#umbrella stand on rollers

[lilhughesy]

Baby, It’s You. | Luke Hughes x Fem!Reader, (feat. Ethan Edwards x Best Friend!Reader)

warnings! enemies to friends to enemies to lovers, angsty, mean!Luke, mentions of drinking, stress, slow burn lol, oh and Luke being a dick. word count: 25.5k (im so sorry)

summary: You are the sports media intern for the UMich hockey team which is so great because your best friend, Ethan Edwards, plays for the team. However, his friend and your arch nemesis is also on the team and his name is Luke Hughes. He gets the most joy by pestering you without realizing the effects it had on you.

a/n: another lukey fic for you guys! I tried something new by changing up how I typically write Luke and how I wrote this in general and I am so sorry that it is so long and lowkey super repetitive... I wanted to capture the push and pull between them but I think I went overboard. This was my first time writing enemies to lovers so please be nice if it’s actually awful😭 Anyways, I hope you enjoy it!

The fluorescent lights above buzzed faintly, casting a sterile glow over the too-white walls with scratches from chairs scraping against the paint a couple of times, and the scuffed linoleum floor of the student athlete resource center. The buzz of the printer echoed in the mostly empty area in addition to the occasional crunching of the paper jamming halfway through the rollers. The place smelled faintly of printer ink, stress, and forgotten coffee cups.

You stood at the front of the print station, one hand clutching onto the edge of the table, the other pressing the Reprint button repeatedly, “I swear, this machine has a personal vendetta against me.”

Ethan Edwards laughed behind you, the sound warm and easy, like it always was with him, “Maybe it just knows you’re not officially on the team and feels threatened.”

You shot him a playful glare over your shoulder, “Hey, I’m helping you with your disaster of a paperwork situation, you should at least be nice.”

He grinned with his expression unbothered, “You're right, I’m sorry. You’re an angel. A queen, and coach would have my head if I forgot to bring in these papers again”

You snorted, rolling your eyes at him, “These forms are the only thing standing between Michigan Hockey and NCAA travel sanctions.”

Ethan leaned on the counter beside you, his Wolverines jacket slightly rumpled, a half-empty shaker bottle in one hand. His eyes were crinkled at the corners from laughing too much. You’d met him in Sport Management 101 your first semester of college. He’d been one of the only athletes who actually participated in discussion and didn’t act like the class was a punishment. You’d bonded over a shared love for Canadian sports teams, given that you two are both from Canada. He was the kind of friend who texted you links to ridiculous sports Instagram posts at 2 a.m. and brought you a spare umbrella when the forecast betrayed you. Ethan never tried to be more than your friend, never crossed a line, and in a major where networking often blurred into flirting, that made him gold.

“You still owe me for this,” You said, stacking the semi-wrinkled waivers into a neat pile.

He nodded, “A week of bagels, I know. I’m thinking cinnamon sugar. Toasted. Maybe with a cold brew as a chaser?”

You handed him the last sheet with an amused smile, “And this is why you’re my favourite.”

“Tell that to Luke,” Ethan mumbled under his breath. You stiffened slightly at the mention of his name, but before you could reply, the door swung open with a squeak of the hinges.

Speaking of the actual devil, Luke Hughes walked in, dragging the sharp chill of the fall air with him. His team hoodie clung to his frame, still damp from sweat. His skates were slung over his shoulder by the laces, the metal blades clinking faintly with each step. His curly hair was a mess of dark blonde, his jawline sharp, his eyes sharper.

His eyes landed on you instantly, and his expression shifted from neutral to unmistakably irritated in a split second.

“Oh,” He said flatly, “It’s you.”

You didn’t even flinch, “Unfortunately.”

He turned to Ethan, “You ready? Coach is losing his mind about ice time.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Ethan replied, picking up the forms that you had stacked up for him, “We’re good. She helped me print them.”

Luke glanced at the stack in your hands, then at you, eyebrows arching like he couldn’t believe what he was hearing, “Didn’t know they taught you how to print in sport management.”

“Didn’t know they taught you how to be a dick in hockey, I guess we’re both learning new things today,” You shot back with your eyebrows raised. 

Ethan shifted his weight uncomfortably, clearly sensing the growing tension, “Okay, cool. I love this banter. Let’s… save this energy for the game tomorrow, Hughesy.”

You took a step forward, plopping the stack of papers in Ethan’s hands a little harder than necessary, “Here, good luck with whatever this season turns into.”

You were halfway out the door when Luke’s voice followed you, as smooth and smug as ever, “You know, some of us are actually going places.”

You stopped in your tracks and slowly, you turned around to face him. He was still leaning against the wall like he had all the time in the world, arms crossed, half-grin playing at the corners of his mouth.

“My skills come naturally, y’know,” He said. “It’s basically genetic, like my brothers both play in the NHL and I’m already drafted. So while I’m signing pro contracts, you’ll be figuring out how to pay off your student loans for the next ten years.”

The words landed like a slap. But instead of backing down, you met his eyes and smiled sweetly.

“Wow,” You scoffed, “Was being an asshole also mandatory when getting drafted? Or is that just the online hype getting to your head?”

Something flickered in his expression, barely noticeable. You didn’t wait for him to answer, you turned on your heel and walked out, letting the heavy door swing closed behind you.

Outside, the crisp late September air bit at your cheeks, but you welcomed it. Anything to clear the residue of Luke Hughes off your skin. He was the only person who could make a hockey rink feel like a battlefield.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

You hadn’t meant to walk past Yost.

The smart thing would’ve been to take the long way around, down State Street, away from the thick smell of rubber pucks, melting ice, and testosterone. But your marketing lecture had let out early, and your shortcut to your apartment required you to go straight through the arena’s lobby.

The glass doors creaked as you pushed them open. Inside, the air was cooler, the walls were lined with black-and-white photos of championship teams and action shots of hockey legends frozen in time, and Luke Hughes among them, of course.

You kept your eyes down, footsteps quiet on the slick floor. The rink was alive behind the glass, with players slicing across the ice, barked instructions from a coach echoing off the boards. The clatter of sticks and skates blended with the distant hum of the Zamboni, like the building was vibrating with movement.

You were halfway across the lobby when a familiar voice cut through the static.

“Hey,”

Your shoulders tensed before you even turned around. He leaned against the wall just outside the locker room, damp curls sticking to his forehead, sleeves of his Michigan hoodie pushed up his forearms. He looked like he’d just walked off the ice, and right back into your personal space.

You paused, “Don’t you have calls to argue about or something?”

He grinned, all sharp edges and irritating confidence, “I was hoping you’d swing by. Wanted to thank you for earlier, your printing skills were truly elite.”

You tilted your head slightly, “You’re still hung up on that? You must be exhausted from all the grudges you’re carrying.”

Luke pushed off the wall with lazy ease, “Not a grudge. Just a public service. Thought I’d give you a little reality check before your delusions got out of hand.”

You blinked, stunned by the sheer nerve of him, “Excuse me?”

“You act like you’re some rising exec by being in sports management,” He said, stepping closer, “But let’s be honest, you hang around the team like it’ll magically get you somewhere. Like it’s just your golden ticket to the press box, or maybe to dating someone on the roster.”

Your pulse pounded in your ears, “I’m in this program because I actually want a career in sports,” You snapped with your voice low, “Not that I owe you an explanation.”

Luke raised an eyebrow, clearly unbothered, “Sure, whatever helps you sleep at night.”

“You think being drafted makes you untouchable. But you’re just another kid with a big name coasting on your back.”

That landed. You saw it, the moment his jaw clenched slightly. His smirk dipped for half a second. But then it was back,

“Don’t act like you know me,” He told you with his voice firm

“Oh, believe me, I don’t want to,” You shot back, “But unfortunately, you keep making that impossible.”

“Wow. You guys really going for Round Two today?” Ethan appeared at the end of the hallway, his hair still wet from a post-practice shower. He looked between you and Luke like he’d just walked into the middle of a fight he hadn’t agreed to referee.

Luke stepped back, his eyes still locked on yours, “Just offering her some career advice.”

“Yeah,” You muttered, brushing past him, “Let me know when you’re finally qualified to give it.”

You pushed through the exit doors, cold air hitting your face in an instant, wind threading through your hair like ice. It wasn’t just that Luke was rude. It was that he saw you and chose to treat you like you didn’t belong. Like your ambition was cute but pointless. Like you’d never belong in the world of sports. 

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

You stood near the long folding table by the windows, clipboard in one hand, your other hand rifling through a pile of jerseys that weren’t in the right order. Your hair kept falling in your face, sticking slightly from the humidity that rose with the sheer body heat in the room. You pushed it back absently, scanning the team media schedule you’d printed that morning.

Behind you, Ethan Edwards was laughing at something one of the freshmen players had said, but he still caught your eye every few minutes to make sure you were doing okay. You appreciated that about him, how he always managed to make sure you didn’t feel like just background noise.

He wandered over to you between photoshoots, “You surviving the chaos?”

You laughed lightly, “Barely, they keep knocking the sponsor signs off the walls. I’ve re-taped the same Tim Hortons logo four times.”

“Honestly, you’re the only reason this thing is running at all,” Ethan said, peeling the backing off a fresh name tag and handing it to you, “They should put you on payroll.”

You shrugged, “It’s just part of the internship, it helps my resume.”

“Still, you didn’t have to stay this late, I thought you’d be long gone by now.”

You smiled at that, “You said you wanted to hang out after, remember? I figured I’d earn it first by helping out your team”

Ethan looked like he was about to say something else but then the locker room door swung open with a solid thud, and the temperature in the room seemed to drop. Luke Hughes walked in, late as always. His shoulder pads still on beneath his school-branded jersey, a helmet tucked under one arm. His cheeks were flushed from the cold of the rink, and his eyes landed on you almost immediately.

Something in his posture changed, but you didn’t look away. Luke’s gaze dragged across the room, and then his voice cut through the chaos, smooth and loud enough to turn heads, “Oh. She’s still around? I thought she would’ve made other friends by now.”

The words floated in the air for a second too long. Your heart dropped and you froze, caught in that horrible space between wanting to say something and not wanting to give him the satisfaction of knowing he’d gotten under your skin.

A few of the guys laughed awkwardly, but most went quiet.

Ethan’s face dropped instantly. “Hughesy, chill dude.”

Luke shrugged as started unlacing his skates, completely unaffected.

You tried to brush it off, and try not to let the tears build up in your eyes. But the room suddenly felt too loud, too bright, too small.

“I should just go,” You said quietly to no one in particular as you quickly wiped the threatening tears away from your eyes while you shoved your things into your bag.

“No, hey,” Ethan stepped between you and the doorway with his hand out, “No stay, c’mon you said you’d hang out today.”

“Maybe on your walk back, you can meet some girls you can actually be friends with,” Luke chirped without looking at you, “Then you’ll have someone to hang out with instead of showing up here every day.”

Silence fell again but this time, no one laughed. Not even Mark, who normally matched Luke’s sarcasm beat for beat, looked down at his phone and said nothing.

You felt your throat tighten as you clutched the strap of your bag, “I just—” You started, barely holding your voice steady, “I should go… I’m sorry Eddy, maybe another time.”

You shoved the clipboard you held gently into Ethan’s chest and turned toward the hallway, footsteps echoing too loud in the silence that followed. You didn’t hear Luke say anything else, though whether he actually stopped or you just blocked him out, you weren’t sure.

Ethan caught up with you a few seconds later, his brows furrowed with a mix of concern and quiet frustration. You shook your head at him, biting the inside of your cheek hard enough to sting.

“Are you okay?” He asked softly

You looked up at him, “I’m really sorry, Eddy. I just… I don’t want to be there if I’m not welcome. I don’t get why he’s still acting like this,” You told him before you paused as your voice cracked slightly, “It’s been over a year. I was hoping he’d drop the bit by now.”

Ethan sighed, running his hand through his hair, “Me too. I thought he had.”

You crossed your arms, hugging yourself without realizing it, “I don’t even care that he doesn’t like me, but I know that I don’t deserve to be humiliated in front of half the team.”

“You don’t,” Ethan’s jaw tightened, “And if he says anything like that again, I’ll call him out harder.”

“I don’t want you to fight my battles,” You told him gently, still trying to hold onto your pride, “I just want to do my job and not feel like I’m a joke for showing up.”

Ethan nodded, like he understood on a level deeper than just sympathy.

You took a breath, mainly to steady yourself, “Thanks for coming after me.”

“Always,” He said with a gentle squeeze to your shoulder, “You’re not alone in this.”

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The post-media day haze settled like a fog over the house as each of the boys slowly walked in, dropping their hockey bags by the door. A half-eaten pizza box lay open on the coffee table, the TV screen glowed with some muted sports replay, and the clatter of video game controllers had faded into nothing. The guys were around, with some on their phones, others talking in low voices, but for once it wasn’t loud.

He hadn’t said a word since you left Yost. Not when Ethan went after you with that look on his face. Not when Mark gave him that sharp, disappointed shake of the head. Not when no one cracked a joke to break the tension in the media room.

He sat slouched at the end of the couch, bouncing his knee, a lukewarm Gatorade bottle clutched in one hand. The kind of silence that stretched on too long had always made him feel itchy, like he was standing on a sheet of thin ice, and everyone else could hear it cracking but him.

God, what the hell had he said? He reflected on how the words had come out fast, too fast. That smug, sharp tone that always cut too deep when he let it. He hadn’t meant it the way it landed. Except maybe he had.

The front door opened, cool night air slipping in as another one of his housemates entered the house. He heard them shut it behind themselves with more force than necessary. The guys kept their heads down, Luke didn’t look up until Ethan dropped into the chair across from him.

“You seriously need to cut the shit,” Ethan told him, his voice wasn’t loud, but there was an edge in it and disappointment. A lot of it.

Luke exhaled, slow and heavy, “It was a joke.”

Ethan’s laugh was empty, “You think that was funny?” He asked, “Making her feel like garbage in front of everyone?”

Luke shrugged, jaw tight, “She doesn’t need you to defend her. She gives it back just fine.”

“Yeah, she does. But that’s not the point, Luke,” Ethan leaned forward as elbows pressed onto his knees, “You don’t get it, do you?”

Luke didn’t answer and Ethan continued to stare at him, “You think she’s just some girl hanging around the team for fun?”

“She’s always around,” Luke mumbled, with a roll of his eyes, “It’s not like-”

“She’s around because she’s doing work,” Ethan snapped, “The kind of work no one thanks her for. The kind of work that makes our lives easier.”

Luke blinked, clearly taken aback from Ethan’s tone.

“You ever filled out a compliance form? Coordinated team travel with six guys forgetting to turn in their info? Talked to a professor to help get someone excused from a class for away games?” Ethan’s voice rose, “No? Because she does all of that. Quietly. Without complaint.”

Luke opened his mouth, but nothing came out.

“She goes to class, works a part-time job, handles internship stuff, runs media days, helps keep the coaching staff sane, and still finds time to show up and support this team more than half of the people getting scholarships to play here.”

Luke stared at the floor, his throat dry and his fingers fumbling with the silicon bracelet that surrounded the rim of his gatorade bottle.

“And you treat her like she’s in the way,” Ethan’s voice had dropped to a low tone, “Like she’s some annoying fan who doesn’t belong.”

A beat passed, then Ethan added, “She told me the other day she thinks you hate her.”

Luke sat back further into the couch cushions. He hadn’t realized she thought that, but he remembered the look on her face from earlier. The way her voice cracked when she said she should just go. The look in her eyes when she apologized to Ethan, like she was the one at fault. Like he hadn’t just dragged her down in front of the entire team for a quick laugh.

“I don’t hate her,” Luke said, but even to his own ears, it didn’t sound convincing.

“Then what is it?” Ethan asked, softer now, “Because if you like her, you’ve got the worst way of showing it. And if you don’t, then why can’t you leave her the hell alone?”

Luke didn’t answer. He didn’t know how to explain the way something in him twisted up whenever he saw you laughing with the guys, how he hated that it felt like you fit in better than he did sometimes. That you didn’t carry the weight he did, of the Hughes name, the fourth overall draft pick, the spotlight, and still shined like it came naturally. Like you didn’t have to try.

That when you looked at him, he couldn’t tell if you saw Luke Hughes, third brother, NHL-bound golden boy... or just Luke, who didn’t know what the hell he was doing half the time.

“She didn’t want to make it awkward,” Ethan told him, “She just wanted to help and you made her feel like an inconvenience.”

Luke looked up from his lap to his friend who was already staring back at him.

“You’re gonna go pro,” Ethan continued as he kept his voice gentle, “You’ve got everything lined up. But if you keep pushing people like her away, you’re going to get there and find out you lost something way more important.”

And with that, Ethan stood and walked down out of the living room, his footsteps fading up the stairs and into his bedroom. Luke sat in his same position on the couch, he leaned forward, elbows on his knees, eyes fixed on the floor as he thought back to your interactions that day.

You didn’t go to the rink the next day, you didn’t even leave your apartment. Your desk lamp was the only source of light in the room, casting a warm glow across your cluttered desk, dimly lighting over your half-finished notes. Outside the window of your bedroom, morning had come and gone, unnoticed. The sky was overcast, soft and heavy with the threat of rain and occasionally, wind rattled the loose pane in the top corner of the glass.

You pulled your sweatshirt tighter around your frame with your legs tucked beneath you in the chair by your desk. One hand rested on your trackpad, aimlessly scrolling through your mock proposal for University of Michigan Sports and Athletics’ Management Department though you hadn’t read a word of what you have written in the past twenty minutes.

It didn’t matter. You couldn’t focus. Not after yesterday. Your mind drifted back to the locker room, the scuffed tile floors, the sharp tang of sweat and men’s deodorant in the air, the echo of camera shutters, of laughter that didn’t feel like it included you. And then, his voice. That perfectly timed jab that landed like a punch to the chest, right in front of everyone.

“Oh she’s still around? I thought she would’ve made friends by now.”

You hadn’t said anything. Just laughed awkwardly, a fragile sound that cracked at the edges. And then you left, before your throat could fully close and before anyone could see your face fall.

You were drawn out of your trance when your phone buzzed for the third time that morning.

Ethan :) : Hey, you good?

Ethan :) : We’re doing promo photos. You usually run the form chart, remember?

Ethan :) : Melanie said you haven’t been in all day, where are you?

You bit your lip, staring at the screen, thumb hovering. The memory of Luke’s smirk flickered in your mind, rather than responding to Ethan like you usually did, you opted to turn your phone facedown. Let them figure it out without you for once.

The air in your room felt heavier than usual, like it hadn’t been moved in hours. Maybe it hadn’t. You hadn’t opened a window and you didn’t shower in the morning like normal. The coffee from this morning was still sitting in the mug beside your laptop, now cold and untouched.

It wasn’t just the embarrassment that was chewing away inside of you. It was the accumulation. You’d worked your ass off all freshman year to prove you could hang in the sport management world, especially one so saturated with guys who either underestimated you or overestimated your interest in them. But you did it. You'd navigated the politics of team culture, built trust, juggled fifteen-hour weeks between your classes and your assignments, and somehow made it all work.

And still, with just one careless comment, Luke Hughes had managed to reduce all of that to nothing. Like you were just there, tagging along, tolerated but not wanted. Worse, no one really stood up for you.  Even Ethan, who you knew meant well, had tried to smooth it over like it was just Luke being Luke. It wasn’t some harmless teasing joke anymore, not when it had chipped away at your confidence, your joy, and your reason for showing up.

You exhaled shakily and clicked to your email inbox. One new message notification.

From: Coach Email Subject: Missed you at the rink, everything alright? Hey Y/N. Noticed that you didn't show up today for team photos. Just checking to see if you're alright.

You hesitated, your fingers hovering over your keyboard as you debated your options. You could lie and say you had a midterm or caught the flu. Something they’d believe, no questions asked. Instead, your fingers typed something honest.

From: Y/N Email Subject: Re: Missed you at the rink, everything alright? Hi Coach. Would it be possible to reassign me from hockey media duties for a few weeks? I think it might be good to rotate to another varsity team. I’m happy to take on football or rugby if coverage is needed. — Y/N.

You stared at the blinking cursor for a moment before pressing send while inhaling sharply, within seconds, a response message appeared in your inbox

From: Coach Email Subject: Re: Missed you at the rink, everything alright? Understood. Thanks for the heads-up. We’ll switch you to football for now. Hope all is well.

You leaned back in your chair, your eyes still glued to the email as you tried to accept your changing reality.

Outside, the wind finally delivered on its promise. Rain began tapping against the window in soft, uneven rhythms. First as a drizzle, then steadily, soaking the glass and blurring the view of North Campus in watercolor streaks.

You watched students walk by on the sidewalks in front of your house, each under umbrellas, some sprinting for cover, some strolling like they had nowhere to be. Each of them moving, existing, belonging. And you? You felt frozen and stuck in a space you had once loved, now made hollow by one boy’s casual cruelty.

Your phone vibrated against your desk again.

Ethan :) : Wasn’t the same without you today.

Ethan :) : Let me know if you want to talk.

You stared at his text message, you sighed and typed out a reply, deleted it, and tried again.

You: Hey. Sorry I’ve been off. Yesterday just kind of… sucked.

You didn’t know what else to say to Ethan, and Ethan, ever the fast replier, his response came.

Ethan :) : Yeah, I know. I’m sorry, he was way out of line. I talked to him last night.

Ethan :) : You didn’t deserve that, okay?

You closed your eyes and you wished you could believe him. You wished the ache in your chest didn’t twist tighter at the thought of walking back into that locker room, or bumping into Luke in the hallway, or sitting next to players who had laughed but said nothing.

So instead, you stayed wrapped in your hoodie, feet curled beneath you, fingers tracing the rim of your forgotten coffee cup. You opened your planner and started filling in blocks with highlighters, pretending that color-coded to-do lists were enough to restore control, but you found yourself staring blankly at the pages. And for the first time in a while, you let yourself cry.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The locker room had long emptied out, but Luke stayed in his locker with his phone in hand as he texted his brothers. His curls were sticking to the back of his neck and his hoodie was draped over his lap. The air reeked of sweat and stale Gatorade, the blinding lights above casting their dim yellow tinge that made everything look more tired.

He didn’t know why he hadn’t left yet, even though he was certain that his teammates and housemates had already gone back. Just that something about the silence tightened the knot in his chest. Then he heard Ethan’s voice from down the hall, “Hey, hey, slow down. I can barely hear you.”

His tone was unfamiliar, nothing like the playful Ethan that Luke was used to hearing. His voice was gentle but strained. Luke sat up straighter.

Ethan was near the coaches’ offices, standing in that narrow hallway with his phone pressed tight to his ear. His back was to the wall, shoulders slightly hunched like your voice on the other end of the call might crack if he breathed too loud.

Luke didn’t need to ask who he was talking to, he already knew.

Your name wasn’t said. It didn’t have to be. There was a trembling edge in Ethan’s voice, and in the silence between his words, Luke could hear you sniffling, breathing in those tiny hitched gasps that meant you were crying and trying not to be and something cold twisted in his gut.

“Where are you right now?” Ethan asked you, there was a pause that was filled with silence. Luke looked away. He hated himself for listening, hated himself even more for wanting to, “You don’t have to apologize, alright? You’ve done so much for us, hell, we’d be lost without you half the time.”

Another pause, “I mean it. None of the guys know what you're juggling. You show up early, stay late, you handle everything. And you never ask for anything in return.”

Luke’s heart dropped like a stone in his chest. He had noticed those things, every one of them. He’d noticed how you always showed up to the rink earlier than anyone, laptop in hand, hair still wet from your morning shower. How your shoulders stiffened every time the locker room doors opened and you had to brace for whatever mess someone left for you. He noticed how you never complained. How you always figured it out and he’d respond with sarcasm and smug little digs, like an idiot.

Ethan’s voice was quieter, “I'm coming to get you, okay? Just tell me where you are.”

Luke turned slightly, just enough to glance around the corner and that’s when Ethan saw him. The glare he sent felt like a slap. It wasn’t fury. It was disappointment, deeper and sharper than anger ever could be.

Ethan shifted the phone slightly away from his mouth, “You hear that?” He asked him, “She’s crying right now because of the way she’s been treated around here.”

Luke couldn’t breathe and his jaw remained clenched. Ethan stepped forward, voice rising just enough to slice through the stillness, “You think this is just some joke? That teasing her is funny? You think she didn’t show up today for no reason?”

Luke opened his mouth, but the words dried up before they formed.

“She skipped today. Reassigned herself to another team,” Ethan snapped, “And I don’t blame her.”

He looked Luke up and down, shaking his head, “You have no idea what she gives up for us. She stays late editing your goddamn interviews. She helps organize schedules, puts out fires we start, reminds guys about deadlines we all ignore. She makes this entire operation work, and you make her feel like a fucking joke.”

Luke couldn’t look him in the eye because every word was true.

“You act like you’re the only one under pressure. Like your problems are heavier than everyone else’s. And maybe they are. But that doesn’t give you the right to treat her like she’s beneath you,” Ethan stepped toward the door now, phone back to his ear, “I don’t know what your problem is,” He mumbled, half to himself, 

“But if this is how you treat someone who gives a shit about you… maybe you’re not the guy I thought you were.” Ethan told Luke firmly as he threw his letterman jacket over his shoulder and grabbed his bag. He headed out of the locker room and gave one last look over his shoulder, “You want to be a leader? Then stop pretending you don’t care now that she’s gone.”

And then he left. Luke sank back into his locker, the weight in his chest collapsing in on itself like an implosion. Your voice, choked and quiet, haunted the edges of his memory.

The house was silent with your roommates out for the night. You sat curled up in the corner of your couch, knees tucked close to your chest, a throw blanket draped over your shoulders like some kind of protective armor. The tears had come and gone, leaving your eyes dry and sore. Every time you blinked, you felt the sting of regret, the regret that you couldn’t just brush it off. The way Luke had treated you, the way he’d smiled with that arrogant little tilt of his head. You had almost convinced yourself it didn’t matter. That it didn’t hurt.

But it did.

A soft knock on your door jolted you from your thoughts. You didn’t even have to check the time to know it was Ethan. It had been twenty minutes since you’d hung up with him, and you could feel the weight of his concern lingering even through the distance between your two worlds.

You stood, letting the blanket fall from your shoulders, and walked over to the door. Your legs felt heavy, like they weren’t entirely your own as you unlocked the door.

Ethan stood there, the cool night air behind him, carrying the faint scent of rain. His eyes softened when he saw you, his brows pulling together in a way that made your chest tighten. He looked like he was trying to keep it together, just like you had been trying to do.

"Hey," he said, his voice gentle but firm, like a steady hand reaching through the chaos, "I’m here."

