#unfortunately its a little too big to frame + hang on my dorm door

[fruitsclipper]

every one loves my doily... :']

[marshmallow-phd]

Catching Rain

Part of The Untamed - EXO Wolf Universe

Genre: Wolf!AU

Pairing: Minseok x Reader

Summary: You were more than satisfied with your life. You attended a nice college, had nice friends, a nice boyfriend. That’s what your life was: nice. You weren’t looking for anything more, so what were you to do when this seemingly harmless boy walked into your life and turned your nice little world into one much more dangerous?

Part: 1 I 2 I 3 I 4 I 5 I 6 I 7 I 8 I 9 I 10 I Epilogue

**

The theatre was loud, opposite of its normally hushed nature. People were yelling back and forth, saws and drills screeching as they tore through wood. In the background, sewing machines could be heard, along with the occasional curse as the needle got stuck in the fabric. One person, however, was quiet, focused. The paintbrush in his hand was small. The hairs tightly pressed together in order to create the perfect details on the backdrop. Erik was hunched over, sitting cross-legged on the stage floor as he squinted at the distant forest he was perfecting. Setting your bag down in the second row, you headed up the stage stairs.

“Hey,” you said softly in order not to scare him. 

Blinking, he turned around. His glasses were on the very tip of his nose, having slipped from the slight bit of sweat that had conjured on his face from the glaring stage lights. With a green speckled finger, he pushed the frame back up to its proper position. “Hey! I thought you had a project?”

You shrugged. “I did, but… I kind of hit a wall and needed to give my brain a rest. I’m sorry, I guess I should have gotten lunch with you anyway.”

“That’s alright. If you want, I still have half of my sandwich left.”

Smiling, you ruffled his hair. “Thanks, I’m not really hungry.” Minseok’s dismissive response had ruined the idea of food for you. Later you knew you would be starving, but right now food sounded like a great way to churn your stomach and see what it had been brewing all morning. “I’m just going to go hang out in the seats, if that’s okay?”

“Yeah,” he nodded. “No one will bother you or question it. Not that anyone would notice in the first place.”

“It’s pretty crazy around here, isn’t it?”

“You missed the big explosion when Dorothy couldn’t find the armchair for the second act. Turns out, someone just leaned a piece of wood for the set against it and hid it from view. Still took us half an hour to find it.”

You snorted. “Wow. I’m actually kind of sad I missed that.” You kissed his cheek, careful to avoid a smear that you were sure he had no clue about. That stupid guilt knocked once again.

The seat was only slightly comfortable, the cushion long ago worn down from a thousand performances. You stewed there in the second row. Though it wasn’t appropriate during shows, you didn’t think anyone would care if you set your feet on the seat in front of you. Folding nearly in half, you hid your face from those who might look your way as you cranked the handle to get the gears in your head to turn. 

Confusion seemed like too weak a word to describe what was going on in your head. You were angry, frustrated, sad, relieved. There had to be some language in the world that tied those emotions all together. You just didn’t know it. Perhaps that one word could be the pill you needed to no longer feel this way. If you could shove all of that into a single box, you would be fine. But is it ever that simple? When you closed your eyes and tried not to think of anything in particular, Minseok’s face faded into view. You’d shake your head to drive the image away. It came back anyway.

You felt powerless against this unseen pull, this innate desire to see him again, even after what had just happened in the courtyard. Your mind made excuses, told you that if you simply asked him to explain then he would. Looking up at Erik, you sighed. 

There was no comparison because they were two different people. Erik was the sensitive artist, the kind who went to coffee shops on Friday nights to hear a mediocre guitar player sing his “poetry” because he believed everyone deserved an audience. Minseok, on the other hand, was a strange combination of math lab nerd and soccer team captain. He was goofy and dorky, easily amused by corny jokes, but also had the physique of someone who ran five miles in the A.M. for the fun of it. What you couldn’t figure out was what drew you to him in the first place. In any normal, not-already-dating-someone situation, you wouldn’t have been interested in his type. Yet, it was almost… effortless, being around him. Even after all these years, you sometimes had to force yourself into conversation with Erik. Comfortable silences didn’t exactly exist in your relationship, but you always chalked that up to your own personality. Now you wondered if those moments would be better with Minseok. 

Was this a normal thing? You heard stories of college sweethearts all the time and for the last few years, you thought you and Erik would join that club. You hadn’t thought about marriage, per se, but you hadn’t seen an end either. The idea of coming to a fork in the road had never occurred to you. While logic and third party advice you’d casually picked up over your life told you to stick to the left, you were being drawn to the right. One road you could easily see where it led, signs, clear pastures, and everything. The other way wasn’t as clear, disappearing into thick woods that were both inviting and foreboding. You didn’t know if there was another side for the road to come out to. The only way you would ever find out would be to follow it. 

You were able to sit there in that second row seat for a few hours, surprisingly, with your phone and the internet as your companion. Only occasionally would you contemplate that fork again. Left, right, left, right. Easy, hard, easy, hard. In the end, you decided you needed to see Minseok again to really decide. 

The stage manager called it quits late in the afternoon. Erik washed up his brushes and came to meet you. “Hungry yet?” You nodded, more for something else to do before you were alone again. “Good. I’m starving.” Taking your bag like the gentleman that he was, he waited for you to stand up and then walked you out of the theatre.

Dinner ended up being a small burger joint that Erik had been craving all day. You gave no complaints as you started salivating at the thought of their fries. Surely they had to have some sort of secret, addictive ingredient to make fried potato sticks so incredibly delicious. The two of you ended up splitting a large basket of the side. It stayed equally in the middle of the table so no one could say that the other was hogging. Yes. Safe. Easy. Seeable. 

Erik offered a follow up to dinner, but you feigned exhaustion (though there might not have been any faking truthfully, as your mind was tired from constantly running throughout the day). He walked you all the way to the door of your room. As usual, he told you goodnight and leaned in for a kiss. But unlike your normal anticipation, you flinched back to avoid his lips. He stared at you in confusion. Clearing your throat, you made it up to him by kissing his cheek before running for cover in your dorm. From the light of the hallway, you could see that Erik stood on the other side for a few seconds, hesitating to understand what had just happened, before finally walking away. 

Teeth clenched down on your bottom lip, you pulled your phone out of your back pocket. Thankfully, Willa was still out so you were alone. The glare of your phone burned in the darkness. You squinted as you moved your thumb across the screen, unlocking it before opening the contacts. The number you wanted was easy enough to find. The pad of your thumb hovered over the little green phone. It accepted the slightest touch and switched over to calling mode. You placed the speaker to your ear. 

Rrriiinggg. Rrriiinnngggg. 

“Hello?”

You sucked in air. He’d answered. You didn’t have a plan for this. You didn’t have any sort of plan after pressing call. You’d hoped that he was one of those people who didn’t have a voicemail set up. 

“Hello? (y/n)?”

You hung up. 

**

Minseok watched you stalk off in the exact direction he wished you hadn’t. Anywhere else; he would have been fine with you going anywhere besides the theatre where your boyfriend was. His wolf growled and clawed with jealousy. Why was he so stupid? Since when was keeping his mate a secret more important than being with you? Of course he wanted to eat lunch with you, to see how you got along with his brothers. But the idea of Baekhyun figuring it out had caused him to panic. As obnoxious as Baekhyun could be, he wasn’t stupid. At some point during the meal, Minseok would have done something a little overprotective and Baekhyun would have started to connect the dots. Unfortunately, he’d already picked up on something. 

“Oooo, breaking the rules, are we?” The brat even had the audacity to wiggle his eyebrows at the eldest wolf. 

Not holding back, Minseok swung, hitting a good target on the upper arm. 

“Ow!”

“First, it's not a rule,” Minseok grumbled. “Junmyeon simply suggested that we don’t date. Besides, you’re one to talk. How’s Daisy?”

Baekhyun was hardly phased. He sported a cheeky grin. “She’s great.”

Bored, Sehun asked, “Can we just go eat now? Who cares who Minseok was flirting with?”

“I wasn’t flirting with her!” Minseok shouted. He explained in a lower voice, “She’s having trouble in her math class so I’m doing Sungkyu a favor and helping her out so she can pass. That’s it.”

“So why didn’t you want her to eat with us, then?” Jongin asked innocently. 

Minseok flinched. Jongin was more observant than anyone would give him credit for. Not that Minseok was subtle in any sense of the word. “I didn’t say that I didn’t want her to eat with us. Knowing you all, you would have let something slip about what we are.”

“Minseok, we all caught that she was willing to join us,” Chanyeol said. 

Huffing, Minseok grumbled, “Are we going to go eat or should I just go by myself?”

Shrugging off the odd behavior, Baekhyun turned and headed for the parking lot. Minseok was quick to follow, feeling smaller than normal surrounded by his pack members. In his head, he pictured himself running back towards the theatre, bursting through the doors, and - in true dramatic fashion - declaring you his. 

That would be a complete disaster. He should only do that if he wanted you to never talk to him ever again. 

