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grlsbstshot · 22 days ago

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NEON LIGHTS

Pairing (Original Characters):

Jameson Lucas (Aaron Pierre) x Imani St. Cirie (Megan thee Stallion) Genie Adesanya (Jayme Lawson) x Ellington “EJ” Dupree (Kelvin Harrison Jr.)

Chapters:

Neon Lights Masterlist

Chapter Synopsis: back in los angeles, jamani's romantic bubble bursts as reality sets in. paparazzi swarm, work resumes, and tensions rise when sloane and Christian get involved. meanwhile, genie struggles with her growing feelings for ej and overcomes an emotional setback

Warnings: smut (18+, minors dni), toxic relationship, them b words! (watch them b words!), sexual activity (fingering & oral - female receiving), dirty talk, explicit terminology -- if we missed anything, let us know!

Word Count: 10.1k I told yall a lot was going on. GET IN HERE. Divider Template: @cafekitsune

Notes: The following characters are original creations. Their voice claims are Usher / Lucky Daye (Jameson) & Summer Walker / SZA (Imani). We have no affiliation to any of those artists.

The automatic doors of LAX slid open, and the quiet hum of the airport interior was instantly drowned out by a wall of noise. Cameras flashed like lightning strikes, shouts ricocheted off the concrete, and the steady hum of idling cars was punctuated by the screech of tires.

James Lucas stepped out first, his hand gripping Imani’s before he notices the gathering that immediately moves in their direction. He shifts to wrap his arm around her waist to keep her close as if she might slip away in the chaos. He kept his head down, the reflection of his sunglasses obscured though his clenched jaw was impossible to hide. Genie followed close behind, similar pair of sunglasses on, her carry on suitcase trailing noisily over the pavement.

Her body language shifted from relaxed to tense before she regained a level of poise that escaped her companions. She had been used to this from birth. Where Jameson hadn't learned to hide his feelings, Genie did. She stared straight ahead, placing her hand against Imani's shoulder. The two worked in tandem to protect Imani.

“James! Imani! Are you two back together?” “Did you get engaged in Rome?” “Imani, over here! Can you look this way?” “James, what about the rumors you were seeing someone else before the trip?”

The questions came rapid-fire, each one laced with a sharper edge than the last. James didn’t answer. He never did. Instead, he tightened his grip around Imani as they navigated the maze of photographers and reporters. Airport security came out to assist but they were seemingly overwhelmed by the paps who all seemed to want to trigger a reaction from the trio.

Imani, for her part, looked unbothered. She wore oversized sunglasses and a sleek black coat that fell just below her knees, her expression unreadable as flashes lit up her face. But Jameson could feel her tight grasp on his free hand —the way her fingers curled slightly in his palm, the way her steps quickened when a reporter got too close.

"C'mon, man. Back up." Jameson muttered, his voice low and steady as they approached the car waiting. He shot a glance at Genie, who was now a step behind, her phone pressed to her ear as she pretended to be deep in conversation. Genie was good at this. She didn’t flinch, didn’t react. She just kept walking, her lips twitching into a smirk as one particularly overeager photographer tripped over his own feet.

The car was waiting just beyond the barricade, its sleek black frame a beacon of escape. Jameson guided Imani toward it, shielding her with his body as they reached the curb. A final burst of shouts erupted behind them—"Imani, do you think this will last?"—but the door slammed shut before the words could linger.

She didn't say anything but she turned to glare at the man who asked the question before Jameson shut the door. He moved to help Genie into the car, protecting her the way as he had done with Imani. Her bag was placed on the floor as she took his hand and front of her seat next to her and finally, he climbed inside. The doors were shut and finally, each could hear themselves think.

Inside the car, silence fell over them all like a heavy curtain. Imani exhaled first, sliding her sunglasses off and rubbing her temples. “That was worse than usual.”

"They get worse and worse every fucking day." Jameson said, his voice still tight as he leaned back against the seat. His shoulders stayed stiff, though, as if he couldn’t quite relax. The questions they had flung at the two bothered him -- more than he was willing to admit.

From the front seat, Genie let out a breathy laugh. "Welcome home, lovebirds." She turned to glance at them, one perfectly arched brow lifting. "Jamani was trending before we even got through customs."

Jameson groaned, closing his eyes. Imani didn’t respond, her gaze fixed on her phone as it buzzed softly in her lap. One new message.

[ 2134551147 ]: welcome back. let’s catch up soon.

She stared at it for a moment too long before responding

[ imani ]: and this would be? [ 2134551147 ]: christian

She frowned, wondering why he felt they were close enough for a welcome back text. As far as she knew, he was the guy her best friend had a crush on. Nothing more, nothing less. Either way, Imani wasn't interested in making him a priority. She ignored the text, locking her phone and dropping it in her bag as she reached across the space between she and Jameson to brush her fingertips against his earlobe.

He opened his eyes to gaze at her, smiling faintly as he reached up to pull her hand to his mouth. He pressed kiss after kiss to her skin -- from her fingertips to her wrist. They left the chaos of the paparazzi blitz behind but she couldn't help but feel that something else was coming.

As the car rolled up the long driveway to Jameson's Beverly Hills home, Genie was the first to see someone parked out front. She didn't recognize the car and briefly glanced into the backseat to ask Jameson if it was his -- but he and Imani were both asleep. So Genie didn't say a word. She thanked their driver as he came to a stop at the front door, a strange flutter in her chest. She wasn’t sure what it was—maybe the exhaustion from the long flight or the pull of being back in familiar surroundings—but she couldn’t shake the feeling that something was different.

She got out of the car, lifting her bag before she knocked on the back window hard. She heard Jameson jolt awake with a groan and knew her job was done. Before she could get used to the weight of the bag in her hand, it was snatched away. Genie turned with a speed that gave her a sprain in her damn neck. Standing next to her was EJ.

She blinked at him in surprise, realization dawning on her that the car she didn't recognize was his. "Ms. Adesanya," he greeted her softly, his gaze sweeping the length of her body. "Welcome back." From her crown of curls to the sneakers she wore, nothing escaped the touch of his gaze. Genie tried to get her mouth to work but all that came out was a cough. She heard doors opening behind her and was briefly grateful that Imani and Jameson had gotten out.

Imani was already gathering her things, slipping out of the car with a stretch of her arms over her head. Jameson made himself busy taking their things out of the car. Bag after bag was swept into his grasp as he overloaded himself -- doing his best to make sure Imani didn't have to carry a thing. "It feels good to be back." she said, a sigh of escaping her as she easily headed up the entryway into Jameson's home. It was like she hadn't spent a year as someone else's girlfriend. Jameson followed her inside, a little smile on his face as she went inside.

"Mhm." Genie agreed but her thoughts were on the man in front of her. Besides the short nod he gave them both, he hadn't moved to greet his best friend or hers. "What are you doing here?" she asked him, swallowing her surprise and reaching for the bag he had taken from her. EJ moved his hand back, refusing to let her recollect it. She couldn’t stop thinking about the conversations they’d had while she was in Rome, the way his voice had softened when he spoke to her, the teasing that had felt more personal than usual. She’d tried to ignore it. Tried to tell herself it was nothing. But it was hard to deny the way her heart beat a little faster as he stood in front of her.

