#unpaid intern to unpaid intern i hope he has a good time

[gelatogelatogelato]

this came to me in a vision

[etirabys]

The only China-related blog I read posted something that deviates from its usual "just translate the top posts on Weibo" post format. It's about the position of women in China:

https://weibo.substack.com/p/feminism-and-the-position-of-women

It and the (extremely fucking dark) post it links to in its second paragraph have been on my mind for several days. I've kept the browser tabs open despite having finished reading & having no desire to reread them.

I found the feminism post illuminating – things I'd 80% understood about the CCP's "strategy" wrt gender snapped into place, and I feel foolish for not having clearly seen that angle before:

The problem, of course, is that the gender ratio in China has been off for a very long time now. Inevitably, there are going to be a lot of men who will never find a wife. And inevitably, those men are going to be precisely the most unstable elements of society—the poorest, working the most menial of jobs, with the least hopes of ever getting promoted, with the least education. Under these circumstances, relying on market forces is not an option. Women would never willingly marry those people when they have perfectly good careers of their own. So the first step, then, is to fuck women out of careers. ...

China is in an equilibrium that it cannot coordinate to get out of: if you have a daughter, you don't want to invest in her when the norms are that her husband will provide for her / that she won't have a career after marriage. If you have a son, you need to to invest in him, because his marital/reproductive prospects aren't great unless he has a job, a car, and an internal passport that lets him live/work in a city, where he can have a future.

It might be a little unbelievable to you, that a country can just sacrifice half its population to stabilise the other half. ... China doesn’t pass laws or enforce laws to protect women for the same reason they don’t pass or enforce laws to protect sweat shop workers. China is competitive on the international stage precisely because it is willing to look the other way while you make a sweat shop of people work unpaid overtime 80 hours a week while you pay them a quarter of minimum wage and don’t give health insurance or retirement benefits. China is competitive on the international stage because it’s willing to look the other way while you dump industrial waste right into the ocean.

[the-not-so-silent-back-up]

The Love We Choose

Geraskier ModernAU

a big THANK YOU @cherrychapsticksteve for helping me out figuring some stuff out

Summary: Geralt is a Firefighter, but more important he is a single Dad to 4 y/o Ciri. Regularly they go to a cute little Coffeeshop where Jaskier works. And little Ciri is on a mission to help her Dad to find somebody to love.

Chapter - 1 -

Geralt is waiting outside the Kindergarten to pick up his daughter, there are a few other parents who are talking. But Geralt only knows one of them really so he just waits in silence. He has been alone with Ciri for a few months now, but it's still a weird feeling to come home and see Yennefer's desk empty. 

They have loved each other, they really did but he is bound to his hometown and she needed to be flexible and be able to go on Business trips all the time. Geralt believed that after Ciris' birth things would be different, and things were different for a year at best. But then everything went back to the same old routine. Yennefer was in New York or London or Berlin and Geralt sat at home, the only thing that was truly different, Geralt wasn't alone, no there was Ciri, his daughter, his whole world that he needed to protect. 

When Ciri was old enough to go to the Kindergarten Yennefer and Geralt figured out that they needed to go separate ways. Yennefer loves her Job to much, she really was the unpaid intern that made it to the top of this really big Marketing firm. And she isn't a family person, she tried to be one for Ciri, but she was afraid that she will regret that and will blame Ciri for it in the future, and her daughter didn't deserve this. 

So now when Yennefer is in town, the three spend time together as a little family. It wasn't the family Geralt hoped for, but it's real. And some parents might not believe it but they are all really good with this. In the time they spend with Ciri they are really happy, and the phone calls Ciri has with her mother weekly are really good for their relationship. 

Geralt came to the conclusion that having a family that is really happy and working is much better than to force a family together to fit the image everyone has. 

Roach is pulling on the leash, Ciri has to be in sight. This Dog really loved this Child, and she would do anything to protect her. She once growled at a pigeon because it scared Ciri.

"Daddy, Daddy did you know that hedgehogs eat slugs?" 

"No ,I didn't know that, where did you learn this from?" Geralt picked the little backpack up and took Ciris tiny hand. 

"Miss McHall read a book about hedgehogs and there was a list of what they eat. And then in the garden Benni searched for a slug to try it himself, but he didn't find one." 

"Hmm" Geralt didn't know how to reply to that. 

"Daaaad is today a hot chocolate day?"

"sadly not sweetheart, I forgot my wallet at work but tomorrow is a hot chocolate day I promise" 

"Oh Daddy, you really forget everything when I don't remind you" Ciri shakes her head a bit "But this time I wanna try the strawberry pie for real this time"

"I think Benni wanted to impress the girls," Ciri said at the dinner table "with the slug". What a strange topic at dinner. Geralt frowns in surprise.

"He always does those stupid things and then he runs up to the other girls and shows what he did. When Dara and I were spies we saw that." 

Geralt carefully listens to his daughter. 

"I mean finding a slug isn't impressive, and eating one is kinda mean because what will the hedgehog eat ? What you do is impressive Dad, you save people and teach other people how to save people." 

"Thank you darling" Being a Father and a Firefighter isn't always the best mix but everytime Ciri says things like that it makes Geralt so proud.

"Uhm Dad, did you see that woman again, the one you went on a pizza date with?"

"Hmm no, she called me this morning and told me that I am nice but she has some family trouble and needs to focus on her family." 

"Oh okay"

Yeah Geralt had a few dates every now and then. Yeah Ciri is his whole world, but he still is a Human and he misses the Romance in his life. The truth is Geralt hasn't the best dating game. He doesn't know what to talk about, when he doesn't talk about Ciri or his work or his Dog. He doesn't mention his daughter on the first dates, and when they actually reach a second or third date and Geralt tells them he is a single dad, most people refuse to see him again, it's just a big commitment for them. But also some of them just saw the big strong firefighter with all the muscles and not the man behind them and that's when Geralt says this isn't working out. 

Ciri lays awake in bed, she could hear the TV from the living room. For sure her dad is lonely, but all this adult stuff is so confusing. In Kindergarten everything is easier, like you ask someone if you wanna be friends, then they ask you what you like to play and what's your favorite animal and then you are friends. And one day you draw a picture just for them and you are best friends. But adults don't work like that.

"My Dad needs my help to find someone to watch those silly romantic movies." Ciri whispers to herself. And she already has someone in mind and she has a plan, sort of.

The next day Geralt brought Roach back home before he went to pick up Ciri, and he checked for his wallet three times. He waited as usual in front of the kindergarten. Ciri is running right up at him, in her beautiful green dress. This morning they had an argument because Ciri wanted to wear her favorite dress so badly and Geralt was afraid that she would mess it up in the Kindergarten, but as Ciri promised it's all fine and she looks like the little princess she is to Geralt. 

"Hot Chocolate Day!" Ciri is chanting as she is running to her Dad.

"Yes Sweetheart today I am fully prepared for the Coffeeshop."

"Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!"

The Coffeeshop is near the Park where Ciri's favorite playground is. That's how they discovered it. Geralt pushed Ciri on the swing when a heavy rain surprised them. Geralt covered his daughter under his jacket and ran in the next building he found. The sweet little Coffeeshop at the Park. Geralt liked it because it wasn't that big and not many people fit in there and Ciri loved it because it's near her favorite playground and because they have so many beautiful cups and mugs. 

They arrived at the Coffeeshop and because they already became regulars so they got greeted nicely. At first Geralt didn’t like it that strangers knew Ciri’s name, but he got used to it and the staff here is really nice. 

A young tall man came up to their table and Ciri jumps up and ran towards him 

"Jaskier! Look that’s my favorite dress” 

“Oh hi Ciri it’s really beautiful, you look like a princess” 

Geralt watches the scene with eagle eyes, but he knows Jaskier is no harm for his little girl, he is usually their waiter when they are in the Coffeeshop.

Jaskier lets Ciri twirl around herself, so the pretty green dress starts flying. 

“My Daddy says that too.�� Ciri stops spinning.

“Your Daddy says what ?” Jaskier seems to be confused with that statement.

“This morning my Daddy also said that I look like a princess. And when I am a princess my Dad must be a king right?”

“Then lead me to your king, princess Ciri.” 

Jaskier could clearly see Geralt sitting at their favorite spot at the window, but he likes to play along with Ciri’s little games. 

“Your Majesty I present to you, your daughter princess Ciri” Jaskier takes a bow in front of Geralt and Ciri tries to stay in character but could resist a little laugh.

“I have been sent directly from the kitchen to ask what the King and his daughter would like to eat and drink today.”

Geralt is a little lost for words, normally these silly games stay between Ciri and Jaskier, but now he is dragged into it like a theater play and he hasn’t learned his lines. Geralt tries his best to play along because he knows how much it means to his little girl if he does.

“May he bring us hot chocolate and strawberry pie for the princess and mint tea and cheesecake for me the King.” 

Ciri giggles again.

“I like Jaskier he always so funny and nice to us”

“Yeah that is true” 

Geralt stares out of the window, and he just enjoys the quiet coffeeshop. It wasn’t actually quiet but it wasn’t stressful like his day at the fire station. There was a fire near in the forest this morning, just because some stupid assholes had Barbeque last night and didn’t end their fire properly. 

He turns around and on the table are the ordered pies and his tea but no hot chocolate is there and Ciri is gone too. 

Panic runs through Geralt's veins, where is she?  He was just looking away for a second. But then he saw her holding on to Jaskier’s hand as they picked a cup for her hot chocolate. How could he forget that she always picks a new beautiful cup to drink her hot chocolate from. She walked back to her Dad and sat next to him on the bench.

“I picked a cup with stars and the moon on it”

Jaskier walks over to their table and places Ciris cup right next to her pie. 

“I saw there was smoke in the forest, was there a fire?”

At first Geralt is confused because he never told Jaskier that he is a Firefighter, but then he remembered that Ciri talks a lot with Jaskier if he has the time.

“Yeah there was a fire, but gladly it was near the forest not directly in there.” Jaskier looks relieved.

“Some people made a barbeque there and the remaining hot ashe lit the dry grass on fire”

Geralt could see the disbelief in Jaskier’s face, he really couldn’t hide his emotions.

“I hope you and your crew are okay”

“We are good, it was just another fire because of careless people”

He didn’t wanna say drunk people in front of Ciri, but the look on Jaskier’s face showed him that he did understand what he meant with “careless”.

“Ciri, your Dad is truly a hero, he and his crew saved the forest”

Ciri grinned and cheered “yes they are all heroes, my Dad, uncle Eskel, uncle Lambert and Vesemir” 

New customers enter the place and Jaskier has to  leave Geralt and Ciri. They eat and drink and Ciri told stories from the Kindergarten and from her best friend Dara. Even more people entered the coffeeshop as they left. They waved Goodbye to Jaskier and left the busy place. With Ciri’s tiny hand in his own he was so happy he had a daughter like her and this little coffeeshop they could call their special place. 

[i-am-still-bb]

Treat for 22/10:

One of them is a modern witch and an owner of a famous potions recipe blog. The other one is a bit of a fanboy / just trying not to get his eyebrows synged off…

A/N: Originally conceived as an AU of The World Next Door. That had me stuck though. So we have this. But it still has similar elements, age gap, instructor/student dynamic, etc.

—

Fili drummed his fingers on the walnut conference table. One. Finger. At. A. Time. Focusing on how there were pits in the wood and some scratches in the varnish beneath his fingertips.

“Do you have any ideas?”

The silence following the question stretched on a beat too long and Fili knew he was supposed to answer. “Can you rephrase the question?”

“Enrollment numbers are dropping.”

“I’d noticed.”

“We need better student engagement and retention. Do you have any ideas? You are the most junior member of staff.” That last part was a thinly veiled dig and threat.

Fili shrugged, brushing off the words, “We could try putting some stuff on social media, teasers, sneak peeks, behind the scenes stuff. Stories about how potions and other magic sometimes go awry.”

Frowns appeared on the tenured track professors’ faces as soon as the words “social media” had left his mouth. This is why he rarely spoke up during these things. He kept his head down, did his research, lectured, and quickly attended conferences and published. 

Alice, the other young faculty member, specializing in potions that assisted in the growing of plants, clapped her hands. “My students would love something like that,” she grinned. “And I think it would do them good to see us as human, to see that we also make mistakes and singe our eyebrows and armchairs off.”

The department head looked skeptical. “It is an ‘interesting’ idea,” Fili could hear the air quotes around the word. “I think one of you younger people should be in charge. And as Ms. Yu is already assisting the Archives in their project then it should be you, if you don’t mind.

Fili did mind. Very much in fact. 

“It shouldn’t take that much time, maybe an hour a week,” the Head continued. 

