#um whenever i try to type up my design notes it gets way too long but feel free to ask about them

[asanjou]

kingdomswap designs...?

i don't remember how this came about im just having fun with character designs :smile: it's just the same swaps from episode 27

[storiesforallfandoms]

the type you bring home to mom ~ eddie kaspbrak;it chapter two

word count: 2361

request?: no

description: in which he finally brings his girlfriend home to his over protective mother, and it goes exactly as he thought it would

pairing: teen!eddie kasprak x female!reader

warnings: swearing, overbearing mother, derogatory name calling (i guess?), basically eddie’s mom just sucking

masterlist (one, two)

note: (y/n/p) = your parents’ names

I played with the hem of my dress as I walked up to the Kaspbrak household. I was regretting my choice in wardrobe, but it was too late to change now. I knew nothing would feel right anyways, I had already changed three times before I came over.

For the first time in our year long relationship, I was meeting Eddie’s mother. We had somehow managed to keep our relationship a secret for so long that I never felt like I had to meet her, and Eddie wasn’t exactly pushing for it either. As much as he loved his mom, he also knew she was manipulative and overbearing, and he often told me how he was afraid of his mom scaring me off because of these facts.

When the news eventually got out and travelled quickly through the small town of Derry, as gossip usually does, it got to Ms. Kaspbrak in no time. She immediately demanded to meet me, and Eddie set up a dinner at his house for the occasion.

Before I could even knock on the door, it swung open to reveal my tall boyfriend smiling down at me. Any tension I had melted away as I looked up at him, into those beautiful eyes that could calm me down whenever they were on me. He took my face in his hands and pulled me to kiss him. It was such a normal action that, at first, I leaned into it happily, until I realized the circumstances of my visit and quickly pushed him away.

“She’s not here,” he said, as if reading my worried thoughts. “She’s gone out to get some stuff for dinner.”

He stepped aside to let me step into the house. It wasn’t unfamiliar territory; Eddie and I had had many rendezvous there during the rare moments when his mom wasn’t home, but it felt wrong to be there on this occasion. I just wanted it to end already, and to go home or go for a long drive with Eddie.

“Come, sit,” he said, leading me to his living room. We sat close to one another on the couch, so close that we were just barley touching. Feeling his arm brush against mine sent sparks through me.

“How worried should I be?” I asked him, trying to remain as light as possible.

He sighed and shuffled in his seat. “I wish I could tell you not at all, but...”

He trailed off so I finished his sentence for him, “But it’s your mom.”

Eddie nodded. “But it’s my mom.”

One of his arms was around my waist. I hadn’t realized that the skirt of my dress had hiked up a little until the hand around my waist started to play with the hem, his fingertips brushing against my ass. His other hand touched my leg, starting lightly on my knee and then slowly travelling up my thigh till it stopped on my inner thigh. I shivered, wanting him to go further.

Most people who knew him would never believe that Eddie Kaspbrak, the hypochondriac, fast talking, former sheltered mama’s boy, would be absolutely mind blowing in bed, and constantly handsy whenever we were alone. I hadn’t even believed it until we got together, but man, Eddie knew how to make me feel absolutely amazing.

He leaned forward to kiss my neck, his fingers tracing circles in my inner thigh. I was shivering with anticipation and whimpers were escaping my lips. I could feel Eddie’s amused smirk against my neck as he placed another kiss there and lifted his head to look at me. He kissed my lips and his hand finally made its way further up my skirt.

Our moment was interrupted by the sound of a car door slamming. I practically jumped to the other side of the couch, touching my neck in hopes that he hadn’t accidentally left hickies there.

“You’re good,” he said, understanding what I had been doing.

The front door opened and I suddenly felt paralyzed. I wasn’t sure if I should stand up or stay sat down, if I should move even further away from Eddie or stay exactly where I was. In the end, I stayed frozen like a deer in headlights as his mom rounded the corner, arms full of grocery bags.

“Oh,” she said when her eyes landed on me. “Is this...her?”

There was a slight leer to the way she said “her”, which made me want to squirm under her intense gaze.

“Mom,” Eddie said, a partial warning tone in his voice, “this is (Y/N), my girlfriend.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Ms. Kaspbrak,” I said. “Do you, um, need any help with - ”

“No,” she cut me off. “I have it. You’re early.”

“I told her this is when to get here,” Eddie defended. “You wouldn’t tell me exactly when to invite her over.”

“Well, this is hardly dinner time,” his mother huffed. “It’ll take me a while to get dinner ready.”

“I can help,” I offered again.

“No,” she said, sharply, which told me that was the end of the matter.

I shrunk down in my spot on the couch.

“Mom,” Eddie snapped again.

She glared at me before turning to her son, trying to soften her expression for him. “I’ll let you know when the food is ready. For now...stay here.”

When she disappeared into the kitchen, Eddie immediately moved to sit next to me and took my hand in his.

“I’m okay,” I assured him. “I’ll get through it. It’s just dinner then we’re done, right?”

He nodded, but I could see the worry on his face still.

A while later, Ms. Kaspbrak called to tell us dinner was ready. She had made sure to place everything so that Eddie and I were sat at the heads of the table, far apart from one another, while she was sat between us. Eddie and I shared a look before sitting in our designated spots.

Dinner started with awkward silence besides our cutlery against the plates. I tried to keep my attention on my plate, but every so often I’d glance up at the Kaspbraks to see Eddie nervously glancing between me and his mother, and his mom just glaring daggers at me. The nervousness I was feeling took away my appetite, but I felt like I had to eat everything to make a good impression, if that was even possible.

“So,” Ms. Kaspbrak said, drawing our attention to her, “(Y/N). Your parents are (Y/P/N), right?”

She already knew the answer to this question. I had grown up in Derry, where everyone knew everyone. There was a reason she was asking, and I had a feeling I already knew what that reason was.

“They are, yeah,” I responded.

“And they’re divorced, aren’t they?”

“Mom!” Eddie groaned.

“It’s just a question, Eddie,” his mom said.

“It’s okay,” I said with a shrug. “I don’t mind talking about it. That’s kind of old news anyways. They divorced when I was 10, dad moved to the next town over and mom got full custody of me.”

“That doesn’t seem like a very stable upbringing,” Ms. Kaspbrak commented. “I’m sure it’s taken such a toll on you, you must’ve decided to rebel somehow.”

Eddie put his face in his hands, officially admitting defeat on trying to stop his mother.

“Actually it wasn’t anything like that,” I said. “Mom and dad stayed pretty civil. There wasn’t any big fight or anything, just an agreement that they’re better off not being married. When dad moved he made sure to stay in constant contact, and comes to visit all the time or I’d go to visit him. Mom always made sure I had a roof over my head and food on the table. They both love me unconditionally, even if they’re not together.”

Ms. Kaspbrak sat back in her seat, a sour look on her face. “Well...regardless, it’s just not right to be raised by a single mother.”

Feeling a bit brave, I raised an eyebrow at her. “Eddie was raised by a single mother.”

“That’s different. My husband died, he didn’t decide to abandon me and Eddie.”

“My dad didn’t abandon us, he’s still very much a part of our lives.”

She ignored me and continued to eat. I looked across the table at Eddie to see him avoiding all eye contact with either of us as he pushed his food around on his plate. As if feeling my gaze, he looked up at me. I gave him a small smile to try and indicate that I wasn’t upset with him. I wanted him to know everything was going to be okay, even if I didn’t fully believe it myself.

“How many boys have you had sex with, (Y/N)?”

The question caught me off guard and I nearly choked on the food I had just put in my mouth.

“Jesus Christ, mom!” Eddie snapped.

“Don’t take the Lord’s name in vein, Edward,” his mother chastised him.

“You can’t just ask something like that, mom, that’s none of your business.”

“Of course it’s my business. I need to make sure my son isn’t dating a slut. I remember you were friends with Beverly March before she moved away, and trust me, I heard all sorts of stories about her. Anyone who would hang around with her must be somewhat similar.”

The mention of the untrue bullshit that used to be spread about Bev made the anger within me bubble over. I was seeing red as I looked up at Ms. Kaspbrak, and I was ready to pounce.

“Actually, your son took my virginity, and I took his,” I told her. “And we have sex quite a lot, sometimes upstairs in his bedroom when you’re not home. Although, for someone who says he was a virgin I don’t know how much I believe it. Eddie has done things that I don’t even think the most experienced of people could do.”

If he was upset with me for saying all of this, Eddie’s face didn’t show it. He was sipping on his water, trying to hide the smug smile that broke out across his face.

Ms. Kaspbrak’s face turned blood red before she rose from the table. “Get the fuck out of my house!”

“Gladly,” I said, abandoning my dinner to quickly leave the shitty situation.

“And don’t you dare come anywhere near my son again, or else I will have the cops on you!” she threatened.

I stopped and turned back to face her. “For what? For dating your son? For showing him that there’s someone who actually cares about him without manipulating him? For finally cutting the cord that you’ve had wrapped around his neck since he was born? Ms. Kaspbrak, I understand that you’re afraid to lose your son the way you lost your husband, but being a manipulative bitch who forced him to think he had illnesses he didn’t have for years and insulting his girlfriend in front of him is not the way to keep him around. Eddie is 18 years old, he’s an adult. He can do whatever he wants, which includes dating whoever he wants and leaving this hell hole that you have the audacity to call a home. The day that you finally accept that just might be the day that Eddie finally considers you to be an actual mother.”

And with that, I decided not to overstay my welcome and left.

I was only a few feet away from Eddie’s house when I heard him calling after me. I slowed my pace just enough that he could catch up with me, but didn’t completely stop. I wanted to put as much distance between myself and the Kaspbrak house as I could.

“I’m sorry,” I sighed as he fell in step next to me.

“For what?” Eddie asked. “I should be the one apologizing to you.”

“You warned me on how she would be, and I still let her get to me,” I said. “I probably made having to live there a whole lot harder.”

“It was hard to begin with, (Y/N). Nothing could make it harder than what it was,” he told me. “What you said, it was all true. Mom needed to hear that. Doesn’t mean she liked hearing it, or that she’ll actually accept it, but she needed to hear it none the less.”

“I guess I could’ve said it nicer,” I said. “Or at least not included details of our sex life.”

Eddie awkwardly chuckled. “Yeah, could’ve done without mom knowing I’m a sex god.”

I gave him a look and playfully nudged him. “I never said you were a sex god.”

“Eddie has done things that I don’t even think the most experienced of people could do I believe were your exact words.”

“I only said that to make her more upset.”

“So you’re saying I’m bad at sex?”

I pushed him again. “Eddie!”

He laughed and put an arm around my waist. “I appreciate the compliment either way. And I hope you know how much I love you.”

I smiled up at him and leaned into his touch. “I love you, too.”

We walked in silence for a while and, before I knew it, we were at my house. We stopped and turned to face each other.

“Want to stay over tonight?” I asked. “I figure going home isn’t exactly the best option right now.”

“It’s not,” he agreed. “Will your mom be okay with it?”

“Of course she will, she loves you. She’ll probably even cover for you if your mom calls.”

“I take it back, I don’t love you. I love your mom.”

“And I take back my offer. Go sleep on the streets.”

I took off for my front door with Eddie hot on my trail. I tried to open it and lock him out before he caught up to me, but of course his long legs gave him an advantage. He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me away from the door, both of our laughs ringing out through the otherwise quiet neighborhood.

[ais-for-alex]

The Scars of Our Past Chapter 20:

So Ngl I love this chapter, I am a ho for a soft LeLo moment. Hope y’all enjoy 😊 (also you don’t have to listen to the song but I feel like it adds to the moment)

Logan paced the length of his room, back and forth, back and forth wearing a hole in the carpet. He had his lower lip pulled between his teeth, biting, worrying it until it was sore and swollen, his hands clenched and unclenched unconsciously cracking the knuckles over and over again.

He had to say something, he needed to say something. But god, what the fuck was he supposed to say? He hadn’t spoken to Leo aside from the occasional meme, since he ran and hid from him, it had been what? A week? And yet Logan felt like a vital part of himself had been ripped from his body and stolen from him.

Logan huffed an exasperated breath and sat at the foot of his bed, he needed a game plan, things were always easier with a game plan. Mentally Logan began composing a list in hopes that once he had an idea of what to do he would actually do it.

Step 1: Text him and hope that he responds

Step 2: Apologize for nearly accosting him, then running away, then ghosting him (god why are there so many things here?)

Step 3: Hope he accepts the apology

Step 4: …

Then what? Logan groaned at the thought and flopped backwards, what exactly was he trying to accomplish here? Get Leo back into his life as a friend? That didn’t feel quite right and made Logan's stomach clench uncomfortably, but the alternative option filled him with anxiety, all the unanswered questions that pulled up in his brain Logan couldn’t bring himself to put it into words. Well, at least it was the start of a plan, enough to take that first step.

Logan pulled his phone from the pocket of his jeans and pulled up Leo’s contact.

(You): Hey :waving emoji: whatcha up to?

The moment he hit send Logan dropped the phone face down on his chest, too nervous to watch and see if Leo would read the message let alone respond. Only a second late though it buzzed with an incoming message.

(Sunshine Giraffe): Just finishing up at practice

(Sunshine Giraffe): How about you?

Logan felt his stomach do that weird swoopy thing like it does whenever he goes on a roller coaster as he typed out his next text.

(You): Nothing much RN

(You): You want to go find something to do?

(You): Together?

There was a bit of a pause as he watched the typing bubbles pop up then disappear, in the near minute and a half it took for Leo to respond Logan nearly chucked his phone at the wall, but then he felt it buzz in his hand again.

(Sunshine Giraffe): Sure, that would be nice

(Sunshine Giraffe): You have an idea in mind?

(You): Nothing too special

(You): Meet me at the rink?

(You): We can go explore a bit; I can show you the area?

(Sunshine Giraffe): Sounds like a plan

(Sunshine Giraffe): See you in 15ish?

(You): :Thumbs up emoji:

Logan breathed in deep, step 1 done. He rolled up off his bed before snagging a pair of shoes from his closet and making his way up the stairs to the main area of the house.

“Hey Dumo?” he called out, peeking his head into the living room where Dumo and Celeste were curled up together on their couch.

“Quoi?” he asked looking up.

“Mind if I borrow your car? I’m going to meet a friend.”

“Hmm,” he hummed as if thinking hard about the request, “fine. On one condition though.”

“Oh yeah? And what’s that?”

Dumo chuckled as he grabbed the keys off the coffee table in front of him, “Stop moping,” with that he tossed the keys through the air for Logan to catch.

“I have not been moping,” he spluttered, making both Dumo and Celeste laugh at his expense.

“Sorry Tremz, but you kinda have,” Celeste said with a mildly sympathetic grin, “for like the last week at least.”

“I- no- I haven’t,” he stuttered at a loss of ways to defend himself, “alright I’m leaving,” he finally said before turning to make his way to the garage.

“Remember no more moping!” Dumo called after him, still chuckling.

When Logan pulled up outside the rink, he spotted Leo sitting on the stone steps leading into the main entrance of the building. At the sight of Leo all wrapped up in his jacket and scarf, beanie pulled low against the chill of the frosty air, Logan felt an odd warmth settle in his stomach. Somehow that warmth seemed to calm the fluttering butterflies inside him as he parked and hopped out of the car.

“Leo!” he called out as he got closer, making the blond glance up and lock his baby blue eyes on Logan.

“Hey,” he greeted softly, standing up from the steps grinning widely.

Jeeze, Logan always forgot how tall he was until he was right next to him, his face tilting upwards basking in the rays of warm sunshine Leo always seemed to radiate.

“So,” Logan said, a bit lamely not entirely sure where to take this conversation. He dug his hands into his pockets just to hide his nervous fidgeting, he knew he needed to apologize but it felt weird to just jump into it right out of the blue and the words seemed to stick in his throat at the thought. “Um, I thought we could walk around for a bit. I can show you some of the best places around here if you want.”

Leo chuckled and held out his hand gesturing to the sidewalk next to them, “well, where you lead I will follow.”

Logan laughed at the little self-satisfied grin on his face, “Did you really just reference the Gilmore Girls theme?”

“What? Who me? Yes, yes I did.”

“Come on, you dork,” Logan laughed again, rolling his eyes as he grabbed the sleeve of Leo’s hoodie and tugged him forward.

Together they began wandering down the sidewalk leading away from the rink, Logan pointed out all the restaurants with the best take out, the little book shop that Finn would always drag him to after practice, the music store where he bought one of his favorite guitars. He could feel the warmth of Leo’s arm brushing against his own as they walked, Logan could feel those soft blue eyes watching him and each time he would glance up Leo would smile tenderly at him.

The sun began to sink along the horizon as they walked,painting the frosty sky in cotton candy and orange sorbet turning the swirling clouds into sugar coated ice cream cones. Eventually the sidewalk led them into a hidden courtyard, a few people resilient enough to brave the cold were sitting at wrought iron tables outside a little Italian restaurant, a makeshift stage had been set up and a typical hipster looking guy with a guitar was strumming a soft tune his voice mingling with the notes to create a soothing melody.

“Hey,” Leo said, nudging Logan, “let’s sit for a bit.”

Logan nodded and followed Leo over to sit at the edge of a stone lined fire pit, the blaze was contained behind an intricately designed wrought iron cage but the heat still bled into their backs as they sat and watched the musician.

“Hey Leo?” Logan said softly, not looking up.

“Hmm?”

“I’m sorry,” he sighed and tucked his hands under his thighs to stop himself from fidgeting.

“It’s ok,” Leo replied, his voice sounding so earnest.

“No, it’s not,” Logan said, finally looking up, Leo was watching him again with that soft look in his eyes that made something inside his heart melt just a bit. “I shouldn’t have done that, that night. I held you down, took advantage of you. And then I ran away and hid like a scared little child. And then on top of that I couldn’t even nut up enough to text you back.”

“Logan,” Leo’s voice was soft as he reached a hand out and gently brushed a bit of hair off of Logan's face, the light brush of his fingertips made his breath hitch. “Please believe me when I say, it’s ok. You didn’t take advantage of me, I liked you being there. And I mean you’re strong,” he chuckled and glanced down at Logan's body, “but if I didn’t want you on top of me, I very easily could have gotten out of your hold.” Leo let his hand settle at the side of Logan’s neck, the warmth of his palm comforting,“and as for the rest, it’s ok to be scared. It’s ok to not understand the things that you’re feeling. Believe me it’s hard and confusing but it’ll be ok,” his voice tapered to a whisper as he finished speaking.

Logan felt himself crumble at Leo’s words, his eyes fell closed and he couldn’t stop the sigh from falling from his lips. Suddenly, Logan felt like all the energy had drained out of his body, he let himself lean forward to rest his forehead on Leo’s shoulder.

“How are you always so nice?” he asked, he felt Leo chuckle at the words as his fingers tangled into the soft curls that fluffed out under the brim of his snapback.

“It’s my southern charm,” he teased, Leo let his hand wander away from Logan's neck to wrap his arm around his body and tug him just a bit closer into his side.

The two of them sat like that for a while, comfortable in each other’s presence. They let the fire's heat fight away the winter chill as night fell steadily darker and darker around them. The soft music drifted closer on the frosted breeze but with Leo’s warm arms wrapped around him Logan was content to stay right where he was.

Eventually though they did have to leave the little bubble of that hidden courtyard but Logan didn’t want to leave Leo. He had been hiding from him for the last week but after finally finding stability with him again his heart was calling out to be with him as long as possible, so Logan walked with him back in the direction of Finn’s apartment.

“Well…” Logan said softly looking up at Leo’s face when they finally made it to the entrance of the building.

“This is me…” Leo replied, his baby blue eyes watching him tenderly.

“I guess I should get going, I’ll see later Leo.” Logan turned to leave but felt Leo’s hand reach out and grab his arm.

“Wait,” he said, “um… do- do you want to come up?”

“Oh, I don’t know…” Logan hesitated remembering that last conversation with Finn, him walking away. “I don’t think Finn really wants to see me right now.”

Leo huffed a soft little chuckle, “I don’t think Finn would ever object to seeing you. Come on, I’ll make dinner.”

“You’re gonna cook?” Logan laughed a bit disbelievingly.

“Why does everyone act like that’s such a surprise?” Leo said tugging Logan a bit closer to the door, “Come up. Please?”

Logan felt warmth bleed into him at the soft sound of Leo’s please , he was suddenly struck by the realization that if he asked it in that voice Logan wouldn’t be able to deny Leo anything.

“Alright, I’ll come with you.”

The smile that split Leo’s face lit up the entire street with sunlight.

Read on ao3

[haymaker-mva]

– The Pigtails are Off – (4)

Part 4: The three times Luka met Marinette

Now, you may be wondering: How did everyone get their carmines? All of the students found carmines and a note on their front steps the day Marinette reached the end of her rope. It can be assumed that Marinette used her connections to get a carmine to everyone. Except Marc because she wanted to give his carmine to him with Nathaniel at school/in person. Also about that, The Confrontation (As I'm calling it) happens at lunch. Marinette left and didn't come back for the rest of the day. Hope that cleared any confusions up! Sorry for the long notes section.

Also, I planned to post this after having another part done, but I feel guilty having a part ready while having no motivation to write lately. So, take this and prepare for a long wait.

Ao3 - First - Previous - Next

When Luka Couffine first met Marinette, it was years before he met her.

...

For good measure, Marinette slipped a carmine onto his wrist. Just in case.

-

When Luka Couffine first met Marinette, it was years before he met her.

Let me explain.

It was about two years ago, when he was fifteen. He was trying to get into the Tom & Sabine Boulangerie Patisserie when he bumped into a girl.

She had long black hair that flowed down her back in waves. It shone with blue highlights that the sun cast, and she wore a jean jacket and a black pleated skirt with pink edges. Her boots were a dark brown, and she also had a pair of pink hoop earrings. Last was her tank top, which was white with a black Jagged Stone design.

Anyway, she was walking out of the bakery with something whitte folded in her arms. She seemed to be glaring at the item annoyedly when Luka opened the door and promptly walked into her.

She fell backwards, onto her butt, gripping the fabric of her item tightly. Luka fell backwards as well, and he just managed to save the guitar that had previously been on his back. Luka looked up at who he had crashed into, and the first thing he noticed was the tank top.

“Sorry… wait, you like Jagged Stone?” Luka said dumbly.

“Ugh.. yeah, I do. What’s it to you?” The girl replied, getting up off the ground. Her voice wasn’t annoyed, just apprehensive. Luka could hear her song stutter, as if she wasn’t used to people asking things like that to her.

“I love Jagged Stone! I wanted to ask where you got that shirt?” Luka asked, finally getting up and slinging his guitar back over his shoulder.

“...I made it. The design is official but It always was too small or the fabric was too rough in official merch.” The girl told him.

“Oh. I asked so I could get one of my own. I agree with what you said about official merch. Jagged really needs to get a better provider or something.” Luka agreed, moving off to the side inside the bakery with her.

“Well, I have a t-shirt that’s pretty much the same that I could give you,” The girl offered, holding out the item that Luka now knew was a shirt. “I originally made it for myself, but I misjudged the measurements and made it too big.”

“That’d be awesome!” Luka said, taking the surprisingly soft t-shirt and holding it up to himself. “How much do I owe you?”

“You want to pay me?” She asked, raising her eyebrows. “It’s a leftover, it’s fine.”

“No, you made it and now you’re just giving it to someone you’ve never met. I’m paying you.” Luka pulled twenty dollars out of his pocket and put it into the girl’s hand.