"I wanted to be here when you got here. I missed you." EJ said, his voice light, but there was an underlying warmth to it that made Genie’s stomach do a little flip.

She forced herself not to smile, trying to keep her aloof confidence intact. "Somehow I doubt you missed me that much." she said softly, her voice came out a little breathless, and she hated how obvious it was. Genie sized him up, eventually relenting in letting him carry her bag. She edged around him, staying out of reach as if he'd snatch her up when she least expect it.

"I did." EJ said, his gaze lingering on her. "You don't know it yet but I'm not a man who says things I don't mean. You look good, you know? You always do, but...I suppose I'm looking at you in a different way now."

Genie felt her breath catch in her throat. Her eyes went wide and she froze before scrambling up the steps into Jameson's house. She was only supposed to drop the two off and then ask the driver to take her home but she wasn't thinking straight. She tried to put as much distance between herself and EJ. She hadn’t been prepared for...whatever he was doing. Normally, she would have brushed it off, made a joke, but there was something in the way he said it, something in the way he was looking at her, that made her feel exposed.

"Ms. Adesanya." EJ called out and Genie turned in the doorway. Jameson and Imani were nowhere to be seen. Nothing to distract from the fact that her heart was beating like crazy. "Let me know when you're ready to go home. I'll take you. I know you've got to be tired. It was a long trip."

"I'm not tired. Do I look tired?" Genie refuted, trying to figure out how to avoid being alone with EJ. She moved into the living room, settling herself on a couch and putting her feet up onto it so he didn't sit next to her. "It’s the jetlag," she said quickly, hoping to deflect. "Nothing serious."

"Well, if that’s jetlag, I think I need to catch it too." His voice was light, but his eyes were serious now, and it made her skin feel too tight. EJ sat her bag down next to the couch she was sitting on and made himself comfortable across from her -- on an entirely different couch. Genie relaxed somewhat...until he spoke again.

"I was hoping we could talk," he said, his voice softer now.

"About what?"z "You and me."

The words hung in the air, and Genie’s heart skipped a beat. She’d always known EJ cared, but hearing him say it like that... it was too much. Too real.

"I was unaware there was a you and me."z "There isn't. Not yet. That's what I want to talk about."

Genie jumped up from the couch, fear forcing her to pretend she hadn't heard him. "Imani! I'm going home!" The house was massive and she had no idea if she had heard her. "Jamie! I'm leaving! See you guys later!" The pull between them was undeniable, but she wasn’t ready to let herself feel it. She wasn’t ready to let him in. The last time she had done that, she got ripped apart. She didn't know EJ well enough to know that he wasn't like Christian -- and she couldn't afford to put herself at risk again.

She reached down for her bag again -- only for her hand to collide with EJ's. He was still look at her with those soft, caring eyes. Despite the fact that she had abruptly ended his attempts to establish a connection, he was still doing his best to take care of her. It should have calmed her but it scared her even more. She wanted to give in to it. "I got it. I got you." EJ said softly, waiting until she relented to pick up the bag. There was no anger or even a hint of upset in his gaze. Instead, he gave her a smile and nodded his head towards the door. "Let's go."

EJ pulled the car to a smooth stop in front of Genie’s home -- peering out of the window curiously. He had never seen her home before but it suited her. She didn't live in a massive mansion, behind iron gates. There was a wooden gate around the modern building. It fit into the West Hollywood neighborhood and it suited her. Sleek and smooth. He could bet there wasn't a thing out of place inside. Genie Adesanya had completely organized her life to fit into neat little sections. No wonder she didn't know what to do with him. EJ knew he didn't fit into a neat square. He glanced at her as she was unbuckling her seat beat, her movements brisk and deliberate like she was trying to avoid lingering too long.

"Thank you for the ride," she said, her voice light but a little too practiced.

"It's no problem," EJ replied, watching her out of the corner of his eye. "I'm just glad to help." She was all polished edges and grace, but there was something different. Something softer. Something...unnerved. Her usual air of confidence felt thinner, like she was holding it together with sheer willpower. He didn't flirt any further, didn't make a move the entire ride over. Little by little, she relaxed and he knew that she wasn't playing hard to get. She was unsure of him...and herself.

Genie opened the door and stepped out. Instead of closing the door, she paused then leaned down to give him a quick smile. "Really, EJ. Thank you. I...I'm sorry for being such a mess."

"You don't have a thing to apologize for." EJ said, softly, wanting to stop her before she even broached the subject again. "Go ahead. I'll wait for you to go inside." Genie nodded and closed the door before opening the back one to grab her bag out of it.

He watched as she walked toward gate and then to the front door, her back straight and her steps purposeful. But just before she reached the door, she hesitated. It was barely noticeable—a slight pause, a hitch in her stride—but it was enough to make EJ’s grip on the wheel tighten. She didn’t look back, though. She pushed through the door and disappeared inside, leaving EJ alone in the car.

For a moment, he just sat there, staring at the empty spot where she’d stood. He let out a slow breath, leaning back against the headrest as he tried to sort through the knot of emotions twisting in his chest. He hadn’t expected to feel this way. Not about her. Genie was... Genie. Confident, poised, untouchable. She wasn’t supposed to make him feel like this—like he wanted to protect her, to peel back the layers she kept so carefully in place and see what was underneath.

His interest hadn't waned but he realized rather quickly that doggedly pursuing her wasn't a way to get what he wanted. She would just run faster. Something had shifted when she saw him waiting for her. She hadn't been playfully flirty as he expected. He’d seen the cracks in her armor, the uncertainty she tried so hard to hide. And it hit him then, like a punch to the gut: she was scared. Scared of him. Scared of whatever this thing was between them.

EJ scrubbed a hand over his face, letting out a low chuckle. "Okay, Ms. Adesanya. I'll take my time." He couldn’t just charge in like he usually did, teasing and flirting until she gave in. Genie wasn’t like anyone else he’d ever been interested in. She needed time. Patience. And he was going to give it to her.

Starting the car, EJ pulled away from the curb, his mind already racing. He’d have to find a way to settle her nerves, to show her that she didn’t have to be afraid of this. Of him.

Because if there was one thing he knew for sure, it was that Genie was worth it.

Sunlight streamed through the sheer curtains, casting a warm, golden glow over the bedroom. Imani stirred beneath the soft linen sheets, the faint hum of activity from downstairs pulling her from sleep. She stretched languidly, everything pleasantly sore — a reminder of the way she and Jameson had celebrated a return to form appropriately. They hadn't even made their relationship official but Jameson carried on as if they were together again.