And that was how a decade later Fili found himself spending more time on social media (Instagram, TikTok, and the like) promoting the university more broadly and the potions department specifically. 

He had asked for an assistant and was denied. 

It was fun. 

Sometimes. 

But other times he was just answering basic questions, or telling people “NO! ABSOLUTELY DO NOT MIX THOSE THINGS TOGETHER!” and then hoping that they actually listened.

Most of the time he was typing up replies, proofreading, posting, recording response videos, without paying much attention to the usernames that came across his screen. Sometimes there was one that would strike him as particularly ridiculous or clever; he would screenshot it, crop it, and save it to a special folder on his computer. He did the same with responses that made him give up home for humanity. 

But then there was one user, K.O.A.K., who asked questions that often made Fili pause and wonder and sometimes his only response was “I don’t know” even after he did some research and some serious thinking. 

They had a video chain going back at least six months at this point. 

Fili’s videos were well-lit against a carefully chosen background from a tripod; all courtesy of a performing arts student who interned for him for a semester. Really, she had bullied him into letting her do an unpaid internship. She was a double major and she said that the content of his videos were fantastic, but everything else was tragic. 

So now part of Fili’s large office / workspace was permanently set up for filming videos.

K.O.A.K.’s videos were probably worse that Fili’s had started out as. He always held his phone which sometimes made Fili nauseous while the user tossed ingredients into a travel sized cauldron that sat on a stove that had a single burner and plugged into a wall outlet. The wooden table it sat on was scarred from mishaps and frequently littered with ingredients, snacks, dust, and the occasional iced coffee cup of varying fullness. 

K.O.A.K. never showed his face. 

His hands featured in nearly every video. Sometimes his bare feet (which Fili had scolded him for, “What if you spill [insert potion here]? Or it boils over?” K.O.A.K.’s only response had been laughter, and to show off a fairly impressive old scar on his shin from just that thing happening) appeared. 

Fili shared tricks for making a potion that temporarily improved hand dexterity. “Roast the willow root before cutting it into thin 1 inch strips.”

K.O.A.K.  responded with a video demonstrating the differences between his original potion, one following Fili’s tip, and then one where he had added some olive oil to the foil packet before roasting, and then had roughly minced the root. 

Fili amended his notes.

He toyed with the idea of sharing his phone number as they starting talking about more than just tips and tricks for potions. But decided against it. This account operated in an official capacity. And it was probably bad enough that he was carrying on personal conversations through it. 

But he did notice that the twinge of excitement he got when he saw a notification form K.O.A.K. was the same as the one he would get early on in a new relationship. He had more than a little bit of a crush. It was merely academic, or so he told himself. He did not often get to talk about potions with anyone else.

—

Direct Messages between You (Prof.Durin) and K.O.A.K.

You: Why don’t you have a degree in this? You���re better than some of my grad students.

IDK.

You: You should apply to Erebor’s program. 

I don’t think they’d take me. I never took those ridiculous tests.

You: I’ll get them waived.

… I may not have finished secondary school

You: I’ll see what I can do.

—

Fili dismissed the class early. The first day of a new semester was always short. Most of his students were out of their seats and out the door before Fili had finished wiping down the whiteboard. Except for one. He was standing by the lectern, backpack slung over one shoulder.

“Did you have a question?”

The student shook his head. “I just wanted to introduce myself.”

Fili consulted his attendance sheet for a moment, “It’s Killian Oaks, right? If you would prefer something else, I can certainly do that. I just don’t have a note from the college about anything like that for you.”

“It is. But that’s not how you’d know me.”

Fili frowned in thought, one hand splayed over his papers on the desk. There was the niggle in the back of his brain that told him he was missing something.”

“You’d know me as . . .”

--

Taglist: Everything: @silvermoon-scrolls Fili/Kili: @dubhlachen

[danidrabbles]

🎵❤️

It's been a while since you sent this, but thank you so much for the support and for sending me a message ❤️

Send me a 🎵, I’ll put my music on shuffle and write something inspired by that song.

Pairing: Dave York / f!reader

Rating: Explicit (18+! smut, masturbation, breasts (mentioned, big enough to at least push together), description of.... explicit videos and me parodying them badly (probably))

Unpaid Intern

“Anyone need a coffee?” you ask, popping your head into the conference room. Everyone in the room turns their head towards you at once, and, feeling on the spot, you add, “I’m um, doing a run, so...”

Everyone rattles off their orders, leaving your boss last.

“I’ll have one,” he says. “You know how I like it.” It could’ve sounded condescending, but it’s more… trusting. 

“All right, mister York,” you say, giving him a nod.

Before you leave, he addresses you, waits until you look him in the eye when he says, “Please, call me Dave.”

You nod again, cheeks heating. 

Later, when you bring everyone’s orders, he’s the only one who thanks you.

– – – – –

You’ve been here for two months now and as the intern, you get the chores other people don’t really want; the office is in the middle of digitising a couple of old documents, and it became your job to do it. You hate to admit it, but it’s actually teaching you something. It has taken up the biggest part of your week, but today, you’re on the brink of finishing it. It makes the day pass fast as you work quickly, but thoroughly, and by the time it’s early evening, everything is done.

When you’re about to leave, Dave is just stepping out of his office.

As he closes the door behind him, his eyes find you with quiet curiosity. “Now, tell me why the intern is one of the last ones out the door.”

You jab your thumb over your shoulder, pointing at the records room. “Only just finished up, but it’s all done.”

“Always making sure everyone is looked after, always got your work done by the end of the day…” He gives you a once over and nods in approval. “You’re a hard worker. I like it.”

His praise makes you soar, a sense of pride making your belly swoop. You have to be careful not to let it show too much. “Thank you, sir–Dave,” you correct quickly.

“Good,” he says with a nod, lingering a little before saying his goodbyes. “See you tomorrow.”

– – – – –

Commute. Dinner. Waste what remains of your evening on the couch. Bed.

Once there, you can’t really settle, the swoop in your belly from earlier replaced with something else that makes you buzz. After turning, tossing and turning again, you reach for your phone, finally give into what you hope will help.

A week or so ago, your best friend had recommended you… a video. She texted you the link, added the comment, I think this is the first time I’ve ever thought a guy's dick was pretty. 

Now might be the time to see if you agree.

After reaching for your earphones on your nightstand and popping them in, you scrolling back in your text history to find and click the link. The screengrab under the play button is lewd. It's an actor sitting on an office chair with an actress in his lap, but they’re reduced to just their body parts; the camera is focussed on his cock buried deep inside of her…

Settling back against your pillow, knees spread wide beneath your blankets, you hit play.

The actress’ high, nasally voice does a voiceover about how difficult a new job can be, how hard it is working in an all-male environment, and how she needs her boss’ approval on the report she’s been working on.

The door of her office opens, and an actor enters, the voiceover informing you it’s her boss. "Can I see you in my office, please?" he asks.

You inhale sharply at the sight of him; he looks just like your boss. Your clit throbs in response, the flush of embarrassment and arousal at the reaction going from your crown all the way to the tips of your toes. It gives you pause, one finger hovering over the pause button, another finger teasing yourself over your underwear.

You don’t pause.

They talk about the report; badly acted dialogue where he approves of her work. It’s just build-up for what comes next. As they talk, the actor’s voice becomes his voice. And as the video plays, your eyes flutter closed, using it to build your own little fantasy around it… 

He wouldn't waste time - he's a busy man. But he wouldn’t just pounce on you, either. He’d ease into it a little, charm you; stand close, tell you you look pretty, swipe a strand of hair from your brow as he looks down your blouse. You’d stutter out his name, his title and his last name, and he’d correct you.

“Call me Dave.”

And you’d nod.

“Always taking such good care of everything, but who’s taking care of you, hmm?” says the voice in your ear. “Let me help you.”

He would say something like that, too.

You cup yourself over the fabric between your legs, your teeth dig into your bottom lip as you hear the actors on screen share a kiss, and you take a quick peek to watch their tongues tangle together.

Dave’s plump bottom lip would fit so well between your lips, the both of you testing the waters softly before he'd cup your jaw and deepen the kiss. While his tongue explored your mouth, he’d back you up against his desk, the edge digging into the curve of your ass, the hard ridge of his cock against your front. Wandering hands would roam your body, squeezing your waist, a large palm–

“Let’s get this off, show me these.”

–cupping your chest. You would unbutton your blouse, hands trembling under his watchful gaze, struggling with a few small buttons until the fabric falls open to reveal your heaving chest. 

A single finger would hook in the front of your bra while you shrug your blouse off, and Dave would pull the cup down until it revealed a stiff nipple. Reaching behind your back, you would undo the clasp, making your bra fall away so he could see. 

“Look at these fucking tits,” his voice sails into your ears, followed by an appreciative groan.

You place the phone down next to you so you can still see, but have both hands free, and ruck up the fabric of your shirt. With a groan, you take a breast in your hand and squeeze, before pinching your nipple.

They’d fit in his hands nicely, cupped, squeezed, pushed together, before his mouth would replace a hand to suck at your nipple, graze it with his teeth. 

You watch the actor’s mouth coming off the actress’ chest with an audible pop! before diving down again and getting another taste of her. As he does, she pulls up the short skirt she’s wearing until it’s bunched up around her waist, then lays back on the desk. Her fingers dip between her spread legs and you do the same, fingers sliding beneath the fabric of your panties and finally touching yourself. You let out a breathy sound at the contact, dragging some wetness up to roll over your stiff clit.

It's erotic, the idea of yourself laying back like that, tits out, red marks all over them, playing with yourself. You imagine your boss watching, one corner of his mouth pulling up with an amused purse of his lips at your newfound confidence. 

The jiggle of a belt fills your ears, and you watch, enthralled, as the actor’s cock comes into view, bobbing against his stomach when he pulls his pants down to mid thigh. You let out a quiet sound at the sight. He's hard, thick, pink and swollen at the tip. Your friend was right. It's pretty. It fits right with your fantasy. 

Dave would open his belt, pulling it off with quick, rough moves and throwing it aside, before opening his pants to reveal his cock. Your mind can’t help but imagine him the same way, heavy and full, your reaction to it making him give himself a few strokes before taking his place between your legs.

You clench when you hear the actor spit, and an involuntary moan leaves your mouth just when the actress lets out hers. You buck into your own hand, the circles you draw around your clit tightening, speeding up when you feel a familiar pull somewhere below your belly button.

You imagine Dave doing it, spreading your legs and spitting on you, watching it slide down to your opening before smearing his cock through it. It would make him groan when you moan his name in reply to it, giving you the very tip of his cock, both watching as it slips just past that initial bit or resistance. He’d praise your sweet plea’s before you’d even realize they were leaving your lips, and lean down to press a wet, messy kiss to your mouth, slowly sliding into you.

Two fingers slip down, your excitement spiking when you realize how easily the digits can glide inside of yourself. The actors on your screen don’t ease into it, the sound of skin slapping against skin all you can hear. It takes over in your head, matching their pace as you fuck yourself to the idea of Dave’s cock sliding in and out of you.

He’d stretch you open just how you like it, experienced and sure, his fingers digging into your soft hips and using them as leverage to pull you back on his thrusts. His hand would come up on occasion, to paw at your tits just to feel. 

Maybe he’d spank them. 

The office would fill with your muffled moans, mixing in with his whispered approval; how well you’re taking it, how good you feel around him, how he’s been thinking about this ever since you started your internship.

“You like it, baby?” The rough voice in your ear asks. “You like it when I rub your pretty clit?”

Dave’s thumb would slide down the curls above your slit, find your clit to draw circles around it that match the pace he’s fucking you with. Your hushed confirmation would only spur him on, make him fuck you harder.

“Fuck,” you huff, your own thumb mimicking your fantasy, matching every pump of your fingers. You find a good spot with a curl of your fingers, and you concentrate on that.

You’d be a babbling mess. “More. Dave, please. Faster. There–Right fucking there, just like that,” while your fingers desperately claw at his forearms. You’d reach for his tie, twist it around your palm to pull him into a bruising kiss, just how you like it, right before–

“Are you gonna come on this cock?”

You moan into your empty bedroom, nodding to yourself as you find the perfect pace; the swipe of your thumb just so, your fingers hitting something exactly right…

“Fucking do it.”

It shoves you over the edge. Your back comes off the bed, a hand clamping over your mouth to keep yourself from shouting as the walls of your pussy clench desperately around your fingers. You ride it out as quietly as you can, fingers still working until you’re through, and your body falls back against your mattress with a sigh.

In your ears, the scene continues. The actor’s groans mixing in with the actress’ moans until his sounds take over. He pulls out of her roughly, a little laugh escaping him, like he stopped himself just in time.

