#we're getting close to the other ladies getting formally introduced

[queen0fm0nsterz]

Love Seafarers. 10/10 concept, wish more people would explore it.

AHHHHH every time I get asks like these I giggle and kick my feet hehe... thank you so much! I'm glad peeps are enjoying Seafarers just as much as I am. It is a concept I'm surprised no one has tackled before -- to my knowledge at least... I've seen many AUs tied to Thin Dad, how it would have gone differently if he and the kids teamed up during the final battle, but never something similar tied to the Lady. Honestly it doesn't surprise me all that much. Thin Man is easier to empathize with, I suppose.

Back when it was just LN I the general belief had people believe Six and the Lady were already related anyway, rendering a "Lady Mom AU" sort of the default. There was no need to explore what it'd be like if the Lady survived, and if she and Six were forced to live side by side: it was already assumed that they had. Plus, people were never super interested in delving into the Lady anyway. (Banging my head against the wall so loud you can hear it through the post) However, me being me, I always thought she was an interesting enough character to make for a protagonist. An incredibly unlikeable one, obviously, but I've seen peeps say her inner monologues are fun to read because of how awful she is, so I guess introducing her POV before Six's was the right decision after all?

Truth be told, I think this kind of story would not work if it was soley from Six's point of view - or soley from the Lady's. You need both. The few fics I've read where the two interact are usually from Six's pov, which I like, so I tried considering it but when I was planning for Seafarers it just didn't hit the same without the Lady. Likewise, I considered leaving the POV soley on the Lady (as you could see in the first chapters where I was experimenting with it), and while I was satisfied with what she had going on, her inability to put herself in Six's shoes was a serious drawback. I think reading their back and forth is a lot more entrataining than just sticking to one of them permanently.

Writing them is fun because they are similar, but different enough that they can never see eye to eye (LMFAOOOOO). They're both prideful and spiteful, they both would rather do things by themselves as lone wolves, and they both will not concede to the other no matter what. I love them, personally.

I'm SUPER excited to start introducing... the others.

[erzaguin]

Huntmira Week 2021 Day 2: Childhood Friends

Alright children, do you see that little boy over there with blond hair? I want you two to go make friends with him ok? Beamed Odalia as she fixed the twins' hair and uniforms making sure they looked perfect. 

“Yes mommy” answered the twins in unison. Today was going to be their first day of pre-school and as luck would have it they would be in the same class as Hunter, the only known relative of emperor Belos. Odalia saw the potential benefits of having the twins befriend the emperor's young nephew and she would make sure to cease the opportunity. 

"Oh and Emmy make sure to watch out for your brother ok? Keep him out of trouble" said Odalia as she fixed her daughter's hair. "I will mommy" replied Emira cheerfully as she held on to Edric’s hand to keep him from running off after something he saw. "That's my girl, now go say hi to your new best friend." beamed Odalia as she gave the twins a light push in the direction of Hunter. 

Hunter was standing by himself as far away as he could from the other kids. He didn’t like being around them and most didn't want to be around him either. They were afraid of him or to be more exact they were afraid of his uncle. Most people saw him as someone they should not approach but should always be nice to because they did not want to upset his uncle. But Hunter was used to this. Children would not approach him and adults were always overly nice to him. All he wanted to do was go home and be by himself. He didn’t understand why he had to go to school with all the other children. They could just as easily have teachers go to him but his uncle insisted he needed to learn to interact with others. 

“...Hey, hey, can you hear me?” puzzled Emira as she waved her free hand in front of Hunter's face. “Maybe he can’t? Should we tell one of the teachers?” remarked Edric as he looked around for an adult. 

“Stop that I can hear you just fine” retorted Hunter a bit annoyed but also surprised at the sudden appearance of the two children in front of him. They looked almost identical. They both had emerald green hair and golden eyes with the boy having a mole under his right eye and the girl having a mole under her left eye. “Why do you guys look the same?" said Hunter , puzzled by their appearance. 

“That’s because we're twins silly. I’m Emira and this is my brother Edric” giggled Emira as her brother waved with a big grin on his face at the confused boy.  “What’s your name?” asked the twins simultaneously. 

Hunter was not used to having this type of attention. People were usually very formal when speaking to him but these two were acting extremely familiar. He knew that this is what he wanted but he could not help but feel annoyed at the pair. He felt like they were making fun of him with how they looked at him. But he had promised his uncle that he would try to get along with the other kids and make friends. Maybe he could make friends with the odd pair and that would make his uncle happy. He straightened up to seem more confident and stated “My name is Hunter.” 

To this the twins seemed to light up and both exclaimed at the same time “Hi Hunter do you want to be our friend?!” Hunter could not believe his luck making friends would be easier than he thought. “Yes I’d like that.” declared Hunter thinking about how he would go home and tell his uncle he had made two friends on his first day. 

Although Hunter had not been ready for what was to come. As soon as he agreed to be their friend the twins let go of their hands and took his. For the rest of the day they were glued to him. They sat next to each other in class and would only play with him during free time. It was actually kind of nice being around them. Although they were a little too comfortable being around him and that could get annoying. They were always too close to him and they liked holding hands. Hunter was not used to so much physical interaction with people. They also liked pulling pranks which Hunter was not a fan of. But they were also not afraid of him and they treated him like he was just another kid which he appreciated more than they would ever know. 

As the day went on Hunter realized that the other children would not approach the twins either. He felt that it might be because they were hanging around him. He  did not like the idea that they would be isolated because of him so he voiced his concerns to them while they waited to be picked up at the end of the day and told them that it was ok if they did not want to be his friend. To which they responded “Oh no this is normal” responded Edric who seemed to be more concerned with something in the distance “yeah most kids think it’s weird that Ed and I look the same and they also seem to be scared of us for some reason” said Emira casually as she nudged her twin to get his attention. 

“Really? But you guys are so good at talking to people” Questioned Hunter. Emira just shrugged before giving Hunter a mischievous grin “Where you worried that you might lose us?” Edric quickly picked up on what his sister was doing and added in a teasing tone “Don’t worry you are our best friend now which means you’ll never be lonely again’ and then as if on que both twins hugged Hunter while cuing reasuring words. Hunter did not like that they were making fun of him but before he could respond a lady with hair the same color as the twins with sapphire eyes approached them. 

“Aww, would you look at that my little ones made a new friend.'' beamed Odalia as she approached the trio. Upon seeing their mother the twins exclaimed in unison “Mommy!” ‘Hello my darlings, who is your new friend?” Asked Odalia in a tone that unsettled Hunter but he did not know why. The twins introduced Hunter to their mother as their new best friend to which she seemed to be a little too happy about. She asked the three to get close together so she could take a picture of them. The twins took to either side of him and held his hand. Hunter was still a bit annoyed at them but he allowed the picture to be taken.

Once they were done they said their goodbyes and promised to hang out again the following day. Odalia made sure to let Hunter know that if he ever wanted to play with the twins outside of school he was always welcome to come visit them at their house. Once they were out of ear shot Odalia made sure to praise the twins for being able to make a new friend. 

[katsukikitten]

♡ last but not least - 1k words comments welcome

You twirl in the mirror twice, checking your reflecting before smoothing down your casual, yet somewhat dressy buffalo plaid dress. Debating if you should change. 

Again. 

For the fifth time. 

Your boyfriend watches from the door jamb sighing as he pushes himself off the frame. Gliding into the reflective glass he stand tall behind you, his red hair relaxed as he's pulled it back into a little bun. He pulls you by your hips to him as he nuzzles your neck with his nose, your perfume tickles his nose and he inhales deeply. 

"Ready to go?" He purrs and you shrug, biting at your lipstick clad lip. 

"I don't know, is this too casual? Too dressy? Should I wear jeans? You're in jeans but also a button down shirt…" You look at his outfit, black jeans and a buffalo plaid button up that matches. The thought unintentional. He sighs letting his ruby eyes fall over your gorgeous frame. 

"Baby, I promise you they'll love you. They won't care what you wear or how you look, they only care about how you make me feel." He kisses the rapid pulse in your throat swaying you on your feet, "And baby you make me feel good." 

You relax into his touch, swaying in time with his feet. 

"Yea,okay." You agree to probably the most agreeable man in the world. His eyes light up soothing some of your nervousness. 

But not all of it and it returns full force as he pulls up to his old childhood home. 

"Baby." You grab onto his hand, squeezing his fingers with all of your might. He brings your hand to his lips, a chaste kiss on your knuckles just before he speaks. 

"Just smile baby, that's all it will take for them to fall in love with you. That's all it took for me." His words make your heart flutter, he exits the car when he sees you've calmed down. Opening the passenger side door for you, offering his hand for help that you gladly take. The street is quiet, the snow falling silently to rest on the tops of warm homes and bare outstretched branches. 

It is a stark difference to the volume of the home that can be heard through the wreath clad door. Kirishima offers a shy sharp toothed smile. 

"I told you we're a loud family." He grabs for the door knob, "You ready?" 

"As ready as I'll ever be." Sweat collects on your brow as he opens the door, stepping out of his shoes as you follow suit. He isn't given much time before his mother hears the door, rushing into the foyer with excitement. She gasps loudly as she takes in the sight of her strong son. 

"My baby Eijirou!" She exclaims coming closer to cup his cheeks, she dots on him for a moment. 

"Hey momma." He kisses her on the cheek before her thin hands move to you, cupping your face gently, "You must be the girlfriend I've heard so much about. Kamisama your smile is so bright!" 

"He-hello ma'am." She gives you a pointed look before dropping your face to grab at your hands. 

"It's okaasan. Now come, come. You have the whole family to meet." She pulls you with ease to the rest of the party while you give Kirishima a panicked look over your shoulder. All he can do is shrug his as he follows closely behind. 

"Everyone look! It's baby Eijirou's girlfriend we've all heard such good things about!" She introduces you and the crowd of family shouts back a warm hello, "It's a pleasure to finally have you here. Please make yourself at home." 

She squeezes your hand before stepping closer to her son to give him a long hug before disappearing into the kitchen. Kirishima grabs your hand and introduces you individually to well over twenty people making your anxiety skyrocket as you try your best to remember their names. 

"And this is Sobo." He says, bringing you to a woman who hardly looked to be a grandmother. You bow your head and she laughs in response. 

"So formal among family." She says softly, patting the chair beside her. You slip into the chair with ease, "Eji, dear get us something to drink while we talk?" 

Your eyes grow wide, pleading for him not to leave the two of you alone, he offers a soft smile before saying. 

"I'll be right back Sobo." And with that he turns on his heel, leaving the two of you tucked away in the corner of the large room to look over the family. Kirishima is stopped on his way to the kitchen more times than you can count as you wait for the shoe to drop. 

