#you make others miserable to be around you

[hheonki]

HOLD ME TIGHT ᶻz

WHEREIN HE PAINTS THE SONIC MEME BC OF YOU

【 🍪 】 bf riki & fem! reader ᐢ..ᐢ est. relationship, skinship, petnames ✿ 711 ✴︎ co𝒍e𝒄𝒄i𝒐́n, reblogs and fb appreciated 🌷

notiza: I got the idea for this bc of yin yet again

Sitting closely beside Riki on the carpet, you're mindlessly scrolling on your phone while he tries to sketch out the freaky sonic meme on a sketch book that you've been annoyingly pestering him with, ever since he dyed his hair blonde and slicked it back.

He kept denying the similarity and mentioned how ugly the purple hedgehog is, his cheeks would be puffed, his eyebrows scrunched, letting out a sigh afterwards sulking as he utters about, how could you even say to your boyfriend that he looks anything similar to a freaky meme..

“Ki?” glancing up from your phone you mumble out of boredom, before you could even get out another word— he puts up his hand as a sign for you to stop.

“Babe you don't even know what I was about to–” he looks up from the sketch stopping you once again from continuing your sentence, “Actually, I do.”

“Really? So what was I about to say?”

you plague further, poking his side with your finger. “You're bored, I can sense it..” he narrows his eyes at you. “You caught me” you let out a dramatic sigh.

With a groan– you swiftly lay your head on his lap, nose poking his tummy, wrapping your arms around his waist, unconsciously closing your eyes, basking in your surroundings with the record player in the background.

Riki lets you rest, he wouldn't admit it but he likes how you find comfort in him, it's like fate was on his side for meeting you back then, that's what he tells you on late nights while you both lay wide awake, trying to sleep, yet failing oh so miserably.

Being done with the sketch he puts aside the lead pencil and grabs the acrylic paint to twist open the lids, tipping some on the paint palette made of glass.

Your eyes are shut, breathing in his soft but musky cologne that you bought him as a gift, “Riki?” you voice consciously, “Yes baby?” he asks, glancing down at you, patiently waiting for you to continue.

“Are you done yet?” you ask as drowsiness overcomes you.

“No princess, I'm not done.. unfortunately” Riki whispers in a soft tone, bringing one hand down to your head and brushing through your locs while the other resumes on painting.

A yawn escapes you as you squeeze his waist once, “I'm kinda sleepy”. His hand trails from your hair to your cheek brushing it tenderly in a circling motion, as comfort.

He laughs at your tired expression, “Princess don't you wanna see the end result?” you nod your head as you let go of his waist and sit up, rubbing your eyes before you catch him already staring, you make eye contact as he sets down his brush on the coffee table.

“C'mere..” he utters and pulls you from your waist in his embrace, holding you tightly as if you're his own personal plushie. You give in easily and rest your head on his shoulder while his arms wrap around your body, as though protecting you from any harm.

“You really love annoying me, don't you?”

“But you like it ki” you nuzzle your face in the crook of his neck.

“I'm not sure I do..” he tilts his head in thought to tease you. “So you hate me?” poking his chest with your finger, you pull away, squinting your eyes as you glance up at him.

“Oh my dramatic baby here we go again..”

he lets out an exaggerated sigh, squeezing you in his hold.

The only sound that filled the peaceful silence came from the speaker, playing soft tunes.

Your voice cuts through the calm stillness,

“I kinda like sitting around doing nothing with you…” The blonde boy stares at you intently.

“With you at my side, even if we don't talk, you know?” Riki listens to you, he always does when you talk, excited or composed, he likes it.

He hums, holding you close, in the warmth of your apartment, the sketch book, brushes and paint long forgotten, the tunes from the record player stopping a long time ago, yet the both of you didn't even notice, while being in each other's presence.

Maybe love is just about being with your favourite person, and enjoying your time together.

[littlerosetrove]

I've made a post similar to this I'm sure, but I'm going to say it again that Tommy is my favorite partner Buck has ever had. To be clear, this has nothing to do with Tommy being a man. Let me explain.

While Abby was definitely a big milestone and someone transformative for Buck, if you look at it plainly, Abby saw Buck as a nice distraction, a play thing, from her life and not much more. Don't get me wrong, I don't think Abby is a bad person, but she did make some shitty decisions. I think even when it became clear to Abby that Buck wanted more, saw more between them than apparently Abby ever did, well she still ghosted him. The whole relationship was lopsided.

Ali was barely around, in more ways than one, for there to be anything significant said about her. In the end she couldn't handle Bucks job, so she left.

Some folks find entertainment in mess, and I do sometimes as well, but I found zero enjoyment in the mess that was Taylor and Buck. A big reason why is because I love Buck as a character, and all I've ever wanted for him is happiness and for Buck to be comfortable in himself, two things we didn't really get to see when he was with Taylor. It was rather miserable to watch Buck be in an, overall, unhealthy relationship. It was clear from early on they would never last, and still we had to watch their unhappy relationship be dragged around for an entire season. While I'm sure Buck had some happy moments with Taylor, it was never a consistent thing at all. As well, you cannot look my in the eyes and tell me Buck ever felt comfortable to be fully himself in that relationship. I did not find watching two people be generally miserable together interesting.

Natalia was an underwritten character. For me at least, we got so little from her that I could never understand her motivations for things. All I knew was that she was mostly interested in Buck dying, she was uncomfortable with Bucks personal life and background, and so I never understood why she decided to stick around. And then of course we had Buck say in season 7 that he broke up with her because she was really only interested in death, and I think his death specifically. Mm.

When it comes to Tommy, we've never seen such joy, excitement, contentment, ease, and happiness from Buck. We've never seen Buck feel so comfortable to be himself with a partner before Tommy. Tommy accepts Buck for who he is, and loves him anyway. He supports Buck and always comes when Buck needs him. They're playful with each other and clearly just genuinely enjoy each others company. In Bucks previous relationships, so many aspects felt conditional.

Plus, I like Tommy as a character separate from Buck. He's funny, sarcastic (which Buck loves), generous, kind, loyal, caring, smart, brave, scared, patient, gentle, realistic, a dork, empathetic, and I could go on.

Buck and Tommy may be currently broken up, but the show has made it clear that they both still care deeply about each other (hello, Buck is still baking months after the breakup). They're in a "will they, won't they" situation, and I'm choosing to believe they will get back together in season 9. Their biggest issue is miscommunication, which is not an insurmountable hurdle to cross.

[musette22]

One common thing people who support Steve's endgame ending claim is that Steve was always miserable in the future. He never adjusted or felt at home in the future, so of course when he got the chance to go back to the past he took it.

However the only proof of this is at the start of catws (and that deleted avengers scene). Yes he was feeling lost and adrift but he didn't stay that way. He made friends with Sam and Natasha and Wanda and Thor and he got Bucky back. He found a purpose and became confident in who he was and what he believed in. Steve may have moments of feeling sad, but if you think he stayed that way for 12+ years you're not giving him enough credit.

And the claim that he was always miserable isn't true either. He joked with his friends on several occasions, and I mentioned how much better he was when he became nomad. And sorry to steggy or staron shippers, but Bucky made Steve happier than anyone else did. Look at the museum footage of them, or them looking at each other in infinity war. He was happy without Peggy.

Also I think fans forget the scene in catws where Sam asks him if he misses the past. And what does Steve say in response? He lists things he likes about the future and makes a point of not romanticising the past. It's especially important that he was talking to a black man while saying this. We rightly talk about how awful Bucky would feel about Steve leaving to live a life without him, but also imagine being Sam and hearing that your friend wants to go life in a time when someone like you had less rights than you do now.

And you know the line about shared life experience? It applies to Bucky of course but in endgame you could also apply it in a non romantic way. Because you say Steve was out of place in the future? Well in endgame he was surrounded by people in the same situation. Countless people were forced to adjust to a time they didn't know. Steve is uniquely qualified to bond with these people. And choosing to go back to the past puts him right back where he was when he first went to the future. He again has to adjust to a time he's not familiar with.

Funny how in order to justify his ending you have to ignore what his story has previously shown us.

THANK YOU! This is so very true, all of it. Completely agree, you make so many excellent points.

Of course Steve felt lost and adrift at first: he was. He was all alone in a foreign time, he lost everyone, he had ptsd because of the war he fought in and everything that had happened to him etc. etc. It would've been strange if he hadn't been depressed in those first years.

But you're right, he was already making significant steps towards being more settled in the new century by the time Bucky returned, and then when he did, I would argue he became a sort of anchor for Steve in the new time. And from that moment on, Steve really started to belong, and realize that he didn't want to go back, but forward. Like, Nomad Steve was NOT dreaming about going back to the 40s, there is no way. That man belonged right where he was, with Bucky by his side, and he knew it.

Home. And he did not mean bloody 1945.

(Gif credit @/dailystevegifs from this gifset)

Also, can I just say that Steve never seemed particularly happy or settled in the 30s/40s? Yes, he had his mother and he had Bucky, and yes, it was "his" time and Brooklyn and I'm sure he came to miss it once he couldn't go back to it anymore, but he was often sick and he was poor and he was frustrated with the world around him and his own body's limitations, and he always wanted sometimes else, something more.

And sure, one could argue that he finally found his calling once he was given the serum and became Cap (and got a healthy body that fit his spirit), but we know he was still miserable at first, as a dancing monkey. I do think the period of time after he'd rescued Bucky, when the Howling Commandos worked closely together for a few years, must've been a special time for Steve, which he will have missed later on for sure. But it was still wartime. Wartime, and being in a war zone, is miserable, and far from a dream life for Steve. So like... what exactly was he supposedly longing for in the past so much that it would've been impossible for him to ever settle in the present? The thing he most clearly missed from his past was Bucky, and he got him back.

So yeah, I think Steve was just fine where he was eventually, and he would have never, ever thrown everything he’d built, the life that had become his, and everyone he'd come to care about and who cared about him, casually out of the window in order to go back to a past he never gave any indication of actively wanting to go back to.

Funny how in order to justify his ending you have to ignore what his story previously showed us.

Exactly that. That's precisely what Endgame did: it ignored Steve's previous story and his character development over several movies in order to shoehorn in the heteronormative ending the studio execs apparently demanded. Spineless, inane bullshit, if you ask me.

[sorryitsmyfirstdayonearth]

how do you think the boys yearn/deal with a crush? I’m trying to envision a dynamic between a hunter reader and the two brushing off their feelings

Oh I LOVE this question with all my heart! Thank you, anon, for sending it in! ❤️

It's kind of a shame we never got to see either of them really with crushes. Out of all the romantic scenarios the show didn't have (which is fine, not complaining at all, we wouldn't have that much amazing fan fic if it did, is my theory) them yearning/pining is the thing I would have loved to see the most.

Dean just becomes a puppy dog, I think. He's all smiley and giggly around her. Hangs on every word she says. That woman can do no wrong. Extra points if she's a bit of a trouble maker, and Dean gives her a pass on everything, which reeeeally weirds out Sam, cause he wouldn't get away with half the stuff you do!

It's only when she puts herself in real danger that Dean's super protective side comes out. He can't contain the worry, gets grumpy. He's angry at whoever hurt her, and they'll get what's coming to them, but his fear for her safety translates into a bad mood. No assurances from her side that she's fine are gonna calm him down, either - it takes hours for him to get out of that state, and at some point, when all her wounds are taken care of, he'll probably isolate himself, stew a bit. Love's great and all, but it's exhausting. He doesn't know how to make her his, and he doesn't know how to be around her when that's all he wants to do. Maybe at some point he'll try to take a step back, keep some distance. But at the first sweet smile or inside joke, he's right back where he was before.

Sam's kinda similar, except that he makes sure to keep his distance the moment he realizes there's something going on. He's seen the show too - well, he lived it - and he knows he's no good in that regard. Plus he's got better self-control than Dean. Still, he can't help being drawn in my the little things: you sharing your excitement about something you read, you getting a little cocky and playfully flirty once you've had a drink. When he reaches for something for you and passes it down, and you look up at him with that look that tells him you know he enjoyed that. But it can never be. Sam knows that.

He gets jealous as hell, but doesn't allow himself to express it. He doesn't have any right to you, he knows that. Doesn't matter how much he imagines things could be different, how much he wishes they were. He lies awake at night, one arm tucked behind his head, deep frown on his face while that big brain goes over the problem he's trying to solve again and again. There is no solution. He rolls onto his side and tries to sleep, but only dreams of you.

And I know you didn't ask for this specifically, but if they're both down bad for you? Oh man. They can read each other, know each other so well, so they immediately know what is going on . There's no way either of them is going to get in the way of his brother getting what he wants, getting something good - and you are the best there is. They'll both try to keep their distance, failing, of course, miserably. Cause how can they stay away when you make them feel so alive so good? Something's gotta give, but whether it's an unplanned kiss after surviving a life threatening situation, you taking the initiative or confronting them about acting like absolute weirdos - only time will tell.

[impala666]

3 A.M & Quesadillas ~ John Carter x reader

I know, I know. I said I wanted more of Luka Kovac, and I've been working on a few things for him. But for some reason writing for John Carter is easier for me, I have no idea why. But I hope everyone enjoys this. Carter just needs someone to love him and be on his side for once, so that's what I did.

You found yourself waking up, at first you weren’t sure as to why. But then you felt the cold sheets on the other side of the bed. It had been a month since you and your husband John moved in to his grandmother and late grandfather’s house. It took some getting used to. Your whole life you’d lived in ranch styled houses or tiny apartments, kind of like the one you and John lived in before you moved. Now you lived in a mansion practically, and a staff that would try to wait on you hand and foot. However, you weren’t about to complain about the big bed and comfortable as hell mattress that you shared with your husband. But more and more you seemed to be waking up in the middle of the night to find John not next to you. Not that you could blame him after the trauma of the stabbing and losing Lucy, then his grandfather dying, the two of you working crazy hours at County Hospital, then of course his grandma falling ill. To which you knew the woman was practically his mother, because god forbid his mother from coming around at all to lend a helping hand or to even just to make sure that her son was okay. Then of course John had his insomnia on top of that, so he hardly slept.

Sitting up in the bed, you pushed the lush comforter off of you and moved to grab your sleep shorts from the floor to wear along with a t-shirt of John’s so you could go on search for your husband. Finally after slipping on your slippers you left the bedroom en route to the kitchen. Whenever John couldn’t sleep you could find him eating or drinking something in the kitchen, in the living room reading a medical journal, or sitting outside if it was nice. But this was Illinois, so of course it was raining. A tired smile grew on your lips when you found him cooking something at the stove. But as you quietly walked into the room you noticed the time on the stove clock, it was 3 in the morning. The two of you had worked 12 hour shifts not that long ago and the two of you had to be  up in another few hours to head out to go to your next shifts, however when you walked up behind him and wrapped your arms around his waist and felt his warmth that went out of your brain. 

“Hey, what’re you doing up?” John tiredly smiled down at you. He switched his spatula to his non dominant hand so his dominant hand could lace with the fingers of the hand that was wrapped around him.

