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rookthorne · 6 months

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𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑯𝒖𝒏𝒕 — 𝑵𝑰𝑮𝑯𝑻 𝑻𝑾𝑶

》 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐤

The mask that covered the Soldat both embodied the character and hid the man behind it, the cloak of his character so effective it was a shock when he cornered and isolated you, to ask you out on a date. Stranger things had happened, that you were sure of.

჻჻჻჻჻჻჻჻ 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 》 Scare Actor!Bucky Barnes x F!Reader

჻჻჻჻჻჻჻჻ 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕 》 5.0k

჻჻჻჻჻჻჻჻ 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 》 Fluff, a game of chase with an intensity times a hundred, consensual stalking, primal, knife play ჻჻჻ TROPES: Meet cute, first date, friends to lovers

჻჻჻჻჻჻჻჻ 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒆 》 There is a surprise cameo in here of someone I never thought I would write for... Halloween called for it.

჻჻჻჻჻჻჻჻ 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒂 》 @smutconnoisseur

჻჻჻჻჻჻჻჻ 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕 》 @rookthorne's Fright Night — Masterlist

》 𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓 𝐎𝐍𝐄

》 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑯𝒖𝒏𝒕 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕

》 𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐍

What felt like years had passed since the previous night.

After your encounter with the infamous Soldat, you had gone home feeling unsettled, unmoored with the curiosity that held you in such a tight vice it was impossible to breathe without the urge to research and know more.

You had eventually given in – the social media platforms did not pull much of what you didn’t already know, however, you realised that Soldat had his own playlist on the park’s YouTube channel. Each video was filmed with a shaky camera and you could see him stalking after the person filming, and then he would vanish when they went through a crowd, just like a ghost – what he proclaimed to be.

Comments called him a hoax, a stunt pulled by the park to call more visitors to the park. Which, you admitted, had worked – you went there and you signed that waiver just to have a chance to encounter him.

Granted, you had gotten much more than you bargained for by far, that was for certain. Being hunted like prey and then cornered in an alleyway, only to find out he was intrigued by you…

“Hmm,” you hummed, scrolling through the comments of a video. A single comment caught your attention and you stopped your mindless scrolling and paused to read it.

He chased after me for like ten minutes. It was the scariest thing in my life and I commend him for his skill. Looking forward to coming back next season!

A short video was attached. It portrayed Soldat over the shoulder of the poster, flipping his knife nonchalantly as he stared straight at the camera.

You couldn’t help but notice that every time you stumbled upon something pertaining to the Soldat that no one mentioned his proximity – not a single word about how they’d been pulled to his chest or had his hands on them and a knife to their throat. “That’s- That can’t be right,” you said, furrowing your brows.

Had he made an exception for you?

The worker that walked you through the waiver had endlessly assured you that this was due process, and that every person that signed the waivers was given the option to opt out of encounters with Soldat. He went on to explain that even if you did sign the waiver, there was no guarantee to have an interaction with a specific character.

You still signed it, fully understanding the fact that it wasn’t a promise to see the Soldat. There was that hope, maybe even longing, that he would make an appearance, and you had been accutely surprised with just how he had presented himself.

He stood so close you could feel his chest rise and fall against your back with every breath; you could hear his muffled words behind the mask, the accented dialogue of his character tinged with a mother tongue of Russian.

You wondered where the actor was from – whether he was just putting on a show, or whether he was in fact, from Russia. From what you understood and researched, the words he spoke translated to something that made you shiver.

Those feelings and those words did not leave your mind as you slept, nor as you worked through the day. It was enough of a distraction that you had made so many slip ups and mistakes without realising, and you had been forced to start tasks over half way through.

Your coworkers had revelled in that, even teased you for it.

Sighing heavily, you placed your phone down in your lap and stared at the wall of your bedroom. Nightfall was creeping closer and closer. Soon you would need to leave to get to the park and that’s when you would see him, and that thought sent a thrill of excitement up your spine.

Hours later, you stood at the entryway of the park once again. It felt surreal, like you were walking through a lucid dream filled with excited crowds flocking their way through the attractions.

It was the eve of Halloween and everything had been ramped up – lights, fire, and fog were increased exponentially. There were even more actors stalking through the crowds and scattering them like pins in a bowling alley.

A few of them tried jumping in front of you, but you only stared at them with a smirk when they pouted at your lack of reaction. “Ain’t here for a scare, lamb?” one asked, baring his teeth.

“Nah,” you replied, “just here to watch everyone else lose their shit.” Whether it was in character or not, the actor laughed and moved on, amused with your blunt answer.

Your reason for venturing to the park, however, could not have been more wrong. The words that the Soldat had said to you the previous night, “I will find you, kotenok. You will not escape so easily next time,” rang through your mind, bouncing off the confines of your skull.

If he were here, he would find you, you reasoned. With that self-assurance, you started forward and passed through the sign in desk with a practised ease, then you headed straight off towards the rides. The crowd cleared as you walked, and you laughed at a group of young men as they scattered from an actor that had skidded across the floor towards them.

“Little lamb!” a woman’s voice yelled, and you spun around to find Widow walking towards you, this time without her bat-hybrid weapon. Instead of a torn up leather jacket, she was wearing a suit – dark crimson, like her hair – and her white dress shirt was splattered with gore. “You came back! Soldat left you in peace, then.”

You grinned. “He didn’t make it easy, Widow.” She laughed – a manic sound that made your gut twist. “Anyway, I best get on,” you said simply. “I am being hunted.”

“Oh, don’t I know it, little one,” she sang. A bubble of gum popped as she spoke, and she went on her way, swinging her hips and jumping at the crowd to make them yell with fear.

The archway to the ride section of the park loomed as you walked towards it, and you took a deep breath. On the exhale, you heard a loud bang right next to you and you shrieked, jumping to the side and you slammed into the shoulder of a bystander. “Sorry, oh my god–I’m so s-” You stopped and your mouth fell open.

“Careful there, sweetheart,” the man purred. His head was covered in a black cowl with a red insignia, but his eyes were a striking blue – if he didn’t look so foreboding, you would have trusted him. Black armour covered his shoulders, that same red insignia plastered right on his chest. “Wouldn’t wanna run into the wrong fella ‘round here.”

“N-No, sorry,” you stuttered.

For some unknown reason, this particular actor struck a deep chord of fear within you – just like The Soldat did.

He smirked – it was a dark, sinister pull of his lips that made you shudder. “Run along now, little lamb.”

You squeaked and shuffled off, keenly aware of his eyes watching after you.

The archway was only a few feet away when you looked up from your trainer-clad feet, only to freeze in place. A man, clad in black and eyes lined with kohl, stared straight back at you while flipping a knife in his left hand. The glint of metal caught you by surprise, and you abruptly realised the reason his hand was so cold against your mouth the previous night was because it was made of metal.

Your heart pounded against your ribs as you stared at him, and him at you.

He was leaning against the wall with an arm across his chest, and he didn’t seem bothered by the crowds around him giving him such a wide berth that the archway was almost impassible. You noticed a set of hard knee guards over the canvas of his pants, and heavy boots ladened and covered with straps were on his feet.

“Oh, no,” you breathed, blinking owlishly at him. His stare didn’t waver, but if you weren’t mistaken, you watched the corner of one of his eyes crinkle. The bastard was smirking.

“Ah, my little kotenok,” he called, his voice as raspy and deep as it was the night before. “I told you I would find you.” The knife slipped back into a holster at his hip, and he strode forward. You only took a few hesitant steps back. “Where are you off to, devochka?”

“Anywhere but here.” You turned and bolted in the opposite direction, ignoring the way people watched you flee with widened eyes. “Can’t catch me this time!”

“Oh, YA by snova podumal, kotenok,” he said right behind you. “You can only run so far.”

You screamed and ran faster, laughing as you did so – almost in hysterics from the adrenaline, when the footsteps behind you suddenly stopped. Instinct told you that you were not safe, he was indeed a ghost that you could not outrun, but damn it all if you weren’t going to try.

“And there she goes, run, lamb,” Widow called ahead of you, and she bowed as you ran past. “Run, run, as fast you can–Soldat will catch you!”

“Not helpful!” you yelled back over your shoulder, and her laughter could be heard over the loud music.

Yesterday had taught you a valuable lesson, and no matter how many empty and dark alleyways you passed, you did not stop to rest – only sticking to the main walkways as you panted and slowed down to a stop. People looked at you as they passed, but you brushed off their curious stares as you heaved for breath, hands on your knees.

A bench was only a few feet away, and you decided it wasn't too much of a risk just to sit down – you were still in the open and there were minimal shadows for the Soldat to hide. It was a flat bench situated in front of a garden of sorts; plants of all sizes and dark colours flourishing.

“Fuck,” you huffed, and you sat down heavily on the hard surface. “This shit is insane.”

Cold metal closed over your mouth, and your muffled shout went ignored as knees pressed into your back, or, more accurately, hard plastic knee guards. The same ones that you saw the Soldat wearing. “I told you, kotenok,” he growled. His knife dug into your neck, pinching the skin. “You cannot run from me. I will hunt you.”

“You’re such an ass,” you grumbled behind his hand, and you gasped as he yanked you back. The new position allowed you to look into his eyes; a haunting, predatory glint danced across the shades of grey.

“Povtori. Nemnogo gromche,” he snarled, narrowing his eyes.

The danger in his tone made you gulp, a painful action with the angle of your neck. “What?”

“I said, devochka,” he snapped, the tip of his blade dancing across your jugular. “Say that a little louder for me.”

Oh, no, you thought, and you shook your head. Pain shot down your legs and you shuffled them In an attempt to alleviate the pressure on your spine.

Soldat clicked his tongue, evidently disappointed. “Run, then, kotenok. When I catch you again, you will regret it.” He shoved you forward and he disappeared into the shrubs.

It was like he wasn’t even there in the first place.

“Oh, come on!” you groaned, getting to your feet with a wince. The music of the park was louder in your ears, screams and cries of shock even more so as you frantically looked around for a new escape route.

For what felt like only a few moments, you were free – walking briskly between attractions and groups of visitors to throw off the tail you knew was on you, when it happened. You had only stopped for a second, just to look and decide whether to turn left or right, when you heard a group of women cry out and point behind you.

Your stomach swooped with fear. A sharp exhale left your lips before you turned on the balls of your feet to face your assailant, only, he was right there – barely a foot of distance between your bodies. His head was tilted, long, dark hair drifted over the holes in his mask, and his eyes were fixed on you; both a sense of bright curiosity and dark foreboding flashing across them in equal measure.

“You are not very good at the game of cat and mouse, little kotenok,” he mused, and a sparkle of mischief twinkled in his eyes for a split second. “Maybe I should teach you.”

People swarmed around you, excited to be getting a proper look at the infamous Soldat, but he didn’t seem perturbed by the attention.

You fought against your heart that seemed to have made its new home in your throat, and you stammered a quiet, “You’re just too damn good at your job.”

A huff of breath blew his hair up and off the mask. “You flatter me.” He looked around then at the crowd, like he was assessing it for his own escape route. “Would you like to try again, little one?” He looked back at you, brow raised. “You seem to have garnered quite the reputation for being a sassy feyyerverk.”

“Firework?”

“Close,” he hummed. “My little kotenok is a firecracker–fierce and cute.”

Cute? “Soldat,” you said, unable to keep the sense of disbelief from your tone, “Are you-”

“Run,” he intoned, interrupting you. He pulled a knife from the holster at his hip and brandished it. You caught his subtle glance to the alleyway between two attractions that seemed to be dying in popularity.

You blanched at the sight of the knife, and you took off running in the direction he glanced at. People around you scattered as your feet hit the pavement, and you could hear Soldat run in a different direction, away from you.

The alleyway was deserted, as you hoped, and you leaned against the fence to catch your breath. “At least I have my cardio done,” you huffed, hand over your chest.

“That is an understatement,” a voice said in the shadows, a ghost of a laugh in their voice.

“Ah! What the fuck!”

The Soldat appeared, flipping his knife as he stared at you. “Such a flighty thing, aren’t you?”

You narrowed your eyes at him and crossed your arms. “Says the one that had me fleeing through the park for a second night in a row.”

“Guilty.” He shrugged a shoulder, then holstered his knife. “I cannot help it, kotenok. I love the chase.”

“Really? I wouldn’t have known,” you deadpanned, and you sighed when you saw his eyes crinkle in what you knew was a cheeky grin. “Anyway, what does the infamous, shadowed Soldat want, huh?”

He leaned against the fence and crossed his arms, still watching you intently. “I did not lie when I said that you… Intrigued me–your waiver was most amusing.” There was a beat of silence, then, “As I hunted you these past two nights, I watched you with my colleagues. You were never frightened–shocked, yes, but not frightened. I have made a name for myself with this character I play, and I have never encountered anyone–let alone a woman, that was not terrified of me.”

You blinked. “And this means–?”

“It means that for once in my life,” he began, and you couldn’t help but notice the change in his voice – the accent was almost nonexistent and his demeanour became hospitable, almost friendly. It made you so overwhelmingly curious on how he acted out of character. “Well, it means that I am breaking out of my ‘infamous character’ and his tendencies, and I am going to ask you out on a date.”

“A date?” you repeated, absolutely floored. The sounds of the park were muted in the background, and all you could hear was the hammering of your heart in your ears; feel it in your throat. “You- You are asking me out on a date?”

Soldat raised a brow and then shook his head, as though he was exasperated. “What, you need your hearing checked as well as your attitude?”

“Hey!” you laughed, slapping his shoulder. The leather was warm to the touch, and you immediately drew back. “Where did this sass come from?”

He shrugged and looked down at his feet, fidgeting. “No one knows. It’s nice to be able to sass someone in costume–it’s amusing.”

“I didn’t know you were such a little shit,” you stated. “I mean, I could have guessed since you chase people for a living–and you’re too damn good at it, too.”

He bowed low and spread his arms. “Thank you, princess.”

“Shut up.”

A moment of silence passed as you looked into his face and the earnest, open look of his eyes stirred something in you. Feelings long dormant – ones that had been non-existent for many moons, it felt – rose and swirled in your stomach, bringing butterflies to life. They fluttered and flocked around, the foreign sensation setting your nerves aflame.

“I will–go on a date; with you,” you clarified, smiling softly.

His face brightened and you suspected his grin would have been blinding if the mask wasn’t hiding it from view. “I get off this shift in an hour,” he explained, looking over your shoulder. “I’ll meet you by the entrance. I’ll take you out for–how about a milkshake?”

“Oh, my god, yes,” you rushed, nodding vehemently. “What about that diner?”

Soldat nodded once. “Sounds like a plan, doll.”

Your stomach swooped again and you were speechless at the sweet pet name. “I- What do I–?”

“Name’s Bucky,” Soldat offered. “I’d take your hand and I would kiss your knuckles–be a real Disney prince, but,” he gestured at the mask. “I’ll save that for later.”

“Okay,” you breathed, still unable to believe what was happening. Just as you offered your name, Bucky stepped closer and you let him bring you into his chest. You wrapped your arms around him – a gentle hug that conveyed all of what you couldn’t express. “I will see you later?”

“You betcha.” Bucky squeezed your shoulder and walked past you. “Go have fun. I’ll find you.”

You grinned at him as he walked backwards. “Go get ‘em, tiger!” He saluted and jogged off, sticking to the shadows.

For the entire hour you explored the park, watching as visitors scrambled from actors or fawned over certain ones as the stalked past. There was the occasion that you caught a glimpse of Bucky as he followed different people, but he never broke character to acknowledge you, nor did he even glance your way.

It afforded you the opportunity to watch from an outsider’s vantage point – after having been so thoroughly been chased over the past two days. You could never stop and admire just how skilled Bucky was at his job. His muscled frame was surprisingly lithe and agile, and whenever his target searched for him, he’d always expertly hide, successfully out of sight but never out of mind.

A perfect tactic if you’d ever seen one; drive the target mad with the feeling of being watched while slowly, carefully covering the distance, before pouncing.

The hour wore on and as it ticked over, you made your way to the main entrance. At this hour, the crowds had started to thin out, leaving behind only the very dedicated patrons – all of which flocked in packs and walked back and forth, taunting the actors.

You leaned against the gate and contently watched people pass by, wondering just where Bucky would be, when a figure approached.

A large duffle bag was slung over his shoulder, of which were exceptionally broad and pulled the dark red henley taut over his chest. Tight, dark jeans stretched over his thighs, while black combat boots thumped over the pavement.

The stranger looked up and met your gaze, and your heart stopped; ceasing its rhythm entirely. You’d know those eyes anywhere, you had seen them for two nights in a row, covered and lined with kohl, but they were no less distinctive.

His hair, while loose and greasy as his time in character, was now damp and clean, a slight curl at the ends that came to his jaw.

“Hey, doll,” he greeted, grinning widely as he stood in front of you. “You ready to go?”

Words failed you. You blinked, opened your mouth, closed it, then opened it again-

Bucky laughed. “I know, I look different. I can’t walk around looking like someone’s worst nightmare all the time.”

“Different?” you parroted, gesturing at his chest, then just at his body in general. “Where the hell were you hiding all this?”

“You have to be fit to keep up with mischievous kittens, don’t you?” he teased. The words made your whole body heat, but you were saved from responding when he nodded to the parking lot. “Now, if you’re done bein’ starstruck, doll, let’s head out and get those milkshakes.”

“Huh,” you managed, voice thin. “Yeah–yeah, let’s go.”

Bucky grinned and grabbed your hand, pulling you along. “So, what’s your favourite–milkshake, I mean.”

“That’s a loaded question.” The two of you came to a stop at a classic muscle car, the paint gleaming under the tall, overhead lights. “Nice car, Buck,” you praised.

“Why, thank you, sweetheart,” he purred, throwing the duffle bag in the trunk. “I built her from the ground up.”

The drive to the diner was a little while, the time filled with small talk that didn’t venture past anything you wouldn’t discuss as friends. It drove your curiosity – Bucky was such a well spoken man, never presumptuous and he respected you, not to mention he seemed to be intrigued with anything you offered him.

He asked you about your job, what you did in your spare time; hobbies, dreams, things that you felt so safe to offer him, and he offered you the same in return.

You found out he had been a scare actor for his youth, too – working hard to save up for his car, and to provide for his family.

“For years,” he began as he pulled up to a stop light. “I shadowed a man that no one really knew much about. But, when I tell you that he was a master at what he did? I am not lyin’ one bit.” The engine purred as he shifted back into first gear when the light turned green. “He taught me all I know.”

The diner came into view a few moments later, and the obnoxious red and pink lighting stood out amongst the other late night dwellings. Bucky pulled the car into a park by the entrance, slipping out the driver’s seat to jog over and open your door. “Madame,” he said, bowing as you stood up.

You laughed a little and stepped to the side so Bucky could close the door, and the chirp of the car alarm sounded soon after. “I love this place,” you said quickly, walking towards the door – of which Bucky opened before you could even get a hand on the handle. “It’s always got the best milkshakes.”

“I have to agree,” Bucky offered, going to the counter. “Pick a seat for us. I’ll order.”

There was a booth free in the corner, out of the way and shielded from prying eyes of other patrons that sipped at their drinks or dug into their baskets of food, even at this late hour.

Bucky soon slid into the bench seat of the booth opposite to you, a smile on his lips, when you suddenly blurted, “You are so different to your character.” There was a beat of silence as he comfortably situated himself, and you felt compelled to go on. “Don’t get me wrong, Buck, you are one of the best guys I’ve ever met. It is just so surprising that you can switch so easily. The Soldat is terrifying, if I’m honest.”

“Practice.” He placed his chin on his fist, looking into your face. “I’ve been doing this for years now. You leave your character when you take off the costume–sure, he’s me, but he’s also pretty fucked up. It’s an act. He doesn’t leave the park–he gets packed up in my duffle at the end of every shift.”

You mirrored his posture, smiling as he winked at you. “It’s just fascinating, that’s all.”

“You’re cute when you’re curious,” Bucky said quietly, and you blinked. “I mean it, doll. It’s sweet. Not to mention refreshing.”

“Well,” you started, scrambling for words as your tongue seemed to tie itself. “You- Interesting doesn’t cover it.”

“Aren’t you good at makin’ a fella feel special,” he cooed, a slight, rosy blush high on his cheeks.

For what felt like hours, you sat opposite Bucky, learning about him while he learned all about you – it was an instant connection that you had never felt before, not with anyone. You learned that he had sisters and that he was a twin, and his best friend was called Steve who also worked at the same park.

“You may have seen him tonight, actually,” Bucky ventured, biting his bottom lip. “He was wearing his black get-up, red insignias?”

“Oh! Yeah,” you said quickly, slapping your hand down on the table. “I bumped into him! He scared the daylights out of me.”

Bucky laughed. “Lemme guess, he pulled out the charm card, then decided to tell you to run?”

“Yes!” you cried, eyes wide. “What is his deal?”

“He’s up there with me, he just loves fuckin’ with lone visitors. He takes after me for that, punk,” Bucky laughed, shaking his head.

“You tell him, from me, that he is an asshole.”

“Will do,” Bucky promised, winking. “Stevie’ll take it like a compliment, knowin’ him.”

You sighed and rolled your eyes. The sky was lightening up outside, and you baulked at the clock hanging from the wall across the diner. It was the early morning – you had stayed out with Bucky for hours, literal hours, and you hadn’t even realised.

Bucky turned around to look as well, and he chuckled. “I think we both got places to be today?” he questioned, looking back at you. “And we got tonight, too.”

“Uh, yeah,” you agreed, yawning slightly. “You’ll be there tonight?”

Bucky nodded. “‘Course I will–you?”

You hummed an ascent and rose from the sticky leather seat of the booth. “I’ll call a cab. I can’t wait to get a few hours of shut eye.”

“Wait,” Bucky quietly said, offering his hand. “I paid already–no, don’t argue with me–can I take you home, doll? Please?”

You hesitated, but he had never revealed any red flags, not that you had noticed. He had been the perfect gentleman, and you couldn’t help but feel attached to him already, which, objectively, biassed your point of view. “If you’re sure,” you replied, raising a brow. “I don’t want to impose-”

“You never could, sweetheart,” Bucky assured softly. “C’mon, I’ll take you home.”

When Bucky pulled up to the curb of your apartment, he killed the engine and made to get out of the car. “You don’t have to-” You started, but Bucky shook his head. “Alright, alright,” you said quietly. More to yourself, you muttered, “Maybe chivalry isn’t dead.”

“I would hope not,” Bucky said, right next to you.

You jumped and shrieked, a cut off noise that made Bucky laugh. “You have to stop doing that.”

“Nah. I don’t think I will.”

At your door, Bucky stepped back and waited for you to unlock the door with your keys, but before you stepped inside, you turned to him, biting your lip. “I had a really good time tonight, Bucky. Thank you.”

Bucky beamed proudly. “Anytime, doll. Would you want to go out with me again? I don’t care if it’s too soon to ask,” he rushed, not allowing you a chance to interject. “I had a fun time with you tonight. You’re sweet, witty–intelligent, too.”

“Flatterer,” you accused, willing your heart to slow. “It’s working, though. And yes, I’d love to go out with you again. How about after Halloween?”

“Sounds perfect to me, baby,” he said quietly, and you felt heat rise on your neck. Your heart skipped a beat and you shied away slightly, so unused to attention. “Can I have your number? I can text you so you have mine.”

You took his offered phone and typed your number in, careful to get it correct in your tired state. “Here you go,” you whispered, blinking sluggishly. “You’ll get home safely?”

“Of course,” Bucky said confidently. “You gonna be alright for the night? You look dead on your feet, doll.”

“I’ll be fine.” You stepped forward and embraced him, hugging him with all your remaining strength. His arms wrapped around you and he sighed happily. “Thank you for tonight–text me when you get home?”

“Will do,” Bucky offered.

Tension filled the air as you pulled back, and you considered whether you should act on the urge to kiss him – to embody the true want to be close to him. Fuck it, you thought.

Bucky seemed to anticipate it or want it just as bad. He met you halfway, bringing you into his chest as his lips met yours. It wasn’t chaste and it stole your breath, and in that singular second, you decided you wanted more – but at least, not for right now.

You wanted a second date, first.

Pulling back, you smiled and Bucky smirked. “And that’ll get me home jus’ fine, sweetheart.” You giggled and stepped back, moving towards the door just as Bucky said, “Goodnight, baby. Have a good sleep and I’ll see you tomorrow–don’t forget that we have a game of cat and mouse to play.”

“Sure, sure,” you teased. The inside of your apartment was quiet as you slipped inside. “See you tomorrow, Buck.”

He waved, and you closed the door quietly, resting your forehead on the cool wood as you took deep, steadying breaths.

A sense of anticipation settled over you – Halloween was the busiest night of the year at that park, and you knew that Bucky would not let you get away so easily as he allowed before. You would just have to outsmart him, or attempt to, at least.

That night, after curling up in bed, you slept and dreamed of a shadowed man, running and chasing after you, his laughter loud and carefree.

devochka = girl ya by snova podumal, kotenok = I would think again, kitten povtori. nemnogo gromche = repeat that. a little louder. feyyerverk = firework/firecracker

⠈⠂⠄ 𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐨𝐱 | 𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲 | 𝐚𝐨𝟑 ⠄⠂⠁

⠈⠂⠄𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 | 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 ⠄⠂⠁

#bucky barnes x female reader #bucky barnes x f!reader #bucky barnes x reader #bucky x female reader #bucky x f!reader #bucky x reader #bucky barnes fanfiction #bucky barnes series #bucky barnes au #bucky barnes fluff #rookthorne's works

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misshoneyimhome · 4 months

Note

hii! i was wondering if you could write this angst to fluff request i had in mind? what if y/n and willy are best friends and she’s freshly dating auston. but one day auston comes into the locker room for practice and he’s marked with hickies and scratches and the guys are like teasing him about it being like “oh y/n did a number on you last night huh?” and auston plays it off with a laugh but will knows they weren’t together the previous night because they had a friend movie night or were on a call or something so will gets mad and calls him out later and reader and willy get together at the end and it’s fluffy by the end of it🫶🏼

Ugh! This is what I’m here for babe 🫠🫢 I hope I met your expectations, because I really enjoyed writing this, though it might not be so angsty ❤️ But let’s face it, hopeless hockey boys and their tea-spoon of emotions just always get me going 😉

[Btw, I apologise for making Auston such a jerk... 🙈]

・✶ ｡ﾟ

Speechless

"So, which film would you like to watch?" you asked William just as the popcorn finished popping, and you were getting ready to settle down on the sofa.

"Hmm, I don't mind, you choose," he chuckled, already relaxing comfortably as you joined him.

"Oh, no no no, I picked last time, and all you did was moan about my rubbish taste in movies. So, this time, it's your turn to pick, love," you chuckled with a grin, placing all the snacks between you, pulling up the blanket to cover your legs, and snuggling into the cushions.

William couldn't help but admire how effortlessly comfortable you always made yourself at his place. It was like you felt right at home, which he found utterly endearing.

"Alright then, 'The Wolf of Wall Street' it is," he grinned, taking the remote and scrolling through the various streaming services.

"Oh, that's just because you want to ogle Margot Robbie, Willy," you teased your best friend.

"Not just that - it's a great movie," he defended with a smirk.

"Mmm hmm… Margot Robbie is quite the movie," you laughed. "But at least Leo is in it as well," you added, lowering your voice slightly.

"Hey, I heard that," William chimed in.

"So?" you chuckled.

"So, you're dating my friend, y/n – you shouldn't be staring at Leonardo DiCaprio," he said with a smile.

"Is that a rule now? As if you've never gawped at other women in movies while you were dating someone," you cheekily accused. "Or watched porno..."

