Tumgik
#(and that's fine! i'm so on board with that. so maybe this is necessary)
wholoveseggs · 3 months
Note
Hii I was wondering if u can make an elijah fluff. Like context hes been married for like 1000+ years and he still gets nervous around reader
Dinner can wait.
Tumblr media
{Masterlist}
Elijah is nervous about you returning home after a trip, so he cooks dinner to calm himself.
~♡♡ Thanks for the request anon ~ I love domestic Elijah, I could write a million stories on this subject ♡♡~
2k words - Warnings: None, just fluff!
Tumblr media
Elijah moved with assured grace around the kitchen, his shirt sleeves rolled up, and his dark hair falling softly across his face as he carefully arranged his ingredients. There was something soothing about cooking, and tonight it was something that he really needed. He glanced up at the clock and sighed, wondering if he had enough time to prepare his special sauce, or if he should just use his normal béarnaise. He decided that he wanted to use the special sauce tonight and reached for a saucepan. As he started to slowly melt his butter, he heard the front door open. A smile lifted the corner of his mouth as he heard the familiar footsteps of his sister enter the kitchen.
"What's for dinner tonight, brother?" Rebekah asked, opening the fridge and reaching in to grab one of his bottles of wine.
"Coq au vin, but unfortunately, Rebekah, it's for two, not three," he said, looking pointedly at the wine bottle she had taken out.
"That's okay," she replied, "I'll just help myself to your wine."
She winked at him and poured herself a generous glass, then pulled out a chair and sat down at the counter to watch him.
"So she's coming back today?" she asked.
"Yes," he said, adding the chopped onions and mushrooms to the pan. "Her plane arrives at seven thirty."
"Do you need me to pick her up?"
"No, thank you," he said. "I've already arranged a driver."
"And have you thought about how you're going to greet her?"
Elijah frowned at her, not liking the look of amusement on her face. "What do you mean? I'll greet her in the same way I've greeted her for the last ten centuries."
Rebekah laughed and sipped her wine. "I think that's the problem, brother," she teased.
"What are you talking about?" he demanded, his knife hitting the chopping board with a little more force than necessary.
"You know exactly what I'm talking about," she said. "Every time your wife returns home after being away for any period of time, you go out of your way to impress her. You cook, you clean, you buy her flowers and gifts, and when you greet her, you are always so polite and gentlemanly, almost as if it's a first date.”
"So?"
"So, Elijah," she said, smiling affectionately at him, "don't you think it's time you stopped trying to impress her and just showed her how much you love her."
Elijah sighed and rubbed his hand across his brow. "I don't think I know any other way," he admitted.
"Then learn another way," she replied, draining her glass and standing up. "I've got a date so I won't be home for dinner, but I expect to see you both tomorrow."
"Fine," he said. "Thank you for your... help."
She laughed and kissed him on the cheek, then grabbed her bag and left.
He watched her go and then looked down at the half-chopped ingredients in front of him. He had always enjoyed cooking for his wife, but this time was different. This time his hands were shaking as he lifted the knife, and his stomach was fluttering. 
Why was he nervous? It was his beautiful wife. His sweet and gentle y/n. The love of his long life. 
They had been married for one thousand years, but his feelings towards her had never changed. She was still the girl from the village who had captured his heart when they were children. The girl he had courted and then married, and who had stood by his side when he had become a vampire and all the challenges that it had brought. He sighed and started preparing the rest of his ingredients. Maybe Rebekah was right, and it was time for him to try a new approach.
Tumblr media
When you stepped out of the airport and took your first breath of fresh air, you felt as if a heavy weight had been lifted from your shoulders. You were so close to seeing your husband, and it made your heart flutter. You looked around and smiled when you saw a tall man with dark hair and eyes waiting patiently for you, holding a sign with your name on it.
"Hello," you said, "I'm y/n."
"Good evening, ma'am," he said politely. "My name is Joshua, and I will be driving you home tonight."
"Thank you, Joshua," you replied. "Can we get going? I've been away for too long."
"Certainly," he said, picking up your suitcase and walking to the car. He loaded it into the trunk and then held open the door for you.
"Where is Elijah?" you asked, getting in and settling yourself into the leather seat.
"He had a prior engagement tonight," Joshua replied, closing the door and walking around the car to get in the driver's side. "He asked me to let you know he was sorry he couldn't meet you and that he will see you when you get home."
"Oh," you said, trying to mask your disappointment. You knew your husband well, and you were certain he was lying about a prior engagement. It had happened before, and you suspected that he had arranged a welcome home surprise for you. You would have preferred he just picked you up, no surprises necessary; you simply needed his presence.
When you arrived home, there was a light burning in the kitchen, and as the car pulled up, and you opened the door, you could smell the wonderful aromas of your favorite food. Your husband was definitely here. You got out and walked towards the house, smiling at Joshua and thanking him as he carried your suitcase inside and left it at the foot of the stairs.
"Thank you, Joshua," you said, as he turned to leave.
"You're welcome, ma'am," he said, "and have a good night."
"I intend to," you replied, your lips curving into a smile as you turned and walked towards the kitchen.
As you approached the doorway, you could see Elijah's silhouette in the light, his broad shoulders and strong arms moving quickly as he finished off the meal. You paused and leaned against the doorframe, watching him.
You remembered the day you met him, and how shy and reserved he was, how nervous and uncomfortable he was around you. He was always so sweet and shy, unaware of just how beautiful he was. You remembered how his eyes would light up whenever he saw you around the village, sneaking glances at you whenever he thought you weren't looking. You remembered how happy he was when you had agreed to go for a walk with him. How he would stumble over his words and blush as he told you about his dreams and ambitions. And you remembered the day he kissed you. It was the first time either of you had ever kissed anyone, and he was so unsure of himself, his hands shaking as he held your face and his lips barely touching yours. But his lips were so soft, and the feeling of his warm skin on yours was exhilarating. You remember the day you married him and how proud he was to call you his wife. The way his eyes filled with tears as he kissed you, the way he smiled and held you so tight. His vows still clear in your mind even after a thousand years.
"My dearest wife, I will always be true to you, through everything and no matter what happens. My love will be yours until the end of time. I will always cherish and protect you. You are my everything."
Little did either of you know how long you would keep those vows; immortality had not yet come upon either of you. It was both a blessing and a curse, but with Elijah by your side, you knew you could handle whatever came your way.
You watched him now, still the same beautiful, sweet, and caring man you had fallen in love with. He was the man who had stolen your heart, and he was the one who would forever hold it. He was moving around the kitchen frantically, nervously glancing at the clock every few minutes. He was clearly making sure everything was perfect for your return. You wondered how he didn't hear you come in, but you supposed he was so lost in thought that he couldn't sense anything else. You smiled to yourself, loving him even more.
You stepped forward and wrapped your arms around his waist, pulling him close. He froze, and you could feel his heart pounding against your cheek.
"Hello, my darling," you said softly, kissing his shoulder blade.
He let out a long sigh and relaxed in your arms, his hands covering yours. "Hello," he whispered.
"Mmm, something smells delicious," you murmured.
"It's coq au vin," he replied.
"My favorite," you said. "I'm impressed, you must have put a lot of effort into tonight's dinner."
"I wanted it to be perfect," he said quietly.
"Why?"
He turned around and placed his hands on your cheeks, stroking his thumbs over your skin, his brown eyes were warm and full of emotion. To you he still looked like a the nervous teenager who gathered all his courage just to talk to you.
"Because," he said softly, leaning down to brush his lips against yours, "I missed you so much."
"I missed you too," you replied, wrapping your arms around his neck and pulling him down to kiss you again.
His lips were soft and warm, his kiss slow and tender. You felt his hands slide into your hair and tug gently, his tongue slipping between your parted lips.
"Elijah," you murmured.
"Hmmm," he mumbled, kissing his way down your throat.
"Something is burning," you said.
He immediately pulled back, his eyes wide as he looked over his shoulder. The sauce was smoking, and he quickly reached for the pan and removed it from the heat, turning the stove off.
You watched as he ran his fingers through his hair, his jaw clenching in frustration.
"I'm sorry, it's ruined," he said. "I just..."
"It's okay," you said, taking his hand and leading him out of the kitchen.
"But what about dinner?" he asked.
"Dinner can wait," you said, "or we can order take-out. All I really want right now is my husband."
You smiled and he grinned back at you, his earlier nervousness forgotten. He pulled you into his arms and kissed you, lifting you up and carrying you to the bedroom.
"I love you, my beautiful wife," he whispered, laying you on the bed and climbing on top of you.
"I love you, sweet husband," you replied.
He kissed you again and then proceeded to show you just how much he had missed you.
Tumblr media
402 notes · View notes
cafeacademia · 1 year
Text
𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐬
𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭 𝐌𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐱 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 | 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐮 𝐚𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐬
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: After the success of the blind accessible chess board you bought for Matt a few months ago, you've since moved in with him and noticed that he could really benefit from a braille label maker. And maybe, Matt has a little too much fun with it.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭: Light fluff, some sexual banter but honestly nothing that bad. Matt has a moment of chaos with his new braille label maker.
𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: Approx 710
𝐌𝐲 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 | 𝐓𝐚𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: Hello!! This fic is connected to Chess! Feel free to read that first, but it's not a big deal if you don't. It's been quite a while since I've posted anything. In any case, I hope I've picked Matt back up well, sorry if he feels a bit off, I'm also currently in bed with a flu so please excuse any silly mistakes! I appreciate the support so much, if you'd like to reblog/comment, it is always appreciated but not at all necessary, thank you for reading my fics! Please let me know if you'd like to be removed from my old taglist! I may refresh this, idk yet. Anyway, enjoy!
Tumblr media
Matt should be used to this by now. You, unlike anyone he’d known thus far, had a tendency to find as many blind accessible solutions for him as possible. He insisted he could do fine by himself, of which you did not doubt for one second and you respected wholeheartedly. The aim wasn’t to remove his freedom to do it alone, or to make it feel like he couldn’t do things without your help, but it was more to make life easier. The truth was, Matt seemed to enjoy letting you guide him, even if he could do it himself. And after the pure joy and excitement he had displayed from you finding him a blind accessible chessboard a few months prior, you had been on a search to make life as easy as possible for Matt in the comfort of his own home.
It hadn’t taken long after you became friends, before you were even dating to notice that for Matt, things having a specific place to sit was very important for him to be able to tell where they were and what was what. But the problem was, that even with his best efforts, it was too easy for things to get a little mixed up, especially in the kitchen and especially after you moved in with him. It wasn’t just his things anymore, they were accompanied by your things too and that made it harder for Matt to tell quickly what was what.
Which is why, as you came home one afternoon with Matt and several bags of food shopping, you had to suppress the squeal of excitement at the sight of a brown package inside of the mailbox.
“What did you order, sweetheart?” Matt asked, setting down the bags of food on the kitchen floor. “A little surprise.” You replied, prying it open with great difficulty. “For me?” “For you.” You confirmed, watching as his cocky little smirk appeared on his lips. “Ooh for me.” “It’s not lingerie Matthew.” You quipped, snorting as your boyfriend gasped and brought his hand to his chest in false disappointment. “Then what is it?” He asked, sidling up to you. “It’s a– ah hold on,” you grappled with the packaging before finally wrangling it free and plopped the device into his hands. “Ta da! A braille label maker, so we don’t get our stuff mixed up ever again.” You grinned up at him, waiting for his reaction.
Matt held it in his hands for a moment, feeling the different edges and textures, a smile growing on his lips as he turned to face you. He didn’t ask how it worked, nor did you feel you had to explain, because after a few moments of turning it over in his hands and exploring the shape of the dial, the feel of the braille letters and the pointer on the label maker, Matt knew exactly how to use it.
His smile, soft and sweet, turned into a devilish grin as he turned the dial and squeezed the trigger to indent the label tape until he successfully pulled free the label, peeled off the sticky back and stuck it to your boob. Matt had labelled you “girlfriend” and giggled far too much about it before getting genuinely quite excited to label his cereal and coffee and face wash and just about everything he could think of that did or did not need a label to be identified.
As his joyful chaos ensued, you sat back watching him with his new label maker, going from pure chaos and labelling everything down to the dog, to the two of you carefully labelling all of your groceries before putting them all away in the cupboards and the fridge. And when all of the bags were empty and everything was sufficiently labelled, Matt pulled you close.
“You’re way too sweet to me.” He spoke softly, pressing gentle kisses to your forehead. “Way too good to be mine.” Matt kissed you, lips soft against yours, his touch warm and gentle and sweet until– something cold and sticky was pressed against your neck and you couldn’t help but snort out a laugh. Feeling over the little braille label, you giggled before being captured in a kiss that mirrored the word exactly. Mine.
Tumblr media
@megantje123 @hallecarey1 @reyhanahasanli @louderfortheback @spikedhe4rt @myguiltypleasures21 @emiemiemiii @scaramood @lovingrobertfloyd @m0nster-fvcker @rexit-mo
433 notes · View notes
Text
List of Bookbinding Items
MASTERPOST │ ASKS │ COMMENTS │ UPDATES │ GLOSSARY (TBA!)
Tumblr media
Disclaimer: I am so, so average at this hobby, maybe even below that denomination, too, but I've been asked a couple times about it privately/via Discord so I figured I could help some people out by providing them a link to get them started.
Before you begin learning how to bind a book, it's a good idea to collect all the resources you will need in order to fulfil the process from beginning to end. Below, I'm going to try and structure a tiered list of equipment you're going to need, from essential to optional. I'll also add explanations of purpose where necessary. Because y'all are international, I'm not going to link to sites - but any store that caters to bookbinding should have these items available to order! Just make sure you're searching specifically.
Tumblr media
Essential resources:
Don't skimp out on these - seriously. Not worth it. Where I can, I'll provide self-made alternatives, but these things should definitely go on your 'must get before I begin' list.
Bone folder (after you fold your signatures, crisp up the fold by pressing the edge over the crease. It'll flatten the fold and make it easier to press).
Book press (you will need this at multiple stages of the process, essentially to flatten everything up. I went for a traditional one, but you CAN use two boards with clamps, anything that you can essentially clamp the book tight between).
Awl (kinda a needle on a stick - used to poke holes for sewing into each signature. I'd recommend getting a proper one, most aren't too expensive! Some binders saw their holes in, but it's a bit risky for first-timers!)
Punching cradle (a device that has equidistant holes to guide your hole-poking, so that every signature is punched in the same place. PLEASE get this).
Waxed linen thread (make SURE it is waxed, which will prevent the paper ripping when you sew it. I recommend 25/3 weight linen thread, usually in a 'natural' or 'cream' colour).
Paper (make sure it is SHORT GRAIN, will explain later. I recommend 80gsm paper in a 'sand', 'natural' or 'cream' colour, as white paper tends to look IMO not quite right, especially for fiction. I honestly just use printer paper!)
Book board (Davey board is preferred, but you can use grey board, chipboard or cardboard. It needs to be thick enough to resist flexibility - I use 3mm Davey board for the covers and either cardstock/1.8mm Davey board for the spine. This can come pre-sized or in larger sheets).
Book cloth (again, recommend actual cloth designed for binding as you'll experience issues with regular old cloth if it's not prepared for the process. It'll be backed with paper or starched to prevent glue seepage).
Glue (acid-free PVA glue. Specialty 'bookbinding glue' is the easiest, but honestly, as long as it's acid-free PVA, it should be fine).
