#we love casual rep

[gavfleetout]

So just watched first episodes of the acolyte, and that shows like actually good. Idk why I wasn’t expecting it to be but it’s fun and well done.

Spoilers below:

Amandla Stenberg is an incredible actress. Mae and Osha feel like two very different people, and the twin reveal made perfect sense because it was obvious that Osha was not Mae. In both the acting sense and the way they are written.

It doesn’t feel like the most amazing story yet but it’s early days, so far it’s an enjoyable action story, the characters are interesting, and everything looks really good. They’re doing an original concept, for now seems like they’re avoiding fan service (which I appreciate). It feels like its own story which happens to be in Star Wars, which I think is how the best Star Wars stuff gets made, and I’m excited with where they take it.

[emimii]

that one veil chapter cover but as.,,, as tuggoffelees

[somereaderinblue]

Hyacinths & Daisies

Tesla is tired.

She wants humans & Plants to be equals. She wants the humans who are selfish enough to abuse her Plant sisters & innocents to stop. She wants Knives to stop so Nai can properly heal. She wants to go back to those days where they were kids & innocently carefree.

She wants her wishes to be heard. But no one listens. 

She tries anyway. 

She screams and shouts and uses bullets as punctuations when she has to. But ammo is finite & she’s been screaming so much, her throat tastes of dried blood even when she’s just breathing.

She’s tired. She’s so tired.

Tesla’s hope is akin to the sand of No Man’s Land. Seemingly infinite but rough & coarse, a witness that enables misery more than anything. She grabs it in tight fists until her palms are scraped raw but it spills through her fingers sooner or later.

We’ve seen heroes who start out as idealistic become realistic, if not outright jaded. Try as Tesla might, she knows she’s not really living. She has no idea what she’ll do once Knives is stopped because at this point, she’s more likely to die trying to do that than achieving her dream of building equal ground for humans & Plants.

Still, she helps where she can. She can’t play God, surely she can make sure death at least finds the bastards who deserve it more? Surely this time, she can add a tally to the people she's saved instead of another she's failed? She’s trying, she’s trying, she’s trying.

Enter Livio (& the age-reversal wand).

All the kids at the orphanage avoided the scrappy boy who sharpened his teeth so nobody would pick on his brittle bones. When Nico bit Livio hard enough to draw blood, he teared up but didn’t flinch. When Nico finally let go because his jaw ached, Livio wiped the dirt from his cheek instead of slapping it.

In turn, Nico didn’t run from Razlo either. Livio taught Nico how to calm a crying baby while Razlo taught him how to punch the older meaner kids in places that count. Livio was the shield, Razlo was the sword.

When the Eye of Michael came, Livio accepted it; showed them Razlo & proved his compatibility with their experiments. He became their Double Fang. Naturally, everyone preferred Razlo but a coin only had value when both sides were intact. Putting up with still stupidly gentle, weaker, Livio was a small price to pay.

Until they decided they had a mission that was perfect for Livio, not Razlo.

And so, the sheep that was forced to wear the fangs and claws of a wolf was once again stuffed with cotton until it soaked up the blood & left his lungs clogged.

The worst part? Tesla meets Livio and slowly but surely, the sand-like hope she has is refined to glass. Still fragile and capable of cutting once shattered but the transformation? It burns, it shapes, it’s delicate & it’s beautiful.

Neither of them were meant to be weapons, but maybe with the help of each other, they can learn to be people again.

Extra AU notes:

TW: mention of addiction

-Tesla loses her right eye while Livio covers his left (it dramatically comes off when Razlo takes the reins).

-This visually shows how they're similar yet different in a way that complements each other & foreshadows that they're literally on opposite sides.

-Tesla jokingly calls Livio a grandpa because he carries a lot of candy & always nags her to rest more.

(The irony of that nickname is not lost on either of them.)

-Nico of course, followed Livio. The Eye purposely got him addicted to cigarettes laced with the serum to further keep him under control.

-Instead of canon!Livio's skull mask, he wears a mouthguard to resemble a muzzled dog (I'm sorry for doing this to you Wolfwood-).

-Livio doesn't smoke but he carries a lighter to perform tricks, it's calming for him.

[me-thal]

Anyway random sad thoughs in tags

[iamindifferenttolamp]

These people are all 12 (and I wouldn't have it any other way)

[pbaz7]

FINDING PEACE IN YOU: PART 3

paige x azzi

word count: 10.6k

A/N: I don’t even know…I’m sleepy lol. This is kind of a filler chapter but it moves the story forward slightly in just small interactions and what not. Wasn’t meant to be 10k words at all. Proof reading was iffy so let me know if you see any mistakes! Please leave live reacts and comments letting me know what you think if you can 🫶🏼

—————————————————————————

Paige and Azzi had fallen into an easy rhythm over the next few weeks. Late-night dates after their hectic days, stolen moments in between their busy schedules, and quick texts just to check in. Some nights ended with Paige walking Azzi to her door before heading home, while others found her inside, curled up on the couch with Azzi, their lips tangled in a slow, familiar dance.

But that’s all it ever was—kissing.

Not that Paige was complaining. She loved the way Azzi kissed her, how she took her time, how she always left Paige wanting more. But that was the slight problem. Paige did want more but Azzi wasn’t quite ready yet.

Paige was currently sitting in the recovery room, stretching with some of her Dallas Wings’ teammates, including Dijonai, Arike, and Rickea. Lukas was off to the side, playing with a yoga ball and laughing periodically with one of the rookies on the team. Paige grimaced here and there, stretching out the soreness from how hard she’d gone in the weight room earlier.

Dijonai, looked up from her phone when Paige groaned a little loudly and spoke up. “Yo, why you been going so hard lately?”

Paige glanced at her. “Whatchu mean?” she asked, still stretching.

Dijonai gave her a look, raising an eyebrow. “Girl, you been doing extra reps for like the last two weeks.”

Rickea chimed in saying, “On God, your PR’s damn near about to be higher than mine?”

Paige laughed at that, shrugging it off. “Just been having some extra energy I gotta let out,” she said, trying to sound casual as she continued stretching.

Arike, who had been quietly listening to the exchange, added her two cents. “You gotta get laid instead of trying to kill yourself before the season starts.”

Paige laughed as she continued her stretch. “Not that easy.”

Dijonai raised an eyebrow. “Girl, it literally is that easy for you.”

Rickea added, “You could walk in a club, make eye contact, and walk out with somebody in less than five minutes.”

Paige shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Nah I’m not saying that it’s just—I been seeing this girl that’s all.”

Rickea raised an eyebrow. “So what’s the problem?”

Paige looked at her silently asking what she meant.

“Y’all should be hunching all the time then.”

Paige chuckled, shaking her head. “Nah, we not there yet.”

The words hung in the air for a moment, and everyone in the room froze, processing what Rickea had just said and Paige’s response. A mix of confused expressions filled the space—some with raised eyebrows, others with wide eyes, and a couple of “What?”s and “Excuse me?”s scattered around.

Arike squinted at her like she just missed the punchline of a joke. “What the hell you mean, ‘not there yet’?”

Paige shrugged, her smile softening at the thought of Azzi as she shifted her position slightly. “She’s just intentional with everything,” Paige continued, her voice softer now. “And Ion know, she just got a different vibe, so I’m respecting her wanting to wait.”

Dijonai chuckled at this, a confused look forming on her face. “Are you crazy? You’re telling me you decided to take the one person who won’t put out for you seriously? She a prude or sum?”

Paige’s smile faltered slightly, her tone getting a little more serious. “Yo, watch your mouth…That’s not how it is.”

Dijonai immediately put her hands up in surrender. “My bad, my bad.”

Rickea, not wanting to let the awkward moment settle too long, chimed in with a smirk. “Damn, you sprung already?”

Paige shot Rickea a quick glance, her cheeks slightly flushed. “Shut up,” she muttered, rolling her eyes. “I just— I like her, aight? So I’m tryna be respectful and let her decide how fast we go.”

“So, you’re telling me, you’re out here…not getting any…on purpose?” Arike asked, trying to make sense of it.

The conversation came to a sudden halt when Lukas came barreling over, launching himself onto Paige with a grunt. She let out a little noise as he landed on her stomach. “Ma, I’m hungry,” he said.

Paige sighed dramatically, her hands resting on his shoulders to stop him from flailing around. “When are you not hungry?”

Lukas gave her a look, widening his eyes. “Always. But I’m extra hungry now,” he insisted, leaning into her, clearly unwilling to budge until she gave in.

Paige sighed, shaking her head. “Aight, man, come on,” she said, half-amused, half-exasperated.

Lukas beamed, a grin spreading across his face as he jumped off her lap. He ran over to Arike, dapping her up before bouncing over to Dijonaí and Rickea, hugging them both tightly. “Later!” he shouted, barely waiting for a response before he darted out of the recovery room, following Paige out into the hallway.

…

Paige sat on the bench outside the restaurant, watching Lukas happily eat his chicken tenders and fries. He was in the middle of talking her ear off about the exercises he’d done during her practice, hands moving excitedly as he rambled on about who knows what. Paige smiled, listening with half an ear as she checked emails, but her attention was pulled to her phone when it lit up with a FaceTime call.

She glanced down at the screen, and saw Azzi’s name. A small smile tugged at her lips as she swiped to answer, popping in an AirPod and glancing at Lukas to make sure he was content. Lukas had quickly moved on, coloring on the paper the restaurant had given him, clearly lost in his own little world.

Paige answered the phone, her smile growing when Azzi’s face appeared on the screen.

“Wassup?” Paige greeted.

Azzi’s lips curved into a smile as she leaned back in her chair slightly. “What are you up to?”

Paige swiped the screen, flipping the camera around to show Lukas happily munching on his chicken tenders. He was making a mess, dipping one in ketchup and then taking an oversized bite, his cheeks puffed out.

Azzi laughed at the sight. “He’s really going to town on those, huh?”

Paige nodded, a fond smile tugging at her lips. “Yeah, he’s like this every time we go out. Makes people think I’m not feeding him.”

Azzi laughs at this.

Paige then leaned back from the camera slightly, her eyes softening as she refocused on Azzi. “How’s work going?”

Azzi sighed, rubbing her temples. “I actually have a huge headache,” she admitted, her voice a little worn. “Between the NBA playoffs and the WNBA season about to start, my schedule’s filling up faster than I can keep up with it.”

Paige’s expression softened with concern. “What’s wrong? You need a break?”

Azzi shrugged, looking exhausted but trying to smile through it. “I need more than a break. I’m just juggling too many things right now but it’ll wind down soon.”

Paige bit her lip, thinking for a moment. “Is there anything I can do to help?”

Azzi smirked a little, raising an eyebrow. “Well, if you get a doctor’s degree, then maybe.”

Paige laughed. “Oh, sure, I’ll just go to med school between games and practices. No big deal.”

Azzi’s smile towards Paige was warm, but the exhaustion in her eyes was still evident as she rubbed her temples again. Paige’s smile softened in sympathy. “For real, though, what can I do?” she asked gently, wanting to help somehow, even if it was just in small ways.

Azzi let out a quiet sigh. “I miss you,” she admitted.

Paige’s heart skipped a beat, her smile widening as she looked at the screen. “I miss you too.”

At that moment, Lukas tugged at Paige’s sleeve, his little voice breaking through the conversation. “Ma, look!” he exclaimed, his eyes bright with excitement. Paige glanced down at her son, who was holding up his paper, clearly proud of something he had figured out.

She leaned closer, squinting at the crossword puzzle on the paper in his hands. "What’s that, buddy?" she asked, her smile stretching across her face as she saw the word he’d found. “Good job!” she praised him, giving him a thumbs-up.

Lukas beamed, pleased with himself, and immediately went back to scanning the next section of the puzzle.

Paige chuckled softly, shifting her focus back to the screen where Azzi’s familiar face filled the frame. There was something comforting about seeing her, even through the barrier of a phone screen.

“What’re you doing tomorrow?” Paige asked.

Azzi leaned back against her office chair, tilting her head slightly. “I’m off,” she answered simply.

A small smile tugged at Paige’s lips. “I wanna see you.”

Azzi’s brows furrowed slightly. “I thought you had Lukas’ birthday party tomorrow?”

“I do,” Paige admitted, the words carrying an unspoken weight.

Azzi’s expression shifted slightly as she processed the response, her silent question evident in the way she studied Paige through the screen.

Paige hesitated for a beat before exhaling, then continued, “It might be a nice time for you to meet him. You know officially.”

Azzi’s lips parted slightly in surprise, but then a slow, genuine smile spread across her face. She knew how Paige was when it came to Lukas—how cautious she was about who she let into his world. The fact that she was even suggesting this meant a lot.

“Really?” Azzi asked softly.

Paige nodded, but almost immediately, nerves took over, and she started to ramble. “Yeah, but I mean only if you want to. I know you’ve had a long week, and I’d totally get it if being around a bunch of kids isn’t your ideal way to spend your day off. I mean, they can be loud, and chaotic, and there’s gonna be cake, which is cool, but also probably a mess, and—”

Azzi’s smile grew as she watched Paige ramble, clearly nervous about extending the invitation. It was endearing—seeing Paige, who was usually so smooth and confident, stumble over her words.

“Paige,” Azzi cut in softly.

Paige blinked, her mouth still slightly open mid-sentence. “Huh?”

“I’d love to come,” Azzi said simply.

Paige exhaled a breath she didn’t even realize she was holding. “Yeah?”

Azzi nodded. “Yeah. I mean, if you’re really sure. I know Lukas is important to you, and I don’t wanna overstep just because we’ve been seeing each other for a few months.”

Paige shook her head. “I wouldn’t have asked if I wasn’t sure. I just—” she hesitated for a second, glancing down at Lukas, who was still focused on his crossword puzzle. “I know you’ve had a long week, and I’d get it if being around a bunch of wild kids isn’t your ideal off-day you can always just come after.”

“I’ll survive. Besides, like I said, I miss you.”

Paige smiled again, the warmth filling in her chest undeniable. “I miss you too.”

For a moment, they just looked at each other, a quiet understanding passing between them.

Before Paige could say anything else, Lukas’ voice cut through the moment.

“Ma, I found another one!” he announced proudly, waving his crossword puzzle in the air.

Paige turned to him, laughing. “Good job, smartie pants,” she praised, ruffling his blonde hair before glancing back at her phone.

Azzi smiled at the exchange before sighing softly. “I have another client soon, but I’ll call you later, okay?”

Paige nodded, shifting the phone slightly in her hand. “I’ll talk to you later.”

They lingered for a few more moments, neither wanting to end the call just yet, smiles playing on their lips as they held each other’s gaze. Eventually, Azzi shook her head with a small smirk, mumbling out a soft, “Bye Paige,” before hanging up.

Paige stared at the blank screen for a second before exhaling, shaking her head to herself. Yeah, she was in deep.

…

Azzi stepped out of the car, thanking her driver before shutting the door behind her. As she turned toward the house, her eyes landed on the large sign near the side with an oversized arrow directing guests around the back. She laughed to herself, shaking her head—of course, Paige made them set up. She knew how much Paige valued her space, and the last thing she’d want was a bunch of people traipsing through her house.

Following the path lined with smooth marble stones, Azzi made her way to the backyard. But when she stepped around the corner, she froze, her eyebrows shooting up in surprise.

This was, without a doubt, the biggest birthday party she had ever seen for a four-year-old.

The backyard was transformed into what looked like a mini carnival—there were balloons tied to every possible surface, two bouncy houses set up in one corner, tables covered with themed decorations and all kinds of stations filled with professionals. There were kids everywhere, running around, jumping in the pool, screaming, and laughing, their energy buzzing through the air. Parents stood off to the side, chatting amongst themselves, while a few other athletes Azzi recognized were mingling near the food table.

She shook her head in disbelief. She knew Paige loved Lukas more than anything, but this?

Azzi stepped forward, scanning the crowd for the only person she really wanted to see today. She weaved her way through the chaos of kids sprinting past her and dodged a rogue balloon that almost hit her in the face. She finally saw Paige standing near a table, her hair pulled back into a bun, a drink in her hand as she casually observed the party.

Paige must’ve noticed her presence because when she looked up and saw Azzi, a smile immediately stretched across her face.

Azzi felt warmth spread through her chest at the sight of the blonde.

As she reached her, Paige instantly pulled Azzi into a hug, her voice low as she mumbled, “Wassup beautiful.”

Azzi let herself settle in the brief embrace before pulling back, her eyes flickering to the table filled with wrapped presents. Paige followed her gaze, then let out a small laugh when she noticed the gift in Azzi’s hand.

“You know you didn’t need to get anything, right?” Paige teased, reaching for it.

“Of course I did.”

Paige smirked, placing it on the table with the rest. “You tryna outdo me at my own kid’s party?”

Azzi raised an eyebrow. “Please. There’s two bouncy houses over there—I think you have me beat.”

Paige finally let her eyes drag over Azzi, taking her in with an appreciative smirk. “You look good,” she murmured, her voice just low enough so no one else could hear.

Azzi rolled her eyes, shaking her head like she was annoyed by the attention, but the small smile forming on her lips gave her away. “You’re predictable,” she muttered.

Paige chuckled, not even trying to hide the fact that she was enjoying getting under Azzi’s skin. “You drive here?” she asked, shifting the conversation.

“You know I didn’t.”

Paige laughed, shaking her head. “Yeah. Had to ask, though.” She barely had a second to react before Lukas came barreling over, his excitement bubbling over as he tapped her repeatedly. “Ma! Ma! Ma!”

She looked down at him. “Wassup?”

Lukas immediately launched into a ramble about his party—how fun it was, how many presents he got, how he beat one of his best friends in a race. His words tumbled out so fast that he didn’t even notice Azzi standing there at first.

But the moment he did, it was like someone hit a pause button. His eyes went wide, and all that excitement suddenly shrank as he blinked up at her. Without a word, he tucked himself into Paige’s hip, his face turning pink as he clung to the fabric of her shirt.

Paige looked down at him, then back up at Azzi, who was clearly holding back a laugh. “You good, man?” she asked, nudging him lightly.

Lukas just nodded, but he didn’t let go of her shirt. He peeked up at Azzi, still holding Paige’s shirt like it was some kind of safety net.

Paige reached down and gently smoothed out his hair, taming the messy curls from all the running around he’d been doing. “You gonna be a gentleman and speak or you just gonna keep hiding in there?”

Lukas hesitated for a second before finally pulling away from Paige’s side. He looked up at Azzi, his voice a little quieter than usual. “Hi.”

Azzi smiled at him, crouching down to meet his gaze. “Hi, Lukas. Happy birthday.”

His blush deepened, and he quickly looked down at his shoes, mumbling a soft, “Thank you,” before fidgeting with the hem of his shirt. Paige just shook her head, biting back a grin at her son’s sudden bashfulness.

Paige also crouched to Lukas’ level. “You remember her, right?”

Lukas nodded, still staring at his shoes as he held the fabric of Paige’s shirt.

Paige tilted her head. “What’s her name?”

Lukas gave a small shrug, his fingers fidgeting.

Azzi smiled, not offended by his shyness at all. She extended her hand toward him, keeping her voice soft. “I’m Azzi. It’s nice to officially meet you.”

Lukas hesitated for a second before finally reaching out, his small hand grasping hers for a quick, shake before pulling away.

Paige grinned, ruffling his hair. “See? That wasn’t so hard.”

Lukas just nodded again, his blush deepening as he peeked up at Azzi before looking away just as fast when he noticed she was still looking at him.

Lukas tugged at Paige’s shirt subtly, getting her attention. She looked at him and he cupped his hands around her ear and whispered something. Whatever he said made Paige laugh.

Paige looked over at Azzi, her grin growing. “He wants to know if he can show you a trick in the bouncy house.”

Azzi bit back a laugh, nodding. “Of course.”

At that, Lukas finally untucked himself from Paige’s side. Without another word, he turned on his heel and took off toward the bouncy house, clearly expecting her to follow.

Paige stood up, watching him go with an affectionate shake of her head.

Azzi just made her way toward the bouncy house, where Lukas was already waiting eagerly. His earlier shyness was completely gone, replaced by excitement as he waited for her to come over.

The second Azzi was out of earshot, Paige barely had a moment to breathe before her teammates appeared in front of her.

“And who the hell is that?” Dijonai spoke first, arms crossed.

Rickea smirked, glancing between Paige and Azzi’s retreating figure. “Yeah, why you ain’t mention all that?”

Paige rolled her eyes, playing it cool as she took a sip from her drink. “I don’t know what y’all talking about.”

Arike scoffed. “Don’t play dumb, P.”

KK raised an eyebrow. “So, we just supposed to ignore how you been smiling like a idiot since she pulled up?”

Paige shook her head, but the small smirk she tried to hide gave her away. “Man, y’all need to chill.”

Azzi strolled back up, shaking her head with a half-amused, half-exasperated expression. “Your son is going to kill himself in there,” she announced.

Paige glanced over, catching a glimpse of Lukas attempting some kind of flip. She shrugged, completely unfazed. “Eh, he’ll be aight.”

Rickea cleared her throat pointedly, causing Paige to subtly roll her eyes. She turned back to Azzi and gestured toward the group. “Azzi, this is Rickea, Dijonai, Arike, and KK.” Then, motioning back to Azzi, she added, “Everybody, this is Azzi.”

Azzi offered a polite smile, giving a wave. “Nice to meet you all.”

Arike smiled widely saying, “We’ve heard all about you.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow, glancing at Paige, who let out a slow exhale through her nose, already regretting this introduction.

Paige met Azzi’s gaze and muttered, “Not for real.”

Azzi tilted her head, clearly messing with Paige. “So you don’t talk about me P?”

There was something in her tone—curiosity, maybe even the slightest hint of disappointment—that made Paige fumble for a response. “Well, like, yeah I’ve talked about you, but not in the way they’re making it seem,” she rushed out. “I’m not constantly talking about you all day or anything—just, you know, once or twice—casually that’s all.”

Azzi’s lips curved into a smile, amusement dancing in her brown eyes as she watched Paige stumble over her explanation. The reaction only made things worse, Paige’s teammates now staring at her in shock. They had never seen her like this—flustered, rambling in front of a woman, completely out of her usual element.

Before anyone could comment on it, Paige groaned and pinched the bridge of her nose. “I need another drink,” she muttered before turning on her heel and walking away, leaving her teammates and Azzi standing there.

Azzi watched Paige retreat with a smile, clearly enjoying the effect she had on her. Paige’s teammates, however, were staring at Azzi like she had just performed the world's best magic trick.

Rickea spoke first. “Ain’t no way. That wasn’t Paige right?” She turned to Azzi. “What the hell did you do to her?”

Azzi chuckled, shrugging. “Nothing, I swear.”

Dijonai let out a low whistle. “Nah, that was crazy.”

Azzi’s smile grew, but she didn’t say anything, just glancing in the direction Paige had walked off.

KK nudged Arike. “We gotta mess with her about this later.”

Arike laughed, nodding along. “Oh, absolutely.”

Azzi just laughed, deciding she might have to tease Paige about this later herself.