“Shouldn’t I be asking you that? I woke up alone without my personal space heater, so I had to come find him.” You spoke into him softly as you pressed your face and nose into his back so you could embrace his warmth along with his scent. John let out a small huff of a chuckle as he took your hands from his waist so he would wrap his arm around your shoulders and bring you into his side. To which you again buried your face into once again.

“Well, you found him. He was just a little hungry, so he came down to make himself a quesadilla.” John smiled softly still as he played into the game you were playing with him. 

“A quesadilla? At 3 in the morning?” You finally took your face out of the warmth of John’s side to watch as he flipped the tortillas and cheese that were sizzling on the pan.

“Which is exactly why you should go back to bed. No sense in the both of us being miserable tomorrow. Well, I guess today, technically.” You shook your head as cheese flew out of the tortilla mid-flip, but also at his trying to take care of you. He was one to talk, the man took care of everyone else around him so that he would not have to face the problems that he was dealing with. Sure, he loved helping people, hell that’s why he became a doctor, but he also hid in it. But that was a conversation for another day. You just wanted to enjoy the quiet early, rainy morning with your husband before the two of you had to be your professional work selves.  

“Nope. No way.” You shook your head at him. “If you’re up then I’m up. So we’ll just be miserable together later. Now, scoot.” You demanded as you bumped your hip against his own to get him out of your way.

“What are you doing?” John asked in fake offense as he tried not to burst out laughing at you taking over.

“You are making a mess. Plus now I want one so I will take care of it, okay?” John just stood there with his arms crossed over his chest, not really believing that you just did that. But of course he believed it, because he knew what you were doing. You were taking care of him.

“I was doing just fine.” His voice rose an octave in defense.

“You literally just got cheese everywhere, Johnny.” You told him as you took his off of the pan and added a new tortilla to the pan to start your own. 

“ You like taking care of me don’t you?” Now it was John’s turn to wrap his arms around your waist and press a kiss to the top of your head

“It is one of my favorite pastimes.” You smiled at him. You turned yourself around in his arms and firmly put your hands on his chest. “Now, would you be so kind as to start a pot of coffee?” Asking him sweetly. 

“Coffee and a quesadilla, doctor?” Carter looked at you like he couldn’t believe the combination of food that you have chosen to have for breakfast. But it was you who was surprised. The two of you had eaten much weirder things with coffee. One of the things being sushi of all things. But when you need caffeine, you need caffeine. 

“Well I’m up now and I think you are too so we might as well start with it to keep us going.” You quirked an eyebrow up at him. 

“Hmm, touche.” John agreed with you and nodded before leaning forward to kiss your jaw before leaving your embrace to start his coffee duties. As the coffee was percolating he came back by you but you shook your head and gently grabbed his wrist. Which earned you a confused look in return.

“Sit down, relax, and let me serve you.” You said softly. John looked at you like you had grown a second head. He looked at you unsure, and a little bit like he couldn’t believe that you were doing this. 

“You know you’re not my mother right?” John asked as he took a seat on one of the bar stools that were placed at the island in the middle of the kitchen.

“I know,” you smiled to yourself slightly as you sliced both of your breakfasts. “And appreciate it that you say that, because most men just assume we’re here to fill that roll.” You placed the plate with the steaming in front of both of the seats before walking back over to the coffee pot to pour the both of you a cup. John didn’t say anything. He just sat and ate his quesadilla and stared at you like he could not believe that you were in the room with him at that moment. 

“But you don’t need to take care of me.” He finally said, very quietly while he helped you climb up into the bar stool next to him.

“I know I don’t need to, John,” you took a small sip of the hot coffee. The effects of the coffee waking you up ever so slightly. “But I want to, I mean you are my husband. Even before our wedding I wanted to.” John opened his mouth to say something, but before he could you put your hand on his arm to keep him from doing so. You needed him to hear this. “You have been killing yourself trying to take care of literally all of the adults in your life. Not just at work. You have been helping your grandmother; who might as well be your mother, considering she raised you. You have been helping her grieve your grandfather, along with her illness. Which you’re also medically helping her with also. Then your mother and father finally come back, drop the bomb on Christmas that they’re getting a divorce. Which they’re putting you in the middle, and don’t tell me they aren’t. I mean you had the worst thing happen to you last year. I mean, you were stabbed. Almost died, almost couldn’t walk again. But now they come back.” You were getting yourself all worked up thinking about his parents, you were beginning to lose your point. But John rubbed your back with one hand and put his other hand on top of your own hand to comfort you and calm you down. “So, no. I don’t mind taking care of you. Because I love you, and I want to.” You said much softer, not realizing until now that your voice grew in volume during your rant.

“Thank you for saying that.” John smiled and blushed all bashful as he reached forward to run his thumb over your chin and feel your face. You turned your head to place a kiss on his thumb before turning to start in on your food. “I love you, so much.” 

P.S- Note from author: TBH I don't know if this was finished or not. If it seems like it just ended out of no where, please let me know. It just felt done.

[callmemonster68]

no doubt | enhypen

A harmless game turns into a forbidden test of recognition by touch, where Y/N finds herself blindfolded, and at the mercy, of hands that explore her without restraint.

paring: enhypen x fem!reader 18+ | masterlist

wc: 748 

warnings: nsfw, group sex,masturbation

The room was lit only by the bluish light of the television, bodies sprawled on the sofa, some on the floor, all relaxed after hours of watching a variety show. The episode showed a group of idols playing a peculiar challenge: one of them was blindfolded while the others tried to excite him only with the touch of their hands.

Y/N let out a low laugh, taking a sip of their drink before murmuring:

Y/N: Ah, I would recognize you just by the touch of your fingers.

The silence that followed was broken by a mocking laugh from Jay.

Jay: You're kidding, right?

Y/N: No (shrugged, smiling slightly). I've spent enough time with you all to know who is who just by touch.

Jake tilted his head, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Jake: This seems like a challenge.

Jungwon: What if we tried? (suggested, the voice sounding casual, but laden with something denser)

Y/N blinked, surprised by the unexpected suggestion. She didn't mean it in the way they were taking it, but the idea hung in the air, dense, laden with something forbidden.

Sunghoon: What happened? (smiled) Are you that sure?

The heat rose to Y/N's face, but she didn't back down.

Y/N: I do.

And so it was that, minutes later, she found herself naked on the couch, blindfolded, her heart hammering in her chest. Her legs were open, her pussy throbbing and exposed to the group that was now about to test her in a way she had never imagined.

Jungwon: Ready? (Jungwon's voice came low and deep in your ear, a tone that sent shivers down your spine)

She nodded, biting her lip.

The first touch was hesitant, fingers sliding gently over her skin before descending to where the moisture was already trickling. She held her breath.

Sunoo: Who is it? (Sunoo's voice came playful, but laden with expectation and pure mischief)

The touch was delicate, almost careful, but she already knew.

Y/N: Sunoo (murmured, trying not to be overwhelmed by the pulsing heat between his legs)

A satisfied laugh echoed, and the touch disappeared. Soon another came, firmer, fingers sliding inside her without haste, teasing and making her gasp.

Heeseung: And this one? (he asked, his voice hoarse, dragged by desire)

The pleasure rose in slow waves, and Y/N took a deep breath, trying to maintain clarity.

Y/N: Heeseung... (responded, their voice already tinged with desire)

He laughed softly.

Heeseung: Good girl.

The game continued, but the touches began to intensify, becoming more eager, more ravenous. Now it was not just fingers teasing her—hands were holding her, mouths were marking her, moans echoed around her. The sofa became a stage of unrestrained lust.

The next was Niki, pushing two fingers deep inside her without any warning.

Niki: Do you recognize? Or are you so messed up that you can't even think anymore?

Y/N: Ni..Niki. (she moaned too loudly, gasping, her body reacting violently)

Niki: You didn't imagine it would end like this, did you? (his voice sounded close, laden with sadistic amusement and pure dominance)

Before she could catch her breath, another pair of hands grabbed her, this time with force, pulling her without gentleness.

Jay: And now? (snarled against her skin, his fingers dancing lazily on her thigh before cruelly sliding inside her)

She gasped, feeling completely at their mercy.

Y/N: Jay…

Jay: Hm, smart. But still very aware. Let's change that.

Jake was next, his fingers sliding to her clitoris, circling it with torturous precision, making her writhe.

Jake: And me? (he asked, his voice laden with wickedness)

Y/N tried to bite their lip to stifle a moan, but failed miserably. The pleasure was unbearable.

Y/N: Jake…

Jake: Yes, moan nicely for us, bitch.

The touches alternated, the provocations increasing. They were no longer just testing her perception; they were completely ruining her, turning her into nothing more than a toy surrendered to pleasure.

Jungwon held his hair, pulling his head back.

Jungwon: Look at you... so desperate, so wet. Tell us, do you want more?

Y/N: Y-yes...

Sunoo laughed, his hand sliding under her chin, forcing her to look at him.

Sunoo: Good puppy. But you haven't seen anything yet.

And before she could even process it, she was subjugated in a way she had never imagined, taken to extremes of pleasure and humiliation that left her completely surrendered.

That night was far from over.

✿ If you don't reblog and comment, you can be sure I'll be showing up in your dreams tonight... and I won’t be as sweet as in the story ✿

[tinygameralec]

The magnificent @redheadsramblings gave me permission to write and post this little follow-up to their wonderful shortfic here.

---

There's a long beat of silence as the group takes in the bizarre vision of a drunk Emmrich Volkarin lying on the floor. What, the tension says, the absolute fuck?

And then Bellara is on her feet, getting everyone's attention with a sharp clap. "Alright! Taash, can you carry him? We need to get him to bed. Davrin, you and Assan are on Manfred distracting duty. Lucanis, Lace, can you clean up? Great, thanks."

Nobody thinks to argue. They've all just been reminded, very firmly, that Bellara has built her life around the Veil Jumpers and the long string of crises and chaos that is exploring Arlathan. Neve especially is thinking about how she normally works alone, and that they don't worry about her unless she hasn't turned up in a week.

Bellara is kind of scary.

Taash carefully picks the Professor up, and Davrin goes hunting for Manfred with Assan leading the way. Cleaning up happens. And Bellara leads the way to his rooms, and the bed just big enough for two if they like each other very much that hides behind his bookcases.

She knows that the Professor likes Rook very much indeed, and Rook likes him back just as fiercely. She saw Rook's face when Ghila'nain was talking about what she wanted to do to him. She's glad that the false god screamed when Lucanis killed her. She deserved more, just for threatening her friends. There wasn't enough punishment in all the world for what she'd done to the Wardens and D'Meta's Crossing.

"Weird," Taash says when they see where Emmrich sleeps, but it's not their normal tone. It's sad, and tired, and Bellara understands.

"Thanks, Taash," she says as they carefully lay him down on the mattress. The bed isn't huge, but it's comfortable, and he naturally gravitates into the dips in the mattress. It looks wrong without Rook cuddled up next to him.

"Yeah. I'll... go keep Manfred busy, I guess. He's not bad, for a weird little magic skeleton." Taash looks back in the doorway, opens their mouth. Then frowns and leaves, and Bellara wonders what she wanted to say.

"Sorry Professor." She carefully unpins his collar, eases his boots free, carefully undoes the buttons on his waistcoat. He wouldn't want any of them to see him like this, she thinks, but she hopes they've been friends for long enough that he'll forgive her.

He wakes as she shifts him to try and remove his sash, and looks at her with bleary, miserable eyes. He's not really conscious, she thinks, not with the amount of alcohol he put away earlier, but in that weird stage of awake-asleep that lies on the edge of it.

"Bel...?" he manages, and he sounds so miserable it hurts. "Why 'm I... Should be looking. Need to find Rook."

"Professor," she says, but he keeps mumbling. She can see him getting ready to launch himself out of bed and back into it, and she can't stand it. "Professor!"

He looks at her in surprise.

"Please," she continues, because if she pauses to think about what she's saying she'll lose it. "Please, get some sleep. We'll wake you if we make any progress, I promise. You know I keep my promises."

"...You do." He seems more lucid, but more tired. She hates it. "But I have to help them. I... I need to tell them I was wrong. I was stupid. I love them so much and I said such terrible things! I can't-"

"Stop!" She feels tears hammering behind her eyes, and forces them down. "Please... Professor. Emmrich." He gasps, and she realises she's almost never called him by name. She needs to fix that.

"Rest, please." She takes his hands in hers and squeezes firmly. One of his rings digs uncomfortable into her palm, but she doesn't let go. "You haven't slept since we lost them. And I'm scared. We're all scared. But we're not going to help them by hurting ourselves. They deserve our best, don't they?"

"They do." Emmrich lays his head down, eyes wet. His hands tremble in hers. "Stay with me until I sleep?"

"Of course."

[alisonsfics]

off limits - part six

pairing: brother’s best friend! henry cavill x reader

summary: henry was best friends with your brother, theo, which meant despite the clear chemistry between you two, you both had chosen to not date.

word count: 4.1k

part 1 / part 2 / part 3 / part 4 / part 5 / part 7 coming soon

After the train wreck of Theo setting you and Henry up with separate people, you felt surprisingly secure in your relationship with Henry. You both didn’t have all the details worked out, but you knew staying apart wasn’t the answer.

Theo and Sarah’s wedding was just three weeks away. Tonight, they were hosting an engagement party barbecue at their house with the entire wedding party and other friends and family.

You and Henry had agreed to drive to the party together.

Before that, you wanted to talk to Henry to make sure you both were on the same page. He was currently on his way over to your apartment.

You found yourself anxiously pacing around as you waited for Henry to arrive. The more you spent time with Henry, the more you missed him when he wasn’t there.

When he knocked on the door, you practically ran to open it.

You opened the door to reveal Henry holding a small bouquet of flowers. “What’s this lovely surprise?” You asked, feeling your heart melt at the gesture. You’d known for a while that Henry wasn’t like the other guys you’d dated.

“I felt so bad seeing you cry at the gala last night. I know it wasn’t my fault, but I wanted to cheer you up.” He said, smiling at you. You threw your arms around his neck, pulling him into a hug. He didn’t waste any time hugging you back— wrapping his arms tightly around your waist and burying his face in your neck.

“I’ve missed you,” you mumbled into his skin. You tried to commit the feeling of his arms around you to memory. Because you knew as soon as he was gone, you’d be missing him again.

“You saw me last night.” He said, chuckling. His entire body shook yours as he laughed. “Still not enough,” you told him. He didn’t judge— he just kept rubbing your back and holding you close.

“You smell nice today. New perfume?” He whispered, trying not to disturb you. You both softly swayed back and forth. “God, you’re an angel. No other guy would pick up on that. And yes, it’s vanilla and berries.” You told him.

“It’s nice. I like it.” He complimented, nestling his head further into you, “I like being this close with you” he added.

You nodded, raking your fingers down his back. “So, are you ready to have that talk?” You asked, starting to pull away.

He softly nodded his head and let you pull him towards the couch. He sat beside you, resting his hand on your knee.

