#when i say fruit salads i mean the sweets

[lanaevyssmoved]

u cant rly tell in the gifs but afhiri has orange highlights in her hair she is fruit salads

[tasteleeknow]

HELLO STRANGER. PART FIVE.

PAIRING: minho ft. hyunjin x fem!reader GENRE: smut, angst, fluff, soulmate!au. enemies to lovers. jealousy. pining. unrequited love. WORD COUNT: 5.4k

masterlist and taglist ♡ pt.1 | pt.6

do not repost to other sites, including translations.

You came. You came to the thought of Minho wrapped around you and… inside you. Minho. The same Minho who tossed what remained of your self esteem into the dirt and pressed it so deep into the earth you have no idea if you’ll ever find it again. 

It’s fine. 

You’d already accepted he was pretty, maybe the prettiest person you’d ever seen. But that was before. Before he’d called you an infection and made you feel so, so, small. It was easy to see past his pretty face after that. 

And then he’d been kind. Fucking sat with you through a storm and asked you if you were okay and told you not to cry. It’s not enough. It shouldn’t be enough. He has an unfair advantage. He was picked out for you. Soulmates. Soulmates. Soulmates.

You could cry. Or scream. 

You do neither. 

You crawl into bed and try to forget. He didn’t want you. 

You are alone. 

—

It’s like he knows. It’s some sort of cruel joke. A soulmate who can read your thoughts, your internal conflicts. He’s sitting at the table when you stumble out of the bathroom the next morning—a pile of fruit in front of him like a peace offering. 

“I made fruit salad,” he says, all soft and fucking irritatingly sweet, “if you’re hungry.” 

You freeze, completely and utterly fucked. 

“I’m fine.”

—

Avoiding him is a ridiculous, impossible task. You live with him. Still, you avoid him at breakfast, and—after a few failed attempts to avoid him in the pool—you stop going all together. Hyunjin had attempted to squeeze the truth from you. He couldn’t understand why you’d stop doing something you seemed to enjoy so much. Never in a million years were you going to confess that seeing Minho dripping wet and shirtless each morning was fucking with your head. Not after everything. You couldn’t give Hyunjin any hope. 

“You can tell me,” Hyunjin says as he taps the end of his pencil on the small coffee table. 

He’d been spending the afternoon drawing while you read. It’s a peaceful, quiet company. Or it has been before his nervous tapping had started.

“Tell you what?” 

The tapping doesn’t stop as he looks up at you from the floor. “Have you fought?” 

You frown, closing your book and dropping it onto the couch beside you. 

“No,” you reassure him. “I mean a small one but we made up. We’re fine.” 

His pencil stops. He places it down gently. “Then what is it?” he asks. “What’s wrong?”

I think I want to fuck my soulmate. The one who made it clear he does not want to fuck me. The one we live with. 

“What… makes you think something is wrong?”

He offers you a sad smile—a knowing smile. He always seems to know. How can you be surrounded by people who seem to know your thoughts and still feel so… adrift… alone.

He joins you on the couch, replacing your book with his fluffy socks as he curls up beside you. He’s warm. He radiates warmth, as always. “You’re avoiding him,” he says, like he’s pointing out the sky is blue or the grass is green—like it’s simply and utterly true. 

How do you deny a fact?

“We’re being civil.” 

He tucks his feet underneath you and leans back on the armrest, making himself comfortable. “So this was a mutual agreement? To distance yourselves from each other?”

“We didn’t wanna argue anymore.” 

Hyunjin says nothing in return. Just looks at you, like he’s caught you with your hand in the cookie jar and you’ve just tried to deny it. 

“What?” you blurt.

“He asked me this morning if he’d done anything to upset you.” 

A short laugh bursts from your lips. You can’t help it. “Upset me?” you question, struggling to wipe the laughter from your face. “He asked if he’s done anything to upset me?” 

“Recently,” Hyunjin clarifies. 

You turn to face him, grasping his calves in your hands to use as leverage as you rearrange yourself. “Jinnie,” you start. “We should go out.” 

His eyebrow twitches. “Out?” 

“Mina’s wife is having a party tomorrow, for her birthday. Come with me.” 

He pulls his legs from your grasp, tucking them to his chest. “You’re trying to distract me.” 

“I’m inviting you to come out with me. It’ll be fun.” You lead forward and rest your chin on his knees. “Please,” you plead, offering him a small smile. 

He looks to the hallway as the water cuts off. Minho has finished his post pool shower. “What about him?” he questions. 

You press your lips together to prevent ‘what about him?’ slipping out. It’d be easy to find a reason, an excuse to keep this just between you and Hyunjin. Mina invited him specifically because of his attendance at her wedding. You want to spend a night with Hyunjin alone. Quality time minus the beautiful, asshole soulmate. Instead, you sit back and—with a slight furrow of your brows—you mumble, “He can come if he wants.” 

Hyunjin laughs, falling forward over you—his face pressed into your shoulder. “Try not to look too happy about it,” he says around his lingering laughter. “He probably won’t come anyway.” 

You push him off you gently before tucking his hair behind his ear. “You’re annoyingly caring, you know that?” you say. 

“Thank you,” he says. 

—

Minho does say no. He’d rather stay in, he says. Fine with you. You and Hyunjin leave him sitting on the couch with one of the cats curled on his lap. 

His eyes drift down your bare legs on your way out. You wouldn’t have noticed if you hadn’t taken one last glance back at him. You don’t know how you feel about it. 

You find yourself at the bar before you’ve even attempted to locate Mina or her beautiful, rich wife/soulmate. Alcohol is nice. Alcohol and friends and loud distracting music. It’s not something you usually enjoy. In fact Mina had made it clear you weren’t obligated to come exactly because she knew you so well. It feels different now. It feels like it’s exactly what you need. 

Hyunjin gets dragged off by the birthday girl at some point in the night, when you’ve had more drinks than you probably should have and then attempted to take the edge off the inevitable hangover with a tall glass of water. Mina sits with you, her legs stretched out in front of her to touch yours—each of your backs pressed up against opposite walls in the empty hallway. 

“It has to be weird,” she says. “It has to be.” 

You take another messy sip of water, wetting your lips more than anything. Then you nod. 

“Has… anything happened?” she emphasises her point with a look up and down your body, her eyes lingering between your legs. 

You kick at one of her feet. “God, Mina.” you scoff. “No. Did I not make it clear? He fucking hates me.” 

“And… you hate him?” 

You nod. 

“You sure?” she questions. 

You attempt to chug some more water. Most of it ends up down your dress. “Yes,” you grumble as you wipe at your dress uselessly. “He’s an asshole. He’s maybe the biggest fucking asshole I've ever known.” 

Mina gives you a look. A really fucking annoying look. Like she knows. Would everyone stop thinking they fucking know. 

You pull yourself up on your feet, a little less steady and graceful than you’d prefer. But you make it upright. Mina joins you with only a little help—a clumsy tug to one of her arms. 

“You can hate someone and be attracted to them,” she says as you stand there in the middle of the hallway, cool water dripping down between your breasts. 

“I…I know.” 

She shoves your shoulder, almost sending you back into the wall. “I knew it!” she yells. “You’re fucking—”

You slam your hand over her mouth. “We are not. I am not. I got myself off and he happened to be… the face I was thinking of. That’s it. Okay?” 

She nods and mumbles something into your palm. You release her. 

“Are you okay?” she asks, swaying a little on her feet. It almost sobers you completely. 

You had no idea. 

“I can’t want him,” you say eventually. “I can’t.” 

She must see something in your face because you find yourself tugged into her arms. It’s nice. “What do you need?” she asks as she strokes your hair. 

“I don’t want… to want him.” 

She takes a small step back and takes your face between her palms, holding you in front of her like a mother about to give her child a serious life lesson. “I saw a very pretty man in a tight black shirt earlier,” she says. “Would you like me to get him for you?” 

You huff out a small breath of laughter. “No,” you say. “Thank you anyway.” 

“You sure? Maybe you’re just horny.” 

You sigh, taking her hands from your face gently. “He’s my soulmate, Mina. I’m… fighting an uphill battle.” 

“Or… you’re horny.” She raises her eyebrows and bats her eyelashes. “It might help.” 

“If it doesn’t?”

She takes your hand. “I’ll text you everyday reminding you how much of a prick your hot soulmate is.” 

“You’re a good friend.” 

She smiles. “Let me show you the pretty man in the black shirt.” 

—

It’s a mistake. 

From the moment he kisses you, it’s wrong. It’s a pair of lips and they’re warm and wet and attached to a very pretty man but… that’s it. It’s nothing. 

You must be fucked in the head. A masochist. You want pain and hurt and suffering. The pretty man in the black shirt had been nothing but kind and sweet and pretty. You don’t want him. 

Still, you don’t stop it until he’s cupping your tits in his large hands. You don’t know why. It’d be easier to keep going, to pretend this is what you want—to pretend the man you want touching you isn’t at home with a cat in his lap. It’s tears that finally signal to the man pressing you into the wall that this is a mistake. It’s embarrassing and awkward and Hyunjin asks no questions when you find him shortly afterwards and ask him meekly if you can go home now. 

It’s only when you’re tucked under your covers an hour later that you confess. Hyunjin crawls in beside you. He doesn’t ask. He just waits. 

“I tried to sleep with someone.” 

It’s too dark to see his reaction. You’re grateful. 

“It didn’t go well?” 

“No,” you whisper. 

“Why?”

“He wasn’t him.” 

He wraps himself around you, tugging your face into his chest. It can’t be more than a minute before the tears come. You promised yourself you wouldn’t do this—you wouldn’t make Hyunjin carry any of this anymore. It wasn’t fair. It’s not fair. It’s not fair. It’s not—

“I’m sorry,” he says. “I shouldn’t—I told him to sign up. I’m sorry.” 

You shove yourself backwards, pressing your hands onto his chest to keep distance between you. “What?”

“I forced him into this. You wouldn’t… be dealing with this—with him. I—”

“Stop. Please stop. You can’t… seriously be blaming… yourself right now? You can’t. That’s not what’s happening.” 

He’s quiet. 

“Jinnie,” you whisper between shaky breaths, “You’re breaking my heart.” 

“That’s what I’m afraid of.” 

“I don’t regret it,” you murmur into his chest. “I don’t. I’m so grateful you made him sign up for that stupid app. I found you. You’re so, so worth it.” 

He lets out a shaky breath as his arms wrap around you. 

—

“I’ll be down in a minute,” Minho says as Hyunjin waits at the door with his towel draped over his shoulder. 

Hyunjin nods and then he’s gone. A sense of foreboding falls over you before the door even closes behind him. You’re alone with Minho.

“Can we… talk for a second?” he says, confirming your fears. 

You place your spoon down slowly, contemplating just making a run for it. “Sure,” you say instead. 

He clears his throat as he takes a small step towards you. “I just… I wanted to check that I haven't done anything recently… to hurt you.” 

“Recently?” 

It’s a low blow and not as satisfying as it should be. His shoulders drop and you watch as his towel drags on the floor as his arms hang at his sides. “Yeah,” he says. 

“No.” 

“I thought… I thought we were… getting along. Or better at least.” 

You wish you weren’t having this conversation right now, with his shirt off and his arms out. God his fucking arms. 

“We are. I’ve… been dealing with some things. I’m sorry if I've been distant.” 

“Some things?” 

“Personal things.” 

None of your business things. You didn’t want me. 

He blinks. “Right. Yeah. I uh… I just thought maybe you’d prefer I didn’t come to the pool. I know you liked it.” 

He’s offering to stop, to leave the pool sessions with Hyunjin to you. It should be easy to agree to his offer. But you can’t avoid him forever. Exposure therapy, you tell yourself. The more you see him… exposed, the less you’ll care. You sigh.

“Would you… wait for me to change? I’ll come.” 

You can’t help noticing the way he perks up a little. “Yeah, yeah I’ll wait,” he says.

You find yourself alone in the shallow end, watching as Hyunjin guides Minho out into the deep. They’d made some progress in your absence. Minho could almost make it to the other end unaided. You've known how to swim for as long as you can remember. It’s instinctual now. It’s hard to imagine what’d it be like to be unable to swim; to not be able to keep yourself above the surface… to sink. 

You lift your feet off the bottom and tuck your knees to your chest, letting yourself sink down under the water. It’s quiet; dulled. Apart from the muted sounds of the others moving at the other end of the pool, there’s nothing. 

It feels like yesterday, when you’d found yourself alone in the waves—heavy storm clouds overhead. The smell of the ocean mixing with the freshness of the incoming storm. The small group on the beach looked so far away as you made your way out of the water, your arms wrapped around yourself to shield from the chill. It was the start, the first moment you’d felt it. It was dark and cold, the heavy weight in your chest. It existed to remind you that even when you were surrounded by people, you were alone. You’d managed to ignore it a little in recent years, with Mina around so much. But then you’d been abandoned, by your ex, by Mina, by Minho. 

You were unwanted. 

A hand wraps around your bicep and tugs, hard enough to hurt. 

“—fuck are you doing?” 

Minho’s voice is the first thing you hear when you surface. You gasp as you shove your hair from your face, only realising as the oxygen floods into your lungs how much they were burning. You blink as you catch your breath. Then his tone of voice sinks in along with his grip on your arm.

“What—”

“What are you doing?” he says again, cutting you off. 

Your brows furrow. “Let me go.” 

He blinks and then releases you. You watch as his eyes widen a little and then he’s taking a large step back until he’s pressed to the edge of the pool. You suck in a breath—to say what exactly, you aren’t sure.

“You alright?” Hyunjin says, interrupting you before you can find out. 

“I’m fine.” 

“You were under for a while. We thought—” 

“I’m fine,” you insist, suddenly embarrassed—by the situation but mostly by the self pitying thoughts you’d let yourself be consumed by. They couldn’t know, you knew they didn’t know but the embarrassment bubbles up nevertheless. 

Hyunjin stands there, a comforting hand on your shoulder, looking at you like he cares. 

Because he does. 

You weren’t alone. He’d suffered so much more than you ever had and here he was, warm and kind and caring. You paint a small smile on your face and step into his arms. “Sorry,” you mumble. “I… didn’t realise.”

“Just don’t forget to breathe,” he mumbles back. “Please.”