This was it, this was where you would get the talk of how Kirishima was too good for you and that the sooner you left him the better. She opens her mouth to speak and you grind your teeth. 

"What is it about my grandson that you love?" She turns to you, ruby red eyes glistening beneath the twinkling lights. Silence envelops your small corner as the smell of food wafts your way. Swallowing thickly you speak the truth. 

"He is kind, it is almost otherworldly. He is strong, brave and never afraid to show emotion or to be vulnerable. He is a man who was raised well and I love him for him." It all slips out as you watch him laugh with his cousins, a smile that you always wear when you gaze at him. 

Sobo watches you, your eyes, your demeanor and when she knows the words you speak are true. She smiles herself. 

"Let me show you something." She says softly, pulling at a book on the nearby bookshelf. She settles back into her chair setting it on the dark wood table. She flips the cover open and points at the first black and white picture of a handsome man with long dark hair. 

"This was my husband and I loved him dearly. Eijirou reminds me a lot of him, so you can see he is precious to me." She begins, her frail finger pointing out their wedding photo next, "I need to know he will be loved and safe. If I could keep him from ever knowing pain I would." 

You nod in agreement wanting nothing more than to keep your man pure of heart and pain free. 

"But life doesn't work that way. In all my years I've learned that the hard way." She flips the pages again, as you watch her belly swell with each image, her family growing before your eyes. Finally she flips to her children's children, all or them amassed or spread across the pages. You are a young Kirishima with black hair in a still frame. 

"So I must trust in the people he surrounds himself with. People can say things but never mean it. His close friend Bakugou is a great example. He is harsh and pigheaded but I know he would protect my grandson with his life." She sighs looking over the photos as you glance at her face. She smiles meeting your eyes, "I'd like to thank I can put my trust into you as well." 

She leaves no room for you to respond before she flips a few pages back, telling stories of each captured moment.

Kirishima finally makes it to the kitchen after spending a half an hour trying to keep his talking to a minimum. But he couldn't blame his family it had been months since he had seen most of them and besides it's not as if Sobo would say anything rude to you even if she somehow disapproved of you. He pours a cup of tea and a mixed drink for you. Gently pushing his way through the crowd with the drinks as an excuse not to linger. 

Finally the two of you come into view and he freezes in his tracks. The first thing he sees is the frayed edges of the book. The family album spread open before you as Sobo shares the treasured memories. 

Tears form in his eyes as he watches the scene unfold in disbelief. Of all his girlfriends he is glad Sobo has bonded with you. The others were only tolerated and even the one he brought multiple years in a row never even knew of the family album. But there you sat, smiling, laughing with Sobo who's crows feet giving her a certain type of magic. He sighs, holding the breath he didn't even know he was holding. Walking towards two women that held his heart. 

"You ladies having fun?" He asks, setting down the glasses as he looks over Sobo's shoulder. 

"Eijirou, I think you should let your black hair come back! Look at how cute you were!" You exclaim pointing to an old photo. He cannot help but smile, fingers absentmindedly feeling at his strands. Sobo looks up at him while you gush over the album pulling her attention back with more questions. Sobo secretly grabs for Kirishima's hand and slips something small and cool into his palm. 

When he pulls his hand away he notices the old small ring biting his lip to keep his tears in. 

Not that he needed his grandmother's approval for what he was already planning to do in the new year but it was definitely a relief to have. He smiles down at the women clothing the old ruby ring in his hand as he fights to keep his voice even. 

"I'll leave you two to your fun. I'm sure we'll make memories for the album soon enough"

[rikumorimachisgirl]

Title: Eyes on you

Pairing: Shaw x You

Genre: Fluff

Word count: 2,901

A/N: You (Y/N) are not the MC in MLQC. This is a plunny that's been bugging me for quite a while, I had to write it. I hope you like it.

Disclaimer: I do not own MLQC or its characters, but I do own the concept of this fic.

There were a few mysteries in this world that the esteemed Archeology Graduate Professors at Loveland University can't explain - for instance, the formation of the Stonehenge, the exact location of the lost city of Atlantis, the origin of the Nazca lines… and your presence at the Metro Art Gala dressed to the nines, positively gleaming as you strode arm in arm with your classmate and Thesis partner Shaw, who seemed like the perfect gentleman that evening. Thanks to your work at the Loveland Museum, you scored two invites to the gala featuring the recently discovered works of a well-known artist - an event any Archeology fanatic wouldn't let pass. The two of you walked along with LFG's Exhibition Hall, pausing occasionally to admire one of the recently discovered sculptures by the Renaissance artist D'Romani. As you both looked at the intricacies of the artwork in front of you, your charming companion would lean in slightly and whisper something in your ear, causing you to roll your eyes or stifle a giggle. 

To the guests in the prestigious gala, the two of you looked like two young people at the cusp of falling in love, but the members of the Faculty of the Graduate School of Archeology saw it differently - this was a real-life mystery if they'd seen one. 

As your eyes swiftly swept through the entire room, you could see that your professors only had one question in mind - how'd this happen? How did two people as different as day and night, who argued with each other throughout Graduate studies, end up amiably enjoying each other's company tonight? 

You drew a sharp breath and sighed. The answer was simple: Your Thesis defense was right around the corner. You needed him to cooperate, you were willing to go to great lengths to make it happen. And your Thesis partner (unfortunately) was ready to take full advantage of the situation. 

***

"Tell me why we're doing this again, " you said through the door that separated you and your date, as you were putting on the dress you bought (or invested on, as he casually stated) for tonight's gala, which he insisted on attending with you. It was six in the evening on a Friday, and you had just arrived home after cramming your workload at the Loveland Museum and foregoing your meal breaks just so you could leave work at exactly five-thirty. 

"I already told you a couple of times - you want me to cooperate with you so you can pass our Thesis, and I need a reason to be around her," the purple-haired man waiting at the other side of your bedroom door called out nonchalantly. "You can drop your fantasy about me asking you out because I'm attracted to you."

You hissed silently at his snarky remark and counted to ten. You haven't even left your apartment yet you already wanted this night to be over. "How do you even know she's gonna be there?"

She - the Miracle Finder Producer, the object of your Thesis Partner's fantasies, and as fate would have it, his brother's girlfriend. 

"They're doing a show featuring our Thesis adviser. Didn't he tell us about it during our last consultation?" He asked, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

"I wasn't listening," you shot back, as you took off your ponytail and started styling your hair with your curling iron. You chose a one-shoulder fitted black dress that stops right above your knees, so you thought of wearing your hair down for a change. 

"Ah, yes. You were too busy looking at your notes, trying to prove me wrong as always."

You closed your eyes, as you continued to make big beach waves and prayed to the gods you wouldn't commit murder tonight. 

"How much longer are you gonna take?"

"Excited much?" You asked, smirking while you now removed your glasses and put on your contacts. "You sound like a teenager excited to see his crush in a school fair!"

"Don't compare me to you!" 

"I don't have designs on anyone in the party," you called back. "Unless your brother's attending the event, that is. From what you've been telling me, he seems like a great guy."

Silence. You arched an eyebrow as you strained your ear to listen for any sign of life outside your bedroom door. What must your grunge-rock skater boy-turned-date-for-the-evening be thinking? 

"Do you want to pass our Thesis or not?"

You struck a victory pose at his remark. Finally, one point - you, Shaw - about twenty. 

"Are you done yet? This suit is really uncomfortable. Damn, why do people even wear these?"

"Because they're decent?" You shot back. "You know, you can always go home if you're not comfortable in your attire because when we get there, you need to act decent, too. Can't have your usual swagger in a formal affair."

"Just hurry it up already!"

You rolled your eyes as you applied your nude-colored lipstick to finish off your look before putting on your black stilettos, and stuffing your phone, wallet, and your makeup in your purse. 

"All done," you replied, as you finally emerged from your room. 

***

A part of you wished that the dynamics between you and Shaw were different. While he was a pain in the neck, and too carefree for his own good, you also thought he made for a good intellectual sparring partner, quite attractive, and it was hard to deny that he's got your heart beating double-time whenever he got too close for comfort like he was at that very moment. 

"My, you two kids seem to be having fun tonight."

You gasped, at the sound of the voice behind you, and you felt your date nudge you ever-so-subtly while straightening.

"Hey, Professor Adler," he said in his usual unruffled tone, his lips stretched into a smirk as he held his hand out to your Anthropology professor and Thesis adviser, who watched you both amusedly. His gesture made your eyes shot wide open, you thought they'd fall right off. Shaw shaking someone's hand? That's one for the books. 

"Shaw. Fancy seeing you here," the stout middle-aged man greeted while shaking your date's hand. "This isn't your usual scene though."

"Yeah, I know, but I can't exactly turn a pretty lady down, can I?" 

"I can see that," your professor said as he looked at you appraisingly. "Well, well, you clean up well, Miss (y/n)."

You fought the urge to squirm at the older man's words when you heard your date cluck his cheeks with his tongue and suddenly felt his arm around your shoulders, pressing you protectively close to his side. 

***

"All done!" You happily announced as you stepped into the living room of your small apartment where your date was impatiently waiting for you. 

You could've sworn he was stunned for a second or two before he shook his head and tried to regain his usual impassive expression. Finally, he stood and walked closer to assess you better. 

"You're not wearing your glasses. I thought you said you're practically blind without them?" 

You cocked your head to one side. Out of all the things he could've complimented or called out, that's the first thing he noticed? 

"Wouldn't it look awkward if I wore glasses to a formal event?"

"Your hair is all curly," he continued as if you didn't say anything. "And your shoes are so tall, won't you trip? Also, surely you have a jacket to go with that dress, right?" 

You stared at him in disbelief. Why did this carefree, bass-playing skater boy turn into your dad all of a sudden? 

"Uh…"

"Well, at least you're not wearing red lipstick. You don't have to try too hard to look sexy. Geez! I've got plans of my own this evening, so don't expect me to be your bodyguard," he continued to mumble as he circled around you. Before long, you felt something warm and heavy on your shoulder. His coat?

"It's just until we get to the venue," he shrugged as he led you to the car he borrowed for tonight. "I don't want people seeing you freeze to death."

You sighed, your shoulders slumped as you followed your date to the car. You already expected he wouldn't throw you a compliment for looking like a proper human tonight, and you cursed yourself for feeling gutted over it anyway. 

 ***

"So, which one of these sculptures did you like best, Professor?" You sighed in relief as Shaw changed the subject, his arm still wrapped around you, making you blush furiously. 

"Oh, I have to say I liked Eros and Psyche best. In case you haven't seen it yet, it's located a little further down the hall near the bar area," the older man was starting to explain when someone tapped his shoulder from behind. 

