#what do you mean ‘should I be concerned?’

[fushiguho]

✰ finally domming toji & he’s a brat about it… at first!

cw fem! reader, dom! reader, light bondage, premature orgasm, a little cum feeding :/

“you’re a mean little thing.” toji grouses between little pants of incredulity as you push him in his chest, forcing his bare back against the silken sheets. “c’monnn, this isn’t you. what happened to my sweet girl?”

“jesus, do you ever stop talking?” you bite, throwing a leg over his burly hips, straddling him. “should’ve gagged you.”

he sucks his teeth, scoffing. “doll, i don’t think that’s necessary.”

you huff an agitated breath. “then shut up. you promised to let me have this.”

tonight, your boyfriend has finally, finally given you the chance to call the shots… or try to, rather. however, he’s having a hard time letting go, relinquishing his inborn desire to assume power. it’s rare to see him like this, beneath you. still, he’s grasping at straws, hanging on to any fleeting shred of power that he can muster as you begin to tie his wrists.

nervously, you fumble with the thick piece of rope that you hold in your hands. a sleazy little grin kisses his beautifully scarred lips. toji almost can’t help but to laugh as you attempt to bind his wrists to the wooden headboard. something between a wince of pain and a groan of pleasure leaves him as you pull through the final loop, finishing your double column tie.

he groans. “a little tighter, yeah?” it’s hardly a joke, but he pulls at his restraints roughly, wrists aching.

you pout, dropping your head to the right in feigned concern and you can hear the breath that catches in his throat. toji, far too stubborn to admit, loves you like this, bad. it took a lot to get here—days of begging, bribery, orgasms. he’d only be kidding himself if he said this isn’t turning him into such a… whore. after all, how could he say no to his pretty girl?

something warm and dangerous twitches against your inner thigh. the sweet tune you hum as you trail an idle finger down, down, down his heaving chest makes his hips rut beneath you, a fruitless attempt at finding release. a guttural sound is parting his lips when you take one of his hardening nipples between your thumb and index.

“you know, i could get out if i wanted.” it’s breathless, a wicked grin pulling at the corner of his mouth. “you did a good job…” he pauses, gaze flickering up to observe his bounded wrists before tugging at his restraints, “but this won’t hold me, pretty girl.”

you scoot down a bit, revealing the pretty, achy bulge that rests so angrily between his strapping thighs. briefly, his eyes meet yours, the subtle furrow in his brows making your core tighten with need. a slow, teasing finger skims the stubble beneath his waistband. his stomach caves, sinking in his ever growing arousal.

“you know, maybe i should gag you.” you finally reply after some thought. the notion lingers on your conscious as you drop your head, kissing him through his underwear. “you’re insufferable when you’re not in charge.”

toji can’t help the near feral buck of his hips, an ensuing growl dragging from his mouth. he can feel himself losing his fucking mind as you drag a warm palm over his clothed cock. a violent shudder rattles his body, an unintentional gasp pulling his jaw slack.

“baby, it h-hurts… c’mon now, you’re being mean.”

“take your cock out then.” you challenge, backing away slightly to watch as he struggles. “show me you what it is you want.”

scoffing, he rolls his eyes, looking like the grumpiest of bears as he ruts his hips helplessly, desperately attempting to wriggle out of his underwear with his hands tied above his head. you smile, a pretty little giggle leaving your lips. watching toji struggle to find relief makes a warm, electrifying heat pool between your thighs. how the fuck could he ever deny you of this?

“fuuuck! i can’t!” it’s merely a high-pitched whine as he huffs frustrated little breaths through his flaring nostrils. “help me! you tied me t-too tight, i can’t do it.” he’s whimpering now, chest heaving in time with the mindless jerk of his hips. “baby, i need you to take it out for me. p-please okay?”

never. you have never seen him like this and you’re not sure how there was a time that existed before. a raw moan of relief is belting from his lungs when you finally slip a hand down his tightening briefs. your fingers brush over the twitching length of his erection, collecting the syrupy precum that adorns the head of his weeping cock.

with your other hand, you’re tugging his underwear down and his head is deliriously nodding back to rest against his pillow. your fist wraps around the base of his cock, squeeeezing. the messy tip drools, rivulets of pretty, pearlescent arousal drip, drip, dripping down his throbbing shaft.

“god, j-just put it in your mouth. don’t be like that… why are you being liked this, huh?” instinctively he tugs at his bindings, attempting to reach out for you but finds that he can’t.

he is so fucking desperate for it, yet he can hardly stomach the thought that it’s him begging like a slut to feel your tongue on the head of his cock. god and he’s just pitifully unaware of how he’s fully whining—the usual bass of his tone lost in the pathetic quaver of his crackling voice, reaching an octave so high that it shocks even you.

still, you shake your head, a bewitching smile gracing your lips. instead, you’re shifting lower, lolling out your tongue as you peer at him through batting lashes. toji’s breath hitches as you drool down the length of his cock. a longggg string of saliva tethers your bottom lip to his cock head as you start to stroke him from the base.

toji’s mouth gapes, yet nothing of coherence is uttered. he babbles mindlessly, those dark, drunken eyes stupidly following the hand that works at his cock, utterly enthralled by the subtle twist of your wrist as you near the weeping head. he curses to himself, needy hips still attempting to buck underneath your weight.

with your legs on either side of his body, you keep him grounded as you pump up and down his angry shaft. your warm, wet lips are trailing along his tightening abdomen. the poor boy writhes beneath your touch, his body reacting in a way you didn’t know was possible—his spine bows, hips bucking almost carnally as his stomach caves, arousal swirling deeep in his core.

“please.” it’s merely a breath as you nip the soft skin behind the shell his ear, soothingly dragging your tongue along the forming bruise. “will you kiss me at least?”

you peck the corner of his gaped mouth once, pulling away before he can even register your fleeting lips. toji turns his head, chasing your teasing lips and you smile, swiping your thumb over the head of his cock which pulls the filthiest little groan from him.

he pouts, thick brows furrowing slightly. “you’re being mean.”

“oh, you poor babyyy.” his cock jerks against the palm of your hand at your sweet, condescending tone. “maybe i should keep you like this forever, hm? actually think i prefer this.”

“mmh—why? you like torturin’ me?”

you nod, bringing a hand up to his pretty, contorting face. he can hardly help the subconscious part of his mouth as you tap your fingers against his bottom lip. like an obedient boy, he’s swallowing around the digits with a satisfactory gurgle of unwitting pleasure. curiously, your fingers creep farther down his throat, the tips brushing the very back of his wet tongue.

saliva drips from the corners of his mouth and he gags once, his sable, lust-ridden eyes welling with thick tears. the smile that mars your face is sick, but it’s pulling a loud moan from the depths of his chest. another helpless sound leaves him when your hand tightens around his weeping cock.

“god, i’m so close.” toji gasps around the digits in his mouth, peering down at his furious cock and your jerking hand. his jaw is falling slack, head dizzily slumping to one side. “f… fuck, it feels so good—your hand feels s’gooood. g-gonna cum, can’t h-help myself. you are just sooo pretty like this, baby.”

“yeah? you gonna cum for me already?” the coy tilt of your head makes his stomach sink. a victorious smile cracks along your face. “hardly touched you.”

toji nods dumbly, breath hitching. his hips stutter pathetically, rocking against the agonizing jerk of your fist. the most beautiful sound leaves him, something like a whimpering gasp, his heaving breaths shuddered and choked. it’s loud and shameless and like nothing you’ve ever heard. several, long ropes of pearly white cum follows, coating the expanse of his chest and abdomen like it was meant to.

it’s perfect. everything about this image is perfect. toji looks so pretty drenched and heaving in his own arousal. you watch as his warm, sticky seed trickles down his perspiring skin. you almost can’t help the curious fingers that are dragging along his pectorals, collecting the mess.

“don’t.” is all he mutters as you creep the cum-soaked digits toward his lips.

you smile sweetly. “open.”

and with a dramatic roll of his eyes, he does. he takes your fingers into his warm mouth with a deep, guttural groan, sucking on them until nothing remains. a triumphant smile graces your lips as you push them further, forcing a proper gag from the depths of his throat.

“okay! okay, you’re doing too much, doll… untie me now.” he grouses, drool pooling against his tongue.

you hum in contemplation, tracing mindless shapes against his skin. “and if i don’t?”

“if you don’t and i get out on my own,” he pauses, lifting his head slightly to take in this beautiful sketch of you before smiling something sinister. “you’re gonna fucking regret it.”

it’s a threat and you know it is, so why does it make your core tighten with a need you’ve never known? why does it make your mind race at the possibility of punishment? discipline? it’s merely a warning, yet your cunt aches at the thought of him escaping, it makes your body burn with a fire the begs to be doused and it’s toji who must do it, so you challenge him.

“then why don’t you get out and make me regret it.”

[thegoddessprose]

I barely see any of these, but I like this kind of challenge. I'll be answering all of these as Chiasa.

🌧️: I usually use an umbrella on rainy days because believe me, as functional as is, it's very hard to find a stylish hooded raincoat that doesn't make my hair all static-y... But there's plenty of nice umbrellas. I like the rain (better from the inside!) I love the noise the raindrops make, the way it smells afterwards... Really an example of the beauty and power of nature.

🍳: I like to think that I am, I haven't had any complaints since I was still learning. I guess I'm alright, but I'm no chef, or my father. I enjoy it when I have time, it keeps me close with my family and is all around calming. And my favorite... Oh! Kare for sure. Out of everything I make, everyone thinks I'm the best with that.

🧼: Showers are for the morning (The ones alone at least, hehe...) and baths are for the evening. I love baths! Not only are they a vital part of my skincare, but also one of my favorite ways to wind down after a hard day. As for my favorite scent... I like anything earthy or floral, but I really like eucalyptus and jasmine.

❌: My sister Quinta loved to tell me to stop "galavanting with young lovers, dressing like a sorority girl (Wouldn't you believe she wore even less on the pageant circuit...)" really, just living my life. If my skincare and procedures did their job, then why should I hide myself away and quilt and "bingo" or whatever "old biddies" are supposed to do? Hell, I recall she had the same stuff done, even just so we stay looking alike. Since she's more concerned about appearances than my own well being... I'd listen to my own parents over her if they were still here. I'd listen to my brother in law, friends, Plutarch too, but none of that means I'm bowing completely.

🏳️: When there's absolutely no other way or someone would get hurt. I didn't get this far in the fashion world, no, in life, just to give up at the slightest problem.

