ah, kids don't even bother with that! I'll just call the police and ambulance." So I did not continue my plan.

"Why did these things happened? How can we tell and explain to her parents what what had happened?" said Aunt Marga.

"If that's the case, except from you and Kuya Eduard who else other than with you in this house, Aunt Marga?" I just asked her curiously.

"We're only just  three in this house. Leslie, Kuya Eduard, and I." she said.

"When did you last see her alive. And where have you between 4 o'clock pm and 6 o'clock pm?" my follow-up questions.

"As I remembered it was about 3:45 pm we left to go to the grocery store. While Eduard also fixed the car. We both just arrived here a minute ago when you came to visit. I also clearly remembered that I had said goodbye to Leslie earlier. That time, I knocked into her room and she smiled at me. If I had known that this going to happened, we won't left her alone." Aunt Marga wept as she spoke.

At this moment the three of us are now together in the living room. Kuya Eduard is still in front of Leslie's room, he's not leaving. While Marga was in the kitchen.

"Sig! What time is it? Why aren't the cops arrived yet?" Yumi complained.

"Indeed. How long we're still staying here? Is she really dead? I can't believe it. If I were just only knew this would never be happened, I shouldn't have agreed to break up with her!" Dylan cries.

"Don't blame yourself, it's not your fault. Probably there was a thief snuck into her room and then killed her. What you think guys?"

"That's impossible to say Yumi. The door and windows of her room are locked carefully. There is no sign of sneaking inside by the outsiders." I explained.

"Is she commit to suicide? Oh no it was my fault! Maybe she was depressed about our break-up." Dylan blamed himself.

"Shhh... Don't be noisy I have a plan." I whispered to them.

"What? Are you serious. It's not time to fool around." Yumi uttered out of disagreement. While Dylan looked confused about what I've mentioned.

After a moment had passed, all of the sudden the lights went out. So it was dark all around. I heard Yumi shout out loud due to fright. I followed where her scream came from because she was no longer with me. Moments later, the lights suddenly opened. Little did I know that I had come to the room where we had seen Leslie's dead body. I found Dylan lay there on the floor. But what more surprisingly was to see Leslie moaning next to Dylan. I was astonished, as if I had watched this kind of scene before.

The plan is successful. I knew it was just Leslie's show. It was really obvious. Earlier, when I checked her pulse I felt his body was still warm. So I was certainly knew that she still alive in that moment. I also noticed Kuya Eduard's reaction earlier when he stopped me when I tried to check on her. The knife was not stuck deep down on her chest when I observed it. There was something strange that covered from her chest, as if it were a hard object. Then, the bloodstain was obviously dried based on its appearance reamined on her clothe. It's evidently that everything is just a set-up. That's why I planned to unveil her scheme. I intended to turn off the lights. That includes the plan. I ordered Dylan to pretend to be unconscious. But it seems Yumi had struck Dylan really hard, so he got injuries. As a result, Leslie hurriedly rose up from lying on the floor as if she was come back to life and rising from the death. Eventually, Leslie apologized to us for what had happened. That's not the good joke though. She explained the reason why she did that stuff, and according to her it's because she wanted to know and tested if Dylan still loved her. Ohhh... that's love.

And yes, the story of the two of them is a happy ending.

THE CASE CLOSED!

[slashersins-abandoned]

best friends are never forgotten

thanks to @august-burns-red for helping me rant plot out & helping with some characterization !

part one 

part two |

“Brahms!” The boy looked up from where he sat , currently playing some idle game with Emily . You were beaming , bounding over to him with your hands clutched together . Emily gasped at the sight of you . Shoes and knees coated in mud , hands filthy and there was even filthy smudges on your cheeks . You didn’t seem to mind a bit , carefully opening your hands to show the pair the frog you’d caught . “Look it ! I gots a frog!”

Brahms grinned giving you a pat on the head, it only caused you to bounce excitedly at the attention . And Emily was squealing , slapping at your hand for you to drop it and then jumping onto the bench to make sure it didn’t touch her . “Y/n ! You can’t catch frogs , ladies don’t catch frogs . And you’re all dirty . Mummy and Mrs. Heelshire are going to be upset!”

You’re adorable to him . Like a puppy , bright smile , excited and bouncing . Ever since the start of summer when you poked your head from behind Emily’s back to say hello in you funny little accent . You were nothing at all like Emily , like how little girls were supposed to behave according to his mother . A stray ragamuffin , filthy and ridiculous .

His lips twitch , eyes full of boyish mischief . He’d known you were wearing one of Emily’s dresses , an attempt by the girls mother to civilize her niece . Which is why he’d asked you to go find him a frog , telling you in a hushed whisper how much he really wanted one . And you had delivered , just like a good puppy would .

“Oh.” You pause for a moment , sticking your tongue out as tiny hands try to grab for the leaping frog . You might have shown him the frog but you hadn’t given it to him yet . “But I just wanted to give Brahms a frog!” You sit on the grass , no doubt adding stains to the already ruined dress , feet plopped out in front of you and you looked up at your cousin .

“Brahms doesn’t need a frog.” She sighed again , tossing her hands up like Mrs. Heelshire did when she realized she’d have to give you a bath when you showed up covered in dirt at her door step two weeks ago . You’d walked a long way from Emily’s house to Brahms’ , stopping to yank flowers out the ground root and earth and all . She hadn’t liked the flowers . Or giving you a bath . But you had gotten to run around the house in Brahms’ too big clothes , giggling and following the big around much to his entertainment .

“He’s a gentleman . And you’re a lady .” Emily shook her head , hands on her hips as she lightly scolded you . How on earth was she ever going to help her cousin be a little lady like she was ? Her mummy was right , you were hopeless and tragically American . But Emily adored you for your strangeness all the same . “We need to get you clean … And a new dress …”

You perked you , goofily grinning as you have a solution that your momma used back home . “Could jus’ hose me down ! Momma and Papa always use the waterin’ hose to get all the mud off ‘fore they take me inside!” You’re much too prideful in your ability to get so covered in mud . It makes Emily sigh and Brahms light up mischievously .

He doesn’t hesitate to move from his spot , grabbing your hand and tugging you towards the rose garden . Everyday you seemed to prove to him that you were more and more like a cute puppy . And Brahms enjoyed playing with you , almost more than Emily . You , at least , could entertain him .