And William couldn't help but let out a defensive sigh.

"That's what I thought," you chuckled once more, before leaning back to enjoy the movie.

Evenings like these were some of your favourites.

William Nylander was more than just a good friend to you. He was your best friend and had been for a while now. Everything about him seemed to amaze you all the time; whether it was his hockey play, his wonderful personality, or simply his calm and chill demeanour - he was just incredibly enjoyable to be around.

You'd known each other for a couple of years now, and over the past several months, you'd grown a lot closer.

It all started during the off-season when you travelled to Stockholm because one of your girlfriends had a sudden urge to visit Sweden, for some odd reason. And William had been incredibly kind and wonderful, showing you both around and offering his flat in the city for you to stay at.

He took you to his favourite spots, revealed the city's hidden gems, and introduced you to authentic Swedish life.

And after a fantastic ten days in the lively Scandinavian city, you returned to Canada while William went on holiday with his family.

However, upon his return to Toronto, William discovered some news about you. Just before the Leafs were due to regroup, he learned that you'd been spending time with his teammate Auston Matthews, and apparently, the two of you had begun dating.

Initially, William felt a bit surprised. Not that there was anything wrong with it, he just hadn't expected the two of you to be each other's type.

Auston was a prominent hockey player in the NHL, confident and strong on the ice, but sometimes struggling on a more emotional level.

Meanwhile, you were a strong, intelligent woman who had worked hard to succeed in your career and achieve financial independence. You were incredibly kind and considerate towards others, humble, and never overly concerned with money or fame.

What had initially endeared William about you was your innate sense of self-assuredness. Despite facing some unfortunate experiences in the romantic area, you managed to uphold a positive spirit. And this quality had drawn William to you right from the start, as he simply admired how you seemed so comfortable in your own skin. And consequently, he struggled to understand what you saw in Auston.

Nonetheless, your unwavering support for the team and for William swiftly integrated you into the inner circle of the Toronto Maple Leafs. And eventually, William came to terms with the fact that you and Auston were dating.

However, you were cautious about how much you shared with William. Although he wasn't typically the jealous type, he tended to involuntarily pull a peculiar expression whenever you mentioned your activities with Auston. So, you chose to keep the details to yourself.

Your relationship with Auston was still relatively new, and as a result, the three of you were still navigating the complexities of these intertwined relationships.

As the movie drew to a close, you found yourself nestled closely against William.

It was a habit you'd always had, and since he didn't seem to mind, you gladly took advantage of his cuddly, warm body.

"Alright," you sighed deeply, slowly untangling yourself from William's comfortable embrace and sitting up straight. "I think I'd better head off."

"You're going over to Auston's?" William gently inquired, but you shook your head.

"No, he mentioned he'd be video chatting with his family after a late skate session."

William simply nodded as both of you rose from your relaxed positions, and he escorted you out.

"Want me to drive you home?" he then asked, displaying his concern as the cold November evening settled in, revealing Toronto's chill.

"Sure, that would be great."

And upon arriving at your building, you shared a tight and heartfelt hug before William watched you enter and lock yourself in.

The next day, the boys had their training session. And in the midst of the lively banter and changing in the locker room, Reave's voice suddenly cut through, grabbing William's attention.

"What's that, Tony?" he mischievously called out as he approached Auston, who was getting ready. "oh, y/n did a number on you last night, huh?”

Slightly startled by the mention of your name, William turned around, puzzled by the comment and curious to see what had caught Reaves off guard.

To William's surprise, Auston's neck and collarbone were covered in hickeys. Dark shades of blue and purple in the shape of lips adorned his skin.

And William felt slightly confused. He knew you hadn't been with Auston the previous night. He had driven you home to your own flat. Moreover, he had spent most of the evening with you, and during the day, Auston had been at practice with him.

However, Auston simply chuckled at the comment, making no attempt to defend or explain himself.

As the boys got ready and headed towards the ice, William hurriedly caught up to Auston, attempting to hold him back for a moment.

"Hey, what's happening, man?" he inquired with a serious expression.

"What do you mean?" Auston shrugged.

"The hickeys, Aus. I know y/n didn't give them... she was at my place last night before I drove her home."

Auston rolled his eyes and let out a sigh.

"So?"

"What do you mean, 'so'? You're dating..." William was baffled by his friend's nonchalant attitude towards the situation.

"Yeah, we're just dating - chill out, Willy," Auston huffed, then continued on his way to join the team.

But William couldn't shake it off. You were one of his best friends, and Auston seemed to act as if your feelings didn't matter.

Initially, the hockey training proceeded smoothly, where William poured his energy into every shot and display of speed. However, towards the end, when the boys split into two teams to play, William couldn't help but feel a surge of anger whenever Auston came near. They were on opposing teams, and collisions occurred frequently as they both went for goals.

"Hey! What are you doing, man?" Auston shouted as William blocked him just as he was about to make the perfect shot.

"Playing hockey, what else?" William snapped back at him.

A palpable tension began to build between them, noticed not just by the two players but also by their teammates.

"Keep going, guys!" Coach Keefe shouted, trying to maintain the focus on the game. However, as they continued playing, the animosity between William and Auston intensified.

"Fuck off, Willy!" Auston yelled amid another shot.

But William chose to ignore the comment.

And moments later, William tackled Auston. It was a clean move, but it did fuel Auston's anger.

In response, Auston retaliated with force. Though it was also a clean play, it seemed very much intentional.

"What the hell did you just do?" William shouted, an uncommon display of emotion for him. His teammates had never seen him behave this way during a training match before.

"Playing hockey, what else," Auston mockingly fired back.

"Knock it off, guys," Sheldon once again shouted, attempting to redirect their focus to the game. However, neither of them was willing to let the matter slide. In response, William forcefully pushed Auston in the chest as he attempted to skate past him.

But this action completely crossed Auston's limits. Unable to contain his temper any longer, he firmly grabbed William's stick and pulled him back, then shoved him over.

William almost lost his balance but quickly regained his footing, retaliating by charging back at Auston and initiating a punch.

"Hey! Stop it!" Tavares shouted as all the players rushed in, wrapping their arms around the two boys, attempting to separate them. However, both William and Auston continued shouting and swinging their arms toward each other, requiring more players to hold them back firmly.

And then a loud whistle pierced through the air from the coach, while Tavares and Marner managed to pull Auston and William apart, with Sheldon skating in to assess the situation.

"What the hell is going on between you two?" he yelled, fixing an intense gaze on the lads.

"He blocked my vision!" Auston started to explain, trying to justify his actions.

"He tackled me!"

"It was a clean tackle!"

"Was not!"

"Alright, stop it! Both of you," Sheldon intervened. "You're playing hockey. Auston, Willy is supposed to block you, and Willy, Auston is supposed to tackle you... Honestly, one might think you two were amateurs instead of professionals being paid millions to be here..."

They all sighed deeply, realising that their fight had been utterly senseless. And soon enough, they returned to training.

That until, Auston couldn't resist muttering as he skated past William, "Just jealous I'm actually getting laid..."

"Fuck you, man!" William shouted, and before they knew it, they were back at it again, shoving each other's helmets off, discarding their gloves, and this time, they actually managed to land punches on each other's faces.

William landed a solid punch, hitting Auston straight on the nose, while Auston's swing cracked William's eyebrow enough to draw blood. Once again, the players quickly intervened, grabbing hold of them and pulling them apart.

"Alright. That's it!" Sheldon raised his voice in frustration. "There's something else going on here, and whatever it is, you two need to sort it out. Now. Hit the showers," he commanded, shaking his head in disbelief.

The two forwards exchanged disapproving huffs before then collecting their gear and skating towards the locker room.

Meanwhile, you had just arrived at the training rink in a good mood, eager to meet up with the boys as you had plans with Auston later. However, upon entering the arena, you noticed the wives looking rather concerned, having observed the practice for the past 20 minutes.

"Hey," you greeted cheerfully, but your smile faltered as you saw their worried expressions. "What's going on?" You scanned the area, sensing that something was amiss. Then, you realised that your two favourite players were missing. "Where's Aus and Will?"

"In the locker room," Aryne replied softly.

"Why?" you asked, puzzled by the situation.

"No one knows... suddenly they just started fighting," Tessa chimed in with a friendly smile.

"Wait, Aus and Willy fought each other?" you were slightly taken aback. That was an unusual situation, and the wives simply nodded in confirmation. "I think, I'll go and check on them, then" you said with a reassuring smile before turning around and heading towards the locker room.

"What's wrong with you, man?" Auston shouted as the two lads entered, his hand holding a towel to his bleeding nose, while William held an ice pack to his head.

"What's wrong with me? What's wrong with you?"

"You started the fight!" Auston accused.

"Well, you were being annoying..."

Their voices grew louder as they faced each other.

"Come on! Is this about y/n?"

"What?"

Auston raised an eyebrow.

"Willy, you never get into fights like this!" he chuckled darkly, his voice still loud. "You're just mad about the hickeys..."

"Of course, I'm mad, Auston! She's my best friend, and it was you who wanted to date her, but now you're just sleeping around – how do you think that makes me feel? You're hurting her..."

William's voice nearly cracked as he shouted back at his teammate, and Auston let out another sigh.

"Why do you even care so much, Willy? We're just dating; it's not like we're serious..."

"Does she know that?"

Auston shrugged. "I don't know. We haven't exactly talked about it – and as far as I'm concerned, I can sleep with whoever I want!"

"You're a jerk, Auston," William spoke loudly and firmly. "I never should have let you to date her."

"Let me to date her?" Auston chuckled deeply once again. "It's not your decision. Just because you're in love with her doesn't mean you get to decide who she dates. That's up to her, and she chose me," Auston replied with a smug, confident face.

"Then why would you sleep with someone else?" William shouted once again.

And just as Auston was about to respond, your voice interrupted their verbal fight.

"You're sleeping with somebody else?"

Your voice was quiet and hesitant as you stood in the doorway to the locker room, having caught at least part of the conversation if not all.

Auston let out a deep sigh, turning to face you, meeting your pained expression. But instead of answering, he simply nodded gently, causing tears to slowly well up in the corners of your eyes.

You tried your best to hold yourself together, swallowing hard and straightening your posture before nodding.

"Well, I guess that's it then," you spoke softly once more before turning away, not letting the tears fall until you were out of sight of the boys.

"Well, are you going to go after her?" William asked Auston, but he simply shook his head.

Still in his gear and skates, William hurried through the hallway, catching up with you.

"Hey," he spoke, attempting to grab your hand, but you refused to turn around, not wanting him to see your tears.

"Not now, Willy..."

"Yes, now, y/n," he insisted, managing to turn you around to face him. "Shit..." he breathed out, seeing your reddened eyes and tears streaming down your cheeks. "I'm going to punch him for this..."

"Don't..." you almost whimpered. "He's not worth it..."

Initially, you tried to avoid looking directly at William, but as he moved closer, offering comfort, you eventually met his gaze.

"y/n... he hurt you – he shouldn't just—"

"Was it true what he said?" you cut him off.

"Is what true?"

"That you're in love with me?" Your voice nearly trembled as you posed the question.

Even though you knew this wasn't the immediate issue to focus on, it was all you could think about. Despite Auston hurting you, you felt you could get past it. But with William, was it true? Was he truly in love with you?

"Yeah... maybe," William admitted softly, briefly averting his gaze before meeting yours again.

You were stunned. William was your best friend, and while you knew there was a special connection between you, you had never imagined he might feel something deeper for you.

Back in Stockholm, spending those days together, there were moments when you’d wondered if there was more to your relationship, if your feelings for William were more than just friendship. However, he always seemed so relaxed and nonchalant around you. And his calm demeanour led you to believe he'd never develop romantic feelings for you. So, you buried your thoughts and emotions, and when Auston showed interest, you thought that might be a more viable option.

But your feelings for Auston never came close to what you felt for William. Perhaps that's why you weren't as hurt right now. In fact, you were more taken aback by William suddenly confessing his feelings for you – feelings he had never expressed before.

"Maybe?" you chuckled lightly, seeking clarification on his response.

"Well, yes... I mean, I do – I just... I didn't think it was a possibility..." William let out a deep sigh, finally admitting those feelings he had been grappling with for so long.

"But what if it is?" you softly inquired, looking at him with concern in your eyes.

William pondered for a moment on how to articulate his emotions. Verbalising his feelings wasn't his strongest suit, but he knew he had no choice. And this was his moment to confess everything.

"Then I'd want nothing more than to just kiss you and tell you how much more you deserve than what you've been offered... I want to... I want to tell you that you're the most amazing person who's ever come into my life... that those weeks in Sweden made me realise I'd probably never meet someone like you ever again... and that you're the most beautiful girl in the world; and I never want to let you go – even if it meant seeing you date my best friend."

You were left speechless. You had never witnessed such vulnerability from William. He had never spoken like this before, expressing his emotions so openly and directly from his heart.

Your heart sunk in your chest, racing faster, as your eyes remained fixed on his. In this tender moment, all feelings for Auston vanished, and all you could focus on was the Swede standing before you, pouring out his heart and confessing his deepest emotions.

All you could manage was a whisper, "Willy..."

But before you could utter another word, William's emotions took over, and he cupped your face, leaning down to tenderly connect your lips in a heartfelt kiss. Your lips softly met, sharing the air between you, before he gently pulled back.

"y/n... I'm in love with you... and I probably have been for a while..."

Your eyes met his once more, and a gentle smile graced your lips as happiness surged through your body.

"I'm in love with you too, Willy," you confessed softly. "But next time... you should probably tell me that before somebody else does..." You chuckled lightly, and he joined in.

"Yeah, I know... I'm sorry. I guess I'm just a hopeless romantic idiot."

"Perhaps," you teased, flashing him a sweet smile, "but you're my hopeless romantic idiot."

And once again, he pulled you in, tenderly sealing the moment with another soft kiss.

#my asks #william nylander imagine #auston matthews imagine #toronto maple leafs imagine #wn88 imagine #nhl hockey imagine

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cellarspider · 2 months

Text

4/?? Meeting the Prometheus crew. Hmm.

(Previous) | (Index) | (Next)

We return to the movie that I want to fold, spindle, and mutilate, Prometheus.

Time to actually meet the human crew.

Hooboy. I am feeling David’s dead-eyed look here. Content warning for jumpscare Charlize Theron, brief mention of vomit, depiction of smoking, and whatever the hell is going on with these people.

First off, there is Vickers (Charlize Theron). Her reveal implies that she has escaped containment, and is probably scuttling around in the vents somewhere. No, in fact, she is doing pushups. She asks David if anyone’s died with all the concern of an inconvenienced accountant, because she is a Cold Corpo Queen who is going to be an asshole to everyone throughout the movie.

This includes David, who, again, may be meeting his makers for the first time here.

On the other hand, this has more dignity to it than the rest of the crew. They’re currently stumbling around and horfing up their two-year-old lunches, a grand tradition in the Alien franchise.

Charming.

Indeed, this is basically a recitation of a scene from Alien and Aliens: Everyone wakes up and feels like crap, except for a machine-like character and, in Aliens, a Black military dude, Sergeant Apone (Al Matthews), who wakes up and immediately chomps down on a cigar.

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On an unrelated note, meet Captain Janek (Idris Elba). He’s smoking a cigarillo and setting up a Christmas tree on the ship’s pool table, while a nameless white guy appears to have ragdolled in the corner. Vickers disapproves.

We meet the last two crew members who are going to have enough of a presence in the plot to get names: Millburn (Rafe Spall) and Fifield (Sean Harris). Millburn is an awkward glasses-wearing dork of a biologist. So far, so realistic.

Fifield appears to be attempting to channel Sheamus the wrestler during a heel-y season. He isn’t here to make friends, he’s here to get paid. He’s here to win.

He’s a fucking geologist.

Sure, there’s a lot of geologists who work for extractive industries that probably are just there for the paycheck, but I don’t know how one of them ends up being selected for a mission of POTENTIAL FIRST CONTACT WITH AN ALIEN CULTURE.

This was absolutely baffling in the theater. What in the hell was this scene? This character? It felt so out of place. Little did I know that this was, in fact, setting expectations for the rest of the movie.

The human characters are not treated in the same way David is. We are not often invited to consider them as beings with inner lives, they are stock characters that you may or may not have previous affection for. And because we functionally meet David first, their presence is jarring.

Because these aren’t just stock characters from just any genre, they’re stock characters from a horror movie. Several different kinds of horror movie, with one bonus character trait if they're lucky. Elizabeth Shaw is the final girl (plus religious background), Charlie Holloway is the jock boyfriend (plus allegedly scientist), Millburn is the nervous, glasses-wearing nerd. Fifield the geologist is, bafflingly, the mercenary who’s Just There For The Money (plus rocks), Vickers is the heartless corpo, and Idris Elba is the calm and unflustered military guy. The rest of the characters, regardless of their role, are therefore consigned to being nameless dead meat.

This didn’t have to be the case. A different vibe could’ve been chosen. The marketing tied this movie to Alien. You’re introduced to everyone in that movie through the lens of their average, unremarkable jobs (in spaaaaace!), and you understand how the situation they find themselves in is completely, terrifyingly overwhelming.

These are scientists and highly skilled professionals (in spaaaaace!). We have successful horror films out there, where scientists are placed beyond their limits. This used to be a whole thing in the 50s, where Serious Men of Science were sometimes the first and last line of defense against extremely rubbery aliens. Was it mostly goofy? Absolutely. But not always!

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(First, the goofy: Night of the Blood Beast (1958), best known in latter days as MST3K’s Season 7 premiere (1995). The trailer features the amazing voiceover “The first satellite creature to impregnate man with its chromosomes!”, as heavy breathing plays in the background. “It’s true,” says a square-jawed white guy, “I can feel it inside!”.)

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(Second, the straight: The Thing from Another World, precursor to John Carpenter’s The Thing. While just a standard monster movie, it features one of the first and honestly ridiculous full-body fire stunts on film. They repeatedly doused stuntmen in buckets of flaming kerosine.)

These have slowly died off in Hollywood, but there’s still some that pop up every so often: Contagion (2011) being the one that first comes to mind. Sunshine (2007) and Annihilation (2018) are another two that take a similar, slow tactic, all three of them containing horror elements in their premise and execution.

(major content warning on this first one for pandemic themes. Like, all of them.)

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(cw for brief body horror, old self harm scars)

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This was what I’d expected from the premise of the first five minutes: a well-prepared team, traveling to confront something with existential implications for humanity, taking the job seriously. The movie disabused me of that quickly, but it didn’t provide me anything as compelling in return.

If I had to guess what other movie Prometheus was trying to be like, The Thing (1982) is a strong candidate. It features a cast of dysfunctional people who are similarly broad in their characterization, and pits them against a source of alien body horror with existential implications for all of humanity. Unfortunately for Prometheus, it can’t live up to The Thing either. However, what it did manage to do was drive me COMPLETELY insane, starting in the next segment.

⛬

(Previous) | (Index) | (Next)

#Prometheus (2012)#Prometheus 2012 #it is a strange choice to deprioritize characterization in a movie that's trying to tackle heavy existential themes but #they sure did it

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cecilxa · 1 year

Text

dress up, darling!

summary: hallowe’en is a festive time of the year, so why not participate? (what the different genshin guys would dress up for hallowe’en + scenarios)

pairings: cyno, thoma, venti, tighnari, ayato and zhongli

contents: established relationships in all scenarios, fluff, humour, slightly angsty in zhongli's part, gn!reader

cw: general alcohol consumption + drunken-ness in venti's part, talks about death + grief + loss in zhongli's part, mentions of kidnapping in ayato's

a/n: somthing very different to what i would normally do! had a lot of fun envisioning the outifts they would have on :) oh yeah, before i forget, has nothing to do with the manga/ anime if you're wondering with the title

wc: 3.6k

cyno— lupus aureus ✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

Seeing the (usually) stoic General Mahamatra pouting with a faint blush on his cheeks is a rare sight. So rare, in fact, that you just had to snap a quick picture. Unfortunately, (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it) the Kamera you were using was quite loud, alerting Cyno of your deeds. He sighs- albeit fondly- and his blush intensifies even further. There’s really no way of putting it lightly, but getting to see Cyno dressed up in a werewolf costume is extremely amusing.

His usual headdress is now topped off with some thick grey (fake) wolf fur, which cascades down his face, covering some of his white hair. Accompanying his new ears, Cyno now dons a very large, very comical pair of claws, made out of the same kind of fur. The nails on his claws are exaggeratingly sharp, which reminds you of a poorly trimmed bear, rather than a ferocious man-wolf. Cyno, still being Cyno, insisted that he keep his polearm with him, so now your already adorable werewolf is carrying his polearm with him, which he denies is hard to carry around with the claws on his hands (the concentration on his face tells another story).

You ask him why he even needs it when you’re just going trick or treating around Aaru Village, and he replies as seriously as ever, blush disappearing.

“You never know where danger lurks. I need to protect you, to make sure you don’t get hurt.”

Well, you weren’t going to deny any type of reasoning from your ever-loving partner, were you? Especially ones that had your heart racing at speeds so fast, even he probably wouldn’t even be able to reach it. You smile at him, eyes twinkling, and laugh.

“There’s no point in protecting me if there’s nothing to protect me from! Let’s head out into the dangers of young children searching for candy, my sweet yet brooding werewolf!”

Cyno grumbles at the subtle mockery of your last words, yet can’t deny the soft thumping of his heart whenever you call him yours. Maybe this foolish costume is alright, if the silly fur and claws brightens up your night just a little bit.

thoma— rubeum scutum ✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

“Boo!”

A pair of hands cover your eyes, as your assailant pulls you closer towards them.

“Guess who it is?”

If the cheery voice didn’t give it away, then the attempted kiss on your cheek definitely did. However, you didn’t want to end the game early, so instead of guessing correctly, you decided to have a little bit of fun. It is the season of tricks, after all.

“Hmm… the mysterious and handsome Ayato? Ooh- oh the elegant and poised Ayaka!”

The hands turn you around, and your assailant throws off the white cotton sheet. Replacing the costume’s two black eyes and black smile, is a very handsome Thoma, who is currently very much pouting at the very wrong answers you had given.

“Babe…”

You can’t help but melt inside at your boyfriend’s antics, who’s acting very cute and almost impossible to resist. You pat his cheek and smile.

“Aw, I knew it was you, Thoma. I was just messing with you.”

Now knowing that you thought to have upset him, his previous pout turns into a devious smirk as you continue to smile at him obliviously. When you finally catch on, it’s too late. He’s already starting to tickle your sides, grinning at your laughter (or pain, however you want to put it). Your breaths come out in short pants, trying to pry the blonde off of your body. This effort comes to no avail, though, as he then begins to sprinkle in some kisses along with his tickles. One on your forehead, one on your cheek, one on your neck, one on your shoulder, he laughs along with you. Dotted in very carefully, almost like a dance, there’s one place his lips never come into contact with.

The moment tears begin coming out of your eyes, Thoma’s hands immediately recede, as he leaves you to rest on the ground alongside his body. Even though his hands may have stopped tickling you, his touches never leave, as he continues to pepper your face with a multitude of butterfly kisses, gentle as the breeze from his homeland. His eyes soften, as he lets himself indulge in your presence. Thoma likes admiring you, and thinks that he’s the luckiest person in Teyvat to have ended up with someone so angelic.

When you finally calm down and regain your breath, his arms have left you, and what now stands in front of you is a ghost, unusually shaped, and not at all what the Inazuman tales describe them as. You narrow your eyes playfully and ask the mysterious creature an important question.

“Who are you, again?”

The ghost doesn’t respond, but instead pulls you up, under its blanket. Thoma’s eyes sparkle under the sheet of white, sunlight peeking in through the cotton. He leans forward ever so closely, your lips nearly touching, breaths intermingling, as he finally gives you an answer. A ghost can be just as playful, with a heart that beats to the sound of a lover’s laugh.

venti— carmen dei ✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

A clown. Venti is a clown, both literally and figuratively. His hair has been dyed, or, more possibly, stained, bright red, and the same thing has happened to his lips. His complexion is also much paler than his usual skin tone, and he’s moving so irrationally you think he’s got invisible clown shoes on. What’s most prominent about the whole look is the unmistakeable stench of pure alcohol wafting off of his body. It comes off in waves, sometimes subtle, sometimes harsh and intense. Obviously, his ‘quick trip’ to the Angel’s Share took a turn, and now he’s black out drunk.

One of his arms is lifted onto your shoulder, as the rest of his body slumps down to the ground. You’re trying to hold up his weight, while he’s doing whatever the motion of hobbling and then randomly stopping at inopportune times to throw up is. Adding to your struggle, guess what? Venti’s an affectionate drunk. In this case, too affectionate for his own good. While you’re trying your very hardest to get him home, he’s trying his very hardest to accost you. Sloppy kisses all over the left side of your face, his arms wrapping around you so tightly, it’s as if he’s turned into a sloth.

“Venti… please get off of me. I can’t take you home with you clinging onto my neck.”

Hoping that he’d hear the tiredness in your voice, you say this with as much deadpan as you can muster. But of course he doesn’t, and he instead holds you even closer, almost shouting at this point.

“But I love you so much~ How can I accept your request when all I want to do is cuddle you forever!~”

This is promptly followed by a series of hics and burps, which ultimately cancel out the- usually- romantic phrases.

When you finally get home, way after you hear the clock strike one, you place (more like dump) him on your sofa, and rush over to the sink to get him a glass of water. He- thank the archons- drinks it without fuss, and you start heading up to go to the bedroom to get a couple of blankets, when a pair of arms pull you down onto the sofa. The pillows are soft, and it being so early in the morning, exhaustion doesn’t take long to root in your brain, making you sleepy.

How warm Venti feels doesn’t help your situation, either. He doesn’t lay off on his affections, gazing at you as if you had created all of the stars in the sky. Grinning happily, he smooches you on both of your cheeks, making a very loud sound as he does so. Cheerily laughing out loud, in his drunken stupor, he doesn’t hesitate to proclaim the endless well of love he has for you, and even offers to sing you a song.

“Baby, you’re so cute! I want to eat you up like those drinks at the Angel’s Share!~”

You’re too tired to even comment on how you can’t eat drinks, and how his lyrics are much less poetic than usual. You just want to lay in his arms and sleep for an eternity. Patting his cheeks and mumbling a few small praises about his improvised ballad, you promptly succumb to your exhaustion, and fall asleep. Venti, however, perks up at your praise, and his grin turns up impossibly wider at the positive remarks.

“Aw, baby, I love you too!”

He hasn’t even noticed you had fallen asleep, but when he gets a lack of response, he sobers up a little (he still has to take care of you), and shuffles a little bit to get you more comfortable. You mustn’t wake up feeling uncomfortable, that would never do!

Grin softening, all he does is stroke your hair gently for a few minutes, basking in your presence. Trying not to disturb your sleep, he allows himself only a few words before heading off for dreamland himself.

“I may look and act like a clown, but at least I’m yours.”

tighnari— vulpes zerda ✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

Tighnari stares at you with a straight face. It’s leaning towards a glare, but you know he would never actually be mad at you… right? To be fair, dressing up in his old uniform might not have been your brightest idea, but it certainly was one of the funniest. To see your beloved donning the regulated green pattern, a symbol of the Amurta Darshan, brightened up your day significantly.

It’s not a surprise that Tighnari fees disdain for certain members of the Akademiya, and by wearing the very same clothing they were wearing, it served as an act of rebellion and distrust. At least, that’s what he’s trying to convince himself of, your smirk not helping matters at all. In fact, you just wanted to see him as what he looked like when he was younger, still a scholar of the Akademiya. It’s very jarring, his usual garments strewn all over your shared bed, instead, replaced by a very simple robe of green, gold and white.