“Fuck, yeah. Let me taste it, baby,” he says, kneeling at the edge of the desk, pushing his head between the actress’ shaking thighs… 

And between your own legs, your fingers begin moving again.

– – – – –

The next day at work, you’re exhausted and on edge. You’d stayed up far too long, lost in the fantasy, your second orgasm still not enough to douse the arousal coursing through your body. At least your plan had worked: You’d fallen asleep right after–

Suddenly, your name echoes through the hallway. Startled, you look over your shoulder to see mister York's head peek out of the office door. Your eyes lock on his.

"Can I see you in my office, please?"

– – – – – My notes for this were: Oh, god, how can I even use this… “Because you can’t afford a mortgage you just torrent a porn.” WHAT IF it’s about an intern who has a crush on her boss, and later when she watches a movie she pictures herself with this boss.

[drabsyo]

Hey drabs,

Firstly, I'm so sorry for my whack English for it's my second language. And I know this is an ask box, but this is the only way I know to send you message anonymously in case this message sounded cringier than what's in my head. lol.

I wanted to say that I hope everything is going well for you because I know that looking for a job these days feels like looking for diamond in a gold mine, which basically almost impossible and I myself is also looking for a job.

And also, I wanted to share a few things in case you get ghosted by the company after weeks of the interview.

1. Have you ever tried Glints or LinkedIn? I don't know what your line of work but perhaps you want to try to apply through those two apps maybe?

2. If the point above still doesn't work, perhaps you should try internship first. I got my first job right after graduating high school because my mentor saw my works are good enough and he recommend me to his boss. But then again, these kinda things are also based on luck, and not to mention that most companies don't pay their intern, so hopefully we don't have to use this tips.

I also wanted to share somethings that helped me to stay sane and during times like that.

1. Don't forget to eat and stay hydrated. As long as you stay hydrated and not hungry, you'll be more focused on the questions the interviewer asked.

2. Don't stay up late. Same goes like the point above, you'll be more focus and have more energy if you sleep enough. And If you're a night owl like me, well... don't forget to drink coffee after you woke up. lol.

3. After all the interviews done for the day, don't forget to reward yourself. Regardless of what happened or whether or not you're accepted, don't forget to reward yourself. It doesn't have to be something grand, something small can do. For me, I usually eat my comfort food that is those korean instant ramen or have a little gaming session.

I know these stuff are basically generic, but I just wanted you to know that no matter what, you are awesome. Sending you all my support and hugs, good luck Drabs ❤

Hey anon! Oh my goshhh first of all, thank you so much for this. It's been a rough few months, exhausting really. I received your message right after I finished my interview, and I know it sounds lame, but it almost made me cry! To know that you care enough about me to leave me this message is so heart warming. So. Thank you. ❤

Your English is wonderful, please don't ever apologize for that and this message is not cringe at all, FAR from it. I'm saving this ask!

I haven't tried Glints or LinkedIn yet. It's also the first time I've heard of Glints, so I might give it a shot. Thank you for the tip! I'll go check it out. My usual method has been applying for jobs on JobStreet.

Glad to hear your mentor was really impressed by your works!!! ❤ I did have an internship before, but the company where I had my internship in ran out of budget for our department so they weren't hiring. Plus, my supervisor from there also resigned. And I was also the unpaid intern!

I keep forgetting to stay hydrated. Yesterday, the interviewer made us wait for an hour and twenty minutes before the interview started and no one would tell us what was happening. I was so thirsty, it was embarrassing. Not to mention I had a fever, yikes. Hope you're staying hydrated on your job hunt too ❤

Ughhgghh I am a night owl too and I absolutely hate it, anon. I love it, but I also hate it? You know what I mean. I am looking into night shift options though. My friends who work the graveyard shift tell me it's disorienting. Maybe we should consider it, what with us being night owls and all? Hm.

Yes!! A quick gaming session does wonders for my anxiety after an interview. That, or I play some music really loud to tune out my thoughts for the day. Or I just lay in bed. Pet my cat. Read fanfiction. Go on tumblr. And now, I have this ask to go back to too ❤ It's the small wins, for sure. I'm happy to hear you give yourself these small rewards too ❤

Anon, this means a lot to me. Grinned like an idiot reading your tips. And please, take your own advice too. Stay hydrated, do things that make you happy, try to get 8 hours of sleep, and take care of yourself. I sincerely hope you're doing great, staying healthy, and are loved. World's tough. Really tough. You've got me in your corner, anon! Sending you hugs!!!! And all my love ❤❤❤

[snarltoothed]

yo barbies do have absolutely inhuman proportions and theyve given ken a truckload of cake. just an observation after play acting a barbie affair to a toddler and trying to reiterate the points her mom was trying to make every time she was upset through Ken, who had to be the voice of reason the way Barbie and Barnie kept hitting & yeling at him bc he had a baby with Barnie and their baby can magically fly and is causing a whole lot of problems and infected Dr. Mouse with her magical flying ability but neither of them are good at it and they keep sustaining what should be fatal injuries by jumping off of rooves and i got nowhere in probing about why Baby and Dr. Mouse want to hurt themselves and won’t just rest it off like Dr. Mouse said before she got magic infection and like Dr. Unicorn said before that before he died (permanently i guess she never brought him back lol) because this little girl had more insistence toward playing barbies for “just a little longer” than i have ever had toward ANYTHING…

(like. 2 hours of barbies prior to driving her around and hoping she’d sleep then bringing her to a playground trying to tire her out then the long way home to see if she’d pass out then for like 3 hours but ALAS she wanted to play barbies again within the hour and we continued on and off for 5. hours. i was three feet from the dolls to take my meds and a drink of water and she was like “ken…?” and i was like “one second honey ken is distracted by the movie but i’ll come back over in just a minute i just need to do something real quick” and she was just like “no! no!” and intensely cried for the 30 seconds it took me to swallow 👁👄👁)

((maybe i was also bossy af at her age, suppose maybe i wouldnt remember being tantrum prone toddler lmao… everything i remember i feel like i was pretty meek but i probs cried a lot. idk if i WAILED tho. my mom describes me as “perfect (in terms of childhood behavior) until puberty”. whereas my brother was a monster until about 3 or 4 and she isnt afraid to say so… either way no judgement unto the toddler, i probably started internalizing my feelings way too young for that to be healthy. tangent. my b.))

anyways point being: why are barbie’s legs still so fucking long??? her torso is more normal these days than 20 years ago but ye gods, the woman has still gotta be 7ft tall… and why can’t we out barbie in flats? literally why does she still have deformed ballerina feet? little girls don’t wear heels. little girls shouldn’t wear heels? not like that? because adult fucking women shouldn’t? (thankfully my psuedoneice wants everyone but ken naked ?)

SECOND POINT BEING: MOMFEMS, SINGLE MOMS, MOTHERS IN GENERAL… i have the utmost fucking respect for you. mothers do more for the world than ANY man, EVERY government & law system, fuck, even all the goddamn charities and every single scientific discovery presently known or yet to be found out. and it is NOT EASY WORK!! it is often THANKLESS WORK. it is always UNPAID WORK. mad fucking respect to moms. i could never.

[prongsmydeer]

Ayesha Liveblogs The New Employee

Fascinated by the Audrey Hepburn mural in this residential South Korean neighbourhood. Reminds me of the Bob Dylan mural I saw in Kyoto LOL

"The new employee should at least be an assistant manager. What's up with an intern?" To be fair, a lot of people love to cut costs, and interns are very underpaid

"To start working at nine, you should come to work by at least 8:30am." Firstly, no, you don't owe your work any unpaid time. Secondly, how was Seung Hyeon supposed to? He couldn't get in bc none of you gave him a keycard!

"He's good looking." [Gasps and covers mouth] LOL Seung Hyeon

At least Kang Hae is doing some onboarding for Seung Hyeon, even if no one else is

I don't know who this marketing guy is, but I already don't like his vibes based on him interrupting Seung Hyeon's lunch

"If another team asks for your cooperation again like this, ask me first. If I'm not in, tell them to email you and put me as CC." Department Head Kim to the rescue!

LMAO WHY THE NOTEBOOK TUG-OF-WAR?? What kinda weird workplace energy:

" Yu Seong?" "Seung-hyeon?" Weel weel weel, is this the second lead of the series?

"[Rainbow Rice Cake welcomes all sexual minorities]" Not to be Asian and bisexual, but it sincerely gets to me whenever I see Asian media of any kind where gay people just get to like. Exist. Be around, regardless of their importance to the plot. So I love the Rainbow Rice Cake Club:

Also now realizing that when Yu Seong talked about the group he attended and Seung Hyeon immediately cut him off it was because he didn't want to be outed at work, omg

"Do you remember my first love, Jong Seok? He looks just like Jong Seok." Yu Seong is really making the rounds flirting at this table

"You even went to grad school because of that bastard." I really like Ji Yeon, she's great. Also, not him getting a graduate degree because of a cute boy LOL

[In Seung Hyeon's thoughts as he looks at Jong Chan] "I want to you to meet and date a good person." The last few office romances I have seen have been people who were already childhood friends who rediscover each other at the workplace, sometimes as a boss and sometimes not, but as these two are straight-up boss and intern, I'm like: Y'all cute, but also, don't date your boss!

Seung Hyeon's sixty second elevator pitch at the copier on how to improve this ad campaign khgkjgh

"You did this before, too. Why do you keep pushing our intern around?" Jong Chan has no social graces and has had enough of the Marketing Team

Also the way that Jong Chan has been holding onto Seung Hyeon's wrist through this whole interaction. Girl (gender neutral) what are you doing?

"I don't have any, but he has a very good idea, CEO." Jong Chan says my team credits our interns for their ideas!!

I do love the CEO in her pink suit, I hope she's as fun as her outfit

"It's also the worst thing about our company. People at the top get all the credit. Your idea will look like it's mine or even the CEO's, or the company's. And your participation in this project doesn't guarantee a permanent position." I appreciate Jong Chan being really clear about the expectations

The way that Seung Hyeon smiles at like, everything is soooo endearing. He is just a nice man!

"He said, 'Because it's you, Seung Hyeon.' He discounted all other reasons." "Did he confess his feelings to you?" "Not really, but it feels like it." Seung Hyeon said: I will romanticize my own office experiences 🥰🥰

"Hey, isn't Seung Hyeon totally your type?" Still seems like a bold thing to say about his intern, Yu Seong

I'm not going to lie, I wasn't going to even liveblog this show until this drinking interaction, but Jong Chan grabbing the glass out of Seung Hyeon's hand and drinking for him when the person asking is just his homie felt so dramatic I needed to react. Oh my god:

"Not at all. We can't date. Because we're the famous, Rainbow Rice Cakes." [Does the Wave] "Don't listen to her, it's nothing." HAHAHAH Seung Hyeon doing the wave too before he tries to stop Ji Yeon. He couldn't resist!

KJHGKJHHJGKHGK????? Not Jong Chan responding to Seung Hyeon tripping by giving him a little kiss on the cheek

"Don't give it any thought. It was a mistake." How is Seung Hyeon not supposed to think about his boss kissing him???

"I don't even know what I like or what I'm good at. I want to find out what they are." I bet you will, Seung Hyeon!

"Most people think those who make ads are weird and crazy, but I think differently." Jong Chan, with the kindest intent, you are giving at least a little weird and crazy

"I don't think he's a regular player." HAHAH not Seung Hyeon immediately looping Kang Hae into the office gossip

"Director Kim might be trying to form his own clique because time is running out." Why does the Marketing Team do nothing but cause problems? People in marketing pls confirm

Ahhhh, now we know who Yu Seong is, a client of the firm

I hate the marketing team, they need to leave Seung Hyeon alone!!

"Did you come because you were worried?" To be fair, it seems like Jong Chan's worry is entirely merited giving they were forcing to drink by pouring liquor on your head????

An incredibly questionable time to kiss him, but the tiptoes are fun:

Ffkjhfjhfkfh Seung Hyeon at the coffee machine: I don't care what the circumstances were, I LOVE making out with my boss

LMAO @ Kang Hae defining everything that's going on by webtoons. Seems putting a little too fine a point on it

"Who the hell is he? Who was your first kiss? Is he in Planning Team 1? Team 2?" [Seung Hyeon gestures at Kang Hae and her camera] [Ji Yeon screams] I NEED TO KNOW WHERE THIS COMPANY VLOG THAT KANG HAE IS DOING LIVES!!! Why does she think it's fine to film the details of his personal life??