He had ushered her upstairs after they arrived at his home. He hadn't cared that their friends were downstairs. Jameson dropped her bags in his closet -- wordlessly inviting her to stay for as long as she wanted. Then he stripped her slowly, savoring the sight. They had both heard Genie call out to them but neither answered. They kept their gazes on each other, resisting the outside world for a little bit longer. When he spread her across his bed, he didn't let her get out of it. She spent the rest of that day and that night in the familiar sheets, embracing the fact that she was in love and always would be.

The room still carried traces of last twenty four hours: her tracksuit was separated -- the top on the floor where he'd started to undress her and the bottoms next to the bed. A flash of him peeling them along with her underwear down her legs came to mind and Imani grinned. Jameson's clothes were on the floor next to her bottoms. He hadn't taken a thing off until she came twice on his tongue. When he was undressed, he had pinned her down and went to town. The faint, intoxicating scent of him lingered on the pillows. A mixture of satisfaction and contentment warmed her chest.

Sliding out of bed, she wrapped herself in one of Jameson’s oversized button-downs from the closet then padded barefoot down from the second floor to the first. She followed the sound of clinking pans, the faint aroma of coffee, something sweet. As she got closer to the kitchen, she heard him before she saw him.

He was singing. Was it...Stevie Wonder? She laughed softly as he harmonized perfectly. Even without trying, his pitch was perfect. Jameson stood at the stove, barefoot and topless in sweatpants. "All I dooooo, ooh baby! Is think about yooou." He sang lowly as he flipped pancakes on a griddle. The image made her laugh. Suave, charming playboy dancing around his kitchen, singing love songs. "Good morning." Imani said, leaning against the counter with a playful smirk.

Jameson turned and she could see how happy he was. He lit up when he realized she was awake. "C'mere, girl." He told her as he clapped his hands together, making his way towards her with a goofy dance. Imani laughed, pushing off the counter as she tried to run from him. She moved slow as hell, waiting until he wrapped his arms around her waist to put up a fight. He pulled her body against his -- her back to his chest -- as they swayed together in his kitchen. "Well, let me tell you girrrl. Think of how exciting it would be...if you should discoveeer you feel like me!" he crooned, placing kisses to her neck between each word. "If you should discoveeer this dream is for two..."

Imani turned in his arms, hating how she giggled up at him. She was so go over this damn man that she started singing with him. "Well, I'm gonna tell you, giiirl." It hit her that they didn't sound half bad together. She opened her mouth to continue singing and he kissed her silent. She could hear the sizzling of the pancakes left on the griddle, the smell of bacon in the air. By the time he stopped kissing her, she didn't care about if he had burned breakfast or not. Stevie Wonder continued on with the song without them. He lifted his head, nipping at her lower lip. "How'd you sleep?" she heard him ask and slowly opened her arms. "Good" she said, "Very surprised you didn't wake me up though."

"You’re welcome." he teased, pressing a kiss to her temple. "I'm welcome? Pussy was so good, you in here singing and making breakfast." "Dick was so good that you wearing my shirt and singing along with me. So we're both welcome."

Imani rolled her eyes and yelped when he slapped his hand against her ass. "Start the day off right before I have to get you right." He warned her with a smirk. "We got a lot to do, you know.” Imani quirked a brow, confused. She didn't have a damn thing to do besides get sucked and fucked for the next forty eight hours. "What we got to do?"

"Sloane called this morning. She's throwing a party. We're invited. A little lowkey welcome back ting."

Imani blinked at Jameson before rolling her eyes once again, stepping out of his arms as she moved around the kitchen island. "You sure she invited me?"

Jameson followed her, not letting her get too far away. He pressed a kiss to her shoulder and nodded his head before he moved back to the griddle and examined the burned pancake. "Yes. I'm sure. She wanted to make sure you didn't feel a way about those pictures. It was totally innocent. I swear."

She believed him but her feelings towards he and Sloane were a little complicated. If she were being honest? She didn't trust that girl. Something about her came off as fake. The way she fawned over Jameson wasn't fake though. Never had been. Imani didn't see any other woman as a threat but Sloane was quickly getting classified as an annoyance to her relationship with Jameson. "I was hoping it could just be us for a little bit longer."

Jameson turned to face her, a spatula still in hand. "You know we can’t avoid the world forever, right? It'll be fun, baby. I promise. Sloane ain't so bad when you get to know her."

Imani stepped back and poured herself a cup of coffee as she tried her best not to let her temper get the best of her. "Sloane," she said slowly, stretching out the name so she wouldn't call her a bitch. "Is kind of a lot."

Jameson chuckled, sliding a pancake onto a plate. Clearly he agreed but some kind of loyalty kept him from saying it. "I'm telling you. Deep down, she's a sweet girl. Before she was dressed up in that designer shit, she was just a kid looking for somebody to pay attention to her. Her parents never did but I promise you -- She's a good person."

"Mhm." Imani muttered, taking a sip from her coffee cup. Jameson finished making her plate and ushered her to a seat, pressing a kiss to her head. "Listen. I promise, it'll be a short stop. We'll go, mingle, then be done in thirty minutes -- because there's a couple of positions I haven't put your flexible ass in yet and I would rather spend my time doing that."

Imani couldn't help but smirk even as she cut her eyes. He couldn't get enough of her and she was glad that the feeling was mutual. "It’s not about her tho. The cameras, the whispers, the questions. It’s a lot to walk back into. We haven't even gotten back together really."

She felt him hesitate him before he crouched down next to her seat at the table. His hand was pressed to the back of her head, gently brushing through through her hair. "We don't have to answer any questions. What we are ain't nobody business but ours. And if anybody thinks that's their business? You ain't scared to tell nobody to shut the fuck up. I saw you."

For once, Imani relented. She ignored her senses and did the opposite of what she wanted to do. She gave him a nod and watched him light up with happiness again. He kissed her quickly and moved back across the kitchen. Imani felt a flicker of unease beneath her contentment. She didn’t doubt Jameson’s feelings for her, but stepping back into his world—the world they’d left behind—felt like stepping into a minefield.

For now, though, she let herself enjoy the moment. The smell of pancakes, the warmth of his presence, the quiet promise of a new beginning. Tonight could wait.

The ice in Christian’s glass clinked as he swirled his drink, leaning back in her favorite armchair as though he owned the place. Sloane resisted the urge to snap at him to sit up properly. She didn’t have time for his nonchalance -- not when his part of the plan was essential. He was supposed to sweep Imani off her feet so that Jameson would know Imani wasn't going to stay with him.

She stood by the window, her phone in one hand and a glass of wine in the other, scrolling through the endless flood of notifications. The party she was planning was shaping up to be wonderful. If she genuinely cared about it, she'd be excited but it was just a means to an end. A text message came through from a 'friend' of hers -- Pictures of Jameson and Imani in every single one: the worst one was that insufferably sweet shot of him guiding and protecting her holding hands as they made their way out LAX.

"Jameson agreed to come to the party." she said, her tone wistful and soft. "He's bringing Imani."