"Excuse me, Professor Adler," a gentle voice called out, making both the professor and Shaw jump. From behind the old man, a pretty petite with brown hair and big brown eyes, and the biggest smile on her face stepped up. "My name is MC from Miracle Finder."

Almost immediately, Shaw withdrew his arm around you, almost causing you to stagger backward. He straightened up and feigned disinterest. 

"Hey. It's a little rude how you stepped in while I was talking to the Professor," he said, his tone teasing. 

"Oh, I didn't notice you here. Do you mind if I talk to your Professor? We've invited him for an interview about the exhibit," the girl said sweetly. 

Based on how unconsciously coy she acted around Shaw, and the way he kept egging her, there was no doubt that this was the girl he was crushing on. You felt like the odd person out all of a sudden and needed to step away. 

You backed away slowly, careful not to rouse their attention because it would probably suck if you knew how Shaw would introduce you to his little crush. As soon as you were in a safe distance, you turned and walked aimlessly down the hall, pausing briefly at paintings or sculptures that caught your fancy, looking at its intricacies as you did so earlier. But somehow, it wasn't as fun as it was before, so you moved on quickly, to give way to the other guests who also wanted to view the artwork.

Finally, you came upon the bar and decided to rest your tired feet at the far corner, hidden from the rest of the world. Sighing, you slipped your feet off your stilettos and quietly watched as the guests around you - mostly couples - happily chatting away as they enjoyed the beauty of the art around them and the wonderful music that filled the air. You knew somewhere in the crowd, your date was fawning over his lady love, probably getting in the way of her filming your professor. 

Tch. 

You knew he liked her - he always told you he did. And why wouldn't he? MC was pretty, seemingly sweet, and dainty - the kind of girl any guy would like to protect. And you. You were the opposite. You lived for your work, were 'one of the boys', and didn't need anyone to protect you - that's just how you were - and now you started to realize that maybe guys don't exactly like that. At least not Shaw. 

Wait, what were you thinking? You scolded yourself as you shook your head. Why were you even thinking of what he liked when you don't even like him to start with. Or did you? 

"Ugh. What the hell is wrong with me?" You groaned when a cold bottle of beer and a frozen glass was placed in front of you. 

"I was gonna ask you that myself." 

You straightened up in your seat and shot a look at the guy seated beside you. Dressed in a nice grey suit, he smiled as he raised his beer bottle in front of you. 

"You look like you needed a drink. I hope the beer is okay. They don't have fruit beer or soda," he said calmly, his amber-colored eyes never leaving yours. 

"Y-yeah. Beer is perfect," you replied while pouring the amber liquid into the glass. "Thanks," you muttered before raising the glass to your lips to gulp down some liquid courage. 

"I saw you with Shaw earlier -"

The name on his lips drove you to a coughing fit, as you choked on your drink. "Sorry, " you mumbled in between coughs. 

"No, I'm sorry," the brown-haired guy said, as he cautiously and politely patted your back. "I didn't mean to bring that up. I was just curious."

"It's fine," you replied when you finally regained your composure. "Yes, we're just classmates in Grad school who decided to check this exhibit out for the heck of it."

"Classmates, huh?"

"Yeah, that's what we are," you said, taking a sip off your glass. "Grad school classmates."

"Are you telling me or telling yourself?"

You looked up and saw him smiling. There was something about Dreamy McHandsome who was seated beside you that felt so familiar yet different at the same time, but you couldn't point a finger at what it was exactly. 

"We're classmates, and we're working on our thesis together. But we're not friends - far from it even. We hate each other's guts."

"Can't blame you for doing so," he shrugged as he drank his beer. 

"Yeah. He dragged me here so he can get with someone he's been crushing on for so long," you rambled on, frowning. 

"Oh? And who might that be?"

"The Miracle Finder Producer. You know, the pretty girl in a blue top and white skirt. He's been going on and on about her for weeks…"

"You mean my girlfriend?" 

His girlfriend. You choked on your drink once again. "Y-y-your girlfriend? You mean to say…" You gasped. Has the beer made you stupid? You've barely drunk half of it, you thought as you fought to regain your dignity. This was Shaw's brother you were talking to - and boy, we're they blessed with good genes…

… And the same social awkwardness, you noticed, judging by how he kept his hand at your back, but not exactly touching it, as if trying to assess if he had to pat you or not. 

When you finally calmed down, he cleared his throat and gave you a small smile. "Don't worry. She talks to me about their conversations. I know what that guy is playing at, and I most definitely know he's not after my girl," he said, his voice broke no room for doubt. "My name is Gavin..."

"Yeah, I know…"

"You - what?"

"Oh," you said, tapping on your glass nervously. "Shaw kinda mentioned it in passing before."

"I see."

"So, what were you saying earlier about Shaw?"

"Oh. From what my girlfriend tells me, he's got his sights set on…"

"Ahem," you heard someone say loud enough for you and Gavin to turn your heads around. And there, standing behind you, was an angry-looking Shaw. You sat up, your gaze shifting between the two brothers as the air started to thicken with tension. "I talk to someone for a minute and the next thing I knew, my date walks out on me and right into the one person I'd hate for her to meet."

"Well, if you were just honest with her as with a lot of other things in your life, maybe she wouldn't have left your side earlier," Gavin retorted flippantly. "Is she finally done with filming?"

Shaw simply grunted in reply as he watched his older brother finish his bottle of beer and stand. "Well, Miss, there's a lot I've heard about you. Seems somebody couldn't stop talking about you, but I'll leave it at that." 

With a wink and a mischievous smile upon his face, the brown-haired guy sauntered off to look for his better half, as you and Shaw watched in awkward silence. 

He cleared his throat and glanced at you. "Hey."

"Hey," you replied, shakily. 

"So, about what that jerk said -"

"Yes?" You asked, feeling your heart hammer against your chest by the second.

"Whatever he said is not true," he said dismissively, as he took his coat off and draped it over your shoulders. "I told you before, I don't find you the least bit attractive."

You felt tears starting to sting your eyes, as he continued with his harsh commentary. "You're tough, highly opinionated, and you always want to come out on top. I don't find those attractive at all," he said. "I prefer a damsel in distress. I want someone clingy… someone, needy."

"I know that -"

"Oh do you?" He teased, his amber eyes twinkling. "You seem to know a lot about me."

"We've been working together for months now," you said. "Of course, I'd know more about you."

"I see," he said, as he took a step closer to you and touched your cheek, rubbing the stray tear that had managed to slip down the side of your face. "So, you must know I'm also a good liar. After all, I've kept all these feelings to myself for quite some time."

He snickered when he saw your frown deepen and he bent down just as he had done so earlier, to whisper. "I made you think I liked someone else when in fact," his low voice made you shiver. "I've always eyes for you."

The End.

[everyhowlmarksthedead]

❛ FAMILY ❜

Headcanon.

with Neron ‘Creeper’ Vargas.

Request: Oooh yes yes yeah 😁 I show u take request 🙈 I would read something with Creeper dates a girl who already have 4/5 sons of a precedent relation. Maybe about how he create relationshion with their ? Like one love bike, another by playing football ? An the older is septic but one day he understand have Creeper for stepfather is having all Mayans for family. Sorry if it's sound to specific.

BY ANON

Warnings: none.

Word count: about 1.3k

Aurora says: this writing hasn't been edited, you may find some grammar mistakes, I'm sorry about that!

Gif credits: to the author, I found it on Google.

Masterlist.

Creeper couldn't believe you were alone in charge of three kids, when you moved onto his neighborhood. And he knew you didn't have a husband around because he had never seen him.

The problem was when he realized he was in love with you, with your scent, with the sweet tone of your voice and with that smile which could stop a war.

“Wait, wait! Lemme help you, mama!”

You hear a voice behind you, making you turn around from the trunk of your car full of bags. A man covered with tattoos and a helmet hanging from his forearm, is walking towards you.

“Oh, no, no. Don't worry. It's okay”. You mutter somewhat ashamed with a fleeting smirk on your lips.

“Nah, ain't nothing better to do”. He just shrugs his shoulders, grabbing three bags in every hand and greatly surprising you of his strength.

“Than—Thank you…” You just say, taking the three left, before closing your car.

Walking in silence straight to the porch, you open the door with some difficulties making you both laugh until it finally opens. Following you to the kitchen, he leaves the groceries over the counter, having one quick look but without wanting to look like a creepy stalker.

“I'm (Y/N), by the way”. You say then, raising a hand at him hoping it's enough for a formal greeting.

“Neron”. The man answers, narrowing it softly, a little bewitched by your touch.

“Can I… maybe offer you a coffee or something…?”

Whenever you two were free of responsibilities, you used to sit on your porch to share some drinks and talk about work, or about your lives in general. And only when he knew that it could be something serious, he just talked to you about what he really does, one bit at time.

After some months, more or less, hanging out, you two decided to introduce him to your girls. Two twins of six years old and a pre-teen of fourteen. You were aware that he wouldn't have any problem with Lia and Marta. But Carlota was another history.

Since Creeper has sat at the table, after helping you to settle the table, you can see the younger whispering and chuckling with that kind of gesture that they use when they want to ask something, but they're too ashamed. Narrowing your eyes, as the man does, you look at them.

“C'mon, girls, spit it out”. You say with a funny smile on your lips.

“Can we color your drawings one day?” Marta and Lia ask in unison, pointing at his bare arms.

You can't help but laugh rubbing your faces.

“Sounds like a cool plan”. Creeper nods pretty convinced.

“Fuck this shit”. From her silence, Carlota drags backwards her chair, getting up to step out of the living room.

“Hey, mama”. Neron says grabbing your left wrist, when you're about to follow her. “It's okay. Give her time”.

“I can't let her behave like that”. You grunt sitting down.

“She is fourteen, baby. We both know what her father did. And probably she thinks I want to replace him, but it's not. She will see it, okay?”

The months kept passing by, taking the next step when you decided to live together. At this point he has already introduced you to his brothers, being more kindly than you thought. At least, they didn't thought that Neron was fucking out of his mind, for getting related with a woman with three kids.

Lia and Marta were delighted having him at home, playing with them whenever he had five minutes, or cooking pancakes on Sundays. And of course, letting your girls color all his tattoos.

Carlota, by the other hand, started to be hard-nose. Always locking herself in her dorm when she was at home. And it was breaking your heart, trying to talk with her about what was bothering her, even if you already knew. But the worst part was when the principal of his highschool called you to tell you about a fight that involucred your daughter with another three girls.

“Hey, mama, I got this, okay?”

What you didn't know is that Neron was already conscious about what was happening. So he was to take care of that business.