Glue brush/es (something to get the glue spread quickly, as it dries FAST).
Mull (a loose-weave cloth used to reinforce the spine after sewing/gluing).
Cardstock (for reinforcing the spine after mull + assembling the cover/spine case. Get a few sheets, you'll be surprised where this is needed!)
Tumblr media
Might be a good idea:
Premade endbands (the little cloth bits that stick up on either end of the spine inside the book? Yeah, they make the book look pretty and hide the gluing).
Ribbon (if you intend to add a ribbon bookmark).
Linen tape (for thicker volumes. You sew it against the textblock to add more stability to the bind).
Cork-backed ruler (to cut book board in a straight line - you can make your own like I did with adhesive cork and a metal ruler).
Bookbinding needle/s (specifically curved needles).
Beeswax blocks (for bookbinding, extra wax to wax the thread goes a long way!)
Box cutter/knife (for cutting book board to size).
Hinge gap sizers (available on Etsy, used to space the spine board from the cover boards).
Book cloth corner cutters (also available on Etsy - comes in sizes to match your book board width so you can ensure you're cutting the right amount of fabric off the corners before folding them over).
Bookbinding sewing frame (entirely optional, but it means you can leave your hands free for sewing the text block up).
Tumblr media
For aesthetic purposes only:
Guillotine (for trimming the pages to the same size after gluing, makes the book look professional. One with a large sheet capacity is best. Don't skimp on quality here. You can also just go to a print shop that offers this service!)
Cricut/Silhouette/Vinyl cutting machine (for creating iron-on designs on your book cloth after making the casing).
Cutting machine mat (whoever makes the machine will also make a corresponding mat, this is to hold the vinyl in place so the machine can cut it).
Iron-on vinyl (you want heat transfer vinyl, NOT permanent vinyl; HTV is ironically the more permanent of the two. So many options for colours here, and it is possible to layer different colours!)
Heat press machine (to heat press the vinyl to the book cloth - I personally recommend the Cricut Easy Press Mini because it is much smaller than the standard, giving you more control/ability to target parts of the cover).
Vinyl weeding tools (to pull off the excess vinyl around the design after cutting).
Ribbon clamp and O ring (for adding charms to the end of the ribbon bookmark. Make sure the clamp is the same width as the ribbon).
Tumblr media Tumblr media
I collected all these things before I began, and it made the process a lot smoother. Please note these are all things I recommend, but if you are only experimenting or starting out, please feel free to use resources you have on hand! It took me a few months to compile everything, and it's important you have a space to store all this (it definitely piles up). Please feel free to let me know if there's anything you think I should add!
117 notes · View notes
Could you pretend you love me? Pt.1
Soap x Fem Reader (single mom).
Let me introduce Mr. And Mrs. Blackwood, the newlyweds and new neighbors.
This is just the alibi, a false marriage with normal jobs and a normal and traditional family, Why? Oh, just to take a look at the enemy.
Warning: only grammatical and spelling errors.
Pt 2
Tumblr media Tumblr media
You and Soap argue all the time, for everything and for nothing, both work well together but before every successful mission there's always a previous discussion.
The boys are accustomed already so they just let you argue and complain. «I told you we don't want to attract attention, we will be discreet!» «we need to create a distraction so they can take the hostage without someone noticing!» «No!» «Yes!»
Price acted like a Father trying to stop two teenagers, every time. Both of you are efficient but also a headache.
This time is not different. Price already explained to you the mission, observe, get close to the enemy, put some hidden cameras or microphones, trackers, all the necessary to obtain information and capture them. That was the easy part, the hard part was Price's proposition.
- What? Sorry cap, but I think Ghost or Gaz or even you, would play a better role than Soap.
«Oh no, here we go again» ghost and Gaz muttered while rolling their eyes.
- Excuse me? You don't know what you're talking about y/n. I'm such a perfect husband material.
- You're everything but a husband. Seriously Captain, we have to considerate someone else. Also I have my daughter, what will I do with her?
- Y/n, I understand you're mother now, but I also know the girl is in a private school... A boarding school, am I right? she will be fine and if she needs to visit I'm sure she won't be in danger, that could help us a little.
You simply nodded but then you stared at soap, you observed him head to toe, you're sure he's not the right person for this kind of mission, his hairstyle, his personality, you think he's inadequate.
-Alright... but... He's not the right person for this mission, that's all I'm saying.
Soap is not angry, he's actually making fun of this, he put a hand over his chest and opened his mouth, pretending to be offended by your comment.
- Y/n, I feel offended, I'm a very charming man, clearly I'm the best option. The lieutenant is too serious, he certainly won't be very friendly with our target, Gaz is maybe an option, but there's not much chemistry between you and him as a fake couple and our Captain... He simply has better missions to attend.
«Agree» «Sorry Y/n, Soap's right» «he'll do it fine, trust him»
You just rolled your eyes, you feel ridiculous trying to make them understand your point of view.
A few days later after that discussion, you were looking for someone around the base. Emma, your almost 7 year old daughter, was visit day and you couldn't get a nanny for her so you brought her with you to the base, the little girl is now lost and you're desperate to find her.
- Did you Lost something Sergeant?
Ghost's voice took you by surprise, his giant form always makes you a little bit anxious.
- Ah! Ghost, I mean Lieutenant, I... I'm actually looking for my daughter... I told her to stay in my office but she disappeared.
And just behind him, Emma appeared, holding your lieutenant's hand.
- I think I found her.
You kneeled in front of your girl and hugged her.
- Emma, why did you do that? I told you, you can't walk around here alone.
- But Y/N, I wanted to explore!! Ghost found me, he accompanied me, he's very sweet.
You stood up and took your little girl's hand.
- I'm sorry Lt; thanks for finding her.
You started to walk back to your office while Emma muttered to you «I think Ghost is very handsome...» you sighed «you're just like your mother...».
Indeed, Emma is the mini version of your best friend, you miss her, her loss was the most painful moment of your life, but Emma needed someone, your friend always said you would be her Legal representative if one day the worst happened. Now after a year, you're trying to be a mother for the little girl.
Both were getting ready to leave the base when a Knock on your door interrupted, Emma ran to open, it was Soap.
- Y/n, I just came to give you the files with the location of the house and other important stuff, oh, I think it would be good if we arrive together...like a happy family.
- Thanks Soap, ah... Can we discuss all this later?, I have to take her back to school...
You pointed at Emma who's still on the door observing at Soap with sparkling eyes, you continued talking.
-This is Emma, my daughter. Emma, this is my friend Johnny.
Johnny smiled at the little girl and shook hands with her.
- Heyyy, future daughter, Ghost told me about you, you're certainly a sunshine.
Emma blushed but instantly the curiosity captivated her.
- Future daughter? Are you Y/N's boyfriend? Have you seen Ghost's face? I think he has beautiful eyes.
Your red face was enough to make Soap's laugh, but he was quick to respond.
- I guess your mommy will talk to you about this later, and Yes, I've seen my lieutenant's face, not so bad but I think I'm more... Attractive.
He blinked an eye at Emma and then to you, he said goodbye and disappeared. On your way to Emma's school you explained to her what Soap was talking about, you never saw her so happy, excited to 'help' you in this mission.
While she was at school, you packed all your clothes and some stuff necessary to take to your temporary home. Soap was kind and went to your apartment to help you with the boxes, after all, it was better if both arrived together.
It was a short drive, you also discovered the location is not so far from Emma's school, the house is not so big but also not so small, white and yellow with a beautiful garden, certainly looks perfect for a family. Before leaving the car you decided both needed to put some rules.
- First of all, when Emma is around don't insult or say a bad word
- Copy...
- Second, we will sleep in the same bed... But, if you get close enough I will send you to sleep on the floor, okay?
- Fair enough.
Why is he so calmed? It is annoying how he simply smiles and is not complaining? You're not understanding what he is trying to do.
- And... Why are you agreeing to everything I'm saying?
- You said I'm not husband or dad's material, I will show you you're wrong my sweet wife... Let's start the show, Sweetheart!
He opened the door and got out of the car, you stayed speechless and followed him, he handed you the keys to open while he was bringing the boxes with you and his stuff.
You wanted to help but he refused, you were starting to complain when a man, your new neighbor, and technically the enemy, appeared, smiling pretending to be nice.
- I want to help! You're being a...
- Hello there! welcome to the neighborhood!
Both looked at him, he started to walk to you, Soap put the box on the floor and held your waist softly, you didn't know why but you felt shivers.
- Hey, thanks man! I'm John and this is my wife y/n
- it's really good to have new neighbors, I'm Jeff. I live in the house next to yours, feel free to visit whenever you want.
- Oh man, you live in a palace, it's a wonderful house!
- I Know, I think it is a good place to raise kids.
-Certainly it is, not only the house but the entire neighborhood, that's why my wife wanted to buy this house, no baby?
He kissed your forehead and squeezed your waist softly, you jumped in surprise.
- Oh, yes, sorry, I'm distracted by all this beauty, I can't wait to start to unpack! Jeff, how long have you been living here?
- I moved here 6 years ago, it's wonderful, my son loves this place, do you have children?
- Ah...
- Yes, our little princess, Emma, she's not here but will visit us soon, she's excited to see her new bedroom.
- Oh, where's she?
You started to worry, you never thought about the real danger you were putting on the little girl, but before you could think about a good lie, Soap spoke for both.
- She's visiting my parents, they have a small farm and Emma loves the horses.
- I see, well, I hope I can meet her soon, my son will be happy to have a new friend...
- For sure, Anyway, it has been a pleasure to meet you Jeff, we have too much work to do, we want to end all early, to have some time for us.
Jeff, was looking at both, there was something in his eyes that made you think he wasn't very convinced, You hugged Soap by his waist and put your head over his chest
- Ah yes, it has been a pleasure Jeff, but as my husband said, we have to hurry up if we want to... you know, do some newly married things.
He nodded and started to walk to his house, before you could speak again, Soap carried you and yelled «Home sweet home, my lady» you made a loud fake laugh and tried to make some sweet comments. Once the door was closed you jumped from his arms and looked for your phone and sent an encrypted text to Price. «Phase 1, Success, we'll start to install security around the house and ASAP we'll try to install microphones and trackers on the enemy». Soap was quick, he started to work in all the security system, you were surprised when you saw him installing on Emma's room.
- What are you doing Soap?
He looked at you and continued his work, you noticed Emma's room was the safest around the house. Then, his voice caught your attention.
- If your daughter will be staying here some days, I want to be sure she will be safe, you and her are my responsibility at the moment, it means that keeping us safe is my priority, more than spying on the enemy.
You blushed, his words caused you goosebumps and a strange feeling in your stomach, you weren't sure about why you were feeling all that so you decided to say thanks and leave the room.
- Thanks Jhonny, umm, dinner will be ready soon, wash your hands.
- I'll be there in a minute.
You ran out of the room, your heart beat was racing, after the dinner both were working a little, talking about your daughter and when she will visit you, it was strange for you, but for a moment you forgot this was all fake.
53 notes · View notes
jpitha · 5 months
Text
Scientific Progress Goes Twang
"Why are we doing this again?" Del'rennian's tail flicked in worry.
"Because, if it works, it'll be really preem!" Rachel's voice was muffled under the machinery. Only her feet sticking out belied where she was in the room.
"Rach, that does not inspire the confidence you might think it does. I'm not a human, that doesn't work on me." Del's small hands were on her hips as she spoke with Rachel. Del'rennian grew up on a starbase that was equally populated with humans and K'laxi, so picking up their gestures and mannerisms was natural.
"Don't worry so much, Del. It's not like I'm modifying the main reactors. We'll be fine"
"No Rach, you're modifying one of the main batteries! You're messing with the weapons! I know how important weapons are to humans, you can't build anything without sticking a few exawatt lasers on it 'just in case.' I think your research telescopes have slug throwers on them even!"
Rachel slides out from under the weapons machinery. She's on a little board with wheels on it. Her face is smudged with... something. Del'rennian was pretty sure that human laser batteries didn't have oil, but maybe they did. "Del, this is the secondary battery, not the primary! I'm not an idiot."
Del's ears flicked. "That has not been determined with 100% certainty yet." Rach could hear the smile in her voice. She looked around the room. They were deep inside the battery, and were all alone. The lasers required only minimal maintenance and service after they were used. People would come once in a while to make sure everything was working, adjusting and collimating as necessary, but it's not like it needed a full time crew.
"Del'rennian, Rachel has explained to me what she is attempting, and I have given her provisional permission to install her modifications. Once we determine that nothing bad will happen, she will be allowed to test."
Del's ears rotated around, instinctively focusing on the source of the sound. Growing up on stations and starbases, Del knew that the AIs that humans put in charge of them were listening all the time, but she also knew that they mostly would wait for someone to query them before replying. It was a little unnerving when one decided to just jump in to a conversation. The AI that ran Reasonable Request was known to want to be a part of conversations and had a habit of butting in, but it was still odd. "You're telling me you're in on this nonsense, Request?"
"Yes Del'rennian. I think that Rachel's work could offer significant benefits to me in defense, as well as humanity as a whole. Ever since the convergence, we've had to increase our defences.
Del had to admit, Request had a point. Ever since the usurper Emperors Nick and Eastern did their little stunt to try and defeat Empress Raaden, things in human controlled space were much more... active than in decades previous. The influx of the Gren seemed to worry the K'laxi administrators more than she thought really was warranted, but they probably knew something she didn't.
Del sighed. She wasn't going to get anywhere with these two. A human designed AI was entirely too human to not go along with something that "seemed cool" when a human came up with the idea. "Fine. If you're okay with this Request, let's finish the install."
Two hours later, they were done. Del'rennian had to admit, it was more interesting that she thought it would be. She had never been that deep inside a laser battery, and it was - at the same time - much simpler and much more complicated than she expected. The actual laser part was incredibly simple. It was the power delivery that was complex. Rach's additions were made to assist with that.
As they put their tools away, Rach explained. "We've had wormhole generators for generations now and nobody has really done much with them. When the Others came over with their Flip drives, we were able to... er... borrow one and discover that while they concept was the same, the actual implementation was completely different! Theirs was more efficient, but ours was more accurate. Don't even get me started on the FlashWarp drives, I still have no idea how they work, and we've been warned against tinkering with them."
Without waiting to see what Del was going to say, she continued. "Anyway, it got me thinking. What if we used a wormhole generator to... boost the power delivery of the laser batteries! We could use a microscopic wormhole instead of superconductors and we'd be able to get a massive increase in power delivery in a much smaller package! With the generator that we installed, I should be able to increase the output of the laser by 3 or 4 times while making it smaller!"
Del'rennian's tail flicked. "Will it work?"
Rachel nodded. "Probably."
Request added. "Most likely."
Del crossed her hands over her ample chest. "So, when are we going to test it?"
Rachel looked around. "I don't see why we can't do it now. Request, what do you think?"
"I will query the commander."
They continued putting tools away for another three or four minutes when Request came back "The commander has approved a single firing of the secondary battery for testing purposes on my recommendation. She thinks it's 'a little strange' but I assured her that it was a routine test."
Del's fur bristles "Wait, you didn't ask the commander first?"
Rachel shrugs. "I asked Request. It's their body. I figured this was close to the same thing."
"But, you're messing with the weapons systems! What if the Gren attack?"