Christian’s own tone lacked excitement. Imani hadn't replied to his text the day before. It wasn't the best start if you were trying to romance someone but he could understand how awkward things could get when you were sitting next to an ex and texting another man. "You don't sound happy. Isn’t this what you wanted?"

Sloane turned to face him, vulnerability clear in her expression. "I'm fine. I just...He looked happy. Happier than I've seen him in months. It's hard knowing that I'm trying to change that. I'm just trying to look out for him." She wanted Jameson, yes. But she also wanted him to be happy. His relationship with Imani was toxic. She just wanted him free of it.

He snorted, shaking his head at her. "Of course," he said sarcastically, taking a sip of his drink. "You’re just looking out for him. Like always."

Sloane's jaw tightened but she didn’t rise to the bait. Instead, she decided to toughen up. He didn't need to hear her sob story. All he had to do was his part. Christian had a way of needling her, of making her feel like her curated control was slipping. She crossed the room and perched on the edge of the sofa, setting her phone down with deliberate precision.

"I am looking out for him. I love him. I have always loved him. I saw him before he was with her. I saw him change to be with her. Constantly twisting himself up into knots trying to be what she needed." Sloane said, her voice low and steady. “There's nothing wrong with him. He's a good man. Loving, kind, intelligent. She runs when shit gets hard. She has never held his hand through the bad times or stuck by his side. And she’ll drag him back into a depression when she leaves again. I'm trying to stop that."

Christian tilted his head, his brown eyes moving from amusement to something close to pity. "You really do think you love him, don't you?"

Nine words and it felt as if he'd slapped her in the face. She did love Jameson. She could think of no one she loved more. Why was she the only one to see it?

Sloane met his gaze head-on, her spine straight and unyielding. "I do love him. And I'm going to prove it."

Christian stared at her for a moment, taking a deep breath. Pity remained in his eyes and his voice rang hollow as he spoke -- but he nodded and relented.

"What's the plan?" "The party is the perfect opportunity to remind everyone—including Jamie—who Imani really is. The cameras will be there, the industry people. All it takes is one little push and the narrative changes. Not the loving couple who found their second chance at love. Jameson will be the spurned lover. Imani would be the evil girl who left him hanging. They won't seem inevitable to anyone paying attention." "And what’s my role in this?" "You’re the right guy to trigger a reaction out of Jameson. He doesn't like you. So get close to her. Make him doubt her. If this relationship is as fragile as I think it is, it won’t take much."

Christian stared at her for a moment, leaning back in his chair like it was the first time he'd ever seen Sloane. "Maybe you do love him. You certainly know how to hit him where it hurts."

Shame settled deep in Sloane's chest. She didn't want to hurt Jamie. The last thing she ever wanted to do was hurt Jameson and here she was -- planning a public way to do just that. She shut her eyes, reminding herself that after he and Imani were done, he'd never have to go through this again. Her gaze drifted back to the window, to the Los Angeles skyline glowing in the distance. "I'm doing what needs to be done." she murmured, almost to herself.

Behind her, Christian’s voice was a low purr. "The thing about doing what needs to be done is that it rarely ends the way you think it will, Sloane."

12 hours later...

The party was a masterpiece. Sloane stood near the grand staircase, her champagne flute balanced delicately in her hand, surveying the scene with apathy. Despite every detail being meticulously planned: the soft golden lighting, the perfectly curated guest list, the hum of conversation that never grew too loud. She wasn't interested in any of it. Sloane was waiting for Jameson's arrival. She leaned against the bannister, perched and waiting.

Her gaze swept the room, searching but she didn’t have to look long. Jameson and Imani had just arrived, their entrance turning heads as Sloane knew it would.

Imani looked polished, almost regal, in a black dress that clung to her figure, her hair swept up to perfection. Jameson, as always, exuded that effortless charm that made him impossible to ignore. And, of course, their hands were entwined, a public declaration that set Sloane’s teeth on edge.

She moved toward them, her heels clicking softly against the marble floor, her smile practiced and warm. "Jamie!,” she greeted, practically launching herself into his arms. The scent of his cologne was familiar, almost comforting and it only sharpened her resolve. He didn't let Imani's hand go but his free arm wrapped around her back to give her a tight hug. "I can't believe you disappeared off to god knows where! Poor EJ was eating lunch alone one day until I joined him..." Sloane trailed off, laughter caught in her throat as she realized Genie had shown up. Well, she hadn't counted on that. "Imani. Genie. Hi! You both look stunning. As always."

"Mhm. Thanks." Imani replied, her voice smooth but distant. Genie didn't reply at all. She gave Sloane a blank stare and then left the trio there.

It was awkward but Sloane bounced back, giving Imani and Jameson a bright smile. Her gaze dropped briefly to their joined hands before flicking back up. "I’m so glad you both could make it. Italian jetlag is no job. Even worse than the jetlag from Japan. C'mon. Some people are dying to see you, Jamie. We've all been looking for you."

As she led them further into the crowd, she kept her tone bright, but her mind was already spinning. Imani was playing the part well enough, but Sloane could see the cracks. The slightly too-tight smile, the way her eyes darted around the room, searching for an escape route. She didn’t really want to be there.

Perfect.

Sloane’s eyes darted to the far corner of the room, where Christian leaned casually against the bar, his sharp suit and easy grin making him look every bit the devil she needed him to be. He caught her glance and gave a subtle nod, his cue to begin moving into position.

For now, she let Jameson and Imani settle into the party, watching as they were intercepted by a group of executives eager to schmooze with James Lucas. Half of them were all too happy to shmooze with Jamie. But Sloane noticed with satisfaction that half of them wanted to connect with Imani. Little by little, the couple began to split. They let each other's hands go and slowly drifted into mini circles of their own.

Good.

Across the room, Sloane caught sight of Genie with...EJ. They were talking casually but something in the shy smile Genie gave EJ hit Sloane in the chest. They used to be friends and she knew that meant Genie liked EJ. EJ leaned in to say something to her and Sloane watched as Genie laughed out loud. That was good too. She may not be Genie's favorite person but Sloane wanted her to find happiness.

Christian sidled up beside her, his presence surprising her. Sloane flinched before turning to glare at him. "I guess I'm up now." He didn't even wait for a response. He put his hands in his pocket and made his way toward Imani. Sloane felt a surge of anxiety in her body. The pieces were falling into place. The party hummed around her, a symphony of chatter and laughter, but she could feel the tension building beneath it.

Christian’s gaze landed on Imani from across the room, and a soft smile tugged at his lips. She looked stunning, as always. He could count on Sloane to be self-serving but he hadn't known he was capable of it until she dangled the ultimate prize right in his face. He had always wanted Imani. He saw her at a friend's party and was enchanted with the way she spoke about her music dreams. Sure enough, she chased it and there she was. A star. He wanted to bask in it with her. He thought time was on his side. That one day...they would give it a chance. But he had been wrong.