You nodded, stepping back so he could enter. The door clicked softly behind you, sealing you both inside the small, dimly lit home. Ethan didn’t waste time. He walked toward the couch and when he sat down beside you, the space between you felt vast despite how close he was.

“Are you okay?” He asked, his voice barely above a whisper, as if afraid the wrong question would send you further into yourself. You wanted to lie, to say you were fine, but you couldn’t at least not to him. You shook your head, not trusting your voice. Instead, you wrapped your arms tighter around your knees, curling into yourself.

The silence stretched, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was the kind of silence that felt like understanding, like Ethan knew you didn’t need words right now, just presence. He’d always been that way, a friend who could sit with you in your mess without expecting you to explain.

After a few minutes, Ethan sighed deeply, and when he spoke again, his words were measured, like he’d been holding them back for a while.

“Listen… I know you don’t want to hear this right now, but you need to hear it.” He hesitated as you glanced at him, his gaze steady but full of something else. Worry? Pain? You weren’t too sure, but it made your throat tighten.

“I hate seeing you like this,” He told you, “I hate seeing you put yourself last just to clean up our messes. You’ve been doing that for way too long.”

You blinked, unsure of how to process his words. You weren’t sure if you’d ever heard him talk like this. Ethan continued, his voice growing more intense, “You take care of everyone else, Luke, Mark, all of us. But who takes care of you when you’re the one falling apart?”

The truth of it hit you hard, but you couldn’t let him see that. You didn’t want to seem weak, especially not now, “I’m fine, Ethan,” You said, your voice shaky but trying to sound confident, “I’m just tired.”

His eyes softened, and he shook his head lowly, “No, you’re not and you’re burning out, and I can’t stand watching you do that to yourself.”

You swallowed thickly, biting your lip to keep the tears at bay. But they were there, just below the surface, and you could feel them threatening to spill again.

“Luke…” you started, your voice soft and shaky, but you couldn’t finish. 

Ethan didn’t interrupt. He just looked at you, his gaze understanding, “He’s an idiot, you know that, right? You deserve better than that. You deserve someone who doesn’t make you feel like you’re invisible just because you’re not on a damn hockey rink. You’re smart, you’re hardworking, and you matter.”

The truth in his words, the way he said them like they were facts, made something break inside you. You looked down at your hands and holding your tears back,

“He’s not a bad guy,” You whispered, your voice so small you barely recognized it, “He just... he doesn’t see me, Ethan. Not really.”

Ethan’s face softened, his hand reaching out to gently pull your chin up, forcing you to meet his gaze, “He does see you, but he’s too scared to admit it.”

You blinked up at him, confusion and disbelief swirling in your chest, “What do you mean?”

He sighed, running a hand across his jaw, frustration flickering across his features, “Luke doesn’t know how to handle someone like you.” His words came slowly, as if he was trying to choose them carefully, “He’s not used to people who don’t fit into his world of high expectations and constant pressure. You’ve got it all together in ways he never will and that makes him uncomfortable. So he pushes you away,”

You opened your mouth, but Ethan quickly cut you off.

“I know you think it’s you, but it’s not. It’s him, okay? He’s the one who’s scared.”

Your chest tightened at the weight of his words. For the first time, you wondered if maybe it had never been about you. Maybe it was always about him. You took a deep breath, the air feeling thicker now. You had no idea what the next step was, or if there even was one. 

Ethan’s eyes softened as he watched you, his hand still resting lightly on yours and giving your hand a reassuring squeeze, “You don’t have to do this alone,” He told you softly,. “I’ve got your back. I always will.”

You squeezed his hand back, grateful for his unwavering presence, but still, part of you wished you could just step away from the mess of it all. 

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The sound of your phone buzzing on the table in the library barely registered at first. You were focused, as always, on the pile of work in front of you. A mix of emails, assignments, and team-related documents from the last few days had kept you buried in your thoughts. But when your phone buzzed again, the name that flashed across the screen made your stomach twist.

Luke.

You stared at the message for a long moment before reluctantly tapping on the notification. It wasn’t the first time he had tried to reach out, but the sting from his words and actions still hurt you enough to make you not want to reply.

Luke Hughes: Can we talk? I’m sorry. I really need to say something. Meet me at the rink?

You didn’t know what you expected, but something about seeing him try made you hesitate. But the words that followed weren’t what you had hoped for. They felt like empty promises. And you had spent far too much time dealing with apologies that came too late.

You typed back a quick reply before you could talk yourself out of it.

You: Fine. But I’m not sure there’s anything left to say.

He stood at the edge of the rink, hands shoved deep in his jacket pockets, the cold air nipping at his face. The glow from the bright lights above reflected off the ice, casting a soft sheen on everything below. His gaze flickered back toward the entrance, where you were supposed to meet him. His heart pounded, he wasn’t too sure why, but the weight of this conversation felt heavier than any game he had ever played.

It wasn’t like him to apologize. It wasn’t even something he was good at, but Ethan’s words had been haunting him for the past few days, replaying in his mind with every mistake he’d made, every moment he had taken for granted. If there was one thing he knew about himself, it was that he was good at running away from his problems.

When you walked into the rink, your face was hard to read. The walls you’d built up around yourself were even stronger now, like you were trying to make it clear that you didn’t even want to be there. You stopped a few steps away from him, arms crossed over your chest, your eyes studying him with an unreadable expression.

"I’m here," You said flatly, your voice echoing slightly in the large space of the rink, "So say what you need to say."

Luke swallowed, trying to push the lump in his throat down, trying to find the words that he had been avoiding, "I—" He paused, running a hand over his face, "I’m sorry. For everything. The way I’ve treated you. The way I’ve acted. I know I’ve been a complete asshole,"

He looked at you, trying to read your reaction, but your face remained neutral, like you were shutting him out, guarding yourself from getting hurt again. It made his chest tighten. You didn’t immediately respond. Instead, you let out a slow breath, your arms uncrossing, but your body language was still closed off. You stared at him, your eyes full of something he couldn’t quite place, maybe it was the look of hurt.

"You’re sorry," You repeated, your voice calm but with an edge that made him wince, "That’s great, but I’ve heard it before and I’m tired of hearing it."

Luke flinched, the words landing harder than he expected, "I know I’ve said it before, but," He took a step toward you, "This time I mean it. I don’t want you to think I don’t care, because I do. I just-"

You cut him off before he could continue, and your words stung like a slap across the face, "Have you ever thought that maybe not all people care about sports? Some of us care about more important things in life. Family. Friends. And working to support our living. Not everyone has the luxury of being able to screw up and have everything handed to them because they’re good at a stupid game."

Luke blinked, clearly stunned by your words and for a moment, he couldn’t find a way to respond. All of his usual defenses like the sharp retorts and the sarcastic comebacks felt useless.

You shook your head, the cold rink air swirling around you, "I’ve been doing this for so long, Luke. Watching you walk around like the world owes you something, pushing me to the side like I don’t matter. But you don’t get to just pull me back in with an apology, I’ve spent enough time trying to make myself fit into your world, only for you to push me away again."

His chest constricted as you spoke, each word feeling like a blow to the gut. He had always seen you as strong, independent, someone who could handle anything thrown her way. But hearing you say those words, he realized he had never really seen the pressure you were under, the sacrifices you had made just to keep everything in balance.

"I’m sorry," He told you again, the words coming slower now, "I was an idiot. I don’t expect you to forgive me right away. Hell, I don’t even deserve it, but I want to make it right. If you’ll let me."

The air between you and Luke felt colder than the rink’s steel beams above you. Luke’s apology lingered in the space between you, but the bitterness you had carried for so long wouldn't let you accept it. You shook your head, staring at the frozen surface beneath your sneakers, your arms once again wrapped tightly across your chest. If you let yourself believe him this time, if you let your guard down even a little, you’d be putting yourself at risk. And you couldn’t do that anymore.

"I don’t know why you expect me to believe that, Luke" You said to him, "You’ve apologized before, and you’ve said the same damn thing before, and look where it’s gotten us. You never change."

You looked up at him, your gaze hard, "It’s exhausting. Always waiting for you to actually do something to prove it but you never do, so why should this time be any different?"

Luke opened his mouth to speak, but the words caught in his throat. The anger and regret mixed into something like desperation as he took a hesitant step toward you, "I get it and you should feel that way because I’m the one who’s messed up, and I’m the one who has to fix it. But please," He hesitated while his eyes searched your face, "Give me a chance. I will prove it this time."

“I don’t know, Luke,” You whispered, your voice softer now, the walls you had built around yourself slowly starting to crack, “I just don’t know.”

The silence stretched between you both, thick with the weight of everything unsaid. But then, just as you thought you were about to leave the conversation behind you, Luke’s voice broke the quiet.

“Please,” Luke said with a gentle tone, “At least come back to the team. It’s not the same without you. The team misses you. I miss you.”

You could hear the genuine plea in his voice, but even then, it didn’t sway you easily, “I don’t know if I can, Luke. It feels… complicated now.” You shifted your weight, “It’s not just about me being there for you anymore. I need to take care of my own priorities.”

“I get that,” Luke replied, stepping closer, “But you’re not just some background figure. You’ve always been a part of the team, and it’s weird without you there. I miss working with you, with everything you do for the guys. It’s not the same without you.”

You stared at him and despite yourself, you felt a small flicker of something, something like warmth, something like a reminder of the bond you once shared. But it was buried beneath so many layers now, so many wounds, that it felt almost impossible to touch.

“I don’t know, Luke. I just… I need some time.” Your words were softer now, quieter, but no less firm. “I don’t know if I can just pick up where we left off like nothing’s happened.”

Luke took another step, just a fraction closer, and his eyes softened with understanding. “I don’t expect you to, I know I’ve lost your trust but I just want to make it right.”

You looked down at your feet, the weight of his words pressing against you like a physical force. Maybe, just maybe, you could give him a chance, but you weren’t ready to let him back in just yet, “Let me think about it, okay?” You said quietly before turning toward the door. 

He nodded, the silence between you both growing heavy again before you pushed past the glass doors and started heading home for the night. 

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

You hadn’t expected to feel so out of place, but the moment you stepped back into the team’s office for your internship, it was like you had never left. The familiar hum of printers, the clutter of gear bags stacked in corners, the whiteboards covered in tactical diagrams, it all looked the same. But the atmosphere felt a little different now, like everyone was walking on eggshells around you.

Ethan and Mark were the first to notice you walk in, their heads snapping up from their conversation as if they had been waiting for you to return. Ethan’s face immediately broke into a smile, his expression clearly thrilled that you decided to come back rather than work with the football team. Mark, on the other hand, gave you a short nod, his eyes scanning the room before landing on you with a protective, almost assessing look.

"Hey," Ethan greeted as he walked over to you, making a point to stand a little closer than necessary, his broad frame almost shielding you from the rest of the room. It was a subtle gesture, but you noticed it, "Good to see you back."

You smiled weakly, "Thanks, Eddy, it’s good to be back."

Mark’s gaze flickered toward the door, his expression hardening slightly. You followed his gaze just as Luke entered the office, his broad shoulders filling the doorframe. The room seemed to tighten in response, a collective shift in the air as everyone adjusted to his presence.

You could feel the old tension immediately. Luke’s eyes briefly met yours, but you didn’t acknowledge him. You weren’t ready to let him in, not yet. Instead, you turned to Ethan and Mark, who seemed to sense your discomfort instantly. Ethan leaned closer, lowering his voice to make sure only you could hear.

"Just let us know if you want to step out, okay?" Ethan told you, his tone barely above a whisper, "We’ve got your back."

You nodded, grateful for the quiet support, but you didn’t want to make it obvious to Luke that you needed it. That would give him the satisfaction of knowing he was still affecting you, even now.

"Hey," Luke said, his voice uncharacteristically soft for the first time in a while. "Can we talk for a minute?"

You didn’t answer right away, and instead, your eyes shifted to Ethan and Mark. Both were standing just a little too close to you, their arms subtly brushing against yours in a way that felt comforting. They didn’t say anything, but the protective stance they took was clear. They were not going to let you be alone with Luke. 

 "You can talk to her later, Luke. Maybe after the team meeting." Ethan told him with his tone that was casual yet protective, "We’ve got things to do now."

After a long breath, Luke nodded, giving you a final hesitant glance before turning to walk toward the back of the office, muttering something under his breath to one of the coaches. You could feel the weight of the conversation lingering, but you couldn’t bring yourself to follow.

Mark gave you a brief glance, "You okay?" He asked you

You nodded, though the tightness in your chest told you that you were anything but okay, "Yeah. Just a lot to figure out."

Ethan, ever the optimist, gave your shoulder a gentle squeeze, "You don’t have to figure it all out right now. We’re here for you, and don’t worry about Luke. He’s not going to get in the way of what you need to do."

You gave them both a small smile, feeling the weight of their protection and support settle over you like a blanket. As the hours passed, you kept your focus on the work at hand, doing your best to ignore the tension between you and Luke, even as it lingered in the air, thick and unspoken. Ethan and Mark were there, making sure the space around you remained safe, and though you appreciated their efforts, you couldn’t help but feel the pull of something unresolved, something that needed to be addressed sooner or later. For now, you were surrounded by the team again, your internship resuming with a new sense of wariness, and the fragile thread of your relationship with Luke hanging in the balance.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The arena was nearly empty, the echo of your footsteps echoing off the cold and concrete walls. The usual hum of activity from the hockey excitement had long since dissipated, the buzz of the game had been replaced by the silence of late-night work.

You should’ve been home hours ago, but there was always more work to do. Always another form to fill out, another task on the checklist to complete. The workload never ended for you, not when there was always something else to be done, another deadline to meet. It was the price you paid for being one of the few students with an internship tied to the hockey team. The job wasn’t glamorous, but it was yours, and you were determined to prove you could handle it. Even if it meant spending a Friday night buried in paperwork while everyone else had already gone home to their weekend plans.

Your back ached from being hunched over the desk for so long, your eyes heavy with exhaustion. You ran a hand through your hair before pulling it into a messy bun and adjusted your hoodie over your frame.

The facility felt colder now, quieter. The team’s locker rooms were dark, the zamboni machines in their corners waiting for their next shift. You sighed, rolling your shoulders back to loosen up the tension. It had been a tough week, just one of those weeks where everything seemed to pile on top of you at once. You didn’t even have the time to think about the tension between you and Luke, let alone confront it.

The sound of sneakers padding against the cold concrete broke the stillness, and you didn’t have to look up to know who it was.

"Late night, huh?" Luke asked, his tone wasn’t the usual sarcastic you’d grown used to. He sounded... neutral, maybe even a little concerned.

You didn’t have the energy to deal with it tonight. Not with everything already weighing you down. Not with the frustration you had bottled up every time he had pulled that same smug attitude around you.

You looked up at him, annoyance flashing in your tired eyes, "What do you care?" You snapped, your voice sharper than you had intended, "Shouldn't you be getting some rest for your next game or at some frat party?"

Luke blinked, taken aback by your tone, but he didn’t pull back as he just stood there, his gaze softening slightly as he studied you, "I wasn’t trying to make fun of you," he said slowly, his voice almost hesitant now. 

But you were too far gone, already on the edge of your limits. All the exhaustion, all the stress, all the things you’d been bottling up came crashing down on you in that moment, and before you could stop it, the words slipped out.

"It’s not just hockey," You breathed out, your voice cracking slightly, a tear you hadn’t even realized falling down your cheek,  "It’s everything, I’m always running on empty, trying to do everything for everyone, trying to prove I’m good enough for this stupid internship when no one even thinks I belong here in the first place. It’s too much."

You blinked your eyes quickly as you tried to stop yourself from letting the tears fall, but it was already too late. The tears came, spilling over in frustration, exhaustion, and all the pressure you had been holding in.

Luke’s expression shifted to something softer, more vulnerable in his gaze now, something that made you pause even in the midst of your breakdown.

“Hey,” He said, his voice low and steady, stepping closer to you, “Please don’t cry.”

No one had ever said that to you before, not like that, and not with that kind of genuine care, like he wasn’t trying to fix you, but just to be there for you. You tried to brush the tears away, frustrated with yourself for even letting them fall, but it was impossible to stop now. You were too tired, too broken down, too stretched thin to keep up your mask.

Luke hesitated for a moment, and then, without saying another word, he moved closer, his presence suddenly surrounding you. He was still quiet, his steps tentative as though he wasn’t sure whether to comfort you, but it was clear he wanted to. He just didn’t know how to do it without making things worse. But the hesitation, the careful nature of his actions, was almost comforting. 

“You’ve been doing this alone, haven’t you?” His voice was soft, almost like he was reading your mind, “All of this pressure and you’re carrying it all by yourself.”

"I’m sorry," You mumbled out, your voice trembling as you were embarrassed by the tears, "I shouldn’t be acting like this."

Luke’s hand suddenly appeared on your shoulder and this touch was gentle, “It’s okay,” He told you and his eyes were sincere, like he wasn’t just saying the words but actually meant them for once, “I never really understood what you’ve been managing, but I can see it now and you’re doing your best. You’re doing something a lot of people wouldn’t even think to do.”

The quiet sincerity of his words hit you like a wave. For the first time, in that moment, you felt seen. The tension between you that had been simmering for a while now, it didn’t matter anymore.

You sniffled, wiping at your face with the back of your hand, and nodded again as you tried to regain your composure. Luke stood still, not rushing you, just waiting. When you finally looked up at him, you saw the same hesitant expression, but there was something else in his eyes now, like something more gentle and less guarded.

“Let me walk you home,” He offered suddenly, which broke the silence that fell between you two, “It’s late and you shouldn’t be walking home alone.”

You hesitated, there was a part of you that wanted to turn him down, mainly to maintain your distance. But, at the same time, you were so tired, and the thought of walking home in the dark alone didn’t feel safe.

You looked at him and for the first time in a while, you felt that maybe he wasn’t the same person who had been so rude to you earlier in the year.

"Okay," You nodded, the word slipping out easier than you expected it to, "Thank you."

Luke gave you a small and genuine smile that tugged at the edges of his lips, and for the first time since you had met him, the tension in your chest seemed to loosen a little. Tonight, he wasn’t the enemy, rather he was someone who was there, offering to help you find your way home. The two of you left the arena side by side, the cold night air surrounding you, and for the first time, you didn’t feel like the defenseman hated you.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The campus was quiet the next morning, the kind of quiet that only came after the rush of classes and team practices. The late autumn air had a crisp to it, carrying with it the faint scent of fallen leaves and the promise of cooler days ahead. You walked across the quad, your backpack slung over one shoulder, the late night still fresh in your mind. You had spent the rest of the evening trying to shake off the exhaustion that seemed to have seeped into every part of you. You somehow felt lighter. Maybe it was the fact that for the first time in weeks, you didn’t feel like you were holding your breath, constantly bracing for the next blow from Luke. Maybe it was just the relief of finally not being alone in your stress.

When you turned the corner of the crosswalk, you spotted Luke leaning against the brick wall with his hockey bag at his feet, eyes scanning the campus like he was waiting for someone. The moment he saw you, he pushed off from the wall and made his way to you..

"Hey," He greeted with his voice a little rough, like he hadn’t quite woken up yet, "I thought I’d catch you before you headed to class."

You nodded as you unsure what to say, you weren’t exactly expecting to see him this morning. Last night had been a turning point, but it felt too soon to figure out what it all meant. Was it just a random moment of kindness? Or was something changing between the two of you?

“Oh, thanks for last night,” You said quietly and Luke’s expression softened.

“Don’t mention it," He told you before clearing his throat, "You were... you seemed like you needed someone. It’s no big deal."

The easy, almost careless way he dismissed it made you smile despite yourself. It was almost like he was trying not to make a big deal out of his actions, but you could tell by the slight shift in his tone and the way his gaze lingered on you that he was at least starting to understand. Before you could respond, a voice from behind you interrupted the moment.

"Really?" Ethan called out, you turned to see him approaching the two of you with his eyes narrowing slightly as he caught sight of Luke. 

"You’re really gonna start acting like a good guy now?" Ethan scoffed, but Luke didn’t flinch. He just stood there with his jaw clenched like he was trying to hold something back.

“Ethan, it’s okay,” You reassured him while keeping your voice steady, though you could feel a tiny shake of nervousness running through you, “I’m not a kid anymore, you don’t have to defend me from everyone.”

Ethan’s brows furrowed, his gaze flicking between you and Luke, searching for any signs of insincerity from either of you, “I know you’re not a kid, but you’ve been through enough with this guy. He’s not just going to suddenly change and become your best friend, just because he’s decided to play nice now.”

You felt a lump form in your throat at his words, but you had to admit, Ethan had a good point. You had your doubts too, although you felt like something was different this time. The apology wasn’t just a word, you had felt the sincerity behind it.

“I know, Ethan,” You sighed, “But last night when he helped me, it wasn’t like how he used to act, I just need you to trust me on this.”

“Doesn’t matter,” He told you as his voice stayed low, “I’ve been watching you get pushed around by this guy for the past year and whatever number of months, I don’t care if he’s showing up with some half-assed apology now. He hurt you (Y/N), you can’t just forget that.”

Luke didn’t say anything at first, just stood there, letting the silence hang between them and for a moment, you thought maybe it would escalate into something else, but then Luke broke the tension, his voice quieter than it had been before.

“Dude, I get it,” He said as a sigh escaped him, “I don’t deserve forgiveness, and I don’t expect it to come easy. I’m trying to do better for her. I just need a chance to show I’m not that person anymore.”

You glanced at Luke as you searched his expression. There was no arrogance there now, just an honesty that made you think maybe  he was telling the truth. Ethan was still hesitant, his gaze hard, but his posture softened as he looked between you and Luke.

 “I don’t know,” He mumbled, with his eyes still on you.

“You don’t have to,” You reached out to place a hand on Ethan’s arm, “But I trust him, okay? I need you to trust me, too.”

For a moment, neither of them said anything but with a slow nod, Ethan stepped back, still wary,

“Fine,” He breathed out but still not fully convinced, “But if he messes up again, I’m not letting you go through that again.”

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

Luke sat next to you on the wooden bench in the hallway outside of the locker room, with his legs stretched out, a half-empty Gatorade bottle dangling from his fingers. Practice had ended nearly an hour ago, but you’d stayed behind, sorting through a pile of tangled jerseys and team media requests at the small table. You didn’t notice he had stayed behind too until you turned around and he was leaning against the wall, watching you without saying a word.

That used to annoy you, with the quiet way he hovered, like he was too good to speak unless it was to make a snide remark. But now it felt slightly different. He was still quiet, still awkward in his stillness. But his presence wasn’t sharp anymore. It was softer, less suffocating. He didn’t speak unless you looked at him first. He didn’t push. He didn’t tease. He was just there and honestly, that meant more than you could say.

“Here,” He said, finally breaking the silence as he offered you the bottle. You took it without thinking, the plastic cool against your palm even though you weren’t even thirsty.

“Thanks,” You murmured as you kept your eyes on the hallway floor. You were just tired, drained from balancing everything: classes, your internship, the emotional strain of still trying to believe Luke wouldn’t shoot some insult to you at that moment.

“You always stay this late?” He asked quietly.

You glanced over at him, “Lately, yeah.”

He nodded slowly, “You ever get a break?”

You gave a dry laugh as you typed away at your laptop, “Not really.”

He went quiet again, and for a moment you worried he’d say something backhanded or smug. That old instinct to brace yourself coming up, but it faded as you caught the way his brows pinched slightly, like the idea of you constantly overworking yourself actually bothered him.

“You shouldn’t have to do all of this by yourself,” He commented as he fiddled with his phone, “The team relies on you for everything. I didn’t realize how much until you stopped coming around.”

You shrugged, “No one really noticed before.”

“I noticed and I was a dick,” He added, “To you for no reason.”

You stayed silent, your fingers curling around the edge of the table in front of you.

“You were always just so good at everything, smart, and confident. People actually wanted you around. And I don’t know, I guess I hated that.”

You blinked as the words continued to fall from his mouth.

“I mean, not hated,” Luke corrected quickly with his cheeks slightly flustered, “I just  resented it. You didn’t have to constantly prove yourself the way I do. You’re not expected to be some golden child or carry a last name.”

He rubbed the back of his neck, the words spilling out now, “And Ethan, he’s always been close to you. He talks about you like you’re this genius superhero, and it pissed me off. I told myself you thought you were better than everyone, but you weren’t. You were just doing your job. You’ve always worked harder than the rest of us and never asked for anything back.”

You stared at him for a moment as you felt your chest tighten

“That doesn’t make it okay, but I need you to know I know that now.”

You took a slow and slightly shaky breath. The hallway in Yost was so quiet you swore that you could hear your own heartbeat. You didn’t want to forgive him, not entirely, however a part of you recognized how hard it must’ve been for Luke to say any of that. You gave him a small nod, “Thank you.”

He nodded back and gave you a small smile.

Over the next few weeks, things began to shift between you and Luke, not all at once, but slowly. A conversation here, a shared laugh there, just the little things.

He stayed behind after practice more often, offering to help with things you knew he probably hated, like paperwork, setting up video equipment, and adding transcripts on video footage. He didn’t complain, though. He just did it.

One evening after another long day, you handed him a media release form with a weak smile, “You do realize you don’t have to be my assistant, right?”

Luke smirked, “I don’t mind, it makes me feel useful.”

You rolled your eyes but didn’t stop him. What surprised you most wasn’t the change in behaviour, but it was how easy the silence between you had become. It was comfortable and friendly, and it didn’t weigh you down anymore. If anything, it started to feel like something you could lean into.

Of course, Ethan still kept a close eye on you. He noticed every time Luke lingered a little longer in the media office. Every time he offered to carry a stack of folders or filled your water bottle without being asked. Every time his gaze lingered on you like he was trying to learn your behaviours and habits that he’d never bothered with before.

One afternoon, as you and Luke stood shoulder-to-shoulder in the gear room, laughing at a crooked helmet sticker, Ethan walked in and froze.

He crossed his arms, eyebrows raised, “You good?”

Luke grinned with amusement, “Better than ever, Eddy.”

You shot Ethan a glance, trying to silently reassure him. You could see the conflict on his face, his desire to protect you and the fact that you weren’t pushing Luke away anymore.

Later that day, as you were packing up your things, Ethan pulled you aside.

“You sure about this?” He asked you gently.

You nodded, “Yeah, it’s different now and I can tell he’s trying, I’m not saying we’re best friends or anything, but I want to see where it goes.”

Ethan sighed as he leaned his head back against his locker, “I just don’t want to see you get hurt again.”

“I know,” You whispered, “But I don’t think he wants to hurt me.”

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The rink was quiet again as it was nearly midnight. The majority of the team had left hours ago, and you should’ve been gone too, but the pile of rosters and unfinished budget forms on your laptop had kept you longer than intended, yet again.