Your daughter was sitting on a bench in the peak time of finishing classes, crying unconsolable with her hands covering her burning face. She wasn't expecting the loud buzz coming closer, raising her blurry gaze to the road. Nine motorbikes made their appearance, getting parked backwards next to the sidewalks. The whole student body with their parents and some teachers turned at them, mostly whispering about how good those nine men looked. Taking off their helmets, Neron's brothers waited for him, having some cigs, while he started to walk towards your surprised daughter.

As soon as he was able to kneel close to her, he knew by just one look who were the other girls. He didn't say anything, standing up to lead his steps to the three families with their eyes fixed on the man.

“I know that your daughters are teasing my kid about me, about my club and about what we do. So, lemme tell you something, as parents you are, the only thing you want is the happiness of them. Keep it in mind. Because next time my kid comes back home crying, I will not be this… polite”.

The girls were trembling, hiding behind their parents who were terrified too because of his words. Showing them a fake smile, Neron turned around to your daughter to make her a sign.

“I want you to say ‘sorry’ to her, and promise that you will never gonna fuck her up again”.

“Sir, yo—”.

“Shut the fuck up, man. I'm talking to your ill-bred kids”.

“We… We're so—sorry, Carlota”.

Your daughter looked at him, clinging to his arm, pouting a little and pulling him back.

“Good. Never forget to be kind”.

That night, Carlota didn't stop talking about how scared everyone was because of Creeper, totally freaking out too about when he appeared with his brothers in such cool motorbikes.

It was almost two am when your boyfriend came from the clubhouse, a little tired and needed for a cold beer. Taking off his boots at the entrance, to not be noisy, he walks straight to the kitchen to grab one from the fridge. Opening it with not much difficulty, he has a sip turning to the island in the middle of the kitchen.

“Jesus fucking christ, Carlota…” He whispers with his heart racing. “What you doin'ere?”

“I couldn't sleep”. She just says, having another spoon of ice cream.

“At least, turn on the lights… You're gonna gimme a heart attack, kid”.

She laughs low, shaking her head, before getting up from the stool. Walking towards him without saying a single word, your daughter hugs Creeper wrapping his waist with both arms.

“Thank you for today”. She mutters resting her cheek on his chest.

Your boyfriend doubts for a second, not knowing if it's real or an illusion, but it feels so good that he could help her somehow. Hugging her back, the man kisses her head, smiling like a fool. Being happy to see that she's finally accepting him in her family.

“Listen, Carlota…” He says then, pulling himself away to leave the beer over the counter. “I don't wanna replace anyone, okay? We don't have to play this dad and daughter game. I wanna be your friend, I want you to trust me and talk to me about your problems, if you have some, okay?”

“Okay”. She just says. “I'm sorry if I hurt you ever”.

“Nah, it's okay, kid. I just want you to be happy”.

“I am, Creep'”.

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[midnghtprentiss]

Royalty - Chapter One.

Olivia felt her body heavy the moment she put on the dress. It was not the type of clothing she wore at the convent, it was full of sparkles and lacy scraps. On his head was the crown that clearly showed his destiny. Queen of a man she knew and a desperate nation. In a place where she did not know.

"Majesty, we are ready to go. " One of the guards approached, bowing first.

"Just one more minute." Olivia stammered, approaching Sister Mary. "Thanks for everything, Mary. I will never forget you."

"You have no time to waste, Olivia. Soon you will be married to Prince Luke who will also be king. Win his heart and you'll be able to get through it." Sister Mary gave the girl a hug and then went on her way to the carriage.

The carriage was large and comfortable enough for a long journey. Olivia liked to travel around the country, even though she didn't do it very often. She liked to observe nature, people and places, which would soon be in her possession. The region was beautiful, full of chateaus and villages. As well as it was full of animals and plants different from what I was used to.

"Princess, we're coming. Get ready." One of the guards alerted on his horse.

The castle was beautiful. Full of flowers and flags showing that it belonged to the royal family. Some servants and royal guests were waiting for their carriage at the entrance to the castle. The moment they stopped, the door was opened for Olivia, who went down and looked around. The instant she saw Grace and Nora with their chaperones, she ran to meet him. Hugging them as tightly as I could.

"Olivia! How are you" Grace hugged her friend and then made room for the others.

"How I missed you. Did you travel well? We have a lot to talk about later. " Olivia smiled and looked at the castle door.

Queen Liz, King Andy. With his bastard son Calum. But no sign of Luke. The women quickly started walking in the same direction, but before a tall, blond boy came in.

"Majesty. " He bowed briefly before extending his arm.

" Luke! " Olivia shook her head and walked away. "You are ... Bigger. I have to admit that this new form of you has gone well with you."

"You look beautiful, Your Highness." He smiled, showing his flushed cheeks and stretching his arm so she could catch him.

"Call me Olivia, please. " She smiled, fitting her arm, going towards the rest of the people.

Wherever she went, people bow, whisper and smile. Olivia was the queen everyone expected to replace Liz on the throne. Liz had an ambition to protect her children at all costs, even if it cost her own life.

After the formalities, Olivia and her ladies were directed to their royal quarters. The walls were lined with light fabrics filled with flowers, while the ceiling with gold details had some paintings. Solid wood furniture with chandeliers. The bed with posts that held a white silk veil, made the whole environment less scary and cozy. Not as a child, but it was still cozy.

She sat on the bed, feeling the soft, fluffy fabric, letting her body slide in the middle and the mattress welcoming her in a simple and comfortable way. However, she was interrupted by a knock on the door.

"Oli, we need to get ready for your dinner. The king wants to do especially to flatter the future queen of Australia and daughter-in-law. " Nora murmured entering the room and approaching.

"I think I'll explore the castle before I do anything." The girl stood up quickly, adjusting her cottage around her body.

"We meet here in an hour, right? " She quickly agreed and walked away.

Those walls and corridors kept secrets and saw things that can never leave Olivia's memory. She and Luke used to run and play all over this place. They created a world without even leaving, but after she went to the convent, he abandoned the games and high imagination.

She walked down the steps they were running on and where Luke had tried to steal a kiss for the first time. He was so ashamed that he had to run. At the end of the stairs there was a room, where were his old rooms. The door was open and then Olivia could see that Luke was there and where there was a bed now she had a piano.

"Since when have you played? " Olivia murmured, leaning against the door.

"Hm, hi. Since you left. I didn't have anyone else to run or imagine and you know the rules with Calum." She smiled and approached, looking around.

"I remember that room. We stayed here for hours. Imagining the future where we weren't royalty and didn't even need protection." Olivia commented, running her hands over the old furniture.

"It was good and as if we were free. Nobody else comes here. Just me. It is good to be able to work on so many memories." Luke smiled, approaching. "Don't you have to get ready for the party?"

"I can do that later. I needed to come by before. " She smiled and stood up. "I didn't mean to disturb you. Anyway, it's good to know that you take care of it here."

Olivia walked out, leaving the room behind, walking down the stairs quickly. Heading towards your room.

Her ladies were already waiting for her, with some jewelry and dresses she could choose from. Olivia was an easy person to please and that was a very good quality, but when it wasn't her days, nothing pleased her.

Grace helped her to wear a green sleeveless dress with gold details all over the sleeves and shoulders, with a medium tail and lace on the front, highlighting her well-designed medium body. The crown on his head fitted into the locked hairstyle. The ruby ​​earrings that had been gifts from the English queen.

"You look stunning, majesty." A male voice had echoed through the room. He was a blond boy and a little shorter. "I'm Michael, your coast guard and if you want, I can be your friend too."

"Oh, hello Michael. You can call me Olivia." She smiled approaching the boy. " I would love for you to be my friend and faithful companion."

He smiled and bowed. The ladies left and Olivia followed, walking next to Michael who kept his hands close to his sword and his posture upright.

"Calum chose me along with Luke to be your guard. " He asked, looking through the corridors.

"I trust them to entrust my life to you. Thanks." As soon as they approached the main hall the doors were opened.

All attention was directed to the woman who passed by, no longer as a child, but as a woman. Noble people greeted her, others ignored her, but none of them could deny that Olivia was not funny. His light steps, straight posture and hands close to his body.

"Olivia, I want to introduce you to Cardinal Louis. He was sent by the Vatican. " King Andy approached introducing the man who smiled kindly.

"It's a pleasure, Cardinal. " He nodded and left.

"You look stunning, Olivia. " The queen said looking up and down as she looked. "Fit for a queen."

"Thanks. " The girl agreed and was soon called by the ladies. "Let's Dance." Olivia pulled her friends to the middle of the dance floor, dancing what they knew because of the dancing melody of the orchestra.

Luke and Calum watched them from a distance. They drew attention, but the pedestal was all Olivia's and no one had any doubt about it. Her presence in the country made some people fear war or worse. But without a doubt the salvation of the Hemmings was in the Pristol family, precisely in Olivia and in the future children that she and Luke would have.

"Can I ask for a dance? " Luke murmured, extending his hand to Olivia who took it without hesitation, passing it over the boy's shoulders. "You look beautiful, Olivia."

"You look beautiful, as always, Luke. It looks like we're going to have to get used to these events after we get married." He shook his head, turning the woman over.

"If we get married. It all depends on the circumstances my father decides." Olivia raised an eyebrow.

"You don't want to marry me, do you? " Olivia's voice sounded hard, but she wasn't surprised. "I'm doing what's right for my country, but I'm not going to wait too long Luke. Australia is my alliance, but it is not the only option."

Olivia moved away, leaving the middle of the dance floor, heading for a less busy corner. She smiled at Michael who kept a safe distance.

"Diplomacy is not easy, is it?" Calum's voice echoed through the background, making her jump in surprise.

"Good to see you, Cal. There were so many letters during twelve years that I can recognize you from afar." He smiled at the compliment, laughing quietly.

"How is your stay going? " The girl murmured, handing him a glass of wine.

"It is not as comfortable as the convent, but it will soon be. Or not." She shrugged. "I'm a part of the game here. I may stay until I marry your brother, if we get married.

" don't know much about diplomacy but I understand about Luke and he doesn't like that." Calum always tried to defend his brother and that was mutual.

"I don't know, Cal. If they don't find me useful, I have to find someone who thinks otherwise." Olivia smiled, placing her hands on the boy's shoulder before leaving.

Attention went to the king a while later to organize a toast in honor of the future queen.

"Olivia's return represents a new beginning and reconstruction of our nation. To the Queen Olivia of New Zealand." Everyone raised their glasses celebrating Olivia's life.

At the end of the party, she decided to return without the chaperones, only with Michael who maintained the same posture, just looked a little tired. Olivia offered to take a nap, but he denied it and went about his business.