“So, we both agree that we want to explore this, right? No more of keeping ourselves apart and miserable?” He asked, caressing your thigh.

“Yes, very much agree,” you said, running your fingers through his hair. You felt like a teenager again— like if you didn’t keep at least one hand touching Henry at all times, you’d die.

“We have that brunch planned for the morning after the wedding, with the whole wedding party. I think that’s when we pull Theo aside and tell him we want to see each other. That way the wedding stress will be done with.” You suggested. He nodded along, agreeing with your idea.

“So, that’s three weeks away. What do we do until then?” He asked the question you’d both been thinking.

Did you not start being together until after the wedding? What about affection? Should you wait until Theo knew? Should you set a limit?

“My only fear is that we chicken out and find excuses to not tell Theo. Cause if I could kiss you whenever I wanted to, I wouldn’t really have a need to tell Theo. So, maybe we can spend together but no kissing or anything else until after we tell him. Just to keep ourselves accountable,” you suggested.

“I think that’s fair. Just so you know, I will be thinking about kissing you the whole time, but I will refrain.” He flirted. You couldn’t help but giggle like a schoolgirl.

“So, you ready to go this party?” You asked him. Instead of answering, he swooped you up bridal style and headed towards the front door.

“What’re you doing?” You exclaimed. His grip on your body was tight, if you’d tried to squirm, you wouldn’t get very far. “Treating you like a princess,” he said, cheesily.

You jokingly rolled your eyes and groaned. “Be careful. I know that you’re ticklish.” He warned you. He chuckled as your eyes went wide.

The two of you already felt happier. There had always been a longing in the air when you were with Henry. And it was kind of still there— you were definitely counting down the days until the wedding when you could finally kiss him. But he was yours now.

When you both pulled up to Theo’s house, there was already a bunch of cars parked outside.

Henry had to fight the urge to wrap his arm around your waist as you walked up to the door. He was thrilled that he only had to wait three more weeks— but he wanted to flaunt you.

You both walked inside and were met the sound of what felt like hundreds of separate conversations. “I’m gonna go find Sarah. I’ll catch up with you later,” you half yelled in Henry’s ear. He smiled and nodded as you walked away.

The sound of all the people talking was bouncing off the walls, so you headed onto the back porch. You found Sarah refilling the cooler with beers and sodas.

“Let me help you with that,” you said, rushing to help her.

“Oh thank you so much, you’re an angel.” She thanked you as you put the remaining cans in the cooler.

When you finished, she pulled you into a hug. “It’s so good to see you. You seem different— this is gonna sound weird, but you seem lighter.” She told, tilting her head to the side. Then, it clicked. You could almost see the light bulb go off in her head.

“Are you… seeing someone?” Oh my god, is that why you didn’t want Theo to set you up? Is there a new man in your life?” She asked excitedly. Damn it, Sarah. She’d always been too good at reading you.

“Nope, no new man,” you lied, unconvincingly. She furrowed her brows, trying to read your expression. “Really? Because if there was, I would understand why you didn’t want to tell Theo yet. I know he can super protective over you.” She told you.

You appreciated her support, even if she didn’t understand the whole situation. You weren’t worried about her reaction when she finally found out about you and Henry. It was just Theo that had you worried.

You were having a hard time keeping back a grin. Your mind lingered to Henry and that warm smile he always gave you. “I promise there’s no new guy.” You lied again.

“Well, I’m happy for you— whoever he is,” she said, knowing you all to well.

Then, Henry and Theo both appeared next to the two of you. “There you are! Sarah, can I borrow my sister for a minute. I want to apologize to her and Henry.” Theo asked. Sarah nodded, giving Theo a quick kiss on the cheek before leaving.

The gesture was so small, but you couldn’t help think about how soon you’d be able to kiss Henry on the cheek in public— whenever you wanted.

“So, I wanted to apologize to you and Henry about the whole gala thing. I really didn’t mean to overstep. I realize that it was kind of an ambush, and I’m really sorry.” Theo said, genuinely.

You both forgave him, each of you giving Theo a hug.

“I’m glad we cleared that up. No more surprises. I promise,” Theo said, smiling at you both. You couldn’t help but catch Henry’s eye. A small smirk slipped on his face as Theo mentioned surprises. Little did Theo know. Just three more weeks.

“Absolutely. No more surprises.” You agreed, hoping Theo was much worse at noticing your poker face than Sarah was.

Theo quickly glanced down at his phone. “Oh, shit. Sarah just texted. We forgot a few things at the store. I’ll be back, twenty minutes max.” He said, quickly excusing himself.

“No more surprises,” Henry quoted Theo’s previous words in your ear, “wait until he finds out I’ve almost slept with his sister on multiple occasions,” he teased.

You quickly swatted at his arm. “Somebody could hear you,” you tried to shush him. You could feel the heat rush to your cheeks, and you weren’t hiding it well.

“You seem flustered, sweetheart. Thinking of all the times we’ve almost slept together.” He teased you.

“You’re a cheeky bastard.” You rolled your eyes at him. You knew that he saw right through the facade.

The three weeks until the wedding started to seem so much longer.

A bunch of people rushed out of the house onto the back porch. You recognized a lot of them as being other bridesmaids and groomsmen in the wedding. “You guys wanna play?” One of them yelled at you and Henry.

“Play what?” Henry asked, cocking his head to the side.

“Truth or dare. You guys are in the wedding party, you have to play.” Another one responded, dragging you both with them.

There was a circle of folding chairs set up around the campfire, down in the yard. You all took seats around the circle— Henry to your left.

You knew this was a disaster waiting to happen, but you didn’t have any other choice. Most of the groomsmen seemed to be drunk already, and truth or dare would only make them worse.

Dylan wasn’t one of the groomsmen, but he was one of Theo’s friends, and he seemed noticeably drunker than the rest. He also seemed to be the leader of whatever was going on.

It started pretty tame. Someone had to show off their secret talent. Someone was asked to describe their worst experience in the bedroom.

Then, it got to Hannah, a bridesmaid, who was sitting to your right. You didn’t know her very well, but from the few times you’d hung out, she was really sweet.

She picked truth.

“Who’s the hottest person here?” Dylan asked, slurring his words.

You knew her answer before she even said a word. The same answer you’d give. “Easy. Henry.” She said, simply. Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Henry’s cheek start to turn pink.

Dylan didn’t seem to like that answer. In fact, he seemed to be shocked that Hannah hadn’t said his name. “Oh, of course you’d say that. Basic bitch,” he swore under his breath.

You were reminded why you never hung out with Dylan. He was an asshole when he was drunk. “Aww little baby. Are you sad she picked Henry and not you? Look at him and look at yourself.” You jumped to her defense.

You didn’t see how Henry’s expression changed— but his eyes went wide watching you. Seeing you yell at Dylan just made Henry want you more. All he could think about was dragging you to his car and taking you in the backseat.

“Oh look who’s brave. Wanna dare them?” Dylan asked you. The look in his eyes was dangerous. You saw it. He wanted revenge cause you’d just embarrassed him in front of his friends. “Hit me,” you said, not one to back away from a challenge.

“If you think Henry’s so hot, let him do a body shot off of you.” Dylan said, crossing his arms.

A few people started to protest. Hannah was the first, “Come on, Dylan.” Then, Ben, another groomsmen, “That’s too far, man.”

“Sure, if it’ll shut you up.” You replied. You were barely holding on to your confident exterior. You were just glad Theo was at the store.

One of the bridesmaids handed you a bottle of tequila, a shot glass, salt, and a lime.

You could feel your heart racing in your chest. You shoved it down, hoping to just fake it til you made it. Maybe you just needed to completely oversell it and then it would be fine and it would shut Dylan up?

You pushed away any nerves you had and took on a whole new alter ego.

Henry swallowed as he watched you walk towards him. You straddled his lap, earning whistles from a few of the guys.

You poured the liquor into the shot glass before sticking the glass in between your breasts. Henry looked into your eyes, trying to read past your facade. He saw determination. So, he played along.

He licked his thumb and smeared the saliva across your neck. Then, he added the salt, letting it stick to the wet stripe of your skin. He gave you one last glance— a final chance to back out if you wanted.

You nodded at him as you placed the lime wedge in between your teeth.

Henry’s mind was racing like never before. He was half convinced that this was a dream and he was about to wake up.

Everyone that was watching was completely silent— wondering if you both were actually going to go through with it.

Henry slowed leaned in towards your neck— hesitancy racing through every part of his body.

You felt his hot breath as his mouth hovered over your skin. He licked a stripe up your throat. It felt rough against your skin as the salt scratched you.

You leaned your head to the side, giving him more access to your neck. Henry caught the way your eyes fluttered closed— you were…enjoying this.

That gave him all the confidence he needed. He suddenly forgot about all the people staring.

He closed his lips around your skin, licking up the remaining salt. He softly nipped at your skin, but didn’t stay for too long. He didn’t want there to be marks.

His large hands cupped your hips, holding you steady in his lap. He dove in, drinking the shot.

He glanced up at you and the lime sitting between your teeth. His fingers dug into your sides, keeping you grounded.

He hungrily kissed you, using his own teeth to pull the lime away from you. He felt you smirk against the kiss.

Then, he pulled away— remembering that everyone was watching. He sucked the juice out of the lime before tossing on the ground.

“Can we all be done with this stupid game now?” You asked, resting your hands on Henry’s shoulders as you got up from his lap.

“Yeah whatever,” Dylan grumbled and walked inside.

You spent the rest of the party mingling with friends— but your eyes always found Henry’s from across the room.

Most of the guests had gone home. The only people left were the ones in the wedding party. Everyone was scattered around the house having their own separate conversations.

You and Henry were sitting in the backyard. He’d managed to find the rest of the fruit platter, and you both were taking turns tossing grapes into each other’s mouths.

Theo brought some of the dishes into the kitchen and started to clean up. He found Ben in the kitchen, pouring himself a glass of water.

“Hey, Theo. What’s the deal with Henry and your sister?” Ben asked innocently.

Theo paused what he was doing. “What do you mean?” He asked.

“Well, I thought they were dating, but I’m not sure. I was going to ask her out if they weren’t together.” Ben explained. He truly did have innocent intentions.

Theo had to fight back a laugh. “My sister? And Henry? No no, they’re not dating. You don’t have to worry.” Theo assured him. Then, Theo noticed the hesitant look on Ben’s face. “Wait, why did you think they were dating?” He asked, confused.

“Dylan got drunk tonight and made everyone play truth or dare. He was acting like an ass, and when he got called out on it, he dared your sister to let Henry do a body shot off of her. And I don’t know, they both just seemed really into it.” He explained.

Theo tried to push away the mental image of Henry doing a body shot off of you. It made his stomach churn. “Sounds like they just did it to shut Dylan up. That’s understandable. He can be a dick when he drinks.” Theo said, half assuring Ben and half assuring himself. You? And Henry? It couldn’t be, right?

“There’s this one other thing too.” Ben said, mentally debating whether it was worth it to bring up. Theo froze.

“I kinda saw them kissing at your birthday party. At that rooftop bar thing? I was trying to find a quiet spot to make a phone call. And I kinda stumbled across them making out. I didn’t want to interrupt or anything, so I snuck away. I don’t think they even saw me.” He told Theo.

Theo felt his blood run cold. Oh absolutely fucking not. Henry was going around behind his back? Sleeping with his sister? What kind of a friend does that?

Before Theo could even process it, his legs were moving under him. He raced towards the backyard to find you and Henry. Then, he saw you both. Giddy smiles on both your faces. Henry was trying to catch a grape that you threw to him.

“Oh, you’ve got to be fucking kidding me.” Theo grumbled under his breath.

He said it loud enough that it caught yours and Henry’s attention. You both quickly looked over at Theo.

He was fuming. You could see the veins popping out on his forehead. You recognized the look— it was the same one Theo gave you when he’d caught your boyfriends in your room in high school.

He can’t know. Right? How could he know?

“What’s wrong, Theo?” Henry asked. You had a pit in your stomach. You could feel your stomach tying itself in knots. Your mind raced for any excuse out of this conversation.

“Well, I wanted to talk to you to see if you were going behind my back and sleeping with my sister, but I think I have my answer now. You are a real ass, Henry. I hope you know that. You’re my best friend, and this is how you repay me?” Theo snapped. His fists were clenched at his side.

It was like watching all your worst nightmares come true. You both had been so terrified of Theo finding out. So terrified that you pushed each other away for weeks. And now, he’d found out anyway.

Henry jumped to the most reasonable conclusion. “Listen, Theo. The truth or dare thing was just a game. I promise, we are just friends.” Henry started to explain.

Theo scoffed, slowly looking between the two of you. Surprised that his sister and best friend would keep lying to him after he knew the truth. “Then why did Ben see you both kissing at my birthday?” He asked.

Silence fell over the two of you. You didn’t know what to say. You wanted to run— to just get away from this conversation. You couldn’t make your legs move.

“Oh god, Henry,” Theo started to have a realization, “is my sister the girl you were talking to me about? Really man? You come to me, almost in tears, and talk about how you can’t be with this girl that you care about. I guess you solved that problem. Just go behind my back.”

He was getting angrier by the second. He thought of all the times in the past few weeks when the two of you had seemed closer than normal. It was all lies.

At this point, you had tears welling up in your eyes. Everything you had feared would happen, was happening, and there was nothing you could do to fix it.

“For fucks sake, Theo. We are not dating.” You snapped, your voice cracking.

Henry reached out towards you— trying to comfort you. You pushed his hands off of you and ran past Theo. You ran through the house, avoiding everyone’s concerned faces inside. You kept running til you got to the front yard.

You didn’t stop until you felt someone grab your wrist. You turned to see Henry, who was wearing a heartbroken expression.

“Get away from me, Henry.” You said, wanting needing to be alone.

He took a step back. He didn’t expect you to be angry at him as well. “I’ve had enough. It’s clear that we can never be together. We thought we could get Theo on your side, but that’s clearly never going to happen. I can’t handle this anymore. Everything we were worried about is happening.” You ranted.

Henry huffed, running a hand through his hair. “So, what’s the point?” He asked you. His hands found yours, pulling you closer to him. He spoke softer. “If we’re both fucking over it and we just blew up our relationships with Theo, what is there to lose now? We can just be together. And if he doesn’t like it, then to hell with him. I don’t want to lose you.” He told you.

This was the most vulnerable you’d ever seen Henry.

He took another step towards you until his body was pressed up against yours. He gently reached out and brushed a piece of your hair behind your ear. “I was never yours to lose, Henry.” You replied, even though it killed you to say those words.

You needed to put some distance between the two of you because this was never going to work.

“That’s bullshit, and you know it. You care about me just as much as I care about you.” He said, a tear rolling down his cheek. He could feel you slipping through his fingers. He would do anything he could to hold onto you.

“But we were doomed from the start.” Your voice didn’t come out much louder than a whisper.