You sat in the small lounge next to the training room, legs curled beneath you on the old leather couch, the only sounds were the hum of the vending machine that stood in the corner and the shuffling of papers on your table.

You didn’t hear Luke come in, it was only when you looked up, when you saw him leaning the the doorway with his hoodie sleeves shoved up to his elbows, a quiet sort of tired etched into his features.

“You live here now?” He chuckled as he leaned further against the doorframe.

You managed a half-smile, “Sure feels like it.”

He gave you a smile before he walked in to grab a chair, and sit across from you like it was the most natural thing in the world. Like being here with you, even past midnight, was exactly where he wanted to be.

You closed your laptop slowly, sensing something different in the air tonight, “You okay?”

 Luke looked off as if he was debating whether or not to tell you about the thoughts running through his head, “I used to think if I wasn’t the best, I was nothing.”

You blinked as you were startled by his confession.

He stared down at his hands, picking at a thread on his sleeve, “My brothers, Jack and Quinn, they’ve always been incredible. NHL stars, everyone talks about them like they’re gods. I love them, I do. But growing up in that constant shadow, it messes with your head.”

You stayed quiet, sensing he wasn’t finished as his mouth opened and shut a few times in the silence, 

“I got drafted and everyone said I’d made it. But I still feel like I’m just trying to catch up, like no matter what I do, I’m always just Luke Hughes, the little brother.” He looked up at you, eyes drooping slightly from fatigue, “You probably think that’s ridiculous.”

“I don’t,” You told him softly

He exhaled, rubbing a hand over his jaw, “You always seem like you have it figured out, Ethan thinks you’re the glue holding this whole program together.”

“That;s not true,” You mumbled, “I’m just holding myself together long enough to get through each day.”

His brows furrowed as you spoke, you took a shaky breath, the words slipping out before you could catch them, “My parents are barely getting by at home, I’m working this internship unpaid, taking on shifts at the student center, applying for scholarships every semester just to stay here. Some nights I don’t sleep, so I just try not to drown.”

The room fell into a weighted silence, you looked at him and you saw not just the hockey player. Not the cocky, golden-boy persona he typically wore. You saw the boy behind it all, tired, afraid, trying so hard not to fall short of the people around him and it felt a lot like looking into a mirror.

“I think we’re more alike than we realized.”

Luke met your gaze, something soft and quiet flickering in his expression, “Yeah,I think so too.”

Neither of you moved for a long time, you didn’t need to. It felt safe and it felt like the start of something new.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

You weren’t even sure why you agreed to come.

The hockey house was already booming with music by the time you got there, windows glowing blue and gold from the inside, bass thumping hard enough to feel in your chest. They were celebrating yet another win. You hadn’t been to one of these in a while, but Ethan had asked, and the way he’d looked at you with that half hopeful and half protective look, made it impossible to say no.

Besides, you missed this, not the chaos and not the sticky floors or the overpowering cologne clouds. But rather the people and the moments when you could just exist without carrying everything on your back.

“Come on,” Ethan had said, slinging an arm around your shoulder as he led you into the house, “We’ll stick together, just like old times.”

For the first hour, it was fine as you stayed near the kitchen while Ethan handed you a solo cup with something vaguely citrusy inside. You talked with Mark and Dylan, laughed with a couple of the rookies who had no idea how much of the team’s media magic was your doing. You felt seen and in a way you hadn’t for a while.

Then Ethan got pulled away, something about someone stealing his speaker and you found yourself standing alone by the counter, your cup mostly empty and your body buzzing more from exhaustion than the drink you held.

Luke showed up like he always did, the sleeves of his black t-shirt hugging his biceps perfectly, curls still damp from a shower, and his usual smug energy was replaced by something lighter. He didn’t say anything at first as he just nodded at you like he’d been waiting for a moment like this all night.

You raised a brow, “What? No sarcastic comment about how I’m slumming it with the peasants?”

His lips curved into a slow smirk, “I’ve been working on that.”

“Your sarcasm?”

“No, not being a jackass.”

You snorted, and he laughed, the sound warm and open in a way you hadn’t heard from him before. A few people brushed past you as the hallway was tightening with bodies, so he shifted closer, not too close, but enough that you could feel the heat radiating from him.

“Ethan ditched me,” You told him as you glanced around, “So much for sticking together.”

Luke tilted his head with a small knowing smile, “Guess that makes me your emergency contact now.”

You gave him a side-eye, “That’s a terrifying thought.”

He grinned, “I’m excellent in emergencies, watch this.”

Before you could ask what he meant, he darted away and returned seconds later with a fresh cup with same citrusy drink, but colder this time.

“See? Life-saving,” He said while handing it to you with a cocked bow.

You rolled your eyes but took it, “Heroic.”

You ended up finding a quieter spot in the corner of the living room, where the music wasn’t as deafening and the couch cushions didn’t smell like beer yet. The two of you talked, like really talked. About stupid things, like the worst pregame pump-up songs on the team’s playlist. About more real things too: how overwhelming classes had been and upcoming exams and deadlines.

At one point, you were both laughing so hard your drink almost spilled. Luke was telling a story about Mark locking himself out of the team bus in only compression shorts, and you could barely breathe, cheeks aching from the large smile that was stretched across your face.

“I forgot you were funny,” You said between giggles.

“I forgot you could stand being around me,” He replied.

You looked at him and there was no mask this time and no shields. Just Luke, and it startled you how comfortable you felt because of how easy it was to be near him when the tension was stripped away.

Someone bumped into the couch which caused some of the cushions to shift. You swayed slightly, your shoulder brushing his, and he didn’t move but neither did you.

“Hey,” He added after a moment, voice low, “I like this.”

“This?” You asked, pretending not to notice the closeness of your bodies.

“Being around you when I’m not screwing it up.”

You swallowed hard as your heart skipped a beat or two while you didn’t know what to say. You enjoyed it too, it was easy and comfortable. The way your laughter hung in the air between you. The way the noise of the party blurred into the background. The way Luke looked at you like a person he wanted to get to know.

You were content to stay right where you were.

The party had started to thin out by the time you stepped outside, the music still humming behind the walls like an echo refusing to die. The night air wrapped around your shoulders like a relief, it was cool and calm, scented faintly with pine and wet pavement. Somewhere in the distance, a car passed by, headlights cutting briefly across the sidewalk before disappearing into the dark.

Luke stood beside you. He hadn’t said anything when you pulled your jacket on. Just followed you to the door like he’d already decided he wasn’t letting you walk home alone. You didn’t argue. It was late, and your limbs were heavy with exhaustion and a few drinks, and, if you were being honest, a small part of you wanted him there.

You walked in silence at first, shoes scuffing along the uneven pavement, his hands tucked into the pockets of his hoodie. Every so often, your arms would brush. Neither of you pulled away.

“Thanks for not letting me sit in a corner all night,” You finally said, your voice quiet in the hush of midnight.

Luke glanced over, eyes catching the glow from a streetlight, “You were holding your own pretty well.”

“Still, you didn’t have to hang out with me.”

“I wanted to.” There was no edge to his voice. No teasing. Just honesty. 

You glanced down at the sidewalk, counting cracks to keep your thoughts in order. You weren’t used to this version of Luke, the one who didn’t talk like he was trying to win a game. The one who laughed without smugness, who looked at you like he actually saw you and was doing things to your chest you didn’t want to think about.

At the corner of State Street, the world felt softer and quieter. A few golden leaves skittered past your shoes. You slowed your steps.

“You’ve been different lately,” You told Luke while keeping your eyes straight.

Luke exhaled, like he’d been expecting that, “Yeah. I know.”

“What changed?”

“You did,” He answered

That landed harder than you expected. You looked at him, and he was already looking at you. Something bloomed in your chest, small and uninvited. A warmth that had nothing to do with the drinks earlier or the brisk November air. It curled around your ribs in a way that made breathing harder.

“Well,” You said, mustering a smile that didn’t quite reach your eyes, “don’t get used to me being impressed by your emotional growth.”

Luke laughed quietly. “Noted.”

You reached the steps to your house with the yellow porch light flickering overhead. You paused, turning back toward him, “Thanks for walking me,” 

He shrugged, but there was something almost shy about the way he stood there, rocking slightly on his heels, “Anytime.”

The silence stretched again but it wasn’t awkward, just filled with something that wasn’t there before. Like something had shifted between you and hadn’t quite settled.

You gave him one last smile and turned toward the door, but as you slipped inside and leaned against the back of your front door, heart beating a little too fast, you realized something.

You were starting to feel something for Luke Hughes and it terrified you.

So you shoved it down and buried it deep beneath school and work and exhaustion and self-preservation, because caring about Luke meant giving him the power to hurt you again. You weren’t sure you could survive that twice.

Luke had watched you disappear behind that door, a quiet click sealing the space between you, but he didn’t move right away. Just stood there on the sidewalk, staring at the empty step like it might give him an answer. The walk back to his house felt longer than usual. The November air had dropped fast, cutting through his sweatshirt and nipped at his skin. He shoved his hands deeper into the front pocket, footsteps loud against the quiet streets. The city was asleep, but his mind? It was restless.

He wasn’t sure what was happening, all he knew was that something had shifted between the two of you.

He could still hear your laugh echoing in his memory from the party earlier, the way you leaned into him when Ethan disappeared, trusting him enough to stay by your side, and the way you were starting to let him in, piece by piece.

It scared the shit out of him.

By the time he made it home, his head was buzzing. Not with adrenaline, not with nerves before a game, but with you. With thoughts of how tired you looked tonight, how you still stayed until the end, how your smile lingered even when you tried to hide it behind sarcasm.

Luke plopped onto the mattress of his bed, stretching his legs out before relaxing. His phone vibrated in his pocket.

It was Jack, so he pressed the green button without thinking.

“Yo,” he mumbled, one hand on his forehead.

Jack’s voice crackled over the speaker, “How was the game?”

“Good. 4–1 win. Felt solid.”

“You looked sharp, I saw the clips.”

Luke let the compliment pass, the game already felt like a memory and the only thing still playing in his brain was you.

“You good?” Jack asked after a brief moment, “You sound off.”

Luke hesitated, “I walked her home.”

Another pause, “Her?” Jack repeated and Luke could practically hear the grin forming on his brother’s face, “Wait, like the girl you’ve been beefing with since freshman year?”

Luke ran a hand through his curls and sighed, “Yeah.”

“No way.”

“She’s not who I thought she was.”

Jack laughed, “You’re telling me the girl who’s been busting your balls for a year suddenly has your attention?”

“It’s not sudden,” Luke said a bit more quietly like he was afraid that one of his teammates would hear him through the thin walls, “She’s always been something. Smart. Sharp. But tonight I saw her actually relax. She’s amazing, Jack.”

“Damn,” Jack mumbled, “You’ve got it bad, dude.”

Luke didn’t argue as he leaned his head back on his headboard, eyes on the ceiling, “She stays late for the team. Does stuff no one even notices like Ethan was telling me, she makes everything run smoother and she never complains. Never asks for credit. She’s just there, holding everything together.”

Silence stretched for a moment too long which made Luke’s stomach twist since Jack was typically quick at saying something back.

“She sounds awesome,” Jack told him carefully, “But Luke...”

“I know.”

“You don’t know when the call’s coming.”

Luke shut his eyes. The call. The inevitable weight of it, like the clock he couldn’t see but always heard ticking in the back of his head.

“It’s gonna be soon, I can feel it. Like you could be in Jersey next week. You don’t want to get attached, man.”

Luke swallowed hard and his voice was dry, “Too late.”

There was a rustling on Jack’s end like he was pacing his apartment, “Just be careful, alright? I know you want something real, but you’re not in a normal situation. Don’t give her something you can’t promise, it’s not fair to her.”

Luke didn’t respond right away because he knew that Jack was right. And it hurt.

Because in the flickering light outside your door, Luke had seen something he hadn’t let himself want in a long time, you. The one person who didn’t expect him to be anything but himself and still somehow made him want to be better.

He didn’t know when the call would come, but for the first time, he kind of wished it wouldn’t.

“Yeah,” Luke said eventually, “I’ll figure it out.”

Jack sighed, “Alright, I gotta crash but you’ll be okay.”

“Night, man.”

The call ended. Luke stared at the dark screen as you were still lingering in his thoughts. And now, you were in the one place he didn’t know how to guard anymore, which was his heart.

He should’ve kept his distance, but it was already too late.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

You noticed the shift.

It started subtly like a slow retreat, soft and quiet and careful. Luke still showed up. He still flashed that crooked, boyish grin whenever your paths crossed in the hallway outside the team room. Still bumped your shoulder with his when he passed by and still called you “rookie” even though you were both well past that title.

But there was something different now.

His texts used to come quick — fast, teasing replies in the middle of the night or a random meme that made you laugh until your stomach hurt. Now they came late, hours after the conversation had moved on or sometimes they didn’t come at all.

He used to lean against the wall and talk to you until the equipment room emptied, until it was only the two of you in the entire arena. Now, he always seemed to be somewhere else. Skates half-laced. Phone in hand. Eyes drifting toward the exit like he had one foot already out the door.

“It’s just the Frozen Four,” Ethan said when you mentioned it offhandedly, “He gets like this before big games, like hyper-focused and shit.”

And maybe that was true, maybe Luke was just locked in and chasing the championship that had been dangling in front of them since the start of the season. Maybe it had nothing to do with you at all.

But still, something in your chest curled in on itself every time he passed you in the hallway without stopping. Every time you said hi and he said hey back but didn’t linger around you.

Tonight was worse.

You were alone in the equipment room, the dull lights making your eyes ache. The clock on the wall read 10:03 PM. The arena had long since emptied, the hum of the Zamboni now replaced with the occasional sounds coming from your typing. Everyone had gone home, except you.

Your laptop was open, with its battery almost dead. A spreadsheet full of media schedules glared back at you. You’d been finalizing graphics, sending press requests, and rewriting email drafts for the third time, your brain foggy with exhaustion. You couldn’t remember the last time you blinked.

A cold can of Diet Coke sweated on the desk beside you, untouched and you were so tired.

Not just physically, but in that deep, bone-heavy way that comes from caring too much and never knowing where you stood. You told yourself you didn’t care about Luke, about the distance and the confusion, but it was a lie you were starting to trip over.

You cared and you cared way too much. You blinked hard when your eyes started to sting. The door creaked open, and your head snapped up, heart skipping a beat.

Luke stood in the doorway, cheeks flushed, hair damp from his shower, his stick slung casually over his shoulder. His eyes found yours instantly.

“I didn’t think anyone was still here,” He said, voice lower than usual.

You swallowed, fingers dancing over your keyboard, “Just wrapping stuff up.”

He stepped inside as his footsteps echoed softly against the floor, “It’s late.”

“Yeah,” You mumbled, “I lost track of time”

Luke glanced at your screen, “You’ve been working on that all night?”

 “Someone has to.”

There was a pause. Something shifted in the air, it barely a breeze but enough to unsettle the dust.

“You okay?” He asked carefully.

You let out a bitter laugh, “Are you seriously asking me that now?”

His brows furrowed, and he stepped closer to you, “What do you mean?”

“I mean,” Your voice cracked, and you hated it. You stood abruptly, pushing the chair back with a soft scrape, “I mean don’t act like you care when you’ve barely said two words to me in days. Just say what you want to say and go.”

Luke looked stunned, like you’d slapped him.

“I-” He started, but you were already lowly shaking your head.

“I’m tired, Luke. I’m tired of trying to figure out what version of you I’m going to get every time I see you and I’m tired of pretending like I don’t notice you pulling away.”

His expression faltered, “I’m not- I’m just focused right now. With the tournament and the pressure and-”

You laughed again, but it came out shaky and broken, “No, it’s fine. I get it. You have hockey. You have everything. I’m just the girl behind the spreadsheet who makes your life easier and then vanishes when you don’t need her.”

“That’s not fair.”

You looked up, eyes glassy, “Isn’t it?”

And then, without warning, the tears came. You’d been holding them back for hours, maybe days, and now they blurred your vision and burned down your cheeks before you could stop them.

“I didn’t mean to hurt you, Y/N” Luke said suddenly, voice cracking in the process. Luke didn’t try to explain himself again. He just stood there, frozen for a moment, then quietly set his stick against the wall and crossed the room. You felt his presence beside you before you saw him, and then gently,  he wrapped his arms around you.

You froze, your breath catching in your throat but then your body gave in, softening against his chest as your hands clutched the fabric of his hoodie. You didn’t sob. You didn’t collapse. You just stood there, trembling quietly while he held you.

“I’m sorry,” He whispered, and it felt too late and not enough and somehow still everything.

After a while, you felt him shift.

“It’s late,” he said, still soft. “Let me walk you home.”

You hesitated, but then nodded.

He didn’t try to talk on the walk back, just kept his steps steady beside yours, hands tucked in his hoodie pocket, glancing at you every now and then like he was making sure you hadn’t changed your mind.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The locker room buzzed with pregame energy, the thuds of tape rolls hitting the floor, the music playing off of one of his teammate’s speakers, the echo of chirps bouncing off the walls. Familiar chaos.

But Luke barely heard any of it.

He sat at his locker stall, lacing his skates with more focus than usual, jaw tight, muscles already coiled from the morning. His hands moved methodically, over-under, tug, loop, but his thoughts were somewhere else entirely.

More specifically, with you.

He’d seen the way your hair fell slightly into your face as you worked on your laptop the night before, the soft glow of your screen casting delicate shadows across your cheeks. You’d looked tired but determined. 

“You gonna stare a hole through the floor, Hughesy?”

Luke blinked, pulled from his spiral by Ethan’s voice. The guy was leaning casually against the stall next to his, arms crossed, a knowing smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

Luke looked up from his skates, “What?”

Mark plopped down on the other side, grinning, “You’re acting like you’re about to propose. What’s going on with you?”

“Nothing,” Luke mumbled.

Ethan gave a low whistle, “You know she’s here, right? Upstairs. Putting together final media edits before puck drop.”

Mark wiggled his eyebrows, “Ohh, is that why you’ve got that dreamy little look on your face?”

“I don’t have a look on my face,” Luke muttered, yanking a little harder on his skate laces than necessary.

“You totally do,” Ethan said, nudging him. “It's the ‘I’m trying not to smile because I might give myself away’ look. Classic move.”

Luke sighed, “You guys are insufferable.”

Mark leaned in closer to the curly headed hockey player, “We’re just saying it’s nice to see you two spending good quality time together in the arena”

“She deserves better than that,” Luke told them before he could stop himself.

Both Ethan and Mark exchanged a glance, a quick flicker of surprise and something else. Ethan’s expression softened, 

“That’s the first true thing you’ve said in weeks,” Ethan chuckled, “But for real, man. Don’t pull her into your storm unless you’re gonna be the one to give her calm too. She’s been through enough.”

Luke met his eyes and nodded, “I know, I’m trying.”

Mark clapped a hand on his shoulder, “Then try harder. 'Cause if you screw it up again, Ethan and I have already agreed to run you into the boards. During practice, accidentally.”

“‘Accidentally,’” Ethan repeated with a grin.

Luke rolled his eyes, but couldn’t help the smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Yeah alright.”

From the hallway beyond the locker room, he heard your laugh just faintly, carried on the air like a thread pulling him forward.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The energy in the arena was a living, breathing thing. It surged in waves, pulsed through the crowd like an electric current. You could feel it, even sitting in the media box, the blaring music, the chatter of excited fans, the scrape of skates on the ice, it all blurred into a constant roar.

But amid the noise, there was a moment of perfect, ringing clarity, it came when the puck dropped and everything snapped into place.

You glanced down at the ice, your fingers still tapping away at your laptop, but your attention fully absorbed by the game. The Michigan Wolverines were skating fast, tight, focused, the kind of play that made your heart race in time with every stride. You were typing out updates without really thinking, eyes flitting back and forth between the rink and your screen.

You didn’t expect it to happen so suddenly.

One swift pass. The sound of blades cutting ice, the swift snap of a stick, and the puck was heading toward the net with such force you could hear the wind whistling past it. The goalie was out of position, his eyes locked on a different angle, and you knew that this was it.

The puck hit the back of the net with a sharp, satisfying thunk. The crowd exploded into noise and then you saw him.

Luke.

You’d been watching him all game, but this was different. This was something else entirely. He was skating toward the corner, arms raised in victory, his mouth open in a shout of celebration. His face was flushed with exertion, his eyes gleaming with the kind of pride that could only come from the buildup of hard work and focus.

But then he looked at you and it wasn’t some offhand glance or a passing acknowledgment.

His gaze found yours from across the rink, as if the rest of the world had fallen away, as if there was only you and him in that entire moment. The noise, the celebration, the flashing cameras, it all faded into the background. His expression softened, just the slightest bit. His lips curled into that small, hesitant smile that made something warm unfurl inside your chest. It wasn’t cocky. It wasn’t arrogant. It was just… Luke.

The smile wasn’t for the crowd. It wasn’t even for the game.

It was for you and it melted something in you.

You couldn’t stop the smile that grew across your face, the one that started in your chest and spread through your limbs, the one that mirrored his without even thinking. For a second, it was just you and him, standing on the edge of something delicate and raw, something neither of you had been ready for until now.

The smile that passed between you both said more than a thousand words could. It was a silent agreement. An understanding. Something unspoken but clear.

And just as quickly as it had come, the moment passed. Luke turned back to his teammates, joining the celebration, the roar of the crowd crashing back into your senses like a wave breaking against the shore. The noise was overwhelming again, fans chanting, clapping, the buzz of excitement reverberating in the rafters.

But you didn’t turn away.

Even as the game continued, and even as Luke disappeared into the cluster of his teammates, you could still feel that moment between you both lingering like the aftertaste of something sweet.

You had to look down at your hands to steady yourself, fingers trembling slightly as you typed out the next update, but your thoughts were far from the game. They were with him and with that smile.

It was a small thing. A fraction of a second, but it meant everything.

The game moved on, as games do. Goals were scored, hits were delivered, and the clock continued ticking toward the final buzzer. But no matter what happened, no matter how many times the puck crossed the line or how loud the crowd cheered, you couldn’t shake the weight of that smile.

The final whistle blew, signaling the end of the game. The players were already heading off the ice, their faces flushed with adrenaline and victory. But Luke didn’t leave with the rest of them. He stopped just at the edge of the tunnel, looking back over his shoulder, as if searching for something in the crowd.

You didn’t want to admit it, but you knew he was looking for you.

And, somehow, in that moment, you realized you were looking for him too.

The media room buzzed with its usual energy after the game. Reporters crowded in, shouting questions at the players, capturing every moment, every word that might matter. The players, flushed with victory, moved through the room with that familiar mix of exhaustion and adrenaline. They were still riding the high of the win, but the overwhelming noise of the media was enough to dull the edge of excitement.

You sat at your desk in the corner of the room, hunched over your laptop, fingers moving quickly as you typed out the post-game details. The rink lights were still shining into your vision, the feeling of the crowd’s roar still ringing in your ears, but here, in the quiet corner of the media room, the world felt distant. For a moment, you could breathe.

There was a shift in the air. The room was full of voices, but you could feel his presence through the noise. You looked up to find Luke standing at the edge of the room, still in his full gear, sweat glistening on his brow, his jersey clinging to his chest. His eyes scanned the room, but the moment they landed on you, they softened.

You didn’t expect him to approach you, not tonight at least. The high of the game, the energy that had been building between you both, was still there but you’d expected him to be swept up in the aftermath, caught up in the celebrations, like every other player.

But he wasn’t. He was here, standing still, like he was waiting for something.

Waiting for you.

He pushed through the crowd with a natural grace, his broad shoulders brushing past the reporters, his movements easy but purposeful. And then, he was standing in front of your desk, slightly out of breath, his eyes on yours in a way that made everything around you feel still.

“Hey,” He said, his voice soft but thick with emotion that wasn’t just adrenaline

“Hey,” You replied, blinking as you tore your eyes away from his, trying to focus on your laptop. Your fingers hovered over the keys for a moment, unsure of what to type, unsure of what to say but nothing came out.

There was a quiet beat. You could hear the buzz of conversations behind you, but in the space between the two of you, it felt like everything had gone silent.

Luke shifted slightly, his gaze flickering between you and the chaos of the room. He opened his mouth as if to say something, but then he seemed to hesitate.

"Great game," You told him as you broke the silence. It was all you could manage. It felt awkward, out of place, but it was all you had at the moment.

Luke gave a tight smile, but his eyes betrayed something more. There was a weight behind them, something deeper than just the game, "Yeah," he replied, his voice quieter now, "It felt good. But  I’ve got to admit, it felt better when I saw you smiling."

Your heart stuttered at the words. You glanced up at him, trying to gauge whether he was teasing you again, but there was no hint of sarcasm, no playful edge. Just the raw sincerity in his eyes.

"You saw that?" You asked, almost breathless.

He nodded, his gaze fixed on yours, "I’ve been seeing a lot of things lately."

The air between you shifted again, something unspoken passing between you like an electric pulse. The words you couldn’t say, the things you’d been dancing around for weeks, felt almost too close now. It was as if the game had peeled away a layer, making it impossible to ignore anymore.

Before you could say anything else, one of the reporters called out to Luke, breaking the tension in the room. Luke turned briefly, acknowledging the noise before glancing back at you.

"I’ll let you get back to work," He said, "But I just wanted to say thanks. For being here. For everything."

You opened your mouth, not sure what to say. You weren’t sure if you should say anything at all. But before you could form the words, he was already moving toward the door. Just as he reached the doorway, he turned back. His expression was a little more serious now, a little more vulnerable than you had ever seen him.

"Hey," he called softly, and you looked up, meeting his gaze again, "I meant it, about the smile."

You nodded, something tightening in your chest as his words lingered between you.

"I’ll see you after," He added with a small smirk on his features, before disappearing into the hallway, leaving the chaos of the media room behind.

You sat there for a moment, the hum of voices, the clatter of equipment, and the soft scrape of shoes on the floor all feeling distant. You stared at your screen, but your mind was elsewhere with Luke, with that smile, with the unspoken words that hung between you.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The excitement of the quarterfinal win was still lingering in the air, thick with the scent of victory and the hum of celebration. The locker room was filled with shouts, high-fives, and the victorious clinking of water bottles against one another, but you weren’t really paying attention to the noise. You were standing to the side with your camera bag slung over your shoulder, trying to make sense of the blur of emotions from the game.

You were drained, but in a good way. The tension, the stress of the past few weeks, had all melted away after the final buzzer. And it wasn’t just the win itself. It was the way everyone had worked together, the effort, the adrenaline.

But what kept you there, sitting on the bench, wasn’t the excitement of the team. It was Luke.