…

Azzi settled in easily with Paige’s teammates after that. Talking and laughing with them as if she had always been part of the group. Every now and then, she’d recognize and she’d excuse herself to go say hello. At one point, Drew took it upon himself to introduce her to Paige’s other siblings, Lauren and Ryan, who both greeted her nicely.

Despite how busy Paige was with the party and giving Lukas her attention, Azzi noticed the way Paige kept glancing in her direction. It was subtle—quick flickers of her eyes across the yard, a lingering look of a smirk when she thought no one was paying attention. And every so often, Paige would find an excuse to wander over, asking if Azzi needed anything, replacing her drink, or just brushing by her with a quiet, “You good?” before getting pulled away again.

Azzi didn’t say anything about it, but she couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at her lips every time Paige checked in or the way her stomach fluttered anytime Paige was near.

The backyard was filled with the chorus of "Happy Birthday," and Lukas was soaking up every second of it. His face was practically glowing, his charming smile—so much like his mother’s—on full display as he sat in front of his cake. The flickering candles reflected in his bright blue eyes, and he clapped excitedly with everyone else when the song finished.

Paige’s mother stepped in to handle the cake-cutting, wanting to give Paige a break. “Go sit down for a second,” she told her, waving her off.

Paige didn’t need to be told twice. With a small smile, she subtly motioned toward Azzi before heading toward an empty area off to the side. Azzi caught the gesture and pushed off the table she was leaning against and followed.

As soon as they sat down, Paige exhaled, leaning back slightly. “I swear, I love that kid more than anything, but these little humans are exhausting.”

Azzi chuckled, watching as a group of kids ran past, laughed loudly. “Yeah, I don’t know how you do it.”

Paige looked over at Azzi, her expression softening slightly. "How are you?"

Azzi gave her a warm smile, leaning back a little in her chair too. "I'm good.”

"Thanks for coming," Paige said as a quiet warmth lingered between them.

"Thanks for inviting me," Azzi replied softly.

Their eyes met, and for a brief moment, it felt like they were the only two people in the backyard. Neither of them broke the gaze, letting the quiet between them linger for a beat longer than necessary.

Paige flicked her eyes down to Azzi’s lips before speaking, "I tell you how good you look?"

Azzi hummed, a slight smirk forming on her lips. "You did," she replied.

Paige broke out into a grin. "Hm," she murmured, her gaze lingering on Azzi.

Azzi leaned in just a little closer, resting her chin on her palm. "I don’t think I told you how good you look though," she said, her voice dropping. She subtly traced her finger along the back of Paige's hand, the movement almost imperceptible to anyone else. It was just a light graze but enough to send a spark between them. The cup in Paige’s hands shielded the action from anyone else in the backyard, but Paige’s eyes flickered toward the touch before flicking back up to Azzi’s gaze.

Her eyes held a quiet confidence, watching Paige as if she could feel the tension building between them. Paige’s lips parted for a second, as if considering if she wanted to say what was racing through her head, but instead, she just let out a soft exhale, trying to keep the moment light.

Which was ultimately a great decision because two seconds later Lukas was walking over with a huge piece of cake on his plate. Azzi leaned back slightly noticing her approach but her attention was still on Paige. He set his plate down on the table and climbed into Paige’s lap, making himself at home without even saying anything.

Paige looked at him, shaking her head at the audacity. Still she used her hand to pull him comfortably onto her lap as he settled in.

Lukas, blissfully unaware of the moment happening before he walked over, took a few bites of his cake before looking up at Paige, his mouth full. "Ma," he said between bites.

"Hm?" Paige responded, glancing down at him.

Lukas paused for a moment, swallowing before saying, "I’m four now."

Paige chuckled, nodding with a smile. "I know.”

Azzi watched the scene with a soft smile, taking in the natural ease between Paige and her son. There was something so genuine about the way they interacted, a love so obvious in the little moments like this one.

Lukas continued eating his cake after this, oblivious to anything else around him. Paige couldn’t help but laugh at the way he was stuffing his mouth, as she ran a hand through his hair.

"He's really something," Azzi said with a smile as she watched the boy now attempt to get frosting off of his cheek.

Paige grinned at her, as she observed the way she was smiling at Lukas.

Lukas, noticed Azzi looking at him and stopped mid-bite and shot her a shy smile, his blue eyes wide. "You like cake?" he asked, holding out his fork as an offering.

Azzi laughed softly, shaking her head. "It’s alright. I’m all good," she said, trying to decline gracefully, but Lukas wouldn’t have it.

He nudged the plate toward her with a grin. "No! You have to eat some. I’m four now!" he insisted, as if being four automatically made him the expert on how all things should be done.

Azzi’s eyes sparkled with amusement. "Well, if you say so," she said, a playful smile curling her lips until she looked down at the already half eaten cake on the fork he was offering.

Paige, noticing the interaction and wanting to spare Azzi from sharing a fork with Lukas, took the fork from her son’s hands. She used the other end of Lukas’s fork to cut a small piece off of the plate and grabbed it with her fingers to feed it to Azzi.

Azzi hesitated for just a second, surprised by the gesture, but opened her mouth and took the piece from Paige’s fingers with a smile. As soon as she did, Paige sucked her thumb and index finger to get the icing off.

Azzi’s eyes flicked to Paige’s fingers, the soft motion catching her off guard, but she quickly masked her reaction with a smile. "Well, that was one way to do it."

Paige smirked. "I’m just looking out for you.” Her tone was light but there was a flicker of something more in her eyes.

Lukas, blissfully unaware of any unspoken tension, took another huge bite of cake and said, "See? I told you, it’s really good! You should eat all of it!"

Azzi chuckled softly, turning her attention back to Lukas. "I think I’m all good now buddy," she replied, though her gaze flicked back up to Paige’s and lingered.

…

Later that day the party had come to a close, and the sounds of loud chatter and laughter had faded with everyone's departure. The backyard was spotless, thanks to the hired planners who’d cleared out, leaving the space untouched by the chaos that had ensued only hours before.

Azzi was still there, her presence a calming contrast to the energy that had filled the house all day. She was leaning against the counter in Paige’s kitchen as she looked at something on her phone.

Paige stood opposite her, leaning against the island, her gaze fixed on Azzi. There was a lingering tension in her core from earlier that day. From the past few weeks actually.

Azzi raised an eyebrow, catching on to Paige’s stare. "What?"

Paige’s eyes softened, and she let out a small sigh, almost a breathless mumble, "It’s just crazy I haven’t kissed you yet."

Azzi grinned at this. "We’ve had an audience for most of the day.”

Paige hummed in agreement, leaning just a bit closer, but stopping herself before the distance between them could shorten too much. "I know," she murmured, her voice low, almost a whisper. Paige’s family was still around, still packing up things because Lukas would be leaving for Disney World soon. The thought of her son heading off with her family made her smile, but it also made the reality of the season setting in even more evident. She couldn’t afford to miss any time with the games starting next week.

Azzi took a small step forward, just enough to reach Paige, before gently tugging her closer by her shirt. She leaned back against the counter, guiding Paige in front of her as their space shrunk to something almost nonexistent. Paige let her hands settle on the edges of the counter beside Azzi

Without saying anything, Azzi reached up, undoing the bun at the back of Paige’s head, letting strands of blonde fall freely. Her fingers combed through Paige’s hair, the action making Paige’s shoulders drop just a little, the tension she hadn’t even realized she was holding beginning to ease.

"You seem tired," Azzi whispered, her fingers still threading through Paige’s hair.

Paige let out a quiet breath, blinking at Azzi like she was debating whether to be honest. Instead, she shook her head, her lips tugging into a small smile. "I’m alright."

Azzi hummed, not quite believing her, her touch slowing but never stopping. "Liar," she teased, her voice carrying a quiet affection. "Long day?"

Paige exhaled through her nose, finally letting herself lean in just a bit more. "Yeah," she admitted, her voice lower now, almost as if saying it out loud made the exhaustion more real.

Azzi’s hands slid down, resting gently on the sides of Paige’s neck, her thumbs grazing the skin there. "You could sit down, you know. Take a second before the season really takes over."

Paige let out a soft chuckle. "You gonna make me?"

Azzi smirked. "I don’t think I have to make you do anything," she said, tilting her head. Her fingers curled slightly in Paige’s hair, a clear point being made.

Paige rolled her eyes, but the way she stayed exactly where she was and didn’t say anything said more than anything she could’ve.

Azzi let out a small hum as she leaned into Paige’s shoulder, her weight settling comfortably against her. Without thinking, Paige rested her head on top of Azzi’s, the quiet moment wrapping around them.

Paige's hand moved in, absentminded circles along Azzi’s lower back back. “You sleepy?”

Azzi nodded slightly against her. “Mhm,” she murmured, her exhaustion from the week creeping into her voice.

Paige smiled, shifting just enough to glance down at her. “You can go lay in my room if you want.”

Azzi made a small noise of protest, mumbling, “Don’t know where it is.”

Paige let out a quiet laugh. “Because you refuse to ever go in it,” she teased.

Azzi just sighed, looping her arms loosely around Paige’s waist. “Maybe one day.”

Paige smirked. “Or…you could just go now and take a nap gorgeous.”

Azzi hummed again, but she didn’t move. Paige just chuckled, tightening her arm around her as they fell back into silence.

They stood there for a while, wrapped in the quietness of Paige’s house. Paige was still rubbing slow circles on Azzi’s back. The weight of Azzi against her was warm, and Paige was pretty sure she had drifted off about five minutes ago.

But then Lukas came barreling into her legs. “Ma! I’m going to Disney World!” he shouted.

Paige let out a breathy laugh, tightening her hold on Azzi to keep her upright. Azzi barely stirred, only shifting slightly. Paige glanced down at her before giving her waist a small squeeze.

“Third door on the left,” she whispered in her ear.

Azzi nodded, her eyes still heavy, before peeling herself away and heading up the stairs without another word. Paige watched her go for a second before turning back to Lukas, who was bouncing on his heels waiting for her attention.

Paige picked Lukas up with ease, settling him on her hip as he beamed at her. “You excited?” she asked, already knowing the answer.

“Yes of course silly!” Lukas vibrated with excitement before looking at her with big, pleading eyes. “But ma you have to come next time.”

Paige softened, pressing a quick kiss to his cheek. “I promise.”

Just then, her mom and siblings walked into the kitchen, their presence signaling that it was time to go.

“You guys about to head out?” Paige asked, adjusting Lukas in her arms.

They all nodded. Paige grabbed what she could to help carry things to the car, still holding Lukas as they made their way outside.

Paige buckled Lukas into his seat, making sure he was secure before brushing a hand through his hair. “You’re gonna be good for grandma right?”

Lukas nodded eagerly, his bright eyes full of excitement.

She leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to his forehead. “I love you,” she mumbled.

“I love you the mostest ma,” he responded without hesitation, making her heart swell.

Paige smiled, giving him one more kiss before shutting the door. She turned to her siblings, giving each of them a quick hug before finally reaching her mom.

Her mom gave her a pointed look as she said, “Don’t think I didn’t notice your guest today.”

Paige just chuckled, shaking her head as she avoided the topic. “Drive safe,” she said instead, before bidding them all goodbye and watching as they pulled away.

Paige walked back inside, locking the door behind her before making her way upstairs. The house was silent now, a stark contrast to the chaos of the party earlier. As she reached her room, she paused in the doorway, her gaze softening at the sight in front of her.

Azzi was lying on her bed, eyes closed, her breathing slow and steady. Her features were completely relaxed, curly strands of her hair falling gently across her face. Paige couldn’t help but smile as she stepped closer, sinking onto the edge of the bed. She brushed a few strands away from Azzi’s face, her fingers barely grazing her skin.

The small touch caused Azzi to stir, her brows furrowing slightly before her eyes fluttered open. A sleepy smile spread across her lips as she whispered, “Hi.”

Paige smiled at her, keeping her voice soft. “Hey,” she murmured. “Go back to sleep. I’ll go downstairs.”

Azzi shook her head just slightly, her voice drowsy. “I want you to stay.”

Paige hesitated for a moment, searching her face. “You sure?”

Azzi gave a small, slow nod, her eyes barely open.

Paige hesitated for a second longer before kicking off her shoes and carefully slipping into the bed beside her. Gently, she put a blanket over Azzi, tucking it around her before leaning back against the pillows.

She settled onto her back, one arm resting behind her head, the other draped loosely over her chest. Letting out a slow breath, she closed her eyes, feeling the weight of the day finally catching up to her.

Beside her, Azzi shifted slightly, just enough that Paige could feel the warmth of her presence. Paige wasn’t sure how much time passed, but the steady rhythm of Azzi’s breathing was enough to lull her into her own state of rest, her body finally allowing itself to relax.

…

The two of them stirred awake about an hour later, though neither was quite sure who had woken up first. They had shifted slightly closer in their sleep, but even unconsciously, Paige had kept a respectable distance.

Paige blinked a few times, adjusting to the dim lighting shining through the room before turning her head toward Azzi. “How you feeling?” she asked, her voice still a little raspy from sleep.

Azzi stretched slightly. “Better.”

Paige let out a soft hum. “I’m glad you got some rest.”

Azzi shifted slightly, her eyes flickering to the space between them. “You’re not a cuddler?”

Paige let out a soft chuckle. “Was just tryna be respectful. Didn’t wanna overstep.”

Azzi mumbled something into the pillow, her words too muffled for Paige to catch.

Paige turned her head. “What was that?”

Azzi sighed, lifting her face just enough to look at her. “Do you say shit like that on purpose?”

Paige blinked at her. “Nah, whatchu mean?”

Azzi shook her head, exhaling like she had just accepted some inevitable truth. “You say the perfect thing at the perfect time… every single time.”

Paige laughed softly, shifting so she was propped up on one elbow, her head resting on her hand as she admired Azzi. There was something about the way Azzi looked in this moment—still sleepy, her hair slightly messy, eyes warm—that made Paige want to keep her here just a little longer. “You wanna stay tonight?”

Paige immediately saw the gears start turning in Azzi’s head, so she quickly added, “Not like that. We both just been busy and I missed you like crazy this week… and my first two games are away, so I’ll be gone for like—”

Before she could keep rambling, Azzi cut in smoothly, “I’d love to stay.”

Paige’s eyes softened as she took in Azzi’s words. “For real?”

“Yes, Paige.”

That was all Paige needed to hear before a grin stretched across her face. She was still grinning when she murmured, “You know… I still haven’t gotten that kiss.”

Azzi arched an eyebrow. “Oh, you just remembered that now?”

Paige smirked. “Just thought it was worth mentioning.”

Azzi didn’t say anything else—she simply reached out, gripping Paige’s shirt and pulling her closer. Paige hovered over her for a second, their breaths mingling, before Azzi pulled her into a kiss. The moment their lips met, a quiet sigh escaped Azzi, her fingers tightening in Paige’s shirt as she felt the slow, deliberate slide of Paige’s tongue against hers.

The kiss wasn’t rushed or frantic. It was slower—like they were making up for every day they’d gone without this. Paige’s hand found Azzi’s waist, fingers pressing gently against her skin. They stayed tangled like that, lips moving in sync, lost in the quiet intimacy of it all for a while, losing track of time in one another.

Paige, getting a little too invested but not wanting to push too far, eventually pulled away.

Azzi let out a breathy laugh, her lips still tingling from how long they were connected to Paige’s . “You always pull away first,” she whispered, eyes half-lidded as she looked up at Paige.

Paige didn’t say anything, just licked her lips as she took in the appearance of Azzi under her before pushing herself off the bed and heading toward the bathroom.

Azzi called after her, “I didn’t know I had it like that.”

A moment later, Paige reappeared, wiping her wet face with a towel before tossing it onto a chair.

“Yes, you did.”

Azzi grinned, stretching her arms above her head as she watched Paige get comfortable again. “So you’re admitting it now?”

Paige just huffed out a laugh, shaking her head as she glanced at her phone on the nightstand. Deciding not to address the question she looked over at Azzi. “You hungry?”

Azzi just grinned at Paige deciding to ignore her question. “I should probably eat.”

Paige grinned. “I can cook for us.”

But Azzi immediately shook her head. “Nope, I’ll cook.”

Paige scoffed. “I can cook, you know.”

“I’m sure you can, but you know I’m picky. And I’d hate to not like you anymore if you burn my food the first time one of us cooks.”

Paige let out a laugh. “Ok, that’s crazy—” But then, mid-laugh, she paused. Azzi’s words settling in a second later.

I’d hate to not like you anymore.

Her expression shifted, brows raising slightly. “Wait.”

Azzi, realizing exactly what Paige had just processed, stood up and made her way toward the door without saying anything else.

Paige blinked, watching her go. “Nah, hold on—Azzi commere,” she called, already climbing off the bed to follow after her.

But Azzi was already halfway down the stairs, acting like she hadn’t just slipped up. “Nope. Gotta make sure we don’t starve.”

Paige shook her head not accepting that as she trailed after her.

…

As she was cooking Azzi moved through Paige’s kitchen with ease, pulling out ingredients and utensils like she’d been in this space a hundred times before. Paige leaned against the island, watching her the entire time.

“Okay, I gotta say,” Azzi said as she reached for a pan. “I respect that you actually have things where they should be.”

Paige raised an eyebrow. “What does that even mean?”

Azzi turned, giving her a look like it was the most obvious thing in the world. “Some people just put things in the wrong spots. Like, why would I have to walk across the entire kitchen to grab a pot when it should be right here next to the stove?”

Paige laughed. “So you’re telling me there’s a right and wrong way to organize a kitchen?”

“Yes,” Azzi said without hesitation, setting the pan down on the stove. “Efficient kitchen organization is an art, and I—” She paused, feeling Paige step up behind her.

Paige leaned in close, her chest lightly pressing against Azzi’s back as she snaked her arms around her waist. “Mmhm,” she hummed lazily, lips hovering just near Azzi’s ear. “Tell me more about your organization skills.”

Azzi exhaled through her nose but didn’t let herself get distracted. “I’m serious,” she said, pouring olive oil into the pan. “People just put things anywhere, like knives on the opposite side of the kitchen from the cutting board. Doesn’t make any sense.”

Paige grinned against her temple as she whispered, “You kinda sexy when you talk like that.”

Azzi almost faltered but she stayed focused, reaching for a spoon instead. “I’m not that easy.”

Paige chuckled, unfazed by the resistance. She let her hands trail down Azzi’s arms before stepping back, leaning on the counter beside her instead.

For a few minutes, Azzi cooked while Paige lingered nearby, occasionally brushing against her or whispering little comments in her ear that made Azzi shake her head with a small smile. None of it truly distracted her though.

When Azzi leaned back slightly against the counter taking a break while something simmered, Paige took the opportunity. Without warning, she gripped Azzi’s waist and effortlessly lifted her onto the counter.

Azzi made a noise in surprise, her hands instinctively landing on Paige’s shoulders to steady herself. “Paige!”

Paige just grinned, stepping between Azzi’s legs, resting her hands on Azzi’s thighs as she dipped her head. “Yeah?”

Azzi opened her mouth to say something, but Paige was already leaning in, her lips brushing against the column of Azzi’s neck.

Azzi exhaled, fingers curling slightly at the back of Paige’s neck. “You—” Her words cut off as Paige kissed a little lower.

Paige smiled against her skin. “Me…?”

Azzi swallowed, her heartbeat picking up. “You know what you’re doing.”

Paige hummed in response, letting her hands slide further up Azzi’s thighs as she pressed another kiss just below her jaw. “And?”

Azzi was officially unraveling, her fingers gripping Paige a little tighter. “And you’re—”

A loud sizzle from the stove suddenly yanked her back to reality. She jolted, eyes widening as she shoved at Paige’s shoulders. “Oh my God!” she yelled, quickly hopping off the counter and rushing back to the stove.

Paige bit her lip to stop herself from laughing and leaned back against the counter with her arms crossed. “Damn,” she said, watching Azzi stir the pan. “That was fun while it lasted.”

Azzi shot her a glare. “You can’t do that while I’m cooking. New rule.”

Paige grinned at her. “Aw, come on, I was just tryna help.”

“Help who?” Azzi scoffed. “Because you definitely weren’t helping me cook.”

“Alright, alright. I’ll stay six feet away until you’re done.”

Azzi turned back to cooking, muttering under her breath, “You better.”

Paige, watching her with a huge grin, whispering just loud enough for Azzi to hear, “You liked it though.”

Azzi didn’t turn around, but Paige didn’t miss the way she let out a deep exhale.

Paige kept her word, leaving Azzi alone the rest of the time she cooked but it didn’t last longer than that. Paige immediately complained about the amount of food on her plate.

“You’re an athlete,” Azzi pointed out, sliding the plate in front of her. “You don’t eat enough.”

Paige scoffed, picking up her fork. “I eat plenty.”

Azzi raised an eyebrow clearly unimpressed. “Uh-huh. Just be quiet and eat, Paige.”

Paige rolled her eyes but took a bite, making a show of chewing dramatically before giving a nod of approval. Azzi smiled, sitting across from her and starting on her own plate.

The conversation flowed naturally between them, like it always did as they ate. Azzi asked about Paige’s games next week, and Paige leaned forward, resting her forearm on the table as she explained.

“We’re playing in Minnesota first,” she said, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Then we go to Atlanta.”

Azzi watched her for a moment, noticing the way Paige’s expression shifted slightly at the mention of Minnesota. “You excited to be home for a bit?”

Paige nodded. “Yeah. Even if it’s just for the game. It always feels different playing there. More personal.” She paused, then added, “Lukas starts school in the fall, by the way. Drew sent me a text while you were cooking saying Lukas said ‘Azzi has to know.’”

Azzi’s face lit up with genuine excitement. “Wait, for real?”

Paige nodded again. “Yeah. He’s already talking about what kind of bag he wants and how he’s gonna make ‘so many friends.’”

Their conversation shifted from Lukas to Azzi’s clinic. While they were talking about it Paige picked up on the way Azzi’s tone changed—still steady, but a little more contemplative so she asked her what was going on.

“Everyone’s kind of been pressuring me to expand,” Azzi admitted, her fork idly pushing at her food. “But I don’t want to.”

Paige rested her chin on her hand. “Why not?”

Azzi exhaled through her nose. “I don’t want any clients listed in my clinic that I can’t see personally. And I don’t want to have to hire other DOs—it’s a whole process, and I’d rather just keep things small, only seeing who I actually have time for.”

Paige nodded slowly, considering her words. “That makes sense. It seems

like you’ve always been hands-on so I feel like it makes sense that you wanna personally take care of your clients.”

Azzi gave a small smile at that. “Exactly. I don’t want to lose that connection. I like knowing the people I work with, understanding their needs, seeing their progress firsthand. Expanding would mean giving up some of that control, and I don’t think I’m ready for that.”

Paige studied her for a second before shrugging. “You don’t have to expand just because people are saying you should, you know? You built something great—if you’re happy with how it is, then that’s enough.”

Azzi sighed, leaning back in her chair. “That’s what I keep telling myself, but you know how people are. They think bigger automatically means better.”

Paige scoffed. “Not always. I mean, you could if you ever wanted to, but it doesn’t have to be now, or even in the next few years. Do it on your time.”

Azzi tilted her head, watching Paige with something softer in her gaze. “You always say the right thing.”