"Then after you get off work, let's go to the movies." No one in this office has any sense of professionalism

Not the voices of Jong Chan's ex-boyfriends haunting him while he waits for his dinner date with Seung Hyeon:

"I won't do anything funny, so relax." [Seung Hyeon smiles and fidgets] [Whispers] "You look like you want me to do something funny." HAHAHAH, I was also thinking this, Jong Chan

"You can't be too quick to discern what's real or not. They could all be true love." [...] "You're amazing." I hope that Kang Hae and Ji Yeon date

Why are all of these people getting their romantic advice from webtoons jkhkgjhfhkjhf HAHA

Seung Hyeon is really incapable of having a poker face for someone with a secret office romance (well, not so secret anymore, now that he did a spit take the first time someone mentioned Jong Chan's name)

I love that the CEO always throws her pen in the air and then chants, "Nice catch" (in English) whenever someone gets it haha

"But to have that kind of rumour suddenly spreading is also a failure on [Jong Chan's] part. He failed to conduct himself properly!" "You're right. We can't let him get away with this." Get away with what? Having a boyfriend?

Jong Chan is ALSO so bad at hiding this romance, given the canoodling at work. They are not beating the office romance allegations:

I love Jong Chan consistently making sure that everyone knows this was Seung Hyeon's idea!!!

I imagine Mr. Sold Out's instagram post ft. Office Romance Boys is only going to add fuel to the fire for Jong Chan's clique rumours

"It's okay. Work is your priority. I want to understand things that are important to you." Seung Hyeon is the cutest man alive

"Let's do this once we closer." "How do I get closer to you? By being more caring?" Alright, you've sold me on the boss-employee romance. I tried to hold out because it's not the best idea, but they are soooo sweet

You see, I THINK the white undershirt is supposed to give sexual encounter, but Cherry Magic tricking me has made me doubtful that it could just be a sleepover

Omg, did Seung Hyeon leave just because he saw Yu Seong's pen in the bedroom? Couldn't he have just borrowed a pen from him?? Or was it a gift from Seung Hyeon?

"He looked so excited to get his lover the fountain pen engraved with his initials." OHHHH, it's because Yu Seong and and Jong Chan may have dated

(I do think Seung Hyeon is being a little unreasonable about it by just not talking to him. But, it's his first relationship, so I get it)

Also. Yi Jeon scream-crying along with Seung Hyeon in solidarity. Bestie behaviour

"It doesn't matter who he dated in the past either. A relationship is led by two people. You two are dating for the first time, so it's important to get to know each other." Solid advice from Yi Jeon

"I'm too caught up in my love life these days. I'm so unprofessional." When ur right, ur right, Seung Hyeon

Couple's Counselling in the Communal Supply Closet:

"How am I supposed to interpret it if you leave like that after spending the night together?" Again, I would like some clarity on the night together

"We dated for a bit. Of course, I have no feelings for him anymore. You know how small the dating pool is in our world. It's normal to stay friends with your ex." Well-communicated and true

Okay, no need to call Seung Hyeon's feelings a "pathetic crush," Jong Chan

"Why can't people be cool about this?" Oh, like YOU were cool about it by lambasting him an office supply closet

"I could be more understanding about it since it's his first relationship." Yes, you could!

HAHAHAH THE CAT TEXTING ON JONG CHAN'S BEHALF:

I really did think that the cat text was going to move the plot along

Team Leader Choi is blaming Seung Hyeon for the retreat booking falling through even though he didn't have another card to pay it with??? This workplace takes no responsibility for anything LOL

Also, the flat bangs do a lot of work in making Jong Chan look younger. They're only 5 years apart but the office look ages him

"But I want to understand you from now on. I can't take away the heartbreak from when you had to pick out that damn fountain pen, but I'll do my best to make you think that all the heartache with Yu Seong led you to me. Could you give me another chance to get closer to you?" Awww, that's a nicer approach

Also, Jong Chan to himself: I can only emotionally advance my relationship when one of us has been drinking

"I'll be more honest from now on.""It's okay to fight. We can just work it out together." We love a communication

The flirt texting at the work retreat with all of their coworkers between them LOOOOL

Truly they are as subtle as a flying brick, their coworkers are literally right there:

"You can call me 'Hyeong.'" I know that some people do actually do this, but I will never understand people using brother/sister honorifics/suffixes in romantic contexts!!! It is not for me!! You will NEVER catch me didi/dada-ing a partner

Hahahaha, the way they both nerd out over the ads they watch

"I'll apply for the Planning Team. The Strategic Planning Team could be a better fit for me, but I want to try for the Planning Team. It's my first time discovering what I think I can do well and work hard on." Go Seung Hyeon!!!

"Do you believe in me?" [Pushes boyfriend into pool] HAHAHA

Screaming at them using this pool shenanigan to hide from their coworkers bothering them after work:

Awwwww Jong Chan sharing his good luck talisman with Seung Hyeon for his interview

"Unfortunately, we are not able to hire you this time." Wow, realistic but harsh. What are the chances it has anything to do with him dating his boss?

"I think Department Head Kim is trying to start something in the company with that kid beside him." Ohhhhh nothing to do with their actual relationship, everything to do with clique accusations and Marketing Team Being Jerks

Team Leader Choi asking about Seung Hyeon's results like he didn't sabotage him!!!!!! Ass.

"Aigo, just how badly did you mess up?" Team Leader Choi, I will bite you

"I guess I expected too much. They took me in as an intern, so I thought I could become a full-time employee as well." Kang Hae didn't get in EITHER? This company is so rude to their interns

"I'm not doing this as your boyfriend. I think this company really needs you." Jong Chan <3

They are both so sad and mad about the interview sabotage :((((((

Ohhhhhh, so this is the purpose of the vlogging! They're going to make a short film on their internship experience for closure

"A video I made with leftover footage. Watch it when you feel down." Money's on boyfriend vlog

"But I heard this intern didn't get in." "Why?" I hope AR Communications eats some humble pie after all this!!!!

Does Mr. Sold Out watching the video mean he will hire Seung Hyeon for internal marketing? I hope so

"I, Kim Jong Chan, would like to make an offer to Wu Seung Hyeon, the most passionate man when it comes to ads, as the head of JS Planning, a start-up company." OMGGGGG I kinda figured Jong Chan was going to quit (or at least threaten to), but I didn't think they'd start working together. This is the kind of boss-dating that is sustainable, starting a business with your boyfriend!

"I lo- l-love-" "Do you love me?" "That wasn't romantic at all." CUTE

HAHAHA Team Leader Choi being demoted for causing problems in the recruitment process

Jong Chan hired Ji Yeon and Kang Hae too!! BUDDY BUSINESS

Also, I have just learned that the movie has additonal scenes so running commentary on those now:

LOL @ THEM putting in a car scene after the cheek kiss just for it to be them sitting in silence

The movie confirms that White Undershirt WAS an indication of sex. Good for them!

I love them all (and I still want Ji Yeon and Kang Hae to date):

[k8fics]

Please please please write more Nathan Fielder fluff bro im dying out here

Assist

summary: headcanon — assistant! reader x nathan fielder (nathan for you era)

rating: PG — nothing bad

- let’s be honest, he probably does not need an assistant.

- but he begged his producers until they finally allowed him to interview a few people for the job.

- sure, he could’ve used an unpaid intern but where’s the fun in that?

- the interviews would be… unusual.

When you walked in, you were greeted by a scrawny guy in a standard office space. You guys shook hands and exchanged names before the actual interview.

“So.. Um, here we help small businesses in unique ways,” He started. His hands waving around manically.

Nathan later explains it’s basically just a mock reality show where he tries unique (outrageous) ways to help businesses and people.

“Do you actually help the companies or…” You trailed off.

“Sometimes.” He stated. “Anyways, you’ll be doing tasks I don’t want to do.”

Then came the boring questions; you’re experience, what you’re like in the work place, if you’re single.

- obviously you got the job, he didn’t have a lot of choices anyway (in his own words).

- you do easy tasks: take notes, post craigslist ads, look for the businesses/people, sometimes you do nathan’s laundry.

- he reads all of your notes or makes you read them out to him.

“Write that down.” He would say.

“Y/N, why did you write that he has a small penis?”

“I think it’s relevant.”

- he likes to lean over you while you’re doing something.

- like you’ll be on your laptop, busy, and he’ll come over and just hover over you for five minutes minimum.

- has you write down all his ideas, even if you told him there’s no way he can legally do that.

- asks you on opinions on things irrelevant to your line of work.

“Be honest, does my shirt match my pants?”

“I really don’t think it matters since it’s a suit ten times too big for you, Nathan.”

- makes you hangout with him; an early breakfast before walking to work together, forces you to come over for “important business” when he just wants someone to talk to, etc.

- brings coffee some days, has you bring coffee the next day.

- drives around with you because he says it’s “more efficient.”

- when he asked you out, he did it in his office. he was leaned over slightly, obviously flustered.

“I’ve been wanting to ask you out for dinner for awhile but I thought there might be a conflict of interests here.” He rambled on until you finally cut him off the answer.

“Sure! Sounds fun.” Things began from there.

- he’ll have you walk with him, his hand resting on your lower back.

- he doesn’t make you do his laundry (alone) anymore.- of course you still do your usual work, but he’s nicer when he orders you around at least.

“Hey, I’m going to need to you pick all of this up for me.” He’d say passing a list of items to you.

You read over the list and paused, “Okay.. I understand the cat food and milk but how am I going to find a five yard tube?”

“I don’t know, they don’t have it at Home Depot or something?”

- he doesn’t really like pda, especially on set.

- he’s okay with it in the office though; he’ll come up behind you while you’re getting something from the break room, makes you take a nap with him on his couch, whatever.

- i just feel like he’s not the type to put his relationship out there in front of everyone.

- writes flirty notes in your notebook when he’s reading your notes over;

“Have a good day :)”

“You looked beautiful today!”

“I wanted to fuck you the entire time” 😵‍💫

—

i want him…. wrote this in my usual style hope it’s okay!

[just-a-small-obsession]

The Flower Shop Owner

Chapter Five

Roses, the simplest form of the saying I love you. Pink roses symbolize happiness, and white roses, many go for the meaning of purity or innocence but another meaning is that someone is saying that they are worthy of you. These flowers are perfect together, especially for a wedding celebration.

The sun has risen over the horizon and a penguin has sat down for the morning feast. "What a beautiful morning, the sun is shining, birds are singing. They say that fortune favors the brave, they have a saying in your country, Olga?"

"Ya ne ponimayu."

"I have no idea what you are saying."

"Vash zavtrak gotov,"

"It's not important, what is important, is that I have found someone, what good is love if it's one-sided? I have no choice but to confess my feeling to Ed."

"Da"

"Now that, I understand. It means yes. My mother taught me that, she use to tell me that 'life only gives you one true love Oswald when you find it, run to it'. So that is what I'm going to do. I'm also going to enroll you in an ESL program you should learn the language if you're going to work here."

The woman gave an irritated face while gathering dishes and returning to the kitchen. The penguin indulgences in his meal as the day slowly begins for others.

"How do you tie a tie?"

"What?"

"Vic you wear ties all the time you must know how to."

"Why are you wearing a tie? It's just the bird, you don't need to dress to impress." Victor walks in front of me and grabs my black tie and straightens it and fixes my collar on my white cotton shirt. Today was again an important day, I am accompanying the mayor to a school for pictures and whatnot for the papers. My job is to hand each teacher as well as the principal flowers, the bouquet I have chosen are clusters of Angelica's, they are a representation of inspiration. My outfit was rather simple, a white cotton shirt, black tie, dress pants to match, and of course some black heels just for the added cliche. Victor finishes and holds my face in his large hands, "I'm not working today, you know where I'll be." Victor had strange hobbies, one of his hobbies is stalking me. I use to not notice him but over time he became easy to spot, it's like he is my shadow. This wasn't because I need protection it was about him being involved while still keeping a good distance. "Stalker mode is on" I giggle and cup his face as well, "you know they don't know my last name, if I told them you would have to worry about them talking to me in a bad way." "This isn't about last names, it's about you having and deserving respect." "Well, if they do slip up, they'll wish they never opened their mouths, just like you taught me Rockstar." I kiss his pale lips and push away for him and twirl. "How do I look?" "You look like an unpaid intern." He chuckles at my unimpressed stare.

I proceeded to give every teacher their flowers, each placed in simple vases with a card attracted. This was done before both men came to the school for media presents, a pride-filled smile shown as I wait in the front lobby for them to arrive. Twenty-five minutes passed and the mayor was welcomed inside and makes his way to me. "Ah, I see you're here already hope you weren't waiting long." He said in a calming tone "not at all sir." Answer him we share a nodding of heads and head to the first classroom.