“What if I was just a guy, not Theo’s best friend? And if you were just the beautiful girl that I’d fallen for?” He asked. His eyes flicked down to your lips. You hated that you did the same thing.

He closed the distance, kissing you softly. He kissed you with so much care that it made your heart beat faster. You pulled out of the kiss. “We can’t live in some imaginary world because these are the cards we’ve been dealt.” You told him.

He knew you’d made up your mind. “Okay, I respect your decision.” He pulled you into a tight hug. You knew it was a goodbye hug— at least until the wedding, oh fuck, you still had the wedding.

“Don’t take a cab. Take my car. I’ll ask Theo for a ride.” He said, handing you his car keys. You thanked him and took them from his hand.

You gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before leaving.

Henry turned around and saw Theo standing by the front door. Theo noticed Henry’s tear-stained face. He felt like his heart had been ripped out. All of those weeks of yearning— and this is where it ended, no happily after.

“Yeah, not dating my ass. I just never thought you’d lie to me.” Theo snapped, still upset.

Henry held his hands up, almost surrendering. He didn’t have the energy to fight any more.

“Alright, you wanna know the truth? We did kiss at your party— because I think she is amazing and funny and beautiful and charming. Then, that night the two of us decided that we would stay friends because we knew that us dating would make you uncomfortable. So, yeah, she is the girl I was telling you about. And now you see why we couldn’t be together— because you wouldn’t let it happen.” Henry shot back. He tried to walk past Theo, but Theo stopped him.

Theo’s demeanor softened. “You really like her, don’t you? This isn’t just some fling?” Theo asked. Henry nodded, wiping the tears from his eyes.

“You know that I’m not mad that you both have feelings for each other. I mean, that’s great. I’m just upset that you guys kept it a secret and lied to me.” Theo explained, trying to comfort his friend.

Henry swore under his breath. “For fucks sake, of course you’d be okay with it.” Henry knew it was too late anyway.

“Why are you upset? Go after her. You both clearly care about each other.” Theo encouraged him. Henry just laughed— it was a self-pitying laugh. “I can’t. Because she just made it clear that she’s done with all of this. And I don’t blame her. It has been so draining walking on eggshells around you and with her. All we wanted to do was go on a fucking date. It started so simple, and so pure. And now it’s all gone to shit.” Henry put his face in his hands.

“I’m really sorry, man.” Theo pulled him into a hug.

taglist: @laurakirsten0502 @miraclesoflove @nathaliabakes @millipop18 @lillyssh-tposts @shyinadarkplace @vanteguccir @missroro @guiltandguitarstrings @sw33t-cupid @ice-dtae @leyannrae @sia2raw @nyx2021 @just-a-littlebit-of-everything @shyconversationalbookworm @shadowhuntyi @iamavailablesstuff @superdeath @wandaswifeyforlifey @spookyqueen @mcuswhore  @astheskycries @n3ssm0nique @peakascum @cjand10 @namsey1987 @supernaturalstilinski @stephv213 @warriormirkwood @one-sweet-gubler @narliesstuff @bibissparkles @stupiidfrogs @navs-bhat @marvelcasey05 @velyssaraptor @amanda08319 @moonlightaura03 @kleinegamerin @henryownsme @kingliam2019 @summersong69 @warriormirkwood @weirdpeoplecoolpeople @amalfoyandariddle @softestqueeen @shellyshellshell @wiesels @hannah9921 @luftmenzch @peaceinourtime82 @mollymal

[cup1drul3z]

Hi! I’m not sure if you’ve written something like this before (if you have, I’m sorry), but could you please write a fluffy imagine of Abby taking care of a sick reader? I’m sick right now and would love to see Abby being her quietly caring self. Also, I really love your stories, you write so beautifully. Thank you 🫶🏻

★ — Sick Days

ᴄᴜᴘɪᴅꜱ ᴏɴᴇꜱʜᴏᴛꜱ!

ᴀʙʙʏ x ꜱɪᴄᴋ!ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

Your head felt like it was stuffed with wet cotton. Everything ached. Your skin burned, your limbs trembled, and even your hair hurt. You had barely managed to crawl to the couch before collapsing under a blanket that somehow made you both too hot and not warm enough.

The world outside your apartment was spinning on without you. You were supposed to meet Abby at the gym that morning, supposed to grab smoothies after and complain about your sore muscles while she teased you for being dramatic. But instead, you'd texted her three words before sinking back into your pillow: “I’m dying. Help.”

You didn’t expect her to actually show up.

But twenty minutes later, the lock turned with the spare key she’d insisted on keeping—“just in case you get murdered or forget how doors work”—and there she was, hair tied up in a no-nonsense bun, hoodie sleeves pushed to her elbows, holding a plastic bag from the pharmacy in one hand and a box of soup in the other.

“I knew you were exaggerating,” Abby said, but her voice was already softer than her words. She knelt beside the couch, brushing your hair away from your forehead like she was checking for a fever. Her brow furrowed. “You’re burning up.”

You sniffled, miserable. “Told you I was dying.”

“Yeah, yeah.” She kissed your temple anyway.

She got to work like she’d done this a hundred times—heating the soup, filling your water bottle with electrolytes, tucking your blanket tighter around your shoulders even though you swore you were sweating. And then, finally, she settled onto the floor beside the couch with her back against it and your hand in hers.

“Try to nap,” she said, her thumb brushing slow circles over your wrist. “I’ll be right here when you wake up.”

And you did. Because somehow, her being there made it easier to breathe.

You didn’t know how long you’d been out, but when you stirred, your mouth was dry, your skin sticky, and your body felt like a lead blanket had been dropped over it. The worst part wasn’t even the fever or the aches—it was the way you could feel yourself sweating through your clothes, hair plastered to your forehead, everything clammy and gross. You winced when you moved.

Abby noticed immediately.

“You okay?” she asked, voice low, as if anything louder would shatter you.

You opened your mouth, but instead of words, a pathetic noise came out—somewhere between a groan and a whimper. Your hand fumbled at your shirt. “I feel disgusting.”

She stood, towering over you in that way that usually made you feel flustered, but right now just made you feel safe. “Alright. Let’s get you cleaned up.”

You blinked up at her. “I don’t think I can stand that long…”

Abby leaned down, scooping you up before you could argue. “You won’t have to.”

Steam curled through the small bathroom. Abby kept one arm around your waist, helping you lower onto the little stool she’d dragged into the tub earlier, lined with a towel so you didn’t freeze. Her hoodie was gone now, replaced with a tank top that clung to her shoulders, the muscles in her arms flexing as she adjusted the shower head and tested the water temperature against her wrist.

You shivered despite the warmth. She glanced back, concerned.

“I’ve got you,” she said gently. “Just lean forward a little.”

Your head dropped against her chest when she knelt behind you, arms wrapping around your sides to hold you steady. Her fingers were slow, respectful, running warm water through your tangled hair, massaging your scalp like she was handling something delicate. You were too tired to be embarrassed, too raw to make a joke. The silence between you wasn’t awkward—it was soft. Honest.

“You didn’t have to do all this,” you murmured, voice hoarse.

“I know,” Abby replied, brushing the wet strands off your face. “That’s why I’m here.”

Her hands never left you as she rinsed you clean. She washed your back in slow, careful sweeps, helped you out of your sticky clothes, kept her eyes where they needed to be—unless you met them first. When you did, she held your gaze with something that felt heavier than words.

And when it was over, when you were wrapped in a fresh towel and she carried you back to bed, you realized you didn’t feel quite as sick anymore. Just sleepy. Warm. Safe.

requests are open!!

[gamerbeta]

Hey guys! I was wondering about something.

I was contemplating on taking a quick break from Dimension Collision and have a small side story stem from it.

This Pokémon trainer’s name is El, and I was thinking about having a little side story of her in Unova (taking place about a decade ago before the main story in Black and White).

Before Ghetsis strolled around, making everyone miserable the moment they see his face, I want to believe that Team Rocket did attempt world domination. So I want to think that not only did they try to take over Kanto and Johto in this period of time, but as well as other regions like Unova and Kalos.

Some of it will eventually tie into DC, but wasn’t sure if anyone would be interested.

Would you guys be interested if I attempted this?

[rookanis-de-riva]

Seeing you Omegaverse stuff has made me think of a snippet with an Alpha Rook attempting to convince a Beta or Omega Lucanis to please go to sleep, because him being sleep deprived and stressed out is making ROOK stressed out because their instincts are screaming at them that "Someone in your pack doesn't feel secure enough to rest. You're supposed to keep your pack safe! What are you even doing? You're bad Alpha!" and they're trying to be normal about it and not make their instincts Lucanis's problem but everytime someone offhandedly mentions what number cup of coffee Lucanis is on they feel like diving off the Lighthouse.

incredibly sexy. excellent whump material. I am putting both of these blorbos into a Miserable Situation and then I'm shaking the jar.

I actually have almost this exactly in my longfic where Spite spends a week stuck between Lucanis and Rook, and he decides "oh these betas need an Alpha BAD"

so even though he can't remember his living life or what gender/biology he was (is?), he just decides I Am Pack Alpha Now and 90% of his job consists of trying to wrangle one or the other of them to sleep

Rook is *slightly* better at it, but only by technicality. since he's a spirit mage, I'm having fun fleshing out exactly what that means, and I say spirit mages almost always lucid dream. they just "wake up" inside of the Fade essentially, and their thoughts are a little squiggly, kind of prone to reliving memories (especially if they're experiencing a strong similar emotion in their waking life, so nightmares are still possible, they're just trauma flashbacks)

but Rook is really good at lucid dreaming and he keeps using his ""sleep"" to plan the next day's schedule, review the entire day for any important details he missed, strategize tactics against the Venatori, rough draft letters he'll write for real in the morning, etc

and Sleep is like "NO! This. is NOT. sleep!!"

Rook can only really get a good, dreamless sleep if Lucanis holds him while Spite wraps his wings around their Rook, because then when he "wakes up" in the Fade / his dream, Spite as a demon is still in there too, so he just sees darkness from being wing-cocooned

(literally how you calm down a bird by putting a hood over its head)

[i-like-cats-and-stars36]

Why the new ALNST comic convinced me that Mizi is not only a lesbian, but also asexual:

Actually, this is very important to me.

MIZI SEEMS TO DISLIKE THE IDEA OF SEX IN GENERAL (not just heterosexual, in no part, she accounted gender for this) AND I THINK THAT CAN BE INTERPRETED AS HER BEING ACE.

Many asexuals experience sex repulsion or fail to see the appeal of sex in general, which can manifest in things like these. General unawareness around the topic, failing to notice the sexual interests of others and repulsion towards the thought of having sex with someone else.

Of course, you could say that she's criticizing the notion that boys and girls can't be friends without wanting to "mate", but like, cmon, she just says it's gross. That's such an ace thing to say about sex.

And the story told in the comic could reflect some a-spec experiences. Playing nice with people who like you because you value their friendship and don't want to hurt the people around them.

ESPECIALLY WITH MIZI BEING GOOD-LOOKING WOMAN, many people feel entitled to sex with her (mostly men bc of patriachy and shit) and that is where the experience of sapphic attraction and asexuality intersects because the way she is, not attracted to men and not interested in sex, goes against so many societal notions of how a woman has to be (sexually available to men at all times because she is supposed to bear children).

And partly, you could say that Mizi is deceptove because she didn't clear up that misconception of those around her, that she didn't establish better boundaries, but it's also very much out of her control. Because what else was she supposed to do? Make everyone around her hate her for something she cannot control, in turn, making her miserable existence even worse? The asshole NPC fucking slapped her for it. There's evidence that it could only make everything worse. She is not always aware which people crush on her and she is not responsible for how they deal with their attraction to her.

AND SHE ENDS BLAMING HERSELF FOR WHAT HAPPENS TO THOSE THAT FALL FOR HER. Sua died, Till died, Hyuna died (although Hyuna was a platonic connection probably, how much does that matter to someone's fragile psyche?)

Girl, you are not responsible for other's feelings towards you. You are not.

Yet, she he blames herself for their deaths, for their sacrifices of love. Mizi shows a lot of the dark sides of devotion and obsession and how being victim of such obsession can mess you up.

I need to give this girl a hug and tell her that she did her best in a shitty situation and shouldn't be so hard on herself.

Rant over, I'm going feral alone now.

[dioslesbianwife]

helloooo, could i request a Kakyoin x reader in which they spend the night in the desert and the reader is cold so Kakyoin share his bedroll with them to warm them up. Thank you so much!!

p.s: it would so cute that, in the morning, reader and Kakyoin would wake up all snuggled up with each other and find the Crusaders just looking at them and laughing and Polnareff and Joseph just taking photos…🤭❤️❤️

hiii, sure this is very cute and you're absolutely welcome ^^ thank you for requesting and i hope you enjoy ❤️

The desert was a beautiful kind of miserable.

Golden dunes rippled endlessly under a fading sky, the heat slowly slipping away with the sun, leaving behind nothing but cold air and flickering campfire shadows. You were bundled up in your jacket, legs tucked close to your chest, teeth chattering even as you tried to act casual. The warmth of the day had vanished like a mirage.

Kakyoin noticed first.

He always did.

You hadn’t even said a word, but the moment you shivered hard enough to make the zipper on your jacket rattle, he was already rising to his feet.

“Hey,” he said softly, brushing a bit of sand off his pants as he stood over you. “You look cold.”

You looked up at him sheepishly. “I’m okay. Just… desert nights are brutal, huh?”

Kakyoin didn’t respond at first. Instead, he looked around at the rest of the group. The others were still awake- Jotaro sharpening his knife, Avdol feeding the fire, Joseph snoring like he’d been hit with a sleep spell, and Polnareff telling a story about some cursed bidet he encountered.

Then he bent down, pulling out his bedroll from the stash they kept near the camels.

“C’mon,” he said with the smallest smile, eyes warm behind his cherry-red fringe. “Share with me.”

Your eyes widened. “Wait, seriously?”

“You’re freezing,” he said simply, already unrolling the bedroll beside you. “It’s fine. It’s warmer when you share body heat.”

You hesitated for a second… and then crawled in.

The fabric was already warm from his body, and the moment you slipped under the blanket with him, you felt your muscles melt. Kakyoin settled beside you, facing you, his body solid and reassuring. You could feel the slight tremble of his breath as he tried to play it cool, but the faint pink on his cheeks gave him away.

“Thanks,” you murmured, voice muffled against the edge of the bedroll.

His voice was a little softer when he replied:

“Of course.”

The stars spun lazily above you. The fire crackled. And slowly, the cold slipped away.

You weren’t sure when it happened, but at some point in the night, you must’ve rolled closer. Or maybe he did. Either way, when the morning sun broke over the dunes…

You woke up snuggled directly into Kakyoin’s chest.

Like- leg draped over his hips, arms tangled around each other, his forehead tucked against yours, and your fingers curled into the fabric of his shirt like you never wanted to let go.

It was warm. It was perfect. It was mortifying- once you realized you weren’t alone.

“PSSSST. JOTARO. LOOK.”