“It’s honestly fine,” She started, but a ring from her phone cut her off. She glanced at it, and her eyes went wide. “I have to go!” She turned and rushed out the door, not even remembering her resistance to getting paid for her work.

Luka watched her rush off with a small smile, and walked up to the counter to buy something for him and Juleka. Picture day was today, and she probably just got home. Best to stock up on treats.

-

The second time Luka met her was around a year ago, when he was seventeen and she was sixteen.

This time he had heard of her from Juleka before the second meet. He had been all ready and stocked up for a comfort session because it was picture day for Juleka. But when she got back, she was all smiles. Luka listened to her speak about a girl named Marinette like she was a god on earth. But Juleka also seemed nervous. Like she wasn’t sure if she was doing something wrong or not. But that was just Luka’s guess.

Anyway, Luka was just happy that Juleka finally had a good picture day. Luka was immensely grateful for this Marinette, he would have to make sure to thank her when he met her.

A few weeks later Marinette was walking dejectedly towards the room that she was told Luka would be in. As soon as she was out of sight of the others she straightened her slouched back and wiped the sadness off of her face.

She knew she should be a bit more careful, but it was annoying to act like her life revolved around a guy. It painted her as endearing and not a threat, so it was “worth” it. Some days she got tired of it though. In reality, Marinette only had a small crush on the boy.  She liked his kind personality, but it wasn’t anything as extreme as she played it up to be.

Anyway, Marinette walked towards the doorway to what she assumed was Juleka and Luka’s room. She walked in to see a boy with deep black hair that was dyed teal at the edges. He wore a slightly worn Jagged Stone shirt that looked familiar to Marinette. His eyes were closed, and he seemed to be meditating. She shook her head and looked at him calculatingly. This must be Luka. He looked like the calm type. He definitely liked music, she could see a guitar on his bed.

His eyes opened and she immediately scrambled to look like she just got there.

“H-hey! My name’s Ma-Ma-Marinette! It-uh, your Mom sent me down here, the grove, er, um, the group’s- waiting for you.” She stuttered “nervously.”

` -

Luka studied the girl who had just come in.

As soon as she walked in the door, Luka could feel confidence and poise radiating off of someone. His eyes had been closed, but the orchestra that was this girl’s song was unignorable. He opened his eyes after a moment of listening to the carefully crafted sound that flowed out of her. For a split second after opening his eyes he saw her face. She was looking at him with the expression of a scientist, detached and serious. She seemed to be evaluating him. But after that millisecond, she scrambled and started stuttering.

“H-hey! My name’s Ma-Ma-Marinette! It-uh, your Mom sent me down here, the grove, er, um, the group’s- waiting for you.”

He studied her for a moment. This personality was miles away from what he had just seen. Her music was the same, except for a small flute sound that represented her current behavior. This was off. The way Marinette was acting… it wasn’t real. He decided to play along for now though. If her previously seen personality was anything to go by, this girl was confident in herself. Usually there was something to back that type of raw confidence up. Also, he was thankful for what she had done for his sister.

“Hi, Ma-Ma-Marinette.” He said, chuckling behind his hand.

She looked away for a moment, and by the way she stood he would assume she was sad. But her music suggested otherwise. She was angry. Deafeningly angry.

“Sorry,” He backtracked, still trying to act like he didn’t know what she was doing. Not that he did, he had no clue why she was faking her personality. “I didn’t mean to offend. I tend to make more sense with this.”

Luka reached over to his guitar and pulled it into his lap. He readied himself and patted the bed, motioning for Marinette to sit down. She compiled, and sat down with an expression of curiosity on her features.

He started playing the melody he heard from her, although he couldn’t do it justice with just one instrument. He kept quiet, letting the music speak for himself. (He totally wasn’t afraid to say something wrong and anger the frightening girl. Not at all.)

As he played, he saw Marinette’s eyes close, and her hand came up to rest on her heart. She seemed to relax, letting a small smile creep onto her face. It was the first real reaction he had seen her give. (And purposefully let him see, that is.)

He smiled, and closed his eyes too, absorbing himself in the sound of the music.

-

After that meeting, Luka couldn’t keep Marinette off of his mind. What has she been hiding? Why was she wearing such a thick mask? His curiosity with Marinette started as just that, a curiosity. But over time and more encounters, he found himself falling for her. Not her fake stuttering and demeanor, but the snippets of her true self he saw shining through. His heart beat faster when she grew determined or confident.

Luka knew that he was falling hard and fast, and for a girl that kept her guard up constantly. He managed to get more moments of her real personality whenever she got immersed in his music. So, he wrote more music for her. Juleka noticed, obviously, and Luka noticed her nervousness at his new crush (it totally wasn’t growing bigger then that...right?), but didn’t know what to make of it. What he didn’t notice was Juleka’s fear.

-

And now the third and last, yet somehow the first time Luka Couffine met Marinette Dupain-Cheng.

-

Juleka handed Luka the piece of paper.

“What’s this? Is this what Sabrina was here so early for?” He asked, taking the folded paper.

“N-no… Well, yes, b-but it’s from Marinette.” With that, Juleka left the room to meet with Rose, who was standing on the dock to the boat.

Luka looked at the paper in his hand. Juleka’s music had been sporadic, messy. But he could feel relief seeping in. He wondered what was up.

Anyway, he unfolded the note, and read the contents.

“Meet at the Trocadéro at 4 pm. Will explain later.”

Luka’s eyebrows arched. What was this? Was something happening? Was she…? No. Luka couldn’t get his hopes up. He folded the note and slipped it in his pocket.

Looks like he was going to the Trocadéro later that day.

Hours later, Luka sat atop a bench on the bridge in the Trocadéro. He absentmindedly strummed his guitar, letting the music echo around him as he waited.

After around five minutes of waiting, Luka heard the impressive orchestra of Marinette’s song. He turned to see her, and was shocked by her new look. He blinked, getting over his initial surprise, and smiled, patting the spot on the bench beside him.

Marinette obliged, sitting down with an unreadable expression on her face. She closed her eyes and listened to Luka playing her song. After a minute or two, she knew it was time to explain.

“I’m willing to bet you already knew I was faking.”

“Yep, you can’t hide your true self when I can see what displays who you truly are.” Luka realized what he said, and expected to be hit with a, “...what?”, but instead was met with silence. He blinked in surprise at the lack of reaction, and looked to his right to see Marinette staring at the water with a thoughtful expression painted across her face.

“You mean because of my ‘song?’” She asked.

Her question took him off guard, but Luka quickly tried to recover. “Y-yeah, pretty much. I’m not good with words, like I said when we first met.”

She let a small laugh fall from her lips. After that though, Luka desperately tried to stop thinking about her, uhm, lips. He blinked, and she was talking again. “I’m sorry- no, I’m not really sorry. I did what I did to try and experience a bit of normal. Maybe reform myself.” She sighed, a frustrated expression on her face. “But it was hard to keep that demeanor up. Especially once Lila started feeding everyone lies about my ‘actions’ and ‘bullying.’”

“I think you should just be who you are, corny as that sounds.” Luka replied, nudging her with his shoulder. “Or if you really do want to get better, do it little by little. Don’t just jump headfirst into a new personality.”

“Yeah, I kinda get that now,” She snarked dryly.

“But I wouldn’t blame you for being petty right about now. I know a bit about Lila from the rest of Kitty Section, and she seems like a bitch.”

Marinette surprised him by laughing. “You hit the nail right on it’s head, she is such a snake. No wait, that would be an offence to snakes.” She smirked knowingly.

Luka and Marinette talked until it was dark and they had to go home. For good measure, Marinette slipped a carmine onto his wrist. Just in case.

Ao3 - First - Previous - Next

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[oliviaischillin1204]

teach me how

Pairings: Romantic Intrulogical

Word Count: 4,405

Warnings: brief reference to sex, v brief reference to non consensual kissing

don’t got nothing to say for this, it was just a fun idea i had!

In Logan’s defense, there was really no way for him to see this coming.

He and Remus had been planning on spending the day in bed together. Remus had made sure to announce this fact loudly at breakfast, causing Roman to gag into his bowl of cereal as Remus began to describe in detail what exactly he and Logan would be doing all day.

Well. There was some truth to what Remus had said. But really, they had spent most the day curled up under the covers together, watching true crime documentaries and murder mystery movies. Nothing says romance like a cheesy severed head or some aesthetically pleasing blood splatters on the camera lens.

At the moment, Logan was trying to pay attention to the TV, but he found himself rather distracted by the feeling of Remus’ legs intertwined with his own. The creative side could hardly sit still if his life depended on it, and even now he slowly and rhythmically shifted one leg back and forth, rubbing against Logan’s shin with his own. Apart from the occasional leg hair geting pulled by accident, Logan found his lover’s warm touch to be hugely comforting, to the point where he found himself struggled not to fall asleep in Remus’ embrace.

He had just snapped his head up for the third time in five minutes when Remus laughed.

“Gettin’ sleepy, Teach?”

“Only because you’re so boring.” Logan smirked at Remus’ affronted gasp.

“Ouch, Lo! Who taught you how to give a comeback?”

“I’ve learned from the best,” Logan replied, bringing a hand up to cup Remus’ cheek.

The creative side blinked wildly for a moment before pushing Logan’s hand away, a rare blush covering his face.

“Why’d you have to be all yucky and sentimental? Now all I wanna do it kiss your dumb face.”

“I certainly wouldn’t complain.”

The two leaned forward without another word, pressing their lips together in a kiss just this side of decent. It was Logan who pulled away, smirking at his boyfriend.

“Are you even attempting to pay attention to the movie?”

Remus’ jaw dropped. “Me? You’re the one that fell asleep! Besides,” he continued, “isn’t this much more fun?”

He leaned back in to kiss Logan again, but the logical side turned his head away.

Unfortunately, Remus redirected his kiss directly into the crook of Logan’s neck.

Logan felt his entire body jerk in response.

“Remus!” He said, his voice going suspiciously high pitched. “No!”

“No what? You don’t like my kisses?” Remus asked, placing another, and another, and another on Logan’s neck. He wrapped his arms around Logan’s torso, keeping him from squirming away.

Logan struggled a bit in his grip, feeling laughter bubble up in his throat. “Stop!”

Logan hadn’t meant to actually say that, but before he could even realize what he’d said, Remus had let him go and pulled away completely.

“I’m sorry.”

Logan blinked, a little dazed at the sudden mood change. “What?”

Remus groaned. “Don’t make me say it again, you know I hate that shit.” He fiddled with the bedspread for a moment before continuing, “I didn’t realize you wanted me to actually stop. I’m sorry for making you uncomfortable.”

Logan didn’t respond, his eyes wide. Remus shuddered.

“God, is that what it’s like being considerate for other’s feelings? So weird.”

“No, no, Remus, you’re fine!” Logan blurted belatedly, causing his partner to shoot him a quizzical look. He faltered for a moment, mouth opening and closing like a fish.

“I- I have something I want to tell you, as my partner,” he managed, willing himself not to blush. He had thought about telling Remus sooner, but he’d been too worried about how his boyfriend would respond. But they had been together for a while now, and despite Logan’s long list of quirks, Remus had never made him feel less than because of them. He knew he was ready to share this secret with his supportive, loving boyfriend.

“Is it a sex thing?” Remus asked, blunt as ever.

Logan gave a short laugh, unsurprised. “No, it’s not a ‘sex thing’. I just...”

Now he paused, his own fingers tracing the design on the bedspread as he worked up his courage.

Finally, without meeting Remus’ gaze, he muttered, “... I didn’t mind that.”

“Didn’t mind what?” Remus replied.

“What you were just doing.”

There was a slight pause before Remus responded, “The kissing? I don’t mind it either-”

“Not that!” Logan interjected, feeling a blush rise to his face. God, Remus was going to make him say it, wasn’t he?

“The- the... ugh.” He took a deep breath before just spitting it out. “The tickling.”

“What’s that?”

Logan looked at Remus, waiting for the punchline. None came.

“Excuse me?”

Remus quirked his head to the side. “What’s tickling?”

Logan opened his mouth to respond, then closed it. Opened it, then closed it again.

“There’s no possible way you don’t know what that word means.”

Remus shrugged. “Not my area of expertise, I guess,” he said, still watching Logan with a confused look on his face.

For some reason, Remus’ complete lack of understanding of what Logan was trying to say made his courage vanish quick as lightning. “It is unimportant. I apologize for bringing it up.”

He moved to lie back against his boyfriend’s chest, but what jostled rather roughly as the creative side sat up.

“No, no, wait a dang minute! You said you liked it, right? And I like to make you happy. So let’s do it!” He leaned over Logan, determination in his eyes.

Logan blinked at his surprising enthusiasm. “You would do that for me?”

Remus smiled again, shaking his head incredulously. “Why wouldn’t I? I love ya, Logan.”

He’d heard those words spoken so many times before, but Logan never tired of the butterflies he felt in his chest at Remus’ earnest adoration. “I love you, too.”

Remus’ eyes softened, before he rubbed his hands together with excitement. “Okay, well, just tell me what to do!”

Logan thought for a second. How do you teach someone how to... do this?

“... Give me a moment.”

He untangeled himself from their bedsheets, smirking a bit when his boyfriend whined at the loss of contact. He moved to the dresser, sorting through with slightly shaky hands before pulling out a pair of gym shorts. They were lightweight and slighty baggy; Logan quickly changed into them, out of the thick flannel pajama bottoms he was wearing. On a whim, he pulled off his t-shirt as well, turning to face Remus with his arms shyly crossed over his bare chest.

Remus wolf whistled. “Why are you stripping?”

“It’s... easier, and more fun, when there are less layers in the way.” Logan briefly thought of the fun that could be had with multiple layers, each one getting gradually removed as the tickles became more and more intense, but he shoved that scenario away for another time.

Remus titled his head, smiling in bemusement. “I still don’t even know what we’re doing.”

“It’s-” Logan gestured with his hands, sighing a little bit as he felt himself begin to blush. “I am sensitive to certain types of touch. That’s called being... ticklish. You are going to be stimulating my nerve endings in a way that provokes laughter.”

He laid on his back in the middle of the bed, Remus sitting criss cross applesauce next to him.

“You mean when I touch you, it’s tickling, and that makes you wanna laugh?”

“Not every touch,” Logan explained. “There are two kinds of t- tickling. Knismesis and gargalesis.”

“Wait, should I be taking notes on this shit?” Remus asked, only half-joking.

Logan gave a fond sigh. “Just give me your hand.”

Remus obediently held out his hand, and Logan grabbed his wrist, flipping it so his palm was facing down. He manuevered Remus’ hand above his stomach and gently lowered it so that Remus’ fingertips were barely tracing the skin.

“This is knismesis- meaning, uh, light tickling.” After a few seconds, Logan released his hand, allowing Remus to continue to drift his hand over his tummy, circling around with no rhyme or reason.

Remus frowned. “You’re not laughing. Am I doing it wrong?”

“Well, my stomach is not particularly receptive to knismesis- at least, initially, that is,” Logan said, switching into lecture mode. “After some exposure to the secondary method, gargalesis, I will most likely be more outwardly reactive to either method, due to-”

“Where should I tickle you, then?” Remus interrupted.

Logan bluescreened.

“Um. Um. Um. My sides.”

Remus moved his hand outwards, tracing the skin just as lightly as he had on Logan’s stomach. “Like this?”

Logan was going to respond, but he found himself exhaling in short, sharp breaths whenever he opened his mouth.

“Are you okay?” Again Remus’ tone was full of worry, so Logan quickly nodded.

“Yes,” he said, hissing the word a little when Remus’ fingers met the dip of his waistline.

“Does this hurt you?”

“No-” The word got strangled in Logan’s throat, and his lips stretched into a half smile, half grimace.

Remus chuckled a little at Logan’s bizzare outward reaction. “Your face just, like, went all screwy. Why?”

“It- it’s just an involuntary reaction my body does when I’m ti-ickled!” Logan’s voice cracked, his back arching in response a new sensation on his skin.

“What did I do?” Remus asked. Logan had to sneak a peek to where his fingers were tracing over his side: nothing had changed, except-

“Your fingernails,” Logan realized, eyes locked onto the way Remus’ fingers had curled slightly inward, causing his nails to drift over Logan’s skin as opposed to the pads of his fingers.

“They- they are- hmm, they add to the knismesis sensation.” He could barely get the words out through his huffs of almost-giggles, his torso attempting to squirm away from the tickles.

Remus stayed silent for a few beats before humming in understanding, and suddenly both hands were purposely spidering their nails along each of Logan’s sides. He let out a frankly embarrassing noise, jerking his upper body one way and another, but the way Remus’ was targeting both sides at once made it impossible to escape.

“Do they tickle more?” Remus asked, and something about the genuine  curiosity in his voice was making the sensations even more unbearable. “Logan? Lo, do the nails tickle more-”

“Yes yes yehehes!” Logan threw his head back onto the pillow, laughter quickly escalating as Remus experimented between spidering and scratching and skimming the skin.

“Wow, you’re laughing so hard, Lo. This is fun!”

“Stahahap-!”

Immediately Remus’ hands were off of him, allowing Logan the chance to breathe.

“Are we done already?”

Logan took the break to catch his breath. “No, I- I apologize, we should have discussed this before we started.”

He thought for a moment about how to phrase his next statement.

“I will occasionally say things that imply that I want you to stop, when in reality, I don’t.”

Remus tilted his head. “Why?”

“It’s another involuntary reaction to the sensations,” Logan replied. “My fight-or-flight reflexes are kicking in, causing my brain to attempt any and all ‘escape routes’, including asking for mercy or relief. However, part of the... appeal, for me, is feeling-”

He stammered slightly, feeling his face heat up as he forced himself to continue through gritted teeth.

“Feeling... helpless. So, when I say ‘no’ or ‘stop’, I don’t want you to stop.”

“Oh-kay,” Remus said hesitantly. “But how will I know when to actually stop?”

“I believe the implementation of the ‘traffic light’ system is the most efficient in this scenario,” Logan replied. ‘Yellow’ means I need a break, ‘red’ means stop completely. It’s a fairly common method of safewords for situations like this.”

Remus raised an eyebrow. “How much research have you done on tickling, teach?”

So much research, Logan thought. What came out sounded more like, “Hnng.”

He blushed even further at the snickers coming out of Remus’ mouth. “Your face is redder than a blood-soaked apple! What’s up with that?”

“Mhmm, I-” His voice cracked, God damn it.

Logan stared at the ceiling, doing everything in his power to keep his voice neutral as he continued, “I find talking about... this subject to be rather... embarrassing,” he ground out.

“Is that why you keep stuttering whenever you say the word ‘tickle’? And why you’ve been blushing like crazy this whole time? Because you’re embarrased?”

Damn it, damn it, damn it. Logan felt his face flush even further.

“... Yes.”

It was silent for a moment. Until Remus began to laugh.

Logan looked up at his Remus, who wasn’t even trying to hide his snickers as he looked down at his boyfriend.

“That’s the cutest fucking thing I’ve ever heard,” Remus said gleefully.

Logan pouted. “Shut up.”

“Oh, is that another one of those things you say, but you don’t actually want me to do?”

“Remus.”

“What? I’m just asking! Apparently I’ve got a lot to learn about this tickling shit. Lucky for me, I’ve got the perfect teacher.”

He leaned down to give Logan a quick peck on the mouth, whose petulant expression softened just a bit.

“Thank you.”

Remus looked back down at Logan’s torso with an expression that made the logical side more than a bit nervous.

“So, where to next with this kin-nemesis thing?”

“Knismesis,” Logan corrected.

“That’s what I said. Let’s see, we’ve done tummy and sides. Where else can I go?”

Logan actually pondered the question for a second. He didn’t want to push himself too far- nor did he want to give Remus complete knowledge of how to wreck him (at least, not yet).

“I believe right now I would prefer to limit this demonstration to my upper body only, but there are still several different areas that would be receptive to a lighter touch.”

“Like...?” Remus prompted.

Logan faltered. “My... hips...”

Remus raised one eyebrow at him, slowly lifting his hand through the air and hovering it right over Logan’s pantline. His eyes slid back to Logan’s face, who nodded at him to begin.

Logan’s entire body constricted the instant he felt Remus’ fingers touch down in that horrifically sensitive stretch of skin between his hipbones. His giggles fell out of his mouth before he could even try to stop them, and it took everything in his power to not curl up into a ball to protect himself.

It only got worse as Remus began tickling him with intention, using his nails to trace over the skin.

“I don’t get why this is so much more ticklish that your tummy? They’re right next to each other.”

Logan threw his head back and forth, unable to respond to Remus’ idle conversation.

“Mm, mhmm, R-Remus, nohoho-”

“Wow, you can’t even talk! You’re too giggly!”

Logan flushed. He opened his mouth to deliver assure his boyfriend that he was still perfectly capable of speech, thank you very much-

And of course, Remus’ chose that exact second to latch both hands to his hip bones and go to town, lightly clawing around each of the sensitive bones.

Logan squealed through his laughter, unable to stop himself from jerking his hips back and forth, desperately trying to escape from Remus’ torturous hands.

His boyfriend only laughed, easily following Logan’s movements as he refused to abandon this giggle goldmine.

“Stay still!” He warned playfully. “Or else I’m gonna have to tie you down!”

Logan was not resonsible for the noise that escaped from his throat at Remus’ tease. Images of Remus binding his hands above him, his legs tied to the bedframe, pulled taut and immobile as Remus continued his tickling lesson all over Logan’s restrained body, filled his head. Logan was sure his face looked like a tomato at this point.

Remus took in Logan’s reaction, his hands halting as his jaw dropped. “Wait, can we do that?”

Logan couldn’t even look at the shit-eating grin his boyfriend was giving him right now. “Not tonight, but... in the future, I- I wouldn’t be opposed.”

Remus continued to look at him with wide eyes. Logan couldn’t help but smile at the honestly joyful expression on his face as he looked back down at Logan’s body.

“I love tickling,” Remus whispered reverantly. Logan’s breath hitched. He’d been dreaming of this for so long, he couldn’t believe it was actually happening to him.

He cleared his throat, bringing both of them back to reality. “I believe I am ready to move onto the second method. Gargalesis.”

Remus nodded enthusiastically, scooting even closer to Logan’s body to have full reach over his torso.

“Where can I start?”

Logan flushed a little under Remus’ attentive gaze. His boyfriend’s unintentional teasing was almost as bad as if he were trying to tease him. It was infuriatingly endearing.

“My stomach,” he blurted out.

Remus nodded, placing his hands on Logan’s lower stomach. 

“How do I do this, Teach?”

Logan was having a little trouble speaking, because Remus’ hands were warm and his touch was soothing, but his fingers were curling inwards and his nails were barely grazing the skin and his thumbs were twitching and Logan was suddenly very, very aware of how much power he was giving his boyfriend, and how completely vulnerable he was making himself right now-

“Logan,” Remus said with a smile, and Logan was so worked up he almost didn’t notice the teasing tone of voice. Almost.

“If you don’t tell me exactly what to do,” Remus continued, “I can’t tickle you.”

He started rubbing his hands in circles around Logan’s stomach, and even though it didn’t really tickle, it did succeed in making Logan even more desperate than he already was.

“Just press into my stomach,” he exclaimed, his face burning. “Like- like this.”

Logan raised his hands, flexing his fingers to demonstrate.