For all his complaining, you can’t help but notice the twitch of his ears when you remark at how cute he looks in this piece of clothing, and how you wished you had met him when he was younger. Tighnari’s eyebrows furrow, and he takes a breath, starting to lecture you on how there would be no possible way you would’ve met, because there would be no possible way you would’ve been smart enough to get in.

A gasp of betrayal leaves you, as his eyes sparkle in mirth, tail swishing in amusement. His hand lays on your forehead, almost as if to cradle it, but then he flicks you (although not too harshly) instead.

“You lummox, I’m joking.”

A pause. “Well, that’s good because-”

“I’d have no time for you.”

At these words, you shoot him a harsh glare, tongue poking out of your mouth as the corners of his mouth slowly start to turn up.

You’re about to start on your retorts when Collei’s voice interrupts your would-be (loving) argument.

“Master! The kids are already here and they’re getting impatient!”

Tighnari replies to her, while gently rubbing the spot where he had previously flicked your forehead.

“Alright, Collei, tell them I’ll be there in a few moments. Remember to take your medicine later.”

You hear footsteps receding, which you can assume is Collei leaving for the main area of Gandharva Ville.

After a few seconds, you feel an arm curl around your shoulder, gently pressing you against Tighnari’s body, contrasting the teasing nature of his earlier actions. You reach up to interlock a hand with his, and he smiles, relishing in this domestic feeling.

“Well then, if you’re so smart, help me with these candies.”

You gladly respond, and grab a handmade basket filled to the brim with all sorts of sweet treats and goodies, destined to give any parent a headache from all the cavities their children would subsequently get. Tighnari carries another one with his spare hand, heading outside with you next to him, arm still cradled around your shoulder, and hands still interlocked as tightly as ever. Blinded by love, he’s even forgotten about his Akademiya uniform.

ayato— cypressus custos ✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

You can’t help but slightly drool at the sight of Ayato in a vampire costume. Never in a million years would you have thought red, black and gold would’ve suited him this well. You can’t even call it a costume at this point, fitting him so well, and the quality of the fabric so high, that if you hadn’t known him, anybody would’ve thought that this was an outfit meant for a prestigious event, for only the richest of the rich.

A blood red waistcoat adorned with (probably real) gold buttons had been fitted to his exact measurements, and you could clearly see the outline of his waist. Contrasting the extravagant waistcoat, a simple white shirt was layered underneath, and attached to his neck was a billowing black cape. He also wore plain black trousers (fitted, of course), and luxury shoes that you were sure he wasn’t supposed to be wearing on a walk through the woods. Scratch that, anything he was wearing probably wasn’t meant to be worn on a walk through the woods, for fear that they would stain or tear.

The very last thing- that Ayato insisted on himself- was two sharp fangs attached to his top canines. It made the whole thing ‘more immersive’. To be fair, walking through Chinju Forest at night, with the blue flowers illuminating your path, and the moonlight streaming through the tree’s canopy would’ve been extremely romantic, if only for the fear that Ayato was actually going to bite you. ‘Immersive’ indeed.

Earlier that day, he had been getting very excited on dressing up as a vampire, and even offered to give you a mark on your neck to make you seem like his victim, which you profusely declined with a red flush all across your face, as you were in public, right in front of all of his retainers.

He had seemed a little disappointed at your refusal, and for the whole walk to Chinju Forest, you could feel his stare on your neck. It’s a little disconcerting, considering his wily nature, and you can’t help but think that he’s got something up his sleeve to finally achieve his goal. However, you reason to yourself, that him trying to trick you into letting him mark your neck was not the point of this date, and instead enjoying each others company was. With this newfound logic, you were determined to have some time alone and relax, being one of the only days off that he would get in a long time.

Lost in your thoughts, a hand comes up to interlock with yours, and you feel it being lifted up to a set of plush lips. A deceivingly charming smile makes its way onto Ayato’s face, and he chuckles, eyes sparkling.

“My love, don’t fret. I’m not planning on harming you in any way. That would be the last thing on my mind, after all.”

You narrow your eyes at his words, used to his tricks, but acknowledge that he would never do anything to actively hurt you. Quite the opposite actually; you still hadn’t heard a single word of those people who had tried to kidnap you last year after Ayato had ‘dealt with them’. Shelving your suspicions to the back of your mind, you allow yourself to smile back at him, looking forward to the night ahead.

After around an hour of ambling and admiring the peaceful scenery, your legs are getting a little tired, and you’re feeling a little chilly. The wind nips at your bare arms, and you struggle to contain the shivers that come along with the cold. Still holding hands, Ayato can feel you getting slightly shakier, and he sighs fondly.

“Love, I did tell you to bring a spare jacket, just in case you got cold. I don’t care about whether it matches with your outfit or not; you’re still as captivating as the day I met you.”

He proceeds to unclasp his cape from his dress shirt, and attaches it to you instead. It softly billows in the wind, but the plush fabric covers you enough so that you don’t get too cold from the cool breeze. This leaves Ayato in his waistcoat, and shirt, frilly cuffs out for all to see. Seeking some other kind of warmth, his arms encircle your waist, as his head rests on your shoulder. The long walk has tired him out as well- even though he may not want to admit it- evidenced by his droopy eyes.

To further prove this, he nestles his face into your neck, his hair slightly tickling your shoulders. You can feel a sleepy smile emerging on his face, as he subtly kisses your neck. It’s soft and sweet, a stark contrast to the enthusiasm of his past attempts, lips barely brushing your skin.

Multiple kisses later, Ayato’s still not given up on peppering your neck with his lips, and it doesn’t seem like he will in a long time. He mumbles sweet nothings between kisses, which leave you melting on the inside. With his dopey smile, and his gentle eyes, this is a whole new side of him you rarely get to see. It’s a pleasant feeling, however, and you’re not complaining. You’ll let the suave and sneaky vampire get his way today. He’s not out for blood, but for a love as sweet as candy.

zhongli— lapis dei ✯¸.•´*¨`*•✿ ✿•*`¨*`•.¸✯

It’s no secret that Zhongli boasts a wide variety of random trivia and knowledge, ranging from herbal teas to precious gems. What is a secret- to most people- is that he also possesses the ability to transform into a dragon on command. Well, more like the ability to hide his true dragon form, and appear as a day-to-day human.

On special occasions, however, the Geo Archon likes to humour you, and let some of his human attributes fade away, leaving him with his draconic ones instead. Hallowe’en is one of those occasions wherein most people (not knowing about his secret identity) would’ve marvelled at how realistic his ‘costume’ was.

A thin, scaly, brown tail that twitched every time you kissed him on the cheek; two golden horns made out of the same substance as his tail, and subtle yellow Geo tattoos adorning his arms and chest. He could’ve gone further, but with how many children were constantly pulling on his tail as they walked by somewhat annoyed him.

He’s distracted from the children by you laughing at the expression on his face, amused by the clear frown of his eyebrows and slight downturn of his lips. You would even haphazard a guess as to say that the Geo Archon, Morax, was pouting. He’s never usually been this expressive, more often sticking to a perfectly neutral smile. Perhaps letting loose of his façade helped him with expressing his emotions more freely.

The fires in his eyes simmer down as soon as he looks at your figure, as he contentedly smiles, past encounters of the children disappearing from his memories as fast as an avalanche, replaced by thoughts of you. It’s already been a few years since you’d started dating- or courting as he likes to put it- but Zhongli feels like he’s still stuck in the honeymoon stage. Every laugh, every twinkle in your eye, every butterfly that you give him never fails to help him fall even further.

For someone who’s lived for over 2000 years, Zhongli wants nothing but to spend even more time with you, which is both a blessing and a curse. You’re a mortal; he’s a god; death is inevitable. Seasons change, and the tides turn; yet he stays as still as a rock, unmoving and everlasting. Grief is not unfamiliar to him; how many people has he seen be slain and destroyed? It’s too many to count.

Too many become the norm for Zhongli, but he can’t deny the strain of his heart when he thinks about your timely demise. He can’t deny the fact that he’ll miss you; that he’ll never get to feel your body against his, never getting to see your oh-so-lovely smile, and that he’ll never get to say I love you ever again. Because you’ll be gone, but Zhongli will remain, immovable as a mountain of sturdy rock.

For someone who’s lived for as long as he has, he knows that the sadness will subdue; that the initial grief will pass over as he carries on with his duties. But he also knows that it may never go away. The longing that he will feel; the sorrow that will inevitably fill him up; the pain- when it comes to you- will never truly dissipate. It’s as much of a part of Zhongli as his own, wandering mind.

But when these thoughts take over, he’s reminded of you, again. You, who starts them, and you, who ends them. It’s taken a long time to reach this conclusion, but it’s not been for naught. Because as inevitable and final as death is, Zhongli still has the present to give to you. Time may not be on his side, but he can try to fill your life with as few regrets as possible, and as much happiness as there can be, because what else is the goal of a dedicated and immortal lover to live by their everything until their deathbed?

So when he has to tolerate some children tugging on his scaly tail on a dreary Hallowe’en day, if to see that smile on your face, he thinks that it’s worth it. There’s no time like the present, as the youngsters say, and Zhongli can’t help but think that they were right all along.

a/n: if you’ve come all the way to the end, tysm for reading :DD i really hoped you enjoyed! this was very different compared to what i’d usually write, different layouts too, i might continue doing multi character for big events, we’ll just have to see :)) likes, reblogs and comments are always appreciated! 🧡🧡

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queers-gambit · 1 year

Text

One Sunrise at a Time

prompt: you have news for your husband.

pairing: Daemon Targaryen x female!reader

fandom masterlist: House of the Dragon

word count: 7.4k+

note: last in the series, my heart. got a thing for making 'bad boys' simps for their ladies - that's great shit right there. author has had too much coffee and can feel her heartbeat in her eyes.

warnings: cursing, mild angst, Daemon's a shitty husband and a dumb boy, but he's also a simp so super OC!Daemon, um, more baby-making smut, talk of difficult fertility journey, let's all run away from our problems.

previous: part five: Bright Light

Three years after your wedding night, and you still had not given your husband an heir; leaving a small divide between you both. You knew it stung at his pride that his seed will not take, and you grew worried that you were past your prime to bare children; where you both felt an obligation each month to couple, wait for results, and speak little.

By every God did it drive you insane. You wanted to be close to him, but Dameon busied himself while you took up post as 'Master of Whispers' for the King.

After 'the incident' that followed rumor of her virginity, he took your ear often to speak worries to you. And the young servants and orphans of the city passed word to you of their findings, dubbing them your Little Birds that like to tweet in your ear. You filtered what passed unto the King, wanting to take your Lord husband's ear, but was scarce in his appearance, and little did you get to his counsel.

However, you remained in Kings Landing for those three years, and you could tell it was wearing at Daemon's already limited patience. You passed time with Princess Rhaenyra, who you became quite close to in your time, and during court season, you still sponsored your step-sons; adamant on finding them suitable wives.

This season was going favorably, and Kase was courting Lord Stark's second daughter while Jamie was courting the young, but beautiful, (only) Lady Caldwell. You heard nothing from the Ladies Aline and Jocey, but you worried not for them, because Kase gave you every update possible. He liked taking afternoon teas with you, and you knew you'd miss him most.

"Mother!" Kase grinned, finding you in the gardens. "I've been looking everywhere for you!"

"Oh, whatever for, my dear boy?" you asked gently, knowing damn well what the lad wanted.

"Might you... Accompany me?"

"Where?"

"Into the city," he nodded with a growing grin, bouncing on his toes to swish his long, dark hair around his face. "I need to visit the jeweler."

"Hmm?"

"I'm going to propose," he grinned, making you giggle and clap your hands.

"Oh, my boy! This is so exciting!"

"Oh! Isn't it!" He beamed with you, taking your hands tightly in his. "And I need your help picking a ring, mother."

"Yeah?"

"Please?"

"Of course," you nodded, "just let me stop off at my chambers, I will get money for the ring."

"No, I've plenty - "

"No, no, you're going to let me pay, and we're not going to let expense be a barrier. Please, I will do the same for Jamie," you whined. "'S no fun being a Princess if I can't spoil you."

Kase nodded, "Let us go now, I want to be back by sunset."

"When are you doing it? When are you asking?"

"I'm asking her father for permission tonight, I want to show Lord Stark the ring first. You know, show I can provide for his beloved daughter," he explained, making you nod with understanding. His arm was then offered to you as escort, whisking you away to your chambers, and when you both burst through the door in a fit of giggles, he straightened up first.

Your eyes cut over to see Daemon idling by a table, the Grand Maester at his side. "Oh, right," you breathed, turning to Kase, "love, go to the foyer, I'll meet you there in a few moments."

"Are you sure?"

"I forgot, but this is a prior commitment," you smiled, giving his forearm a squeeze. "Go on, I'll be right there."

"I'll wait with the guards," he nodded with assurance, offering a nod to the Grand Maester. Then, "Prince Daemon," and he was bowing out of the room, closing it behind him.

You sighed gently, nearing the pair with your fingers twiddling nervously. "Is there any change?" You asked diplomatically to the Maester.

His old eyes shot between both you and your husband, "Well, I ran the tests, just as I usually do..."

"Is there any change?" You repeated firmly.

"No, Princess. Not this month, apparently..."

"Right," you nodded, waving him off, "then we are adjourned. Something is... Wrong with my womb," you hesitated to admit, feeling jarred by the notion as Daemon would not meet your eyes. So, you stared at the quivering Maester.

"Well, we could try other methods," the Grand Maester explained, making your throat bob. "I can bring a list of options later, or we can go over them now, if either of you are prepared to hear them?"

"No, later will be fine," you assured, sniffling after, and clearing your throat. "Thank you, Grand Maester, again... That will be all, thank you," You moved for the door, opening it with meaning; the old man glancing at your husband, who remained quiet, and did not look up from the table's top.

"My Prince," the Grand Maester nodded, shuffling out of the room, "Princess."

"Thank you," you whispered again, the door shutting firmly after. You did not look at Daemon as you moved for the safe you kept, drawing a velvet draw-string bag of Gold Dragons to your possession as Daemon remained stoically still.

"Where are you going with that?" He asked, eyeing you wearily.

"We agreed to pay for Kase and Jamie's engagement rings, did we not?" You asked gently.

"Right," he nodded. "Kase is ready then, is he?"

"He is."

"Right..."

You paused before deciding on changing your shoes, finally bucking up the courage to speak as you did so, "I'm sorry, you know."

"What for?"

"For being unable to give you a child," you admitted meekly, staring at the laces you did up tightly. "I did not - if I knew, I would not have - I would not have married you."

"No?"

"No," you answered definitively, tying off the laces of your boots before standing and settling your purse to your person. "I will understand if you do not wish to continue this marriage with me, as you were anticipating a healthy, functioning wife."

Your bitter, vile words marred your face as you hastened for the door, but his hands were like a stranger's grabbing your upper arm. You gasped lightly as you turned almost in shock, back against the door as he looked down at you with something akin to anger.

"Why do you speak such words?" He asked in High Valyrian.

"Because it's true, isn't it?"

"You are deeply mistaken," he shook his head, "because nothing about your ability to bare me children has ever influenced my want to marry you."

"That is laughable, for you fuck me like it's a chore, barely share my bed, only half-way look at me, and have been avoiding me like-like-like the plague, or something! As if I have Grey Scale!" You emotions tipped and tears filled your eyes, cascading past your waterline. "As if your mind is far from your body, and Gods only know where that is!"

"Sweetheart - "

"No, I needed you!" You sobbed. "I needed my husband, and it was like you couldn't even look at me! Be in a room with me! Share my bed - hold me in your arms! My God, Daemon, when was the last time you told me you loved me?"

His mouth opened before his brows furrowed, expression falling, "I fear I do not know."

"See?" You sniffled. "It's like I am not here, like we are not truly married, and my heart hurts, Daemon. I do not want this for us, so, if this is the grounds you use, being that I am barren, then use it, and cut us both free. I'm sorry. I really am, Daemon, please, I did not intend for this to happen. I did not know."

"Please, do not apologize to me, and let me offer my own," he shook his head, shame taking his features. "I have no excuse for myself - "

"Are you here now?" You begged.

"Yes," he swore.

"Then come with us to pick a ring, spend the day with me, please. I miss you so much, I am so fucking sad and by Gods, do I feel so alone."

"No, I am here now, pet," he promised. "I'm so sorry I was absent, but I'm here, I'm with you. I'm so sorry. Fuck, my dove, I'm sorry you feel alone."

"I'm sorry I'm not pregnant," you whispered, your hands moving to press to your empty womb; his hands laying over yours.

"No matter what is to pass, you are everything I need, and more. Everything I need, all I have ever wanted. Look at me, please," he asked quietly, forehead resting on yours as your eyes slowly rose - forcing them apart. "I have loved you everyday I've known you, and nothing will change that. No child will make me care more or less for you, because you're perfect for me, poppet."

"I don't want to be alone..."

"We will never be alone," he promised, kissing your forehead. "The Grand Maester will bring us options..."

"I want to give you a natural child," you whimpered.

"The Gods will decide, but for now... I could stand taking my duties as husband a little more seriously. You have felt unloved and I took vows to never let you go a day like that - I will resolve this."

You nodded, lifting your hands to pet over his chest, "Please just stay with me today. I feel like a fucking failure - not only as a wife, but as a woman."

"You are fare from a failure," he swore, switching back to the Common Tongue to prove how serious his words were.

"Then why can I not give you a child?"

"Because the Gods have not deemed it so," he sighed. "I am disappointed, yes, but nothing makes me love you less. I'm sorry I've neglected you."

"Be with me now, maybe buy me something pretty, and all is forgiven."

"Deal," he agreed with a small chuckle, sliding his hand over your cheek. "I love you. Fuck, dove, I love you so much."

You nodded, tears still falling, "I love you, too. So much so, Daemon, that being away from you hurts. As annoying and pathetic as that might be."

"Hey, no," he hushed you gently. "Never again will you know that pain for I will not be the cause of it any longer," he promised, pressing a searing-hot kiss to your salty wet lips. "Now, when is Jamie proposing?"

"I don't know yet, we're worrying about Kase today," you nodded, nuzzling your nose to his.

So lead to Daemon preparing for your day, lacing your fingers together as he escorted you to the foyer. Kase was waiting patiently, smirking when he saw the pair of you approach, "Ha! I knew it."

"What?"

"That he would be joining us," Kase grinned now. "Everything's good now?"

"Yes, we are resolved," you assured. "And we're dedicated to finding you a ring, so, shall we?"

He sighed, "She deserves something pretty. You know?"

"Pretty is a great start," you smirked, Daemon's hand tightening. "It's what Daemon's going for today, too."

"Yeah? You're in the market?" Kase wondered.

"For anything my wife wants," Daemon nodded, leading the way out of the Red Keep. "She's been without something new for far too long."

"I want to be able to do that," Kase sighed. "Like, my wife's sad? I can just up and buy her a new ring, or necklace, or whatever, and she's okay."

"In all honesty, I'd be happy with flowers from the gardens," you chuckled, "but my husband is dramatic, Kase, and likes to spend money."

"Only on you," he assured, tugging you in closer. "So, Kase, any idea where to start?"

"Something shiny?"

"Oh, he's helpless," your husband teased, to the enjoyment of your step-son.

"So, tell me," Kase muttered when you finally stepped off castle grounds - half a dozen Gold Cloaks at your flank, "what news did the Maester bring?"

"I am not pregnant," you admitted with indignation, trying to remain passive - as if this whole situation didn't cause your skin to crawl.

"Yet," Daemon tacked on with encouragement, "because in truth, lad," he told Kase, "I have not been as diligent in my duties as a husband as I should be."

"Meaning?"

"We don't fuck nearly enough - but that is set to change," he eased with a smirk; you hand smacking his stomach playfully.

"Well, you actually don't spend any time with me," you pointed out, feeling silly admitting it aloud. "Might we... I don't know, move along to another subject? How are matters with the Lady Stark, Kase?"

"Well, Jamie and I spoke of it, and if the Ladies agreed to it, have a duel wedding here with you before we return home. My Lady's father gifted her a small stead near Winterfell... I think we might move there after the ceremony."

"And Jamie?"

"Would still be Lord, only, married, and no longer in the capital," Kase paused to consider, "with very little reason to return to this city."

Pointing that out seemed to set you off some, though you did not let it show. The idea was that both lads were to marry this season, and Daemon was antsy to escape Kings Landing for across the Narrow Sea seemed like a terribly convenient coincidence. Daemon's been more than gracious to let you linger as you did, but now that the truth was tangibly verbalized about your boys leaving and not returning, Gods, did it sting!

Daemon and Kase asked one another a few questions back and forth in further effort to know one another, your feet and lower back starting to ache. Perhaps you were to start your cycle soon...

Time through the city drug only because it was evident Kase was 'forcing' time between you and your husband by going the long routes through market stalls. By the time you arrived at the jewelers, all 6 Gold Cloaks were holding items bought because you had so simply as 'gazed fondly at it.'

And he was even worse in the jeweler, though you talked him down to only one item - be it a ring, or heavy necklace, so solid gem broach... With reluctance, Dameon agreed, and the pair of you focused on helping Kase make his decisions. Your husband advised he simply go with whatever spoke to his heart, but it was evident the lad was becoming overwhelmed.

So, you stepped up, and together, pieced together what he thought would be suitable for his bride-to-be. Daemon watched with a smirk, gazing over other options for anything he found intriguing for you, but paused when Kase exclaimed, "AH-HA! YES!"

"Kase!" You scolded.

"Sorry, sorry," he winced, looking from you, to the jeweler, then to Daemon, "sorry. I just... I think I found the one!"

"Let's see it, lad," Daemon nodded, clasping the young Lord's shoulder and looking at what he held. "Befitting for a young woman so beautiful as your bride. It will do nicely - yes, we'll take it," he assured the salesman.

"Gems are imported from Qaarth."

"Where before?" You wondered.

"No idea," the man admitted. "But it's real nice, yeah?"

"It is, please, set it aside for us," you nodded to the man, then pointed to a pretty, solid gold necklace that held a plaque that looked as if it could be carved into. "And might I see that, please?"

"Course," the man mumbled, and the necklace was produced for your hands to examine.

"If I gave you script, could you engrave this for me?"

"Anything you'd like, Princess," he nodded in agreement.

"I'll send the instructions with a lad later," you smiled. "We'd like those two items - might we settle the debt now?"

"If you'd like, of course."

"I'd like to, yes," you nodded from the salesman to your Lord husband. "Daemon? Love?"

"Right," he sighed, pulling the money pouch from his belt after fearing that if you carried it, it would encourage violence against you. "What's the number then?"

As the two talked price, Kase was beaming as he examined his ring choice - glancing at you, and making you prompt, "She'll be blown away."

"Yeah?"

"Mhm," you assured. "It's a beautiful selection, she's going to just die when she sees it. And her father will not think you lowly, but capable of providing for his daughter."

"But what if... What if I can't?" Kase mumbled, turning to you. "What if I screw up so bad, it can't be fixed, and she leaves me - or whatever have you!? I fear I am only a second son and hold no land or titles, but that my brother does, and so long as he draws breath, I have nothing..."

"Kase..."

"No, no, just that I want to be with the Lady Stark - even on her homestead, if it means being away from you all... But what if I ruin it?"

"You won't," you spoke with assurance.

"So quick to - "

"I know you, Kase, get out of your head," you advised as Daemon paid that debt owed. Kase sighed and thanked the jeweler, following Daemon from the shop, after you.

The entire walk back through town, Kase worried he wasn't good enough for Lady Stark - and Daemon was far too amused when the boy asked him for help. Daemon's solution? To take the lad to a tavern, but you weren't sure.

"C'mon, Mum, it'll cap off a great day," Kase encouraged. "And we can get drunk! It's a win-win!"

You chuckled, "You're aware of what we've on our person?"

"Yes, yes, but no one would dare cross the Prince of the City!"

Heaving a sigh, you glanced around to the Gold Cloaks. "Can we trust you to bring this all back to our chamber and lock the door?" You asked them, handing over the engagement ring but Kase lunged for it.

"Wait!"

"Oh, hell no," you snapped, taking the ring and pointing a warning finger, "I've been to enough taverns in my life to watch men gamble away whatever be in their pockets - and I will not jeopardize this ring! It's going to our room to be locked up, hmm?"

"Well," he looked nervous.

"I trust these men," Daemon nodded, "and if they choose to steal from us, or to vary from whatever my wife asks, they know the extent to which I will take to punish them."

"Oh, Daemon," you swatted at him, "you do not need to threaten everyone!"

"How would they know I'm serious?"

You sighed, handing the ring over. "Please?"

"Of course, Princess," one of the guardsman assured. "You've a key?"

"Yes, you can lock it, I've a way in for us," you smiled lightly, nodding as they took their leave. "Are we sure?" You asked Kase and Daemon.

"About the tavern? Yes - c'mon," Kase groaned, tugging you forward as Daemon quickly swooped in behind you. The tavern was relatively lively for the middle of the afternoon, but you were not one to offer judgement as Daemon was greeted calmly, happily...

Like you would a friend.

Your hand found his quickly out of nervousness, lacing together as Kase went for the bar to open a tab and Daemon secured a table by shooing off the residents of the back corner booth.

"Look here, position is everything," he mumbled, guiding you into a seat with him beside you; stuck like glue, "and from here we've the advantage."

"Should we even be here?"

"We're all right," he assured softly. "But if you are uncomfortable, my dove, we will leave."

"No," you sighed, peering around him to the bar, spying Kase talking with animation to the bartender, "he looks excited. But do you frequent this bar?"

"I do," he nodded. "'S why I brought us here, the security is under my payment right now... But I wanted to talk to you about something."

"What would that be?"

His fingers gently pinched your chin, sighing almost sadly, "How would you feel about leaving Westeros?"

"Not just Kings Landing?"

He nodded, "I'd take us across the Narrow Sea."

"Oh," you breathed, nodding slowly. "Well, that's something... When do you want to leave?"

"After the lads are married, so, the end of the season?"

You worried slightly, "Is that enough time?"

"We've three months, dove," he nodded, petting down your cheek, "and in truth, we've no more attachments here... Let us leave," he breathed against your lips, puckering his to kiss you. "Let us be done, we'll get away from the city."

"See the world?" You smirked some.

"I'll take you wherever you want to go," he nodded. "Maybe getting away from the city will give us the stress-free environment we'll need to conceive a child."

"You think that's our issue?" You sighed, lacing your hand with his to lean your chin on his shoulder. His own head tilted to caress your forehead.

"Perhaps," he alluded, "but we still have to hear the Maester out."

"Right..."

"Come on, pet, there's hope still," he nodded, kissing your forehead. "And perhaps we see the world instead," he chuckled some, "I don't think I'd mind that. Traveling the world with you?"

"What if we have children?"

"Hey?"

"Wouldn't you want your children to have dragon eggs?"

He sighed, "We can talk logistics later, but yes, I would... It is their birth right," one of his arms was around your back, the other flattening his palm to your stomach. "The Gods will bless us one day."

"But no harm in practicing?" You teased, leaning up to peck his lips quickly. "I fear it's been too long since I've loved you properly, husband."

"Make that my burden," he shook his head, glancing up as his hips shifted when one of your hands laid on his thigh, "and I will make it up to you when we get back - ah!" He hissed when you boldly palmed his crotch before casually settling your arms at his hips when Kase returned to the table, carrying two jugs of ale and three cups stacked on his head. "Devilish woman," he mocked in your ear.