📖: I guess I'm a little cliche for this, but I really like romance novels... Especially the trashy ones. Plutarch's been trying to get me into the philosophy and government stuff he likes, but they're much more fun to read with him than alone. He makes them very easy to understand and he's so cute when he's all passionate like that. Sadly, I don't have a lot of time to read... Even now I'm awfully busy.

⛸️: Mm, I'm not a big sports girl. I used to do some roller skating when I was younger, but that was only a phase. Unfortunately most of the "sporting events" I've been around for were rather... Barbaric. Hopefully there'll be something a lot less violent on in the near future.

😷: I don't get sick very often, I actually do my best to stay healthy. When I do, I try to stay home so I don't pass it on, no one wants that after all! If I must go out, I'll wear a mask, and I might if I hear about something going around. I've got a few cute ones on standby, so I don't mind at all.

🥼: Ugh, thankfully no. I haven't worn a uniform since that hideous thing I had to wear at the Academy, and believe me, the minute I graduated, I cut it up for scraps. I doubt I'll be wearing one now, but if I had to go back in time and change it, I'd keep the pants and skirt separate, change that awful blue mandarin to a white button down, and add a gold tie or scarf. That would at least fix the damn thing.

🥂: I like to be surrounded by my loved ones, maybe pop a bottle or two, enjoy some good food, music, and dancing. I've been raised to believe that life isn't worth living without any joy, and what's better than everything that makes me happy close after a great thing?

🛴: I have a car (A gorgeous pink roadster with fins!) to get to further parts of the city in less official capacity, but otherwise Plutarch and I also have drivers. I like to say I do my best, but urban drivers are the worst!

🕰️: I check my handheld most of the time, but sometimes I also have a fashionable watch on my wrist.

🥰: I'd have to say the biggest thing is acknowledgement, actually listening to what I have to say and taking an interest. I'm used to people marvelling at the surface, but it can get old, especially when those people's intentions aren't always the greatest. Actually listening to me, though? That's rare and I just adore it.

🐇: I guess I used to, but just between us, I wasn't exactly sober for most of that time... Plus even a lot of my spiritual side withered away with the world.

🎺: I really like psychedelic rock and synth wave. A bit of indie too. I don't play any instruments, I think I might be tone deaf I'm afraid. One of my exes let me try his saxophone once... It didn't end too well. Thankfully, that's not why we broke up.

💿: Oils, I guess? I don't really collect anything like that, but I do collect certain oils, some to burn as incense, some to use on my skin and in baths, some just to sniff.

🧋: I like a nice pink lady. If you mean non alcohol, I like both coffee and tea. The coffee I'll take both ways, but I like my tea hot. I like a nice chamomile and I take my coffee with cream and one spoonful of sugar.

🌻 random in-character questions

an ask game where, instead of replying from your perspective, you answer as if it's your original character/muse/self-insert/etc. answering the question ✨

🌧️ "When outside during the rain, do you use a raincoat, an umbrella, or something else? Do you enjoy rain?"

🍳 "Are you a good cook? Do you enjoy cooking? What's your favorite thing to cook?"

🧼 "Do you prefer to take a shower during the morning or evening? Do you like taking baths? What's your favorite scent of shower gel?"

❌ "Would you do something that someone told you not to do? Why? Is there someone you'd actually listen to more than everyone else?"

🏳️ "What will make you give up?"

📖 "What kinds of books do you read? Do you have a lot of time to read?"

⛸️ "What's your favorite kind of sport? Do you follow sports closely or don't care at all?"

😷 "How often do you get sick? Do you stay at home when sick or do you end up going outside to, say, get some groceries? If you go outside, would you wear a mask?"

🥼 "Do you have to wear a uniform somewhere? If yes, how do you feel about it? If no, what kind of uniform would you love to wear?"

🥂 "How do you celebrate you accomplishments?"

🛴 "What's your preferred way of getting somewhere - own car, public transport, a bicycle, or something else? How well do you follow the traffic rules?"

🕰️ "What do you use to check what time it is?"

🥰 "What would make you feel happy and loved?"

🐇 "Do you believe in other dimensions?"

🎺 "What kind of music do you mostly listen to? Do you know how to play an instrument, and if not, which one would you want to learn to play?"

💽 "Do you collect anything? Why?"

🧋 "What's your go-to thing to drink? Do you prefer cold or hot drinks?"

[strwberri-milk]

hii never requested before so lmk if this is wrong somehow, but im curious on how you think the boys would be if they realized you were experiencing medical malpractice. (negligence, failure to diagnose, etc.) i would like all the boys, but if not, doing only zayne is fine! (most curious for him just cuz he’s a doctor lol) tysm :)

All of them are incredibly angry on your behalf. He can't believe you're going through that, being hurt by someone who's meant to help you. You'd been seeing this doctor for a while, so of course you trust them, thinking that they were doing what was good for you. However, your lack of progress started concerning you and you ended up secretly getting a second opinion, dismayed when another doctor told you that they had no idea what your primary physician was doing.

Sylus and Rafayel want to absolutely decimate your physician's practise, and will do so behind the scenes. They don't want to drag you into the situation, but wants to do something about it. He uses his money to expose the scummy things your doctor did, making sure that their professional reputation is tarnished.

Sylus goes a step further, aiming to have their credentials revoked from them as further punishment for what they've done to you.

Rafayel doesn't go that far since he doesn't care - unless you want him to - but regardless, they're both going to spend a bunch of money getting you a private doctor.

Zayne and Xavier decide to come to your appointment to see what's happening. He judges quietly, observing what your doctor does and taking mental notes of it.

Xavier not having a medical background means he decides to ask more questions about why or why not your doctor won't do certain things, asking them to record everything to a tee on your chart. He makes it very clear that he's not impressed with their work and should expect a call from a medical board very soon.

Zayne doesn't reveal that he's a doctor until he decides things have gone too far, telling your doctor to their face how unprofessional they are and that he's going to see to it that nobody falls for their trickery again. His judgement is widely respected amongst the community, therefore making it incredibly hard for your doctor to continue working the second he brings up the slightest doubt against them.

[shoukokus]

What if dorm leaders were firefighter readers?

Who performed dangerous tasks in her world.

(For example from the TV series 911)

Translate

Interesting! And I assumed that this meant that they're with the reader, sorry if I misinterpreted it!

Riddle Rosehearts

Riddle is initially very impressed when you tell him, a person who went through great measures to help other people? It has him beaming with pride

But as more stories come out, telling him about various dangerous stunts you pulled, he'd be a bit worried.

Guess he should just be glad that you made it to Twisted Wonderland safely

Then your old habits start resurfacing and he is a mess

Please don't climb that massive tree to save a cat, he can just use magic! You get down RIGHT NOW

One day Ace and Deuce start a small kitchen fire, and you're racing to help, with Riddle hot on your heels. Luckily Trey put it out, but you were assessing the aftermath like a professional

Riddle is just happy that Trey got there first, otherwise he might have just let Ace and Deuce burn, because he was NOT going to let you near that fire

Yes, he trusts you and your experience, but that doesn't mean he wants you to continue putting yourself in danger.

Please take a step back, he can't have the love of his life getting burned. You'd have a fire AND Riddle having a heart attack at the same time

Leona Kingscholar

He doesn't think much of it at first

He knew his herbivore had a past life, but it didn't matter now, even if they did something impressive

He might boast about it if the opportunity came up, like sure your significant other can cook, but MINE saved people

When you start pulling dangerous stunts however, it stops

No, you don’t need to grab a pail of water to help fight wildfires in his home country

No, you cannot scale the side of NRC to help a baby bird

If you insist on helping something, just let him do it please

He’ll start keeping you in closed areas for longer, like his room or the gardens. Just the two of you means no danger that you’ll want to leap head first into

I mean he kept you to himself before, but now with a reason, he’s a bit more… insistent

Azul Ashengrotto

He freezes up when you first tell him your previous job

You… were in danger every time you went to work? Please say sike right now

He starts noticing different scars or hearing your stories in a new light, and it scares him

Azul just prays that it’s all behind you, and the new life you have with him is a quiet and safe one

If there’s even a whiff of danger, Azul is pulling you away, he is not letting you put your life on the line for someone else

Don’t you know how important you are??

If you’re really worried or serious about helping, you can direct the twins, he guesses they’re expendable :)

He’ll want to have a sit down discussion about it. To tell you that you’re safe with him and he wants it to stay that way

His heart couldn’t take it, so you’ll have to compromise if you want to continue helping people after NRC

Kalim Al-Asim

Kalim is just really entranced, he loves listening to your stories and passion for what you did

He'll want you to tell him all about it while he lays in your lap

He's not concerned about it honestly, if you were trained and did it professionally, doesn't that mean you're the best at it?

If you wanted to do it in the future, after graduation, that's fine with him! You'd have the freedom to do whatever you wanted when you marry him

Jamil is the one who tells him that your job was obviously very dangerous, and it makes Kalim pause for a moment

So when he expresses concern for the first and only time, all he wants is reassurance

Just tell him that his first instinct was right, that you were trained and were the best at what you did! It gets him beaming again right away

He's a bit of a natural danger magnet, so you're a great match for him in a way

Jamil is glad that someone else can get Kalim out of danger, and you'll do it proudly

Vil Schoenheit

Vil is curious, but wary, he'd like more details please

Okay, absolutely not. That is your past and will stay that way, understood?

He needs a significant other that is always by his side and perhaps NOT running into burning buildings?

If you get upset with him, he'll attempt to appease you and reason with you.

It's not like it's not impressive, but you're in a whole other world now. You can explore all kinds of options!

The truth is though he's worried. All he wants is for you to be safe. What is he supposed to do if you run off and die to save someone else?

You're the first person he's ever cared about like this, so deeply, so let him worry a little

He's all about taking care of yourself and healthy routines, and dangerous work is not part of that routine

Vil's ultimate goal would be to just ease you into a more peaceful way of life, right by his side

Idia Shroud

Probably immediately makes a joke about his hair. "Can you put me out?"

"What?" "What?" Realizes what he said, then realizes what YOU said. You did what now?!

That's all behind you, right? RIGHT?

Definitely freaks out, he knows how dangerous fires can be, the damage they can do, the hurt they can cause

Look, who he is to stop you from following your dreams and goals but maybe there could be less... imminent life threatening situations?

Idia doesn't want to show it, but thinking about you in those scenarios gives him a lot of anxiety

He should feel proud when you help someone out, but the truth is, he's always going to be afraid you won't come back to him

Might have Ortho follow you around and... always be a convenient helping hand. His robot little brother can do things more safely, that's all!