Remus had barely taken a second to watch Logan’s hands before trying it for himself, prodding his fingers into the soft fat of Logan’s stomach.

Immediately Logan’s hands spasmed, jerking to drag Remus’ hands away from his sensitive stomach before Logan could get himself under control. He felt a rush of nervous giggles forcing their way out of his throat.

Remus’ fingers traveled all over his stomach, making sure to throughly inspect any particular spots that made Logan jump or squeak or otherwise imply it’s an especially ticklish spot. Remus cast a glance to him.

“Is this good, Lo?”

Logan could only nod, his laughter increasing both in pitch and volume as Remus’ fingers began prodding the pudge around his bellybutton. One hand clenched into a fist and began sporadically beating the mattress beside him, while the other flew to cover his mouth.

Remus narrowed his eyes. “Don’t hide your pretty little smile from me, Logan,” he warned, hands creeping closer and closer inwards. Logan realized he was shaking his head, which only seemed to spur Remus on.

“What, is this a bad spot?” he asked. “Your bellybutton’s too ticklish?”

“Nohohoho!” Logan squealed through his laughter, but Remus only laughed, his fingers spiraling ever closer.

“Are you green, Lo?” he asked. His tone was teasy, but he did keep his eyes on Logan’s face.

Logan tore his eyes away from Remus’ finger, now hovering over his bellybutton. He took a deep, steadying breath, and met Remus’ eyes.

“I’m green.”

As soon as the word was out of his mouth, Remus dug his finger into Logan’s navel. Logan gasped through his laughter, bucking his hips in a weak attempt to jostle Remus’ finger out, but the creative side just smirked and placed one hand on his hips, holding him in place.

“Remus!” Logan’s hands scrabbled against the sheets, looking for anything to hold onto so he wouldn’t try to push Remus away. His boyfriend only stayed in that spot for a few seconds before pulling away, swooping his hands up to latch onto Logan’s sides.

“Are you ticklish here, Lo?”

He squeezed once, his thumbs digging in below Logan’s ribs while his other fingers curled into the stretch of skin between Logan’s sides and his back.

Logan barely heard him over the sound of his own laughter, especially when Remus vibrated his hands against the spot, sending a new wave of wheezing giggles from his mouth. He abruptly realized that he was running low on breath, but as soon as he had this realization Remus’ hands were off of him.

“You need a break?” Remus asked. Logan nodded, hit with a wave of gratitude that Remus could tell what he needed before he even said anything.

“Just from that spot,” he replied. “You may continue ti- doing that somewhere else.”

Remus smirked at Logan’s stammer, but he did hold his hands over Logan’s torso again. “Where?”

“My ribs,” Logan said. It wasn’t his absolute worse spot, but it was up there; however, as Remus delicately ran his fingers down his ribcage it was almost relaxing.

Logan sighed, body arching slightly into Remus’ touch.

“You like it here?” Remus asked. Logan couldn’t tell if he was teasing again, or genuinely curious, but he nodded all the same.

Remus hummed in understanding. He shifted to get a better angle, but the movement caused his fingers to press slightly into Logan’s lower ribs. He jerked to the side, small giggles escaping from his mouth.

Remus tilted his head. “So both methods tickle you here?”

Logan paused for just a second, then nodded. “Well... the two methods impact me differently, but yes, they are both effective.”

“There’re so many options,” Remus murmured, almost to himself. Logan could practically see the gears turning in his head. It was endearing, but if Logan was honest, there was an infinitesimal feeling of fear in his chest, because Remus, by definition, could be very creative.

“Like, what would you do if I did this?”

Suddenly he was straddling Logan’s hips, eyeing him with extreme scrutiny. Logan’s jaw dropped, his cheeks flushing as he tried speak, but then Remus’ hands were on either side of his ribs, and whatever Logan was about to say died on his tongue.

“What if I tickle lightly over here...”

Remus’ fingers began spidering up the right side of Logan’s ribs, going almost to his underarms before spidering their way back down again. Logan’s giggles started anew, having recovered some of his energy from his break.

“... And hard over here?”

And then his other hand was clawing at the crevices between Logan’s left ribs, causing his laughter to intensify drastically. He immediately started leaning his torso as far from the touches as he could, but with Remus’ weight on his hips he couldn’t get very far.

“I can switch back and forth on each side,” Remus pondered aloud, “or I can go from really soft to really hard to really soft again...”

Something about the way he was narrating his process was making Logan feel even more flustered, and he whined through his laughter.

Remus trailed his nails down Logan’s ribcage, only to vibrate his thumbs into his lowest rib. Logan let out a couple snorts between his giggles, and Remus’ grin turned predatory.

“Oh, now that we’re definitely gonna have to investigate.” He repeated the motion, really making sure that he dug all around that sensitive bone.

“Rehehemus!”

His boyfriend chuckled, slowing his hands slightly.

“Yes, Logan?”

The two made intense eye contact.

Logan hesitated for just a moment before folding his arms behind his head.

“Try tracing down my forearms.”

Remus raised an eyebrow, but he did as Logan suggested. His fingers touched down on the skin below Logan’s elbow, and Logan fought to stay still as the gentle touch slowly trailed down his arms and closer to his pits.

Finally Remus reached his underarms, moving his fingers in small circles as he scratched his nails against Logan’s hollows.

“Does that tickle?”

Logan’s breath was coming out in faster and faster huffs.

“Y-yes, somewhat,” he managed.

Without warning, Remus abruptly dug a finger into the center of each of Logan’s pits, wiggling them deep into the muscle.

Logan would swear up and down that the noise he made was not a shriek, but Remus would say otherwise. Either way, it was obvious that Logan was caught completely off guard by the immediate elevation into rougher tickles.

His arms stayed up for about half a second before they came crashing down to his sides, which Logan instantly regretted, because now Remus’ hands were trapped in his pits and his fingers were still wiggling and fuck, dropping his arms shouldn’t have made it tickle so much worse but it does, it does, it does-

“Red! Red!”

Remus didn’t hesitate, yanking his arms back so quickly Logan briefly wondered if he’d hurt himself.

“Are you okay?” Remus asked immediately, practically crawling backwards on the bed to give Logan even more room.

Logan wrapped his arms as tightly around himself as he could. He curled inwards, body reflexively attempting to protect itself anyway it could. But he made sure to nod enough for Remus’ benefit.

“I am- I am fine,” he managed as he caught his breath. “Normally I would call ‘yellow’ before going straight to ‘red’, but that was- um.”

He cleared his throat, not meeting Remus’ gaze. “That was... much more intense than I had anticipated.”

Remus hesitantly crawled back towards him. He smirked. “You don’t have a lot of resistance built up against tickling, huh?”

Logan huffed. “That is not my fault. I don’t have any experience with it.”

Remus grabbed his hand, bringing up to his mouth and kissing his knuckles. “That’s gonna have to change,” he murmured, “because there’s no way in hell we’re not doing this again.”

Logan flushed yet again, but he didn’t have much energy to even pretend that he didn’t want that. Instead he merely nodded, pulling Remus by the hand as he fell backwards against the pillows.

“If you would be so inclined,” he muttered, “I believe cuddling would feel very pleasant right now.”

“Oh, hell yes!” Remus wasted no time in diving back under the covers, rearranging the two of them so Logan’s head could rest on Remus shoulder.

“Good?” he asked. Logan sighed contentedly, looking up at his partner’s soft smile.

“Exceedingly so,” he replied. He stifled a yawn, his eyes drooping shut.

“Thank you, Remus.”

He heard his boyfriend laugh lightly, and felt a small kiss against his temple. “Anything for you, Logan.”

[smile-files]

melon’s comprehensive kinlist!

including name of character, source, image, short personality description, mbti, and then why i kin them! take your time to read, or don’t. i get it if you don’t want to scroll through an entire page just to psychoanalyze me lmao, have a good time

1. wirt (over the garden wall)

an angsty, socially awkward dweebus who nerds out over interior design and plays the clarinet. fears death. infp.

my first kin! for a month after rewatching otgw i desperately wanted to be him. to be like him. anything!! it eventually wore away but i still feel that urge sometimes - the urge to write r/im14andthisisdeep poetry and to distance one’s self from their siblings... and heck - his tape for sara is indeed just as awkward as he is but let me assure you that his poetry and clarinet are actually pretty cool. 9/10 i need to see him more. give me more otgw comics. ok thanks.

2. snufkin (moomins)

a philosophical vagabond of vague age. acts stoic all the time but can and will leave every social situation whether or not it’s humanly possible. infp.

after watching some 90s moomin (and later on moominvalley) i realized how much i liked him and how much i was like him; i soon daydreamed of myself, as snufkin, venting to someone. it made me very happy. i vibe with his general demeanor and ideals (minus his gripes about rules, i follow those by the book) and i love psychoanalyzing him. so fun. so fun.

3. arnold perlstein (the magic school bus)

overly-anxious jewish kid and certified expert on rocks and panicking. owns a pair of fire-proof pyjamas in a lovely shade of green. isfj.

you all saw this one coming. my early childhood lives in my mind rent free and such i can’t help but revisit arn and his character. i’ve always loved him (even in, and quite possibly especially in, the reboot) and i’ve always loved psychoanalyzing every single little thing he does (remember that one time he said he was traumatized? me too). i soon realized a lot of it was me projecting! so sue me. actually, sue miss frizzle. either one of them. i mean, if arnold really didn’t like the field trips he could’ve just filed a restraining order! ...just saying.

4. fluttershy (my little pony)

anxious pastel butterfly baby child. probably loves animals more than she loves herself. cries upon impact. isfj.

the pony i’d mentally point to and think “me”. i had like 10 fluttershy-related things growing up, like plushies or funko pops or that sdcc guardians of harmony thing. while not shy in the same manner, it was nice having a character i could relate to about so much! i cosplayed as her equestria girls form for my first comic con as well, so that’s pretty cool. in addition, me being a little lepidopterist means i was bound to love her. it was destiny~

5. lammy lamb (um jammer lammy)

socially anxious and generally anxious rock star who thinks literally everything is a guitar. has an emotional support girlfriend. infp.

man!! she embodies the feeling when you have to go to the eye doctor by yourself to get your glasses fixed or when you have to call someone over the phone... that sheer tension. the panic. the feeling of ‘i want to throw my entire being into the trash can’. but lammy has a bunch of friends to support her, so she’s cool. died by slipping on a banana peel! same, sister. and man would i like to shred on my ukulele now...

6. loser (bfb)

humble (screw bfb 21), supportive, well-loved cube dude who’s voice is like that of an angel. has an entire fanclub in his honor. enfj.

okay, no, i was never a cool kid or ‘popular’, really, but in school i was never bullied for whatever reason and was generally well-liked; i hung out with a squad of weirdos and yet the cool kids would often talk to me? and try to engage me?? despite my very apparent self-deprecation and awkwardness??? either way i feel like it’s such a blessing to me, that i have so many friends! i often feel like i don’t deserve it, but hey. it’s nice! and heck, back when i was on scratch i had a little fanclub myself :0

7. fan (inanimate insanity)

nerdy, friendly aspie boyo who subliminally vents via blogging. longs for stability in his life; was best friends with an egg. entp.

ever since i noted his aspergers-like behavior i became super attached to him - whether or not it was intentional, i found it nice having a character i can relate those feelings with. he’s really sweet and dorky and i love how he gets along with test tube, paintbrush, and lightbulb! it makes me really happy to see him whenever i do. it made me really sad when he was eliminated. what the heck. yeah i dunno i don’t kin him super strongly but i love him to bits.

8. spinel (steven universe the movie)

emotionally unstable clown girl who stood in a garden for thousands of years. patience of a saint. edge like an 11-year-old me. esfp.

uhh um uh totally wasn’t completely disturbed by how much i related to spinel after watching steven universe the movie... totally wasn’t reminded about how and why i hated middle school... totally didn’t rethink my life that day... that’s it. this is all i’m saying.

9. molly blyndeff (epithet erased)

innocent child who has a terrible father and a wonderful demeanor. teddy bear who needs a hug and a criminal as her new dad. infp.

epithet erased is adorable okay?? i knew molly was infp in the first few minutes... more precisely, i knew she was me. man!! i don’t relate directly to her angst but i still feel it. i can replicate her voice so accurately it’s scary. also, i coined a new thing -  ‘molly cake’! you have a chocolate cake, preferably with chocolate chips inside. use chocolate frosting and add little pastel star sprinkles! on top! my mom would make this cake for us anyway but then i realized it was literally just molly in cake form. and it’s just as sweet!

10. tommy coolatta (hlvrai)

a 30-something-year-old child who rocks a propeller hat. chose his last name off of a dunkin donuts menu despite the fact that he has a father. infp.

everyone loves tommy. he’s so sweet? and funny and loveable?? often times when i say something funny but bizarre, i just remember that tommy has said ‘soda helps you see faster’ and it makes me happy. if i’m going to be a weirdo i want to be the wholesome weirdo who loves soda and has a .png for a dog! also i legally have to kin tommy. i took a test for it (and i’m not complaining! i find it quite flattering).

11. twyla (monster high)

the daughter of the boogeyman; would very much like to boogey out of here, if you know what i mean. avoids people like the plague. infj.

seeing her role in the show and in the movies, i really love twyla? first of all, her voice is my new favorite thing. it’s like... gravelly? and soft? she’s the type of person who would very much like to disappear when in a crowd; thankfully, she literally can. i am drawn to any sarcastic, self-deprecating introvert who takes care of their bonkers extrovert friend (in this case howleen), as i often act as such myself. also the phrase ‘boogey sand’ will never leave my mind now :)

12. lapis lazuli (steven universe)

water gem who wants you to leave. cynical as all heck, sensitive as all hell. is there such thing as a gem therapist? just asking. infp.

in a similar way to twyla, i vibe with lapis’ sarcasm and wit as well as her emotional side. it can be kind of addicting, isolating one’s self. anywho, me and my sister used to do this routine of yelling up to each other this certain dialogue between lapis and peridot when peri was leaving for something (in which lapis replied to everything she said with dry ‘yeah’s); i would always do lapis’ part. i do reply a lot with ‘okay’ or ‘yeah’ or ‘cool’ to things people tell me, as i never really know what to say.

13. brad meltzer (xavier riddle and the secret museum)

shy jewish butterfly kid who absolutely hates time travel. attracted to people who know how to socialize like a normal human being. infp(?).

okay okay so... combine everything from arnold and everything from fluttershy and that’s basically what brad is to me. a jewish socially anxious nerd who loves butterflies and drawing. badabing badaboom, there i am. that’s it.

and boom! all of the kins i can think of, of course not including comfort characters like will byers from stranger things or isabelle from animal crossing. if you have any kins to suggest to me, i would love it! thank you for taking your time to read this, friend! have a fantastic day :)

[my-arlington-academia]

The main 10 cheering up a crying Scholar (Y/N) finally part 2!

Here are Neha, Raquel and Tadashi! I had to cut the last 5 in 2 posts because tumblr doesn't allow more than 250 blocks of text... But anyway! I finally did it! It's been 84 years... though I feel like those are not really headcanons anymore. They're all so long that it would be more accurate to say that they're scenarios. Sorry! It's probably gonna be really annoying scrolling up and down.

Neha

- crying is a really good way to let your emotions out and it always worked out for you

- whenever it's all too much you make yourself cry to feel better afterward

- one day, once you finished crying your phone rang

- it's from Neha, she's inviting you to her room

- oh boy.

- when you moved into the dorms Karolina did say that the previous owner of the room would put loud music on and they would hear it

- 'did Neha hear me cry?' God you hope not

- When you knock, the door immediately opens as if Neha was right in front of it waiting for you

- She pulls you in and starts taking your measurements

- "I've decided to use you as my model for my next outfit."

- "W-what?!?"

- now you're almost sure that she did hear you, or else why would she make an outfit just for you when she's got Karolina?

- surprisingly a few days later the outfit is done! Does it really take that little time usually? You're pretty sure that Neha already had the design ready in her sketchbook

- during that time though, everyday until the "outfit" was ready she would go out of her way to talk to you everyday even though she's usually either busy or with Karolina

- she knows that it annoys her but even when Karolina was around Neha would still come and chat with you for a bit

- You're guessing that she didn't want you to feel like you're alone in your hard times

- when the outfit was done she called you over again

- "Here, try it on!"

- there's more excitement in her voice than usual and it's really freaking cute

- "You mean right here, right now?"

- she keeps staring at you in silence before coming back to her senses

- "Oh, right. Sorry. I'll turn away while you change."

- but then while you're taking your clothes off the door flows open

- "Neha, did you see my-"

- Karolina looks at the both of you and while she's trying to process the scene all that she gets from the situation is: you taking your clothes off in their room, and Neha waiting for you to take them off while facing away?

- "N... Nevermind. Just do your thing I'll come back in one hour. Or uh, two hours. Actually."

- She closed the door in a hurry. Welp. She probably misunderstood.

- Neha kept on facing the wall but you could see her ears getting red

- that little accident is quickly forgotten when you've put the outfit on

- it's so elaborate and classy. it's making you feel self-concious

- Even though Neha was the one who made the outfit she blushed when she saw you in it

- "You look so lovely- uh. I mean the dress! The dress looks lovely on you, obviously, since I'm the one who made it."

- her bashfulness is making you blush too but you tell her that you can't pay for it

- "Are you kidding? It's a gift I've made for you. No one else in the world owns this and won't own it because I won't put it on sale. It's a special outfit only for you."

- She takes her sketchbook and rips out a page, it's a sketch of the outfit and... you're the one wearing it on the drawing!

- "To be honest, I had already heard you crying a few times in your room and I didn't know how to help. So uh... I guess what I mean is. I've been planning this for a long time but I wasn't brave enough to ask for your measurements until recently and um..."

- She's rambling and rambling, you've probably never heard her talk this much

- "Basically... when you're sad come over. Or ask me to come over, whatever. Our rooms are right next to eachother so whether you cry in your room or here I'll hear you anyway so you might as well be with me."

- this was maybe not the best way to phrase it, but you got the feeling she was going for and that's all that matters

Raquel

- Noticed that you weren't feeling good right away

- but more in a "are you catching a cold?" kinda way

- but it didn't have anything to do with your health

- You actually wanted to explain what happend as soon as it did but when you tried to, tears came down immediately from the very first sentence

- Raquel grabbed you by the shoulders

- "It's okay! You can tell me later if it's too hard."

- The next day when you were getting ready to go to school Raquel came to your room dressed in casual clothes

- "Hey Y/N! Let's skip today."

- You tell her that you can't because you're a scholarship student and all but she ends up convincing you anyway

- "It's all fine, it's just for one day! Everyone thinks that you're a really hard-working, punctual and honest person! They'll believe whatever you say."

- "Raquel... I am a hard-working, punctual and honest person..."

- "Exactly! And that's why you can take advantage of that and no one will doubt you."

- Oh well...

- it's not like you were looking forward to that math test anyway

- you sneak around and get out of the school through Raquel's knowledge of... blind spots?

- you feel a little guilty about it since you'll have to lie to the teachers later about "not feeling well"

- Raquel makes you forget that pretty easily though

- "Okayyy! Now let's go have our breakfast, I know a place."

- "Ah, cool."

- "You don't sound really excited... But you know, the both of us sneaking out of school to go on a date: isn't it a little bit like we're secretly lovers during war time between two kingdoms in a movie?"

- Wait, this was a date?? You had no idea

- You spent the whole day just walking around town in different fast foods, parks, and shops

- everytime you wanted to buy something Raquel would try to buy it for you

- You refused everything except the food, she was being extremely pushy about paying for the food

- on the way back you decide to tell her about your troubles again, this time hopefully you won't burst into tears

- She's incredibly understanding and doesn't let you downplay your feelings

- anytime you say "it may sound stupid"/"maybe I'm being too emotional" she's like

- "No! Fuck that! There's a reason why you feel this way and it's not dumb."

- You get a little bit teary eyed and before you can even think about crying Raquel hugs you

- then she whispers in your ear

- "Did it hurt?"

- "Uh... what?"

- At first you thought she meant your feelings because obviously it did hurt, you just spent like 20 minutes explaining what had happened

- but then you understood

- is she seriously trying to cheer you up with pick-up lines?

- "So did it hurt or did it not?"

- "You mean, when I fell from heaven?"

- She makes the biggest grin before replying

- "No, when you fell for me."

- You're trying your best not to burst into laughter

- "Nah, not really. It was a quick fall."

- Oh no, you outsmarted her lame pick-up line

- you guys end the day with the most stupid pick-up line fight

- little do you know that Raquel will shoot a ball in the face of a certain someone for hurting you

- maybe multiple times if she feels like it

Tadashi

- To be honest he didn't really notice at first

- maybe it was one of your "bad days", Tadashi knows what it's like so he totally gets it

- but then when it's been 3 days in a row and you're still in that state?

- he cancels all of his work and assignements for the day

- calls you over in such a professional manner that it's kinda scary

- he literally asks you to meet him in the student council's room

- tells you to "please sit down" in front of him

- Honestly, this situation is making you really tense. Did Tadashi figure out that one time, 3 months ago, when you stole a smoothie from the cafeteria?

- "Look, I'm sorry okay? I was just really thirsty and I needed sugar. Also, it's not like I wasn't allowed to get one! There was no one at the counter so I figured it wouldn't hurt to..."

- Tadashi IAmConfusion™ looks at you

- "Why are you talking about that now? Don't worry, I know."

- Now it's your turn to get confused

- "You mean... you knew and you didn't give me detention?"

- Now he looks a bit frustrated

- "Come on Y/N, I'm not that mean. I won't give you detention just because you came 5 minutes late to our meeting."

- This is most likely a misunderstanding...

- "This is what you were talking about just now, right? That the reason why you came here late is because you were drinking a smoothie. I figured you were probably busy doing something so no need to feel so guilty about it."

- "Oh. Oooohhh... yeahh... totally. Sorry."

- Now that this is out of the way, he asks you to tell him what's on your mind

- At first you hesitate a little but, if there's someone with whom you want to share this with, it's Tadashi

- he's listening really closely to what you're saying without cutting you off but sometimes you can see his eyes getting a bit darker

- Like, you're not being specific enough about a detail or something and he's probably taking notes of all the questions he has so that he can ask them when you're done

- At some point though, you become really emotional and your voice starts cracking when you're talking

- You end up crying and your tears fall on the desk

- Tadashi jumps out of his seat, his chair falls down as he panics

- "Hey! Y/N?? Err... Um..."

- Takes you in his arms carefully, like he's not really sure if that's what he's supposed to do when this type of thing happens

- "It's okay! I'm here... I'm here so... d-don't cry Y/N I'll do something about it no problem!"

- when you've calmed down he puts down his wallet on the desk

- "Uh... what?"

- "You can use it."

- "You mean your money??"

- "What else?"

- he explains that you can take all the smoothies and premium food in the cafeteria with this

- "Are you kidding? I can't use your money for that."

- He's literally trying to cheer you up with money which is obviously not the way to go about it

- He sees that you're not convinced so he pulls out his phone and shoves the screen on your face so closely that you have to take a step back in order to read what's on it

- It's Tadashi's to do list, probably the place where he writes all of his tasks for the week

- The spot on number one is you. It reads "1. Y/N"

- when you look at him Tadashi is furiously blushing and looking away

- this is incredibly sweet until you notice how wrong this sounds

- "Wait... Tadashi?"

- "Yes?"

- "I'm first on your... "To do" list? Seriously?"