"Here, here!" Kase laughed, setting the jugs down as he dodged around to keep the cups on his head.

"Kase - good Gods!" You laughed, helping him.

"C'mon, we're here for a good time," he laughed in return.

"Are you drunk already?" Daemon perked a stoic brow, but you saw the mischief stretch across his face as a smirk.

"Yes," Kase nodded rapidly, pouring the ale for you all. "The lads at the bar were happy to hear of my impending engagement!"

"Oh, sweetheart," you chuckled lightly, giving Daemon's thigh a squeeze - making him jolt a bit - but Kase didn't notice because you asked, "sure they weren't hitting on you?"

"Really? On me?" He gaped, taking his seat finally, gulping his ale. "No, no, no, it was... No, it was harmless!"

"Mhm," you smirked.

"They were kindly!"

"Okay, okay!" You relented, "So, we are celebrating this afternoon. Is there something you want to talk about?"

"Yes," he slurred, "why won't her father give his permission?"

"Wait," you perked up, "did you already ask?"

"Mhm, weeks ago," he waved off between gulps of mind-numbing-ale. "But he said no, but let me continue to court her... So, I thought the ring would show I am the man for her!"

"Oh, wow," you nodded from under Daemon's arm now tossed around your shoulders, "well, that's, uh... Wow..."

"Lad, you've nothing to worry over," Daemon assured, "because there is no other for his daughter, hey? Obviously it is a love-match, and she is adamant on her end that he's not been able to force her to court others. He will not limit his daughter's happiness, yet I would argue you were smart in thinking the ring would help."

"You think it will?"

"Yes," Daemon nodded.

"Hmm," he considered, skulling his drink in full. Daemon chuckled in your ear, nuzzling into your neck, as if three years of slowly drifting apart hadn't been overcome in an afternoon at the jewelers. Your mind began to drift with ideas of how to get him back, and as Kase was enraptured with telling a story, you started to slowly palm Daemon's growing bulge. You felt his thighs tighten, but his throat bobbed to keep his cool - eyes set on Kase's overly animated storytelling movements.

"Dove," Daemon warned under his breath when you pulled the strings of his trousers loose.

"Sh," you cooed, sliding your fingers along his girth to reposition and give a few slow tugs with the table being the only cover between his bare cock and prying eyes.

His breathing shifted but he kept his cool, your hand needing to keep at an angle to protect his cock from the under belly of the table. Kase had shifted his attention half to those who would listen, Daemon's jaw steeling - hips sinking into the seat to keep from bucking. "Oh, fuck," he whispered, stifling a groan.

"Good boy," you purred, giving his shaft a squeeze as his tip leaked. "Always a good boy for me, hmm?"

"Yes," he panted, head bowed to yours again - and to anyone looking over, they would think twice about bothering you. "Just for you."

"Don't cum, save it for my cunt," you switched your tongue to High Valyrian. "Hold it, my Prince."

"Enough," he growled, literally smacking your hand away and instantly tucking himself back into his trousers. Nobody paid you any mind as he stood and gathered you from the booth, then hoisting Kase's arm over his shoulders. "Come on," he told you, "hold onto me."

Your hand latched onto his belt as he had full-hold of Kase. The tavern had grown in patron numbers, forcing a part in the crowd for you as you moved. On the street, Kase started singing, and Daemon kept a wobbly hold on him. When you return to the Keep, luckily, you didn't run into anyone important on your way to deposit the Lord in his chambers - you returning to your chambers, and finding the door locked and all the shopping left in the room.

Good, everything was where it should be.

You were sorting through the day's shopping when Daemon returned, who was then instantly on you with his mouth open to your neck; hands bunching up your skirts as his swollen cock was rutted into the round of your arse.

"Daemon," you gasped, hands bracing on the mattress of your bed as he finally gained access to your cunt, groaning in satisfaction when his fingers met your wet hole.

"I need this," he panted, yanking his cock free to run up and down your slick, and then push in. You both gasped in relief, your chest falling to the bed as his pressed to your back; humping into you as you let him take you as he wanted. "Wanted you in my mouth first but fuck - I couldn't wait."

"Harder, Daddy," you begged, clutching your sheets with desperation.

"Yeah, that's right, fucking beg for me," he encouraged, lifting off of your to piston his hips almost painfully. "Yes, my dove, fuck, take it all. Make me a Daddy, please, please, dove. Oh, fuck, fuck, fuck - "

"Fucking cum in me, please," you begged, "I need it - I need to be full."

"Keep talking."

"Let me make you a Daddy, please," you yelped, whining into the sheets before yelping when his hand slapped over your arse cheek. "Fuck me harder, please, I need it so bad!"

"Take it then," He barked, one foot up on the mattress for leverage, hands wrapped around your neck and into your hair. You whined wantonly as he grit his teeth and jack-hammered forward into you with desperation. "FUCK!"

He came with a shout, coming to a standstill as his balls emptied into you; leaving him to rut boyishly into you as his lungs stuttered for air. You were panting as well, letting one elbow hold you up as the other reached up to pet over his cheek. "Someone can't last like before, hey?"

"Oh, you wicked woman," he laughed lightly, breath fanning across the back of your neck before his face was nuzzling there. "Got me worked up in public - I'm surprised I lasted that long." You laughed in return, your legs shaking slightly. "On the bed, pet. I don't want you off it for the next few days."

"Daemon," you whined when he pulled out of you suddenly, legs giving way with a small whoop of surprise.

"I got you," he rushed, catching your body; arms tight around your waist to gently pull you up with him. "Easy," he smirked, "if you're feeling it now, you're in for a long weekend, my dove."

"Gods," you laughed, pulling yourself onto the mattress. "You know, we're going to have to talk..." He sighed when you turned to face him, his fists propping him up on either side of your hips. "Can't just hump our way through this."

"We can't?"

"Daemon."

"I know," he sighed, dropping his forehead to the crook of your neck. "But what is there to say? Besides I am sorry..."

"I fear that if we leave, you will become distracted. My love, we do not have allies outside the Capital City, and I could not bare your same behavior in strange lands."

He sighed, pausing to pull back and pull the rest of his clothes off; stepping out of his boots, too, before reaching for you. He focused on pulling your dress and boots off, almost weakly palming your bare breast before speaking, "I have not been a very good husband, and I know that now, and I cannot apologize enough. But I can try to rectify the situation, and to do that, I suppose I could try harder to prove I love you."

"I know you do," you sighed, leaning back to your pillows, guiding him with you as you took under the covers. "But what happened to us?"

He sighed, deflating into the pillows beside you and pulling you into his chest. "In truth, pet... I fear it is me who is the problem of our infertility..."

"What?" You wondered, looking up at him, confusion knitting your brows together.

He sighed, "Ah, my dove... There are written accounts that sometimes, fertility issues do not fall upon the woman only. Sometimes... It can be the man who struggles to sire an heir."

"Oh," you breathed, pushing further into his embrace. "No, my love, I do not think it's you."

"No - "

"Love, look at me," you frowned, titling his head down towards you. "Sometimes, when a woman takes Moon Tea for an extended period of time, it can... I don't know, alter the state of her womb."

Daemon winced, "If I waited, you wouldn't ever have had need to take the tea..."

"Okay, are we going to go in circles about who's fault this is? Or accept it for reality?" You sighed. "What're we going to do if we don't have a family - and what if we do?"

"It's to be figured out as we go," he sighed against your forehead; cradling you closer. "I just want us gone from the City, my dove."

You sighed, "Then swear to me that you will not put me through this again."

"I'm going to show you I can be the man who deserves you," he swore, leaning in to nuzzle your nose. "No talk of dramatic means; I am yours, and you are mine."

"Would you be honest with me?"

"Of course."

"Have you been visiting the taverns and brothels?"

"Only the taverns," he frowned. "There's been many a night I find myself waking in the stable after drinking far too much."

"Ah, sweetheart..."

"I know," He groaned lightly, readjusting. "Come, nap with me."

You pouted lightly, "You don't want to fuck me again?"

His head, which was settling on your chest, shot up in shock as he eyed you almost wearily. "Really?"

"Mhm."

"Fuck," he whispered, leaning up to latch his mouth onto your own - leading into another frenzied baby-making session.

Months later, you had married both of your step-sons off, and within days, Daemon had approached you regarding your departure.

He made no move to explain to his family where he was heading, choosing to instead latch your shared belongings to Caraxes' saddle as if to just disappear. But as fate would have it, when you approached him with confidence to hand off the last of your rucksacks, you were startled when Caraxes swung his head around to look at you with a great, heaving, cocking-with-curiosity head.

"D-Daemon?" You worried, hands held up in defense as the dragon's muzzle neared you; giving a great heave against your stomach. "Daemon, what is happening? What's he doin', love? Oh, this feels strange, what do I do!?"

"It's all right, you're all right," Daemon soothed, coming behind you to pose as a backboard as the scaly beast nuzzled into you. The power behind the movements jostled you some, but against your husband's chest, you were better secured.

"What's he doing?" You wondered again with greater fear.

Daemon's hands moved to hold over your hips, peering over your shoulder to watch the great beast breath against your belly. "Dove?"

"Hmm?" Your hands were still held up in defense.

"Have you bled this month?"

You paused, glancing up at him slowly, "Not to my knowledge."

"Last month?"

"No... I don't think I remember my last cycle," you admitted, looking up at him with widened eyes. "Does this mean what I think?"

"He's protective of you," he pointed out, sighing after. "No use in getting our hopes up right now. You've been to the Maester, yes?"

"Yes," you nodded, Caraxes growling when Daemon tried to pull you back. "O-Oh, okay," you sighed, gently holding his head to placate the beast, "okay, all right. Shh, shh. Okay, there yah go."

Daemon finished tacking the saddle, watching the pair of you for a moment longer than he would've usually allowed. Something stirred in his gut, and for some reason, he pondered, "What if we left in the morning?"

"Daemon," you sighed, "a single night makes no difference. We want to cross the Sea before night fall, yes?"

He nodded, "One last night here..."

"What are you hoping to achieve?"

Daemon again neared you, glancing up at Caraxes, whilst the beast purred. "There is a feeling I cannot shake."

"What feeling?"

"That we are missing something."

"Not per se," you sighed, patting the underside of the dragon's chin. "What do you think we're missing, love?"

Your eyes closed when Daemon's forehead met your temple, a beat passing, before he admitted, "An egg..." His hand slid across your lower belly to cradle it, "for the babe?"

"Daemon, you just - I'm not - look," you sighed through your nose, feeling frustrated, "it's been over three years, and it's not happened. Perhaps we just let nature take course, yes? Stop trying so bloody hard?"

He sighed, dare you say it, sadly.

"Give us tonight... Let me search for any eggs Syrax might be hoarding..."

You sighed, shifting on your feet. "Everything's packed already."

"We'll make do for the night," he tried.

"If I agree, might I go nap? Or do you want me with you?"

"No, you go rest," he nodded, pressing a kiss to your temple. Yet when he let go, Caraxes whined and had to be held at bay while you made your way back to the Keep. Though, while Demon descended into the Dragon's Lair, you rushed for the Maester's chambers to pound rapidly.

"Princess!" He gasped when he opened the door to your tearful face.

"I-I need another test, Maester..."

"My Lady, it has been months since our last exam - "

"Hence why I need one now," you frowned, wiping your cheeks of tears. "Please."

"Of course, come in, come in," he ushered you, moving about his chambers to prepare his tools and herbs. You gave urine, blood, and spit; waiting impatiently as the Maester prodded around your stomach, ran his tests...

And by the end, he was blinking in near shock. "Well?" You demanded, exhausted by the long day of tests - but you knew Daemon would not be back for hours more.

How wrong you were - but first, the Maester turned with tears in his aged eyes. "M-My Princess... You are with child - without a doubt. I'd wager some eight or nine weeks in? Perhaps ten," he nodded, consulting his exam results. "Yes, just shy of three months, probably when we stopped our exams, yes, yes... Have you had symptoms?"

"I don't... Know?"

"All right," he sighed, "your blood?"

"I cannot remember my last cycle," you admitted with a nod.

"Hunger?"

"Some," you shrugged.

"Mood swings?"

"Well, perhaps no more than usual..."

"And have you any pain in your breasts?"

Sighing, you shrugged, "They are tender, yes, but that's not..."

"It is," he nodded softly. "But I'd wager you're ten weeks in, you'll start to notice your belly swelling soon."

You blinked a few times, "You're sure?"

"I'm sure."

"I'm pregnant...?"

"You are."

"I'm gonna have a baby?"

"Finally," he teased gently, smiling brightly at you. "What joyous news, Princess."

"Well... I... I do not know what to say," you whispered, feeling panic swell in your chest. "M-Might you send for my handmaiden? H-Her name's Mary, please, Maester, I am feeling overwhelmed."

"Just breathe," he nodded, moving for the door to send for Mary. As you waited, he lead you through breathing exercises; trying to quell your worry before Mary was bursting through the door.

"What's this?" She worried, rushing forward.

"I-I am pregnant," you told her, taking her hands tightly, "an-and I fear I am panicking."

"Do you want me to get your husband?"

"He's in the Dragon's Lair."

"No? I swore I saw him making for your room," she cocked her head, squeezing your hands. "Why are you panicking?"

"B-Because I am not - I do not - for fuck's sake, I don't know in full, but I am scared."

"Of what - "

"Of the birth!" You yelped, tears filling your eyes. "My Gods, they whisper about the Targaryen Curse but I thought it was just me - and that I could not bare children. But now... Fuck's sake."

"Okay, breathe," the Grand Maester advised. "This stress is not good for the baby, you'll have to take that into account the next few months, as you grow the babe."

"Fuck's sake," you snapped as you wept, latching onto Mary as she shot a glare at the Maester.

"Yes, okay, thank you!" She snapped, waving him off. "My Lady, listen to me," she sighed softly, caressing you in comfort, "you are not of Targaryen blood, and that can yet work in your favor when carrying a Targaryen child. Ease your mind, my Lady, you are not doing yourself favors with this stress."

You tried to calm down, but she was still petting your hair as you wept. But then, something in your mind snapped in place, "D-Did you say you saw my husband?"

"Yes, on my way here," she nodded.

"All right," you sniffled and wiped your face, "I-I need to go to him."

"Go," she encouraged, "but allow me to be the first to say - holy fucking shit! You're pregnant! Oh, my Gods, I'm so happy for you! Congratulations!"

You giggled lightly and hugged her tightly, letting her yank you off the exam table to lightly hop around in an excited hug. "I am blessed," you whispered into the hug. "Thank you, my friend."

"Truly!" She squealed. "Oh, no, but does this mean you're still leaving?"

"Let's find out," you breathed, squeezing her hands and moving for the door after. She held your hand as you moved for your chambers, but before you got there, she let go and insisted you talk to your husband alone. With tears in your eyes, you pushed the door to your chambers open, calling, "Daemon?"

"Dove?" He answered from the chair resting at the table's edge, his wrist flourishing as he wrote on parchment, almost sighing with relief. "Where have you been?" He glanced at you. "Thought you were napping, and I come here, you're not in bed."

"I've been - "

"Never mind that! Why are you crying!? Who did it?" He demanded, jumping to his feet and trying to take your face in his hands.

"Why're your hands covered in ash?" You dodged, holding his wrists, easing him back into the chair. "Did you find an egg, my love?"

"I did," he breathed, grinning shyly.

"Good," you nodded while blinking rapidly down at him, gently caressing the side of his cheek to pull his gaze up to meet yours, "because it will lie in our child's crib, finally."

His gaze met yours slowly before realization coated his features, almost gaping at you, "Truly?"

"Daemon," you spoke slowly, taking either of his hands in your own to pull them to rest on your waist, "we're going to have a baby."

"You're pregnant?"

"I'd like to think we are, but yes, I am pregnant."

"Finally," he breathed, leaning forward to caress your stomach with a grin, laughing some after. "Oh, thank the Gods - well, no, thank you, my beautiful wife."

You smiled and caressed his head, keeping him close as he leaned back a little; arms tight round you, legs spreading, and keeping you set between them. He sighed deeply, nuzzling your belly.

"A blessing, is it not?"

"It is," you whispered, petting down his neck. "See what happens when we don't try so hard?"

He chuckled, his breath felt across your lower tummy. "Oh, my sweet wife... How I celebrate you."

"How I celebrate us," you smirked.

He gave a gentle nibble to your belly before lifting his gaze; chin laid to your stomach with his arms tightly around your hips to keep you in place. "I love you, thank you for this. I-I don't know what else to say."

"We've a long way to go, you might not be thanking me yet," you chuckled nervously, but Daemon saw through you. He sighed and leaned back more, guiding you to his lap to sit.

"What is it, sweet girl? Hmm? What's on your pretty little mind?"

You frowned a bit, leaning into his shoulder to caress his cheek and jaw; lowering your voice to mumble into his skin, "I am afraid."

"Of?"

"The birthing..."

"Ah," he sighed, tightening his hold on you. "I see... I will ensure the best midwives and Maesters are at your chambers."

"I need only one promise from you."

"You need only ask it."

"You'll be there with me. In the room, even. You will not leave me to do this alone..."

Daemon tightened his grip on you, pressing a kiss to the column of your neck. "You will not be alone, pet. Never in this. I am here with you, and I will be here until the end. You will not be apart from me, and I will not leave you alone in this."

"Thank you," you whispered, holding onto him tightly. He sighed lightly, nuzzling into your neck as tears surfaced. "I'm scared, Daemon."

"I've got you," he assured, tightening his hold. "You're not alone, dove. Not now or ever, I'm so sorry, pet, for how I was before. But it's gonna be different," he whispered, kissing at your jaw after, "I do swear this to you, my sweet wife, 's all gonna be so different."

You nodded, petting through his hair, "All right... All right, so, how about we go share the good news? Have one last dinner with family? And in the morning, we make for Pentos? Or Essos?"

He smirked, "It's a surprise first."

You sighed lightly, "Of course it is. What do you say?"

He sighed, nodding mutely. "A fantastic idea, dove, but let me bask in this moment first." Readjusting in his lap, you easily curled under his chin and let your eyes close. "I love you."

With a smile matching his, you swore, "I love you, too."

🍒 fin

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canonicallyobserving911 · 2 months

Text

Several Sentences Sunday

Fanonwriter2023 on AO3

Where CANON and FANON collide!

This is an EPIC LOVE STORY!

Season 7 FANON Speculation: Buddie Multi-Chapter Fanfic - Hiatus Reading: “I’m still in love with you but... I needed to learn how to love myself too!”

Chapters 24 will be posted soon.

Buck and Eddie got married and Buck's officially Chris' second dad!

Currently 23 chapters completed: 893.1K Words; Rated: Mature

One chapter will be posted at a time.

{Previous snippet linked here}

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I'm excited to finish writing Chapter 24 because Buck and Eddie are married and the Diaz family is starting the second half of their two-week long European family adventure. For anyone who hasn't read Chapters 22 and 23, here's a brief overview. In Chapter 22, Buck and Eddie got married, Chris was their best man and Eddie successfully surprised Buck with all the things he had planned for him including a three-tier wedding cake. Their honeymoon started that night and they had an important conversation before they consummated their marriage. In Chapter 23, they left Rome the day after their wedding and proceeded to visit 5 other cities for the remainder of their time in Italy. By the end of it, they agreed to continue speaking Italian even after they return to the U.S. because while they were in San Gimignano, they made a decision that could affect the course of their family's lives forever. What was the decision? 👀

They departed Rome at the end of the chapter and they landed in London on Christmas Eve to start the second half of their family adventure. What else are they going to do while they're still in Europe? Will Buck meet his biological father? 🤷🏽‍♀️

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Here's a snippet from Chapter 24 of Buck and Eddie being romantically fluffy Christmas night.

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It’s after 10 o’clock, Chris is in his room sleeping while Buck and Eddie are lying on the sofa quietly resting. Eddie’s on his back and Buck’s whole body is draped on top of his. His legs are in between Eddie’s and his head is lying on top of Eddie’s chest. Eddie’s rubbing circles onto Buck’s back and Buck’s listening to Eddie’s heartbeat. It's a familiar position and it's one they've been in hundreds of times when they're at home but they're in London, England right now and they've adjusted to the time zone change and everything else very well.

The TV is on but neither of them are paying it any attention and the Christmas music is still playing too but the volume on the Bluetooth speakers is so low they can barely hear which song is playing.

They’ve had a relatively relaxing Christmas Day with three awesome meals and they spent the entire day doing family activities like singing Christmas songs and watching Christmas movies together. It’s their first Diaz Family Christmas for just the three of them and everything went perfectly.

Chris was happy with all the gifts they got him and they were overjoyed with their gifts from him too. The video of them cutting their wedding cake was a huge surprise and now that they have it on their phones and iPads, they’re going to add it to the video of their marriage ceremony from Leonardo so it will be a continuous video instead of two separate ones.

While he lightly runs his fingers up and down Eddie’s arm, Buck lifts his head, sits his chin on top of Eddie’s chest and says, “Babe?”

“Hmm?” He hums as he meets his husband’s eyes.

“I know we didn’t talk about getting each other Christmas presents but uh… I got you something.”

Eddie raises his eyebrows. “You did?”

“Yes. I did but since I um… just got the confirmation for it last night, I didn’t have time to get it ready for today so… there’s no wrapping paper or anything but when I get the official one, I’ll make sure to wrap it in a box so you can open it.” He replies as he reaches over to the table to grab his phone.

“What did you get me?”

“It’s something special just for you.” He responds as he looks at his phone and Face ID unlocks. Once it does, he accesses his email, finds the one he’s looking for, expands the screen with two of his fingers then he turns his phone around so Eddie can read it.

He watches as his husband reads the email and he sees his eyes widen when he gets to the part that explains what it is.

Eddie bites his bottom lip, looks at his husband and whispers, “Buck?” but his voice is so low, he almost misses it. If he wasn’t looking right at him, he believes he would have.

After a few seconds, Eddie continues, “You did this for me?”

“I did because you deserve it.” He moves so he can sit up and after he does, he waits for Eddie to sit up too. Once they’re both sitting up, they move closer so they’re pressed together from their shoulders to their knees.

He leans in and places a soft kiss onto his lips then he takes Eddie’s free hand in his, laces their fingers together and continues. “Babe… you do so much for our family, you sacrifice a lot and you work so hard and you deserve something that’s just for you.”

Eddie slowly nods and he’s about to respond but Buck keeps talking.

“Before we left L.A., when I asked you what you wanted to do while we were in London, you said all you wanted was for me and Chris to be happy but babe… me and Chris want you to be happy too. Us seeing you happy and doing things you want to do make us happy too.”

He nods again because it’s true, all he wants is for his family to be happy so he gently squeezes Buck’s hand as he tries to blink away the tears that have welled behind his eyes. He allows his husband’s words to settle in his mind and he never would have thought in a million years someone would do anything like this for him but Buck not only knows him and sees him; he listens to him too. He understands everything about him and the email he just finished reading further proves how much Buck loves, knows and cares about him.

While holding Buck’s gaze he says, “But… this is a...”

What did Buck get Eddie for Christmas? 👀

Also, did Eddie get Buck something for Christmas too? 🙃

___________

This is an EPIC LOVE STORY!

Fic Summary: Months after Buck and Eddie were hit by the same lightning strike; they’re still struggling with the aftermath of it. But before they make their love confessions, they’ll spend time getting to know themselves as individuals first. Eddie learns to enjoy the simple things in life as he participates in activities on his own and with new friends while Buck learns the rest of the 31-year-old deep dark family secret about his conception and birth. Their journey to forever is still a work in progress but once they finally admit they’re in love with each other, everything that follows their love confessions will be cataclysmic.

__________

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1 - Eddie makes a new friend while Buck receives devastating news regarding the sperm donation he made for Connor and Kameron.

Chapter 2 - Buck does a lot of research to learn more about the abnormalities found in his red blood cells and Eddie starts a new therapy journey that’s all about him and not the traumas he’s experienced.

Chapter 3 - After more than a month, Buck and Eddie finally spend time together outside of work but it doesn’t end well and they part with a lot of uncertainty regarding their places in each other’s lives.

Chapter 4 - Eddie has a few realizations about his life which causes him to consider moving back to El Paso, TX while Buck continues to be reminded of his past which causes him to take an impromptu road trip across America.

Chapter 5 - Both Buck and Eddie have difficult conversations with their parents and Buck finally learns the truth behind the reason why his mother despised him while Eddie finally tells his mother about the way she tries to control him.

Chapter 6 - More than two weeks after Buck pushed Eddie away after suggesting they needed a break; Eddie decides to try again. Eddie’s there for Buck when he’s at his worst just like Buck was there for him when he was at his worst and he won’t let Buck give up.

Chapter 7 - After Buck’s mental breakdown, Eddie has his back the same way Buck had his when he had his own breakdown more than a year ago. They share several vulnerable and emotionally intimate moments with one another and they begin to realize their small, sweet and caring gestures matter just as much if not more than any grand gesture ever could because these are the foundations of a long-lasting love relationship.

Chapter 8 - Buck, Eddie and Chris all have their own therapists and during their sessions, they reflect on their pasts while they’re in the present so they can prepare for their future together as a family.

Chapter 9 - Buck and Eddie are there for each other when Buck has to testify as a witness during the trial. But by the end of it, they’ll both realize their individual and shared traumas are going to keep resurfacing until they talk about them, deal with the fact that they’re in love with one another and face the fact that they can’t live without each other.

Chapter 10 - As Buck and Eddie finally begin to confront their past traumas, they realize how much they need each other to fill in the gaps of their memories. Additionally, the universe screams at them for what appears to be the one hundredth time so Buck can realize he doesn’t have to ‘find it’ because he already ‘made it’ and Eddie’s reminded tomorrow isn’t promised and he doesn’t have to die alone if he doesn’t want to.

Chapter 11 - A “virga” or dry thunderstorm is in the forecast but once the rain starts, the thunderstorm happening outside won’t be able to match the storm brewing inside between Buck and Eddie. It’s the universe’s final scream and when the tumultuous winds begin to blow, they’ll have one last chance to hold onto everything they’ve built over the last six years or they’ll lose it all forever.

Chapter 12 - Buck and Eddie have always shared a deep physical attraction and an emotional intimacy that’s unmatched but now that they’re in a relationship, they’re learning how to navigate the romantic intimacy they’ve been waiting for six years to explore. The love they have for each other is a once in a lifetime, soulmate, love of their lives type of love that transcends space and time.

Chapter 13 - While navigating the newness of their romantic relationship, Buck and Eddie take advantage of every moment they spend together. As their individual lives, people from their pasts, time constraints and the possibility of losing each other again make attempts to interrupt and interfere with their journey to forever, they love, care for, support and hold onto each other even tighter to withstand it all.

Chapter 14 - Buck and Eddie can see the lights at the end of the tunnels regarding the results of Buck’s Cancer Screening along with everything else they’re dealing with. But are the lights they see exits to the tunnels or are they headlights on different runaway trains that are speeding towards them in an effort to interrupt their forever?

Chapter 15 - Buck and Eddie have known they were exactly who the other one wanted in a partner since they met six years ago when they agreed to have each other’s backs. They’re in a romantic relationship, they’re both preparing to ask the other one to spend forever with them and by the end of the seventh week into their relationship, together they will plan their most important and greatest adventure for their future.

Chapter 16 - As Buck and Eddie begin to prepare for their marriage ceremony that will take place in Rome, Italy in December 2023, they start planning their first international adventure as a romantic couple. Even though Chris is still the only person they’ve told about their relationship, several people who know them have already witnessed the love they share and as the days continue, others will witness it too.