Just... keep the heroics to a minimum yeah?

Malleus Draconia

He's really quiet when you first tell him, like eerily so

"And you've been... injured performing these tasks?" Malleus asks. You say sure, it happens, but you had training and a team behind you

Normally he loves hearing all about you and your human stories, but this? Not so much

It worries him, and makes him wonder if you're more prone to danger than he thought

As his future spouse, you need to be far from any such thing

Doesn’t even entertain the idea of you getting back into that field, nope nope nope

You’re going to have knights by your side to take care of everything!

That thought makes him pause though, hmm you were like a knight, protecting others and that’s quite valiant…

Okay that is pretty impressive and perhaps a title could be given to you to honor your deeds, but at the end of the day you're going to be a co-rule of Briar Valley, and your future husband is not letting you near danger

Requests are open!

[jellofish-plant]

Caught in the Crossfire

Pairing: Jason Todd (Red Hood) x Reader

Summary: Being best friends with Nightwing means you're no stranger to chaos, but falling for Jason Todd, the Red Hood, takes danger to a new level. When a mission involving a dangerous gang puts you squarely in harm's way, the tension between your loyalties and your feelings boils over. Will your bond with Nightwing survive, and will Jason let you in despite his walls?

Warnings: Mentions of violence, injury, light angst, fluff, mild language

[Masterlist]

The sharp snap of a grappling hook echoed through Gotham's empty alleyways as you swung toward the rendezvous point. Another long night assisting Nightwing your best friend on patrol, and you’d already broken a sweat fending off a gang of thugs who apparently had more muscle than brain cells.

“You okay?” Nightwing’s voice crackled in your comms, concern lacing his tone.

“Fine. Just some bruises,” you replied, landing on the rooftop where he waited, leaning casually against a vent.

“That’s my partner,” he said with a grin, ruffling your hair playfully. You swatted his hand away, rolling your eyes.

“Your partner? More like your babysitter.”

Before he could retort, a familiar voice interrupted from the shadows.

“Am I interrupting this heartwarming moment, or should I come back later?”

You turned to see Jason Todd Red Hood approach, his helmet tucked under his arm. His leather jacket gleamed under the moonlight, and his signature smirk was enough to make your heart skip a beat.

“Jason,” you said, trying to sound neutral.

“Y/N,” he replied, his voice lower, smoother, sending a shiver down your spine.

“Why are you here?” Nightwing asked, crossing his arms and stepping slightly in front of you, the protective older brother act kicking in.

“Intel,” Jason said, holding up a USB drive. “Thought you might want to know the gang you just took down has ties to a bigger fish—one that’s gunning for Y/N.”

You froze. “Me? Why?”

Jason’s smirk disappeared, replaced by a rare seriousness. “You’ve been on their radar since you broke up their weapons shipment last month. They don’t like loose ends.”

Nightwing immediately turned to you, his face dark with worry. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I didn’t think it was a big deal,” you admitted, guilt creeping in. “I can handle myself.”

“Clearly not,” Jason muttered, earning a glare from Nightwing.

“Enough,” you snapped, stepping between them. “If they’re coming for me, we deal with it together. No macho posturing.”

Jason’s lips twitched as though he wanted to argue but thought better of it. “Fine. But you’re sticking with me tonight.”

“Excuse me?” Nightwing said, stepping forward.

“Relax, Goldilocks,” Jason said with a smirk. “I’m better at keeping people alive when they’re in the crossfire. You can’t argue with that.”

The tension between the two of them was palpable, and you sighed, dragging a hand down your face. “I’ll go with Jason. We don’t have time for this.”

Nightwing looked like he wanted to protest but relented with a nod. “Fine. But you call me the second anything goes wrong.”

Jason rolled his eyes. “She’ll be fine, Dick. Trust me.”

Hours later, you and Jason were staking out a warehouse where the gang’s leader was supposed to be hiding. The silence between you was tense, but it wasn’t entirely uncomfortable.

“Why do you always do that?” you asked suddenly, breaking the quiet.

“Do what?” Jason replied, not looking at you.

“Push people away.”

He stiffened, his jaw tightening. “I don’t push people away.”

You scoffed. “Right. Because you’re such a social butterfly.”

Jason finally turned to face you, his piercing blue eyes locking onto yours. “I push people away because it’s easier than watching them get hurt because of me.”

The vulnerability in his voice caught you off guard. You softened, stepping closer. “Jason… You don’t have to do everything alone. You don’t have to protect everyone by shutting them out.”

His gaze flickered to your hand, which had unconsciously reached for his. For a moment, he didn’t move. Then, slowly, he took your hand in his, his grip firm but hesitant.

“Maybe,” he said quietly, “you’re the exception.”

Your heart fluttered, but before you could respond, the sound of footsteps interrupted the moment. Jason immediately pulled away, his gun in hand as he scanned the shadows.

“Stay close,” he murmured, his tone all business now.

You nodded, pulling out your own weapon as the two of you moved into the warehouse.

By the end of the night, the gang was neutralized, and you’d escaped with only a few minor scrapes. Jason had been relentless in keeping you safe, his protective side both frustrating and endearing.

As he walked you back to your apartment, you found yourself smiling despite the chaos.

“What’s so funny?” he asked, glancing at you.

“Nothing,” you said, shaking your head. “Just thinking about how Nightwing’s going to give me an earful for trusting you.”

Jason smirked, his confidence returning. “Let him. You’re safe, and that’s all that matters.”

You stopped at your door, turning to face him. “Thanks, Jason. For everything.”

He hesitated, then leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. “Anytime, Y/N.”

And with that, he disappeared into the night, leaving you with a heart that felt impossibly full.

[kirain]

@timethehobo I hope you don't mind and I hope you're feeling better!

The storm was relentless, large raindrops pounding against the windows of the inn where Xren and the others had taken shelter. Swathed in a heavy blanket, he'd been preparing for bed, but a fateful glance up gave him pause.

Through the saturated glass, he spotted Emmrich in the distance, his gaunt figure barely illuminated by the faint glow of a nearby lantern. His head was bowed, his arms hanging limp by his sides. Something about his posture—so still, so alone—sent a pang of worry through the elf's spine, and without a second thought, he slipped into his boots and threw a cloak over his shoulders.

The cold night air and freezing rain hit him the moment he stepped outside, but it didn't deter him. If anything, made his stomach churn as he wondered why Emmrich hadn't fled indoors.

"Emmrich!" he shouted as he made his way across the cobblestone courtyard, but the man didn’t react—not even a flinch at the sound of his voice. Perhaps the thunder had drowned him out, or perhaps Emmrich was overwhelmed by what ailed him.

As he approached, Xren's cloak soaked through, his hands instinctively rubbing his arms in a futile attempt to stay warm. When he moved close enough to see part of Emmrich's face, his breath hitched. The man's cheeks glistened with tears, though it was impossible to tell where the rain ended and the crying began. His lips quivered, his normally sharp, confident features crumpled into something raw and unguarded.

"Emmrich?" Xren said again, his tone laden with concern.

Startled, Emmrich spun around to see who had caught him in such a pitiful state. When he realised who it was, his hand rushed to his face, desperate to wipe away the evidence of his grief.

"Xren..." His voice cracked, but he forced a smile that didn't reach his eyes. "You shouldn't be out here."

"Neither should you," he challenged. "What are you doing?"

"Oh, I was just... out for a walk. Got caught in the rain, you see."

"That's not true," he said gently.

Without waiting for a response, he closed the distance and wrapped his arms around the taller man. Emmrich stiffened with a gasp, but he didn't pull away.

"I don't..." His words faltered. "I can't... Xren, I didn't mean for you to—"

"It's all right," he whispered, nuzzling against his chest. "I don't know what's wrong, but I'm here. I'm not going anywhere."

Emmrich gritted his teeth, his jaw clenching as he tried to compose himself. His hands hovered at Xren's back, trembling, but he didn't touch him.

"You must think me so weak," he whimpered.

"Never," Xren replied firmly, pulling away just enough to look up at him. "It's all right to cry, ma sa'lath. It doesn't make you weak. It just means you're alive."

Emmrich shivered as a fresh wave of tears rolled down his cheeks, blending seamlessly with the rain. "I... I'm sorry, darling. I won't be very good company tonight," he choked.

"Then don't be," Xren teased, squeezing tighter. "You don't have to be anything for me. You don't have to please anyone tonight. Just... feel what you need to feel."

For a while, Emmrich said nothing, his heart racing as he wept. Then, finally, he caved. His arms swiftly wrapped around Xren, holding him as though he were his only tether to the earth.

"I don't... feel better," he admitted, his voice muffled by the elf's hickory hair.

"I know," he hushed. "But you will. In the meantime, I'll be here."

The two of them stood steady, melting in each other's embrace as the rain cascaded around them. The world was cruel and unforgiving, its sorrows unavoidable—but like the storm that raged overhead, it would pass, ebbing away by the grace of the sunny morning light.

Nothing’s sad until it’s over, and then everything is.

[arcanarix]

made suguru a dull boy…

synopsis. with more and more responsibilities stacked like a tower of pancakes on geto’s plate, you and the twins feel like suguru’s forgotten how to have real fun! so you take him on a trip back down memory lane… (hopefully in a more positive light)

tw. implied kidnapping, yandere geto, the twins are the only thing keeping you sane, established dynamic captor/captive, reader is a non sorcerer, cult leader!geto, piv sex, oral (f! and m! receiving), reader has kind of mellowed out since you’ve been captive for more than a year or two by now. geto is actually kind of nicer to you.

WC: 3.1K

“Do you really think this is going to work?” you ask Nanako in a hushed tone, glancing at the stacks of metal bins containing a lot of Geto’s collectibles that he’d forgotten since he took on this new role. They’re all just sitting here collecting dust rather than being displayed and admired by a once bright eyed, unassuming, impressionistic fanboy. It’s hard to think about the fact that at one point, Geto was just a normal teenager who grew into whatever he was now.

Does he remember anything about having a bright childhood or has it been all doom and gloom from the start for someone like him? You can’t help but spiral into the possibilities. Does he remember playing ball and wondering how high up he can throw it and catch it? Does he remember his first balloon animal at someone’s birthday party? Does he remember the first video game he’s ever fallen in love with, or his first board or card game? 

Does he even have fond memories to look back on? Why does he work so hard to erase what he was before?