"Mike, being a woman is difficult. I have to be quiet until men want me to speak, but I'm not that kind of woman" Olivia murmured, drawing the attention of the guard who crossed his arms. "I'm Olivia Pristol, queen of New Zealand and if Australia wants me to be part of the game, so be it my way."

[papergirllife]

Cheers To Us

A Mark Lee Oneshot

Part 1

" Stop looking like you're in the verge of death. "

" But I am, I'm getting bored to death. "

We didn't used to need to do this. My mom and I used to spend Christmas watching old movies in the living room, drinking away mugs of hot cocoa.

That is until she got married, my mom was exhilarated to be married, it's not that the bloke she chose isn't a good one.

It's the family Christmas gatherings that suck. They really don't lack formality when it comes to it, and a pinch of drama here and there.

" You should really stop being this anti social and get to know our family. "

" Your family, mom. I'm just here because you threatened to cut off fifty percent of our WiFi. "

" Hi Charlotte! "

There she goes, leaving me to fend for myself in this sparkly hell hole for some aunt of someone.

After she left her seat, someone plopped down the sofa.

" Hi I'm Mark. Nice to meet you. "

The boy in front of you has fluffy black hair and glittery eyes, dressed in an oversized sweater and sweat pants.

" Y/N, and I have no idea how you're supposed to be related to me, so enlighten me. "

" Supposed? Well if you like to put it that way. Your mom married my uncle, so you're supposedly my cousin. "

" Right. Since you're around my age, I'm just going to be curt. I'm a bore and I don't like fake socialising with people that I will probably only see once a year. So it would be better if you found someone better to talk to. "

" But I don't feel like talking to people that I would only see once a year either. That's why I'm here. "

" How are you so sure that you would be seeing me more than once a year? "

" Because your step dad and my dad are quite close, and we live nearby your place too. "

" Gossip much? "

" Your mom was really keen on getting to know me is all. "

" Of course she is. " You said with a roll of your eyes.

" She's nice. Way better than Aunt Karen. "

" The one with rine stones on her glasses? "

" That's the one. "

" She judged my whole being when she saw me, and all I did was yawn. "

" When she saw me she said ' Mark Lee, your hair is messy as usual, and underdressed . ' "

" What a bitch. Did you say anything back to her? "

" I told her that the other relatives complimented my good looks, and that her glasses are the ones that are messed up. "

" Oof. "

"She gave me the worst stink eye I've ever seen. "

After dinner, the both of us went to the backyard as the people inside were starting to get on our nerves.

" It's always the same questions. ' Why don't you have a girlfriend yet Mark? ' ' How's school, Mark ? ' "

" Don't they always. "

" Hey, you wanna go clubbing later? Since we live close by, I can pick you up. "

" Sure. I'd love to sneak out the house with you. My mom can't even get angry at me since she made me attend this. "

" Sounds rendezvous. "

" It's nothing compared to my other adventures. "

" Y/N?! It's time to head home. "

" Coming mom! "

" See you later. "

" Can't wait. "

" You look different. " Mark said as you open the door of his car.

" Good different or bad different? "

" Neither. You look nice in both styles. "

" Thanks. "

" My friend and his cousins will be there afterwards, is that alright? "

" Why not? The more the merrier. "

" Y/N, meet Johnny and his cousins, Wendy and Yeri. "

" Hi, nice to meet you guys. " I said as we shook hands.

" It's nice to finally have another girl in the clique. Your other guy friends just suck, it's either they want to get into our pants or talk about beer kegs. "

" They aren't that bad, sis. "

" I don't care, Y/N is an upgrade from that loud guy you introduced to us. "

" Lucas? He is really loud, can't defend him there. "

" Come on guys, let's get a table and do some shots for starters as we have a new warrior amongst us. "

Johnny, I realized, is pretty extra.

" You better not get the cheap ones that taste like shit. " Yeri said as we sat down.

" Yes, ma'am. That was 2 years ago. "

" So Y/N, are you single? "

" Yeah. "

" Wendy, you should save the questions for truth or dare. "

" Oh my jesus. Not that again, Yeri. "

" Yes, again. "

" Okay, same rules johfam. If you don't answer a truth, one shot. If you don't do a dare, two shots. " Johnny announced as he came back with two trays of shots and an empty beer bottle.

The first question asked was about Yeri's wildest rendezvous.

" So you're saying that you and a guy you picked up at Disney had sex during one of the shows you watched? " Mark asked with wonder .

" Yeah, cuz it was kinda boring that one, and we sat far behind, so no one was at our row. "

After a few slight mundane questions it was the first dare of the night when Wendy dared Johnny to seduce a man.

Johnny was so good at it that he had to apologize and leave at one point, faking he had an emergency at home.

As the game went by, funny memories were made and many shots downed.

" Y/N. Truth or dare? "

" Dare. "

" I dare you to give Mark a lap dance. "

" Good one sis. " Yeri high fived Wendy.

" Easy. "

As I sauntered my hips to Mark's seat, his eyes had a hint of panic and curiousity.

I gave myself a mental pat on the back for wearing shorts instead of a dress.

I dropped my body in a near sitting position in front of Mark's slightly spreaded legs.

My clothed crotch and his were nearly touching. I wrapped my hands around his neck and started rotating my hips while going upwards.

My eyes traced his body from his crotch till his face to see that he had his bottom lip in his teeth, it made me wanted to take a bite at it as well.

I made a turn and faced my back to him, I dropped the upper half of my body down to my toes and slowly dragged my hands up my thighs, my fingers slightly pulling at the holes of my fishnets.

As a finish up act, I lowered my butt slightly to twerk a few times, then pushed it up just right under his nose.

After my little act was done, Mark sat frozen at his seat, his boner hard against his washed jeans.

" Mark, she's your cousin. "

" It's only through marriage Johnny, shut up. "

" Does that make you feel better when you guys get laid? "

Mark just hid his face in his hands, too embarrassed to answer Johnny's snarky remarks.

" Lay off him for a while Johnny. Look at how he's already suffering just from the show. " Wendy said.

" Fine, now if you'll excuse me ladies and gentleman. I'm going to look for a one night stand candidate. "

" Ugh men. Come on Y/N, Wendy, let's go dance on the dance floor. "

" You guys go first. I still want to catch my breath from my action back there. "

" Sure. "

I sneaked a peek at Mark, he was looking down, hands clasped together.

" Mark? You okay? Too many shots? "

He gave a light chuckle, red was dusted against his cheeks as he looked up to you.

" No I just um, I didn't want you to see this. "

His eyes shot down towards his crotch. He quickly grabbed a pillow that was laid on the sofa to cover up his boner.

I got up and stood in front of him.

" Why not? "

I took Mark's hand and dragged him to the dance floor before he could answer me.

" Wait, no Y/N, we don't have to do this. "

" Relax. We're just going to dance. " For now, You thought.

Mark was barely able to function on the dance floor, he kept being flustered by the way my hips move.

His moves stilled whenever I gave him a sultry look of my eyes. After I moved my way towards him, I placed his hands on my waist, and wrapped mine around his neck.

It felt nice, just to have his body swaying next to mine. I shifted my eyes to his, I just noticed how big and bright they look .

Then I dropped my gaze to his lips. Those oh so kissable lips were so tempting.

I quickly moved my eyes back up, not wanting to make Mark too uncomfortable.

As I looked up, I saw Mark staring at my lips as well.

" Mark, my eyes are up here. "

" Sorry, I was just-- Actually, can I kiss you? "

" Sure. "

The kiss was feather light at first, the both of us still shy.

It started escalating deeper as Mark pulled me closer. A hand went lower and placed on my butt, the other went up to my cheek, holding my face in place.

He bit my lower lip, distracting me as we fought for dominance. His tongue sliding into my mouth, exploring an uncharted territory.

My head started to get dizzy from the lack of oxygen, Mark must've felt the similar feeling as we both began to pull away.

A trail of saliva connecting the both of our lips formed.

" Sorry. That's a bit messy. "

He wiped our drool off my chin, a slight grin playing on his lips.

" Why don't we get a drink? "

Mark nodded at your request, and took your hand tightly in his, leading you to the bar.

[estrxlar]

The Ghost Of You

17 - So Called Guardian

This Chapter’s Songs:

November; Tyler The Creator

Desire Lines; Lush

Show Me How; Men I Trust

- Y. L. Perspective

I swiftly take off my blazer, shoes, and tie, keeping an eye on the new yet old girl. After she had introduced herself to me, she finished up her conversation with Kiyoko. As I hid behind the locker to change my outfit, I listened in on Eclair and her reason for being here.

"Yeah, so I just got back! I'm leaving again around next week! I'm on spring break to see my mom, so I thought I could by after school to visit the old club! Maybe if Takeda lets me, I could stick around till I leave," she mumbles, smiling down at her shoes. The girl looked like an unboxed expensive doll with rich clothing included. "Oh...I have a question."

Kiyoko hummed, tying her shoes on the bench.

"How's Koushi doing?"

I felt as if my ears were stretching out towards her, hearing every single vowel she spoke out. 'Suga? What does she want to do with him? Maybe they're old friends.' I hoped and prayed that the two weren't involved in anything together. If so, that would give me another issue. I didn't want some beautiful girl near Koushi if they had history. Especially not if they're so close for them to be on a first-name basis.

I slam my locker shut, getting ready to put on my shoes as well. Both girls are surprised by the sudden sound, but I ignore it, continuing to "mind my own business."

"Uhm..." I feel Kiyoko's eyes wander towards me at the mention of Sugawara. "He's been doing pretty good ever since school started. I don't know much about his personal life."

I spot her hands tightening in on each other in the corner of my eye. "Oh! Okay, I'll just ask Daichi then. The only reason I'm asking is that...well...you know."

'You know?! What the hell does this girl want with Koushi?! And it's not like I can say I'm his girlfriend or anything...' I think to myself, finishing getting dressed. "Hey, Kiyoko, we should probably get going. We don't wanna be late to practice," I mutter in a nervous voice, rubbing my neck.

She nods to me. "Yeah. Uhm— Eclair is coming as well if you don't mind."

'Of course, she is.' Once again, I smile, saying, "that's fine with me! Gives me some time to know her." The girl squeals in excitement, getting a head start to the gym before Kiyoko and me.

When Kiyoko pulls open the gym doors, we're greeted by a few players that were already there. To my surprise, there seems to be a new boy in the gym.

I had expected him to greet us, girls, in a gentle manner the way the rest of the team does. Instead, he yells out to the black-haired girl, "Kiyoko! Come to my arms sweet mama!"

Repulsed, she slapped her hand against his face, making sure he hadn't touched her. "Stop that," she demanded which in her therapeutic tone that I could never take seriously. I only stood at the doorway, confused as to why there was a short, loud little man at our feet.