Minseok hardly paid attention as Chanyeol drove them to his favorite pizza place. He was in a trance as the others took control of what to order. Physically, he sat in the booth next to Sehun with Baekhyun on the other side. His shoulder was pressed into the chipped wooden guard rail that ran along the wall but he hardly noticed the uncomfortable poke in his skin. His mind was still back at the campus. He was driving himself crazy trying to figure out how he was going to make this up to you, how he was going to explain his bizarre switch up to you. He hardly ate, which was fine since the others were more than happy to devour the three large pizzas with varying toppings. The others weren’t bothered by his quietness since it was nothing new. Minseok was always more of an observer than a participant. In a time like this, it worked to his advantage.

There was no consulting Minseok when the lunch was through. They all simply piled back into the car and headed out of town towards the woods. Vague mentions of going for a run were tossed around. Minseok didn’t voice any sort of agreement. He wasn’t in the mood. Ha. A wolf not in the mood to run wild among the trees? He really was turned upside down because of you. While the younger ones headed straight for the trees, Minseok headed up the porch and through the front living room until he came to the kitchen. Oh, thank god. There were still beers in the fridge. He grabbed one and immediately opened it, still chugging as he walked over to the breakfast booth. 

“Did you have fun?”

Junmyeon slid into the booth across from him. Minseok put the can down. “Yeah. At first. We had fun with the project. It was when the others showed up that things…  went bad.”

“What do you mean?” Junmyeon asked with a frown. 

“I… panicked. The others invited her to join us and I….” Minseok shrugged. 

“Worried that the others would figure it out?” Junmyeon guessed. The response was a nod. 

“Figure what out?” 

Shit.

Baekhyun stood in the entryway, looking back and forth between the eldest and the alpha. Minseok gulped. He thought that all four of them had gone out on a run and he hadn’t heard anyone else in the house. Stepping further into the kitchen, Baekhyun asked again, “Figure what out?”

Minseok looked to Junmyeon for help. None was to be found. 

“You should probably tell them.”

“I’m not going to tell just Baekhyun so he can go running and tell the others and exaggerate.”

“I can always call a family meeting.”

“I don’t want to make that big of a deal out of it.”

“Too late on that. Besides, that’s the best way to get everyone here. Get it out of the way.”

“Or to get none of them here.”

“I’m still standing here,” Baekhyun scoffed.

Minseok looked at him. “I know.”

Junmyeon sighed. “Baekhyun, will you go get the others? Tell them it's important?”

He nodded. “Sure. Be back in a flash.” He left, already shedding the hoodie over his head. 

Slumping down in the booth, Minseok felt defeated. Junmyeon sensed this immediately. “It really won’t be that bad. And they need to be prepared.”

“Prepared?” 

“Yes. Once a pack member finds the first mate, the others will slowly start to find their own. It won’t be immediate. It could take years, really. But it’s like a domino effect. They should be aware that it's their turn next.”

It made sense. The pack was always connected, both in mind and in instinct. But it had been just them for so long, the idea of bringing in mates to the fold was odd. Minseok wasn’t sure how the others would react. Fists clenched on the table, he leaned his head down. It took almost half an hour before the rest of the pack came back. Yixing had arrived first, coming back from a lab he was making up from earlier in the week. The rest came into the kitchen ten minutes later. They were knocking into each other as they yanked on shirts and pants. 

“Okay, Junmyeon, what’s the emergency?” Jongdae asked, very prepared to be his usual sarcastic, troll self. 

But Junmyeon didn’t reply, letting Minseok take the reins instead. Minseok didn't want to do this. He wanted to run, to keep his secret a little while longer while he figured this whole thing out. But Junmyeon was right. It was time.

“(y/n) - the girl that some of you met today… she’s my mate.”

It was pure silence in the kitchen. It was unnatural in this household. The only time it was ever this quiet was when the house was empty. 

“I’m sorry,” Jongdae said. “You said… mate? Right?” Minseok nodded. He growled.  “Fantastic.”

“You really found your mate, Minseok?” Yixing was more enthusiastic about the news. He looked elated, even. A small smile was creeping up. 

Despite the stunned silence, Minseok found Yixing’s energy infectious. “Yeah. I did.”

“Have you told her yet?” Chanyeol asked. 

“She has a boyfriend,” Jongin reminded him. 

“Oh. Right.”

“I’m working on it,” Minseok said. “I just-” His phone vibrated in his pocket. Pulling it out, his eyes widened at the name popping up on the screen. With sixteen eyes on him, he answered, frantic. “Hello?” A gasp on the other end. “Hello? (y/n)?” You didn’t answer. Two seconds ticked by and you ended the call. He stared at his now black screen in shock. Then his brain started again. “I got to go.”

“Was it her?” Junmyeon asked. 

“Wait, I have more questions!” Baekhyun whined. Minseok was out of the kitchen in a heartbeat, jumping into his car and flying down the road. He didn’t know if you were hurt or in trouble. Why had you called him? Why didn’t you say anything? He was determined to find out. There was only one problem. 

He didn’t know your dorm number. 

You’d briefly mentioned the shared campus housing with your best friend, but that was all the information he had. Looks like he would have to find it the old fashion way. 

Asking. 

As soon as he parked, he headed towards the dorms, thankful at least that the two large housing buildings were close in proximity. He headed for the smaller cafeteria located in the lobby of the first building. The kitchen was closed but there were still students taking advantage of the open seating. Okay. Here it goes. 

The first few groups that Minseok asked had never heard of you. He was starting to berate himself on what a stupid idea this was. He should have called you back and asked you to call him when you were ready because it most certainly would have gone to voicemail. But his luck soon turned around. He approached a group of three girls sitting in a corner. One of them had a camera. 

“Excuse me?” They looked up. Minseok cleared his throat. “I’m sorry, but I’m trying to find (y/n) (l/n)’s room. Do you happen to know her?”

One girl narrowed her eyes. “Why do you want to know?”

Minseok swallowed. “I… I have her notebook. She’d left it behind earlier at study group. She really needs it for class on Monday but I can’t get a hold of her.” Please believe his stupid lie. 

The girl who’d spoken made eye contact with her two friends. “She’s in room twenty-three-nineteen. If she doesn’t answer, just slide the notebook under the door.”

He could almost jump from elated joy. “Thank you!” 

Taking off, he headed for the stairs. Your dorm room was only on the second floor so it didn’t take long to follow the signs until he was right outside your door. Only now did the possibility that your roommate would be the one to answer cross his mind. What lie would he have to come up with then? He had to take the chance. 

After knocking, he waited, shifting from foot to foot in an attempt to release the nervous energy surging through his body. The door swung open. 

It was you. Thank goodness. 

You were not the same level of relieved. “What the hell are you doing here?”

Crap. He probably should have thought of that. “You called me.”

You looked back over your shoulder before stepping out into the hallway, letting the door shut behind you. “So? That doesn’t mean you can just show up here!”

“I need to talk to you.” 

You licked your lips. No, please don’t do that. It’s too tempting already to grab your face and kiss you against the door. Without speaking, you went back into your room. Well, that was a bust. But before he could walk away with slumped shoulders, you came back, this time with shoes on and your bag. “Let’s go.”

He gave no protest as you led him out of the dorm and into the dark. He had no idea where the two of you were headed, but he planned on embracing whatever came his way. The two of you were going to talk. His heart was thumping hard against his sternum. He was getting more alone time with you. Who knew what would end up flying out of his mouth in these next few hours. Would this be the night of truths and revelations?

[readbeneaththelines]

Captured Moments Pt. 5

A/N: You are an artist given the chance to work with BigHit Ent. as their Creative Art Director. Getting to spend time with BTS, you form a friendship with them. But With Namjoon, could it grow into something more?

Characters: Namjoon x Artist!Reader

Warnings: soft Namjoon, soft and fluffy OT7

Word Count: 3471

HE”S  SO DAMN ADORABLE!! cr, to gif owner

The radio event was fun to watch. The seven of them were animated, funny and shared the plans for their next album. You focused in on Namjoon, listening to what he shared. You had learned so much about their hearts while they talked about their passions. You pulled your small sketch pad from your bag, quickly drawing them at the studios microphones. After wrapping the show up, everybody entered the van. 

"I'm starving!" Jin exclaimed from the back seat.

 "You're always starving Jin." He had to agree, but nonetheless told the driver to take them to dinner. It was a quaint restaurant, a place in the back reserved for them. While the others ate, Namjoon leaned over to you, whispering in your ear. His warm breath tickled as you couldn’t help the small shudder at the sensation.

 "Are you going to tell me anything about my scene?" You told him no, that it was going to be a surprise and he needed to be patient. He sighed, then returned to eating. The eight of you closed the place down, leaving when the owner walked out with you. 