You still don’t have an appropriate label for someone like him, someone so otherworldly. ‘Monster’ is too on the nose and doesn’t capture all of those nuances about the guy. 

But does he even deserve to be deemed complex? Or should you just call him some guy? Some guy who has plucked you off the streets because you had some curse he was after. Some guy who has decided to keep you around because he has some kind of lust or obsession with you. 

That’s definitely a discussion for another time… 

“It might help him remember he’s a person too,” Nanako suggests with a shrug. “You know, smoke and mirrors aside, he’s just a person. Even if that ego of his doesn’t like to admit it…” 

“So what’s in all of these?” you prod as you pluck one of the tins from the top of one stack, waving off the dust that gathers around your face and blowing more of it off of the cool surface. You squint your eyes. So much of the paint has chipped off but you recognize the font of a popular franchise. 

“You’ve gotta be kidding,” you nearly scoff but try to refrain unless you want your head chopped clean off. “Are these fucking Yugioh cards?” 

The shock in your tone even catches Mimiko and Nanako off guard for a few moments, but they bounce back quickly. Nanako glances at Mimiko, and the older twin doesn’t know how to approach the topic at first but seems to come up with an explanation out of thin air like she always does.

“That Satoru Gojo guy Mr. Geto keeps talking about liked Digimon,” Mimiko explains, as her eyes scan the rows upon rows of countless trinkets and gizmos Geto claims he’d much rather leave behind, forgotten. “And Geto always rambled on about how much cooler Yugioh was from all those stories he’d tell us. They were best friends or something, but they got into a huge fight and that’s why they still aren’t talking now.” 

“You know they can still be friends if they just talked things out,” Nanako remarks, curiosity in her tone. “I mean, clearly Gojo still cares enough about Mr. Geto if he hasn’t killed him yet, right?” 

Mimiko nods. “Yeah.”

You ignore their conversation because you don’t really care to know much about that stuff, since it’s out of your realm of understanding anyway. Sorcerer politics that shouldn’t concern a non sorcerer monkey like you.

“Wow, I can’t relate,” you admit, finding yourself chuckling in spite of yourself. It’s not from amusement, still just disbelief that Geto was a person before all of this. Before what he is now. You almost are curious to know a little more, just to see if it’s worth peeling back all of those layers. “I was always a Pokemon girl.” 

“So is Mr. Geto!” Nanako chirps, beaming to where you can see her eyes twinkle in spite of the low ambient lightning of the attic. “Maybe you can like him more if you bond with him like this.” 

“It’s a thoughtful idea, but he’d probably say anything made by monkeys are only for monkeys.” With you being his sole exception or something of the kind, just a pretty appendage for a ruthless cult leader and scam artist. Something to tell his new world order that beneath all of that male bravado is a blatant hypocrite. “Isn’t that why he’s forgone his old personality?” 

“We just want Mr. Geto to have room to be a person, not just a dad or a leader, so can you please do this for us?” Nanako asks with a little pout. You fret as you assess the situation, glancing at the box in your hands, and then at the numerous stacks before you. 

How can you even say no to that face? Even if she’s completely complacent in all of this, you can’t completely fault these two girls for clinging onto the man who saved them from certain death for dear life. 

You have learned more about Geto than you have ever cared to in these few moments alone.

“Fine,” you decide, with a sigh in defeat as you toss some of your hair away from your face. You have taken countless losses here, so what’s another? “I’ll try to get your dad to lighten up, if it’ll make you both happy.”

“Thank you!” Nanako and Mimiko reply in unison with wide grins, before exchanging a look with each other. 

The stroll back to the second floor of the temple is a silent one as your mind is still muddled with thoughts about Geto’s not terribly distant past. From what you remember the twins telling you, Geto found them when he was no older than 16 or 17 and then he takes over this organization without so much as breaking a sweat. Given his status as some big shot sorcerer who doesn’t agree with the conservative ways of their society, you suppose that’s not entirely farfetched but you also aren’t aware of just what any of this means for someone like him or them. 

It’s just very hard to believe that beyond all of this, is a boy whose youth had been stripped from him. And misery loves company, so that’s why he decides to take you in maybe. You still don’t know his reason behind why he chose you or why he kept you—all you can do is infer. And perhaps every single possibility you have ever come up with is entirely off the mark but you don’t really care either way.

It doesn’t matter anymore. This is your life and you have to accept it. No one is going to save you, and no one can save you from forces they cannot see or fight.

You slip into the bedroom, eyes flitting to Geto who is seated like an emperor on your shared bed, one leg extended and one tucked in to support a book he’s reading in his lap. He’s let his hair fall down his back and frame the sharp features of his face. He doesn’t seem too reactive as he glances up from the page he’s about to flip through and actually smiles these days upon seeing your face. He has become soft with you, as far as softness goes for someone like him. He sets his book aside and strides toward you, looming over you like the giant he is compared to you and really compared to most people.

“Where have you been off to for so long?” Geto greets you with a light kiss on the crown of your head. He gestures to the box in your hand, and as a chain reaction you grip tighter onto it. “And what’s this?” 

Time to play up that act. Like you’re completely complacent, completely submissive to him and that you’re totally alright with anything that happens from here.

Because you have no power anymore, right? You may as well wear your mask well. And you seem to, these days. You seem to please Geto more and more with each passing month you’ve been here. At some point, you don’t even bother keeping track of how long it’s been since you’ve been in his care. Has it been a decade at this point or just a few months? It’s all a blur now.

None of it matters, anyway.

“Forgive me, the twins dragged me through one of their little adventures,” you reply with a small smile as you hand him the metal tin box. “This belonged to you. We—I thought you might want it.” 

Furrowing his brows at that, he slides off the lid, violet eyes widening upon the stacks of collectible cards. You catch something amiss in his stare. Something flashing in his eyes. 

Nostalgia? 

“I thought I burned these,” he mutters, more to himself, picking up one of the cards. You do recognize that one from your childhood. The Dark Magician. And is that another smile on his face? Another real, genuine smile? Are you dreaming? You must be! “Did they take you to the attic?” 

You feel your heart drop. Like old times. You nod. “They wanted to play hide and seek, but we found these instead.” 

He inspects the card with a quizzical expression. 

“Is there a purpose for this?” he prods with a hum.

“W-we just thought it’d be nice if you relaxed every once in a while,” you squeak, averting your gaze from his eyes to your feet. His expression contorts into something close to shock or impressed. 

But he just laughs.

“How do you mean?” he replies. He seems amused rather than angry or defensive and you aren’t sure if you’re terrified or not. “I’m plenty relaxed.” 

“We mean you just don’t have room to be you. You’re not just a leader,” you tell him. Rather bold words out of you that under past circumstances, you might have been punished for challenging him at all. But that’s not what you’re doing here. “You are your own person beyond those titles. We just—well I—!” 

“—shush, my dear. It’s endearing, truly,” he replies, placing the card back into the box and setting it onto the foot of the bed. “But I haven’t forgotten anything about who I once was. It’s my primary driving force in doing what I do.” 

“Then why throw yourself into all of these things? It just seems like… you’re fighting for your life all the time, and it doesn’t always have to be like that,” Who are we really talking about here? Him or you? “You need time to be with family too. You need to be, well, yourself too and—!” 

—you’re interrupted with his lips plunging onto yours. But it isn’t hungry or demanding. Rather longing, gentle, coaxing. He pulls away for a moment so you can catch your breath as his intense violet gaze meets yours. 

In moments like these he’s like a majestic dragon. Mighty. Domineering. Ethereal. 

Hypnotic. Entrancing. 

Beautiful. Breathtakingly so. Even in spite of everything, in spite of all of these horrors he’s put you through that feel so small and trivial in these fleeting moments where you can almost believe he feels something for you as beyond a pretty pet. 

A slender finger traces the edge of your cheek and you find yourself leaning into his touch. 

“Since when has this concerned you so much?” he purrs, his hands snaking down to the dip of your waist, securing you in place. Your eyes glimmer, with an edge of fear but more wonder of what’s spiraling in a mind like his. Dark, ruthless. Calculating. 

“Because…” you swallow thickly, the palms of your hands resting on his pecs, drawing your lips closer to his as your eyes begin to flutter shut. “Because you deserve to breathe, Geto. To have fun. To live a life, an actual life. Like anyone else.” 

Even if you are excluded from this equation. He has taken you from your life. But you can make the most of what you have here, perhaps. 

“Let me assure you, my dear, I can still have plenty of fun,” he growls seductively into your ear as he grabs you by your bottom and rests you on your back on the mattress, planting heated, open mouthed kisses on your neck. You don’t have a reason to argue or protest, as he slips your silk robe off of your body, revealing your bare body as you’ve forgone wearing undergarments in this temple. At any point he may want access to you and you have accepted that part of your life just as you have everything else about this arrangement.

But that doesn’t mean you’re completely content with it. No, it just means you know when it is best to surrender.

A breathy gasp escapes your lips when his mouth lands on your folds, tongue rolling between them and circling your clit until it stiffens. 

You can distract yourself in these moments because now you have new thoughts that haunt your mind—does he remember the first time he’s ever had a candy he loved? What about going to carnivals and trying a funnel cake? What has made his eyes light up in childlike wonder in his youth before his role in the world stripped that away from him until there was nothing left behind than the evil possessing him? 

He calls your name and commands you to watch.

And you do, no more hesitations like before, when you would cower at the idea of even so much as glancing in his general direction. You boldly find his face, half of it lightly coated in your juices, some of it sliding off of his sharp chin as his dragon-like gaze bores into yours. 

“You taste divine as always,” he purrs as he closes his mouth over your hole, sucking hard. Not much longer until he coaxes the first orgasm of the night out of you, but he never stops at just one. Whether he admits it to himself or not, he does enjoy thoroughly spoiling you but not without something in return. “There’s nothing else I’d rather feast on, except, perhaps…”

His tongue laves your perineum before rimming your back hole, making your hands fly up to clamp your mouth shut in a poor effort to muffle your pitiful moan. 

“Such a dirty girl,” he teases with an audible kiss to your anus. “You like this hole being teased more, don’t you?” 

He snakes the tip of his tongue around the rim of your back hole again, before dipping it inside. You gasp again, arching your back off of the feathery bed. 

“This is the most exciting part of my day,” he continues to ramble on as he feasts on your asshole while two fingers rub your folds and clit to work another orgasm out of you. “Watching you come undone beneath me. This is what I find fun. Learning what can make you scream for me.”