—

Mina had been diagnosed with Celiac Disease three years into your friendship. She couldn’t eat gluten ever again, she’d explained to you. No bread. No pasta. Your favourite ice cream was even off limits. They snuck that shit into everything you had both come to realise. Still, she stuck to it. Even when she was piss drunk on a night out she’d remember to ask the bartender exactly what was in each drink. The thing that amazed you the most was her ability to turn down cheesecake. It was your shared kryptonite. You’d both taken countless midnight trips to the convenience store just to satisfy your all consuming craving for cheesecake. She’d cried the day you’d both tentatively read the ingredients label only to discover the dooming words in bold print ‘Contains Wheat’. She never touched it again. 

You’re reminded now—as you sit quietly on the edge of the pool—what Mina had said when you’d asked her how she did it; how she managed to resist the cheesecake. “Because I have to,” she’d said. As simple as that. “It’s off limits. I’ve crossed it out as an option. I can’t eat cheesecake like I can jump out of a plane without a parachute. It’s not an option.” 

You watch as Minho stretches his arms above his head. Shirtless and wet. He shivers a little. You imagine if you were closer you might be able to see the warm droplets making a slow path down his skin and into the water. 

Then you blink. 

It seems to click after that. He’s there. He’s beautiful. He’s dangerous. He's convenience store cheesecake… and he’s jumping from a plane without a parachute. 

It makes it almost easy. 

You can spend more time with him this way. It seems to take him a little off guard at first. He’s almost awkward. Then he settles. It works so well you wish you could go back in time and slap yourself for not realising it sooner. Treat him like he’s anyone—no one. Not an option. 

You’re a genius. 

“How much further?” Minho asks as he steps around you and nudges you away from the curb with his shoulder. The first car in five minutes passes you both a few seconds later. It’s late. So late the streets are nearly empty. 

“If you ask me that again I’ll push you into traffic.” 

“Well ‘not much’ doesn’t mean anything. You said ‘not much’ half an hour ago.” 

“Don’t be dramatic.” 

“I’m not dramatic.” 

You huff out a short laugh. He grumbles something under his breath in response. 

“There!” you shout, pointing across the street. “I knew I hadn’t missed it.”

“Hey!” he calls after you as you take off across the empty road. 

It’s exactly as you’d seen it last, the small gap in the hedge. It was easy to miss. You had to be looking for it. Minho is a little out of breath as he joins you at the wall of foliage. He shoves the sleeves of his hoodie up to his elbows. You expect him to question you, to make a snarky comment about the wall of shrubbery you’d dragged him to in the very late hours of the night.

But he doesn’t. 

You’re both quiet as you catch your breath. You’re silently hoping everything is exactly as you’d seen it last. You haven’t been here in years, not since long before Mina had found her soulmate. It was Hyunjin you’d thought you’d be bringing here. Never Minho. But then, you’d never imagined yourself getting along as well as you had been over the past month. The suggestion to come here had slipped out of your mouth before you’d even taken a moment to think about it. 

You were both awake late. Both sitting around with not much to do. “Wanna go for a walk?” you’d asked. 

“Where?” 

“There’s a place nearby… I haven't been there in a long time. It’s nice.” 

“Alright,” he’d said. Simple as that. 

You step forward into the hedge, pushing the branches aside as you go. Minho reaches in behind you, holding a few back before they can snap back into you.

“It’s here.” 

His breath tickles your neck as he leans over you. “A door?”

“A door,” you confirm with a smile, eyes fixed on the large wooden arch in the stone wall. 

It’s a struggle to get it open. You both end up pushed up against it until finally, it gives. You manage to catch yourself as you stumble forward. Minho isn’t so lucky. He takes you down with him, falling into your back and sending you both crashing into the grass below. 

You’re just grateful he manages to avoid landing on top of you. He just misses, landing hard just beside you. It only takes a moment for you both to recover from the shock of it. Then you’re laughing. You roll onto your back, laughing up to the star-littered sky. 

“Did you bring me here to murder me?” Minho asks as he sits up. “Is that it?” 

You look up at him from your bed of grass. “There are much easier ways to kill you.” 

“You’ve thought about it have you?” 

You smile sweetly as you give him a small nod in reply. 

His eyes flick across your face as the corners of his lips curve up to mirror yours. “Why did you bring me here then?” 

It’s a good question. One you’re not sure how to answer. So you don’t. Instead you pull yourself to your feet and take in your surroundings. It’s just how you remember it, your garden. It’s as dense as a forest with a small path winding through the bushes of flowers and towering trees. It’s lit by soft yellow lights scattered through the shrubbery and along the path. It’s only because you’ve been here before that you know where the winding path leads. A large tree at the centre, with a swing hanging down from one of its thick branches. You have no idea who tends to it all. The whole garden is well-kept. You’re unaware of any other entry point. It’s not something you want to know. Magic is better when you don’t know its secrets. 

“Is this… someone’s garden?” Minho asks, standing beside you now. “Are we trespassing?” 

“Dunno,” you say with a shrug. “I’ve never seen anyone else here.” 

He takes a small step forward, seemingly in awe. You can’t help smiling a little at his reaction. It feels like yours, this garden. It only deserves awe. 

The smells are the best part. It’s different at night. The fresh midnight air mixed with the fragrance of the flowers. How can anything be wrong in the world when a place this soft exists? 

Minho is quiet as you both wander down the spiralling path. He’s tugged his sleeves back down and his hands hang by his sides. You can almost feel the warmth radiating from him as his fingers swing past yours. Yours are practically ice cold.

“Has Hyunjin been here?” Minho asks.

Hearing a voice almost feels wrong now. A disruption to the perfect serenity. 

“I’ve only ever been here with Mina.” 

The fresh breeze picks up for a moment, rustling through the leaves above you. “How’d you find it?” 

“Her brother,” you say as you tug your sleeves down over your frigid fingers. “He brought her here. I don’t know how he found it.” 

“Mysterious.”

You hum. “Doesn’t it make it so much better? The magic of it all. It’s like stepping out of reality.” 

“Is reality so bad?” 

You kick a stray rock. “Sometimes.” 

They’ve been rare recently: the reminders. He’s someone who caused you pain, who worsened your self-doubt and anxieties. You haven't forgiven him. He hadn’t been redeemed. 

You shove it all down again. 

“Guess where this leads.” 

He shoves his hands in his hoodie pocket, the small pouch at the front offering him warmth you highly doubt he needed. He runs warm, you’ve come to learn. You were incredibly jealous. “It leads somewhere?” he asks. 

“Mhm. Guess.” 

“Do I get a prize for getting it right?” 

“No.” 

“It leads to hell.” 

A short burst of laughter escapes your lips. “What?” 

“You did bring me here to murder me after all. I’m being lulled… hypnotised by this spiralling path before you push me down an empty well in the centre.” 

You pause. He pauses too, turning to look at you. 

“You’re weird.” 

“Am I?” he says with a small tilt of his head. 

God, how you wish you had more self control. Then you could prevent your lips curving up into an amused smile. He reacts exactly how you expect. He smiles back. 

By the time you reach the centre, you’re half convinced he’s right. The spiralling pathway seems to have worked to lull you into some sort of strange spellbound state where you’re enjoying Minho’s company. You tolerate him usually, a neutral sort of company that you can find in most anyone you’re forced to share space with. Or, you’d thought it had been neutral. In this garden there’s no distraction, nothing you can use to convince yourself you’re not finding joy in his company in its own right. You wonder how long you’ve been in denial. 

It’s an uncomfortable thought that is happily disrupted by the centrepiece of your garden. The giant oak towers above the rest of the vegetation. You imagine it being here long before the wall was ever built to enclose her in. A swing hangs from one of her thickest branches, swaying in the gentle breeze. In a different garden the whole atmosphere might induce fear, an unsettling feeling. But not your garden. She’s good, soft, and welcoming. There are no ‘deep empty wells to hell’ in your garden. 

Minho leans against the trunk of the great oak as you rock back and forth on the swing—keeping your feet on the ground. He’s a comforting presence, you realise. You thought you might regret bringing him here, that he might taint your memories of this place. 

“Why haven’t you brought Hyunjin here?” 

“I haven’t brought anyone here.” 

He readjusts his position against the tree. “Except me.” 

“Don’t let it go to your head. I didn’t… think about it. I haven’t been here in a long time.” 

“Why?” he asks after a short pause. 

You shrug. “I don’t know. No reason I guess.” 

“You do.” 

“What?” 

“You do know. You always have a reason.” 

You watch him sink to the ground with his knees bent and his back against the trunk. He looks so comfortable, like he’s been here a million times before. 

“I always have a reason?”

He nods. He doesn’t offer any elaboration. 

You can’t help frowning a little, confused by his apparent insistence that he knew something about you that you didn’t. He knew something… about you. You shuffle in the swing, suddenly a little uncomfortable. 

“I wasn’t ready.” 

He waits for you to continue, seemingly completely relaxed. 

“I was always happy here,” you continue. “This place is… it’s happy. It’s outside of reality and it’s magic and it’s—” you suck in a deep breath before letting it out slowly, emptying your lungs. Minho waits. “I didn’t want to taint it with… all of my shit. If I started coming here when I was sad, that’s what it would be: my sad place.” 

“That makes sense.” 

You look up at him, finding him still looking entirely at home beneath your oak tree. “It does?” 

He nods with a small hum. “You’re good at that.” 

“At what?” 

“Knowing yourself, your… feelings.” 

It’s a strange compliment. You’re not sure what to make of it. You’re not even sure it’s true. 

“Are you not?” you question. “Good at that.” 

He drops one of his knees, leaving one leg bent and the other stretched out in front of him. “No,” he says simply. “I’m not.” 

“You’re good with Hyunjin’s feelings. He told me about what you did. Taking him to Europe after—” 

“That was nothing,” he intejects. “It was… an attempt to distract him. That’s it.” 

You’re walking on a tightrope. One wrong word and this all goes to shit. The last thing you want is to spark an argument in the middle of your garden. But this is what you did, you and Minho. You had these conversations in odd hours of the night. 

“I think… you’re cutting yourself short. You… You held him together. You showed him happy places, like this.” You’ve stopped swinging now, the movement feels dangerous. “I can’t imagine it. It must have been—” 

“I thought he might die.”

You hold your breath. 

“He just fell apart,” he continues. “He wouldn’t eat. He hardly drank anything. He just slept and cried.” 

It’s hard to think about. Hyunjin’s tears terrified you. Just the thought of him being in pain cut so deep inside you, you almost wished you didn’t care about him at all. 

“I could feel it,” he says, voice so low it’s only the stillness of your garden that allows you to hear him at all. “I could feel what he felt. It just… seeped out of him. He hadn’t even met her and he was so…” He sucks in a shallow breath. “I just needed to distract him.” 

“You’re a good friend, Minho.” 

He smiles at you. A sad smile. One you’ve never seen before. “Am I?” 

“You loved him when he needed it most. You… held him up until he could stand on his own.” 

His brows draw together as he looks at you, a heavy look filled with nothing you recognise. You can see his thoughts swirling, spiralling somewhere you clearly weren’t allowed to go. It’s only when he looks like he might cry that you stand abruptly from the swing. This wasn’t a sad place. 

“Your turn,” you say, gesturing to the empty seat. 

He blinks, unmoving. You march over and grab his hand from his knee, giving him a hard tug. “Up,” you command, taking note of his warm hand. Always warm. He complies, letting you drag him to his feet and push him gently towards the swing. 

You’re both quiet for a minute or two as you give him a head start, pushing him gently each time he swings back to meet you. 

“I haven’t been on a swing since… I don’t even remember.” 

He sounds lighter now, like the cool breeze has swept away some of the darkness with each swing. You’re surprised to find you care. That the thought of him recovering from sadness settles some anxiety deep in your chest you hadn’t noticed was there. 

“Minho?” 

“Yeah?” 

“I’m sorry if I made things harder for you. For both of you.” 

He stops the swing abruptly, his feet planted in the grass. You stand behind him. He’s completely still for just long enough to make your stomach drop completely. You’ve fucked up. 

Then he stands and turns to face you, the swing separating you both. He grips each rope, holding the swing still. “What?” he says. 

You can’t take it back. “I said I’m sor—” 

“I heard you,” he interrupts. “I just don’t understand why you would say that.” 

“I caused… a lot of distress to you both. I’m just s—” 

“Don’t. Don’t say it again.” 

He seems almost angry. Please, please don’t ruin this place, you silently plead. 

“You have nothing to be sorry for. Nothing. You don’t apologise to me. You never—” He cuts himself off before closing his eyes and breathing deeply. When he opens them again he’s much calmer, the intensity mostly gone as his grip on the ropes relaxes. “You did nothing wrong. You’re fine. Okay?” 

All you can do is nod. You’re fine. 

He takes a small step back. “Your turn,” he says. 

please reblog and share your thoughts. caption, tags, replies, or ask box, i read it all. feedback is what motivates me to write more!

↳ main masterlist

[goatcheesecak3]

What I think saw characters eat for breakfast

I'm not sure why but all these make perfect sense to me

John

I feel like John likes to keep it simple with egg and soldiers, not too much salt but a lot of pepper. If he wants to treat himself though, he'll make himself scrambled eggs on toast and a little salad. (He is my peepaw and I love him)

Amanda

She's an omelette girly <3 if she's got any vegetables knocking about she'll put them in, if not it's all just very plain. She prefers something more exciting, but can only really have something convenient and quick, considering how busy she is.

Lawrence

This man loves, and I mean LOVES, avocado on toast. He probably gets fancy bread from some market, and if he knew what the hell an Instagram was, he would post a picture of it with some corny caption like "what a way to start my day!🤗☀️🥑"

Adam

He doesn't eat breakfast most days, and when he does it's usually unbuttered toast. But in an ideal world, if he had the time and the money, he'd have pancakes with chocolate sauce every day. What can I say? I think he's got a sweet tooth.

Hoffman

I think Mark had a full English ONCE and never looked back. He doesn't have time to make one every day, but he'll be damned if he doesn't at least make himself a bacon sandwich with LOTS of brown sauce

Strahm

I think strahm is big fan of porridge with some jam in it. He makes a big deal of it being "healthy, yet tasty!"

Lynn

Lynn is a busy gal, her job means early mornings and a sporadic schedule, so there's no time to make a real breakfast. I think she's big into fruit smoothies for a quick breakfast that she can drink on her way to work.

[lelalutka]

STUFF THAT ACTUALLY HELPED ME (Dont report just block plz)

also! Sorry if some of the stuff i say is a bit confusing, its like 1:52 am and im super tired but i thought i’d make this anyway lol. Okay! no dilly dallying lets get straight into this.

__________________________________________________

1) Make your own motovation audio

Basically, what i did was i went to my notes app and typed away literally every harsh motivation that ive ever heard that REALLY motivates me. They could be quotes that help u r3strict or they could be tips that u have heard on here.