Chapter 17 - As Buck and Eddie get closer to departing Los Angeles for their international adventure, a moment in time will remind them; life is fragile, tomorrow isn’t promised and every second of everyday should be cherished because everything can change in an instant. The result of that realization will cause them to hold onto each other even more.

Chapter 18 - As Buck, Eddie and Chris prepare for family gatherings before and during the Thanksgiving holiday, the “Santa Ana Winds” start to blow and all sorts of expected and unexpected familial drama ensues.

Chapter 19 - As Buck and Eddie get closer to their wedding day, the universe begins to align everything so that some of their parent and children's relationships are strengthened while others come to an abrupt end.

Chapter 20 - With only 14 days remaining until Buck, Eddie and Chris depart Los Angeles, CA traveling to Rome, Italy, for their first family adventure, an early morning conversation about “tying up loose ends” helps Buck and Eddie realize there are still several things left unfinished on their ‘To Do’ lists. The question is will there be enough time to complete all of them?

Chapter 21 - Buck, Eddie and Chris are finalizing their ‘To Do’ Lists, double checking their itineraries and packing their suitcases in preparation for their trip to Europe so they can board their flight that departs Los Angeles, CA on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 3:25PM.

Chapter 22 - While Buck, Eddie and Chris spend the first 8 days of their European family adventure in Italy, their primary reason for going will be fulfilled as well as several others they hadn’t considered or anticipated.

Chapter 23 - As the Diaz Family continues their Italian family adventure, they’ll say, “Ciao” or hello and goodbye to a lot of things almost immediately after they become an official and legal family.

Chapter 24 - Will be posted soon.

__________

Read chapters 1-23 are available on AO3.

Continue reading on AO3

Chapter 24 will be posted soon.

#buddie #eddie diaz #evan buckley #christopher diaz #the buckley diaz family #buckley diaz family #The Diaz Family #ao3 fanfic #buddie fanfic #Fanonwriter2023 on AO3 #911 fanfic #Hiatus Reading #911 abc #911 on abc #“I'm still in love with you but... I needed to learn how to love myself too!”#Chapter 24 will be posted soon.#Several Sentences Sunday

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darubyprincx · 2 months

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Two Idiots, One Body | previous • next

Beef awoke with a yawn and a stretch, sitting up in his bed. It took him a few seconds of staring blankly at his bedsheets to realize that he was, in fact, looking at his bedsheets and not at the back of his eyelids like he originally thought he was.

In fact, he discovered after clumsily waving his hand around in front of his face for a moment or two, he was barely registering anything this morning, which normally only happened when he was really, really tired. It was like someone had tossed a thick white veil over his vision and a thick fog into his brain.

Only dimly registering that he seemed to be moving on autopilot this morning, he went with it and spent his normal morning routine thinking about what on earth could be going on here. Coffee with two shots of creamer and a tablespoon of sugar, just like he always made it...

Beef suddenly snapped to reality so quickly that he felt like he'd been whacked with a sheet of linoleum. He didn't like his coffee with sugar and creamer, he drank it black! Come to think about it, this was day 2 of the season! How did he even have coffee, much less a coffee machine? And that wasn't even the worst of it.

Beef turned around slowly, taking in the surroundings. He was standing in what could pass as a kitchen inside of what was clearly a cave. Yes, there was the entrance over there. In one corner lay a lime-green bed.

This wasn't his house.

Beef didn't even have a house yet because he wasn't here yesterday!

Despite all of the pitfalls in his memory, however, Beef already knew exactly who was behind all of this.

"Iskall," he said loudly into the cool air of the cave. Then, louder: "ISKALL!"

The cave did not respond. Neither did Iskall.

Beef stalked outside (he did not stomp when he was angry, he just walked with an incredibly menacing aura) and glowered at the area around him. There were a couple of tuff pillars and random chests around. It was a beautiful morning, with thin wisps of stratus clouds flying their pale banners above a bright white sun. The air smelled sweet and fresh.

"When I get my hands on Iskall85," Beef declared to the open sky, "I am going to prank her so hard that he's going to be finding wet sand in her socks for the next season and a half. May God be my witness."

"Hm?" asked a voice nearby. Beef turned around to see Stress' head pop up over the top of the nearby hill. "Oh, hi Beef! Glad you made it!"

"Hello, Stress," said Beef, nodding up at her. "Have you seen Iskall lately?"

Stress scrunched her face up in thought. "Hmm," she said, "no, not this morning, but he was here yesterday. I can send her a message if you want."

"Sure," said Beef, looking around again to try and get his bearings. Iskall's base was just east of spawn, with Ren and Cleo nearby.

Again, Beef had zero idea how he knew any of this, seeing as this was his first time on the server.

"By the way," said Stress, hopping down to squint at him, "did you steal Iskall's armor?"

"What?" asked Beef, looking down and realizing as he did that he was indeed wearing a full set of iron plate armor, complete with a diamond helmet and boots. "What?"

"You're not very good at lying, love," said Stress, mistaking his utter confusion for a weak attempt at an alibi. "That's his armor. And her shield, too. There's chests full of materials next to spawn, divided up for everybody. There should be one for you, unless Grian took it."

"I know," snapped Beef, even though he definitely did not before that moment. Stress raised an eyebrow at him and he sighed. "I'm sorry. It's been a really weird morning. I woke up in Iskall's bed with all of his stuff on me and I just want to know what exactly she did and how on Earth he did it."

"Okay," said Stress, still not sounding entirely convinced. "Well, the most I got out of her yesterday was that he was still recovering from a monster cold. The last I saw her was in this area yesterday. Maybe you could go ask Mumbo for news."

"Yeah, I have no idea," said Mumbo, a little too cheerfully for a man standing in full iron armor. "Haven't seen him at all today."

Beef frowned. "Nothing?"

"Nope," said Mumbo, absently walking to one side. The man was always in motion. It was really distracting. Beef had to repress a sigh as he turned to follow him. "No messages, no notes in your base, no nothing?"

"No nothing," Mumbo confirmed. "If you want me to tell ya when he shows up, I can do that."

"Please," said Beef. "That would be extremely helpful."

"Am I allowed to know why you want to know her whereabouts so badly?" asked Mumbo, raising one eyebrow. "Or is that classified information?"

Beef paused a moment. On one hand, he was happy to explain. On the other, he couldn't exactly say that he woke up in Iskall's bed with his armor on and all her tools in his inventory now could he? Beef internally shuddered to think of the implications of that.

"It's classified," he said with a nod. "Thank you, though."

Mumbo nodded in return. "No problem, mate," he said, going back to whatever it was he was doing with no further questions. Beef appreciated that quality in a man. Most people, when probed for the sort of information he was after, would ask awkward things like why and how and what's up with this guy. Mumbo, meanwhile, was blissfully head-empty when it came to all matters except for redstone knowledge and Grian.

After that conversation, the strange mental fog cleared out almost instantly. Beef got to work building a house close to but not too close to spawn, choosing the location for the flatness of the land and the tranquilness of the surrounding landscape. It was a quiet place, a comfortable spot where you could kick back on the front porch and watch the sunset.

Beef went to sleep that night in his own bed that he'd build himself, comfortable and cosy. Maybe, he thought as he drifted off to sleep, Iskall would be online tomorrow. And if he was, there'd be hell to pay...

#two idiots one body #ray's tag #keys' writing #mcyt #hermitcraft #this is either chapter 1 or chapter 2. havent decided yet

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swan-of-sunrise · 8 months

Text

Taking Care of Business (Chapter Forty-Four)

Summary: Clan Mudhorn enjoys the quiet calm of their homestead on Nevarro, and Din and (Y/N) discuss an important decision for the future of their little family.

Pairing: Din Djarin X Fem!Reader

Word Count: 1.7k

Warnings/Disclaimers: None

A/N: And here we’ve arrived at the end of Season 3 with a short but super-sweet ending! Thank you for reading, I hope you all enjoy!

Chapter Forty-Four The Homestead (Previous Chapter)

Although Din had visited Nevarro more times than any other planet in the galaxy, it wasn’t until the three of them moved into the cabin on the modest tract of land gifted to them by High Magistrate Karga that he realized just how beautiful the planet was. They lived on the very outskirts of town – close enough to hear the comings and goings of freighter and trade ships by the city gates but far enough away to maintain their much-needed privacy – and from his chair on the porch, Din was able to admire their sprawling tract of land; the land was interspersed with several trees and bushes that provided the wildlife with shade, and there was even a little pond by the cabin’s foot path, where Grogu was currently playing with one of the many frogs.

Din took a deep breath, enjoying the feel of the gentle breeze caressing the bare skin of his face and ruffling his hair, and leaned back in his chair as he crossed his legs and propped them up on the porch rail. “Mesh’la…” He smiled when he noticed the child using the Force to levitate the frog, but the familiar gleam in his son’s wide eyes suddenly gave him pause and caused him to call out, “No, Grogu, you’ll spoil your dinner! (Y/N)’s bringing home dinner from the market, remember?” His resolve started to crumble when a dejected Grogu lowered the frog back into the pond and he heaved a relenting sigh. “How about a cookie instead?” Grogu let out a happy coo and leapt through the air, landing on Din’s outstretched legs with a toothy smile on his face; Din chuckled before reaching into his trouser’s pocket and carefully withdrawing one blue cookie from the packet he kept from the mischievous child. “All right, kid, take the cookie.” In the blink of an eye, the cookie flew out of Din’s hand and he snatched it out of the air, taking a big bite of the sweet treat while Din watched with a grin. “Good job, ad’ika! Just don’t tell your mother about this, okay?” Grogu nodded as he enjoyed his cookie, and Din’s smile grew when he heard the hum of a familiar engine in the distance. “Speaking of your mother…”

Leaving Grogu on the porch to finish up his contraband, Din walked around the cabin’s corner and leaned against a stack of cargo crates as he watched the approaching land-speeder. Thanks to (Y/N)’s bartering skills, they obtained a secondhand land-speeder for traveling to and from the city with ease; Din and Grogu spent time tuning up the engine while (Y/N) worked on hand-sewing a commission from Bo-Katan – new flight suits for the dozen Mandalorian survivors and the covert’s foundlings who found themselves going through sudden growth spurts – and in the process, Din learned the hard way that Grogu preferred to play with the tools over learning how to make repairs. They usually kept their land-speeder docked beside the N-1, which was where (Y/N) parked before jumping out and walking up to him with her arms laden with canvas bags. “Hi, sweetheart! Did you have a good day?”

“Mm-hmm, I finally got the kriffing water pump working again and Grogu helped me clean up the garden.” Din leaned down to give her lips a quick peck and took the bags from her. “How was the market, alor’ad?”

“It was great!” They walked into the cabin and when Din set the bags down onto the kitchen counter, (Y/N) began to unpack them as she continued. “I picked up more thread and even found a vendor selling buttons, so I’ll be able to finish Bo-Katan’s order and we can drop it off on Mandalore on our way to meet Captain Teva on Adelphi next week. The port manager told me that Boba’s shipment of sewing equipment from Tatooine is halfway through the Hydian Way, and she told me that we can borrow a port cart to transport the shipment home when it arrives the day after tomorrow. Oh, and the Anzellans said that we can pick R5 up tomorrow; his tune-up went very well, but he’s really looking forward to coming home with us.”

Hearing his wife call their tract of land home sent a feeling of warmth throughout Din’s body and he took a moment to admire her; the light filtering through the kitchen window from planet’s setting sun illuminated her stunning features, and the combination of the happy sparkle in her (Y/E/C) eyes and the beautiful smile gracing her face made him once again thank the Maker for placing her in his path all those cycles ago. “I’m glad that you’ve had such a productive day, but it sounds like you could use a little relaxation. How about we crack open that bottle of Coruscant mead after the kid falls asleep tonight?”

“Mmm, I knew that I married a brilliant man,” The captain replied with a grin, curling her fingers around the collar of his tunic and pulling him down to capture his lips in a passionate kiss. Din hummed in pleasure but just as he placed his hands on her waist and started to deepen their kiss, a cheerful coo sounded throughout the cabin and they separated to see Grogu jump up onto the counter beside them. “Hi, little guy! Did you have a nice day here with your father?” The child gave her an emphatic nod, and Din’s eyes widened as (Y/N) reached over to gently brush several blue crumbs off the collar of his robe. “Ah, I see that someone let you have a cookie before dinner…”

Din quickly rearranged his expression into one of innocence when (Y/N) gave him a pointed glare. “Who, me? Ner cyar’ika alor’ad, that doesn’t sound at all like something I’d do.”

Unconvinced, (Y/N) scooped Grogu up into her arms and pressed a kiss onto his wrinkled head. “Well, since you managed to get yourself messy, little guy, you’ll have to have a bath before dinner…” Grogu grunted in displeasure, having never been too fond of baths, and (Y/N) smiled sweetly up at Din before placing the disgruntled child into his arms. “And you’ll be giving him his bath, sweetheart. Have fun!”

The captain disappeared into their bedroom to change and Din watched her saunter away for a moment before heaving a half-amused, half-exasperated sigh. “Okay, kid, let’s get this over with. And no Force-tricks with the water this time, got it?”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Later that evening, after the three of them had eaten their dinner together and they’d put Grogu to bed, Din and (Y/N) found themselves lying on the flat roof of their cabin and drinking Coruscant mead while they watched meteors streaking across the starry night sky high above them.

“You know,” Din’s fingers drummed against his stomach as his eyes followed the flashes of light dancing across the sky. “Mandalorians have a phrase for this.”

With her arms folded to cushion the back of her head, (Y/N) glanced over at him and arched a curious brow. “A word for getting tipsy off of expensive mead and watching a meteor shower?”

“Mir’sheb.” He smiled and shook his head in loving exasperation as his wife giggled. “It’s a phrase that encapsulates the state of peace and rest: Suum ca’nara.”

They both returned their gazes to the night sky and (Y/N) hummed to herself. “Summ ca’nara. It’s a beautiful phrase, sweetheart…but I’m not sure that we’ve achieved it just yet.”

Din’s brow furrowed and he rolled onto his side so that he could see the captain’s face; her expression was nothing but pensive as she stared transfixed up at the meteors and stars above, but there was something lingering in her voice that told him she was deep in thought. “The Mandalorian factions have united as one, Mandalore has been reclaimed from Imperial control, and Moff Gideon is dead. We’re working as independent contractors for the New Republic, our clan has a home to call our own, and you can finally work towards your dream of owning your own seamstress shop. What more could we possibly want?”

“It’s just…” (Y/N) bit her lip and took a deep breath before meeting his eyes. “I was thinking that maybe…well, maybe Grogu would like having a little brother or sister someday. What do you think?”

Din could feel his heart hammering away in his chest as he processed his wife’s words and while she waited for him to reply, he envisioned the remarkable future she presented him with. A baby who resembled both of their parents was peacefully sleeping in a floating pram while (Y/N) worked on a half-finished gown to rival the very best that royal Naboo seamsters could offer, and Din was hard at work training Grogu the Way of the Mandalore outside their modest cabin; Clan Mudhorn would expand from three to four and thanks to their hard efforts, Din and (Y/N) would raise their children in a galaxy that was safer than ever before. It was the sort of future that Din never allowed himself to long for before meeting (Y/N) and even after marrying her, it was one that always seemed impossible for them to achieve. But as he looked down into her (Y/E/C) eyes and saw all the happiness glimmering within them despite living a life filled with sacrifice, hardships and loss – a life so similar to the one he’d lived before crossing paths with the captain and the child – Din realized that as long as (Y/N) and Grogu were by his side, they could achieve the future he’d always dreamed of.

As a smile slowly spread across his face, Din leaned down and gently cradled the hopeful captain’s cheek with a steady hand. “We’re gonna have our hands full, you know.”

“Mm-hmm. Any baby of ours is bound to inherit their father’s bounty hunter’s stubbornness.”

“And they’re certainly gonna be as intelligent as their smuggler mother.”

“A baby that’s a perfect blend of the two of us being raised alongside a Force-wielding Mandalorian apprentice,” (Y/N) mused, a playful gleam in her eyes brought on by their rapport. “Sounds like one hell of an adventure to me.”

Din nodded as his thumb caressed the soft skin of her cheek. “An adventure I’d only ever go on with you by my side, alor’ad.”

Beaming with happiness, (Y/N) flung her arms around his neck as their lips soon met in a kiss filled with burning desire, the pair of them spending the evening locked in a passionate embrace as the stars shone high above and the promise of their suum ca’nara filled the warm night air.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mando’a Translations:

Ad’ika-Son Alor’ad-Captain Ner cyar’ika alor’ad-My darling captain Mir’sheb-Smart-ass Suum ca’nara-The state of blissful rest and peace

A/N: And there we have it! Once again, I'd like to thank you all for reading, commenting and reblogging of this fic, it means so, so much to me! The adventures of the Mandalorian and the Captain will continue once Season 4 is released but until then, I'll try my best to update with deleted/extended scenes or small blurbs, so stay tuned for that!

Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2KuSKJhVOPPvxdJ9YHeo4M?si=2977ff31bf0c4bdd Taking Care of Business Masterlist

Tagging: @remmysbounty @sinon36 @seninjakitey @thatonedindjarinfan @ginger-swag-rapunzel @mostclevermiss @momc95 @welcometothepedroverse @sarahjkl82-blog @elinedjarin @ccomandercody @crowleysqueenofhell @goldielocks2004 @wondergal2001 @groovyqueer @impala1967666 @fluffy-canada-pancakes @icee228 @siimiasoi @uncle-eggy

#taking care of business #din djarin x reader #din djarin x f!reader #the mandalorian x reader #the mandalorian x f!reader #din djarin #the mandalorian #grogu #din grogu #the child #baby yoda #greef karga #ig-11 #bo katan kryze #carson teva #r5d4 #moff gideon #star wars

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here4kpopfics · 1 year

Text

Feeling in Chaos - Fall pt. 1 | JJK

Pairing: Jungkook x (f) reader | Yoongi x (f) reader

Genre: drama, angst, smut

AU: art college!au, friends to lovers, best friend’s brother

Wordcount: 10,198

Summary: Having to revisit somewhere full of memories for the first time, you ask a friend (?) for help.

Rating: M / 18+

Warnings: Language. Grief. Panic attacks. Y/n has PTSD and is learning how to get through it. Mentions of use of medication. Bad decisions. Jealousy. Self-loathing. Possibly problematic friendship/relationship. If you are sensitive to any of these topics, please just skip this story.

Smut Warnings: oral (both f and m receiving). Protected sex. He gets a little rough at the end, but very vanilla considering what I usually write.

AN: Sorry for the long wait. The original decision was to have the entire season be their own chapters, but I didn’t want to make the wait time even longer, and the chapters would be over 50k words each. So the seasons get parts and you get updates faster! A reminder that you are free to dislike the way a character behaves and the choices they make and the words they say, especially when dealing with a trauma or grieving. But remember that doesn’t always make them who they are. People overreact, people underreact. Emotions are either heightened or taken away and it can cause a lot of trouble.

Thank you to my soulmate @playmetheclassics for beta/editing and for just dealing with me freaking out over how the story reads and if people will hate it and me basically spoiling it left and right. You're amazing. 💜

Banner and Divider by @classicscreations

Masterlist | Taglist | AskBox | Coffee?

PREVIOUS | SERIES MASTERLIST | NEXT

Y/N (6:47pm): Are you busy?

Yoongi (6:58 pm): For you? Never.

You roll your eyes, sitting in the corner of the library, backpack and canvas sitting on the table in front of you. You curled up into one of the chairs, deciding to wait at the library for his response rather than go home.

Y/N (7:00 pm): I’m sorry for ghosting this week…

Y/N (7:00 pm): School started, and it’s been a mess. 😔

Y/N (7:01 pm): But if you still wanted to hang out before group on Saturday, and are free right now, there’s somewhere I need to go and could use some support…

You hit send and feel the anxiety creeping in at the thought of his rejection and having to go alone. Thankfully, you don’t have to wait too long before he replies.

Yoongi (7:03 pm): Where do you want me to meet you?

You sigh in relief, texting him where you are and that you’d come out when he was there. He says he’d need about an hour, and you were happy to wait, trying to mentally prepare for a step in the grieving process you knew you weren’t ready for.

You get comfortable in the chair, hugging your knees to your chest as you sit sideways and leaning your head onto the headrest. You try to focus on keeping your breathing steady instead of the loud voices in your head screaming at you, but both are interrupted by the vibrations from your phone.

Incoming Call: 💜🍪Kookie📷💜

Fuck, I didn’t text him that I was staying after.

Sighing, you answer the phone, holding it up to your ear.

“Hmm?” Is the only thing you can get out. You’re never sure how to greet him anymore.

“Y/n? Where are you? I thought classes ended at four?”

“They did. I stayed after and spent time in Varon’s trying to complete my painting.”

“Did you?” You puff out a small laugh at the question.

“Nope.”

“You’ll get it done. I believe in you.” you wish he wouldn’t. “Are you on your way back?”

“Uhm…no…” you feel your body tensing up, “I’m actually going to go to the studio…see if I can finish it there.”

The line is silent. None of you have gone to the studio. It was the safe space for all four of you, and the idea of going back there was something you and Jungkook had discussed, but neither wanted to until Ryujin was ready.

“Are you with Ry?”

“No…I can’t wait for her to be ready, Koo. I have to get this done.” You hear a heavy sigh on the other line, followed by what sounds like clothing moving against one another.

“Okay. I’ll meet you there. And we can do it toget–”

“No,” you interrupt. “I’m fine, Jungkook. I’ll be fine.”

“You’re not doing this by yourself, y/n.”

“I’m not.”

More silence.

“You’re not?”

“No…I’m going with someone else.” You wince at the confession, knowing you’re doing it again. You’re hurting him.

“Joshua?”

“No, he went home after class.”

“...is it that guy from last week? Your new sex buddy? Yongjin?” You groan, running your hand across your face in annoyance.

“His name’s Yoongi, Jungkook. Don’t even pretend not to remember his name. And yes, with him. I’m just waiting at the library for him to meet me here.”

The line stays silent again. You can only imagine the face he’s making on the other end right now. Eyebrows pinched together, jaw clenching as he gnaws on the side of his cheek. He’s probably glaring at the wall, wishing he had his punching bag in front of him. You almost check the phone to see if he hung up on you before you hear a big breath being taken.

“But he doesn’t—”

“Exactly, but he doesn’t. That’s the point, Jungkook,” you cut him off again, closing your eyes in frustration. ”Please, let me do this alone, with him, with someone who doesn’t know Kai. Someone who knows the pain of losing a sibling. I’m really fucking trying here, okay? I want to live a life worth living for Kai, and I can’t fucking do that if you keep coddling me like this. I love you, you know I love you, but I need someone else right now, okay? Please?”

You sniffle, using your free hand to wipe away the invisible tears you can’t bring yourself to let out anymore, and listen closely to the man on the other end of the call, not saying a word for a moment.

“Okay.” He mumbles it out reluctantly.

“Just…let me know if you need me, okay? Or at least text me when you’re there and when you’re back home, so I know you’re okay?” His voice cracks twice, and your heart with it, but you quietly agree to his terms, both saying goodbye and hanging up.

“Fuck!” you shout in a whisper against the back of the chair, voices in your head screaming at your mistakes in wording and ruining everything with Jungkook again.

You nearly jump to another universe at the feeling of a hand on your shoulder, turning quickly to smack the person touching you, only to find Yoongi. You can’t even bring yourself to yell at him, forcing yourself to a normal sitting position instead.

“Hey. You okay, love?”

You shake your head in response, grabbing your backpack and putting it on while Yoongi grabs the canvas before you can.

“You wanna tell me what’s going on?”

You shake your head again, grabbing his free hand and intertwining your fingers with his as you lead him out of the library and away from the school. It’s a quick walk from the campus, about six moderately sized blocks, but you both stay silent until you’re a block away from the studio. You feel a small tug on your hand, stopping you in your tracks.

“Y/n, I’m not doing whatever this is unless you talk to me.”

You turn to look at him, fighting off the many different emotions building up in your heart.

“I…it’s hard to explain. I’d rather ignore it and focus on why I called you, okay?”

“No. Not okay.” He tugs you closer, chests almost touching.

“What happened?” His tone softens as he stands the canvas on the ground against his leg to free his hand that moves a strand of hair out of your face.

You keep your eyes on the beautiful necklace around his neck. The little gold star-shaped pendant resting perfectly under the center of his clavicle with the initials MK carved into it. You wonder where he got it or who gave it to him.

“I just keep fucking things up with people, and I speak without thinking, and I’m just so tired of it. I’m tired of explaining my feelings. I’m tired of being treated like some basketcase or some fragile flower about to be crushed by the wind. I’m tired, Yoongi. So can we please drop this?”

He watches you closely, your eyes never stray from his chest, and you look exactly how you feel. Angry and exhausted and like you could use a room with a bunch of plates you can break. Your actions differ from your expressions, though, your hand squeezes onto his as if you’re scared and begging for help, looking for some sort of lifeline.

He knows you enough to know your actions are more than your reactions. The emotions you put on for people can easily be the opposite of what’s real. He sighs, gives a small nod before kissing your forehead, and agrees to drop it. He picks the canvas back up and lets you continue to lead the way silently.

You finally approach an old building that had been converted into an apartment complex, still maintaining its historic features. You punch in the code to unlock the doors, and Yoongi quietly follows as you enter an old elevator, closing the door and gate first before pressing the button that brings you to one of the top floors.

“So,” you say, taking in a deep breath as the elevator jolts and starts moving.

“Kai, Ryujin, Jungkook, and I are…were…are all into the arts, right? I’m painting and drawing, Jungkook photography, Ryujin fashion design, and Kai graphic design. We thought it’d be easier for us to have an art studio that we’d all share rather than each having our own because that’d be too expensive, ya know? And none of us really have the space to do it at our apartments. Kai and Jungkook maybe, but then Jungkook recently got into film and wanted his own darkroom, so…”

“Makes sense,” he nods along, watching you open the gate and opening the door of the desired floor.

“So we piled all our money together once Kai and Jungkook got accepted at our school, and bought this floor space in this office building and turned it into four rooms.” you explain as you play with the keys in your palm as you approach the door to your shared safe space, trying to delay the inevitable.

“The one immediately on the right is Ryujin’s room, the left is Jungkook’s, mine is the back left, and Kai’s…” you pause, forcing yourself to unlock the door and open it. You stay standing outside as the door swings open, revealing a dark room, lit only by the lights of the city and sky outside.

“Kai’s room is back, right.” Your voice falters, and Yoongi squeezes your hand to get you to look at him.

“This is your first time back, isn’t it?” you nod, chewing on your lip.

“Have you tried coming here before?” you shake your head.

“Okay, let’s go. You said back left?” After you give a quick nod, Yoongi brings your held hand up to his lips, giving a small kiss on the back of your hand before walking in and holding you close.

He turns on the light, scanning the room for your door. There are two giant L-shaped couches merged together in the main area, and a big tv hanging on the wall. A tiny kitchen is tucked in a corner of the place, and as you had stated, four doors in the open floor space. He finds the one that is painted multiple colors, with your name hiding amongst the smears of paint. You step in front of him to unlock it with a four-digit code, 0901, hearing the obnoxious clicking sound before the door finally starts to open. You quickly step inside, turning on the light and bringing your hand away from his finally.

Your room is exactly as you left it a few days before finals in the spring. It’s messy from all of the last-minute painting you had to do and there’s a wall with various finished canvases lined up against one another. As chaotic as it feels with all the different colors and the paint covering the floor and walls, it’s specifically organized. There’s a table that holds all your brushes, pens, and markers in various jars, separated by size and type. There’s a cabinet full of various paints organized by medium and brand. And the same can be said for the clean canvases and varying sketchbooks. There’s a smaller couch in the corner with a rainbow Squishmallow sitting on it, and a stool in the center, sitting in front of a giant empty easel.