"We have the primary battery. Del, it'll be fine. Everything will work great. Request, please power up the battery for the test."
"Yes, Rachel. Powering up Secondary Battery."
While they watched, the laser battery powered on and warmed. Del felt rather than heard the emitter fold out of is storage blister on the side of the station. While she stood there, she heard a rising whine of capacitors charging and her fur began to stick out on it's own.
Wormhole generators are interesting things. They effectively punch a hole in space-time and allow things to pass between the two points instantaneously while the wormhole is open. For the majority of time that humans have used them, they have been used for spacecraft. Del couldn't remember a time when one was used in an atmosphere, or at least in a place that someone could hear them.
She had no idea that they made a noise.
When Reasonable Request fired the laser, the wormhole generator activated, punching a tiny hole in spacetime between the reactor and the laser. There was a noise that Del could only describe as a... twang.
Del'rennian and Rachel came to on the floor. Sirens were loud in her sensitive ears. As she sat up, her head pounded in protest. Rachel, who was closer to the laser, fared worse. Most of the hair on her head had flashed off, and she was unconscious on the floor.
"Request! Rachel is hurt!"
"Yes Del'rennian, I have already alerted the medical team. Quick Alert teams are on their way now, they'll be here in a few seconds. Are you hurt?"
"I don't know... I don't think so. My head hurts pretty badly though. Ugh, what happened."
"It appears that the secondary laser battery... linked away."
Del's eyes focused beyond Rachel. In the smoke and sparks of the room, she could see bare wires sticking out of the walls, mounting brackets sheared so cleanly as to shine like mirrors and a large empty space where the laser battery used to be.
As she marveled at what happened the Quick Alert team came in and rushed over to Rachel. They applied a heal pack to her and the Nanites within got to work. After a few seconds she groaned and tried to roll over. "No no, don't move yet. Let the Nanites do their work" One of the Alert team said as they touched Rachel's shoulder.
Del turned back to the door and saw Commander Hollister standing over her. "Del'rennian, kindly tell me what is going on here? I get a report of a wormhole generation inside my station and now my secondary laser battery is gone. What. Did. You. Do. "
Del stood up and shakily saluted. "I apologize Commander Hollister, Rachel was trying to... improve the performance of the laser batteries by installing a miniature wormhole generator." She intended to explain more, but that was as far as she got before she collapsed.
117 notes · View notes
thebibliosphere · 1 year
Note
Hello! My household is not gluten-free, but there’s someone who’s very important to me who has celiac and is planning to visit us next month. I’m hoping to be able to feed them while they’re here without inadvertently poisoning them. I’ve got some good gluten-free recipes, but I’m worried about potential cross-contamination from cookware since we do usually eat gluten (though we won’t be cooking with gluten while they are here). I’m wondering if you have any resources for what precautions are necessary to safely prepare food for someone with celiac. I’m happy to buy a few things to use exclusively for gluten-free food, but I’m not sure if storing that with the rest of our cookware would be okay or if it should be stored separately? Would we be better off just finding a gluten-free restaurant nearby and ordering delivery while the person is here? I just want to make sure they are safe and feel welcome.
Hello! Thank you for being willing to take such precautions for your friend. I'm sure it means a lot to them to know someone cares this much for them.
You are correct in thinking that gluten contamination can occur from cooking utensils. Gluten can stick to porous surfaces, even when thoroughly scrubbed, and while some people are not sensitive enough for that to affect them, some are and it's always best to err on the side of caution.
Things like plastic or wood cutting boards, plastic mixing bowls, wooden, nylon and even silicone utensils can all be potential risk factors, even when thoroughly scrubbed. Cast iron and non-stick pans and appliances, waffle iron, griddle, plastic components inside a food processor.) can also be a potential source of cross contamination.
I remember when we found out I was being glutened by an old mixing bowl. I yeeted everything out of my kitchen and bought all new utensils and cookware.
Now, I am not suggesting you do that as you do not live with this person full time. But depending on your budget and if you want to have utensils you know are safe for gluten-free individuals in the future, you could put together a little kit that you can store away for later. I'd suggest a cutting board, mixing bowl and getting a cheap set of utensils. You could also invest in a cheap frying pan/pot and maybe a baking sheet tray. That's pretty much what I take with me when I am traveling, so that I know I won't end up having an MCAS reaction when staying in someone else's house. (For those unaware, gluten is a mast cell destabalizer.)
Make sure they are not being washed alongside your normal utensils. If you normally dishwash your other things, I'd suggest handwashing the dedicated gluten-free things with a fresh sponge that hasn't been used on anything else. As for storing them, try to keep them away from places where wheat flour (or other gluten containing products) might be in the air. You've said you'll be eating entirely gluten-free while the person is visiting, but just remember that also means replacing things like butter and jams, as people often overlook those.
Again, this will all depend on how sensitive the individual is. There are some people with celiac who do not react to trace amounts, and there are other folks who can become extremely sick from even the smallest trace amounts.
Beyond Celiac has some more helpful tips and pointers as well.
If all of these recommendations sound too much, I fully understand. It was daunting when I had to do it for me, nevermind a guest. In that case, finding a dedicated gluten-free restaurant would be the way to go--and a worthwhile venture anyway so you can enjoy some down time not having to cook.
Also, talk to the person and see what their needs are. They might be able to eat just fine using shared utensils, or may even be planning to bring their own anyway, like many of us do.
I hope this was helpful, and again, thank you for being considerate. I am sure it will mean a lot to your guest.
579 notes · View notes
xurname · 8 months
Text
Death's In Love With Us
Hwang Yang-jung x reader
Tumblr media
Tumblr media
🔞 MDNI Warnings: physical abuse, domestic violence, mentions of alcohol, mentions of bdsm
Tumblr media
word count: 3166 🖋️ Authors note: I'm not a professional writer, nor a rookie one tbh, I have no idea what I'm doing. English is not my first language. Ignore the banner, it's a result of playing on my phone while daydreaming about our sweet ahjussi. 🖋️
POV: You broke up with your abusive boyfriend a year ago. Despite all attempts to get your life back together, you can't get rid of your ex, who still harasses you any chance he gets. One day, walking home from work, you spot him waiting in front of your apartment so you decide to walk into a sushi restaurant nearby (run by your friend Hwang Yang-jung) before he sees you.
"Good afternoon" - you greet politely, bowing your head slightly in front of the two men working behind the bar, and walk straight to the table. Surprisingly, there were no guests at all. Looking around the empty place you take a seat.
Yang-jung looks up from his cutting board as a smile spreads across his face.
"I didn't expect you here this early." - he’s just finished filleting, washing his hands.
"I know, I stopped by to see you and say hi." - you tried to hide your exhaustion and irritation behind a kind tone and a soft smile. After all, you promised yourself a better life, a normal life.
"Tea?" - he asked lovingly. Both Yang-jung and his sous chef Min-dong knew you well, you've been a regular ever since you've moved to the neighbourhood last year. 
"A beer would be better, but okay … " - you answer playfully.
"Slow down sailor, we still have evening to cover" - Yang-jung was somehow particularly in a good mood.
“Fine! After you guys finish-”, you made drinking gestures with your hands. Yang-jung smirked at your words.
“Actually, I’m skipping tonight” - Min-dong added, preparing the tea for you.
“Wow, ditching us already, it must be a girl, hmm?” - you started teasing.
“Yeah, yeah, I'm going on a blind date, no big deal.”  - he answered and his cheeks blushed, somewhat unusual for such a tall muscular young man.
“So it's just us? That's practically a date too!” - you turned to Yang-jung, winking at him.
He smirked again, shaking his head slightly, already used to your teasing comments. Yang-jung tried his best not to cross any lines when it came to you. You were young enough to be his daughter, and he reminded himself of that fact as many times as necessary since your flirtatious nature made the lines blur quite often.
"Dates don't usually end with one side carrying another home unconscious." - Min-dong spoke fluent sarcasm, where is this bravery coming from all of a sudden?
“A girl gets drunk once! Once!” - you insisted.
“Yeah, except you get drunk every time.” - Min-dong was speaking facts. But you never could drink a lot anyways. Two drinks were enough to lose your balance completely.
You scoffed. “Seriously, oppa, that's just mean...”
The guys laughed, amused by your annoyance.
“Light up, will you? I'd carry you to the end of the world if necessary.” - Yung-jung added casually, serving you a cup of hot tea. You didn't take his words too seriously, he didn't mean it like that after all, but your heart still fluttered to the thought of this charming man handling you in more than just a friendly way.
“Well, that's my cue. Cucumber rolls?” - Min-dong stood up and went behind the bar, feeling awfully uncomfortable by the sudden change of atmosphere.
“Please!” - you asked with a huge grin on your face.
“At least eat some fish. You'll turn into a cucumber roll one of these days if you keep this up.” - Yang-jung wasn't particularly fond of your food choices and he couldn't hide it.
“God, I hope so, maybe you'd take me more seriously then.” - you grinned.
Yung-jung just chuckled quietly at your silly remarks, not taking his eyes off you. It made you shy, the way he looked at you, and you hated the feeling of endless comfort when you were around this man. Or so you kept telling yourself. The truth was, you knew you were too young and didn't even stand a chance with him, no matter how much it tickled your thought.
“So, what's on your heart?” - Yang-jung asked as if seeing right thru you. He never seemed to beat around the bush anyways.
Hesitating, you answered, “I just escaped the king of assholes waiting in front of my apartment.”
Yang-jung raised his eyebrows. “Your ex again? What is it, third time this week?”
“God, sometimes I wish I could fuck up all of his limbs for good.” - you murmured. Memories of the night of your breakup triggered some insane bloodthirst in you, feelings you'd never known of before you got involved with your ex. You didn't feel like drinking the tea anymore, nor eating your rolls, your whole body trembled from the inside as your blood started to boil. Yang-jung knew the expression on your face very well, he silently inspected your reactions as you put all your strength into not letting your rage reach the surface.
“I feel you haven't told me the entire story at all.” - he stood up and walked to the window in the back. He saw a man in his 40s standing in front of the entrance of your building. He didn't look particularly dangerous, nor very muscular, but he wasn't a small guy either. Shaved head, 85 kg, 1.8 m, fairly strong arms and legs, broad shoulders, casual clothes. Something about the look in his eyes didn't feel right to Yang-jung. Finally he asked, "Is he into martial arts?"
"Taekwondo, black belt, first Dan."
Yang-jung smirked, still looking at him. "Knees and hips are his weak spot."
His cold remark went somewhat unnoticed by you.
He turned away from the window and smiled gently, "Care to tell me how you got yourself in this situation?"
Both chefs were now looking directly at you. Min-dong finished your cucumber rolls, served them and walked to the room in the back of the restaurant, leaving the two of you alone.
You sighed deeply. Awful tingles spread across your body almost momentarily, like hundreds of tiny bats swarming all over you, biting even into your palms. Your whole body was screaming on the inside.
Fuck! Here we go... Pity party time! So young and so ruined. All he's gonna see in me from now on are my past mistakes.
No, no, he doesn't need to know the full story, just tell him what you're dealing with.
Lump in your throat grew with each breath you took.
"Okay, take a seat, let's talk."
Tumblr media
Reader x ex boyfriend flashback
Your mind wandered, thinking about the countless times your ex prepared you the most horrible surprises. All those times he'd come home drunk and aggressive, slamming you into the wall as soon as he passed thru the door, squeezing your neck until you almost passed out, cursing at you, threatening, calling you names, using his strength to pin you down for god knows what reason. Every time he laid his hands on your body it hurt, taking caution not to leave bruises on any visible parts of your body. It got unbearable by the end. The more you feared him the more he enjoyed it, the more you cried, the more manic he was. Blaming yourself for ever telling him about your sexual fantasies along with feeling disgusted by yourself was a part of your everyday life until the very end of your relationship. He used it against you first chance he got. What started as a healthy exploration of consensual rough foreplay with a hint of rookie bondage, ended up as an abuser-victim hell of a situation you didn't know how to escape from. Your fight or flight response messed up your brain chemistry as each day passed and you no longer knew if that's even love or if you despised him with your entire being. He always found a way to make you stay, he even begged you on his knees not to leave him, swearing on his mom he never meant you no harm. It was a never ending circle of shit show. Even after you finally left his place for good, he kept finding ways to get in contact with you. Finding out where you live was an easy task for a twisted person like him. "I see everything, I know everything", those were the words he repeated so often while you were dating, as if giving verbal spankings, using any chance he got to feed you a dose of fear and insanity. Everything you did for him was always out of love and kindness, thinking if only you could be the best version of yourself, he'll be good to you. But he never was good to you, his actions never made sense and you never understood the reasons behind those words. He knew about every step you took, nevertheless, few of his paranoias followed him and echoed louder and louder in his mind, as his cycles of insanity were on the periodical rise and fall. He rambled about possibilities of you dumping him quite often, crying over himself, trying to make you feel sorry for him. He talked about his boss's employees constantly checking up on his location. He even tried convincing you how they spy on him during his lunch breaks. His delusions drove him to believe he's some sort of a public officer, or an intelligence agency employee with a task to be alert at all times, when in fact he was nothing more than a secretary working at a private real-estate agency. Soon, after the honey moon phase ended, you realized his whole persona was a big lie, that's also when the first troubles started, but it was all to late for you to leave, you were already in too deep. Your inexperience was exploited for the first time. Welcome to the real world, honey. Well, it took you long before you started getting up on your own feet, and you found a way to navigate thru his cycles of insanity. You took your time and learned all you could, only to find out he's been living multiple lives all along. The only thing he didn't lie about was in fact his black belt in taekwondo and that he was a divorcee. The last time he threatened you with physical force was the night you left him for good.
"I'm not as clueless as you think I am." - you hissed as he held you by the throat. His bloody eyes were filled with rage and his breath smelled like alcohol.
"One wrong move and you'll end up behind the bars. My family knows where I am, and don't think I won't walk straight to the police if you leave so much as a mark on me. I dare you." - your whole body trembled of adrenaline rush but your mind worked fast.
"Well, well, look at you all brave, who would've thought you'd turn into such a snake, finally showing your real face, huh-"
"I couldn't care less even if you snapped my neck this instant." you laughed, slowly losing every touch with sanity. 
"You lose either way. Or did you forget?" - your laughter grew louder as he stared at you in horror, not knowing how to react. He had you by the weakest spot yet the look in your eyes was telling a completely different story. He never saw you acting like this, his blood froze. 
"Your black belt", you spoke thru laughter on the verge of a mental breakdown, "your black belt is treated as a cold weapon in the eyes of the law."
Despite hating yourself as much as you hated him, the thought of this abusive bastard ending up behind the bars for cold blooded murder sent an unusual shot of satisfaction thru your entire body. You knew he never had it in him though. He was a coward on all levels and this round was yours. A solid threat works like a charm on scumbags like him who are usually scared of their own shadow. It was written all across his face that he's finally cornered. Any chance for him to plot a sadistic revenge on the only woman who was ever kind and loving to him was completely lost. You didn't know if he'd slam your head onto the kitchen counter or not, but you could feel his hand trembling. Your laughter echoed thru the kitchen as his grip became weaker and weaker, an expression of misery and regret spread across his face. He feared you. For the first time ever, he stood in front of you, completely falling apart. 