Polnareff’s voice pierced your foggy brain like a knife. You blinked blearily- and then you heard the click of a camera.

Joseph's camera.

“OH MY GOD,” you groaned, trying to sit up- only to realize Kakyoin was still half-asleep, his arms tightening around you like his subconscious refused to let you go.

“Mmmph… five more minutes,” he mumbled, nose brushing your cheek.

The group lost it.

“Look at those lovebirds!” Joseph wheezed, zooming in with the camera. “You two are gonna make me cry- what is this, a romance manga!?”

“CUTEST COUPLE IN THE SAHARA,” Polnareff announced, hands on his hips. “You hear that, Avdol?”

Avdol just smirked. “I knew it would happen eventually.”

You buried your face in Kakyoin’s chest, mortified. He was awake now, blinking dazedly- and then his eyes widened in horror as he realized exactly what position you two were in.

“I- I didn’t- ” he started, cheeks red as a tomato. “This isn’t- ! I didn’t mean to- !”

“Too late, loverboy!” Joseph grinned, still snapping pictures. “These are going in the album!”

Jotaro just sighed. “Yare yare daze… you two done yet? We gotta move.”

Kakyoin covered his face with one hand, but the other stayed on your back. He didn’t move it. Even after the teasing. Even after the jokes.

You looked up at him, and he managed a shy, flustered smile.

“…Still warm?” he asked quietly.

You nodded. “Yeah.”

He smiled a little more.

“Good.”

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

That photo ends up framed.

Polnareff brings it up at every chance.

Kakyoin pretends to hate it, but you catch him smiling at the photo once when no one’s looking.

The next night… he unrolls the bedroll a little wider.

[scary-noodlesblog]

Soulbound Ch 13

Lucifer Rising

Soulbound Masterlist

3rd Person POV:

Ruby closes the trunk to an old, orange Ford Mustang out side of a decrepit farmhouse before walking around it to the diver's side. "Sam? Your head in the game here?"

Sam, who was brooding, stewing in his thoughts, takes a moment to answer. "I'm good. Let's go."

"You okay?" Ruby asks softly.

Sam finally turns around to face her. "I just said I was."

"Look, I know hand-holding really isn't my thing... but still, Dean was wrong, saying what he said to you."

"No, he was right to say it." Sam shakes his head. "I mean, I don't blame him after what I did."

"Well, after we're done, you guys will patch things up. I mean, you always do." Ruby replies, trying to give Sam some semblance of hope.

Sam just shrugs, "You're talking like I've got an 'after'."

Ruby frowns, "Don't say that."

"I can feel it inside me, Ruby. I've changed... for good. And there's no going back now."

"Sam --" Ruby starts before Sam interrupts her.

"Look, I know what I gotta do. It's okay, I'm just saying, Dean's better off as far away from me as possible, so is (Y/N). Anyways. Doesn't matter, let's just get this done with." He says, and even though it physically pains him, he means it. Sam sighs and gets in the car followed by Ruby.

~~~~~~~

1st Person POV:

Dean stares out the window, brooding as I take my third dose of ibuprofen in the last eighteen-ish hours. Sam broke two of my ribs with his elbow and my nose, both of which are bruised. Bobby leans against his desk, talking to Dean who isn't listening to him, or at least isn't answering him. "Dean? Dean! You listen to a word I said?"

"Yeah, I heard you. I'm not calling him." Dean grumbles, not turning around.

Bobby shakes his head, "Don't make me get my gun, boy."

Dean finally turns to Bobby and I, "We are damn near kickoff for Armageddon, don't you think we got bigger fish at the moment?"

"I know you're pissed. And I'm not making apologies for what he's done, but he's your--"

Dean interrupts him, "Blood? He's my blood, is that what you were gonna say?"

Bobby shakes his head. "He's your brother. And he's drowning."

I sigh, "He's right Dean."

"I tried to help him, I did. Look what happened." Dean gestures to me, or more like gestured to my bruised nose and lightly purple cheekbones.

Bobby nods, "So try again."

"It's too late." Dean argues.

I cross my arms over my chest, "There's no such thing."

Dean strides passed Bobby and I to the other side of the room, "No, damnit! No. I gotta face the facts. Sam never wanted part of this family. He hated this life growing up. Ran away to Stanford first chance he got. Now it's like déjà vu all over again." He sighs and sits down on Bobby's couch. "Well, I am sick and tired of chasing him. Screw him, he can do what he wants."

"You don't mean that." I put my hands on my hips, eyebrows furrowed.

"Yes I do, (Y/N)." Dean looks up at me like I baked him a pie then threw it away before he could have any. "Sam's gone. He's gone. I'm not even sure if he's still my brother anymore. If he ever was."

My breath hitches, almost offended on Sam's behalf. "How fucking dare you, Dean Winchester."

Bobby turns and leans on his desk, absolutely livid. After a moment he sweeps his books and papers off his desk and onto the floor, making me jump slightly. He walks towards Dean, getting in his face. "You stupid, stupid son of a bitch! Well, boo hoo, I am so sorry your feelings are hurt, princess! Are you under the impression that family's supposed to make you feel good?! Bake you an apple pie, maybe? They're supposed to make you miserable! That's why they're family!"

"I told him, 'you walk out that door, don't come back' and he walked out anyway! That was his choice!" Dean yells back.

"You shouldn't have made him have to choose, Dean! He thinks he's saving the God damn world, of course he was gonna go!" I argue.

"You sound like a whiny brat." Bobby tells Dean, who scoffs and walks between Bobby and I. Bobby turns to face him and continues. "No, you sound like your dad. Well, let me tell you something. Your dad was a coward."

"My dad was a lot of things, Bobby, but a coward?" Dean asks incredulously.

"He'd rather push Sam away than reach out to him. Well, that don't strike me as brave. You are a better man than your daddy ever was. So you do all of us a favor. Don't be him." Bobby says. Dean looks into my eyes, my expression telling him that I agree with Bobby.

Dean turns back to the window and I huff before walking into the kitchen. Or I thought I was, I actually walk into a white room with beautiful gold trim and ornate patterns. All of the furniture is also white and gold. I look around in awe and apprehension as I turn around seeing Castiel. My eyebrows furrow at the angel, this is the first time I've seen him since he called me a 'weakness'. 

I take a breath and cross my arms, "What do you want and why am I here?"

"Hello, (Y/N). It's almost time." He says. "I brought you here to keep you safe in the meantime." In a blink, he's gone. 

"Oh come on!" I yell, holding out my arms before dropping them at my sides.

~~~~~~~

3rd Person POV:

Castiel reappears in the room Dean is in, one identical to where (Y/N) is. Dean pokes around the room, looking at the magnificent pastoral paintings on the walls. He turns back to the table and finds that it now holds a silver bowl packed with ice and full of beer bottles, and a large platter of hamburgers. He picks up a beer bottle and looks at it.

"Hello, Dean. You're looking fit." Zachariah nods with a small grin.

Dean puts the beer bottle back with a scoff. "Well, how 'bout this? 'Suite Life of Zach and Cas'." When the angels only offer Dean confused looks he continues. "It's a... never mind. So, what is this? Where the hell am I?"

"Call it a Green Room. We're closing in on the grand finale, here. We want to keep you safe before showtime." Zachariah then speaks to Castiel over his shoulder, "You got her here too?" Castiel nods once silently. Zachariah turns back to Dean and gestures to the table. "Try a burger. They're your favorite. From that seaside shack in Delaware. You were 11, I think."

"I'm not hungry. 'Her'? (Y/N)?" Dean asks.

Zachariah doesn't answer him. "No? How about Ginger from season 2 of "Gilligan's Island"? You do have a thing for her, don't you?"

"Tempting. Weird." Dean starts.

"We'll throw in Mary Ann for free." 

"No, no. Let's... bail on the holodeck, okay? I want to know what the game plan is. Where's (Y/N)?" Dean asks.

Zachariah doesn't answer, again. "Let us worry about that. We want you... focused, relaxed."

"Well, I'm about to be pissed and leaving, so start talking, Chuckles." Dean demands.

Zachariah walks around Dean, "All the seals have fallen. Except one."

Dean turns to look at him. "That's an impressive score. That's... that's right up there with the Washington Generals."

"You think sarcasm's appropriate, do you? Considering..." Zachariah turns back to Dean. "You started all this? But the final seal," He pats Dean on the shoulder and walks back over to Castiel. "... it'll be different."

Dean's eyes follow him, "Why?"

"Lilith has to break it. She's the only one who can. Tomorrow night -- midnight." Zachariah says.

"Where?"

Zachariah nods, "We're working on it."

"Well, work harder." Dean demands.

"We'll do our job. You just make sure you do yours."

"Yeah, and what is that, exactly? If I'm supposed to be the one that stops her, how? With the knife?" Dean asks.

"All in good time."

"Isn't now a good time?"

Zachariah sighs. "Have faith."

Dean's eyebrows crinkle in frustration. "What, in you? Give me one good reason why I should."

"Because you swore your obedience." Zachariah gets up in Dean's face. "So obey."

Dean looks passed Zachariah to Castiel, who just looks down, avoiding Dean's gaze with guilt on his face.

~~~~~~~

1st Person POV:

I groan in frustration and flop onto the couch of this bullshit room as I get Dean's voicemail again. And Bobby's. And Sam's. Damn wherever this place is for having no cell service. I sigh and close my eyes, not even bothering to open them when I hear wings, knowing who it is. Especially when I feel two fingers on my forehead and the ache in my nose and ribs disappear.

"(Y/N)..." Castiel's gruff voice starts as I feel the couch dip as he sits down next to me. I open my eyes and look at him, he continues. "I...I'm sorry for saying those things to you. I brought you here to protect you."

My gaze softens a little but I hesitate to respond. When I do, I simply ask, "Where's Dean? Bobby?"

"Dean is in a room similar to this one. Your father is back at his house." Castiel sighs, his hands resting on his thighs as he leans back against the couch with me. He pauses for a moment, "I'm sorry I hurt you. I never want you to look at me like that again."

I don't immediately respond again, pulling my words together carefully. "I...get why it happened. You were punished. But I think instead of your continued obedience afterward, you should see that Anna was right."

Castiel is silent with that for a while, as if he was thinking my words over carefully. It seems like an eternity before he says something, "May I try something?"

I raise an eyebrow and look at him curiously, "Uh, okay?"

He hesitates for a moment before lifting his hand, his fingers gently turning my hand over, palm up. "I saw two humans doing this, I believe they were mates too. I would like to try it." He rests his hand on top of mine, palms touching as his fingers lace with mine. I could feel my cheeks heat up a little, and I can't deny how perfect it feels. 

A ghost of a smile plays over Castiel's lips, he glances down at our hands then back up at me. "I like this very much. I see why humans do it."

~~~~~~~

3rd Person POV:

Dean is now alone in his Green Room, looking down at his phone in his hand. He had just tried to call (Y/N) and is now hovering over a specific contact. "Ah, screw it." he opens the phone and dials, it ringing a couple times before he hears, "It's Sam. Leave me a message." Then a beep.

"Hey, it's me. Uh..." Dean clears his throat. "Look, I'll just get right to it. I'm still pissed... and I owe you a serious beatdown. But... I shouldn't have said what I said. You know, I'm not Dad. We're brothers. You know, we're family. And, uh... no matter how bad it gets, that doesn't change. Sammy, I'm sorry." There's another beep, signaling the end of the message recording. Dean sighs and hangs up.

~~~~~~~

Dean, frustrated, wanders around the room, looking at the different figurines set out beautifully. He reaches a hand up to touch one before pushing it off the table, letting it hit the ground and shattering. He gives it a smug look before a gruff voice says, "You asked to see me?"

Dean clears his throat. "Yeah, listen, I, uh, I-I need something."

Cas holds out his arms before dropping them at his sides. "Anything you wish."

"I need you to take me to see Sam."

The angel's eyebrows furrow, "Why?"

"There's something I got to talk to him about." Dean replies.

"What's that?"

"The B.M. I took this morning." Dean says sarcastically. "What's it to you? Just make it snappy."

"I don't think that's wise."

Dean takes a few steps towards Cas, "Well, I didn't ask you for your opinion?"

Castiel tilts his head, "Have you forgotten what happened the last time you met? I just healed (Y/N)'s injuries from that fight."

"No. That's the whole point. Listen, I'm gonna do whatever you mooks want, okay? I just need to tie up this one thing. Five minutes -- that's all I need." Dean pleads.

Cas sighs, "No."

"What do you mean, no? Are you saying that I'm trapped here?" Dean gestures to the room.

"You can go wherever you want." Castiel says.

"Super. I want to go see Sam."

Castiel sighs again, this time out of exasperation. "Except there."

"I want to take a walk." Dean tries again.

"Fine. I'll go with you."

"Alone." Dean grumbles.

"No." Cas replies softly.

"You know what? Screw this noise. I'm out of here." Dean starts walking to the door.

"Through what door?" Castiel asks.

Dean turns to Cas with a frown. When he turns back to the door, it's gone, a table and another figurine in its place. Dean turns to where Castiel was standing, only for him to be gone too. "Damn it."

~~~~~~~

1st Person POV:

I pick up an angel figurine on one of the tables, just eyeing it curiously as I hear another set of wings. I set the figurine back on the table, "Hey Cas, can we-" I turn around to see Zachariah and not Castiel. "Oh, you're not Cas." 

Zachariah just chuckles and shakes his head, "He's attending to other matters right now."

I nod, "Well, since I can't ask Cas, I'll ask you. What is going on? Why can't I see my brothers? And how is Dean gonna ice Lilith?"

The angel in front of me sighs, "He's not...going to ice Lilith."

"What?" My eyebrows furrow in confusion as I cross my arms over my chest and narrow my eyes at him.

"Lilith's going to break the final seal. Fait accompli at this point. Train's left the station." He turns and walks away from me, going to sit on the couch.

I follow after him, "But Dean, Sam and me, we can stop..." I stop myself, eyes widening in realization as Zachariah leans back against the couch with a stupid, smug grin. "You don't...want to stop it, do you?"

"Nope." Zachariah shakes his head. "Never did. The end is nigh. The apocalypse is coming, kiddo, to a theater near you." 

"What was all that shit about saving seals? We could've died saving more than one of those. Hell, I did die! The only reason I'm alive right now is because of Cas!" I yell, not wanting to believe what I'm hearing.

The angel folds his hands in his lap. "Guess that makes you an honorary Winchester then. That's what you wanted right? To feel like you actually belong with those to idiots, like you're actually important? Anyway, our grunts on the ground -- we couldn't just tell them the whole truth. We'd have a full-scale rebellion on our hands. I mean, think about it. Would we really let 65 seals get broken unless senior management wanted it that way?"

I stand there, fuming for a moment, before speaking up again. "But why?"

Zachariah just shrugs, "Why not? The apocalypse? Poor name, bad marketing -- puts people off. When all it is is Ali/Foreman. On a... slightly larger scale. And we like our chances. When our side wins -- and we will -- it's paradise on earth. Now, what's not to like about that?"