Paige smirked, reaching for her glass of water. “So I’ve been told.”

Azzi rolled her eyes but didn’t fight the small smile on her lips. “Yeah, yeah.” She took another bite before glancing up again. “Enough about me—tell me more about Minnesota. You looking forward to it?”

Paige’s eyes brightened as she started talking about how special it was to play at home, even if it was just for a game here and there.

At some point, Paige noticed Azzi slowing down with her food, her expression softer, a quiet comfort settling between them. “You good?”

Azzi nodded, her voice a little quieter. “Yeah. I just like this.”

“Like what?”

Azzi shrugged slightly. “This. You.”

Paige watched her for a second before smiling softly. “Me too.”

A comfortable silence settled between them as they finished eating, the quiet clinking of silverware against plates filling the space. Once Azzi put her fork down and moved to pick up her and Paige’s plate, Paige was quicker, gently taking it from her hands.

“I got it,” Paige said softly.

Azzi bit her lip, watching her for a second before nodding. “Okay,” she murmured, pushing back from the table and settling back into her chair.

As Paige turned toward the sink, Azzi pulled out her phone, scrolling through her emails. The occasional sound of the running water and dishes clinking together filled the kitchen.

Paige glanced over her shoulder at one point, catching Azzi deep in thought as she scrolled, her eyebrows slightly furrowed in concentration. She smiled to herself before turning back to the dishes, the simple domesticity of the moment not lost on her.

Once Paige was done, she dried her hands on a towel and walked back over to the table, her eyes settling on Azzi. She didn’t say anything at first—just leaned against the counter, watching as Azzi scrolled through her phone. Paige noticed the way she kept rolling her neck and shoulders, as if she was trying to work out some tension.

“You okay?” Paige finally asked.

Azzi exhaled through her nose, still scrolling. “My shoulders are just a little tight,” she admitted, tilting her head slightly to the side in an attempt to ease the discomfort.

“You should take a warm shower,” Paige suggested. “It’ll help loosen you up. And I can help after, if you want.”

Azzi looked up at her, considering the offer for a second before nodding. “That sounds good.”

Paige smiled at that, motioning for Azzi’s hand as they headed upstairs together.

Before Azzi walked into Paige's bathroom Paige handed her some towels. The moment Azzi shuts the bathroom door Paige drops onto the bed checking her phone and scrolling through social media a little bit. When Azzi finally steps out of the bathroom, her wet curls are clinging to her shoulders, and a towel is wrapped snugly around her body. Paige, who had been casually scrolling through her phone, glanced up—and immediately felt her brain short-circuit.

Her breath hitched, her eyes shamelessly trailing over Azzi before a slow, goofy smile spread across her face.

Azzi noticed and let out a laugh. “Can I have some clothes, please?”

Paige didn’t respond right away, still looking at Azzi like she had completely forgotten how to function. Instead of answering, she just lifted her hand and pointed toward her closet.

Azzi walked into the large walk-in closet. As she took in the sheer amount of clothes Paige had, she couldn’t help but tease her about it, “There’s no way you should have this many clothes.”

Silence.

Azzi, expecting some kind of sarcastic comment, glanced over her shoulder—only to find Paige sitting there with her eyes squeezed shut, fingers pinching the bridge of her nose like she was physically trying to reset her brain.

“You good over there?”

Paige let out a sharp breath, finally looking at her again. “You—” She stopped herself, shaking her head and laughing under her breath. “Yeah. I’m good.”

Azzi smirked, clearly not believing her, but didn’t press it. She grabbed a T-shirt and a pair of boxers before disappearing back into the bathroom to change.

The sound of the door clicking shut was followed by a quiet pause.

As she pulled the clothes over her head, Paige's voice cut through the stillness, calling out from the bed, “You’re definitely a tease.”

Azzi chuckled softly to herself but didn’t reply, finishing up in the bathroom and walking back out a few minutes later, Paige’s fresh clothes comfortably draped on her. She leaned against the doorframe as she said, “I’m not a tease.”

“Sure you’re not. And I don’t dribble a basketball for a living.”

Azzi crossed her arms with a small pout on her lips. “That’s not fair.”

Paige, completely unfazed, opened her legs slightly, “Come here.”

Azzi moved closer, allowing herself to be drawn in by Paige’s silent command. She settled her back against Paige’s chest, letting her head rest against her shoulder. Paige's hands were warm as they moved to her shoulders, starting to knead the tension out of them, and Azzi closed her eyes in quiet appreciation.

Paige worked perfectly, her fingers tracing the knots in Azzi’s muscles, focusing on the places where she’d been stiff from the werk. Everything else seemed to fade as Azzi slowly began to relax, sinking further into Paige’s touch, allowing herself a moment to let go of everything outside of the warmth that surrounded her.

Paige’s hands paused for just a moment as she felt Azzi unwind under her touch. For about 20 minutes the room was quiet, with only the soft sound of their breathing filling the space. Eventually Paige leans down, her lips brushing gently against Azzi's neck. She kissed the sensitive skin there a few times before whispering, “How was that?”

Azzi's response was a soft, almost inaudible murmur, her voice thick with the pleasure from Paige’s touch. "Amazing."

Paige smiled against Azzi’s neck before pressing another open-mouthed kiss to the same spot. She moved to pull away, her mind returning to the present, but Azzi wasn’t ready for it to end. She reached up, her fingers threading through Paige’s hair, gently pulling her back toward her. She tilted her head to the side, her lips parting as she whispered, “Keep going.”

Paige’s breath caught in her throat at the demand, her body responding instantly. She nodded and used her free hand to cup Azzi’s jaw gently guiding her head further to the side. As she did, her lips pressed back against Azzi’s neck, this time a little firmer, a little deeper, as she let her tongue trace Azzi’s skin.

The tension in the room shifted, becoming heavier as Paige’s mouth moved with more intention across every inch of Azzi’s neck. Azzi’s soft gasps of approval filled Paige’s ears, spurring her on as she kissed her way down.

As Azzi turned her neck to meet Paige’s lips with her own, the moment stretched out. They stayed like that, lips moving together softly at first, savoring the closeness. When she heard Paige groan at her attempt at tugging her closer, Azzi decided to turn around fully, straddling Paige’s lap. The closeness of their bodies seemed to heighten everything, and Azzi’s hands tangled in Paige’s hair as she pushed herself closer.

For a few minutes, they stayed like that, locked in the heated embrace. Azzi’s hands roamed, and Paige's breath quickened in response to the subtle touches. Slowly, Azzi began to push her hip closer, her lips trailing down Paige’s jawline before dipping to her neck. Paige clenched her jaw, trying to hold herself together. She squeezed her eyes shut, allowing Azzi to explore her skin.

It didn't take long before Paige's hands found Azzi's hips, squeezing them gently, breaking the spell for a moment.

"Azzi," Paige breathed, her voice thick. "Member how we said we were waiting?"

Azzi hummed, her lips still trailing over Paige’s skin, the sound similar to a purr as she didn’t stop what she was doing. "Mhm."

Paige’s breath caught, her tone breathier now as Azzi bit her neck gently before soothing it. "You gave me a timeline... and I’m just tryna make sure you stick to that, baby."

Azzi paused, her lips just millimeters away from Paige’s skin. "We can," she whispered, and then she sucked gently on the spot below Paige's jaw—one she had learned was a sweet spot for her.

"Jesus Christ," Paige whispered, her hands tightening around Azzi’s hips. She swallowed hard, trying to steady herself. "I’m not gonna be able to if you keep doing all this."

Azzi pulled back slightly, her breath mingling with Paige's as she smiled at her. "Kissing?"

Paige laughed breathlessly, she felt Azzi’s lips return to her neck. "Nah, we can... it’s just..." Paige trailed off, her thoughts momentarily lost as Azzi’s sucked on her skin again.

Azzi pulled back looking at Paige with a heat in her eyes that made Paige’s chest tighten. "I want you."

The noise that left Paige’s throat was a mixture of a content sigh and something that sounded almost painful. Her voice was strained as she spoke. "You can't say shit like that to me right now."

"Why not? It’s true." As Azzi said this she connected her lips with Paige’s, her tongue swiping across her lips for access.

Paige felt the fog in her mind clear for just a moment as she pulled back, her hands steadying Azzi when she tried to chase her lips. "You said waiting was important to you.”

Azzi met her eyes, a calm sincerity in her gaze. "I trust you," she whispered.

Paige took a breath, her heart pounding in her chest. "I know," she said softly. "I just don’t want you to regret not sticking to your plan."

Azzi gave her a playful smile. "Three months, two and a half... same thing. What’s two weeks?"

Paige couldn’t help but laugh, the tension between them momentarily breaking as she laced their fingers together. "Exactly," she said, her voice light. "What’s two weeks?"

"You’re really talking yourself out of sex right now?”

Paige leaned back slightly, shaking her head as she let out a quiet laugh. "Trust me, I know," she replied, the irony of the situation not lost on her. "I’m fully aware."

Azzi watched Paige who had leaned her head back against the headboard and closed her eyes. As she sat there looking at her for a moment Azzi was thankful Paige had stopped them. Because truthfully, Azzi still did want to wait.

Paige hadn’t started her season yet. All the traveling, games, expectations—it hadn’t hit. Azzi didn’t know if the version of Paige she had right now, the one she’d had for the past two and a half months, would feel different a few weeks from now. She didn’t doubt Paige’s feelings, but she knew how much weight was about to fall onto her shoulders. She knew Paige was about to be in different states, with different women and she wanted to be sure.

So, instead of pushing for more, Azzi leaned against Paige, settling into her warmth. “Thank you,” she whispered.

Paige barely opened her eyes, just enough to glance at Azzi before mumbling, “’Course.”

And they sat there just like that, wrapped in each other, the heat between them simmering down into something quieter, something deeper.

Paige started running her fingers through Azzi’s curls, her touch comforting as she said, “Can I ask you something?”

Azzi nodded, eyes still half-lidded from the warmth of Paige’s touch.

Paige hesitated for a second before speaking. “What happened with your ex?” she asked carefully. “M’ just askin’ ’cause I remember you saying she’s one of the big reasons why you wait.”

Azzi exhaled slowly, her fingers idly tracing patterns on Paige’s side. “We were together for four years,” she said. “And I found out she was cheating on me for half of them.”

Paige’s hand stilled in Azzi’s hair. “What?” The word came full of disbelief. She leaned back slightly, eyes searching Azzi’s face like she was waiting for her to say she was joking. But Azzi just nodded.

“I just felt really disgusting after I found out,” Azzi admitted quietly. “So—yeah.”

Paige’s expression softened, her hand moving from Azzi’s hair to cup the side of her face. “I’m sorry that happened to you, beautiful.”

Azzi shook her head. “Don’t apologize for something someone else did.”

Paige shook her head, eyes locking onto Azzi’s. “I’m not,” she said simply. “I’m apologizing that it happened to you. That you had to go through that. There’s a difference.”

Azzi blinked at her for a second before a small smile tugged at her lips. She leaned up, pressing a soft peck against Paige’s lips, her way of silently saying thank you.

Azzi let out a small yawn, and Paige caught it. “You wanna go to bed?”

Azzi shook her head, her curls brushing against Paige’s neck as she settled deeper against her.

Paige chuckled. “Why not?”

Azzi exhaled, playing with the hem of Paige’s shirt. “Because the real world starts again tomorrow, and I won’t see you for like a week.”

Paige grinned. “You could just fly to Minnesota for the game,” she teased.

“Ha-ha, very funny. Tell that to my overdramatic clients who act like they’re dying if they can’t see me.”

Paige raised an eyebrow. “Should I be concerned?”

Azzi rolled her eyes, nudging Paige’s side. “Shut up,” she mumbled.

After a little more teasing Paige decided to turn on a movie, and the two of them settled in. But it didn’t take long for her to feel Azzi start to drift off. Barely fifteen minutes in, she felt Azzi’s weight relax against her, her breaths warming Paige’s shoulder. Paige grinned.

“Lemme take a shower before I get trapped underneath sleeping beauty,” she murmured, shifting slightly.

Azzi mumbled something unintelligible about Paige being rude sometimes, making Paige laugh. “Yeah, yeah,” she said, grabbing some clothes from the closet before heading to the bathroom.

By the time she stepped out of the shower, the room was dark, the only light coming from the large TV screen. Azzi was curled up on her side, mouth slightly open as she slept. Paige couldn’t help but laugh softly at the sight.

Paige tossed her dirty clothes into the hamper before turning off the TV and climbing into bed. As soon as she slid under the covers, she felt Azzi curl into her side and drape a leg across her as she rested her head against Paige’s chest.

Paige blinked in surprise before Azzi whispered out, “Goodnight, Paige.”

A warmth spread through Paige’s chest as she tightened her arm around Azzi, pulling her closer. “Goodnight,” she whispered back, closing her own eyes as sleep slowly took over.

[lcriedlastnight]

five times lando takes the lead + the one time you do | lando norris

○ tw: swearing, lando being cute, someone might find this a little toxic but i don’t so shh○

♡˗ˏ✎*ೃ˚ : w/c: 5k of me projecting. it was my birthday today so here’s a present!

༶•┈┈୨♡୧┈┈•༶

1.correcting your posture.

you had told lando way back at the start of the year that your new years resolution was to fix your posture. you didn't expect him to really take in what you were saying because he was swamped with work emails and all the other shit he had to do to get ready for pre-season. it was a simple passing comment, hell you guys weren't even official when you had told him about it. why would he remember something so insignificant about someone he was casually seeing?

well you just assumed that he wouldn't, maybe that was just because you can't really remember anything small thing he had said to you in the very early days of your relationship so it made you feel bad if he did.

it was safe to say you did not do well with your resolution and had almost completely forgotten that you had even made it a resolution in the first place but it seemed like lando hadn't.

it was a race week this week and you had the privilege of joining lando this. before jetting off halfway across the world both lando and oscar had been asked to join zak and andrea at mtc just to go over some things about the car and the upcoming race. to be honest you didn't really know why but lando had asked if you wanted to come and you didn't even think before you accepted.

it was very busy as lando drove you in towards the the car park in his flashy car, it always made you feel like a pop star when lando drove you around and lando did it because he knew you loved pretending the paps were following after you after they discovered you with your new man (lando). he found it cute.

"c'mon then, sweetheart. let's get this over and done so we can get on the plane." lando says as he holds a hand out to help you out of the car. you and lando were heading straight to the airport after this 'meeting' so you were both in clothes more on the comfortable side. both repping some sort of mclaren merch of course. yours was most likey stolen from the driver himself.

you both meet oscar as you walk in. he's by himself so you ask about his own girlfriend and if she was attending the race. oscar shakes his head sadly, telling you she's focusing on her studies and you can't help admire her for that. you have always had a soft spot for lily, just like lando has for oscar you're sure.

a member of staff heards the three of you into a meeting room where zak and andrea are already waiting. seeing them both next to each other always makes you a little nervous for some reason, you never know why and lando loves to make fun of you for it. they both greet the three of you with smiles and you feel lando move himself closer to you, not wanting to show basically any pda in front of his bosses but wanting you to know he was here and still thinking of you. he ends up so close to you that your arms are grazing against each other.

zak starts the meeting off and you can't lie, you aren't listening one bit but you hope to god lando is because oscar is asking questions and nodding his head like it's important. you worry though when his hand comes to the small of your back to rub there slowly. oh there is no way that boy is listening to a word that's being said. god help him.

you try to listen in for lando because he clearly cannot be trusted to do it himself. it's difficult to understand but you have a whole flight to ask your boyfriend what it all means as you catch him up.

you actually feel like you're on a roll and actually taking in what both men are talking about when lando throws you off completely. his hand that was resting on the small of your back comes to lay in the middle of your shoulder blades, ultimately straightening your posture. you already feel it at the bottom of your back and you feel the urge to sag back down again but lando's other hand is forcing you to stay in the position that he wants. it makes you feel warm but you try to push it to the back of your mind as you mentally take notes for the incapable boy.

the meeting wasn't too long, which now made sense in your mind as to why they didn't ask you all to take a seat but lando made you stand like that for the rest of the meeting. zak and andrea wish you both a safe flight before bidding everyone goodbye. oscar turning in his spot to exit the room and lando's hands forcing you to do the same. halfway down the corridor he removes both his hands and grabs your hand with one of his, now free ones. every time you drop your shoulders down you feel a little nudge and you are straightening up right away. lando squeezes your hand every time you do what he silently asks.

once you both are back in the car and lando is driving you both to the airport, that is when you ask him about it.

"what was all of that about?" you ponder, eyes flitting all over his pretty face as he drives like it's his second nature (it one hundred percent is).

"didn't you say you wanted to straighten your posture up?" lando questions, like he actually looks confused on why you would ask him that. he's acting like it was a common occurance but it doesn't piss you off, no instead you just smile. you just can't believe he remembered something so small and boring about you and tried to make it happen when you forgot about it.

the flight was filled with you trying to explain what it was exactly that zak and andrea had told you and oscar in the meeting room at mtc.

2. he keeps you feeling safe.

it was a really good race for lando today, he had begged you to come out clubbing with him which had made no sense to you whatsoever because wasn't going out clubbing a way to de-stress without your girlfriend? well it didn't matter what you thought because lando was literally on his knees in front of you in your hotel begging you to come. of course it was a joke and he was doing it get a laugh out of you so you would accept his offer but it really set you off balance seeing lando like that.

he was supposed to be the one that made you feel like getting to your knees and begging for something, joke or not. getting a taste of the roles being reversed made you wish for the way it usually was with the two of you. you didn't do too well with change.

"okay, okay, if i agree will you get up?" you ask him, the change clearly sends waves of discomfort through your body and because lando knows you too well, he knows this.

lando smirks up and you and replies with a simple, "yeah."

that's how you end up jumping into a quick shower to get yourself ready for the night ahead. lando is also in the hotel bathroom while you're showering. he makes sure to make his presence known as he clatters about, searching through his toiletry bag for his (your) favourite cologne. you love the homely feeling that rushes through you as lando makes conversation with you as a way of staying close to you when you're getting ready. he never fails to make you feel wanted.

you don't know how this is the first time since you had started dating lando that you were both going clubbing together because you were sure it was known worldwide that he loved a good night out. it made you feel special that he wanted you to come with him tonight. and to celebrate an amazing weekend, not just for lando but for the whole team. you hoped oscar and lily would be making an appearance, you had missed spending time the girl and you were both a little more introverted than some of the other wags, so you knew that if she was there you would have someone the entire night. not that you were expecting lando to leave you alone - you were just planning for a worst case senario.

lando walks over to you as you're standing in the bathroom trying to slip in a pair of earrings he had actually gotten you before you had even started dating, in front of the vanity mirror. you were struggling, you couldn't remember the last time you had a reason to wear earrings, never mind ones this fancy.

the brunette's arms snake around your waist as his chin sits on your shoulder, admiring you from the mirror. you looked beautiful to him everyday but in this dress? he remembers picking it out for you when he was at a boutique in japan earlier this year and just imagining you in it made his heart race. this had been the first time you had worn it besides the time you tried it on for him after he brought it home for you.

"look at you. don't know how i'm going to keep my hands off of you tonight, love." lando speaks into your shoulder, leaving soft, gentle kisses in his wake. his words make you flustered but you have no time to respond because lando is talking again.

"osc and lily are outside in a car waiting for us. i'm pretty sure max is coming out too." lando murmurs, a subtle demand for you to hurry up and get downstairs, which you blindly follow.

your eyes light up at the mention of your fellow mclaren wag tagging along. lily, like you, was never one for clubbing and to be honest neither was oscar but you knew how great of a weekend this was for mclaren and weren't too surprised the young australian wanted to join you and your boyfriend in the celebrations. you were surprised that his girlfriend was coming though. surprised and elated.

lando just smiles at the delight in your eyes before giving the back of your dress a light tug to get you moving. minutes later you're clinging to his arm as you are both exiting the fancy hotel lobby and out into the mild evening. you see the car waiting for you as soon as you leave the spinning doors.

the ride to the fancy club was filled with you chatting away to lily, the poor girl couldn't get a word in edgeways but she didn't seem to mind much, just listening to your work stories with a grin on her face, nodding when it was polite to do so. if you didn't know someone you were proper shy and never mustered up more than a simple sentence or two, but if you knew the person? god, let's just hope they brought earplugs because it was almost impossible to shut you up.

the night had been going perfectly and to your knowledge it still was. you were stood up at the bar with lando while you waited on your drinks and lando was talking to some guy, you didn't listen to his name because to be quite frank, you didn't really care what it was.

as much as lando was one for showing you off and wanting to constantly have his hands on you, he was never one for doing it in public, where he couldn't control who see what. it just never sat right with him so he just kept it as minimal as possible with hand holding. you knew this so of course you didn't try and force him to do anymore, even though you were a very clingy drunk.

so when lando comes to stand directly behind you and wrap his arms around you, just like back at the hotel in front of the mirror, it shocks you. you knew lando was barely drunk so you had no clue why he was getting so touchy with you, especially when he was mid conversation with someone. you don't want to interrupt his conversation by asking him why so you just lean into his touch and continue waiting. it isn't long before the bartender slides your drinks across the table, apologising for the wait. you shrug it off and spin in lando's hold to give him his drink.

"thank you, love." lando smiles and presses a quick kiss to the corner of your lips. in your intoxicated state it makes you all blushy and giggly. you're sure you hear lando make up some excuse about having to leave before he's leaving the man at the bar and moving you back to the booth, back to all your friends. as you sit down at the edge, lando stands in between your legs, looking down at you with what can only be described as heart eyes.

"what was all that about?" you ask him, gentle eyes peering up at his. lando's gaze darkens just as touch as you question him about his sudden urge to touch you and hold you close. he shrugs before putting your drink onto the table and pulling your head close to his stomach.

"he was staring at your arse." lando answers simply, voice filled with possessiveness. you don't even respond, just smile into his loose fitting t-shirt. you notice your makeup stains it but lando wears it proudly, wanting everyone to know you are his.

3. he tells you what to do (in a sweet way)

a lot of people thought that lando telling you what to do and basically bossing you about was weird. you didn't think so but apparently almost all of your friends thought so. it wasn't like lando was mean about it, he was so fucking sweet to you all the time it literally made you melt sometimes. the way that anyone thought that lando wasn't head over heels in love with you baffled you to no end.

to explain, lando knew you better than you knew yourself. he knew what you wanted to eat before you had even realised you were hungry. you were so easy to read to him, but that meant that the driver also knew how indecisive you were and how anytime you were faced with a decision that was even mildly difficult your brain, quite literally, short circuited. it was something that up until you met lando and he had gotten to know you, that had caused you major problems. but now with lando here, he made the decisions for you because he knew what you wanted even when you didn't.

neither of you really stopped to think about how it would look to someone outside of your relationship because, well why would you? to you and lando, anyone else's opinion on your relationship didn't matter. at the end of the day it was what made you and your boyfriend happy. and this way just worked for you both.

the first time you noticed other people maybe gave a second thought to what you and lando had was when you were invited to a close friend of your sister's baby shower. you both had grown up together and since your older sister couldn't make it due to being on holiday at the time, she had invited you and told you to bring someone along with you. you didn't really know that men weren't really that common at a baby shower so you, of course, asked lando to accompany you.

you had to ask nicely for lando to take the most normal looking car he had so you two didn't stand out too much, not wanting to be the talk of someone else's baby shower. that would make you feel horrible.

your sister's friend cheers your name as she opens the door after you give a few polite knocks. you stand hand in hand with lando and you will never forget the look on her face when she saw him standing with you. you knew it wasn't because she recognised lando, but because there was a literal man at her baby shower. a man she didn't even know, nonetheless.