“Wow.” is all Yoongi can bring himself to say as he walks up to the floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the city and the school. You ignore him as you take the canvas from him and set it on the easel. You unpack your paint supplies, grabbing more from the cabinet and table, and organizing the tray next to the easel. You send a quick text to Jungkook that you’re in your studio and turn your location on to share with him while Yoongi has moved to the other wall and starts sifting through your finished pieces.

“Y/n, when you said you painted, I didn’t know you were actually this fucking good.”

“Is that a compliment or an insult? I can’t tell.” you narrow your eyes at him, a small smile forming on your lips.

“Trust me, love. It’s a fucking compliment. It’s - oh holy shit, this is nice!” He exclaims, pulling out the one you painted three years ago of a neighbor’s cat.

“Whose cat is this?”

“A neighbor from a few years ago. They moved as I was finishing it up for them. Never got their new address.” You watch him hold the canvas up in awe.

“Do you want it?”

His eyes snap to yours. “What?”

“You can have it, I have no use for it.”

“Are you sure?” you nod confidently.

“Yeah, put it in the cat cafe or something, I don’t really care.”

The grin that adorns his face is something you would love to paint one day. You take a mental photo of him, saving it for a day you feel inspired again. You can’t help but smile back, eyes darting to the floor when he puts it down next to the door.

“I’ll put it on the center of the wall in the room with the cats so everyone who comes in can see it.” He steps closer to you, giving you a quick kiss on the cheek. “So what are we doing here today?”

You give him the rundown of the canvas, showing him the picture of the oak tree you took after texting him, explain your inability to see the colors in the paint and your new instructions from Professor Varon to just paint with whatever.

He agrees to stick around while you paint, laying on your tiny couch and lets you tell him random stories about Kai while you make the smallest strokes on the canvas, trying to figure out what the colors are. You let Yoongi choose the colors at random, squeezing them onto the pallet in no specific order. You hate that you can’t tell which color is which. You can almost see the color red, but that’s about it.

This is going to look horrible.

An hour later, Yoongi’s places an order for food to be delivered and you stop painting, joining him on the two couches in the living area. You both eat in silence.

“You should go in there.” Your eyes find his, turning your head to find where he’s looking.

Kai’s door.

You look back to your food and shake your head.

“Nope. Not happening.”

“Why not?”

“I should wait for the others. We should do it together.”

“I guess, but he’s your brother before he’s Ryujin’s boyfriend or Jungkook’s best friend, right? Doesn’t that give you something like, I don’t know, seniority?”

“You mean priority?”

“Yeah, that!” He laughs, but you shake your head again.

“It might, but I can’t do it, not without them,” you speak so sternly, trying to end the conversation, but he doesn’t let up.

“You made it here without them, didn’t you?”

“No, I made it here with you.”

“Perfect! You can go in there with me, then.”

He puts his food down, grabs yours, doing the same before standing up and holding out his hand again.

“You have to do it at some point, love. Might as well be now.” You shake your head again, but he grabs your hands and pulls you up with little resistance on your part. You let him drag you closer to the door, but freeze when you’re actually in front of it.

It suddenly looks larger than before, like the door to a boss fight in a video game. It's the final boss and you’re too low of a level. You shouldn’t enter.

“I can’t do it.” You breathe out, feeling your lungs starting to collapse.

“Do you not know the code?”

“No, I know the code. I just…” you look down at the pin pad as the crushing weight of panic starts to settle on your chest again, making you feel heavy.

“I’m going to open the door and he’s not going to be in there. It’ll be like watching him die all over again.”

His big hands find their way to your face, forcing you to look at him.

“The way I see it, the longer you wait, the more painful it’s going to be. Trust me, I waited months before going into Karin’s room, and I regret waiting that long.” His thumbs soothe back and forth against your cheekbones as you sniffle.

“You think it’ll be like watching him die all over again right now? I promise you it’ll be even worse if you keep waiting.”

Your head pulls away only slightly, but enough to have Yoongi’s hands follow and readjust as you look up at him.

“Karin?”

He gives the smallest nod with the saddest smile.

“My sister.”

You offer a small smile in return, a small part of you thrilled that he’s slowly starting to talk about her. He never once mentioned her by name in group therapy, only ever calling her his sister.

“It’s a pretty name…” you quietly whisper, earning a light laugh from him. His eyes dart between yours like they’re searching for a way out of the conversation.

“Do you want to tell me the code and I’ll put it in?”

You sigh, really not wanting to do this. But if he’s willing to bring up his sister to you? Actually, say her name? Who are you to deny him?

“0412” you quietly mumble, eyes shut tight.

He moves to stand in front of you, a hand grabbing yours. You squeeze it like a lifeline while he starts punching in the code. You hear the lock clicking to unlock and it’s when the door starts to open you find your nails digging into the hand in yours.

He lets the door swing open, stepping in just enough so he can find the light switch, turning it on and backing back out before turning to you again.

“You ready? We don’t have to, if it feels like I’m pressuring you, I don’t mean to. I just—”

“Yoongi. It’s okay.” You look past him and get a glimpse of Kai’s room. You can see his big computer setup as well as a few of his drawing tablets.

He’s not at his desk, crouched over trying to finish a project. Your heart falters a little, the pain still very much still there, but oddly not as bad as you feared it would’ve been.

Yoongi steps aside, letting you slowly take the four steps it takes to get into Kai’s room. You take a deep breath when you get to the center of the room, Yoongi right behind you.

It’s exactly as he’s left it. Just the same as you did right after finals. The four of you had been so busy trying to cram as much fun as possible in the summer, that none of you thought to come back to the studio once the year was over.

There are sketches tossed around this desk. A notepad that looks full of sketches and other things taped to the sheets inside as well as some pages folded into shapes sits by his mouse. The various tech he kept buying to help improve his work was piled into a corner of the room. He has the same set-up of a couch and a giant window looking out over the city.

You hear a ruffle of papers and turn to see Yoongi delicately holding some sketches that were on the couch.

Snap.

“No! Stop touching it!” You rush to him, roughly taking the papers out of his hand and putting them back on the table. You try to smooth the crinkles you made out without touching the sketch itself but you can’t and instead, the tears you didn’t know were present start to fall from your face, landing on Kai’s drawing.

You ruined his sketch. This could’ve been the most important sketch to him and you ruined it with your stupid tears. You ruined it just like you ruined everything else.

I’m always fucking ruining everything, such a goddamn worthless piece of shit.

“Fuck, fuck fuck fuck, it’s ruined.” You gasp, ignoring the ice-cold tightness around your lungs returning.

Everything hit all at once - like you were being crushed by a freight train and the only moments you could breathe were in between the various train cars running across your chest.

You drop to your knees, curling in on yourself to be as small as possible, palms pushing against your closed eyes, fingers trying to plug your ears to silence the bloodcurdling noises in your head. You try to breathe, you know you can, but it’s like your lungs refuse to listen to your brain. Your heart refuses to calm down and your brain feels like it’s going to explode. Everything feels wrong and never-ending.

Make it stop, make it stop, please just make it stop.

Are you thinking it or shouting it? You can’t tell anymore. Nothing seems real anymore. It’s just darkness and pain. It feels like you’re going to die. Maybe that’s okay. You’ll get to see Kai again.

Please, just let this stop.

It hurts so fucking much.

You feel two hands gently pull your hands away from your eyes and ears. You try to open them, but everything is dark and fuzzy. You can barely make out the boy squatting down in front of you that’s terrified of doing or saying the wrong thing. He tries to wordlessly get you to match his breathing, but you can’t follow him.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have touched it. I'm so fucking sorry. Come back to me, y/n. Fight through it, you’re right there.”

You’re right there.

No no no, you can’t think about that.

“Do you want the Ativan?” You hear him whisper and it takes so much energy to shake your head. You don’t want to be numb, you hate it.

Yoongi feels his heart pounding. He’s seen you have anxiety attacks, he’s seen you break down in group therapy, he’s seen your panic attacks, but he’s never seen one like this. He’s never heard you scream the things you’re screaming. It’s overwhelming and terrifying and he doesn’t know how to stop it, but he can’t just sit there and wait for you to come out of it. He wants to help. He needs to help. So he does the only thing he knows he can do to help steady your breathing.

Everything stops.

The voices, the tears, the pounding in your head, and your breathing all come to a halt the moment you feel his lips on yours.

It’s not romantic in any sense. His chapped lips are roughly pushed against yours that are wet with tears and hopefully not snot. There’s no movement save for his hands cupping your face, fingertips gently moving against the skin on the back of your neck.

The tightness around your lungs loosens and fades, and the pain in your head is back after the initial shock of the kiss, but it’s fading as well. Your pounding heart is now pounding for a different reason. You open your eyes to find his shut tight, tears barely escaping.

Your shaky hand reaches up, gently tugging his shirt. He slowly pulls away, eyes opening just enough to see your wide ones staring at him. Realizing what just happened, his hands drop from your face as he leans back some more, readying himself to stand back up.

“I’m so sor- sorry. I- I don’t know why…” you’ve never seen him stumble over words before. Sure, in group therapy he hesitates a lot, but that’s because he’s thinking of what to say next. This is different. This is fear.

He quickly stands up, trying not to disturb any of Kai’s things as he rushes out of the room. You stay seated on your knees, completely lost and confused about everything that just happened. It’s when you hear his keys being picked up that you force yourself to your feet and run out of your brother’s room, not even bothering to close the door.

When Yoongi starts to walk out of your room with his jacket halfway on, you’re already at the doorway. Your eyes are still wide, still processing what’s happening and what you are doing.

He looks afraid.

“Y/n, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that without permission. I just, I didn’t know what to–”

Your lips are on his without a second thought, properly shutting him up. This kiss is a complete one-eighty from the previous, however. Your lips move against his, letting out a small gasp when his hands find your waist, allowing his tongue to slip past your lips and causing you both to moan. You tangle your fingers in his hair, trying to keep him close as you walk him back to your couch, the sound of his jacket dropping to the floor barely noticed.

The back of his legs hit the couch and he brings you down with him as he sits down, your legs on either side of his, lips never parting. His hands finally move from your waist, one reaching up for your face, holding you close, while the other grabs a handful of your ass, dragging you closer to him. You get the hint, grinding your hips against his and pulling away from his lips as he lets out a groan.

His hand tries to bring your lips back to his but you move down, leaving small kisses along his jaw, neck, and Adam's apple. You pause when you see the pendant again, still resting perfectly where it should be. You admire the initials MK, now understanding who they belong to. You kiss just below it on his chest, where his heart should be, feeling him relax under the touch of your lips as you slide off him, knees dropping to the floor.

“You don’t have to…” you look up to meet Yoongi’s worried eyes, a mixture of lust, concern, and something else that you can’t quite place. His hands find yours on his thighs. “We can stop if you want.”

You shouldn’t do this. You’re just reacting to the adrenaline and soon, you’ll crash in exhaustion. You should not do this. Not with Yoongi. You should stop.

You shake your head.

“Please?” Your voice finally makes a sound, but just barely. It’s almost grating. Yoongi waits a moment before leaning forward to cup your face in his hands, bringing you in for a soft kiss.

“Okay.” He whispers against your lips. “Whatever you want, love.” He kisses you once more, letting you sit back while he lifts his hips to take off his joggers and underwear. He tosses them aside, not caring about where they land when you’re crawling back to him

When you had sex with Yoongi the first time, you told him it was just sex. You told him the rules would be no kissing, no oral, and nothing that would be considered lovemaking or too intimate. He agreed, and it’s been fine for both of you.

Sure, sometimes he’d try to kiss you, but you wrote it off as him just being in the moment and were always able to deny him. You’ve given him a handjob, and he’s absolutely fingered you into oblivion, but never what you were about to do.

You lightly kiss his knee, urging him to spread his legs and scoot forward so you can fit between them, kissing up his soft thighs until you’re finally where you want to be. Your eyes meet his one more time for permission, waiting for the small nod he gives you before you gently hold his erection up, giving soft kisses and kitten licks up the base, the hisses coming from his mouth urging you to keep going as you reach the tip.

“Please don’t tease, love.” A hand finds its way into your hair and tugs as your tongue dances along the tip. You smile to yourself, laying your tongue flat and sliding him down your throat in one go until your nose barely touches his pelvis. The hand not tangled in your hair smacks down on the couch cushion beside him as he groans at the sudden overwhelming pleasure of your throat wrapped perfectly around him.

“Fuck. Just like that.” His hand in your hair brings you up for a moment before easing your mouth back down around his cock. You let out a small moan around him, letting your gag reflex kick in just enough to drag another groan out from his chest as you begin moving up and down, your hands gripping his thighs.

“Wait, wait, love, wait.” He pulls you off him, watching you take in a deep breath, a mixture of spit and precum trailing down your chin. “Fuck, get up here.” He murmurs, leaning in to kiss you.

Yoongi pulls you back up to the couch, keeping your lips on his as you pull off your leggings before crawling back onto his lap. Big hands massage your thighs as you pull away long enough to remove your baggy sweater and bra, tossing them next to his pants. You surge forward to kiss him again but he doesn’t let you, hands sliding down your waist to hold you back a distance to admire your body.

“You’re fucking gorgeous.” He whispers it mostly to himself, a hand trailing lower, his thumb gently stroking just above where you want him over your underwear. You both look down to watch as his thumb finds its destination, rubbing the cloth against your wet folds. You hear Yoongi let out a sigh; neither of you were aware he was holding.

“Tell me I can finally taste you, love.” Your eyes flit up to his half-closed ones.

You shouldn’t be doing this. You shouldn’t be doing any of this. You shouldn’t have let him kiss you, shouldn’t have kissed him back, shouldn’t have gone down on him, and you absolutely shouldn’t let him go down on you. You shouldn’t do this. You should tell him no and make him leave. Finish your painting and text Jungkook when you’re home.

Fuck, you’re going to have to text Jungkook later.

You need to send Yoongi home. Get him away from you.

End this.

End it now before it gets worse.

“Okay.” You nod, though the voices in your head are screaming at you. You ignore them, the feeling that Yoongi’s fingers provide feels too good, and you just want to feel good again after the pain in Kai’s room.

“Yeah?” Yoongi smiles, flipping you over to lay your back against the couch once you give him a small smile and another nod.

He barely gives you enough time to readjust before he’s burying his face between your legs, his tongue slowly dancing along the wet patch of your underwear, pausing only to listen to your moans.

“I could listen to your moans all day and never get tired of it.” You huff out a small laugh in response, a small gasp at the end when Yoongi lifts your hips enough to pull your underwear off.

Small wet kisses trail from your right knee to your inner thigh and are repeated on your left. Your breath catches with every kiss and it’s driving you crazy. You watch him as he kisses your lower stomach and anywhere he can that isn’t your glistening and throbbing center. He’s waiting. Waiting for you to say he can have you. Your hand reaches for his head, tugging his hair.

“Stop…” you breathe out. He sits up immediately, hovering over you.

“Stop? What happened? What’s wrong? What did I do? I’m sorry, I—”

“No.” You kiss him to shut up, “stop teasing. I can’t take it.”

The laugh he lets out is going to haunt you later. But for now, it’s music to your ears and you even join in as his head drops to your neck, kissing it once before moving back down.

He doesn’t even wait, licking straight up your folds before latching around your clit.

“Fuck!” You buck your hips up and his arms wrap around your hips, keeping you down as he devours you like a man starved.

You knew he was insanely good with his fingers, you didn’t expect this though. To be turned into a moaning mess just from his mouth. The intense pleasure builds up so fast and so harshly that you can barely hear him, only feel him moaning against your pussy. It’s when he inserts two fingers while sucking harshly on your clit that you lose it.

“Yoongi, I’m gonna…” your hands return to his hair, but instead of pulling him away from you, you press him closer, encouraging him to continue. “I”m close, Yoongi. Don’t fucking stop.”

He groans against you and it doesn’t take long before you’re coming undone for him, unable to control your hips or the tight grip you have on his hair. You come hard, tears spilling from your eyes as you try to remember how to breathe. You haven’t come this hard in months, writing it off immediately as not having anyone go down on you since Jihyo.

Yoongi doesn’t pull away until you’ve come down from your orgasm, almost bringing out a second one just because he can. But your whimpers from the overstimulation force him away, crawling back over you to kiss you again.

“You okay to keep going?” He mumbles his question against your lips and skin as he trails down your neck, settling behind your ear. He feels you nod against him and with one more kiss, he crawls off of you in search of his wallet in his jacket to get a condom.

You shouldn’t do this. You should tell him you’ve changed your mind. He should leave. You’ve already broken so many rules, rules you made with him that you just tossed out the window in a moment of weakness. When he comes back, you should push him away, ban his lips from yours, make him get dressed and leave.

Finish your painting.

Text Jungkook.

You’re doing it again, you’re hurting him. You told him it was just sex.

You lied.

Fuck, why did you lie again?

You shouldn’t let Yoongi kiss you anymore.

You shouldn’t.

But his lips are addicting and you crave them.

So when he comes back, the condom already rolled over his erection, you pull him down to you by his shirt, capturing his lips with yours. His hands wander your body as he settles between your legs, letting one hand grab your hip while the other guides his cock to your entrance, rubbing the head against your clit and swallowing your moans. When he pulls away from your lips for what feels like the last time, he looks up at you, soft eyes widening briefly as if he just realized what was happening.

“Hey…”

“Hi…” you whisper back, one of your hands leaving the tight grasp on his shirt to toy with the little pendant dangling from his neck.

“We’re breaking every rule, y/n…” The hand that was positioning himself moves up to push a piece of hair out of your face. You offer a sad smile in return.

“I know.” your voice is barely audible, trying to keep it together.

“We should stop.” But he doesn’t move.

“We should,” and neither do you, “but…”

“But?” an eyebrow raises and you can’t look at him anymore, focusing only on the pendant.

“I don’t want to.” The words barely squeak out of you. When he doesn’t respond, you have to force yourself to look back at him. “To stop, I mean. I don’t…I don’t want to stop.” Eyes cast back down to the pendant. “If you don’t want to, I mean.”

You feel his eyes on you as the silence continues.

He suggested stopping first, so he probably wanted to stop. You shouldn’t have said anything and just stopped like he clearly wanted to. Now he probably thinks he has to go through with it just to make you happy. Why the hell did you say you didn’t want to stop?

You need to stop, and you shouldn’t continue.

But wanting to stop and needing to stop are two very different things.

“I want to if you want to, y/n. This is all your decision, love.”

You take a deep breath, biting your lower lip as you look down admiring the man on top of you. You’re completely naked, but he still has his shirt on, covering up the scars you’ve only gotten glimpses of. You snake a hand down to crawl underneath the shirt, gently running the pads of your fingers across the part of a scar you have seen. Yoongi’s breath catches in his throat as he rests his forehead against yours, eyes shut. You feel his abs tensing, like they’re scared of you, before relaxing against your touch. You watch him for a moment, unable to look anywhere else.

Suddenly want and need are the same thing.

Suddenly this is more than sex.

This is more than feelings.

This is comfort. Safety. A need and a want to feel again; to not be afraid all of the time. And to forget.

Yoongi is that for you whether you want to admit it or not. Jungkook is your safety blanket, he’s what keeps you warm and tucked away when you’re scared. But a safety blanket can be suffocating sometimes. You need room to breathe, to forget and do stupid shit you’re afraid of, knowing there’s someone by your side feeling the same way.

Yoongi.

“Okay.” You whisper, placing a small kiss on his nose. His eyes fly open to meet yours. A grin threatening to escape.

“Okay? You’re okay with this?” He returns your nose kiss when you say yes, peppering your face with more after.

Once you’re giggling from the kiss attack, he lines himself back up with you, slowly pushing in. You wrap your arms around him as he buries his face in your neck, leaving little love bites that you’ll regret later but love for now.

This stretch is different that the other times you’ve had sex with Yoongi. Usually, it’s fast and rough, barely enough time to feel the stretch or adapt to it. This time, Yoongi takes it slow, pushing in inch by inch until he is fully buried inside of you. He stills for a moment, kissing along your neck.

“So tight, so perfect.” He mumbles against your throat, smiling when he feels your breath catch in your throat after he slowly pulls out and rolls his hips back into you as deep as possible. Your nails dig into his shoulders at the sensation and your back arches up towards him.

He takes it agonizingly slowly. You love it for the new sensation of pleasure it gives, but you hate it because it’s allowing you to think.

“Yoongi. Harder, please.” You moan out, a hand finding its way to his blonde hair and tangling your fingers in it. You feel a puff of air against your neck when Yoongi brings himself up to look at you.

“If we’re breaking your rules, love. We’re breaking all of them.”

You whine, bringing his grinning lips back to yours in a searing kiss.

“Please, Yoongi. I need it.” You beg.

You never beg, not with him. Every time you had sex, you would become the sweet submissive that didn’t speak unless told to when he would ruin you in his bed. Which was fine, it was part of the last rule. Nothing near lovemaking or too intimate. And hard, rough, and silent felt like the perfect method to avoid breaking that rule.

“Please.” Your lips trail from his to his chin, “ruin me like usual, please. Please, I just want to feel you.” You kiss along his jaw and down to the column of his neck.

“Please?”

He says nothing, but you feel the growl in his throat against your lips. He takes your hand away from his hair, bringing your other hand with it, pinning them both above your head. He rests his forehead against yours again, taking a deep breath before slamming his hips into yours without warning. You yelp a moan and he lets out a breathy laugh as he does it again.

“Is that what you want?” He does it again. “You want me to destroy this perfect cunt?” Another harsh thrust, rolling his hips so he gets deeper than before. “Want me to make it mine?”

“Yes. Yes, Yoongi, please. More.” You cry out, writhing underneath him, trying to make more friction.

He picks up the pace, and it feels back to what it was. Yoongi relentlessly fucking you, flipping you over at one point to be on your hands and knees as he takes you from behind, spanking you until your ass turns red.

When you alert him to being close to coming, his hand slides under you to rub circles against your clit. He pants, leaning over to place kisses on your shoulder as you come undone, clenching around him and losing the ability to hold yourself up. His orgasm quickly follows yours, spilling into the condom.

It’s silent for a moment, both of you struggling to breathe. After what felt like an hour, but was probably not even two minutes, Yoongi finds the strength to pull out, removing the condom and throwing it away. He rubs the parts of your skin that are red and sore, quietly apologizing when you wince.

“I’m going to find something to clean you up with, okay?” You slowly nod at his whisper, eyes feeling heavy, all the emotions suddenly becoming a pile of exhaustion.

It’s like your brain’s putting on a presentation being your eyelids, replaying the phone call with Jungkook, the panic attack in Kai’s room, the split-second decision to stop Yoongi from leaving, and the words said between you two.

You fucked up.

Again.

You don’t hear him leave the room, and barely notice his return or the feeling of him cleaning you or helping you get your sweater and underwear back on, too mentally and physically exhausted to do or say anything.

You do feel when he lays down on the couch, bringing you against him for the usual after-sex cuddle. His arm snakes around your back, resting on your waist while yours rests on his stomach, your face burying into his neck.

“You’re going to regret this later, aren’t you?” His voice is a low whisper, almost scared of asking. Your fingers find the hemline of his shirt, playing with the fabric and the loose threads.

“I don’t know…” Your reply is weak, cracking on the final word, and you can feel the tears start to form. So you shut your eyes, holding them back and instead listening to his breathing.

He doesn’t respond, just holds you closer and he seems to fall asleep, you joining a moment later.

When you wake up a few hours later, you and Yoongi have barely moved. His hand found a way up to your hair and the other hand was placed on your arm that was draped across his stomach. It felt warm, almost safe, but wrong.

So slowly, you pull yourself away from him, slipping off the couch without waking him up and sneak out to the little kitchen. Your hands shake as you pour out a glass of water, drinking as much as you can in one go. You repeat it two more times before your eyes land on the open door to your brother’s room. The sharp tug on your heart forces you to walk in.

It looks different than it did a few hours ago. Darker, abandoned, but still familiar. You sit in his chair, spinning slowly around to admire the way he decorated the studio.

A giant whiteboard with ideas that you don’t understand listed with random drawings you and Ryujin made one night in the bottom right corner. You did that months before finals, and he never erased them. Behind the whiteboard, was a wall painted completely in blackboard paint. He spent an entire day with Jungkook painting that wall before he realized how much he hated chalk. It quickly became doodle central, where the four of you drew randomly while bored or in a funk.

Right above the couch is one of the first drawings you did on the wall, an ambigram of the first letter of your names. Jungkook half-jokingly suggested the group get it tattooed one day.

This room is the same layout as yours, but rather than having the giant window wall showing the city below, he had wall-to-floor shades that would cover during the daytime so he wouldn’t have any glare on his monstrous computer setup. He always got so dramatic when you or Ryujin would try to use it, but never with Jungkook.

You reach out to turn it on, but freeze as your finger barely brushes over it.

They should be here. Ryujin should be here.

You pull your hand away, bringing your knees to your chest and hugging yourself in his chair as it spins a little from the adjustment.

“I miss you, baby brother. So much.” You softly whisper, leaning your head back and staring at the ceiling plastered with tiny plastic stars that are supposed to glow in the dark, but never do thanks to the heavy shades.

“I think I messed up tonight. But when am I not messing up, right?” A weak chuckle escapes your lips. “Y/n y/l/n, the screw-up of the family. Always finding a way to ruin a good thing in the biggest way possible…” you feel the tears slowly fall down your face and sniffle.

“But I think…I think this time, I really screwed up. And I can’t fix it. And I don’t know what to do.” You feel a small burn on your hand and look down to find yourself scratching the back of your hand again.

“Fuck. I hate this, Kai.” You mumble, soothing the burn with your thumb. “I need your help and it’s killing me that you’re not here.”

You sigh when there’s no response, forcing yourself out of his chair, stepping out of his room, and closing the door.

Yoongi is still fast asleep on your couch, a sharp stabbing feeling piercing your heart at the sight of him. He looks so content and at peace that you’re jealous of his ability to sleep so soundly without the voices yelling.

Your attention turns to the easel in the center of the room with the canvas barely painted. The paint still looks like various shades of black and white. Like a blurry mess of colors that you know are there but can’t see.

You pick it up, moving the easel away and propping the canvas against the pile of finished paintings on the floor. Dimming the lights, you sit down in front of it on the floor, putting your AirPods in and turning your Spotify on shuffle.

You bring up the photo of the tree you took earlier and set it next to the canvas and roll up your sleeves. You grab a brush, dip it in a random paint Yoongi picked out earlier, take a deep breath, and just go for it.

Somehow two hours have passed, and you’re applying the finishing touches, music still blasting in your ears so loud that you jump when you feel a pair of hands on your shoulders.

You turn to see a sleepy Yoongi tilting his head at you, mouth moving. You pause the music, take the AirPods out and place them next to your phone.

“Sorry for scaring you.” His voice is rough from the nap and you can’t help but smile when he kisses your temple.

“It’s okay.” You nod, letting out a small gasp when he sits behind you, lifting and pulling you back to sit on his lap, and scooting forward so you can keep painting. His arms wrap around your waist, letting them rest on your lap while his chin rests on your shoulder.

“Looks good, love.”

“I still can’t see the colors, though.” You mumble as you lean back into his chest to get a better view of the canvas, his arms tightening around you as you do.

“That doesn’t matter. It’s still beautiful.” He holds you close, leaving a few feather kisses on your shoulder, smiling to himself when he sees your skin grow goosebumps.