- "What's that's supposed to mean? Of course you're number one on my- Oh god..."

- he just understood how wrong it sounded and took the phone back before rewriting the list

- He's making it so easy for you to tease him

- the poor boy is literally begging you to stop it but you can't until he shows you his phone screen again

- this time it's written "1. Make Y/N smile again", you're literally his number one priority. This is so sweet to the point where you can't tease him anymore. It would be too mean.

- As for Tadashi, let's just say that he's about to get "really mean" with the person you were talking about just now and he's not going to hold back

[andtheyweredeskmates]

Of Latte’s and Lingerie-Chapter Thirteen

I did a chapter! I’m so happy!! Can’t wait to write the next chapter for you guys!!

Taglist: @toodaloo-kangaroo @catsssmeow

AO3 - Chapter 1 - Chapter 12 - Concept Art

Marinette was anxious for her date with Adrien. It was set to be exactly one week before Fruit of Passion and Marinette found herself burying herself in her work to keep her mind off her nerves. That of course didn't work so well because she wasn’t exactly excited for her catwalk either. Audrey insisted that Marinette would practice in the red piece for the rest of the week to gain a little confidence. Marinette was skeptical that walking around in lingerie for a week would do anything for her confidence.

Meanwhile the texting between her and Adrien had not ceased. And neither had his flirty comments. It seemed that after her confession, he had only grown more bold and Marinette was secretly loving it.

Coffee Buddy

I have a couple of ideas about our date, have a few questions for you before I decide.

Marinette smiled in her bed, peeking from under her covers to read the texts on her phone.

Marinette Dupain-Cheng

Okay, hit me

Coffee Buddy

How do you feel about alcohol?

Marinette Dupain-Cheng

It’s great. But if I’m hungover for work I might kill you

Coffee Buddy

Noted, what about cats?

Marinette Dupain-Cheng

Really?

Coffee Buddy

Right, stupid question. How about sushi?

Marinette Dupain-Cheng

Can I guess where your going with this?

Coffee Buddy

You could. But that would ruin the surprise princess

Marinette couldn’t help but blush whenever he called her that.

Marinette Dupain-Cheng

You know this surprise date is only in two days. You better figure it out soon. I don’t even know where I’m going.

Coffee Buddy

Surely you know me well enough by now to know I’ll be picking you up. I take pride in being a purrfect gentlemen

Marinette rolled her eyes.

Marinette Dupain-Cheng

I know you well enough to know you’re a purrfect dork

Coffee Buddy

It’s all part of my charm.

Marinette glanced at the clock. It was already midnight and she had to be at work bright and early at 8 am.

Marinette Dupain-Cheng

Well, Mr. Prince Charming I have to be up early for work tomorrow so I’m going to bed. I’ll talk to you in the morning.

Coffee Buddy

Sweet dreams princess

…

“Has anyone ever told you that your disgusting?”

Nino was sitting next to Adrien on the couch peering over his shoulder. Adrien grinned back at Nino.

“Don’t act like you don’t send cute things to Alya,” Adrien said. Nino scoffed.

“No, unlike you, I play it cool.” Adrien stood up and walked into the kitchen to grab another slice of pizza.

“So you’re an asshole?” Nino crossed his arms over his chest.

“No, I just leave her wanting a little more. Don’t want her to think I want her too much because then she might think I’m too clingy.” Adrien chuckled.

“Ah I see. I forgot that you are all knowing and wise in the ways of women.”

“Shut up. Not everyone just has to look at a woman to woo her,” Nino grumbled.

“Woo her? How old are you? A hundred?” Adrien plopped down on the couch and shoved the pizza in his mouth.

“You know what I mean. I guess if anything I should just be happy that you’re showing an interest in someone. Even if you are acting like a lovesick dope.”

“Sure, sure. I’m the weirdo because I’m not trying too hard and just say what I mean.” Nino laughed.

“Oh so being disgustingly sweet comes naturally to you huh? Alright Cupid, you wanna tell me what your planning for your date?” Adrien took another bite.”

“Nope,” he said with his mouth full. Nino grimaced.

“What!? Why not?” Adrien swallowed.

“Because stupid, you’re gonna tell Alya and Alya is gonna tell Mari and it won’t be a surprise anymore.” Nino started to speak and then stopped. Adrien raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah, you don’t have anything to say about that do you? I know you and I have vicariously learned from both you and Mari that Alya doesn’t know when to stop talking so I will not be sharing any of my plans with you. And just to piss you off, I’m gonna tell you that I already told Chloe about it.”

Nino lost it.

“WHAT!? That’s a low blow.” Adrien cackled.

“Well unlike you, Chloe can keep a secret.” Nino furrowed his brow.

“I resent that.” Then Nino’s eyes started to shine with an evil gleam.

“But you know what, just to prove you wrong, I know something you don’t know and I’m not gonna tell you.” Adrien rolled his eyes.

“Is that so?” Nino chuckled darkly.

“Yup, and it’s about Mari. Oh man when you find out you’re gonna be so mind blown and you’re gonna call me and all I’m gonna do is laugh in your face.” Adrien’s interest was piqued.

“Is it… bad?”

“Wouldn’t you like to know lover boy?”

…

Marinette didn’t have to beg Audrey for very long to get off early that Friday. There were however…. stipulations.

“Audrey I hate to ask this but can I please leave early today?” Marinette had very low expectations. Audrey had been in a foul mood for the past three days which is precisely why Marinette had waited so long to ask but she was out of options.

“Why?” Audrey asked bluntly. She hadn’t even bothered to look up at Marinette. She was too busy typing away at her computer. Marinette glanced around the massive office that belonged to Audrey Bourgeois and began to wonder if she should just cancel the date altogether. She couldn’t go anywhere if Audrey killed her.

“Um, well I got asked on a date tonight and-“ Audrey immediately stopped typing and her head snapped up to look at Marinette with glee.

“By Adrien?” Marinette’s eyes widened with surprise.

“Uh, yeah,” she said cautiously.

“What time is your date?” Marinette glanced at the clock briefly. It was currently 10 am.

“It’s at 8 tonight.” Audrey grinned.

“Marinette my love you will be out of here by 5 but I have one condition.” Marinette nodded her head quickly.

“Anything!” she shouted.

“You are going to practice on the runway, in your red piece in front of my entire staff.”

“Anything but that,” Mari thought miserably. Marinette hung her head.

“Don’t be so dramatic. You have to do it in front of dozens of high profile designers in a week. You can handle my measly staff.”

“I’m part of your staff,” Marinette mumbled resentfully.

“You know what I mean. Go get changed. I’ll have everyone in the runway room by noon. You have till then to get ready.”

…

Adrien had a very hard time focusing at work. He was only filling out paperwork but he couldn’t clear his mind for a second. He couldn’t stop thinking about Marinette and what Nino said. Maybe she said had some terrible disease? Or she was moving to another country to accept a higher position? Or maybe she had a secret lover?

He couldn’t help but imagine the worst. He figured he could just ask her. He’d be seeing her tonight. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad. Like she secretly liked to cosplay or something. Adrien hadn’t been nervous about their date but now he was terrified. He made a mental note to unfriend Nino.

“Hey Adrien?” Adrien jumped and turned around.

“Y-yes sir?” His boss, Fu was right behind him giving him a very concerned look.

“Are you feeling okay? You’ve been staring off into space for an hour.” Adrien chuckled apologetically.

“Yeah sorry, just got a lot on my mind,” he admitted ruefully.

“Why don’t you go home? You can finish your paperwork on Monday. You’ve been very productive this week.” Adrien smiled.

“Thank you sir,” he said. He started backing up his things and organizing his desk.

At least now he could brood in private.

…

Marinette hyped herself up in the mirror. One of Audrey’s stylists had come in to do minimal makeup and put up her hair. Marinette had to admit that if she was home alone, she would have felt very sexy. But there was difference between wearing lingerie at home alone and putting on a show for a hundred people.

“You are Marinette Dupain-Cheng and you can do anything. You are hot and you are gonna show everyone!” she told herself.

“That’s the spirit!” Marinette jumped and screamed.

“Ahh! How long have you been standing there?” Audrey laughed.

“You look great. Calm down. That was a wonderful pep talk. Now go out there and show you stuff.” Marinette bit her lip.

“I don’t know about this Audrey.” Audrey sighed.

“Look, Gabriel and I have been collaborating night and day for this show. You worked really hard and your line was way better than any of the other designers Gabriel commissioned for this show. I wanted you to model this piece because you put everything into it. It’s beautiful, its sexy and it’s classic. This is your work. Be proud of it. Show everyone that Marinette Dupain-Cheng is talented in every way. I want you to stand out and I want you to be recognized. So, help me help you. You’re the finale. The last girl to walk the runway. Be the fireworks. Understand?” Marinette let out a long breath and nodded. Audrey was much better at pep talks than she was.

“Alright, you know your cue. The music is about to start. So go out there and own it!” And just like that the music started. Before Marinette could talk herself out she held her head high and went on stage.

…

Even Audrey was a little in awe. Marinette walked the runway with more confidence than Audrey had ever seen in her. The sharp angles of her body moved fluidly and it was almost enchanting. Marinette was captivating and she unlocked a side of herself that no one had ever seen. Audrey found herself filled with immense pride.

“Miss Dupain-Cheng you are a star,” she whispered to herself.

Next Chapter

[browneyedhimbo]

Magnets

Paring: Not really one, just platonic

Summary: Bucky doesn’t like his arm, always reminding him of Hydra and what they did to him. Little does he know, a certain little avenger takes notice of this and decides to take matters into his own hands, with some help of course.

Warning: Fluff, Swearing

Word Count: 2k

A/N: I FINALLY FINISHED IT!! This went waaay over the word count I originally thought it’d take. Just so you all know, I’m not that good with summaries buuut I tried. Also, sorry there are so many time skips. Not sure if this idea has been done or not, but if it has this is my take on it. 

Please let me know if you want to get tagged in anything. Enjoy!  Masterlist

"I want to make him feel better. But I just don't know what to do. He glares at the thing when he thinks no one is looking." Peter Parker said as he was putting books in his locker.

"Well, have you tried sticking magnets to it? You said it was metal right?" Ned suggested.

"Vibranium actually. But yeah. You know what? That sounds like a great idea!" Peters's eyes lit up with excitement, knowing exactly what kinds of magnets to get. 

~~~~~~

Now on a mission, he was swinging as fast as he could through the compound.

"Peter swings from side to side. Sticking to the walls. He jumps and he - AH!" Swings right into Tony, making them both fall with an oof.

"Why the rush kid?" Tony asks getting up and outstretching his hand to help Peter.

"I'm on a very important mission, Mr. Stark. Top secret." With a sweet smile and fake salute, he was back on his way to Bucky's room. 

"I swear that kid's going to be the death of me," Tony mumbled with a sigh. "Fri keep an eye on him."

"Yes, boss."

~~~~~~

After Peter knocked he started to feel a little anxious. Maybe he wouldn't like it? Or maybe he'll think its a stupid idea? Or maybe - 

"Peter? What're you doin here?" Peter started fiddling with the bag in his hand.

"Hey there Mr. Barnes uh sir. I uh, I got you something. Hopefully, it'll make you feel better. Or at least I hope it does. Even if it doesn't, I mean - well. It’s just - um. Here.” Looking down, Peter sheepishly handed the bag to Bucky. Hearing a chuckle made Peter whip his head up so fast you’d think it’d break. Turns out he had nothing to worry about. The big smile plastered on Bucky’s face was contagious enough to make the kid smile too.

“So you like it? Even though it’s cheesy and probably stupid?”

“Cheesy yes, but it’s not stupid.” Peter’s soft brown eyes locked onto Bucky’s steal blue ones and saw the sincerity and seriousness behind the words.

“Why don’t you come in and help me put them on,” Bucky said while walking back inside toward his bed, leaving the door open.

“Oh uh, sure!” Closing the door and walking in Peter noted the few things in the dulled grey room. A decent-sized red oak stained office desk sat tucked in a corner with a small modern desk lamp on it, papers neatly piled and a notebook next to it, a pretty big sized bed pushed up against the wall very neatly made military-styled, and a decent-sized tv hung on the wall right across from it. His heart ached for the poor soldier. He knew Bucky would isolate himself from the others, but he figured he'd have things in his room to make up for it. Keep him occupied. 

Bucky plopped on the bed, Peter in tow. Hesitantly, Peter put his hand in the bad and grabbed the first magnet he felt. Bringing his hand out, they both saw it was an iron man helmet. 

"Well, what are the odds?" Bucky let out a laugh making Peter chuckle.

~~~~~~

About 10 minutes later Peter put the last magnet on Bucky's arm, a proud smile evident on his face. He sat back and admired his work. Different types of Avengers and New York magnets stuck to the arm.

Bucky seemed to like it. Turning his arm a few times to see the kid's hard work.

"Looks great Pete. Thank you." Bucky smiled and ruffled Peter's hair causing them both to laugh again. Peter looked at his watch and mentally cursed. It was 6:53 and he told May he would be home by 7. He started grabbing his stuff and shoved them into his backpack. 

"Sorry to leave like this Mr. Barnes. I told my aunt I'd be home by 7," he started rambling as he was putting his web-shooters on his wrists. "Maybe I can swing by tomorrow after school and we can add more on. Oo or maybe-" Bucky let out a chuckle cutting of Peters rambling.

"Kid. You're aunt." 

"Oh right! Bye Mr. Barnes!" He yelled out before swinging out the compound through the window.

~~~~~~

It was another 5 minutes after Peter had left and Bucky still sat on the bed. Undisturbed, unmoving, thoughts racing. It's not unknown that Bucky doesn't like talking much to the others. Sure he'll hold small talk when he has to, and yeah he'll hang out with Sam and Steve more than anyone else, but if he's being honest with himself, he'd rather just workout and stay in his room instead of constantly being worried they'll mistreat him, or rather, treat him like a villain. Okay, maybe that's a bit extreme. But he doesn't want to risk it, opening up and getting shut down, being nice and then getting the cold shoulder.

That's why he always separated himself from them. But the kid, that kid. Peter Parker. Whenever he was around, he always managed to bring out a different side of Bucky. A happier more open side, and no it's not just the fact that he's similar to how Steve was before that soldier serum, but there was a certain energy he had. Always happy, bright, ready to help, innocent. Bucky swore he was going to protect him, no matter what.

~~~~~~

No matter how busy the Avengers can get (not really), they always try to have movie night. Though he won't show it, Bucky is always excited for movie night. He's missed so much. It gives him a small ache in his chest, but he's just glad he's there. 

After grabbing the popcorn bowl, Bucky walked into the living room only to be hollered and whistled at by Sam and Clint.

“So you finally decided to take your arm into the workshop then huh Barnes?” Sam smugly asked.

“Got it detailed? And oh lookie, it even has an arrow!” Clint smirked. They never could never resist a moment to tease the ex-assassin. 

“Yeah. It was all Peter’s idea. Make one more joke and I’ll crack you for it.” Though he said it in a light tone, smirk in place, they all knew he was being serious. Everyone knew Bucky was more protective of Peter than Tony. And that says something.

“Alright, alright.” Sam put up his hands in mock surrender. 

“Sit your ass down so I can get some of that popcorn then.” Clint slapped his hand on a spot next to him on the couch. Bucky shook his head at the archer while sitting down. The intro credits started rolling and when the main title popped up, it seemed familiar to him. ‘Star Wars’. Where has he heard that? Peter. It was always Peter.

~~~~~~

It happened randomly.  Last week, Tony was working in the lab when FRIDAY started playing videos for him. 

“Uh Fri? What’s this?” 

“You asked me to keep on Peter, sir.” FRIDAY’s voice echoed through the lab. So he sat there. Watching every single video. And boy did they surprise him. He personally never really saw sweet caring side of Barnes. Sure Tony knew Bucky was capable of it, but it was quite a shock seeing him being so gentle with the kid. But Tony understood. Tony knew exactly what Peter meant to Bucky and what Bucky meant to Peter. It was a weird twist between parental and sibling bonds. Which explains why Tony is currently is the lab sketching up different designed arms for the super soldier.

~~~~~~

“Hey, Mr. Stark you’ll never believe what happened on patrol last night.” Peter was saying while walking into the lab. “There was this big - oh what’s this? New repulsor arm design or something?” Tony couldn't help but laugh at the kid's antics of changing the subject so quickly.

“For once, no.” Tony started. “I’ve seen how close you and Barnes have been lately. I knew sooner or later you were gonna ask me about building a new arm for him, so I started some designs last night for you to choose from.” Peter’s mouth dropped. And he also couldn't pinpoint exactly what he was feeling either. 

“Am I that easy to read?” Tony gave a small smile at the kid before turning to the designs and spreading them out for Peter to see.

“Oo I like that one. But maybe we can make it more realistic. That way it doesn’t trigger a bad memory or anything.”  Peter started rambling while messing with the design. The kid definitely reminded Tony of himself in so many ways, but his purity is what truly defines him. 

~~~~~~

Five hours, four oil spills, three coffee pots, and two naps later, the arm was finished. Peter could hardly contain himself. He was so happy that finally after so long, Bucky can now say he was truly free from Hydra.

“How you feeling kid?” Tony asked, clasping a hand on Peters's shoulder. The kid looked up, tears in his eyes. Tony was starting to panic. Shit, why is crying? Why is crying? Why? Why? Why?