"I've missed you!" The boy gets back up, standing a good distance from us. Kiyoko simply scoffs before walking to the supply room, leaving Eclair and me with him. He looks our way almost immediately, grabbing both of our hands and kissing them. "Hey, ladies! Now, Eclair— you better tell me who this fine girl!"

She giggles lightly. "That's Y/n! I just met her a few moments ago, so I'm not sure I can tell you much about her!" A few moments after he turns back to the rest of the team, she leans close to my ear to whisper, "that's Nishinoya. He was our old libero before leaving for temporary discipline."

Kiyoko rolls out a basket of volleyballs, calling me towards her while Eclair greeted our players. I run towards her, helping her unbuckle the straps that held the casket together.

"So...who exactly is this Eclair?" I ask her, causing her to roll her eyes.

'I'm guessing no one good.'

"It's just an old manager that was around for a month or two during our second year. Throughout that time, she managed to get every boy on the team to wag their tail for her. I wouldn't call her a slut or anything, just very flirtatious. She didn't do much. She was more of a cheerleader for the boys so drool over," she explains. I look over to Eclair, feeling ill by the fact she was much closer to any of the players than I was. "And about Sugawara... she had a major crush on him for a while. You might want to keep an eye on him since you two are a thing."

It seemed Eclair was a huge threat already. With her formality, style, and beauty, I most definitely had my doubts about keeping Koshi in my grasp. I stared her down as she walked over towards him, greeting him with a small hug. Internally, I felt like ripping my head off at the sight. But I just tried ignoring it and continuing my task.

Thankfully, Daichi yells my name out, calling for me to head over there. I do as told and run over towards the group. He tugs at my shoulders, wrapping one of his strong arms around them. "This is Y/n. She's been a manager of ours for a week now, but she's pretty familiar with the third years. I think she'll be helping Kiyoko out until they graduate. Y/n, this is Eclair and Nishinoya— second years. Eclair was assistant to manager for a little while and Noya is our team's libero."

"Wow, that's so cool! So is Eclair gonna be a manager too?! That would be so awesome if we had three pretty girls in the club!" I cringe at how girl-obsessed this Nishinoya seemed to be and how sweet Eclair was behaving.

She smiled, giggling at the boy's question. "No, silly! I'm only here for a week! Since I'm still on spring break, I'll just be hanging out with you guys a couple of times before going back to France. I'm so sad that I have to leave all of you sweet boys for good!"

Daichi let's go of me, letting me wiggle my shoulders around. "Noya, you haven't changed all that much after leaving school for a while."

"Oh, whatever. I'm just excited to be back on the team. So, where's Asahi? Is he back yet?"

Everyone grows silent at Noya's question, looking anywhere but at him. 'Who's Asahi? This team is really lacking communication skills,' I think to myself. "Well...Uhm," Daichi mumbles in a hesitant tone.

"Damn coward." Nishinoya makes a sudden remark, changing the cheerful atmosphere he led just a few seconds ago.

Tanaka tried shutting up his peer, scared he'll get himself into even more trouble than he was already in. "Noya! Show some respect for your upper class-men!—"

"Oh shut up! He's a scared little cry baby and you know it," he yelled back to Tanaka. "If Asahi's not coming back, then neither am I!"

'So dramatic.' I think to myself, raising my brows at the awkward situation. Before anybody can stop him, he rushes out of the gym, leaving us worried. It sure was the "guardian" that Daichi described last week. Blunt and loud.

"Hm..so who's gonna run after him this time?" Tanaka groans, disappointed that his reunion with his friend came to a sudden stop.

Eclair frowns, beginning the sentence of her idea. "Maybe I could talk to him—" but she's suddenly interrupted by Koshi, who stands right behind me.

"Y/n! Why don't you do it?" He and his patronizing smile showed no mercy towards me. Placing both of his hands on my hips, he turns and leads me towards the door. "Come on, it'll be fun! Noya is always nice to gorgeous girls. Right guys?"

The team nods, chuckling at Koshi's strange behavior, given none of them had ever seen him act so touchy with me. In fact, he'd just told every member of the club that he thought I was gorgeous.

I give him a death stare, attempting to unleash myself from his grasp. He still kept a cheerful mood and was determined to see how I could handle this situation. "Koshi—I dunno... I just met the guy two minutes ago!"

When we reach the door, he suddenly got close up to my ear, whispering, "you'll be closer to the team ten times more than you were if you get him back. I just want you and the team to feel comfortable before announcing anything."

As annoyed as I was with him, I understood. My friends knew Suga, but they weren't very close to him in any way. I didn't blame him for wanting me to communicate with them. Still, that didn't change the fact I was pissed with him for putting me on the spot like that.

Sighing, I roll my eyes, awkwardly smiling at the team as they look towards us. And before I knew it, I'm off looking for Nishinoya.

I felt released when I had spotted him sitting nicely under a cherry blossom tree. As cheerful as the area was, he looked quite disappointed.

I debated once more if I should have butt into a problem that I truly had no acknowledgment of— if it was the best idea to potentially ruin this opportunity for the volleyball club. Unfortunately, he had spotted me in his peripheral vision before I could doubt myself any longer.

"Did Daichi send you?" His raspy high pitched voice questions me while he cracked his knuckles.

'Well, not him, but his best friend.'

I shake my head, sitting down in the empty spot next to him on the bench. He quickly turned the other way, crossing his arms like a child. "I'm not coming back," Noya scoffed.

I was lost. Was there anything other than coming back to the club to talk about? His skills. "Uhm, so, you specialize in defense, right?" I prayed to every presence that I was steering the right way with this conversation.

"Why do you think that?" He asks. "Cause I'm short?"

I shake my head again. "No, It's because Daichi kept calling you 'Guardian'."

"Guardian?! Where did that come from? I mean, I'm not that important. It's embarrassing—really!" Bingo! Noya grew flustered about the nickname and faced me, denying his excitement. "D-did he say that?"

"Mhm, supposedly you're pretty important."

But all good things must come to an end. After a few more seconds of happiness, he reverts to his angry attitude. "So what?! Does Daichi think giving me a badass nickname is enough to make me come back? I mean he's not wrong but—damn is Daichi that's not fair."

'It's not all that. Honestly, it's kind of cringe. But whatever floats your boat, I guess.' I wonder to myself how I could possibly make this stubborn boy agree that he was needed on the team. Without a script in my hand, I came up with the best I could do. "Look, Noya. I don't know much about volleyball or the club the way you do. Hell, I've only been here for a week and I'm already stressed out. But I'm positive that you're important to us. We have this kid...his name is Hinata. You met him earlier. You see, he has potential, but he still needs a lot of practice on his receives. And from what I know, that's the most important aspect of the game. Right?"

Nishinoya abruptly stands up, near crying at my explanation of how badly we needed him. "...wow,

L/n! You know how to convince a guy!" His voice wobbles in emotion. "Of course I'll help you! I

mean— Hinata! But that doesn't mean I'm coming back to volleyball club, I'm only gonna teach him how to do receives, that's all!"

I stand up, bowing towards the girl-obsessed guy. "Thank you, Noya."

'I did it! I got him to come back! Only for one practice, but that's still something!'

-

After taking many mental (and physical) notes on today, it was finally my time to leave practice.

Seeing Noya's playstyle helped me tremendously to understand the position of a receiver on the volleyball team. And as it turned out, he was an important player. And after this "Asahi" guy left, it only made everyone feel more diminished.

He's supposed to be another one of the third-year players. Though I've never met him, I do know that he's a boy my age but looks like a man. Supposedly, during a game that Karasuno was losing caused trouble for the entire team. Sugawara was setting and Asahi was attacking, but all of his attacks were shot down by another team. The night they came back is when he'd decided to give up on volleyball. I couldn't even imagine how guilty Koshi must have felt after that. Knowing him, he probably took on the blame for everything.

I was glad I decided to help out the club by getting Noya to help Hinata with his received. It would benefit not only them, but Sugawara as well. "How can you be confused, its just 'wooh!' and then 'pow!'" He shouts as the ball ricochets off of his wrists.

"Yeah! I know exactly what he's saying, how do you not get it?!" Kageyama says to Hinata, who's mentally challenging himself today.

"That's only because you guys teach with words!"

The day was coming to an end, finally. Dealing with a bunch of boys making noise and Eclair non-stop talking to everybody made me feel sick. But before I left to change back into my clothes, Nishinoya made a move to stop me.

"Wait, Y/n! You can't just leave without giving me your number! And where's my hug?! How about I take you out sometime as thanks for giving me such a sweet talk under the pretty little tree?" He whines, grabbing both my hands. 'Where's my hug? Mother fucker, you're younger than I am.'

Koshi spends no time running up behind me and pulling me from his grasp, telling the boy, "Noya, you need to stop harassing all the girls that step into this gym."

"Oh, come on, Suga! She's a total cutie and you know it!" He points at him. "Wait a minute...is that why you're so protective of the new manager?! You've got your eyes on Y/n!"

We both gasp, letting go of each other in an instant. "No!" Koshi and I yell while awkwardly smiling.

-

As time passes, each member dresses out and begins to walk home. When I do as well, Koshi. waits for me outside.

I would finally be able to talk with him about today!

"So, you have Noya a sweet talk under the cherry blossom tree?" Sugawara teases me, playfully bumping my shoulder while we began our walk into the roads.

I hit him back. "Stop that! That was just a coincidence. And I only got him back by saying Daichi thought of him as some knight and that he was needed on the team. That's all!"

"Oh yeah? Well, you did a good job. He said he'll stick around for a little bit to teach Hinata. Gotta say they get along great." His sweet chuckle fills the warmth around us.

Something was poking at me to ask him about the girl I'd met earlier. 'If she still has feelings for him, then should I not say anything?' "Hey, Kou?"

He hums, wrapping an arm around me. "What?"

"...what do you think of Eclair? Are you happy she's back to visit you guys?"

"Oh, I guess so. I tried not paying too much attention to her." He states, looking at the sidewalk ahead of us. Something told me he didn't want to talk about her feelings for him or if they were still there. However, I was determined to get to the bottom of the situation before having to be in the same room as the girl who likes the boy I love.

"Uhm...could you tell me about her? Like, what kind of relationship did she have with everybody? Did you guys get along? Stuff like that. I wanna get to know her without having to talk to her a whole lot," I tell him, snuggling into his shoulder.

When he walks dead silent for a few seconds, I realize that something is wrong. "Y/n..." he begins to sound a bit worried and disappointed. "I'd rather you not be around her too much."

As if I had no idea, I raise my brows innocently. "Why?"