“Brahms , you can’t really want to spray her down with the garden hose ! She needs a bath . A proper one.” Emily was pouting . You were just happy for the attention . And Brahms was thrumming with mischief when he turned on the faucet .

You squealed happily , laughing as Brahms sprayed you with water . He laughed too , chasing you a bit as your dress became heavy with water . Mud dripped from you , and only after a few moments did you stop playing and start trying to get the mud off of you . It was a semi success . And you were pleased , giving Brahms a big smile . You turned to show Emily , and she only shook her head . But the smile on her lips gave away that she’d found the entire situation funny as well . And then Brahms turned the hose on Emily and she shrieked with surprise .

By the time Mrs . Heelshire and Auntie came to get the three of you for dinner it was too late . All of you were in varying degrees of wet and muddy . All in need of a bath and new set of clothes . Emily looked embarrassed , Brahms bowed his head politely at his scolding , a frown on his face , you just tilted your head with confusion . You couldn’t understand why the adults here didn’t understand having fun .

The summer days came and went with the same rhythm . You’d follow around Emily and play , visit Brahms and play . Try to learn how to write pretty , try to learn how to play the piano , listening to Brahms and Emily read you new books , trying to learn to dance . Getting up to the mischief only a five year old with two eight year old friends could get up to . Scandalizing and traumatizing Mrs Heelshire and your own Aunt while

exasperating and entertaining Mr Heelshire and your Uncle .

You’d even earned the nickname of ragamuffin , often used by Mr Heelshire when you’d gotten up to something in the grass and mud . The summer days came and went with a pleasant happiness , one that left you snuggling into the covers with Emily while you whispered about your adventures until sleep took you . One that saw you wrapped in a cuddle pile between Brahms and Emily as you all napped in the middle of the library floor , tired from hours of playing and laughing . You were happy .

A sneeze . One more . Another one . You look miserable . Emily pressing a fancy handkerchief to your red nose as you sneeze again . She pours and fusses over you , tucking you in tightly .

“Darling , you’ll catch her cold . Y/n will be fine , come along .” Your aunts voice is muffled , your ears seeming to be filled with pillow fluff . But you manage to make a soft noise in greeting to your aunt . Emily pouts , tucking the covers around your shoulders before she slips off the bed .

“But I wanna —“ sneeze , “wanna —“ sneeze , sneeze , your eyes water and you cough some , trying to sit up in bed but only falling forward with a tired whine. “Wanna play with Em’ly an’ Brammy.” Your stuffy nose makes your little country American accent all that more complicated . But your aunt only sighs , shaking her head .

“Stubborn thing . You don’t want to get them both sick do you ? You’re staying in and resting . Besides , it’s you wouldn’t be sick if you hadn’t tried tried to catch frogs in the pond and fell in .” She has a bemused and tired look . Affectionate an disappointed all in the same . You pout, opening your mouth to protest , wanting to tell your aunt you’re fine and don’t feel sick at all when you start sneezing again . The woman only shakes her head , pouring a thick spoonful of gross medicine and telling you to open up . It’s bitter and gross , but you swallow it down .

Emily waits by the door , worried for her little cousin , and not at all envying the fact you had to take that terrible medicine . But she knew that her mummy was right and the medicine would help . Y/n needed rest . Maybe she could convince Brahms to make get well pictures for you . Perhaps something with plenty of frogs on it .

Tucking you back in , your Aunt moved off the bed , walking to Emily and taking her hand . Emily called a good bye . You shouted out a weak “I love you” to your cousin and then a “And Brahms!” before sneezing again . Emily gave you a wave goodbye , and you snuggled into the over sized bed and blankets . The medicine seemed to work . Because one moment you’re dazing , eyes drooping closed , and the next you’re asleep .

You woke up to the sound of crying . Of loud sobs and desperate noises of agony . It’s dark now , and Emily isn’t the bed with you like usual . Still groggy and stuck with the sniffles , you somehow manage to climb out of the bed . You follow the sounds , confused as to what has someone so sad . Why were they crying so loud ?

You rub the sleep or of your eyes as you open the door to Emily’s play room . Head tilting as you take in the room . Auntie is holding onto one of Emily’s favorite toys . She’s screaming , sobbing , shaking . Uncle has his head bowed , his shoulders shaking violently as he grunts his teeth , tears in his face . They don’t seem to notice you .

With another rub to your eye you walk towards them and do the only thing you know how to when someone is sad . You hug one of your uncles legs and your auntie’s arm . You don’t know why they’re crying . Or why they seem to cry harder , falling forward to hold you , when you tell them it’s okay , that Emily will be back home soon . She’s just playing with Brahms .

[sparklingpax]

TFP Group Chat Stories - Autobots (#2)

The more popular request was for me to do another one of these, this time with the Autobots; here goes! I’ll be doing that rlly cool Decepticon idea sometime soon as well tho dw ;) Thanks y’all! ^^’’

So I’d like to note that after much talk, Optimus has at last dropped his habit of making an email out of every text, but still refuses to text casually 😹😹

Also also! The humans have their own groupchat (the kids) which I may or may not do a chat thing for as well ^w^’’ But this gc is for “all Autobots,” so the humans are a part of this one as well~ 

Except for Agent Fowler because he adamantly refused and was not swayed on that verdict. 

Ah, so with that aside, hopefully I can at least make you smile :’D 

Enjoy! <3

🔥✨🚑 *Tragic Hero Noises* 🚚✨🔥

Matrix-Bearer: Good afternoon, Autobots. I have been given lengthy instruction as to how this “group-chat” is supposed to function. You may thank the human children for our....suitable chat name. I have started this “group-chat” so we may better communicate as a team, coordinate plans, and altogether bond more deeply. I pray this marks the beginning of a new era in the midst of this bleak war, and that this shall bring a greater hope and chance for success against the Decepticons. Thank you, and please follow the rules posted on the fridge. Optimus out. 

DestinysBoi: 

_Wrench_Wrath_: SMOKESCREEN FOR THE LOVE OF PRIMUS

_Wrench_Wrath_: Thank you, Optimus, but a speech was not necessary. Just text normally, like we talked about ok? 

MikoMikoNii: 

DestinysBoi: @ MikoMikoNii you get me ;)

MikoMikoNii: BRO OFC ;)) 

DestinysBoi: *finger guns*

Its_Jack_: it’s bee two minutes and this chat is already cursed 

Its_Jack: @ Whizkid @ Cee_HowULikeMe_Now help me out please 

Bumbleowo: Hes studying for a test! Sorry if we mute you for now ^~^’’ 

_Wrench_Wrath_ : What material is he going over, Bumblebee? 