"hi. uh come on in?" it's phrased as a question, it's how you know the poor girl is still puzzled. you feel a little bad no matter how funny it is.

she leads both you and lando to a beautifully decorated gazebo, filled with baby pink banners. well at least you now know she's having a girl. you feel bad for lando more and more as you sit down on the free seats by the entrance and realise there are no other males here at all. you had to make it up to him later, you supposed. you told him as much but he shook his head and said he was going to have fun. you doubted that but let him believe it anyway.

a few drinks in and the previous tension that was lingering from not really knowing anyone here had disappeared and you were now chatting away now you had some of that liquid courage.

just as you finish up your conversation with the girl on your right (you know it's horrible but for the life of you, you can't remember her name) lando turns to you and says, "go and get a glass of water." and if that didn't raise a few eyebrows then you doing so without any hesitation whatsoever, would've.

what everyone didn't know though, was that you didn't want to get drunk at a baby shower and although you felt just the appropriate amount of drunk for an event like this, lando knew that anymore would tip you over the edge, hence his instructions. and you follow because why would lando tell you to do something if it wasn't in your best interest? you did have to admit though it was funny watching everyone silently lose their shit when you two did this. you both agreed it would never get old.

4. he helps you through a crisis

it was clear to anyone who knew the both of you that in your relationship, although you were both prone to worrying and panicking, you trumped lando. he had even begun to suspect you had some sort of unknown anxiety disorder from the silly little things you worried about.

the thing that shocked him most though was that you thought it was normal to feel like that, normal to worry about silly little things that don't really matter that much in your day to day life. ever since you had started waking up on your own you had set at least ten alarms on your phone and it annoys the fuck out of lando but he has never mentioned it to you because he knows the reasons behind it and yelling at you will do nothing but make you worry more. why do you set so many alarms for the next morning? well, because you may sleep in of course! lando understands that, of course he does, even though he doesn't really get the whole being worried about being late thing, he understands. it's when you set ten alarms when you both don't have any plans the next day. and when you sleep through every single one of them because he tired you out the night before. it killed him.

so it was safe to say you were a worrier, much more than your other half. even though you worry an abnormal amount, lando knew how to keep a level head and even learned how to talk some sense into your more sillier worries. this one wasn't one of those though.

you were due to start your brand new college course and god if you hadn't gone through every single situation that could go wrong in your mind about a million times until you had made yourself mentally sick. lando, obviously, noticed this and took you out for a day of buying new clothes and supplies that you would need for your course. bless his heart for trying to distract your horrible mind.

"what about here? does this do cute clothes? i liked that outfit they had at the window." lando mentions as he gestures to some store you had never set foot in before.

"not sure." is all you reply with. lando's not quite sure exacly where you are in your mind but he knows your travelling down that horrible, panicking road quite quickly and he needs to find a way to get your mind off of it and onto something else.

unfortunately, he isn't quick enough and you're halfway to a panic attack and right in the middle of the shopping square is the last place you want to have it. lando's thumb is swiping across your hand trying to ground you but it's not enough, you can feel the heavy pressing on your chest, like cement is filling it up.

lando can always tell when you're about to go into a panic attack. you either get quite and shut him out, trying to push him away (for some reason unbeknown to him) or you get mean and say a lot of stuff that you don't meant at all and regret almost as soon as you say it. this time you were quiet so lando tries to lead you somewhere less busy, wanting you away from everyone's eyes.

almost as soon as you're alone your breathing picks up and you just let yourself panic. you sink to the floor as you heave in breaths but lando is quick to follow you down to hold your hands and try and will you back to him.

"hey, c'mon now love. you know what to do. give me five things you can see." lando says, voice all warm and syrupy. it makes your insides melt and weirdly makes you feel better already.

although this way is a lot less demanding and raises a lot less eyebrows it's one you appreciate a ton, maybe even more than the others. it made you feel seen, like he actually knew you and wanted to help you even when you were at your most vulnerable and needed a helping hand into getting back to your normal, bubbly self again.

5. he distracts you without even knowing (he knows)

it's been said by many people many different times throughout the course of yours and lando's realtionship that you both know each other inside and out. it's so easy for people, like his fans who only get a glimpse into your time spent together, to see that you know each other like the back of your hand.

there is one specific moment that goes very viral on tiktok that you have to admit, anytime one comes up on your for you page you give save it to your favourites to watch during those times when you miss lando just a little more than usual.

lando can tell when your mind isn't one hundred per cent focused on something, just like you can tell when he is letting his mind wander to what film he was going to force you to watch later on that evening. the tiktok that had went viral was a prime example of this. lando's best friend, max had went live at the flat you and lando shared. you were supposed to be studying for an assignment you had to complete at the end of the week but instead both boys had ended up distracting you from your studies. it didn't bother you at all, or else you wouldn't have sat in the same room as them. okay maybe you would've but it wasn't your fault you were obsessed with your boyfriend.

max was answering some of the questions that were popping up in the chat as lando sat alongside him, chiming in whenever he felt it necessary. his eyes were focused more on you and what you weren't doing. you could tell by the stern look in his eyes that he was trying to tell you to get back to studying or else he would kick you out of the room so you would actually work, and you didn't want that so you put your head back down and try to focus.

it doesn't last longer than five minutes because max is then making a funny joke about the amount of times lando had tried to fix his toaster and failed and it kept you fairly distracted, much to lando's chagrin.

a few more stern looks were thrown your way and every time you focus back on your work, only to get distracted again minutes later. lando had never seen you so easily distracted before, it was actually quite amusing if he wasn't so bothered about you actually studying so you could pass the class and the assignment.

the next time lando sends you a look over the camera you aren't even watching him, eyes pretending to read whatever was on your own computer as you smile and try to hold a laugh in at whatever max was saying. this pissed lando off to an extreme he knew he shouldn't be at. he was just worried for you, you had told him the night before about how tonight was the only night you could pack this much studying in. he knew he shouldn't have let max stream here tonight. he knew his friend would serve as a great distraction from something you didn't even want to do in the first place.

once max quietens to read the stream you hear three firm taps on the table and although you have never heard anything of the sort before in your life, you just know it's lando telling you silently to get on with your work without saying it in front of the stream and making you both look bad. you wanted to keep some parts of your relationship out of the limelight and this one was one of them.

you shuffle around in your college bag and find your headphones, slipping them on to let yourself fully concentrate. the sight pleases lando and not just because you picked up on his silent gesture and actually listened to him but because you were doing what you said you had to get done today. lando was a firm believer in setting small goals, like studying for an hour, and achieving them. you knew for a fact that once max left, lando would be showering you with praise and kisses.

+1 you tell him what to do

you knew the dynamic in the relationship and you were not big on change at all nor were your instincts anything like your boyfriends. you always wanted to listen and never tell others what to do. you used to do that and you were called bossy, so you vowed never again.

you were quite happy with lando and how your relationship was but there was some times where you had to put a foot down and actually make a decision because this was something that lando maybe had no clue about.

you had just gotten home from what seemed like one of the most gruelling shifts at work and all you wanted was to come home and crash in lando's arms. all the way home your brain kept repeating, thank fuck it's friday and i don't have to anything tomorrow.

once you finally arrive home, it feels like entering the gates of heaven. that is until you notice that lando isn't in any of his usual places when you return home and instead is in front of your vanity mirror, applying some moisturiser on his face. he only does that when he's going out. the thought of him leaving right now makes you want to flip out but instead you keep calm and enter the room.

"hi, love." lando greets as soon as you slump into the room and trape towards him. you quite easily fall into his embrace. it's then that you notice he's wearing his going out clothes and that he was almost definitely going to be leaving you tonight. you nearly tear up just thinking about laying alone in your bed tonight because were you fuck in the mood for joining him tonight, not after the shift you just had.

you mumble back something you're sure can be considered a greeting and you rest your head in the crook of his neck. lando's arms move around your back as he hums all soft and gentle like. it's almost like he's trying to lull you to sleep while you're standing with him. you also catch a whiff of his aftershave and it makes you want to cry, he smells so good and exactly like how lando is supposed to smell. you need him to stay with you tonight.

"you goin' out?" you mumble once more, it's a miracle he can even hear you, but he does as he responds just as nicely as he did before. it almost makes you forget that he is planning on leaving you.

"yeah, it won't be a late one." he tells you.

you don't respond just let yourself rest in his embrace and cling on tighter every time he tries to pull away, telling you that he's going to be late if he doesn't leave right now. as if you actually cared. once it gets to the point where lando is desperately trying to get you off of him, that's when you finally speak up.

"you're not leaving me tonight. i need you here." you don't ask, you demand it. if he left you right now you were so sure that you would cry so hard and not stop until he came home. you were also in no state of mind or just state in general to be taking care or a drunk or even a tipsy lando. as much as you loved that version of your boyfriend, all you wanted tonight was to fall asleep in his arms to some dumb film that was on comedy central.

"i'm not?" lando questions, amused. before he can even say anything more your hands are gripping him harder and in turn that pulls him closer to you.

as it turns out lando isn't too keen on leaving tonight either and you both end up ordering a takeout and getting some snacks to have a cute night in with one another. it was exactly what you needed after this hell of a week. you didn't think you were even being demanding but lando always joked that this night was the most demanding he had ever seen you and he knew for a fact he loved it and wanted to see more of it. one thing lando loved more than anything was learning knew things about you.

[revasserium]

Hey, can I request zoro x reader (established relationship) where the Strawhats end up going to reader’s home island (unknown to anyone in the group aside from reader), and the reader is super nervous and refuses to leave the boat, so the crew goes out and walk around and they find a missing/wanted poster of the reader and find out she’s a run away princess that needed to be. Later they coke to find out that reader ran away cause her parents and the servants mistreated and was about to marry her off to a violent prince

opla requests are: open

lips on every cross

opla!zoro; 5,989 words; fem!reader, semi-established?? relationship, posessive!zoro, strawhat!reader, no "y/n", reader gets kidnapped, fluff and angst, very brief! mentions of past familial abuse and trauma, nicknames ("Princess"), slow-ish burn???, more plot than not

summary: zoro has never thought himself a holy man. but he'd kiss every cross if it meant finding his way back to you.

a/n: idk why every opla fic i write is like... more plot than i bargained for but here we are. literally, this fic was just supposed to be "zoro calls the reader 'princess'".

01. when love arrives

(“Hey Princess —“)

The nickname starts, as almost all things do on the Going Merry, as a joke. And, as with most jokes made amongst the rag-tag crew, it sticks. He’d said it because he’s sure you’d mentioned your name once or twice already, but he’d been napping or eating and he didn’t feel like looking like an asshole right that moment.

The ribbon in your hair had caught the light in just the right way, pale pink satin — such a strange, soft color amidst the careening, careless ocean, and the word just… slipped.

“Why’dyou call her that?” Luffy asks, lounging back against the main mast as Zoro works through the umpteenth rep of single-armed pushups.

Zoro puffs out a breath and switches arms.

“Dunno. Seemed like it fit.”

Luffy slates you a long glance, blinking owlishly.

“Really? Eh — I guess… well, she is really pretty.”

Zoro only grunts, jumping up and stretching both arms over his head with a long, steady breath. His eyes flicker towards you as well, laughing with Nami on the foredeck, sipping on cocktails, Sanji probably simping somewhere nearby.

He thinks back to where they’d found you, hood pulled low over your eyes, the tell-tale signs of distress carved into every line of your body, from the curve of your spine to the bend of your shoulders.

Luffy hadn’t asked questions, so Zoro hadn’t either.

Curiosity, the fatal flaw that runs so sharp and obvious through the entirety of Luffy’s being, hasn’t always been rewarded well in Zoro’s experience. And he’s learned by now that “truth will out”, or so they say.

(“C’mon, Princess, I thought you said you could drink.”)

Caution, on the other hand, is Zoro’s oldest friend. You are cautious, if nothing else, and the first time he sees you relax in his presence, he wonders to himself if there’s a drug in this world strong enough to induce this feeling.

Later, he would learn that this is simply called falling in love.

He isn’t the only one who notices how you casually dip a silver fork or knife into every single drink before you take a sip, or that sometimes, you blurt out the word “no’ like a promise to yourself, and “sorry” like a plea for help.

And he’s spent long enough being a hunter to know what being hunted looks like. So he doesn’t ask, and you don’t answer, and somehow, you still manage to make yourself a home in the dark caverns of his chest, curling up there till he can’t count his heartbeats without it sounding like the shadow of your name on the midnight wind.

02. a study of light and dark

The drinking game starts off innocently enough (and don’t they always), but it takes half a round for the questions and subsequent answers to devolve into loud laughter and debauchery, delirium and debasement.

“Alright, alright —“ Sanji holds up a hand, tossing back his shot to raucous cheers, “worst thing you’ve done in a closet. Go —“

Zoro rolls his eyes and takes the shot, foregoing his answer. Nami simply grins, catlike, swirling her own drink around her glass.

“In your wildest dreams, cook,” she says before taking her shot as well. Sanji lets out a contemplative whistle, followed by a good-natured wink.

“Define worst, cause… I mean, I’ve puked in like… most of them back in Syrup Village,” Usopp says. Sanji only chuckles, shrugging.

“We’ll take it, we’ll take it.”

Luffy hums, frowning for a second before smacking a fist into his open palm, grinning, “I took a nap!”

Everyone laughs, helpless and buoyed up by the casual effervescence of a night like this — when the moon is dark and the stars are bright and thin wisps of silver clouds mar the sky like tendrils of lost daydreams, caught on the wrong side of sunset.

When the laughter settles down, everyone turns to you.

You purse your lips, feeling the weight of your answer pressing down on the tip of your tongue — I hid. And I waited. And I tried not to listen.

As the silence stretches on, Zoro leans forward and uncrosses his arms, reaching out to nudge a full shot glass towards you.

“Times up, Princess — drink,” and though there’s nothing soft or even forgiving in his voice, but you feel yourself relax as everyone boos and you take your shot.

The heat of Zoro’s gaze only lingers on your skin for a moment longer before he leans back again, that familiar almost-grin tugging lazily at his lips as he turns half-lidded eyes towards the rest of his crew.

(“Talk to me, Princess.”)

When you find him later, fumbling in the dark of the hallway just outside his room, you kiss him without saying “thank you” and he doesn’t question it when, pressed beneath him on the rough linen of his sheets, you ask to keep the lights on.

03. etymology

Princess — it’s a nice word, Zoro muses to himself. The light pop of the ‘p’ rolling into the warm, round ‘r’, thinning out into the sensual layering of the double ‘s’s, till you’re left with nothing but a hiss, a shadow, a memory.

It’s a regal word; a pretty word. Though its origins might be anything but.

From the Latin primus “first” and cept “catcher”, or so Robin had told him over the pages of an ancient book he hadn’t bothered to ask the name of, because Princes and Kings have always obtained their powers through taking, and never asking. Reaping, and never sowing.

Zoro thinks then that this, too, is a form conquest — you over him. The totality of your power stunning to behold, if only because he has to let you take it in the first place. And he does so willingly.

He wonders if you, too, are as multifaceted as his nickname for you — delicacy and desire wrapped around a darker something, lace laid over a knife’s unforgiving edge.

The first time he dares to kiss you, he feels you kissing him back, the sharp canines of your teeth catching on his lower lip, drawing out a soft grunt from him. You’d paused, and then you’d bitten down harder just to hear him gasp into your mouth.

He knew then, without ever having to ask, that you are.

04. tip of the iceberg

It is winter when they arrive — but then again, it is always winter here. Here, the cold runs so deep it drives frost crystals into the marrow of your bones. Here, the wind howls like a wounded animal and the night falls with a savage, carnal vengeance, all black velvet and a blood-tinted moon.

Here, the snow storms turn living, breathing heroes into song lyrics and poetry rhymes.

You inhale a single breath before turning and heading back below deck.

Zoro frowns, and at a single look from Luffy, he follows you beneath, only to find you rummaging around the kitchen, tugging a bottle of moonshine out from under the sink.

“Whoa,” Zoro says, reaching out to stop you from uncorking the bottle, an eyebrow raised. He doesn’t miss the way you shiver, “bit early, isn’t it?”

“Bit rich, coming from you,” you snap, eyes sharp, voice stinging.

Zoro only cocks his other eyebrow in tandem and pulls the bottle from your hands before turning and grabbing two glasses from the cupboard. He takes his time filling them both with ice, and then pouring a finger into each glass.

You don’t meet his eyes as you reach out for your glass, but he catches your wrist.

“A drink for an answer,” he says.

You pause, your lips pressed into a thin, white line. And he knows it’s unfair, to turn this game around on you, because he can tell from the hard set of your shoulders that this is so much more than a drinking game but if this is what it takes to get the truth — then so be it.

“Fine,” you say, glancing away, voice clipped.

You move to take a sip, but Zoro pushes down your hand again.

“No lying.”

You scoff, narrowing your eyes, “Obviously.”

He eases off, picking up his own glass and clinking it against yours before taking a light swig, “You know this place.”

This time, you’re the one who turns around with a cocked brow.

“Got a question in there somewhere?”

Zoro’s lips twitch, “Yes, or no.”

You sigh, tapping a finger against the edge of your cup, “Yes.”

Zoro hums, “Your turn.”

You chew on your lips before taking a sip, “Why do you care so much?”

Zoro ticks his tongue against his teeth, “Stupid question. Next.”

You huff, “That’s not how this game goes.”

Zoro swirls his glass before setting it down on the counter with a loud clack, “Because I care about you.”

You pause with your own drink halfway to your mouth and look up. Zoro doesn’t shy away from meeting your gaze and for a moment, time statics to a halt around you.

Then, Zoro sighs, unclenching his jaw as he attempts a lopsided smile.

“Hey, talk to me,” he reaches out to trail a finger along the high of your cheekbones, up to the shell of your ear.

The ‘please’ hangs silent in the air between you; the ‘Princess’ is implied.

And for the first time, he thinks he sees you flinch. He makes to pull back but you tug his hand forward, pressing your cheek against his palm.

“This island,” you say, finally, the tremor in your voice like a hairline fracture snaking through a porcelain vase, “it’s… well, it used to be… my home.”

05. the secret history

It is the most beautiful place any of them have ever been.

The castle is made entirely of ice, the cold winter sun refracting the light into a million and one unseen colors. Giant ice-carved sculptures dot the crystal-flower gardens, and it takes them all a few minutes to realize that the gorgeous, delicate blooms are made of glass, blown and shaped to mirror real-life snowflakes — each unique, glittering, and eternal.

“Dude… how long do you think all this took to make?” Usopp asks, his head turning as if on a swivel, his jaw hinging off his face in awe.

Robin sighs, “Too long, perhaps.”

Zoro stays quiet, and beside him, so does Nami.

You’d insisted on staying back, to guard the ship, you’d said. But the space you usually fill in the group hangs solid in the air, a gaping hole of lack when there should be none.

Luffy hums and he marches out in front of them, ever the dubious, fearless leader. Though most of the crew has now come to terms with the fact that “courage” and “sheer bull-headedness” are often two sides of the same coin for him.

It’s Sanji who pauses first, causing Chopper to ram into the back of his knees.

“Ouch! What’dyou do that f —”

“Look,” Sanji says, pointing at a poster pasted to the slick outer wall of the castle gates.

And they do, leaning in, crowding too close. Zoro grunts as Chopper jumps and scrambles up his back to peer over his shoulder at the face plastered on the dew-soaked poster, the words LOST PRINCESS: 120,000,000 FOR ANY INFORMATION THAT LEADS TO HER WHEREABOUTS printed in giant, familiar block letters along the bottom.

Beside him, Zoro can feel Nami swallowing. Hard.

“A hundred and twenty million berry…” she murmurs, her breath going shallow as they all stare, dumbfounded at the poster of what is unmistakably you.

You, with your exquisite features schooled into something like solemnity, your usually wind-swept hair twisted up into a tight braid across the crown of your head, a diadem of ice-white silver and light-cut jewels jutting up from your severe updo like so many broken teeth, sharp and unforgiving as stalagmites.

If none of them had known, it’d be impossible to reconcile you with this cold, distant portrait, your eyes rendered lifeless and dull by the depthless black ink.

Luffy, however, only blinks and turns to stare at Zoro.

“Did you know?”

“What?”

Luffy continues to stare, “When I asked why you always call her ‘Princess’.”

Zoro sighs, turning his eyes back to the WANTED poster before shaking his head.

“No. Like I said… I thought it just… fit.”

06. eternal day

Zoro is itching to get back to the ship. There’s a fish-line sliver of worry tugging at the place behind his chest where his heart should be, and he knows implicitly that something is wrong.

“Don’t worry, she can take care of herself!” Luffy says, smiling bright, his confidence unwavering.

“No Luffy, Zoro’s right — someone should be with her. What if —” and here, Nami glances at Zoro before turning her attention back to Luffy, “— she might need the backup,” is what she finally settles with. And to Zoro’s great relief, Luffy agrees.

And then, to everyone’s horror, off in the distance, your voice rises over the wind in a blood-curdling scream.

07. endless night

By the time Zoro makes it back to the ship, you are already gone.

08. torn asunder

Gone, gone, gone. The word echoes like an ill-fated alarm bell, ringing through Zoro’s entire body as he catapults himself through the ship, slamming open every door, checking every nook, corner, and crevice. Signs of a struggle, that much is clear, scuffs on the freshly waxed planks of the aft deck, nail marks along the railings, and —

Zoro’s breath freezes in his chest.

A smear of blood that drips over the side of the ship, trailing down the ladder.

A flash of pale pink catches his eye.

Your satin hair ribbon lies abandoned on the wharfs’ boardwalk, the faintest splatter of red soaking its ends.

He picks it up between gentle fingers and tucks it deep into his pocket.

His vision blurs red as he thinks about the things your captors might’ve done to you before dragging you off. He’s seen you fight and it wouldn’t have been easy to bring you down.

And by the time the rest of the crew reach him, he’s already sprinting back towards the castle, his jaw set, his teeth gritted.

It takes the combined effort of Sanji, Luffy, and Robin to stop him from charging through the castle gates and tearing the whole place down.

“Runnin’ round like a headless chicken’s not gonna do her any good, mate,” Sanji says, a smoke already caught between his teeth. A pre-fight ritual of his.

Zoro jerks his arm out of Sanji’s grasp, stalking down the street with a huff.

Robin strolls after him, somehow keeping pace, looking unhurried as Zoro tamps down the blind urge to slash the entire island in half.

“We’ll find her,” Robin says, her voice level, even as her sharp eyes scan the white-specked horizon, the usually amused half-twist of her lips laid flat by worry, “and she’s stronger than you think.”