"She just...stirs things up. I-I'd rather not have her come in between us. Thing is, she used to have this thing for me a few months before she left for France. At first, I thought she was just being polite by doing usual things that people would do when they are in love. But then after some time, I realized she had a major crush on me. And when I told her that I wasn't ready for a relationship, she totally flipped out. She made a big scene and told everybody that I was a stupid guy who only talked to girls for my pleasure." Towards the end of his explanation, he becomes more and more ashamed of what he says.

'So that means he had to have done things with other girls.' The thought that Koshi has most likely already had sex made my face heat up in both anger and sadness. Not that I had any motive to rush into that with him, but I felt more anxious he would expect more from me if the time ever came. "And...did you only talk to girls for pleasure?" My heart raced with every silent second that ran past us. Sugawara didn't want to answer my question.

"Koshi, if you've already had sex then I don't mind. I'm just asking if you used other girls for pleasure...because if so—"

"No!" He shouts gently, turning me towards him. Once again, we stood under the street light that we always seemed to stop at on walks home. "Y/n, I know I was pretty messed up but I wouldn't ever take girls for advantage and never have! And my old habits—they aren't something I should be proud of, so I don't talk about it."

"Koshi, we don't have to if you don't want to," I tell him.

"But I have to eventually, right? Why get you all caught up in a relationship you don't even fully know about."

I look into his eyes, longing for him to lay his sorrow down onto me and forget about it all. I knew that he'd never have it in his heart to do anything evil. But whatever he didn't want to tell me was eating him up. After a few moments of even more silence, I bring him back from his thoughts. "Kou?"

The boy takes one of my hands within his and brings it up to his lips, kissing it lightly. When he takes his lips back, he begins his explanation. "I've never really been able to cope properly with my mom's death, Y/n. That's why when I talk about it, I can't seem to keep myself together. And I know it's been a long time, but I'm still ashamed for giving my first time away so easily because I was overwhelmed with anger that I didn't care any longer. Things that someone should save for someone special were spent on girls who were only in it for pleasure. I was the same, but I now know that I would have saved even holding hands with a girl if it meant it was with you, Y/n. See— doing anything with you feels like the first time but better. And that's because I love you. So yeah, I slept with a couple of girls, but it never meant anything to me. It only helped me distract myself from realizing that I required feeling important and loved again. That as much as I wanted to, I couldn't be an adult at the age of seventeen. Please, tell me that you understand what I'm saying? That when I'm with you, you make me feel whole again. Like I'm loved and needed, and I can take my time with you."

When he says things like that to me, I can't help but sink into his arms and breathy close to him. I wanted nothing more than to help him cure whatever negative feelings intoxicated him. If I was what helped him, then so be it.

"Then tell me, Koshi," I whisper to him, looking deep into his eyes. The world stopped around us if only for a second to let me ask this question, even if I already knew the answer. "...who is your first love?"

Every nerve in my body jumped when he wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me into a strong hug. If he had already done everything romantic with other women, then wouldn't that meant he was already in love with somebody previously?

No, wrong.

"You. Y/n, you are my first."

-

I loved writing the ending of this chapter sm eee

Vote mofo <3 ily

- estrxlar

[aestheticdumpp]

introduced and presented.

Each dignified event was as important as the last, but the week in which leaders and figureheads from all over the world gathered together was the most simultaneously exciting and nerve wracking. Royalty from each and every country came together for official meetings regarding alliances and trades and to boast prosperity.

However, Princess Holly of Fitzroy didn't care much for the business side of things; she'd never had much interest in the numbers and the specifics of it all, and moreover, it wasn't a lady's place to be involved. Or, at least, that was what the people of Fitzroy believed. Their princess was not entirely sure this was true, but she had no urge to combat it. It was not an issue she knew how to tackle.

And besides, it wasn't ladylike to do so.

They had been situated in a guest room, waiting to be presented to a grand ballroom filled with their noble peers. This year, the Week was in Dominica. She'd once met the Queen of Dominica, an elderly woman who referred to herself as the nation's grandmother, and had found her quite dear and charming, but knew no more of the country beyond that – except that she found it far too warm.

When the staff had told them that it was their cue to present themselves, Holly checked herself once over in the mirror – the headdress of baby's breath, small pink roses, and brilliant golden leaves sat in her long, curled red hair, pinned in places as if it fell naturally so; her dress, modest with its high neck, long sleeves, and full skirt, was a soft white colour, with small golden and pink detailing to match. She was pale, very much so, and had a minimal amount of makeup on, just enough to make her eyes bigger and bluer.

The very picture of Fitzroy tradition.

They entered the room and Holly surveyed the people as best she could without appearing as if she was doing so. She spotted the royal family from Rouge, their Grand Duchess sitting front and centre, and felt herself grow intimidated. Their culture was vastly different to her own; the women wore dresses that nearly bore their bodies, they all spoke loudly and out of turn, and would often shoehorn a parade or festival out of every celebration. It startled her. Not to mention, their Grand Duchess – Madison? – had been known to be both gentle and ruthless. She didn't know what to think.

Nearby, the royal family of Virginia were settling into their spot – they had entered just before her own family. Holly spotted Thomas, the Prince, and smiled at him subtly. He caught it, slipped her a playful wink, and as she felt her face flush, she saw him chuckle to himself. He'd been her longest friend and she loved him very much, and she was thrilled to see him again.

Holly wasn't given much more of a chance to survey the room when she and the nobility of Fitzroy had reached the royal Dominican family. The elderly queen sat in her throne, a thing of such ornate design, and smiled at them warmly. Holly's father, the King, greeted the woman with practised tradition, before she introduced the two men beside her.

The first was the smallest. His name was Sonny, and he was to be Duke as soon as his brother took over.

But oh, gosh, his brother.

His name was Usnavi, and his shoulder length dark hair was pulled back into a ponytail. He stood a head taller than her, and met her with the richest, most enchanting eyes she'd ever seen.

He had noticed her too; or at least, she corrected herself modestly, they'd happened to make eye contact. That was a start. For her, anyway. When he had greeted her, Holly had to remind herself to stay calm – they were in front of so many people! She couldn't be rude.

"Hola. I am Usnavi."

His voice wasn't deep and rich like Thomas', nor was it as crisp and proper like her dear friend George's, but it was almost musical to her.

"Hello." She stuttered nervously, taking his extended hand. "I'm Holly."

He'd taken her wrist to his lips, bending low to reach it, before smiling back up at her as he righted himself.

"So I've heard. I hope you enjoy our little performance later. Thomas says you love music."

She smiled brightly, letting out a polite giggle. "Oh, yes. So telling of one's culture, and yet so relatable for all kinds of people."

Usnavi squeezed her hand as both Holly's father and the Duke, her friend George, eyed them up. She had grown stiffer under their gaze, nervous. He gave her a charming, warm grin, before dropping her hand.

"We will speak later, I hope."

"U-uh. Certainly."

Several moments went by and soon enough, dignitaries were mingling, disappearing to other rooms, to balconies and to gardens, heading into a dining hall where a banquet had been arranged, and suddenly the room was quite empty. All that remained were the Grand Duchess – Holly was so sure her name was Madison –of Rouge, the Dominican princes, Thomas, herself and George, with a handful of squires and handmaidens, and some people from countries Holly had never been to.

George kept an arm around her until he was invited to dine with a few men. He turned to her, and she merely smiled at him, insisting he enjoy himself.

"But, darling-"

"George, you have all week to talk business and be respectable. Enjoy the frivolities."

The men disappeared quickly and as soon as George had turned a corner, she caught Thomas' eye.

Her dearest, oldest friend was approaching her rather quickly, excited to reunite after nearly three months of being separated. He lifted her off her feet in greeting and the redhead could help but laugh.

"Thomas! I'm so excited to see you! It's been far too long."

He grinned at her, taking a hold of her hands. "You're right. Come on, you've gotta meet some people."

Thomas offered her his arm and she took it, grateful he would indulge her in a little more Fitzroy tradition. He must have known how nervous she was. As they crossed the hall, he spoke quietly to her and she giggled, making small remarks back that caused him to laugh heartily.

Across the room, the eldest Prince of Dominica was talking to the Grand Duchess; they'd met on various occasions throughout their lives, and were able to call themselves friends. Perhaps not ones that were incredibly close, but ones who enjoyed each other's company very much.

The Grand Duchess turned to her friend, watching as the two least likely old friends embraced and laughed and walked closely.

"That's... odd. Prince Thomas is meant to be really... smooth. Relaxed. The Fitzroy girl, or so I've heard, is quite uptight."

"The whole culture is."

"Yeah, but you know what I mean. It's weird."

Usnavi grinned. "You're weird."

Madison rolled her eyes but smiled all the same as her friend lightheartedly teased her. They watched as the younger Prince, Sonny, clapped Thomas on the back and spoke to his redheaded friend amicably. Usnavi was watching her react to her brother, and Madison smirked.

"What, is Vanessa not enough for you?"

He huffed. "I don't like the whole arranged thing, you know. Abuela is trying to set it up. It's not... formally arranged. It just feels forced."

"She may as well be a concubine, Usnavi, all she wants is the money."

He eyed her carefully. "Don't I know it."

"Ayo, Usnavi!" Sonny called as he approached the two. He stopped in his tracks, gave a mockingly deep bow to Madison, who laughed in response, before straightening up.

"You gotta speak to the Fitzroy girl. Man, she's so easy to fluster. It's hilarious."

Usnavi raised an eyebrow, chuckling. "Are you bullying visiting royalty?"

"Only a little. But I'm cute and charming, so it's okay."

He darted off to take part in the banquet, and Usnavi turned to Madison. She looked up at him.

"Have you ever met her?"

"Before today? No."

Madison hummed, shrugging. "She's meant to be nice, underneath all that tradition."

"Let's go meet her, then. I have to say hello to Thomas, anyway."

After dragging the Duchess to her feet – Thomas was somebody, she believed, was enjoyed best in small, infrequent doses – the two approached the other pair.

Thomas and Usnavi shook hands, beaming at each other and falling into conversation very easily. It was something neither girl cared much for – Holly because it was not her business, and Madison because she didn't care.

She grew bored quickly, sighing. Best she take control of the conversation. "I'm Madison. I'm the Grand Duchess of Rouge. I was introduced before the two of you, so I thought I'd better introduce myself."

Thomas surveyed her quickly, carefully, not not subtly. He didn't care to be subtle, and this much was obvious from his magenta suit robes.

"Thomas. I'm the Prince of Virginia. Big place, large population. Known best for crops, mainly. We're–"

"Darling." His friend spoke up, taking his arm in a tighter grip to get his attention. "I'm sure the Grand Duchess doesn't care much for geographical logistics. She's just saying hello."

"Oh." He eyed her again, deciding the redhead was right. "Well, hello."