"Thank you so much for a great day. Unfortunately I have to get changed and head back to the studio. Things aren’t going to finish themselves." Pleas for you to hang out some more went rejected, and you waved goodbyes as they let you out at the building. In a daze, you headed for your studio. You grabbed your comfy clothes and went back your laptop, pulling up your emails in between changing. You entered one from the antique shop confirming the hold on the antique philosophy book they had. Another email contained confirmation of extra security for the park where you would be filming the tree scene for Namjoon. The final email you answered was from a local modeling agency letting you know that they had available children and young teens that you could use for shooting your scenes.

Taking a seat on the floor, you grab colored pencils and your sketch pad, laying them out in front of you. Recalling your time with all of them, you set about finishing the drawings from the night. Sometime during the wee hours of early morning you had fallen asleep, curled up with a finished piece beside you.

Loud chatter from the hallway woke you up. Rubbing tired eyes You rolled up the drawing, fixed your hair best you could, and headed for the BTS studios.

They were already hard at work, working on choreography from one of their newest songs. Carefully opening the door so not to disturb them, you leaned against the back wall and watched them. Each person had their own style that separately was great already, but when you combined them together way an awesome sight to behold. They worked in synchronicity, each one giving way to the other in harmony.  When they finished, you greeted them and called them to you. They grabbed their towels, wiping the sweat from themselves as they came to you. You handed Namjoon the drawing, excited anticipation making your hands tremble slightly. You had never given a drawing to someone as a gift, outside of your parents. When he unraveled the roll of paper, they all crowded around to look at what you had drawn. “This is perfect, Y/N. Thank you. We will put this up in the dorm after we get it framed. This means a lot to us. They all agreed, giving you a group bear hug as thanks. “Okay, so they basic framework is done for each scene. I got word last night in my emails, that my staff will be finished with their designs in tatality, by end of this week. This means, after your approvals, we can start set design, and hopefully start shooting in two weeks. I would need your schedules so I can plan a good time for each of you.” 

“You tell us the time you need, and we will rearrange.” Namjoon replied, rolling the drawing up carefully and placing it by his bag. “So, you say mine is almost ready too? Can I see it yet?” You hated keeping his a surprise, but you wanted it to be special. He put so much of himself into others, you wanted this to be all about him. He deserved something special and you didn’t want to ruin it. 

“Not quite, Joon. But soon, I promise.” He looked almost defeated, but perked up when you gave him a clue. “Your scene is serene and peaceful, that’s all I’m going to say. Now back to the drawing board, you guys have a great day.” you had a little skip to your step as you left, happy that something you did made them smile a little more today. 

NAmjoon was in a haze the remainder of the afternoon. “Joon-hyung, everything good?” Jimin asked, coming up beside him. “Hmm? Oh, yeah everything is good. I was just thinking.” Hoseok spoke out loudly. “Thinking about Y/N!” he laughed hysterically as Namjoon shat him a death glare. “Well, am I right?” 

“Shut up Hobi.”

Exhaustion took over halfway through the day. You emailed the staff telling them you were leaving for the day. Walking to your apartment, you reminded yourself that you had to pick up the book from the antique shop on the way. You turned the corner, spotting it across the street. Making a mad dash across the intersection, you nearly slid through the opened door. You told the owner who you were and she brought the book out of the storage room. 

It was bound in old, worn leather. The title was burned into the cover, the drawings delicate and detailed. The pages were thick and well loved by the past readers who held it in their hands. There was an aroma of oiled leather, musk, and age on each page. THere were noted fro past readers in te margin of some pages. It felt heavy in your hands, but the sentimental value was worth it. You were sure he would love it at first sight. You asked her to wrap it, then paid for the purchase. Finally you were home. Your couch called out to you, tempting you to rest in its snuggly comfort. Taking a blanket from the stand, you wrapped yourself in a cacoon, them popped down for a nap. 

By the end of the evening, the choreography was mostly set, and they were finished. Fatigued and sore, they made their way back to the dorm quietly. “Hoseok, can you hang back a minute?” Namjoon asked as he tugged at Hoseok’s sleeve. “Sure, what’s up?”

“What you said earlier, about me thinking about Y/N. Maybe you are a little bit right. Don’t make a big deal out of it, but yesterday, she was.” Hoseok cut in “Beautiful? Hot? Stunning? Yeah, she was. And did you see how she looked at you Mr. Dapper? She could not take her eyes off you in the mirror. We all noticed it. But really, Joon, she is pretty, and I think you two have a special bond forming.” 

“Really? I guess. We are both passionate about what we do. We get caught up in the moment. And yeah, she was beautiful last night. Just please don’t say anything to anyone. I mean, it’s just a little crush, honestly.” Namjoon and Hoseok arrived at the dorm, the others already showered and in bed. “Night Hoseok, and remember what we talked about.” Hoseok nodded then entered his room. 

The remainder of the week flew by. You ate lunch almost everyday with them, only missing out when you had to meet with a few people about the upcoming scene shoots. Friday night, you met with them to finalize the set designs and get their approvals. You kept Namjoon’s in a separate hidden file, making the excuse that his wasn’t quite ready to see. Once ecstatic approvals were made, you closed the lap top. “Joon, I need you to meet with me tomorrow, to finalize your set. Can you all meet with me, say around noon? I already cleared it with Hitman Bang and he said you all could take the day to help out.”

“Sure, where do you want us to meet you?” 

“I will give your driver the address, all you need to do is show up. Dress casually, and comfortably, it will be warm where we will be going.”

Saturday morning you were buzzing with excitement. You arrived at the park early, meeting with the young boy who would be part of Namjoon’s themed scene. The space was perfect. A river flowed quickly beside the tree. The tree was magnificent. Its branches were sturdy and long, the leaves giving a ample shade beneath. The grass was soft under your bared feet, almost like you were walking on carpet. You explained the the young boy what he was going to be doing. He was more than happy to get the chance to climb the huge old tree, and sitting on the lowest branch, he smiled down at you.

“That place right there is perfect! Are you about ready to start filming?” You nodded enthusiastically. The crew ate a quick bite, clearing everything just in time for the van to arrive. They stepped out of the van, looking around in awe. “Nice. Y/N/ THis place is so peaceful.” Jin told you as they took in the river and vast stretch of grass. “This place is ours all day” you told them. Namjoon came out last. He eyes scanned the scenery and then settled on you. Picking the wrapped book from your bag, you walked over to him. “This is your theme Joon. And this, this is a present for you. It’s part of your theme, but I got it especially for you to keep. I hope you like it.” 

The staff and everyone backed away, leaving you and Namjoon your own personal bubble. Slowly, his long thin fingers untied the string bow. He careful unwrapped the parchment paper until the book lay visible in his hand. You watched closely as his eyes began to mist, the beginning of tears forming behind his lids. He gingerly opened the worn cover, inhaling the scent deeply. Shaky fingers turned page after page. Your heart swelled when you saw a single tear trace a path down his cheek. “This is for me? It’s gorgeous, Y/N. I- I can’t think of any words that would describe how special this is to me.” When he finally looked up from the book, his eyes were rimmed with unshed tears. Without a second thought, you stepped to him, wrapping your arms around his neck. A trembling arm slowly wrapped around your waist, hugging you close. “Thank you,Y/N. I will cherish this forever.”  You leaned back, wiping the tears from his eyes with your thumb. “Now, now, its just a book. Also, we can’t have you crying during your shoot. So wipe those tears away, and lets get you in place. 

Namjoon met with the young boy that would be representing his younger self. They got along splendidly as they talked about a mutual love of reading. Finally it was time to begin. The boy was helped to his spot on the limb above Namjoon. He leaned against the trunk,book open and laid on his chest. The young boy closed his eyes and relaxed. Then you placed Namjoon just below him, his new book in hand. He pulled his knees up and immediately started reading. You stepped back, camera in hand, and began snapping pictures. Ever photo was surreal. Namjoon lost in his imagination and thoughts, the young boy lazily resting as his dangling foot swayed back and forth. When you had finished, you thanked everyone in a hushed voice and excused them. The boy climbed down and you thanked him for his help. You offered him the book which he was using as a prop and sent them on their way. All that was left were you and the six remaining members. 

“You all can leave if you want. This is Namjoon’s day. I will stay nearby and wait for him. You driver will take you all back. Thank you for coming and sharing in this together. I hope you all like the final outcome.”

“You really are an amazing kind person, Y/N. I know he will remember this day for a very long time. He hasn’t had time like this since we debuted. Thank you for giving it to him” Yoongi, in his awkward way, pulled you into a hug, releasing you just as quickly as it had happened. “You’re welcome Yoongi. I’ll talk to you all later. I will get him home safely.” 

When everyone was gone, you walked several yards away, leaving Namjoon in his own little world. You watched as he turned each page over with such tender care, making sure not to bend the pages. His long legs stretched out in the grass, crossing at the ankles as he leaned back against the strong trunk of the tree. The sunlight that shone through basked him in a soft glow, creating a near angelic image. YOu snapped a few more pictures before you settled down and let the sun bathe you in its warmth. You closed your eyes as the rushing river played out a song of its birth. I told you of its time and travels. It sang of those who drank its cool waters and swam in its shallow banks. 