At this, Zoro whips around, “I know —” but he bites down the venom threatening to surge up the back of his throat with a sigh. Robin doesn’t flinch, and Zoro attempts a steadying breath before repeating himself in a slightly softer tone, “I know… I’m just…”

Robin nods, and Zoro is thankful that he doesn’t have to finish his sentence.

09. the tower and the throne

The cold greets you like a scorned lover— a spiteful, savage mistress. Tendrils of frost creep along the walls of your old bedroom to caress your cheeks. You shiver and wrap your arms around yourself, sitting on familiar satin sheets.

“Dinner is soon, darling,” your mother’s cool voice calls from outside your bedroom door, “and make yourself presentable — we’ve got guests.”

The sadistic lilt of her voice as she says the word ‘guests’ makes you jerk your head up, staring at the door as if you might be able to bore through the thick wood with nothing but your eyes. And, almost as if she can feel you staring, you hear your mother’s cold, tinkling laughter.

“Hurry now… I had your favorite dress put out for you. It should still fit — and we don’t want to keep them… waiting.”

The slow, sanguine pause before her last word makes you want to rip out your hair and scream into the wind till your voice gives out.

Instead, you push yourself up and reach for the dress laid out at the foot of your bed with shaking fingers.

The dress fits you like a second skin, the delicate lace trim barely sweeping the floor as you adjust the bodice, grimacing at your reflection in the large, floor-length mirror. It is as if the last ten months had never happened, as if you’d never escaped this terrifying hellscape of a winter wonderland. As if you’d simply dreamed every single sun-filled afternoon, every star-strewn night spent laughing and singing amongst your new-found crew.

Here, in the fragile glass reflection, you are once again a girl trapped behind her own ribcage, with a destiny carved into stone and ice, with no hope of summer in sight. You take a long breath and tighten the ribbons of your dress.

You are still and silent as the maid slips in through the door after a single knock and begins to twist up your hair. Tighter and tighter, till it sets your teeth on edge. When she pins the crown in place, it takes everything inside you not to fall apart, to shatter at the weight, the sight of it sitting on your head. You swallow as the maid dips her head and backs out of the room with a murmured dinner is served, Princess.

For the first time, you wince openly at her words.

10. waiting for the rain

The hall is just how you remembered it, huge and cavernous, gaping like the empty maw of some petrified monster, the ceiling hanging with so many cold, sparkling chandeliers, ice-carved statues jutting up from the floors like teeth.

You’re marched in like a show animal, the great marble doors swinging open before you as you step forward and feel your breath freeze in your chest.

There, strung up on a massive statue of some long-forgotten saint, is Zoro, cuts and bruises marring his already scarred and puckered torso. But he smirks as he sees you come in, his eyes bright as he spits a mouthful of blood onto the seemingly endless white floors. Around him, the rest of your crew sits, tied and slumped over in chairs like so many sleeping mannequins.

“Hey there, Princess. Just in time for dinner.”

You nearly wince at the raspiness in his voice, the faint trickle of blood that leaks out the corner of his mouth.

“Silence,” your father’s voice echoes out from the high-backed chair at the head of the ludicrously long table. You don’t have to see to know his face is as smooth as just-applied plaster. But Zoro only has eyes for you — and he continues to talk as if he hadn’t been interrupted.

“If you’d told us we’d be welcomed like this, we might’ve packed differently.”

You bite down on your bottom lip so hard you almost taste the metallic tang of blood.

“Our daughter has always been a skillful liar — though it’s a habit we tried to… rid her of in her youth. The lesson never seemed to have stuck.” Your mother this time. And now, you can see the muscle ticking in Zoro’s jaw as he scoffs.

“Really? And here I always thought she was shit at lying.”

You swallow down a whimper as the maid wordlessly leads you to the far end of the table, where Zoro is still tied. You drop into the seat between a snoring Luffy and an eerily still Nami, and it’s all you can do not to turn around and retch onto the silk embroidered rug.

“Be that as it may…” your mother’s voice drops a few degrees — an admirable feat, as her voice is usually just on the other side of frigid, “it’s bad luck to kill on the eve of a royal wedding.”

At this, Zoro’s head snaps around and you shrink back in your chair, your eyes fixed on your fists, clenched in your lap.

“Mother,” you grind out, finally forcing your head up so as to meet her piercing, blizzard-bright gaze, “I’ve told you, I’ve no intention of getting married. At least not to the mongrel you’ve decided to set me up with.”

You spit out the last sentence, trying to remember all the snark, all the confidence that’d built up inside you over the past weeks and months. Away from this dreaded castle and on the sun-soaked bow of the Going Merry, it was the first time you’d begun to discover who you are — the things you liked, the ways of life that you yearned for.

Your father slams a hand on the table at the same moment that Zoro lets out a bark of laughter.

“Insolence!”

“Damn, Princess — you never told me you could bite.”

And, to your horror and perhaps deep-seated pleasure, a blush works its way into your cheeks at Zoro’s words. Your eyes snap towards him, catching his gaze as he smirks at you. And even though his shirt is slashed, his sword hilts hanging woefully empty at this hip, his hands twisted painfully behind him on the statue, he still manages an easy, condescending air.

You seize at this tiny tendril of normalcy as you force a wane smile.

“I might be persuaded to do more than that… if you ask nicely.”

Zoro’s snicker is drowned out by your mother’s sharp gasp. But you don’t look away, holding Zoro’s gaze for as long as you dare — in it, you find an entire abyss of barely concealed rage (and is that… amusement?), his entire body straining against the shackles that hold him. Then, his eyes slip from you to a point just over your shoulder.

It’s then that you realize: Luffy’s not snoring anymore.

11. to reap and to sow

You’re never quite certain of how the Merry’s crew seems to always just wriggle out of frankly gruesome and untimely deaths, but here you are, racing for the docks like your lives depended on it. Because, well, it kind of does.

“Remind me —” you shout between pants, one hand clutched firmly in Zoro’s, the other doing its best to lift the ridiculous dinner dress they’d put you in — a confection of lace and tulle, the bodice laced with pale pink satin ribbon, “how the hell did you guys manage to trick my parents into thinking you’d eaten the spiked food?”

Sanji flashes you a toothy grin, “Ah love… you know how it is — ask us no questions, and we’ll tell you no lies!”

Luffy, however, whoops as he launches himself from a pair of solid brick buildings, catapulting himself over your sprinting crew.

“We just — pretended to eat! I mean — I did kinda actually eat a bit — but — it wasn’t that bad!”

You resist the urge to pinch your nose bridge at the nonchalance with which Luffy is talking about consuming poisoned food, but you’ve only got two hands and both are equally occupied at the moment. You settle for an exasperated sigh.

“That was — really stupid! — What if — they’d — poisoned the food — with something — other than — sleeping medicine?!” you ask, forcing air into your lungs as finally, you all round the bend onto the bustling pier, the Going Merry’s unmistakable shape silhouetted against the misty horizon.

“We can talk when — we’re all back — on the ship!” Nami calls as she sprints passed you, reaching out a hand for Luffy, who’s elongated arm grabs her and slings her onto the deck of the ship. You barely have a second to breathe before Zoro’s arm loops around your waist and you’re being pulled tight into his side.

His breath is hot against your collarbone as he smirks, “Hold on tight, Princess.”

It’s all you can do to listen as you’re suddenly whipped through the air like a doll on a drunken marionette’s string. A bright peal of Luffy-tinted laughter later, you thud onto the deck of the Going Merry, the breath knocked clean from your lungs as the world spins and spins. You’d expected to hit solid wood, or maybe even the railing or the mast but —

Zoro groans beneath you, and it takes you a long second to realize that he’d cushioned your fall, your bodies pressed chest to chest, hip to hip, your arms still wrapped around his shoulders, his still steady around your waist.

“O-oh! Sorry —” you try to pull away but Zoro’s grip on you only tightens.

You freeze as he blinks up at you, eyes slightly narrowed.

“Crown’s crooked,” Zoro finally says, that tell-tale smirk twisting the edge of his lips as his gaze flickers upwards. Your hand jumps to the crown, somehow still clipped into your now disheveled hair, lopping to one side as the braids start to come loose. You purse your lips.

“I never liked it anyway…” You make to tug it out but Zoro reaches up to right it, though he lets his hand linger as he falls along the side of your face.

“Nah, looks good on you.” His voice is so low, and suddenly, air is such a language that you’re certain you’d forgotten how to speak. Slowly, he pushes up till you’re both sitting, you still pressed against him and him still pressed against you. Distantly, you can hear shouting, Usopp’s voice raised high over the wind as the Merry careens out of port and towards the open sea.

But strangely, no one makes to pull you away from him, or him from you.

“I should’ve told you guys…” you say, eyes casting down as you rest your palms against his chest. Beneath it, you can feel his heart — pounding, pounding, pounding. There’s a light sheen of sweat glimmering on his honeyed skin as you swallow, looking back up even as he chuckles.

“Sure, but we should’ve asked.”

You bite your lips, “I think you did.”

Zoro grins, shrugging as he helps you up, somehow managing to keep his arm slipped around your waist.

“Well. Should’ve asked better, then.”

12. lost stars

It takes you a while to tell them the story — the real story, the whole story. And there’s drinking involved, but it’s mostly just you clutching at your half-filled glass, Zoro’s knee pressed comfortingly against yours, even though his eyes are closed, his head leaned back, his arms crossed loosely over his chest.

You tell them about the dark underbelly of royalty that everyone knows but no one wants to talk about — the blood and teeth beneath the silk and silver. You tell them about being raised a bargaining chip, of being sold and promised like a prized heifer on auction day.

You tell them about the moonless nights when the only thing you had to keep you company was the cold, about the “lessons” your mother would teach you, about how the maids would be instructed to hide the bruises just so, about the Prince who you were set to marry and the rumors that plagued his castle —

“They say that he’d take the prettiest girls from the surrounding town as his maids and that none of them ever walked out of his castle again,” you say. The moonshine burns on its way down your throat as you finish your drink.

Wordlessly, Zoro reaches over to pluck the glass from your hand and set it on the table. It’s only then that you realize your fingers are white and trembling.

“Did he hurt you?”

Zoro’s voice is not loud, but everyone turns to look at him. You shake your head, clasping your hands in your lap.

“No. I only ever… met him once, at a dinner party. It was after that that I… ran away.”

Zoro hums, leaning back again, “Good.”

Across the room, Sanji blows out a series of smoke rings and frowns.

“Were you about to offer to hunt him down?” Robin asks, sounding amused.

Zoro shrugs, “Wouldn’t have offered — would’ve just done it.”

“He sounds like the kinda guy we should hunt down anyway, no?” Luffy asks, cocking his head as he looks back at you, “I mean, I’m glad he never hurt you but… he’s still hurting people!”

“Luffy’s got a point,” Sanji says, stubbing out his cigarette.

“For once, I agree with Sanji,” Nami says.

There’s a light squabble during which Sanji makes an aggrieved noise and Nami rolls her eyes, and then everyone is laughing and chatting and more drinks are being poured. Next to you, Zoro reaches out to wrap his arm around your waist again. It’s something he’s been doing more lately, and you can’t honestly say that you mind it much at all.

“We don’t have to,” he says, leaning forward, almost as if to brush his lips by your ear, “if… if you don’t want to.”

You shiver at the base rumble of his voice, at the way his eyes are so warm and full of some uncertain promise.

“No, I… I do want to. It’s just…”

Zoro’s fingers trace small, absent-minded circles into the skin of your waist and you fight down another shiver.

“I don’t plan on letting you get kidnapped again, Princess.”

Your gaze snaps up to meet Zoro’s, and there’s a faint smile kissing the line of his lips. And suddenly, the lightness of his touch doesn’t feel so thoughtless as heat curls out from the place where his palm meets your skin, radiating out till you’re breathless with it.

“Oh?”

“Never liked people trying to take what’s mine.”

And the dark possessiveness with which he says mine leaves little room for interpretation, even as you lick your lips and try to think of something witty to say.

“I don’t remember agreeing to be yours.”

It’s the best you can come up with; Zoro’s only response is a soft, contemplative grunt.

“What’s that saying? ‘Actions speak louder than words’?” he flashes you a satisfied grin as you narrow your eyes at him, swatting at his chest as he laughs.

“I meant it though,” he says, a moment later, as the rest of the crew all chatter around you, “about calling it off if you don’t want to. But…” he reaches up a free hand to tug a strand of your hair free from the ponytail it’s tied up in.

“Figured you might sleep better at night knowing he’s gone.”

You let out a breath you hadn’t been aware you were holding, your whole body softening as you lean into him, pressing your palms to his chest as he looks at you.

“Yeah… I think I might. And… like you said… it’s not like I’m gonna get kidnapped again.”

You smile, letting your eyes flicker down to Zoro’s lips. His smile is pleased and just a little jagged as he tugs you up by the hand and the pair of you slip from the room.

Above deck, the sun is setting, and the warm, slanted light casts the entire ship in a glaze of gold that looks almost gilded. You lean against the railings, closing your eyes and letting the warmth of the sun seep into your skin, chasing away the chill that’d been lingering at your fingertips since you’d all made your spectacular escape from your home island.

You feel rather than hear Zoro join you. You take your time breathing in the salty tang of the humid sea air before opening your eyes and slating him a side-long look.

“Thank you,” you say.

“For what?”

“For coming after me.”

Zoro scoffs, turning away from the roiling waves to lean back against the railings, his head cocked as he looks you over.

“Like I said… I don’t like it when people try to take what’s mine.”

But this time, you laugh, nodding, “So you’ve said. But still… thanks.”

“Hn.”

Zoro closes his eyes, seemingly enjoying the last vestiges of the setting sun as it sinks ever-lower along the horizon. Then, he opens one eye to peer at you.

“Though I’ve been meaning to ask —”

“Hm?”

“What’s this about doing more than biting… if asked about it nicely enough?”

You try to duck your head but Zoro catches your chin in his fingers.

“I — I just… knew it would piss off my mother if she —”

“Mm, sounded like more than that to me.”

Your breath hitches as Zoro’s thumb traces a rough line along your bottom lip.

“How about… I show you?” and the offer is barely out of your mouth before Zoro is kissing you, his mouth seeking out yours with a soft groan that betrays all the lightness in his touch as he trails his free hand down your arm to pull hard at your waist.

And it’s not the first time you’ve kissed. It’s not even the first time a kiss with Zoro has become more than just a kiss, though you’d always been careful before to make sure that he knew (though thinking back, it might’ve just been an ill-fated attempt at lying to yourself) that the pleasure shared between bodies was just that — pleasure and bodies.

But this — this kiss becomes, and becomes.

It becomes breath and heartbeats, pleasure and heat. It becomes truth and promises and the tantalizing taste of fairy-tale endings.

“Z-Zoro…”

“Yes Princess?”

You hiss as his teeth grazes along your pulse point and your fingers fist in his hair.

“Y’know…” your voice comes out as nothing more than a soft pant as Zoro tugs you over to one of the reclining chairs beneath the orange trees and pulls you over his hips, “I’ve never liked being called that but…”

“But?” his thumbs inch beneath the material of your shirt, circling your hipbones as he smirks up at you.

“I don’t mind it when it’s you.”

Zoro’s grin goes wide and wolfish. Above him, the first stars spark into being as the sun finally sinks beyond the far horizon. For a second, his smile softens as he reaches up to toy with the end of the pale pink ribbon in your hair. Then, he gives it a single, solid tug, and your hair falls open around your shoulders, tumbling down in waves.

Zoro leans up to press a light kiss to the blood-stained satin before letting it flutter off in the wind, twisting into the rapidly darkening night.

“Good… cause I ain’t about to let anyone else call you that either.”

[holyblonded]

Could we please get the moment when she debuts putellas on the back her usa jersey. Like alexia's reaction the team, the fans or commenters

— when alexia first sees estrella’s usa jersey with putellas on the back, she freezes for a moment, her brain short-circuiting

— her first thought is no way she actually did that

— her second thought is “this little menace is going to make me emotional in public.”

— estrella, of course, is acting completely casual about it, stretching like she doesn’t know alexia is staring a hole through her back

— “you like it?” estrella asks, grinning as she turns around, tugging at the jersey to make sure alexia can see the name clearly

— alexia blinks, then clears her throat, trying to compose herself, but the corners of her mouth are twitching like she’s fighting a smile

— “you’re ridiculous,” she mutters, but there’s no heat behind it

— the older players on the team are loving it. kelley nudges christen, laughing, while tobin just smirks knowingly

— “oh, she’s so your kid,” olga whispers to alexia, who just shakes her head but doesn’t deny it

— estrella, meanwhile, is soaking up the attention, acting like it’s no big deal but clearly proud of herself

— when she runs out onto the field, alexia watches with this soft, almost teary-eyed expression, arms crossed like she’s trying to keep it together

— later, she pulls estrella aside and ruffles her hair, which estrella groans about but secretly doesn’t mind

— “eres una mocosa (you’re a brat),” alexia says, shaking her head fondly

— “yeah, yeah,” estrella grins. “but i’m your mocosa.”

— alexia just sighs but she doesn’t argue.

— the barcelona girls absolutely loses it when estrella walks out with putellas on the back of her usa jersey

— the fans on social media go wild within minutes of estrella stepping onto the field

— “not estrella repping putellas on the back of her usa jersey. she’s truly loves alexia.”

— “she said alexia is her mother and she MEANT it.”

— “this is estrella’s world, alexia is just living in it.”

— barça fans, meanwhile, are either deeply emotional or absolutely cackling

— “our captain’s legacy is so strong she’s got usa players putting her name on their jerseys. unreal.”

— “so you’re telling me estrella is playing for the usa, but she still made sure everyone knows who raised her? iconic.”

— the commentators are trying to be professional but they find it so sweet

— “and there’s estrella, making her usa debut… with putellas on the back of her jersey. that is absolutely adorable.”

[grandline-fics]

Hi I'm so in love w your blog I love your writings 💙 n e ways I was wondering if you would write a small multiple character fic w luffy and zoro when you hide an injury💙 tyyy

DESCRIPTION: You hide an injury

WARNINGS:  light injury description but nothing bad

CHARACTERS: Zoro, Luffy

WORDS: 1,268

A/N: I'm so glad you like my writing and thank you for the request. I hope this was to your liking!

*REQUESTS ARE OPEN*

DIRECTORY | PROMPT LIST

————————

ZORO

He’d told you not to push yourself. He warned you the dangerous of training beyond your limits so soon after a battle. Zoro told you to listen to your body and like a fool you wanted to prove to him you were strong, that you could do it. You should have listened because when you made the next rep in your training you felt the pull in your back and the pain jolted through you to the point your eyes blurred with tears, the air was slammed out of your lungs. The weight dropped out of your hand loudly and you stumbled back to the window seat closest to you, shuddering out slow, shallow breaths as you tried to calm yourself from the initial shock. By the time the hatch opened and Zoro’s head appeared you’d managed to control your expression. “What happened?”

“N-nothing.” You insisted, still breathless that you hoped you could just pass off as tiredness from the training. “Was getting tired and the weight slipped. Just catching my breath.” Zoro watched you carefully as he entered the Crow’s Nest fully and approached you, his keen stare never moving from your face. You met his gaze as much as you could and tried to seem as relaxed as possible even though the pain was still spasming in your back. Yes, you’d endured harsher injuries in countless battles and you would recover from this without any issue. All you needed to do was take it slow and easy and rest. The only problem was managing to keep it hidden from Zoro to avoid him getting smug about you not listening to him.

“Looks like you’ve caught your breath, you going to start up again?” Zoro asked casually, jerking his head back towards the weight on the ground. “Seems like you weren’t finished.”

“Uhh I would continue but that’s a heavier weight than I’m used to. Better to quit while I’m ahead right? Last thing we need is an injury.” You forced out with a tight smile, stiffly getting to your feet and heading towards the hatch. It wasn’t until you were nearly there that you realised you’d have to stoop down to lift it open and make the climb down and you felt like crying or cursing. Just as you prepared to do what would bring you more pain, Zoro’s arm wrapped around your waist gently to keep you upright. “Wh-what are you doing?”

“Stopping you from hurting yourself anymore than you already have.” You tensed at that and let your eyes slide closed in slight annoyance that he already knew. Zoro had a talent of seeming laid-back and unobservant when really he was taking everything in, you hated that about him but also admired him for it. For now though your pride was wounded along with your back and you couldn’t help but pout when Zoro crouched down to open the hatch before lifting you gently but securely into his hold with one arm before using the other to carry you down the mast. 

When you were safely in your shared room you let out a groan when you lay on the bed. A sigh of relief followed when Zoro’s hand went straight to where the pain was at its worst, applying just the right amount of pressure and care to help your back. It got so good that you could feel yourself beginning to fall asleep but Zoro’s voice saying your name got your attention. Softly you let out a hum to show you were listening. “I told you so.”

LUFFY

You loved Luffy, you truly did. You loved how energetic and fierce he was, how he always had a smile and a laugh for nearly any situation. You loved how serious he got in a fight and how no one, no matter how much bigger they were or how important they were he still faced them head on if they did something to bring his fury on them. What you didn’t like was that sometimes that energy and that fightable spirit remained even when he was asleep. For the most part you managed to get used to it, jumping awake some nights when he let out a yell that he’d kick his dream opponents ass. Other times you’d wake to him bolting upright in the bed, his fist reeled back to throw a punch only for his body to flop back down against the mattress, his sleep undisturbed. 

One night however was one were Luffy’s dream fighting struck hard and more intense than you’d experienced before. When he bolted upright in the bed and yelled out you were tossed onto your back blinking wildly in the dark as you adjusted to being violently woken and trying to make out Luffy’s form. You waited patiently for him to start to make his attack and flop back onto the bed again but this time it didn’t play out the way it usually did. 

Over and over Luffy punched the air, sleepily grunting out attacks and insults. You knew not to wake anyone if they sleep-walked but you weren’t fully sure on those that sleep-fought. You gasped and managed to avoid Luffy’s arm whipping back, hitting the pillow where your head had been mere seconds ago. Cautiously you sat up in the bed and scrambled to think of something, anything to soothe him. Then you did the only thing you could think of.

“Luffy! You won!” You cheered out, loud enough to reach Luffy’s ears but not too loud to wake the others on the ship. You sighed in relief to see the broad grin stretch out across his face and with a sleepy laugh he threw himself backwards. You settled against the pillows and prepared to fall asleep again when Luffy let out a cheer, arms and legs kicking out in celebration. With your eyes closed you didn’t see it coming and you were hit hard with enough force to be knocked awkwardly and painfully onto the floor. On impact you felt your wrist spike with pain and you bit back the urge to cry out. Thankfully you hitting the floor didn’t wake Luffy and you were able to slip back into bed.

When morning came you woke first and were able to change into your clothes for the day, picking a shirt that hid your bruised wrist and forearm from view. You knew nothing was broken and it would heal, it just looked worse than what it was. If anything you were lucky that this was your only injury for facing Luffy. You were prepared to keep a low profile for the day but unexpectedly Luffy appeared behind you so fast and cheer out an excited good morning to you. With a startled yell you spun and put your hand on your chest, the action slipping your sleeve down just enough to show the beginning of the bruise. Luffy’s eyes widened and he reached out to take you hand. “What happened?!”