“Thank you, Mr. Stark.” Peter choked out. Tony immediately brought the kid to his chest, cradling his neck. A sad smile making away on his face. Now he understood. Tony always understands.

~~~~~~

Rapid knocking is what pulled Bucky out of his thoughts. Thinking something bad has happened he rushed over to the door. Though he wasn’t ready to fling the door open to find a bouncing Peter ready to bolt at a moment's notice. 

“Pete, what happened? Did something happen? Are you okay? Are you hurt?” Bucky started inspecting the kid making sure nothing was broken or bruised. Peter let out a laugh.

“No. Everything is PERFECT!” He smiled brightly, causing the soldier to smile too. “BUT, follow me!” Peter started running towards the lab, looking back every few strides to make sure Bucky was right behind him. When they got to the entrance of the lab, Peter stopped.

“You don’t mind me covering your eyes, do you?” Peter tentative asked, holding up a blindfold. 

“Nah. I trust you kid.” Seeing the kid's eyes light up always made Bucky feel happy and warm inside.

After putting the blindfold on, Peter gently guided Bucky to where the arm was displaying. Tony had left to give them space, but FRIDAY on the hand, had some other plans and recording was one of them. Slowly, Peter untied the blindfold.

“This is the lab.” Bucky started looking around, confusion evident on his face.

“Very good observation Sherlock Holmes.” Peter snickered. The playful death glare Bucky sent his way completely obliterated the seriousness Peter wanted to embody and sent him to a fit of giggles. “Look down.” All laughter subsided. Bucky picked up the arm and inspected it. Peter couldn’t tell what emotion Bucky was feeling. All he saw was an emotionless face before Bucky turned his face out of view.

Bucky stared at the arm. His mind was racing a million miles a minute. For a long second, he thought this wasn’t real, any of this. But the burning sensation in his eyes told him otherwise. He felt the lump in his throat, the shaking of his hands. No matter how deep a breath he took, Bucky felt like he couldn’t breathe. So many emotions and thoughts. He took a shaky breath and looked over at Peter. And it was there, that Peter saw the real Bucky for the first time. 

Ever so slowly, Bucky placed the arm back on the table. He walked over to where Peter was standing still and engulfed him in the biggest hug. And Peter clinging on to him.

"Thank you. Thank you, Peter." Bucky started sobbing. He never would've thought that the one to help him pick up the pieces would be a kid from Queens. Yet, here they were attached like magnets. Like the family they both ever wanted.

-------

Tags: @katbtracy @agentpeggybarnes @justmebeingtheweirdmeiam @writing-for-hours-on-end @theladyoffangorn @thelibraryoffanfiction

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Happy Together : 2

Small World

Character(s): (deceptively) dark!Steve

Warnings: this is a dark!fic, it contains non/dubious-consent elements. It goes without (and with) saying that this is 18+.

Series Synopsis: The reader is stood up while awaiting a blind date, instead finding herself keeping company with the restaurant’s famous owner; Steve Rogers. After that night, she tries to forget her humiliation but she just can’t shake one thing about that night: him.

Chapter Summary: The reader sees a familiar face.

Notes: For reference to setting, see the previous chapter. As for this one, I hope you have patience. Now, Witness kinda took a few chapters to get to the crux, but this one might take a little longer. ;) But I promise, it’s going to be some very fucked up Steve eventually. In advance, I thank everyone for following along and soon I will start adding to other WIPs one Witness is finished (maybe finally start that Medieval AU lol) <3

Thanks to everyone who reads and as always, I looked forward to hearing from you in the replies/reblogs/tags/asks. <3

You were annoyed that you had wasted time at that restaurant waiting on yet another unreliable and selfish man. You could’ve used the hour finishing your latest commission but instead you spent your Saturday morning on the project. You usually tried to save that day for yourself. Self-employed, you made it a priority to work at least six days a week. You were paid well enough, quite successful as it was, but you liked the security of having a little extra under your belt. Besides, it always made you anxious to think that you could be actually doing something instead of lazing around on your couch watching Netflix.

Plus, you needed the distraction from your self-pity. The humiliation lingered for a few days after and even your work couldn’t erase it entirely. Why hadn’t he come? Was it an innocent case of forgetfulness? Or maybe he had changed his mind after seeing you. Tandi had exchanged your information via Facebook and he had seen your photo the same as you had his. Perhaps he hadn’t been as pleased at the prospect. Ugh, you didn’t even know him. Just forget it!

It was Wednesday and the disappointment was still a speck at the edge of your mind. It was sunny for once, a light jacket over your blouse and jeans as you basked in the warming spring air. You walked merrily to the park, happy to be outside, refreshed almost. You found a place on one of the bench, the melody of birds and interspersed voices of people filling the flowery air. You pulled your tablet and pen from your leather tote and opened up your program, working on the outline of the geometric logo you had started the night before.

Every now and then you looked up from your work and admired the serenity nestled amidst the chaotic city. You crossed your legs, resting your tablet against your knee and continued to draw, the sunlight hugging you. A blur moved across the top of your vision and paused, looming closer and you slowly looked up. The tablet nearly slid off your knee as you spotted the man approaching you. It couldn’t be.

“Hey, it’s you,” Steve greeted, his perfect smile shining brighter than the sky. “Sorry, I didn’t get your name the other night.”

“Um, Y/N,” You answer, shading your eyes from the sun beaming over his shoulder, “You remember me?”

“A face like yours is easy to remember,” He replied coyly, “I’m Steve, by the way.”

“Yeah, I uh...know,” You admitted shyly, “Thanks again…”

“Oh, it was nothing,” He waved away the gratuity, “Do you mind if I sit?”

“Go ahead,” You shrugged, steadying your tablet across your knee.

“Are you drawing something?” He asked, your tablet half-dimmed as it threatened to lock.

“Yeah. Working actually,” You explained, clicking the sleep button and shifting the screen against your thigh. “I’m a graphic artist.”

“Ah,” He nodded, “Makes sense. It must be fun. Doing something creative like that.”

“It can be,” You answered, “I…” You paused, his eyes never leaving yours. He was so intent on you, as if no one else was in the park. How had he picked you out among the crowd? Half of New York had probably been in his restaurant. You shook away the overly paranoid questions and continued. “Depends on the job, really. I mostly just do corporate logos and designs. Can’t really get paid for what I want to draw.”

“Well, what do you like to draw?” He stretched his arm over the back of the bench, you almost didn’t notice as it slid behind you. You were sure it was just a casual gesture, a habit he didn’t give much thought to, but it felt entirely too intimate.

“Life, I guess. People, animals, trees. I just like to create scenes, not just...symbols,” You said, nervously twirling the pen between your fingers. “I prefer to paint, really.”

“Oh, yeah? Do have any of them on that thing?” He pointed to the tablet, “Anything you’re willing to show me?” You blinked as his tone caught you off-guard. He was talking about your art and yet it seemed like he meant something more. You could’ve sworn his eyes had strayed from your face for just a second. God, you were crazy. After being stood up and nearly two years by yourself, you were growing delusional.

“I might, I, um...one second,” You unlocked your tablet and saved your work. You opened your gallery and flipped through your files, settling on a quick sketch you had done of a sparrow that had built a nest outside your building. “It’s just a drawing, but, um, here.”

You handed over the tablet and he tilted it so he could see the screen, his brows lifting as his eyes ran over the lines and shadows done in monochrome, splashes of auburn here and there to give a hint of life to the sketch. “Wow, that’s really good.” He looked up, holding the tablet out to you, “You’re very talented.”

“Thanks,” You looked away shyly, “Really, it’s just a sketch. I’ve seen way better.”

“No, no, what you do is amazing. You shouldn’t compare yourself to others,” He smiled as you took the tablet, your fingers brushing his by accident. “You’re you and that makes it more than a sketch. It’s art.”

You allowed yourself a small smile. “Thank you,” You locked your tablet again and set it on your lap, resting your pen beside it.

“Well,” He slowly pulled his arm out from behind you, his warmth releasing you as he stood. “I’ll leave you to it. I’d hate to keep you from you work.” He checked his watch as he spoke, “And I’ve got to get to the restaurant for dinner service.” He looked back to you, his blue eyes searching you, considering you closely as he measured his next words, “You should definitely come back some time. You know, no date required.”

“Yeah, uh, sure,” You nodded evasively. You didn’t really want to admit that you couldn’t go back not because you were dateless but because you had bills. “It was, uh, surprising to run into you.”

“You, too,” He grinned, his golden brows twitching, “The special tonight is salmon. You should give it a try….have a good one.”

He turned away, strolling across the park and onto the street. You drew your brows together as you saw a silver car pull up and he got inside. Why would he be walking through the park if he had a town car? You shook your head and readjusted your tablet across your knee. Maybe he had just gotten out to stretch. You doubted he had gone out of his way to bug you.

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

You balanced the mugs, careful not to spill any of the foam as you walked between tables and found your seat by the window. Tandi was sat with her phone out, grinning at the screen like an idiot. You set her latte in front of her and cupped your own warm mug as you sat down. She finished typing and relinquished her phone on the table. She looked up at you, starry-eyed over her latest fling. Well, they’d been seeing each other for a couple months so maybe it was getting serious.

“I’m real sorry about Danny,” She said. She had arrived as you were waiting in line, grabbing a seat as you bided your time in the queue. Your mouth twitched and you looked away. The heat still rose in your cheeks whenever you thought of the painful hour spent in the restaurant. It had been more than a week.

“It’s not your fault,” You grumbled, “It was just embarrassing...I can’t believe I sat there that long. It was like everyone was staring at me.”

“I’m sure they weren’t, but it was a dick thing to do. I’ve blocked him on Snap, Facebook, and Twitter.” She smirked, “So yeah, fuck him.”

“Ha, thanks,” You scoffed, raising your mug to sip from it, the foam cooling the espresso. Your eyes wandered out the window as you leaned back in your chair.

“You know, not all guys are like that, Y/N,” She trilled, “Carson’s a nice guy and he has lots of friends.”

“I don’t want to date any of your boyfriend’s bros,” You protested, watching the passerbys through the glass. “Carson’s nice but not my type and I can’t imagine his friends are of a different cut.”

“Well, you should at least consider someone. Anyone!” She said dramatically, but before you could chuckle it caught in your throat. You swore you recognized that blonde head across the street. You couldn’t say for sure as it quickly ducked into the suit shop and you blinked as the mug in your hand wobbled. You steadied your grip and turned back to Tandi. Right, you were going crazy.

“I will. One day. But I’m fine right now. Work’s good and steady and I feel pretty good. I can do what I want when I want...Living with Mike was difficult and I didn’t even realize how much I hated it til he was gone.” You stopped yourself before you could get too emotional. “I know it’s been a long time, but I’m working on it, a little at a time.”

“I know…” She reached over and touched the back of your hand, “I just want you to be happy; healthy.”

You smiled. A genuine smile. Not the one you put on for strangers or when you were anxious. A real one and it felt good. You took another gulp and waited for Tandi to begin her usual train of gossip. She always had the messiest stories about her workplace; she was an actor and had garnered many a theatre job, enough at least to keep her studio apartment. Once she began, it was hard to stop her and your latte was drained by the time she finished.

Her phone shook the table. She flipped it over and checked the notification, her face shone. “Carson’s back from his trip,” She almost sang. You stared at her and sighed as her eyes rounded brightly.

“Go on,” You relented, “You’re free to go. I won’t keep you. Just call me when you get a chance...if you get a chance.”

“Thank you,” She stood so quickly she hit the table with her hip. She pulled on her thin trench, pulling taught the belt around her thin waist. “I love you, you know that?”

“I know. That’s why I’m letting you go,” You crossed your arm, “Just let me know you’ve arrived safely. You know I’m paranoid.”

“Sure, sure,” She leaned down to give you half-hug, “I’ll see you.”

“See you,” You patted her lower back in return, “Bye.”

You watched her go, content at least with the hour shared with her. You couldn’t expect her to put her life on hold because you had. You weren’t bitter but you mulled her words. Just because one jerk had stood you up didn’t mean they all would. Maybe not today or tomorrow or the next day, but you’d be ready to start again one day. For now, you wanted to pop into the used bookstore just across the street. You always found something interesting there.

You stepped out into the cool spring afternoon, the evening looming as a hint of rain floated in the air. You ran across the street and hopped up onto the curb, your focus solely on the book shop. You entered with a ring, the small bell above the door announcing your entrance. The storekeeper was sat at a desk stacked with book, the daily newspaper held aloft like a shield. You headed for the back shelves where vintage magazines were kept in old filing crates. You liked to use them for inspiration.

As you picked out decades-old issues, the bell jingled again but you didn’t pay much heed to the arrival of another. You continued to thumb through the magazines until you had half a dozen, content that they would last you a while. You stood and looked along the shelf, walking parallel to it slowly as you read the titles of ancient odes and medieval limericks. You stopped to pull out a collection of Wordsworth, the spine thin and worn, easily falling open in your hand.

“Excuse me,” The voice interrupted you before you could finish reading the title of the first poem. It was oddly familiar. Your lashes fluttered in disbelief, “You dropped…” Steve’s voice died and he chuckled as you turned to him slowly, “You again.”

“Uh-huh,” You mumbled warily. It had been him on the street retreating into the suit shop. That would prove he had been in the area for more than an hour but why? He held no wares from his visit to the tailor’s. Another coincidence? Surely, you weren’t that special.

“As I was saying, you dropped this,” He held up the white pen you used with your tablet. It had likely slipped out as you knelt at the crates.

“Thanks,” You accepted it and tucked it snuggly in the side pocket.

“What’s that you got there?” He asked, nodding at the book in your hand.

“Nothing,” You closed it and placed it back on the shelf. “I was just wasting time.”

“Oh yeah?” He smiled, resting his hand on the shelf as he leaned on it casually. “I just kinda stumbled in. Saw this copy of Dante’s Inferno,” He held up the painted cover which depicted an eerie cave spiralling ever downward, “My mother used to keep a copy but I never read it. Thought maybe I could give it a try.”

“Cool,” You hugged the magazines to you chest. Something about him being there at that exact moment was off. The unease was stronger than it had been at the park; his spontaneous visit had been more believable then. You tried to smile. You were being dumb. And what were you even afraid of? He used to be an Avenger. He was good guy. “I was actually just about to head--”

A clap of thunder shrouded your next words. You looked past the bookshelves as the light rain you had failed to notice through the window began to pour down in sheets. Your distress must have been plain as your lips parted slightly.

“Do you need a ride?” He asked, shaking you from your despair. You looked back to him and tried to think of something. Anything.

“I’ll catch a cab,” You shrugged him off, trying to seem unperturbed. “It’s not a big deal.”

“Don’t waste your money. You can share my town car. He’s just outside. I’m sure you don’t live too far out of the way.” He smirked, his hand shifting along the shelf as he edged closer. You almost didn’t notice the subtle movement.

“Really, I can’t. You’ve already done enough. I really should, um, go.” You back away only to find the corner at your back.

“I won’t let you say no,” He asserted, “Come on. Just a car ride. That’s it. I mean, do you really wanna stand out in this and hail a cab?”

You stared up at him as you considered the invitation. Why were you so reluctant? He had done nothing to earn your distrust. If anything, he had only done you favours. But why? Oh, shut up brain, he wasn’t Mike. Or Danny. He actually seemed like a decent human being so why were you being so dumb?

“Okay,” You relented, “Sure. Why not.”

****

tags:  @ruff-m3rc @alexakeyloveloki @lanabanana-86 @sathlens @jessieray98 @kellyn1604 @ahideousthinginside @ironlady1993 @kloe-iel @grayxswan @iheartsebastianstan @myboyfriendgiriboy @tanelle83 @patzammit @phoenix21love @they-call-me-le @iheartsebastianstan

[girls-scenarios]

Raising a Family with Dreamcatcher (Headcanon)

Prompt: Could I request a headcanon for what it would be like raising a family with Dreamcatcher please

A/N: Wow it’s Dreamcatcher soft hours again. Also, this is LONG so I decided to put it under “read more”. I apologize for the block of text on your dash. I hope you all enjoy this as much as I enjoyed writing it! - Admin Kiwi

♡ Tip Jar♡

JiU:

Jiu would like to take things as they come

She’s a free spirit, so there’s a lot of things she’d want to try before worrying about settling down

Because of this, the two of you would wait to have kids

Taking trips and moving around for a while, enjoying married life

Until one day she’d turn to you and say “I think I want to have kids now.”

The two of you would have talked about it before, but this time, you would be able to tell she was serious, so you’d smile and hold her hand

“I think I do too.”

She would want to plan everything first

But after the money was saved up and the extra bedroom was ready to be a nursery, she would be ready and thrilled to have a baby

She would end up pregnant with twins, which both of you would find funny

“We waited so long that we had to have all our kids at once.”

She would be a natural after the babies were born

Although you’d still help her out as much as you could

How was she so chipper and energetic on two hours of sleep? You didn’t know.

She would love to shower them in kisses and love, even when they got older

The twins would be identical, so she’d paint their toenails to tell them apart.

“This is Jiah, right?” “No, that’s Jiwoo. I think.” “Check the toenails!”

Is seriously addicted to shopping for baby clothes and will be devastated when they grow up.

The two of you would still take trips, they would just turn into family trips to Disney parks

She’s THE most extra mom when it comes to birthday parties, holidays, and honestly anything she can celebrate

Honestly embarrasses your kids sometimes with how much she loves them

With her job it’s hard to always have family time, especially as the kids get older

But all of you would gather for a family night at least once a week

Because family love and support would be VERY important to her

SuA:

Sua is kind of a big kid herself, so it wouldn’t necessarily be the first thing to pop into her head

But after marrying you and seeing her friends with their kids, she’d realize that she really, really wanted some for herself

“I’m going to raise a nerd army. I need enough to cosplay ALL of the Avengers.” “Isn’t that a little much, babe?”

Still, even with her realization of wanting a baby

Her pregnancy would come as a bit of a surprise

“Oh, by the way, I’m pregnant.” “That’s gre- wait WHAT?”

You would both still be thrilled, though

She would be super excited about designing the nursery

Really, the two of you would pretty much live at the home goods store

She would be at home cleaning and building cribs and bassinets with her hair tied back

And creating choreographies until her doctors demanded she sit down and rest because the baby was about to be there

After having the baby she would whine that she was never having a baby again (although she’d love the little mess with all her heart)

Until your oldest was about two and she saw a really cute Captain America infant onesie

“Babe, we have to have another one.”

After the third baby she’d decide to give up her Avengers dream and be the Guardians of the Galaxy instead

(It’d all just a big joke, of course. She loves her kids, cosplay is just an added bonus)

Busy busy mom. Always running around to dance practices and signing up for PTA meetings, only to immediately quite because “oh my god honey adults are so boring”

Makes family game night a whole lot of fun

Cool mom™

Even if you have three kids, the two of you always make time for each other

Totally the types of parents that make your kids go “ew gross!”

Just one big loving family honestly

Siyeon:

She would decide she wanted a family kind of randomly

And would come to you with her feelings

Honestly, you’d be a little surprised at the idea of going into being foster parents, but mostly just because you’d never really thought about it

And because she’d never struck you as the big family type

It would sound like something you’d do, though, so you’d agree to go to a class on being a foster parent with her

After talking about it, you would both agree to sign up as foster parents

Immediately, you’d see Siyeon’s caring side

A lot of the kids that came through would have had bad foster experiences or bad family lives before, but Siyeon was okay with that

She would open everyone with open arms, slowly earning their trust with soft touches and fond smiles

She would learn how to cook large healthy meals and would make adorable lunches with you

And would personally pick up the kids from school as much as she could to ask them about their day and make sure they were okay

The two of you would wake up a bit earlier than the kids to eat breakfast and drink coffee, having a little alone time before getting the kids up and ready

The two of you would always have at least one family night

Where the kids would rotate what they wanted to do

She would try her best to make sure the kids all had things they could call their own, and the two of you would make it clear that they were important to you

She’d also love recording videos of fun moments and vacations

However, the two of you would end up falling in love with the three kids you were fostering and would know you couldn’t let them go back into the system that had failed them before

It would take a while, and would be stressful, but you would have each other and supportive family members to lean on

And after it all, you would have three wonderful kids, so it would all be worth it

She’d cry tears of joy when the kids finally called her “mom”

You guys wouldn’t be the most normal family

And maybe it wouldn’t be the most easy journey

But at the end of the day, the two of you would have three kids who finally knew that they had parents who loved them

And for both of you, it would make everything so, so worth it

Handong:

Handong wouldn’t really be huge on the idea of kids at first

It’s not like she doesn’t like kids, but she wouldn't want to have them unless she was sure it was something she both wanted and could do

The two of you would talk about it a little and agree that, until the time came, the two of you would remain child-free

And you would, only adopting a furry baby and spending the rest of your time vacationing together

It wouldn’t be until the two of you were a little older that Handing would decide she wanted to adopt a child

It would kind of happen randomly, after she talked to someone who was adopting a baby

She’d come home to you, saying “I think we should adopt” in her quiet, yet matter-of-fact voice

You’d be surprised at first, since it was so out of nowhere, but after a chat you would both decide it was something you wanted

Everything would happen pretty quickly after that, and before you knew it, you and Handong were parents

She’d be a little nervous at first, you both would

But both of you would already love the kid, and would be committed to making sure they knew it

“At what age do kids start reading chapter books?” “Um, maybe we should ask the librarian?”

She wouldn’t be as extra as some other moms, but would show her love in more quiet ways

Loves singing to them

Especially when they’re about to sleep

You would often come home to find your child sleeping in her arms, and she’d wink and bring a finger to her lips

She’d make sure the child studied and would teach them multiple languages at home, knowing it would come in handy some day

Before she leaves, she’d give both you and them a hug and little kiss

It becomes a tradition, even when the child gets older and whines for her to stop it

Plays quiet little pranks that are harmless, but make everyone laugh

Has about a million mugs that say “Best Mom Ever”

Has a family photo on her keychain and as her phone lock screen for her to look at whenever she’s having a bad day

Just the sweetest mom ever, always packs loving notes in everyone’s lunches and is sure to say “I love you” every day

Yoohyeon:

She would always know she wanted kids

It would be one of the first things she brought up to you when the two of you started dating, since it would be something important to her

However, both of you would decide it best to wait a while, even after getting married, to have some fun in the honeymoon stage

(Even though the honeymoon stage would never go away when it came to Yoohyeon)

When the two of you would start to pause to look into children’s stores or pick up baby clothes in the store, you both would know it was time

The two of you have so much trouble narrowing down baby names that, when the baby is born, the two of you are still rushing to figure out a name.

Everything is a bit hectic and both of you end up crying because you already love the baby so much, but it’s okay because after all the commotion settles down the baby has a wonderful name and everything is perfect

Although it takes both of you a while to get the whole “super effective parenting” thing right

“This was a lot easier in the Sims.”

Spoils the kid with toys because she likes toys too

“Honey, don’t you think they’re too young to play Mario?” “No one is too young to play Mario.”

Game nights turn into video game nights as soon as your child is big enough to hold a controller

Your own child can beat you in video games in no time

She’d want to have two kids, since she’d know the joys of growing up with a sibling

But she would be the type to go the extra mile to tell you when she got pregnant

Maybe you were covered in glitter for a week, but it was all worth it

She would love being a mom and going on playdates with her friends and their kids

The two of you always joke around, wanting to make sure the kids feel comfortable around you

Even though you both discipline when necessary, everything would be talked through so that your kids would feel comfortable coming to the two of you with everything

The toy room is a “creative mess” (as it should be, in her opinion), but the rest of the house is immaculate and she makes everyone keep it that way

She is the kind of mom who has the family wear matching shirts on vacation and takes family photos for every occasion

It seems annoying and pointless then, but later they create wonderful memories and Yoohyeon can look around at her wonderful family and say “I told you so.”