“Y/N, hey. Time to wake up. The sun’s almost setting.” Namjoon, knelt down beside you, gently shaking you awake. He had watched you sleeping for several minutes, silently wondering what he had done in his past life to deserve such a special gift as what you had given him today. His soul felt renewed, his heart full and peaceful. This is why she kept it a secret from him, she didn’t want to spoil the moment, didn’t want to ruin  the serene atmosphere that engulfed him. He silently thank you for everything. For the precious book he held in his hand, and for the time to listen to the river’s song and the wind’s melody. He had never met a kindred soul like his, but he was beginning to think he had found it in you.  

“What time is it?” your voice was groggy from sleep and you weren’t aware that you had drifted off. “It’s almost six. We need to get back for dinner or else they will think we’ve been kidnapped.” He offered you his hand to help you sit up. Straightening out the long sundress, you rose to your feet. Namjoon held your waist until you were steady. You felt your heart racing at the innocent touch, your face blushing. 

“I want to thank you for today. For all of it. I have never had anyone give me something so, kind,  and thoughtful.” He looked down into your still sleep-laden eyes, a tugging at his heart to lean down and kiss you. Throwing caution to the wind, he bent his head down. His hand came up to cup your cheek before slowly pressing his lips to yours. It was a tentative kiss, barely even there, but he felt it through to his core. Your fingers wrapped around his arm, holding yourself upright, grounding yourself to him. It was the softest of kisses, like stepping into an ocean as a child for the first time. He didn’t try to deepen it, made no move to ask for more. It was over just as it had begun. Your eyes opened to find him looking at you with apprehension. 

“I’m sorry. I just felt like-” you placed a finger to his lips, shushing him kindly. “It was perfectly fine, Joon. It was perfect.” You could still feel his touch on your cheek. Placing your hand over his, you pressed it to you. Your head leaned into the caress, and all thought process left you. “Would you mind if I kissed you again?” He replied by snaking his arm around your waist and bring you closer to him. You could feel his heart beating rapidly in his chest as you lifted yourself upon your toes. The second kiss held more feeling, the connection more intense. He let you guide the kiss to where you wanted it to go. Your lips parted, his tongue slipping past them with ease. He tasted sweet, like cotton candy, and warm. It felt like home in his arms. The way you two melded together, tongues exploring the warmth of the other. You felt yourself becoming dizzy from a simple kiss. But this one was different from any other kiss.The electricity reached down into your inner being, took it by the hand and led it on a journey. It was mind blowing, soul wrenching and it was wonderful. 

Breaking apart only after your lungs were begging for air, you felt yourself becoming light headed. He instinctively held you tightly against him as you leaned into his embrace. Your heart was racing and so was your mind. You had just kissed Kim Namjoon, and he had kissed you. What about the complications? What if someone saw? As if reading your mind, Namjoon rubbed your back in a soothing manner, relaxing you from any worry. 

“We could be in big trouble if anyone saw that.” you whispered against his chest.

 “Yeah, we could, but I would do it all over again.” His voice was low and caring. 

“Yeah, I would too.” and you meant it. 

“I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable, but I’m not sorry that I kissed you. If you want, it will never happen again.” He pushed you back to look you in the eyes. “But if you do, I would be happy to kiss you a thousand times over.”

“I would like for that, but I have to think about you first. You are the leader of the biggest male Kpop group in the world. Everything you do has an effect on them too. I don’t want to be the one that brings you or the others grief, in any way. If this was another time, another place, I would love to get to know the real you, and see where this would go. But you are who you are to the public, and I can’t ruin that for any of you.”

He hugged you tightly, his head nodding but his heart denying what you were saying. His heart won this round. “Let’s try something. Let’s see where this goes, just like we have been doing. No one will be the wiser. If we see that we are growing closer, we will cross that bridge. If not, then nothing is different.” 

“So you’re telling me, you may be willing to risk everything you have, if what he have blossoms into something more?” He nodded. “Okay, we’ll give it a try.” Taking both sides of your face in his hands, he tilted your head up, ghosting his lips over yours before claiming you in a heated kiss. Time and space disappeared in that moment, no sounds except that of both hearts beating in synch. You could feel the earth moving beneath you, all one thousand thirty seven miles per hour, your head spinning at the rate the world was. If you could capture this moment, draw it as you see it, you would. It would outshine any priceless painting. 

Breathless and dizzy, he finally pulled his lips from yours, smiling against them before parting. “Let’s get you home.” He took your hand in his, interlacing his fingers with yours as you walked to the edge of the park. Dusk was settling overhead and the park was now empty. He had the freedom to hold your hand without repercussions until your ride arrived. It was dark when the car came both of you climbing in the back seat. Your head rested on his shoulder, the sound of him humming a tune, lulling you into a half-sleep daze. Once you arrived at your apartment, he kissed your cheek and said goodbye. “I’ll make sure to see you tomorrow.” he whispered in your ear. You gave a quick peck to his forehead and exited. Your fingers ran over your lips as you recalled his kisses. They were a heady aphrodisiac to your senses. 

You phone chirped before you even entered your apartment.

Joon: thank you for today. I will hold it close to my heart forever.

Your couldn't help the smile they spread on your face. Seeing him happy made all your recent hard work with every minute. You set the letter on the stove and prepared to make yourself a mug of hot tea.

@min-shookga-yoongi @beautifulseoulliar @agustd-suga-yoongii @astronomyturtle @aspaceformyself @dreamyoongi @holy-yoong i@trashkazuya @maxinaptak @micky1518 @rosiemilas @karri570 @xjamlessparkx

[angstymarshmallow]

Glimpse (Beckett x MC)

[A little note: I started this from...last week Saturday and now I’m fed up with it. I’m still trying to understand’s Beckett’s personality from the small bits we’ve seen and while in the same breath, my own MC’s more...volatile personality. Here’s a little scenario I concocted in my head.]

[Words Counted: 3113]

[Summary: After their friends bailed on group study night, Octavia (MC) and Beckett are left alone to work together. And for two people so different, nothing could be more difficult.]

Studying was one of Tavi’s least favourite things to do. Quite frankly, she thought it should be everyone’s least favourite thing to do. It was tiresome, boring to a fault and she would rather watch paint dry than read the thoughts and manuscripts of old dead guys spread out in front of her.

She often grew impatient when she studied, stared off into space and procrastinated whenever possible. And without study sessions, she didn’t think her chances were high enough to pass the semester. Simply put, Tavi greatly preferred the practical side of things instead of books, she enjoyed using magick on the fly until she realized – without the proper breakdown of spells, she would always hit a wall.

But she was a Brimstone and Brimstones as her mother often said – were too stubborn to quit, and with her friends’ assistance, studying wasn’t starting to feel like the chore she always knew it to be.

Shreya was great with cue cards and Zeph was good at relating examples to circumstances she could understand. Beckett was the only problem. He was still a thorn in her side. He was more likely to turn a study session into a history lesson or something of a moral debate and often times, Tavi would snap from impatience – before an argument naturally followed. It wasn’t her fault, Beckett often lingered on things she thought to be unnecessary and without the rest of their friends to break them apart, she was positive she’d end up accidentally lighting something on fire.

Still the last day of the weekend was reserved for study night – especially with exams brewing around the corner.

It was only unfortunate that everyone else had cancelled – things that had been mentioned in their group chat earlier came up at the last second for Shreya and Zeph, while Tavi spent the remaining time wondering if Beckett would still show up. He hadn’t mentioned anything.

The thought of being alone with him had suddenly made her fumble and the mug she brought to her lips threatened to slip between her fingers.

She caught it at the last second, sighing in relief before placing it carefully among the stacked books across the coffee table. With both Zeph and Shreya gone, Tavi wondered if this was a good idea at all. There would be no buffer tonight, no one to stop them from bickering – or from who knows what.

Would he still come over without them?

Biting her lower lip, Tavi glanced at the clock – surprised there was still an hour till their session. How was time going so fast? She still had to make a decision. Should I text him?

She grabbed her phone, and stared at it in between her hands. She begun with a brisk explanation until it became abrasive and nearly a paragraph by the very end. She stared at it again.

Do it. Just do it. Ask him. Don’t make a big deal out of it.

Try as she might, she couldn’t will herself to press send and closed her phone. But the wait was killing her –time feeling as though it had slowed down only to torment her indecision.

She dropped her phone on the coffee table, after considering chucking it before sinking deeper into the couch. Ugh, where was Shreya and her advice when she needed her?

As though reading her mind, the sound of two timid knocks by the front door rouse her to her feet. She did a double check of herself as she passed a mirror and nearly scowled at herself by the sudden action. What is wrong with me? They hung out plenty of times before – she wouldn’t let the fact that they were alone make it, well weird.

-

Tavi opened the door, and casually leaned against its frame as Beckett raised his eyes to meet her smirk. She couldn’t believe how relieved she felt at seeing him standing there.

He came.

Trying not to dwell on the thought, she grinned at him. “Beckett, you’re here early.”