DestinysBoi: oop ok then 

MikoMikoNii: Later Bee!! Tell Raf I said good luck!! 

Bumbleowo: Will do! :)

Its_Jack: oh shoot my mom wants me for chores bye!

MikoMikoNii: later chump~

Its_Jack: and you wonder Why I never like being part of your groupchats 

MikoMikoNii: U_U

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: wHO PINGED ME IM BUSY 

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: OH NO JACK MY CAPS LOCK IS STUCK I’M NOT MAD SORRY

_Wrench_Wrath_ : Can someone answer my question??

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: I’M SORRY I PROMISE I’M NOT MAD

BladesandGrenades: lol

MikoMikoNii: OOF 

DestinysBoi: Rip 😔👊🔥

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: WHAT DOES THAT MEAN

DestinysBoi: only old people get their caps lock stuck 😂😂

MikoMikoNii: oo bulkhead should see this 🤣 @ Gentle-Giant get your metal hide over here!!! 

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: OK NOW IM A LITTLE MAD 🤬🔥

DestinysBoi: 😳😳😳

BladesandGrenades: our definitions of “a little” seem to be at odds 

_Wrench_Wrath_: WHY ISNT ANYONE ANSWERING ME??!!1!

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: Oh hey awesome I got my regular keyboard back! I’m still mad though 🙃

MikoMikoNii: think happy things arcee!! 😳

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: No 🙃💙

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: You have five minutes smokescreen 🙃🙃

DestinysBoi: wait why me??!

BladesandGrenades: Oh that reminds me; @ _Wrench_Wrath_ just an fyi, bulky broke his tablet again so hes gonna need a lil help

Shoulderpads: Wheeljack, all of you, it is not professional to use improper grammar and punctuation in any form of communication. Take that to your private chats please. 

BladesandGrenades: lol 

BladesandGrenades: how bout 

BladesandGrenades: shove it up your tailpipe ;)

_Wrench_Wrath_: HE DID WHAT

_Wrench_Wrath_: PRIMUS GIVE ME PATIENCE I BEG OF YOU

Matrix-Bearer: Ratchet, I understand you are upset. Could you perhaps calm down? You are scaring certain residents of this base. 

_Wrench_Wrath_: YOU KNOW WHAT. IM TOO OLD FOR THIS SCRAP.

<  _Wrench_Wrath_ has left the chat >

BladesandGrenades: Well then

MikoMikoNii: OOF WOAH

DestinysBoi: u think hes coming back??

MikoMikoNii: Nah 

BladesandGrenades: nope lol 

BladesandGrenades: and ig @ Shoulderpads decided to actually shove it up his tailpipe ;) mission accomplished

DestinysBoi: ...ahah o///o’‘

DestinysBoi: Wouldnt be too sure of that one Jackie..

BladesandGrenades: wh

MikoMikoNii: 🙊😳

BladesandGrenades: Whats going on what happening 

Matrix-Bearer: Good afternoon, all. This announcement pertains only to one of you. Wheeljack, please take a moment to head to Ultra Magnus’s quarters. He is requesting your assistance in the matter of....something involving his ship and something in its tailpipes. He informed me that the matter is urgent and requires immediate assistance. Thank you kindly. Signed, Optimus. 

MikoMikoNii: guess

MikoMikoNii: guess you’ll be the one shoving it 

BladesandGrenades: frag this mf 

BladesandGrenades: k boss I’ll be there in a sec 

DestinysBoi: lmao nice one Miko 😂😎🔥

Bumbleowo: Hey everyone! What’d we miss? 

Whizkid: Hello, Optimus! Thank you for the kind greeting! I hope this chat can be utilized for good as well! :) Thanks for letting me join!!

Matrix-Bearer: Hell, Rafael!  

Matrix-Bearer: I...I meant ‘hello.’ 

MikoMikoNii: HOLY SCRAP

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: oh wow Optimus woah--

MikoMikoNii: I SJSDHD IM CRIGN 

DestinysBoi: Guys dont be so mean :( hes just expressing the reality of what this chat actually is :))

WhizKid: I--

Bumbleowo: lololol oh wow 😅😂

MikoMikoNii: 

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: ok smokescreen I,,I actually have to agree with you on this one--

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: Youre off the hook 

DestinysBoi: thank you, my queen 😭😭

Cee_HowULikeMe_Now: 🙂

Matrix-Bearer: Apologies for the sheer informalities in this message, however I must express my deepest regrets for even starting this chat. 

Matrix-Bearer: I’m beginning to think this was a mistake.

MikoMikoNii: YOU GOT THAT RIGHT 😎👊🔥

DestinysBoi: 

Matrix-Bearer: I...have never before felt such fear for my life...

Shoulderpads: What in the good name of Primus is wrong with you people?? What is that? Why is it so....unnerving? 

MikoMikoNii: 👌

///

And so that’s that! Sorry it took so long!! I was busy and it got stuck in my drafts for much longer than intended! But I hope there arent too many mistakes or anything, and I hope you could at least find it interesting, if not funny ^^’’ 

I enjoyed making this one too~

Lmk if you want me to do some more! Drop ideas! I’ll most likely be doing a Decepticon one next if I do another~ 

:) 

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Hello JWB, analysis anon here ( btw, the previous analysis question was not mine😆). So there are two scenes that I am a bit confused about: 1) in the scene post Arnav-Lavanya break up (Lavanya dressing up as a bride) when Khushi wants to patch them up and visits Arnav’s office, why does Arnav call her as someone pretending to be something else and putting up a fake show of goodness? Thank you so much

Hello hello Analysis Anon,

I've realised that there are 2 Analysis Anon here! One is Analysis Demanding Anon and the other is you - Analysis Anon! So I'm glad to hear from both of you *lol*

Ok, I'll try my best to answer this (this is an analysis of the characters, my personal opinion is at the bottom):

1) in the scene post Arnav-Lavanya break up (Lavanya dressing up as a bride) when Khushi wants to patch them up and visits Arnav’s office, why does Arnav call her as someone pretending to be something else and putting up a fake show of goodness?