He got on his knees again, like so many times before, begging for forgiveness. Vomit of lies started coming out of him, how much he loves you and how this is just a minor misunderstanding. He'd never hurt you and there's nothing but love he feels for you. You're his everything. You stopped counting his strikes long ago and you knew if you don't walk out of there that same night, you may never see the light of day after this, for real. The change in his tone from all mighty to smaller than an ant sickened you. Of course, there's nothing but hatred left in his heart. Hatred and fear, jealousy and shame. Cowards like him hate it when they lose from someone weaker than them, and they would do anything in their power to win their victims back, just so they can hurt them again.
"Next time you decide to lay a hand on me, better make sure I have a well sharpened knife in mine. That's only fair."
Those were the last words he heard from you on the night of your breakup. Breakup from hell. And you thought the trash is out of your life for good, little did you know your fearless attitude and insane threats only awoke in him an obscure obsession towards you. 
Tumblr media
It didn't take long to finish the story of your rocky past relationship, considering you tried your best to avoid going into too much detail of how your ex abused you, physically and mentally. Yang-jung sat right across from you, staying completely silent. You looked down, not daring to look Yang-jung in the eyes any longer.
"A wife beater, huh? Who would have thought." - Yang-jung broke the uncomfortable silence.
"Brave." - he paused for a moment. "Was that him who kept calling all this time? Is that why you changed your number?" - Yung-jung's voice was extremely calm, a little too calm. You nodded silently.
"He kept calling from different numbers. And somehow he found out where I live soon after that."
"He probably tailed you, if he knows where you work, which I assume he does. It isn't that difficult. Why didn't you tell me any of this sooner?"
You closed your eyes, letting out another deep sigh. “Isn't it obvious?”
He didn't say a word. He looked at your face instead, trying to read your expression, but there was nothing. The facade on the outside hid a wild turmoil inside your head. Soft and gentle nature of your whole figure, along with your kind voice and elegant movements were completely the opposite of darkness you carried within you. It was hard to hold it in, especially now, but you didn't want to hide any parts of yourself in front of Yang-jung any longer.
“I wish I could fuck him up, you know? For all that he's done and for all that he's still doing.” - you said, looking him straight in the eye. “I'm not the only one with a dark past or present, but I hate these parts of me. I hate that I feel this way. I hate the desperation and helplessness. I hate the nightmares still haunting me. I hate that I let a lowly man take advantage of me for so long. And I hate that I have to tell you any of this. I hate that you won't look at me the same way you looked at me yesterday, and I hate that my ex keeps fucking up every part of my life, still, I hate it.”
Yang-jung's eyes were the softest and kindest eyes ever. The way he looked at you made you almost choke on your own words, those hateful words which made you feel like you're spewing poison in front of the one who never deserved to hear them in the first place. You could see tears in the corners of his eyes and the only thought that went thru your mind was I hate myself so. fucking. much.
You wanted to jump out of your own skin, or rewind the time and walk directly up to that bastard and face him all alone, instead of running to Yang-jung and hiding at his work place. That's not something one should do to their friends. It's not fair. He didn't deserve this.
Realising how much pain you've been carrying this entire time, Yang-jung spoke softly, "You should have told me… Out of all people, you should have come to me. I would have already made sure he never gets close to you again."
Was that a hint of anger in his voice? Or was it all just pity? It didn't matter. His words couldn't sober you back to your senses, they didn't even reach you. You were spiralling straight into a pitch black void. 
"It doesn't matter, it really doesn't. It is what it is." - you said in somewhat slow motion manner. "Just... don't look at me like I'm going to break into a thousand pieces, please, I can't take it."
"You've done well by telling me this."
You smiled softly, not feeling anything on the inside.
"Yang-jung, do you think I could turn his knees into a mush with a baseball bat?" - you scoffed. Dark humor was always your kind of thing, but saying something as dark as that now of all times didn't make it look like a joke anymore.
"There are far less demanding and easier techniques. But when the time comes I'll make sure you do whatever you need to do to him."
What?!
You wanted to burst into a hysterical laughter, but you held it in the best you could. A rush of adrenaline and relief washed over your entire body, leaving goosebumps on your skin. It took you a few moments to realise what the hell this man was telling you. But then it hit you like a cargo train. You opened your mouth trying to word out something. Yang-jung inspected the changes on your face, waiting for you to speak up. You couldn't tell if he's only comforting you, or are you seriously a meter away from a criminal who would move mountains for you, if only you asked. Moments passed and he was almost sure he got ahead of himself.
Seeing you all hesitant, he finally continued, "Unless-"
"Are you serious?" - you cut him off. "Are you...?"
You asked for reassurance, nothing else. Words stuck in your throat. Was Yang-jung really telling you what you think you heard? Is he really who you think he is?
"Don't make me regret my words." - he warned you, unsure of what's on your mind. He was dead serious.
"Ahjussi," - you whimpered, reaching for his hand across the table, "please, don't say that. You're the only real person I have. Do I need to spill my heart out even more?"
His face softened. He took your hand in his and kissed it.
"You're safe here."
____
Author's note 2: It took some time, but here it is finally. I know it's probably not what many of you expected, and I left the open (?) ending in hopes for part 2. Also, if I need to add any more warnings or notes on the classification or tags of any kind, please let me know, since I don't have much experience with these things. Thank you for reading 🫶🏻
tagging a few of sweethearts who interacted with my original posts (link 1, link 2) and expressed their enthusiasm for this fic, pushing me to write it (I hope it wasn't too underwhelming for you in the end): @quillinhand @slutforaemond @castleninja @posessedbytheinternet (I can't tag you for some reason :/)
138 notes · View notes
isagrimorie · 1 year
Text
[initial reactions] Critical Role: Bells Hells episode 49
That was such a good episode, I know that the characters were stressed being on board the sky ship, eating up time as the Apogee Solstice creeps ever forward but it was such a great moment for the characters to unwind a bit and talk. I always love their planning stuff despite how many people gripe about it on the chat and reddit, I love their thought process and the way they try to mitigate the damage they do.
I already love Laudna but IMO she was in fine form this episode, finally cracking Ashton open and getting that long awaited talk out of the way. I can see why the dynamic of Keyleth and Percy work so well in C1 and I wish its something they can show more in the animated series. *crossing fingers for season 3 of TLOVM!
It does feel like its a dynamic Taliesin and Marisha want to recreate in a different flavor with Ashton and Laudna, and they're doing so successfully. I love how Ashton and Laudna talk, and call each other's bullshit out but this episode especially, Laudna is showing off the wisdom she learned in 30 hard earned years she's lived.
Orym's also successfully reaching out to people with Dorian and I love how we're getting hints of things in EXU Prime that in their end, things are also very dicey. Opal getting dark???
I am so into that and Fearne's immediate concern is apparent. But also, Marisha knowing the details of the EXU Prime plot is so juicy!
The gang accomplished so much recruiting Ira, finally telling some more people in authority or approximate authority about how dire the situations are. Telling Pike, even though she can't do things, maybe? Possibly? Apparently, things on Tal'dorei are also very dicey, so Whitestone might have its own problems with the Ziggurat.
I'm going to heap more praise towards Laudna because of the interrogative sort of femme fatale honey pot play she did with Ira, getting Ira to talk more about it, tagged teamed with Fearne at the end.
Speaking of, Fearne is very much still ambivalent towards her parents, sure she's nice to them but as she told Nana Morri, her parents feel more like strangers than people related to her.
Also, Thank Goodness, the team's finally equipped but I need Dani to remind the cast that they still have residuum and the bracers of defense!
I feel like there's gonna be some Mad Max shenanigans that's going to happen on the Apogee Solstice, and its going to be heart pounding and epic and so great.
FCG also learned some things about himself, about how he is not alone and Devaxian also stressed how from this point on he is gifted with a chance to own his own future. A future of his own making. (A theme that will be repeated a lot!).
And then there's that moment when Imogen meets with Liliana again and, and, and I am VINDICATED!!! LILIANA IS A TRUE BELIEVER. She might even be Ludinus's real right hand and not Otohan which would be DELICIOUS.
I love that Liliana tried to get Imogen on her side and Imogen genuinely considered it because the vision she painted was tempting, for someone like Imogen who was tormented by her powers that's a siren call.
But of course, Fearne and Orym was around in the dream and they played it as silent observers instead of actively interacting with the dream space like how the others did it. It does feel like Fearne and Orym are still at heart, a unit. In a similar but different way to Laudna and Imogen. I love the talk they had about Imogen, about the possibility of Imogen turning because of her mother. Orym and Fearne will do what's necessary to stop things from happening and it's really fascinating how that will go.
Laura's face was interesting the whole time too.
And then, and then just when the group thinks its hopeless they get a possible help and distraction of the big army with Keyleth coming in, sounding exhausted and heart sick but still willing to help to put Ashari volunteers to help. I hope the group remembers to warn Keyleth about the antimagic that's going to happen.
I feel like Keyleth and the Air Ashari can act as distraction while the Bells Hells, as a strike team can go and take down the Malleus Key. Everyone in the cast looked happy at this development, except for Marisha who looked worried and had her Thinking Face on.
Near the end, Imogen talks to Orym and asked how he can go on after everyone he lost and they have a heartfelt talk. Orym tells Imogen that he believes in her but Imogen is not convinced but doesn't try to read his mind to know if this is true. Instead, at long last, after many episodes.
Imogen goes back to the room she shares with Laudna and finally talks to her. Whatever impetus it was: her fear, uncertainty, or the realization that she shares some similarities with her father and that's the reluctance to talk.
Laudna asks if Imogen is okay, and automatically, Imogen answers she is. Laudna gently tells Imogen she didn't need to lie to Laudna about 'being fine'. And so Imogen opens the conversation with admitting that she's been afraid of really talking to Laudna after she was resurrected, that she had something to tell Laudna.
Laudna asks Imogen what it is she wanted to say but Imogen hesitates and then says something about her fear and god I love how Laudna approached her talk with Imogen. I love that Laudna went about it with understanding because, of course, who more than Laudna hasn't thought what would have happened if life had been different.
Laudna had thirty years to think similar thoughts, to wish a different life than the one she had. She candidly told Ashton she made Patê so she won't lose her mind wandering alone.
But through everything Laudna lived through she is very cognizant too the reason she met Imogen and the other Bells Hells was because of who she is and became. And I think Marisha has her answer to Aabria's question from the 4 Sided Dive a long time ago -- there is a part of her that is a little grateful for Delilah or whatever patron that made her a Hollow One, that she has this powers now and ability to be spooky. Things she enjoys.
It's a little messed up and complicated.
I also love that while Laudna didn't hear Imogen's promise about how Laudna will always have a choice, Laudna unknowingly echoed back Imogen's words. Imogen has a choice. She will always have a choice and having the ability to choose is a power all its own. Its not something gods can take away.
Honestly, I love how Laudna is talking to Imogen from a place of understanding and I think more than anything, this helped Imogen solidify her grasp of why they're fighting. It's not just because its wrong and kill other people. All morally right reasons why they need to stop Ludinus and his group.
It's because every individual deserves a right to choose. And that love also means loving every part of a person, especially the weird parts of them.
Imogen might have lost her nerve to tell Laudna she loved her, loved her, romantic stylez and Laudna might slowly be waking into the part of herself that can access it. But its plain as day they love each other and I'm okay to wait on how long and slow this will cook, but also saying things like:
"I feel so comfortable and bonded with you. We transcend words in our relationship.
"You'll always have me."
"I'll always be there to support you whatever choice you make.
"You're my tether."
"That tether goes beyond this realm and this life."
C'MON. Those words are my ship Kryptonite! If I hadn't already shipped them, this would have definitely tip the scales! And I feel very well fed tonight!
God I love them. I love the Bells Hells.
155 notes · View notes
Text
Tumblr media
Kicho's Main Story Chapter 6 Premium
These translations are not intended as a replacement for the game. Please support cybird by buying their stories. JP SPOILERS under the cut. Expect mistakes.
Tumblr media
Kicho: "...ive…"
Mai: "What?"
Kicho: "I want to live."
(----!)
I didn't know to whom he was directing those words, but I felt an electric current surging through my entire body, making it impossible for me to stay still.
Mai: "Pull yourself together! Right, the pistol!"
Mai: "Maybe if I shoot the door with it, it might open, or the sound will alert someone!"
(I don't know if I can shoot well because I've never used it, but I can't leave him in this condition.)
(I need to do something.)
I was about to take it from his hand with my trembling fingers when一
Boom!
Mai: "!?"
The door swung open, and two heavy-looking boards fell, letting in the blinding light.
Mai: "You're..."
Tumblr media
Motonari: "Ha! Serves you right, Kicho."
Tumblr media
(Good, he seems to have calmed down a bit.)
Patting my chest in relief, I sat on the chair near the bed.
I brushed away the hair sticking to his side and gently wiped his forehead, making his eyelids twitch.
(Oh...)
Kicho: "Mai?"
Mai: "You okay?"
Kicho: "Yeah, sort of."
He slowly opened his eyes and turned his gaze toward me.
Kicho: "This is my room. What happened since then?"
Mai: "Motonari helped us out."
Mai: "Your subordinate, working with me, called for help when he came to the side of the warehouse and noticed something strange."
Kicho: "I see. We were saved."
Mai: "Yes."
(I wonder what would've happened to him if we had stayed trapped in there.)
(No, I don't even want to imagine it.)
Kicho: "It's already dusk? Looks like I've been out for a while."
Mai: "Yeah. I think you've been asleep for a few hours."
Kicho: "You've been here all this time?"
Mai: "Yes, of course. I was worried. Besides, I could call someone right away if something happened to you."
Kicho: "I see. Sorry I bothered you一Guh."
Mai: "Please don't force yourself to get up."
I hurriedly held him back as he tried to sit up.
Tumblr media
Kicho: "............."
Mai: "Are you okay? Don't push yourself too hard. Just sleep."
Kicho: "I'm fine, just dizzy."
Mai: "Dizzy? That's not normal."
Kicho: "Then, I’m not dizzy. Anyway, let me go."
Mai: "Nope, you need to lie down."
I put some force into my upper body and pushed him down onto the bed.
Mai: "Uh-oh..."
Suddenly, my vision shook, and I fell.
Kicho: "Mai."
(This looks like I'm pushing him down!)
Mai: "I'm sorry! I didn't do it on purpose! I was nervous, so I had no energy left."
Kicho: "I know. But you're the one who needs to take it easy."
Mai: "----!"
He put his hand around the back of my head, and he gently brushed my hair.
Kicho: "Thank you for taking care of me."
Kicho: "I feel much better now, so you don't have to worry anymore."
Mai: "O-Okay."
Ticklishly, I pulled myself away and sat back in the chair as he carefully sat up and turned to face me.
Kicho: "By the way, why were you alone?"
Kicho: "That merchant guy never showed his tail, but I knew he was up to something."
Tumblr media
Kicho: "That's why I sent you with my men, so you wouldn't be alone."
Mai: "He approached me earlier, so I decided to meet up with him."
Mai: "Could it have been a trap itself?"
Kicho: "Maybe, but there's no way to confirm that now."
Mai: "I'm sorry. I'll be careful not to make a rash decision next time."
Kicho: "Vigilance is necessary, but you don't need to apologize. You're the victim."
Kicho: "If there's anyone to blame other than that man's malice, it's me. I scared the hell out of you."
Mai: "That's not true. I'm really glad you showed up."