He slurps against your back hole, fucking his tongue into the tight ring of muscle and he chuckles as you try to find some grounding. 

“This relaxes me,” he goes on, “Making you feel like this.”

Once he coaxes another orgasm out of you, he pulls back, allowing you to catch your breath as you come down from that mind numbing high. But then you glance at him and he’s inching toward you, guiding your head toward the tip of his cock, hard, veiny and leaking. 

He pats your cheek, beckoning you. 

“Open up,” he demands in a singsong tone and you obey, wordlessly, jaw hanging open as he pushes his tip past your lips and teeth. He growls at the sensation, the flat of your tongue gliding along his shaft as he inches just enough of his size. He tosses his head back, eyes rolling back into his skull as he bucks himself into your mouth, fucking your throat and thankfully you have trained yourself and don’t gag anymore when taking his size like you once did. His size doesn’t intimidate you like it once did.

Many things about Geto don’t intimidate you like they once did, the more you think about it. In a way, it is actually reassuring to know that he’s still just some person and you can still find power over that somewhere. 

Maybe you can’t figure out what to do with this information now… 

But it does remind you that you can still be a person beyond whatever Geto’s made you into for him too. 

You want to remember the girl you were. The girl whose eyes lit up at the sight of cute animals in videos or on the street. The girl who’s had her own hopes and dreams that still can be reached if she just fought hard enough.  The girl who had likes and dislikes and an identity. 

All outside whatever this is. 

He can’t take that away. He may have taken many things, but you have realized you have something to hold onto that he chose to throw away about himself.

You nearly choke a bit as Geto forces you to take his entire length as stringy shots of cum flood the back of your throat. He slips his cock out, still hard and needing to be inside you and your position shifts. He has you seated on his lap as he guides the tip of his cock to your entrance and pushes inside while a hand wraps around your neck. 

“Swallow,” he demands in a harsh whisper, more from arousal and you listen, you obey, because you haven’t a choice in this case. You still grimace from the zingy salty taste of him and it’s something you likely aren’t ever going to get used to, but you have come to be able to accommodate his size when he fucks you like this now. Long, deep, harsh. Each jerk of his hips shakes the bed. Now your body is in a coat of sweat and sometimes he likes to observe himself disappear into you while he murmurs into your ear about how well you take him. 

“You’re so perfect,” he praises, nipping your ear. “So good for me. Fuck, you feel like the perfect sleeve for my cock. You’re made for it.”

His other hand moves to fondle your breasts as he fucks into you, biting down on your shoulder as he comes inside, pumping you so full of his seed that some of it trickles out of your hole while he’s still inside of you, warming himself up. 

“This is plenty fun for me,” he assures you with a kiss to the shoulder he just bit. “Trust me, love, I haven’t grown dull.”

[shy-canadian-snowflake]

Oh god even more Mentally Unwell Wade? Always. This is how I deal with my own mental health.

Wade chatters to himself, normally about random topics or his opinions on the weirdest of things- why Jellyfish would make good therapist, would madusa have to feed her hair, if emojis are todays hieroglyphics- lots of random topics. He does so half because ADHD brain, half because he doesn't like the sounds of his own thoughts. He speaks at a normal volume or louder when doing this.

He mumbles under his breath if he thinks he might be hallucinating. Soft quick words that normal people would ask him to speak up, not Logan tho. Logan can hear.

He learns quick- rambling is normal, mumbling is concerning. Thats is until it's not.

There are some hallucinations that are kind of normal for Wade. Like Boris, the large hairball cat thing. Wade named it so it was less stressing. Logan can hear him mumbling in the other room:

"God damn it Boris, don't pop up like that. I know you can't help it but come on."

"Boris, I'm starting to think you like me too much"

"Oh shit Boris, my man. As a interdimensional hairball cat thing, what is your opinion on Nutella?"

At first Logan would hover near by concerned, which would just cause Wade to shut down more. But eventually he started asking about Boris.

"If Boris is around so much, he should pitch in some fucking rent"

The day Logan did that changed everything. Wade didn't feel like he was being judged for what his brain was doing, that this wasn't something to fear. His brain was just mean sometimes and showed him Boris. Logan was fine with Boris, could deal with Boris. So Wade could too.

[n0vazsq]

Always | Pau Cubarsi x Reader

pairing . . . pau cubarsi x gf!reader

summary . . . After a tough day at university, all you want is Pau's comfort

request . . . yes!! based on this request!

word count . . . 1k+

warnings . . . none!

faceclaim . . . N/A

alexavia yaps . . . this is so cute omgg

. . . The day had been a train wreck from the moment you woke up. You were already running late for your first lecture, only to find out when you arrived that the professor had moved it to a different building, an email you somehow missed amidst the chaos of your inbox.

By the time you sprinted to the right room, you were sweaty, exhausted, and ten minutes late, earning a sharp glare from your professor.

It only went downhill from there.

The group project you’d spent hours preparing for fell apart when your so called friends barely contributed during the presentation, leaving you to stammer through most of it alone.

Afterward, instead of apologizing, they made taunting comments about how 'stressed' you always seemed and how you should 'just relax.' The words stung, their laughter cutting deeper than you wanted to admit.

By the time the day ended, you felt like you were walking around with a storm cloud over your head. Your chest felt heavy, like a balloon slowly losing air. The worst part? You knew no one would notice. No one ever did.

When you finally got home, the tears you’d been holding back all day began to spill the moment you closed the door behind you. You sank to the floor of your room, curling into yourself as the weight of the day crushed you.

Your phone buzzed on the nightstand, and you ignored it at first, assuming it was another pointless notification. But then it buzzed again. And again. Reluctantly, you reached over, glancing at the screen.

Pau

The sight of his name made your heart twist. Pau had a way of always calling at the right moment, as if he could sense when you needed him. Still, you hesitated, not wanting him to hear the weakness in your voice. The phone buzzed again, persistent. With a shaky breath, you answered.

"Hey," you croaked, trying to sound normal.

"Carino, what’s wrong?" Pau’s voice was warm, concerned. You could hear the frown in his tone.

"Nothing," you lied, sniffling quietly. "Just… tired."

"No, you’re not just tired. I know you better than that," he said softly. "Tell me what happened."

The gentleness in his voice unraveled you. Your carefully constructed walls crumbled as you choked out, "It’s been a horrible day, Pau. Everything went wrong, and my friends were… they were mean, and…" You trailed off, swallowing the lump in your throat. "I just feel so done with everything."

He was silent for a moment, and you worried he’d hung up or didn’t know what to say. Then, his voice came through, steady and resolute.

"I’m coming over."

"What? Pau, you don’t have to-"

"I want to," he interrupted firmly. "Give me fifteen minutes."

Before you could argue, he hung up. You stared at the phone, conflicted. Part of you felt guilty for dragging him into your mess, but another part was relieved. Pau had always been your shield, the one person who could make you feel safe even when the world felt like it was falling apart.

Fifteen minutes later, the doorbell rang. You shuffled to the door, your heart thumping in your chest. When you opened it, there he was, looking as effortlessly perfect as always. He held a bag of your favorite snacks in one hand and a small bouquet of flowers in the other. His warm brown eyes softened when they met yours.

"Hi," he said softly, holding up the flowers. "These are for your mom. Figured she’d like them."

Your chest tightened at his thoughtfulness. "You didn’t have to do that," you whispered.

"I wanted to," he replied, stepping inside. He placed the flowers gently on the kitchen counter before turning back to you. "Now, let’s talk about you."

He studied your face, his brows knitting together as he took in your red rimmed eyes and trembling lips. Without a word, he stepped closer and pulled you into his arms. The second his arms wrapped around you, the dam broke. You buried your face in his chest, the tears coming fast and heavy as he held you.

"It’s okay," he murmured, his voice a soothing melody. "I’m here. Let it out."

You clung to him, sobbing as the weight of the day poured out of you. He didn’t say anything, just held you tighter, one hand stroking your hair while the other rubbed gentle circles on your back.

When your sobs finally quitened, leaving you sniffling and exhausted, he guided you to the couch. He handed you a tissue from the box on the coffee table, waiting patiently as you wiped your face.

"Do you want to talk about it?" he asked gently, his voice low and steady.

You hesitated, but the honest look in his eyes encouraged you to open up. Slowly, you told him everything; the missed email, the failed presentation, your friends’ harsh words. He listened intently, nodding along, his expression shifting between anger and empathy as you recounted the day’s events.

"I’m sorry your friends were awful to you," he said when you finished. "You don’t deserve that. You’re one of the kindest, smartest people I know. And if they can’t see that, they’re not worth your time."

His words made your heart ache in the best way. You leaned into him, resting your head on his shoulder. "Thank you," you whispered. "For being here. For everything."

"Always," he said, wrapping an arm around you. "Now, how about we eat some snacks and watch something dumb? We can make fun of it together."

You laughed softly, the sound surprising even you. "That sounds perfect."

He pulled the bag of snacks onto the couch and let you pick what to watch. The two of you ended up on a cheesy rom com, the kind Pau loved to mock relentlessly. His running commentary had you laughing so hard your sides hurt, the heaviness of the day slowly lifting with each joke.

By the time the credits rolled, you felt lighter. Pau turned to you, his smile soft. "Feeling better?"

"Yeah," you said honestly. "Thanks to you."

"Good," he said, leaning back against the couch. "Because you deserve to feel happy, carino. Don’t forget that."

You leaned into him, closing your eyes as his words settled in your heart. With Pau by your side, the world didn’t feel so overwhelming anymore.

taglist . . . @barcapix ,, @f1lover55 ,, @ilovebarcaaa ,, @notm4d1 ,, @httpsdana ,, @paucubarsisimp ,, @bernalswifeyy ,, @nngkay ,, @justaf1girl (lmk if you want to join the taglist!)

[kteezy997]

Beyond Business-part three//t.c.

“Are you all ready for the Palm Springs Awards tonight?” you asked Timmy when you arrived at work, his house, the next day.

“Yeah, I guess.” he said. He looked tired, he rubbed his eyes with his hands, “I think I will take your speech with me. It will be a good script to ground myself with when I accept the award.”

“Alright. So I guess it’s good enough for you to use if you win the Golden Globe, and then we can work on a new variation for the Oscars.”

“Yes, yes, but I doubt I will need it. Those awards always favor older actors. Not that I can blame them, I am not as experienced.”

“Timmy you should be proud of your work. The awards are just a bonus for some people. It’s not a necessity to know you’ve done a great job.”