"This is our third-grade class." the principal said as she guides us to them. Cameras flash at the three of us when we enter. "How many more grades do we have to visit?" "This building is a K through twelve building" "Twelve?" "Mm-Hmm." "We don't have to see every single class, do we?" I hear the two men next to me say to each other, the principal butting in soon after. "Mayor James used to read to the children." "Aubrey James is illiterate, ma'am" "perhaps we should move on." As they bicker with one another I see a quiet little boy sitting by himself at a table away from everyone else. "Excuse me but who is the little boy over there?" I say to the principal as I point him out. "Oh that's luke miss, he's new here." I look over to the mayor and his partner "perhaps we should help him yeah?" I make my way to the boy with the mayor following close behind. The closer I get to him I see that he's drawing, "hello luke my name is Y/N and this is Mayor Cobblepot." No answer was given, "why aren't you playing with the other children?" Mr. Cobble put says to him, "what if they don't like me?" I see an opening for Mr. Cobblepot to interact with the kid so I take my place beside his green-attired partner. "Did you send the flowers out already?" "Of course, I came here early so that it wouldn't be a pain." I look around the room and take a look at the other kid's projects, some were very messy or disorganized, but that's expected in children. "I'm assuming that you find this enjoyable?" He grabs my attention with this sudden question. "Well kinda" "do you like kids?" A pause was given, "not really but it's complicated Mr.--" Suddenly realizing, I don't know this man's name, my cheeks feel hot for the somewhat embarrassment I gave myself. "Nygma, Edward Nygma." "Right, Mr.Nygma" our conversation was short-lived as the boy Mr. Cobblepot was talking to ran to the other kids. Both Mr.Nygma and I walk to the mayor.

"He just needs a little push that's all."

"I'm in awe of you Oswald."

The penguin sees an opening for the invite of his feelings.

"Ed? There is something is like to discuss in a more private setting, shall we say dinner at the mansion, eight?"

"I'll pick us up a nice bottle of wine."

Returning home this early was out of the ordinary for me. Normally I would go back to the shop and work on orders but surprisingly those were done and out in the delivery truck with the workers. Calling victor was the first thing I thought about when I got home.

"What's cooking good looking"

"Nothing much just got home, you coming too?"

"The girls are having issues with the shipments we are expecting so it won't be for a while."

"Don't be too hard on them remember the last time you gave them a hard time because of a misunderstanding"

"It wasn't a misunderstanding, it was arson"

"Don't you love arson?"

"When I do it, not them."

"Speaking of arson, have you seen my tan folder I think I left something in there"

"Didn't you give to the green man?"

"Oh my God!!! I forgot to pick it back up!"

"You want me to go and get it for you, love?"

"No, you need to help the girls, I'll get it. oh and tell them that I'm going to need them for Mario's delivery."

"Alright, I'll see you in a little bit cutie"

"see ya rockstar"

Shutting my flip phone I grab my purse and slip on my old worn-out sneakers. Victor and I own two cars, the main black one we drive and is usually used for victors jobs. The second one is the exact same just cleaner looking. Hopping in I make my way back to Mr. Cobblepots mansion.

The sun is starting to set as I pull into the front of the mansion I walk to the door and knock. Clenching the strap on my purse I wait for someone to answer. The same woman from before stands before me with an unfazed expression. "um Hello, I seemed to have left something here when I was last here do you think I can come in a get it?" I ask her, with a raise of an eyebrow she moves out of the way and I walk through the door. The smell of various foods fills my senses as she leads me to the dining room where Mr. Cobblepot sits with a cane in his right hand. He seems excited and sits up till he looks at me disappointedly.

"I'm sorry, I hope I'm not interrupting something" he seems taken back and clears his throat.

"'Miss y/n, no you're not I'm just waiting for Ed"

"You're having dinner with him, that's sweet, I'm here for my file I forgot to grab it." I smile at him. He nods and snaps his fingers to get the working woman's attention. "Please get Miss y/n's file it was on ed's desk" she gave a nod and walked away. "Please sit." He motions to sit in the chair next to him. Sitting down I look at the table that was filled to the edges with fruits and dishes. The chair at the other end with plated like Mr.Cobblepot's, it didn't take me long to see that this must be a date between the two.

"I don't mean to assume anything but, is this set up for a date with Mr.Nygma?" I ask and his face turned pale and I could see that he was clenching his jaw. "That is none of your business." he seems angry. I put my hands up in protest, "no please don't be offended, I don't mind, I understand you see" I show him my finger that occupies my wedding ring. His shoulders lose their tension, "You're married?" I nod and smile. "Yes for two years." "I should have guessed it in the first place I mean look at you." taking that as a compliment I give a shy laugh. "Dates can be scary, but you know Mr. Nygma so this dinner is just to ask him if your feelings are returned." "That was the idea of it yes, I'm sure you and your partner had a date like this."

"Oh yes, it was very non-traditional." We both share a laugh and his maid enters once again with my folder in hand. I get up and push in my chair to grab the folder, "Thank you, and again sorry for interrupting I hope everything turns out okay Mr. Cobblepot."

"Please, Call me Oswald from now on, I consider us friends now."

"Of course, Oswald, have a great night."

Victor and I are home together at last. My whole body relaxed when I put on my pajamas and drove into my cheese pizza slice. I won't say Victor has the tastebuds of a child but, with him sitting across from me with a fruit punch juice box in hand it's hard to say. The interaction me and Oswald had swam in my head. "Do you remember our first date?" "It was at Dan's Dinner on a Friday night at around nine, it was cold that night so you wore a white coat and matching hat." "Jesus Vic, you remember that?" "Never met someone who wore white in Gotham so confidently." "It was barely confident like it was the only coat and hat I owned at the time." Victor huffed through his nose. "You've got better at being confident." "Being together with a hitman will do that to you." amused I walk to Victor and kiss him on the crown of his head.

The yellow light that filled in that household warmed both bodies on the opposite sides of the window and never matched the rainy and foggy atmosphere that was the corrupted Gotham City.

[grayintogreen]

I don't know what schedules are, so in honor of Chapter One of YCDHN being posted, it's time for something I have been waiting for SO LONG to give more details about my process about.

WHAT IS A NONAGON AND WHAT DOES IT DO?

So given that this entire fic series is based entirely on “but what if” and I had a lot of specific theories about where the Aeor arc was going, when it came time to decide what to do with Lucien, I leaned on those theories a bit when building this alternate take.

Now normally when you have an arrogant asshole dealing with Eldritch Beings such as Lucien, you end up in a scenario where he’s probably going to get betrayed or just fucking eaten by the damn things, so I kinda expected that was where it was going- that he’d get consumed somehow and the Nein would have to rescue his dumb ass and yada yada yada they’d get Mollucien out of this somehow, because at that point I didn’t know the campaign was ending and I wanted purple tiefling AND Caduceus and just assumed that Matt would play the Mollucien as an NPC since… Lucien memories.

That did not happen! Obviously! And I love what did happen, because the Dragon kicking the Big Bad’s teeth in and becoming the Big Bad, himself, is an awesome trope. BUT as a fanfic writer, I am often preoccupied with what could have been, and therefore when I started drafting out OUADYA as a two-part story (since originally it was going to leave Lucien’s fate and the Somnovem ambiguous and just focus on the Creedemption part of the narrative, and that aspect of it was removed EXTREMELY early, like… Hupperdook arc early), I knew that no matter what else happened the Somnovem were going to be the final bosses and therefore they needed to be built up A LOT more menacing than they were in canon since they were kinda, through circumstances (probably because of the absence of Molly to torment), not as massively terrifying as they could have been within canon.

So to do that, we have their constant hassling of Molly, but then there’s Lucien, too. And that’s when I started thinking about what exactly IS a Nonagon and why did Lucien succeed where the previous guy got completely effed up and consumed? And how do we tie the idea that Lucien is probably Ruidus-Born and Fate-Touched into it (and again this was a fucking year before the Lucien book came out)?

So I built my little Anakin Skywalker narrative- Lucien was, through some insane alignment of the cosmos, born specifically to deal, for good or for ill, with the Somnovem. That’s why he has the same fucking red eyes- miss me with anyone telling me that isn’t significant somehow. Now he wasn’t born specifically to be their herald, but he was built with a soul/mind strong enough to handle them or combat them. If he’d taken Sehanine’s hand (as shown in there’s something divine in the way screams can sound), he would have ended up as her Champion- she’s the Lady of Dreams, so she’s the one in a position MOST suited to fighting them. He didn’t, so that put him on the path to either being subjugated or subjugating them. 

The book definitely agrees with my belief that the Somnovem saw him as a pet (Culpasi), an unpaid intern (half of them), and the punkass teenage getaway driver who needs to stop questioning the adult criminals and drive the fucking bus already (the other half), though the book was also VERY OBVIOUS about them letting him fucking know that, which… Yeah. Then again, the book also skipped over the two years he was in the Astral Sea to the point where it looks like it never happened, so maybe they had to speedrun his dawning realization that these assholes may love him, but he’s still their chattel slave bitch.

Since the Astral Sea field trip IS a massively important part to Lucien’s narrative IN ACTUAL CANON AND IN MY VERSION OF IT, I had to construct what that meant for a Lucien who can’t leave, who isn’t and can never get out of his situation and is rapidly losing hope and sanity. I also had to figure out a reason for Molly to even fucking want to get him out and therefore the linchpin thing came about.

And the second the word “linchpin” entered my narrative, I realized I had just built the Soul King again.

But before I get into WHAT THAT NONAGON DO and how it relates to the shift in power dynamics within Cognouza, let me… fucking explain the Soul King.

The Soul King is the thing (and I say thing not to be dismissive or sarcastic but because it is a fucking thing in all reasonable sense of the word and Urahara, who is about as much as as fantasy realm atheist as you can get calls it that) that controls the balance of souls in Soul Society in Bleach. Without it, existence falls apart and all the different worlds of the dead and the world of the living would collapse in on themselves (sound familiar). He has zero power in the governing body of any realm, no voice, and is honestly, basically a torso and a head sealed up in a damn vault somewhere, and everyone is like “yeah the Soul King is fucking great” without giving a single damn about who he is or ever talking about how they fucking sealed him in the vault so he wouldn’t one day destroy them because some of his fucking limbs went out and caused problems on purpose. 

(also fun fact- the Soul King’s power manifests as eyeball creatures that look like this.)

Basically what this means for the Nonagon is that with Lucien very very close by as in RIGHT THERE IN THE AETHER CRUX, the Somnovem can move more independently, have a stronger since of self, and can cooperate better with one another. Without him, they’re in the slop, biting each other, and unable to reason. The two years Lucien spent where they were mostly backbiting and annoying him were the worst of it, but after those two years things started to solidify and then Molly died and the Moonweaver’s seals on the eyes broke and suddenly they have TWO Nonagons and an actual fucking goal to work towards and aren’t just using Lucien as a sounding board and a free brain to solve problems for them.

Any free mind can be of use to the Somnovem, but only the True Nonagon (aka Lucien) is capable of sustaining them and managing to hold up the weight of Cognouza’s bullshit without going mad and crumbling into the void. That doesn’t make it easy and left to this bullshit, Lucien would ultimately… Become a fucking soul in a vault capable of regulating the flow of information throughout Cognouza so it can goddamn function. He would lose his identity entirely. That’s what they want. That’s what he’s been risking happening by trying to put out a fire inside of the house, and the Somnovem have stopped playing the coddling masters and have brought out the lash now that he’s not even pretending to follow their lead. 

To them, he has always been an object- an object they very much love and adore and worship and want to keep happy so he does what he’s supposed to do without any of them having to cause him harm (because you don’t want to abuse your cute little pet), but an object. If he isn’t going to fall into line, then that needs to be fixed and that’s where we’re picking up at the start of YCDHN- what happens when Lucien tries his big subjugation monologue in a situation where it’s very much NOT “I’m not stuck in here with you, you’re stuck in here with me” because at any point the Somnovem could have forced him to obey and Lucien’s arrogance just chose to believe that wasn’t an active choice they were making. He believed they wouldn’t try to cause him harm because they needed him and they worship him, and never thought oh shit, these are wizards they will do whatever they can to get what they want.

SO GOOD TIMES, AMIRITE??

[pokemon-ash-aus]

For me to explain the au i kinda have to explain the way ghost work in...basically all of my au’s.basically ghost happen when a soul who was supposed to go to the afterlife ends up tripping and falling back to me earth,of which then until they can find true peace,they stay there,other times someone might push them off,or a deity might want them to still be on earth,in the deity case,their often given a physical form,of which means they can pass as fully human,except for the eyes,the eyes will stay the same,talking about this,being dead also means having powers and having diferente eye colors!,basically the eye thing is a side effect,some alternate colors can blend in pretty well,others look nothing like actual eye colors,and even with the normal eye colors one,ghost eyes usually have a more chilling presence,as if it isn’t natural,for the powers part the only one I’ll be focusing on is light copies,aka light creation,because its the only relevant one,basically its creating copies of stuff as long as you have seen them in person and are real,you can make a copie,and the reason thats important is because that’s rei’s power,a ghost power can apear when your alive and can be activated with strong emotions,with especially good results of those who are if a place where one or more deaths happened,now to actually talk about it.