He’d scored that crucial goal in the third period, the one that solidified the lead and kept the game in their favour. You could still hear the roar of the crowd when it happened, the way his eyes immediately sought out the stands with his eyes looking for you. 

The locker room was starting to clear out now, with the guys starting to head to the showers and preparing for the post-game celebration. You reached over to grab your things, your hands still a little shaky from the excitement.

Just as you turned to leave the room, you felt a presence behind you. You glanced over your shoulder to see Luke standing there, his damp curls falling over his forehead, a slight crooked smile on his lips. His jersey was soaked with sweat, but he still looked so effortlessly cool, like the victory was just a part of his routine.

"Hey," He greeted you softly, "You’re not leaving already, are you?"

You shrugged, the familiar comfort of his voice making your heart flutter a little, "I’ve got some stuff to finish up with the media team. You know how it is. But it looks like you guys are having your moment."

Luke chuckled, rubbing his jaw with his hand, "Yeah, it’s chaotic in there but you’re not the type to get caught up in that, are you?"

You smiled at him, feeling a warmth spread through you at how he seemed to understand you so well, "Not really. I’m more of a behind-the-scenes kind of person."

Luke nodded, his gaze softening as he looked at you, "Well, I noticed that today with how you were right there the whole game, capturing everything, even when I didn’t expect it. It’s like you’re always one step ahead of the rest of us."

You raised an eyebrow, not sure if he was teasing or being sincere, "Really? You’re not just saying that because you scored?"

He shook his head, the smile on his lips deepening, "No, I mean it. You capture the moments that people miss. And I’ve seen it in the locker room too, how you’re always making sure everything’s running smoothly. You don’t get enough credit for it."

You felt your cheeks warm as they flushed a light shade of pink, the genuine praise catching you off guard, "Thanks, Luke, that means a lot."

He took a step closer, and for a moment, the buzz of the locker room seemed to fade into the background. It was just you and him, standing there in the quiet after the storm of the game. Luke ran a hand through his curls, his smile turning sheepish for a moment, as if he wasn’t sure how to act in the softer moment between you two.

"You know," He said slowly, "I’ve been thinking about how we don’t get many moments like this. All the chaos, the games, the practices, and it’s easy to get caught up in it. But after today, I realized I don’t want to just be another face on the team. I want to be someone you can count on. Someone who’s there for you."

"You are someone I can count on," You told him, "You’ve been there for me a lot recently."

"I know I was a pain in the ass," Luke added, "I didn’t make things easy between us."

There was a long silence before Luke looked back over at you, his blue eyes steady, “I don’t know what it is, but you’re real with me. I don’t have to pretend and I don’t want to mess that up."

A small smile tugged at your lips, "You don’t have to try so hard. Just be you."

Luke grinned, stepping a little closer to you. He was inches away now, the air between you charged with something soft, something both of you had been trying to ignore for far too long.

"That’s what I’m trying to do," he said, his voice quiet.

The moment hung there, delicate and fragile. Then, without warning, Luke reached out, offering you a fist bump, his playful side creeping back into his voice.

"To the win," He said as his grin returned.

You laughed, the tension finally breaking. You bumped his fist with yours, the laughter easy and comforting between you.

 "To the win," You repeated.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The Frozen Four semifinal game was underway, and the intensity of it all gripped the arena like a vice. The Michigan Wolverines were up against a fierce opponent, both teams hungry for victory, and the air was thick with anticipation. Fans in maize and blue filled the stands, chanting, cheering, and holding their breath with every second of play.

You were seated near the glass, the smell of fresh ice and the sound of skates cutting across the rink blending with the loud noise from the crowd. As much as you tried to focus on the game, your attention kept shifting to the players, Luke in particular. You could see the tension in his movements, the fire in his eyes. It was clear that he was giving everything he had, but you could also see the toll it was taking on him. The pressure of this game weighed heavily on his shoulders.

The game moved fast. There were hits, fast breaks, and thrilling shots on goal. Luke was everywhere dodging his opponents, pushing the puck up the ice with precision. You could hear the heavy breathing from the players as the game wore on, every moment stretched thin by the stakes.

The tension was unbearable as the final minutes of the third period ticked down. The score was tied 3-3. The whole arena was on edge, holding their breath with every shift. Fans jumped to their feet as Michigan pushed for one last offensive drive, hoping for a miracle to break the tie. And then, as if the game had a mind of its own, disaster struck.

A last-ditch effort by the opposing team ended with a quick goal and then Michigan was trailing 4-3, with only seconds left on the clock. The crowd gasped, disbelief washing over them. You could feel the collective sinking of hearts, the weight of reality crashing down.

Luke didn’t even flinch. His eyes were locked on the ice, his jaw clenched but you could see it, he was devastated. The final buzzer rang, and the arena exploded into an unsettling mix of cheers and groans. Michigan had lost in the semifinals of the Frozen Four, and the weight of that finality was immediate. The stands slowly emptied out, the cheers of the opposing fans echoing louder as the Wolverines stood there, crushed, trying to comprehend the game that had just slipped away from them.

You stayed in your seat for a moment, letting the sound of the crowd wash over you, trying to hold onto something familiar. There was no denying the sting. You felt the loss in the pit of your stomach, but your thoughts quickly turned to Luke. You’d seen how much he had poured into this game with his effort, the focus, the pride in every play, and you knew this loss was hitting him harder than anyone else.

As the players began to file into the locker room, you stood up slowly from where you were seated. Ethan was already looking at you, his brow furrowed in concern. He was trying to hold it together, but his frustration was evident. You could see him glancing toward the locker room, his eyes darting to Luke, who had already disappeared inside.

“Let’s go talk to him,” Ethan said, "He’ll need someone."

You nodded, but as you walked together, you could feel Ethan’s unease. He was trying to be brave for both of you, but you knew he was hurting, too. You could see the subtle tension in his posture as he approached the locker room and when the door swung open, the cold, sterile air of the space hit you — the smell of sweat and ice mingling with the stench of defeat.

You saw Luke right away, slumped in his locker stall, his face twisted in a mix of anger and disbelief. His usual relaxed self was gone but replaced by something else, something you didn’t recognize. He didn’t even acknowledge you at first, his attention fixed on the floor. The space around him was tense, and even Ethan seemed unsure of how to approach him.

You stood there for a moment, unsure whether to speak or not. The silence was thick, suffocating, but Ethan broke it with a heavy sigh.

"Hey, man," he started, his voice trying to stay calm, "We’ll get ‘em next year. It’s not the end of the world."

Luke didn’t respond immediately, but you could feel the shift in the air with the heaviness in the way Luke pulled away from the words. His jaw clenched, and when he finally spoke, his voice was strained, biting.

“Yeah, whatever,” Luke mumbled, not looking up from the floor, "Next year, great. I just don't know why I bother anymore."

You felt the sting of his words even though they weren’t directed at you. His frustration wasn’t aimed at Ethan, not at first, but there was an obvious sense of anger in his tone, like he was trying to push everyone away. Ethan glanced at you, his eyes softening, but he knew better than to push further. Instead, he turned to you, his gaze asking for a sign.

You walked over to Luke, your steps slower, more cautious than usual. The air between you two was tense, but you had been through too much together to leave him alone now. You tried to meet his gaze, but Luke wouldn’t look up.

“You did your best,” You told him quietly with your tone full of the comfort you wanted to give him, even if he didn’t want it right now, “You all did.”

He scoffed, his shoulders tensing as he finally looked up at you. His eyes, usually so full of fire, were dull now, clouded with frustration. He shook his head, the words coming out rough, “You don’t get it. You don’t know what it’s like to put everything into something, only for it to slip away at the last second," His voice cracked slightly before he quickly masked it with more bitterness.

You could feel his pain, his anger bubbling beneath the surface. It wasn’t just the loss; it was everything else he was dealing with like the expectations, the pressure, the constant feeling like he had to prove something to everyone. But you didn’t back down, instead you nodded and tried again to comfort him

“Maybe not,” You hummed, “but I know what it’s like to have everything riding on something, to try your hardest and still feel like it’s never enough, but you can’t keep beating yourself up. This isn’t all on you.”

He looked at you, his eyes flickering between anger and something softer, something that made your heart ache. But before he could respond, Ethan stepped forward, his voice much lighter.

“Come on, Hughesy,” Ethan’s hand clapped onto Luke’s shoulder, “We still have next year, right? We’ll get ‘em then”

Luke didn’t even smile, he didn’t meet Ethan’s eye. His gaze was stuck somewhere far off, locked on nothing in particular. The air was thick with the weight of his frustration, but he wasn’t ready to let anyone in.

You gave Luke one last look before turning to Ethan, “I’ll be outside, okay?” You told him as you kept your voice gentle. 

Ethan nodded and gave you a look that said it all, he was worried about you too. He was always protective, but this time, he was just as vulnerable as you were. As you walked out of the locker room, the sound of Luke’s heavy silence lingered in your ears. It seemed as though Ethan opted to follow you, his arm wrapping around your shoulder in a comforting gesture. He squeezed you once, then sighed deeply.

“He’s taking it harder than I thought,” Ethan murmured, almost to himself.

You nodded, “I know, but I think he just needs some space. He’s not used to this feeling.”

“Yeah,” Ethan agreed quietly, “But just be careful, okay? I know you two have been getting closer, but he’s got a lot going on right now. I don’t want you getting hurt.”

You stopped walking, glancing up at Ethan, "I won't get hurt. I just want to be there for him, you know?" You gave a soft sigh as you rubbed your eyes, "But I’ll be careful."

"Alright, I trust you. Just don’t let him shut you out completely, okay?"

You nodded and headed toward the exit, the cool night air outside a sharp contrast to the warmth of the locker room. Despite the sting of Michigan’s loss, you couldn’t help but feel like this moment, this shift between you and Luke, was something significant.

The rest of the night would unfold in its own way, but for now, you knew you’d be there for him. Even if he wasn’t quite ready to let you in yet.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

You were hunched over your laptop, the glow of your laptop screen casting a soft light against your tired face. These late hours were taking their toll on you with your eyes burning from exhaustion, shoulders stiff from too many long nights spent in front of the screen. But you were almost done, and there was one more media release to finish before you could head home for the night.

The door to the media room creaked open, and you didn’t need to look up to know it was Luke. But tonight, the usual warmth in his approach had been replaced by a quiet and cold, almost detached energy. He didn’t say anything at first, but the silence that hung between you two was deafening.

Ethan was keeping you company but was currently grabbing both of you something to eat from a cafeteria in a residence building, and you thought that maybe you could escape the awkwardness that had been lingering between you and Luke for the past few days. You finally looked up from your work, meeting his eyes. You didn’t know what to expect anymore and you were growing tired of this push and pull relationship that you and Luke had going on for the past month or so.

“What?” You asked him

Luke’s lips curled into a smirk, “You still here, huh? Thought you had better things to do than sticking around this place.”

You frowned, feeling the sting of his words, “I have work to do, Luke, you know that I’m not here for fun.”

He scoffed, pushing off the doorframe and stepping into the room, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “Yeah, sure. Work. Like we need your media expertise around here. You could be doing something more... important, don’t you think?”

The words cut through you like a blade. You knew Luke had his moments of teasing and joking around to keep things lighthearted. But this wasn’t his playful teasing, it felt like he was deliberately trying to hurt you.

“Excuse me?” You shot back, “I’ve been working with your team for months now, Luke. I’m doing my job.”

“Yeah, your job,” He repeated putting air quotes around the word like it was a joke, “I didn’t realize media work was so important when you’ve got a bunch of guys on the ice doing all the hard stuff. But hey, what do I know?”

You clenched your jaw, trying not to let his words affect you, but the weight of them was unbearable. You opened your mouth to respond, but before you could get a word out, Ethan walked back into the room with two white take out containers in his hands and a look of confusion crossing his face as he took in the tension between you two.

“What’s going on in here?” Ethan asked, eyeing Luke, who had now turned his back to you, clearly ignoring the situation.

Luke shrugged, still keeping his distance, “Nothing, just telling her the truth of her position. Media work’s not as important as she thinks.”

Ethan’s gaze flickered between you and Luke, his brow furrowing, “If you’re going to talk out of your ass like that, at least turn around so I can hear you better,” 

Luke’s eyes narrowed, “What’s your problem, Edwards?”

“My problem?” Ethan stepped forward, his voice becoming more firm, “My problem is you being a jackass when she’s just trying to do her job, and you being an even bigger one when you’re talking down to her like that. I’ve had enough of your shit, Hughes.”

You didn’t know whether to be relieved or frustrated. You hadn’t expected Ethan to step in, but part of you was grateful. It didn’t make the sting of Luke’s words disappear, but at least someone was standing up for you. Luke shifted uncomfortably but didn’t back down, “She doesn’t need you to protect her, man.”

“I’m not protecting her. I’m telling you to stop being a dick,” Ethan snapped.

But Luke didn’t seem to care. He just scoffed again as he said something just under his breath, and walked out of the room without looking back. You stood there, staring at the door long after he had left, the coldness in the room making it hard to breathe.

Ethan stood beside you, his expression softening, “You okay?”

You nodded, though it wasn’t entirely true, “I’m fine.”

“Don’t let him get to you. You don’t deserve that.”

“I know,” You mumbled, but the weight of Luke’s words still hung in the air, “I just don’t understand what’s going on with him and I’m so sick of this back and forth we’ve been having. Like we’re fine for one week but the next he hates me again”

Ethan let out a long and tired sigh as he placed the food onto the table for both of you, “I don’t know either, but you don’t have to take it. You’re doing an amazing job here, don’t let him make you question that.”

You smiled weakly at him, appreciating his kindness, “Thanks, Eddy”

He gave you a quick embrace before motioning towards the food, he reopened his laptop to continue the movie he was watching as he ate. You sat back down at your desk, trying to focus on the work in front of you, but all you could think about was Luke. His coldness. His sharp words. It hurt more than you cared to admit.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The phone buzzed in Luke’s pocket, and for a moment, he thought about ignoring it. He had just finished a grueling practice, the kind that left his legs burning and his head buzzing with exhaustion. But something in the pit of his stomach told him this call was different. Something was going to change. He pulled the phone out and glanced at the screen, the name Tom Fitzgerald flashing in bold letters. He was the general manager for the Devils, meaning this call could be the opportunity Luke had been waiting for, but never truly expected to happen.

“Hey, Tom,” Luke answered, his voice tight as he tried to control the sudden surge of adrenaline in his veins.

“Luke, listen. We’ve been watching you closely, and we think it’s time. We want you to play next Wednesday”

The words hit Luke like a freight train. His pulse quickened, and he had to grip onto the nearest bench to steady himself, “Wait… what?” He asked as the disbelief made his voice crack.

“We’re calling you up, Hughes. You’re going to join the team. It’s official. You leave in two days, I’ll have Jack send you your flight tickets. We’re excited to see you, kid”

Luke’s mind raced, his heart pounding in his chest. He had always known this day would come and he had always dreamt of it. But now that it was here, it felt like his world had just shifted beneath his feet. The weight of the moment hit him like a ton of bricks, and for a second, everything else faded into the background. He had worked for this. Had put in the hours, the sweat, the pain. Every early morning and late night, every sacrifice. It had led him to this moment. The New Jersey Devils. The NHL.

But then his thoughts drifted as they always did these days to you.

The sudden warmth he felt for you was buried beneath layers of confusion. He had been shutting you out, pushing you away, and now here he was, about to leave without even telling you. The thought made him feel selfish. Maybe it wasn’t just about the career move or maybe it was more than that.

“Alright, thanks, Tom,” Luke breathed out, his mind whirling with thoughts he wasn’t ready to confront, “I’ll get the details from you and I’ll tell my coach and team here”

The conversation ended, and Luke stared at the phone in his hand for a moment, the weight of his decision sinking in. This was it. His future was set. But it was a future he’d be leaving behind everything and everyone for, including you.

Later that day, Luke stood in front of his teammates, the weight of the moment settling heavier with every passing second. His coach was there, standing at the front of the locker room, a rare expression of solemnity on his face. The team had just finished another intense training session, but now, the room was full of hushed murmurs. Everyone could sense something big was about to happen.

Luke stood tall, feeling the eyes of every single player on him, their curiosity evident in their faces. They all knew something was off, they knew he’d been distant lately, snapping at them for reasons they couldn’t quite figure out. But this was something different.

“Alright, guys,” Luke began, his voice steady, but a slight tremor betrayed the emotions brewing inside of him, “I’ve got some news, big news.”

The room went still.

“I’ve been called up,” He continued, letting the words hang in the air as a small smile crept onto his face, “I’m heading to New Jersey to play for the Devils the day after tomorrow.”

A collective gasp echoed through the room. The weight of the announcement hit the team like a wave. There were slaps on his back, congratulations, but Luke felt strangely detached from it all. 

Mark grinned as he slapped him on the shoulder. “Look at you, man. Going pro. Gonna leave us in the dust.”

Luke forced a smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes, the excitement of the moment felt distant.

Ethan, always the emotional one, stepped forward with a grin for his friend, “That’s awesome, Hughes. You’ve earned it, I’m really proud of you.”

Luke nodded absently, trying to hide the storm swirling inside of him. He had expected this moment and had rehearsed it in his mind a hundred times. But none of those scenarios had prepared him for how empty it would feel.

“Thanks, man,” Luke nodded.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

You sat in the seat in front of your desk, staring down at the scattered papers in front of you, but not really seeing them. You were supposed to be working, supposed to be focusing on the media notes for the team, but every time you tried to concentrate, your mind would inevitably drift back to Luke. His sudden departure felt like a punch in the stomach.

It wasn’t just the fact that he was gone, but rather it was the way he left. No goodbyes, no explanations. You had barely heard from him since the day he told everyone he was leaving for New Jersey and even then, it was brief. The Luke you had once known as the one who could light up a room with his sarcastic humor or annoy the hell out of you with his attitude felt like a memory now.

The door creaked, and Ethan stepped in, his presence immediately filling the empty space in the room. His smile was soft, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. You could see the concern in his gaze as he took a seat next to you.

“Hey,” Ethan told you gently, nudging your shoulder, “You doing okay?”

You nodded, but the tightness in your chest told a different story, “I’m fine.”

Ethan didn’t believe you for a second, and you knew it. He had been there for you through it, with the games, the late nights, the times you had gotten frustrated with Luke and even the moments you had found yourself falling for him. But now, after Luke was gone, things felt different. It was like the silence was suffocating you both.

Ethan let out a breath, running a hand through his hair, his eyes still fixed on you, “You don’t have to lie to me. It’s okay to not be okay.”

You glanced at him, forcing a small smile, “I know. It’s just… it feels like everything’s changed.”

“Yeah, I get that,” Ethan said as he sat back, stretching his legs out in front of him. “It’s not easy. For any of us. I mean, I know you two had your… issues, but he’s gone now and that’s gotta hurt.”

You swallowed hard, your throat tightening at the mention of Luke. You had thought that with time, you’d be able to move on, to get over the emotional rollercoaster that had been your relationship with him. But instead, his absence felt like a gaping hole in the team, in your life, and you couldn’t shake the feeling that things would never be the same.

“I don’t know why it hurts this much,” You admitted, your voice barely above a whisper, “It’s like he was never really there, but I still feel this emptiness now that he’s gone.”

Ethan’s gaze softened, and he leaned in slightly, “It’s because he mattered. Even when he was a jerk, you cared about him and that doesn’t just go away overnight. Hell, it doesn’t go away at all. But I’m here for you, okay? I always will be. You don’t have to go through this alone.”

You took a shaky breath as you nodded, “I just don’t understand him, Ethan. One minute he’s pulling me in, and the next he’s pushing me away. I thought we were getting somewhere, but then…” You trailed off, your voice cracking slightly, “And now he’s gone, and I feel like I’ve lost something I didn’t even know I needed.”

Ethan’s eyes flickered with something that resembled a mixture of sympathy and concern. He placed a hand on your shoulder, his grip firm, but not overbearing.

“You didn’t lose anything,” Ethan said softly, “You gained something. You gained a lesson. You learned how to not let someone else’s bullshit affect you. You learned that you’re strong enough to survive even when things don’t go the way you want them to.”

You met his gaze, the intensity in his eyes giving you a sense of comfort you hadn’t realized you needed, “But I still care and I don’t know how to stop.”

Ethan’s smile was small but genuine, “It’s not about stopping. It’s about moving forward, one step at a time. You’ll get there, I promise.”

You let out a breath, leaning back against the bench and closing your eyes for a moment, feeling the weight of everything start to lift, “Thanks, Ethan. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Ethan didn’t respond right away. Instead, he sat leaned against the wall next to you, the two of you staring at the rink in silence, the occasional sound of skates scraping against the ice breaking the stillness. It was comforting, in a way. There was no need for words, just the presence of someone who understood.

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

Life with the New Jersey Devils was everything Luke had dreamed of. The adrenaline of skating out onto the ice, the roar of the crowd, the pressure of each game, it was the stuff he had worked for since he was a kid, and now it was his reality. His brother, Jack, was right beside him, and it felt like everything was falling into place.

The mornings were filled with drills and team strategy, followed by afternoons spent lifting weights and studying film. It was a routine that Luke had grown to love, each day a reminder of how far he’d come. Playing with Jack was something he had always fantasized about, and now that it was happening, he found himself enjoying every moment. There was an unspoken understanding between them, like a shorthand that allowed them to communicate without words, a bond that made everything on the ice feel effortless.

But for all the things he loved about this life, there were moments when the noise of it all quieted down, and the emptiness of his decisions crept in.

It was late one evening after a team dinner when he found himself alone in the locker room, sitting on a bench, his skates still on as he stared at his reflection in the locker room mirror. The hum of the arena was faint in the background, and the sound of his teammates talking and laughing in the distance seemed so far away. He felt restless, like there was something missing.

The chaos of the NHL, the intensity of the games, the pressure, it was all exhilarating but something inside him was unsettled. He ran his hand over his face, eyes drifting to the messages on his phone, his thumb hovering over a number that used to feel like second nature.

Your number.

The last few weeks had been a whirlwind. Getting drafted, making the roster, joining the team, all of it had happened so fast. He hadn’t allowed himself the time to slow down and think about anything beyond hockey. The reality of playing professionally, of having this spotlight on him, had consumed him. But in these quiet moments, the weight of his own decisions was heavier than ever.

He had been cold. He had pushed you away when you needed someone, when you had been there for him more than anyone else had. He had told himself it was for your own good, that you deserved someone who could give you more than he could, but deep down, he knew the truth. It wasn’t about that. It was about him. He had been afraid. Afraid of letting someone get too close. Afraid of needing someone who wasn’t a part of his world, afraid of the vulnerability it brought.

And now, here he was. The NHL was everything he had wanted and everything he had worked for, but a part of him missed you. He missed how easy it had been to talk to you, to laugh with you, and to be around someone who saw him for more than just the player. He missed the way you would text him about the little things, like how your day went, how classes were going, how you were looking forward to the next time they’d hang out in the media room.

He missed your laugh and the way you made him feel like he was seen, like he wasn’t just the hockey player everyone expected him to be.

It was strange, this feeling. He had never been one to question his decisions. He had always been focused on what was in front of him, never looking back. But now, as he sat in the locker room, it was hard to ignore the tug of regret.

Jack’s voice broke through his thoughts as he walked in, tossing his bag into his locker, “You good, man?”

Luke looked up, forcing a smile, “Yeah, just tired. Long day.”

Jack raised an eyebrow, he knew his little brother better than anyone, “You sure? I mean, you’ve been a little off lately. You’ve been kinda quiet.”

Luke leaned back against the locker, his eyes flicking back to his phone for a moment before he put it down, “I don’t know, dude. Just thinking.”

“About what?” Jack asked with more curiosity evident in his tone, “You’ve been killing it out there, Luke. First season and you’re already making an impact. I don’t know what you’re thinking about, but you’ve got everything you’ve ever wanted.”

Luke let out a sigh, running a hand through his curls, “I know I do, it’s just… I don’t know, Jack. There’s this feeling I can’t shake, like something’s missing.”

Jack tilted his head, “Missing? What are you talking about?”

Luke hesitated, his thoughts drifting back to you, “I don’t know, man. I thought I had it all figured out. I pushed some things aside...people aside, actually. But sometimes, it feels like I might have made a mistake.”

Jack’s face softened, understanding the weight of his brother’s words, “You’re talking about her, aren’t you?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Don’t play dumb, Luke,” Jack said, his tone gentle but firm, “You’ve been acting off ever since you got here. You’ve been so focused on the game, I get it. But you don’t have to shut out everyone else, especially not her. You made a decision, I know, but you also know that sometimes the hardest thing to do is admit when you’re wrong.”

Luke’s jaw clenched, “I didn’t want to drag her into this. I didn’t want to risk messing things up because of my career. She deserved better than me, especially with what I’ve got going on right now.”

Jack shook his head, “I get that you’re trying to protect her, but Luke, sometimes you can’t protect people from how you feel. You’ve got to decide, do you want to keep running from this, or are you going to do something about it?”

Luke didn’t answer right away. He stared at the floor, contemplating his brother’s words. The silence between them was heavy, filled with the weight of unspoken thoughts and feelings.

“Maybe you’re right,” Luke finally said, his voice hushed, “I don’t know what to do, but I can’t stop thinking about her, Jack. I think I might have messed things up too much.”

Jack gave him a knowing look, his hand resting on his brother’s shoulder, “It’s never too late to make things right, Luke. But you’ve got to decide if you want to fix it or if you’re going to let it go.”

₊˚ˑ༄ؘ

The late night breeze brushed against you when you stepped outside the arena that night, the air causing your hair to blow around your head. The sky was dark, and the world around you was quiet and you were tired of pretending you were fine, tired of trying to move on from something that had never really ended.

You weren’t expecting anyone to be waiting outside of Yost, but there he was.

Luke stood just outside the parking lot, hands shoved into the pockets of his joggers, his head down like he didn’t quite know if he had the right to be there. He looked up when he heard your footsteps, and for a moment, neither of you spoke.

Your heart slammed against your chest,

“What are you doing here?” You asked with your voice barely audible

He stepped forward slowly, “I needed to see you.”

You swallowed hard, “You left.”

“I know,” His voice was thick, his eyes filled with desperation, “And I regret it every single day. I thought I was doing the right thing by choosing the career, staying focused, keeping you from the mess I was becoming, but all I did was hurt you and God, I hate that I did that.”

You stood still, breath caught, as he spoke like you couldn’t quite tell if you reached the level of exhaustion where you started hallucinating.

“I’ve had everything I ever dreamed of handed to me in Jersey but none of it feels right.,” He sighed as his eyes locked on yours, “Because I don’t get to share it with you. You’re the only person who’s ever made me feel like more than just the youngest Hughes brother. You saw me. You made me feel grounded and real, like I had a place to land after all the chaos and I tried so hard to forget that and to move on, but I can’t.”