"What happens to all the people during your little pissing contest?" I ask,

"Well..." He stands up again, rebuttoning his coat. "You can't make an omelet without cracking a few eggs. In this case... truckloads of eggs, but you get the picture. Look... it happens. This isn't the first planetary enema we've delivered." I look at the statue to my left, eyeing it before he says, "Uh, no, (Y/N). Probably shouldn't try to bash my skull in with that thing. Wouldn't end up too pleasant for you. I also wouldn't pray for Cas either, I'll kill him before he can leave this room."

I glare at the angel as he walks in front of me, "What about Sam? He won't go quietly. He'll stop Lilith."

"Sam... has a part to play. A very important part. He may need a little nudging in the right direction, but I'll make sure he plays it."

I feel my face change from rage to concern. "What does that mean? What are you gonna do to him?"

"Sam, Sam, Sam. Marcia, Marcia, Marcia. Forget about him, would you? You have larger concerns. Like if Dean can fulfill his destiny, if Sam can fulfill his. Or if your precious angel is going to survive it all. You don't want to feel what it's like when your soulbond dies." Zachariah threatens.

"What are you going to do to my brothers?" 

Zachariah sighs, almost like he's tired of this conversation. "Lucifer. Dean is going to stop Lucifer. He's our own little Russel Crowe, complete with surly attitude. And when it's over, when we've won, his rewards will be unimaginable. And you, may live to see it."

My jaw clenches and my nails dig into my palms. "Tell me something. Where's God in all this?"

The angel chuckles. "God? God has left the building."

~~~~~~~

3rd Person POV:

Dean dials Sam's number again only to get static. He looks down at his cell phone in confusion.

"You can't reach him, Dean. You're outside your coverage zone."

Dean doesn't even turn to him. "What are you gonna do to Sam?"

Castiel takes a few steps forward, "Nothing. He's gonna do it to himself."

He turns just enough to face the angel, "What's that supposed to mean?" Castiel doesn't reply, only looks down with guilt. "Oh, right, right. Got to toe the company line. Why are you here, Cas?"

"We've been through much together, you and I. And I just wanted to say, I'm sorry it ended like this." Castiel apologizes.

"'Sorry'?" Dean scoffs, punching the angel square in the jaw, making Castiel's head whip to the side but it doesn't phase him otherwise. Dean turns with the force of the swing, his back to Cas as he flexes his hand in pain. "It's Armageddon, Cas. You need a bigger word than 'sorry'."

Dean turns around to face the angel again as Castiel explains, "Try to understand -- this is long foretold. This is your..."

"Destiny?" Dean interrupts. "Don't give me that "holy" crap. Destiny, God's plan... It's all a bunch of lies, you poor, stupid son of a bitch! It's just a way for your bosses to keep me and keep you in line! You know what's real? People, families -- that's real. (Y/N) is real. And you're gonna watch them all burn?" 

"What is so worth saving? I see nothing but pain here. I see inside you. I see your guilt, your anger, confusion. In (Y/N), I can see the fact that she feels unimportant compared to you and Sam, how upset it makes her. In paradise, all is forgiven. You'll be at peace. Even with Sam and (Y/N)."

"You can take your peace... and shove it up your lily-white ass. 'Cause I'll take the pain and the guilt. I'll even take Sam as is. Even if I have to prove to (Y/N) every day that she's important too. Which should be your job by the way. It's a lot better than being some Stepford bitch in paradise. This is simple, Cas! No more crap about being a good soldier. There is a right and there is a wrong here, and you know it." Castiel just turns and looks away, making Dean yell, "Look at me!" Dean grabs Castiel's shoulder, forcing him to turn around. "You know it! You were gonna help us once, weren't you? You were gonna warn (Y/N) about all this, before they dragged you back to Bible camp. Help us -- now. Please."

Castiel sighs. "What would you have me do?"

"Get (Y/N) and me to Sam. We can stop this before it's too late."

"I do that, we will all be hunted. We'll all be killed." Castiel argues, knowing that Dean is right, that he's doing the wrong thing. But he would be killed. Dean would be killed. Sam would be killed. (Y/N) would be killed. Probably right in front of him just to make sure the message was clear.

"If there is anything worth dying for... this is it." Dean pleads, but Castiel shakes his head and looks down. "You spineless..." Dean turns and walks away. "soulless son of a bitch. What do you care about dying? You're already dead. We're done. And if I ever catch you with my sister again, I'll fucking kill you."

"Dean --" Castiel starts.

"We're done!"

With a whoosh of wings, Castiel is gone again.

~~~~~~~

Sam and Ruby are standing in front of a sign that reads 'St. Mary's Convent - 2 Miles'. A nurse the two kidnapped earlier is in the trunk, screaming and pounding. A demon was still laying dormant in the woman, having not been exorcised but allowed the nurse to come back to the surface.

"Sam, it's time. Are we doing this or not?" Ruby asks, irritation evident in her tone.

"Give me a minute to think." Sam mumbles, looking at the sign for the convent.

"Sam --"

The younger Winchester only interrupts her, yelling, "Give me a damn minute, Ruby!"

Ruby rolls her eyes, toying with a knife she has in her hands. "Better think fast."

Sam pulls his cell phone out of his pocket, pressing a button to listen to Dean's voicemail.

"Listen to me, you bloodsucking freak. Dad always said I'd either have to save you or kill you. Well, I'm giving you fair warning. I'm done trying to save you. You're a monster, Sam -- a vampire. You're not you anymore. And there's no going back."

Another voicemail from (Y/N) sits in his inbox, despite the girl not being able to get ahold of him earlier, but, not knowing that, he plays the message, "If I ever see you again, Sam, I swear to God I'm going to kill you myself. Hurting Dean and I like that, only monsters would do that. So, next time I see you, I'm going to do my job and hunt the monster you've become."

A beep deletes the message as Ruby smirks behind his back. Sam sighs as he's close to tears. He half-turns towards Ruby, "Do it."

"Thank god." The demon smirks, walking around the car and opening the trunk.

The nurse can be heard screaming and begging from the trunk as Sam goes back to looking at the sign. 

~~~~~~~

(Y/N) paces around the room, trying to think of a plan. She's already tried breaking the drywall, which only fixes itself. Her fists grip her hair as she groans in frustration. She huffs, leaning against a table with her palms flat on the surface. The hunter lets out a surprised yelp as a hand grabs her shoulder, seeing Castiel as he pins her to the wall. His hand covers her mouth as she's sandwiched between his body and the wall. His blue eyes look down at her, filled with betrayal and determination.

She looks at him, wide-eyed until her brain processes who it is. Then she feels warmth coating her cheeks and her eyebrows furrow as she asks, "What the fuck?" Which is muffled by his hand. 

Castiel's gaze softens on her as his eyes close and he presses his lips to her forehead. (Y/N) relaxes a little, cheeks still on fire. Her eyes close as well until he pulls away, looking at her and holding a finger to his lips, the universal sign of 'shh'.

He pulls the demon killing knife from his trenchcoat and pulls his sleeve up, arguably the most skin she's seen on the angel. (Y/n) watches with concern as he uses the knife to cut his arm, blood dripping on the pristine floor. He hands her the knife, gently nudging her aside so he can make a sigil on the wall with his blood. 

As he's finishing up the sigil, a voice can be heard from behind (Y/N). "Castiel! Would you mind explaining just what the hell you're doing?"

(Y/N) turns her head to see Zachariah, and Castiel grabs her arm with his hand that isn't covered in blood, putting her behind him as he finishes the sigil. Castiel slams his hand in the middle of the sigil, making a bright flash of white invade their vision. (Y/N) cringes and closes her eyes, burying her face between Castiel's shoulder blades. When she lifts her head, Zachariah is gone. 

"He won't be gone long. We have to get Dean and find Sam now." Castiel turns to her, his voice full of urgency. 

"Where's Sam?" She lets out a heavy breath, pinching the bridge of her nose.

He shakes his head, "I don't know. But I know who does. We have to stop him, (Y/N), from killing Lilith."

Her eyebrows crinkle again in confusion. "But Lilith's gonna break the final seal."

"Lilith is the final seal. She dies, the end begins." He puts his not-bloody hand on her shoulder, teleporting her into the room where Dean is being held. Said hunter turns around and immediately strides over to them. (Y/N) meets him halfway, wrapping her arms around her brother's neck in an embrace. 

Dean's arms wrap around her middle, glaring at Castiel over her shoulder. "I thought I told you that-"

The angel only interrupts him, "I brought her to you so we could go find Sam. If he kills Lilith, Lucifer rises."

(Y/N) pulls away from her brother and nods, confirming what Castiel says. Dean looks between the two, a little horrified but determined before he nods as well. 

~~~~~~~

Chuck is on the phone as he paces in his kitchen, his computer on which reads 'Supernatural- Lucifer Rising by Carver Edlund. He talks to a woman on the phone, assumedly from an escort service. 

"Oh, yeah? Really? At the same time? Really? Wow. T-that sounds... moist." He stutters.

The woman on the other line laughs, "Well, it can be."

"Uh, what are your rates?" Chuck asks.

"We can get you one girl, one hour -- $1,000." 

Chuck pinches the bridge of his nose before running his hand through his hair. "Okay. Then, uh, I'll take 20 girls for the whole night."

The woman sounds confused over the phone as she responds, "I'm not sure you can afford that."

Chuck just chuckles. "Lady, sometimes you got to live like there's no tomorrow." As he turns back around, Castiel, (Y/N), and Dean appear in his kitchen, making the prophet freeze in place. "Wait. T-t-this isn't supposed to happen." He stammers as he looks at the three. 

"Sir?" The woman says.

"No, lady, this is definitely supposed to happen, but I just got to call you back." Chuck hangs up the phone. "I..."

"Where's Sam?" (Y/N) asks, crossing her arms over her chest. 

Chuck looks between the three of them nervously, "U-Uh, St. Mary's."

"St. Mary's? What is that, a convent?" Dean asks. 

"Yeah, but you guys aren't supposed to be there. You're not in this story." 

"Yeah, well..." Castiel looks at the woman next to him, his hand gently grabbing hers and lacing their fingers. "We're making it up as we go."

(Y/N) gives her angel a small smile as she blushes before Chuck's computer screen flickers and the entire house starts to shake. She can feel Castiel's hand tighten around hers as Chuck shouts. "Aw, man! Not again! No!"

"It's the Archangel!" He looks at (Y/N) and Dean, "I'll hold him off! I'll hold them all off! Just stop Sam!"

"Cas don't!" (Y/N) yells as he lets go of her hand. Castiel puts one hand on Dean's forehead and the other on her shoulder. His lips meet her forehead again in a chaste kiss before the two hunters are teleported to St. Mary's convent.

(Y/N) and Dean look around and then at each other. Dean's hand comes up and squeezes her shoulder, "He'll be okay."

She nods, regardless of the fact that she doesn't believe him. The two walk down the hallway before turning a corner, seeing Sam and Ruby in a room with Lilith. Ruby looks back at Dean and (Y/N), smiling. She puts out a hand and the doors to the sanctuary close.

Sam stalks towards Lilith, heartbeat growing louder in his ears. "I've been waiting for this... for a very long time."

"Then give me your best shot." Lilith taunts before Sam reaches out a hand, using his abilities. Lilith cries out in pain as a white light shines on her. The heartbeat in Sam's ears fade a little, along with the light as he lowers his hand.

Dean can be heard pounding on the door, yelling, "Sam!"

Sam turns to look at the door as (Y/N)'s voice can also be heard, "Sam!" She also bangs on the door. "Sam!"

From Sam's point of view, his siblings are muffled. "Dean? (Y/N)?"

Ruby's voice is also muffled, even more so than Dean and (Y/N) as she yells at Sam, "What are you waiting for?! Now! Sam, now!"

Lilith laughs as she taunts Sam more, "You turned yourself into a freak. A monster. And now you're not gonna bite? I'm sorry, but that is honestly adorable."

The heartbeat in Sam's ears quicken again as he faces Lilith, raising his hand again. Sam's eyes turn black as he concentrates, hurling his powers at Lilith. She convulses, her body glowing and flickering before she goes limp and Sam's eyes go back to normal, his heartbeat slowing again.

Blood pours from Lilith's body steadily as it flows in a very deliberate direction. Sam's eyebrows furrow as he watches it. "What the hell?"

"I can’t believe it." Ruby grins, looking like she just won the million dollar jackpot.

"Ruby, what’s going on?" Sam asks warily.

Ruby chuckles, "You did it. I mean, it was a little touch-and-go there for a while, but... you did it."

"What? What -- what did I do?"

"You opened the door. And now he's free at last. He's free at last!" Ruby celebrates.

Sam looks around, in denial of his actions. "No, no, no. No, he -- Lilith -- I stopped her. I killed her!"

"And it is written that the first demon shall be the last seal. And you bust her open." Ruby says fervently as Sam puts his hands to his head. "Now guess who's coming to dinner."

"Oh, my god." Sam says in disbelief.

"Guess again." Ruby smirks as Dean pounds on the door with a candelabra outside. "You don't even know how hard this was! All the demons out for my head. No one knew. I was the best of those sons of bitches! The most loyal! Not even knew! Only Lilith! Yeah, I'm sure you're a little angry right now, but, I mean, come on, Sam! Even you have to admit -- I'm -- I'm awesome!"

"You bitch. You lying bitch!" Sam yells, thrusting his hand up to use his powers on her, only for him to drop and clutch his head in pain.

"Don't hurt yourself, Sammy. It's useless. You shot your payload on the boss." Ruby giggles.

"The blood... You poisoned me."

Ruby kneels down in front of Sam, "No. It wasn't the blood. It was you... and your choices. I just gave you the options, and you chose the right path every time. You didn't need the feather to fly, you had it in you the whole time, ! I know it's hard to see it now... but this is a miracle. So long coming. Everything Azazel did, and Lilith did. Just to get you here. And you were the only one who could do it."

"Why? W-why me?" Sam stutters.

"Because... because it had to be you, Sammy. It always had to be you. You saved us. You set him free. And he's gonna be grateful. He's gonna repay you in ways that you can't even imagine." Ruby promises, cupping Sam's face in her hand. Dean and (Y/N) finally break open the door, both of them marching into the room as Ruby taunts, "You're too late."

"I don't care." (Y/N) responds through gritted teeth, the demon killing knife in her grasp. She advances on Ruby as Sam stands back up, grabbing Ruby from behind and holding her in place. (Y/N) thrusts the blade into Ruby's gut. (Y/N) glares at the demon as she twists the knife, Ruby flickers with light for a moment before (Y/N) rips the knife out, Sam letting the demon crumple to the floor, dead.

Sam looks at his siblings, tearing up again as his voice breaks. "I'm sorry." The blood pouring out of Lilith finishes its pattern on the floor, a bright light shooting up from the center of it and the convent begins to shake like Chuck's house.

"Sammy, let's go." (Y/N) says, grabbing Sam's coat. Sam's fingers wrap around her arm, keeping her in place between himself and Dean.