Genie was beautiful. She was lovely in all the best ways -- a genuinely good spirit -- but he hadn't wanted her. It hadn't been as Sloane said. He didn't fake date her for Imani's attention. At least not on purpose. He had let Genie pursue him though. Turning her down had proved to be difficult. For all his faults, breaking a woman's heart hadn't been something he ever wanted to do...but he had done it. Twice. The night she walked in on him and Sloane, he watched it fade from her eyes. She had held him in such high esteem and then it evaporated to nothing within an instant. He was nothing to her.

He tried to apologize so many times but Genie effectively cut he and Sloane out of her life. She hadn't told a soul as far as he knew. He had been too ashamed to pursue Imani after that. He let her slip from Jameson's hands into some damn quarterback's. And then he watched them self-destruct. He thought now he could give it a go with her. But of course -- James Lucas was proving hard to forget. Well, tonight, he was determined to remind her that she deserved more.

"Imani" he greeted warmly as he approached, his voice soft but confident.

She turned, her expression neutral but polite. "Christian."

He smiled, careful to keep his tone light. "It’s been a while. You're as radiant as ever."

"What do you want?" she asked, her words blunt but not unkind.

Christian chuckled softly. "Straight to the point. I admire that about you." He stepped a little closer, lowering his voice to make the conversation feel more personal. "I just wanted to check in. See how you’re doing."

"I'm fine." "Good. I'm glad to hear that. Especially now that you’re back with Jameson." "We're not back together." "No? That entrance made me think you guys were." "Me and Jameson are nobody's business but our own." "I completely agree. I actually came to warn you." "About?" "Sloane."

He had her full attention then. He could see it in how the tense outline of her shoulders. Her gaze shot across the room and sure enough -- Sloane was with Jameson. Laughing and talking lowly. She lifted her hand, brushing it against his forearm as he told her some story. They looked close. Intimate even.

"What about her?" "I'm sure you trust him. But life with him comes with her attached." "How you figure?" "I mean...look at them." "I don't need to. I trust him." "Good. I hope you two are everything you want to be," he said carefully. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Christian sighed, shrugging his shoulder. "Look, I’m not trying to cause trouble. I just... I know how much you’ve been through with him. And I know how close he and Sloane are." Her brows furrowed, but she didn’t interrupt. The silence stretched on for a full minute before she spoke again.

"They're friends." she said firmly, though there was a hint of doubt in her voice.

"Maybe." Christian conceded. "But I’ve seen how she looks at him, Imani. And I’ve seen how he lets her. You deserve someone who puts you first, always. Someone who makes you feel secure."

Imani’s jaw tightened, and Christian softened his tone, wanting sincerity to shine though...even if he was being deceptive. "We don't know each other well but I know Genie. It didn't end well between us. but I know you mean the world to her. I'm trying to make up for my wrongs. You deserve the world, Imani."

Imani didn’t respond, brushing past him with a mix of grace and frustration. Christian watched her go, calling out before she left earshot, "If you ever need someone to talk to -- someone who can see you above all else -- I'm here." She didn't turn around but he knew she had heard him.

From across the room, he noticed Genie watching him. Her expression was cautious, her posture tense. A man next to her took a step forward, protectively placing a hand against her arm. Christian gave her a nod in greeting before moving back into the fringes of the party.

Genie’s eyes flicked back to Imani and Christian, her stomach twisting with unease. Christian’s hand lingered too close to Imani’s arm, his smile too practiced, too deliberate. Imani seemed to pull away slightly, but the subtle shift only made the tension between them more obvious. Genie’s heart tightened, and she couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy—though she quickly brushed it aside.

She had no right to feel that way, right? Imani was her best friend, and Jameson’s girlfriend. She'd never fall for the shit Christian could spew but...but why was he so fixated on Imani? First it was Sloane and now Imani? Both her best friends...but never her.

She glanced down at her glass, her fingers tightening around it. The conversations around her seemed to fade into the background. She was so used to living in the periphery of Jameson and Imani’s relationship, always supporting them, always being the friend. But now, standing here at the edge of the party, watching Imani and Christian, Genie realized how much of her life had been spent orbiting around their drama, their needs, their world.

She had spent so much time trying to hold everything together for them—always watching, always helping, never asking for anything in return. There was a beautiful, funny man standing next to her, wanting her. She wanted him just the same but she let the insecurity about Christian make her afraid. What good was life if she didn't actually live it?

A soft chuckle broke through her thoughts, and she turned to find EJ standing nearby, a playful grin on his face. “You okay?” he asked, his voice low, though his eyes were warm with concern.

Genie hesitated, then nodded, giving him a grateful smile. “Yeah, just... thinking.”

"About what?" "About the talk you wanted to have with me earlier?"

She watched his eyes go wide in surprise and couldn't help but laugh. She shyly dropped her gaze from his -- knowing that her sudden 180 had confused him but in an instant -- everything had become clear. It was scary trying to see where things go with him but she was going to do it anyway. “You want to get away from it all for a bit?”

He blinked, "What do you mean?”

Genie's grin softened, and there was something in her eyes -- something unspoken. “We could go upstairs. Get away from all the noise, have a drink, talk. Just... you and me.”

Her breath caught as she waited for his response. She’d spent so much time worrying about everyone else, about Imani and Jameson and their tangled mess of emotions. She’d spent so much time denying the way her heart fluttered every time EJ was near, pretending that the connection between them was nothing more than friendly flirtation. But maybe it was time to stop pretending.

She looked at him, really looked at him for the first time tonight. The way his eyes softened when they met hers, the way his lips quirked into that familiar, teasing smile. He was there for her, in a way no one else had been.

And maybe, just maybe, it was time to let herself feel something for once.

“Yeah,” he said quietly, "I think I’d like that."

She was sober. Completely sober. She'd only had a single glass of champagne but Genie couldn't explain what came over her when EJ closed the bedroom door behind them. She didn't even know whose bedroom this was! All she knew was that she decided to restart her life. She was going to start it right then. EJ lifted his gaze to her, giving that same patient and gentle grin...and Genie pulled him in for a kiss. She was all clumsy enthusiasm, making up for her impatience with the expert use of her tongue. By the time she was done with him, she was sucking on his tongue with gentle moans and she could feel him hard against her thigh. He pushed against her silk dress, hands grasping at the fabric covering her ass.

She was so caught up in kissing him that she didn't realize he had her dress raised over her hips and bunched up at the back. EJ expertly moved them until the wood of the door was pressed to her back. Genie broke the kiss in a daze, blinking back to some sense of sanity. She felt the chill of the wood against her ass, the thong she wore to avoid lines on her dress doing nothing to cover her up.

She saw in that moment that EJ was a man of precision and focus. He didn't attempt to undress her or even get himself unclothed. He simply shoved her tongue aside and delved into her wetness with his index and middle. He didn't set a brutal pace. He eased into her with care, watching as her stance widened as she tried to keep herself upright. Even the door wasn't enough support for her. "Ms. Adesanya needs some help, don't she?"