I typed out literally all the quotes and all the tips that motivate me to r3strict, ALL into ONE note. Next, i copy pasted all that i typed into a text to speech and screen recorded the audio so i could listen to it whenever i feel unmotivated to workout or even while i work out.

2) Sparkling water

Okay, WE ALL KNOW that water should be our #1 drink throughout our WL journey but obviously it can get a little boring and after while it just doesnt keep u full for that long.. which is why i recommend 0 sugar sparkling waters! Theres so many flavours like grape, lychee, apple, raspberry, You name it!

Sparkling waters keep u FULLLL!!!! And i mean it. Not only do they taste good but u literally wont even think about food after drinking a can!

3) fruits

Fruits! Such a blessing arent they? Personally my favourite has been mandarins! You know why? Firstly, they’re only 47-50 c4lor1es!! And boy, do they keep u FULL! Pair a mandarin and a can of sparkling water and you’ll be full for hours! I also really love watermelon too! Its super high volume and sweet.. 1 slice could keep me full for a long time!

4) seasonings

Now, i understand that when trying to eat healthier foods like cucumbers or salads can be kinda boring.. which is why i loveeeeee seasonings!!! They can make something plain taste 10x better for such little c4lor1es!

My favourite go-to’s have to be mint, paprika, curry powder, beef flavouring and garlic powder :D

__________________________________________________

Okay Its getting late now and i really should be in bed lol! I Hope some of these tips help those whoever are struggling! If u have any tips of your own feel free to comment them :) goodnightttttt <3

[wambsgansshoelaces]

blurb 1 of blurb night!!

Dishes

stewy hosseini x reader

prompt: “Since that one headcanon where you wrote how awful he would be at helping a partner in case they cut their finger, I've been wondering how would a serious relationship with him be like, in your perspective. Like, what got him to commit, how's the everyday life with him, something very fluff.”

thank you for requesting, anon!!! your message was so very sweet, I love you very much 🩷 I’m glad you enjoy my work, that means the world to me :) and don’t be shy to interact, we’ll literally shower you with affection every time !!! you’re welcome here!!!

Word Count: 573

“Stew, come here!”

“Coming,” he sing-songs back. In moments, he’s at your side in the kitchen. You’re cutting up some fruit for a salad you’re making. He presses a kiss to your cheek, then your jaw, then your neck. “I missed you.”

“We were literally only thirty feet away from each other,” you murmur back, laughing. His arms wind around your waist, and he tugs you back into him. You let the knife drop onto the cutting board, laughing, burying his face into the crook of your neck.

“Why am I here?” he asks into your skin. “Not that I’m complaining or anything. I missed you,” he repeats. You turn to hook your arms around his neck. His hands smooth over your hips as you turn, pulling his face back to gaze at you. He has the giddiest smile spread on his face. He only wears that expression when he’s with you.

Your fingers play with the hair at the nape of his neck as you look up at him, lazy smile playing on your face. “I’m almost done with my lunch, and your fuck-ass dishes are still in the sink.”

His hands are rubbing circles into the small of your back, his eyes never leaving yours. “So? That a problem?”

You can’t help but laugh. “Yes, it is, you slob! When I’m done with my dishes, I’m going to go wash them, then wash yours because I feel like I have to so that the sink is clean.”

“Aw, well I can’t have my girl do that,” he says, hand coming up to cup your jaw. He gives you a deep, long, kiss. “I’m sorry I didn’t do my dishes on time. Swear it won’t happen again.”

You know it will. You’ve probably had this conversation a billion times before, but you really don’t mind. He never did it on purpose, you know that, and nine times out of ten he does all of his chores on time. He’s a loving, attentive partner, and you wouldn’t trade him for the world.

Stewy litters kisses all up and down your neck, stupid grin still pasted on his face. He’s so deliriously in love with you, and he makes sure you know it. He wants you to feel loved, desired, needed, wanted. He wants you to be the happiest fucking person on the planet. He'd do anything- sell his soul, sell Kendall's soul, sell hardcore drugs - just to hear you laugh, just to see you smile.

“Come on, babe, quit stalling,” you say playfully. Despite your scolding, you tug his face back to yours and plant another kiss on his lips.

He ignores your words. “I love you.”

“I love you too, Stew. Go wash the fucking dishes.”

He leaves you with a final, quick kiss on the lips, laughing all the way to the sink. "Could I get a reward for my chores?"

"Stewy!"

"Fine, fine, I'm sorry!" He gets the sink clean in record time, and immediately flits back to your side. "Hey, baby." He kisses the divot your jaw makes when it meets your neck.

"Piss off," you say teasingly. You turn to capture his lips in a quick kiss. "Want some?"

You're done with the salad, and his hands are back on your hips. He gives them a squeeze. "'Course I do."

You spend the rest of your day in his arms, over the fucking moon you're his.

[veinsfullofstars]

for your childhood friends au, do the kids have any favorite foods?

Ooooh, okay okay, so this is something I’ve actually given a fair bit of thought to (maybe too much thought given how long this thing got, haha). I love little details like this in character writing - it makes them feel so much more alive and well-rounded, y'know? The kiddos have preferences as varied as their personalities, and I’m just itching to get into it, so… let’s get into it! (Also, just to be clear, I did pull some of my food headcanons for MK and DDD specifically from source material and the wiki, but most of this kinda just comes right off the dome.)

When it comes to food, Para Dee is probably the most milquetoast of the bunch (though that’s hardly a bad thing). Neither a voracious eater like Dedede nor an avoidant one like Meta, he enjoys food about as much as the average Waddle Dee, more than fine with his three square meals a day (maybe a snack if he’s good). His tastes primarily lean towards savory or bitter flavors, anything from a warm bowl of stew to a nice crisp salad depending on his mood (meaning that, of the four of them, he’s the most likely to eat his veggies... and enjoy them). He’s not the biggest fan of sweets (probably due to that fact that his father is a baker and routinely saturates their home with the heavy scents of vanilla and mixed fruit), but he does have a soft spot floral teas and hot chocolate, especially during the colder seasons. He doesn’t mind sour flavors in small amounts (meaning if someone gets pickles with their meal, you know they’re going onto Para’s plate), but spicy foods? Forget about it. His poor little stomach has no tolerance for spice, to the point where even a little too much pepper has him breaking out in a sweat (something Bow teases him about mercilessly).

If you asked him what his absolute favorite food is, he’d have a hard time choosing... but he'd probably say his father’s caramelized onion soup, a much-beloved dish at their dinner table and a favorite at every community potluck. It’s never quite the same when Para makes it (many years into the future with a family of his own), but it still sparks warm memories of holidays and togetherness with each cheese-laden spoonful.

Then, on the opposite side of the spectrum, we have Bow Dee, our tiny terror with a metabolism and appetite to rival those of her bigger buddies. If left alone and unoccupied for too long, she’s been known to sneak into locked pantries or climb high, off-limits shelves looking for any snacks she can get her grubby little mitts on (a habit she probably learned from watching Dedede). That said, she can be rather picky about which foods she’ll scarf down, especially in her youth when she would literally pick through her meals for the bits she liked and ignore the rest (much to her mothers’ chagrin).

If asked about her favorites, she’d say she likes protein-packed foods the most (omelets, jerky, trail mix, whatever will fuel those boundless energy reserves of hers in the saltiest, most flavorful manner possible) but refuses to touch veggies, pickles, and bitter flavors in general (at least in her childhood, growing a little more adventurous about food during their time overstars). She likes sweets as much as the average high-energy kid, partial to citrus fruits and sour candies especially (she likes how it stings a bit when you eat it, almost like it's fighting back). And, beyond all that, Bow loves spicy foods. Full stop. If it ain’t spicy - or spicy enough - she’ll find a way to make it so. Chili flakes, hot sauce, whole peppers, whatever she has on hand - it’s going in there, and Nova help anyone who tries to stop her. A bit ironic given her natural affinity for Water, though maybe that’s what gives her such a high tolerance for capsaicin. Or maybe she’s just that badass (as she likes to brag to her buddies, watching them steam out the ears from a single jalapeño while she’s already chomped down seven). And before you ask, yes, this has landed her in village clinic on more than one occasion. High tolerance or no, she definitely does not have Dedede’s cast-iron stomach… or Meta’s self-restraint. (We don’t talk about the Ghost Pepper Fiasco.)

Speaking of picky eaters, Meta has a… complicated relationship with food. He’s never had much of an appetite, often going (unsettlingly long) stretches of time without feeling the need to eat, only doing so if someone reminds him to (or if he gets too woozy, whichever comes first). He does need to eat, of course… just not nearly as often as everyone else does, it would seem (a byproduct of his peculiar biology, perhaps?). It’s an excuse he’s used often to get away with skipping meals, sometimes substituting in lighter foods like breakfast bars or Energy Drinks to keep his strength up (though this is hardly a long-term solution). He also finds certain textures and tastes difficult to deal with, even turning down entire meals if just one bite feels off. It makes eating with company - already an awkward experience thanks to his introversion - that much more uncomfortable, sitting there with a full plate while everyone else chews and chatters around him, wishing he could disappear as swiftly as his hunger (a habit that still crops up even in adulthood, though he has learned to push through it for the sake of politeness). Honestly, he could write a whole dissertation on how the act of consumption is a burden upon the living and no one should be subjected to it… and then he remembers chocolate exists and takes it all back for a while.

That’s really the one exception to his food trepidation: sweets. Perhaps it comes from living in Dream Land where sugary foods are so plentiful, the forests rich with apples and berries, the scent of pies and pastries wafting from windowsills, even the lands themselves named after foods of all sorts. Or perhaps it stems from his earliest memories, a helping hand and a bar of something indescribably sweet and rich, the first he’d ever tasted… Whatever the case, it’s stuck with him, a livelong love of sweets and sweet-adjacent foods, one that narrows, refines, and changes over time into preferences for chocolate, coffee, and other foods with light but flavorful consistencies. Not that this stops his friends (and later his crewmates) from hounding him into eating more nutritious meals once in a while, too. It's frustrating, but he knows they mean well, and he gets better about listening to their advice with time.

And finally, whipping to the other side of the scale once more, it’s Dedede, the penguin equivalent of a vacuum, willing to eat literally anything you put in front of him (including things you probably should not eat). He wouldn’t say he has many strong preferences - all food is good food in his eyes - though he does appreciate a good bone-in steak or similarly hearty dishes like seafood or pasta, and he could never pass up a nice rich dessert (especially cakes).

More than the taste, though, it’s really the act of eating - a pastime even more beloved than sparring or sleeping - that brings Dedede comfort, whether it’s through cozy communal meals with neighbors, the thrill of food-based competitions with friends (ones that will later inspire Dream Land’s famous Gourmet Races), or just to deal with the boredom (and loneliness) when he’s stuck on his own. It’s possible he gets this behavior from his mama, a little on the heavier side herself and known for her own cast-iron constitution back in her wrestling days (not to mention prone to spoiling her “darlin’ baby bird” and his friends with extra treats all the time). Meanwhile, his papa - a stickler for decency and discipline - is constantly reminding his son to slow down during meal times, wondering if he’s even tasting the food he’s shoving down his gullet (a blunt but well-intentioned criticism given the many, many tummy troubles Dedede suffers in his younger days). He never manages to fully tame his massive appetite (certainly not helped by the more decadent lifestyle he later adopts as a king), but he does at least refine it over time, learning from Para of all people about the joys of savoring meals rather than always inhaling them outright.

Phew, alright, I think that’s about it. Thanks for the question! Hopefully I didn't go too in-depth for such a simple one - I was having fun with it and might've gotten carried away again, haha. Well, at the very least, it'll give you guys some nuggets to chew on in the meantime (pun super not intended).

Sketches started 06/25/24, finished 06/27/24.

[caddyheron]

Mean Girls food preference hcs

I have a fun time making silly mundane hcs. I copy and pasted these, then changed a little, from the discord server.

Cady: Enjoy chicken wings so much more than anyone would assume she does. They’re so messy, but they’re so good. Other than that, she mostly enjoys anything. Preference for meat with a meal and really likes cake, not the biggest fan of vegetables of any kind, but will eat them if she Has to. Hates buffets. Fucking hates buffets. Also loves the most random insane candy Janis can find for her to try, unless it’s sour, won’t eat sour food.

Janis: Favourite food is burgers with everything on them, really likes salad vegetables on the burgers and sauces. She loves diner-style food, so milkshakes and fries too. Enjoys very sweet drinks, says she likes black coffee but her favourite is frappes that barely have any coffee in them. Probably drinks an excess of monster energy too. Also cannot cook even a little bit. Unless it’s noodles.

Damian: Loves pizza but will mostly eat anything. He and Janis go to a specific diner all the time and it’s theirs and they always order the same thing. He’s similar in preference to Janis with drinks, but doesn’t like coffee and chocolate together. Often has candy bars or granola bars or little bags of candy in his bag at any given time for either himself, Janis or Cady.

Regina: Canonically likes cheese fries. These are the only things she’d eat in school. Mostly sticks to salads when she’s out with other people for a long time until she’s more comfortable. Enjoys yoghurts but not Greek yoghurt because it just doesn’t taste right. Drinks iced coffees with occasional sugar free vanilla syrup. Enjoys frozen fruit over non-frozen fruit as a little treat. Struggles a lot with eating enough and never has good food in the house because of her mom.

Karen: Very sensory seeking when it comes to foods and loves things that have texture to them. So she eats a lot of salads with iceberg lettuce, baby carrots etc. Enjoys candy a lot too, but nothing that’s too sticky or sticks to her mouth like caramel. Hates pastas that aren’t al dente or rawer and cannot stand lasagne ever at all. If the sauce is too much, she won’t eat it. Doesn’t really enjoy coffee or any hot drinks, but sometimes might drink a milkshake.

Gretchen: Really loves pasta. Loves pasta so much. She especially loves white sauces over marinara type sauce and eats it with garlic bread or breadsticks. Gets cesear salads often, but isn’t actually the biggest fan of them, she just eats them. Not a big drinker of sweet drinks and coffee makes her more anxious, but she still drinks it if she has to. Probably enjoys iced herbal teas when she gets around to trying them. Snacks mostly on plain nuts and bland chips, foods with too much flavour make her feel too much sometimes.

Aaron: Bland. He eats soups a lot, they’re easy to make and easy to eat. As well as grilled cheeses, sometimes some plain pasta and cheese, and he orders lasagna when he’s out. Quite good at cooking, but not great at baking, but he will make chocolate chip cookies sometimes. Mostly drinks water and occasionally coke or hot coffee, doesn’t drink it cold. Much like Gretchen, too strong of flavours make him feel too much. Sticks just to crackers if things are really bad because other food will make him nauseous.