“What colors did you put on the palette anyway? Just so I have an idea of whatever the hell this is.” His laugh against your skin makes you smile in return. You pull one of his arms away from you, laying it flat and upside down on your lap as you use the brush to paint across his forearm, hoping you’d be able to see the color.

“I can’t tell you, love. You’ll know when you’re ready to see it. But it is a beautiful tree. Why’d you pick it?”

“It’s the giant oak tree in the middle of campus. We scheduled our classes together so there was always a time when we could sit together and just hang out, work on assignments, enjoy the weather, anything really. Always at the tree. It’s in Kai’s logo, it’s Jungkook’s favorite thing to photograph. Ryujin literally designed a dress based on this dumb tree.” You laugh, continuing to paint on his arm. You can’t see what color you’re using, but guessing from how dark it is, it’s something that contrasts perfectly with his skin.

“And what about you?”

“What about me?”

“Well,” his free arm unwraps from your waist, grabbing a different brush and painting music notes across the top of your thigh near your knee. “They all have the tree attached to something with their art. A hidden meaning of inspiration…what’s yours?”

You watch him paint on your leg what looks to be a specific pattern of music notes.

“I…I don’t know,” you admit with a whisper, putting your paintbrush down and resting your hands in your lap. “It’s just where I knew I could always find any of them. There or here, my safety zones.”

“So then this piece, even though you can’t see the colors right now, and the feeling of safety with it…that’s your hidden meaning and inspiration.”

You sigh, sinking a little further against his chest. You stare at the canvas, trying to see anything in the tree that, to you, is just a black and white tree on a canvas surrounded by colorful paintings all around it. A hideous darkness amongst bright and beautiful colors.

How you feel every day without your brother by your side.

“I guess.” You finally say, eyes flicking to his hand, putting the brush down and returning around your waist. You both stay silent for a moment, admiring your canvas. Your eyelids start to feel heavy, and you can feel them closing when you hear Yoongi speak.

“Fall was Karin’s favorite time of year.”

You freeze, eyes flying open at the mention of his sister.

“Yeah?” your voice cracks, and if Yoongi notices it, he ignores it.

“Yeah. She was obsessed with the colors of the leaves, the fall drinks like that disgusting pumpkin spice latte, the fall outfits, the weather, all of it. It would've been fall if she could have one season all year round.”

You don’t respond. The feeling of happiness over him talking about his sister was too overwhelming. He rarely discussed her in group therapy, never spoke her name until tonight, and always changed the conversation topic .

“We would go to the pumpkin patch every year and pick out the quote ‘undesirable’ pumpkins, and she’d make pumpkin pie with my mom.” He laughs, but it’s sad. You want to turn around and comfort him, but you stay frozen in his arms, your thumb pressing into the space between your other thumb and index finger.

“She wanted to learn how to bake so badly. To be like our mother and know all the family recipes. She wanted to be the one to make all the Christmas cookies every year, to be in charge of pies during the holidays, make everyone’s birthday cakes…”

His voice trails off, burying his face into your shoulder in an attempt to hide from the silence. Your mind is racing with different things to say. You have no idea how to comfort him. No idea how to tell him he’ll be okay. How can you? When you don’t even believe it when someone says it to you? So you say the only thing you can think of.

“I make a mean pumpkin pie.”

You can feel his torso shake as he laughs against your shoulder. He lifts his head, resting his cheek on your shoulder so he can look at you.

“Yeah? You bake?”

“Sometimes. Or I used to, before Kai… I would stress bake.”

“Stress baking? That’s new.” You shake your head slightly.

“Not really. I don’t know. There’s just something satisfying about baking when stressed. It’s like you’re baking your problems into the baked goods, and then you let other people eat it, thus taking away the stress.”

“Hmm…I like that. Telling everyone your secrets without saying a word.” His voice is quiet as his hands slide away from your waist, landing on your hands.

He pulls them apart, fingers intertwining with both, and goes back to hugging you, technically making you hug yourself. You slouch further against him, his lips right next to your ear.

“Would you want to go to a pumpkin patch with me?” His voice is hesitant. He knows he’s walking a fine line in asking you to go out with him. But he has to at least try.

You lean to the side a little, turning to look at the man whose arms are wrapped around you and whose lap you’re sitting in. Your eyes meet, and you can’t help but melt under his gaze. It’s warm and hopeful, and you want so badly to give in to the chance that maybe it could work.

You should say no.

End this.

End it now and pretend nothing ever happened.

End this.

“Okay,” your answer is barely audible to either of you, but his soft smile that he’s trying to hide confirms that he did hear you.

“Okay.” He repeats it back, giving a small nod against your shoulder.

You bring your gaze back to the painting, no longer trying to see the colors, just needing an excuse to not look at him anymore. You lose your sense of reasoning around him, and you hate it. But you love having him around. There’s no winning situation when it comes to Yoongi, especially if Jungkook finds out.

“Hey.” Yoongi’s voice pulls you out of your little mental spiral, and you look back at him, blinking away the tears you hadn’t noticed forming. “You okay?”

“Yeah,” you nod quickly, making him let go of one of your hands so you can quickly wipe the tears. “I don’t know. It’s just a lot happening at once. I don’t know what’s what anymore.”

“That’s fair. But it’s okay, love. I’m here as long as you need me.”

You wish he didn’t say that.

You don’t reply, instead just giving another small nod. The hand that lets go of yours reaches up for your cheek, turning you to stay facing him.

“I know this is all happening at once, y/n. We’ve both been through something really shitty, and maybe this is a terrible idea.” Your eyes widen in panic, you know where this is going and immediately start preparing for a way out.

“But I think it goes without saying that I really like–”

You thank every god to ever exist when your phone rings. You lean forward to grab the device, saving you from an awkward conversation, sliding off his lap in the process.

Incoming Call: 🍞Ry-Bread👗

“Oh, fuck,” you stand up, eyes flicking from your phone to Yoongi sitting on the floor, looking confused and almost hurt, and back to your phone.

“I’m sorry. She…she rarely calls now,” you mutter, answering the phone before he can say anything and stepping into the living area.

“Ry? Everything okay?” You ask hesitantly, pacing around the couch.

The last time she called was three weeks ago, sobbing hysterically about how Kai’s death wouldn’t have happened if you didn’t date Jihyo. If you had just stopped sleeping or dating around, your brother wouldn’t be dead. So naturally, you’re terrified of what’s to come from the other line.

“Y/n? Y/n, I need you. I fucked up. Please, y/n. I know you hate me. I’m sorry. I’m so so so sorry. But please, I need you.”

Well, that’s different.

“Ry, where are you?”

“I’m at a club. The one by my work.” She sounds so broken and so drunk that your heart feels heavy just listening to her.

“What happened, Ry? Are you safe? Are you okay?” You put the phone on speaker and return to your room, walking right past Yoongi sitting on the couch, pants already back on. You put the phone on the table as you search for your leggings and bra.

“I’m okay. I just…my ride left me, and I can’t…I can’t get home.” Her mumbles are soft, tired, and hard to understand as you toss your clothes on, quickly moving to find your bag and keys.

“Are there any Ubers or taxis in the area?”

“No. Just come get me, please.”

“Okay, Ry, I’m on the way. Please, stay in the club until I’m there, okay? Promise me?” She softly agrees, and you hang up the phone, finally turning to Yoongi, who’s ready to go.

“Is she okay?” he questions as if he didn’t just listen to your phone call.

“I think so? I don’t know. This is new. I have to go get her.”

“You’re going to walk over there?”

“I have no choice, Yoongi.” Your shoulders shrug as you usher him out the door and close it behind you, leaving the canvas behind. you decide it’s easier to just come back for it before class than going to a club with it in your hand. You make sure all the lights are off before locking up the front door as you both exit.

“You do have a choice, y/n. The bus should still be running.”

“I’m not getting on the bus.”

“I’m sure there’s a rideshare in this area.”

“I’m not letting a stranger drive.” You state as you both get in the elevator.

“We can go back to the library, I’ll get my car, and I can take you over there and take you two home.”

“I’ve never experienced you driving. You’re as much of a stranger in that department as any taxi driver.” You bite back, quickly exiting when the elevator reaches the bottom floor.

“Not if you let me try.”

“I don’t want you to try. I don’t need help right now, Yoongi. I just need to get to Ryujin. I’ll be fine. I’ll see you on Saturday.” You walk faster out the front door, turning down the sidewalk in the direction of Ryujin’s work. It’s not that far from the studio, but it’s starting to get chilly out, and your sweater is thin.

“Y/n, it’s one in the morning. You’re not walking by yourself! I’ll come with you.” Yoongi practically shouts as he tries to catch up to you.

“I’ll be fine.” You snap, turning to him when he finally does make it to you. That same look of confusion and hurt from earlier looks like the same look you often see on another man’s face, and you have to stop yourself and take a breath.

“I need to help her alone, Yoongi. It’s the opposite direction of the school so it’s better if you just go home and I’ll go find Ry and take her home. I’ll be fine.”

“Y/n, you’re insane if you think I’m going to let you go alone.”

“Then I guess I’m insane!” You shout, not giving a damn about the time or the fact that you’re outside.

“Thank you, Yoongi, for helping me finish my painting. Thank you for forcing me to go into Kai’s room, and thank you for helping me through my panic attack. But, fuck, I have to go, so just drop it and go home. I’ll text you when I get there if you want.”

Yoongi sighs, not wanting to bother with arguing with you. He knows he won’t win.

“Fine. But if anything feels off, let me know, and I’ll be there immediately.”

“Fine.”

“Fine.” He snaps with an extra hint of an attitude. You ignore it as you both turn to walk in the opposite direction of one another.

You’re going to have to apologize later. You’re always apologizing. It’s exhausting.

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look-at-the-soul · 8 months

Note

You asked babe to bring you something from your favorite coffeeshop. Did they get your order right?

I love you a latte ☕️

The strong smell of butter woke him up early, he knew you had been up at least one hour ago even before the sunrise.

After stepping out of the bathroom he picked the clothes he wore the previous day from the floor and silently made his way out of the house.

It was probably a ten minutes walk to the park where a food truck was turned into a coffee truck, your favorite spot to take the kids and enjoy a sunny day. The small business was run by a young couple who were trying to make extra money to pay for their wedding.

“Hey Emmett! Morning.”

“Morning!” He smiled and then noticed Cia arranging the pastries. “Hello Cia.”

“Emmett! It’s good to see you around, did you and your wife bring the kids to the park?”

“No, she’s working there’s a big party tonight and she got a request for a huge batch of cookies.”

“Ow say hello from me, the usual?” She asked with a smile.

“Please.”

“Right away, big latte, almond milk, blonde espresso with two pumps of toffee nut and-“

“One pump white mocha.” Emmett finished his wife’s order.

After a lifetime he finally learned to ask for your order correctly. And he knew it wasn’t so hard to remember.

Paying attention was one of the best way to show you care. To him it was the smallest things that count the most.

“Can I ask you for a regular coffee for me, please? The leftover cookies will be enough sweet for the rest of the weekend.”

“Sure thing.” Cia gave him a nod, they were regular costumers.

“And I’ll take one vanilla eclair for her, she loves that.”

“Her cookies sold out yesterday, she’ll probably get a few calls later.”

Emmett smiled pleased with his wife’s business, she made all kind of cookies from the simplest to the most complex, last week she was busy all weekend baking a huge quantity for the schools return.

Waving the couple goodbye Emmett returned home.

“Oh hi!” You smiled beautifully towards your husband.

Placing your cup on the kitchen island, Emmett leaned down to kiss your lips.

“Morning beautiful, coffee?”

You hummed against his lips, hands coming to rest on his broad shoulders and then up, to run your fingers through his long curls.

“Best way to start my day, thank you Emm.”

“Will I be your official helper again?” He asked referring as the last time you made him wash his hands three times to help you pack each cookie in a bag.

“Of course!” Taking a sip, you closed your eyes at the contact. “Hmm, perfect.”

The kiss that followed was interrupted by the loud cries from the baby sitting on the bouncer.

“Little Miss Harper what’s the matter?” Emmett wiped the tears from her eyes.

“What’s this?” You asked taking the paper bag, finding soon the answer. “Eclair! Love you lots.”

Emmett saw you enjoying the pastry and he playfully pointed at the corner of your lips, pointing at some crème, pulling you by the chin he kissed right on it tasting the sweetness on your lips.

“You’re the best husband.” You praised as your eight month old hid her little face on her daddy’s neck. “Look! These are the autumn cookies I’ll be selling this season.

He loved to see you being in your element, doing what you loved the most.

“Is there a sneak peek for me?” He asked tickling his daughter.

“Of course, you’re my favorite client.” You winked, bringing one of the cookies to his mouth.

He praised the flavor and shook the crumbs from his shirt just as your sons stormed into the kitchen.

“Can we have some cookies now?” Raylan stood on his toes, eyeing the cookies. “Oww they’re pink.” He wrinkled his nose.

You smiled as Nathan joined all of you, his bed hair was still evident, but he quickly threw his pacifier and asked for one.

“You can have a pumpkin.” You offered your eldest. “Now you know the rules, no kids allowed in the kitchen while mommy is working.”

Emmett motioned the boys to follow him, he’d put on a movie for them and bring them breakfast while you let the cookies dry completely. But Harper started to get fussy for being taken away from you.

“I think I lost my hearing.” Emmett chuckled handing you your daughter.

“Oh, poor thing.” You leaned forward to kiss Harper and then her daddy, earning a squeal from the baby. “She likes it when I kiss you.”

“I like when you kiss me.” Emmett added tickling her belly. “Go with them, I’ll make breakfast.”

Taking your coffee and the remains of your eclair you turned to look at this man for an instant, before going to the living room with your boys. Feeling so grateful for the man he was, for the way he treated you and all he did to make this place a safe home for his family.

****

A/N: Long story short, yes Emmett got the perfect coffee order ☕️🥰 I just got carried away… this scene just flashed before my eyes as a flashback before the invasion. ❤️‍🩹

#That’s what Cill said #cillian murphy imagine #emmett aqpii imagine #emmett a quiet place #Emmett aqpii fanfic #emmett a quiet place 2 #emmett fanfic #Emmett aqp2 x reader #cillian murphy x you #cillian murphy x y/n

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stormblessed95 · 1 year

Note

I am a hyper rational, analytical person and because I'm super analytical I've also always had an innate ability to read people...I know everyone says that but I genuinely can. It's actually a running joke within my friend circle.

That said I want to just explain my journey into BTS and into this side of the fandom...So

I became a BTS fan right when Serendipity dropped. I was first obsessed with Jimin's beauty, voice, dancing, and then I fell in love with the group. I binged watched everything within a few weeks time and I distinctly remember the moment I went "hmm" regarding JM's and JKs interactions. I was watching AHL and there was something about JK's interactions in particular with JM that just tickled my spidery senses. It was his eyes...I can't describe it...it was just in his eyes whenever he looked t JM that made me go "hmm." From the Hanbok scene to the car scenes (when they cleaned airplanes). He also always followed so closely behind him. However, he was incredibly young during AHL, and I didn't know much about them still so I didn't really think too much about it.

However, the more I watched that "hmm" became stronger. There were two of JM & JK's video logs that increased my suspicion and again it came down to JK's eyes. There was one where JM was adjusting his hat and swiped his hand through his hair and JK just froze and then averted his eyes. It was super quick and subtle and I've literally never heard anyone in the fandom bring it up, but it caught my eye as my second "hmmm" moment. That said the more in the fandom I got the more I learned or was led to believe that, that was just JK. He was attentive to all members that way. However, no matter how hard I tried to see what everyone else was saying I didn't see it. Yes, Jk is a starer but I'm a starer and the way I stare at someone I like versus someone I'm supporting is completely different. But I still passively accepted the narrative.

The sort of straw that broke the camels back for me, at least regarding JK being at the very least physically attracted to JM was DNA comeback stage and Countdown. During Comeback stage "No Silver Spoon" performance JM lifts up his shirt to reveal his abs and JK whips his head around to see it...now as an analytical person I wanted to see if this was part of the routine and while it wasn't necessarily standard there were a few previous occasions in which JK did the "same" thing...the only difference this time was that JK almost missed his mark and kind of got lost in staring. That was a pretty big "HMM" for me but not as big as the countdown video where each member was asked what their favorite album song was. During this entire live, JK was zoned out...looked bored or tired. He stood far away from the camera. However, when JM was asked the question JK was fully attentive, even tried to move closer, and when JM sang a part of Serendipity "Geunyang geunyang" JK look like he melted...and he rubbed the back of his neck (nervously) and was so lost in staring at JM that it appeared that Suga had to bring him back to reality. To many that would have been very minor but it literally cemented my initial thoughts that JK was genuinely attracted to JM.

After that I watched every Vlive, interview, Bon Voyage, Run BTS, Bangtan BOMB etc. and

BV S1: "I want to share a bed with JM" comments from JK...in one of the episodes (behind the scenes) the members are standing on an escalator and JK spots a poster of what appears to be couple back hugging each other and JK blurts out something along the lines of "I wish I could be that way with my friend." The members (JM wasn't there) all start teasing him saying I'm your friend you can do that with me and JK shrugs them off and walks away quickly embarrassed....now that doesn't mean he was talking about JM it just made me go...hmmm

BV S2: footsies, bashful looks at each other...it was this season that actually cemented my belief that the attraction was mutual.

JKs Graduation car video when he started singing to JM that song about you were there when I first took off my uniform and JM got flustered and changed the subject.

The degree to which younger JK teased JM but then said " I only do it because I like you too much" and JM's facial expression fell (doesn't in itself prove anything but together it shows a bigger picture), he also was very specific about why he would date someone like JM--mentioning his beautiful eyes

The way JK would always find a way to bring JM's name into the convo: There was a RUN episode they went bungee jumping and the camera man asked JK what was the most exciting part of the day and JK said "trying to make JM say stop" or something like that. He had just done a thrilling activity that he loved but he chose that!?!?

The list goes on and on...

I was fairly convinced they were romantically involved within less then a month of finding out about BTS. This was without me ever watching a single fan made video. All original content. I didn't know what shipping was at the time either.

I went from 80% certain they were more than friends to like 99.9999% certain when I woke up to GCF Tokyo....I couldn't have been more certain after that. It was that video that made me lookup and see if anyone else was certain that they were a couple and I found this fandom and also learned about haters and the mass amount of people that get upset if you even think they are together. I genuinely didn't think it would be contested with how overtly romantic GCF Tokyo was but to my surprise it was more than rejected.

The level of denial actually made me very upset...because I didn't see how one could come to any other conclusion. People saying it was fan service...I researched what that meant and was even more shocked that fans could think GCFT was fan service.

I even looked into other "plausible" ships and I didn't get the same INTENSE sense that I got almost day one from Jikook. Like I saw chemistry in other ships and I wouldn't call their interactions fan service but I didn't feel romance or actual attraction. The same way I view JM in VM is how I view 99% of of other ships...super close friends tht have buttery eyes for each other but like buttery friendship eyes LOL.

I keep harping on the eyes because every emotion can be seen and read in someone's eyes...and JK has the most expressive face I've ever seen. That boy cannot hide a single emotion. His looks of admiration, anxiety, impress, love, attraction...you cn see it all. JM while still not too difficult to read...he's nowhere near as facially expressive and vulnerable as JK.

I don't just look at jikooks actions I look at everything and how they interact with each other is so different then how they interact with other members. They could do the same thing with another member and it feels and looks different then when tehy do it with each other. Their romantic chemistry is palpable.

Well sorry for the loooong behind rant. I am a lurker and no one really knows that I exist in this space...these are just thoughts I've held onto for a while and just wanted to release them. Also, if I have errors...apologies I wrote this all from memory...my memory of 2017.

Thank you for sharing your story! I really enjoyed it! Everyone make sure you are streaming Vibe too!!

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imagineanime2022 · 1 year

Text

Cheeks

Atsumu Miya X Reader

Word Count: 710

Requested: @phoenix666stuff

Request: Hello!!! !Is it ok if i request Atsumu Miya x reader

The reader is the Manager and the s/o of Atsumu, they have fluffy cheeks

And Atsumu just playfully bites his s/o's cheeks from time to time ???

You were always early to practise, as the manager you would spend the time before practice started making sure that the gym was in good condition, arranging practice matches, interviews and beating back fangirls with a stick sometimes.

Today was the first day back after a season break so there was a lot of work to do, practise matches needed to be set up, training schedules needed to be set up around the interviews and other events for the team. When the boys actually walked in you were sitting on the bleachers with paper scattered around you as you tried to figure out a training schedule with the information that you had. You didn’t even notice them and honestly your boyfriend was not having it, he jogged over crouching behind you “(Y/N)?” He asked. “Hmm?” You hummed only seeming to be half listening to him as you started colour coding things. “Hey ya listen’?” He grabbed your chin directing your face, you stopped what you were doing and finally looked at him properly but you were still trying to pull away from him, he leaned in and gently nipped at your cheeks and caused you to freeze. “What was that?” You asked. “There ya are.” He laughed as he leaned forward and pressed a quick kiss to your cheeks ignoring your previous questions. “You left before me this morning.” “Yeah, I had to get here before everyone else and you needed your rest before the first training session.” You explained as you smiled and patted his cheek “go get changed the coach will be here any minute.” “Are you watching practice today?” He asked. “Yeah, I haven’t got any meetings today.” You smiled “Go.” “Alright.” He answered, taking off his jacket and draping it over your shoulders, knowing that at some point the doors of the gym would be opened because they were all too hot.

Over the next couple of weeks he didn’t bite your cheeks again, you were cooking in the kitchen the next time that he did it, you had your phone between your shoulder and your ear as you talked to Osamu about meeting up at some point, you knew that Atsumu hadn’t seen him in a while and you hadn’t either, you knew that it would be nice for them to see each other even if they wouldn’t admit it. “Who are ya talkin’ to?” Atsumu asked as he walked into the kitchen. “Oh are you done playing that game with the boys?” You asked. “If that idiot’s gonna start talkin’ I’m hangin’ up the phone.” Osamu said. “Who are ya talkin’ to?” He asked again. “Your brother.” You answered “what was you saying before?” “I was sayin’ the only time I have off will be next week.” He answered and you nodded to yourself as you wrote down the week you needed to check when you went in tomorrow morning. Atsumu wrapped his arm around you as you turned the burner off he leaned around and bit your cheek before speaking. “She’s done talkin’ to ya.” Atsumu called, Osamu didn’t even answer him, instead he hung up the phone sending you a text to give him a date when you had one. “What was that?” You asked. “I told him that you were done talking to him.” He answered and you rolled your eyes. “Not that… The biting thing, you did that the other day too, you’ve never done that before.” You frowned as you wiped your cheek and he smiled as he leaned closer. “I love your cheeks.” He mumbled playfully biting the other cheek as you pushed him away. “You never mentioned that before.” You frowned and he looked at you and shrugged. “Didn’t think I had to.” He smirked as he reached forward and pinched your cheeks “so what did you cook?” You rolled your eyes before stepping to the side to let him see what you were cooking and slapping his hands away as he tried to eat straight out of the pot, you glared at him “get a bowl will you?” “Alright alright.” He mumbled walking past you and leaning down and biting your cheek one last time before jumping away from your attempts to bat him away.

Request Here!!

#haikyuu oneshot #haikyuu imagine #haikyuu #haikyuu x reader #atsumu miya oneshot #atsumu miya #atsumu miya imagine #imagine #oneshot #one shot #reader insert #x reader

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queers-gambit · 2 years

Text

Darkening Hour

prompt: the turmoils of court can wear on nerves.

pairing: Daemon Targaryen x female!reader

fandom masterlist: House of the Dragon

word count: 6.4k+ words

warnings: language, cursing, small angst. i don't think this one is too bad...

previous: part two: High Noon

next: part four: Total Eclipse of the Heart

The pounding at your chamber door made both you and Daemon jump slightly, only a few in the entire castle with active permission to disturb either of you; making curiosity stir in the air. Your mind was foggy with sleep, and your confusion almost tangible as the door swung open and Mary scurried inside.

"Oh, my Lady!" She breathed with a tut, glaring lightly at the Prince laid behind you; his arms tight around your waist. She turned to rip the curtains over the windows open, flooding the room with new light, and scolding you, "You are late!"

"For what?" You mumbled, a hand raising to shield your eyes from the harsh light as Daemon simply pushed his face into your neck.

"The courting season starts today," she rushed, opening your trunk to reveal dress options. "You're needed in the throne room."

"For what?" You repeated.

"You're a veteran now," she sighed. "And you're sponsoring the young Lord Jamie, are you not?"

You sighed, "Mary, court doesn't start for hours. Now, please - "

"You both slept well past lunch!" She tutted. "What time did you even get to bed?"

You chuckled from bed, "I remember seeing the sunrise."

She sighed, slapping her hands to her thighs. "I will be back in twenty minutes - twenty! Make yourself decent, and then we can go to the throne room. Jamie will be here soon and you'll want to greet him."

You sighed, "All right, Mary. Twenty minutes."

"Thank you," she sighed, moving for the door again. "And good morning to you, too, Prince Daemon."

"Yeah, hi, Mary," he grumbled, the maid slipping out the door, and shutting the door to leave us alone. "She's attentive, yeah?"

"We're taking her with us wherever we go," you sighed lightly, turning over against his chest. "Hi, love."

"Morning, my dove," he whispered, kissing your forehead. "How'd you sleep?"

You chuckled, "Barely did, as you know."

"Hmm, too true," he mused. "Are you ready for today?"

You hummed, "Maybe..."

"What if I promised to only speak to you," he smirked. "Fend off other suitors for us both, hey?"

"Whatever makes you happiest," you whispered. "I will be aiding Jamie in his journey."

He nodded, "And I am only counting down the weeks till I can marry you."

"Soon," you grinned against the column of his neck. "What're we at now? Hmm? 8 more weeks?"

Daemon snorted lightly, "Hmm. Too long. But I will wait..."

"Good," you whispered, nuzzling into his warmth. "I do not wish to rise, this is where I want to spend my life."

"In a tower of the Red Keep?"

Your eyes rolled lightly, "With you, my Prince."

"Good," he smirked down at you, caressing your cheek, "because this is where I will live me life - right at your side."

You breathed him in, "So we are in agreement?"

"Usually are," he teased, leaning in to press his lips to yours. "Are you hungry, my pet?"

You sighed lightly, "The welcome feast will start soon. I'm all right for now, thank you."

"Nonsense," he whispered, kissing you again. "Stay with me, my darling, I'll get us something to eat."

You chuckled as he climbed over you, mouth latched onto yours the whole time - letting you hold his cheeks to keep his lips on yours while he climbed. "All right," you whispered when his feet hit the ground. "Feed me, my Dragon."

"I'll escort you after," he chuckled, easing up to shoulder a simple tunic and head out the door. You sighed lightly and stretched in bed, feeling your heart lighten in pride; hardly able to contain your excitement to marry your Targaryen Prince.

Not 10 minutes later, Daemon was returning with a tray; chuckling as he shut the door and set the assortments of food and drink to the table. "What did you do?" You wondered, still laid bare in bed.

"Mary has entrusted me to aid you in getting dressed," he mused, "and said that she will return to do your hair. Though, I had an idea. Here, love," he handed over a bowl of fruits.

"Thank you," you whispered, accepting the bowl and cocking your head while setting a berry to your mouth. Between chews, you wondered, "What's your idea?"

"Let me braid your hair," he asked, easily tugging his shirt off again and with plates set to the end of the bed, joined you again in his spot. "Hmm?" He wondered when you didn't answer.

"You want to braid my hair?" You asked softly.