Genie whined, nodding her head. She fully expected him to hitch her leg up his waist and keep going. Instead, he dropped to his knees with ease. He placed her left leg over his shoulder and did the same with the right. It removed his fingers from her but she gave a yelp of surprise, realizing he was bearing the weight of her body on his shoulders. Genie reached out for anything, trying to grasp onto the door but it was useless. She had to put her trust into EJ. She forced herself to relax and it worked...for about five minutes. Until he put his mouth on her.

She moaned loudly, the sound echoing through the room as she fought the urge to twist her hips and grind against his face. The position meant she had to trust in him and not move too much. Her fingers found purchase in his jacket, pulling gently as she lost herself in the sensations. Every time he flicks his tongue against her sweet spot, Genie gasped. It wasn't long before he was picking up the pace, using only his tongue to get her off as his hands propped her thighs wide open.

The sound of his tongue lashing against her was joined by the sound of her getting wetter and wetter. The sound of sex filled the air, thick and heavy to the point where it felt like it'd choke her if she didn't say something. "E-EJ," she breathed out between moans, "That feels so good."

Her hips bucked wildly against him, seeking more contact with his eager mouth. He slid his tongue from her clit to between her folds, feasting on her pussy like he was a starving man who'd survived years without a meal. Her vision blurred with pleasure as she looks down at him. She couldn't close her legs around his head even if she wanted to. All she could do was take it.

Her body trembled with need as her jaw dropped. EJ focused on her clit, sucking with deep pulls. Genie couldn't speak, couldn't breathe. She simply...let it happen. She came on his face with a shudder, the ability to speak beyond her. She began to grind her pussy against her face and she felt him push himself forward, meeting every twist of her hips with eagerness. It was like he wanted her essence covering every inch of his skin. The realization made her come again. It hit her so hot and fast that she screamed his full name, becoming unbalanced. "I got you, Ms. Adesanya. I told you I had you." He whispered softly and she held those words close to her heart.

But she didn't hit the floor. EJ pulled back just enough to gently guide her down. There she lay -- on the floor or someone's bedroom, feeling delirious as a man who scared the shit out of her twelve hours ago continued to eat her out. It didn't matter that she had come twice. That damn tongue just kept lapping it all up. The more he licked at her, the more she gave him. It was neverending.

Genie hummed with happiness. EJ lifted his head to watch her. The silly little grin on her face made his dick throb but he knew this was as far as they were going to go. They had moved faster than he wanted to but he didn't turn the chance down. Sliding his fingers back into her, he kissed her thigh and tested her limits. He spent the next hour seeing what she could and couldn't take.

They didn't get up from the floor. His damn knees had started to hurt but he didn't break the spell -- even if there was a bed mere feet away.

Two fingers? Perfect. She rode em like a pro. Three? Tight fit but she took it and even squirted a bit to their surprise. Four? She came as soon as he even attempted to wedge his pinky inside of her. Direct contact with her clit? She loved it. Came within minutes. Indirect contact? She got impatient and bratty. Using his tongue? He could turn her into a grunting and gasping mess.

Never would he have thought that he could be so turned on by giving someone else nothing but attention and pleasure but there he was -- finding joy in devouring the girl he'd had a million fantasies about in a week.

Genie's back arched from the floor as he switched his attention to her clit, flicking it with his tongue in just the right way. Her thighs were wet, his face was a mess, and her moans had weakened in power. She was so lost in him that she didn't see the doorknob turn. EJ kept his attention on her, knowing whoever it was couldn't get inside. The door was locked. But Genie coasted towards yet another orgasm -- not giving a damn what was happening downstairs, who was at the door, or all the reasons this shouldn't happen. Her legs tensed and he could feel it wash over her.

"Fuck," EJ groaned against her, "Ms. Adesanya, Ms. Adesanya." Genie finally shut her thighs over his head, shaking her head. She couldn't take anymore. She flinched with her touch...even as he pulled away from her. "You can call me Genie now." She whispered to him, a blissed out grin on her face as he laughed out loud.

Jameson leaned against the bar, swirling the ice in his drink as Sloane’s laugh rang out beside him. She was recounting some ridiculous story about her latest project, her tone animated and her gestures exaggerated. The girl was a trip and he couldn't help but laugh when he was with her. They always had a good time. He chuckled absently, his eyes scanning the crowd for Imani.

"She"s probably off networking, I did see her with Christian McKay" Sloane said, following his gaze. "Don't worry so much! Or I mean...maybe she’s just avoiding us."

Jameson frowned at the mention of Christian McKay -- standing straight. He couldn't stand that bastard. But something Sloane said caused him to turn back to her. "Why would she avoid us?"

Sloane shrugged, sighing loudly. "Or maybe just me. I mean -- the mags tried to make it seem like we had something going on. Maybe she's uncomfortable with me. You don't have to worry though. I'm going to make sure she doesn't think that at all."

Jameson smiled faintly, lifting his hand to pat her shoulder in gratitude. "Thank you, Lo. I know you don't exactly approve but that means a lot to me."

Sloane's smiled up at him fondly. "I'd do anything for you, Jamie. Even if it means making nice with someone who causes stress and strife in your life."

Jameson rolled his eyes, scoffing as he dropped his hand from her shoulder. "Here we go again. I can handle Imani. I handled the drama in Italy. I can handle our relationship. Everything's fine."

Before she could respond, he saw Imani approaching and immediately perked up. Relief washed over him, her presence like a steady anchor in the chaos of the party. "Baby!" His deep voice called out as he grinned, waving her over. "C'mere!" The closer he got, the more he saw she was agitated. "What's wrong?"

She opened her mouth to speak but there was Sloane, waving her towards the bar. "She's fine. Don't be silly. Hi, Mani! So glad you could finally join us. Come. You have to have the dirty martini and tell me more about Italy. Jamie told me it was so sweet. Arguing, making up. Some would say that's the hallmark of a toxic relationship but I think that's pure romance for you two."

He saw it on her face before she even opened her mouth. She was pissed. Jameson turned to give Sloane a stare -- wondering what the fuck made her say that. "I see you been telling your lil friend everything."

Jameson's gaze shot from Sloane back to Imani and he could tell that he was in dangerous territory. "No, baby. I didn't --"

Sloane frowned, tilting her head as if she didn't understand. "Did I say something wrong? I was...just saying, it’s a shame you both went all that way just to bring your baggage with you."

"Alright, enough." Jameson said sharply, watching them both. Sloane lapsed into silence obediently but Imani didn't seem phased. She cocked her head to the side, glared at him, and then back at Sloane.

"Your friend got an issue with me or sum’n?" Imani asked, placing her hands on her hips. Attempting to hide the scowl on her face wasn’t an option anymore. She was too annoyed to try. Sloane had lapsed into silence but Jameson knew that wouldn't hold for long.

“No, baby. Why would she?” “Cause she keeps making all these snide ass remarks. I know you heard ‘em, Jameson.” “That’s just how she jokes, babe. She’s just playing around.” “Well you need to tell her that I don’t play like that 'cause she got one more time.”