Hmm, this is a particularly angsty scene and quite difficult to decode. Arnav was angry with Khushi, rightfully so, because she:

(a) intruded in a very private sector of his life (dressing up Lavanya as a bride, getting her to sit on his bed, peeking from the bathroom to spy their interactions crossed a lot of lines),

(b) could apparently effectively compartmentalize her attraction and almost treat it as non existent given her friendship with La whereas he was ,

(c) her actions were very contradictory to her words (and was constantly judging him because he did not follow her moral compass - such as he was constantly being looked down upon by her for not agreeing to 'marriage' whereas he was actually being sensible to not give more commitment than he was comfortable with)

This doesn't excuse Arnav of the shit he pulls, frequently.

So in this scene I feel Arnav has had his limit of being hurt by Khushi therefore I think he wants to hurt her back.

And as @phati-sari says in this post:

"She’s hurting him, so he hurts her back. He says that he’s better than her, at least he’s honest with himself, at least he doesn’t pretend to be good, to be truthful.

Arnav understands her so well that it only takes three sentences to reduce her to tears, his words carefully honed and targeted weapons that hit where it hurts her most. But he’s not ready for the consequences. Khushi’s tears rip through him, his anger burns away, and he watches her walk past him with undisguised concern." - IPKKND Rewatch: Episode 087

And I think that's what is happening in the scene. Perhaps he's surprised that Khushi still doesn't understand. Perhaps he himself does not know what he wants. Perhaps he's expecting Khushi to see the things he's ignoring himself.

And I get Khushi, for her every relationship is from the heart. And the not recognizing Arnav, not understanding the way he sees the world - in a way Khushi is broken by his lack of faith in relationships and love because if this is how he is with Lavanya... (you can fill in the blanks for yourself). So which is why she even says in disbelief "aap baat kaha se kaha le gaye,"

It's very tragic that they completely don't get the other person.

So in short: Arnav calls her all that because he wants to hurt her, just as much as she is hurting him with her words and actions.

My opinion: I am not at all surprised that Khushi chooses to further compartmentalize and completely push herself into denial because at no point does Arnav ever show that disclosing her feelings wouldn't be at her cost. There's a fear of rejection, ridicule and insult. Also, Arnav openly still doesn't respect her, does not believe in relationships, 'magic of love', matters of the heart and emotions. And it's tragic because these are the grounds of Khushi's feelings for him. The way this show works is because it never tries to justify any of the characters - they are who they are, flawed. Arnav hurts when he's hurt, Khushi expects everyone sees the world her way and nothing can exist outside her perspective. It's painful but it's done well.

And again, a BIG disclaimer that because this show is nuanced and because this is fiction - it works. In reality this should never happen in a conversation with someone in a relationship. If the person you like brings up status, class, pretense - then say bye bye.

Thanks for asking - hope this made sense in some way,

- JWB

[slashersins]

best friends are never forgotten

part one |

thanks to @august-burns-red for helping me rant plot out & helping with some characterization ! 

“Brahms!” The boy looked up from where he sat , currently playing some idle game with Emily . You were beaming , bounding over to him with your hands clutched together . Emily gasped at the sight of you . Shoes and knees coated in mud , hands filthy and there was even filthy smudges on your cheeks . You didn’t seem to mind a bit , carefully opening your hands to show the pair the frog you’d caught . “Look it ! I gots a frog!”

Brahms grinned giving you a pat on the head, it only caused you to bounce excitedly at the attention . And Emily was squealing , slapping at your hand for you to drop it and then jumping onto the bench to make sure it didn’t touch her . “Y/n ! You can’t catch frogs , ladies don’t catch frogs . And you’re all dirty . Mummy and Mrs. Heelshire are going to be upset!”

You’re adorable to him . Like a puppy , bright smile , excited and bouncing . Ever since the start of summer when you poked your head from behind Emily’s back to say hello in you funny little accent . You were nothing at all like Emily , like how little girls were supposed to behave according to his mother . A stray ragamuffin , filthy and ridiculous .

His lips twitch , eyes full of boyish mischief . He’d known you were wearing one of Emily’s dresses , an attempt by the girls mother to civilize her niece . Which is why he’d asked you to go find him a frog , telling you in a hushed whisper how much he really wanted one . And you had delivered , just like a good puppy would .

“Oh.” You pause for a moment , sticking your tongue out as tiny hands try to grab for the leaping frog . You might have shown him the frog but you hadn’t given it to him yet . “But I just wanted to give Brahms a frog!” You sit on the grass , no doubt adding stains to the already ruined dress , feet plopped out in front of you and you looked up at your cousin .

“Brahms doesn’t need a frog.” She sighed again , tossing her hands up like Mrs. Heelshire did when she realized she’d have to give you a bath when you showed up covered in dirt at her door step two weeks ago . You’d walked a long way from Emily’s house to Brahms’ , stopping to yank flowers out the ground root and earth and all . She hadn’t liked the flowers . Or giving you a bath . But you had gotten to run around the house in Brahms’ too big clothes , giggling and following the big around much to his entertainment .

“He’s a gentleman . And you’re a lady .” Emily shook her head , hands on her hips as she lightly scolded you . How on earth was she ever going to help her cousin be a little lady like she was ? Her mummy was right , you were hopeless and tragically American . But Emily adored you for your strangeness all the same . “We need to get you clean . . . And a new dress . . .”

You perked you , goofily grinning as you have a solution that your momma used back home . “Could jus’ hose me down ! Momma and Papa always use the waterin’ hose to get all the mud off ‘fore they take me inside!” You’re much too prideful in your ability to get so covered in mud . It makes Emily sigh and Brahms light up mischievously .

He doesn’t hesitate to move from his spot , grabbing your hand and tugging you towards the rose garden . Everyday you seemed to prove to him that you were more and more like a cute puppy . And Brahms enjoyed playing with you , almost more than Emily . You , at least , could entertain him .

“Brahms , you can’t really want to spray her down with the garden hose ! She needs a bath . A proper one.” Emily was pouting . You were just happy for the attention . And Brahms was thrumming with mischief when he turned on the faucet .

You squealed happily , laughing as Brahms sprayed you with water . He laughed too , chasing you a bit as your dress became heavy with water . Mud dripped from you , and only after a few moments did you stop playing and start trying to get the mud off of you . It was a semi success . And you were pleased , giving Brahms a big smile . You turned to show Emily , and she only shook her head . But the smile on her lips gave away that she’d found the entire situation funny as well . And then Brahms turned the hose on Emily and she shrieked with surprise .