Idk why I haven’t posted these before, it’s not solid hcs, it’s just the general vibes of what they enjoy. Feel free to ask for elaboration!

[ofc-vi-writes-too]

More Bucky Headcanons just because ✨✨

some are +18 so if that makes u uncomfy or u are -18 please scroll!! It is clearly labelled where they start, so if u only want one or the other the division is there!!

this got kinda long lol sorry

—————————————

PG 13 SECTION:

• He has a lot of old fashioned/outdated beliefs so sometimes he’ll say something and you just have to look at him and go 😀😄😀 “no.” and then have a conversation with him about why what he just said is objectively morally corrupt. He’s very open to it and it doesn’t happen a lot but when it does he’s willing to understand and he asks questions about whatever messed up thing he said. He’s very progressive for a man who was in his early 20’s in 1945.

• he has a lot of old fashioned/outdated beliefs so ur dates are literally superior and your instagram is filled with people commenting things like “if you look closely you can see me swinging in the background” or “hey god its me again” and you cant forget the classic “when will it be my turn.” He brings you flowers at least once a week, and chocolates are a MUST for him, and as soon as he found out about edible arrangements there is one on your desk at work at least once a month. you tell him your gonna get fat from all the sweets he brings you and he says “good” and thats the end of that convo.

• on the note of food, he’s a fantastic cook. Most of the time. He has tried on multiple occasions to feed you depression era foods (balogna caserole, jello molds, pea pasta, etc) one time he made you a jello mold with olives and tuna in it and you got physically sick (it was the first time he saw you throw up so he kinda just stood there like 😬 and patted your back like “there there, my bad ill never give you tuna+jello in the same dish again” which he STILL makes for himself) so he decided to stick with more modern recipes for actual meals (which are always delicious). But he swears on his life that dessert recipes were better when he was a kid, and he always bakes you the sweets his mom made when he was little such as, apple pie, wacky cake, water pie, prune pudding, frozen fruit salad.

• he really likes crispy cookies so he’ll take urs out when theyre cooked the regular amount, and he leaves his in the oven for like another 10 minutes at minimum. He likes it best when the edges of the cookies are literally burnt and when the chocolate even gets crispy. He dips em in milk though which i guess is slightly redeeming? But the crunch on his cookies should be punishable by law. It counds like crisps when he chews.

• Texts like:

Bucky ❤️❤️

Hey…

hey?? u good?

Yes. I just wanted to say

I love you…

ilyt.. y r u being

so ominous?

I am not…

I just wanted to send you

this big long paragraph chunk

about how much I love you. It

has to be grammatically correct

because I’m old and it will take

me 15 minutes at minimum to

finish typing this text because

I am typing with one hand, and

I have big thumbs. Thank god

for voice memos. Also what

does OMG mean?

————————————————————————

it drives you insane but he physically cannot comprehend any other way to text. He also had a flip phone until you forced him to get a new one. When he gets it he doesn’t send you texts anymore, and instead only sends voice memos (its so much faster)

• loves a sweet treat but is terribly embarrassed about it. Literally the trope where the big scary guy orders a black coffee “for himself” and his cute girly gf gets like a sugar unicorn rainbow suprise, and after they get their drinks they switch. He makes you order it with extra whipped cream and sprinkles. If you like sweet drinks too, he will still order the black coffee and not drink it. He will consistently order 3 drinks despite there only being 2 of you. Sometimes he drops it off w Steve because he knows he likes black coffee and he hates waste, but he is still too embarrassed to just order his drink.

• cried watching Up, Toy Story 2, The Princess and the Frog, Moana, The beauty and the beast (which was ur halloween costume the year he first watched it. His choice.) and Cars (you still don’t know why he cried about cars to this day and it has been YEARS.)

• despite being an ex assassin, when he’s not in fight or flight mode he’s terribly unathletic. He talks big game before a bowling date and he literally bowls a 45. You didn’t know anyone over the age of 8 could score that low in a game where you simply roll a ball. You also took him to In Shape to play tennis and he hit a car with the ball.

• his body physically cannot handle energy drinks. as much sugar as he consumes, energy drinks make him jittery and paranoid for some reason, and despite being a relatively quiet man, he doesn’t shut up when there’s a red bull in his system

• pro legalizing weed in all states. Tried an edible one time before bed because he overheard someone say it or read somewhere that it can help with sleep, and he swears he had never slept that good in over 100 years of being alive. Even pre super soldier serum.

• He’s a man of few words so in the beginning of u 2 going out there would be long periods of awkward silence. He took you on a lot of movie dates so he could avoid this problem as much as possible.

•Def doesn’t wear his arm to bed so you guys have an easier time spooning. You don’t have to deal with the problem that a lot of couples have where you wanna cuddle but his arm falls asleep cs ur laying on it. but for him theres no arm to lay on!!!! yippeee!!! Cuddling in bed typically looks like him being the big spoon with his right arm around your waist. His left shoulder is in whatever position his decides is comfortable that night. He also has a habit of not sleeping with his head on the pillow so you typically feel his nose/breathe against the small of your back. He often kisses you there while rubbing your side to put you to sleep

• cuddling is a little different when he has a bad nightmare tho. Sometimes he doesn’t want to cuddle so he’ll lay on the floor on your side of the bed and go back to sleep there, or at least try to. Thats usually what happens if you don’t wake up. If you do, you go and get him a glass of water, and a cold rag to wipe is sweat off. You give him a minute until he’s ready to lay back down. He lays on his back, and you suction yourself to his side. One leg over his and your arm on his chest, rubbing soothing patterns to try and slow his hammering heart. You kiss where you can reach, but he’s huge, so its usually just his shoulder and chest, and you tell him all your favorite things about him, and how much you love him, and how safe he is here in your arms. It works 95% of the time.

RATED R SECTION:

• its ur lucky day if ur a pillow princess! he likes being able to physically take care of his partner without them having to do any work. He feels like it’s his way of saying thank you for staying with him thru all his trauma and whatnot

• if his s/o is plus sized he will make the effort to be able to lift 2 times their weight bare minimum (which doesn’t take that much effort on his part), and he gets a little smug when he lifts his partner up against the wall the first time and they’re a little shocked because hey no one has ever been able to do that before what is happening oh noooo BOOM you’re in love

• usually not the one to initiate anything. He feels like he’s pressuring you when he does, but you can always tell when he’s in the mood because he gets clingy and cannot look you in the eye.

• in the same vein, he doesn’t really get horny that often but when he does… whew chile GOOD LUCK. Super human stamina is a gift and a curse with him!!

• he doesn’t like to mark you up, but he loves it when you do. He likes getting done and seeing the scratches on his back in the mirror, or having to cover up hickeys with turtlenecks. His favorite is when he makes you help him cover the harder to hide ones to his with makeup. (he bought the right color for himself but didn’t know how to use it). LOVE LOVE LOVES when you bite him.

• Again, he’s typically a man of few words but he will mumble random things “to himself” but loud enough for you to barely hear it too. a lot of “so fucking good,” “pretty girl” “all mine” “all yours” “tell me I’m yours” “say your mine” and other things of that nature

• I think I said this in the last one but I’m a firm believer that he wouldn’t wear his arm unless he had to/felt unsafe. and I would argue that he feels pretty safe if yall are doing the shaboingboing. SO holding you is a little difficult for your amputee bf. Getting into a good and comfortable position for both of you tends to bring a lot of laughs.

•He likes to touch you a lot while y’all are getting down and dirty. It helps ground him in a way. He struggles a little bit with dissociation, even when getting intimate so being able to feel your skin under his palms helps keep him on Earth and focused on getting his s/o off.

————————————————————————

A/N: thank you if you resd this far. dont be shy and leave a note behind! i have more chapters of friends dont on the way i swear. Im genuinelu just slow IM SORRY AHH

anyways good night cuties 🌙💫⭐️✨

[parmawiolets]

Fruit Salad

Eddie Munson x fem!reader

Summary: Eddie Munson's ex-not-quite-girlfriend Hannah Newby is pregnant. But it's not his. And she won't say whose it is. Very slow burn. Exes to friends to (eventual) lovers.

A/N: This is my first ever fic! Thank you so so so much to @shybunnie20 for being absolutely wonderful and helping me so much. Definitely go check out her work, she's amazing.

Contents: No upside down. Pregnancy. Reader is called Hannah because I didn't want to use Y/N but no physical description of reader (so maybe an OC? I don't know). Bob is her dad, because I love him. The Byers are still in Hawkins because I love them too.

Word count: 6.3K

Next chapter

Chapter 1: Apple

Eddie finds out Hannah is pregnant and decides he wants to help.

September 1st, 1985 - 15 weeks pregnant

—

"She's WHAT!?"

Eddie smacks the cafeteria table as his front chair legs hit the floor from where he's been rocking back on it, not paying any attention to his friends until he heard that.

"Pregnant," Gareth repeats. "Hannah Newby's pregnant."

"Hey, didn't you two-" Jeff is cut off by the screech of chair legs across the floor as Eddie scrambles away and out the door.

The boys left behind look at each other; wide eyed and grimacing.

—

Five minutes later, Eddie is sweet talking Mrs Jennings in the school office. He can be really charming if he wants to be. Sometimes.

His uncle Wayne has always told him that office administrators are the ones with the real power. They can be your best friend, or they can make your life incredibly difficult. Keep them on side.

It's the first day of the new school year - Eddie's third attempt at graduating. Eddie still knew Hannah's schedule from last year, but that didn't help him now. He didn’t even know where her locker would be.

"Now, you let me know if you want me to take another look at your car sometime. Can't have my favourite person at this school breaking down on the way here! This place would fall apart without you." Eddie leans on the desk with a winning, dimple-filled smile.

"Oh, you are still such a nice boy, Eddie Munson." Mrs Jennings reaches out and pinches his cheek.

"Psh," Eddie waves her off bashfully. "Only to you, Mrs Jennings."

She tuts playfully at him and slides some papers across the desk. "Here you go, but remember, don't go telling anyone where you got that."

Eddie grabs it and clutches it to his chest. "Our little secret." He whispers and gives her a wink before he saunters away.

As soon as he’s out of sight, Eddie frantically scans the paper, and rushes off down the hallway. He rounds a corner and bounces off Connor Cunningham amongst a gaggle of jocks, all dressed in their green-sleeved jackets.

“Woah there.” Connor catches Eddie before he topples backwards. He is by far the nicest of the basketball team; meaning he doesn’t contribute to any of the bullying, just watches it happen.

Jason steps up and grips Eddie by the collar, shoving him away. “Watch it, freak!”

Eddie stumbles around them and carries on running down the corridor.

—

"No way! I didn't think it was really true!"

"She doesn't look pregnant. Are you sure she didn't just put on weight?"

"Does anyone know whose it is yet?"

Jules stands like a guard dog next to Hannah digging through her locker. She glares at everyone walking past who is whispering and gawking. Jules isn’t naturally intimidating, but maybe it’s someone usually so relaxed seeming so hostile that sends people scurrying along. 

She takes a moment to survey her best friend. Jules wants to know how Hannah is feeling, but knows her well enough to know she won’t say if asked. Ten years of friendship means that Jules is generally pretty attuned to Hannah’s emotions even when she tries to mask them. But right now, she’s shoved them so far down, Jules can’t tell what’s going on in her head.

Just as Jules is about to ask, she sees Eddie Munson hurrying towards them over Hannah’s shoulder. She coughs, “Incoming.” Nodding towards him. “You gonna be ok?”

Hannah nods and flashes her a tight smile. 

Jules hesitates; she wants to comfort Hannah in some way, but knows that anything she tries right now will just overwhelm her. Instead, she attempts a smile in return and walks away in the opposite direction to Eddie. 

Hannah takes a steadying breath and closes her locker door just as Eddie comes up beside her, shoulders tense and eyes wide with panic.

"It's not yours, Eddie." She glances up at him. "You can unclench."

"Oh," he sags and leans back against the wall of lockers, then perks straight back up again. "Are you sure? How far along are you?"

"Nearly 4 months. Fifteen weeks. Doctor says it's the size of an apple.” Hannah shakes her head. “I was already pregnant when we started hooking up." She ducks her head and focuses on her fingers fidgeting with a battered book spine. "I didn't know. I'm sorry." 

Still refusing to look at him, Hannah walks around Eddie. He stares at the spot she was standing for a moment before moving in front of her again.

"Wait, is this why you dumped me?"

Hannah stares at him incredulously; "I didn't- We weren't-" She sighs. "Yes, Eddie. This is why I stopped hanging out with you."

Eddie looks at her, studying her face for a moment. Her figure and her face are maybe a little fuller, the only visual indication he can see of her pregnancy. He thinks she looks as beautiful as ever, but stressed and tired. The usual crinkle between her brows seems almost fixed in place.

"You've got history now, right?" Eddie swoops in and snatches the books from her arms, grinning at her. "Come on." He cocks his head down the hall and starts walking backwards away from her.

"Wha- what are you- Eddie, give me those!"

"Nuh-uh! You can't be carrying things when you're pregnant!" 

"HEAVY things Eddie! I'm sure I'm fine carrying two books!" 

"Best not to risk it. Come on!"

—

"How long do you think until she doesn’t even fit in the seat?"

"It's Munson's, right? It's got to be. They were all over each other at the end of last year."

"My mom warned me not to be friends with her."

Hannah sits through her history class staring straight ahead, determinedly ignoring her classmates and counting down the minutes to the end. The only saving grace is Mr Wilson. He has always been Hannah’s favourite teacher: stern, but kind, with a wicked sense of humour he'll share with you if he likes you. Mr Wilson seems to realise that Hannah isn’t entirely present, but thankfully decides to leave her be for now.

The lesson finally comes to a close, and the students start gathering their belongings and making their way to the door. Hannah takes her time as she has no desire to be engaged in conversation by any of her fellow classmates. And it’s not like she can outrun them.

“Miss Newby?” Mr Wilson peers over his glasses. “Can I keep you for a moment?”

Mr Wilson is a lanky man in his late 40s and has been teaching his whole adult life. He has seen everything. Not surprised anymore by anything students do. Just sometimes which student did it.

“So,” Mr Wilson starts once they are alone. “Are you ok?”

Hannah’s head shoots up from where she had been eyeballing the floor. “What?”

“I’m guessing this wasn’t what you had planned for your senior year and I know this can’t be easy. People can be shit.” Hannah’s eyebrows raise at her teacher’s profanity. “I just want you to know that you can come to me if you need anything. I mean it. Academic or otherwise. I will help you.”