His voice dropped to a whisper, “Baby, it’s you. It’s always been you.”

A tremor rippled through you as your heart skipped a few beats and your cheeks reddened.

“I love you. I’ve loved you for so long I don’t even remember when it started. I was scared. I thought if I let you in, I’d lose focus, I’d mess it all up, but losing you… that’s the only thing I got wrong and I can’t stand not having you in my life.” Luke confessed with his voice dropping a bit as his throat tightened

Your voice was shaky, “You broke my heart.”

“I know. And I swear to you, if you give me even the smallest chance, I will spend every day proving that I’m worth trying again for.”

You were crying now, but it didn’t feel like the pain you’d carried for the past weeks, it felt like release, like everything you’d bottled up was finally being let out. You stepped toward him, close enough to feel the heat radiating off his body, “You’re such an idiot.”

He let out a broken laugh, chest shaking, “Yeah. I am.”

And then you kissed him.

Not gently. Not cautiously. It was a collision of longing, of anger, of all the unsaid things finally being spoken in the way you knew best. His hands cupped your cheeks, your fingers twisted in the collar of his sweatshirt, and the breeze swirled around you as if the universe was finally giving its blessing.

When the kiss broke, your foreheads rested against each other, his breath warm against your skin.

“I love you too,” You whispered.

His lips curled into a smile, soft and a little stunned, “God, I missed you.”

“I missed you more.”

[frostiexavier]

˖⁺(hold on tight)_🖤

☆ photo taken from game ☆

♱⁺. ⋆˙✧⋆꒷꒦꒷⋆✧˙⋆⊹.♱

✮♱✮ summary: For Sylus’ birthday you took him to your favorite amusement park. He is happy to be spending the day with you but he has to face his fears. He could probably avoid it, right?

✮♱✮ warnings: fluff, sylus x fem reader, birthday sylus tehe, cute sylus, slight jealous sylus, fear of roller coasters, idk what else its just cute and soft

✮♱✮ word count: 3.6k

♱⁺. ⋆˙✧⋆꒷꒦꒷⋆✧˙⋆⊹.♱

“Here are your passes, enjoy your day!”, the ticket lady said as she smiled at you and sylus. You thank the lady with a smile. You place Sylus’s wristband pass on his wrist and he helped you put yours on as well.

“Are you excited? I got the fast passes so we can skip the lines and go straight to the rides”, you smile and he nods. He silently gulps just thinking about it.

“You know kitten, you should have let me pay. I know these fast passes must have been pricey, you could have gotten the normal ones”, he smirks and you grab his hand. You look up at him with a teasing grin.

“I’m not going to let the birthday boy pay for his present. Now hush about money and follow me.”, he snickers and follows along with you. He curses in his head, why did you have to get the fast passes??

You enter the amusement park and you are astounded by the crowd today, it's busier than normal. You make your way through the crowds of people and pull Sylus to the side. You both take shelter under a table with an umbrella placed in the center, giving you both shade from the beating sun. You take a seat next to him and look up at his face, your expression serious.

“Okay here is the game plan”, you grab Sylus by the back of the neck and tug his face closer to you so he can hear you.

“So I was thinking, let's do some small rides first, then we can take a break and eat lunch. After that, we can do the bigger rides and then on the way out we can do the small carnival games”, you set your game plan but Sylus is too busy staring at your lips to notice what you are saying. He finds your serious tone adorable and can’t help but admire your dedication to his birthday plans.

“Sylus!”, you wave your hand in front of his face to get his attention and his eyes flicker back up to meet your eyes.

“Sorry sweetie, I got distracted”, he says deeply and you give him a blank stare. He smiles and kisses your forehead before leaning away. He grabs your hand again, standing up from the table. He starts walking with you as you head towards some of the small and slow rides.

“Alright small rides first”, he says and you smile knowing he was actually listening to you. You both walk towards the small rides and there is alot to choose from.

“Which one should we do first?”, you ask him and he looks at you with a small grin.

“Whatever you’d like, kitten”, he says softly but in reality he is panicking. Don’t get him wrong, Sylus can handle anything but roller coasters? Not his thing, he hates them. He likes getting adrenaline from other sources, not being thrown around in the air like a rag doll. His motorcycle is enough for him, anything other than that he doesn’t want it. However, he is willing to hide his fear for you. You were excited to plan out his birthday and he didn’t want to disappoint you with this absurd little fear. What is one day? What are a couple roller coasters? He refuses to let this eat at him, he can conquer it.

“What about the tea cups? Or is that too kiddish for the leader of Onichynus?”, you ask teasingly and he chuckles deeply.

“Sweetie, you really think some spinning cups can make me look less intimidating? If anything you should be scared for the tea cups, they may break as soon as I sit in them.”, he says and you hide your laugh. He has a point, how was he going to fit in those small cups? You skip right to the front of the line with your handy dandy passes and the ride operator guides you to a pink teacup. You smile imagining seeing Sylus in a pink teacup from a 3rd person point of view.

You watch as he struggles to get in with his broad body, he has to man spread to be able to sit down. You can’t help but chuckle when he lets out a big sigh after getting situated.

“Having fun?”, he scoffs and smirks at you.

“So much fun”, you try to hide your giggle.

“4 to a tea cup please, 4 to a teacup”, you hear the operator state and you immediately look at sylus. How are two more people going to fit in this tea cup?

“Here is an open one”, two guys slide into the tea cup right next to you, they have to sit pretty close to you due to the lack of space.

“Sorry”, the young man says and you shake your head.

“No worries, it's a bit cramped in here”, you lightly laugh and you can hear sylus scoff.

“I’m Michael by the way”, he says but before you can say anything the teacups start to move. You grab the small wheel in front of you and start to spin it. Sylus has his elbow propped up on the side of the teacup and his chin resting between his index finger and thumb. He leans back slightly to enjoy watching you spin the teacup. This way okay, he thought. This ride wasn’t too fast and it wasn’t making him dizzy, maybe this amusement park thing wasn't bad after all. He smiles watching you but it quickly fades as he sees “Michael” glancing at you and trying to reach his arm over your shoulder.

Sylus quickly wrapped his free index finger around one of your shorts belt loops and slid you toward him, he grabs your hips and sits you on his lap.

“Sylus!”, you exclaim, cheeks burning red as you look around at the people watching. He looks over to Michael as he gives him a glare that he will never want to see again. Michael quickly turns his gaze back to the wheel and keeps spinning.

You also just continue spinning the wheel and sylus reaches from behind you and places his hand atop of yours, helping you spin it. You smile at his gesture but after a few minutes the ride comes to an end. Michael and his friend quickly leave the teacup first making Sylus chuckle under his breath. You have to help Sylus get out of the teacup because his legs felt like they were going to give out.

“Did you enjoy the teacups?”, you ask, walking away from the ride.

“I…didn’t hate it”, he says, making you frown. He pats your head and you look up at him.

“But I may enjoy that more”, he smirks and points to the bumper cars. You look back up at him with doe like eyes and nod your head. He laughs and you both make your way to the bumper cars.

You get individual cars and avoid all the people around you and just focus on each other. You both hit each other's cars from different angles, each hit making you both laugh. Sylus was starting to actually smile which made butterflies erupt in your tummy. You both do a few more smaller rides such as the water boat ride and go karts.

“Do you want to take a break and get some lunch? There is a really good pizza place here”, you smile and he nods immediately, not even thinking about your offer.

“Grab us a table kitten, I’ll order our food”, he squeezes your hand and makes his way to the line to order food. You find a nice picnic style table with an umbrella shading the area. You sit down and grab the small box in your pocket that you have been hiding from sylus all day. You are nervous to give him a gift since it's the first one you have ever given him but you hope he likes it.

You see sylus’ shadow tower behind you before he moves to sit down next to you at the picnic table. He sits a water bottle down in front of you along with a slice of cheese pizza.

“This is nice, if you want more just tell me and I’ll go get it for you.” , he smiles and opens the bottle of water for you. He does the same with his own and takes a drink before biting into his pizza. He is so considerate it makes your heart melt. You fiddle with your fingers and sylus notices you haven’t started eating yet.

“What's wrong? Do you want something different?”, he asks and you shake your head.

“No it's not that…”, you trail off and take the small box you were hiding and slide it over the table top towards him.

“What's this?”, he chuckles as he wipes his hands on a napkin then picks up the small box.

“It's your birthday gift”, you nod at him and he looks confused but slightly smiles.

“I thought this was my birthday gift”, he says gesturing to the amusement park.

“This is just us spending time together for your birthday, I wanted to actually gift you something”, you say with a slight blush on your face. His gaze on you is so strong you can’t help but blush.

“You’re a sly one aren’t you kitten?”, he says, making your face burn even more. He smirks at your reaction and then slowly opens the box.

The box contains a silver chain connecting a small circular locket at the end. He pulls it out and opens it, the locket is empty and he turns to look at you.

“I-It’s empty”, his voice softens like his gaze when he looks over to you.

“Yeah I thought I would let you choose what goes in it”, you say and Sylus smiles then looks back at the locket.

“I love it, thank you”, he says and places the locket back in the box, he places it securely in his pocket. He leans over to give you a kiss on the cheek and you can’t help but blush again. You both sit in silence as you eat your pizza and enjoy the gentle breeze of the wind. Once you both finish Sylus takes your trash and throws it in the nearest bin.

“Alright what’s next on the birthday agenda?”, he asks and your smile widens.

“It’s time for the big guns, let's ride the eagle. You are literally hanging in the air the whole time, I heard it even goes backwards!”, you say with excitement as you grab his hand and make your way over to the line for the ride. Sylus’ heart starts to pound, his anxiety starts to kick in.

“Oh man, I guess alot of people bought fast passes this time, looks like we will have to wait a bit”, you say looking up at Sylus, who doesn’t seem annoyed.

“That’s okay, we can just wait”, he says with a small smile and you raise an eyebrow at him. He has a tight grip on your hand the whole time and you feel him squeeze it each time the line starts to move.

As you both were next in line Sylus finally speaks for the first time.

“Hey sweetie, uh I need to use the restroom”, he says frantically.

“We are next, you can’t hold it?”, you ask him and he shakes his head quickly.

“Its emergent, we can get back in line after”, he says already pulling you out of the line and heading towards the nearest restrooms. He lets go of your hand and practically runs into the mens restroom.

Once sylus enters he goes to the sink and runs cool water over his face multiple times. Bystanders give him a strange look and proceed to walk out of the bathroom.

“It’s practically like your evol, you can do this. You aren’t afraid of anything. This is nothing, you are not weak”, he says to himself in the mirror. He takes a deep breath and grabs a paper towel to wipe the water off his face. He gives himself a motivated nod in the mirror before he exits the restroom.

“Sorry kitten, let’s get back in line”, he says and you slightly laugh.

“No worries, it happens”, you smile up at him, his heart melts everytime you flash him that adorable smile. You get back in line and Sylus’ hand remains in yours. The line wasn’t as long this time so you quickly make your way back to your previous spot. His hand grips yours as the ride operator gestures you both to step onto the ride.

You both are still standing as the operator helps hook you and sylus both into the ride. Your chest is the only thing secured as your feet will dangle during the ride. While the operator was helping others get secured you look over at sylus. He is staring at the ground and his hands are gripping the handle bars for dear life. His forehead is sweaty and his skin is a bit paler than normal.

“Sylus are you okay?” you ask him and his head quickly turns towards you.

“I-I’m fine kitten”, he says, his breathing shaky and his hands trembling.

“Sylus, are you sure? We can get off if you want, we don’t have to ride this”, you say grabbing his hand. His hand is clammy and cold.

“I can do this, I’m not scared.”, he says but refusing to look at you. He looks at the ground and tries to focus on calming himself down.

“It’s okay to be scared, seriously Sylus we can do something else”, you say, squeezing his hand tightly.

“Okay”, he says and you turn to ask the operator to let you both off the ride but it's too late. You get interrupted by an announcement.

“Ladies and gentlemen please hang on tight as you soar through the sky”, the operator announces and the ride starts to lift and you feel your feet start to dangle. You look over at sylus who is looking at his feet dangling with wide eyes.

“Sylus look at me”, you say and he meets your gaze.

“I’m right here, it’s going to be okay. It will be over soon, I’m right here”, you grab his hand and squeeze it. He squeezes it back and nods at your words. He closes his eyes as the ride starts and it takes off at full speed. His grip on your hand got tighter and he scrunched his face up as the ride started at full blast. You held onto him as tightly as possible.

The ride starts to slow down as you are going up, building up for a big drop.

“Sylus you okay?”, you yell and he looks over at you and nods briefly. Thankfully the ride slowed down a bit to give him a break.

“Listen, there is going to be a big drop once we get to the top, just hold onto me okay?”, you yell and he grips your palm again. His other hand grips the hand rail and he closes his eyes again, bracing for impact. The ride eventually gets to the top, all the passengers erupting into a scream. Sylus opens his eyes from the noise and sees the drop, his eyes widen. Within seconds you are falling with the drop and you hear sylus scream from beside you.

You hold onto his hand and throw them both in the air and scream excitedly. He looks over to you and sees that you are enjoying the ride. After the drop the coaster goes at a fast speed like it did before. He loosens his grip on the other handle and puts his hand in the air, trying to enjoy the ride.

He looks over to you screaming at the top of your lungs with the wind blowing your hair as far back as it can go. Your face is plastered with a smile and he can’t help but admire you. Suddenly he isn’t scared anymore because having you right by his side, there is nothing to fear.

Within minutes the ride is over, you both look at each other and laugh. You are still holding onto his hand until the operator helps you both out of the roller coaster. You grab his hand once again and you both exit the ride and back into the park. His hand still trembling, you rub his arm to calm him and lead him to the nearest bench so you both can sit down. He takes a few deep breaths and you speak once he has calmed down a bit.

“You didn’t tell me you had a fear of roller coasters”, you say looking up at his now calm expression. He clears his throat and meets your gaze.

“I didn’t want to seem fearful and I wanted to overcome it without you noticing, I’m sorry”, he says and you pull him down to where he is eye level with you. You trace your thumb over his cheek and look into his eyes.

“Sylus I don’t want you to hide your fears from me, I want you to express your emotions. I would never judge you for being scared of something, that’s not who I am”, you say to him and he smiles as he relaxes under your touch. He was silly to think you would have thought less of him if you knew his fear.

“I know sweetie, thank you, and I’n sorry for ruining the fun”, he says, grabbing your hand and placing a gentle kiss on your palm.

“Stop apologizing, you didn’t ruin anything! I have been having fun all day with you!”, you smile and he pats your head and runs his fingers through your hair, all the way to the end.

“Is there something else you would like to do? There are a ton of carnival style games we could play too”, you suggest.

Sylus noticed the sun was starting to set as the day had passed by quickly, his gaze met a small photo booth. He smiled and pointed to the booth.

“There, let's get a momento”, he says and you return his smile. He grabs your hand once again and leads you toward the photo booth.

Sylus gets in first and his figure takes up the entire seat, leaving you to have to sit on his lap for the second time today. You giggle as you enter and take a seat on one of his thighs. You both pick out a theme together, getting 4 pictures in total so you both think of poses.

The first pose you both hold up finger guns in an intense pose. You both laugh at the photo and for the second pose decide to go with giving each other bunny ears. You can’t help but smile wider seeing sylus smile into the camera as well. The third pose he takes your face in his hand and squishes your cheeks making your cheeks puff out. Before you can protest the picture is taken and he laughs.

“Sylus!”, you lightly smack his chest and he rubs it acting like you actually hurt him. You roll your eyes and the countdown for the next photo is already at 3 seconds. You look at him hurriedly and grab his face. He closes his eyes and you place a sweet kiss to his cheek and you hear the snap of the camera.

His eyes flutter open and he meets your gaze. He closes his eyes again and leans down to properly kiss you. He places his hand gently on your cheek as you close your eyes, feeling his lips meeting yours. He moves slowly, making sure to savor the moment. He pulls away and smiles against your lips.

“Happy Birthday Sylus”, you whisper to him and he whispers a small “thank you” back and kisses the top of your forehead.

Like it was perfect timing, the photos printed but 3 copies were printed by accident.

“Look Sylus, we have three copies, I thought we were only supposed to get two”, you say looking at all 3 copies of the prints.

“It must be birthday luck, can I have two copies then kitten?”, he asks, teasing you by taking two copies from your hand without hesitation.

“I guess that's a yes”, you chuckle as he holds the pictures and looks at them, admiring your cute face.

“What else would you like to do? The park closes soon I think”, you ask and he shakes his head.

“Let’s go home, I am a bit tired from all the walking”, he says and you laugh, grabbing his hand to hold.

“Are you already getting old on me, Sylus?”, you laugh as you both walk toward the park exit. He chuckles and looks down at you.

“No matter how old I get, I will still use all of my strength to walk alongside you and hold your hand”, he says, intertwining your fingers together. His sweet statement makes your cheeks burn from heat and your heart flutter.

When you both get home you surprise Sylus with a birthday cake that you had luke & kieran pick up while you both were at the park. You ended the day eating cake and watching a movie in bed, cuddled up of course. Once Sylus notices you are asleep he quietly sneaks out of bed and to his study. He brings the locket chain you got him and places it gently on his desk. He takes the extra copy of printed photos and a pair of scissors, he then cuts the picture of your squished cheeks out to fit into his locket.

He places a tiny piece of doubled sided tape and presses it into the locket, it's surprisingly a perfect fit. He smiles while tracing the edge of the locket with his index finger. He places the locket next to his infamous brooch and goes back to bed. He tugs you closer to him, his chest meeting your back. He kisses your temple and whispers, “goodnight kitten”.

♱⁺. ⋆˙✧⋆꒷꒦꒷⋆✧˙⋆⊹.♱

a/n: I’m sorry this was

1. Trash

2. Super late

and 3. that I feel off the planet for almost a month

BUT IM BACK, I loved this at first then hated it so sorry to my Sylus girlies but Happy Late Birthday Sylus!!

Next will be Xavier fluff then back to my smut series muhahahaha

[jennashousewife]

J.O ― 'RECIPROCAL, MY DARLING'

⋆ ˚🎰 you've rolled ― CELEBRITY AU!Jenna Ortega x reader ₊˚🎲. !WARNING/S SFW! fluffy, really cute, literally no nsfw going on here ! -˚🎧song inspired ; From the Start - laufey zee mentioned . ᵎᵎ. REQUESTED BY ANON! thank you so much! I've lost the original request, but to summarize; Jenna has decided to meet up with reader since they haven't been able to catch up due to Jenna's acting career. Reader is Jenna's childhood bestfriend (crush) and confesses after a long time, with reader reciprocating. No specified pronouns has been used but they/them.

Jenna nervously looked over her phone, her fingers tapping onto the coffee table and legs bouncing beneath. How long has it been? 5 years? She couldn't count. But after countless nights, she was able to track you down. Stalker behavior, Jenna thought. But nonetheless it had been agreed on to meet in this place per your request, since it's the nearest to you. The quiet drops of drizzling rain tainted the window slightly, the sky darkening in a beautiful way. After a moment of admiring the drizzle, the phone finally buzzed. Jenna quickly unlocked her phone and scanned the message. 'Sorry J, got a bit stuck in a crowd. But I'll be there in a few minutes! Excited to see you! <3' Your message read. She sighed in relief, thankful that you haven't flaked out on her.

A minute passed. Two, then three. Jenna grew slightly impatient, but remained calm. It was raining a bit already, it would definitely be hard to get here without bumping into a lot of people. After what felt like an eternity had passed, the cafe bell rang from the door. Jenna quickly turned around, her breath caught in her throat. You stood there, slightly disheveled by the rain- holding a closed but rain-tainted umbrella and wearing a slightly damp coat around yourself. Yet, you still looked dazzling underneath the light, no matter the circumstances. Jenna quickly caught herself as she turned back, shakily drinking her coffee, trying to play it cool.

"Jenna? Is that you?" A voice behind her prompted, making Jenna slowly turn. There you stood before her eyes, quite groggy because of the rain. A smile crept onto Jenna's lips, nodding. "It's me, y/n. It's me!" She nodded, standing from her seat and hugging you tightly, not caring about the damp coat you wore. Despite the cold coat, it felt like hugging the warm valley filled with flowers and the radiance of the sun. "Whoa Jenna- I'm a bit damp from the rain!" You exclaimed with a laugh, still giving into the hug. "Don't care, I really missed you!" Jenna huffed, releasing the hug. "Give me a moment, I'll get some coffee." You announced, removing the jacket and hanging it onto the backrest of the chair opposite to Jenna.

After a few minutes of waiting, you and Jenna sat across each other, having a small laugh and a pleasant conversation. "And halfway through the recording session, the poor coffee guy spilled most of the delivery onto the costumes. But Tim didn't really sweat it, thankfully his idea of extra's came in handy." Jenna chuckled as you laughed along. "What the celebrity life like?" You questioned with curiosity, resting your chin on the back of your hand. Jenna paused with a thought, before shrugging. "It's quite a roller-coaster, really. But it's pretty fun! Paparazzi is quite draining though, but lovely nonetheless." Jenna replied, her eyes never leaving yours.

Before being able to say anything else, a small swarm of fans surrounded your table. "Jenna! Hii!" one fan said, smiling widely. She was taken aback, before recovering quickly and smiling back. "Hello there." Jenna greeted. Everything went to a blur, and you couldn't really follow. But one thing struck out to you- how oddly touchy her fans get. And jealously riled you up. You couldn't help it, and you ended up dragging her with you. "We're taking my car. You can drive if you want." You said with firmness, not caring whether or not her fans were looking at you. "Oh- alright, fine by me." Jenna shrugged.

Your apartment was about 30 minutes away from the cafe. But combined with the heavy traffic, it may take up to 50. "Traffic sucks." You yawned, your feet propped up on the dashboard, whilst Jenna drove. She didn't reply, only shrugging. You looked over her, lips slightly parting. Mixed with the blaring light of cars in traffic and the soft music coming from the stereo, Jenna looked like she came out straight from a romantic movie. Her serious gaze on the street and her hair falling just right made you felt butterflies threatening to escape out your throat. Little did you know, Jenna noticed your light sight-seeing of her. But she wasn't complaining, instead she lets a small smile quirk from the side of her lips.

"Like the view?" Jenna teased, tilting her head a bit to glance at you with a knowing raised brow. "What? I mean- what view?" You coughed a bit, averting your gaze quickly as you squeezed your hands together. "You know.. the city lights?" Jenna said casually, as if her question was not about her. "Oh- yes. I do, night lights are... pretty." You trailed off, wordless for the first time. The car parked, halting to a stop. You were about to exit the vehicle until you felt a soft yet firm hand grab onto your shoulder. "Jenna-" You were about to question until you felt arms engulf you into a hug. The stereo was turned off, the echoing of cars fading in the background. Yet you didn't reject the hug, just gave into it. "I like you." Jenna whispered, like if she said it any louder something might happen.

You froze where you sat. Those sweet words coming out of Jenna made your head spin, your heart beat faster than usual, and a bead of sweat drip down your head. You've reimagined this moment over so many times and it being come to life is a different feeling. You didn't hesitate to pull back from the hug and gently place a kiss on Jenna's lips, smiling into it as your hand travel to her cheek. Jenna's breath caught in her throat, her hands resting on your waist. After a minute or two of shared silence, both of you pulled back, catching your breath. "I thought.. you'd never say that." You murmured to her, resting your forehead against hers.

Back in your apartment, you cuddled with Jenna in your small living room, the tv in front of you flickering with life but both of you paid less attention to it, as you both enjoyed each others company. "You got a bit jealous back there, did you?" Jenna teased a bit, her thumb circling around the palm of your hand. "Hm.. maybe. I couldn't help it." You replied nonchalantly, your head resting against her chest. "I'm only yours, y/n." Jenna whispered, nuzzling her head against your hair. Finally, she was yours, and you were hers. Midnight struck, and Jenna yawned, "I love you, y/n." Jenna said quietly, placing a gentle kiss on your forehead, your eyes fluttering to a close with a sweet grin on your face. "I love you too, my darling." you said softly as both of you dozed off to a peaceful sleep, enjoying each others newfound love.

so sorry for delay anon! wc: 1,141 words

[24hrssofnea]

HAWAIIAN ROLLER COASTER RIDE 🌺🌴 . pairs :: te-hina paopao in which :: basketball meets surfer

TE-HINA PAOPAO X FEM!READER — ⋆.𐙚 ̊— Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride”  (featuring: Nahala Tuki’nnala, Mahla, the Hawaiian sun, and a very random encounter)

The sun was just beginning to mellow out, dipping low enough that the waves caught the light like liquid diamonds. You were still damp from the ocean, salt clinging to your skin, hair knotted from the surf and wind. Mahla was giggling a few feet away, aggressively patting the side of a lopsided sand turtle, while you were focused on perfecting a drip-castle with your palms.

That’s when a shadow fell over you. Someone was standing there.

“Hey… uh, do you like piña coladas?”

You blinked up, squinting past the rays of light. Standing above you was this tall girl—brown skin glowing, dark curls tied back in a frizzy bun, ocean-blue Nike shorts and a white tank top. She held out a sweating paper cup, umbrella and all.

“My dad got two, but he didn’t want his,” she added quickly, as if that explained everything. “And you—uh, you look like someone who drinks piña coladas.”

You stared at her. “I look like…?”

“Like you’d like it. The fruitiness. I don’t know. You’re… building sand castles.”

Mahla was already crawling toward you on her knees, whisper-shouting like a rabid sports reporter.

“NAHALA. That’s Te-Hina Paopao. Are you serious right now?”

You blinked again. “Who’s…?”

Mahla gawked at you. “She starts for South Carolina. She used to be at Oregon. She’s like a legend. Hele aku . Ask her to surf with us.”

You glanced at the girl—Te-Hina, apparently—and then back at your sister. “She looks like she doesn’t know how to surf.”

“Excuse me??” Te-Hina asked, mock-offended, lips twitching like she was trying not to laugh.

“I just mean—” you gestured vaguely. “You’ve got…basketball muscles. That doesn’t really scream wave balance.”

Te-Hina grinned wide now, setting the piña colada beside your castle and dropping into a crouch. “Okay, I might not scream it, but I’ll have you know, I don’t wipe out. Not that often, anyway.”

Mahla was practically vibrating. “Can you please just ask her to surf?”

You sighed dramatically and turned to Te-Hina, who was now helping herself to a seashell to add to your castle.

“Wanna surf?”

She smirked. “Only if I get to name this sand turtle first.”

You paused. “…Go on.”

Later:

She did come surfing. She was…not great. But she didn’t wipe out either. You begrudgingly gave her that.