Mai: "Also..."
(What the hell was up with him back then?)
Kicho: "You look like you want to say something."
Mai: "Is it that obvious?"
Kicho: "I knew what state I was in, even if I couldn't remember much."
(So this is not the first time this has happened, and he knows what's causing it.)
(I really want to know, but it's too hard to ask.)
Well, at least I know that it's probably not some trivial circumstance.
Kicho: "What's wrong?"
Mai: "I'm not sure if it's something I should go into."
Mai: "But if you tell me, I can help you next time."
Mai: "I didn't know what to do earlier, so I got confused."
Kicho: "..............."
Kicho: "I'm not asking you to be helpful, but I'm willing to talk to you about it."
Mai: "Are you sure?"
Kicho: "It's better than having an unfamiliar gun in your hands due to confusion."
Mai: "Ugh. I'm sorry. I was desperate back then."
(I'm really glad Motonari helped us.)
(If I accidentally caused an accident with the pistol, neither he nor I would've gotten away unscathed.)
Tumblr media
Kicho: "It's a kind of disorder."
Mai: "Disorder?"
Kicho: "Your world has several terms for it. To borrow a name from there, I'm claustrophobic. Do you know about it?"
Mai: "I'm not really familiar with it, but I've heard of it."
Kicho: "I see. As the name implies, this is something that develops in enclosed spaces."
Kicho: "Several things can trigger this. One good example is being in a small, dark place."
Mai: "So staying inside that warehouse triggers the symptoms."
(I'm not claustrophobic, but I was also scared of being trapped in a place like that.)
(I'm sure it was more frightening to him.)
My heart hurt as I remembered the way he looked earlier.
Mai: "When did you start feeling like this?"
Kicho: "I don't know. I just found myself in this situation."
Kicho: "Though I think it's probably due to my childhood experience."
Kicho: "I can still remember that dark, cramped room."
Mai: "Room?"
Kicho: "I asked you about your life before, so this time, let me tell you mine."
Tumblr media
(I can learn about his past.)
Perhaps because of the tension, the air around us felt heavier as the tightly closed door of his heart was now slowly opening.
Kicho: "I was originally a different person who never existed."
Tumblr media
Previous Part╏Masterlist╏Next Part
81 notes · View notes
pickinglilahs · 3 months
Text
Blackeclipse for the soul
Part 28; Part 29; Part 30; Part 31; Part 32 Remember when I thought this was only going to be two or three parts? I know this chapter is on the short side, but I haven't added a chapter in so long 😭 (Throws and runs away)
The boys were way too keyed up to fall asleep.
They had sent Kreacher to Potter Manor after confirming that he was, in fact, freed. James also sent a note to his parents saying that they had sent Kreacher over, and everyone was okay.
Sirius had excitedly gone to open the chest, intending to start clearing the curses, but Remus had stopped him. Regulus was staring at it with a haunted look in his eyes. Understanding, Sirius stood and went to hug his brother.
They held onto each other for a long time, whispering occasionally.
Remus took his distraction to re-shrink the trunk and hand it off to Kingsley, who put it in his school bag.
Adrenaline still coursing through him, James had taken his nervous energy down to the kitchen for snacks while he was out posting the letter, though Remus had been loath to let him go alone.
While they waited, Kingsley decided they should send a note to Peter with an update. Remus agreed and took the paper Kingsley had written on, folding it into a bird and sending it off to Benji's dorm.
By the time James returned, the four boys had migrated to the doubled-bed. The brothers were leaning on each other against the headboard with Remus and Kingsley facing them.
Setting the food between them, James sat next to Remus, who leaned in to whisper. "I think Orion died."
James blinked at him, then looked over to the brothers. He nodded in agreement. They didn't have a good relationship with their father, but it was nothing like the horror of Walburga's parenting.
It must have been strange, mourning a parent like that.
Not quite sure how to help Regulus, but knowing Sirius, at least, would want to be distracted, James eventually piped up, "Operation: Fuck with Snivillus is coming up; what all do we have left to do?"
Sirius looked at him, eyes slowly coming back into focus. Running a hand through his hair, he sighed. "We have the Polyjuice, and the girls are on board. Peter wants to set rabbits loose, so he and Benji will be doing that the day of. You talked to Poppy, right?"
Remus nodded. He made sure to explain that Sirius would be running around as him and showed her the study to prove it was safe. She hadn't liked it but understood that it was necessary.
Kingsley raised his hand, "Can I ask a question?"
He was looking at Remus, who nodded apprehensively.
"Does this prank have to do with the rumors Snape's been spreading about you being a werewolf?"
James, Sirius, and Regulus all stiffened, but Remus just sighed. "I was wondering how long it would take you to catch on."
"I promise I won't tell anyone! It's really none of my business; I was just wondering." Kingsley held his hands up in surrender, making sure everyone—especially Regulus, who was glaring daggers—knew he meant no harm.
Remus gave a bitter chuckle. "It's fine. Really. Been wondering if I should have just told you and Benji when we first mentioned the prank." He ran a hand over his face. "Guess I was just deluding myself into thinking you wouldn't notice."
Regulus leaned forward, grabbing onto Remus and pulling the older boy into his lap. Remus went without protest; mostly just grateful Regulus was coming out of his head.
"I really won't tell. I just figured you would prefer to know that I know."
Remus nodded. "Yeah, makes things easier this way." Then, after a beat, "You're not... like..."
Kingsley shook his head, giving Remus a strangely sad look. "...My uncle was turned, —when I was really young—and he was one of the gentlest people I've ever met. He moved back to Kenya because of Britain's laws, though."
Remus nodded, then snorted with derision. "Maybe I should move there too. Lots of room to run, I'm sure."
Regulus squeezed him and James reached out to lay a hand on his ankle.
Sirius barked a laugh. "You wouldn't last two hours in the heat, Moons. Besides, you'd never be able to convince Mam to move that far."
Remus sighed, half wistful, half bitter, "I know." Then he yawned, hiding his face in Regulus' shoulder.
Sirius yawned right after, so Kingsley stood, pulling Sirius back to their own bed.
James came up to lay beside Regulus, who snuggled down, shifting Remus on top of himself.
Once James had deposited his glasses on the nightstand and closed the curtains, Remus reached out a hand to brush a curl from his face. "How are you feeling, Sunshine?"
He hummed noncommittally. "Donno. Just... coming down from the adrenaline, I suppose." He closed his eyes and leaned into Remus as the other boy began to stroke his cheek. "How about you, Starshine? How are you holding up?"
Regulus closed his eyes and sighed, his hands tightening around Remus' back. "Ask me again in the morning."
Remus turned his head to kiss the collarbone under his cheek.
James rolled on his side, using one arm as a pillow, he threw the other over Remus' back. "We're here, Love, if you want to talk. Or if you want to skip class tomorrow and just stay here."
"James." Remus' tone was chiding, but the corners of his mouth were threatening to twitch into a smile.
"What? Tell me you wouldn't skip in a heartbeat if it would make him feel better."
Remus sighed and turned his face into Regulus' chest, rubbing his nose along the other's collarbone as he shook his head.
Regulus' chest moved in a silent chuckle. "Thanks, but skipping class isn't going to change anything. Wouldn't do anyone any good."
Remus kissed Regulus' collarbone again before setting his head back down. "He is right, though. Anything you need, Cariad. Don't be afraid to ask, okay?"
"Thanks."
"Always."
@starchasersunseeker @poetrypirate @niad4827 @bradley-95147-blog @shyshadows430
9 notes · View notes
snorlax-and-co · 3 months
Text
I keep coming on here to write a post about how I'm feeling but I can't find the words, I can't figure out the feelings. I've been sat here looking at my feelings wheel that I use in therapy and I still can't put my finger on it. I know it will probably be fine but the prospect of tomorrow is just messing me up in ways I can't seem to put into words. Yes there's the whole it's been 4 whole years since I've seen this part of my family, a pandemic has happened, the children I remember are teenagers now, my sister had several operations and worrying health scenarios, my sister was so blasé with covid responsibility, I had conflict with my sister that lasted a year and a half and she said things I still can't find it in myself to forgive. I wish I didn't have DID right now because I can't figure out which feelings are mine, or who needs more support inside, or who needs to be way away from the front tomorrow. I wish I wasn't autistic so I could better understand what I'm feeling and know what to do about it. I wish I wasn't so socially anxious and awkward so I wouldn't have countless scenarios running through my head. I know it would still be a complicated situation but maybe without those things I'd be able to understand and cope with this a lot easier.
I was going to try writing out the thoughts but I'm way too tired after hosting our parents yesterday (which went well) and I still need to have a shower and get out all the gifts ready to take tomorrow as it's going to be an early start. My sister messaged earlier and it was weirdly bittersweet - she and her kids have been isolating for a few days, they're going to test (apart from my autistic nephew which I understand) and she offered to mask if I wanted them to. She also said she'd keep the dogs on a lead and asked if there was anything else they could do to make it more comfortable for my partner and I. Part of me was honestly touched and is pleased she's really taken on board on covid anxieties with me being high risk, but it also irritated something in me because where were these thoughtful offers when all those measures were actually necessary? If she'd been more like this we probably would have seen them much sooner, maybe as early as a couple of years into the pandemic rather than 4! I've missed so much of my niblings growing up that I'm never going to get back and even though I'm trying so hard to just focus on looking forward, I think seeing them so grown up tomorrow is going to be a huge reminder of how much I've missed.. a lot of it needlessly.
9 notes · View notes
mischiefmanaged71 · 2 years
Text
The Love Hypothesis (3/22) - Stephen Strange x Reader
Tumblr media
Summary: Y/N Y/L/N is a PhD student who wants to prove to her best friend that she has moved on and dating. With no way to prove it, she kisses the first man she sees, which ends up being none other than Dr. Strange, known as one of the most unapproachable and critical professors in the university.
A/N: AU! Stephen Strange is a Professor/Doctor at Columbia University and reader is a Ph.D. student (Reader - 28, Stephen - 34). Credits to Ali Hazelwood for the original story. This work is a piece of fiction. I have no ownership over anything, this is ff.
Pairing: Stephen Strange X FEM! Reader
Word Count: 2.5K
Series Masterlist
At the end of her day, the culmination of the stares and comments had driven her to this building as she wandered down the unfamiliar hall. Following the directions she got from the campus map, Y/N mumbled under her breath a few curses at the unfortunate decisions that brought her here.
Finding Stephen's office wasn't too difficult, despite the fact she had never been in its vicinity. The students rushing in the opposite direction with teary eyes was a good indicator. She expected more from the outside, but there wasn't much except for a plaque with his title.
Stephen V. Strange, Ph.D.
Hmm, maybe the V stood for Vicious?
Y/N did what was necessary and looked him up online. His works, papers and told herself it was in favour of preparing herself for it all.
Knocking on the door, she heard his voice "Come in. Office hours finished five minutes ago-"
"It's just me." She quietly spoke, watching as he paused as his drawing board and turned to her.
"Y/N."
She mustered a smile, "Stephen."
He paused, clasping his hands "What brings you here?"
She opened her mouth, about to answer when she backtracked to the weeping girl outside, "What did you say to her?"
His face twisted in confusion, until she continued, "She was weeping. Quite literally scurrying away from here, actually."
"I just gave her some feedback on her report." Shuffling the papers into a neat pile.
"Guessing it wasn't quite what she wanted to hear."
Stephen turned to his desk, watching as she moved to stand opposite him.
"I was going to email you. I talked to the Dean earlier today."
"About you." Her body stiffened as she waited, "Well, about us. And socialisation regulations."
"And what did she say?" She stepped forward toward his desk, hoping for good news at least.
"There's nothing against you and me dating since I'm not your advisor."
"Okay, that's good, then." She wore a slight smile.
"Yes, but there are some things we need to consider. I can never work with you in a formal capacity. And I'm a part of the awards committee, so if you're nominated for anything, I'll need to excuse myself."
"That makes perfect sense."
"And I can't be apart of your thesis committee." He added.
A hint of a smile crossed her face as she chewed on her cheek. "That's fine. I wasn't planning on asking you."
"Why not? You study pancreatic cancer, right?"
"Yes, early detection."
"Well then your project would benefit from the opinion of a computational modeller." He pointed out.
"Yes, but there are other computational modellers in the department. I'd also like to make it through to graduation without sobbing in a bathroom." Again.
She tilted her head at the glare he sent her way, "No offence. I'm observant."
"Clearly." His voice was deadpanned, falling to a more soft expression. His fingers brushed the papers on the desk as he met her gaze again.
"So have you decided?"
She nodded, "Yes...yes. It's a good idea."
"Although," bringing his attention back, "I have a few concerns."
"Yes?"
"I've thought about this a lot and we should lay down some ground rules."
"Ground rules?"
"Yes. Like, what are we allowed and not allowed to do. What can we expect from this? It's standard procedure for these types of fake-dating scenarios."
"Standard procedure?" His voice filled with confusion, brows furrowed together.
"Sure."
"You act like you've done this before."
"I haven't. But I am familiar with the literary trope."
"The..." He blinked at her, confused. Y/N ignored him and moved on.
"Okay." She breathed, "Firstly, this should be a strictly on-campus relationship. I will not be your backup date for any christmas party or wedding-"
"That's fine, considering I don't see my family."
"Oh," she quietly whispered, "I suppose that's something a girlfriend would know." A whisper of a smile spread on his face before she continued. "Second rule. An extension of the first. No sex."
Uttering the word changed the whole tension of the room. Neither of them made a sudden move. She was unsure if he was still breathing as he stood so still.
"Oh-I'm sorry, but if one of the reasons you offered to fake-date was because you thought-"
He cut her off, blinking at her in confusion, "No. I'm, uh, shocked you thought you had to bring it up at all. That never crossed my mind."
Her mouth fell agape, "I'm sorry, I made an assumption. I-I shouldn't have done that."
"No, it's fine. I understand. I was just surprised, is all." His voice was slightly lower as he dipped his head down.
She nodded, "Sorry. Didn't mean to make things weird or anything." A flush of heat crossed her face.
"No sex."
Hearing it again, she noticed the slightest dusting of pink over his face. "Okay, uh..." She breathed out, still slightly flustered by the tension in the air. She clenched her diet lightly, gulping, "Third. I won't date anyone else. Just makes it easier to handle and I don't think it'd be fair to complicate things for another person. I don't date anyway. Steve was an exception and uh...I've never really dated anyone else."
Stephen kind of stared at her, saying nothing.
"But you can date if you want to." She quickly added, "That is entirely up to you. Just, probably don't tell the department so I don't come across as an idiot you cheated on. It would benefit you too, to be in a healthy relationship and-"
"I won't." He interrupted.
"Good, although lying is a bit of pain, but-"
"I mean, I won't date anyone else." He agreed.
"Fourth. We should give it a deadline. Can't do it forever."
"And when would that be?"
"Not sure. A month or so should convince Natasha. But I should account about your end. So..."
"September twenty-ninth."
"That's awful specific. Not what I expected." She muttered.
"It's the day after the department's final budget review. If they don't release the funds by then, they won't do it at all." His expression hardened.
"Alright. So we agree that on September Twenty-ninth, we part ways. I'll tell Natasha it was mutual, but I am a little sad because I still have a crush on you. " She grinned, "Just so she doesn't suspect I'm still hung up on Steve."