"Guys... he's coming." Sam responds breathlessly as the portal like entrance opens in the floor, surrounding the three in a bright flash of white.

Soulbound Taglist:

@fairy-alix @ltotheucy @delusional-paradise @moon-trash1507 @harryssatellitee @bakusquadobsessed @cnme2003 @chxrrywinee

[riieeuu]

You’re a burned out college student just barely recovering from an illness, and as if that wasn’t enough, you have to retake your missed midterm exams. What you didn’t expect was for Gojo Satoru—the infamous, over-the-top TA for International Business—to be the one supervising it. With his ridiculous fashion sense, blinding confidence, and a talent for getting under your skin, he turns a miserable retake into something far more chaotic... and annoying...soon to be unforgettable.

☆ college au , richboy!gojo , dividers+headers by @/uzmacchiato + images from pinterest.

☆ part1(2.6k) , part2 (soon) , ...

You crossed one leg over the other for what felt like the fifth time, trying not to let out a loud sigh—or worse, a yawn — as your professor rambled on. Despite your best efforts to listen, your attention drifted to the window behind her, where harsh sunlight streamed in at a blinding angle.

Why doesn’t she just buy a curtain?

You blinked a few times, already seeing spots in your vision from the glare, before forcing yourself to tune back in just as her long-winded lecture finally started wrapping up.

“Even though you’ve been — very, and I do mean immensely—incompetent in your studies,” she said, pausing dramatically, “you’re lucky I have it in me to give you a second chance to retake your midterms. Even though your excuse isn’t entirely backed by evidence, you better hope you’re not lying.”

She pointed at you with unnecessary flair, her other hand adjusting her reading glasses as she turned back to her laptop and began typing furiously.

“Karma always comes back around.”

You resisted the urge to roll your eyes. For someone who was offering mercy, she certainly knew how to make it sound like a threat.

“You’ll take your first midterm next week—under supervision, of course. In case this whole stunt was just an elaborate way to cheat.”

You looked off to the side to suppress your reaction. She talked so much about grace, yet had none in her tone.

“I’m arranging a time slot with one of the graduate TAs from the Literature department. The exact date will be emailed to you,” she finished, still focused on her screen. “You may go now.”

You stood up, forcing a polite smile onto your face.

“Thank you, Mrs. Riley. I assure you this won’t happen again.”

You bowed slightly out of habit and turned to leave.

Behind you, she gave a tight-lipped smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

As soon as you stepped out of the office, you were already rolling your eyes.

Outside, your friend stood waiting—face illuminated by the glow of her phone screen, one leg propped lazily against the wall, her back leaning against it like she’d been there for a while.

At the sound of the door shutting, she looked up from her screen.

“I take it that didn’t go well?” she asked, raising an eyebrow, concern clearly written across her face.

You didn’t answer immediately, just kept walking, heels tapping a little harder than usual against the floor. She fell into step beside you.

“Yes… and no? Ugh, I don’t even know.”

You rubbed your temples, feeling the dull ache of a headache blooming behind your eyes. Whether it was from the harsh sunlight or your professor’s drawn-out monologue, you weren’t sure.

“She’s letting me retake the midterms next week, but god—it was so infuriating the way she talked down to me. Like, she kept implying I was lying just because I didn’t have 'proof.'”

You threw a hand up in frustration.

“I was seriously sick—like, stuck-in-bed, couldn’t-move, deathly sick. And surprise, surprise! I couldn’t afford a doctor’s visit to get some official note. When I’m already scraping money together for food, rent, and taxes? Yeah, no. A medical certificate was the least of my concerns.”

You both turned the corner — and immediately stopped in your tracks.

Tall. White-haired. Dressed like he just stepped off a Milan runway despite being on a college campus. A tailored slate-gray coat draped effortlessly over one shoulder, sleek designer shades perched low on his nose despite the blinding sunlight already punishing your eyes, and not a single wrinkle on his very obviously overpriced button-up. Even the way he leaned slightly forward as he spoke screamed look at me, I know I’m hot.

And of course, he wasn’t alone.

No, of course not. He was standing on a bench, practically elevated like some divine being, surrounded by a full-blown crowd. Mostly girls — all clinging to every word like he was delivering some long-lost truth of the universe.

“—and that’s exactly why mergers between conglomerates with conflicting brand identities fail,” he gestured smoothly, his voice silky and theatrical. “It’s not just about business, good negotiations — it’s a perfect blend of psychology, smooth communication. And, of course—” he paused for effect, smirking behind those ridiculous sunglasses, “a little bit of destiny.”

You blinked.

You weren’t even close enough to hear everything clearly, but you didn’t need to. The tone? The confidence? The effortless charisma? It was like watching a nepo baby business-class TED Talk meet a Dior perfume commercial.

You glanced at your friend beside you. “Who is he?”

She didn’t even look up. “Gojo Satoru. Grad student. TA for International Business,” she said flatly. “Basically the poster boy of the department. Most girls worship him, most guys hate him, and every TA and professor in a five-mile radius probably loses sleep every time he walks into a room.”

She finally looked at you, unimpressed.

“Three girls in my friend group switched majors to International Business because of him. One of them didn’t even know what a stock was. I’m pretty sure she used ChatGPT to pass the placement exam — I just can’t prove it.”

You blinked again.

She added, dry as ever, “He made one guy cry during a presentation critique once. No one talks about it, but we all remember.”

Your eyes drifted back toward the crowd — and that’s when you spotted the perfect example of what she meant.

A guy stood stiffly beside his girlfriend, who looked one blink away from full-blown tears of adoration. You could practically see the sparkles in her eyes as she stared at Gojo like he was some sort of divine revelation. Her boyfriend, on the other hand, looked like he was trying to calculate whether murder would be legally justified under campus law. His brows furrowed deeper with every word that came out of Gojo’s mouth.

Without another word, the two of you continued down the path toward the cafeteria, the noise of campus life fading slightly behind you.

Your steps were slow and reluctant as you made your way across campus, the crisp morning air doing little to revive your spirits. The quiet hum of early activity around the university felt almost offensive, considering where you were headed—toward a scheduled midterm that felt more like a punishment than an academic obligation.

While your friends were still curled up in bed or texting plans to celebrate the end of exam season—coffee shops, lazy brunches, maybe even a well-earned nap—you were trudging across campus at precisely 8:00 a.m, to take an exam you were never meant to sit this late in the term. You should’ve been recovering, unwinding, maybe even catching up on rest. Instead, you were here, barely upright, the residual fatigue of a two-week illness clinging to your limbs like lead.

To make matters worse, your brain was fried from the frantic cramming that had followed. Obscure literary concepts, critical theory, and enough gothic metaphors to drown a Brontë were still ricocheting around in your skull.

You glanced down at your phone, rereading the email from your professor for what had to be the fourth time:

Room 4B, Humanities Building. 8:00 a.m. sharp.

Just in case. Just to make sure you hadn’t made a mistake. You hadn’t.

With a quiet sigh, you finally looked up as you reached the door. The hallway was oddly silent, save for the distant hum of fluorescent lights. You stepped into the room—and were met with emptiness; No supervisor, no exam setup.

You frowned and checked the time again.

8:02 a.m.

The silence in the room was so complete it bordered on surreal. The classroom, wide, was like a forgotten space. For a moment, the intrusive thought to yell just to hear an echo crossed your mind. You resisted. Barely.

“Maybe they’re just running late,” you murmured, voice subdued as if you didn’t want to disturb whatever strange stillness hung in the air.

With no better plan, you walked in, dropping your bag onto the desk directly in front of where the proctor should’ve been stationed. You settled into the chair, its plastic cold against your back, and reached into your bag for your notes. If nothing else, you could use the time to squeeze in one final review.

You flipped through the annotated chaos—highlighted passages from Wuthering Heights, frenzied marginalia scrawled beside Frankenstein excerpts, and too many underlined mentions of “gothic motifs” to count. The pages were soft with overuse, some corners folded from sheer exhaustion.

You glanced down at your phone again. The waiting was starting to gnaw at your nerves, the silence in the room only making every passing minute feel longer, more uncertain.

8:20 a.m.

Seriously?

Anxious and tired, your fingers hovered over the keyboard as you began typing an email to your professor—just a quick note to inform her that no supervisor had arrived, and that the exam room was still completely empty.

You were halfway through your second sentence when the classroom door creaked open, and in walked a man who seemed entirely out of place.

No—not just any man.

Gojo Satoru.

You recognized him instantly. The white hair, the nonchalant air, and the infuriatingly good posture. He strolled in like he owned the room—or perhaps the entire building. He wore a sharply tailored black coat from Saint Laurent’s latest menswear runway, left just barely open to reveal a high-collared ivory silk shirt and sleek, cropped dress trousers. His outfit was finished with polished leather boots and oversized square-cut sunglasses that gleamed under the classroom lights, catching the reflection of your wide-eyed expression.

In one hand, he carried a sleek black file—presumably your exam—and in the other, a comically large drink: an indulgent chocolate-flavored iced coffee, dripping with syrup and topped with a tower of whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and chocolate shavings. The sugary concoction would’ve looked more at home in the hands of a teenager than a man dressed like he’d just stepped off a fashion editorial. The air around him carried the subtle, unmistakable scent of high-end cologne—warm amber, bergamot, and cedarwood—rich enough to fill the spacious room with its luxurious presence.

"Ah, good morning!" he greeted casually, eyes hidden behind the dark lenses as he paused to check the time on his dazzlingly shiny, very expensive-looking watch. “Not that late, turns out. Had to grab a drink to kickstart the day, you know?”

You stared at him, deadpan. “Seriously?”

He winked, like this was the most ordinary thing in the world.

You blinked, visibly stunned. In the mirrored surface of his sunglasses, you caught your own reflection—specifically, the very unflattering grimace that had crept across your face. A habit you hadn’t quite managed to break. You quickly schooled your expression, sitting up a little straighter.

“Um…” you began hesitantly, lifting your phone. “I think you might be in the wrong room. According to the email, this midterm retake was supposed to be supervised by TA Michael from the Literature department.”

There was a beat of silence as you stared at him, still unsure if this was all some elaborate prank—or worse, an administrative disaster unfolding in real time.

And yet, he simply smiled—completely unfazed.

Without a hint of shame or urgency, he opened the black file and casually slid it onto your desk like he was placing down a brunch menu. “Michael was supposed to supervise,” he began, unbothered, “but he got called away last minute. Naturally, I’m not available either—but the bastard lured me out for a morning drink, and when I accidentally let it slip that I was free today, he roped me into this instead.” He shook his head with a rueful smile, like the whole thing was some sort of cosmic betrayal. “I didn’t even know what I was supervising until I walked through the door.”

He plucked the second copy of the exam from the folder and began reading it aloud with zero self-censorship.

“Ah. Literature. How much more boring can you be?”

You inhaled sharply, trying to ignore him.

His eyes flicked over the page before he made another snide observation, this time more animated. “So basically this guy you’re writing on has… mommy issues, huh? Classic projection. Honestly—same.”

Your grip on your pen tightened, your knuckles whitening as you tried to reread the exam prompt. But your eyes could barely track the words. His voice—sarcastic, loud, and increasingly grating—filled the empty room like an echo you couldn’t escape. You pressed your lips together, counting down from five, trying to will your concentration back into existence.

You could feel your patience slipping, slipping—

“Do you mind?” you finally snapped, your tone restrained but firm. “I can’t focus like this.”

He blinked, then raised both hands in mock offense, an exaggerated gasp escaping him. “Okay, okay. Sorry, Ms. Serious,” he said with a smirk, backing away towards the desk.

You exhaled, relieved for about three seconds.

Then he sat down, leaned all the way back in the chair, and propped his long legs up on the desk like it was his living room couch.

And then—he started slurping.

Loudly.

The sound of that ridiculously overindulgent chocolate drink echoed like a slow torture device, each obnoxious sluuurp punctuated by the occasional jingle of ice against plastic.

You stared at your paper. Then at him.

And you wondered—was this your punishment for surviving the flu, no maybe it should've took you if this is what was awaiting you.

You sighed. Loudly. The kind of sigh meant to signal you were officially done with the morning, the midterm, and—most of all—him. You handed over the completed exam with a drained look, already planning to head straight back to bed and pretend the last hour hadn’t existed.

What you didn’t expect was Gojo Satoru falling in step beside you the moment you stepped out of the classroom.

You glanced at him from the corner of your eye, already suspicious, but he said nothing. Just leaned down to your side dramatically and flashed a childish thumbs-up or thumbs-down gesture in front of your face.

You stared at him with a deadpan expression. The way he handled you like some grumpy toddler only made your irritation rise.

“It was okay,” you said flatly.

He hummed as if you’d just given a riveting answer, his stupidly long legs naturally matching your stride. You tried to subtly slow down, but he adjusted effortlessly. For some reason, he insisted on walking at your pace even though he had absolutely no reason to.

And then his phone rang.

He slowed, answering it with an automatic shift in tone—still casual, but strikingly polished.

“Yeah. Confirm the revised agenda with Dr. Park. No, push the presentation to Thursday—there’s a conflict with the dean’s advisory meeting,” he said, voice crisp. “Make sure the finance draft gets emailed before noon, I’ll sign it remotely.”

A pause.

“No, no need to loop me in on the facilities walkthrough. Just cc me on the final report. Thanks.”

He ended the call smoothly, sliding his phone back into his pocket with the same effortless grace he seemed to apply to everything. Then he looked at you and grinned—as if he hadn’t just spent the last ten seconds sounding like the CEO of a major corporation, never mind the fact that he was also just a TA for International Business. It made you wonder: just what kind of family background did he come from?

“Well, that was thrilling,” he said breezily. “Anyway. Try not to let the existential dread of literary symbolism consume you one day.”

He offered a lazy two-fingered salute and turned away, walking off down the path like he hadn’t just completely hijacked your morning.

You blinked after him, the scent of his cologne still lingering like an expensive afterthought.

And somehow, despite everything… you felt more exhausted than when you'd actually been writing the exam.

[paramountinplace]

I love the beach story so much and would love a part 3. I loved the detail of Van getting sunburn too since she has red hair. I also loved akilah being concerned about the animals. You do a great job of having the characters consistent with the show. I think in the car shed get pretty fussy about it because she’d get a little feverish and feel sick from the sunburn, and it’s uncomfortable, especially around her scarring.

The chaos of Nat and Tai trying to get all the smaller ones changed for the car ride. Them trying to get Jackie Mari Mel and Gen into their pull ups since they know they’re probably going to fall asleep and are prone to night accidents.

Mel being a little fussy because she wants to sit with her best friend Gen, but Gen wants to be in the front so she can be closer to Tai, and there’s room in the front for a bucket to go between her legs in case she is feeling sick.

Mari crying for the first 10 minutes because she’s overtired, then Tai gives her sippy cup with apple juice in it and she’s fine, falls asleep immediately.

Tai trying to comfort Van and drive. Maybe Shauna is feeling big again and can drive.