Hannah blinks. "Thank you." 

"Go on." He nods towards the door with a friendly smile. "Get."

As Hannah leaves the classroom frowning at the floor, she sees a pair of familiar Reeboks approach. Her gaze follows as her books are lifted from her arms again and she's met with the dimples of a smiling Eddie Munson.

"Hi there sweetheart. How was history?"

"Are you seriously not going to let me carry any books the whole time I'm pregnant?" Hannah's frown deepens. Eddie's smile only grows.

"Nope." Popping the p. "Art next, yeah?" 

Hannah squints at him, but follows down the hallway with a huff. "What, have you been buttering up Mrs Jennings again?"

"Sorry, can't reveal my sources."

"Well that means yes."

"I am sworn to secrecy! You will never get it out of me!" 

Eddie looks over at Hannah with a dazzling grin. She's still frowning, but there's a little sparkle in her eyes. Eddie thinks he would do just about anything to see that sparkle. 

That's how it goes for the rest of the day. Hannah stoically ignores her fellow students during class, then Eddie meets her outside her classroom and carries her few books as he escorts her to the next one. 

When Hannah exits her penultimate lesson of the day and she is greeted yet again by Eddie Munson's doe eyes, she finally asks what's been bugging her all day: "How are you even doing this? How do you get to my classrooms so quickly from yours?"

Eddie leans in conspiratorially. "That's for me to know, and you to figure out, sweetheart."

She narrows her eyes and points a finger in his face, making him recoil slightly; bemused. "Give me time."

Eddie lets out a booming laugh at that, and follows Hannah to her locker.

Eddie leans against the locker next to Hannah's. "How do you know it's an apple?"

"Hm?” Hannah is struggling with a giant sketchbook.

"This morning you said the baby is the size of an apple. How do you know?" Eddie guides Hannah out of the way and pulls the sketchbook free.

"The doctor gave me this chart that tells you the size of the baby each week and it has comparative fruits on it. This week it's an apple." Hannah shrugs. "Next week it's an avocado."

"Is that a fruit?" Eddie scrunches his face, puzzled.

Hannah shrugs again and starts towards her classroom. Eddie bounds after her.

"Hey,” Eddie nudges her shoulder with his. “You'll never guess what Jeff did." 

"What?" Hannah is watching him out of the corner of her eye, careful to keep her expression blank at his antics.

"Don't ask why. Maybe he had an itch, maybe he was just curious, who knows. But he stuck the end of his pencil up his nose, and when he took it out, the eraser got left behind!"

"Ew." Hannah wrinkles her nose.

"I know! But it gets worse."

"How?!" Hannah finally turns to him as they come to a stop outside their destination.

"He sneezed and it shot out.” Eddie cackles. “Hit Carver in the back of the head!"

Hannah snorts, then smacks her hand over her mouth, mortified. She grabs her book out of Eddie's arms then flees through the classroom door, waving over her shoulder without looking back.

Eddie is thrilled. 

"See you after class!" he calls out to her retreating figure, chuckling fondly to himself.

But when Hannah exits her last lesson of the day, Eddie is nowhere to be seen.

Hannah looks up and down the corridor, but still no Eddie. She knows she shouldn’t be disappointed; she shouldn't expect this of him when he doesn’t owe her anything. So she makes her way to her locker and takes out her backpack. 

Just as she is closing the door, Eddie slams up against the lockers next to her, panting.

"Sorry." Deep breath. "Mrs O'Donnell." Wheeze. "She hates me."

"Still? You'd have thought she'd've gotten used to you by now." 

Eddie squints up at her from where he's hunched over. "Rude." 

He heaves himself upright with a groan and grabs the belongings from her hands. Eddie looks her over, and shakes his head. “You know this stuff is supposed to go on the paper, right?” He rubs at some charcoal on Hannah’s cheek with his thumb.

Hannah’s face flushes. “Shut up.” She swats his hand away and buffs her cheek with the heel of her hand.

Eddie grins. He’s delighted at affecting her, but takes pity on her and changes the subject. "Is your dad picking you up or is Jules giving you a ride home?"

"Jules is doing an art thing."

"Already? It's the first day of school, can't the girl take a break?"

Hannah shrugs and starts walking.

"So where are you meeting your dad?" Eddie follows.

"He's working."

"Joyce?"

"They broke up."

"Oh, that’s too bad - wait, I don't understand. How are you planning on getting home?"

"The bus."

Eddie stops. Holding his arm out in front of Hannah to halt her too. She scowls down at his arm in front of her then lifts her gaze to his.

Eddie splutters. "Are you kidding me?! Do you know how disgusting those things are? You're pregnant! Absolutely not. No. Not happening."

"Eddie-"

"No." He turns her to face him and holds her by the shoulders. "There is no way in hell I am letting you get on that germ infested tin can."

She squirms out of his grasp. "As opposed to your germ infested tin can."

"I'm giving you a ride, ok?"

"Eddie-"

"Ok?"

"Ed-"

"Please, Han?"

She looks at him for a moment. Then huffs, rolling her eyes. "Fine."

"Thank you."

—

They're at a stoplight and Eddie is rifling through the glovebox, leaning across the centre console and Hannah's knees with his tongue poking out in concentration. Hannah's gaze travels over his face, chewing her bottom lip as she studies him.

"Aha!" Eddie holds up a cassette tape in triumph, startling Hannah. "Sorry." Eddie immediately looks sheepish.

Hannah tries to get a look at the tape, but Eddie is waving it around too much before he puts it on to play. 

Twangy guitar and a slow, steady drum beat fill the van as Eddie drives away. Hannah's head whips around to stare at Eddie, eyebrows shooting up her forehead before furrowing.

"The Chain?"

"It's your favourite song." Eddie shrugs, stealing a glance at her. Hannah sharply turns back to the windshield, but not before Eddie sees her bite down on the twitching corners of her mouth. Eddie's cheeks hurt, he’s smiling so wide.

Listen to the wind blow, watch the sun rise

Running in the shadows, damn your love, damn your lies

Eddie is slamming his palms on the wheel to the beat. He glances over and sees that Hannah's knee is bobbing along too. She doesn't even seem to be conscious of it. Eddie joins in with the next part of the song.

And if you don't love me now

You will never love me again

I can still hear you saying

You would never break the chain

"Come on sweetheart, you know you want to!" 

But Hannah turns further away, leaning her elbow on the passenger side window and covering the lower part of her face with her hand. This only encourages Eddie. He belts it out even louder.

And if you don't love me now

You will never love me again

I can still hear you saying

You would never break the chain

"You're a terrible singer, Eddie."

He cackles. "You're a terrible liar, Hannah."

"I think you're confused. It's humility that's a virtue; not wild unapologetic arrogance." She still hasn't turned away from the window.

"Good thing I have no interest in virtuosity." He keeps glancing at her.

"I don't think that's a word." 

"It's definitely a word, sweetheart." 

Eddie thinks Hannah is smiling behind her hand. He can hear it in her voice, even if she won't let him see it.

The chorus is coming up again.

"Come on," Eddie bumps Hannah's bicep gently with a closed fist. "Sing with me."

“Fuck off.”

Eddie runs his hand down her arm until he circles her wrist and tugs gently. He sings along softly this time, even as the music ramps up.

Hannah doesn't turn to face him, but peeks over out of the corner of her eye. She realises her mistake immediately when she sees his face. Those big brown eyes looking at her. Pleading with her.

She lets out a long, drawn out groan. The chorus is going round again. Hannah sings along too this time; much quieter than Eddie.

Eddie pulls up outside Hannah's house and throws the van into park, turning in his seat and pulling her to face him too. They're both shouting out the words this time, Eddie grinning wildly and Hannah's face scrunched.

And if you don't love me now

You will never love me again

I can still hear you saying

You would never break the chain

They're both breathing heavily; faces close, looking at each other as the bass line stretches out and the music starts to build again.

Eddie glances down to her lips. Just for a split second. But Hannah sees, and snaps back; away from him, out of the moment. 

"Thanks for the ride."

"Yeah, of- of course."

"Bye, Eddie." She's already out of the van and closing the door, giving him a small wave.

"Bye." But the door is already shut. And Hannah is already halfway up the path. 

"Shit. Wait!" Eddie kills the ignition, cutting off the music. He fumbles with his door and practically falls out of his van, scrambling to get to her.

"Nice landing."

Eddie's head shoots up. Hannah is standing by her open front door, but she is waiting.

"It's all about the recovery, sweetheart." 

"And when does that happen?" 

"Oof! Hit me where it hurts, Han!" He clutches at his heart. She rolls her eyes. There's that sparkle again.

But it's gone in an instant. As if she's remembered a reason not to.

"You wanted something?"

"Yes. Yeah," he swipes his hands on his jeans. When did they get so sweaty?

"How are you getting to school tomorrow?"

"Jules said she'd pick me up."

"Ok. Good. Great. Just… Please promise me you won't get the bus? I will give you a ride any time. Really. No bus."

An eye roll. "Sure."

"Promise?"

A sigh. "Yes, Eddie. I promise. No bus."

"Thank you."

A pause. "Do you think you could drive me home again tomorrow? Jules said her art thing might be a few days this week."

"Yes! I can do that." Eddie grins at her, and turns back to the van.

"Eddie?" Quieter this time.

"Yeah?"

Hannah furrows her brow and fixates on her feet. "People are going to… think it's yours." She glances up at him. "Don't you mind?"

"Sweetheart, I couldn't give less of a shit what this town thinks of me. Especially if it means I get to spend time with you."

She wrinkles her nose at him. "Gross."

Eddie cackles. "See you tomorrow, sweetheart."

—

Eddie is early to school the next day. He can't remember when he was last on time, let alone early. He sits on top of one of the picnic tables between the parking lot and the front entrance; smoking, legs bouncing. Waiting for Hannah.

Eddie finishes his cigarette and is debating lighting up another one when he sees Jules' car pull into the lot.

"Jules, please just drop it." Hannah slams the car door after her and walks off, only to stop when she locks eyes with Eddie. He gives her a smile and a small wave as he jumps off the table.

"Han, come on. I'm not trying to upset you." Jules catches up to Hannah and grabs her arm to turn her around. "You know I'm just worried."

"Yeah, I get it. You just," Hannah looks around and lowers her voice. "You know you can't say anything."

Jules sighs. "I know." She pulls Hannah into a hug. "I don't like it, but I know."

Hannah melts into the hug for a moment, before wriggling out of it. "Get off me, you loser."

Jules snorts. "Right, sorry. I forgot. Can't have people thinking you're actually a giant teddy bear."

"Fuck off."

Jules laughs and they make their way towards the school. She spots Eddie and nudges Hannah with her shoulder. "Your boy's waiting." 

"Fuck. Off." Hannah scrunches her face and pushes Jules towards the main entrance, walking over to Eddie.

"Love you too, see you later!"

"Yeah, whatever."

Eddie is rocking on his heels with his hands in his pockets, looking bashful. "Hi."

"Hi." Hannah looks at him with a soft, curious expression. "You gonna be my errand boy again today?" 

"Yes. Definitely. Absolutely. Here, let me…" Eddie slides Hannah's bag off her shoulder and hoists it over his own.

"Thanks." 

Hannah seems softer today, like she used to be with him. He loved that about her. Around most people, she was spiky and hard to reach. She often didn't like too much affection; would feel like she was choking on it and push you away. But she appreciated the little things. He could build up to it, make her gooey and pliable. She would melt into him and he would be allowed to shower her with affection, and she would give it right back. 

Hannah is looking at his right hand holding her backpack strap. She reaches up and touches the lone ring there, a small smile flickering on her face.

He's probably pushing his luck, but he wants to try. With the arm hanging by his side, Eddie brushes his hand against hers, watching her face carefully. She doesn't recoil; her small smile solidifies. So Eddie momentarily links his pinky finger with hers and squeezes. 

Hannah squeezes back. 

—

Eddie is waiting opposite Hannah's 4th period biology class. The class is letting out, but he hasn't seen her yet.

"She's not here." 

Eddie startles at Connor Cunningham coming up and talking to him, from a glance he thought it was Jason Carver. It always unnerves Eddie how similar the two jocks look; only Connor’s hazel eyes and strawberry blond distinguishing him from Jason. Both of them the cookie-cutter American teen dream.

"What?"

"Hannah. She's not here. She left like halfway through class. I think she was trying to hide it but it looked like she was crying."

"Shit, really?" Eddie looks around frantically.

"Her stuff is still in there. She spoke to Ms Petrelli before she left, maybe she knows?"

"Yeah, thanks." Eddie calls out, already walking into the classroom. Ms Petrelli, an older woman, is tidying up around her desk when she sees Eddie.

"Mr Munson, can I help you?"

"Hannah. Do you know where she went? I can take her stuff to her." Already making his way to the only desk still with belongings.

"She rushed out of here earlier. Said she needed to go to the nurse. Usually, of course, I don't allow-"

Eddie stops listening. He gathers Hannah's things and races back out into the crowded hallway. Shouting a loud "thanks" back to the teacher.

"Hey, watch it!"

"Ugh, probably running to his baby mama."

"Freak."

"Didn't you hear? Apparently…"

Eddie isn't paying attention to who he bumps into, or what abuse they're hurling at him for doing so. He just needs to know Hannah is ok.

Finally, he stumbles into the nurse's office, chest heaving from his run.

Hannah looks up as the door slams open with wide, teary eyes. "Eddie?"

"Sweetheart," he puts Hannah's books down on a table and crouches down in front of her. "What happened?"

"Nothing, it's stupid." Hannah swipes at her cheeks.

"Hey, if it made you cry, it's not stupid." Eddie wraps a hand around her ankle and strokes his thumb along the bone.

"No, it's definitely stupid. And now I'm crying more because I cried over something stupid."

Eddie's eyes flit back and forth, trying to follow. He shakes his head. "Huh?"

"She's hormonal." The school nurse drones, walking in from an adjoining office, perusing some papers.

"I really hate that word." Hannah scowls at her.

"You're pregnant, and you cried over bunnies. What would you call that, dear?"

"You cried over bunnies?" Eddie's eyebrows are up in his bangs. 

Hannah's scowl turns to him. He holds his hands up in surrender.

“Let me know when you’re ready to go back to class.” The nurse doesn’t look up from her paperwork as she walks back into her office.

Hannah groans and buries her face in her palms. "We were learning about the food chain and Ms Petrelli was using foxes and rabbits as an example. There was a picture in the textbook. It upset me, ok? I'm hormonal, I get it!" Her words are muffled.