And when the sun fully set, when your boards were upright in the sand and Mahla had run off to tell your mom she saw a literal college athlete up close, Te-Hina sat beside you with a second piña colada.

“I was right,” she said, handing it to you. “You do seem like a piña colada girl.”

You sipped it. It was too sweet. Too coconutty. But you didn’t tell her that.

“You seem like you should stick to basketball.”

Te-Hina bumped your shoulder. “You seem like someone I’m gonna want to see again.”

You raised your eyebrows. “Because I like piña coladas?”

“No,” she said. “Because you make fun of me and still let me drink your soda.”

“It’s not soda.”

“Whatever.”

She smiled. You smiled back.

And somewhere nearby, Mahla was watching with her hands clasped like a romantic sitcom just broke out live on the beach.

[that1garrulousfan]

OC AND/OR DRAWING IDEAS FOR ARTBLOCK

🌸 - Interacting with a canon character

🎀 - Dress them in your favorite outfit and/or an outfit you wish you had

🔥 - a r s o n

🎃 - Halloween costume

🦾 - Robot or cyborg

🎤 - Singing

🎁 - Reacting to a present they received or waiting for a reaction from someone they gave it to

🛍️ - Shopping

👑 - Royalty

😈 - Villain

🖤 - Emo/punk/grunge aesthetic

🪡 - Working on a sewing projecting (or crocheting!)

🔪 - Horror art

🧥 - Investigator or a detective

🎬 - Film director

🤿 - Snorkeling and/or swimming

🥸 - Disguise

🍂 - Autumn

🍀 - St. Patrick’s Day

🪖 - Soldier

👾 - 8-Bit

🧤 - Gardening

⛲️ - By a water fountain

🎄 - Decorating a Christmas tree

⚽️ - Playing soccer/football

🏀 - Playing basketball

🏈 - Playing football

🎾 - Playing tennis

🏐 - Playing volleyball

⚾️ - Playing base ball/soft ball

🏓 - Playing ping pong

🪵 - Gathering firewood or just with logs/wood

🎡 - At a carnival

🕷️- Reaction to a spider

💐 - Giving or receiving flowers

💌 - Confession

😒 - Annoyed and/or sarcastic

🤣 - Laughing

🎫 - Buying tickets

✈️ - In an airplane or at an airport or boarding the plane

🐚 - Collecting seashells and/or at the beach

🤩 - Amazed

🌝 - Waiting for a reaction (specifically a prank or something obvious or “You’ll see” expression)

🎮 - Playing video games

🍔 - Eating a burger or other fast food

🎒 - Buying school supplies and/or getting ready for school

☔️- Standing in the rain with an umbrella

🌂 - Going out into the rain

🚗 - Driving and/or driving test

💅 - Painting nails

🧣 - Wearing a scarf

🤳 - Selfie (maybe with a few friends)

🪺 - Stumbling across a bird’s nest

🍳 - Making breakfast

🛹 - Skateboarding

🥧 - Baking a pie and/or cake

🪩 - Dancing and/or at a party

🤡 - The character’s most embarrassing moment

✨ - Star gazing

⛳️ - Playing golf

🪅 - Breaking a piñata

❄️ - In the snow

🛝 - In a liminal space

🐍 - Their reaction to a snake

🍉 - Eating a fruit

🍽️ - Setting up a table (maybe as a waiter for a restaurant or just a family/friend dinner?)

🕶️ - Wearing cool shades

🥠 - Opening a fortune cookie

🩰 - Ballet

🎼 - Learning and/or practicing music

🎯 - Playing with darts

🚲- Riding a bike

🛴 - Riding a scooter

🎪 - At a circus (maybe a d i g i t a l one???)

🖼️ - Admiring art (or not)

🍋 - Trying to eat this

🍨 - Eating an ice cream

🥯 - “A bagel… Two bagels.”

🎢 - On a roller coaster

🎭 - Acting

🛶 - Kayaking or canoeing

📸 - Taking pictures of random objects for no reason :]

🪐 - Trip to space and/or on a planet

💻 - Working on something on the computer

🙌 - With something they admire

🌶️ - Trying a spicy pepper

🫖 - TEA PARTY

🪨 - Rock climbing

🪃 “Wanna know the difference between your honor and my boomerang, Zuko?” “What?” “Your honor will never come back.” “THAT’S NOT FUNNY, SOKKA—“

⛽️ - Getting gas

🧭 - Using a campus

🏕️ - Camping

🌳 - Sitting under a tree

I may reblog and add more later but I hope this helps for now!! Best of luck y’all!! 💖

[deceit-and-knowledge]

( ooc: I just saw that!!! Absolutely adorable! I freaking love the idea of Shadow Milk standing up to Sage's bullies in a school setting, despite him being tough on his own brother..! X3 )

Ah! Professor Sage! You surprised me!

Yes, it does seem like a hectic time lately for Lord Shadow Milk... His life is a bit of a roller coaster. News about their wedding were revealed in not the best of ways to Young Lady Candy Apple, and she didn't take it kindly.

As for you, if we compare you to the same metaphor, I believe you were also abandoned but quickly picked up before a lot of traumatic experiences could start to pile up. Still, the feeling of abandonment is a harsh one. I'm so glad you were able to find your own loving home and family despite the rough start.

Say... Mage Truthless haven't happened to have started to call you by some new term of endearment yet, has he? (<- is really curious how the Nightlight nickname has landed) - Umbrella Anon

( ooc: Also now I can't help, but picture an older, and more hardened version of Custard Cookie who grew up in the rough environment of the Dark Cacao kingdom. )

Ooc: shadow milk would so be the type of sibling that's like "only I can hurt them" :3

f: poor shadow milk cookie.. *sighs* we're both having a rough time haha...

hm..?

A new term of endearment..? no he has not.. recluse went back to bed with chicky...he's very tired today but at least he's actually sleeping..

Now I'm curious.. I'll ask him when he's awake..

cc: is recluse that version of dad with the fluffy hair?

f: mhm..! He recently got a hair cut!

[mlmichaelharrison]

HSS Family HCs

Saw someone complain that there weren't great back stories for the characters's family lives, and they are SO RIGHT >:( So here you go!

Warnings, it gets real angsty.

Caleb

Caleb's family is H U G E

Which means giant and exhausting family gatherings and way too many dates to remember.

Auntie Anna and Uncle John's anniversary? No clue. Grandpa T’s birthday? Fuck knows. Ezra's next gig? Shit, should probably memorise that one…

(ADHD does not help)

Losing his grandma was really tough on family dynamics.

His mom hopped on the bandwagon with blaming one of her brothers for not taking care of her as much as he should have, as the legal carer.

The funeral was one of the hardest things Caleb had to go through.

Everyone drifted apart a bit, until Caleb finally convinced his mom finally reached out to invite them over for Christmas, like old times. He knows that's what his grandma would have wanted.

After that, they were reunited, and have been inseparable since.

Which means more dates to remember, but that's okay, because everyone is happy again.

He and Ezra get along extraordinarily, always joking at the table (which his parents don't love), playing pranks on each other, and competing like their lives depend on it on Super Smash Bros, Mario Kart, and Mario Party.

They get together in Ezra's room at least once a month to catch up on gossip (Ezra is very keen to hear Caleb's opinion on the new kid). They throw on a movie and chat over it the entire time (unless there's some really bad acting or visual effects).

Ezra can be a little pushy for personal details during these hangouts, but Caleb has learned to trust his brother, or lie.

He loves his mom and she loves him, so much. They have a very kissy and cuddly relationship (which gets embarrassing when she kisses his forehead goodbye in front of his friends).

He will ALWAYS be a Mama’s Boy™

He gets along with his dad well, too. He has never missed a game, even standing out in torrential rain to watch Caleb play soccer with seven friends when he was six years old, still cheering him on and shaking his umbrella in celebration.

They all come along to his big games, even when he tries to tell them not to, but it always brightens the game up when he looks to the seating and sees his family, beaming at him, holding up ugly hand painted signs they've had since Caleb was ten.

Now we get to the angst >:) GET OUTTA HERE, GOLDEN BOY!!!

Emma

Obviously, Emma's family is split apart. Parents divorced, sister siding with their father, and no family close to the Cove.

The divorce was tough, especially when it came to her parents fighting over the kids and the battle of bribery that ensued.

Since her mom works so often, she has a lot of time to herself.

Sometimes she wonders if she made a mistake, staying with Julia, but she shakes that thought immediately when her father comes to mind.

He's… not the nicest man. Emma used to sit at the top of the stairs to listen to their arguments. The insults and swears she'd learned by the age of ten would concern every teacher.

He had all the money, a very good job, and that's why Robin followed him to the city. Better than this deadbeat town. Emma is sometimes jealous of the lavish life they have together, but when her mom comes home with that tired smile and opens her bag to show lemon meringue pie, Emma's favourite, Emma knows she's made the right decision.

She and her mom try to do things together when Julia has a day off: typical kid’s days out, like the fair, the roller rink, bowling.

As much as Emma appreciates these outings, her favourite part is watching trashy TV on the sofa, and the warm smile of appreciation she gives Emma every time she brings a fresh cup of tea.

When she's lonely, she's grateful you came into her life and built an (unlikely) chosen family with her. She genuinely considers the gang her siblings, and never misses an opportunity to show her appreciation.

Maria

She adores her dads, and they love her to absolute pieces . They had to fight for her, so she means a lot to them. A LOT.

They always reserve time for each other. Every week, shuffled around, they have a board game night, video game night, a collaborative from-scratch cooking night, and theatre night.

They love to dress up for these events, too, just to keep them feeling special.

(Except cooking night. Jose learned that the hard way when he spilled a can of tomatoes down a cream suit jacket.)

However, Maria does get lonely sometimes. Not having siblings or any extended family members (since her dads had to cut themselves off from their families when they got married on the first day it was legal) leaves her feeling quite isolated.

She loves her cats, though.

Aiden

Strict parents, no siblings, he gets even more isolated.

They get him diagnosed with autism when he's young, and since then have mostly kept him from social situations to “protect” him. Their hearts are in the right place, but it takes a toll on his mental health and means he doesn't learn very good social skills.

He resents them a little. Quietly, of course, but if a jab at them ever does slip, they're prompt to punish him by grounding him, isolating him further. Genius.

He sneaks a second phone into his room so he can chat with Myra, who he honestly considers to be his sister and best friend.

She listens to him bitch for a few minutes before she changes the subject, which takes Aiden's mind off of things quickly.

(Especially when it involves a certain someone)

Glen and Bridget's expectations have always been high, and not just for music - he is grounded immediately if a single subject’s grade is below a B.

That does, however, provide its own distraction of studying. No need to do anything against the rules this time. Little wins?

One time, Glen catches him on his phone during grounding. Yelling about disobedience escalates to conversations around mental health (they don't believe that “anxiety” is real) and sexuality, and how he's distracted thinking about the wrong thing. Bridget smacks him when he talks back one time, which left Aiden with a small mark that he brushed off as a bow snapping in his face.

Michael

Michael doesn't get along with his parents.

Or his older sister, for that matter. She stayed at Hearst when Michael moved, and she loves having a reason to be rude to him.

Only his immediate family live in Cedar Cove: the rest live in New York, where Alex was until age fourteen. He misses his cousins a lot, and a couple of aunties and uncles, but he can take or leave the rest.

His grandfather used to put his cigars out in Michael's skin if he ever misbehaved, which has left him with nasty, circular scars running up both arms.

His mom tries her best, but rarely gets it right. She tries so hard to support his mental health, but it's too much for one woman to take, and her check-ins become less frequent as Michael grows up. She has a nasty habit of manipulating him, but he becomes a little less easy to manipulate every year.

He's still not all the way there, though. She still sometimes gets under his skin and in his head, and he agrees to things that he doesn't want to do.

His dad is abusive, and the worst part is that everyone knows it.

It's mostly emotional, but every now and then Michael turns up to school with a couple of bruises. He always brushes it off with a smile.

He had a LOT of pressure put on him, particularly around sports and arts.

His father owns a big camera company, which is why he has so much practise with cameras, and so many wonderful and expensive bits of tech.

He works for his dad by testing out their new products. His dad will always find a way to punish him for not being good enough, but will use Michael's artwork for advertisement anyway.

His parents are why he starts rebelling - firstly with fights (against them and people at school), then with B&Es, joyriding, hacking, then with drugs.

He steals his dad's money, which gives him a few heavy beatings.

Starts with cigarettes and alcohol, then weed, then starts slipping into stuff like cocaine, ketamine, and acid.

He thinks if he can fuck his life up enough, maybe they'll back off.

They do, but he's been left with a criminal record and a couple of dangerous addictions.

(Bonus: Michael + Gay!M!MC)

Michael's dad is massively homophobic.

Never towards Michael, he never suspected a thing, but he would often open political conversations with Michael to make sure he was still his son, his puppet, regurgitating every opinion he has.

It works for a while. Michael is completely brainwashed into believing that homosexuality is wrong, so when MC turns up in all his powerfully gay glory, Michael takes some time to adjust.

He teases MC sometimes, at first, calling him names and telling him to man up. It's a defence mechanism, because in reality, Michael noticed how much he liked him immediately.

MC wasn't even the first boy he liked, or even kissed. But those were such drunken/high/adrenaline fuelled/‘fake’ experiences that he wiped them from his mind as soon as he could, terrified that his dad would be able to read it from his brain when he got home.

It took Michael a lot of time to soften his exterior and apologise to MC. A lot of sleepless nights. A lot of lying to his family if he ever asked what was wrong. A lot of breakdowns.

When Michael and MC finally figure out their relationship, he carries that secret around home with complete and utter fear.

His mom is the first to find out, and tells him they always wanted him to be “perfect” and have a “good” and “acceptable” life.

His dad finds out accidentally and beats Michael for the first time in over a year. Michael runs away to MCs house, still bleeding and crying, and Scott instantly agrees to let him stay for the weekend.

A lot of Michael's story is taken from my OC from a novel I've been writing, so if you read a novel that has an eerily similar plot, hey! Maybe it's me :)

Didn't proof read soz I'm lazy xoxo

[allthefoolishdreams]

ooh i am curious about derby and i think we're alone now! <3

derby:

the sapphic skz au that i've posted about!!! so as has been mentioned gender swapped skz who are all various flavors of sapphic. but more than that it's inspired by the movie whip it so they're all on a roller derby team together, hence derby being the doc title, specifically jeongin learns about roller derby and ends up joining the team and finding her place

"No. I actually... I wanted to tell you that you're kind of my new heroes," Jeongin says, feeling shy, she's not sure what possessed her to say except how this whole experience of watching them play has left her in awe. [Chan] giggles, and her dimples are on full display, ducking her head. "Well, maybe you should put on some skates and be your own hero.” “Oh, no, I couldn’t,” Jeongin waves off.  “C’mon, of course you can, everyone's always looking for new skaters,” she says eagerly, “There’s tryouts happening soon!”

i think we're alone now:

this is actually the doc for my umbrella academy au which I have decided to turn into a longer fic, but it's going slowly (as most of my fics are)

Chan gets the call while he’s taking in the view of Earth, he usually watches for anything unusual, right now it’s peaceful as he stands among the stars and looks at the world. Everything looks so small, he knows it’s full of so much life. But he's here far away from it, a wave of loneliness hits him as that realization sinks in.

(also a funny thing about you choosing these two specifically is that both are based on media starring elliot page dbhsajbdjsa)

[contremineur]

I come back to the cottage in Santa Monica Canyon where Andrée and I were poor and happy together. Sometimes we were hungry and stole vegetables from the neighbours' gardens. Sometimes we went out and gathered cigarette butts by flashlight. But we went swimming every day, all year round. We had a dog called Proclus, a vast yellow mongrel, and a white cat named Cyprian. We had our first joint art show, and they began to publish my poems in Paris. We worked under the low umbrella of the acacia in the dooryard. Now I get out of the car and stand before the house in the dusk. The acacia blossoms powder the walk with little pills of gold wool. The odour is drowsy and thick in the early evening. The tree has grown twice as high as the roof. Inside, an old man and woman sit in the lamplight. I go back and drive away to Malibu Beach and sit with a grey-haired childhood friend and watch the full moon rise over the long rollers wrinkling the dark bay.

Kenneth Rexroth, Only years

from here

[pr1ncessava]

Chapter Lady: What’s Really At Steak

word count: 8096

“Ahahaha…”

Laughter rang out in the square of Ginma District. It was fast, high pitched, seeming to pierce through the white noise Kanai Ward’s constant rain created.

“Ahahahaha…”

There it is again. It sounded so cheerful, so happy, so…nuts.

“Ahahahahahahahaha!”

And it only seemed to grow more and more frenzied as it continued to ring out into Ginma District’s square.

“Ahahahahahaha!”

That laughter belonged to only one person, the detective known as Lady Soot.

“Ahahaha! Again, again!” Lady began to bounce in place as she held her pretty pink umbrella over herself. She was standing in front of another person who seemed to be in their mid-20s, an electronic keyboard with Amaterasu’s logo on it right in front of them. They smiled at the woman before them, seeming grateful she stuck around for their act, “This is the first time someone’s liked my songs so much…thank you!” Lady smiled back as she happily responded, “Are you kidding? It’s like being in a candy store, I can’t get enough of it!” “Haha, a kid in a candy store?” They laughed at her sugary sweet words. “Absolutely! It’s good to enjoy the little things every now and then, y’know? Even if it’s a small, itty bitty little gumdrop!” Lady giggled at her own words, her sugary laughter filling the ears of the street performer. “You really are an interesting one, miss…?” They asked for her name. “Lady.” Lady introduced herself, shaking the performer’s hand in one rapid motion, giving them the biggest smile she could muster. “Just Lady…?” The performer giggled, “Anyway, my name’s Teru. It’s nice to meet you.” “Pleasure to meet you too!” Lady smiled once more, “Say, are you here all day?” “No, I’m here from noon to 9PM.” Teru responded with a smile on their face. “Noon to nine…” Lady softly murmured to herself before looking back up at them, “Okay! That’s very good to know!” Her bright pink eyes sparkled as she continued to smile so brightly. It was amazing how friendly Lady naturally was, making friends with even the most quiet and furtive of people.

An energetic and kind person such as herself surely would leave a tip for the performer, right? Seeing as she made no moves to do so, Teru had to ask. “Um…if you want to leave a tip, you can.” They flashed a shy smile at Lady’s way, who was met with a rather shocked expression from the master detective. Lady nervously chuckled, “About that…I don’t really have any money…” She gave a nervous smile in return. And hearing that made Teru’s once shy smile turn into a rather sour frown. “But, there is one way I can pay! Do you like desserts?” Lady leaned in closer to Teru as she made her offer, watching as they went silent. Desserts? Who the hell offers someone desserts as a way to pay someone?! Lady Soot, apparently. It was the only thing she could offer anyway, as she came to Kanai Ward with nothing but the clothes on her back and her umbrella. It took Teru a moment to respond, but they eventually did. “…No, not really. But, I have been craving something sweet lately.” Hearing that alone was enough for Lady’s energy levels to multiply by ten, if that was even possible. “Great! Tell me what you’re craving most, I can make it for you! It’ll take no more than a half hour tops!” As her words were rapidly fired in Teru’s direction, her smile seemed to grow even bigger. This girl really likes desserts as well as baking them, doesn’t she? Teru softly giggled before answering her, “Well, I have been craving some fresh matcha cake!” Lady’s smile grew even bigger as she leaned in even closer to them, bouncing in place once again as she got excited at the mere idea of baking something for someone. “I can definitely do that for you! Follow me!” And with that, Lady clicked her heels twice, activating the roller skates her Ruby red mary-jane shoes had installed into them. She began leisurely skating her way through Ginma district, leaving Teru a bit flabbergasted at the sight of her shoes. A soft sigh escaped their lips before they followed Lady.

Soon enough, the two stood outside the submarine known as the Nocturnal Detective Agency. As Teru caught up with Lady, they were a bit out of breath, and also rather confused as to why they stood right outside of the submarine that rested in the riverbank. They gave Lady a confused look, which was met with her signature sugary sweet smile. “Come with me!” She happily reassured them as she climbed up the ramp that connected the submarine to the dock, smiling at them expectantly. After a small moment of hesitation, they followed Lady into the submarine, with the two of them eventually making their way to the agency’s office. Inside the office was the agency’s chief, Yakou Furio, relaxing in his chair, reading the most recent newspaper from the Amaterasu Times. His eyes wandered over to Lady as she brought her new friend to the agency, seeming a bit confused as to why they were even there to begin with. Maybe it was someone who was here to give them a case? “Oh, Lady! Who’s your friend?” He asked, wondering who that was right next to his detective. Lady’s attention turned to the fuzzy, blue-haired chief, “Chiefy Weefy!” She gave him a frantic wave, seeming really ecstatic to have someone to share her baked goods with. However, her words left Chief Yakou a bit confused, his blue eyes widening a bit in bewilderment. “C-Chiefy Weefy…?” “This is my friend, Teru! They’re a street performer!” The detective, dressed in pink, happily showed off her friend to the chief, to which Teru gave a small bow. “It’s nice to meet you, Chief.” They smiled. “Oh, I almost forgot! I’ll get started on that matcha cake for you now, Teru!” Lady then darted off to the submarine’s kitchen at a lightning speed, leaving the street performer alone with the chief. An awkward silence began to fill the room, but it was eventually broken by Teru’s voice. “...Is she always this happy to see people?” They asked Chief Yakou, seeming a bit confused by Lady’s behavior. Chief Yakou couldn’t help but chuckle, “She is. As much as she’s high energy, she’s a good detective. And a good person too.” He turned his head to the doorway where the kitchen was, hearing Lady hum a tune to herself as she baked in there. “It’s hard to understand what goes on in that head of hers. As her boss, I can definitely attest to that. But despite it, she has a real heart of gold. She’s always making sweet treats for the other detectives.” He spoke with a smile, taking a moment before turning back to Teru. “She said she was making a matcha cake for you, how come?” Yakou tilted his head slightly as his curiosity piqued. Upon hearing his question, Teru let out a timid laugh, “Ah, she said she didn’t have any money to tip me, so she offered me desserts instead…” Yakou chuckled at their words, “Ah, haha…sounds about right. When she first came here, she had nothing but her umbrella and the clothes on her back.”

Before they knew it, Lady came back into the room, fresh matcha cake in hand. “Aaand, it’s done!” Teru looked at the cake in shock, it looked so delicious. It was that perfect matcha green color, even the frosting looked to be matcha flavored. And the fact that it was decorated with strawberries… Looking at it alone was enough to make anyone’s mouth water! “Wow… That looks amazing, Lady!” Teru beamed at the cake, their eyes seemed to sparkle the more they looked at the cake. “Wanna take it for the road? Go on, don’t be afraid! I don’t bite!” Lady smiled at Teru as she brought the cake closer to them. “You mean it? A-Are you sure?” Teru began to stutter, “C-Can I try a little bit of it here?” Lady quickly nodded as she continued to smile, “Sure! I’ll be right back!” Lady then darted back to the kitchen, the sound of silverware being shuffled filling in the silence of the agency. Eventually, she trotted back into the room, holding a cake server, a fork, and a small plate in her hands, and she began to cut a slice of the cake for Teru, putting it on the small plate for them. As soon as they took the plate, Lady began to put the rest of the cake in a leftover takeout box. Teru took a bite of the cake, and at that moment…it was heaven. The matcha cake was just the perfect amount of sweetness, and the strawberry on top added just the right amount of tang! And the earthy notes from the matcha itself was nothing short of amazing, it really hit the spot! Lady could see the smile on Teru’s face as they ate it, “Do we have a hit?” “Oh, absolutely! Have you thought about opening your own café?” Teru asked as soon as they finished eating. Hearing that question only made Lady giggle, “Funny you mention it, I used to live in one before I became a detective!” Hearing this made Chief Yakou take a moment to think, one of his Master Detectives used to bake at a café? Then again, it was Lady, so it seemed to make sense. “...I would say I’m shocked, but I’d kinda be lying.” He said. Lady’s head craned towards Chief Yakou, her pretty, caramel brown hair fluttering gently as she made eye contact with him, “You didn’t know? Huh, weird. I could’ve sworn I told you.” “What? You never told me that…!” Chief Yakou smiled in a puzzled manner, which was met with a rather quick response from Lady, “It was the first thing I mentioned when I came here.” Lady’s speedy sentence made Chief Yakou nervously laugh. She was right, she did say that when she first came to Kanai Ward, “Oh, right…” After they finished eating the slice of matcha cake, Teru took the takeout box with a smile on their face. “Well, I better get going. Thanks again for the cake, Lady. It really means a lot to me.” They waved to the detectives with their free hand before taking their leave. “Take care!” Lady happily chimed as she waved back to her new friend. Once they left, Chief Yakou softly chuckled as he shook his head, “You and your sweet nature, Lady… You make it look so easy to make friends!” “That’s because it is easy, silly!” Lady giggled before she clicked her shoes and activated their roller skate mode once again, leisurely skating figure eights around the office. “I’d do anything to make sure people smile. Heck, that’s kinda the reason why I became a detective in the first place!” Lady’s words confused Yakou a bit… ‘Kinda the reason?’ What the heck was the rest of the reasons Lady had for becoming a detective?! After being stupefied by her statement and casual roller skating, he had to ask, “Uh… What was the rest of the reason?” “That’s for me to know and you to find out.” Her words were quick and casual, as if she knew exactly what the chief was going to ask.

Lady was certainly a weird one…she roller skated everywhere, she was always baking sweets, she was always consuming sweets too. She’d only tease about her life and then completely distract you by meowing and knocking something over, and when she did say anything, her words were fired at the speed of light, making it difficult to even hear what she was saying. All the master detectives were rather eccentric individuals, but Lady definitely takes the cake when it comes to being on the weirder, even crazier side. Chief Yakou attempted to wipe the weird grimace from his face by checking the time. Upon realizing how late it was, he stood up from his chair, his eyes on Lady as she continued to skate inside the office, “Hey, it’s getting late. You might want to go back to the hotel and get some sleep.”

“I don’t sleep.”

“Y-You…what?”