Dami:

She wouldn’t necessarily want kids

Especially not young

Her fur babies would be enough for her so she wouldn’t really think about it

Not until you brought it up, that is

“Hey, do you want kids?”

“I- don’t know, that’s a good question.”

After some talking, she would realize that she wouldn’t mind kids

Although she didn’t really have any need to have her own

It wouldn’t be until after the two of you got married that the conversation would come up again, and it would hit both of you

You wanted to adopt a kid

After doing plenty of research (because Dami would want to make sure that everything was perfect and legal) and making sure that Dami’s job was in a stable place

And falling in love with one of the little boys

The two of you would begin to go through the adoption process together

It would be kind of stressful and very time-consuming

But with each other to lean on, the two of you would finally adopt the bouncy little five-year-old

He would be so excited to finally go to a real home that both of your hearts would melt and you would promise to love him forever

Dami would be a quiet yet attentive mom

She might not have enough energy to play with him all day

But she would read him all the books he wanted

Your family would live at the zoo and museum honestly

She would be the type of mom to meal plan and make sure the family was eating healthy and getting enough exercise

But also the type of mom to encourage her son to follow his interests and pick up lots of hobbies

You guys would have instruments and art supplies all over the house

Mixed with pet toys of all sizes

But Dami wouldn’t have it any other way

Gahyeon:

Gahyeon is also a bit of a free spirit

And she’d want to focus on her career as long as possible

As well as getting a college degree on the side

Which meant not having kids

Especially since she would be too busy to be the type of mother she’d want to be

The two of you would be very focused on raising your puppy anyway

But when the right time rolled around and the puppy was no longer a baby, the two of you would have a long talk about it and consider all the options

Eventually, the two of you would decide to have your own kid and then, if you wanted another child, you would adopt

Everything would happen very quickly, but she’d never get overwhelmed, even if you did.

She would be the type of mother to have a detailed calendar and schedule, so she always knew what was happening

“Hey, honey? I think I’m going into labor so I’m going to go to the hospital now.” “Um, hang on, I’m driving you. There’s no way I'm letting you go alone.”

The detailed calendar would only get more detailed with kids

The two of you would learn how to make meals together so that you could evenly share the load (and because she really liked having that time with you)

Would probably cry when the baby grew up so fast

There would be no question about it: the two of you were going to adopt a baby

Her main mission in life would be to make sure they were happy and healthy

Mostly through making them laugh

Is silly and fun, although she can be stern when she needs to

Gives everyone kisses before they go to sleep (including you)

Who needs a tutor when you have her?

So proud of her entire family

So many family photos line the halls and the inside of her wallet

(You both insist the dog be in the family photos too)

Totally the mother who shows off her family to all her coworkers

But it’s just because she loves you all so much and she’s so happy to have been lucky enough to have you and the kids

[xantchaslegacy]

MtG Month of the Ship Day 24 - College AU

(This one’s a bit rambling. I meant to focus on Ashnod/ Tawnos as a follow-up to the coffee shop AU, but some dinobots slipped in~

Also, as with the other AUs, Aminatou is here for continuity, NOT as part of a ship)

“Psssst, Duck!”

Tawnos turned just in time for a crumpled piece of paper to bounce off of his nose. A few of the other students laughed at his nonplussed reaction. Ashnod winced internally. She’d meant to hit him on the shoulder, but he was sitting six rows ahead of her…

Professor Pashiri cleared her throat. “If the lovebirds among us could possibly spare their attention for another few minutes, I would just love to finish this lesson.”

Ashnod blushed. Why did that Tawnos have to sit so close to the front of the class? And why hadn’t that nerd picked up her note?

He at least waited by his desk once Pashiri ended the lecture. Ashnod had fully collected herself by then, and plopped down in the seat behind him, doing her very best cool-girl sprawl.

“Are you free Saturday?”

“I’m helping Urza at the shop.” Tawnos turned around in his chair to talk to her directly. The auditorium seats were definitely not designed for that, and he looked adorably awkward trying to fit his leg along the back of the chair. “He wants to test out delivery drones for the Café, so I’ll be pretty busy.”

“Busy cleaning coffee off of your customers?”

“Probably.”

Ashnod leaned back and put her boots up on the back of Tawnos’ chair. “Drones, huh? Does that mean you aren’t coming to visit me at my internship anymore, Duck?”

“I, uh…I doubt Kayla will actually want to use them outside the store itself.” Tawnos was trying to meet her eyes, but kept glancing at the soles of Ashnod’s shoes. “But Xantcha is taking over deliveries for the weekends, so…yeah. I won’t be free most of the day.”

“So you’re free that night. Perfect.” Ashnod unfolded the piece of paper to reveal a rough design for a dragon construct. “I need your help for a robotics club project.”

“What sort of project?”

Ashnod grinned. “We just got a new budget approved by Dean Tocasia. She wants us to build an animatronic of the school mascot for commencement.”

“Oh, cool!” Tawnos frowned. “Wait, how are you going to do that in time? Isn’t that half a month away?”

“Yeah, that’s why I need help.” She nudged his shoulder with her boot. “Are you in?”

“What about your roommate? Doesn’t she do that professionally?”

“Saheeli? I already asked her.” Ashnod crossed her arms. “She’s said she was busy. Had to go to a poetry reading or something like that.”

“For half a month?”

Ashnod shrugged. “She’s got it bad for one of the English majors. Probably won’t be free until May.” Ashnod held up her fingers and started counting off. “Jhoira can only help until May, and then she’s going on a study trip. Teferi inexplicably has the time to help but doesn’t have nearly enough technical expertise. Professor Karn said he can provide us with any equipment we need, but that it’s supposed to be a student-work project only.”

“Ah.”

“I mean, everyone can help out a little though! If we pull this off she’ll double the club budget for next year and we can buy all sorts of cool stuff for our next project!”

Tawnos pursed his lips. “That does sound fun…but I need to study for Professor Mairsil’s test after work on Saturday. Need to get my grade up or I’ll lose my scholarship.” He shrugged. “Sorry Ash. Maybe the week after?”

“Yeah, sure.” Ashnod managed a smile. “Uh, good luck with the drones.”

“Thanks. I’ll stop by the club workshop after my shift with some coffee.” He hopped over the edge of his seat and pecked Ashnod on the forehead. “Text me if you want any pastries or anything.”

She poked Tawnos in the side. “All the pastries. Say high to Xantcha for me, Duck.”

** ** **

 Ashnod threw herself on the bed as soon as she got back to her dorm, burying her face in a loose pile of blankets, sweaters, and disarrayed sheets. She let out a muffled groan into the pile.

"Rough day?" Saheeli called from the closet.

Ashnod turned her face to look at her roommate. "Frustrating." She frowned. "I thought your poetry thing wasn't until tomorrow.

"I-I want to have something nice picked out!" Saheeli flushed. "Besides, this might be for something else."

"Naaaaah." Ashnod grinned and sat up on the bed. "This is definitely preparation for preening. What are you gonna wear?"

Saheeli stepped sheepishly out of the closet and gave a small spin. She was wearing uncharacteristically dark colors: an olive button-up, black jeans, and a designer hoodie that zipped up in the front. The bohemian-ness of it all was loudly offset by the gold filigree up the front of her boots.

"Huh, well I don't actually know how poets dress but I guess that's close to what I would have imagined."

"Do I look good though?"

"You always look good, this is just...off-brand for you.” Ashnod's eyebrows shot up and a gleeful smile split her face. "Should I be asking who you're going to see?"

Saheeli mumbled something under her breath.

"Sorry, who now?"

Huatli!"

Ashmod blinked. "Waaaiiit, the girl who's always wearing those vaguely suggestive dinosaur t-shirts?"

"N-no!" Saheeli waved her hands in front of her chest. “I mean….well, maybe.” 

Ashnod rubbed her chin. "Yeah...the one who came to your tech talk on the quad last week, right? She's definitely got her eye on you."

"Um…what?" Saheeli was turning redder and redder shades of brown.

"Please, she was all over you, and the talk clearly wasn't her thing."

"She's...she's just really friendly."

"Hmmm, let's see if we can make her even friendlier." Ashnod rolled off the bed and peeked into the closet. "Here." She grabbed another hoodie, this one a crisp white, and cinched it around Saheeli's waist, letting it drape down over her backside.

"Great, now I look like my mother," Saheeli muttered.

"No, this is good, you look cool." Ashnod stepped back to admire her work. Well, more of a her and Saheeli's mother collaboration. "Huatli seems like a rugged type. I'm sure she'll appreciate your, uh...toughness."

Saheeli turned, considering the look in the mirror. “You’re being very helpful. What’s troubling you?”

Ashnod frowned. “Well, it sure feels stupid to say, but boy stuff.” She leaned up against her bad and sank to her knees “I want to spend more time with Tawnos but he’s been super busy since Kayla hired him. Now I only ever see him in class or whenever he’s delivering donuts or coffee to the Brotherhood Labs.”

“Did you ask him about the mascot thing?”

“Yeah; there’s just not any time between the shop and studying.”

Saheeli closed the closet door and squatted down next to Ashnod. “You could do go do your studying at the shop? Maybe just make googly eyes at him? I don’t know exactly what someone would want to do with a boy.”

“Nah, the job is important to him. I don’t want to distract him.”

“Well, that just leaves studying then.”

Ashnod tilted her head up to appraise her roommate. Huatli would definitely be stuck on Saheeli after tomorrow night.

“You know, you might be on to something.”

** ** **

 Ashnod arrived at the workshop the next afternoon with a sketch pad and a new set of charcoal to start schematics for the animatronic. She had settled herself at a desk and was halfway through designing the wing-joints when she heard a clatter from the storage closet.

“Tezzeret?” She stomped over to the door and pulled it open. “You better not be skulking around here again after last ti – oh….”

A small girl has sitting cross-legged in the middle of the storage space, playing with a glowing Powerstonetm battery. She was leaning up against a strange machine Ashnod did not recognize.

“Hey there, kiddo.” Ashnod loomed over the girl, hands, on her knees. “How’d you get in here?”

The girl smiled up at Ashnod. Her face was painted with several golden-brown butterflies. “I’m waiting for my friend. Are you waiting for someone?”

“Um…yeah, I guess so.” What is…Ashnod’s eyes went wide as she realized what the girl was sitting up against: a tall humanoid construct with several gun turrets where its head and shoulders should have been.

“Why…why don’t you come with me, kiddo.” Ashnod offered her hand. You can sit and draw with me until your friend gets here.”

The girl shrugged and took Ashnod’s hand. Ashnod gave her some spare sheets of paper and they sat together making drawings until late in the afternoon. The girl wouldn’t give Ashnod her name, but was otherwise very well behaved.

“What’s that you’re drawing?”

The girl held up a sheet of paper. She’d scrawled a surprisingly detailed figure of a tall, dark-skinned man in blue robes on it. “My friend Teferi! I haven’t seen him in a long time.”

“Oh…he said he’d be here before it got too late.” Ashnod looked at the clock. “I’ll call him.”

“That’s okay.” The girl went back to her drawing. “I’m having fun!”

** ** **

  “Ashnod?”

Her head popped up off the desk, trailing a thin string of drool. Luckily she’d moved her completed sketches out of the way before passing out on the work table.

“Hnnn…Duck?”

Tawnos was there, smiling down at her, and smelling like the most wonderful thing in the world. Ashnod reached her hands out, and he placed a tall cup of coffee in it.

“Hmmmm, boyfriend and caffeine delivery. What a time to be alive.” She looked around the rest of the room with a frown. Where was the girl? Had she imagined her? Had Teferi come by to pick her up?

“Hello to you too.” He kissed her hair. “Those sketches look great…I might have some spare drone pieces that you could use for the struts.”

“Sounds like Urza’s project went well.”

“Yeah…” Tawnos lifted another sheet to inspect it and caught sight of the other papers underneath, with class numbers written across the top. “What, um…what’s this?”

“I…thought we could study a bit together.” Ashnod patted the spot next to her on the workbench. “I put together my notes for the etherium and watersilver unit and I thought…if you needed to spend the night studying…maybe you could use some company?’

Tawnos smiled, and slid his backpack off onto the ground.

“Sounds perfect. And I brought us some study fuel as well.” He set a huge sack of donuts, eclairs, and muffins down on the table between them. “Will that be enough, you think?”

Ashnod pulled him down into her lap and pecked his cheek.

“For now.”

 The above is unofficial Fan Content permitted under the Fan Content Policy. Not approved/endorsed by Wizards. Portions of the materials used are property of Wizards of the Coast. ©Wizards of the Coast LLC.

[likes-words-and-shrimp]

How These Feelings Fall Into Place

Lloyd and Sheena spend time together at an annual festival held in Mizuho. The next day, Lloyd would leave again. That was okay, wasn't it?

Fandom: Tales of Symphonia Characters/Pairing: Lloyd Irving/Sheena Fujibuyashi Rating: G Mirror Links: AO3 Notes: Written for @theguineapig3​ for @talesofsecretsanta2018​ !! I wanted to try to write a good gift that would at least come halfway to the gift you made for me last year! It is still one of my most favorite things! I hope this little story turns out okay. Happy Holidays!

“Just put the set over here!” Sheena called out, and the men nodded. Crates of the dumplings were placed by the stall nearer the entrance. Mizuho was brighter than it usually was at night, when most of the villagers either retreated to their homes, or were away on missions in other, more livelier places. But the yearly festival transformed the secretive village into a place decorated with paper lanterns, bonfires for the mass amounts of food ready to be cooked, and several stalls that marketed even more food and games.

It was known as the Mystical Village for a reason!

“Chief Sheena!” spoke another man, still dressed in his garb from his latest mission, appearing suddenly from nothing. His dark clothes made him blend with the rest of the night. “I have ordered the balloons from Meltokio, as you asked! They should be arriving at any moment.”

Sheena nodded with satisfaction. “Good work, Orochi! We’ll make this our best festival yet!”

She was still a bit new to this Chief business, but with the World Reunification duties, the constant trips to Meltokio to ensure that things kept running smoothly, and just overseeing day-to-day life in the village, Sheena had her hands full, learning all she could from Tiga. But festivals! She had loved those especially, and helping organize one had felt more like play than business.

“Anything else need to be done? I saw Chiyo’s wrists had been hurting so…” She cracked her knuckles, feeling invigorated – “I can help out with her taiyaki making!”

Orochi though had this look. A look that meant that he had more news to share. “Actually, we just got word from one of our scouts near Sybak. It seems that one of your friends will be arriving soon for the festival.”

Sheena blinked. Who had she told about this festival? Not many, since everyone had to do their own things after the world was reunited. Regal had his company to overlook, Raine and Genis were still traveling together, and Colette had mentioned something about taking care of dogs, which had been hard to understand as she had spoken about it so excitedly last time… She inwardly groaned, remembering that Zelos knew for sure, and probably wanted to butt his nose into it like usual. It was bad enough he hit on the women here during the day! “Ugh, so it’s that idiot again?”

At that, Orochi raised an eyebrow. “While I understand Lloyd may be a bit slow at times, I think idiocy is a bit-”

“Wait, Lloyd?” she shouted, then lowered her voice. “He – I don’t – I don’t think he’s an idiot! J-just-! He’s coming here?”

“That’s what the reports said.”

She wasn’t prepared at all for this.

“Hi, Sheena! Wow, this place looks so bright! What are those paper-looking thingies?”

Sheena swallowed, ecstatic to see the young man standing before her. Here! During one of her favorite times in Mizuho! Although it was hard to get her tongue to work, suddenly feeling it too big for her mouth. Was it swollen? Did she eat something that made her allergic? Oh no, Lloyd was staring at her so much. Maybe her injury from the last mission was still on her face-

“Hey, uh, Sheena? You’re kinda blanking out.”

“Y-yes! Yeah! Haha…” She shook her head, gathering herself. She put on ‘Chief-mode Sheena’ in her place, pretending she was talking to one of her subordinates. Who was wearing blindingly bright red. That would never work for any ninja or for any kind of stealth mission and why the heck was she thinking the logistics of this?

“It’s good to see you. And those are paper lanterns!” She gestured to the decorations that lined the top of the village, giving everything a soft flow. “Secret craft of Mizuho. Don’t tell anyone!”

“Oh yeah! No problem. The secret’s safe with me!”

It was really not at all a secret – people from all over Tethe’alla tried to copy the same design, but Lloyd looked so genuine about it that Sheena couldn’t help but smile. She had missed him, more than she had thought. She had to grin back at him.

“How did you find out about this anyway?”

“Oh, Zelos told me. I’m trying to find this Exsphere caravan and we ran into each other… He said he couldn’t go because he was busy. And, well.” He grinned even wider at Sheena. “A festival sounded fun! I haven’t seen you in a long while anyway.”

It really had. Lloyd was off on his Exsphere journey, and she could only imagine how tough it was by himself. Sometimes she had thought…

Nah, it was stupid. She had a village to run anyway. People needed her. Lloyd wouldn’t want someone like her along anyway.

“Well, you came at the best time! Bet you haven’t tried kingyo-sukui before, have you?” She waved Lloyd over to the nearest stall. “It’s more of a kid’s game, but it’s tougher than it looks!”

“Kin ga what?” Lloyd blinked, but followed her along with complete trust. “How do you win at it?”

“Sorry. It’s goldfish scooping! Here, I’ll show you!”

Lloyd was already very eager to try, and the moment Sheena had the paper scoop in hand, Lloyd was already grabbing his own. He had gone through ten of them by the time he finally got one in his bowl, breaking each of them completely. But he had been as wide-eyed and excited as the numerous little kids at the stall. Sheena also made sure that Lloyd didn’t have to keep paying for each scoop he broke… he probably would have lost half his gald by this point. Just helping him save that made Sheena feel happy.

“Cool! I get to keep him?” Lloyd held up the clear bag with his tiny goldfish to his face. The way it warped his eye and mouth, while the goldfish swam through the water, made Sheena laugh loudly. Lloyd noticed and stuck out his tongue, making it even more silly.

“S-stop! And yes, you can keep him! Although bringing him on your journey might be hard.”

“Oh, right.” Lloyd considered, then handed the bag to Sheena proudly. “Maybe you can take him for me? Or is that too much? You probably got a bunch of goldfish already!”

Sheena had none at all – the game was meant for kids and a Chief should just be doing Chief things! Although, seeing Lloyd offer it to her, she took the bag gladly. It felt like a gift, in a way. “Well, I guess I can make some room for him. But you have to remember to visit him often!”

She didn’t actually expect Lloyd to agree to that. He was on an important journey after all, set on completing it. But he nodded anyway. “Yeah, of course!” Then his stomach growled. “Uh.”

Sheena snickered. “Okay, let’s get some food in you first.” She would have to leave Lloyd to put away the goldfish, and she didn’t want to just yet. It would be safe in its temporary home for now anyway. “Ever had yakitori? You’ll like that one, I bet.”

And, of course, Lloyd ate whatever was handed to him, probably stuffing down more than what some stall owners were expecting. She caught a few eyes gazing at her, silently pleading with her to not let this strange boy in red drain out their stock. But she could let it slide for now, make up for it later. Lloyd had probably been tired from his journey and deserved what he could get!

By the end of the feast, they were seated by the moat that circled around the Chief’s home – or her home to be exact. Still holding the goldfish bag in one hand, and a cup of sake in the other, she then handed that one to Lloyd – being careful not to mix up the two. That would have been embarrassing… “Here. Best way to wash all that food down!”

“Hey, what’s this?” Lloyd took, seated cross-legged on the ground. On the water, small papers folded like sailboats glided on the water. Both children and adults were setting them there, all while Sheena had briefly explained the tradition; to wish good fortune for the coming year. She wanted to help him make one – she knew he could do it pretty well with his artistic talents, but, maybe that was a step too far. Couples usually did that together, and well, that’s not what they were anyway.

She shook away that thought, and smiled. “It’s sake! You’ll like the stuff.” After all, his dad was a dwarf! And dwarves made their own alcohol called mead, which from what she gathered, was usually much stronger. Sake should be easy for Lloyd. “And if you don’t, I’m clobbering ya,” she said jokingly, clenching her free hand.

Lloyd laughed at that. “Okay, okay! I’ll try this… sah-kay? This cup’s kinda small though and I’m really thirsty!”

He was about to take a sip, but then stopped himself. Ah, maybe he wasn’t actually into it?

“Hey, Sheena,” he said, turning to her again. “This was really fun. I’m glad I got to come by! You’re always really busy so I figured maybe this time…”

“You’re welcome here whenever, Lloyd! I’m, um, not always that busy!” She was sort of half-lying but not like Lloyd could notice. She nudged his arm. “Hurry and drink up. No need to get sappy at me!”

Even though she did like that, quite a lot.

“Yeah, just the last month’s been kinda tough and-” Lloyd shook his head. “Anyway! Thanks!” By then, he had already begun to sip.

She thought on what he said for a moment, but Lloyd probably hadn’t meant to get too serious, so she went past it. “I can get some more. There’s a few different types actually if you wanted-”

Then Lloyd fell flat on his face.

“Wh-” Sheena blinked. Then again. And then just stared. Oh. Oh what. Oh, he wasn’t moving. “L-Lloyd!”

Then his body started to nearly roll off straight into the water.

“No! Stop it!” she yelled as if yelling ever did anything for her. Grabbing Lloyd by the shoulders while still holding onto the goldfish, she lifted him up easily. Okay, he was still breathing, but also not really responding to anything. His eyes were shut, and his face was a bit red. Oh no, what if it was something he ate? Was he poisoned? Who would do that here?

If only she hadn’t been slacking off as Chief, she could have prevented this.

Ignoring some of the surprised looks from nearby villagers, she called out to Orochi. He always re-appeared at her side when she needed him. “Here, help me get him inside. Get the medicines out. We need to find an antidote quick!”

“Sheena.” Orochi looked to the boy curiously, though didn’t stall, already grabbing his other shoulder.

“Come on, we need to hurry!” She was trying her best to not lose her cool as they opened the sliding door to her room, but she couldn’t bear to lose Lloyd. Not after everything. She’d inspect every food barrel they had here and find the source. Maybe it was sabotage – there had been mutterings of people who hated Tethe’alla and were forming a group. Maybe they saw Lloyd had been coming here in advance? She needed to gather all her sources for this.

“Sheena,” again, Orochi said, laying Lloyd on a cot.

“Get the local healer. I know it’s usually her time off but I really need her salves for this. And tell Sakuya to travel to Meltokio so we can see whose been on the roads-”

“Sheena.” Orochi said hard, his hands still, his entire body still.

She looked to him in confusion. “What is it? Why are you wasting time?”

“Sheena, he’s just drunk.”

She paused then, and in that pause, she saw Lloyd stir and start to mumble.

“Hafta… see the doggies… ofer ther..”

Oh. He was drunk. But… he had barely taken a sip? Was he that much of a lightweight?

“I’ll go outside and tell those who saw it’s no trouble. He will need water.” Orochi stood up, making the signal for leaving. Though before he did so, he smiled. “He probably needs someone nearby as well.” Then he vanished in a puff of smoke.

Oh no, she was so stupid.

Sheena tried to not think about that so much, finally remembering the goldfish in hand, and getting a nearby bowl to put it in. She had some flakes to give it, but later. Because right now, Lloyd was trying to sit up, and also get up, and also tried to stumble into her door where the paper covering would definitely not hold his weight.

“Sit back down already!” She pulled him near, hands gripping his arms. His body went limp in her touch, leaning against her, his head tilted. He was smiling still.

“Thers a lotta doggies here.. like.. here..?” He pointed at the corner, where a painting of well, a wolf was set in the background of her room.

“Yes, Lloyd. That’s a doggy..” She rubbed his arms, maybe lingering too much. “Go and sleep.”

“Ish a lot! An alsho scary snake?” He pointed above at a divider, its surface painted over with a dragon. “Shnakes are… bad..”

“Okay, yeah, I got it.” It was.. kinda cute how he kept rambling. But she felt weird for still holding him like this. So she tried to get him laying down again.

“And Sheena is!” Lloyd proclaimed and not following up for a while. Like he was thinking on it. This pulled at her patience a little. She was what? Just spill it!

“You need to sleep now.” She then forced him down, hands on his shoulders, half over him. She got a better look at his face, his eyes soft, his hair a little messy from his sudden falling. He was still smiling a lot too. Oh, she was way too close to him. Don’t do this when he was drunk! Don’t do it at all!

“Sheena is… good..” He muttered, half-closing his eyes. “Miss..”

She lifted away slightly, kneeling beside him. She moved a loose hair strand around her ear. “Um, I missed you too,” she said softly, feeling stupid. Was that what he meant?

“Really like her..” Lloyd shifted to his side, to get comfortable. Or maybe to see her better? No, that was also really stupid. “Really.. huh..”

His voice was slowing more, which worried her. He was just drunk, but still.. “Hey, you okay?” She held out a hand to him, then stopped. Too far. Don’t do that.

But Lloyd reached out to it. His Exsphere winked in the light. He brought her hand close to him, just near his face.

Sheena’s face was heated to an extreme.

“Like… I like.. Sheena…” Then he fell asleep, still holding her hand. He held it so tightly, too.

She could still easily leave his grip. Just a quick bend of her wrist and she would be free. But she felt his even breathing near her knuckles. He shifted even closer to her.

She had placed his goldfish in the bowl on a nearby dresser, swimming calmly through its small home. She wasn’t as contained as it was. She could leave at any time.

“I like you, too,” she whispered.

Sheena stayed by Lloyd’s side, watching him sleep.

By morning, she was frustrated.