As i said it starts with rei dying in the kleavor fight,thanks fully he was only one hit away from being freed,irida isn’t there too,so lian frees klevor from his frenzie,then runs away from the fact HE JUST WITNESSED A MURDER!however a few hours later rei wakes up as a ghost,after a few moment of stumbling around,seeing his dead body,and noticing a note from arceus that basically says ‘kay u ded now’ he suddenly gets dragged away from a weird,mint green,force.cut to lian who is being sad and guilty then BAM!rei crashes into him right as he notices theres a white crystal at his side,after some moments of freaking out,he grabs the crystal and...he’s invisible?after some mores stumbling around lian finally ask ‘hey!what the hell is going on!’ And rei with his newfound and...weirdly easy to control powers does a presentation on the fact he’s basically arceus unpaid intern and-oh wait the note says more stuff now!so then they get explained that rei is a ghost,he has a physical form,and now he can’t be more than 15 feet away from lian because their souls are now bounded,an dlian is an unpaid intern too now,so then a bunch of stuff happens,they need to find a way to be a duo,rei actually gets paid after completing the pokedex,lian is still not paid,and more stuff happens,that is the most spoiler free way to summarize it,hope you enjoy.

Sweet, if you ever decide to do something, i highly reconmend everyone to check it out!

[inkpenparker]

Hi! Just wanted to say that I love your work on Ao3 and am DYING to find out what happens next on i used to want to be a hero, until i found that even heroes die (really hope that you're still continuing it!)

Hello!!

Thank you so so much for the kind words. Never fear, I definitely am not abandoning it. Not in the slightest. It’s truly my baby, not even just that fic but the entire series is the longest work I’ve ever created for any fandom. It’s a story near and dear to my heart and I’m still writing it.

The other half of that, the sad half, is that I’m working a lot right now and money is very tight, and I don’t have the same amount of writing time that I did when I started, or even two months ago. My family is also going through a lot of stuff, I’ve been open on AO3 that I’ve had a quite a few people pass due to COVID in my family, and so life has taken a turn, and I had to take on a few more responsibilities that I didn’t have when I wrote the first six chapters of ‘hero’, or the first two installments of the series as a whole.

I’m not abandoning, life just sucks and fanfiction is (rightfully) unpaid.

But! Since you asked so nicely, have a snippet 🥰

“Ready for today, Vis?” she asks. She used to call him Mr. Vision, until he put up a valid argument that he is in fact younger than her, and she couldn’t argue with him over it anymore. Plus he kinda feels like a cool older brother, just one that doesn’t live at home anymore . “Feeling alright?”

“I do believe so, yes. My processor is working perfectly, thank you.”

Penny grins and kisses his cheek. “That’s the spirit.”

Wanda laughs above Vision’s robotic but sincere chuckles, and Penny heads around the corner to check up on Mr. Stark. He’d been slightly manic this morning when she went to the lab to bring him upstairs. She doesn’t think that he even slept last night. Pepper had expertly covered up his dark circles with expensive looking concealer before she’d let him have any more coffee.

“Eh, it’ll be okay, Cap,” she hears him say over the roar of the engine before she sees them. “After this they’ll remember that they used to worship at your feet and everything will go back to normal. The government can go back to faking like you're their good little boy and I the ornery stepchild just like God intended.”

Most of the rest of the team is huddled around the planning table. Sam is straightening Pietro’s tie while the boy seems completely indifferent to the concept of the accessory. Natasha is scrolling through a large tablet, tapping away at buttons and windows Penny doesn’t care to decipher. She’s entirely too comfortable in three inch stilettos, and her chic black dress is probably worth more than Penny’s entire Queen’s apartment.

Steve snorts and shakes his head at Tony. “Not a chance.”

Tony smirks, then drapes an arm around Penny’s shoulders when she appears between him and the Captain. “Alright kid, remember what we talked about?”

Penny nods twice. “If anyone asks, I’m a Stark Intern, not Tony Stark’s personal intern, they’re not allowed to take pictures of me or ask me questions, and if they try, to threaten them with Ms. Potts and the Stark Industries legal team,” she recites dutifully.

“And?”

“And if I find myself within twenty feet of Secretary Ross, look for the nearest member of the team or scream fire; your lawyers will make sure I don’t get sued.”

Tony grins. “Nice job, kid.”

“Tony, you did not tell her to scream ‘fire’,” Steve accuses, pinching the bridge of his nose and sagging his shoulders in the quintessential old man way. He looks up at Penny with a tired expression. “Pen, tell me you’re not actually going to scream fire.”

Penny laughs at him. “I’m not gonna go screaming fire, Captain.”

Steve sighs in relief and the others laugh mockingly at him.

“But seriously, kid, don’t go near him,” Tony stresses. “If he asks you questions, do that thing you do with the shareholders and annoy him to death so he leaves you alone, and then find Sam or Natasha if you can’t find Pepper and I, okay?”

Sam winks at her, and Natasha nudges her side. “Nobody will bother you around us, kid.”

[poeticandors]

Cut to the Feeling Part 4

Poe Dameron x F!Reader (Babysitter!AU)

Summary: After graduating college and needing to have some cash in order to survive while doing an unpaid internship, Y/N decides to take up a babysitting/caretaking job. Little does she know that she ends up working for a familiar face.

Warnings: None!

A/N: Well, damn! It has been a long time but I’m back! Thanks for waiting patiently. Hopefully you enjoy this chapter. 

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

GIF by @damerondjarin

Ah, the weekend. Plopping on the couch, you planned for a day of doing absolutely nothing. You were finally able to relax after a long week of observation hours for your internship as well as driving Eva Bey to and from school, to her dance lessons and soccer practice, and whatever errands Poe had you running for him such as trips to the store. 

A few months have passed since you’ve started working with Eva Bey, and you seemed to have gotten into the routine. You got along great with Eva Bey, who was an absolute sweetheart, and Poe was nice as well. There have not been any issues thus far, and you were hoping that it would stay that way. 

Eva Bey really was one of the easiest children you have had the pleasure of working with. She enjoyed any activity you had planned for her, and she had the biggest imagination. If she did become upset, it wasn’t hard to redirect her into another activity or to get her to tell you what was going on. You adored her the more you’ve gotten to know her.

As for Poe… things have been going well. There was never any miscommunication between you both, and you would go as far to say that it was as if the incident never happened. It also made it easier that you would really only see and talk with him at the end of each day when you would be leaving, so conversation was limited. But… you secretly wondered if he ever thought back to it such as you have. 

Shaking your head to stop you from thinking anything further, you grab the remote to your TV and flip on Netflix as you try to find some movie to distract you, only for your phone to ring. Grabbing it, you see Poe’s name flashing on your screen as you furrow your brows. You hoped something didn’t happen with Eva Bey, so you quickly answered. 

“Hello?”

“Hey, I am sorry for calling on your day off. But, is this a bad time?”

“No, I was just trying to find something to watch on TV.” You sit up. “Is everything alright?” 

“Oh, yeah! I am actually calling on behalf of Eva Bey’s request— oh, okay here she is.”

You hear the phone being passed on the other end as well as Eva Bey and Poe’s whispers to one another. 

“Hello?” Eva Bey’s sweet voice calls out, which instantly brings a smile to your face. 

“Hey, Eva Bey! Is everything okay?”

“Yeah! Um, I asked my dad to call you. I have a question.”

“Alright, what is your question?”

“Can you come swimming with us? My daddy said he would take me, but I want you to come too!”

“Oh, um… I mean, I wouldn’t want to ruin your time spent with your dad—“

“But I want you to come. Please?” 

Biting the inside of your cheek, you ponder for a moment until you let out a soft sigh. “Eva Bey, can you give the phone to your dad?”

“Yeah!” 

You hear the shuffling of Eva Bey handing Poe the phone back. “Hey.”

“Hey, um… are you sure it’s okay if I join you guys? I wouldn’t want to be a bother and interrupt any father-daughter time.”

“Oh, no. It’s totally okay with me. Eva Bey was the one who wanted to go swimming since the community pool just opened this weekend. She would really want to see you.”

“Oh, well…” You try hiding the slight disappointment in your voice, internally reprimanding yourself why you thought Poe would be the one to want to see you. 

“And please. Don’t think you’re a bother. You could never be one.” 

Something in the way Poe says that makes your heart flutter in your chest. And because of that, you are almost hesitant to decline— to come up with some excuse. This would be your first time being with Poe outside of professional settings, definitely not counting the first ever encounter between you both. But, if Eva Bey really wanted you to be there and it was her idea…

“…Tell Eva Bey that I am packing my swimsuit right now.”

Poe does so, and so you hear the excited little shrieks from the little girl as you both laugh.

“Just meet us at the house, we can all drive together and it gives me time to get us situated.” 

“Of course, Bye, Poe.”

You hang up, soon getting up from your couch as you head to your bedroom to begin packing up for a nice, relaxing day at the pool. Totally professional, totally just to spend time with Eva Bey. 

Totally.

++++++

Hoisting your bag up, you knock on the door as you wait for Poe to let you in. Packing for this trip was a little stressful for you as you searched thoroughly for a swimsuit and then came to the realization you had no sunscreen, so you had to make a stop on the way. Then, you figured to grab a few snacks for you three while you were there because why not? You even decided to pick out a sea turtle floating toy for Eva Bey simply because you couldn’t resist. 

The door opens up and you smile, taking in Poe’s appearance. This was the first time you had seen him in anything other than a suit and tie, and he looked… nice. His hair was slightly disheveled, probably from getting Eva Bey ready for the day, and he looked comfortable in his t-shirt and swim trunks. 

“Hey, thanks for coming along. Sorry if you had plans or anything.” Poe scratches the back of his head.

“Oh, it’s no problem. You saved me from an entire day of just binging Netflix, anyways. Thanks for the invite.”

Poe smiles, and before he can speak, you hear your name being shouted as Eva Bey rushes over to hug you tightly. 

“Hi, Eva Bey!” You laugh as she pulls back, grabbing your hand. She pulls you inside, as Poe closes the door behind you. 

“My dad says I can wear my new swim suit today.” She beams, as you set your bags down. “It’s blue!”

“Well, I can’t wait to see it.” 

“Do you think you can braid my hair the way you do? My dad doesn’t know how to do it.” 

“Hey, in my defense, it is more complex than the braids I usually do for your hair.” Poe chuckles. “You might have to teach me how to do it.”

“Well… I guess I could teach you. But, I must warn you that these lessons come with a fee,” you tease. 

“A fee, huh?” Poe raises a brow as you shrug your shoulders.

“If you’re good at something, don’t do it for free.”

Poe grins, before Eva Bey begins tugging his hand. “Can we go now?” 

“Yes, Eva Bey. Let’s just get everything packed in the car, okay?”

“Yay!” Eva Bey exclaims, as she looks up at you. “I have my own swim bag packed already!”

“Great! But, I think you might be missing something,” you discreetly pull out a box from one of your bags. 

“What is it?”

“I thought why not bring a big pool floatie with us?” You smile as you show her the turtle, and she jumps up from excitement. 

“You didn’t have to get that,” Poe glances at you. 

“It’s okay,” you wave him off. “I thought it would be fun. I also brought some snacks so you don’t have to pack any.”

Poe slowly nods. “Huh… thanks”  

“It’s nothing.” 

Poe stares at you for a moment, a comfortable silence building between the both of you before clearing his throat. “Let’s get this filled with air, okay? Then we can go.”

“Sounds good. Come on, Eva Bey. Let’s get everything else packed up.”

Eva Bey nods, taking your hand as you both walk outside with your bags while Poe searches for a vacuum to pump up the floatie.  

++++++

After arriving at the pool, Eva Bey practically pulled your arm off while dragging you through to a table in the shade as she set her bag down. You sat in the backseat with her on the ride there, braiding her hair as you sang along with her to plenty of her favorite Disney songs. Poe didn’t even get out of it, as he was asked to sing plenty of the male counterparts in the duets. You and Eva Bey definitely got a kick out of it when he sang along to Gaston, trying to match his deep sounding voice.

It was quite warm today, so you were glad there was at least an open area that was well shaded. A group of children screamed and laughed from excitement jumping into the pool, while parents chased after a few others to try and convince them to wear more sunscreen. 