Stephen simply nodded in understanding at each of her points, all clearly logical statements, even if he never would have imagined himself in this specific scenario.
Y/N exhaled, "Fifth and last. For this to work, we should probably do things together. At least be seen every once in a while to keep up appearances."
"Things?" He placed the documents down.
"Things that couples do."
"Like..."
"I don't know. What do you do for fun?"
"For fun?"
"Outside of work?" She sighed.
"I sometimes work from home. I read. I workout. I sleep."
She narrowed her eyes in aghast. "You don't have any hobbies?"
His voice was deadpan, "What do you do for fun, then?"
"Plenty of things." She repeated, "I go to the movies. I read. I workout." This was starting to sound exactly like his tedious list. Crap.
"Okay. Looks like we should broaden our horizons and do something regular. Easy and simple. We could get coffee once a week for like ten or twenty minutes. I know it sounds annoying and tedious but it could work."
"It's fine. I think that will work."
"Oh." She tried to hide her surprise and hint of a smile at his support, pressing her lips together. "Okay. Does Wednesday work for you?"
"It works before eleven a.m. and after six p.m."
"Ten?"
"Ten is good."
"Okay." She nodded, "Aren't you going to add it in your calendar."
"I'll remember." He caught her eyes again.
Remembering he has an eidetic memory. He wouldn't forget. "Okay. So, guess its fake-dating Wednesday."
"Why do you keep saying that?"
"What?"
"Fake-dating, like it's a thing?"
"Because it's a popular trope. Don't you watch movies?"
He furrowed his brows and she sighed, realising they had lots to learn. To find something in common for them to talk about, too. "You need to watch more movies."
"Watching movies feeds into time that could be spent working."
She raised her eyebrows, "You can't spend all your time working."
"My work is a big part of my life, Y/N, so I expect it would take up a large proportion of my day-to-day."
"Are you saying you willfully don't watch films because you don't have time, or is there some other reason?"
"Like?" He waited, arms crossed against his chest.
"Oh, I don't know. You're a movie snob. Critical reviews of the best films. Seems around your area. Next your going to tell me you haven't seen Star Wars or the Dark Knight, or forbid, Lord of the Rings."
"I-"
"Better not." She hummed, chuckling to herself while Stephen sighed, a slight roll of his eyes before she continued. "When did you want to start?"
"Next week work for you?"
"Sure." He replied.
"Sounds good." Before popping out, "Let's meet at the Starbucks on campus. Someone will be bound to spot us there. See you on Wednesday then?"
He stood from his desk and nodded, "See you."
***
"Pass the salt."
Y/N sighed and passed it nonetheless. She wasn't so sure how long Sam would drag this out before it became tedious. "Sam."
"And the pepper."
"Sam." She repeated, resting her hands on the table.
"The oil."
"Sam." She repeated.
"Olive oil, not that other crap."
"Sam!" She gasped out, "Would you please just listen to me?"
"Fine. I'll get it myself."
Quickly moving around the table, she grabbed the item and stood directly in front of him, blocking off his exit. "Please, just listen. It is not what you think it is."
He stared at her unmoved by the statement, a blank expression in return. He had every right to be mad. They told each other everything, from the moment they bonded over their devotion to biology and chemistry. Sam came from a family of graduates and so the delay on his timeline was more than personal when Stephen put a doorstop in those plans. "Can we please just talk about this in a civil manner?"
"You're talking."
"Yes, and you're cooking. Clearly ignoring me and wishing I would disappear." She exhaled, "I know this about Stephen -"
Sam turned to her, pointing his finger in her direction "Do not say it."
"Say what?"
"What I think you're going to say."
"Stephen Strange-"
"Do not say his name."
She breathed deeply, shutting her eyes "Don't be ridiculous, Sam. It's not even real."
He went back to cooking, "Pass the salt."
"Youre not even listening to me. It's not real."
"The pepper."
"Sam, the relationship is fake. We're not actually dating. We're pretending so people will think we are."
Sam froze, "What?"
"You heard me."
"Is this...a friends with benefits situation or-"
"No-no," she shook her heard, "There are no benefits here. Zero. Zero sex. Zero friends."
He stared at her, "To be clear tho-"
"I do not need clarification. This is not anything like that."
"I'm a little scared to ask."
"I know it's crazy, but he's helping me out after I made a huge mess. I lied to Nat and I need her to believe I'm no longer interested in Steve. It's all fake. I've spoken to Stephen all of three times and I don't even know that much about him except he is willing to help me with this." She looked at him, "Sam, I jumped at the chance to fix this."
"That is..." He raised his eyebrows, "Astoundingly stupid. Confusing."
"Thanks."
"Moronic."
"Maybe. But it's all I've got. And you have to support me in this idiocy, because you and Nat are my best friends." She grinned.
"Stephen isn't your best friend now?"
"He's an ass, but he's actually pretty nice to me-"
"I'm not even going to touch that." He waved his hand, "I'm just gonna leave it."
"You don't have to address anything. All I need you to do is just...can you not hate me? I know it's been a nightmare for you, but he is helping me out. I would tell Nat, but-"
"for obvious reasons."
"-for obvious reasons, I can't." She finished.
"Y/n/n, you are amazing, smart and beautiful. You deserve to find someone good, better than Strange. Someone to date for real."
"Because things went so well with Steve. I did that based on your advice and look where that got me."
Sam all but glared at her and she laughed. "Real-life dating doesn't appear to mesh well with me. Maybe fake-dating is my calling."
"There are literally so many other faculty members to choose from." He deadpanned.
"Name one."
"I don't know." He shook his head in thought, "Dr. McCoy."
"He's almost twice my age."
"Oh yeah. What about Hayden Reyes? He's hot. Cute smile."
She almost laughed, "I could never fake date Hayden, not with how intensely you stare at him from afar."
"I-I have, haven't I?" He hummed, "You know, I would have fake-dated you in a heartbeat to spare you spending time with Strange. I would have taken you out, held hands with you and very publicly seranaded you."
"I know, but it wouldn't exactly be believable to the people we know, and I would never want to change your routine for my sake."
"That's fair."
"So..."
"All is forgiven, Y/n/n. Just...no more lies."
She nodded, accepting the hug "Thanks."
"I promise if I ever bring Stephen back I'll save your eyes and put a sock on the door-" she yelled as Sam smacked her arm. "I was kidding! Wait! I've got one more thing to tell you."
"I've reached my capacity to hear that ass' name so please,"
"I got an email from Tom Pierce, the Harvard cancer researcher. He might be interested in my biomarkers for his lab next year!"
"Oh my God." He came back, "This is amazing! I thought you hadn't received any responses yet."
"Got this one and he's well known. Famous and probably has more than enough funds than I've ever dreamt of. It'll be..."
"Great. It'll be great." He smiled, "You've worked hard for this. I'm proud of you. And I know your mom would be too."
"Yeah," she breathed, looking back up at Sam as her eyes began to water ever so slightly. "Nothing is confirmed yet, but it's something. There are still so many things to consider."
"You'll do amazing." He assured her.
"It might not work out. And that's fine." She attempted a smile. Preparing yourself for disappointment was always better than expecting the world. At least then you can never truly be disappointed with lowered expectations.
"It will work. You've put so much work into this, and for all the right reasons, Y/n/n." He smiled, "But even if it didn't, I know she would still be proud of you."
Y/N nodded once more as a tear fell down her face, tucking herself into the couch.
TAGS
@goldencherriess @severuined @thewinterpoet2 @pasta-warlord @typical-bistander @judig92 @captainbarness @gaitwae​ @sleutherclaw @angstsfordays @mavsketch @mando-is-the-way @samisubi @liar-liar13 @evelynrosestuff @stanny-uwu @colorfuly-blog04 @frostandflamesfanfic @katsuphobic @fiadh-bell @awmysherl
230 notes · View notes
techav · 10 months
Text
Wrap030-ATX Says "Hellorld"
Tumblr media
In the immortal word of [Usagi Electric], Wrap030-ATX says, "Hellorld". This can only mean one thing — serial I/O is working!
Getting serial working should be relatively straightforward. The UART I'm using is an 8-bit peripheral which needs a Chip Enable and an Output Enable signal, just like the ROM. It's a little slower, so it will need an extra wait state or two, but it should be easy enough to modify the bus controller state machine to address the UART as well. It didn't take me long to add the necessary logic, solder on the new parts, and fire it up for a test run.
Nothing happened.
I went through all the normal steps — double check the wiring, make sure my test leads haven't come loose, make sure the chip is seated properly in its socket and not shorted out …
… I burned my finger. And not just a little 'ow that's a bit warm to the touch', but a proper second-degree burn. That UART chip was hot.
That kind of heat can only mean there is a direct short somewhere in the chip. It could just be a defective part, but since they are out of production and I only have a few on hand, the best thing to do is confirm the problem isn't on my board somewhere before trying another one (and potentially destroying it too).
The PCB layout passed Design Rule Check, so I didn't have any overlapping traces. The schematic didn't have any obvious errors where maybe I had inadvertently tied an output signal to power or ground. This was not an existing library part — it was one that I had to create — so it was possible I had gotten pin assignments wrong.
I pulled up the datasheet and opened the part in the library and started confirming all of the pin assignments matched the datasheet. Bus & I/O pins were all fine; but the very last power supply pin was assigned to Vcc, where the datasheet had it marked Vss. So I had a +5V power supply capable of sourcing in excess of 25A of current running into what should have been a ground pin. No wonder it was hot enough to burn; it's a wonder it didn't release the magic smoke immediately.
This is a challenge. I need to swap a power pin for a ground pin on a PLCC socket. On a simpler project, I might've gotten away with just cutting the trace running to that pin and soldering a bodge wire to it.
… But this is a 4-layer board. There is no mere trace running to that pin — there is an entire inner layer attached to it. My best bet would probably be removing the offending pin from the socket, but depending on how it's constructed, I may not be able to remove the pin.
Tumblr media
Through-hole PLCC socket pins are staggered. Some go straight down through the board, but alternating pins make an L-shape so that the socket can have two rows of through-hole pins at a 0.1" grid spacing. The L-shaped pins would be trapped under the plastic base of the socket.
Luckily, the pin in question was the first on its side, so it went straight through the base. I started by bending up its contact, and then with the heat turned up on my soldering iron, I was able to pull it out of the board and completely free from the socket.
Tumblr media
I had some wire on hand that was just the right width to match the slots for the contacts in the socket. I bent a flat loop to make contact with the chip lead and shoved it down into the slot. It worked perfectly. I ran it over to a nearby jumper that had a ground lead, and there I have my first bodge wire for this project.
It still didn't work.
This is the part of debugging that is the most frustrating. There's a problem and it takes a considerable amount of effort to identify not just the cause, but also the solution. And then after working through those steps and finally implementing a fix, it still doesn't work because there is another problem. Back to square 1 with debugging.
Why is it not working? It's not burning hot, so that problem was indeed solved. I'm getting data to the chip, and the read/write strobes are functional. The chip select signals are ... wait, why isn't chip select working?
... Because I forgot a chip, that's why. Insert Picard facepalm GIF here.
The UART I'm using is a Western Digital WD16C552. It's a lovely chip designed for 386 era PCs contain two 16550-compatible UARTs and a Centronics Parallel port as well. It is three peripherals in one package. To save I/O on my bus controller CPLD, I used a 74'139 2-to-4 decoder to further break down the address for this serial/parallel I/O chip into the three specific peripheral select signals I needed. And I simply forgot to solder that chip onto the board.
Two headers and one 74LS139 later and finally my terminal came to life. The Wrap030-ATX whispered its very first greeting, "HELLORLD". Serial I/O is working and I can move on to the next step. And oddly enough, I tested that first chip that flirted with fire and it actually still works!
I am racing forward through the countless tests and steps to bring this machine to life ahead of VCF Southwest at the end of June. I am hoping to get it at least running BASIC over serial by that time, but for that I am going to need some RAM. This will be fun because this is my first time actually building a DRAM controller; I've done some test designs before but never actually built them. Fingers crossed I don't run into any show-stopping errors getting it up and running.
21 notes · View notes
wings-and-fins · 7 months
Text
Something that just occurred to me, re: my trouble getting therapy
In the past whenever I've given explanations on why I can't have therapy right now, it's always been focused on external reasons (going to move soon, don't want to jeopardize my job, long wait lists, few places in the first place and so on). But the biggest obstacle is internal. And I'm not saying this in a "oh, I just need to communicate more with parts and it'll be fine"-way. I'm saying this in a "there's literally a huge blockade inside that prevents me from accessing therapy"-way. Like literally so huge that I don't even know who is causing it and how to approach it because I don't know what parts to approach. Okay, there's been parts who expressed disapproval of therapy before. But listen, working with those parts never solved the problem. Like, Leo would be on board now. Did that solve the blockade? No. Because Leo isn't responsible for it! But I don't know who is. I've got nothing to go by.
Except that any attempts at getting any sort of professional help get sabotaged by deleting links to therapists' websites that have been saved, complete and utter paranoid breakdowns, literally ending up in a completely different place when I planned to go to an office hour at the university's mental health services. Stuff like that. I literally get sabotaged by some parts somewhere hidden in the system so badly that it's not working out.
It's not that I don't want to. It's that I literally can't because all my attempts so far, even the tiniest steps have backfired in this way. And I don't know how to explain this to anyone. It's not that I'm rejecting the idea, it's not that I'm refusing to take steps. It's literally that when I took steps in the past, I got nerfed. I can't. I'm trying and I can't. But that just reads like excuses, right? Why can't you? You should, especially with issues like these you need to get help. But I really can't.
I don't know how to explain this better. I don't feel like people who don't experience this would get it. I feel like most people I know wouldn't get it because almost everyone I know has made some experience with therapy. So there's something there that differentiates me from them and that's the fact that whatever similar they have going on never prevented them from getting therapy. Which it does for me.
So like yeah, at some point it makes you deeply feel like an outcast. It really does. Because again, everyone I know has come into contact with therapy at some point, even if it was just shortly as a teenager or something. So you don't get it. Maybe you get what it feels like to be sabotaged by your own system. But you don't get how it feels to be the only person who's never had therapy in a circle that greatly values therapy and holds the view that it's ideally something that everyone benefits from (don't tell me you don't think that it's necessary for recovery and everyone finds their own way, this is literally not helpful to me right now because I'm talking about an experience I've had in the past and your opinion on it doesn't change that experience for me now). You don't get how it feels to be that person and want to get therapy and want to get the help you think you deserve, but literally be unable to. You don't get how it feels to hear people talk negatively about people in their lives who didn't get therapy or haven't gotten therapy yet and you're sitting right there, hearing all that, and somehow you're meant to feel like you're exempt from that same judgement. But you aren't really, are you? And you try really hard, but it somehow never works out...
And eventually you really feel like there's something deeply wrong with you that you can't do this thing you want to do that everyone else can do. So you look to external things. Like moving. Or your job. Or the dire therapy places situation in your country. And you really don't need it that much do you? You're functioning after all. If you squint hard enough, you can ignore all this stuff. You're fine. You have to be. Because that's literally your only option. Because the other option is not available to you.
But it's never been all these external reasons. It's been inside of you, but you don't even know the enemy you're fighting.
And you know that you can't solve this thing on your own because you need someone with way more experience than you to help you untangle it all. But you can't get to that person. That's the thing you're needing help with. You can't do this on your own but you can't get help because the thing you can't do on your own is getting help. Cruel irony.