Usnavi smiled, containing a chuckle at his friend's expense. "You're Holly, right? Princess of Fitzroy?"

Holly looked up at him, a little startled, and nodded. "Uh, yes, your highness."

"You needn't use formalities with me."

"Oh trust me." Thomas interjected, "She needs to. It's best to just let her."

His tone was joking, prodding lightly at his friend, but there was a layer of something defensive over his friend, and Madison squinted, unsure how a man so obviously arrogant as Thomas could also be gentle and protective.

It sounded odd, but she didn't question it.

Holly blushed under the attention that was now focused on her, but she deflected it masterfully, asking Madison about her travel to Dominica.

They stood there and chatted for almost forty minutes before George had returned to fetch Holly. He introduced himself, barely, before whisking her out of the room, hand planted firmly on her lower back.

"Are they together?" Madison asked Thomas, assuming he'd be the man to know.

She assumed correctly. "Sort of. He's interested in marrying her for title and money, but her parents aren't very sure of him yet. He's a Baron, so there's some nobility in him, but the obstacle is that he's a major asshole."

Usnavi said nothing during the whole exchange, watching the retreating Fitzroy representatives.

"You alright, Usnavi?"

"Hm? Oh. Yeah. Let's go to the banquet."

Despite their slowly clashing personalities, Madison looked at Thomas for confirmation that Usnavi was indeed acting weird. One look at the Virginian assured her that he agreed, but they followed their friend anyway.

[cinnamonmoony]

Reddish mane | Arthur Shelby

A/N:Hey I just wanted to say that I'm new to this and it's my first OS and what better than to do it from Arthur!

(Internal shouting)

I appreciate you guys taking the time to read this.♡♡♡

•English is my second language

You were running across the lawn on a weekday mid afternoon the first time he saw you. The weather was warm something very unusual in old Birmingham,your hair previously braided patiently by your mother was already fluttering wildly in the wind with some mud soaking into it,The flowers you had picked that morning were in her little hands somewhat dirty from playing and leaning on the dry grass.

The Shelby brothers were coming home with bruised faces after going to school, Arthur had gotten into a fight trying to defend Tommy from a boy bigger than them.

Clearly he had lost this time but he was proud to at least leave a little blood on his expensive clothes.

The conversation between them had stopped when they were interrupted by thunderous laughter coming from the crowd.

He moved a little closer to the place where all that racket was heard, then his gaze was diverted to a burst of fire that passed in front of him.

It wasn't fire at all, it was a tangle of hair he had never seen in his life,its Natural reddish color so vibrant that contrasted with its orange ripples made it look like they were moving of their own accord,as the girl ran her hair disarmed those precious ripples only to have them soon after return to their place in a continuous action.

It was almost mesmerizing to him.

The pirate hat that adorned his head was strange,it was worn from the years it must have been and the constant uses it was put to.

"That's right,we're almost ashore!" She exclaimed loudly extending his hand around his eyes as if it were an invisible spyglass.

Arthur bowed his head as he took in the scene "Strange girl" he thought.

Tommy ran towards her to introduce himself, seeing this the older Shelby brother felt a pang of jealousy to see them talking so confidently despite having met only a short time ago, he decided to walk back to resume his walk but stopped when called by his brother and turned around to watch him approach being followed by the girl.

Two blue eyes were watching him, a blue so beautiful that it reminded him of the ocean itself, his red-haired eyebrows were also slightly furrowed and finally he saw his freckles, thousands of them decorated his face.

Tommy elbowed him and he reacted by starting to introduce himself in front of the fire-haired girl.

"I'm Arthur" he said extending his hand hoping she would accept and return his greeting.

"I'm (Y/N)" she said accepting his hand cautiously trying to remember some of the lessons on how to behave and be a lady that her mother had put so much effort and dedication into but had predictably fallen asleep in the seat after playing for hours away from home.

Arthur smiled as he watched the pirate's hat fall down covering her eyes because of how big it was, he delicately released his hands still clasped together to shyly move a little closer to her taking the tips of his worn hat and raising it back up to his head exposing those completely beautiful eyes that stared back at him.

He cleared his throat taking a step back returning to the upright posture he had before.

"We've never seen you around here before" Tommy spoke after an awkward silence from everyone.

"I'm not from here I uhm we moved in together with nana a little while ago."

With unusual encouragement the Shelby brothers returned home,as they opened the door revealing a smoking Polly reading the newspaper and John eating a cookie, Thomas Yelled drawing everyone's attention;

"We met a girl today and Arthur fell in love with her!" said the boy noticeably emosionated.

"That's not true!" Arthur panicked trying to hide the crimson pink color that was creeping up his neck to his cheeks.

Polly listened intently to the boy talk about how they met her on their way home and added at length how her older brother was speechless when he saw her, his brothers started to scoff at his inexperience talking to girls but immediately shut up as they received an annoyed look from their aunt, she approached Arthur who was still standing by the side of the door with a kind smile.

"Aunt Polly I-

Polly laughed at her little nephew's babbling, soothing the situation she invited them to tea and cookies and they all made their way to sit down at the table. But before Arthur could even take a step she approached him and whispered "I want to meet her" watching him fiddle with the buttons of his coat and nodding his head.

The next day as they walked boredly to school Arthur told them to go on their way without him, his brothers didn't find it strange as he was an expert at skipping classes on a daily basis.

He decided to try his luck and went back the same way as yesterday finding (Y/N) standing on the trunk of an old oak tree extending your hand in the air like a sword, she hid behind some tall grasses watching you dance and jump, unconsciously her gaze traveled to the reddish hair that fluttered wildly.

She was different from the other girls brought up to be perfect in every way (Y/N) she was like a dream, a fantasy from which he prayed he would never be awakened, from the short time he knew her he deduced that she was fearless, even though you couldn't even reach her shoulder he didn't rule out that if someone insulted you you would fearlessly jump in and confront them.

Arthur stepped backwards stepping on a branch on the ground making it creak thunderously, (Y/N) she gave a startled jump making her left foot wobble on the hollow wood ending up on the ground in a loud thud.

The Shelby quickly came out of hiding approaching the girl on the ground extending her hand to help her get back on her feet.

"Thank you" she whispered after a moment of silence,her voice as sweet as honey was intoxicating to his ears.

"It was nothing" he replied with a hesitant smile.

From that moment on Arthur Shelby and her were completely inseparable,people who knew them got used to the fact that if they saw the boy (Y/N) he must not have been too far from there,she was by his side at all times supporting him and he did too,they were both there they were his safe place the one person they could count on no matter what.

Arthur was a loner before meeting him, a difficult temperament that no one could get to understand as he closed himself in his own bubble keeping everyone away for days, except for (Y/N), she was the only one who let him in and kept him with one foot in reality.

Entering adolescence, the boy's attachment became a pure and sincere crush on the red-haired girl, the boys of Small Heat began to pay attention to her, making Arthur's nerves grow as he feared that (Y/N) would abandon him completely when he realized that you could have something better than him, but she would always remind him that she would never leave.

For her part (Y/N)'s feelings grew with the same intentionality as he did but she was afraid that Arthur would only see her as a little sister condemning their friendship to be shipwrecked, she tried to make her feelings for her best friend change by focusing her attention on some boy in the area not knowing that Arthur's heart would break the times she had knocked on his door being answered by her grandmother apologizing because a boy had arrived hours ago to invite her to dinner.

He was there too when she was crying on his shoulder lamenting not being prettier like the girls in the magazines.

"If I became prettier do you think he would like me?"

Shelby's anger increased as he heard how (Y/N) was afraid to talk to a boy since he knew how a young girl had been cruelly rejected by the damn bastard, he tried to restrain himself he really tried but he couldn't hold back years of feelings for her any longer.

"Stop crying for him (Y/N) he's just a fucker who doesn't know how lucky he is, besides,Tell me what do you see in that idiot?" he asked.

She made a shoulder shake "I thought he was nice".

"Yeah, right" He said sarcastically, letting out a bitter laugh.

"I don't understand why it bothers you so much" she said standing up again.

"Because I love you,Damn it!" shouted Arthur making her eyes widen in surprise.

Neither of them knew what to say after that, (Y/N) she still didn't finish processing all the words accurately but when she did she let out a giggle, the Shelby already standing just watched her not being able to understand why she was acting like that.

"For God's sake, we're complete idiots Arthur Shelby" she said as she slowly approached him.

"Why do you say that-?" he managed to reply completely flustered by her approach,but being silenced as he was kissed by (Y/N).

He awkwardly continued the kiss taking it to a soft rhythm making both of their hearts beat faster as the other could hear their heartbeats.

"I love you too" she said as the kiss ended.

Arthur smiled in a way he had never smiled before, he was completely happy.

He took her by the waist lifting her up and starting to turn on his feet listening to the girl's laughter in the background.

After that loving confession both became inseparable, more than before, being able to formalize their feelings by asking to be his girlfriend some time later.

Everything was rosy until one afternoon while you were learning to knit with a hook with Polly, the letter carrier knocked on the door and was opened by (Y/N) who received the mail with a warm smile, the smile that was a typical symbol in her was erased when she read with Aunt Polly the call to the Shelby Brothers to join the ranks in France.

They both cried hugging each other for hours having for the boys' lives, she didn't want Arthur to go to that bloodshed but there was not much she could do as the weeks passed in the blink of an eye and it was time to say goodbye at the train station that would take the soldiers to France.

Arthur almost missed the train that morning as he didn't want to take off from (Y/N), she didn't want to say goodbye to him either but they had to sooner or later.

So she managed to get him to go quietly by handing him the ring the Shelby had given him days before they were drafted.

"(Y/N) What are you doing-?"

"Listen,You'll give it back to me when you get back...can you promise me?" she told him showing confidence even though going inside she was trembling with fear.

"I promise," he said looking into her eyes.

Those again beautiful eyes that only had their sight on him.At that moment he thought of the first time he saw her,her hair red as burning fire covered by the old pirate hat that was his father's as a child and her Thousands of freckles,which would take years to count if he set his mind to it but that task would be completely worth it if it was about her.

He never took off the ring hanging on a chain around his neck, the picture he had of her tucked in his uniform pocket at chest level, the constant letters they sent to each other reassuring them that the other was well and his silent promise to her before he got on that train that he would return to her, those were the only things that kept him sane until the war ended.

As he stepped off the train he fell to his knees at her feet (Y/N) wrapping his legs in an embrace, whispering that he would never leave her side again.

When he regained his composure, he kissed her effusively as he had not been able to do for so long, unhooked the ring from her neck and proposed to her for the second time, listening to the cheers of joy from his family and strangers at the train station.

The people who saw them continued to be amazed at the existence of a strength and a love as great as theirs, which lasted for a long time.