Something passed in his eyes, before Beckett inclined his head cordially to her. He hadn’t known why he expected more – he knew they were alone tonight, and yet she was wearing sweats, - but why would she be wearing anything else? This was still just about studying after all.

“Octavia.” He greeted. “It’s a force of habit.”

“Why am I even not surprised?” She tsked at him, “has there ever been anything you’ve been late for?”

“No.” The mere thought made him anxious.

Tavi rolled her eyes. She then stepped aside, giving him enough room to follow her before closing the door quietly behind him. “You know, one of these days I’ll get you to say it.”

“That’s probably very unlikely to happen.” He stated, shrugging off his jacket to hang it up.

She led him towards the living room, “I just don’t get why you can’t say it – it’s a nickname I rather like.” She scowled, “and everyone else says it.”

Instead of answering her right away, Beckett surveyed the list of books resting atop of the table. “I have this thing with names.” He paused for a moment, thinking she wouldn’t really care for an explanation. But he particularly liked how hers’ sounded – it rolled off the tongue with ease. Shaking his head, he turned to her. “And in case you’ve forgotten I’m not like everyone else.” And if he was being honest with himself, the thought of being compared that way was certainly off-putting. He wanted to mean more than anyone else.

The thought had been so abrupt and sudden that it momentarily stunned him.

She was saying something and it took a moment for him to clue in as he wondered where that thought had came from.

Tavi sighed in frustration. “Oh, how could anyone forget?” She gestured wildly to him, and Beckett thinks he had unintentionally angered her. “When you constantly remind me in some shape or fashion that you’re better than other people?”

His sharp eyes flicker in anger and he curled his lip slightly at her. “I have never said anything like that.” She wanted to believe he was being pompous – and it frustrated him that something so candid, could be used against him.

“But that’s what you meant, right?” She countered, shooting him a glare.

Beckett’s mouth slid open. There was more he wanted to say but no sense in saying it. “We’re doing it again.”  He glanced away, frowning.

“What?”

He made a show of pointing between them. “Arguing. Even without our friends here, we can’t seem to stop.” The revelation wasn’t shocking, only disappointing to think about. He hoped…well, he didn’t dare allow himself to finish that sentence.

Tavi’s mouth opened to retort and then just as swiftly closed. “God, you’re right.” It never took much for them to get off on the wrong foot. She paused as he moved towards the beige sofa. “Does this happen to everyone…? Do metal atts and fire atts simply not get along?”

Beckett considered her words carefully, before answering. “We can, it’s a matter of several factors – even outside of our innate natures.”

“So, it’s not just biological?”

“No, it isn’t.” He shook his head. “It’s just…” he trailed off for a moment. He was trying to come up with some semblance of a way to explain, but it fell short. He simply stated what he thought was their problem. “…different for some reason. With us.” His gaze slid to her, unflinchingly.

Tavi’s throat went suddenly dry at the sudden intensity of his stare. Was she hearing things or did his tone change when he said us? Maybe she was reading too much into nothing, or maybe there was something more. It was hard to tell with Beckett when he played his feelings too close his chest. His thoughts – he had no problem letting people know exactly what he thinks, but everything else was another matter entirely.

But inside her dorm where there were only the two of them; a tiny voice inside her head kept nagging insistently - maybe this was more than just two people studying. Maybe, it really did mean something more.

A tiny voice she pointedly tried to ignore.

Faintly frowning, Tavi took a seat beside him; noting the moment he tried to subtly shift away when their arms innocently brushed. She bristled. She didn’t know why the simple gesture frustrated her, but it did. “Okay, so where do you want us to start tonight?”

She eyed him from the corner of her eyes as she spoke, watching when the book he grabbed nearly slipped through his fingers. “Uh, Beckett?”

“Yes – sorry, I –” He cleared his throat. She’s talking about studying Harrington. He scowled at himself inwardly. He picked up the book as gracefully as he could before clearing his throat again. “How about we go over today’s lesson first?” He refused to make eye contact with her.

Tavi quirked an eyebrow at him. Did she detect a hint of a blush there? Sure enough, the longer she casted not-so-subtle glances in his direction, the more certain she was that he had been blushing; although he still wouldn’t look directly at her.

When Beckett finally risked a glance, his nerves jumped when he found her staring back at him. Tensing, he looked away. “Could you please not stare so loudly at me?”

“Loudly?” She repeated with a laugh. “I didn’t think staring at someone is something you do loudly.”

“It is when you’re doing it.” He muttered insistently, turning a page of his own notes. It was unnerving how intently she stared at him. Although he pretended not to notice at first, the way she kept looking at him made it difficult for him to focus.

“I can’t help it Beckett,” She shrugged, “have you seen yourself blush? It’s rather cute.” His cheeks turned that colour again, the stark pink that delighted Tavi enough to laugh. “See! There you go again!”

He stiffened. “Octavia.”

“What’s wrong?” She fluttered her eyelashes innocently at him. “Am I…dare I say it – distracting you, Harrington?” A coy smile toyed at the corner of her lips.

“What?” His eyes swung away in alarm. “No! O-Of course not.” He stammered, stiffening again. He was not amused by her antics and he certainly giver her the satisfaction. 

Picking up his book stiffly, he uttered a sigh. “If the reason we’re here tonight isn’t to study, please let me know so that I may return to my room.” While apart of him wanted to entertain other ideas, they still had an exam to prepare for and projects to finish.

Beckett continued, “Besides, you aren’t nearly as distracting as you think you are.” He tried to convey confidence but Tavi could see past his bravado.

To test her conviction, she leaned towards him and ‘innocently’ took a couple pieces of popcorn. Her pale hair fell across his shoulder and their arms brushed. He froze as she anticipated before he hastily leaned away from her. What she hadn’t expected was her own response; nerves that were often be irritated at him came alive with a different purpose. She pulled back sharply, startled at the spark she felt when they touched. Woah, this is new.

“Perhaps we should start –”

“Maybe we should start –”

They both stopped at the same time, laughing. “We never speak of this again.” Beckett waved a hand in the thin air.

“Hey, at least we’re actually getting along. That has to count for something, right?” She grinned at him. “If only Shreya could see us now.”

“Perish the thought.” But the corner of his lips lifted into a smile. He held up a book, “back to work?”

She gave a prolonged sigh. “Do we have to?”

He stated the obvious. “Yes Octavia, we do.” He replied half-amused. He retrieved a pen from his bag and tapped his chin thoughtfully. “Although, making cue cards is probably where we should start.”

“Now you’re starting to sound just like her.”

-

An hour passed before Octavia felt frustrated again.

It didn’t matter how much she read, how long she stared – they felt just as foreign to her as when they started. “This is impossible!” She sighed in annoyance before slamming the book close, and startling Beckett from beside her.

“What’s wrong?” He hadn’t closed his book, simply lifted his gaze to her.

“All of it.” She gestured angrily at the book. “All of it’s wrong, because none of it makes any sense.”

“How can none of it make any sense?” He frowned, confused. “You should at least understand the basic terminologies of –”

“I don’t, okay? I just don’t, Harrington.” She snapped, cutting him off. “And instead of helping, you’re so buried in your own little world, that you might as well –” she pointed at him, “have stayed home.”

Beckett visibly flinched at her words. He closed the book shut. “Hey, I’m trying my best here!”

“Are you? Because it really feels like I’m all alone here.”

“It would be easier, if you weren’t so resistant to everything.”

“Maybe if you tried making it more relatable!”She gave an insufferable sigh.

“My job isn’t to make things relatable. In fact, I don’t even have to be here. I was doing you a favour.” Beckett went stiff immediately, regretting those words the moment he said them. “Octavia,” he begun pleadingly, “that isn’t what I meant –”

Her expression became sour and between her clenched teeth, he could hear how angry she was. “No, I understand perfectly.” She folded her arms. “Well, I’m sorry that things don’t just come naturally to me.”

Beckett stiffened. She was talking about him. Of course she was. 

She had no idea - no idea how hard he worked to prove himself worthy of his family’s legacy. She had no idea of the sister he had always been compared to at dinner tables and family functions; the sister he felt not two steps behind - but seven thousand. She had no idea at all.  His success was nothing compared to his family expectations.

Beckett bit his lip, wanting nothing more than to suddenly curl his lips at her and lash out. He fought for control. He took several breaths, calming himself – not glancing at her until he could finally breathe easily again.

“Nothing? You really have nothing to say?” She snorted. Apart of her knew she goading him - but she saw something passed in his eyes; anger - bitterness. She wanted to see him feel those things. “Well that’s a first.”

The stab of frustration was relentless. “You don’t know anything about me.” His response was curt, harsh. 

“You turn your nose at everyone - so how can anyone know you?” She retorted back, her chin lifting defiantly.

Silence greeted her back. It was somehow louder than her own heart, beating erratically inside her chest.

“I think I should go.”  He answered stoically, slamming his book shut. To think, he thought they were capable of finally find some common ground with each other. “It’s probably best we study separately from now on.” 