“Hey, come on.” Eddie coos, trying to suppress a giggle, he gently pulls at her wrists to claim her hands in his. “What can I do to make this better? What do you need?”

Hannah’s looks at Eddie with glassy eyes, her eyebrows pulled up in the middle as she stutters. “I don’t know.” Tears start to spill over her cheeks.

“Ok, sorry, how about some options?”

Hannah sniffs.

“Food? Sleep? Water? A hug?”

Hannah shifts in her seat, not looking Eddie in the eye. 

Eddie runs his thumbs over her knuckles. “Please tell me, Han.”

“Can you- Please don’t make a big deal of this.”

“Cross my heart.”

“Can you give me a hug?”

Eddie tries not to show how thrilled he is as he stands up, knees clicking. He pulls Hannah into his chest and wraps his arms tight around her.

The pair sway a little on the spot, Eddie laying his cheek on the top of Hannah's head. He smiles as he feels her slowly start to relax.

"Better?"

Hannah hums in response.

"You want to get some food? That's a pregnancy thing, right? Cravings?"

Hannah hums again, her face still buried in Eddie's chest.

"Ok, options… burger, fries, bacon, milkshake-" He feels Hannah perk up in his arms. "Alright then, milkshakes." He smiles down at her warmly.

Eddie reluctantly peels himself away from Hannah, his hands on her shoulders, ducks his head down to hers and grins eagerly. "Let's get out of here." 

Hannah takes a deep breath and smiles shyly in response. "Does Benny still do those Oreo milkshakes?" 

"I don't think they're on the menu anymore, but he likes you. More than he likes me anyway. So he might if you asked." They start walking.

Hannah rolls her eyes. "He likes me more than you because I don't have ketchup fights in his diner." 

"I think you'll find I was on team mustard." Eddie raises his chin haughtily. "And really, he should blame you for leaving us unsupervised."

Hannah gapes at him; indignant. "I was in the bathroom for five minutes! You are not pinning that on me." She gives his shoulder a shove and marches away.

Eddie stops for a moment in the middle of the hallway, watching after her with a dopey expression.

Hannah calls back over her shoulder, “Are you coming or what? You promised milkshakes.”

—

The ride to Benny’s is quiet, Fleetwood Mac playing softly through the speakers again. When they pull up to the diner, Eddie jumps out and rushes around the front of the van to open the passenger side door before Hannah has even gotten her seatbelt off. He holds out a hand for her to take and helps her jump down.

Hannah thanks him. “You know you can listen to your music, right? It’s your van.”

Eddie shrugs. “Babies can hear stuff from out here, can’t they? I figured you’d want to indoctrinate them to Stevie Nicks ASAP.”

Hannah touches her belly and looks down at it, frowning. “I think they might still be too young. I don’t know if they even have ears yet.” Hannah ponders. “But you’re right about starting their musical education early.” She tugs lightly at Eddie’s jacket sleeve. Eddie smiles to himself, he recognises one of her small affections.

They reach the door, and Eddie holds it open for Hannah, bowing deeply as she passes through. Hannah scoffs as she passes but thanks him.

“Hi Benny.”

The diner owner looks up from where he’s standing at the cash register. “Haven’t seen you two in a while. Figured you’d broken up.”

Hannah skids her shoes against the floor; Eddie scratches the back of his neck. The awkward silence stretches out painfully.

“Right…” Benny draws out the word and grins wickedly. He is basking in their discomfort. “What’ll it be?”

Eddie looks at Hannah pointedly. She narrows her eyes at him, but steps forward. “Any chance of two Oreo milkshakes?” She smiles in faux sweetness. 

“Those aren’t on the menu anymore.”

“I know, but they were just so good. The best milkshakes ever. Better than any milkshake anyone has ever-”

“Alright, alright. If that’s what it takes to shut you up.” Benny frowns at Hannah, but there’s warmth behind it. “Anything else?”

Hannah thinks for a moment, swaying her head from side to side. “Onion rings, please. Oh, and cheese fries. And some bacon. Please.” Hannah looks embarrassed as she looks to Eddie, but he winks at her; pleased that she’s letting go a little.

“Cheeseburger and fries please, Benny.”

Benny shoos them away to a booth where they sit opposite each other. Eddie splays his hands on the table between them and looks up at Hannah. “So I was doing some math earlier.”

Hannah is looking at Eddie’s ringed fingers, trying (and failing) to be discreet about it. One of her hands starts creeping across the table top. “In math class?”

Eddie is trying not to smile; trying not to show that he has noticed her movements. He doesn’t want to spook her. “Uh, no actually. In geography.”

“Oh?” Her hand reaches his and she starts pulling at his rings and twisting them around his fingers.

“You said 4 months, right?”

Hannah stops her fiddling and looks up at Eddie. He winces.

“Um, yeah. Nearly. Fifteen weeks.” She pulls back to her side of the table and tucks her hands under her thighs. 

Eddie curses himself and reaches after her. He didn’t mean to make her retreat again. “Han, I’m sorry, I don’t want to talk about anything you’re not comfortable with. We can talk about something else.”

“No,” Hannah shakes her head. “I’m not uncomfortable. It’s just…” she exhales and grimaces. “I’m not exactly happy about this whole thing, you know.”

Eddie makes a sympathetic noise, then leans back in his seat as Benny arrives with a tray full of food and milkshakes. Hannah brightens up immediately; her eyes shining.

Benny distributes the food on the table with a grunt and walks back to his position in the kitchen.

Hannah springs forward the second he leaves and grabs her milkshake. Her eyes roll back as she slurps through the straw.

Eddie beams and grabs his own. Giving Benny a thumbs up as he drinks.

Hannah hums happily as she digs into her various plates; wiggling in her seat slightly. Eddie watches her fondly. He knows she doesn’t always like showing how she feels; being vulnerable. But he wants her to feel safe with him and open up, like she did before.

Hannah pauses her munching, her eyes flitting from fries to milkshake. She picks up a fry, dunks it in her milkshake, and quickly shoves it in her mouth. Eddie chokes on his own food as Hannah lets out a loud moan. 

“Oh my god, you have to try this.” She dunks another fry and holds it out for Eddie, waving it in his face when he doesn’t move.

“Uhh, I’m alright sweetheart. You have it.”

Hannah shrugs and pops it in her own mouth. “Your loss.”

“So have you had much of that? Weird food cravings?”

“I don’t think I’ve really had any.” Hannah picks up an onion ring this time, and gleefully dunks and eats it. “Mmpf. You sure you don’t want to try this?” 

“I’m sure, thanks though.” Eddie hides his smirk behind his burger.

Eddie takes a large bite, and talks through his chewing, “What about nausea? Morning sickness. That’s a thing, right?”

“Don’t talk with your mouth full, you pig.” Hannah throws a cheesy fry at him. Eddie jumps to try and catch it in his mouth, but misses. Hannah stifles a snort. "Yeah I had some morning sickness, but that stopped a few weeks ago thankfully. I had a lot of heartburn too, that's-"

"You're going to have a hairy baby." Eddie mumbles through his mouthful again.

Hannah stops. A milkshake coated onion ring halfway to her mouth. "Excuse me?"

Eddie swallows thickly. He doesn't know if the lump in his throat is from the burger or the way Hannah is looking at him like he's lost his mind. He rushes through his explanation: "You remember Nanny Pat? The nice old lady a few trailers down from me. Well, her daughter is pregnant too. Every time now, when I take over her weekly shop, she'll tell me all about how excited she is to be a real grandmother and tell me how the pregnancy is going. She said that her daughter had loads of heartburn, so that means her baby is going to have loads of hair!"

Hannah hasn't moved. Melted milkshake is running down her thumb. "You do her shopping every week?" 

Eddie flushes, bright pink. "No." He scoffs.

A blinding smile spreads across Hannah's face and a short laugh bursts free. Eddie is awestruck. 

Hannah scoops up the milkshake on her hand with her other index finger. She leans over the table and boops his nose, smearing it on the tip. "You big softie!" She stage-whispers, sitting back with a giggle. Eddie splutters and swipes at his nose with the back of his hand.

"Anyway," she guzzles her milkshake, trying to fight back her smile. "I don't think that's true. How would that work?" She mulls it over, finally putting the onion ring in her mouth. "I don't think those two bits of you are even connected." 

"I dunno. You're talking to Hawkins' resident super super senior, so…." He shrugs.

Hannah throws another fry at Eddie and it hits him in the face. He looks at her, affronted. She glares back. "You're not stupid, Eddie."

"Mrs O'Donnell would disagree with you, sweetheart."

"Yeah, well she's an asshole."

He snorts. "You're not wrong." 

Eddie stirs his milkshake with the straw; staring. Wondering how to ask his real questions. Whose baby is it? Why aren't they here looking after her? Will she let Eddie look after her? Or at least try?

He looks up at Hannah. She seems to be just as stuck in her own head, her gaze burning a hole in her cheese fries. She seems so totally lost in thought that Eddie is startled when she speaks softly.

"You don't have to do this, you know." Hannah sighs and fiddles with her plate, but still doesn't look up. "You don't… It's not yours. You don't owe me anything." 

"I'm here because I want to be."

"But, why?" She finally looks up at him. "Doesn't it bother you that I got knocked up by someone else? That I was pregnant the whole time we were together?"

Eddie considers his words and speaks carefully. "Han, the only thing that bothers me about all of this, is that whoever it was has left you to deal with it on your own."

Hannah is visibly upset and squirms in her seat. "That's not… That’s not true." She shakes her head. "I have my dad, and Jules."

Eddie's voice is still soft, "That's not what I mean, and you know it." 

"I can't-" Hannah takes a shuddering breath. "Fuck these hormones!" She hisses and presses the heels of her hands to her eyes. "I don't know what you want from me, Eddie."

"Just the pleasure of your company, sweetheart."

"This isn't a fucking joke!" Hannah slaps the table as her voice rings out in the diner, the other patrons give her disapproving looks. She looks sheepish, and continues in a whisper. "I'm scared, Eddie. I have no control over any of this and I don't know what I'm doing." Her eyes are glassy. "I can't- we can't…" 

"Hey, hey, I'm sorry." Eddie reaches out and places his hand on her side of the table. "It was a bad joke, but it's true, Han, I promise." He ducks his head to catch Hannah's eye. "I'm not here to try anything. I'm here because I like spending time with you, regardless of what we are to each other." Eddie smiles at her encouragingly. "I am more than happy to be your friend. And your errand boy." 

Hannah lets out a wet laugh and wipes her eyes. 

A mischievous look comes over Eddie’s face. He shuffles out of the booth and drops to his knees on the floor next to Hannah, holding his hands in a plea in front of him. “Please Han,” Eddie declares, loudly. “Please will you let me be your servant for the next 5 to 6 months?!”

“Oh my god you need to stop!” Hannah jerks away, clambering to the other end of the seat. Eddie crawls up onto the seat after her. “No! No no no! Get away!” She pushes him away with a hand to the face.

“Please? PLEASE, Hannah!” 

“Get the fuck away from me, asshole!”

Eddie throws his head back and cackles, still advancing.

“WHAT do you idiots think you’re doing?!”

Hannah and Eddie freeze at Benny’s booming voice. They scramble to sit on the bench properly; backs straight and eyes wide as they peer over at him as they both mumble, “Sorry Benny.”

Benny curses and slams back into the kitchen, grumbling about “stupid teenagers”.

Hannah stifles a snort and slides down in her seat. Eddie giggles and looks down at her with pure adoration. Hannah shifts slightly and nudges her head against his bicep. His heart leaps at the small show of intimacy. He decides right then: He can wait for her.

Next chapter

[therealnoot]

Potato?

Oh Potatoes! I love Potatoes for many reasons. They’re great and healthy for you. They’re rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.

When Scurvy was a really big issue potatoes were literally life savers at the time as well! They have done wondrous things for peoples health and saved many many lives. They also contain potassium and contain a specific electrolyte that helps your heart muscles and nervous system function!. They have fiber rich skin and are very low in calories as well!

But there’s also the downside on potatoes. There’s some research suggesting that eating too much potatoes raises the risk of diabetes and hypertension which has over time been raised as well from being genetically modified and used in mostly used to make greasy foods like fries. Please take this with a grain of salt. These are of course studies and research and it never hurts to be a bit skeptical even with science!

Did you know that some food guides have started to exclude potatoes from the vegetable group due to how often it’s associated with high-fat diets?(Fast food/Junk food)

Potatoes are generally fantastic and easy to use for just about everything. The saying or insult of “ couch potato “ is pretty silly imo. When people tell you that you don’t want to be a potato or anything along that line they are completely ignoring the fact at how versatile a potato actually is. They are used to make all kinds of foods whether as sides, compliments to the main dish (or the main dish themselves) or eaten as a snack. From baked potatoes to chips to even Vodka! They are able to be used in so many ways and I think people really miss the bus here. I think being called a potato should be a good thing in positive context. Being versatile and able to do or make so many things by being yourself is amazing honestly.

Here’s a small list of things potatoes are used to make or made into

Hash browns, chips, fries, tater tots, potato salad, potato bread, potato pie, potato soup, potato noodles, hasselbacked, boiled, broiled, mashed, smashed, baked, braised, roasted, fried, and smoked

And here’s a small list of different kinds of potatoes

Russet, Jewel Yam, Japanese sweet, Hannah sweet, Austrian crescent, Blue, Red norland, Russian banana, La ratte, purple majesty, French fingerling, Red gold, Red bliss, Yukon gold, Red thumb, Creamers, orange sweets, and yams.

It should be important to note that I am taking classes for Culinary and food. I am learning a lot about food and enjoy food! I suppose this is incredibly lucky timing because I am just finishing up learning about fruits and vegetables. A lot of this also comes from research and I am by no means a professional. Please take all that I say with a grain of salt. I also encourage anyone who reads this to PLEASE do their own research as well!!

[tododeku-or-bust]

can we see one for kairos and calix, please? i love learning about your characters!

Dawww, of course you can, boo!!! Thank you for the support!!! Let me get this down for you!

Same idea for Modern AUs!

Name: Kairos

Nickname: Kai, my inspiration, the melody of my heart, my beloved child, my beautiful baby boy

Gender: Male

Star sign: Stubborn Taurus ♉

Personality type: observant, intuitive, snarky, fretful, loving. Cold when he's upset.

Height: 5'5

Orientation: Gay, potentially aro

Nationality/Ethnicity: Afro-Greek (he's just light skinned lmao)

Favorite fruit: Plums! They fit his aesthetic and he likes the taste. He carries them in one of his many pockets.