“I am proud.” he smiled then shrugged, “Maybe one day I will stop caring so much about the awards. You’re a great writer by the way. I think I’ll have you do all of my speeches with me from now on.” he grinned softly at you.

“Well, thank you. I’m glad to help, boss.” you set your purse down on the counter, "Emails today?"

You heard his phone buzz, he looked at it, then answered you, "Yeah, it'll be a short day for you today. I'll be leaving this afternoon for the ceremony."

"Okay, um, do you need me to do anything for tonight? I could come with you, if need be."

He shook his head, "No, no, I don't think that will be necessary."

You nodded as he answered a text on his phone, "Is she going?"

"Who?" he responded without looking up, totally aloof.

You sighed, "Timmy, I'm not a reporter, you don't have to play dumb with me. You know who I'm talking about."

"Yeah, I think she is going." he grumbled.

"So, should I expect a drunken phone call at two in the morning this time?" you quipped.

He looked up, stared at you, like he was trying to communicate something, even if he didn't know what it was. "I've got a phone call." he said plainly, avoiding answering, before turning away and going into the other room.

You rolled your eyes, mumbling to him, but really to yourself, "I guess I will take that as a yes. Your phone wasn't even ringing."

..........

The workday went smoothly, but the closer it got to your early dismissal, the more Timmy become agitated. He grew grumpier throughout the day, not necessarily at you, just in general. You began to wonder if he was getting enough sleep, or maybe it was just stress, or maybe it was Miss Jenner.

"Are you sure you're okay? For tonight, I mean?" you were concerned about him on a personal level, but couldn't let it show too much, so you sheathed it with the mention of the awards ceremony.

“Yeah,” he spoke softly, walking you out of his home, “I’ll be fine. Don’t worry about me.”

It seemed to be a new routine for him to escort you out at the end of the work day. It was growing on you. It made you feel cared for.

“Okay, well, good luck. You’ll do great. I’ll see you tomorrow.” For some reason, you felt the urge to kiss him on the cheek, like returning the favor from the day before. But you held back, yeah it’s a good idea to hold back.

"Thank you. See you tomorrow." he gave you that signature Timmy grin.

As you headed home, you could not get the image of his face out of your mind. You didn't care for the mustache and short hair combination at first, but the look had really grown on you recently. His hair had become looser and tousled on top, and he had grown a goatee to go with the mustache, which you think brought the facial hair look together nicely. It began to suit him in a mature way, and there was something really cute and sweet about it.

But, you knew that you could not think of him like that for too long. He was your boss, and he belonged to someone else.

That evening, you wondered if you would hear from Timmy after the awards were over. You hoped that you wouldn't, and that he would be okay. Maybe he wouldn't drink, or maybe he would just have a couple and then go home. Maybe he wouldn't need you.

However, your phone rang in the middle of the night, waking you up. You peeled your eyelids open with a groan, grabbing your phone and seeing the time, 1:47 A.M. Sure enough, it was your boss calling.

Your cleared your throat as best and as quickly as you could, hitting the green answer button, "Yes, Timmy?"

"Hey, open your door would ya?"

"What?" you sat up instinctually, rubbing the sleep from your eyes.

"Can you open your door?" he asked louder, with more emphasis on each word.

"Okay! Jeez, sorry. I'm coming." you threw your covers off, scooted your feet across the floor to find your slippers. "I was asleep you know." you sassed into the phone at him.

"Oh, shit. I guess it's early isn't it?" you could just picture him squinting at his phone, seeing what time it was.

"Try 'early,' goodbye." you said, ending the call and scampering out of your bedroom.

.........

You opened the front door of your apartment, and there he was, waiting.

"Timmy. What are you doing here?"

"Just stopping by." he shrugged nonchalantly.

"How did you know where I lived?"

"Your job application." he said in an obvious tone.

You blinked in disbelief, “I gave that to you more than a year ago."

"Yeah, well, I have my assistant's address memorized, okay? You never know when I might need you." he insisted.

You sighed, "I guess. Please tell me you didn't drive here." You leaned outside, peeking around to see if his car was there.

"No, I took an Uber from the event." he placed his hand on the door frame next to you.

“Are you okay? Why didn’t you go home with Kylie? Or just go to your place?” you asked.

He frowned, looking down at the ground, he shook his head at your interrogation. “I don’t know.” he looked up at you, standing straight up, he took a step forward.

The close proximity between you and him felt dangerous.

He was a bit taller than you, so he leaned down close, and softly, he said, “Why can’t I stay away from you?”

You felt weak, like you could fall right to the floor. But if you did, you didn’t know if Timmy was stable enough to help you back up.

Luckily, you didn’t have to respond in any way, because he said, “Do you have a couch or something I can crash on?”

January 10, 2025

@gatoenlaciudad @thebetawolfgirl @musicandbooksaremyhappyplace @softhecreator @tchalamss @lixzey @bitchyunknownuser @ducktapebar @aoi-targaryen @yukideadinside @elloise0 @thatoneweirdgirl17 @mel-vaz @sammy-halpert @iwishchalamet @that-one-fangirl69 @jindongdongie @briefkittenearthquake @imnotoverlyobsessive

[an0nwr1tes]

DP x DC idea, post AGIT

So, Bad ending Parent route for Danny when his foks find out he’s phantom which triggers the usual OH ANCIENTS YOU HAVE TO DIP NOW DANNY but, instead of it being Danny revealing it to his parents or his parents finding out by accident it’s Vlad who’s revealed it, completely by accident mind you, so now it’s Danny and Vlad who are on the run and have to jump dimensions because the Fentons definitely went to the GIW after finding out that not only is their SON a ghost but so is their oldest friend?

The GIW proceed to reclaim all of Vlad’s business’s and property’s meaning they find out about the clones and sure Vlad might have stuff set up to blow should someone who isn’t a halfa or already in the know find out about it but there’s no way Vlad just ignored Dani after AGIT and what about Dan? Those were his fail safe body’s but he can’t just kill the GIW because he’s not just recovered so suddenly the Government and fentons find out that there are TWO MORE HALFA’s or ghosts puppeting human corpses as far as their concerned which means all four halfa’s are on the run!

So one thing leads to another and they decide as a group to just jump ship, they get to the ghost zone but as nothing can ever go right for them they get attacked and after months/weeks? Of constantly fighting the GIW and having their names and faces plastered on very screen in the world they’re all too weak to properly fight back and so they run again.

Danny finds a portal and decides that anywhere is better than here and dives in the others following, now their are in the DCU.

So where do they end up in? Gotham of course, and no this isn’t just because I want the Bats to go; who are these skrunkaly children and feral raccoon man?? But because objectively Gotham is one of the best places for them to be when none of them have ID’s or social security numbers or like….anything at all.

So they arrive but nothings going right, Dan and Dani’s clone body’s haven’t stabilised, Danny’s powers are on the fitzs and Vlad just flat out can’t go ghost after he took some really bad hits form the GIW and Fentons to keep the younger less durable Halfa’s safe.

Now here’s where the fun starts, Vlad isn’t willing to live in poverty but he doesn’t have enough powers to properly build back his empire, Danny refuses on principle to overshadow people and do the other morally incorrect things Vlad does for fun, Dan would do it he’s destabilising so there’s no way he can survive overshadowing someone with this body melting and him being stuck out of time line again and Dani’s just too weak at the moment to really understand what’s happening.

For the Dani bit it’s because the other Halfa’s are all complete, Dan is a full ghost so even if his body melts they just need to get a storage device to keep him till they can make another, Danny and Vlad are weaker but their body’s are fine as true Halfa’s can be so Dani is the first priority.

Now I see this going two ways, Vlad uses persuasion(using the power of suggesting, literally he just went: you want to give us this apartment, the guy: I want to give you this apartment) and then Dani and Danny stay at home so Danny can try and start stabilising her while Dan and Vlad get to work on their criminal empire.

Eventually this gets back to the bats and they decide that Vlad and Dan are the main perpetrators and are keeping Danny and Dani prisoner and forcing Danny to make them weapons and machines by threatening her sister, which would make it hilarious if after they’ve stabilised Dani she takes one look at the bats and goes: I am SO going to mess with them! and goes full super villain.

The second way (AKA; the funnier way) is if Danny has to help stabiles Dani and Dan so Vlad is the one left to go about things but he’s weaker so they don’t get an apartment and Danny is stuck feeding their cores his own ectoplasm in whatever abandoned building they’ve squatted in for the night while Vlad grumbles and runs around attempting to steal things and not doing a very good job at it.

The reason I think this is the funnier option is because in my head, Dani and Dan make themselves look smaller, kinda de-age but their both still them, so that Danny doesn’t have to expend as much energy meaning that the Bats chance upon this group of what looks like a father and his trans-son (because Jazz SO gave that idiot enough thearapy that he isn’t as easily misunderstood as he used to be) and like two very young children and the whole family kinda goes; ….we have to help them

This is also funnier(and this is the main point) because the way that help would definitely be trying to convince Vlad to get a job at WE after Danny let’s it slip that Vlad’s an engineer, which he is case and point the GIANT LAB UNDER HIS CASTLE, and Vlad will be suffering because he DOES NOT want to work for some billionaire but they also need stuff to stabilise Dani and Dan and Danny can’t keep doing it because he’s so weak after expending this much energy that Vlad genuinely thinks he could die, ghost self and all and has to reluctantly agree.

Feel free to use this however, just tag me if you do ok?

[church-of-crayak]

I have a theory that Visser 3 would have failed an invasion of Earth because he didn't understand human politics, and human nature. On the Yeerk and Andalite home worlds they have a few spaceports but they don't have the infrastructure and confusing nations that would make it impossible to fall.

If you strike an Andalite spaceport (the closest thing they have to a city) you cripple the Andalite War effort.

If you wipe out a major human city like say New York, or Tokyo there's many others to fight back and entire governments and militaries to fight back with completely different structures.