“Uhh…” You glanced at your hand in his hold and sighed. You couldn’t lie to him. “You pushed me out of bed, hit it on the floor. I’m fi-” You were cut off with a yelp when Luffy lifted you immediately. “Luffy! I’m fine, it’s a bruise.”

“No! You’re taking it easy if you’re injured!”

“It’s just my hand, I can still walk.”

“No! I’m your legs and arms today.” Luffy insisted before grinning at you when you laughed and shook your head in resignation. How could you argue with the Captain when he looked at you like that?

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

TAG LIST (If I've missed anyone or if you want to be added just let me know) @3v37773, @tsaaps , @i-am-all-love-puns-and-lazy , @sanemisnonexistenteyebrow , @fiery-captain-spider-santa @kabloswrld , @atanukileaf , @ane5e , @stuckinthewrongworld

[yeostinys]

My Dear Darling

Chapter 4

Pairing: Frat OT8!ATEEZ x Female Reader

Genre: Eventual Smut 18+, Fluff, Angst, Polyamorous Relationship!

Notes: NonIdol!AU, CollegeAU. Alcohol consumption, Explicit language. So so so much fluff. Lots of Wooyoung in this chapter. Polyamorous Relationship, (if you are not into that just pls ignore)

Word Count: 5.7k

Synopsis: The boys have a typical frat boy convo gushing over you. You spend the night and morning taking care of your lovely 8 boyfriends

previous >>> next chapter

———————————————————————

Wooyoung rubs his lips in a smirk as you hastily push him out of the bathroom. He could feel the curious gazes of a few partygoers looking him down the hallway, but he merely scoffed to himself, reveling in the triumphant thrill of the moment. As he made his way back to the basement area of the house, he smiled to himself at the memory of your sweet lips and the warmth of your breath lingering vividly in his mind.

He plopped down onto the plush leather couch, sinking into its softness, the smug expression firmly etched on his face. He could still picture your flustered expression—the way your cheeks flushed when he teased you. He licked his lips absentmindedly, adjusting himself on the couch and clearing his throat, trying to shake off the thoughts of you.

“Where’s Y/N?” Seonghwa’s voice broke through his reverie, an eyebrow arched in curiosity as he scrutinized Wooyoung.

“Ah, she ran into Jia upstairs,” Wooyoung replied with a casual wave of his hand, feigning indifference, even though his heart raced at the mere mention of your name.

“Wooyoung, why the fuck are you hard” Yeosang teases with a straight face, pointing at his pants. The boys quickly whip their heads in Wooyoung’s direction, and burst of laughter and scoffs fill the room. Wooyoung rolls his eyes in response and brings his hands down to shield himself, laughing at the sudden call out.

“Shut the fuck up, did you kiss her?!” Mingi whined, his voice a blend of excitement and disbelief. Wooyoung couldn't suppress the grin that spread across his face. He paused for a moment, letting the tension build before leaning back into the couch with a satisfied sigh.

“I didn’t only kiss her. We fucken made out in the bathroom,” he declared, a triumphant glint in his eye.

“Already?! Fuck- I really thought I was going to be the first one to make out with Y/N,” Yeosang pouted, crossing his arms as he leaned against the pool table, feigning annoyance.

Wooyoung lifted his chin, a proud smile playing on his lips as he brought his finger to his mouth in a mock gesture of contemplation.

“Hmm, hate to break it to you, Yeo. It was me.” He shrugged playfully, laughter bubbling forth, reveling in his victory.

“Actually, Woo,” The boys turned to see Yunho leaning casually against the wall, a cocky grin plastered on his face. “I hate to break it to you... I actually got a taste of Y/N’s lips yesterday on the kitchen counter. So technically, I got the first make out with her.”

“WHAT?!” The room erupted in disbelief, the boys exchanging wide-eyed glances filled with shock and an undercurrent of admiration. A wave of joy washed over them as they realized how you were slowly adjusting to their presence, embracing the warmth of their camaraderie and allowing yourself to engage in more physical closeness.

“I’m going to find Y/N,” Yeosang declared, a determined gleam in his eyes as he pushed himself off the table, eager to seek you out. But before he could make a dash for it, Hongjoong swiftly grabbed the back of his hoodie, yanking him back with an amused grin.

“Calm down, doberman. She’s with her friend right now,” he chided, the room bursting into laughter at the playful banter.

———

*Knock Knock*

“Y/N? It’s Jia! I’m back!” Her voice was muffled, but the urgency in her tone pierced through the bathroom door. You hurriedly opened it just a crack, your heart racing, and reached out for the sanitary pad she held out.

“Thank you, Jia. I’ll change and come right out,” you replied, trying to sound casual, but the flush on your cheeks betrayed you. You quickly closed the door, leaning against it for a moment to catch your breath. You ripped open the packaging and put on the pad, even though you most definitely didn’t need it.

As you turned to the mirror, a wave of embarrassment washed over you. Your eyes drifted to your neck, and your breath caught in your throat. There, vivid and undeniable, was a red flushed mark Wooyoung had left during your heated make out session.

(Fuck) You mentally cursed to yourself. You bring your hair forward to cover the mark, hoping it would be enough to hide the evidence of your private indiscretion. After a few moments of frantic adjustment, you took a deep breath and opened the bathroom door.

Jia was waiting just outside, her hands on her hips and a worried expression on her face. “Are you okay, Y/N?!” she asked, her eyes searching yours for any sign of distress. You smile at your best friend and nod, trying to project confidence despite the swirling chaos in your mind.

“Yeah, I’m fine!” you replied, perhaps a little too quickly.

“Okay! Well, wait for me!” Jia exclaimed, suddenly bursting with energy. She shuffled past you, making a beeline for the bathroom. “I need to take a serious piss! Then we’ll go take a shot together!”

You chuckled softly, grateful for her lightheartedness. As she settled in, you leaned against the doorframe, a mixture of excitement and anxiety coursing through you.

———

For the next thirty minutes, Jia is glued to your side in the chaotic house. The air is thick with laughter, chatter, and the unmistakable scent of spilled beer. The walls pulse with the heavy bass of music blaring from a speaker in the corner, shaking the very foundation of the house.

“Come on! Let’s dance!” Jia shouts, her voice cutting through the noise as she pulls you into the crowd. You can’t help but laugh at her infectious energy as she twirls, her hair flying around her like a wild halo. Her joy is palpable, and it’s hard not to get swept up in her enthusiasm.

You glance at the makeshift bar set up on the kitchen counter, where bottles of liquor stand at attention beside a punch bowl that looks suspiciously like it was mixed by someone who had already had too many. Jia has been passing you shot, after shot, even though you’re still accompanied by the mixed drink in your hand. You’ve been discreetly pouring the shots into the sink, careful not to let her catch on.

Amidst the chaos, you treasure this moment with her. She’s been your best friend for eight strong years, and the thought of hiding your relationship with ATZ from her feels like a betrayal. Maybe you should consider opening up to her about your relationship with ATZ… (I should still talk about it with the boys first before anything.) You thought to yourself. As Jia pulls you closer to the dance floor, you can’t help but admire how carefree she is, lost in the rhythm. You surrender to the chaos, letting the rhythm guide you. Jia spotted a familiar figure across the crowded room, her eyes lighting up as she caught sight of Wonho. A playful smile spread across her face, and without a moment's hesitation, she began to sway toward him, her movements fluid and carefree. She turned her head and flashed you a wide grin, a mischievous wink accompanying her expression and in an instant, he swept her away.

You couldn’t help but laugh, waving her off with a sense of warmth. The energy around you was electric, pulsating with the rhythm of the beat as you lost yourself in the music, swaying to the melody and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The lights flickered overhead, casting playful shadows that danced alongside you, each pulse of the bass urging you to let go and enjoy the moment.

Suddenly, you felt a strong arm slide around your waist, pulling you back against a warm, familiar presence. Panic flared for an instant as you whipped around, your heart racing, only to come face-to-face with the very same smug grin that had lingered in your mind since the bathroom encounter.

“Hey, pretty,” Wooyoung murmured, leaning closer, his grip tightening slightly on your waist, pulling you closer towards him. A sigh of relief escaped you, and you playfully swatted his shoulder, feigning annoyance.

“Fuck Woo, you scared me,” you said, half-laughing, half-exasperated. He chuckled, the sound low and inviting, and leaned in to whisper a quick,

“Sorry,” his breath warm against your ear. Without another word, Wooyoung began to move, his body swaying charismatically to the beat of the music that pulsed through the room. The rhythm enveloped you both, and as he held onto your waist, you felt a wave of confidence wash over you. Encouraged by his presence, you began to move against him, letting the music guide your movements, each sway and shift bringing you closer together in an intoxicating dance that felt both thrilling and electric. You don’t care about the unlikely stares people may be giving you two as you move with Wooyoung. Everyone around you is too intoxicated and infatuated with their own lives. Leaving you carefree. You notice at the corner of your eye, the rest of ATZ made their way towards you and Wooyoung on the dance floor. Their high energy filled the house as they all began to dance skillfully and taking their turns moving with you.

As the night deepened, the lively atmosphere of the gathering drew you and ATZ into the kitchen, where the scent of snacks mingled with laughter. Half of the boys were unmistakably intoxicated, swaying on their feet and erupting into fits of giggles over seemingly random thoughts. The air was thick with a sense of camaraderie and carefree joy.

“Alright, it’s time to head home,” Hongjoong declared, his voice a bit slurred but filled with authority. He and Seonghwa took charge, attempting to wrangle the more inebriated members of the group. You watched as they gathered the staggering figures, their laughter echoing against the kitchen walls, a chorus of drunken revelry.

Stepping out into the cool night air, you felt Wooyoung’s arm casually drape over your shoulders. He leaned in close, a grin plastered across his face, his eyes gleaming with mischief. You couldn’t help but giggle in return, warmth spreading across your cheeks.

“Are you drunk, baby?” Wooyoung teased, laughter bubbling in his voice. You shook your head vigorously, a smile dancing on your lips.

“No, I just had a really fun time with you guys,” you replied, the sincerity of your words shining through the playful banter.

The walk to the ATZ house was a mix of lighthearted laughter and nonsensical chatter from the intoxicated boys, their voices rising and falling like the gentle breeze that swept through the night. With each step, the cool air seemed to sober them slightly, but their spirits remained high, buoyed by the camaraderie of the evening.

When you finally reached the front door of the ATZ house, the sight was almost comical. Hongjoong and Seonghwa struggled to keep Yeosang and Mingi upright, their attempts drawing laughter from Jongho and Wooyoung, who were busy trying to prevent Yunho’s tall figure from tripping over his own feet. San wobbled behind you, giggling uncontrollably at the chaos unfolding in front of him, and you couldn’t help but smile at the endearing mess of it all. Suddenly, San brushed past you, his hand casually touching your waist with an exaggerated flourish.

“Sorry, Y/N-ie~” he slurred, his cheeks flushed and eyes sparkling with mischief. Your heart raced at his unexpected gesture, and a soft laugh escaped your lips. Clearly, he was quite drunk. As he stumbled forward, his shoulder caught against the doorframe, sending you into a fit of quiet laughter.

In a split second, you watched in mild panic as San teetered, about to lose his balance. Without thinking, you rushed forward to catch him, your hands gripping his arm just as his larger figure fell against you. The two of you tumbled back, hitting the near by wall. His body trapping you.

The dimly lit hallway felt impossibly narrow as you stumbled backward, your head colliding sharply with the unforgiving wall. A yelp escaped your lips, a reflexive reaction to the pain, but it was quickly overshadowed by the sudden, chaotic tumble of San crashing down on you.

“Y—Y/N! Are you okay!?” His voice, slurred and heavy with intoxication, broke through the haze. San’s hands instinctively cupped your cheeks, his gaze searching yours with a mix of concern and confusion. His touch was warm, and the worry etched on his face caught you off guard, causing your heart to flutter unexpectedly.

His fingers moved to the back of your head, gently patting your hair as he pouted. You couldn’t suppress a small smile, amusement bubbling up despite the awkward situation. But then, just as quickly, his expression shifted. The pout deepened, and a single tear spilled down his cheek, glistening in the dim light.

“Why am I always hurting you…” he murmured, his voice a soft tremor of sorrow. Your eyes widen at the sudden switch in his mood. Before you could respond, his head slumped onto your shoulder, burying his face into the crook of your neck. You gasp at his suddenly closeness.

“S—San?” you whispered, the surprise evident in your voice.

“I’m sorry…” he mumbled, his words muffled against your skin, a confession filled with remorse.

“Sannie… it’s okay… I’m okay,” you replied soothingly, your fingers gently threading through his soft hair. You stood there for a moment, contemplating your next move. San’s tall frame leaned heavily against you, restricting any attempt to shift.

As if the universe had decided to intervene, a familiar voice called out, cutting through the tension. “Y/N?” Wooyoung’s voice echoed down the hall.

“Over here…” you responded quietly, not wanting to disrupt the fragile moment. Wooyoung appeared at the edge of your vision, and you could see the corners of his mouth twitch as he struggled to contain a laugh at the sight of you two.

“Woo, please! I think he’s asleep,” you urged, waving him over urgently. “Hurry, he’s slipping!” You felt the panic rise as San’s body began to lean dangerously, and Wooyoung sprang into action, securing San’s arm over his shoulder.

“Alright, let’s go, Sannie,” Wooyoung whispered, a mix of amusement and determination in his voice as he began to navigate the staircase. You followed closely behind, unable to suppress a giggle at the absurdity of the situation.

“Holy shit, San, you muscled up so much. You’re fucken heavvvvyyyy!” Wooyoung whined, his grunts echoing as he heaved San upward, inch by inch.

“Urrrrggghhh—Y/N?” San groaned, stirring slightly as he registered the movement around him.

“I’m your bestie, Wooyoung,” Wooyoung shot back sarcastically, barely containing a laugh.

“Where’s Y/NNNNN~” San whined, his body starting to tilt away from Wooyoung’s grip. Your heart raced as you quickly moved to San’s side, wrapping an arm around his waist to steady him.

“I’m right here, San,” you said softly, offering reassurance as you held him close.

San tilted his head towards you, his flushed cheeks glowing even in the low light. His eyes, barely open, locked onto yours, and a small smile spreads across his face.

“Y/N~ I was looking for you~” he giggled, the sound pure and infectious.

You exchanged a glance with Wooyoung, both of you sharing a moment of disbelief before erupting into quiet laughter, the kind that echoed softly in the empty hallway, tinged with warmth and affection.

Finally reaching San’s room, you and Wooyoung maneuver carefully to lay him gently on the bed. The moment San’s body sinks into the mattress, both of you let out a collective sigh of relief, the tension of the night’s chaos starting to dissipate. Wooyoung adjusts San’s position, rolling him slightly onto his side, and then throws a blanket over him.

He glances around the small room, his eyes landing on the trash can in the corner. With a swift motion, he grabs it and places it right by San’s face, ensuring it’s within easy reach should he need it. You can’t help but smile at Wooyoung’s thoughtful gesture.

“Finally,” Wooyoung exhales, turning to you with a relieved smile that lights up his features.

“Let’s go,” he whispers, reaching for your hand. You clasp his fingers tightly as you both quietly slip out of the room, the hallway dimly lit and serene. As you step into the quiet corridor, Wooyoung’s voice breaks the stillness.

“Stay here tonight. It’s already getting late.” He takes your purse from your hand, which you’d been clutching onto since you’ve entered their house.

“It’s okay, I’ll just call an Uber,” you reply, already fishing your phone out of your pocket.

Wooyoung’s expression shifts in disbelief. “You must think I’m stupid if you think I’m going to allow that,” he hisses, snatching your phone from your grip before you can unlock it. You pout in response, your playful defiance only making him chuckle.

In a surprising moment, he leans in and plants a quick kiss on your lips. The unexpected warmth sends a jolt of happiness through you, and you gasp, smiling wide as you playfully swat his shoulder.

“Come on, I’ll take you to the spare room,” he says, intertwining his fingers with yours as he begins to lead you down the hallway.

“Can I… just stay in your room tonight?” you ask softly, halting in your tracks. Wooyoung stops and raises an eyebrow, a teasing glint in his eyes.

“Hm, someone’s feeling naughty?” he quips, reaching for your waist and effortlessly throwing you over his shoulder. You let out a quiet surprised yelp. Trying to contain your laughter bubbling up as you hang on.

He strides toward his room, the door swinging open before he quickly shuts it behind him, the sound echoing in the cozy space.

“Woo! I’m not trying to do anything yet!” you giggle, tapping his shoulder playfully to signal him to let you down. “I just didn’t want to be alone,” you add with a mock pout as he finally places you back on the floor.

“I know, I know. I’m just teasing, baby,” Wooyoung replies softly, his gaze lingering on you as he cups your face. For a moment, you both stand in silence, soaking in the peace that feels like a welcome reprieve after the night’s chaos.

Then, leaning in, he presses a warm kiss to your lips, and you feel a flutter of warmth spread through you. “I’ll bring you some face wipes and clothes to change into,” he whispers against your lips before stealing one last soft kiss and turning to leave.

You watch him go, feeling a rush of affection as the door clicks shut behind him, leaving you in the quiet comfort of his room. You stepped softly into Wooyoung's room, the air filled with the faint scent of his cologne. You made your way to his bed, sinking into the plush mattress that seemed to envelop you in warmth. Your gaze wandered around the space, taking in the carefully arranged yet slightly chaotic collection of items: clothes draped over a chair, shoes scattered on the floor, and a desk cluttered with notes and trinkets. Framed photographs adorned the walls and the nightstand, capturing joyful moments of him with his family. A smile tugged at your lips as you recognized the love radiating from those images.

A moment later, Wooyoung returned with a pack of face wipes and a cup of water. “Here you go,” he hands them to you and headed toward his closet. As you began to wipe away your makeup, you could hear the rustle of fabric and the soft clink of hangers. He emerged moments later, holding one of his oversized t-shirts and a pair of shorts.

“Here,” he said, locking eyes with you, a teasing glint in his gaze.

“Can you turn around so I can change?” you asked playfully.

“No,” he replied, laughter bubbling in his voice. You scoffed, trying to mask your embarrassment as he smirked at you, then finally turned to face the wall. With quick movements, you slipped into his clothes, the fabric soft and oversized, engulfing you in his scent.

“Okay, I’m done,” you announced, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. He turned back to you and smirks.

“Ooh, you look sexy in my clothes,” he teased, leaning against the wall, his smile wide and infectious.

You rolled your eyes, attempting to maintain an air of nonchalance, but you could feel the warmth creeping up your cheeks. Wooyoung was definitely the boldest of the group, never hesitating to voice his feelings.

Feigning indifference, you began to gather your hair into a messy bun, focusing on anything but him. But he was already at your side, wrapping his arms around your waist and pulling you close. His gaze was intense as he studied your features, each detail seemingly etched into his mind. When his eyes drifted down to your neck, they widened in surprise.

“Did I do that?” he asked, gently turning your head to examine the faint red mark lingering on your skin.

“Who else could’ve done it?” you shot back, sarcasm lacing your words.

“Hm, I don’t know. Maybe Yunho did yesterday on the kitchen counter?” Wooyoung teased, brushing his thumb over the mark. You gasped, caught off guard by his sudden revelation.

“He told you that?!” you hissed, mortified.

“He told all of us,” he giggled, a mischievous glint in his eye. You sighed, shaking your head. Typical boy conversations. You should have felt embarrassed, but amusement washed over you instead.

“This is from you, Woo. I saw it once you left the bathroom,” you replied, wrapping your arms around his neck.

“Hmm, that’s good,” he said with a smirk.

“Come on, let’s go to bed,” he said, leading you toward the mattress. You plopped down, your heart racing as you caught him lifting his shirt. Heat flooded your cheeks.

“Oh, sorry, I can’t sleep with a shirt on…” he said casually.

“I—It’s okay,” you stuttered, sinking deeper into the mattress, your pulse quickening. Wooyoung tossed his shirt to the corner of the room, leaving him in nothing but shorts and a gold chain that glinted in the soft light. He plopped down next to you, a playful smile on his face.

“Come here,” he whispered, opening his arm. Hesitating for a moment, you scooted closer, a wave of comfort washing over you as you nestled into his embrace. You exhaled in satisfaction, feeling safe and warm against his chest. Wooyoung chuckled, tightening his hold, and together, you closed your eyes, drifting toward sleep.

“Wooyoung?” you whispered after a while.

“Hmmm?” He hummed, his eyes still closed.

“When did you start liking me?” You began to fiddle with his necklace, feeling the weight of the moment. Wooyoung shifted, his face aligning with yours, a soft smile playing on his lips.

“You want to know?” he asked, his voice teasing yet sincere.

You nodded, your curiosity piqued.

“As cliché as it sounds, I fell for you at first sight,” he confessed, his expression earnest. “With no conversation or interaction. But the moment I saw you, I knew I wanted you to be mine.” He chuckled softly, rubbing his nose against yours, and you couldn’t help but giggle in response.

“Really?” you asked, wide-eyed.

“Mhmm.” He tucked a stray hair behind your ear, admiring your face as if it were a masterpiece. “I know I have a reputation for being a flirt, but I’m just nice to everyone, and they take it the wrong way. But I seriously, seriously only like you,” he declared, his voice steady and warm as he hugged you tighter.

At Wooyoung's confession, a warmth spread through your chest, making your heart swell with emotion. His words lingered in the air, wrapping around you like a soft blanket, filling you with a sense of belonging that felt almost surreal. You glanced up at him, your eyes shimmering with unspoken feelings, but he seemed lost in his own world, a contented smile on his lips.

As the gentle rhythm of his breathing filled the room, you felt a wave of tranquility wash over you. The atmosphere was cocooned in warmth and safety. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast a golden hue across his features, illuminating the relaxed lines of his face, and you couldn’t help but admire him.

With each passing moment, your eyelids grew heavier, the comforting weight of sleep pulling you down. You nestled deeper into his embrace, savoring the feeling of his strong arms wrapped protectively around you. The scent of his cologne, a mix of warmth and spice, enveloped you, adding to your sense of comfort.

As you surrendered to the heaviness in your limbs, you allowed yourself to drift into a peaceful slumber. The world outside faded away, leaving only the sound of Wooyoung’s soft breathing—a steady, soothing cadence that lulled you into a state of blissful rest.

———

The morning sun poured into Wooyoung’s room, its golden rays breaking through the curtains, casting a warm glow over everything it touched. You stirred awake, your body instinctively familiar with this early hour. As you turned, your gaze landed on Wooyoung, who lay beside you, deeply asleep, his arm draped over your waist. His tousled hair framed his face, and you couldn’t help but smile at the sight of him, peaceful and serene.

You stretched your arms above your head, feeling the pleasant pull of your muscles. Wooyoung shifted slightly at your movement, letting out a soft groan before instinctively cuddling closer, burying his face into your side. You chuckled softly, the sound escaping your lips before you could stifle it. "Woo~ I need to use the bathroom," you murmured, trying to extricate yourself from his embrace.