Favorite season: Winter. He likes to wear layers!

Favorite scent: fresh paint, and the lemony smell of his parents home studio, petrichor

Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate: coffee; he started drinking it jet black to feel cool, and got into the habit. Part of his "artist aesthetic" vibe. Tbh he likes creamer in it too, for the days he's not feeling so hip (which is most days).

Average hours of sleep: 5-6 (sometimes when he gets caught up in a project, he gets less. Which makes the coffee come in handy)

Dogs or cats: bugs! Kai loves bugs!

Dream trip: Kai wants to play the lute in Venice, on one of the gondolas. It's an admittedly specific goal, but he's always wanted that carefree, bard traveling the streets experience. Without the starving artist portion. Alas 🤣 he also wants to visit museums around the world.

Number of blankets: he's got quite a few hand crocheted and quilted by his mother that he won't ever get rid of.

Random fact: Kairos' hair is vines and leaves in the Hades AU, but in modern AUs, lately I've been imagining his hair as locs, they're just tied back into a bun all the time. I've also pictured it as just fluffy curls, always in the ponytail. He also likes to wear very long, sturdy jean/khaki skirts with lots of additional pockets. It's his outfit of choice, to carry all the random shit he'll have on hand as inspiration.

Name: Calix

Nickname: he actually doesn't have any!

Gender: Male

Star sign: Petty Gemini ♊🤣

Personality type: bold, boisterous, charming, funny. Can be hotheaded and a little mean with his sharp tongue.

Height: 6'0

Orientation: bisexual!!

Nationality/Ethnicity: as of the other day, Turkish!

Favorite fruit: I was gonna say apples, but my phone said peaches. So you know what? Now it's peaches 🤣 Calix do love him some As- *knocked out of my chair*

Favorite season: Summer. They used to go to their horse farm in the countryside during the summer for visits, as well as seeing the rest of his very large family, so he has fond memories of the season

Favorite scent: firewood, Philia's body wash (a coconut/sweet tropical sort of scent)

Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate: coffee; he and Kai will share tips and brands

Average hours of sleep: 5-6

Dogs or cats: dogs!

Dream trip: to be honest, it's a petty dream of his to sweep Philia off her feet in front of her petty ass Daddy and drive off into the sunset in a convertible. He doesn't care where they go, he just wants to 1) marry Phi and make her happy and 2) see the look on Achilles' face.

Number of blankets: like 2, though he starts buying more when he realizes they make Phi more comfortable

Random fact: Calix is smitten with Phi the first time they meet in every universe. But they always get held back by the classic friends to lovers "I don't know if I can tell you yet because I don't want you to run away", as Philia is always... Well, she's not quite there yet with him. Permanent romance isn't what's most important on her plate. They flirt the entire time, with others and with each other, but Phi takes longer than he does to really come to terms with her emotions for him. He's going to wait, he's going to simp for life. Kai has to see this shit in front of his salad in every universe.

[piggyette]

soft asks by sunnysideanon

i treat ask games like surveys, we all know this.

what song makes you feel better?

who listens to music to feel better?

what’s your feel-good movie?

i dont watch movies qwq im sorry these are rough answers

what’s your favorite candle scent?

i usually like winter fruit smells. so plums, pomegranates, grape, deep and rummy sorta scents. i also like rich sweet ones, resin-y smells. i like a nice light floral mix (iris, jasmine, lily, rose) on cleaning days.

what flower would you like to be given?

lillies. any lillies, but i like madonna lillies

who do you feel most you around?

my partner system, but specifically trent. he is me, and ive never felt it more than when we're together. my brothers are a close second.

say three nice things about yourself (three physical and three non-physical)

i have gold rings around my pupils i just noticed the other day. they're gorgeous and i have no idea where i got them from genetically-- maybe my mother. she has gold in her green eyes. i'm glad i got something from her eyes, i'm jealous of them. i have insanely enviable hair. my nails are elegant... also enviable. im wicked talented and sharp, nobody can create the way i can-- BITCH???? ok one of my favorite songs paused randomly that was a whole experience. answer cancelled next question

what color brings you peace?

pale green. this isn't bad, though.

what calms you down?

being alone in my own space. writing music/poetry. having a clean space. music-- hey, i guess that first question was onto smth

what’s something you’re excited for?

grocery run tomorrow, haircut sometime this week. yay.

what’s your ideal date?

taking turns spitting vodka into each others mouths and banging our skulls together til we pass out

how are you?

im fine! a lot of excess energy strangely which is funny b/c i haven't had any caffiene today. that reminds me i need to add energy drinks to my grocery list. eeeeeeee also feeling sappy. in love. so in love hehe

what’s your comfort food?

probably any kind of salad theyre very safe foods

favorite feel-good show?

i dont dream of watching televi-- interview with the vampire.

fairy lights or LED lights?

fairy lights. LED lights make me anxious to look at but now Everyone has them so what do i know

do you still love stuffed animals?

yes.

most important thing in your life?

myself, but secondly, my fiance.

what do you want most in the world right now?

a kiss.

if you could tell your past self one thing, what would it be?

don't smoke cigarettes and don't tell that girl everything.

what would you say to your future self?

keep doing it, even if it's uncomfortable. trust your gut, not your body.

favorite piece of clothing?

my black turtleneck or my fur coat.

what’s something you do to de-stress?

bounce and moan on it

what’s the best personal gift someone could give you (playlist, homemade card, etc.)

moneyyyy!!! oh, personal. money from their personal bank account!!! (a card. i collect those.)

what movie would you want to live in?

childs play. id fuck that doll and save the little boy JFIOWEJFE

which character would you want to be?

... oh myself isnt an option ok. then id wanna be in clueless and be cher. id like to be rich

hugs or hand-holding?

hugs. i need my hands for other things but i can be hugged forever

morning, afternoon or night?

ALL OF THEM ALL OF THE TIME

what reminds you of home (doesn’t have to mean house… just things that remind you of the feeling of home)?

horses, dirt roads, hotel rooms, cigarette smoke.

[mrvilschoenheit]

Just dropping in to say hello and ask how your day has been

Well aren't you sweet? My day has been busy as usual, but it's never a bad thing when it means I was productive. I woke up at 5 this morning, took an apple cider vinegar shot and had a smoothie bowl for breakfast...not only is pink dragon fruit a super food but it makes for a lovely photo 💜

Shortly after, I joined Jack for our morning jog and returned to my dorm in time to freshen up and lead Pomefiore for our daily yoga session.

After touching up my hair and makeup once more, I attended my early classes and answered a few emails from my agency between classwork. For lunch, I had a spinach salad with apple slices, walnuts, and some diced chicken breast.

Of course, I finished early and used the remainder of the free period to visit my plot in the botanical gardens and pruned my herbs and flowers.

Once afternoon classes were through, I held auditions for the Movie Appreciation Club's latest production- Ah, can you believe some people would waste everyone's time by standing in line just to talk to me? They could have at least bothered to read the script!

....anyway, after sorting through the muddy spuds, I returned to Pomefiore to hold our evening waltz. Once I evaluated everyone's performance and gave them notes, they were dismissed for dinner. Even though I prefer to dine with my dormmates, I decided to dine in my office while I looked over what needed to be ordered from Sam this semester.

Rook joined me briefly and marveled at how beautifully cut my Quinoa stuffed squash was, ate two of them, and went on his merry way...he always looms to deter me from working too late.

Finally, I did my nightly beauty routine, pinned up my hair, and prepared for bed...while rewatching the auditions that I had filmed earlier. It's one thing in person, but it's also important to see how their presence translates to the camera.

Once I narrowed the potential actors down to about half, I put my Magbook away and laid down to rest....hm. Now that I summarize it like this, it doesn't seen like I accomplished very much at all! Hopefully I have a more eventful day to share with you tomorrow, anon.

[hibernationsuit-remade]

🥯🥪🍛🤔👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 + klara :]

OMG THANK U SM <3 obsessed w the food asks btw i have too many thoughts about Klara and her food preferences :3c

details about ocs ask game

🥯 BAGEL — what does your oc's typical breakfast look like? do they usually eat breakfast?

On normal mornings, Klara is a fan of scrambled eggs for breakfast :3 She eats it after her short morning workout/stretch thing and usually has a cup of coffee and a glass of apple juice with it. Additionally, if there is any in the fridge, she also eats leftover pizza or whatever pastry they may have had yesterday.

THAT SAID she does have very busy days sometimes (or, like, work emergencies), which kinda ruin her schedule and so she has learned to just enjoy a musli bar or something. She also keeps one w herself in her bag in case she has to basically leave as soon as she wakes up. Working for a megacorporation be like 😔

On weekends or vacations she reaaaaally loves brunches with Toby (because he wakes up very late tbh). They either order something from their favorite cafe (and then wonder why they have money issues every now and then) or just cook something together, in which case it's something simple like the previously mentioned scrambled eggs, but also some kind of porridge, fruits, sandwiches (or just bread w something, or garkic bread), yoghurt and nuts. Sometimes if they're not doing the brunch thing, she makes a nice oat porridge with strawberry :3 And if Toby manages to wake up earlier, he makes her pancakes.

🥪 SANDWICH — what does your oc's typical lunch look like? do they usually eat lunch?

At work (no meetings) she mostly goes for salads!!!! She's been very much into salad bars since high school and that habit has been a big part of her personality LMAO. She especially likes to add either salmon, shrimp or chicken in it, and also tends to have pasta w sweet chili sauce there.

THAT SAID she has meeting/discussion lunches very often. She & the person/ppl she's meeting go to some restaurant, depending on locatiob of the office or the other meeting place or who the ppl she's meeting are working for. She usually orders something with fish, her favorite dish to order is definitely salmon with potatoes, but the restaurants rarely have them. She'd mostly go for some kind of pasta or risotto, or a soup if it's something she likes. Wouldn't say no to a fancy burger either.

Sometimes her 'meeting lunch' actually means meeting up with Tobias for lunch. They usually go to their favorite little restaurant that's quite quiet during lunch time. Klara often orders their sweet potato soup or smoked tofu stir fry.

If Klara's having a lunch at home, she either makes a sweet potato soup or a mushroom pasta. If she's feeling lazy, she just does mac & cheese (happens more often than you'd think).

🍛 CURRY AND RICE — what does your oc's typical dinner look like? do they usually eat dinner?

Fun thing about Klara and dinners is that she Never Cooks Dinners. Not because her skills aren't enough but bc she is often exhausted after work and comes home much later than Tobias, which means that 1) they either order something together and then go lay on the couch, Klara watching tv and trying to relax or something OF 2) Toby cooks something. He's A Bit better cook but isn't good either so he sticks to safe, easy recipes. Most of the time it's a cheese pasta or fried rice, sometimes a butternut squash steak or a noodle soup. If they're ordering, Klara tends to either order tikka masala or a

Late work evenings usually mean quick chinese food (Klara's always buying dumplings) or pizza :3 Sometimes she manages to find time and go to some local sandwich shop and buy some kind of stuffed bread. She's somewhat fond of them for some reason.

Sometimes Klara & Toby go out for a dinner for fun, and she tends to order something light but warming. Like carbonara or baked potatoes.

🤔 THINKING FACE — what are some of your oc's quirks/mannerisms?

Klara definitely tends to cross her hands a lot when talking, or place them on her sides. She also tends to walk around while speaking for long, and taps her foot when she's standing still.

She also tends to play with her hair a lot when not doing anything, sometimes not even noticing she is doing it.

Klara also may seem a bit intimidating if you don't know her or aren't a friend of hers, or if she's at work, bc she always looks a bit over-determined when she walks and says her opinions out loud quite easily. I'd also say she rarely ever actually smiles in situations where she's not with people she does not know.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 FAMILY WITH MOTHER, FATHER, SON AND DAUGHTER — how many people are in your oc's immediate family? how many people are in your oc's extended family? do they have aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, etc? who in their family are they closest with? are they close with their birth family, or do they have a found family?

Out of blood relatives, she has her two moms Anna and Susie, and two brothers, Måns & Elliott. Of course, her immidiate family is also her spouse, Toby, and honestly she would definitely count their cat Melody as immidiate family.

Klara's family is quite big and tends to meet up every now and then, but Klara tends to skip the big events and goes to smaller ones, specifically the ones her aunt tends to visit, bc she has always been like Klara's babysitter and taight Klara lots of things. They work in the same department, though in different places and positions, and like to tell each other workplace rumors.

Klara has several cousins too, but they don't talk that much. She doesn't really know her grandparents, tho :/

She is veeeery close to her group of friends, I'd say even cmoser than she is to her family, bc they seem to be much closer and they aren't as strict about everything. :]

[lumisparks]

Indivisible: Dhar Reincarnated

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← Chapter 2

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Word Count: 2.5k words

Baozhai, Thorani, Dhar, and some pirates in the diner room of the ship, gaining a huge feast on their table. Most of them consist of seafood: Lobsters, shrimps, oysters, crabs, and tuna. There were even lots of fruits on the table too. A blue-pigtailed girl in tropical attire comes with a big bowl of salad in her hands,”Aaaaaand that’s all I got for everyone! Dig in!” She says with glee. Everyone at the table began to feast like a pack of wolves .

The first thing that Dhar takes is a big crab leg doused in lemon juice. He breaks it in half, revealing the white meat. The sweet aroma mixed with the lemon juice’s scent entered his nostrils, it told him to hurry and dig in. So he leans in then takes a big bite of the crab meat. He chews... His eyes widened, eating the rest of it under the leg’s shell. It tasted sweet and a little sour, but also a bit briny. Dhar then grabs some shrimp and grapes.

“Amazing right? Leilani’s cooking are the best for hungry pirates!” Baozhai claims as she grabs a lobster claw, and rips it with her bare teeth. The young man’s eyes dilate at the girl, muttering her name to take note.

The pirate looks at Dhar, her eyes looking serious. She swallows her food, “Sooo... Dhar? What’s with you?” A small hum escaped from the young man’s throat as his eyes darted at her. He holds up his index finger, pointing at himself. Baozhai nods,”Yes, I mean you. Are you uh... like okay?”

“I’m fine... Recovering from those crazy flyers. Why ask?”

“It’s because you don’t seem to recognize me or Baozhai,” Thorani worryingly says. Dhar lets out a long “ohhh” then follows it with,”I don’t remember anything that’s why.”

... “WHAT!?!” Baozhai and Leilani cry out while Thorani frowns, looking down. She had a feeling when observing Dhar’s behavior but it’s still unfortunate to hear otherwise.