He felt it spark something in Sloane. She put her glass down on the bar and took a step forward. Jameson immediately wedged himself between the two of them. he didn't know who the fuck Sloane thought she was fooling. she knew damn well she couldn't fight...but he knew Imani could. He knew she'd drag across the floor so good that her Prada pumps would snap in two. He had to figure out how to de-escalate the situation.

"I don't know what's going on with you, Imani." Sloane told her from behind Jameson but he saw her pop her head around his frame. "But I won't tolerate being disrespected at my own event."

People had started to turn and pay attention and slowly, you could hear a pin drop throughout the event. "Why the hell are ya'll putting me in this position?" he muttered to them both as Imani tried to sidestep him.

Imani's head cocked to the side. She looked at Jameson like he morphed into a mythical creature. “In this position? I don’t have no issues with her. She’s the one walkin’ around here like I’m fucking her man or something.”

Jameson frowned, “Cut that shit out. Sloane and I are just friends. Everybody knows that but you."

Imani rolled her eyes in that way he hated. “Are you sure she knows that? Have you seen the way she looks at you? That bitch is in love with you! Everybody sees it but you!” she sighed, wishing she could exhale the tension from her body as well. “I can’t say I blame her delusional ass though. I mean, look at how affectionate you are with her.”

"Hold on. How the fuck did this become my fault?" he retorted. "Because she's your problem. I bet if you walked up to that bitch right now and kissed her, she’ll let you.” "Would you just let it go? And stop calling her a bitch. I don’t know why you act like this over her. All I want is you!" “Well act like it then! Stop being all over her all the fuckin’ time. Then maybe she won’t get the wrong idea and --” “She knows we’re just friends! You’re the only one not seeing that. I’m not switching up how i act with my friend just because you made up a scenario in your head!" “Ohhhhh now I’m making up shit in my head? Go to hell, Jameson! I knew I shouldn’t have came to this dumb ass party! You want her here to just stroke your ego? Aight, bet!”

She turned away from him and he felt Sloane relax behind him, her hands grasping his shirt and forearm. As Imani made her exit, Sloane held him back. He immediately snatched away, upset at the turn things had taken. "Why the fuck did you antagonize her?" He rounded on Sloane with wide eyes.

Her lower lip quivered as she shook her head quickly. "I didn't mean to! You heard her being nasty to me. It's not my fault you care about me too. What does she want you to do? Abandon everyone but her?"

He clenched his jaw, words he wanted to say stuck in his throat. Jameson couldn't find it in himself to refute her claims. All he wanted to do was get to Imani. He shook his head and moved away from Sloane, quickly following Imani's steps out of the party -- to the amazed faces of partygoers. He could only imagine the fucking headlines tomorrow.

“Imani! Imani!”

She rolled her eyes, knowing exactly who it was. She didn’t bother to turn around. She busied herself with her phone instead, looking for a ride to get the hell away from there. She refused to put herself at risk for Jameson only to get disregarded for a bitch that he didn't even realize loved him.

“What do you want? Don’t you have a girlfriend to attend to?” she snapped. “I’m attending to her right now.”

She shook her head, normally charmed by his antics, but right now? She didn’t find anything he said to be amusing. “I’m not a second fiddle bitch, Jameson. You gone have to make a choice. It’s me or her.”

His eyes went wide and she knew he was either in shock or pissed. She didn't like either option. “Do you hear yourself right now? Are you really gonna make me choose between you and my childhood friend? That’s ridiculous, Imani.”

“That’s not your friend, Jameson! She’s a bitch. She's obsessed with you but you too blind to fuckin’ to see it cause you like that shit deep down.”

"So now Sloane is obsessed and I secretly like it? You don't hear the ridiculous shit coming out of your mouth?"

She scoffed, “Oh now I’m being ridiculous? Fuck you and that bitch, Jamie. Go back to her party and be with her.”

“I don’t want her! I want you.” "Like I said, it’s me or her.” “I'm not doing that, Mani. You’re not going to make me choose between you or my friend.” “Sounds like you made your choice to me, Jamie. Go marry her and have some light-eyed ass kids!” she said. “Have a nice life and leave me the fuck alone.”

Jameson took a deep breath and Imani knew he was searching for patience or some kind of reply. She didn't give a fuck what he had to say about anything anymore. She gave him the choice and the answer hadn't been her.

"Baby, this isn't fair. And it is ridiculous. I'm not giving up on us. I never will. But i want you to be clear -- it's you walking away. Again. Like you always do."

She laughed, shaking her head. "No, it's you, Jamie. You refuse to set boundaries between you and -- that girl. I like threesomes, but I'm not into polyamorous relationships so y'all have fun."

Sadness set into his expression and she knew she had to stay strong. It was like she told him in Italy -- a fuck ass speech wouldn't always fix things between them. He couldn't smooth over his mistakes with love or charm or sex. Not this time. "It's always only been you. You know that," he said softly. "She doesn't factor into our relationship. Never has. So why are we doing this? Why is this happening, Mani?"

Imani quirked a brow at him, tilting her head. "Does she know that? No. But i can't blame her. She gets you without the headaches. Without the fights. So y'all have at it."

Jameson frowned. "She gets a friend. You got my heart, Imani. Why is that never good enough for you?"

She shook her head, "It's not enough because you act like she got a piece of that shit too, Jamie! You can say you don't but why else would Sloane act the way she does?"

He huffed with frustration, moving away from Imani as he paced. He was getting angry and was doing his best not to show it. "I told you about her life. She doesn't have anybody but me and Genie. Just me now. I can't abandon her. I don't want to, Imani."

They just kept talking in circles. She knew they would never get anywhere. Imani put her hand up, shaking her head. "I told you. You gone have to choose. Me or her." The sleek Mercedes she'd requested to pick her up pulled to a stop at the sidewalk and Imani gave Jameson one last look before climbing inside. He looked so damn defeated that she didn't know what to do with herself. She chose to remain strong. She picked herself first over the stress and chaos that came with being with Jameson...and she didn't think there was anything he could say to change her mind.

#aaron pierre #megan thee stallion #aaron pierre fanfic #megan thee stallion fanfic #aaron pierre x black!oc #megan thee stallion x black!oc #original character #original characters #celebrity ocs #celebrity fanfic #celebrity fic #fanfic #fic: neon lights

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sangre · 5 months ago

Text

Pawn Behaviors - Beyond the Rift

yvaine ! ✧ / template.

note! spoilers ahead.

❖ BEHAVIORS & HABITS:

❖ COMMON:

yvaine is often resting with a hand on his hip, observing. he's an astute people watch and things rarely escape his notice. yvaine loves to study history so he tends to look into everything nearby – seeking out books if there's a phenomena to explore, looking into resources if he finds something interesting.

he's a logistician, so he'll usually be fussing with his hands. putting together flowers or making salves for adamaris to put to good use. he loves the language of flowers and what they say about the locations they grow in, their capacity to thrive in some places but not others. in NG+ as a thief, he takes to the ability to plunder quite well (and not without smug satisfaction). picking things off of enemies is his favorite. he loves to smile while he cuts something up and trick 'em quick.