Some of the paper lanterns had broken, their shells caught on the roofs of nearby homes, and the small boats still lagged in the water, filling it up with trash. It would be a pain to clean up. That and half the stalls had not been taken down yet. There were supposed to be gone by late midnight yesterday!

Also, once Lloyd woke up, he hadn’t mentioned anything about what he said last night.

“Ow… why does my head hurt so much? That was really weird water you gave me…” He was rubbing it as he walked through Mizuho with Sheena one last time. Then he would be gone, for who knows how long. “How come I want to drink it again though?”

“I don’t think you should,” she said, voice hard.

Lloyd blinked at her tone. She saw hurt flash through his face, soon covered up by confusion. “Uh, okay. Well, you gave it to me!”

“Believe me, I know.”

She didn’t mean to have this grumpy attitude, but what was she supposed to do now? If Lloyd had felt that way about her… if he even actually meant what he said!

He probably hadn’t meant it at all. Lloyd sometimes just… said things, didn’t he?

He was patting his jacket, looking for something. “Agh, did I lose my wing pack? I didn’t drop it in the river or something…”

Waiting around was so stupid. Didn’t Zelos say to just go ahead and say what you want? Apparently Lloyd did! But only when he was drunk!

He noticed her frown, because she was definitely frowning. A lot. “Sheena, did I say something wrong?” He blinked. “Or.. be stupid? I didn’t mean to eat that much stuff yesterday! Just, you know..”

Agh, why did she have to point this out?

“I like you too, Lloyd!” she shouted. They were just outside the village. There were probably eyes watching them. They always were. That’s what living in Mizuho was like. She was used to it. But the only eyes that mattered were Lloyd’s.

He stared at her. “I-”

“So don’t just go spouting out you like me too for no real reason! Was that supposed to be funny?” But it was her fault. She made him drink the dumb stuff. “I’m an idiot.”

“Sheena?”

“Never mind. Just… have a safe trip.” Ugh, she couldn’t even confess right. What was she doing?

A pair of arms encircled her suddenly. She stiffened, ready to break out. Only Zelos did this, and he did it to be annoying and invasive. But the scent was different.

“I.. don’t remember when I said that. I wish I did.” A pause. “I like you though. Um. That’s why I came here, you know.”

Oh, she was really stupid.

“Er, did you hear me?”

She shook her head, then nodded her head. Ah, what was the right answer?! Maybe she should hug back? Okay, maybe. So she did.

She leaned into his touch, like before, when he was holding her hand tight.

Then she decided to kiss him. Wait, that was too far!

“Mmf?!” Lloyd’s voice was muffled, not exactly expecting the sudden and fierce kiss she gave him. She stepped back immediately, putting her face in her hands.

“Agh, why am I so bad at this?”

“Huh? T-that wasn’t bad! That was really nice, actually!” He laughed a little. “I mean, I’ve not done that before so…”

She didn’t want to look at him. She needed to find another pit to fall in.

“Is it okay if we try it again maybe?”

Oh wow, she definitely needed to find a pit fast. She couldn’t do that again! No way!

But Lloyd was there, holding her face in his hands, looking nervous also. He leaned in, kissing her lightly. It was nice, nicer than she thought. She melted into it quickly.

She stepped back again and (kinda) lightly punched him in the shoulder.

“Ow!” Lloyd rubbed the affected shoulder. “That hurt a little!”

“W-well, maybe do that kind of stuff sooner!” Sheena took a deep breath, turning away for a moment. “But… thanks.”

Anyone else would have probably complained even more – even Zelos – at her reaction. But Lloyd just laughed. Not at her either. It was nice and innocent, with no bitterness to it, like she would expect from others. But Lloyd was not like other people at all.

“You’re welcome, I guess.” Then, very lightly, hands placed themselves on her shoulders. She leaned back against him, wanting to be selfish. “I’m glad I got to see you again. Really.”

“Yeah, I know.” She could feel how red her face was, and not from any drinks. “M-me, too… Do you have to go now?”

Sometimes she could feel Lloyd think about things, imagining his expression. Only this time, his face was near hers, his breath blowing against her hair that gave her shivers she felt a little guilty thinking on. “Hm, I guess not right now... I still have time. But it’s been hard doing stuff on my own lately, you know…”

She thought back to the impulsive gift Lloyd had given her, the goldfish still swimming in its bowl, needing to be where it was. She felt the same sometimes.

But… Orochi had been doing such good work lately. Maybe he could take over, for a little bit.

“I’ll see what I can do,” she told him, before turning around to give him a hug.

As a Chief of Mizuho, she needed to help people. And those people didn’t have to be from Mizuho itself…

[lady-charinette]

Dinner for Two Chapter 7

A/N: Finally found inspiration to continue! Main account on FanFiction.Net (ScarletRedfox)

Enjoy!

Meowting

Previously on “Dinner for Two”…

He rubbed his arm and smiled behind the curtain of his hair, “Thank you,” Marinette beamed and took out of her notebook to look over the final draft, “By the way, how was your break?”

 Marinette remembered the conversation she had with Chat Noir and all the little things she had learned about him today and smiled warmly, “It was…purrty nice,”

 Nathaniel rose an eyebrow at her odd word choice but didn’t question it further, immediately getting back to work instead.

 It was finished.

 They were done!

 Marinette jumped up from her swiveling chair, tripping over an innocently laying piece of stray fabric on the floor, taking with her pencils and scrunched up paper balls of dismissed clothing drafts.

 It woke up Nathaniel too, who was hunched over his work table, a piece of paper sticking to the side of his cheek and his hair a mess, or more so than usually.

He immediately scrambled to get up, removing the piece of paper from his face and rushing toward Marinette, who rubbed her knee from colliding with the floor, “Owww….I just woke up too,” she whined, sighing at her own clumsiness.

 Nathaniel smiled, grabbing her arm and helping her stand, before kneeling down to collect the scattered pencils and papers, nearly bumping heads with Marinette, who did the same, “At least we got the dress finished,” he smiled, thinking back on the incident they had last night.

 Shipment companies didn’t open for business until eight o’clock, thankfully Nathaniel had a friend from school working there, who had a favor to return and was willing to get up at four in the morning to get the dress to the model’s address, which was quite a few blocks away.

Once they organized everything, Marinette grinned up at Nathaniel, “We’re done!” she threw her arms up in the air with a big grin.

Nathaniel’s eyes livened up, usually shy expression lightening up in happiness, “We’re done!” he echoed her cheer, both adults throwing their arms around one another in joy and laughing at their successful job done.

They were only seconds into the impromptu hug, seconds it took Nathaniel to become acutely aware of Marinette’s smaller body pressed to his own, nearly perfectly, like two puzzle pieces, her softer curves fitting into his harder edges.

His mind was swimming and he felt lightly lightheaded, “Keep it cool, Nathaniel. It’s just a hug, you’ve hugged girls before. Granted, they were relatives or colleagues from work, but they were women nonetheless. You’ve got this,” he heard Marinette squealing in delight and she hugged him tighter, “You don’t got this, you don’t got this, plan B! Plan B! PLAN B!” standing frozen there with Marinette in his arms, cheering obliviously to his mental panic attack, he tried to think of something to do or say.

“I-It’s really great tt-that we managed it right?” he grinned nervously, thankful for the cover her hair gave to hide his face in.

 Bad idea.

 She smelled of baked goods, of the light, subtle perfume she wore, of Marinette.

 He was getting lightheaded again.

 Marinette brought him back to reality with her angelic voice, “We sure did Nath! We should celebrate!” finally, or not, Marinette slowly broke away, beaming up at him in happiness.

 Nathaniel quickly grinned back, scratching at the back of his neck, pulling tightly on the small hairs at the nape of his neck to reel in his chaotic emotions, “R-right!” he squeaked out, punching his chest as if to clear his throat.

 Marinette smiled, resting her hands on his shoulders, “But I really couldn’t have done it without you Nath, without your continuous support and professional help, I never would have gotten all these projects finished in time, so thank you for always being there for me,” she leaned up on her tip toes, how cute, and her soft lips pressed against his cheek in a short, sweet kiss.

 Nathaniel’s brain short circuited.

 “Reboot! Reboot! Reboot!” he still felt her hands on his shoulders, the warmth they emanated, and they squeezed him, “RESPAWN! RESPAWN! RESPAW-“

 “Hey you guys! Are we interrupting?” Nathaniel’s whole body froze and Marinette’s hands fell away from his shoulders, his mind slowly clinging onto the last shred of his sanity to bring him back to the present.

“Not at all! Glad you guys made it!” Marinette beamed at them.

Wait, he knew that voice…

 He turned around and saw none other than Rose and Juleka, Rose as always on Juleka’s arm, the two women smiling at them, particularly eyeing him with a strange expression on their faces.

 He was sure his face was the same color as his hair. Marinette rushed toward them and grasped their hands, “We finished the dress! We sent it for delivery in the morning, the model should have already gotten them and tried it on! Oh, isn’t that great?!” while Rose and Juleka genuinely were excited, since it was their project too, their eyes discreetly traveled to the flustered man in the back, who looked like he would faint from either lack of air or a heart attack if the redness of his face and his wide blown eyes were any indication.

 The fact that they had been hugging before Rose had spoken up gave them a clue as to why their long- time friend looked like he would fall into cardiac arrest and Marinette’s giddy state.

 Juleka shared a look with Rose until the dark-haired woman wrapped an arm around her superior and friend and led her toward the small kitchenette at the back, “Why don’t we celebrate with a glass of coffee? I bet you guys must have worked until late in the night, you will need the boost,” Marinette smiled appreciatively at her friend, telling her all about the frustration and panic she felt for not making it to the due date or messing up the design or finishing touches.

 Rose sneaked up on Nathaniel and rested a hand on his shoulder, causing him to look down at her, a hue of redness still on his cheeks. Rose’s blue eyes looked up into his own lighter blue ones, “Cheer up! Don’t give up,” she smiled encouragingly up at her friend since school, patting his shoulder one more time before she moved to join the others in the kitchenette.

 Nathaniel sighed, shoulders slumped in defeat, “Maybe Rose is right, maybe I shouldn’t give up, not until I at least before I try to act,” he frowned, noticing his lack of efforts in pursuing Marinette, “If only I can be like SuperNathan and be more brave…” he shook his head, running a hand through his hair before grabbing his empty mug from his work desk and following the scent of coffee from the kitchen.

 Nathaniel packed his bag, spotting his half full coffee canister on his desk before grabbing it and making a beeline for the door, “Shoot, I’ll be late,” he checked his watch, annoyed at himself.

 He still had twenty minutes, he should be fine with a power walk.

 Suddenly, Marinette’s voice caused him to freeze on the spot, and he wondered if that effect would ever go away someday, “Wait! I need to go too!” he watched her frantically grab for the sketchbook at her desk before racing towards him. They both hastily waved to Juleka and Rose before exiting the studio.

 Nathaniel rose an eyebrow, “Wait, you have lectures today?” he didn’t remember her having any lectures to attend today, not that he kept track of her schedule or anything…

 Marinette smiled, “I decided to go to your lecture!” she looked a bit unsure but hopeful when she looked up at him, “If that’s okay, professor?”

 The way she addressed him as ‘professor’ made his heart skip a beat and he was sweating underneath his dress shirt as he tugged at his collar, “Breathe, keep it cool, it’s Marinette, you know her, you know her, it’s alright,”

 It took him a second to realize he still didn’t answer her, “O-oh, yes, well, only if you want to of course,” he coughed into his hand. “Way to go, ‘professor’,” he frowned at himself.

 Marinette noted the frown on his face, “Um, are you sure? I don’t want to intrude or disturb your lecture,” was he angry because she would distract him? Or would his students think he would favor her because they were friends? She definitely didn’t want to make him look bad in front of his students.

 Nathaniel violently shook his head, nearly colliding with a lamp post during their brisk walk on the pavement, “What? No, no, no of course not, feel free to come to my lectures whenever you like! We always have free seats!”

 It wasn’t even an expression, art lectures always had free seats, not many people could be found with the talent to enroll and survive art universities, not to mention those who are good enough to make a living from creating art alone without having to get a job on the side. Still, Nathaniel counted himself under lucky stars for having not only talented, but motivated students in his courses, perhaps it was his own passion in his lectures that transferred over to them or simply the effort he put into making topics like art history interesting to keep them invested in the cause.

 Fifteen minutes.

 Nathaniel’s pace quickened and Marinette easily kept up, not wanting to arrive late either, “I can’t remember the last time I was in one of your lectures, I bet you are just as good as I remember you from last time,” she grinned innocently up at him and Nathaniel had the inkling feeling like he would need to carry a defibrillator with him at all times from now on if he wanted any chances of surviving his next heart attacks he knew would come the longer he spent time with Marinette.

 It sounded funny, even to his own ears, but she was his…cause for heart attacks? Disturbance? Health problem?

 Nathaniel scrunched his nose, that didn’t sound romantic or positive at all.

 Discreetly, making sure to hide the display from Marinette’s view, Nathaniel quickly typed in his Notes.

 “Search romantic terms for ‘heart attack cause’, ‘disease’”

 “Oh someone texting you?” Nathaniel nearly dropped his phone from the nervous sweat that began accumulating in his hand the second he heard Marinette’s voice speak.

 He pocketed his phone and quickly cleared his throat, “Ah, just wrote something down. I remembered one of my colleagues said something to me about tomorrow’s lectures…”

The only positive thing, if one could call it that, Nathaniel could name from his years of bullying in elementary all the way to his senior years of high school would be it made him a better liar. There had often been situations where white lies were the key to getting out of uncomfortable situations, so it made him an expert in that department.

 He still wasn’t sure whether or not he was proud of that fact.

 Still, he couldn’t deny it didn’t help sometimes. He looked down at Marinette, smiling, “I’m not sure if today’s topic will really peak your interest…” he scratched the back of his neck, feeling like a shy, insecure teenager all over again.

 He knew Marinette thought him to be a good professor, but he was always afraid of screwing up whenever her eyes were on him, a fact unknown to her, simply because he didn’t want to give her any sort of guilty feelings for his own insecurities.

 The dark-haired woman winked at him reassuringly and Nathaniel felt one part of his brain turn to mush, the technical part, the part he would need soon to think rationally, “Whatever it is, I’m sure it will be completely fine, I know you have a knack for making even the most boring things interesting. I bet you could talk about rocks all day and by the end of it, we would be talking about all the great statues the Greeks and Romans had made in the past and their significance in their culture and religion,” she giggled, playfully bumping her shoulder against his and Nathaniel’s heart quickened its pace.

 “Definitely need that defibrillator…and maybe a pack of calming pills or two,” he looked at the soft, encouraging smile on Marinette and took a deep breath, “…make that three,”

 He seriously questioned how he would survive the day.

Adrien banged on the door to the men’s bathroom irritably, his foot tapping against the floor, “Plagg! What in the world is taking you so long? You’ve been in there for a solid hour!”

 A disgruntled voice from the other side answered weakly, “I think the camembert I ate earlier was bad…”

 Adrien’s eye twitched, “But camembert is supposed to be bad!” the model threw his arms up in the air in frustration, “You know what? That’s it! I will contact my nutritionist and get you an appointment, he will set you straight,” Adrien took out his own, scrolling through his contacts list as he ignored Plagg’s drawled out whines.

 “Nooo Adrien, camembert is the only thing in my life, besides Tikki, that I can’t live withouuuutt. Don’t take my preciousness away from meeeee!” Adrien rolled his eyes at his friend’s dramatics, stepping away from the door the moment the man started grumbling again and not to whine at him.

 After a few short messages, the appointment was done and Adrien shouted from a few feet away toward the bathroom door, “It’s done! Your appointment starts at six on Monday!”

 “Nooooooo!” Plagg’s whines faded into the background when Adrien sneaked back into the kitchen.

 It was almost opening time, a few customers could always come a bit early to order something, he didn’t want to risk the chance of being spotted.

 He ran into Miss Cesaire, or Marlena as she insisted he called her, on his way back to the VA room. She smiled up at him and he bowed to her with a charming, genuine smile, “Good morning to you Miss Cesaire,”

 The older woman laughed and patted his shoulder kindly, looking up at him in amusement when he straightened, “Good morning to you too Adrien,” she looked behind him, raising an eyebrow, “Where did that grumpy man go? I have his cheese delivery all set for the day,”

 Adrien scratched the back of his neck, “Uh…he had some…technical problems to take care of first,” he grinned sheepishly, and Miss Cesaire got the hint when he motioned toward the general direction of the men’s bathroom.

 She rolled her eyes, “That man, I told him too much cheese is not good for his metabolism.” She briefly moved toward the stove to hand Adrien a packed box with a sweet smile, “This is for you sweetie, I know you’re all cooped up in that smelly old room, all you eat is dry food so I made a little something that I’m sure your nutritionist won’t mind you eat,” she winked at him with a motherly smile.

 Adrien’s heart warmed at the thoughtful gesture and enveloped the older woman in a brief, one armed hug, “Thank you Miss Cesair-“

 She waved her finger at him disapprovingly, “Ah, ah, ah, Marlena to you dear,” she grinned and pinched his cheek, “Ah, look at you! I bet the girls can barely keep their hands off you, can they?” she laughed, knowing his modelling career full well, she did use to cook for his father after all.

 Adrien shrugged, “Sometimes,” he perked up when he heard the door to the bathroom open, “Ugh, finally. I’d hate to go in now that, that bottomless pit has been in there, but unless I want to dry out the plants, I have no choice,” he delicately set his packed lunch on the clear metal surface before bowing again to Miss Cesaire, “Thank you again for the meal, Marlena,” he grinned boyishly and sped off in the direction towards the men’s bathroom.

 She giggled when she heard Plagg’s shout of irritation, before the man himself grumpily walked into the kitchen area, looking a bit pale, a bit worn out.

 Marlena fixed him with a smug look, “The cheese?”

 Plagg groaned, “The cheese,” despite his state, he spotted the packed lunch sitting on the cooking surface and his hands made a grab toward it, “Food-“

 Marlena slapped his fingers away, “That’s for Adrien!” she admonished with a frown, the younger man frowning in displeasure.

 Plagg hissed, “The kid has a nutritionist who takes care of him. Why don’t you cook me lunch?” he whined and Marlena rolled her eyes.

 “Because you’re an adult man who can cook something for himself,” she turned around and headed towards the fridge.

 Plagg groaned again, “But Adrien is an adult too!”

 Marlena shouted back, “But a sweet one!”

 Plagg scoffed, “…Witch,”

 “What was that?”

 Plagg coughed violently into his hand, “I-ITCH! I HAVE AN ITCH!” he scratched his back violently for emphasis and Marlena, while approaching him from wherever she went, gave him an odd, suspicious look.

 She held out a wrapped, rectangular box to him, which looked quite tall, “Here, this will keep you from killing us with your atomic litter box,”

 Plagg resisted the urge to stick his tongue out at her as he accepted the gift, “…Chee-“

 “No! Something much better,” she patted his messy black hair like a kid, “You will be begging me to make it again and never look at camembert,” she grinned playfully.

 Plagg huffed, “Doubt it,” he nodded toward the lunch, “But thanks anyway, Marlena, you may be a spitfire but you’re an angel of a spitfire,”

 The mother of three wasn’t sure if she was supposed to feel flattered or insulted by the poor attempt of a compliment from Plagg, but nevertheless she knew whatever form of praise from that man was genuine praise.

 “And you’re a lazy blob of cheese which doesn’t need to age any more to stink as much,” she smirked at his flabbergasted expression, and giggled when his mouth tried to form words but no sounds came out.

 Their banter was short lived by the arrival of Adrien, who rose an eyebrow at the silent exchange between the two, grabbing his lunch box from where he left it, “Plagg didn’t insult you again did he Marlena?”

 The chef smiled, “No, but I think I did,” she laughed on her way toward her team of chefs already waiting for her at the back, smiling when she heard Plagg spluttering to make a comeback but ultimately failing as Adrien led him away before the restaurant officially opened.

 Their trip back to the room was peaceful enough, until Adrien asked, “So, what did she say that made you look like the cat got your tongue?”

 Plagg’s expression morphed into annoyed fury, “That…that…witch!”

 It was funny, despite Plagg sometimes being rude and knowing to possess a repertoire of colorful words, he always, always used very mild terms for Marlena if she ever annoyed or angered him, the worst of which was the term ‘witch’. Farther than that he would not allow himself to go, which was more than alright with Adrien, who would either lock his cheese stash away or kick him out if that were to happen.

 Adrien chuckled, “Did she complain about your cheese breath?”

 Plagg fixed him with an annoyed look as they opened the door to their room, “I’ll take it back, you’re the witch,” Adrien laughed after closing and locking the door behind them, both going to their respective chairs and setting about to opening their food.

 It was still early, but neither Plagg nor Adrien had had the time to eat, so this was their…brunch.

 Adrien smiled at his lunch, a carefully put together meal of separated fruits, richly filled sandwiches and a small milk container with a separate plastic bowl filled with cereal next to it.

 It was a school lunch box.

 He suddenly felt like a kid again, at least the times his mother used to make him such lunchboxes and it warmed and pained his heart at the same time.

 Plagg unusually stilled on the opposite side and Adrien looked over to see what the cause of it was.

 He was as still as a statue, eyes glued to the unwrapped container sitting on his desk next to the keyboard, and curiosity got the better of Adrien as he rolled his chair over to see what was in his lunch box.

 It was divided into three parts.

 The first container had an assortment of fruits, all fresh no doubt as he knew Marlena.

 The second one had cooked vegetables with a delicious smelling sauce covering them.

 The third had an arsenal of colorful-looking pills filling the space of the box, a note stuck to the top reading, “Vitamins – eat or die”

 Adrien burst out laughing, twirling around in his swiveling chair as Plagg remained unmoving on his seat until he roared, “THAT WITCH!!”

 Needless to say, today would be a good day.

Today was a good day.

 Miraculously, they didn’t come late to the lecture, Nathaniel even had spare five minutes to prepare.

 His lecture room was filled with his regulars already, a few faces he sometimes saw here and there. The only really “new” face was Marinette’s, who, while a student herself, looked a bit out of place among his own students, not in a bad way necessarily, but different.

 Maybe it was because none of his other students had the power to give him heart attacks just by looking or smiling his way.

 She was smiling at him.

 Nathaniel swallowed and smiled back wobbly.

 She waved discreetly, and his legs nearly gave out from under him.

 “Control yourself, damn it. You’re a grown man, a professor, you have students to teach!” gathering his fragile courage, Nathaniel collected the stack of papers he had printed out the last day and handed them out to his students, trying to not get distracted by the excited look on Marinette’s face.

 “Good morning, everyone,”

 His greetings were returned, some more motivated than others and Nathaniel had to chuckle at hearing a few tired drawls among them, “Yeah, you’re not the only ones tired,” he stifled a yawn and most of his students chuckled.

 He rolled his shoulders and started up the projector, grabbing the remote to show the appropriate slides, he felt his courage returning again as he focused on the things he knew best; art. The carefully crafted courage he got from working as a professor for a few years did wonders to his daily interactions, he even managed to socialize normally with his other colleagues, despite his past social introversion.

 While he explained the details of modern art and comparing artist’s inspirations with past art like from the times of Greeks and Romans, as well as Egyptian art, his gaze caught Marinette’s, who, much to his amazement, seemed to absorb everything like a sponge and even take notes, despite not having to.

 His heart skipped a beat and he didn’t even notice he cut his own words off.

 A student of his, Alix, raised her arm, a confused look on her face, “Uh…what did you want to say professor?”

 Nathaniel blinked at her stupidly, “Huh?”

 The pink haired woman pointed at the slide, “You were saying something about the Greek statues influencing Greek culture and being implemented into other nations’ cultures through famous artists like…?”

 Nathaniel’s eyes flew open before he straightened his posture and pressed the button for the slide to continue, showing an array of pictures of old but famous artistic legends, “Uh, right, yes, thank you Alix!” he scratched the back of his head sheepishly, “Yes…artists, what I was saying…”

 His students laughed, not to chide him or scorn him, but out of amusement at his antics and Nathaniel learned long ago how to differentiate between being laughed at or when somebody laughed with you.

 He chuckled at himself, shaking his head, “I guess that extra cup of coffee didn’t sit well with me, perhaps I should switch to tea again,” he pressed the button again, the image showing a teapot, stylized with Greek influenced figures, “Oops, sorry, nothing to tea here,”

 He didn’t empathize the pun, but his students were smart, figuring out the joke and laughing genuinely at his attempt at a joke. Among the giggles and chuckles, he recognized one especially.

 It was Marinette’s.

 His cheeks darkened when he noticed she was giggling too, giving him a ‘thumbs up’ and an encouraging, friendly wink.

 Nathaniel tugged at the collar of his shirt and opened the first button to let the air cool him.

 Today would be an eventful day.

Marinette was so excited to be sitting among Nathaniel’s students, only a few recognized her, the regulars, and she tried her best not to talk while Nathaniel was explaining up front, but she couldn’t resist when Alix turned to her with a smirk and a whispered, “So, you and the professor?”