It seems that most alien races in the animorphs have a pretty united government.

yeah, it also helps that all these different spots humans exist in are Packed Full of us. we're incredibly fucking plentiful, that's what makes us so attractive as a host species, but it's also what makes us the hardest to scoop up in one go.

i think there's also something to be said about the fact that visser three's ultimate goal is not to conquer the human race, but to conquer the andalites. he's an andalite nerd & admirer first, and that means that for the entire earth invasion, instead of taking visser one's strategy at face value and keeping the yeerk invasion quiet and slow, he's worried instead about what happens five, ten steps down the line. he's not really concerned with the way humans work.

like...Edriss was the original leader of the earth invasion for a reason, and she did this and accomplished all she did by actually doing research into humans, infiltrating them herself, and finding out what makes them tick. She also made a bunch of enormous fucking mistakes, obviously, and she's got a very similar (albeit... very slightly less all-consumingly violent?) obsession with humanity as esplin does with andalites, which hurts more than it helps.

i think that as far as visser three is concerned, the humans could and should have been infested in droves on day one. he can't imagine a species being anywhere close to as resilient and awesome as the andalites, and that's where he fails. he's infinitely more concerned with the "andalite bandits" coming for him than he is about any of the humans he's subjugating turning on him (cough. cough. also the andalite bandits).

it also helps that he's just plain stupid

[strwberri-milk]

hello author! your works gives me so much comfort. i would like to suggest something how lads would handle if you have dysautonomia which happened to faint during random events.

Zayne is of course best equipped to deal with your condition. He doesn't treat you like a fragile doll or anything but he does become very aware of your responses and how you seem to be. He wants details about your condition, making sure he can catch you or guide you to a safe spot if you're having a fainting episode.

If the two of you are going to have a longer day together he'll give you quick check ins once in a while just to make sure you're feeling alright. He'd hate for you to suddenly feel an episode coming on in a place that's going to be difficult for him to care for you until you wake up. It might be a little overbearing but you know he's doing it for your wellbeing and a genuine concern.

Xavier panics a little whenever you faint of course but he does get used to it over time. He starts to take note of your symptoms, trying to see if he can figure out when you're going to faint so he can catch you. Whenever you do faint he'll carry you to somewhere else to rest, letting you rest your head in his lap as he waits for you to wake up.

Rafayel hates not being able to do anything. He'll ask you tons of questions about your condition, trying to understand everything about it so he can try and prevent it. He knows that technically, there's really nothing he can do but in his head, helping you would mean making it so you don't feel the affects of your condition. He's a little overly cautious, something that might irritate you. You'd have to talk to him about what you want him to do and how you want him to treat you if you don't want him to be that way.

Sylus doesn't seem to act any differently after you tell him about your condition. He doesn't want you to think that he's treating you any differently but he is paying attention to every little detail about you. If the slightest thing seems off he'll pull you to his side, asking if you'd like to sit down or if the two of you should head home. If you express any sort of discomfort he's immediately with you, gauging your reaction and asking what you need from him.

[butterflywingswrites]

reposting all my anon fics in one place. enjoy 🤗

giving caitlin a massage on vacation part 3

“we should get in our pajamas and watch the olympics” caitlin suggested your night plans

“yes! and we should call kate. she told me to let her know how the vacation was going” you and caitlin entered the hotel room. she sat down on the bed and patted the spot next to her for you to sit down. she pulled out her phone and facetimed kate. you sat down and took in how good she looked in her dinner outfit. caitlin loved a tube top and you loved her in them. any top that showed off her strong arms was a top you loved on her. her shorts were tighter and shorter than her uniform shorts and you decided you were going to request the wnba make shorts like that as the new uniform. as usual, her muscular thighs looked incredible and delicious and her ass looked amazing

“hi guys, how was the first day of vacation?” kate’s voice rang through caitlin’s phone

“heyyyy” you and caitlin responded together. you both giggled at your simultaneous response

“oh you guys are totally drunk” kate wasn’t judging, just surprised

“no” caitlin denied “we split a pitcher of sangria at dinner and it ended up being like two glasses each. so not drunk but maybe a little tipsy”

“yeah, ok drunk girls” kate did not believe caitlin “how was your day? what did you do?” caitlin pulled you closer to her

“my girl took such good care of me” her girl. she called you her girl. you felt your face heat up and if it showed, you were going to blame the sangria

“your girl?” kate questioned. caitlin surprised you by kissing your cheek right next to your lips. your face felt impossibly hot

“yes. my girl. she brought a bag to the pool with snacks and water so i wouldn’t have to get up all day. i fell asleep and she covered me with a towel so i wouldn’t get cold from the breeze. she made dinner reservations. i didn’t have to worry about anything all day”

“you need to relax after the tough first half of the season. i didn’t want you to have to worry about anything” you reasoned “and you would do the same for me”

“well of course i would. you’re my girl” caitlin looked into your eyes with her big beautiful eyes. you smiled and giggled and blushed like a child with a crush. her girl. maybe the sex this morning wasn’t just a one time thing. your trance was interrupted by kate clearing her throat

“ok drunk girls, show me your room” caitlin showed kate the room through the phone “why do you only have one bed?”

“this hotel is expensive and i refuse to let caitlin pay for everything like she wanted to” you defended your choice

“i have the nike contract, i could have done it. but she insisted and it’s not a big deal. it’s just like when we stayed at hotels for away games”

“you guys only got one bed during away games? i always got two” it was clear kate was thinking about something but not saying it

“we got two but we pushed them together for more room”

“ok got it” kate said in almost a questioning tone “do you have plans tonight? maybe go out and meet cute people?”

“we’re going to stay in and watch the olympics. just a casual night in together like we used to. after the season i just want to be low key. and nobody at this hotel is cuter than my girl” you covered your face in embarrassment as caitlin complimented you

“there were some cute guys at the pool and there was one girl that was really cute but i would rather stay in with caitlin” you noticed the guys and that girl earlier today but none of them were as hot as caitlin. they didn’t even come close

“ok well i’m going to leave you to watch the olympics. have fun together” kate almost sang her last sentence. she had a knowing look on her face as you said bye to her, almost like she knew you had sex this morning. caitlin threw her phone towards the head of the bed and faced you. you grew concerned as her face got serious

“you know” she said softly “i didn’t know you liked girls for like three years” good. that means she didn’t know about your massive crush on her since day 1

“really? i never hid it. i didn’t bring it up because it shouldn’t affect my relationships with my friends and it doesn’t change who i am as a person but it was never a secret” you weren’t lying. your crush on caitlin was a secret but your sexuality never was

“i always admired how easy it was for you to talk about this stuff when it does come up. i feel like none of the normal labels fit me” caitlin admitted. your face fell at her insecurity. you scooted closer to her and put your hand on her cheek

“you told me the label that fits you is sexually open. if that’s the label that you feel describes your feelings then that’s the perfect and normal label for you. if that’s not the label that you feel fits you anymore then we can work on a different label for you. or you can be unlabeled. your sexuality is between you and your partner. the world is not entitled to know your label” you couldn’t help but smile as your words immediately seemed to cheer caitlin up

“i think sexually open fits how i feel. girls, guys, just whoever i vibe with. it just feels weird that it’s not one of the usual labels” you shook your head at her words

“there’s no usual labels, just common labels. i barely even fit in my own label. labels don’t matter” she laughed

“i was so shocked when i saw you kissing that girl” caitlin referenced the moment when she found out you were bi “i have never met a bi girl that has such a strong preference for men”

“it’s really a curse honestly” you started laughing “i barely fit my label and it’s because i like men too much. ew” you and caitlin started a new wave of laughter, the sangria reminding you both of its presence seemingly at the same time. caitlin kissed your hand that was still on her face

“thank you for this. you’re always here for me and i really appreciate you” she smiled wide and her cute dimples showed. you smiled just as wide back. you were such a sucker for those cute dimples

“of course caity, anything you need always”

“soooooo” she stretched out her word “can we change into pajamas watch the olympics now?”

“as long as you feel ok. i don’t want to stop talking about this until you feel good about it”

“i just needed some reassurance that i was normal”

“there is nothing wrong with you. you’re normal and perfect” she kissed your hand again

“let’s get changed” you nodded and you both went towards your luggage to find your pajamas. you searched through your luggage to find your pajamas

“caitlin?”

���did you forget your pajamas and want to borrow one of my shirts for the week?”

“yes” you said shyly. she rolled her eyes like she wasn’t used to doing this for you. normally she would throw you the shirt but this time she walked it to you. she placed it down on the bed

“do you need help taking off your dress?”

“no” it was a sundress “but you can help me anyway” caitlin put her hands on your hips. she rubbed her thumbs on your hipbones and you thought she might pull you in for a kiss. instead, she grabbed the dress and pulled it over your head, tossing it to the side once it was off. she scanned your body as you stood there in your bra and underwear. just her gaze was turning you on

“i always thought you had such pretty underwear” she snapped the waistband of your underwear

“always? why were you looking at my underwear?” you teased. not that you were complaining

“i wasn’t staring! between the locker rooms and the shared hotel rooms i saw your underwear a few times and noticed that it was pretty. but i wasn’t staring” her face was flushed cutely as she explained herself. maybe it was her admission, maybe it was the vulnerable conversation you just had, or maybe it was just the sangria, but you felt bold. you unhooked your bra and pulled it off your arms. caitlin’s eyes fell to your chest and she bit her lip a little. your nipples were hard from all the flirting. you wanted to tell her she could put them in her mouth if she wanted but you held back, unclear with how far she wanted to take things tonight if anywhere at all

“maybe you should have been staring” you settled on something flirty and forward but not as forward as you would’ve said to anybody who wasn’t your best friend. she stuttered a bit

“ah um. turn on the olympics while i get in my pajamas” she grabbed her pajamas out of her suitcase and started changing quickly. you put on the shirt she left on the bed and turned on the olympics. maybe she was nervous? you’re not sure why she would be nervous considering she ate you out amazingly then made you cum on her thigh in what might have been record time. oh fuck did she not like how you ate her out? maybe she didn’t like getting fingered. she seemed satisfied and she told you she was but maybe she was shielding your feelings. you started to panic a little. this is why you didn’t fuck your friends-there’s too much at stake

“come here” caitlin snapped you out of your thoughts from the bed “let’s watch tv like we used to in college” she opened her legs out wide like she did this morning before you rode her thigh. except this time you were supposed to sit between her legs and lean back on her chest. that was how all friends watched tv, right? you sat between her legs facing the tv in the position you’ve been in so many times before. you didn’t lean back, wanting to put physical distance between you and caitlin in case she didn’t want you. you weren’t sure if you were going to be able to control yourself if you leaned back on her chest

“why are you sitting like that? come here” she moved her left arm over your chest taking extra time when her fingers reached your nipples. you held back a moan, trying to control how badly you wanted her, how badly you’ve always wanted her. finally her hand grabbed your right shoulder. she pulled you back and pressed your body into her. you felt her tits pressed against your back and fuck were her nipples also hard? she kissed you on your head

“i missed this. i miss being low key and just chilling. no media, no press, just us” your heart broke a little at her confession. she’s exhausted from all the weird and unusual stress of her job. she doesn’t feel like her sexuality is valid. you breathed in deeply. as much as you wanted to, it wouldn’t be right to fuck her tonight unless she initiated. she wanted normalcy and you were going to give it to her

[n1ght0f-nyx]

New Perth idea if you would like: what if other orcs were giving reader a hard time or if reader got hurt by them or somthing? No pressure at all I love the fics!

long time no see guys... :P

warnings/tags- really minor bullying (i suck at writing insults cuz im scared of being cliche), comfort and fantasy xenophobia, unnamed bullies

word count: 910 words

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the village. You had ventured out earlier that day, eager to explore the market with a sense of independence you hadn’t felt in a long time. Pert’ah had been hesitant, his amber eyes filled with concern, but he respected your wishes and let you go alone, trusting you to navigate the bustling orc settlement.