When Poe set down the floatie and bags of snacks and water bottles, he looked over to Eva Bey. “Let’s get some sunscreen on you, kiddo.” 

“Okay, Daddy!”

Eva Bey stands in front of Poe as he squeezes some of it on his hands, and begins rubbing it all over her shoulders and arms before turning her around. You watch as he carefully rubs it on her face and neck, before setting the bottle down. 

“Okay, you’re all set. Where is your life vest?” 

“Umm… Daddy, I want to try and swim without it today.”

“Oh?” Poe raises a brow. “Are you sure?”

Eva Bey nods, and you can see the slight nervousness in her eyes as she does so. You knew that Eva Bey didn’t know how to swim completely, but also didn’t expect her to want to try to learn right away. 

“Okay, kiddo. But only if you’re sure.”

“I am,” she says more confidently, then turns to you. “Will you help me, too?” “Of course, Eva Bey. Just let me finish getting ready, okay?” 

“We can go ahead and get in the pool while we wait, Eva Bey.” Poe takes her hand, as you begin stepping out of your cover, and put sunscreen on yourself. 

What you don’t see, however, is Poe glancing back at you, slightly freezing. You don’t see how his gaze moves down, observing each and every inch of your body. Poe suddenly has a flash to that night so many months ago, of him touching and kissing along those curves of yours, as well as the sounds he managed to hear from you that tend to patronize his dreams most nights. Poe stops himself from gazing any longer, and he shakes his head as he leads Eva Bey to the pool. 

When you finish getting ready, you make your way over to the steps of the pool that Poe and Eva Bey stopped at. You look down at the little girl, seeing her eyes scan cautiously along the water as Poe steps into the pool, shivering slightly from the chill of the water. 

“You ready, Eva Bey?” Poe holds his hand out, only for her to take a step back slightly.

“Um… I don’t know…”

Poe glances up at you, and you nod slightly as you kneel down next to her. 

“It can be a bit scary, learning how to swim at first. But you know all the first steps to swimming by yourself, don’t you?” 

She shakes her head as you smile, and take her hand. “Well, one of the first things you need to remember is that when it comes to swimming, you can always ask for help. Would you like me and your daddy to help you?” 

“Yes…” 

“How about we take the first step into the water?” 

Eva Bey nods, as you both step into the water, and goosebumps cover your skin as you shiver lightly. Eva Bey also jumps from the cold, as you chuckle. 

“It’s chilly, isn’t it?” “Yeah!” She forces out a nervous laugh as you both take another step, the water feeling more manageable. 

“Alright, we’re in the water,” you look down at her. “Now, this is another important step so I need you to pay close attention. An easy way to keep yourself afloat in the water is to just lay on your belly and keep kicking your feet. Can we try that?” 

Eva Bey looks at Poe, as he smiles. “You got it, baby.” 

You step further into the water, and hold your arms out to her. “I’m right here, okay? I’m just going to hold you. Can you lay on your belly in my arms and fly like a superhero?” 

“Okay…” She moves into your arms and lays down as you smile. 

“You’re a natural! Look at you! Can you kick your feet for me and make some splashes in the water?” 

She does so, and you begin moving her around in a circle, and look up at Poe. He gets the hint, as he holds his arms out, and you pass Eva Bey over to him as she continues kicking. You clap your hands, and Eva Bey gives a toothy smile. 

“Look at you! You’re already a professional!” You laugh softly, as you move over to her. “Next step since you have already mastered lying on your belly and kicking: blowing bubbles.”

“I can blow bubbles!”

“Can you? Well, let’s see!” 

Eva Bey puts her face slightly in the water and she begins blowing bubbles for a few seconds before quickly lifting her head back above the water. Poe holds her up, and you give her a high five. 

“Eva Bey, that might’ve been the best bubble blowing I have ever seen!” 

She grins, looking back at Poe as he nods. “It really was the best.” 

“Okay. Now, this next step might be a little scary, but I promise you that me and your daddy will be there to help you, okay?” She gives you a slight tilt of her head, nervous. “We are going to do all of these steps underwater, okay? The flying like a superhero, the kicking, and the bubble blowing— it’s all going to happen while you are under.” 

“Do you want to practice going underwater, first?” Poe looks down at Eva Bey.

“Yeah…”

Poe turns her around, grabbing under her arms. “I’ll hold you the entire time, okay?”

“Don’t forget to blow your bubbles!” You give her a thumbs up.

She returns the thumbs up, before Poe begins to count to three, and they both go under the water for a few seconds. Poe and Eva Bey come back up, and Eva Bey wipes the water away from her face as you begin to clap. 

“Awesome! That wasn’t so scary, was it?” You flash a comforting smile, as she giggles, shaking her head. “Are you ready to try to swim by yourself? Or do you need some more practice?”

“I… I’m ready!” 

“I like the sound of that,” you chuckle, as you hold your arms out to her. Poe hands her to you, as you begin to take a few steps away from Poe. “Alright, now remember, when you need to breathe, just lift your head up out of the water, take a big breath, and then put your face back in the water. Think you can do it?”

“I can do it.” 

“I know you can.” You give her an encouraging smile. “On the count of three, I’m going to go underwater with you and push you, and you’re going to swim to your daddy. Ready? One… two… three!”

Eva Bey immediately begins kicking as you push her away from you underwater, and you break the surface as you begin cheering her on. 

“Go, Eva Bey!” “C’mon, baby, almost there!” Poe holds his arms out, as Eva Bey moves closer and closer to him, before she finally makes it. 

He pulls her into his arms as she looks at him excitedly. “Daddy! I did it by myself!” 

Pride fills Poe’s eyes, and he kisses her cheek. “I’m so proud of you, Eva Bey.”

You quickly swim over to them, as Eva Bey wraps her arms around your neck, hugging you tightly. 

“Did you see? Did you see me swim?” “I sure did. You are amazing! A professional already!” 

“Thank you for helping me.” 

A gratifying feeling fills your chest, as you hug her back, and Poe can’t help but smile at the two of you embracing. You manage to catch Poe staring at you, returning his gaze as you flash your own smile at him. 

Something lingered in that moment as Poe kept his eyes on you. He couldn’t bring himself to look away or keep himself from moving closer to you. There was a tenderness, one that seemed to continue growing the longer he stared at you. It was something that Poe told himself over and over not to pursue.  

Poe just can’t seem to push that fondness away. Whether it was just the heat of the moment, he knew that there was something there for you. Seeing Eva Bey— the most important person in his life— interact and become so comfortable with you, someone that Poe has only grown more trusting with each passing moment, fills Poe’s heart with something he never felt before. 

But he couldn’t act on those feelings. 

Not only that, but he shouldn’t. You worked for him, you took care of his kid… the boundaries were put up for a reason. The night that plays over and over on repeat in his head would never happen again. You both agreed on that, and that was final.

Poe clears his throat, finally breaking the gaze as he pulls Eva Bey from you, and grins at her. “How about we celebrate with a snack break?”

“Okay, daddy! But I want to swim to the steps by myself.”

“Well, if you’re sure.” Poe gently pushes Eva Bey to the steps, and you both watch as she swims towards them by herself. 

“She’s amazing,” Poe hears you say, and looks down at you as you keep your gaze on Eva Bey.

“Yeah… she is.”

Poe quickly looks back, watching as she finally makes it to the steps, and holds her hands up as she stands. “I did it!”

“We’re so proud of you, Eva Bey!” You clap, smiling brightly.

“You both have a beautiful daughter.” 

Looking up, you both see an elderly couple smiling as they stand on the deck, and a slight awkward feeling fills the space between you and Poe. 

“Oh, uh…”

“And I see she gets all her looks from dear old dad, doesn’t she?” The woman chuckles. 

“Actually… we’re not…. I’m not her mother. I’m just her caretaker.”

“Oh! I am so sorry for assuming. How silly of me!” 

“It’s alright.” Poe waves them off politely. “But thank you for the compliment about my daughter. She really is.” 

They only nod in response, before they walk off. You look at Poe, clearing your throat. 

“Well, uh… yeah. I’ll just… help Eva Bey get her towel.”

You quickly swim off, getting out of the pool as Eva Bey takes your hand, and leads you away. 

Poe can only follow, trying to clear his racing thoughts of you as he walks towards your area, and begins to pull out the snacks as you wrap Eva Bey’s towel around her. He can only smile, hearing Eva Bey chatter excitedly about the fact she finally knows how to swim, and suddenly becomes all for trying out for the swim team after discovering it.

++++++

After a fun afternoon of swimming, Poe finally decided it would be best to head home after seeing Eva Bey’s energy begin to dwindle. Poe finished packing up the car as Eva Bey settled in her booster seat, before you both got in the car quietly. 

Poe looks in the rearview mirror as he begins to drive back to his house, seeing Eva Bey begin to doze off. He chuckles lightly as you glance at him.

“Someone had an eventful day,” he nods at the reflection as you peek back, smiling. 

“Oh, this is too cute.”

“Here, take a picture so I can send it to my dad along with the videos I took of her swimming.” Poe hands you his phone, keeping his eyes on the road. 

You snap a picture, before turning back, and setting the phone down in the cup holder. Poe continues driving, the radio playing music at a low volume as a comfortable silence settles between you both, until Poe mutters something.

“Hm?”

“I said thank you. For helping Eva Bey learn how to swim.” “Oh… it’s no problem.”

“It’s a big deal, though. I know she’s been nervous about it, and anytime we would get close to trying she would get scared.” Poe glances at you as he stops at a red light. “Seeing her overcome her fear, becoming so excited, and you helping her… that means a lot to me. Thank you.” 

“Of course. I would do anything for Eva Bey.”

“I know you would.” 

You stare into Poe’s eyes, and the tension only grows in that small space that separates you from him. It was true what you said, that you would do anything for Eva Bey. The young girl had come to mean so much to you the entire time you’ve gotten to know her. She meant so much to you, and you wanted to be there to continue helping her in anyway possible. 

But you also know you would do anything for Poe, too. 

Sure, you knew you would not be able to pursue any feelings beyond that for the sake of professionality and Eva Bey, but you would still do anything you could for him. Part of you thinks he knows that, but you couldn’t outright say it to him. 

Still, something seems to bring you both closer to each other, despite a voice in the back of your head warning you not to cross that boundary. Another tells you that you should cross that boundary, to explore what it could offer and what might blossom between you both.

But you continue to listen only to that first voice, because right now it’s the only one that is keeping you from ruining this. 

The light turns green, and Poe only begins to drive when a car behind him honks, and you look away. The rest of the car ride is quiet, and Poe finally pulls up to the house. Eva Bey stirs awake from the movement, and smiles tiredly. 

“Are we home?”

“We are, Eva Bey.”

Getting out of the car, you grab your bag as Poe helps Eva Bey. She hugs your legs, looking up at you. 

“Thank you for coming swimming and teaching me how to swim!” 

“I had so much fun with you. Thank you for inviting me,” you smile as she pulls back.

“Can’t you stay a little longer?”

“Well, I would. But I have to get home and I’m sure your daddy is tired and wants to spend the rest of the weekend with you.”

“Oh… okay…” She does nothing to hide the dismay in her expression, as you poke her cheek.

“But I will see you on Monday, okay? I have some water beads I thought you might enjoy playing with. Is that okay?”

Her disappointment soon fades away as she smiles, nodding excitedly. “Okay!”

Glancing up at Poe, you give him a small wave, before finally walking off. Poe watches until you drive off, looking down at Eva Bey as she tugs on his hand to lead him inside. 

“Let’s get you ready for a bath, okay? Then I’ll cook us some dinner.” 

“Daddy, do you like Miss Y/N?”

Poe stops, before setting the swim bag down. “Well, of course I do.”

“I think she’s very nice, and very pretty. Don’t you?”

“I… why don’t you go pick out your bubble bath, okay?”

“But—”

“And then we can FaceTime Papa Kes to talk about how you swam by yourself after I make mac and cheese?”

“Fine,” she replies with a hint of attitude that Poe can only laugh at, and she heads to the bathroom.

Poe shakes his head, running a hand down his face as he lets out an exasperated sigh. He pulls his phone out of his pocket, looking through the videos of Eva Bey swimming to you as she pushes off the wall cheering each and every time without fail. Poe looks at your smiling face, and can’t help but pause the video for a moment. 

He did, indeed, think you were very pretty. 

Poe pulls up the messages between you, and begins typing before suddenly stopping himself. Biting his cheek, he decides ultimately to delete the message, and puts his phone down instead.