By the time Mrs . Heelshire and Auntie came to get the three of you for dinner it was too late . All of you were in varying degrees of wet and muddy . All in need of a bath and new set of clothes . Emily looked embarrassed , Brahms bowed his head politely at his scolding , a frown on his face , you just tilted your head with confusion . You couldn’t understand why the adults here didn’t understand having fun .

The summer days came and went with the same rhythm . You’d follow around Emily and play , visit Brahms and play . Try to learn how to write pretty , try to learn how to play the piano , listening to Brahms and Emily read you new books , trying to learn to dance . Getting up to the mischief only a five year old with two eight year old friends could get up to . Scandalizing and traumatizing Mrs Heelshire and your own Aunt while

exasperating and entertaining Mr Heelshire and your Uncle .

You’d even earned the nickname of ragamuffin , often used by Mr Heelshire when you’d gotten up to something in the grass and mud . The summer days came and went with a pleasant happiness , one that left you snuggling into the covers with Emily while you whispered about your adventures until sleep took you . One that saw you wrapped in a cuddle pile between Brahms and Emily as you all napped in the middle of the library floor , tired from hours of playing and laughing . You were happy .

A sneeze . One more . Another one . You look miserable . Emily pressing a fancy handkerchief to your red nose as you sneeze again . She pours and fusses over you , tucking you in tightly .

“Darling , you’ll catch her cold . Y/n will be fine , come along .” Your aunts voice is muffled , your ears seeming to be filled with pillow fluff . But you manage to make a soft noise in greeting to your aunt . Emily pouts , tucking the covers around your shoulders before she slips off the bed .

“But I wanna —“ sneeze , “wanna —“ sneeze , sneeze , your eyes water and you cough some , trying to sit up in bed but only falling forward with a tired whine. “Wanna play with Em’ly an’ Brammy.” Your stuffy nose makes your little country American accent all that more complicated . But your aunt only sighs , shaking her head .

“Stubborn thing . You don’t want to get them both sick do you ? You’re staying in and resting . Besides , it’s you wouldn’t be sick if you hadn’t tried tried to catch frogs in the pond and fell in .” She has a bemused and tired look . Affectionate an disappointed all in the same . You pout, opening your mouth to protest , wanting to tell your aunt you’re fine and don’t feel sick at all when you start sneezing again . The woman only shakes her head , pouring a thick spoonful of gross medicine and telling you to open up . It’s bitter and gross , but you swallow it down .

Emily waits by the door , worried for her little cousin , and not at all envying the fact you had to take that terrible medicine . But she knew that her mummy was right and the medicine would help . Y/n needed rest . Maybe she could convince Brahms to make get well pictures for you . Perhaps something with plenty of frogs on it .

Tucking you back in , your Aunt moved off the bed , walking to Emily and taking her hand . Emily called a good bye . You shouted out a weak “I love you” to your cousin and then a “And Brahms!” before sneezing again . Emily gave you a wave goodbye , and you snuggled into the over sized bed and blankets . The medicine seemed to work . Because one moment you’re dazing , eyes drooping closed , and the next you’re asleep .

You woke up to the sound of crying . Of loud sobs and desperate noises of agony . It’s dark now , and Emily isn’t the bed with you like usual . Still groggy and stuck with the sniffles , you somehow manage to climb out of the bed . You follow the sounds , confused as to what has someone so sad . Why were they crying so loud ?

You rub the sleep or of your eyes as you open the door to Emily’s play room . Head tilting as you take in the room . Auntie is holding onto one of Emily’s favorite toys . She’s screaming , sobbing , shaking . Uncle has his head bowed , his shoulders shaking violently as he grunts his teeth , tears in his face . They don’t seem to notice you .

With another rub to your eye you walk towards them and do the only thing you know how to when someone is sad . You hug one of your uncles legs and your auntie’s arm . You don’t know why they’re crying . Or why they seem to cry harder , falling forward to hold you , when you tell them it’s okay , that Emily will be back home soon . She’s just playing with Brahms .

[oftenderweapons]

Apple Of My Pie (6) — Jin

A Small Town Swoons story

Chapter 6.

Pairing: Kim Seokjin x reader (nicknamed Buttercup)

Wordcount: 3.8k

Genre: non-idol!AU, Baker/Café owner!Seokjin, University student!reader Flatmates!AU, Friends To Lovers; angst, very little fluff

Rating: suggested 18+ for future smut and swearing

A/N: Hello my cupcakes! Welcome to the Small Town Swoon Universe! 🥰✨

In this episode: Jin and Buttercup have been apart for a while. Both mourn for their separation, Buttercup nursed by the attentive care of Jeongguk and Yoongi, while Seokjin prefers dwelling on his feelings in solitude. In the deepest darkness, some sense finally sheds a light, thanks to the words of an unexpected ally. 

TRIGGER WARNINGS: Swearing. Both jin and Buttercup are underfed, which leads to a sense of coldness and numbness, fatigue and haziness that are mentioned in the fic. 

Remember to vote for next prompt (check the link in my bio) and in case you need it, here’s my masterlist 💜

If you’d like some company, here is the music companion (Spotify only, sorry 😔)

Enjoy ✨💜

Navi: Chapter 1 — Chapter 2 — Chapter 3 — Chapter 4 — Chapter 5 — Chapter 6 — Chapter 7 (7/7)

He missed you.

He missed you a lot.

He missed you waking up at two am to raid the kitchen. He missed hearing your laugh from across the apartment while you watched something.

He missed hearing you ramble on and on about literature in your own room as you studied your lessons, he missed breakfast together, he missed waking up at two pm after a night shift and having late lunch together after you came back from your lessons. He missed making you hot cocoa, watching films together, having dinner, talking about boring stuff.

He missed you.

He had been missing you for two weeks now, and soon they would become three.

Nineteen days. In a few hours he would have to handle one more Saturday dinner alone, one more Saturday night without watching a film with you on the sofa. And then another Sunday morning when he would cook too much food and end up bringing it to Taehyung.

Nineteen days.

That’s how long you had been missing.

And every time he came back home, one more piece of you disappeared. Your toiletries had vanished on that unfortunate Sunday. That inglorious, tragic Sunday, when he was still too confused to understand the end had started.

On Monday, the first few books were gone; your currently reading novels, usually abandoned on the coffee table, had disappeared.

Next your blanket, the one his granny had gifted you for your first Christmas away from home. That was on Tuesday, with some more books.