Dhar’s fingers fidget with his knife and fork,”H-Hey,” he stammered as all eyes were on him. “My memories may be gone but I’m out on a journey so I can know who I am and all... So it isn’t that bad right? Did the old me do something to impact you two? ”

Baozhai looked up as her right hand waved her drink a little while the other went side to side, ”Ehh... Well you helped Ajna, I dunno you much personally. Albeit when first meeting her, you, and the others; you made a dumb joke about my crew killed by a sea monster.”

The young man blinked,

”I said what?”

“But that’s nothing too important I say aside from sacrificing yourself in the midst of chaos.”

“Like the rebellion?”

“... What rebellion...?” Thorani asks, concerned. Dhar tilts his head and answers her question,

”The rebellion that Zebei and Kushi told me,” he then explains what Lhan’s protectors mostly told him. The married couple’s faces were disturbed. Why would they lie to Dhar like that? All of a sudden, they heard Leilani whining as they turned to look at her.

”Wahh... Does that mean you don’t remember the great feasts we had?! You were so constructive when it came to my cooking! It really, really helped me a lot until Kogi came along.” The silver-haired let out a small chuckle, scratching his cheek,

”I’m sure there is a memory of mine that’ll pop out about it…”

After eating, Baozhai and Thorani decided to take Dhar outside for a tour of Port Maerifa. This is exactly what he saw in his dream. White structures with curvy gold roofs and blue cloths, a bar, bustling people and markets alongside the scent of the salty ocean. He then learns about the big building called the Tower of Wisdom, a gargantuan library whose academics catalog much of the world’s science and history.

Maybe he could pay a visit there sometime.. But right now, he wants to explore what’s in store at one of the stands and shops: seafood, antiques, art. Nothing much of interest yet until heard cries were heard at the main entrance alongside some clanging and angry yelling. Unsure what’s going on, the 3 dash their way to check what’s going on. At the entrance, they saw foot soldiers in black and gold armor attacking innocent people. “What in the sea spiral world is going on?!” Baozhai cried out, startled by the scene.

They saw some warriors trying to fight back, but noticed 3 soldiers holding out their hands to reveal mechanical gauntlets with a purple gem in their palms. The gems started to glow which immediately stopped 5 warriors trying to protect the place. Their colorful auras come out of their bodies.

“Is that... Iddhi?” Thorani gasps, covering her mouth with both of her hands. The Iddhi was being lifted off their holders, being absorbed by these devices. Those who used to have them; they fall down, weakened.

“What’s...? What happened to my powers?!”

“My body... Why is it so weak...?”

“I can’t... move...“

“I can’t get up...! What did you do?!?”

“Someone... Help...“

Their bodies were being picked up and apprehended into a cage, even those now in low stamina who still have Iddhi were being taken away.

“FOR LORD RAVANNAVAR!”

A soldier yells out. It was a horrific sight to see. Dhar turns to Baozhai and Thorani,”We need to stop them!”

The deva nodded, running off to aid the victims while the pirate queen grins,

”Well said, Dhar!” She lets out a hardy laugh and takes out her mini cannons, strapping them onto her arms. She aims at 2 soldiers that were about to kidnap some weakened warriors. BANG! Heavy balls are shot out, hitting them which releases the innocent residents as the soldiers are slammed against a cabbage stand.

The chief looks, pointing his sword at her,

”What do you think you’re doing, lady!?”

“Whaddya think you're with these fellas who have nothing to do with you!?”

With no reply from the man, he jumps at her and goes for a downward slash. Baozhai lifts up her arm, blocking with her cannon, and then grabs him. He grunts, legs flailing in trying to kick her,

”Soldiers! Get her!”

He orders before being tossed to Thorani,

”Ay hun! Incoming!”

Thorani was using her hair, dripping water onto an injured woman. The deva turns with a hum to see the flying chief soldier. She smiles, casually shoots a huge bubble, and traps the guy in it. She then turns to the woman,”Get to safety, okay?”

“T-Thank you...!” The bystander stands and runs off, soon being guided away by Dhar who was getting people away from the scene. “Stop right there!” He turns to see a foot soldier coming towards him until he stops, seemingly shocked,”L... Lieutenant?”

In response to that, Dhar’s face shifted to disgust,”Why would I ever lead or serve an army like you guys?” He unsheathes his sword, swiftly moving his blade against the soldier’s chest.

He yelps, stumbling back. Angry from the attack, he goes to bash him with his shield but Dhar blocks it by summoning a wall of rocks. Dhar then pushes him back, using the geo to slam him against the wall. As the swordsman was about to resume helping people to retreat, he got pummeled by another foot soldier, ready to steal his Iddhi.

“Dhar!” The voice was from Thorani. Thorani starts using the puddles to produce more water, lifting them up in a reverse waterfall motion, crashing it down to the guy while not trying to hit her ally. Dhar looks, seeing the tide carrying the enemy away as he lets out a quiet “Woah...“

“That’s Thorani for ya, mate! Amazing ain’t she?” Baozhai comments as she grabs the last soldier, slamming him into the bar counter which knocked him out cold. She whistles, snagging some gold and money from his pants.

The chief falls from the bubble and gets up, frustrated to see his comrades defeated,

”Fools... You’ll pay... All of you will!” He spats out to the 3 people that fought his group.

“Soon... We will bring back Lord Ravannavar. We will bring him back by doing what he wants! To bring back Kala and purge this world!” He soon calls his soldiers to retreat.

Now they are gone... For now at least, Dhar, Baozhai, and Thorani go to aid the remaining people that got attacked. One person muttered in fear, ”They’re back... The horrible Navar Army is back..!” Thorani goes to heal the injured with her water. “The Navar Army... Zebei mentioned that...“ Dhar quietly said.

Once they let Thorani finish healing them, the 3 headed to the bar for a talk. Dhar took his seat, requesting the bartender for just some water,”Baozhai, Thorani? This... Navar Army,” his voice went slightly quiet when mentioning the wretched military,”Zebei told me about them. They were defeated after their leader died, right?”

Baozhai takes a sip from her jug of beer, nodding as she begins to explain,

”From what we heard, yeah. However, years later of planning and stuff they came back for revenge. They now call themselves the ‘Neo-Ravannavar Army.’ Gotta say... Their tech is more deadly, they made a device where they can steal iddhi from anyone.”

“To this day, there are some people who believe in the tyrant’s ideals... It’s disappointing and sad if they try to bring him back,” Thorani sighs and drinks a bit of her jug.

Dhar looks down at his cup of water with his thumbs fidgeting. He sees the reflection of himself. Oddly, his black and gold armor looked fixed for a second as his face didn’t have scars. Huh...? He shook his head, seeing himself again but in his usual scarred state. The deva notices this, “Dhar? Are you alright?”

“Yeah... Just seeing things.”

Thorani hummed, placing a hand on his shoulder, “Hey, let's get you some new clothes. Traveling in rusty armor doesn’t suit you.”

The swordsman lets out a small chuckle, nodding. Thorani tells Baozhai they’ll be back for a bit as the wife in red waves the two off once they leave to go shopping. As the pirate queen starts conversing with random patrons; at the main entrance of the port, two familiar people walk in alongside a big bird. It was Zebei, Kushi, and Altun!

Zebei stretches his arms out, breathing in to smell the saltiness from the ocean,”Oh Port Maerifa how I missed you!”

“It’s been 2 months last visiting here”

“Still, Kushi. It’s nice coming back here. But aside from that, let’s see if Dhar landed around here,” the archer looks around to then notice Baozhai at the bar. He yells out her name to get her attention. She notices and raises her drink with a loud “ahoy”, glad to see her old companions again.

Zebei and Kushi went up to her, took their seats, and started talking to catch up on what they’ve been doing. It was a nice moment until Baozhai began the topic about Dhar. It’s a relief for Lhan’s protectors to know that he’s okay, however the pirate queen was a little suspicious of Zebei,

”So Zebei...?” Her voice was low and serious as her eyes glared at the archer,

”Why did ya lie to Dhar huh?”

Zebei chokes up when drinking his jug,”L-Lie...?”

Crud Dhar told her the story I gave him huh?

“Zebei thought it would be a great idea to lie to Dhar and hopes he’ll never remember despite he got a MEMORY of him talking to Ajna!” Kushi spatted and crossed her arms, huffing. Baozhai quickly turns and spits out some fluids of beer, yelling at the man,

”EXCUSE?!? Zebei, did you lose a part of your brain or something!?”

Zebei groans as his head slams against the table, not wanting to be lectured again. First, the 15 year old and now pirate queen herself.

Meanwhile with the ones busy shopping, they were able to find the perfect clothing and armor for Dhar to wear in his travels. Some chainmail, purple kurta, a white cardigan, leather waist in purple and gold, white baggy pants, and his boots were upgraded with more armor. After buying them as Dhar changes into his new attire, he ties the red scarf around his waist as a sort of charm to his appearance. He looks at himself in the mirror, looking like a professional soldier out on a journey. Thorani claps in glee,

”Oh Dhar, you look amazing!”

“Indeed! Heheh! Let's go show this to Baozhai!”

So the two left, heading back to the bar. Once they made it, they noticed Zebei bickering with Baozhai and Kushi about Dhar, debating that he needs to know or else it’ll end up bad. Just as their voices were getting louder, Dhar called out Zebei and Kushi’s names. The argument went silent as all turned to look at him. He was the only one just happy to the two again, if only Lhan’s protectors were happy too.

At least Altun gives the young man a gentle peck on the head,

”Don’t worry, Altun. I will never forget about you,” he says, petting his soft feathers.

Thorani goes up to Baozhai, asking her what happened. Baozhai starts whispering to her, explaining that Zebei lied to Dhar and made up a story for some stupid reason,”... Like yeah I get it. But either way, Dhar will learn in the future and will be very upset at Zebei. Aaaand possibly at Kushi too...”

The deva frowns and looks at Zebei as he is talking with Dhar,”... Maybe we should let Dhar be the one to know on his own. He needs his journey first.

“Right... it’s going to suck though.”

“Hey, Baozhai? Thorani?”

The married couple looked at Dhar.

“Do you know of a place that could upgrade my sword? Its condition is getting more chipped and damaged.” He asked, breaking away the odd tension between everyone. Baozhai waves her drink until throwing it away. Seems like she got one place in mind as she gets off her seat, guiding the others to Teotul while Thorani pays the bills before leaving.

Once everyone hops onto the ship, Baozhai’s pirate crew begin to hoist the sails; prepare the cannons; and anything ready to travel through the seas. The red captain heads her way up to the helm and grabs. ”Maties!” Her boisterous voice grabs her friends’ attention,

”We’ll be going to the Iron Kingdom!”

Dhar mutters the name and looks at his two traveling companions,”Will that place help me upgrade my sword?”

So Zebei begins to explain about the environment and culture of the kingdom. Dhar learns that it is known for their advanced technologies, weapons, large factories, and businesses that shaped the empire into one of the most powerful nations in Loka. It is all thanks to a princess named Mary for the sake of her father’s work.

“5 years ago, they were in poor condition because the environment was full of slime but don’t worry about that, the princess is improving and fixing some stuff nowadays,”the archer shrugs, cleaning his arrows. As the ship travels further, the skies start to turn green and cloudy.

Is that good...? Dhar wondered albeit looking concerned due to how depressing it looks. Everyone heard a big “Land-ho” from Baozhai’s voice as they turned their heads to see a dock up ahead. The swordsman notices dark structures with metallic accents, gears, and some steam blowing from some big chimneys.

Yep. That’s the place.

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

Chapter 4 →

[limbuscompanysituations]

Yet another Kurokumo Hong Lu x Tsundere reader fic! :D

Scenario: after finally finding the time (and after swallowing their pride mostly on the reader's side) Hong Lu and the reader finally go on a long overdue date with eachother however despite this the reader hasn't completely lost their Tsundere tendencies and still acts like a massive tsundere towards Hong Lu during their entire date and Hong Lu decides to take full advantage of this and teases (and act hella smug just to get a rise out of them for shits and giggles) them for the majority of their date but besides that the date goes well and by the end of it they share a kiss with eachother.

awww

It's spring and they sit in the middle of a lush garden inside the private property of a superior. They don't know how he did it, but apparently Hong Lu managed to make the guy let them borrow the space. At least for a couple hours. It took them at least three seasons to schedule this date because of their busy schedules.

For Hong Lu all it cost was having some extra missions assigned to him, but for them it cost all of their pride and then some of their sanity. They're doing the best they can not to ruin it.

"I brought sandwiches~" Hong Lu happily hums as he takes out the neatly packaged sandwiches from the basket he brought. "Made by yours truly."

He smiles so freely, but they're sweating cold trying not to be mean. They're already way past the initial bickering, so they should try to behave a little bit.

They unzip their thermos bag to show the two clear containers with fruit salad and two bottles of fresh fruit juice. Hong Lu's eyes sparkle and he grins in delight.

"So healthy~" He leans in closer to inspect the food, and they try their best not to push him away.

"Y-yeah. It's nothing, really."

"Can I?" Hong Lu asks and they nod.

He takes one of the square containers and pulls the lid off. He smiles at the delicious fruity scent that drifts towards him and takes one of the plastic spoons they brought, gathering a healthy scoop of the fruit salad and holding it in front of their face.

They stare at him.

"Say 'aah'~"

"Hey, cut it."

"Nuh-uh, you have to open wide now."

"N-no, cut it or I'll-"

"You promised to behave for this date~"

They click their tongue in annoyance and glare at him. If looks could kill, he would be in a body bag by now. They sigh in defeat and open their mouth. Hong Lu grins while he feeds them a spoonful of fruit salad.

"That wasn't so bad now, was it?"

They can't speak with a full mouth, so they resign themself to glaring at him.

That's not where the abuse of their pride stops. Hong Lu makes them feed him the fruit salad. To which he playfully comments he hopes it isn't poisoned. They wish they had the foresight to lace it with laxatives.

At least after that, Hong Lu is merciful enough to stop poking fun at them and they eat the sandwiches in peace, and then drink the delicious fruit juice. The couple hours they're allowed to spend in the garden are almost up and the sun begins to set on the horizon.

Hong Lu lays his head on their lap while they observe the peaceful landscape. The cool spring breeze rustles the grass around them, and they sigh dreamily. It's always a hassle to spend time with Hong Lu, but they're desperately in love with him and it's not like they could do anything about it.

Still, when Hong Lu reaches out a hand and touches their cheek, they look down at his smiling, dreamy face and sigh once again, in defeat. They bow their head and lean down, placing a sweet kiss on his lips.