➵ UNCOMMON:

he's a bit of a teacher's pet; hired pawns who go too far ahead or make complaints get a bit of a talking-to from him. he tends not to speak over others until he knows them a little, but yvaine can be a little catty. he doesn't like other pawns nosing around adamaris too closely unless it's with genuine interest, and isn't keen on others who try to give her unsolicited advice.

he likes whittling and sharpening his knives, heaven's key.

➵ RARE:

other pawns in the party may, after a particularly harrowing encounter, hear him talking (indecipherable) to his knives in the dead of night. he has a bit of a soul eater situation going on with them; the weapons carry the words and ambitions of the first cycle's adamaris. when he sleeps with them on his person, he dreams of her more clearly, and feels memories of her with a vividness. it's sort of like... he learned the thief trade at the end of their first cycle and that's when he began to get blood on his hands, so the voice of the first adamaris he met is comforting to him. NG+ adamaris doesn't know this until later though, and it would surely piss her off a little to find out.

➵ DRAGONSPLAGUE:

yvaine is... complicated. he grew thickly corrupted by plague towards the end of the first cycle, and cooperated with the pathfinder in order to re-implement it. as such, he's marked by the dragon who carries us in the true end, the watching one, which i want to coin as 'true plague' or 'fatesickness'. not the plague or influence of the reflections of the dragon – but the interruption of a pawn's entire being. when he is pulled from the rift in NG+, his ears are pointed like a manakete, his eyes flicker red in moments of high emotion, and he has fangs and the slight blooming of iridescent black/lilac scales on the backs of his arms/calves/hips.

when his fatesickness is active, it's usually due to high escalated danger. he's a little manic, feverish, running hot and eager. his movements are faster, more erratic, he's less careful and less aware of his own body. he tends to barrel roll around cliffs to corner adversaries and claw through enemies more messily.

he is a little more bold with PDA, he's more outwardly clingy and stingy with adamaris' space. he wants her full attention and is content to peacock for it, no matter who it endangers. 100% cobra flashing its hood.

❖ THOUGHTS & OPINIONS:

➵ THE ARISEN:

this is a snippet from my doc of these two, going from cycle one to NG+, where adamaris endeavors toward the true end, only to take the pathfinder's offer to resurrect her sister and resume the cycle: "he pitied and adored the arisen’s somber demeanor, exploring the world through the lens of her venomous grief. he absorbed much of it, coming to resent what of the world that she did, in his own way. protective by nature, he came to love the innocent and the lost, the wounded and vengeful – an unwitting shepherd who would wrest danger from others through his own body, and adopt their pain, all. as for the arisen, he was more her creation than merely her pawn, a rift-traveler, yes, but had he not come from more? made from all but the clay of her and the rib of her? before long, affection overcame his sense of reason—and he became more intimately enthused for what might become of a world written by adamaris’ will. (...) yvaine’s early attempts to still her hand grew corrupted by the influence of dragonsplague. he grew eager for the slaughter, unable and unwilling to control his zealotry toward his precious arisen. his master, yes, but his fatebreaker, too. she who inflicted him with Choice. the conflict of a life unspooled from the wheel — the one that adamaris fought for in the first place — had become his drive. (...) yvaine laments his master’s choice, but if it means they will not risk losing each other … he is content to be selfish and wrong."

➵ OTHER PAWNS:

yvaine is very pleasant! he is friendly, amicable, sensitive to the needs of others, hopeful, helpful, and courteous. he's a polite and thoughtful companion who is eager to help other pawns out of harm's way. he wants them to like adamaris beyond surface level, so he tries to explain his actions to them. to express something remarkable.

that said, yvaine is very earnest, so long as another pawn isn't obstructing him or agitating/disobeying the arisen. he tries to invest in the other riftwalkers and better get to know those who travel with him... he may whittle them little gifts, find them herbs or flowers they may enjoy, or show them places that would appeal to them.

➵ WORLD:

yvaine is most excited by finding shards of wakestones in graveyards and amidst cemeteries. he will comment on this very excitedly for adamaris' sake, because he knows it furthers her work. "arisen! we've found another means for your life's work, yet!"

ironically, she resents wakestones, but she knows she needs them, so she appreciates it.

he also loves waterfalls. he loves standing near the mist of a waterfall and feeling the drips that flick his face. "how alive i feel, face to face with this body of life. would that the brine reached toward us with a hand this merciful."

he almost always comments on the starry nights, and how at ease it leaves him to see them all aglow. but you know how that one goes. :3

➵ BATTLE:

he is fairly defensive for the most part, but cutthroat too.

yvaine in NG+ especially is a quick and efficient killer. it's only when his plague is active that he tends to draw out suffering of something that's being particularly irritating.

➵ NPC’s:

yvaine loves raghnall, particularly because after being separated from the arisen, he came out of the caves with raghnall safe and sound, so he's someone reliable. i think yvaine himself wants also the chance to spar with him - the two of them share a similar sort of... clever mischief and movement. not to mention, he's a renowned warrior who must have countless stories, which yvaine would be happy to hear; if he could have a pen pal, he would choose raghnall.

yvaine does NOT care for phaesus, but he feels slightly indebted to him for saving his life, which he does not care for, either.

he really likes wilhelmina - she's elegant and dangerous and stuck her neck out for them, but is a little envious, because adamaris quite adores her. he's like 'did you kill for someone other than me... i understand... i understand (´ ᯅ `)'

he also loves the babys in vermund, as he got on very well with them/is good with children in general - he engages them and they think he's a funny little man. he asks after daphne every so often when they visit.

➵ QUESTS:

following the stolen throne, yvaine procures some masquerade-suitable clothing of his own. though he cannot enter alongside adamaris that night, he does ask him for a dance near the cliffs of the rose chateau.

regarding saint of the slums, yvaine has an idea right away as to what kind of experiments the abbess is running. he talks to adamaris a little about her own research in alchemy and the human body, which sparks a conversation of ethics. adamaris is passionate about lady elena betraying a position of virtue and living a falsehood in terms of failing to truly help people, but he can also see that there were some people in the city that were grateful for what she'd done. yvaine learns a little bit about the complications of trying to transcend humanity, and finds himself glad that he can be of service, in his own way.

a game of wits makes him very happy. his stomach is indelibly tight when the sphinx asks who adamaris' beloved is. even presuming it makes him feel nauseous. but of course, she rests her hand on his back and urges him onto the platform, where he exhales with grandest relief. he-he. he's been beaming, smugly, ever since. "master...! i had suspected that she might only gauge the depth of … if… and… between you and i…" [giggly] "well glad am i that i could assist you with this puzzle, is all i mean to say. heh!"

oh, yvaine.

➵ BONUS:

he's my little star, you understand.

#dd2 #dogmert.png #s: yvamaris #SickosYes.jpg #ch: adamaris solvesal #ch: yvaine

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