“Besides, you never know what’ll happen when your eyes are closed.” Lady flashed her signature smile at the chief as she stopped skating. Those bright pink eyes of hers…they seemed to sparkle, but at the same time, there was something else behind them. As if she was constantly hiding something about herself and she wouldn’t let up on it around even the closest of friends. Looking into her eyes for too long made it seem like those pretty pink irises were spiraling…further and further into madness. Was she really on the brink of losing it? After a moment, Chief Yakou snapped out of it, shaking his head with his eyes closed before scratching his fuzzy blue hair. “U-Um, anyway… Try to get some rest tonight, will you? Staying up all hours of the day isn’t any good.” “Says the bloke who sleeps in ‘till noon.” Lady replied with a smug smirk on her face. “Hey, I forget to turn on my alarm sometimes!” Chief Yakou replied in a rather flustered manner, which made Lady chuckle. “Well, just make sure you’re up in time before we all meet here!” She happily replied as she grabbed her umbrella from the coat hanger, placing the hook handle onto her forearm before skating out of the office. Chief Yakou softly smiled as he watched Lady make her way out of the submarine, “Good night, Lady. Stay safe out there!” “Oh you know me, I’ll be fine! Somehow, someway, I get out of the trouble I find myself in! That’s how it always is!” She yelled back in response before leaving the submarine and making her way to Kamasaki District.

After another sleepless night in the Sun & Moon Hotel, Lady merrily roller skated her way over to the riverbank, holding her pretty pink umbrella over herself as she hummed a little chipper tune to herself. As soon as she entered the submarine, she made her presence known, “Chief, you better be up!” Her voice rang out as she spoke in a sing-song tone, the first thing she heard in response was the shuffling of the chief’s newspaper. “Oh, Lady! There you are! Listen, I…have some news for you.” “News?” Lady’s head tilted to the side before she approached the chief’s desk, leaning over it as she continued to smile, “What is it, boss?” The look on Chief Yakou’s face seemed to be that of apprehension, like he had just learned about something that troubled him. “So, uh…you know your friend, Teru?” “Yeah, why?” Lady paused for a moment, taking in the silence. That alone was enough for her to realize what had happened. “...Is Teru dead?” Yakou nodded, “Yeah… They were…killed.” The silence that followed was enough to asphyxiate Lady. Why is it that the people that Lady managed to bond with managed to end up dead in such horrific ways? First, it was her grandmother, who sadly passed due to her home going up in flames, now her newest friend gets killed the day after she met them? Who the hell even has that kind of luck?! It took Lady a moment before her face showed a look of determination, “Let me take on the case.” She even sounded serious compared to how silly and goofy she normally was. Her determination alone was enough to shock Chief Yakou, “Jeez, you want to take on the case already…?!” “It’s the very least I can do,” Lady softly nodded, “I owe them.” “Owe them…? You barely knew them!” Chief Yakou blurted out in response, still stunned by the fact that Lady didn’t even want to grieve her new friend. Was she really that quick to just move onto solving the case? “Hey, just because I barely knew them doesn’t mean I don’t care. Don’t you ever get that twisted!” She lightly struck the chief’s desk as she spoke, “They could’ve had a family, a family that loved and cared for them. And so help me, I will see through that their family gets the justice they so rightfully deserve! They deserve real justice, not that bland ass slop those slower than molasses Peacekeepers are gonna try and feed them. So let me do my job, and bring it to them!” “Um…” A soft, innocent sounding voice rang out in the agency, causing both the chief and Lady to crane their heads towards the source of it. It was a little girl, who seemed to be no older than the age of eight.

Lady’s surprised expression turned into a sweet smile as she began to approach the child. “Hi there! How did you find us, sugarcube?” She smiled as she gently got down on her knees, smiling up at the little girl as she spoke with such a sweet, kind voice. “M-My sibling told me about a friend they made yesterday, and they said they stopped by here…” The soft, little voice seemed to be shaky, the child’s eyes starting to fill with tears, “Are you Lady…?” She meekly asked, her eyes meeting Lady’s bright pink ones. “Yep, that’s me! I’m Lady Soot, nice to meet you, sweetheart! What’s your name?” She asked the child with a smile. “A-Airi…” The little girl choked out, still seeming rather distraught. “What a sweet name, Airi! I can tell it fits someone who seems like they’re made of sugar.” Lady tenderly responded to Airi, an attempt to try and help the little girl relax, even just a little bit. “Th-Thank you…” Airi seemed to get a bit more choked up, sniffling softly as little tears streamed down her face. “Teru named me…” She softly whimpered, causing Lady’s eyes to go wide. “Wait… You’re Teru’s sister?” That information seemed to awe Lady, her eyes locked onto Airi as she softly responded. “Y-Yes…” With that, poor Airi started to cry, her little body shaking. Chief Yakou couldn’t believe his eyes and his ears, this was Teru’s little sister, and she was the one asking the detectives for help?! He sat there in pure dismay, “Oh, this is bad… What do we do?!” After seeing the chief panic, Lady knew exactly how to handle this. Her head turned back onto Airi, giving her a smile as she spoke to the kid, “Airi, did Teru tell you what I do?” “Well…” sniff, “…they said you made a really yummy matcha cake…” Airi’s response made Lady giggle, “Yes, I did do that! But do you know what else I do? I’m a detective.” Lady gently held onto the little girl’s hands as she continued to speak, “Do you know what detectives do? We’re here to help you out!” Airi’s little voice was shaky as she whimpered, “Y-You are…?” Lady gave the child a soft nod as she smiled, “I’m really sorry to hear about what happened to Teru, Airi. Losing someone who was part of your family is always really hard, and I want to let you know you did a really brave thing today by coming over to ask us for help.” Airi sniffled once more, “…R-Really?” “Of course!” Lady giggled, “You did a really great thing coming over to us. Now, we can help you figure out what happened to your sibling!” “You will…?” Airi’s eyes seemed to sparkle as she heard those words. Lady wanted to help figure out what happened to her sibling? Not to mention, she was significantly nicer than any Peacekeepers she encountered! “Absolutely! You can count on me!” Lady smiled as she gave Airi the sweetest smile she could possibly muster, the sight getting the little girl to smile before hugging the detective. “Thank you, Lady…” The little girl softly spoke. Lady couldn’t help but chuckle lightly as she hugged Airi back, “Anytime! Now,” she pulled back before speaking, “What’s something you like to do? Maybe, I can ask you some questions while we do something you like together!” “Um…” Airi thought to herself before answering Lady’s question, “…I like to draw!” “Drawing, it is! Hey Chief, get us a couple pens and paper!” Lady turned her head to the chief, giving him an enthusiastic smile. Chief Yakou sat there, absolutely flabbergasted. “U-Uh…sure! Let me get those…” He then searched his drawers, eventually getting exactly what Lady requested. She then happily trotted her way over to the chief, grabbing the pens and paper, “Thanks, Chief!” She showed Airi to the coffee table, sitting next to the child as she handed her the paper and a pen. “Ready to get creative?” She asked, giving Airi a sugary sweet smile. “Yeah!” Airi replied with such enthusiasm before she began to scribble on the paper, causing a small giggle to escape from Lady.

“So, Airi,” Lady watched as the child continued to scribble, “Do you know your sibling’s routine at all? What do they normally do everyday?” “Well…” Airi began to speak as she continued moving the pen along the paper, “We wake up, and we have meat buns for breakfast. It’s Teru’s favorite!” She smiled as she began to walk Lady through a normal day in Teru’s life. “Then, I hear them practicing their music in their room! Sometimes, I’ll go in and watch them. They like it when I clap!” Airi giggled as she continued to doodle. “Okay, great!” Lady nodded, “How long do they practice for, do you know?” Her question made Airi think, “We usually finish up breakfast around 9…and I remember them telling me they were gonna be late yesterday if I didn’t leave their room.”

“Do you remember what time it was?”

“11:30. I remember them saying that.” Airi responded, continuing to draw. “11:30…” Lady muttered to herself, taking a moment before she looked back up at Airi. “What about when Teru came home that night? Did you see them last night?” She asked. “Yeah,” Airi nodded, “They told me about you and how you made the yummy matcha cake for them. They even let me have a slice!” She smiled up at the detective. “Do you remember anything else?” Lady smiled as she asked. “After I ate it, Teru tucked me into bed, and then I went to sleep.” The child responded, continuing to scribble. “So after that, you fell asleep?” Lady asked, watching as Airi gave her a small nod. As soon as her testimony was finished, Lady smiled, “Great! You did a really good job at answering my questions, Airi!” It was at that point where Lady got a glimpse of the doodle Airi had been working on. The child’s drawing consisted of three figures; one was a big man, one was a medium sized person, and one was a small girl. Upon further inspection, the person in the middle looked like…Teru? And the little girl seemed to resemble Airi! “What’re you drawing, Airi? Is it your family?” She asked, continuing to look closer at the drawing. Airi nodded, giving the detective a small hum in response. The big question now was the person all the way on the left… That big man, who was that? No stone could be left unturned, Lady had to ask. “Can I ask you something? That person looks like Teru…” Lady pointed at the person in the middle, “And that’s you…” her finger moved to the little girl, “But…who’s that?” Lady pointed to the big man in the drawing. “Oh, that’s Jiro.” Airi seemed to speak nonchalant as she responded to Lady’s question. Jiro…? Lady never heard of Jiro before, was it their father? “He’s our big brother.” Airi’s word’s snapped Lady out of her thoughts, they had an older brother? That just sparked the formation of many other questions in the detective’s brain. In an attempt to try and keep her thoughts all organized, Lady shot one of the questions at the child, “Was Jiro there?” “During breakfast, he was…” Airi responded.

“What about last night?”

“He said goodnight to me too before Teru tucked me in.” Hearing the little girl’s response got the gears in Lady’s head to start turning. “Mmhm…” Lady slowly nodded, “What does Jiro do during the day? Do you know?” Airi looked over at Lady, “Hmm? Oh, he works at a butcher shop!” Lady’s eyes began to sparkle, maybe talking to Jiro could get a lead! “A butcher shop? Do you know where it is?” She leaned in a bit closer as she asked. “Um…” Airi began to think a bit more, “I think it’s in Ginma District… He left right after breakfast.” “Ginma District, got it!” Lady nodded as she seemed to grow more enthusiastic, “Thank you so much, Airi!” “Well Chief, hopefully babysitting is on your resume!” The detective chimed as her head turned to the fuzzy haired chief. “What?!” He gasped, “Y-You’re not leaving me alone with a kid, are you…?!” He seemed so distraught at the thought of watching a little kid. “Yeah! You’ve had one before, right?” Lady responded, seeming a bit confused as to why the chief was panicking. “No! No I haven’t!” Chief Yakou cried out in response. Seeing this made Lady giggle as she approached the chief, “Oh relax, you’ll be fine. Surprised you’re not a dad already, what with dealing with us and all!” “Yeah, but this is different!” Chief Yakou nervously hissed, “I’ve never had to watch over a little kid before!” Lady couldn’t help but chuckle, “Oh stop crying, the milk isn’t spilled. You just have to make sure to not tip it over!”

“W…What?”

“You’ll figure it out, be back soon!” Lady chimed before grabbing her umbrella, leaving the submarine. Chief Yakou’s eyes widened as the detective simply left him in the agency with the kid like that.

“Ginma District, Ginma District…” Lady hummed to herself as she roller skated underground, making her way through Kanai Ward, “Why is everything happening in Ginma District? Am I the only one that noticed this?” She continued to skate through Kamasaki District, the sound of the wheels on her shoes splashing through the puddles littered throughout the roads and sidewalks joining the pitter patter of the rain. She rolled her way through Kamasaki District, which led to her entering her destination. She finally made it to Ginma District once again, now it was time to search for that butcher shop Airi mentioned. Low and behold, there it was! It was the only butcher shop within the district, and it seemed to be rather high-end, too. “Fitting of Ginma District to have a fancy meat shop like this.” Lady shrugged before she entered the store, causing the bell on the door to ring and signal that she entered. “Welcome to The Cut Above! How can we help you today?” The man at the front desk greeted Lady. “Hi, there!” Lady happily addressed the worker, “Say, I’ve got a question.” She smiled as she leaned over the counter, “Does a big man named Jiro work here?” “Oh, Jiro? Yeah, he does. Despite what happened, he decided to show up to work today.” The worker responded, seeming a bit saddened by the thought of what happened to Jiro’s younger sibling. “Would he be able to talk with me for a bit? I was a friend of Teru’s, and I’d be happy to extend my condolences to him.” Lady’s smile was sweet and genuine as she said this. As much as she didn’t even know about Teru’s family until now, she really did want to express her sympathy to them. “Yes, I‘ll go get him for you.” The worker nodded before heading into the back and calling out, “Jiro!” The door slammed behind the worker, leaving Lady alone for a bit. Maybe she could use this time to look around! But wait… That smell, why is it so pungent? Lady sniffed the air, and it became obvious what that smell was. Cleaning products. “That's a cleaning product smell if I’ve ever smelt it before…! Why is it so strong? Do they use bleach or something?” Lady muttered quietly to herself. That led Lady to wander around a bit, seeming to stop at the trash can. “Old habits die hard…” She softly spoke to herself before opening the lid. Inside seemed to be rubber gloves, most of which were drenched in blood. However, there was a pair that seemed to stand out to the detective. Instead of blood, they seemed to be drenched with water. “Water…? Who the hell washes their hands with rubber gloves on?!” She thought out loud, seeming to grimace at her own words in confusion. Lady stepped back from the trash can, taking in the two new clues she had just found. Her eyes continued to scan the area, “Doesn’t seem like there’s anything else I can find here…” And just like that, a big man stepped out of the back door, stepping up to the counter, “Hi there, can I help you?” His grumbly, yet happy voice rang out, “I’m Jiro, you said you were a friend of Teru?” “Yes I am!” Lady happily spoke as she approached the counter, “I’m Lady, it’s a pleasure to meet you!”

Jiro smiled at Lady, “It’s nice to meet you too. Hey, aren’t you the girl who made that cake for them?” “Sure was!” Lady giggled, “I’m so glad they liked it! Did you try it at all?” Jiro shook his head, “Nah, I didn’t get the chance to. But it looked amazing… Do you own a bakery or something?” “No, but I used to live in a café!” Lady’s laugh rang out through the shop, “I hate to change the subject so soon, but… I’d like to ask you a few questions, if that’s alright with you.” “Sure, I don’t mind. Is it about my sibling?” Jiro asked, watching as Lady nodded in response. “Where were you last night around 10 PM?” She asked. “I was home. I told my little sister good night as she went to bed.” Jiro answered.

“What about after that?”

“I threw on the TV and I watched the nightly news.”

“Hmm, okay.” Lady slowly nodded, taking Jiro’s alibi into account, “How long were you watching the news for?” “I watch it until I fall asleep. Not the best habit, but I could always count on Teru to turn the TV off when they woke up.” Jiro’s response was filled with a gloomy tone, seeming to be taking the loss of his sibling rather hard. “So, this would be a common occurrence?” Lady tilted her head as she asked, her caramel brown hair gently fluttering behind her as she did so. “Yeah,” Jiro shrugged, “This happened all the time.” His responses got Lady thinking again, they seemed to fit in the timeline… “When did you fall asleep, if you don’t mind me asking?” She looked up at him as she asked. “Around 12:30…that’s when I normally start feeling myself drift.” Jiro answered with a little sigh escaping his big frame. “Alright…” Lady nodded again, digesting that information, “What time do you guys normally clean the place?” That question seemed to surprise Jiro, “We usually clean the place at 6:30, right before the place opens for the day. We also clean at night, before the place closes.” “Ah, that explains it!” Lady’s smile seemed to brighten, “I could smell the detergent, that’s why I asked!” And with that, Lady looked to be satisfied with the information Jiro provided. “Well, I think that’s all I need! Thank you so much, Jiro!” She giggled. “Anytime, Lady.” The butcher smiled at Lady as his eyes were on her. “I’m so sorry about what happened to them, but mark my words, I will make sure you get the closure you so rightfully deserve.” She continued to smile up at the man, it was very easy to tell her words were heartfelt. “I’ve gotta go, I bet the boss is wondering what’s taking me so long.” She spoke, clicking her heels twice to activate the roller skates mode on her shoes, “Catch you later!” Lady waved as she began to roll her way out the door. Her thoughts were running wild. Was he truly watching TV from 10 to 12:30? What about the overpowering stench of cleaning products? But then, there was also the fact that there was a pair of gloves that were covered in water? It all made sense. But then, As Lady decided to cut through Kanai Ward using one of its many alleyways, everything went black.

Eventually, Lady came to, the bright fluorescent lights of the room blinding the detective as her eyes fluttered open. She let out a soft groan as she began to sit up, taking in her surroundings. What the hell were all those fleshy colored things? Her eyesight was still too fuzzy to recognize anything around her, so she rubbed her eyes before blinking. Her eyes widened at what was before her. Animal carcasses. “Ah!” Lady cried out before shuffling away from the gutted animals that were hung up. Just as soon as she thought she was far away enough, the detective felt something cold brush up against her back, freezing in place for a couple seconds. She slowly craned her head to see what it was, and the sight was horrible. It was Teru, dead. Their body was hung up just like the animal carcasses, hanging by their feet. Blood was dripping from their head, the sound of it trickling in a rhythmic pattern breaking the silence. A soft scream escaped the master detective, squirming away from the corpse, “Holy shit…!” Lady took a moment before catching her breath, “What are the odds?” She continued to breathe heavily as her eyes darted around the room, realizing she was in a meat locker. “Guess I was right…” pant, “We know the who…” pant, “What about the how…?” A soft sigh escaped Lady as she began to rise to her feet, “No time to waste, let’s roll.” The master detective stepped closer to Teru’s corpse, getting on her knees as she gently felt Teru’s head, checking the wound on the back of their head. “Is that…” She paused, continuing to check the wound, “...is that blunt force trauma?” She gently let go of their head, seeing that her hands were now stained pink, “Oh, great.” Lady sighed, “Luckily, I’m alone!” She let out a soft laugh before catching a glimpse at Teru’s arms, seeing that their arms were covered in all sorts of gashes, even their sleeves were ripped. Lady stood up as she began to investigate the arm wounds. “They’ve got all sorts of gashes. Jeez, they must’ve put up a fight…” After stepping away from the corpse, Lady began to think aloud once more, “Their body was pretty cold too, but it wasn't freezing.” The detective scanned the meat locker once more, noticing that she was the only thing that was alive in there. Her gaze then fell onto her hands, stained pink from Teru’s blood. “Okay, keep it ice cold, Lady…” She felt her breath get a bit shallow the more she looked at the blood, “You’re the only person in here, no one else is around. It’s all gonna be fine if you use your Forte just this once…” The sound of her breath becoming more jagged filled the cold silence of the meat locker. “Alright…” breath, “On the count of three…” After another rugged breath, Lady spoke once more. “Three!” Right after encouraging herself, the detective licked her hands clean, consuming any last drop of blood that painted her hands. Her eyes were closed tightly as she began to taste it.

All of a sudden, her bright pink eyes shot open, inspecting the area around her. So far, so good. Everything seems to be normal. A soft, relieved sigh escaped Lady’s system as she turned around, being met with a truly terrifying sight. Teru was standing there right in front of her, bleeding out of their head. Their lips were blue, and the shine in their eyes was no longer there. The corpse was standing right in front of her. “Ahh!” Lady softly screamed as she fell to the floor, scooting further and further away from the corpse. Teru’s body slowly approached her. Step…step…step. Their steps were slowly drawn out, which only made Lady squirm away even quicker as soft, terrified whimpers escaped the detective. Her chest was rapidly moving up and down as she found herself hyperventilating, her ivory skin turning pale as she watched Teru’s cadaver inch closer and closer to her. She couldn’t look away. She couldn’t look away. She desperately wanted to. She wanted to just force her eyelids closed, maybe even drive her eyeballs into their sockets with her thumbs. But she couldn’t. She couldn’t, she didn’t, and all she really could do was stare. Stare in fear. Stare in silence. No matter what, her eyes couldn’t be peeled away from the sight of the corpse that stood before her. The sight made her eyes shake, her breath hitching in her throat as she felt her eyes stay open as wide as they possibly could. Her breath became more shallow. More, and more, and more shallow and she couldn’t look away. She wanted to. Oh, how she wanted to. But she couldn’t. “It isn’t real…” Lady rapidly whispered to herself, continuing to hyperventilate as she made her poor attempts to self soothe. “It isn’t real, it isn’t real, it isn’t real…” Her hands traveled to her head as she attempted to calm herself down more. “It isn’t real, it isn’t real, it isn’t real, it isn’t real… It isn’t real…!” Her words grew shakier and shakier as she said them. As much as she wanted to, she couldn’t bring herself to believe a single word out of her mouth right now. “Get it together, Lady…” Lady’s voice grew shaky, her eyes began to fill with tears as she attempted to plaster a smile on her face. “You’re just making the screws in your head even more loose than they already are! Y-Yeah…!” A nervous laugh escaped her as she softly sniffled, wiping the tears away. She sniffled, “It’ll be over soon. This horrible nightmare of a Forte will be over soon…a-and you’ll get the info that you need!” She rubbed her eyes once more, taking a moment before looking up where the body once stood before her. It was gone. Was it over? Lady nervously giggled, beginning to believe that it was finally over. But it wasn’t over. She let out a soft hiss as the back of her head began to hurt. Bad. Her hand traveled to the source of the throbbing pain, rubbing her head gently before pulling her hand away, only to be greeted with another horrific sight. Blood. It covered her entire hand. “What the hell?!” Lady screamed out, the feeling of the pain only seemed to grow worse and worse. Her eyes closed tightly as she continued to hiss out in pain, the sound of her skull slowly cracking was deafening to her. As soon as her eyes opened once more, it stopped. The pain was gone. She looked down at her hands. The blood was gone. Her chest was still rapidly moving up and down as she took in her surroundings. Everything was the same as it was before she used Carnivorous Autopsy. Even Teru’s body was in the same spot, still strung up like a gutted animal. Lady felt her breath begin to slow down, “Alright…” pant, “So it really was blunt force trauma…” pant, “Those gashes came after…” Lady took a deep breath before she began to stand up once more. “Right, now I need to find a way out.”

Just like that, Lady began to wander around the meat locker, making sure to triple check the entire room as she worked quickly and diligently to find a way to get the hell out of there. However, Lady made a discovery. “Huh, weird… Why is there no murder weapon?” That information only made Lady scan the area a good few times over, checking every possible spot where a potential murder weapon could be hidden. “There’s no way it was that easily disposed of, right?” The detective placed her hands on her hips as she crossed her legs while standing. “I can taste the fact that the weapon was no bigger than 9 kilograms…but how or where do you store a weapon that heavy?” Right after she said those words, Lady’s eyes widened, “Unless… I need to get out of here, I’ve got to tell the chief!” With that, Lady began searching for a way out once again. After roughly ten minutes, Lady’s eyes caught a glimpse of a lock on the door. “That’s it!” Lady exclaimed, sprinting towards the door, attempting to undo the lock, “Jeez, it’s colder than sherbet ice cream!” Her hands flinched away from the door as she felt how freezing it was, taking a moment to rub her hands together just to keep them warm. “Right, let me try that again.” A smile formed on Lady’s face as she got ready to mess with the lock as fast as she could. Once she felt ready, she placed her hands on the freezing door, doing her best to work the lock as quickly as she could. “Just a little bit more, and…” Click! “Done! Ahaha, easy as pie with an ice cream garnish!” With that, Lady swung open the door, being greeted by Chief Yakou and Airi at the counter, standing before the surprised worker as he saw Lady exit the back room. “Oh, there’s Chief Yakou! Hi, Chief!” Lady giddily waved to the chief and the child as she made her way towards them, “You won’t believe what I found out. I know exactly who the culprit is, it’s-“

“Airi?”

A familiar voice rang out. Shit, it’s Jiro! Lady turned her head to meet the big man, giving him her signature goofy grin. “…Oh! Hey there, Lady.” Jiro seemed rather surprised to see her, “How goes it?” “Oh good, good!” Lady crossed her legs as she placed her hands on her hips, “I think I know what happened to your sibling!” The way Lady smiled…she knew something, and she seemed more than happy to share it. “Oh, you do?” Jiro seemed surprised, “I take it they were murdered, just like the Peacekeepers said?” “Oh yeah, they definitely were,” Lady nodded, “I take it that luring your sibling out to hit them from behind with a full leg of ham, creating fake self-defense wounds in order to obfuscate what really happened, and taking the body into the meat locker before opening so you could dispose of everything so conveniently is a normal day of work for you, hmm?” “Huh? A leg of ham…? W-Wait, are you saying the brother did it…?!” Chief Yakou seemed utterly astonished by the deduction Lady had come to. “Now that you mention it…” the worker began to think, “Jiro did seem a bit eager to sell a leg of ham today. It was the first thing we sold.” Jiro’s face contorted into a look of displeasure as he looked over at his coworker. “Uh-huh!” Lady nodded again, “Oh by the way, you don’t use bleach to clean a place where food is handled. You’d have a huge possibility of contaminating the meat you’re trying to sell! But you already knew that, didn’t you? Since the smell of bleach was coming from the store itself rather than the meat locker.” Jiro’s expression turned to that of rage, a low growl emitting from him as he heard the detective reveal the truth. “What?” Airi’s soft, innocent voice rang out, tears filling the child’s eyes as she looked at her older brother. “But, Jiro…why?” The little girl began to choke up as tears streamed down her little face. Jiro sighed as he felt his big, beefy body begin to tremble. “Street performing is useless. You’re gonna starve and get nowhere if you go down that path…” His voice was low as he grumbled his words. “That’s why I kept telling them to get a job here… They never listened. They were adamant on doing something stupid like street performing!” He yelled out, causing his little sister to cry. “I-I thought you liked it…” Airi softly whimpered. “Are you kidding? I hated it. I’ve hated it since day one. I wanted them to inherit the business from me!” Jiro’s harsh words only made the little girl cry even more. Lady’s head turned to the other worker, “You might wanna call the Peacekeepers and tell them everything. I’d be happy to answer any questions for them!” “You’re gonna pay for this…you’ll pay with your blood, Lady!” Jiro shouted at the detective, spit flying out of his mouth. “Uh-huh, sure. You couldn’t keep me quiet by shoving me in a meat locker, what makes you think I’ll keep quiet now?” She smugly smirked at the butcher before turning to Airi, getting down on her knees as she attempted to comfort the crying child. “I’m so sorry you had to see all of that, sweetheart…” She softly cooed, her hand gently wiping away the tears that formed in her little eyes. Airi’s wet eyes fell onto Lady as she felt the detective wipe her tears away, little sniffles escaping her. “Do you have anyone you can stay with, Airi?” Lady softly asked, giving Airi a heartfelt smile. “M-My auntie lives close to us…” She whimpered out. “Oh, good!” Lady’s eyes sparkled, “Why don’t we go look for her?” “O-Okay…” Airi whimpered once more, thus causing her, Lady, and Chief Yakou to make their way over to where the little girl’s aunt lived, dropping her off to live there.