He whined in protest, tightening his hold on you. His breath warm tickled against your skin as he nuzzled deeper into you.

You giggled again, a light, airy sound that filled the room. “Come on, I really need to go!”

He looked up at you with sleepy eyes, a playful smirk on his lips. “Should we go make out in there instead?” he suggested, leaning in to place soft kisses along your neck, igniting a flutter of laughter from you.

“Stop~” you squealed, trying to wriggle free. Finally, after a playful struggle, you managed to slip from his grasp and make your way to the bathroom.

After taking care of business, you brush your teeth with a spare toothbrush. You felt a sense of vitality wash over you. Instead of heading back to the cozy confines of Wooyoung’s room, you found yourself wandering into the kitchen, drawn by the promise of breakfast. As you opened the fridge, the sight of it reminded you of the boys' antics from the night before. You could already imagine their groans of hangover misery.

Determined to help, you decided on making Beef Short Rib Soup, a classic remedy that would surely bring them back to life. As you moved around the kitchen, chopping vegetables and seasoning the meat, you felt a serene comfort in the rhythmic motions. The scent of the simmering broth enveloped you, and you lost track of time, relishing the moment.

Suddenly, strong arms wrapped around your waist, pulling you back against a firm chest. You gasped softly at the unexpected embrace and turned to see Seonghwa, his face still adorned with sleep. His hair fell over his forehead, framing his gentle features, and that smile of his—so perfect and disarming—made your heart skip a beat.

“Good morning, pretty,” he said, his voice raspy with sleep, sending a shiver down your spine.

“Good morning, Hwa,” you replied, a giggle escaping as he pulled you into a warm embrace. He rocked you gently, as if savoring the moment, and you melted into him, feeling utterly content.

“You didn’t have to cook, Y/N,” he said as he pulled away, his expression softening even more.

You shook your head, a smile brightening your face. “No, I wanted to. I hope you don’t mind I used what I found in the fridge,” you hastily added, suddenly feeling a bit shy.

“No, no, we don’t mind at all. Thank you, though,” Seonghwa said, a genuine smile lighting up his features as he ruffled your hair affectionately.

“Do you need help?” he asked, glancing around the kitchen, taking in the scattered ingredients and simmering pot.

“Hmm, no, I’m basically finished. Just waiting on the rice to finishing cook,” you replied, moving to grab some plates and utensils. Seonghwa turned towards you with a soft grin.

“Okay, I’ll go wake everyone up.” Before you could respond, he leaned in and planted a quick, unexpected kiss on your cheek. Your eyes widened in surprise, a warm flush creeping up your cheeks as you turned your head to face him, a soft smile spreading across your lips. He winked at you, his laughter echoing as he dashed up the stairs.

You took a moment to collect yourself, still tingling from the kiss, before focusing on the task at hand. The aroma of breakfast filled the air as you began plating the food, carefully arranging the steaming soup into nine bowls, each portion equally generous. With a satisfied nod, you moved towards the coffee machine, the gentle gurgle of brewing coffee providing a comforting backdrop. You watched intently as the rich, dark liquid flowed into the mug, filling your senses with warmth. Once the machine beeped, you leaned against the counter, taking a sip and savoring the bittersweet taste. Just then, Seonghwa returned downstairs, a sigh escaping his lips.

“Well, I tried to wake them up. Let’s just see who actually listens,” he chuckled, making his way towards you. You smiled, the warmth in your chest spreading further at his lighthearted demeanor.

“Do you want some coffee?” you asked, lifting your mug to your lips once more. Seonghwa shook his head, stepping closer and wrapping his arms around your waist, drawing you nearer. He gently lifted your mug and set it on the counter behind you. He studies your facial features for a while.

“Is it okay if I kiss you?” His voice was soft, almost shy. You felt your heart race at the question, and without hesitation, you nodded. A tender smile spread across his face as he leaned in, pressing his lips against yours in the softest kiss you’d ever experienced. Butterflies danced in your stomach, and you melted against him as he cupped your face with one hand, deepening the kiss ever so slightly before pulling back. His thumb brushed over your cheek in a tender gesture.

“Can I get a morning kiss too?” a voice interrupted from the kitchen doorway, breaking the spell. You turned to see Jongho, looking adorably disheveled, his hair a mess, hiding in his hoodie and his eyes squinted against the brightness of the morning.

“Good morning, Jongho” you greeted, unable to suppress a giggle at his sleepy state. He shuffled over, trying to maintain a serious expression but failing as a small smile tugged at his lips.

“Good morning, darling,” he replied, his voice still thick with sleep. You pouted your lips playfully and tiptoed up to him, watching as a blush crept across his cheeks. Despite his efforts to appear composed, he leaned down and pressed a quick peck to your lips, making you smile wider.

As you released him, you took his hand and led him to the table, where you settled him beside Seonghwa. One by one, the other boys began trickling down the stairs, all looking equally exhausted from the night before. Each of them paused as they passed by you, planting quick kisses on your forehead or cheek, leaving you blushing and smiling at their affectionate gestures.

“Is San still asleep?” Seonghwa asked the group, glancing around. The boys shrugged, too preoccupied with their breakfast to offer much help.

“I’ll go check on him, keep eating” you insisted, raising from your seat.

You made your way upstairs, knocking lightly on San’s door. When there was no answer, you twisted the knob and stepped inside.

“San? Come eat. I made breakfast,” you called softly, but as you entered the room, San was nowhere to be found. You get distracted, finding yourself looking around his room. Your gaze drifted to his desk, where a photo caught your attention: it was from your middle school graduation, the two of you beaming with joy. A rush of nostalgia flooded over you, warmth spreading through your chest.

“What are you doing in my room?” The sudden voice made you jump, and you whipped around, a wave of heat rushing to your cheeks. Standing before you was San, fresh from the shower, his hair damp and tousled, his bare chest glistening slightly in the morning light. He wore only a white towel around his waist, and you couldn’t help but admire the sight for a moment longer than you intended.

“O-oh, um. I just wanted to tell you to come eat,” you stammered, quickly averting your gaze to the floor, your heart racing. San closed the door behind him, and your eyes widened at the sound.

“Okay, let me change—” he began, but you interjected hastily.

“Ah, let me go out so you can change!” You felt flustered, not wanting to intrude.

“No, stay. I’ll be quick. We can go together,” he replied, walking past you to his closet. You couldn’t help but steal a glance at his back, noticing the way his shoulders were broad and strong. (Y/N, chill) you scolded yourself internally, turning away to focus on the door.

“Should I take my time to change so you can stare longer?” San teased, his voice light as he pulled a T-shirt over his head.

“N-No…” you muttered, still facing the door, leaning your forehead against the wood and closing your eyes, trying to steady your racing heart.

“You okay, baby?” His deep chuckle sent a shiver down your spine, and you opened your eyes to find him fully clothed, watching you with an amused expression. You felt your face heat up as you nodded, wondering if he remembered the moments from the night before. Drunk San was sweet and clingy, a side of him that made your heart swell, while sober San was a mystery, his cool demeanor both intimidating and alluring.

“Let’s go eat,” he said, reaching for your hand and intertwining your fingers. You let him lead you downstairs, your heart fluttering with every step.

end of chapter 4…

Next chapter

.

.

.

.

.

.

Author’s commentary: Goddamn there was so much damn fluff in this chapter🤭. Please, I promise the build up will be worth it iykwim. Thank you all so much for the support! Comment or message me to be apart of the taglist! Scream in my ask box to fangirl! lots of loveeee <3

taglist:

@georgeanabanana @jaytheatiny @mxnsxngie @spenceatiny18 @sanhwalvr @highkeyinlovewithhanjisung @joongscheese @therealcuppicake @velvetskize @hongjoongtime117 @jintastic-yuyu @meiguessss @sookacc @starygw3n @dimeb29 @mingtinysworld @sweetinsaniiity @pixie0627 @uninterested-ghost @ghostlovesworld @tigerlillytaffy @stay-tiny-things @xdinarymango @huachengsbestie01 @wooyoungsbrat @woohwastuff @vtyb23 @bambbiisworld @hwxbibi @cherryynoir @katykatmeow @laviedemamere @wyrated @sparda1234

[urlocalmultigroupfan]

ᴅʀɪɴᴋꜱ ᴏʀ ᴄᴏꜰꜰᴇᴇ‧⋆˙⟡♡☕️🥂(방찬)

pairing: channie x fem!reader

summary: based off of drinks or coffee by rose

tags/warnings:

a/n: hi guys!!! guess whos back <3 i will be continuing my jeongin mafia series in a bit! im so sorry that i forgot about it 😓 i will also be doing my requests hehe <3 love yall! (also this sucks so bad bro omg)

masterlist! drinks or coffee!

The party is loud—too loud. The music, the chatter, the occasional bursts of laughter that pierce through the crowd like sharp needles against your skin. It’s one of those parties where you showed up only out of obligation, where you don't really belong, but you try anyway. Your drink sits half-forgotten in your hand, the condensation pooling at your fingertips as you scan the room, looking for something—anything—that might make the night feel less dull.

And then you hear his name.

Chan.

Your grip on your glass tightens instinctively. The air shifts, the atmosphere suddenly a little less unbearable. You weren’t expecting him to be here. But now that he is, now that you know, it’s impossible to ignore the way your heartbeat stutters just a bit, the way your body suddenly feels a little too warm under the dim lights.

You don’t need to search for him—he finds you first.

Chan moves through the crowd like he belongs, like he’s the kind of person who was meant for nights like these. And maybe he is. But when his eyes lock onto yours from across the room, there’s a flicker of something else—something deeper. Something that tells you he’s not entirely in his element either.

“We meet again,” he says when he finally reaches you, his voice barely audible over the music but clear enough that it sends a shiver down your spine.

“We do,” you reply, and your fingers toy with the rim of your glass as you look up at him. “Didn’t take you for a party guy.”

He chuckles, leaning in slightly so you can hear him better. “Didn’t take you for one either.”

You laugh, shaking your head. “I’m not. I was thinking of leaving.”

“Then why haven’t you?”

Because he's here now.

The words stay locked in your throat, but Chan’s knowing smirk tells you that maybe, just maybe, he already knows. He’s always been good at reading you, even when you’ve never admitted there was anything to read.

The two of you stand there, saying nothing. And yet, somehow, it feels like the loudest conversation you’ve had all night. The air between you hums with something unspoken, something that’s always been there but never acknowledged.

You know you shouldn’t. You know this is dangerous territory—crossing into something you can’t take back. But right now, with the neon lights casting soft shadows across his face and his warm gaze fixed on yours, it’s hard to care about the consequences.

“Do you wanna get out of here?” he asks, voice casual but eyes burning with something else.

You bite your lip. “And go where?”

He shrugs. “We could get drinks. Or we could get coffee.”

It’s a simple offer. Harmless, even. But the weight of it settles deep in your bones, making your heart race in a way that has nothing to do with the party’s atmosphere. Because you know what this means.

Coffee means morning. Coffee means more than just a night.

But drinks… drinks mean staying in the moment. Keeping things easy. Safe.

Your mind is at war with itself, but Chan just waits, patient as ever. No pressure. No expectations. Just an open-ended question, waiting for your answer.

And maybe, just maybe, you already know what you want.

You exhale, meeting his gaze head-on. “Coffee,” you say, and his lips twitch into a smile.

“Coffee it is.”

As you leave the party behind, you can’t help but feel that this is only the beginning.

-

The café he takes you to is nothing fancy—just a quiet, late-night spot tucked away from the chaos of the city. It’s dimly lit, cozy, the kind of place where you can hear the soft hum of an old jazz record playing in the background. The moment you step inside, the tension that clung to your shoulders at the party seems to fade, replaced by something softer. Something easier.

Chan picks a booth in the corner, away from the few other late-night customers, and gestures for you to sit across from him. The warm scent of coffee lingers in the air as he leans back against the worn leather seat, watching you with a quiet intensity that makes your stomach flip.

“You really wanted coffee?” he asks, a teasing lilt in his voice.

You roll your eyes, but you can’t fight the small smile tugging at your lips. “You gave me the option, didn’t you?”

He hums in response, drumming his fingers against the table. “I did. Just didn’t expect you to choose it.”

“You thought I’d pick drinks?”

He shrugs. “Most people do.”

You tilt your head, studying him. “I’m not most people.”

Chan grins, something warm flickering in his eyes. “No. You’re not.”

The conversation flows easily after that. Maybe it’s the quiet of the café, or maybe it’s just him—but the walls you usually keep up don’t feel necessary here. He asks you about your day, your dreams, the little things that no one else ever thinks to ask. And you find yourself answering without hesitation, letting him see pieces of you that you don’t usually share.

At some point, your coffee grows cold, but neither of you notice. The minutes blur into hours, and when the barista announces last call, you blink in surprise, realizing just how long you’ve been sitting here with him.

Chan stretches, then looks at you with that same unreadable expression. “Wanna walk for a bit?”

You nod, and just like that, the night isn’t over yet.

The city is quieter now, the streets illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights. The air is crisp, but not uncomfortably so, and as you walk side by side, your hands brush just slightly. Neither of you move away.

“It’s weird,” you murmur after a while. “How different things feel outside of that party.”

Chan glances at you, a small smile playing on his lips. “Yeah?”

You nod. “Like… I feel like I can actually breathe out here.”

His gaze softens. “Maybe that’s a sign you were never meant to be there in the first place.”

You don’t say anything, but the thought lingers in your mind. Maybe he’s right. Maybe you weren’t meant for nights filled with flashing lights and empty conversations. Maybe this—quiet walks and late-night coffee with him—is what you were meant for instead.

The two of you keep walking, weaving through the silent streets as the night stretches on. Conversation drifts between teasing remarks, quiet confessions, and stretches of silence that feel more comforting than awkward. The night is cold, but every time his shoulder brushes against yours, warmth spreads through you.

At some point, you reach a small park, the kind with worn benches and a view of the distant city skyline. Chan tugs your hand lightly, leading you to sit with him. The air smells like rain, though the sky remains clear, stars blinking down at you both.

“You ever think about how nights like these don’t happen enough?” he murmurs, gazing at the skyline.

You hum in agreement, leaning back against the bench. “Yeah. But maybe that’s what makes them special.”

He turns to you then, his expression unreadable yet soft. And in that moment, you realize—this, whatever it is between you, isn’t fleeting.

Maybe this is only the beginning.

hope yall enjoyed <3

nothing played today because my dad banned youtube and my new computer's browser apparently doesn't support spotify 😓

taglist: @rockstarkkami @sirloncelot-of-bananas @jisunggy

taglist is open! please comment if you would like to be added <3

this sucked dick bro 😭😭😭

[s4kura-tr3]

Hello, is there a way you could do something like they saw us working out and they saw we had like... smexy muscles... (Wiggles brows)

ESPECIALLY WITH TOJI RAH

Definitely not my best work 😞

Tw: cursing, suggestive.

Gojo satoru — Gojo Satoru strolled into the room, his usual carefree energy radiating from him. But the moment his eyes landed on you, he froze, the sight before him wiping any thoughts of mischief or banter from his mind—well, almost.

There you were, mid-workout, your muscles taut and flexing as you pushed through your last set of reps. Your tank top clung to your body, damp with sweat, and the way the light caught your glistening skin made you look absolutely radiant. Gojo’s hand immediately went to his blindfold, tugging it down with a dramatic flourish to get an unobstructed view. His vibrant blue eyes gleamed with interest and something deeper as he leaned casually against the doorframe, taking his time to admire you.

“Holy hell,” he finally said, his voice low but undeniably teasing. “Did I just walk into an exclusive workout show? Because, wow, you’re putting the rest of us mortals to shame.”

You glanced his way, panting slightly from exertion, and shot him an unimpressed look. “Gojo, I’m busy.”

“Oh, I can see that,” he said, pushing off the doorframe and sauntering closer with that signature smirk plastered across his face. “Busy looking absolutely illegal. Seriously, you’ve got to warn a guy before you start flexing like that. My poor heart can’t take it.”

Rolling your eyes, you set the weights down, grabbing a towel to wipe the sweat from your face. But Gojo wasn’t letting you off that easily. He circled around you like he was inspecting a masterpiece, his gaze lingering on every inch of you in a way that made your skin flush under the heat of his attention.

“You know,” he continued, his voice dropping into a huskier tone, “it’s almost unfair how good you look right now. The sweat, the muscles, the determination—ugh, it’s honestly too much. You’re going to give me a complex. How am I supposed to compete with this level of hotness?”

“Compete?” you asked, arching a brow as you took a sip of water. “Pretty sure you’re just here to distract me.”

“Distract you?” he repeated with mock offense, pressing a hand dramatically to his chest. “Me? Never. I’m just here as a very supportive observer. You know, the type who notices how insanely toned your arms are. And your legs. And… wow, is that a new muscle definition I see? Babe, you’ve been holding out on me.”

Your cheeks burned, but you didn’t let him see how much his words affected you. Instead, you shot back, “Keep talking, and I’ll make you join me for the next set.”

Gojo’s grin widened, and he stepped closer, his fingers brushing lightly over your arm. “Oh, trust me, I’m tempted,” he murmured, his voice velvety smooth now. “But watching you like this? It’s honestly better than any workout I could ever do. You’re just… stunning.”

The rare sincerity in his voice caught you off guard, and you glanced up at him. His eyes were softer now, but still filled with that mischievous spark that made your heart skip a beat.

“Careful, Gojo,” you warned with a smirk of your own. “Flattery might make me think you actually want to work out with me.”

He chuckled, leaning down slightly so his face was closer to yours. “Oh, I’d work out with you any day,” he murmured, his tone dripping with flirtation. “But let’s be honest—if we’re sweating together, I’d much rather it be… another kind of workout.”

Your jaw dropped at his shameless comment, and you shoved him away, your laughter mixing with his. “You’re impossible!”

“And yet, you love me,” he teased, dodging your swats as he leaned in again, planting a quick kiss on your temple before pulling back with a wink. “Now, finish up, gorgeous. You’ve got me all inspired to work up a sweat later… with or without weights.”

Gojo walked off with a smug bounce in his step, leaving you flustered, exasperated, and, of course, completely enamored.

Geto Suguru — Geto Suguru wasn’t planning to linger when he walked into the room, but the moment he saw you working out, every other thought left his mind. The rhythmic movement of your body, the sharp focus in your expression, and the way the sweat clung to your skin caught him off guard. He leaned against the doorframe, crossing his arms as a slow, knowing smile spread across his face.

For a while, he didn’t say anything. He just stood there, watching you in silence. There was something mesmerizing about seeing you like this—so determined, so powerful. He wasn’t the type to gush, but there was no denying that the sight before him was stirring something in him.

When you finished your set and set the weights down, panting slightly, his deep, smooth voice broke the quiet. “You know,” he said, his tone casual but with a teasing edge, “this might be my favorite version of you.”

You glanced over, startled to see him there, his lean frame relaxed against the wall and that damn smirk plastered across his face. “Suguru, how long have you been standing there?”

“Long enough,” he replied smoothly, his dark eyes gleaming with amusement. He pushed off the wall and began walking toward you, each step deliberate and unhurried, as though he had all the time in the world. “I didn’t want to interrupt. Watching you like this is… fascinating.”

You grabbed a towel, wiping the sweat from your face as you raised an eyebrow at him. “Fascinating? I’m literally just working out.”

“Oh, it’s much more than that,” he countered, stopping a few feet away and tilting his head as he let his gaze sweep over you unapologetically. “The way you move, the strength in every motion—it’s impressive. Beautiful, even.”

His words caught you off guard, and you tried to brush off the compliment. “You’re being dramatic. I’m just trying to stay in shape.”

Suguru chuckled, the sound low and rich, sending a shiver down your spine. “Trust me, I don’t exaggerate. Watching you like this? It’s like seeing art in motion. Strong, determined, completely in control. You’re incredible.”

You felt a blush creeping up your neck, but you refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing you flustered. “Well, enjoy the show, I guess,” you said dryly, reaching for your water bottle

“Oh, I intend to,” he said, his voice dropping slightly, a playful edge lacing his tone. “But I’m warning you now—I might get addicted to this view. You’re going to have to let me watch you work out more often.”

You rolled your eyes, taking a sip of water and trying to ignore the way his gaze lingered on you. “You’re ridiculous, Suguru.”

“And yet, you’re smiling,” he pointed out, his smirk softening into something more genuine. He stepped closer, his fingers brushing lightly against your arm as he spoke, his voice quieter now. “You’re amazing, you know that? The way you push yourself, the way you carry yourself—it’s impossible not to admire you.”

The sincerity in his words caught you off guard, and for a moment, you found yourself meeting his gaze, your breath hitching at the intensity in his eyes. “Suguru…”

His lips curved into a softer smile, his voice warm and teasing as he broke the tension. “But don’t let it go to your head. You’re already impossible to resist—I don’t need you getting cocky too.”

You couldn’t help but laugh, shaking your head as you swatted at him with your towel. “You’re such a flirt.”

“Only with you,” he said smoothly, catching your wrist with surprising gentleness. His fingers lingered there for a moment, his touch warm and grounding. “Though, if you really want me to stop, you’re going to have to teach me how to keep my eyes off you. Because right now? I don’t think I could if I tried.”

Your cheeks flushed at his boldness, and you shook your head, pulling your hand away as you turned back to your workout gear. “You’re impossible,” you muttered.

Suguru chuckled, his rich voice filling the space as he moved to sit on the bench nearby, his gaze never leaving you. “Maybe. But you love me for it.”

You didn’t respond, but the small smile tugging at your lips gave you away. And as you picked up the weights to start your next set, you could feel his eyes on you, warm and unwavering, his presence a steady reminder of just how deeply he admired you.

Nanami kento — Nanami Kento wasn’t someone who indulged in distractions, especially during his rare moments of downtime. He valued efficiency and order, even in his personal life. But when he returned home earlier than expected and heard the faint clink of weights in the other room, curiosity got the better of him. He loosened his tie and set his briefcase down quietly, walking toward the sound.

He paused in the doorway. There you were, mid-workout, sweat dripping down your brow, muscles flexing as you pushed through your reps. Your focus was sharp, completely unaware of his presence, and something about that made him stop and watch.

Nanami wasn’t the type to ogle or make unnecessary remarks, but he couldn’t help the way his gaze lingered, admiring the strength and determination in your movements. You had always impressed him, but seeing you like this—powerful, resilient, and utterly in your element—it struck a chord deep within him.

When you set the weights down and reached for your water bottle, his voice broke the silence, calm and steady as always. “You’re working hard.”

You startled slightly, turning to find him standing there, his tie undone, his shirt sleeves rolled up. His expression was as composed as ever, but there was a softness in his eyes that made your heart skip a beat.

“Kento,” you said, catching your breath. “I didn’t hear you come in.”

“I didn’t mean to interrupt,” he replied, stepping into the room. His gaze flicked to the equipment before settling back on you. “I didn’t realize you were so serious about this.”

You wiped your face with a towel, shrugging lightly. “It helps me clear my head. And, you know, staying in shape isn’t a bad thing.”

His lips quirked into the faintest smile, the kind that was easy to miss if you didn’t know him well. “It’s impressive,” he said simply.