The market was lively, with orcs of various clans bartering and exchanging goods. You moved through the crowd, your human stature making you feel a little out of place, but you kept your chin up, determined to blend in.

It started with whispers—mutters about the human woman who thought she belonged among them. You tried to ignore the murmurs, focusing instead on the vibrant fabrics and intriguing artifacts displayed on the wooden stalls. But it didn’t stop there.

A group of younger orcs, warriors-in-training, loomed near one of the stalls. Their armor clinked as they shifted, their gazes fixated on you with a mixture of curiosity and disdain. One of them, bolder than the rest, stepped forward.

“Lost, little human?” he sneered, his tusks jutting as he smirked. The others chuckled, the sound low and grating.

“I’m just browsing,” you replied evenly, trying to keep your voice steady. You didn’t want to show fear, but their presence was intimidating.

“Shouldn’t you be at home, waiting for your orc to return from battle?” another one jeered, his voice dripping with mockery. “Humans are fragile. What are you doing here, playing at being one of us?”

Your heart pounded in your chest. You tried to sidestep them, but one of the orcs bumped your shoulder roughly, causing you to stumble. Your basket of goods fell to the ground, scattering fruits and herbs across the dirt.

Before you could respond, a shadow fell over the group, and the air grew tense. Pert’ah had arrived. His broad frame towered over the young orcs, his eyes burning with an intensity that made the group take a cautious step back.

“What is the meaning of this?” Pert’ah’s voice was a low growl, filled with authority. His gaze swept over the scattered items on the ground, then landed on you. His eyes softened for a brief moment before returning to the young orcs with a fierce glare.

“We meant no harm, leader,” the bold one stammered, his bravado crumbling under Pert’ah’s piercing stare. “Just... having some fun.”

“Fun?” Pert’ah repeated, his voice like the rumble of a storm. “Harassing someone under my protection is not fun. It is dishonorable.”

The group shifted uncomfortably, realizing the gravity of their actions. Pert’ah took a step forward, his presence dominating the space.

“Leave,” he commanded. “And consider your actions carefully next time.”

Without a word, the young orcs scurried away, their tails between their legs. Pert’ah turned to you, his expression softening once again. He knelt down, gathering the fallen items into your basket with gentle hands.

“I should have come with you,” he said quietly, his voice laced with regret. “I didn’t think they would... I’m sorry.”

“It’s not your fault,” you replied, your voice shaking slightly. “I wanted to do this on my own.”

He stood, offering the basket back to you. “You are strong, but they had no right. Are you hurt?”

You shook your head, though your shoulder ached where the orc had bumped into you. Pert’ah noticed your wince and gently touched your arm, his calloused fingers careful not to cause more discomfort.

“Come,” he said softly. “Let’s go home.”

The walk back was quiet, Pert’ah’s protective presence reassuring beside you. Once inside the safety of your home, he led you to a seat and knelt before you, examining your shoulder with care.

“It’s just a bruise,” you assured him, though the sting of the encounter lingered in your heart.

Pert’ah’s fingers traced the outline of the bruise tenderly, his eyes filled with a mixture of concern and guilt. “They won’t bother you again,” he promised, his voice firm. “I’ll see to that.”

You reached up, placing your hand on his cheek, your thumb brushing the scar that ran along his jaw. “Thank you,” you said softly. “For always protecting me.”

His eyes closed briefly at your touch, as if savoring the kindness. “It is my honor,” he whispered.

Pert’ah leaned into your touch, his rough exterior melting under your gentle hand. He was a warrior, forged in the fires of countless battles, but with you, he found peace. You saw more in him than just the warrior, the leader. You saw the man who cared deeply, who loved fiercely.

“Stay with me,” you murmured, your hand slipping into his. “You are my strength, just as I am yours.”

He nodded, his forehead resting against yours. In the quiet of your home, the world outside faded away. Together, you found solace in each other, the bond you shared unshakable.

Pert’ah lifted you gently, carrying you to the hearth where he wrapped you both in a warm blanket. The fire crackled softly, casting a comforting glow over the room. He held you close, his arms a fortress against the world.

“You are my heart, little one,” he murmured into your hair. “And I will always keep you safe.”

In his embrace, you felt the weight of the day lift, replaced by the warmth of his love. Pert’ah was more than a warrior, more than a leader. To you, he was home.

[julieverne]

Jane was happy enough to accept the spare room Maura had offered after she lost the baby. However, she slept with the door closed and never responded to Maura's gentle knocks when she went past on the way to her own bedroom. She stayed out of the common spaces unless someone else was there.

It felt, Maura realised, like being alone. Only worse, since she wasn't. Her best friend was there, hurting, and she wouldn't let Maura in.

Maura knew her well. She could read Jane's guilt like a medical journal.

"I would have paid for an abortion," Maura said, when Angela had left and Jane hadn't quite struggled to her feet. "Somewhere no one knew you."

Jane looked at Maura like she'd struck Jane.

"I - I didn't - I don't -"

"You went in alone. You didn't call anyone."

"I called you! As soon as I could!"

"Not before you went in alone."

Maura watched Jane struggle a little longer, then offered her arm. Jane ignored her.

"It's a mortal sin," Jane hissed. She didn't meet Maura's eyes, just hobbled past her to the kitchen with her plate from dinner.

"Isn't everything, including sex with someone you aren't married to? Someone you didn't want a baby with."

"I didn't want -"

"Hmm?" Maura met Jane's eyes. Jane looked away, washing her hands.

"I wanted the baby. Not his baby, but a baby."

"Then why did you go in alone? Why did you take that risk?"

"I wore my vest."

"You put it on a child then attacked an armed man with a pipe."

Jane shrugged.

"I wanted the baby," Jane said again, her voice low. "And then you met Jack."

Maura's breath caught.

"You were engaged."

"I didn't want to be."

"Then why did you - the ring?"

"It was nice to be asked. I'm not the kind of woman men ask, you know? My job scared them. I scare them. And I was trying not to -"

"Not to what?"

"It's another cardinal sin," Jane said. She rubbed her hands, looking down at the scars. She rubbed the bullet wound on her stomach, then her back. Then she looked up at Maura. "It's a cardinal sin to want you the way I did."

Maura's breath caught again.

"Did?"

"Do," Jane breathed. She slumped, like she'd been holding that in. "But it doesn't matter. They'll forgive me getting pregnant to a man I wasn't married to. They'll forgive me that."

"But not for an abortion?"

Jane's eyes met Maura's.

"Not for loving you."

Maura took a step back; Jane's look was so tortured and raw. It changed to concern. Jane stepped forward, reaching for her, but her hand didn't land on Maura to steady her.

"I guess - I wanted the baby because I thought of it as yours. Because I'm yours, or I was, and then you found Jack and I'm nothing, I'm no one, and that's why I went in alone. I didn't care what happened to me. I cared what happened to Tasha. I didn't even think of the baby, since it was part of me. I'm not as sorry it's gone as I should be, either, because I had been thinking of you as the other parent, and since you have Jack I would have been the single mother of a baby I had with a man I didn't love."

"But you loved me?" Maura had never heard her own voice so low.

Jane nodded slowly.

"I didn't want to," she said, and strong, sturdy, emotionally constipated Jane started crying in Maura's kitchen. She'd saved Maura from Dennis and held her for hours, but when Maura stepped forward Jane stepped away, wrapping her arms around herself.

"I wanted that too," Maura said quietly. "The baby, I mean. The baby being ours. When you asked me to take it if anything happened to you -"

"I was too chicken shit to say what I meant."

"You're brave, Jane. You saved Tasha. You've saved me, more than once."

"You're worth it," Jane whispered. She met Maura's eyes. She was hunched forward, her eyes shimmering with tears. "You've always been worth it. And Tash - I wouldn't have wanted her hurt. She's such a good kid."

Maura nodded sadly, eyeing the distance between them. She picked up her phone.

"Jack? I can't do this any more. No, I know you're not a serial killer." She laughed; she'd always enjoyed him. She liked Jack, but she loved Jane. All of her, even the stupidity that had lost her a baby. "You'd still be willing to donate sperm? Yes, you were right. No, I know, you said she has the job in New Mexico. I think it's best - you are lovely." Maura hung up and looked at Jane, who looked nervous and hunted.

"I think it's too soon for you to try again," Maura said. "But if you do want a baby - a baby with me - you're not allowed to work in the field. You're too impulsive. I thought I didn't mind when it was someone else's baby. I can't -" Maura cut herself off. Jane came closer. "I'm not asking you to give up your job - I know how important it is to you. But if you did, you know. The option is there, but the condition is your personal safety."

"You didn't have to do that," Jane whispered. "He was nice. I liked him."

"I didn't love him. Not the way I love you. I want children with you."

"As a friend?"

Maura chuckled and saw something in Jane's entire countenance ease. The tension from pretending to be straight while Catholic, maybe.

"As someone who loves me the way I love you. Sinfully."

"I kept thinking - it can't be a sin. Not if - w-wait, love?"

"Always have, Jane," Maura said, watching emotions chase themselves across Jane's face. Elation, fear, joy, anxiety. "You know I don't believe in God or the church, so if it takes a little longer I don't mind. You're still healing."

"Maybe," Jane swallowed, her eyes wide and bright, "maybe you could kiss it better."

When Maura stepped closer she could almost feel Jane's anxiety as a tactile sensation. It was thrumming between them like a pulse.

"Where does it hurt?" she said, and her voice was husky in a way she'd never heard it. She raised trembling hands to Jane's waist. "You know there's no scientific basis -"

Jane kissed her argument right out of her mouth. And despite the lack of scientific basis for her proposal, Jane somehow managed to kiss it better.