“So,” Chief Yakou sighed as he and Lady made their way back to the agency, “You were really trapped in that meat locker?” “Sure was!” Lady responded with a smile, “Right after I finished questioning him, Jiro knocked me out from behind. I’m just lucky I didn’t die from it, ahaha!” Her statement caused Chief Yakou to nervously laugh, “Yeah, I guess…” The chief’s eyes were locked onto Lady, watching as she briskly roller skated right next to him. “Hey, Lady…” His words got Lady to meet his gaze, “Are you…doing okay?” “Huh? Oh, yeah! Things may have gotten a little nutty, but it’s nothing I can’t handle!” Lady smiled, “I may or may not be putting my sanity at stake every time I use my Forte, but it’s a small price to pay if it means getting closure!” Lady continued to match Chief Yakou’s walking speed as they continued to stroll through Kanai Ward. Hearing Lady got him thinking, ‘putting her sanity at stake every time she uses her Forte?’ What does she mean by that? A small moment of silence passed before the chief pressed on, “Wait, what do you mean by that? Are the side effects bad?” “Oh, they’re awful,” Lady responded immediately, “That’s why I try and guess it all, first!” “Guess it all?!” Chief Yakou was stunned, “You can’t be serious, right…?” He asked. Lady quickly replied, “Oh, I’m dead serious. The side effects are so bad that they push me further and further to the brink of insanity… I’m starting to think my brain is rotting away every time I use it! But sometimes, I have to. And if it means giving someone the closure they deserve, I’m prepared to make that sacrifice.” She ended her sentence with a small shrug. “Jeez…” Chief Yakou mumbled before looking over at Lady once more, “That explains a thing or two, Lady.” Lady couldn’t help but laugh at the chief’s response, “Sure does! Say, what’s something you’re craving sugar wise? Maybe I can whip it up for you!” Chief Yakou watched as Lady smiled, unable to help but be appreciative of the detective’s offer, “Really?” His blue eyes seemed to sparkle, “Uh…ube cake rolls sound good right now! What about that? Would that work?” Lady nodded, “Sure would! But, I’m taking a bite. Sugar overpowers the bitterness of blood, after all!” “Th-The bitterness of blood?!” Chief Yakou yelped in shock, which only got Lady to laugh. “Ahahahaha!” Her laughter began to fill the streets of Kanai Ward once more as they made it to the agency.

[fizzingwizard]

Reason I was not here much of this week/last weekend was because I was in Tokyo for a few days. We did a bunch of stuff, one of which was Moominvalley Park!

I told bf he didn't have to come with (it's 3800yen a ticket) but he insisted, and helped out a lot by taking pictures I directed him to take x'D or holding my umbrella for me while I took them.

Because boy did it RAIN. Actually, it rained the entire trip. Did my best to plan in advance, but we had to book everything a month out and had no way of knowing it would rain right from the day we left to the day we came back. Literally just rain. On the upside, it kept things cool (it's now back to sauna level lol), and we were lucky with our timing most of the time. Although the weather was a constant stress, we hardly ever got rained out.

In fact, it was Moominvalley Park where the rain hurt the worst. Most everything is outside. The path to the Lonely Mountain was closed because slippery. The character actors were barely to be seen. And the park was like a ghost town. I felt like we were exploring an abandoned theme park lol.

Despite that, visiting was soooo much fun for me. I didn't get to do everything (there's a lot more than I expected, especially with the Metsa park next door! So I'm already mentally planning my trip back, sometime when the weather will actually be nice!

I took a ton of pictures and bought a ton of merch. Bf totally enabled both lol. There's terrible videos too which Tumblr will only let me upload one by one so. Sorry about those rofl. There are much better pictures/videos out there, but what can I say, I like my own memories the best.

First sightings of Moomins came long before the park. At Nakano broadway, there were these drawings, one of which is Little My saying "I'm not a naughty girl!" which I love. The other I found at Hanno station, which is part of the route to the park. It's a list of reasons to love Hanno, including Metsa and Moomins :)

When we got to the park, it was drizzling, which mixed with the fog machines gave the path a really eerie vibe. Actually, there had been a lot of fog the previous day, when we were at Fuji Q, that it even obscured the roller coasters. So at first I was tricked and thought "Wow that is some low lying fog!" But I figured out it was machines quick enough >_> At night there are even lights making the faces in the trees even more mysterious. You can see it a little in this last pic with the tiny woodland elf guys:

Also when you line up to get a ticket, these are the footprints you stand on. Not that there was a line in so much rain, LOL

[mattscorners]

Tropical Comfort, Redefined: Outdoor Solutions for Malaysian Living

Malaysia’s natural beauty, tropical climate, and vibrant outdoor lifestyle call for architectural and design solutions that are both stylish and durable. Whether you're building a coastal resort, upgrading a private villa, or enhancing an outdoor café, Matt’s Corner has you covered—literally. Our range of tropical-proof innovations includes the synthetic thatch roof in Malaysia, smart blinds, and umbrellas crafted for comfort and longevity.

🌴 Experience Authentic Elegance with a Synthetic Thatch Roof in Malaysia

The synthetic thatch roof in Malaysia is a popular choice for those seeking a rustic, island-inspired aesthetic with modern performance. Designed to mimic the appearance of traditional palm thatch, it offers the warmth of natural design while resisting tropical wear and tear.

Why choose it?

🌧️ Shield Your Space with Monsoon and Weather Blinds

Monsoon seasons in Malaysia bring heavy rain and high winds—challenging for open-air structures. Protect your patios, verandas, or commercial spaces with durable monsoon blinds in Malaysia designed to withstand the elements.

Year-round, weather blinds in Malaysia offer effective sunlight control and rain protection, keeping spaces usable in all weather without compromising on style.

🪟 Stay Protected While Enjoying the View: PVC Blinds in Malaysia

Sometimes, protection doesn’t have to block your view. PVC Blinds in Malaysia are the ideal clear barrier for terraces, cafés, rooftops, and other outdoor zones. Durable, discreet, and weather-resistant—they’re a smart addition to any setup.

☂️ Shaded Sophistication with Outdoor and Aluminium Umbrellas

No tropical setup is complete without a quality umbrella. A stylish Outdoor umbrella in Malaysia adds shaded comfort to gardens, patios, resorts, or restaurant spaces. Choose from various shapes and canopy designs to suit your theme.

Need something more robust? The Aluminium umbrella in Malaysia is rust-resistant and built for long-term performance—perfect for high-traffic, seaside, or commercial spaces.

✅ Why Matt’s Corner?

At Matt’s Corner, we understand Malaysia’s tropical conditions and offer products that match your design vision while standing up to the climate. From the beautifully crafted synthetic thatch roof in Malaysia to heavy-duty PVC Blinds in Malaysia and all-weather umbrellas, we offer long-lasting elegance and functionality.

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Elevate your outdoor spaces in Malaysia with weather-smart solutions that look as good as they perform.

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View More

Synthetic Thatch Roof | monsoon blinds | pvc blinds | Roller Fabric Blinds

Economical monsoon blinds | weather blinds | synthetic thatch roof in Maldives

aluminium umbrella in maldives | synthetic thatch roof in singapore | synthetic thatch roof in Seychelles | PVC Blinds in Seychelles | Outdoor umbrella in Seychelles | synthetic thatch roof in sri lanka | synthetic thatch roof in Mauritius

[danandersonphoto]

Editorial Portraits for the Washington Post

Back in late April I accepted an assignment from the Washington Post to shoot a series of portraits for a story on a Pensacola, Florida based business owner.  Emily Ley is owner of Simplified, a stationary company that she runs out of her home on the Florida Gulf Coast.  This wasn’t a lifestyle feature about independent business owner as Ley was suing the administration of US President Donald Trump over his tariff policy.  It has disrupted her business in the worst way and caused the cost of her suppliers to skyrocket over night.

Tear sheet from the Washington Post

I packed my roller kit with a few cameras, lenses and my small flash kit.  I wasn’t sure what the location was going to be like till I arrived, so I wanted to be prepared.  After arriving at her home (she was lovely to work with btw) and seeing her home office I probably could have gotten by with half the gear I brought.  Her home office was in a corner room of her house with open windows on two of the four sides.  The shoot was held at midday so the sun was directly overhead meaning mostly nice soft light was bouncing in from the windows.  I built a few lights just in case, but I probably could have gotten by with just a reflector on a small stand.

Alternate photo with a small flash with a small soft box for the main light with ambient window light as the fill.

For most of the shots I chose a combination of both.  I had one small strobe in a bounce-umbrella that operates like a small octobox on one stand and my trusty Five-in-one circular reflector on the other.  

For the photos above (yes it's the color version of the published image) I placed the light just out of frame camera right as a separation light and had the reflector just camera left of me catching the light of the flash and bouncing it onto her face fro some fill.

Her office wasn't the only place with a good flood of natural, soft light. We shot several images in the kitchen to vary it up. For the above image I had my reflector off to camera right for a kiss of fill, but it the distance it was at it would not have killed me to shoot without it. I really like the soft highlights on her hair from the left and right windows.

For this image I ditched the modifiers and went with all available light.

I shot some alternates of her smiling just in case. On their own they are solid images, but considering the tone of the story they would be more appropriate for a lifestyle piece on Emily's company and not a feature story about her business facing difficulty from the new tariffs policy.

I only used a reflector off to camera left for fill on here face with the windows in the back and front providing mostly enough light for the image.

I even took some images outside on her back porch. The sun provided a nice highlight to the camera right side of here face. I used my flash with a bounce umbrella to camera left for my main light. I kept a ND filter on my 23mm prime lens to keep my depth of field low and my shutter speed within sink range. I could have gone with high speed sync for my light, but I prefer to avoid it when possible to save me on recycling time for my flash.

The shoot went well. Not including travel time I was at her home for maybe two hours (including set up and break down) and immediately went to a coffee shop about ten minutes away to edit and send the images so my editor could look them through over the weekend.

[douglasdsouzawhatisonyourmind]

How Gravity Shapes Our Lives and the Universe

Gravity is everywhere. It pulls you toward the ground. It keeps the Moon circling the Earth. It holds the planets in place. You don’t see it, but you feel it all the time. From the moment you wake up to the time you go to bed, gravity shapes how you move.

Isaac Newton’s story is well known. An apple falls. He asks why. That question changed how we see the universe.

Not Just a Fall

In Interstellar, gravity isn’t just a pull. It’s a character. It bends time. It twists space. The film shows how gravity can slow time near a black hole. That’s not fiction—it’s based on real science.

Gravity isn’t just something that pulls you down. It’s something that can shape the future. Einstein took Newton’s ideas further. In his theory of general relativity, gravity is caused by massive objects bending the space around them. It's like putting a bowling ball on a soft mattress. The ball sinks. Things roll toward it.

How It Affects Us Daily

You walk without floating because of gravity. You drop your phone, and it falls because of gravity. Water flows down a hill. Rain hits your umbrella. These are all tiny examples of the same invisible force at work.

Ever wondered why you weigh less on the Moon? The Moon has less mass, so it pulls less. That’s why astronauts bounce around in those space videos. It’s the same reason The Martian has scenes with lighter jumps. Mars has weaker gravity than Earth.

Gravity and Space Travel

Sending rockets into space means fighting gravity. That’s why space agencies need powerful engines. Breaking away from Earth’s pull is hard. The fuel required is huge. That’s why in films like Apollo 13, every move counts. A small error in the force needed can cost lives.

When satellites orbit Earth, they don’t float. They are actually falling. But they fall forward fast enough that they keep missing the ground. This balance creates an orbit. Gravity keeps them close. Speed keeps them moving.

When Things Get Strange

Black holes are places where gravity wins. Everything, even light, gets trapped. These mysterious spots challenge our understanding. Scientists like Kip Thorne, whose work helped inspire Interstellar, continue to study how gravity behaves near them.

There's also something called gravitational waves. They’re ripples in space-time caused by events like black holes colliding. These were first detected in 2015. Imagine space itself shaking—quietly, invisibly, but powerfully.

On Earth and Beyond

Gravity shapes the Earth too. Mountains sink slightly under their own weight. Oceans rise and fall with the pull of the Moon. Even our bones depend on gravity. In space, astronauts lose bone strength because there’s less pull.

In The Martian, when the character grows potatoes on Mars, he's not just surviving. He’s working against weaker gravity, trying to live in a place that doesn’t quite feel like home.

A Classroom Force That Matters

Gravity is taught early in school, but it’s more than a topic in a textbook. It’s why a child’s ball rolls downhill. It’s why roller coasters thrill us. It’s why we fall—and why we can stand again.

In books like Brief Answers to the Big Questions by Stephen Hawking, gravity plays a central role. It connects everything. It leads to bigger thoughts about the universe, time, and our place in it.

Conclusion

Gravity holds us to the ground, but its mysteries lift our imagination. It's steady, silent, and strong. The more we study it, the more it teaches us—not just about science, but about curiosity, wonder, and the invisible forces that shape our lives.

[danangvahoianbeachtourpack]

Da Nang & Hoi An beach tour package

Unveiling the Perfect Da Nang & Hoi An Tour Package for Families: A Complete Guide

Planning a family vacation that caters to everyone—toddlers, teens, and adults—can feel overwhelming, but a Da Nang & Hoi An tour package for families offers the ideal solution. Nestled along Vietnam’s stunning central coast, Da Nang and Hoi An are two destinations that seamlessly blend modern excitement with timeless tradition. Da Nang, a vibrant coastal city, boasts pristine beaches, thrilling theme parks, and breathtaking landmarks, while Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants with its lantern-lit streets, ancient architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Together, they create a dream itinerary that promises adventure, relaxation, and meaningful family bonding. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore why this tour package is perfect for families, detail the best activities, and share insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Why Choose a Da Nang & Hoi An Tour Package for Families?

A Da Nang & Hoi An tour package for families stands out as a top choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free, all-ages-friendly vacation. These destinations offer a rare combination of natural beauty, cultural depth, and modern amenities, ensuring every family member finds something to enjoy. Whether your kids crave beach fun, your teens seek Instagram-worthy sights, or you’re after a mix of relaxation and exploration, this tour delivers it all.

What makes these packages truly special is their thoughtful design. They typically include family-oriented accommodations, guided tours, and seamless transportation between Da Nang and Hoi An, taking the stress out of planning. From sandy shores to historic lanes, the itinerary balances high-energy days with laid-back moments, creating a rhythm that suits families of all sizes and dynamics. Plus, the proximity of Da Nang and Hoi An—just a 45-minute drive apart—means you can experience two distinct vibes without long travel times.

A Deep Dive into Da Nang: Family-Friendly Highlights

Da Nang is a coastal gem that blends urban sophistication with natural wonders, making it a playground for families. Here’s an in-depth look at the top attractions to include in your Da Nang & Hoi An tour package for families:

My Khe Beach Consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, My Khe Beach is a family paradise. Its powdery white sand stretches for miles, and the gentle waves are perfect for kids to splash around safely. Parents can lounge under umbrellas, sip fresh coconut water, or join in beach games like volleyball or frisbee. Many tour packages offer beach days with added perks like shaded seating and snack vendors, ensuring a comfortable outing for all.

Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge A visit to Ba Na Hills is a must for any Da Nang & Hoi An tour package for families. This mountaintop retreat is home to the iconic Golden Bridge, a surreal structure held aloft by massive stone hands—a sight that wows kids and adults alike. The cable car ride to the top, one of the longest in the world, offers jaw-dropping views of lush greenery. Once there, the Fantasy Park awaits with roller coasters, bumper cars, 4D movies, and arcade games—perfect for kids and thrill-seeking teens. Meanwhile, parents can enjoy the French-style village, flower gardens, and cool mountain air.

A family posing in front of the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills

Marble Mountains The Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone peaks, offer a blend of adventure and culture. Families can explore hidden caves, climb to scenic viewpoints, and visit ancient pagodas. The ascent is manageable for most ages, with stone steps and shaded resting spots. Kids will love the mysterious tunnels, while parents appreciate the historical significance tied to Vietnamese spirituality. It’s a chance to stretch your legs and soak in Da Nang’s natural beauty.

Dragon Bridge For a fun evening outing, head to the Dragon Bridge, a modern marvel that lights up Da Nang’s skyline. On weekends, it breathes fire and water, delighting children and creating a memorable spectacle. Pair it with a leisurely walk along the Han River, where you can grab ice cream or enjoy the city’s vibrant night vibe.

Sun World Da Nang Wonders If your family loves amusement parks, Sun World Da Nang Wonders is a fantastic addition. With rides ranging from gentle carousels for little ones to adrenaline-pumping coasters for teens, plus cultural shows and games, it’s a full day of excitement just minutes from the city center.

Exploring Hoi An: A Cultural Adventure for Families

Just south of Da Nang, Hoi An offers a slower pace and a deep dive into Vietnam’s heritage. Its charm lies in its preserved architecture and welcoming atmosphere, making it a highlight of any Da Nang & Hoi An tour package for families. Here’s what to experience:

Hoi An Ancient Town Walking through Hoi An Ancient Town is like stepping into a living museum. This UNESCO-listed gem features narrow streets lined with mustard-yellow buildings, wooden storefronts, and glowing lanterns. A guided tour, often part of the package, reveals the town’s history as a bustling trading port, with stops at sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky House. At night, the lanterns light up, casting a magical glow that captivates kids and creates a fairy-tale setting for family photos.

Lantern-Making Workshops A hands-on highlight, lantern-making workshops let families craft their own piece of Hoi An. Local artisans teach you to assemble bamboo frames and attach colorful fabric, resulting in a keepsake you can take home. It’s a creative activity that engages kids, sparks teamwork, and offers a tangible connection to Hoi An’s iconic craft culture.

A family proudly displaying their handmade lanterns in a workshop

An Bang Beach For a quieter beach day, An Bang Beach is a serene escape near Hoi An. Its calm waters and soft sands are ideal for swimming, sandcastle-building, or simply unwinding. Beachside cafes serve fresh seafood and smoothies, making it easy to spend a relaxed afternoon together.

Basket Boat Rides in Coconut Groves A unique adventure awaits in Hoi An’s coconut groves, where families can hop into traditional basket boats. These round vessels glide through shaded waterways, offering a glimpse of rural life. Kids will giggle at the boat’s wobbly charm, and some tours include crab fishing or a spinning demonstration by local rowers—an unexpected thrill!

Cooking Classes Many Da Nang & Hoi An tour packages for families offer optional cooking classes in Hoi An. Learn to make Vietnamese classics like pho, spring rolls, or cao lau with your kids. It’s a tasty, interactive way to bond and bring a piece of Vietnam home.

What’s Included in a Da Nang & Hoi An Tour Package for Families?

These tour packages are crafted for convenience and enjoyment. Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically included:

Accommodations: Family-friendly hotels or resorts in Da Nang and Hoi An, featuring spacious rooms, pools, kids’ clubs, and breakfast buffets. Options range from budget to luxury.

Transportation: Private vans or buses for transfers between Da Nang and Hoi An, plus day trips to Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, and beyond.

Guided Tours: Expert guides for key sites, offering family-friendly insights and storytelling.

Meals: A mix of Vietnamese dishes (pho, banh mi, fresh seafood) and Western options to please all palates.

Entrance Fees: Tickets to attractions like Golden Bridge, Hoi An Ancient Town, and amusement parks.

Extras: Some packages add perks like bike rentals in Hoi An, beach gear, or cultural performances.

Packages range from 4 to 7 days, with flexibility to tweak the itinerary—perfect for tailoring to your family’s pace and preferences.

A family enjoying a Vietnamese meal at a riverside table in Hoi An

Insider Tips for a Seamless Family Vacation

To make your Da Nang & Hoi An tour package for families a success, keep these tips in mind:

Pack Wisely: The tropical climate means lightweight clothes, swimsuits, hats, and sunscreen are essentials. Comfortable shoes are a must for Hoi An’s cobblestone streets.

Balance the Schedule: Alternate high-energy days (like Ba Na Hills) with chill ones (like An Bang Beach) to keep everyone happy.

Try Local Flavors: Introduce kids to Vietnamese street food—banh mi and mango smoothies are often crowd-pleasers.

Stay Safe: Use mosquito repellent in rural areas and carry water for outdoor adventures.

Capture Memories: Bring a camera for Hoi An’s lantern-lit nights and Da Nang’s scenic vistas.

When to Book Your Da Nang & Hoi An Tour Package for Families

The best time to visit is February to August, when dry, sunny weather enhances beach days and outdoor fun. Temperatures hover between 25-35°C (77-95°F), ideal for exploring. Avoid the rainy season (September to December) to dodge downpours and ensure a smooth trip.

Why This Trip is Worth It

A Da Nang & Hoi An tour package for families is more than a getaway—it’s a chance to create lasting memories. From the golden sands of My Khe Beach to the lantern glow of Hoi An Ancient Town, every moment offers something special. Kids discover new cultures, teens find adventure, and parents unwind in stunning surroundings. Whether you’re riding basket boats, marveling at the Golden Bridge, or savoring Vietnamese flavors, this journey promises a perfect family escape.

Final Thoughts

With its blend of modern thrills and historic charm, a Da Nang & Hoi An tour package for families is the ultimate way to experience Vietnam’s central coast. It’s a trip that caters to every age, weaving together fun, learning, and relaxation. Ready to embark on this adventure? Book your package today and let Da Nang and Hoi An weave their magic for your family!

[carlosguatame]

Unique words from tourism videos

{'bar', 'neon', 'different', 'kinds', 'drinking', 'bag', 'apron', 'bed', 'traffic', 'plates', 'flight', 'row', 'reading', 'lettuce', 'surfboard', 'writing', 'accessories', 'museum', 'glass', 'swimming', 'sides', 'towel', 'hat', 'pile', 'arrive', 'doorway', 'palm', 'bikes', 'case', 'waiting', 'fruit', 'awning', 'map', 'cane', 'something', 'hallway', 'flowers', 'union,', 'plate', 'passenger', 'blowing', 'high', 'cart', 'girl', 'restaurant', 'piece', 'raising', 'clothing', 'kitchen', 'bottles', 'apples', 'guide', 'wine', 'honey', 'mitt', 'hugging', 'box', 'tables', 'characters', 'include', 'pomegranates', 'store', 'belong', 'cloth', 'fruits', 'dusk', 'vegetables', 'umbrellas', 'station', 'orange', 'brochure', 'horses', 'market', 'rear', 'cheese', 'book', 'popcorn', 'farmer', 'laptop', 'acropolis', 'passing', 'drinks', 'logos', 'baseball', 'sculpture', 'garden', 'pages', 'hot', 'farmers', 'video', 'wind', 'seat', 'mirror', 'four', 'donuts', 'busy', 'room', 'paper', 'driver', 'computer', 'wooded', 'sunflower', 'suitcase', 'blue', 'apple', 'shines', 'evening', 'phones', 'set', 'movie', 'sold', 'taking', 'rise', 'books', 'basket', 'shelf', 'display', 'boats', 'wedding', 'magazine', 'little', 'broccoli', 'monocle', 'light', 'structure', 'open', 'wet', 'roman', 'yard', 'types', 'dress', 'party', 'picking', 'european', 'sheet', 'produce', 'kissing', 'onions', 'pulling', 'suit', 'subway', 'oranges', 'posing', 'radishes', 'jet', 'stand', 'umbrella', 'water', 'vehicles', 'outdoor', 'series', 'bottle', 'eggs', 'selfie', 'runway', 'filled', 'women', 'arms', 'cucumbers', 'smiling', 'sunflowers', 'boxes', 'temple', 'red', 'sun', 'beach', 'ancient', 'shopping', 'selling', 'bikini', 'lined', 'tomatoes', 'sale', 'animals', 'inflatable', 'shaking', 'reflection', 'spread', 'living', 'dancing', 'putting', 'travel', 'projector', 'glasses', 'toasting', 'eating', 'shirtless', 'shirt', 'poster', 'fish', 'another', 'cutting', 'game'}

Unique words from local resistance videos

{'plaza', 'sky', 'post', 'skull', 'marching', 'uncorrnit', 'exracchel', 'chairs', 'ledge', 'chair', 'backpack', 'house', 'beard', 'oxi', 'tricks', 'bulldozer', 'helmets', 'face', 'moment', 'concert', 'bird', 'trendy', 'written', 'time', 'barbed', 'barcelona', 'balconies', 'coaster', 'greece', 'tower', 'musical', 'racket', '202', 'nacela', 'watching', 'graffiti', 'wire', 'behind', 'may', 'entrance', 'small', 'giraffe', 'creative', 'bear', 'quote', 'catch', 'razors', 'backpacks', 'ninja', 'backs', 'jumping', 'officers', 'xi', 'ground', 'instruments', 'statue', 'wall', 'purple', 'riot', 'monkey', 'trash', 'skateboards', 'bridge', 'words', 'tax', 'racquet', 'construction', 'court', 'roller', 'protesting', 'unicorn', 'safety', 'fenced', 'exarcheia', 'painting', 'stop', 'battle', '-', 'rock', 'horse', 'vests', 'fence', 'photograph', 'word', 'commonss', 'story', 'metro', 'hydrant', 'stuck', 'officer', 'lamp', 'accordion', 'sill', 'balcon', 'workers', 'motorcycles', 'meso', 'cat', 'feet', 'signs', 'trick', 'site', 'hotel', 'fire', 'en', 'line', 'expaxi', 'police', 'skateboarder', 'wearing', 'ramp', 'since', 'fist', 'path', 'hoodie', 'laptops', 'blurry', 'tennis', 'left'}

Common words between the two types of realities

{'people', 'hill', 'woods', 'stairs', 'lot', 'dark', 'truck', 'hand', 'city', 'driving', 'bunch', 'around', 'banner', 'playing', 'yellow', 'table', 'man', 'logo', 'pictures', 'flying', 'balcony', 'parked', 'plants', 'skateboard', 'laying', 'picture', 'going', 'working', 'phone', 'park', 'outside', 'full', 'fountain', 'walking', 'cell', 'image', 'tracks', 'side', 'sitting', 'text', 'area', 'together', 'clock', 'reaching', 'woman', 'bus', 'street', 'top', 'background', 'photo', 'building', 'buildings', 'luggage', 'looking', 'sidewalk', 'close', 'window', 'bench', 'road', 'airport', 'guitar', 'rain', 'square', 'air', 'aerial', 'long', 'stage', 'hair', 'sign', 'two', 'leash', 'many', 'plane', 'talking', 'person', 'dog', 'front', 'cars', 'black', 'tree', 'says', 'surrounded', 'white', 'riding', 'day', 'screen', 'three', 'group', 'standing', 'tall', 'car', 'food', 'sunny', 'next', 'large', 'hands', 'trees', 'kite', 'men', 'night', 'middle', 'near', 'several', 'motorcycle', 'train', 'back', 'someone', 'grass', 'view', 'bike', "'", 'holding', 'crowd', 'athens', 'frisbee'}