So you muddle through because you gotta survive. Somehow.
I'm tired. Very tired.
11 notes · View notes
siriannatan · 11 months
Text
Combat Maids
Remember THIS thing? I wrote Chapter 1 so here it is
For anyone curious I have a Pinterest reference board for this fic :}
CW: possible mild violence in later chapters
fWhip was fed up with his boss. What kind of prissy idiot refuses to have guards near because they aren't 'cute' enough? "Boss it's for your safety..." he tried arguing.
"No." Scott S. Major, his boss. Shook his head between sips of tea. After fWhip barely managed to stop another attempt on his life, mind you. He saves the guy and all he gets is another damned argument. "I'm paying you to protect me so I can set my own rules," Scott continued arguing. "You've got a pretty face but this outfit just ruins it," he sighed staring fWhip and his black, tactical gear down with a disapproving, cold, stare. "I'm sure a guy of your talent can figure it out," he smiled, annoying his half-dragon bodyguard even further.
fWhip took a deep breath to stop himself from murdering his employer. Cuter outfit huh? "So if I wore, let's say, a maid dress you'd be fine with me being around?" he asked already wondering if it were possible to make a maid dress out of the usual protective fabrics top-line mercenaries and bodyguards used for their protective clothes. He was sure some tailor in town would be crazy enough to try making it. Katherine maybe? She could make about anything happen.
"You'd sure look much cuter with some frills," Scott smiled, a slight blush creeping up his cheeks. "I'll be at home the rest of the day, should be safe."
Once dismissed fWhip instantly called Katherine even before getting into his car. "Katherine, I need a favour. Can you make me a maid dress out of our usual protective fabrics? Because Scott's being annoying and saying I need to stay out of his sight unless I look 'cuter'... I'm on my way to do any measuring. I have little time... Morning? Monday? Tomorrow? If you say you can do it..."
Scott was sure he was done with his security issue. Either fWhip returns cute and Scott has something to stare at during his days. Or he resigns and maybe he hires Scar to protect him from afar. But that had one issue - Scar usually worked with Cub and Scott didn't ever have the mood to deal with him. The half-dragon didn't look too eager to wear a maid dress but... he was the one to propose it. And Scott was maybe slightly giddy at the thought of his handsome guard being all cute in a short, frilly dress with a little apron.
fWhip might have underestimated how fast Katherine could work. She was indeed done with the whole get-up the very next morning. Apparently the short, a little above-the-knee-long maid dress was fire, blast and bulletproof. Same with the thigh highs she included... Maybe he should have actually participated in designing it... The knee-high boots, laced on the front, with bows on the side, weren't the worst part. Not even the short gloves and lack of sleeves of too much lace and frills. No. The worst part was that... he didn't hate it. It actually made moving with a tail a lot easier and the pouch on the belt and frills could hide a lot. And it helped him blend in with the house staff. Even if his 'uniform' was very different from much longer in both sleeves and dress length uniforms. 
And maybe Scott would finally stop complaining.
The shocked face Scott pulled when fWhip marched into the dining room and took the spot that usually had Scott complaining made fighting with the barely there make-up and lipgloss worth it. "Everything all right boss? Should I call Grian and tell him you're busy?" fWhip asked with what he'd call his cutest smile. No smirk. Just a soft smile that had the present in the room maids blushing and tripping. And Scott looking even more lost for words.
"That won't be necessary," Scott waved it off and hid behind the cup of morning tea he was enjoying with his breakfast. "That's not a lot of a dress," he commented once he had his thoughts a bit more in control. Damn, fWhip had nice legs under those mercenary pants. And a great waist. And did his arms have to be completely out and in full view with all that muscle? Scott wanted to touch them for forever. Or be held by them for even longer. He hasn't yet decided which.
"I assure you it's perfectly functional for my job," fWhip assured with his best attempt at a curtsy. "Should I get the car ready?" he asked. From checking Scott's schedule he knew they had to leave within half an hour. Getting Scott ready would take the maids a lot of that time.
"Yeah... you do that," Scott nodded feeling a bit stunned still. Sue him. fWhip looked cute and he had a massive fetish for cute boys in maid dresses. All the maids around the mansion did nothing for him but fWhip in a dress had him tripping over his feet to get ready and have his pretty bodyguard around.
fWhip got the car ready, checking for traps and bombs and all that little stuff. And explained his outfit to the head maid. She didn't seem to understand it all that much but didn't say he couldn't look like a maid. As long as he stood out enough to not be mistaken for her staff. He could do that. And keep an eye on her. There was something suspicious in the way she behaved and talked. Like she was hiding something. If whatever that was put Scott in danger fWhip would now be even closer to stop it and keep his boss safe.
He was a bit shocked to see how quickly Scott was ready to leave. Marching in and waving maids off in his dark green vest and shorts and white button-up and under-the-knee boots and a cape for the chilly, rainy day. Stomping on the garage tile with his heels. 
And visibly softened when he saw fWhip waiting by Scott's favourite 'going out' car. The half-dragon's tail barely not scraping against the tile, at the moments small wings fluttering slightly. Vigilant, and dangerous while staying utterly adorable. "I'm sure fWhip's more than capable of driving me to one stupid meeting," Scott huffed one last time before waving the head maid off. 
fWhip made another mental note of the head maid being weird. Usually, she'd just let Scott leave as he pleased with no complaining. And there were suddenly more maids around than usual. Maids who didn't seem to know what they were doing... At least now he could stay close to Scott. Speaking of, apart from shutting up Scott's complaining the dress was doing okay. It was easy to move in and comfy for his tail if a bit ticklish with all the lace Katherine included under the skirt part - for the shape she said, for gun and knife hiding - fWhip said.
"I want to sit in the front today," Scott hummed, and fWhip had no reason to say no. The closer Scott was to him the safer he was. And fWhip would live through Scott staring at his legs. Scott poking his skirt as he opens doors for him would take some getting used to, as flattering as it was.
"Should I tell my tailor you liked the new uniform?" fWhip half-joked as he waited for Scott to be settled with closing the door. Closing it on Scott's coat was the last thing he wanted to do.
"And that if I have any more bodyguards I might need more uniforms," Scott chuckled back.
fWhip absolutely would pass it over to Katherine. And was already guessing the 'uniform' would make finding new staff difficult. Very difficult. He himself probably wouldn't just agree to wear this dress on his first day. It was a result of Scott annoying him for weeks. But he pushed that away and when Scott was secured with his seatbelt he closed the door and fully on purpose marched to the driver's seat around the front of the car so Scott could stare.
Scott could swear fWhip was moving his tail more than usual on purpose. Like he figured out Scott had a thing his bright red scales or something. Or maybe it was just the dress giving him more space for it? Whatever the reason Scott appreciated the length of fWhip's skirt a lot. Even if his legs were mostly covered by his boots and stockings or tights. And the heel on his boots... Scott probably shouldn't be shocked a bodyguard and mercenary of fWhip's reputation knew how to walk in heels. Or drive in them as much as Scott was distracted by fWhip's arms - mostly hands for whatever reason.
 With his finger-less gloves and up close it was easy to notice fWhip clearly put a bit more effort into his appearance. Aside from his hair being neatly brushed and styled to fit the frilly headband fitting his dress along with a ribbon tied on one of his horns. The barely there eyeshadow and blush and lipgloss and clearly manicured nails. The things a nice dress makes possible...
Did not include the boring call Scott received just as they left the mansion's driveway. Some boring business talk about some transports and stuff Scott, unfortunately, had to hear about even if he delegated most of the business matters to other people. He was in fact so absorbed in listening to a boring, not-at-all-cute person tell him about transport and construction delays he didn't notice when he started to play with fWhip's skirt until a scaled tail poked his wrist. It wasn't like fWhip said anything about it. Just tossed the umbrella somewhere in the back of the car.
"We have company. Please hold onto this, lock all the doors and keep your head low. We're early so they should not make us late," fWhip said with a smile and left Scott alone in the car. The thing about Scott was... for someone who dealt with a lot of crime and illegal things he really didn't like violence. Blood make him feel weird and seeing sharp things got his head spinning. He preferred to leave things like that to fWhip or any other hired security - as uncute as they looked, violence was even less cute. But now fWhip was the picture of cuteness and maybe, just maybe Scott was for once tempted to watch. But fWhip told him to keep his head low so he did after locking all the doors and his as well as he could.
"G-g-great fWhip reduced to a maid? What a joke," one of the goons sneered as fWhip fixed his skirt. There was some more talking from them but fWhip had no time for that. "Are you numbskulls done? We have an appointment to get to," fWhip said rolling his shoulders. Ten idiots to deal with. Whoever send them clearly underestimated fWhip's ability. And it wasn't yet known he had to cosplay a maid to do his job properly.
It didn't matter how many guys they had anyway. fWhip was yet to find someone fast enough to be a real threat to him. And now he had the power of all the mobility a skirt could provide and was by who he assumed was in charge of this squad. Knocking him out before the other goons could react. In fact, they were so slow that he managed to send one more goon flying back and trip third with his tail.
Seven numbskulls still standing barely started to move then the third guy was knocked out. Not that it helped them much. fWhip was far too fast and agile for them and quickly had two more down. That had the last five seeing they had no chance and attempting to run away. fWhip obviously did not let them escape and had them knocked out quickly. With how few of them there were and how dumb their plan must have been fWhip assumed they were working on the assumption that he still had to keep his distance from Scott. But he'd still have to drive him here anyway... 
No matter. Scott had a meeting to get to, and if any more idiots showed up fWhip would take care of that. For now, he quickly called Joel so the numbskulls could be collected and went back to the car to let Scott know he was safe. "Boss? It's safe now," fWhip said as he knocked on the passenger side window. It's raining outside the parking building area, give me a second to grab an umbrella," he added after helping Scott out and straightening his cloak.
"That was fast," Scott hummed, looking around the place. He looked a bit pale.
"Well, we do have a meeting to get to," fWhip shrugged, finally finding where he put the umbrella earlier.
"Um, since it's raining and we were already attacked will it be okay if I stay close?" Scott asked, he was indeed walking very close to fWhip. "Just asking in case I would get in the way..."
"The closer you are the easier it is to keep you safe, here," fWhip stopped him and offered an arm. Scott was stunned for maybe a fraction of a second before grabbing onto fWhip.
Walking with Scott holding onto his arm and holding an umbrella while in high heels was not easy but fWhip managed to avoid tripping and got Scott to his meeting with Grian. As expected Mumbo and his moustache and suit were also there.
"Sorry I'm late, someone tried to kill me," Scott sighed. What was interesting to fWhip they both looked genuinely surprised by the news. And Mumbo was not known for his acting skills. His traps and marksmanship yes, not faking stuff. "Luckily I have the cutest bodyguard out there," he was still holding onto fWhip despite the umbrella being not needed at the moment. Not that fWhip complained. After nearly a month of Scott refusing to be anywhere near him, he was just glad he could do his job properly.
20 notes · View notes
aster-tiger · 8 months
Text
The Raging Witch
Law x OFC, Zoro x OFC, Luffy x OFC, Zoro x Luffy, Law x Zoro, Law x OFC x Zoro
Tumblr media
Warnings: swearing, pr0n with plot, shameless smut, bisexuality, consensual k!nk, 3some, b0ndage, emotional slow burn, developing relationship, hurt/comfort, fluff, angst, bonding, mating (not abo), post Punk Hazard, post Dressrosa, changing pov (no head hopping), mm relationship, mmf relationship, english is not my first language, no beta we die like men
You can find the whole story on AO3
Chapter 25: Goodyes
Reid dropped her off at the palace and flew away. She was seated on the board because her knee was dislocated. The crew would either seek help from local healers or wait until Daria calmed down enough to treat them without killing anyone in the process.
Clutching her side, Rage made her way to her room. She peeled off her clothes one by one, hissing in pain. Nadina was a tank of a woman and packed a serious punch. Rage was sure at least two of her ribs were broken.
Her reflection in the mirror revealed a giant purple bruise on her side. She carefully traced her fingers over her ribs, and a sudden pang of pain knocked the air out of her lungs. Regretfully, she reached for her Devil Fruit's powers. She was supposed to meet Law and Zoro, and they would flip a lid if she showed up in such a state.
She wanted to spend time with them. Their time together was coming to an end, and she wanted to cherish every moment of what they had left.
Taking several shallow breaths, she prepared herself to use the Devil Fruit.
As soon as she released the hormones to heal her wounds, the pain hit her. Her breath caught in her throat, and she clenched her teeth. A whine escaped her as she slid to the mats, her muscles tensing under the onslaught of pain.
She expected to black out, as she did the last time she tried to use her Devil Fruit. She even welcomed it because she couldn't feel pain when she was unconscious. But it didn't happen this time. The pain simply ceased when her injury was healed, and she sagged on the floor in relief. It was a good sign, and maybe Daria wasn't lying when she said the pain would go away with time.
She needed to be able to use the Devil Fruit extensively to carry out the plan. The pain was a problem, but she would push through it when necessary.
Gathering herself from the floor, she reached for the kimono Denjiro had gifted her. It was a beautiful black silk piece with a pink blossom pattern.
Although she wasn't overly fond of kimonos, she decided to wear it to blend in with the crowd. She didn't want people to stare at her too much because she wanted to experience a peaceful evening with her mates. She couldn't do a traditional hairstyle to go with the kimono since her hair was too short and shaved at the sides, and she didn't want to wear a wig.
Looking at her reflection in the mirror, she decided to put on some makeup. Her face looked tired as fuck.
After putting on her sandals, she pushed the sliding door to leave her room, only to be greeted by the sight of Denjiro. He was standing in front of her room, apparently waiting for her.
"Good evening, my good sir," she smiled at the man and stepped into the corridor. "I presume you're here to talk about last night's shenanigans in your fine establishment?*
"Yes, amongst other things," he confirmed with a slight frown. "I believe you were on your way out. Let me walk you to the gate."
He fell into step beside her, towering over her much smaller frame. The smell of tobacco clung to his clothes as usual.
"The leftovers were disposed of without any problem," he informed, looking ahead. "The souvenirs are being handled with care, although I had to send them away. I had no place left to put such inappropriate gifts."
He wasn't speaking directly about the matter, so there was a chance someone was spying on their conversation.
"I'm grateful that you accepted the gifts," she took a deep breath, trying to detect the smell of another person nearby. Unfortunately ninjas could hide their scent.
"There are people upset by how the party ended," Denjiro informed stoically. "They are very vocal about the outcome."
"I can deal with them, if you'd like," she offered.
"No, I wouldn't like that at all," he replied, turning his head towards her. "In fact, Kin'nemon made it clear that you should not involve yourself any further."
"Well, if the boss man insists, I will refrain from interfering," she replied with a cheeky grin. "I previously informed Kin'emon about the necessity of thoroughly cleaning the house. Any vile remnants of the late ruler's possessions might be poisonous to the current shogun's well-being."
"The shogun and his retainers believe it's a matter that shouldn't concern you," Denjiro replied with a frown. "You were part of the alliance, and the shogun is grateful for your involvement. However, his retainers strongly advise that you and your crew should not be involved in Wano's internal affairs."
"Is this a warning?" Rage raised a brow in question. "You are one of the shogun's retainers."