The straightforwardness of his compliment caught you off guard. “It’s just a workout, Kento.”

He stepped closer, his hands slipping into his pockets as he regarded you thoughtfully. “It’s not just a workout. It’s discipline. Focus. You don’t do things halfway, and it shows.”

You blinked at him, surprised by the genuine admiration in his tone. “I didn’t think you’d care about something like this.”

He tilted his head slightly, his gaze steady. “I care because it’s you. Seeing you like this… it’s a reminder of how remarkable you are.”

The warmth in his words made your cheeks flush, and you looked away, trying to play it off. “You’re making it sound like I just climbed Mount Everest or something.”

Nanami chuckled softly, the sound low and rare, but unmistakably genuine. “No, but the effort you put in is no less admirable.”

You hesitated, then shot him a playful look. “Are you sure you’re not just saying this because you feel guilty for coming home late all the time?”

His smile widened—just barely—but it was enough to make your stomach flip. “If I did, would it make you feel better?”

You laughed, shaking your head. “Maybe.”

Nanami stepped closer, his presence calm and grounding as always. He reached out, his fingers brushing a stray strand of hair from your face. “For what it’s worth,” he said, his voice softer now, “I mean every word. You’re extraordinary, whether you see it or not.”

You met his gaze, the sincerity in his eyes leaving you momentarily speechless. “Kento…”

He straightened, clearing his throat as if to reestablish his usual composed demeanor. “Don’t let me keep you from finishing your workout,” he said, his tone professional again. But as he turned to leave, he glanced over his shoulder, his voice dipping just enough to send a shiver down your spine. “Though, if you ever want a partner, let me know. I’d like to see if I can keep up.”

And with that, he walked away, leaving you standing there, your heart racing and a small smile tugging at your lips. Nanami Kento didn’t need grand gestures or flowery words. Somehow, his quiet admiration and steady presence were more than enough.

Toji fushiguro — Toji Fushiguro didn’t mean to interrupt when he walked into the room, but the sight of you mid-workout stopped him in his tracks. For a moment, he just stood there, leaning against the doorway with a lazy smirk, watching you as you pushed through your reps. The muscles in your arms flexed with each movement, sweat dripping down your brow, and the sheer focus on your face made something stir deep in his chest.

“Well, well,” he drawled, his deep voice cutting through the quiet hum of your workout music. “If I’d known you were hiding this in here, I might’ve shown up sooner.”

You didn’t even look up, finishing your set before setting the weights down and grabbing your water bottle. “Toji, don’t you have better things to do than bother me while I’m working out?”

“Better things? Not a chance,” he said, his grin widening as he pushed off the doorframe and strolled into the room. His green eyes swept over you unabashedly, taking in every inch of your glistening, toned form. “You look good like this. Strong. Focused. Kinda sexy, if you ask me.”

“I didn’t,” you shot back, taking a sip of water and ignoring the heat creeping up your neck.

Toji chuckled, the sound low and rough, as he dropped onto the bench across from you. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his gaze never leaving you. “C’mon, don’t play coy. You’re out here showing off those muscles—you can’t expect me not to look.”

You wiped the sweat from your face with a towel, throwing him a pointed glare. “I’m working out, Toji. Not putting on a show for you.”

“Sure,” he said, shrugging, though the playful glint in his eyes didn’t waver. “But it’s a hell of a show anyway. Seriously, you been hiding this from me? Those arms could probably knock someone out. I’m almost impressed.”

“Almost?” you challenged, raising an eyebrow.

He smirked, leaning back and crossing his arms over his broad chest. “Yeah, almost. You’d have to spar with me to really prove it.”

You rolled your eyes, but the corner of your mouth quirked up despite yourself. “Right. Like you’d play fair.”

“Who said anything about fair?” he shot back, his grin turning sharper. “I’d let you win. Maybe.”

Shaking your head, you turned back to your weights, but you could still feel his gaze on you, heavy and heated. “If you’re going to sit there and stare, at least make yourself useful. Hand me the heavier dumbbells.”

Toji barked a laugh, standing and grabbing the weights with ease before setting them down in front of you. “You sure about that, sweetheart? Don’t want you overworking yourself.”

“I can handle it,” you said, your tone firm as you picked them up.

“Oh, I know you can,” he said, his voice dropping as he watched you lift. “You’re tougher than most people I know. But seeing you like this? Pushing yourself? It’s… something else.”

The shift in his tone caught you off guard, and you glanced at him. For a moment, the teasing glint in his eyes was replaced by something warmer, more genuine.

“You’re impressive,” he said simply, shrugging as though it was no big deal. “Strong, determined, and hot as hell. I’d be an idiot not to notice.”

You paused, his words sinking in, and you felt your heart skip a beat. “Toji…”

“Don’t get shy on me now,” he said, the grin returning to his face. He reached out, brushing a bead of sweat off your temple with his thumb, his touch surprisingly gentle. “I’m just calling it like I see it.”

You huffed a laugh, shaking your head as you set the weights down. “You’re impossible.”

“And you’re stunning,” he replied without missing a beat, his voice low and steady. “Now finish up. If you’re this strong now, I wanna see what you can do with a real challenge. Sparring session, tomorrow. You in?”

You met his gaze, a smile tugging at your lips. “Only if you promise not to hold back.”

“Oh, sweetheart,” he said, his smirk turning downright predatory. “I wouldn’t dream of it.”

With that, he stepped back, his eyes lingering on you for a moment longer before turning to leave. And as you picked up your weights again, you couldn’t help but smile, your heart pounding in a way that had nothing to do with the workout.

Sukuna Ryomen — Sukuna wasn’t used to being surprised, but when he materialized in the middle of your workout, he found himself pausing, an amused smirk curling across his lips. You were focused, muscles taut as you pushed through another grueling set, sweat glistening on your skin and making your form all the more striking. You hadn’t noticed him yet, and that only added to his amusement.

He leaned lazily against the wall, crimson eyes gleaming with interest. “You’ve been holding out on me,” he remarked, his voice deep and smooth, cutting through the quiet.

Startled, you looked up, your breath hitching when you saw him watching you, that familiar smug grin plastered on his face. “Sukuna,” you said, wiping the sweat from your brow. “What are you doing here?”

“Appreciating the view,” he replied, his gaze shamelessly roaming over you. “I didn’t know you had this in you. A little warrior hidden beneath all that charm. Makes me wonder what else you’re hiding.”

You rolled your eyes and picked up your water bottle, taking a long sip before answering. “I’m not hiding anything. And I doubt you came here to flatter me.”

“Flatter you?” he echoed, his smirk widening as he pushed off the wall and sauntered closer. His presence was overwhelming, a mix of danger and allure, and you could feel the heat of his gaze on your skin. “I don’t do flattery. I state facts. And the fact is, you look… enticing like this.”

You raised an eyebrow, trying to ignore the way his words sent a shiver down your spine. “Enticing? I’m covered in sweat and exhausted.”

“And yet, here I am,” he said, stopping just a few feet away. He tilted his head, his eyes narrowing slightly as he took in every detail of your appearance. “There’s strength in you. I can see it. Feel it. It’s… intriguing.”

You crossed your arms, refusing to let him fluster you. “You’re awfully chatty for someone who usually likes to mock me.”

Sukuna chuckled, the sound low and almost predatory. “Oh, don’t mistake this for kindness,” he said, his tone dripping with amusement. “I’m just fascinated. You’re tougher than I gave you credit for. I like that.”

“Should I be flattered?” you asked dryly.

“Maybe,” he said, stepping closer, his towering frame casting a shadow over you. “Or maybe you should be concerned. Strength like yours… it makes me want to test it.”

You held your ground, meeting his gaze with a defiance that only seemed to amuse him further. “Test it how?”

His grin turned sharp, revealing his pointed teeth. “Sparring, fighting, maybe something else entirely,” he said, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous rumble. “You’re strong, but how far can you push yourself? How far can I push you?”

Your cheeks flushed, though whether it was from his words or the way he was looking at you, you couldn’t tell. “You’re impossible, Sukuna.”

“And you’re fascinating,” he countered, his tone softer now but no less intense. He reached out, his fingers brushing against your arm, tracing the curve of your muscles with a deliberate slowness. “All this power, all this potential… it suits you. But don’t get cocky. I’d still crush you in an instant if I wanted to.”

You smirked, swatting his hand away. “I’d like to see you try.”

His laughter filled the room, dark and rich, as he stepped back, his gaze never leaving yours. “Careful what you wish for, little one,” he said, his grin wicked. “You might not like what you find.”

But there was something in his tone, something in the way he looked at you, that told you he wasn’t just teasing. He respected you—your strength, your determination—and that respect, coming from someone like Sukuna, felt like a victory in itself.

Megumi fushiguro — Megumi wasn’t the type to barge into a room without reason, so when he stumbled upon you working out, it wasn’t intentional. He’d been looking for you to ask a quick question, but the moment he saw you, he froze. You were mid-set, muscles flexing as you moved, sweat dripping down your skin and making your determination all the more captivating.

His face immediately heated up, a soft pink dusting his cheeks. He quickly averted his gaze, though his feet stayed rooted to the spot. “Sorry,” he muttered, voice barely loud enough to be heard.

You glanced over your shoulder, spotting him in the doorway. “Megumi? What’s up?”

He hesitated, his fingers twitching at his sides as he tried to act like he hadn’t just been staring. “Uh… nothing. I didn’t mean to interrupt. I’ll… come back later.”

You raised an eyebrow, setting your weights down and grabbing your towel. “You’re not interrupting. What do you need?”

He shifted awkwardly, his gaze flickering to you briefly before he fixed it firmly on the floor. “It’s not important,” he said quickly. “I didn’t know you were… busy.”

You couldn’t help but smirk at his obvious discomfort. “Megumi, are you embarrassed?”

“No,” he said immediately, though the redness in his cheeks deepened. “I just—” He cleared his throat. “I didn’t realize you worked out like this.”

“Like what?” you teased, walking closer.

His eyes darted to you for a split second, taking in the way your skin glistened, the subtle definition in your arms and shoulders. He looked away just as quickly, his jaw tightening. “Like… seriously. You’re stronger than I thought.”

“Thanks,” you said, amused by how flustered he was. “It’s not that big a deal, though.”

“It kind of is,” he admitted, his voice quieter now. “Most people don’t push themselves that hard.”

You tilted your head, studying him. There was something genuine in his tone, a quiet admiration he wasn’t very good at hiding. “Are you impressed?”

He hesitated, his fingers brushing against the edge of the doorframe. “Maybe,” he muttered.

You grinned, stepping closer until you were standing just a few feet away. “I’ll take that as a yes.”

Megumi finally looked up, his dark eyes meeting yours. There was a flicker of something there—respect, maybe even awe—but it was quickly buried beneath his usual stoicism. “Don’t let it go to your head,” he said, trying to sound indifferent.

“Too late,” you teased, tossing your towel over your shoulder.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair as he stepped back. “I’ll leave you to it. Just… don’t overdo it, okay? You don’t need to prove anything to anyone.”

His words caught you off guard, the unexpected softness in them making your heart skip a beat. “Thanks, Megumi,” you said, your tone gentler now.

He gave a small nod, his gaze lingering on you for a moment longer before he turned to leave. But just as he reached the doorway, he glanced over his shoulder, his voice low and hesitant. “For what it’s worth… you’re doing great.”

And with that, he disappeared down the hall, leaving you standing there, a warm smile tugging at your lips. Megumi Fushiguro wasn’t one for big gestures or obvious compliments, but his quiet support spoke louder than words ever could.

Yuji itadori — Yuji Itadori was never one to hide his emotions, and when he walked into the room and saw you mid-workout, his reaction was immediate—and loud.

“Whoa!” he exclaimed, his voice filled with awe as he froze in the doorway. “You look amazing!”

Startled, you paused mid-rep, glancing over at him. “Yuji? What are you yelling about now?”

He stepped further into the room, his eyes wide as he took in the sight of you. Your muscles were defined, your skin glistening with sweat, and the sheer determination on your face left him staring. “I’m yelling because you look like a total badass!”

You laughed, setting your weights down and grabbing your water bottle. “It’s just a workout, Yuji. Nothing special.”

“Nothing special?” he repeated, his tone incredulous. “Are you kidding me? Look at you! You’re like an action movie hero or something!”

“An action hero?” you teased, raising an eyebrow. “That’s a bit dramatic, don’t you think?”

He shook his head furiously, his pink hair bouncing with the movement. “Not at all! I mean, you’re strong, you’re focused, and—” He gestured at you with both hands, his cheeks turning pink as he stumbled over his words. “You’re, uh… really cool-looking right now.”

You couldn’t help but grin at his enthusiasm. “Thanks, Yuji. But you’re kind of embarrassing yourself.”

“I don’t care!” he said with a laugh, plopping down on the floor nearby and watching you with wide-eyed admiration. “Seriously, how often do you do this? You’ve got muscles I didn’t even know existed!”

You rolled your eyes but felt a warmth spread through your chest at his genuine excitement. “I work out a few times a week. It’s not a big deal.”

“It is a big deal!” he insisted, leaning forward with his chin resting on his hands. “You’re so strong! I bet you could bench press me if you wanted to.”

You burst out laughing, shaking your head. “I think that’s a bit of an exaggeration, Yuji.”

“No way,” he said, grinning. “You’re a total powerhouse. I’m actually kind of jealous.”

“Jealous?” you repeated, raising an eyebrow.

“Yeah!” he said, standing up and flexing his arms dramatically. “I mean, I’m strong, but you’ve got this whole ‘unstoppable warrior’ vibe going on. It’s inspiring!”

You snorted, throwing your towel at him, which he caught with a laugh. “You’re ridiculous, you know that?”

“Maybe,” he admitted, his grin widening. “But I mean it. You’re awesome, and I’m lucky I get to see you like this. It’s motivating!”

“Motivating?” you asked, crossing your arms.

“Yeah! I’m totally working out with you next time,” he said, his eyes shining with determination. “I need to level up if I’m going to keep up with you.”

You smiled, shaking your head. “Alright, Yuji. You’re on. But don’t complain when I make you do squats.”

“Deal!” he said, holding out his hand for a high five. When you slapped your hand against his, his grin grew even wider. “This is gonna be awesome. You’ll see—I’ll be your workout rival in no time!”

Somehow, you doubted that, but his infectious energy made you laugh all the same. Yuji Itadori was a whirlwind of enthusiasm, and having him around made everything a little brighter—even your workout.

[aces-to-apples]

Actually I'm not done yelling about the trans rep in Dragon Age: The Veilguard yet.

As most Lucanismancers probably already know, one of the banters between Lucanis and Taash changes slightly depending on Rook's gender. Taash suggests that now that Rookanis is a thing, he and Spite should take Rook flying. Taash's reasoning? "Girls/guys/nonbinary people love flying", which honestly is 10/10 logic, no notes, Lucanis why have we not already gone flying? Why are you not literally always flying around the Lighthouse??

So yeah, if your Rook is a woman, "girls love flying"; Rook is a man, "guys love flying"; and nonbinary Rook, "nonbinary people love flying". Simple and easy, you love to see it. Except I just triggered that banter, and what did Taash say? Casual, easy as you please, "Everyone loves flying." Again 10/10, I certainly have no rebuttal.

But I'd never heard that in anyone else's game clips before. "Everyone loves flying." The entire line is different from the others, which have the same rhythm and emphasis across the gender board. Know why the line was different for my Rook?

Because my Rook is a trans man who uses they/them pronouns.

Like the devs or writers or whoever had Taash give at least four different lines dependent on Rook's identity, and one of them is clearly meant for a Rook whose identity and pronouns don't match in the expected ways. She/her women get "girls love flying", he/him men get "guys love flying", and they/them enbies get "nonbinary people love flying". It's just.

It's such a little thing, but they didn't have to do that. No one would have called them on it, but they did it anyway. Like so much of the gender stuff in Veilguard, I cannot overstate how much they didn't have to do all that. But they did, even for tiny little things like this.

[knight-says-rawr]

I just love how realistically Ben and Gia’s relationship was portrayed while also giving them scenes apart from each other so we could still actually observe their personalities

They’re long distance. With modern technology you can exchange a thousand words a day everyday, you can call, you can text, you can even write letters if you feel like it. When Gia went back to Italy they stayed together and kept talking but the element they missed was touch. Physical presence. Being able to sit there and just bask in it.

Every time we get a casual scene of them together they’re just completely absorbing each other. Drinking it in. Sitting and staring, constant switching between tiny points of contact, holding on at every opportunity- the first thing they did when they saw each other was dance.

Physical touch has always been a key love language for Ben, way back since jwcc, it seems Gia’s is acts of service, and they both like quality time. All of this is really hard to accomplish long distance. They’re capitalizing on the time they have together, the others be damned. The N5 face dinos regularly they can handle some PDA.

Of course, being absolutely obsessed with the opportunity to just be with each other means both of them are sappy and distracted a Lot. Which is why I’m actually kinda happy their moments were paced how they were. We already know Ben’s personality, but Gia is a whole new character! Her getting to follow Kenji and Sammy’s plot line for some focus of her own?? We got to see more of how she is without Ben, which is just as important as her time with him. Two halves of a picture that speak to who she is as a person. I love her sm.

This is getting off topic- ANYWAY love bengia, love accurate long distance rep, they have me seething in jealousy, I miss my partner

[star-daughter]

So let's talk about Vivziepop's designing skills!

The amount of sadness I feel when I see Vivziepop's designs of the demons in Helluva Boss is impossibly high

Simply comparing them from where she is pulling from feels like looking at a newborn compared to a grandma. Now let's go through them!

Lucifer

Viv's Lucifer, a popular depiction of Lucifer ("The Fallen Angel" by Alexandre Cabanel), and one with Jesus ("The Temptation of Christ" by Ary Scheffer)

You can see a big difference in a lot, as you can see Lucy (which will be Viv's version) has well. Clothing but we can give her a pass for that as I don't think Youtube would be fine with an animated dick on screen. Another thing is his lack of wings, bat-like or feathered along with blonde instead of red curled hair and yellow eyes instead of the blue Lucifer has in The Fallen Angel.

But what I see as the biggest thing is Lucy's lack of muscles! In both of these depictions I have chosen Lucifer appears muscular whilst Lucy has Viv's favorite smile and body shape.

Asmodeus

Here we have Viv's Asmodeus (Ozzie) and Asmodeus from Collin de Plancy's "Dictionnaire Infernal"

I will give Viv major props, I LOVE Ozzie's design. If we removed the feathers, made his head bigger, and some small things it would be AMAZING! But comparing it to Asmodeus it's... wooo.... very different.

First you can see is Asmodeus does not look conventionally attractive with his strange old man face, elf ears, bull head, ram head, serpent tail, and literal chicken legs. Ozzie does have the 2 heads on his shoulders (just very small) and a tail (not a serpent one) but other than that the similarities end. Though I do think taking Asmodeus the direction to being physically attractive to most people was a good way to go.

A personal nit pick is the clear lack of a BADASS DRAGON. Yes, Asmodeus has a BADASS DRAGON. On his little Dictionnaire Infernal image he's sitting on a BADASS DRAGON which he holds a banner as he rides. Viv you could have made Fizz a cool dragon demon! Make him look LESS like Blitz's twin brother and more like something that related to the Ars Goetia canon.

Beelzebub

Now this is Viv's Beelzebub and a fly-like Beelzebub (Beelzebul) (I've left out the more manly versions of Beelzebub to keep it fair as Beelzebub is a woman)

So a big thing we can see is Beelzebub is a furry whilst Beelzebul is a straight up fly, taking the term "Lord of the Flies" much more seriously. Now comparing these two is basically impossible minus their wings and extra arms. Now with them looking nothing alike I'll put some of my own personal critique's in.

One, Beelzebub's hair and tail makes me want to vomit. It's constantly moving thus every frame it must be moved which is HORRIBLE on an animation stand point. Two, Her clothes. A direct quote from the Helluva Boss wiki says "Beelzebub represents the animal tamer/animal shows" when her clothing looks like that it's hard to believe. If it was casual clothes? Okay I'd believe that but it being her debut episode wouldn't you want her in her normal clothes? And that's ignoring her magical disappearing bra... is that just an arm strap? Three, the ear thing. God the ear thing! Viv said they were supposed to appear like beehives... girl what beehives have you been seeing? Maybe she meant honeycomb? Still I see zero resemblance.

Mammon

Here we have Viv's Mammon, Mammon (Mam) from the painting "The Worship of Mammon" by Evelyn De Morgan, and Mammon (Mon) from Collin de Plancy's "Dictionnaire Infernal"

As we can see Mammon looks like the Teen Titans Go Robin mixed with a Christmas tree, the Christmas theming is quite clever I'll give Viv that. Christmas is a time of greedily taking all that is given to you through gifts. Now I could complain about how Mammon is poor rep for a fat character and simply is a widened version of her normal body type but I already made a post about that

But comparing him to Mam and Mon? Nothing similar. Mam we can see appears like a very large naked buff dark skinned man whilst Mon is a freakish old man with wide eyes and tattered clothes. Mammon shares zero similarities to either of them.

Another thing is Mammon's monster form... I believe everybody has seen it and hochie momma it is HORRIBLE! From the screenshots I've seen we don't see all of it but he's clearly intended to be a spider of sorts which is great! Spiders can often be seen with 6 flies trapped on their web being hoarded for later but Viv seems to have taken the lazy route of extra legs and 2 extra set of eyes. Anthro spiders can be so so SO cool but I feel scammed. Stolen from. My life savings have been taken by this shitty design.

Paimon

Here we have Vivziepop's Paimon and Paimon (Paimonia) from Collin de Plancy's "Dictionnaire Infernal"

As we can see they appear nothing alike minus the crown and odd chicken legs though Paimon lacks the camel that Paimonia has. Paimonia also has a feminine face and a humanoid body, nothing like Paimon. Though I personally think Paimon's design is stunning what made Viv connect the two, is it because the Goetia family is intended to all be ripped from the Ars Goetia? I feel though that Paimon's design takes as much as it can from Paimonia while making him look related to Stolas but why does he need to be named Paimon?

Stolas

Here we have Vivzie's Stolas and Stolas (Stolos) from Collin de Plancy's "Dictionnaire Infernal"

So, I have a lot of issues with Stolas's design, it's ugly first of all but compared to Stolos's cute yet shocked wide eyes and charming little beak it's even more obvious how ugly it is.

First, Stolos is shown as an owl (but also is described as a Raven). which Viv got right along with keeping his crown and odd horn-like feathers. However, I believe making Stolas that skinny doesn't follow the model of most owls as they can be pretty fluffy and plump. Even Stolos has a round fluffy chest that trails into his comically long legs.

Second, that cape is very horrifying but not in a good way. Nobody wants to animate a cape with that many rips! Even if they don't have to be precise. Also, why do his buttons have no lineart when everything else around it has lineart? I have the same issue with Blitz's design and his random chest orbs.

Feel free to put in your own reblogs and replies with your opinions! You can also send in asks with designs from HH or HB that aren't linked to previously existing designs unlike these fellows and I'll throw in my personal thoughts.

-Mod Paimon