Tavi watched him wordlessly cross the room, until the ugliest tides of guilt threatened to pull her under. “Beckett, wait-” She touched his arm gently as he rose to leave. There was that spark again. She felt it jolt up her arm.

“What is it?” He didn’t move away but she could feel the muscles in his arm tensing.

“I – I’m sorry.” She bit her lower lip. She dropped her hand, glancing at it as though she had been burned.

He waited patiently for her to continue.

“I’m sorry, it’s not you.” Tavi wasn’t angry at him, not really -  it was a misdirection from the source of her problems. It was the assignments she felt angry at. It was every time they studied together, Beckett and the rest of her friends that seemed to just get everything. It was every stark reminder as brilliant and often marvelous as they seemed that she had grown up without learning any of this – without realizing magick was real.  And while everyone around her seemed to flourish – she thought she was wilting, one petal at a time – struggling and failing to keep up.

“It’s me,” she said finally, breaking the terse silence that had filled the air. “It’s not you, it’s me.” She released a breath, “I-I don’t think I’m Penderghast material.” She fumbled a little, hating the way the words sounded on her tongue. She hated feeling so unsure, it was unlike her. But everything here was unordinary, special – different. She had nothing else to compare her experiences to.

“That isn’t true.”

She was surprised to hear the conviction in which he spoke, and even more surprised when she felt his presence moving – closing the distance between them. “Tavi, look at me.” He said her name gently – softly.

She was almost convinced she imagined it.

A little reluctantly, Tavi met his stare. She had expected a rash response, something unintentionally snotty but instead – he was close enough for her to see faint creases in his brow.

His eyes were serious – they were always serious, but it was the way they were serious that made her breath catch, made her entire body freeze. They weren’t staring at the books between them, they were staring at her – imploring, willing her in a way that she found herself powerless to look away from.

“Everyone’s felt like that before, yes - even me. But you’re meant to be here, in Penderghast. Deep down you must know it.” Beckett’s voice seemed to have gone softer. “Penderghast College doesn’t make mistakes, they handpick the best for opportunities that most people will never have. It may not always feel like it, but there’s a reason everyone wants to go here. You simply can’t be a mistake.”

She supposed she should feel grateful. He was trying to reassure her – in the only way she thinks he knew. But she couldn’t shake it off; it was a feeling that lingered the longer she here – she was still missing something. It wasn’t all whole.

She felt his hand before she saw it, tipping her chin – forcing her not to look away. It was something so unexpected that Tavi blinked in surprise.

“You’re meant to be here.” Beckett repeated – not a matter-of-factly, but with a sense of urgency that made his voice a little hoarse. He wanted to wipe the uncertainty off her; it wasn’t Octavia – not the infuriating girl that often gotten under his skin – not the Octavia he knew. No, he couldn’t imagine her not here.

Without thinking, his hand had shifted to cup her cheek.

Tavi remained silent. Her eyes locked on his. She hadn’t realized it at first but she was leaning into him, breathing in his cologne – gripping his free hand for comfort she never thought she needed. She was surprised he felt so strongly about this; she had expected Zeph to be her confidant and implore for her to stay but the relief in hearing Beckett believed she belonged here – it felt nearly tangible. It felt like he really cared. “Thank you, Beckett.” 

“You’re welcome. Octavia, I -” He hesitated and abruptly realized how close they were standing together, the same moment she did. 

He pulled away first and the tips of his ears turned pink. He sat back on his heels; already grabbing a book as she sat beside him. This time, he didn’t make a conscious effort to place space between them.

“You’re actually…remarkably good at making people feel better.” She tried to make her tone light and cordial as he snorted.

“You sound so surprised.”

“Well, can you blame me?” She picked up a cue card, scribbling on it carefully before risking a glance at him. “Is there anything you aren’t good at?” She paused. “Wait, don’t answer that.”

Beckett chuckled, lips quirking into a quiet smile as he met her stare. “Let’s go over everything, starting from the very beginning.”

-

[dioskourixx]

In The Blood Ch.5

I woke up earlier than usual today. I was too excited to sleep much longer. Today was the day I was waiting for. I was finally going to be done with midterms for the spring semester. Fortunately, I had finished all of my written exams earlier in the week and all I had left to do was turn in my art project, finally being able to experience the sweet taste of freedom for a whole week. I quickly threw my covers off of my body and got up to get ready for the day.

It didn’t take long for me to get ready this time around. I took a quick shower and opted for a simple look; jeans and a thin maroon t-shirt that I got from an organization fair for free. I threw my hair in a messy bun for today, knowing that my curly hair was not going to cooperate today, since I was to lazy to braid it down the night before. Trying to drag a tangle brush through it would’ve been a waste of time and bristles. Finally feeling satisfied with my appearance, I grabbed my large portfolio that contained my midterm project and headed out the dorm, leaving a drooling, yet peaceful sleeping Raven in bed.

On my way to the art building, I decided to make a quick detour to a nearby shop that was a little further down from the café. I wanted to give Ms. Sven a small gift, showing her my appreciation for all of her help so far this semester. I honestly don’t know how I would’ve met all of my deadlines if she hadn’t entrusted me with a key to my designated class when it was unoccupied. When it got really hectic, she allowed me to stay in the class even after she had left for the day, as long as I promised to bring it back the next day, when the office opened. As I walked up and down the aisles aimlessly, nothing stood out. As I pondered what to get her, I recalled a story she had told me during one of our lunch dates. When she was in college, she experienced a great deal of anxiety, much like the students today. Her best friend at the time noticed and bought her a candle, even though they were forbidden in the dorm rooms. Her friend suggested aroma therapy and surprisingly, it helped a bit. I’m not sure if she still suffers with anxiety, but I felt that a candle would be an appropriate gift. The question now was which scent should I get her. After sniffing about ten candles, my nose began to go dull. I did however, remember that the large vanilla and cranberry candles had a more pleasant scent, but wasn’t too overpowering. Feeling confident in those candles, I decided to get them along with an emerald green medium sized gift bag with gold accents. The girl who usually works there quickly rang me up and sent me on my way in the same fashion she always does…silent and in a rush. I didn’t really mind it as long as my things were scanned properly, but I know a good bit of customers have complained about her customer service.

It didn’t take long for me to reach the art building. As I entered the small office, Ms. Sven was already sitting at her desk, looking over some paperwork. She wore a white button up shirt, paired with straight legged navy blue slacks. She looked really pretty to me today. The clothes complimented her small frame, and her long thick hair was pinned back with a few strands framing her face nicely. She always looked pale. If you didn’t know her, you’d probably think that she was a sickly older woman. She could never tan that well.

“Hello dear! How are you?” Ms. Sven greeted you brightly. I gave her a warm genuine smile in return.

“I’m well Ms. Sven. How about you?”

“Oh, I can’t complain. Are you here to turn your project in? I don’t think you’ll need the key this time. I saw Ms. Holmes come in a few minutes after me. Oh yeah. How did your project turn out dear?” I could only giggle at Ms. Sven’s bubbliness so early in the morning.

“It came out pretty decent, I think. But I actually came here to give you something.” I saw Ms. Sven’s eyes watch my movements as I sat my portfolio aside and placed the green gift bag on her desk. Her eyes stretched slightly upon seeing the bag.

“Oh, honey, you didn’t have to get me anything.” Her face became softer as she pulled the gift bag closer to her, reaching in to take out its contents. She looked at each candle, inhaling each scent, letting out a small sigh. A shy smile graced her lips and I felt satisfied that she seemed to like them.

“I wanted to show you how much I appreciate you helping me out this semester. I wouldn’t have been able to make any of my deadlines if it wasn’t for you. Thank you.” She finally looked up at me when I finished speaking. She stared at my face for a while, the shy smile still playing on her lips, showing early signs of wrinkles.

“Oh, I would do anything for you honey. You know that. I’m very fond of you.” At that I smiled gratefully at her. The feeling was definitely mutual. She was one of the nicest ladies I have met during my college years so far. Well, her and that older Korean woman at that market that Yongguk took me every now and then. She always gives me extra food. Ms. Sven picked up the cranberry scented candle and sniffed it once more.

“Oh, sweet pea thank you so much. I love them.” I glanced at the clock hanging on the wall behind her, realizing the time.

“I have to go now Ms. Sven, but I’m really glad that you like them. I’ll call you later so we can eat dinner together or something.”

“Okay dear. I’ll see you soon, then. Enjoy your spring break hun.” I picked up my portfolio and headed for the door that lead me out of the office, waving ‘bye’ to Ms. Sven at the same time.

I finally reached Ms. Holmes’ room after climbing two flights of stairs. The door was already opened, so I assumed that she was moving about inside. When I walked in, I saw Ms. Holmes’ round figure behind her desk, glasses perched on her nose, looking intently at a sheet of paper.

“Ms. Holmes?” she tore her gaze from her paper and looked up with me.

“Why, hello Ms. Hazel. I didn’t expect you until later on. Came to bring your project?”

“Yes ma’am.” I said politely.