"Well, if you'd be okay with it," he smirked.

"Might I strike a different bargain?" You smirked, leaning up to press a kiss to his lips.

"Anything you want," he nodded.

"Your brother and I took tea the other day," you mentioned, watching him nod.

"Yes, I remember."

"And he told me how you've made mention of marrying me," you smirked, "and that you wanted a wedding. Is there truth to your brother's gossip, my sweet Prince?"

He chuckled and nodded slowly, "Perhaps."

"Then he made mention that he'd be honored to host another Royal Wedding," you sighed gently. "What's that about?"

Daemon shrugged, "I proposed only a five-day celebration because he wanted seven."

You chuckled, "Why does he want - "

"He's happy for us, dove," Daemon smirked.

You nodded, "Then my favor?" He nodded. "If I agree to this tournament... You would braid my hair the first morning of our marriage."

Daemon nodded, fingering another berry to your lips; his own suckling over your collarbone as you accepted the fruit. "I believe that could be agreeable," he whispered, boldly licking a stripe up your neck to make you shudder. "I will cloak you in my House colors, bestow you with the finest of jewels, and I will braid your hair - to show that we are one."

"Good," you nodded, pecking his lips. "Who would think you became the romantic, hmm?"

"I do not think I was ever without it, but perhaps you give me reason to be romantic. Hmm? My sweet?"

You nodded, "So long as I am the only one to see this side of you."

He winced, "The court might see it - for I do not intend to hold back my desire for you."

Chuckling, you agreed, "Fair enough, my love. But go easy today, Jamie is joining court and is detrimentally nervous."

Daemon's eyes rolled lightly, "You do not owe him anything, pet."

"I know," you assured, "but their mother's all died - and though the girls are as old as me, or older, the boys are still younger and have been looking for someone to love them. Now that their Lord father is passed, I feel obligated to make sure they are okay."

Daemon smirked lightly, "What a perfect creature you are."

"Sh," you quipped, reaching for a piece of toast. "It's the least I can do."

"I beg to differ, but for you, my Lady, I will endure your step-children."

"How sweet of you. Come, help me pick a dress for the welcoming celebrations."

Daemon nodded and leaned back on his elbow, watching as you presented a series of colorful dresses. Being months of wearing black to show mourning, you were back to your 'usual' wear of different colors and silks, but your heart knew you'd be back in black soon - for completely different reasons. It will become a celebratory color.

"And this?" You chuckled as you presented a royal green colored dress.

"No, no," he sighed lightly, waving the option off.

"This one, then?"

His eyes narrowed upon this sixth option, nodding slowly, "I like this one. Might you have something... Hmm... Red?"

"Red?" You pondered, fearing the color too bold for you.

But Daemon nodded, "Wear red, darling. You look ravishing in it. And what better way to make your debut back into court."

You sighed and shifted through your dresses, finding the only red gown you owned and holding it up. "Are you sure?"

"Positive, dove," he assured, nodding with his bottom lip rolling between his teeth. Then, when a grin stretched across your lips, he was wondering, "What is it?"

"Might I help you dress?"

Daemon nodded, "Any particular reason, love?"

"Practice?"

He snorted a bit, "All right, then. Go on." He stood from the bed, shifting the thinned plates back to the table as you shifted through his wardrobe. His hands slid around your waist as you presented your selection, smirking. "This? Pet - "

"You look almost too good in this," you pouted lightly. "Maybe you should only wear this for me, then..."

Daemon's teeth pressed to your shoulder as he grinned, "I'll wear it, my love. Thank you."

You hummed and moved behind the changing screen to do what you needed; hearing Daemon doing the same, and peering around to see him tightening his scabbard around his hips. "Love?"

"Yeah, dove?"

"Could you lace me in?"

"Course, c'mere," he smirked, finishing yanking his boots on to watch you near him. "See? You look beautiful," he complimented, taking the cords of your corset to tug it tight, and closed. "Though I'd love to take it off, not tie you into it."

"Soon," you teased, turning to face him when his hands pulled your waist. "I will see you there?"

"Course," he nodded, pecking your forehead.

The rest of the afternoon passed with Mary fixing your hair and make-up, before you were mingling with the other Ladies of the court before welcoming the new Lords and Ladies to the city. You waited patiently in the courtyard, beaming when your two step-sons, Jamie and Kase, dismounting their horses.

"Boys!" You laughed, arms wide when they caught sight of you. They spoke your name with relief and surged into your embrace, letting you happily smooth over their hair and cheeks. "Safe travels, was it? I did not think I'd see you, Kase."

"Jamie convinced me," he shrugged.

"He's of age," Jamie nodded. "Figured it wouldn't hurt to introduce him at the same time..."

"Was a fantastic idea, love," you nodded in assurance. "For now, we should head for the banquet hall. The King's prepared a welcome feast to mark the start of the season."

"Right," Kase sighed, glancing back. "And our stuff...?"

"Is being taken to your rooms, your horses will be fed and stabled," you informed them, taking either of their arms. "Now, would you escort me in? Or would you prefer to be fashionably late?"

"No, no," Jamie cleared his throat, "we should make for the hall."

"Come on," you spoke softly, leading them into the castle. They peered around with opened mouths and you figured there was a bit of time as the other Ladies preened themselves; leaving you to give the boys a small tour.

By the time you finished with the basic outline of the castle, you made for the banquet hall. As usual, the members of court - all participating members of this season's match-making - took their seats as the King sat above them all with the Queen, and his heir, the Princess Rheanyra. Sat beside the Queen Alicent Hightower was none other than Prince Daemon Targaryen, and by Gods, did he look delectable in the dim lighting and high-rise seating.

Instead of making eyes at the Prince, you focused on speaking to your step-sons quietly, assuring Kase that you would happily sponsor him this season, as well; and then pointing out who everyone to the lads. You knew they were handsome and surely would be sure-catches this season, but you leaned in and told them that they deserved a chance at love - and to really explore while here.

If they didn't have "that" connection with anyone, they could return the next season - and so on.

Kase looked relieved, and Jamie only nodded; stoically surveying the room as he sipped sine wine from a golden goblet. As the other noble men and women filtered in to find their seats, Jamie turned to you and lowered his voice, "Step-mother?"

"Hmm?"

"Are you an eligible participant this season?"

You nodded slowly, "Yes, technically... But I am not looking for any matches this season, Jamie, I am here for you and your brother."

He nodded, "Then why's the Prince staring at you like you're a piece of meat?"

You heaved a sigh, "Worry not, Jamie. He's only looking over the prospects this season. His wife passed, too."

"Right..."

"Oi," you clipped your tone, "none of that, neither of you will fall to the gossips of court because they are barely right. There is veiled half-truths behind all those whispers, do not allow yourselves to take those petty words for truth."

Kase turned to you, asking, "So, he didn't do it?"

"I don't know what could've made you think as such, but no - "

"The new Lord Royce has a loud mouth," Jamie muttered. "He speaks to any who listens. Do not worry, we do not take gossips for truth, but only wanted to ask for clarity."

You hummed, "Your poise has improved these short months, Lord. It's becoming."

He smirked, "Though I am trying to get used to it, I would appreciate it if you would not call me Lord. Not you..."

Your heart wept gently for the orphans, nodding, "What an honor."

Before anyone could reply, the King's arrival was announced, and all stood from their seats out of respect. While everyone was watching the entrance hall for the King and Queen, your eyes snuck over towards Daemon - just to find him already staring you down.

He smirked and let his eyes rake down your body, his mouth opening in appreciation before clamping over his bottom lip and causing heat to flush through your body. You tried to reprimand him with your eyes, but he was far too amused to notice; and that, made you smile in return before forcing your eyes forward.

After the King gave his welcoming speech, dinner was served, and the mingling began. When the meal was done, the tables were cleared, and the music shifted tempo to encourage couples to take to the dance floor. You subtly kept to the walls with your hands occupied only by wine goblets, keeping an eye on your step-sons as they dipped their toes into the courting scene.

As time passed, you were set to retire, when a hand brushed down your arm to seize your elbow. When you turned, your eyes met lilac orbs, and air was sucked from your lungs. "My Prince," you greeted smoothly, aware of a few eyes lingering.

"My Lady," he greeted. "Are you enjoying yourself tonight? I did not see you dancing."

You nodded with a small shrug, "Two left feet."

"I do doubt that," he smirked. "Might I have the honor?" He asked, offering his hand with a twinkling smirk. And when your hand slid into his to squeeze, you swore you saw his neck and cheeks flush with heat. His hands settled over your waist as he lead you in a slower-paced dance, lips near your ear, "Having fun, love?"

You sighed, "I forgot how exhausting these events are."

"We do not have to attend them all," he assured. "They are mingling events, and Viserys often likes the attention."

You hummed, "And you don't?"

"Not entirely, my dove. How are the lads?"

"All right from what I can tell," you spoke softly, letting him lead you in your dance. "But it is only the first night, I do imagine their opinions will change a bit. Perhaps they will not find what they are looking for this season."

"Perhaps," he agreed softly. "Not all can be as fortunate as us."

"We are fortunate?"

"All things considered, look where we are now," his lips smirked against your ear. "I consider myself fortunate, for I would be a scorned man without you in my arms. I thank the Gods for their timing in this."

You sighed gently, "You cut my husband down and made me an option, Daemon."

"I'd do it all again," he promised. "I've only ever wanted you, pet."

You sighed and naturally fell into a comfortable sway, "I know, love, I know... And you're all I've dreamed of. There wasn't a single day I did not think of you."

He sighed, "The very same goes for me, my sweet girl." His gaze lifted when movement caught his eye, glancing up to see Viserys crossing the dance floor. "Dove," he warned, lifting away from your neck and shoulder. "My King," he greeted his brother, turning from your embrace to simply snake an arm around your waist.

"Your Grace," you greeted, both of you bowing to the King.

"Brother, my Lady," he greeted happily. "You are both a sight for sore eyes. I was wondering, might I?" He asked Daemon, offering his hand to you.

"Course," Daemon nodded, bowing backwards; and with a burning look and knowing smirk directed at you, walked away.

King Viserys offered his hand still, and you wasted no more time in accepting his invitation; the two of you stepping amongst the other couples. "How are you finding the festivities, my Lady?" The King asked gently, leading you in a lively dance.

"Very well, Your Grace, thank you," you smiled. "And might I thank you, again? For allowing me residence as your guest."

"The pleasure is mine," Viserys nodded. "My brother was adamant on your stay here."

"An honor, truly," you assured. "Daemon's flawed, of course, but he's been only kindly to me, Your Grace."

He chuckled, "'Kindly'? Is that what we're calling it?"

Your embarrassment felt tangible, making you stutter lightly, "I-I know it is unseemly, but I assure you - "

"Worry not, my Lady," Viserys chuckled, giving you a hearty shake. "I am thrilled by this, honestly. In my opinion, you should've been wed to my House long ago."

This time, you stuttered from pride, "T-Thank you, Your Grace."

"Daemon's lucky," Viserys nodded slightly, gazing at you fondly. "He's loved you everyday..."

"Truthfully?"

"There are some things that only a sibling can understand, and when he was first wed to the Lady Royce, he was devastated. Truly broken up about the turn of events, he loved you... But now, you are both newly single, and he's adamant on not letting you slip from his fingers again."

"I would not stray far, Your Grace," you assured gently.

He hummed, "I imagine not. Now, tell me, where are your step-children?"

"Of course, I will make introductions," you breathed. "Wait, might I ask you something?"

"Of course," he agreed.

"I do understand that... Though they are not mine, with the passing of their father, my husband's children do not have anyone. I would take charge of their well-being, I think. They... They do not have many other living family."

Viserys beamed, "An honorable task to take on, my Lady."

"Only until they are all married, or of age," you rushed to assure.

"And how old is the youngest?"

"Ten and five."

"Ah," he nodded, "so, they would be married soon?"

"With hope," you answered.

He nodded slowly, "I think it's admirable what you want to do, and by my judgement, I see no issue. Now... Is there a reason you speak this now?"

You gulped, "I love your brother, Your Grace, I do - but I feel this obligation, because the children are innocent. I would... Take charge of them before I am married to Daemon," your voice lowered as Viserys let you take his arm, the two of you walking along the hall as you spoke quietly.

"So that he might not do away with them," Viserys sighed.

"I do not think he would, truly - he seems changed," you rushed. "But I would not want to risk their safety after losing their mother, and now their father."

"Of course," Viserys nodded in understanding. "I will let it be known that until they come of age, or marry, you are their intended parent."

You sighed gently, "Thank you, my King."

"Does that mean you'd stay?"

"In the city?" You checked, watching him nod. "For the time, yes. I think I'd like the two youngest to stay here with me...? So I might attempt to make a match for them?"

Viserys nodded, "Very doable, I will see what I can do, my Lady."

"You do too much, Your Grace - "

"Nonsense," he beamed, "you and I are to be family soon. I would do what I could to aid you, Lady. Now..."

"Right," you cleared your throat, leading the King up to your two step-sons, who were speaking to a pair of twin Ladies. "Jamie? Kase? Might I introduce you both to King Viserys Targaryen - "

"No need for the titles," Viserys assured gently, smiling at your step-sons. "I am deeply moved to meet you both, your father was a good and honorable man."

You didn't show any emotion - but how you LAUGHED at the words.

"And how terrible I felt to hear of his passing," Viserys ended, nodding at the lads with meaning.

"Thank you, Your Grace," Jamie nodded, shaking the King's hand. "That means more to me than you can imagine. Our father was a good man, yes, but had his faults. Or so I am discovering as I take over the estate."

"Jamie," you warned.

"Might you be aware already, my King?" Jamie prompted Viserys, who smirked lightly.

"What's that, my Lord?"

"Our homestead provides over 50% of the Crown's armor and weapons now," he nodded. "Yet it was logged that we also provided much of the vegetation - but our books tell a different story."

Viserys lifted his chin, "I'm sorry?"

"With reason, my brother and I believe our father was stealing from the country, Your Grace," Jamie nodded with conviction, ignoring your blown-wide-eyes. "And allow me to assure you, his Lady wife had no idea, nor any doing in this matter. It was evident by the sloppiness of the accounts that she had no hand in the matter."

Your chest burst with seeds of pride over his words.

"We'd like to extend an offer to rectify this wrongdoing," Jamie finished, letting both his hands clasp in front of himself.

"What might that be?" Viserys asked.

However, your ears tuned the men out as your eyes had caught sight of a flash of aquamarine; looking over the King's shoulder to spy Daemon leading a different Lady in a sweeping dance. The Lady's dress fanned around her with flare, and her face had written desire etched into it. While you knew you understood your step-sons talking to Viserys, and the King responding with enthusiasm, yet you couldn't focus on that - because you were focused on that!

Daemon wore a deep smirk; so deep that his dimples were evident, and the Lady looked fully enraptured, a moony, starry-look to her full, doe-eyes; and you swore you saw red.

Jealousy was never a good look, but you were swelling with anger that you didn't know where to put it - nor what to do - that you turned to the men, and smiled at them, "I'm terribly sorry, my Lord - my King," you nodded, patting Viserys' arm, "but I am feeling faint and think I should retire for the evening. I will see you all tomorrow, yes? For the start of the hunt, yes?"

"Oh, yes," Viserys beamed, looking to the two young Lords, "surely, you're joining us, yes? The Lords and men go on a hunt to commence the start of the season - and legend has it, who ever slaughters our prey will be successful in court."

You smiled, "I'm sure the lads will consider this, my King. For now, I must be off."

"Would you like me to walk you back?" Kase asked.

"No, love, you stay - mingle, and have fun," you waved gently. "I'll see you tomorrow."

"Goodnight, step-mother," he whispered, kissing your cheek. Jamie followed after, nodding as if to ask if you were truly okay; to which you replied 'of course' by genuinely smiling at him and letting your hand squeeze over his.

You swiftly dodged around the remaining people to push into the foyer, and with a hand to the stone wall, took a sobering breath. For some reason, the sight of Daemon dancing with another Lady drove you up the wall - and the fact that he was dancing (again) with the newly-of-age Lady Laena Valyeron just sent your heart to your feet.

Wiping a hand down your face, you sighed deeply, and figured Daemon would seek you out eventually - and considering you shared chambers now, it was inevitable and unavoidable.

Yet, your heart couldn't help but feel detrimentally heavy because the truth was, despite the King's support, you and Daemon were not yet courting "officially" and while he spoke of your marriage often, it wasn't something set in stone yet... Meaning there was room for anyone else to slither between you.

The idea hollowed your heart and you swiftly made for your bed chambers. When you burst through the second door, into your room, you saw Mary jump in fear. "Lady!" she gasped, "I did not hear you coming - you gave me a fright!"

"My apologies, Mary," you mumbled, distracting yourself with removing your jewelry at your vanity.

"Is everything all right, Lady?"

And for some reason, the sound of your longest-standing companion and only, true confidant's voice shattered your heart, and your mouth was spewing all of your worries to her. You busied yourself around the room so much that she eventually sat down to just watch as you tore jewels from your neck, ears, wrists, and fingers, setting them all delicately into their velvet boxes, before hastily removing your evening gown as you ranted.

Mary just watched as your eyes had narrowed, then blown wide to fight off tears, eventually ending on your most pressing worry, "Court is officially in season and there are plenty of beautiful women abound. What if he... What if he doesn't choose me?"

Mary frown, "Are you sure you're thinking straight, Lady?"

"My mind's never felt more clear than before now, Mary," you sighed, tugging your singlet on and slouching into your vanity's chair. Mary softly started to untangle your hair.

"He loves you, Lady."

"Odd way to show it," you frowned.

"No," she smiled at you through the vanity mirror. "He is playing the field right now - you were adamant you wanted your coupling to appear as natural and scandal-free as possible. Perhaps, he is giving a show, I mean... We are talking of Prince Daemon Targaryen, after all. Gods know if anyone loves a good deal, it's that lad."

You sighed, "Perhaps... And yet, he can have anyone he wants."

"And he still wants you," she tried to assure. "I think you worry too much, and jealousy - "

"It is not jealousy, Mary," you whispered sadly, "but sheer worry that he will see clearer now. I want to wait for this courting season to appear natural, yes, but what if that was the wrong idea? What if this allows him the freedom to find a Lady he truly wants?"

"Has the Prince ever alluded to wanting anyone other than you, Lady?"

"No, Mary, he's not, but now that court's in session - I might have to endure changes I did not ever want to confront."

Mary sighed and gently plaited your hair in two thick, scalped braids. She patted your shoulders, "Try to get some rest, Lady."

"Thank you," you whispered with a sad sigh. "I'll see you in the morning, yes?"

"I'll be here."

After your maid let herself out, you cleaned your chambers of out-of-place items moved around during your preparations earlier that day. When done, you selected a book from the shelf Daemon liked to keep updated, and snuggled into your shared bed - feeling more alone than ever before.

You were unsure of the time that had passed; opened window letting you know that the festivities were lasting well into the night and you wondered if Daemon was partaking this evening. As your fingers deftly turned pages, you let your emotions swell to the point of tears; letting golden-banded fingers wipe your cheeks.

Your tears must've dried due to the wine you sipped, mind slowly loosening of the worry you felt hours before. Your mind wondered into the world of the novel resting in your lap, fire crackling in conversation at the end of the bed, and muscles slowly relaxing into the feather-stuffed mattress beneath you. And when your ears heard the portrait door's mechanisms whirl to life, your throat involuntarily tightened and your emotions came crashing back.

When the bedchamber door's open, you did not tear your eyes from the inked parchment, and only took a slow pull of your goblet.

"There you are," Daemon breathed, the smile on his lips evident. "I was looking for you, darling."

"And here you've found me."

"Hmm," he considered, door shutting firmly, "yes, and here I've found you, but it seems as if something's wrong, my love. What's happened?"

Your jaw clenched, "Nothing Daemon - "

"Does not seem as if it's nothing," he pointed out with a frown, discarding his boots. "Come, dove, just talk to me."

"Daemon, perhaps I am at a loss for words."

"Why is that?"

"I feel irrational," you sighed, eyes staring at the same passage.

"Dove," Daemon spoke softly, nearing the bed to take a seat beside you. "You know you can say anything to me."

"Yes, but it is silly," you huffed.

His hands reached out to confiscate both book and goblet, setting them aside before readjusting so you faced one another. His hands replaced your previous items, giving a loving squeeze. "My dove," he spoke softly, "is this about how I noted your absence after I shared a dance with the Lady Laena?"

You fought off the urge to roll your eyes, "Are you mocking me?"

"Not a bit."

"It's just... I am unaccustomed to this. Before, my husband bedded whores more than he serviced the crown. I never craved him, never desired him, and I never cared if he did not pay me any attention. But with you, my Prince?" Your voice turned soft and somber, eyes diverting to where your hands were conjoined. "Yet with you, I cannot control the way my heart absolutely constricts and weeps when I even see you with other ladies, yes. Call it jealousy, call it childish, I do not care - but I do care about us. And how seeing you with any other Lady makes me feel replaceable - "

"What?" He demanded, hands tightening yours; drawing your eyes to his. "You are not replaceable, my love, no where close to it. You understand me? You are not replaceable in my life - for all the love the Gods give us, I have much more to give to you. You're more than enough for me, and you must understand that."

"I do - "

"Then, please, pet, do not let the shows we put on for the public ever make you doubt my love for you."

You sighed, feeling foolish tears well in your eyes. "Does it make a difference that you were dancing with the Lady Laena? A daughter who can offer you more than I, including white-haired babes?"

Daemon looked vividly confused, "You think that is what I care about?"

"I know you better than most, Daemon, please, do not taunt me," you snipped.

The man before you scoffed, "Perhaps you do not know me at all."

"I'm sorry?"

"Perhaps you were right," he nodded, releasing your hands to stand, "and that too much time has passed. We are different now than when we were children."

Confusion twisted your stomach, "What're you saying? Daemon!" You gasped when he pulled his boots back on.

"I am taking my leave for the night, my Lady," he didn't look at you, gathering a cloak. "Perhaps I was too hasty in my decision for us to cohabitate."

"Daemon!"

"Goodnight," he threw over his shoulder, slipping out the door. You stood in shell-shock for a moment, unsure what to do as your heart felt like it cracked and you were left gaping for air like a fish.

Your confusion lasted into the following day, where Daemon avoided you as if you carried the plague. There was a mock tournament starting as a sporting event to showcase the men's skills, and while Daemon was easily the strongest competitor, he did not seek your favor as he has nearly every other time.

He asked nor accepted any favor, being the one silver lining - but still!

You were dreadfully bored of avoiding other Lords and mentoring your step-sons, praying Daemon would provide something of a relief; but his eyes never found yours during meals and you felt invisible to his eye. Yet, the Lady Laena was not, and you were forced to watch the young Valyeron Lady eat it up as if he meant to shower her with his attention. You tried to keep in mind that it was all 'for show', yet, with his distance from you, it was hard to believe.

You took your meal quietly, and when Kase asked if you were feeling all right, you knew your face must've held your emotions. "Yes, love," you assured gently. "Sorry, must've zoned out for a moment."

He nodded, "That's for sure."

"Kase," you warned gently, reaching for your goblet of wine.

"Well, you only missed your father arriving with your little sister - " Kase stopped himself when you choked lightly on your sip of wine, leaning forward to block your view as you tried to uselessly dab at the spilt wine down your dress.

Your only luck was that it was burgundy in color already.

"What?" You demanded, looking up the banquet table instantly. Your heart froze in your chest, your eyes widened, and your hands shook when you caught sight of the man who sired you - the same man who sold you off at age 14 to marriage and (literally) never looked back.

"Step-mother?" Kase wondered gently, unaware of the panic swelling in your chest.

Your eyes searched for an exit route, but you were trapped as the King was rising for a toast - welcoming your Lord father - and commending the 'beautiful matches' he's already bore witness to blooming. In the meantime, both Kase and Jamie were watching you with worry as sweat broke out on your brow and upper lip.

When your hands turned white from the bruising grip you held on the arms of your chair, either boy on your sides placed a comforting hand over your own to try and pry them free. It was like all you could hear was a high-pitched whine, eyes swelling with tears as your father, a 'respected' Lord of the courts, looked all too smug to parade your newly-turned-15 sister.

She was easily a beauty, and he knew her appearance would warrant much attention; feeling far too smug about his position now. You were forced to remain through the rest of the meal, yet not a single thing was eaten from your plate out of sheer anxiety of your father's booming laughter. Kase muttered to you softly, leaning back in his chair to lower his voice and keep your conversation private; doing an effective job of distracting you, as Jamie silently glowered.

The young Lord had become protective of you and though he didn't know why, your father's arrival had set you on edge, and he wasn't okay with that. When King Viserys dismissed everyone for the evening, you were ready to skip the mingling portion of the evening and just get the hell out of there - but fate had another plan.

"Sister!"

Your throat tightened as your smiled at the young girl. "Jasline," You breathed. "Safe travels?"

"Oh, yes," she nodded, but before she could continue, your father was looming into the circle.

"Daughter," he greeted grimly.

"Father," you nodded. "Um, might I make introductions? Father, sister, these are my step-sons, the Lords Jamie and Kase. Lads, this is my sister, Jasline, and my - "

"Charmed," Jamie perked a brow, eyeing the two up and down. "Might there be a reason for your late arrival? Our step-mother did not warn us that was customary."

Smirking at the innuendo, you feigning, "No, Jamie, typically not for those who respect the King's time and resources."

"Hmm, thought so," he mused, turning back to your father just as Viserys, Alicent, and Daemon were nearing the group. You swallowed nervously and thread your hand around Kase's upper arm, who subtly shifted closer to you as a sign that he was at your side.

"Well, isn't this nice!" Viserys beamed, unaware of the growing tensions.

"Yes, yes, like a family reunion," Daemon smirked. "Lord," he nodded to your father.

"Prince Daemon," your father stiffly greeted. "Might I introduce my daughter, Jasline?"

Your skin grew cold to the touch as Daemon's hand reached for your sister's to press a kiss to the back of her hand. Your throat bobbed, unable to tear your eyes away, and missing the way your father smirked. Your ears suddenly caught your father saying, "Yes, yes, well, with the Prince's newly-single status, I was hoping to make a match with the crown - since it failed the first time."

"What?" You asked, throat drying.

Your father smirked, "Tis a handsome match, isn't it? Your sister, the Prince of the City - what a couple they'd make."

"Yes, well," Viserys looked nervous, "both of your daughters are fetching, my Lord - "

"Yet, I only sponsor Jasline this season," he smirked, gesturing to the young thing. "So, I am only interested in one match, since my other daughter no longer bares our family name."

You were shocked by the blatant disrespect.

"Good thing our step-mother is here to simply sponsor my brother and I," Kase assured gently. "And it's been a long day, has it not?"

"Indeed," You agreed quietly.

"Might I escort you to your room, step-mother?" He asked, not waiting for an answer before leading you away. You felt suffocated as you bowed to the Royal Family before swiftly turning, not sparing your father or sister a glance, and let Kase sweep you from the hall with Jamie following closely.

"Lads?" You whispered, six feet storming down the halls.

"What do you need?" Jamie checked.

"Your aid," You sniffled.

"With?"

"Moving my belongings..."

"Anything you need," Kase nodded, "we'll do our best to help with."

"Whatever you need," Jamie agreed.

part four: Total Eclipse of the Heart

Midnight Calls masterlist

requesting rules and masterlist

HOTD masterlist

#daemon targaryen #daemon targaryen x reader #daemon targaryen x fem!reader #daemon targaryen imagine #hotd #house of the dragon #daemon hotd #hotd x reader #hotd imagine #hotd smut

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