 Marinette occasionally watched Alix skate about the campus, they were acquaintances and to her knowledge, understood each-other fairly well when they talked on occasion. She also knew Alix loved to sometimes tease Nathaniel, in a purely sisterly-brotherly type of way, and she knew the question wasn’t meant to be taken too seriously.

 Still, Marinette wasn’t taking any chances, as she whispered back, “No, I just visited as a friend,” she smiled when Alix shot her a understanding, soft smile, showing she meant no ill intentions with her joking question and Marinette giggled and discreetly slipped her macaron into her hand when Nathaniel wasn’t looking, earning an appreciative glance from the pink haired woman in return.

 Being a student in Nathaniel’s lecture was like admiring art. You could see or learn things you didn’t before, despite still looking at the same picture, just with a bit more background info than before. It was amazing how much artistic knowledge Nathaniel had so much to answer even difficult questions in a heartbeat without looking at his notes once.

 Marinette knew enough professors to know years of dedication and genuine interest in the taught subject were needed to achieve such a feat and she had a broader spectrum of respect for Nathaniel’s professor side shining through the longer the lecture went.

 Marinette, in-between jotting down notes and listening to Nathaniel attentively, briefly wondered what sort of professor Chat Noir was.

 Was he the joking type to throw in puns? What subject did he teach again? Did she ask him that? She didn’t think she did. She quickly scribbled a small reminder at the corner of her page, marking it as ‘Chat’s corner’ to ask him later. Could he be the split professor? The one that had a joking, easygoing personality outside of work but was actually pretty strict during lectures? Marinette could hardly imagine Chat Noir to be very strict, but then again, all she knew was him in the stuffed toy suit.

 Marinette had to stifle a giggle with her hand at the thought, wishing he would reveal his other job to his students and that she was present when they bombarded him with questions about why in the world their high esteemed professor was playing a stuffed cat in his free time.

 More silent giggles erupted from Marinette and she desperately tried to stifle them when Nathaniel moved onto the next slide.

 Instead, she turned the next page and scribbled down into what she dubbed was her “Chat’s corner” from now on.

 Ask him about his students & subject he teaches.

 Another corner.

 His interest in subject & why he chose it.

 Soon, in tandem with her new notes on Nathaniel’s lecture, her pages’ corners were filled with “Chats corner’s”, enough to last them an entire hour worth of conversation once she went to dine again at the restaurant.

After the lecture, with Marinette waiting outside while Nathaniel talked to a group of his students for their next assignment, she absentmindedly looked at cat memes on her phone until somebody bumped into her shoulder.

 “Oh, purrdone me,” a deep voice apologized, and Marinette looked up from her phone to apologize instinctively back, despite having done nothing wrong.

 A man a head taller than her, a professor judging from the stacks of paperwork in his arms, his slightly tanned arms, arms that didn’t look like they skipped any visits to the gym, and dark leather bag at his side, his messy dark bangs were falling into stark blue eyes, mirth dancing in the blue depths at her stunned silence-

 Wait what?

Was that a-

 “-pun…”

 She couldn’t believe it.

 A cat pun no less!

 And the guy looked so smug!

 Could it…could it be…was he?

 “Miss?” he leaned down to be at eye level with her, “Cat got your tongue?” he grinned, flashing pearly whites which contrasted with his slightly tan skin tone, probably from sunbathing.

 Her brain short-circuited.

 Now the man looked slightly concerned, “Hey, miss did I-“

 Marinette finally snapped to attention, “I-I’m sorry!” she squeaked out, “I, uh, I’m sorry I thought you were a good friend of mine for a second, I-“ she smiled sheepishly until he chuckled.

 “Oh really? Maybe I am,” he winked and for a crazy second, Marinette imagined cat ears atop his head.

 Stop it!

 Marinette shook her head, “Uh, I’m sorry, I think I mistook your for…for someone?” now that she was beginning to think, Chat Noir surely wouldn’t indicate directly that it was him, since they were in a place filled with people, people he surely didn’t want to know of his identity.

 He would be discreet, maybe even act a little clueless.

 But he made cat puns and had that stupid smirk, the same smirk she imagined on Chat Noir, and he even almost fit her imaginary description to a ‘T’…

 Marinette smirked, looking at smugly at the man, “Well, my pawult, I suppose I didn’t get enough sleep, maybe a little cat nap will do,” she giggled mentally, eager to see his reaction, Chat Noir’s reaction.

 The man grinned again, obviously amused, she couldn’t believe Chat would be that amused by her use of puns, then again he did always sound excited when she used them occasionally, “Ahh, a lady of culture I see.” He briefly looked at the mass of people surrounding them, before tucking his papers beneath his arm and holding out his free hand, “I’m Erik, by the way,” he smiled down at her charmingly.

 Marinette smiled, shaking hands with him. “So, Erik was his real name?” she had expected more of a name with ‘A’ or something similar, but who was she to judge.

 She smiled kindly back up at him, “I’m Marinette, nice to meet you,”

 He grinned like a Cheshire cat, “Don’t you mean meowt you?” she giggled.

 “Right, meowt,” she smiled, feeling immensely glad to have finally found Chat Noir, the real him, in such a short time. She had only been wondering yesterday about meeting him at campus and now she actually was!

 Chat Noir- Erik- looked around again and smiled, “What do you say we go out for a cup of coffee, Marinette?” he flashed that smile again and she had to admit, it did remind her of a trickster cat a bit.

 Marinette smiled and nodded, “Sure thing, kitty,”

SUSPENSE! Hope you enjoyed it everyone! Thank you for reading! :)

[paradoxikalli]

The Sweetness of Spring

[SUMMARY: With a final project for one of her art classes approaching, Velvet Scarlatina was in need of someone to use as a model. Coco Adel needed professional-quality photos to finish her final project for a fashion design class, and Velvet was a talented photography student. Two strangers helping each other with schoolwork as an exchange of practicality. Nothing more.

At least...that’s what Velvet thought.]

[NOTE: Well...I knew I wouldn't get anything done in time for the various days of Crosshares Week, so I aimed for an amalgamation of all the prompts. If it seems rushed, well...I still have writer’s block, so this was hard to do. Sorry for being a few minutes late! Please enjoy it despite any shortcomings compared to my usual works.]

In April, it was always easy for Velvet to forget her troubles. The sun was bright, the gentle breeze kept the heat from getting out of hand, the air was filled with birdsong and the fragrant aromas of spring blossoms...even on the rainy days, everything seemed peaceful and happy. Of all the months, April was by far the least stressful for her. The final project deadlines for her classes were looming ever nearer in her calendar, but she wasn't concerned in the least.

"Velvet, have you thought about who you're going to draw for the final in Peach's class?" Blake's voice pulled her attention from the nest of baby birds outside the dorm window. Her roommate had her arms crossed and her expression was stern.

"I'll figure it out," Velvet promised.

"It can't be another art student. You don't have any friends who aren't art students, you're too shy to ask strangers, and you get uncomfortable when someone volunteers a friend," Blake argued logically. "The digital editing will take at least two weeks. Putting this off is not an option."

"I know..." Velvet admitted. "Who are you and the others doing for yours?"

"Well it wouldn't go over well if I tried to draw anyone but Yang, and Weiss was guilt-tripped into drawing Ruby. Ren's going to draw Pyrrha because she's patient enough to sit still as long as he needs her to."

"What about Ilia?"

"Oh, she met a creative writing major named Gwen Darcy at the coffee shop's poetry night last Friday, and they hit it off pretty well. I think they're meeting up tonight to start," Blake replied. "I have to head to lunch, but this conversation isn't over."

"I know," Velvet sighed, watching Blake pick up a small bag and walk out of the dorm. Velvet flopped down on her back atop her bed with a groan, resting the back of one hand over her forehead as she shut her eyes.

She's right...if I get too relaxed, I won't be able to finish that project in time. But how am I going to do this?

Her eyes flew open and she sat up with a start when she heard a firm knock on the door. Worried that Blake had forgotten her key, she answered the door and was immediately stunned speechless at the sight of a woman who looked like some kind of celebrity standing in the hall. There was a long stretch of silence.

"Ah, can I...help you?" Velvet managed to ask.

"Oh, right. You're Velvet Scarlatina, aren't you? You're a student in the photography program here," the woman asked.

"Y-yes, that's right," she stammered. "Wh...who...?"

"Sorry, I guess I forgot to introduce myself. I'm Coco Adel, a fashion design student."

"S-so why....are you, um...?" Velvet shifted nervously, still wary about a stranger turning up at her dorm and knowing exactly who she was.

"The thing is, for a final project, I have to not only turn something in, but turn in professional-quality photos. Instead of blowing a lot of cash on some idiot studio that won't listen to me, I thought I'd try to get you to do it," Coco explained.

"Why me, though?" Velvet scowled slightly.

"Well...I'm...kind of a fan of your work," Coco admitted, a light blush gracing her features. "I always love seeing your photos on display around campus. So if you'll help me out here, I'll owe you."

"Owe me...what, exactly?" Velvet raised an eyebrow.

"A favor. Can be anything you want, really. If you just want money, I'll write you a check."

"Actually, there is...um...you're not an art student, right?" Velvet asked, blushing.

"Nope."

"Then...would you mind if I...draw you? It's for a final project, and I don't really know anyone who's not an art student well enough to ask without them prompting me like you did, and I'm not allowed to draw an art student, and—"

"Sure," Coco agreed with a smile, cutting off Velvet's nervous ramble.

“R…really? You don’t mind?” Velvet’s eyes widened.

“Why would I?” Coco frowned. Velvet looked away.

“I just…didn’t think anyone would agree so quickly. Thank you.”

“Sure, no problem. Here, text me whenever you want to get started on the photography thing for me, and the art thing for you.” Coco held out a slip of paper with her name, cell phone number, and a heart. Velvet’s face burned.

“Ah…th-thank you…” she stammered, embarrassed. In an attempt to make herself a little less flustered, she covered the heart with her thumb when she took the paper. Coco turned to walk away and Velvet started to close the door, then stopped. “Hey, Coco?” she called.

“Hm?” Coco looked over her shoulder.

“How…did you know what dorm I’m in?” Velvet asked.

“I’ve seen a girl in one of my classes walking around with you sometimes, so I asked her,” Coco replied.

Oh, right. Ilia’s going for a minor in fashion design.

“Okay, well…I’ll text you later,” Velvet promised.

“Looking forward to it.” Coco shot her a wink, then left. Velvet shut the door and leaned back against it, then slowly slid to the floor and buried her bright red face in her hands.

Jeez, what was up with that? I mean…was she…flirting with me? No, no. There’s no way. Not someone that beautiful. She probably just has that kind of personality. But it’s still so embarrassing! How am I going to get through it when we work together? Maybe I should have said no…ah, but if Blake found out I’d passed up having a model for that final project, she’d kill me. Should I ask Ilia if she knows anything about Coco, like if she does that flirty thing with everybody? Wait, why am I so hung up on this?

Well, it’s not like Coco could be a bad person. Ilia doesn’t always make good life choices for herself, but she’s not the type who would put her friends in a bad situation. I’ll just text Coco tomorrow and get this whole thing over with. Then I can forget all about it.

After all…it’s not like Coco will stick around once we’re done with our projects.

Two days later—a Saturday—Velvet was sitting in a small gazebo in the city park. Despite the beautiful weather, no one was in this particular area, which made it a near-perfect place to start (and probably finish) what she’d arranged with Coco. Unfortunately, it was ten minutes past their agreed meeting time, and the other woman was nowhere to be found.

Where is she? Velvet checked her phone yet again to see if she’d gotten a message about why Coco was so late. Was it all just some kind of joke…?

As if on cue, Velvet’s phone started to ring. She jumped violently and nearly dropped it, barely catching it and fumbling to answer.

“Hello?”

“Velvet? It’s Coco. Sorry I’m late, I got caught up in a whiny friend’s stupid problems. You’d think someone in college would be able to handle sending a request to use a recording studio for a project in one of his music classes, but naturally, he can’t! I spent half a goddamn hour undoing his mess of paperwork for the application form and helping him redo it! I’ll be there soon, okay? So don’t leave or anything!”

“It’s fine,” Velvet sighed. “I’m still here. I’ll just start working on staging so things will be ready when you show up.”

“Really? Thanks. Sorry about this; I’ll make it up to you! For example, umm…maybe you want to go the art museum tomorrow or something?”

“Huh? We should get everything we’ll have to do together done today though…” Velvet frowned.

“Not for school. Just, y’know…to hang out?” Coco clarified, though the last three words sounded hasty, like she’d used them to replace her original thought. Velvet was stunned into silence. “Is that weird or something?”

“No! No, it’s…it’s just…I’m a little surprised. Sure, the art museum sounds fun. I’ll see you when you get here.”

“Alright. Thanks for understanding!” Coco hung up and Velvet slowly put her phone in her pocket, then leaned her head back against the wooden wall with a clunk.

Why? Why does she want to spend time with me after we don’t need each other for our schoolwork? It’s…confusing. And why did ‘to hang out’ sound like it wasn’t what she really wanted to say?

I need to stop thinking about that. Staging. Have to start on staging.

With a sigh, Velvet stood and forced the questions from her mind. The gazebo would honestly provide good lighting, so all she had to do was make sure it looked as professional as possible. Minimalism would be best, so most of what she did was toss out debris such as twigs and dead leaves. Plenty of blossoms had drifted in as well, so she removed the shriveled ones and left those that still held their beauty.

It wasn’t long before Coco arrived, carrying a leather satchel as well as a purse. Velvet couldn’t fight a smile at how embarrassed she looked at arriving late.

“Okay…” She set down her bag and purse. “Do you want to do yours first, or would you rather me do mine?”

“Ah…it won’t take me long to take the photographs you want, so we should do that first,” Velvet suggested hesitantly.

“Mmhm, sounds fine.” Coco unzipped the bag she’d brought and took out a sleek leather vest with pockets like a jacket and four gold buttons to fasten it neatly in the front. A black beret as well, then a black silk scarf with intricate gold roses stitched into it.

“You…made those yourself?” Velvet asked, admittedly awed.

“Yeah. Designed them too,” Coco confirmed. Velvet dug in her camera bag and stepped back a couple paces.

“So…how do you want these? Like a magazine, right? Maybe…a few shots with the scenery and some close-ups?” she offered.

“Honestly? That’s exactly what I had in mind,” Coco admitted with a slight smile. “Ah, if you don’t mind, I already know how I want to pose.”

“You’d be better at that anyhow. I don’t read fashion magazines a whole lot,” Velvet replied.

“Thanks for not pretending then,” Coco said, chuckling. “And after you draw me, I…have something to confess. But don’t worry about it now. Let’s just do what we need to.”

“R-right…” Velvet shifted nervously.

What the heck? What could she have to tell me? I barely know her, but she’s so complicated and confusing…it’s pretty frustrating. Well, it’s probably no big deal…

“Velvet? Uh, are you…okay?” Coco’s voice hardly registered.

“The truth is…”

“Velvet, I’m sorry. I just…I had to tell you.”

“I came to you for a selfish reason.”

Velvet was frozen, her whole body shaking

“I…I’ve met you before.”

How? How could this be?

“We were kids. About to leave middle school. You probably don’t even remember, but…I was that stupid girl who got sent to the school infirmary for fighting those guys who kept picking on you.”

It was impossible. Right?

“Pft. We’d barely even talked. It’s ancient history to you by now. But I, uh…I did that because…”

Was it a dream?

“I had the biggest damn crush on you back then. Heh. I moved away for high school and got over it…at least, I thought I did…”

It had to be a dream.

“Then I saw you on campus. I knew it was you. And it turns out—”

Stop.

“—I’ve been in love with you all this time.”

“Velvet, please…just…say something to me. Don’t just stare like that,” Coco pleaded. “I didn’t think it was fair to hide it anymore. Come on, tell me what you’re thinking! I can take it, no matter what it is.”

“I…I just…” Velvet struggled to get the words out. “I didn’t…I didn’t know it was you…”

“Huh?” Coco frowned.

“I didn’t recognize you. I’m sorry…” Velvet stared at her feet, clenching her fists. “Back then, when you did that, I…I was too shy to talk to you. I felt the same way though. I could tell you liked me, but…b-but I couldn’t say it to you. I couldn’t tell you I liked you too. And now, years later, you’re standing here and saying these things I wanted to hear. I don’t love you, but I…do like you. No one ever stuck up for me like that before. No one…”

“Velvet?” Coco took a step closer. Velvet saw her own tears staining the wood floor and squeezed her eyes shut.

“If you’re asking me out, I…I’m no good at relationships. I’ve never even had one. You might not be happy with me. It’s too risky,” Velvet choked out. “I’m better off without someone.”

“Risky?” Coco scoffed. Velvet looked up, shocked at that reaction. “Hey, I’m terrified here. But I’ll date you anyhow. Got it? You can’t squirm out of this. At least give it a shot.” She reached out and took Velvet’s hands. “Hey, it’s a perfect fit,” she added softly, interlocking their fingers. “It’s okay to take risks sometimes. It’ll be worth it. I promise.”

“O…okay,” Velvet agreed with a shaky smile. “S-so…the art museum…three o’clock.?”

“It’s a date,” Coco promised.

“You’ll show up on time?”

“I’ll show up early.”

“And if I’m late?”

“I’ll stay as long as I have to. I’m good at waiting.”

Velvet sighed and stepped forward to press against Coco, pulling her into a hug. Coco held her closer and pressed a kiss to the top of her head, letting Velvet cry into her shoulder.

April…really is my favorite month, Velvet thought, clenching her fists around the back of Coco’s vest. A cool breeze brought in the fresh scent of flowers, and she felt her nerves ease. Nothing could be better than this.

[ure-a-sunflower]

Comfort Café (Part 1)

[1 of 2]

This is just me trying to write a short fic/one shot, so please be gentle with me. I normally write long-ass stories so this is a bit of a change. Anyways, hope ya’ll enjoy it. This sounded way better in my head than it did while typing it.

Warnings: Swearing (that’s all I think???)

“Y/N” = Your Name

“So you’re actually blaming this on me now? You absolute ass! All I did for you, and this is how you’re ending things with me?!” 

Jesus, if they wanted an audience for their epic break up, they might as well have brought megaphones just to let the people across the street be informed for good measure.

“Please don’t make a scene out of this; I just wanted to talk thi-” The boyfriend whispered in an embarrassed tone that almost made me feel sorry. Take note “almost”. I’m not new to this BS.

The girlfriend (I’m assumed) took none of his bullshit and cried out, “That’s it. I am so done. Good luck finding a better girl than me!” After hurrying to grab all her stuff, performing the telenovela-worthy hair flip, and an Oscar-Winning slap against his face with the loud “SMACK”, she was out the door. I noticed another guy walk away with her, and my jaw dropped in a silent and in disbelief laugh. 

The poor EX-boyfriend just stood there, humiliated and unnerved by the amount of eyes staring at him.

The café was dead ass silent. Nobody knew what to do.

It was honestly saddening just seeing the guy and the pain right through him; but I wasn’t allowing a stranger to weigh on my 7 hour shift today.

He walked up to counter, a little limp in his walk after she just smacked him, and didn’t even try to look like he cared. Nobody was behind him, so he took as much as time he needed.

His eyes bored into the menu above us and I swear I’ve never seen someone so soulless than the girl next to me during the college finals. 

Luckily, the café seemed to have mind their own business again. I think the guy was ready to order when I immediately just had to get it off my chest.

“Hey, um,” I stuttered to say, completely regretting opening my mouth as he turned to me, “I’m really sorry about what happened to you earlier.”

The guy seemed startled at my shot at small talk, which made me want to grab the blowtorch by the kitchen and slowly cremate myself slowly into ashes.

“Oh, uh, don’t be sorry. That scene was all my fault anyways,” he replied. I mean he ain’t lying. If he thought it was fine to bring his chihuahua of a girlfriend for a break up inside the cheaper version of Starbucks, he thought wrong. “Um, by the way, I’m really sorry of the disturbance we caused earlier.” 

Aww, poor baby. His voice sounded so raspy and a little broken. God damn it, I could shove my head into the cash register and just scream.

Why am I like this?!

“Anyways, I just want a regular cappuccino. That’s it.” I snapped back from my thoughts when I remembered the situation I was in. My hands fumbled to type his order into the computer. There was an awkward silence after I tell him the cost and the noise of a receipt printing.

He gave me a small smile as I handed the receipt and one of those circular things that light up when the order was ready to take. As he walked away from me, I slumped myself against the counter. I swear, the vibes this guy’s giving me.

Heavy rain began to pour outside, evoking a sigh of relief from my chest. Nobody was likely to walk in here at this weather unless they were that shamefully desperate for either a) a drink or b) wifi.

I turned to the other young barista here, who was about to prepare the cappuccino. A thought came in my head that I all of a sudden followed. “Hey, Greg, lemme take this order. You can’t do cappuccino designs right- Yeah, anyways, can you take over the register for a few minutes? Thanks.” Greg shuffles to the cash register in a bored manner and I took over what he started.

After I waited for the hot water to fill the cup, I glanced at the same spot the scene happened earlier to catch ex-boyfriend, re-claiming the seats. He sat down, and almost immediately did something like a tissue drop from his pocket.

He just stared at it from his seat and rolled his eyes tiredly. From the way he acted, there was no damn way he had the energy to even get off his ass. The tissue was then left entirely ignored.

Honestly, what a fucking mood.

I look back at the cup and carry it to the side. But as I stir, the guilt and empathy in me started to make me feel sick. 

News flash: Yes, I have a heart. 

Like, maybe I should add a small cookie as a “hey, man, hope ya recover”. I don’t know?

Christ, what the fuck. Since when did I give a crap about customers? This is the time for me to like, I don’t know, roast the guy in my head ‘cause it looks like he can’t handle anymore verbally.

Though, I couldn’t help but pity him. He really did look broken; like he didn���t want any of it to happen. 

I was dumped only a few months ago and I knew how it felt. The ass cheated and turned the thing around on me. In front of everyone at a party. Like in those cartoons where a fucking piano would drop out of nowhere even when it’s being lifted outside the window and nothing made sense but you still never questioned it.

Despite how I knew better, the heaviness of my ex’s words never left my brain for weeks. God, I was going to lose my insanity if I didn’t manage to slap myself and get my shit together. And after that, I don’t really want anyone to suffer that bad I did. 

Anyways, screw those moments. About the guy in the sofa.

Ignoring my second thoughts and for some reason giving a mental screw it while preparing, I finish the drink and walked over to the glass cases. I grab a small container of ice cream, a bottle of iced tea, and a slice of mousse (with Greg not really caring to ask what I was doing. Not that he should, really.) Those are usually stuff I’d eat when searching for comfort food... in a café-esque way, right? Surely other people would too.

My wallet’s gonna call my ass out later. I hate myself. Why am I like this.

I shake away my thoughts and finish his original order. Placing all the additional stuff and the cappuccino on a tray, I held it with (for some reason) a nervous grip while I marched to his spot.

Maybe it was my introverted-ness that goes off every now and then whenever it likes, but I kept on feeling like it was my instincts just terrified of... y’know, him turning down the stuff I have now officially bought for him.

I was basically afraid of rejection. Fuck- just great.

Standing before his table, I noticed he was on his phone and was completely in another world. One leg was crossed over the other and his attention and soul were glued to his screen. The circular beeping thing was on his lap, but since I delivered his order to him without calling his order, I had a hunch he wouldn’t really expect me.  

I smiled sheepishly (as if he would even notice) and lowered the tray, which must’ve surprised him, as he jumped into a proper sitting position. He looked down to see the food and was somewhat baffled.

“Uh, I thought I was going to-“ He gestured to the beeper and I chuckled while shaking my head, taking it from him. “It’s fine. I just thought you wouldn’t really want to walk after I saw you look so... post break-up broken and that kind of shit.”

The guy chuckled under his breath and picked up the cappuccino from the tray. “Well, thanks,” he searched for my name tag, “Y/N.”

When I started to leave, he called out, “Wait, Y/N! I didn’t order this!”

“Oh, yeah, it’s on the house.”

And with his jaw left hanging, I returned to my shift.

It was 37 minutes before my shift was about to end, and I could finally leave. Doing a little stretch behind the counter, I didn’t mean to catch sight of ex-boyfriend, still occupying that sofa, and still looking... I don’t know, depressed? It had been three hours and honestly, he didn’t show any sign of budging.

The rain only grew harder which made it seem reasonable for him not to leave yet; but I mean, the guy was carrying an umbrella and his keys were on the table so what was he waiting for? Jesus to descend and tell him to get his shit together?

Wow, Y/N, stalker much?

I immediately turned away but as I did, I felt eyes looking into back of my head. He must’ve caught me staring at his direction.

He gave me an exasperated smile, and before I knew it, I was now standing by his table. “Hey, dude, I really don’t want to like, invade your privacy or whatever, but my shift’s coming to an end and I just wanted to see if you want to talk about anything. I know it’s unusual for someone like me to check on your wellbeing, especially at the setting we’re in, but you really look like you need company. Don’t want you jumping off a bridge or anything.” 

Ex-boyfriend didn’t say anything for a few seconds and I was now horrified at the fact that he was probably about to awkwardly shoo me away.

“Well, I was hoping you could finish your shift then maybe sit here with me for a while?