The emptiness he had prayed for ever since he had decided he needed to fall out of love with you was slowly conquering the apartment. The same emptiness, once a welcome feeling in his mind, now manifested in his heart as a slow, ruthless strangling, the one where you know exactly what is happening, and you feel every cell of your body oppose, fight for oxygen, like a person clawing at the offender’s fingers tightening around their throat.

He felt like he was drowning, inch by inch, unfathomably.

He rang the door bell.

A disturbingly sweet scent of tuberose met his nostrils. He flinched.

“Hi, come in!”

“We can order in some pizza or I could make pasta. Or risotto.” Jeongguk sat beside you, stealing your book and putting it down. “You need to eat, Sweets.”

You shook your head. “I’m okay, I’m just not in the mood.”

“Just a little, come on. Make me happy.” He begged, looking at you with those eyes that made it impossible to deny him.

“Okay. Just a little, though, I’m really… Not okay.” You admitted, snuggling up next to Bibby, his torso pillowing your head.

He scared you with a sneeze before you both settled down again. The dog had become your shadow, following you everywhere, as if he could sense your deep need for affection and support.

Jeongguk nodded. “Can you handle a baby pizza? We can eat the leftovers tomorrow for breakfast,” he mused, letting you know it was okay even if you didn’t finish your food.

He just wanted you to eat.

You were cold all the time, your teeth always clattering, your body so weak after days of eating the very minimum to stay alive and studying.

In the last few days you had even given up on attending university, your friends and study buddies sending you the recordings of the lessons. One of your teachers had even noticed your absence and Lara had diligently made up an excuse, saying you had caught a bad flu and that you were slowly recovering.

“Lemme call the pizza place.” Jeongguk cupped your cheek, studying your face, so pale, your eyes, so tired.

You nodded.

Jeongguk sat up and called. “Hi, it’s me. Yeah, can I have a baby Margherita in ten? I know, it’s Friday and rush hour, just a baby Margherita… You’re the best. Yes, I’ll bring you candies. Go to work. Yeah, bye.”

You blinked a few times, quite surprised at Jeongguk’s relaxed tone as he talked to the person on the phone.

“It’ll be here soon. Why don’t you rest your eyes a little. You need that, Sweets.” He reminded you.

He could be so apprehensive, so caring and observant.

He seemed to know everything, the same way Jin did. Still, you were far from feeling for Jeongguk the things you felt for Jin. It felt like that path you had walked to Seokjin would never lead you to Jeongguk, though you had considered.

It wasn’t a matter of food, or time, or affection or care. It was something deeper, deeper than attraction and spending time together and laughing at the same jokes.

It was as if your soul didn’t feel at home in his space, like it could never inhabit his body the way it inhabited yours. Or Seokjin’s.

You closed your eyes.

“Good for you.” Jeongguk said, fixing the blanket around you, adding an extra one for your feet, knowing that they always got cold.

“She’s sleeping.”

“Does she sleep a lot?”

“Quite a lot, yes.”

“Did she lose weight?”

“Yes, definitely.”

“Does she eat, even just a little?”

“When I’m around, yes, but I’m not usually home for lunch. I’m pretty sure she eats breakfast and dinner. Very little food, but at least she eats.”

“That’s reassuring.”

“Yoongi, she’s trying.”

You could hear some voices from the kitchen table, but you refused to open your eyes. You could recognise them with your eyes closed anyway.

Spice’s voice appeared. “I bet she’s exhausted. He looked bad too. They’re hurting so bad, both of them.”

“They had chances, Spice. They turned them down. Maybe they’ll learn the lesson.” Yoongi said coldly.

“Not everyone is like us, baby. They’re taking their time.” Spice calmed him down.

“They won’t have forever.” Yoongi objected with a slight growl in his voice.

Jeongguk stared as Spice brought an arm around Yoongi’s shoulders, pulling him into her chest. She knew it was his history making him speak with so much anger and tension. “If it doesn’t happen, then they’re not meant to be.”

Yoongi relaxed a little. “If they aren’t, then I don’t know who is.”

Spice shook her head. “They’ll work it out.”

Jeongguk placed his head against his hands. “She’s just freezing cold, all the time.”

“You mean her body temperature or her mood?” Yoongi questioned.

“Her temperature.”

Yoongi tutted. “Give her more sugars. She needs fruit and honey and chocolate. Keep those on the coffee table so you can keep them in check, see if she eats.”

“Sure thing.”

“Has she seen him?” Spice asked, still holding Yoongi’s hand.

“No. I don’t think so. Lara tells her when he’s at the bakery so she can go home and get what she needs.” Jeongguk replied.

Yoongi breathed heavily. You could tell it was him by the way his exhale was drenched in exasperation. “That man. He will drive me mad. He’s so stupid.”

“He has a girl—”

“Which in my opinion he should have never had.” Yoongi commented.

“It’s his choice, Yoongi. He fucked up. I’m here for her.” Jeongguk objected. “I’m her friend.”

“You had feeli—”

“I had them. In the past. You know how this works, Yoongi. How it works for me. She’s never been it. I’ll know when the right one comes.” Jeongguk stated, as determined as ever.

“Then learn the lesson from that fucker and when she comes, tell her what she means to you.” Yoongi said, squeezing Spice’s hand in his.

“I’ll tell her so much she’ll get tired of it.” Jeongguk affirmed with the solemn tone of promises.

Spice squeezed Yoongi’s hand in return. “We never get tired of hearing that.”

Yoongi’s eyes met those of his lover, friend and partner. “We never do.” He said, like a whispered secret to his beloved.

Jeongguk smiled at the exchange. That was his goal. Finding something like that, like what he saw between his friends, right in that moment.

“Should I wake her?” He asked, musing about your situation.

Yoongi got out of his bubble and replied quickly. “Yes. Try keeping her close to a proper sleeping schedule. Her body is spread thin right now, so she’ll need naps, but don’t let those last too long.” The man instructed. “If it doesn’t get better in two weeks, then we’ll need to get proper help. You know there’s not much I can do since I’m connected to both. I cannot be professional about it.” Yoongi explained. “I have a uni colleague who practices and who could help her, were this to continue.”

“Thank you, Yoongi.”

“All cool, kid. Text me when she’s up. Tell her to call me if you see she’s ready.”

Jeongguk nodded, “I’ll have her call you.”