“You can just stick your portfolio in that closet. I’m kind of rearranging the room at the moment, and right now the storage closet is the safest place for your class’ projects. Wouldn’t want to lose them now, would we?” I felt my teeth grit slightly as I tried to smile at her. Ms. Holmes wasn’t my favorite professor to say the least. She had a weird musky smell to her and had an “I am superior to everyone” attitude. She grinded my gears if I was forced to talk to her for a long period of time.

“No ma’am, we wouldn’t. That would be extremely unfortunate.” I say this as I made my way towards the walk in storage closet, rolling my eyes on the way. Just before I was able to make it to the closet, someone carrying a big box of paint emerged from the opening. I backed up a little, giving the person enough space to walk without obstacle. As they did that I quickly placed my portfolio on a shelf inside the closet. It smelled of old paint and charcoal. Not the most pleasant scents in the world, but a familiar one that I grew to love. The closet itself was almost empty of all of the cluttered boxes and discarded papers that were once thrown in carelessly.

“Hazel?” I turned towards the opening upon hearing my name. Standing there was a tall figure with slightly damp black hair. The wetness made his hair curl loosely around his face, making him look almost child-like. And of course, those pale grey eyes, staring back into my dark brown eyes. My heart felt like it skipped a beat.

“Ethan?” I breathed out his name.

“Hey, how have you been?” He displayed his charming smile, showing his perfect teeth in the process.

“I’m good. How about you?”

“Oh, I’m great. Just helping out ya know.”

“Yeah I can see that. She’s not working you too hard is she?” He chuckled at my question, as if it weren’t possible.

“Nah. I can handle it. I’m not exactly fragile you know.” As I looked over his frame, I could see he wasn’t lying. He wore a pair of grey sweatpants and a black shirt that hugged his frame. No. He definitely was not fragile.

“Mr. Ethan, I’m going to step out for a minute. You can continue your work without my supervision for a few minutes, can’t you?” I fought to roll my eyes again towards her snarky comment. Ethan, on the other hand, seemed like he didn’t notice her snooty tone. With the sweetest smile, he replied with a simple “I think I can manage.” We watched her walk out of the room with her clunky heels, fading in the distance the further she got away.

“So,” Ethan started, looking at me now. “How’s the little guy adjusting to his new home?” It took me a minute to realize that he was talking about the bear he had won me earlier.

“Oh, he’s fine. He’s resting comfortably on my bed as we speak. I named him Benny actually.” He chuckled at the name.

“Benny the Bear, huh? I like it. It has a nice ring to it.” I felt the corners of my mouth tug upwards. “Hazel I have something to ask you, and feel free to say no. There’s absolutely no pressure.” I suppressed my smile as he rambled, waiting for him to ask his question. When he realized that I was waiting for him to speak, he began again. “Would you be willing to go out with me sometime?”

“Oh…” was all I said. I felt my heart quicken again.

“Yeah…” he chuckled again, only this time, out of nervousness.

“How about dinner sometime this week?” Ethan pushed, waiting for an answer. I thought about it for a moment. He was handsome, and I was definitely attracted to him. There was no doubt about that. What did I have to lose going on one harmless date with Ethan. Would Yongguk support it? Would it matter if he did or didn’t?

“Sure…why not?” The words escaped my lips in a rush.

“Really? Great! Um, then I’ll call you later, and see what day is good for you then?” It was cute seeing the excitement in his eyes and the nervousness he tried to hide. “So, I’ll see you later then?” He asked, trying to confirm my answer. I nodded my head.

“Definitely.”

[philanddanxreader]

Dorms.

Hello, love bugs!

Dan x reader.

Warnings ⚠️, smutish.

Meeting Dan at university and talking to him about leaving university to become a full-time YouTuber. Side note what do you guys call a Micky of liquor? I’m Canadian and I grew up only knowing to call it that.

Tonight was going to be a much-needed break. You and this boy named Dan had been hanging out a lot lately. You had met him from being just down the hall from his dorm. It seemed like the two of you were always bumping into each other every day while going to class. This was the start of a friendship that was blossoming into something more. You had a feeling that tonight wasn’t just going to be a quiet night. But all of this was beyond the point. What was important right now was that It was your turn to supply the booze for your r&r night. You had a bottle of wine and a Micky ( for my non-Canadians it’s the size of a flask.)of vodka to help unwind. You reach Dan’s door knocking to let him know you were there with libations. You can hear him get up and stumble over to the door. You feel a small smile creep to your face. He was so dorky and cute.

“Hey!” Dan’s says leaning against the door frame trying to look cool.

“Hey, you.” You say eyeing him up. “I brought gifts!” holding out the wine in one hand and vodka in the other. Dan smile turned even larger.

“Well welcome to my humble abode,”Dan instantly took the wine from your hand then grabbing said hand to bring you into his dorm. It was small but cosy. After these last few months of hanging out with him, the dorm started to feel like home. The two of you had study dates all of the time. To be honest the studying was sometimes put on the back burner for other things. You and Dan had suddenly started to become friends with some benefits. It started by accident with a little too much alcohol. A friendly kiss goodbye here and a cuddle there didn’t seem like much. You happen to both be just physical people. It didn’t seem to be just friendly anymore, however. The chemistry now started to spark on its own. It probably came so easily to the two of you from having similar childhoods and teenage years. It felt like the two of you were long lost friends who lived the same lives apart. The biggest thing you bonded over was your past relationships. The both of you had ended long term relationships before coming to uni. This created a bond of understanding where the other person was coming from. You enjoyed staying up late cuddling in his bed just talking for hours after a party. It was nice to make such a good friend at university who shared so many of the same interests and values.

“I didn’t bring glasses but I supplied the liquor.” Smiling you take back your hand before jumping onto his bed. “Pour me a glass of wine butler.” You had been in a particularly sassy mood so you made sure to add a hand wave and a smirk. Dan gave you a dirty look but continued to find his two finest mugs for your drinks. After he filled the glasses he sat beside you on the small twin bed handing you the stress relieving cup. You give him a quick thank you before taking a sip of the sweet nectar. Damn Daniel getting you into enjoying wine instead of straight liquor. He is right though that it’s a lot classier to drink wine or rather get wine drunk, and not blasted from only vodka.

“Why does it feel like I haven’t seen you in a couple days?” You missed him more than you would like to admit. You missed everything about him. Especially physical contact so you decided to link your arm with his to pull him closer to you.

“I’ve just been busy I guess,” Dan says taking a sip from his mug. He obviously didn’t want to talk about it. The question is whether or not you were going to push the topic.

“Oh ok.” You say. You didn’t want to pick a battle with him. Hopefully, after some liquid courage in his system, he would say what’s been bothering him.Attempting to change the subject you decided to ask him about something that had been bugging you a bit.

“I actually came yesterday to see if you wanted to study, but you didn’t answer. Figured you must have been having som private time.” You raise your eyebrows before laughing a little Dan gave a half-hearted laugh to your joke.

“Oh ya, I was hanging at Phil’s most of the day yesterday, ” You hadn't even noticed but Dan was playing with your fingers on your hand that is attached to the arm that is linked in his. He was definitely not being himself. Dan is definitely not one for being vague. You set down your mug then turn to Dan to look into his eyes.

“Please tell me what’s wrong. I can’t help fix it when you don’t tell me.” You couldn't help the concern that was crossing your expression. Before you can even wait for an answer Dan’s lips were crashing into yours. Most of the time Dan was fairly gentle when you kissed. This kiss, however, was the complete opposite. You could feel the passion and angst in this kiss. You could even have a faint taste of the wine you and Dan were drinking moments ago. Just as fast as the kiss started it ended. Dan pulled away taking a deep breath before turning away to put his drink on the nightstand before returning to your lips. This time the kiss feels more familiar. You crawl into Dan’s lap to get closer to him, slipping your hands behind his neck to play with the back of his hair. Dan's hands, however, were not so innocent. His were roaming your body until they hit the hem of your shirt before he pulled it over your head in one swift motion. You and Dan had gotten close to each other but never this fast. Before you could think too much more into his actions his lips were on your neck making love marks to claim you as his. His hands had now found what they were searching for as he played with your breast in his right hand while his left was attempting to undo your bra.

“Dan, what’s gotten into you.” You say breathlessly. As you start to feel his pants getting somehow even tighter under you.

“I just need to forget right now. You're like a drug of choice to me.” He says re-capturing your lips to his again as he muddles a swear or two about how your bra won’t cooperate.

“Dan I can’t believe I’m saying this but we need to pause for a second.” You had to hold his face between your two hands just to keep him focused. “Tell me what’s going on. Don’t get me wrong I’m totally enjoying this. I can’t let this be a way to get your mind of something. What’s wrong?” Dan’s eyes swell up with little tears at the corners. You wipe away the little tears with your thumb while kissing his forehead. This took a complete turn.