[hummingbird-games]

Dev Blog #26

HEEEEEELLLLLLLLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Lol. I have no reason for shouting like that. Maybe I’m trying to compensate for the uh, somber tone of the last update? Y’all, at the risk of being too transparent, being mentally ill is a full-time unpaid job and I am broke 😭

To everyone who reached out in various ways after said last update, thank you. Truly. I know a lot of the community haunts the Twitter and Discords spheres, but it’s nice to find support here on Tumblr. Also also ALSO to the devs who share their struggles on here and get a little personal sometimes??? I read those posts and hug them to my chest and imagine I’m giving you a big hug too because wow you guys are awesome and you give me a little strength to be awesome too. Or fake at being awesome lol.

So. What’s good y’all?? I’m going to try and keep this HSDJY related but sometimes I get off track. As y’all are aware!

I finally through up an updated/cleaned up version of the demo that I believe truly reflects HSDJY’s current state and can now rest easy about not having to touch it again. I threw it up without fanfare, but I guess people noticed because the download number shot up???

 I also got another beta build to my testers and I’m hoping to get 2 more before/within early August.** If anything, this process has taught me that Butler and the upload process are not the scary monster under the bed. What an actual relief. 

Bonus content/epilogues that I mentioned I’ve been working on? Issa mess guys. I’m still in the same place progress wise I was whenever I last gave y’all an update. And with us shimmying over to August, and with me trying to have all my ducks in a row by September 30th (that is a hard set, self-deadline btw), it’s becoming a game of deciding where to divert my remaining energies. I’ve still got key art I need to straighten out with my artist, credits to finalize (beta testing is FUNNY because do people really not want to be credited for their efforts??? Some of them are scaring me guys, just gimme a fake name 😭 I was actually stressing out over this with my dad and sister, and my dad’s like just do a general thank you and my brain just 🤯 because he’s right.)

I haven’t done any hard work when it comes to marketing my game, partly because of Events, and partly because I’m chicken, but I’d like to start reaching out to streamers. I mean...if I put something in a dev log, now I’m accountable right?????

I think we’ll end things here?

- Gemini 💛

**pretend this is a footnote. GUYSSSS I was so anxious and physically sick about doing testing, that when I got the interest, I thought my crocodile brain had overreacted. again. well jokes on me because many of my fears weren’t unfounded and I had to reach out to others to ask if they had some time on their hands to help me out. I think the next time I enter testing, I will look to do it internally because...people have lives, things happen, and it’s a bit easier (to me) to follow up with people you’re acquainted with over strangers lol. 

[greensword101]

This is for @barely-nok. I’m sorry it took so long to get some Obake content out for you to consume. I hope you find it tasty lol.

Obake never drank on principle. He needed to keep a clear head and heads were meant for thinking. And thinking meant he could create what he wanted to the limit or even beyond that.

But even sober, his brain would...fizzle if Kei ever so much as blinked at him prettily. Or pouted. Or cheerily threatened to sing “I’m Henry the Eighth , I Am” if he didn’t agree to take a break and - urgh! Just acknowledging the phrase made him feel filthy - spend some “quality time” with a coworker.

Personally speaking, Obake would have preferred the term “expendable” or “replaceable” or “unpaid intern that wasn’t getting extra credit or the merits of knowledge.” Oh, but he would pay anything to get DeciBull out of his sight! And hearing range.

Then again, hearing range would be preferable. Wild cards like Kei were acceptable. DeciBull - or Wil as Kei had casually greeted him by to the former’s chargain -  was more of a Jack; weaker than Obake, but still a threat nonetheless.

If Kei hadn’t taken the car and driven off to God knew where, he would have stormed out of the bar and left that arsehole behind. Maybe steal his glasses and see if the chubby man with a guitar gimmack could find his way back home without falling off the pier.

Wil had barely touched his first bottle and was glowering at his phone for the past half hour. This suited Obake swimmingly, if not for the fact that Kei would know that they hadn’t made any attempt at all and would be tormenting him with that song again! And she would enlist Noodle Burger Boy this time, he was certain. And possibly Trina, though he was certain she would be directed towards Wil instead.

Obake collected himself and recited the longest formulas in the Periodic Table before he rigidly glanced over to Wil.

“I’m surprised you aren’t taking advantage of the karaoke here.”

Wil yelped and fumbled with his phone - mumbling apologies to the bartender as he passed - before gaping at Obake.

“Interesting...” Obake murmured.

“What?” Wil asked bemused.

“You almost looked like an intelligent being for a moment.”

Wil scowled, “Funny.” 

Then a smile crept onto his face. Obake stiffened. He knew he could take the man, he was slimmer and certainly wasn’t sluggish, but bars were always tricky to maneuver around in. Inebriation, sympathizers, or anyone looking for an excuse to be aggressive would make Obake beating Wil up...troublesome.

“Something amusing to you?” Obake took a sip from his own glass to appear ignorant and casual.

“Just thinking how whipped you must be if Kei could make you spend time with me,” Wil leaned in conspiratorially, “Tell me, does she make you sleep on the couch when you misbehave?”

Obake sputtered and and gave Wil a hard stare. Wil stared back undaunted.

“Shut your mouth and have your bloody drink, why don’t you?” Obake snarled and took another, deeper sip from his glass. He was used to dealing with the aggressive and almost territorial behavior Wil demonstrated back at the base. He did not want to be sober to process that Wil was capable of having bloody cheek.

“How can I have my ‘bloody drink’ if my mouth’s shut?” Wil asked innocently.

“Test my patience and we’ll find out soon enough,” Obake growled under his breath. He could do it.  One stab between the ribs and he could slip out in the noise and confusion. He just didn’t want to put up with Kei pestering him when he got back and possibly annoying her with a potential murder.

Wil sniggered and had another swig of his beer. He went back to his phone, but he barely seemed to be reading what was on the screen.

That was...unexpected. But it was a better alternative to dealing with a feral monkey by himself. Obake found himself enjoying the Manhattan more than he expected and finished it off. He was beginning to fish the cherry out when Wil spoke up again.

“Was it good?”

Obake groaned and glowered at Wil, who was starting at his empty glass curiously. What didn’t that fool understand about having a little peace and quiet?

“I don’t typically drink myself,” Wil mumbled into his bottle and drank. He sputtered for a few moments and continued, “I just stick to a beer once in a while.”

“Thank Heaven for small miracles, then,” Obake narrowed his eyes and waved the bartender over, “Another one, if you would be so kind.”

“Me too,” Wil smiled at the bartender and held up his empty bottle. Amazingly, the bartender smiled back and came back moments later with their second drinks. Wil called after him as he walked off, “Thanks, Jim!”

“You frequent this place often?” Obake ventured and helped himself to his second Manhattan. Screw sobriety, it had been so long since he had anything that tasted so good touch his lips.

“I used to,” Wil admitted, “Just for a bite and maybe a bottle. That’s kind of how me and Kei met, actually.”

“A little nip before beddybye?” Obake cooed mockingly at him.

“Crime and I have something in common,” Wil smirked, “We rarely sleep.”

“Tragic,” Obake chuckled and raised his glass in mock salute, “To your insomnia, I suppose.”

Wil raised his beer in kind, “And to good company if I ever get any.”

Now, they both laughed for real. Obake noticed for the first time how pleasantly red Wil’s face had become. Was it the alcohol or the first genuine spark of life he was expressing? If it was the latter, that would mean Kei was behind it somehow.

Suddenly, the good feeling popped like a soap bubble and Obake hid his displeasure by finishing off his second Manhattan. Wil gawked at him.

“You should slow down, Kei is gonna freak if she has to pick us up from the ER because you got alcohol poisoning or something.”

“Kei this, Kei that, you haunt her like a lapdog!” Obake spat out. Damn that woman and her silly, childish notions of fun and damn that boulder she decided would make good company!

Wil blinked and leaned back a little. A moment later, he was glowering back with that familiar hostility, “At least I don’t treat her like a nuisance like you do! Do you have any idea how much she cares about you?!”

“Cares?” Obake snapped his fingers at Jim for another glass and leaned closer to Wil’s face. His nostrils flared and he could feel Wil tense inches away from him. “Why would she have to care about me? If that’s what you call pity, then I’ve no need for it! She can pretend all she wants that we’re all supposed to be some family, but in the end, that’s all it’s going to be. A stupid dream! Why would she care about making me ‘socialize’ with the others or spending ‘quality time’ with her silly boyfriend?”

“Boyfriend?!”

Obake jabbed a finger into Wil’s chest, “Don’t play coy! I know you think I’m a prat to her! And I know you won’t believe that she can almost make me feel human! But you don’t have to worry about me getting in the way, Prince Charming! She’s all yours, so you don’t have to worry about me -”

“I’m gay.”

“And I’m Bob, the pleasure’s all...what.” Obake had to take a moment to process Wil’s flat retort.

“Gay. I like guys. I love them. I love kissing them. And I’m already taken.”

Obake opened his mouth and closed it again. He noticed that his third Manhattan had arrived and wasted no time downing it. Wil didn’t repeat how it wasn’t safe to do this time, and he was thankful for that. 

Suddenly, he felt someone standing right behind him and stilled.

“Is he giving you problems, Wil?”

“No worries, Eugene,” Wil smiled at the person behind him, “Just clearing up a misunderstanding over here.”

Obake felt a little dizzy and pinched his nose, “Let me understand this correctly. You have never had feelings for Kei?”

“Platonically, yes. Romantically or otherwise? No.”

“And this whole time, yo - you’ve...” Why couldn’t he find the right words? “You’ve...acted harshly because...?”

“Because she’s one of my best friends and I don’t want her to get hurt,” Wil said firmly. He pointed at Obake with a fiercely protective look, “I can’t help who she wants to connect with, but I won’t stand by and let her get hurt. She’s gone through too much to deserve that.”

“Alright, I’m just going to butt in for a moment here,” Eugene moved from behind Obake and stood to Wil’s left, wrapping an arm across him protectively. He was pleasant to the eyes; tall, broad, dark brown hair and a scruffy goatee. He looked at Wil, bemused, “You weren’t here scooping for another cutie, babe?”

“Wh...why...why would he...?” Obake’s tongue felt like lead. Dear Lord, he could barely speak, he was so embarrassed.

“Because this is a gay bar?” Eugene supplemented as if it weren’t obvious. Obake blinked. Come to think of it, it was rather odd no one had come to bother them when they came in. Did...did that mean...?

Somewhere in San Fransokyo, Kei was laughing herself silly. Obake was certain of it. 

“Everything alright over here?” Another voice, deeper than Eugene’s mischievous and light tone asked.

“Hey ‘Nan! This is an acquaintance of mine,” Wil helped himself to his beer, “and apparently he thought I was stealing his girlfriend until a few moments ago. Bob, this is Kanan. My other boyfriend.”

“Other...” Obake’s head was swimming. This was too much to process...

“Yeah,” Wil said shyly, “We’re...we’re kind of a poly sort of thing.”

As if to prove his point, Eugene promptly gave Wil a deep kiss on the lips that was eagerly returned. Kanan came into view and Obake noticed how dark skinned he was and the ponytail before he decided he was too sober to handle this all right now.

He made to stand and tripped over his stool. And a moment later, his Manhattans returned and splashed all over the floor.

In hindsight, he should have checked how much alcohol was in each glass...

It was about a half hour later when Kei found all four of them outside the bar with Obake being supported by an irksome Wil and amused Eugene. Kanan looked torn between disapproval and laughter.

“Was it fun?” Kei asked hesitantly. Obake took one look at her and sighed. It was his own fault for drinking too much.

“It was something,” Wil supplemented as he helped buckle Obake into the backseat, “And educational, apparently, so that’s a plus.”

“We were there at the tail-end,” Eugene added helpfully, “It was kind of entertaining.”

“You sure you can take care of this?” Kanan asked Wil.

Wil looked at Obake and sighed, “We’ll be alright. Thanks, anyways.”

“See you at the next heist meet, babe!” Eugene blew a kiss.

“Tell Raps and Hera I said hi!” Wil called back as they drove off.

“And here I thought I’d be picking you up at the police station for a bar brawl,” Kei half joked.

“Stay with me, Bob!” Wil shook Obake gently, “Don’t go to sleep. First rule in treating alcohol poisoning.”

“Piss off...” Obake slurred.

Wil sighed and let his head sink against the headrest for a few moments. Why didn’t he just become an accountant like his parents wanted?

“Wil...” Obake said sluggishly, “In..in the...event...I survive this with my memory intact. Would you...do it again?”

Wil blinked in surprise and chuckled weakly, “Only if you watch what you drink next time, lightweight.”

“Momma’s boy.”

“Evil Brit.”

“Four Eyes.”

“Nnnnnnnnnnneeeee~rrrrrrrrrds!” Kei cackled as her passengers bickered with each other without any former hostility from before.