“Yeah, just don’t force her,” Yoongi replied, standing up and wearing his coat. “Spice and I will be out of town next weekend. Just so you know.”

Jeongguk smiled, “thank you for telling me.”

“Wake her and feed her.” Yoongi said, walking to the door, Spice following him closely. She watched as Yoongi’s eyes looked for your sleeping form. “Tell her we love her a lot. That she needs to be strong and healthy to explore the woods with Joon and to help us with spring pies.” Yoongi shook his head. “Maybe ignore the pies.”

Jeongguk nodded. “Joon will bring her to the cottage soon. I’ll be having a busy week starting Monday.”

“Great. See you, Gukkie.” Yoongi said, finally ready to leave.

From the smell of coffee and leather, you felt what could only be Spice’s hand touching your face. “Stay safe, baby.” She told you, still thinking you were asleep.

Underneath all those layers, Spice was a sweetheart, after all. It made your heart clench.

“Bye Guk.” She said, shortly before you heard the door close.

He sat beside you and Bibby. “Open your eyes, Sweets. You need to eat your dinner.”

You pouted and stretched, sitting up. “I’m going to the cottage?”

“Namjoon will pass by on Sunday to pick you up.” Jeongguk said, incapable of hiding some envy. He wanted to go to the cottage too. It was beautiful to see how much a day can make a difference in the woods in spring.

You nodded, already comforted by the thought of sharing some time with one of the people you respected and trusted the most, in his lovely cottage, among his plants and paintings and books. It was the most healing place in the universe. “Can I have some pizza?” You asked, sniffing at the inviting scent in the air.

Jeongguk smiled at your question, significantly happy with your request. “Of course.”

“How are you? Did you sleep a little?” Grace asked, getting a glass of water and some biscuits for Seokjin.

He smiled at the young woman but sneered at the food, almost hissing. He felt ready to throw up his guts. He felt disgusting.

“Not much.” He said, rubbing his arms. He felt so cold.

Grace shook her head. “You should eat.”

Seokjin looked out of the window, the orange afternoon sun hurting his eyes. Two more hours. Saturday dinner alone. He tried to find the words, the right words.

He realised there weren’t any.

“I miss her, Grace.” Jin placed his elbows on the table and planted his forehead against his palms. “I miss her too much.”

Grace nodded and stood up. She walked to the window and stood there, with her back to Jin. “Everyone. Everyone in this town knows. Everyone.” She paused. Seokjin waited. She didn’t speak with anger or sadness. She simply spoke, like one who knew.

“Everyone knows about you and her, about how perfect you look together. But she didn’t even consider you. You always cared for her, but who cared for you? Who made breakfast and dinner and the laundry and the cleaning for you?” Grace seemed upset now. “She never made a move, though. Everyone knew, but sometimes only one person really, actually knows.” She turned around. She had a small smile on, a bitter one, maybe. “Because you weren’t hers, I made a move. And I never expected you would take me into consideration, all the girls — and the boys — who have tried never succeeded. How would I?” Again she paused. “But I did it. Somehow.”

Seokjin nodded. “You are a great person, Grace. You’re smart, kind, beautiful. And you’re dedicated, and I was attracted to you since the first time I saw you.”

“But I’m not her, am I?” She said, so gentle; the kind of gentleness that you use with strangers, to keep them at a distance.

“You’re not her, and there are pros and cons to this, just like for any other people.” Seokjin replied politely.

Grace nodded as she paced back and forth. She grabbed a biscuit and she ate it unhurriedly, still pacing, chewing it slowly.

“I tried to move on.” Seokjin explained, “but maybe I’m not ready.”

Grace bobbed her head. “Fair. After all I could be only a carer.” She admitted. “I think I took pity on you, but never truly loved you.” Her expression looked sad but honest.

Seokjin pursed his lips. “We both deserve better than dull pity, may it be giving or receiving.”

“I thought pity would suffice. We could be great friends and then grow into something more than that. But some friendships don’t evolve like the one you have with her.” Grace sat down in front of her guest. Her boyfriend. Soon to be her ex.

Their time together was coming to an end, each second inevitable like the ticking of the clock.

“I hope you don’t feel insulted, or disrespected.” Seokjin confessed, his tone of voice extremely apologetic.

“We both got into this with the wrong intentions. I think we both deserve the best and we clearly will not get it from each other. You need her, and I'm just a detour on your way to her—”

“Please, don't think that I didn't care about you.” He said, with so much pain in his voice. He was so disappointed in himself.

“I know you cared. Maybe you still care, but I know you wouldn't be here if she were an option.” Grace said, her voice honest, a bit harsh maybe, but with no suffering or aggression.

“Don't think I chose you because I couldn't have her. Among several options, I still chose you, because you were the one I liked the most, because I could fall in love with you. And I still like you, but I didn't fall. And I'm not sure that will happen.” Seokjin spoke with transparent unequivocality.

“It would be stupid for us to continue down this path. We would just lie to each other, unless we accept that our relationship will be based on fondness and nothing more.” Grace explained clearly.

Seokjin pouted. “We're too young for fondness.”

“We are.” Grace agreed. “But you need to tell her, Jin. You must tell her. You're hurting for a separation you could have absolutely avoided. At least, if you have to suffer, do it for the right reason.” Grace had a clarity in her that Seokjin had come to respect. He knew someone would love it someday. Someone would take care of her and cherish her and adore her and worship her with her gifts and imperfections. Someone could even love the scent of tuberoses that always lingered on her skin.

“I think we're ready to say goodbye.” She mused. “Although I would love it if we could still be friendly around each other. I don't wanna say 'let's stay friends' because that could be hypocritical of me right now, but I think I'd be very happy if we could still say hi and chat at the bakery when I stop by.”

“I think I'd be proud to call you my friend, when you feel ready for that. Still, you don't have to do that. I understand I hurt you—”

“No offense, but you didn't hurt me. I already knew what I was getting myself into. I think I've always known you would never be mine. A part of me was ready for this to happen and I think that's what's keeping this from being hurtful or insulting or whatever. We have been clear from the very start.”

“I wasn't clear about her.” Seokjin's eyes watered. He felt like he didn't deserve Grace's mercy and understanding.

“Anyone and everyone could tell. You were clear with anything but words. Plus I knew, and still I let it happen.” Grace took Seokjin's hand in hers. “It's not your fault. You're not alone.”

He didn't know when it happened but somehow he was crying, weeping like a baby, sobbing and sniffling.