Jackie’s keep handing Van random things to see if she’ll stop fussing, and reporting to Tai in the front everything.

“Maris sleeping Tai”

“Van is crying again”

“Van is touching her face again”

“Van is sweating”

“Van face red”

“Vans arms are red”

“I think I peed-ed”

Etc.

When they finally get home Jackie and Mari are both asleep and get carried inside, and put to bed immediately.

Mel and Van insisting on bath time together so they can play more. Mostly Mel because she wants to help Van cheer up.

Vans fine for a little but then gets cranky and has a tantrum for no reason because she feels queasy and tired and achy from the sun sickness/sun burn.

Nat comes in to help Mel get changed for bed, while Tai comforts Van.

I feel like this could be 2 parts , if you’re interested. I love this story so much and thanks for doing my request!

Love, 🐨🐨

Life's A Beach - Pt. 3

Summary: Done with their day at the beach, the Yellowjackets have to get back home for the night. Inspired by some of the lovely ideas above! I did end up spliting the ask into 2 parts, so there will be a part 4 sometime soon

"We're not gonna have to make them change in the car, are we?" Nat grumbled as she shoved a wad of still-damp towels into a bag. Tai shook her head, glancing over her shoulder to make sure everyone was helping to pack up their things. Mari was sitting glumly atop the cooler, not doing much, but Tai figured she'd let that one slide considering she'd volunteered to carry said cooler when no one else wanted to.

"There's a building up by the parking lot with stalls for changing and stuff," she explained, zipping up Van's backpack and turning to hand it to her. The redhead had been trailing Tai around since they'd started packing up, rubbing at her sunburnt face miserably.

"Do you wanna take 'em up now? I can give you the keys so you can drop all the stuff in our car," Nat asked.

Tai did not want to take them up now. She had a feeling that she'd need Nat and Laura Lee's help with getting the littles set for the car ride back.

"Nah, I'll just wait," she said casually, scanning their area for misplaced shoes or toys.

It was another fifteen minutes before everyone had managed to get their things packed up and hefted various bags onto their shoulders. They trooped through the sand back up to the parking lot and Tai was surprised to find that aside from their cars, the lot was almost entirely empty.

Nat popped the trunk of their car to allow everyone to drop the chairs and coolers in, while Tai unearthed two bags from the other car that held dry clothes for the ride home. She handed one to Nat and kept the other for herself, calling for the girls to follow her up to the wooden building that held the stalls she'd mentioned earlier.

Laura Lee waved them ahead, opting to get Lottie changed in the car since there was no one else in the parking lot and the minivan was big enough to do it with the door shut.

"We'll take her for the ride back, also," she told Tai. Lottie was already on her way to being asleep again, head lolling against Laura Lee's shoulder.

Once they got to the building, Tai rifled through her bag for Van and Shauna's clean clothes.

"You two go get changed and come back here when you're done," she directed. "Akilah, hon, I think Nat has your clothes."

Nat nodded, holding up a bundle of purple and white.

"I've also got Jackie and Gen," she said.

"You take them and I'll handle the others?"

They split up and headed inside, herding the others along with them. Mari had discovered the push-button shower heads outside the building and had made up a game that seemed to mostly involve her getting Mel wet, which made Tai grateful for the dry towel she'd grabbed at the last second.

She draped the towel around Mel before bending once more to rummage through the clothing bag.

"It stinks in here," Mari observed, poking her head through one of the curtains to the change stalls.

"Sure does," Tai agreed. It was an unfortunate combination of sea salt and general bathroom smell, which made Mel pinch at her nose adorably. Tai finally found what she had been hunting for in the bag and handed Mari a bundle of clothes with a pull-up sandwiched between them, trying to make it seem casual. Mari froze when she realized, wrinkling her nose.

"I don't need this," she protested. "It's probably Mel's."

Mel blushed, shifting on her feet as she looked down. Tai sighed, pulling the blonde's dinosaur pajama pants out of the bag alongside a t-shirt and another pull-up, marked this time with racecars.

"No. It's yours," she replied bluntly, standing and tapping Mari on the nose. "It's just a precaution in case you fall asleep on the way home."

Mel disappeared into one of the stalls, seemingly having decided not to argue with Tai. Mari stood her ground, fixing Tai with a glower.

"I don't need it," she repeated.

"Maybe not," Tai shrugged. "But we're gonna wear it just in case."

Mari's face screwed up and she opened her mouth in what was sure to be a mighty wail before Nat rounded the corner with a freshly clothed Gen and Jackie. They were wearing matching sweaters and Nat had braided both of their hair back in the same style. Behind them, Shauna, Van, and Akilah were following along, also clad in their clean clothes. As they came up beside Nat, one of the curtains rasped and Mel stepped out in her dinosaur pants.

"Look," Tai pointed. "Everyone else is changed."

Mari clamped her mouth shut, quietly padding into a stall to change and Nat gave Tai an amused look.

"Little trouble?"

Tai sighed. "She's tired. We all are."

With Mari cooperating, they were done fairly quickly and got back to the car without any more complaining. Nat split off with Akilah at her side to hop in the other car, which already held a sleeping Lottie and Laura Lee at the wheel, paging through her book as she waited.

"Gen, you're up with me," Tai said, gently nudging the girl towards the passenger seat. Laura Lee had already set up the sick bucket they kept in the trunk, lining it with a few shopping bags since they'd used up their proper sick bags on the drive up. Gen's cheeks went a little pink, but she didn't argue, waving goodbye to Mel.

As Gen climbed into the car, the pout that had been forming on Mel's face deepened. She had been looking forward to sitting with Gen on the way home and despite not really being one to complain, she was clearly gearing up to tell Tai as much when Shauna jumped in.

"Mel, we can sit together in the back, okay? It'll be fun, we can play the license plate game," she offered, slinging an arm around Mel's shoulders. Tai nodded, relieved that Shauna was either feeling a little older she'd been earlier, or just a little less focused on one-upping Mari and more on the clear exhaustion of the others.

"Sound okay, Mel?" Tai asked.

The blonde nodded begrudgingly and allowed Shauna to help buckle her into the far backseat. Tai appraised the three that were left standing outside the car. She didn't want to stick Van in the way back, especially not since the redhead hadn't asked to sit with Mel as she normally would have and Tai was getting the feeling she was going to want to have Van close by. Mari in the back with Shauna sounded like a one-way track to an argument that Tai wouldn't be able to break up from the front and Jackie didn't like the backseat because it made her feel claustrophobic with its small windows.

"Can you three share the middle row?"

They all agreed quietly, clambering into the car without any argument and Tai slid the door shut behind them before hopping in the driver's seat, flashing Laura Lee a thumbs up through the window. She waited for them to back out before starting up the car, adjusting the mirrors as she did.

Almost as soon as the car had started moving, Mari dissolved into tears. They came on quick, as they tended to do when Mari was tired.

"Hey, what's the matter?" Tai asked, trying to catch a glimpse of the girl in the rearview mirror.

"Mari's crying," Jackie chirped.

"I hear that, honey," Tai replied. "Mar, what's goin' on?"

Mari's response was mostly unintelligible through her tears, which told Tai she was probably nothing more than overtired. She weighed the option of pulling over to quickly soothe Mari or just letting her cry herself out. Sometimes the girl was able to regulate herself, but after a few more minutes passed and Mari was still sobbing, Tai opted to ease the car into a gas station parking lot so she could address the situation a little better.

She popped the trunk and dug around until she unearthed one of the coolers, praying as she opened it that there would be a Mari-friendly drink inside. Luckily, a bottle of apple juice sat primly amongst the melting ice and Tai dumped half of it into a sippycup that she was pretty sure actually belonged to Mel. She hoped the dinosaur design would go unnoticed in the darkness of the car and held her breath when she handed it to Mari, smoothing a hand over dark hair as the girl took a sip.

The fact that she was drinking out of someone else's cup didn't seem to register with Mari and she calmed quickly. Beside her, Van was shifting uncomfortably in her seat.

"Do you need the bathroom, bud?" Tai asked, leaning over Mari to get a look at Van's face. The skin around her scars was irritated and raw, like she'd been rubbing at her sunburn. Van shook her head, confirming Tai's previous suspicions when a hand came up to paw at her cheek.

"'M hot," she murmured, whining a little when Tai reached out to stop her from messing with her skin. She pressed the back of her hand to Van's forehead, unsurprised when she felt heat radiating off of it.

"You're running a bit of a fever." She was speaking mostly to herself, but Jackie looked over at her wide-eyed. "It's just from the burn, Jackie. She's not sick."

Jackie relaxed back against her seat, giving Van's shoulder a tentative pat.

"Hang tight, baby," Tai sighed, pulling Van's hand away from her face again, pressing a quick kiss to her palm. There wasn't much she could do about the burn until they got home. She could hear Jackie saying something to the redhead as she slid their door shut, flopping back into her own seat to pull back out into the main road.

As they continued on, she peeked into the rearview a few times, relieved when Mari's head finally lolled back against the headrest, eyes shut as she dropped off into sleep. Van was gazing mournfully out the window, one palm pressed against the side of her face. Tai decided it was better than her scratching at it and didn't say anything.

"Mari's sleepin'," Jackie said in a stage whisper.

"Thanks, honey," Tai replied. "Let's try to keep it that way, alright?"

Mel and Shauna were talking softly in the backseat, but between the hum of the car and the calm music Tai was playing quietly, she figured Mari probably wouldn't wake up from it.

They managed to get onto the highway before Jackie's sweet voice reached Tai's ears again.

"Van's crying."

A tiny sob sounded from the redhead and Tai fought the urge to whip around, forcing herself to keep her eyes on the road.

"Buddy, what's up?"

Van didn't reply, pressing the heels of her palms into her eyes.

"I got it," Jackie announced.

There was a bit of a shuffle as Jackie dug around in her blue backpack. She unearthed a little puzzle toy, handing it over to Van, who took it and stared down at it glumly. Her sniffling calmed as she fiddled with it for a few minutes before her tears picked up again and Jackie took it back gently.

Her crying garnered the attention of the two in the backseat and Shauna leaned forward, dangling a fidget toy over Van's headrest.

"Here, try this," she whispered.

Jackie took it and passed it to Van, relaying what they were doing up to Tai, who nodded silently. She was debating trying to make the rest of the drive single-handedly so she could reach a hand into the back for Van to hold, but she kept both hands clenched around the wheel as she listened to the others try to get Van to calm down. She flipped the A/C on low, hoping no one would complain about the car being a little cooler and that it might get Van to settle until they got home.

"Van, no—Tai, she's touching her face again," Jackie piped up, voice still somewhat hushed as she tried to be quiet for Mari's sake.

"Grab her hands," Shauna hissed.

"No, don't—" Mel cut in and Tai fought the urge to shout.

"Don't grab her," she shot over her shoulder, feeling a little ill-equipped to deal with the situation at hand. She wracked her brain for ideas, trying to ignore the hushed squabble that had broken out in the backseat alongside Van's pitiful sniffles. "You're okay, Van, it's alright. Stop messing with your face, okay?"

"It hurts," Van replied, voice small.

"I know. You probably don't feel so good, huh?"

"She's shaking her head," Jackie said.

"Thanks, Jax."

She kept one hand on the wheel as she reached carefully across the dash to pop open the glove compartment.

"Gen, can you find our audiobook in there?"

Gen rifled through the CDs, pulling out one with a purple cover. It wasn't the one Tai had been referring to, but she figured it would work the same. She directed Gen to switch out the music they were listening to for the book, turning up the volume as a calm voice started filtering through the speakers, reading the opening paragraph of a children's novel.

"Let's all try to relax, okay?" She directed this at the back of the car, strangely grateful for the mess of traffic that she slowed into. They came to a standstill, allowing her to turn around. She gave Van's knee a squeeze. "I know it hurts, but we'll be home soon."

Shauna was trailing her fingers through the ends of Van's hair, chewing on her lip nervously. As much as she could put up a front of not caring about the other girls, she got antsy when one of them was upset and there wasn't anything anyone could do about it.

"Try to focus on the story, buddy," she murmured as she turned around to face the road again. As they crept forward, she made sure to glance into the backseat every so often.

The audiobook had gotten to Jackie quickly and she was slumped against her window, backpack cradled in her lap like a teddy as she dozed. Mari was still fast asleep, sippy held loosely in one hand.

Van had calmed somewhat, still fussy and restless but no longer crying. Every time her breath hitched like she was about to start up again, Shauna would lean forward to press a hand to her chest, getting her to breathe slowly in the way that Van did for her whenever Shauna got really riled up.

Mel was quiet, not sleeping but staring tiredly out the window as she mouthed at the end of one of her braids.

Beside Tai, Gen was still, body relaxed as she gazed ahead into the sea of car lights. Nothing about her demeanor betrayed that she was feeling sick and Tai let out a slow breath, hopeful that the car would stay like this until they arrived home. The traffic dissipated fairly quickly and she eased her foot down on the gas, going a little faster than she normally might choose to go.

At some point, they'd been separated from Laura Lee and Nat's car and she kept herself awake by scanning the road ahead of her for the familiar vehicle. She was glad she had chosen that particular activity to occupy herself with because it allowed her to catch a flash red and blue out of the corner of her eye, slowing to just above the speed limit as they flew by a cop car hidden strategically in a turn-out. She eased off the speeding a bit after that.

She felt Van's foot thudding lightly at the back of her seat after a while, but she knew the redhead wasn't trying to be annoying. It was something she'd picked up from Nat, who had a habit of kicking gently at the back of Lottie's seat as she drove just to feel a little closer to the other girl when she wasn't able to turn and look at Nat.

Once they were off the highway, Tai took a hand off the wheel to reach behind her, allowing Van to grasp at it with both of hers. She rubbed her thumb over the back of one of Van's hands, pulling it back only when she needed both hands to make a turn.

Van made a little sound, but Shauna was quick to offer up her own hand for her to hold, eyes meeting Tai's in the rearview. She gave Shauna a nod in thanks, making a mental note to praise the other girl for helping out so much when she got the chance. Trying to whisper her thanks all the way into the backseat while half the car was asleep seemed like a recipe for disaster, so she kept her mouth shut as they wound through the back roads that led to their house.

She could see Laura Lee and Nat's car a ways ahead of them, her headlights illuminating the stickers on the back of the vehicle. She flipped off the GPS, choosing to just follow the other car through the dark—she was pretty sure she knew the way home at this point anyhow.

Gen perked up beside her as they rolled into their neighborhood and Tai felt about the same. She knew they had a bit of a task ahead of them with getting everyone into bed and all, but she was just glad to be home and not behind the wheel of a car any longer.

A few groans rose up as she pulled the key out of the car and the lights flickered on, prompting Mel and Gen to wake up slowly. Mari and Jackie were still solidly knocked out, while Van had unbuckled herself immediately and was restless in her seat as she tried to figure out a way to get out of the car without waking the girls on either side of her.

"One sec, guys," Tai said, beckoning to Nat for a hand. "We'll be inside before you know it."

To be continued!