Dan releases a shaky breath before starting. “As you know my YouTube is starting to take off. I’m really considering saying fuck it to all of this Uni stuff and try to go full time with it.” This was a lot to process in a short amount of time. He had obviously been thinking about this for a while. You knew he loved his YouTube, you had to admit that his stuff was pretty good. He was always using his time to edit videos rather than doing homework. As you process the new information Dan searches your face practically begging for you to say something. “You think it’s stupid, Dan couldn't hide the frown that found its way to his slightly swollen lips.

“I never said that!” Feeling terrible you start rubbing little circles on his cheeks with your thumbs. “I just don’t know what to exactly say right now. I know you haven’t been that happy at Uni. I also know that you have been putting off homework to edit and shoot videos.” You say looking at him with a small smile on your face. A terrible thought comes to mind, unfortunately, you feel the question leave your lips before you can stop yourself. “What if you fail?” Your voice is small as you can't face Dan so you decided to look down. You didn’t want to be the one to crush his dreams. You knew that Phil was a big influence in Dan’s life when it came to YouTube. Phil was doing ok for himself on his YouTube money. He wasn’t by any means rich. He was, however, able to live on his own in an apartment.

“What if is the thing that scares me.” He says pushing a piece of hair out of your face. Was he comforting you when he was the one talking about dropping out of university? “I feel like I need to do this. Like it’s meant to be.” Dan tilted your chin to look up at him so he could continue searching your face for an answer.

“I think you already know your answer, Dan.” You say with a small smile. “Give it a go. If it doesn’t work out just come back to university to try again. I’ve known you haven’t been happy for a while. I just want you to be happy and do something you love.“Maybe you had been lying to yourself about the just friends with benefits thing. Even considering that Dan wouldn’t be around next year broke your heart. "Listen I think we should just call it a night and maybe watch a movie and cuddle.” You say snuggling your face into his neck.

“I agree,” Dan says rubbing your back with his strong hands. Later that night you enjoyed a terrible movie with a great friend, cuddling and talking This was definitely not how either of you thought this was how the night was going to end. You both had a lot to think about but that was for another time. Tonight was about relaxation.

Please send requests!

[jennmoslek36]

FOUR YEARS IN THE MAKING

ON A CHILLY morning in early November, under a clear blue sky, we pulled up to the South Campus of the Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys. This would be my 7th trip to the school BUT this time would be very different! This time I wouldn’t be standing outside of the fence that surrounded the South Campus, trying to concoct a scheme to get inside because there was NO longer a reason to do so. While the tall fence remained in place, the gate keeping the world from finding out the truth was gone. I was FINALLY going to get inside! It was ALL happening on my 41st birthday…Talk about having a full circle moment! THE OTHER SIDE OF THE FENCE WE DROVE RIGHT onto the main road that wound its way through the 1200 acres that made up the South Campus…And straight into the line of sight of a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy who was exiting the campus. Well Damn, Here it was! I had fought for 4 years for access ONLY to be thrown back off when I was only feet inside! I held my breath & braced for a confrontation…It NEVER came! The deputy never even slowed down. He just looked over at us, saluted & nodded. WTF is up with this place??? An Old Guard Shack At The South Campus Entrance AS WE FOLLOWED the road up a steep hill, I tried to take it all in. There were buildings as far as the eye could see & a bunch of dorms off in the distance. Remnants of the havoc that Hurricane Michael had unleashed on the Panhandle were still visible everywhere BUT for the most part, this side of the road appeared to be in much better shape than the side that was the North Campus. WHEN WE FINALLY stopped, I got out to try to get my bearings. As I stood there & took everything in, I was amazed at how different it all looked closeup…And then I happened to look up & was surprised to see that I was standing under the AGDSB water tower. It was so massive that it looked like it was next to the sun.

MY PRIORITY WAS to find the Whitehouse & photograph it. A little over a month before, I had been given info that the WH had been vandalized. Upon being called out on this, an official responded to to a WHB (whom I’ll be referring to as “M” from now on) regarding the issue by sending a half-ass promise to look into the matter along with several photos of the outside of the small building. Unfortunately, the photos were taken from a good distance away & ALL of them were at an angle, so you couldn’t see much…Other than the yellow crime scene tape around the outside. For some reason “M” had been kind enough to forward me the entire interaction, photos & all. That was the exact moment that I had decided it was time to make another trip to Marianna. TAKING A DETOUR THERE ARE A number of things that the Arthur G Dozier School For Boys are known for (besides child abuse & murder). One of those things is the campus print shop. Initially, the print shop was used to print campus publications like “The Light”, however, it soon became another way to exploit the boys in order to make money by offering up printing services all over the State of Florida. At one point, ALL of the printing for our fine politicians in Tallahassee came out of Dozier…Guess that’s one way to get politicians in your back pocket… Boys Working In The Printshop ~ 1950’s

THE BUILDING AS a whole seemed to be holding up well, although a number of the windows had been broken. I stepped inside into a small room that was empty except for some type of equipment on the floor in one of the corners.

THE ROOM TO the left was large & bright with concrete floors. It looked like a garage with its big bay doors. Of course, those doors were broken BUT hey, at least the view of the property behind it was unobstructed.

ON THE OTHER side was a small,  L-shaped room. It was dark & the focal point of the room was some type of old printing machinery that was still bolted to the wall. Directly across from it was a door that stood partially open. I peeked in BUT there was NO way in Hell that I was going all the way inside because it was pitch black! I pulled out my flashlight & used it to scan the room. I was able to make out some shallow sinks on one side & a bunch of metal racks on another. A 3rd wall had some type of long, man made wooden table against it. Maybe this was an area used for photo development?

HAVING SEEN ALL there was to see, I  exited out the same way that I had come in & started back up the steep concrete path. It was as I reached the top of that incline that I saw it.                                             

A TIME CAPSULE FOR EVIL

THE MOST NOTORIOUS building at the AGDSB sat at the top of a hill, its white cinderblocks forming a perfect square. Looking at it from the outside one might think it was just another empty structure, quite possibly passing right by it…Except for the bright yellow crime scene tape framing its perimeter.

FEELING THE URGENCY to get to it, I started to run. It was when I was only about a foot away that I noticed the that the front door was slightly ajar. I was totally confused because that door should have been padlocked as the building had been permanently sealed back in a small ceremony back in 2008. I quickly closed the remaining distance & sure enough that door was open! But it wasn’t just open like somebody forgot to shut the door on their way out, it had been kicked in. In fact, whomever had broken in had used such force that the steel plate holding the padlock in place had been torn from the door, taking the wood with it.

IN MY OPINION, it was complete overkill considering that the OPEN padlock was hanging from the door frame, leaving me to believe that it was an inside job & the intention was to make it look like vandals came along & broke in.

front door damage

WHY GO TO such lengths to make people think that this was a random attack? Why even bother to vandalize the WH at all?? It’s been sitting here, locked up tight for over 11 years now & suddenly people are going to start strolling onto the property, bypassing 100 other buildings that were NOT secured, ONLY to come upon this postage stamp sized building, kick in the door & start wreaking havoc on the inside?? Oh, and let’s NOT forget that since Hurricane Michael, the AGDSB South Campus has had a new tenant; The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office…Located a mere 317 yards away from the WH! I CAN GIVE 2 words to sum up my thoughts on the random vandal theory; BULL SH$T!!!

I WAS SO pissed that I didn’t even realize that I had stepped inside. If I had to describe my 1st impression in 3 words, I would say it was filthy, musty & cold. It felt like the air inside was electric…Charged with decades of hate & fear. The front room ran the length of the building & wasn’t very wide. There were 2 good sized windows, letting plenty of the late afternoon sunlight in, so it was well lit…Of course after taking a look around I almost wished that it wasn’t.

THE ROOM HELD a small bathroom at one end & the dirty concrete floor had trash, including an empty cigarette pack that was too clean to have been there for long. An old fire extinguisher was lying on the floor next to the front door & there was graffiti on the walls which made me wonder exactly how long had this door been open?

WANTING TO DOCUMENT everything I saw, I took out my phone & started taking video. I spent a few more minutes in the front room making sure to capture the kicked in door, the graffiti, the garbage left behind, etc. & then stepped through the open doorway into that hall…What I saw will be with me forever.

TO BE CONTINUED…

☆ IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW SUFFERED ABUSE, PASSED AWAY, WENT MISSING OR WITNESSED ANY WRONGDOINGS WHILE AT “THE FLORIDA INDUSTRIAL SCHOOL FOR BOYS” AKA “THE ARTHUR G. DOZIER SCHOOL FOR BOYS” OR THE OKEECHOBEE SCHOOL FOR BOYS, PLEASE REACH OUT AT findingflorida.blog OR ANY OF THE CONTACT INFO LISTED BELOW!!☆

PLEASE SUPPORT FINDING FLORIDA BY “SUBSCRIBING” & “SHARING”

FOLLOW ON:

FINDING THE WHITEHOUSE Pt. 1 ~ Exposing A Lie… FOUR YEARS IN THE MAKING ON A CHILLY morning in early November, under a clear blue sky, we pulled up to the South Campus of the Arthur G.