Grace rose and walked to his chair, standing behind him, placing both her hands on his shoulders, rubbing them energetically. “You’re gonna be alright, Jin. Just go and fix all this mess with her. Talk to her please or I swear I'm gonna hate you. Don't make all this pain useless.” The young woman hugged him and kissed his head. “Stop telling yourself you don't deserve her. Stop being paranoid about her turning you down. Have you ever considered her giving you a chance?” She spoke with a soothing tone, something that he knew would make her a great mother someday. He could see himself kicking his own butt and begging Grace to take him back, were he ever to learn how to love her.

However, a part of his brain told him that loving Grace was something he could never learn, just like he never had to learn how to love you.

“You're one smart, beautiful woman, you know?” He asked, patting Grace's hands with his. “I hope you get someone who can love you the way you need.”

Grace nodded. “The same to you, dear. Now go get your lady or I'm going to castrate you.”

He squeaked out a teary laugh before standing up. “Are you okay with me hugging you?”

She smiled and nodded.

The embrace held for maybe half a minute before she whispered 'go, quick', like her gut was telling her something.

Seokjin smiled before winking and running out of the building.

You were grateful for the umbrella. You knew that soon the light drizzle would become a full storm and with all your heart you hoped you had enough time to carry your stuff to Yoongi’s pub, Ginger’s, and save yourself from the rain.

You were eager to get your stuff ready. All you wanted was for it to be Sunday already, for the energy of the woods to restore your soul and offer a safe haven to your mourning body.

You wanted the slightly damp spring days, the blossoms on the trees and the light green new leaves. You longed to see the lawns become once more verdant, filled with daisies and the frolicking of bees and butterflies.

However, for now you were stuck in the cold, humid weather, not a hint of spring in sight.

With a slight pout you entered your building, climbing the stairs in a path you could walk with your eyes closed.

The keys indented your skin uncomfortably, your hold too tight.

You slipped the right one in quickly, trying to make the errand as brief as possible.

Once you entered, you took off your shoes. You didn’t want to stain Seokjin’s floor, especially considering how he always took care of it, spending extra time in treating the hardwood boards with special products to keep them glossy and vibrant in their splendid maroon colour.

You completely avoided looking at the kitchen, walking to your room and finding the last bag of clothes resting on the bed, still made with three-week-old sheets. You wondered whether it was a good idea for you to wash them, but once you were reminded you would be gone for a whole week, maybe more, you shook your head and went on with your tasks, cleaning up your desk once you noticed the dust on it.

Your tiny bookcase was halfway empty, the only things left some old books you read during your first year and tiny trinkets.

A can of cherry coke from your first trip to the lake with the guys; a tattoo Jeongguk had designed for you a long time ago, waiting for you to finally find the guts to get it done; granny’s recipe for her special apple pie; a picture of you and Seokjin at the bakery’s fiftieth anniversary, a small buttercup flower dried and pressed into the framed picture; another photo, this one from your birthday, the guys surrounding you in a group hug, and Seokjin staring from the distance, his eyes glimmering with something your mouth will never speak.

You were slowly spiralling into despair when you heard the door unlock.

Dread grabbed your insides and twisted them tight, your hands unconsciously snatching the bag, switching off the lights before you tried to run out of your room, hoping it was just a projection of your exhausted brain.

It wasn’t.

There, on the entry mat stood Seokjin, drenched head to toe.

You stared at each other for a second.

“Hi.” He said.

He looked a mess. “Are you alright?”

He bent forward, his hands on his knees, his chest heaving with laboured breathing as he shook his head.

He knelt on the floor.

He shook his head some more.

You stood paralysed in front of him.

“I could use a friend.” He whispered, right before you dropped your bag and fell to your knees right in front of him, pressing his face to your chest. “You said you would never leave me alone. You promised.” He sobbed, hugging you to his body. “You promised.” He repeated, your clothes getting wet as they touched his.

“I’m sorry Jinnie. I’m so sorry, honey.” You replied, tearing up yourself. “Come in, let’s get you warm and dry.”

He refused. “Don’t go.”

“I’m not going, Jinnie. Come in.” You spoke softly.

“Swear on your cocoa that you won’t leave.” He required.

“I swear on the cocoa, now please come in, I don’t want you to catch a cold, Jin. Please.”

Reluctantly he followed your lead.

“You should get changed.” You said, cupping his cheek as the two of you stood one in front of the other.

His skin felt too hot.

“I don’t want to get you out of my sight.” He said, hugging you again.

You were both drenched by now. “We both need to get changed.”

He pouted. “You get in the bathroom. I wait outside. I can get changed while you’re in.” He said, sure that you were too smart — and too lazy — to jump out of the window.

“I won’t run.” You said, trying to reassure him.

“What if you change your mind?” He insinuated with an accusing, hurt tone.

You gave up. “Okay, I’ll get changed in the bathroom.” You conceded, grabbing your duffel bag and walking in the room, closing the door behind you.

You changed quickly, trying to show him you were invested in staying as little away from him as possible.

“I’m ready.” You called, waiting to open the door. You didn’t want to see something you weren’t meant to.

“Yes, you can come out.” He said.

As you opened the door, the first thing you noticed was his bare chest, wide, immense before your eyes.

You averted your gaze as he slipped on a sweater. He hugged you again. “I’m cold.” He murmured.

Your heart couldn’t handle that. “Let’s get on the sofa.”

“I don’t have a blanket anymore.” He said, looking at you with eyes so big, so lost and emotional.

You shook your head and entered his bedroom, grabbing his comforter carelessly. “Let’s go.”

He smiled and followed you, sitting down and dragging you onto his lap.

“Seokjin.” You reprimanded, thinking of the last time you had seen him.

“What?” He asked, fixing the covers around the two of you, holding you so tight you almost couldn’t breathe.

“What about Grace.” You said, not even a question, just a distant, unemotional statement.

“No more. I left her, Buttercup.” He said, nuzzling his nose into your hair. “I left her.”

You smelled so good.

You always smelled so good.

He kissed your neck. You tasted good too.

“Jinnie.”

“We’ll talk in the morning. I just need to sleep next to you. Please, Buttercup.” He begged, so tired and so adorably undeniable.

“Let’s sleep then.”

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Navi: Chapter 1 — Chapter 2 — Chapter 3 — Chapter 4 — Chapter 5 — Chapter 6 — Chapter 7 (7/7)