He remained silent until they stepped into the courtyard, where it would be harder to eavesdrop on their conversation.
"I am one of the retainers," Denjiro confirmed. "But I find that my opinions on many matters differ from those of my companions."
He stopped in the middle of the courtyard and turned to face Rage.
"I hold your advice in high regard," he held her gaze firmly. "I also recognize the value of your life experience, and I appreciate you as a person. I believe Wano would greatly benefit if you decided to stay here and could influence the changes this country needs."
"Thank you, Denjiro," she replied with a soft smile. "I think so too. However I feel as if my presence here would not be welcomed much longer."
He reciprocated the smile.
"I find your arrogance strangely appealing."
"It's one of my many charms," she confirmed with a smirk.
"I know you have many plans and you will be leaving soon."
She nodded. It wasn't a secret, every crew from the alliance was leaving. The only question was when would it happen.
"But I would like to give you a reason to stay and offer you the power to change this country. I would be honoured if you would consider becoming my wife."
Her eyes widened in surprise, but after the initial shock, a cunning smile crawled onto her lips.
"You honour me, my good sir. I thought you considered yourself old enough to be my father."
He mirrored her smile.
"That was before you convinced me to test the merchandise."
The smile on her face grew. She liked his cheekiness.
"I do appreciate your proposal. I'd like to make some things clear at this point."
"Will you try to dissuade me from the marriage?"
"That's for you to decide. You must know I am infertile and would never bear children."
"That's alright. I don't want to become a father to an infant at my age. I will adopt an heir or heiress to carry on my name."
"I am not monogamous. In fact, I already have two mates, and we are bonded for life."
"I am not a jealous man."
"I don't care about gender, I'd fuck whoever catches my eye, and sex is my way of relieving stress."
"I believe I already assisted you in that way."
"I won't conform to this society's rules, so you would have to deal with a lot of scandals."
"I run the biggest pleasure hall in Wano. Scandals are a part of my life."
"My crew stays with me."
Denjiro's expression darkened.
"As per my trade I am well aware how much your crew's services are needed in this country."
"Fine. My finances are my own, I will not be financially dependent on a man."
"I have already made so much profit off your ideas, I would gladly share it with you equally. I would be most grateful if you would further develop the services provided by the pleasure hall."
She beamed at him and continued walking towards the gate.
"I believe this concludes our negotiation. You may expect my answers in a few days' time."
Law and Zoro were waiting by the bottom of the stairs. She said her goodbyes to Denjiro and joined her mates with a beaming smile.
"Judging by your smile, I don't think Denjiiro is overly upset by what happened last night," Law commented, nodding to the samurai who nodded back from the top of the stairs and walked away. 
"Oh, he's pissed," Rage replied, still grinning.
"Then why are you smiling like that?" Zoro took her hand and led her down the street.
"He just proposed to me."
They stopped in their tracks and looked at her with shock painted all over their faces.
"What did you say?" Zoro asked.
"He wants me to be his wife," she explained, her smile widening to the point where her cheeks hurt.
They were staring at her as if she suddenly grew a second head.
"What was your reply?' Law found his voice first.
"That I'll think about it."
"You aren't considering it, are you?" Zoro had a deep scowl on his face.
"Actually, it's a pretty good offer," she replied with a grin. "Come on, I'm hungry. I want miso ramen and katsudon."
She had to drag Zoro behind her before he followed her. Law trailed behind them without a word.
The restaurant wasn't far from the palace, and they were seated in a private room. They were served tea, sake, pickled cucumber and spicy edamame as appetisers. The server assured them that their food would be ready shortly.
Zoro took a shot of sake and pinned her with his stare.
"You said you didn't want to get married."
"Well, things change," she replied, taking a bite of the crunchy cucumber. "It would be a pretty cushy landing after I'm done. He's rich, influential, and twice as old as me, so he'll die sooner rather than later, and all his assets will be mine."
The flat stares she received in response spoke volumes about what they thought of the idea.
"What was the word your crew used to call the doll? A gold digger?” Zoro mused over another cup of sake.
She snorted. “I’d call it a good business decision.”
“You have us. Why would you want to marry someone else?”
“Because compared to the bonds, marriage is just a contract that means absolutely nothing to me.”
“Still, when we sailed from Zou, you were adamant you didn’t want to get married,” Zoro persisted, his brows scrunched.
“Things can change when a good enough opportunity presents itself, especially one that can help me with my plans.”
“What are your plans?” Law chimed in. “We were supposed to figure things out after taking down Kaido.”
Straight to the point as always. But it was a conversation they needed to have after all.
She put down her chopsticks and focused entirely on the two men. She couldn’t lie to them, but she couldn’t tell them the whole truth either. They would sense her lie in the bond, so she needed to stay as close to the truth as possible without revealing her final goal.
“When I left Sin City I was so blinded by my own pain that I failed to realise several things. I thought my girls were loyal to my mother, but as it turns out, they were always loyal to me. I made promises to them, and I need to uphold my word. It’s only fair, since they chose to follow my lead for so many years. We need to finish what we started.”
“And what’s that?” Law asked.
“Mostly revenge. There are many reasons why my girls are the way they are. Things happened to them and to people close to them, but those are not my stories to tell. What’s important is that I need to finish this before I can plan for anything else.”
There was tension in both bonds. They drank in silence for a while until something shifted in the bond with Zoro.
He put down his cup and caught her gaze.
“Until last night, I would have agreed with your choice. But last night showed how much that shit affects you. It would be best for you if you gave up on them entirely.”
“That’s not your decision to make,” she managed to keep her voice even.
He was right. She would be happier if she went her separate way and never looked back. But could she forgive herself? If she witnessed a slave being mistreated or people being trafficked, could she look at her own reflection in the mirror without feeling ashamed for being a coward?
“So you’d expect me to do what exactly? Tell them to fuck off and let you two play rock, paper, scisors and I’ll go with whoever wins? That’s hilarious. Would you do the same for me Zoro? If I asked, would you give up your goal and come with me instead?”
“It’s not the same, and you know it,” the swordsman stated stubbornly.
“Isn’t it? Because when I reach my goal, I would be so fucking proud of myself that all the struggle would be worth it.”
“Then at least give yourself a break,” Zoro persisted. “Come with us, either of us, to find One Piece. After that we’ll help you with whatever you need to do.”
It wasn’t a bad offer. In fact, it made a lot of sense to have additional manpower. But the thing was, they would not agree to do what she intended to do, especially if Luffy was involved.
“I don’t care for One Piece,” she replied.
“But you carry the will of D,” Law objected.
“It doesn’t matter. Whatever One Piece is, it belongs to Joy Boy, and we already know who that is. I have no use for it.”
Law didn’t seem upset about that. He wanted to find Laugh Tale to discover the history behind the D and to gain knowledge of the Void Century. As far as she knew he didn’t care about the title of the Pirate King. If it didn’t serve him any purpose, he didn’t care about titles and bounties.
“What about Luffy?” Zoro asked out of the blue.
“What about him?” she asked, trying to play stupid.
“Will you bond with him?” Zoro pressed.
“I told you the bond was broken,” she reiterated.
“Is it still?” he arched his eyebrow. “It didn’t feel like it was broken last night.”
She was taken aback by his comment. The moment was interrupted by the server, who brought in their food. The smell reminded her how hungry she was, and she pumped the aching hunger into the bond to put a stop to their conversation.
The food was a delicious mix of sweet and salty flavours. It was seasoned with aromatic spices and had a variety of vegetables and fresh noodles. The katsudon, crispy and spicy, paired well with the perfectly cooked rice.
She enjoyed the food so much that she got lost in the flavours, hardly noticing when Law ordered more dishes. Eventually, she finished eating and put her chopsticks down, only then realising the stack of empty bowls on both sides of her.
Law observed her carefully. "Will the pain start soon? Was your hunger part of the healing cycle?"
She stared at him, dreading the possibility of more pain. But to her relief, it didn't come.
"I think I was just hungry," she replied with a weak smile. "I haven't eaten anything since yesterday."
A disapproving scowl crawled on Law's lips. "I'd like to do a check-up, to evaluate your condition."
"Daria does a daily check up," she replied weakly, not keen on another medical intervention.
She received several blood transfusions due to low red cell count. Her iron and electrolyte levels were low, requiring daily IV fluids and microelements. She didn't want Law to discover her current state. Their time together was limited, and she didn't want him to fuss over her, when they could engage in much more entertaining activities.
"That's why I want to do a check-up," Law persisted. "Her methods are questionable at best."
A deep sigh escaped her. She didn't have the strength to deal with this. She closed her eyes as she tried to gather her composure, but she found it difficult to open them again. Her lids felt heavy, and she felt as if there were weights on her limbs, pulling her down. A blurry haze enveloped her mind, blocking her racing thoughts. It felt peaceful, and she couldn't find any reason to fight it. She surrendered to the feeling and allowed the blackness to envelop her completely.
Her mind surfaced to the soft murmurs in a quiet room. She was laying down, warm and comfortable, covered in soft blankets that smelled of Law. She nestled deeper into the covers trying to fall back into the blissful numbness of sleep. However, a soft ache of the bonds penetrated the fuzziness of her mind.
Her mates were in the room with her, but she laid alone in the dark. She willed her eyes open and glanced towards the only source of light in the room - moonlight streamed through an open window along with the scent of spring air. There, by the window, sat both of her mates. The moonlight spread languidly over Zoro's exposed chest, and Law's tattooed fingers that were placed over Zoro's heart. The swordsman sat between Law's spread legs, leaning into the surgeon's chest, while Law's cheek rested against the side of Zoro's head. The scene seemed serene and intimate, but an aching pain pulsed through both bonds.
Regardless, the sight brought her comfort. At least they'd still have each other when she was gone. They wouldn't have to deal with a dead bond on their own. They would still have their bond.
But as long as she was alive, she wanted to be with them. She got on her hands and knees, crawling towards her mates. Their eyes locked with hers, the intensity palpable in the moonlit room. The darkness receded, and she could see their irises clearly.
The bonds between them grew quiet and tense with anticipation as she crawled between Zoro's legs and their lips met. Strong arms wrapped around her, pulling her firmly into her mate's chest. The kiss was soft and she relished every moment, savouring the taste and softness of his lips. Long fingers stroked her neck before slipping between her hair and cradling the back of her head.
Law's intense gaze was almost palpable on her skin. Yet, aside from caressing her and holding both his mates in his arms, he didn't move an inch. Zoro demanded her attention with a nip at her lower lip, and she focused on the swordsman. His arms tightened around her, and Law's fingers dug into her scalp. A deep moan escaped her throat as she melted into their touch. Too exhausted to divide her attention, she gave up and surrendered to their demands. 
Zoro pushed her back, guiding her to lay on the mats, as he loomed over her, crowding her vision. His fingers traced her face, as if mapping her features, then moved down, skimming over her throat. He brushed over her collarbones, the feather-like touch raising goosebumps over her skin. He untied her thin undergarment and shoved it aside, revealing her naked skin to the night air.
Zoro's hands travelled along her skin, brushing over her breasts, the pads of his fingers circled her nipples and trailed down her belly to the curve of her hip. His gaze followed his hand, taking in the sight of her. His hand slid to her thigh, circled under her knee and traced the curve of her calf. He lifted her foot and placed it on his shoulder, meeting her gaze before his tongue darted out, licking a hot stripe on her ankle.
She sucked in a sharp breath and shakily released the air when his tongue travelled up her leg, leaving a wet trail on the inside of her calf, knee, and up her thigh. He brought his hands to her thighs and spread them wide, his gaze fixated between her legs. He took the sight in,  while caressing her thighs, his lips falling slightly open and without a warning his head dipped down. His mouth caressed her, as if performing a kiss, evoking a soft moan from her. Gentle heat spread through her, as pleasure built steadily in her core. Another moan escaped her lips when his tongue flattened against her core and licked up. Her hips buckled, while pleasure shot through her, and he licked her until she was a writing, panting mess. He pinned her hips in place for him to lick into her. His tongue circled her entrance, but never dipped inside, just mercilessly teasing her until all she could think was that hot tongue filling her up and giving her the relief she so desperately craved. Reaching for his head, she tried grabbing his hair to push his face into her core, but a pair of tattooed hands grasped her wrists and pinned them above her head. She whined, as her body arched in need for more friction.
Her eyes found Law's face; his golden gaze was calm and collected, but desire burned hot in the bond. He held her gaze for a moment before trailing down her stretched body to where Zoro was torturing her with his tongue. 
"Take her," the quiet order cut through her panting moans.
"Yes!" she strained against their grip. "Take me, Zoro! Please!"
She almost cried with relief when the swordsman sat back and untied his kimono, letting it fall to the floor, and pool around his hips. 
Her mouth fell open in a silent scream when he sheathed his cock inside her with one swift thrust. Her whole body trembled with simultaneous relief of being filled and the building up pleasure, ready to burst.
She struggled against Law's hold as Zoro grabbed her hips, thrusting fast and deep inside her. It was all she needed. The pressure exploded, and hot pleasure flooded from her core all over her body. Zoro's strained groan filled the air, and his pleasure flooded the bond, drowning her in ecstasy.
The grip on her wrists loosened and she wrapped her arms around her mate. In the bond, they were one, their bodies joined, their breaths mingling as their mouths and tongues connected. He pumped her with his seed, and she wished he could stay inside her forever.
She loved him with all her heart, he was her grumpy swordsman, her mate, a part of her soul.
He pulled back, and she whimpered in protest, chasing after his lips. His palm cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing off moisture under her eye. Tears spilled from her eyes without her even feeling them fall. Warm finger brushed the other side of her face, and she tore her eyes from Zoro's gaze to find Law's golden irises. He was watching her with a soft expression, his face so beautiful that her heart clenched painfully in her chest.
He lowered his head and connected their lips. The kiss was soft and tender, causing more tears to fall from the corners of her eyes. It grew demanding as his tongue slipped between her lips, and she opened her mouth for him, letting him take command.
She felt Zoro's weight withdrawing, and his cock slipping away. She whimpered at the loss, but the feeling of emptiness didn't last long as Law's fingers slipped inside her, pushing Zoro's seed into her. He slowly pumped his fingers inside her until she let out a needy moan. Disconnecting their lips, he withdrew his hand, only to stroke the pads of his fingers along her lips, smearing Zoro's come and her juices over her lips. Before she could lick off, his lips smashed against hers in a hungry kiss, spreading Zoro's taste between them. His hand travelled down her body and smeared more cum over her breasts. His lips followed, and his hot tongue lavished her breasts, licking off every trace of their mate's cum. All while his hand found its way to her opening, and smeared the rest of Zoro's leaking cum all over her outer lips. Her walls clenched, and her breath caught in her throat as a sharp pang of arousal shot through her. She loved when men played with cum. Law's teeth sank into her breast, making her gasp at the sharp pain. A wave of wetness flooded her pussy.
Law positioned himself between her legs, his kimono hanging open, revealing his hard cock. He took himself in his hand and guided himself towards her opening, but instead of entering her, he glided his whole length up and down her pussy, smearing Zoro's cum over both of them. Her pussy clenched in burning need to be filled, but she also wanted him to keep stroking his deliciously slick and hard cock against her wet lips. The dirty thrill shot up her spine and hot desire lodged itself deep in her belly.
"Law," she moaned his name, lifting her gaze to his face. Heavy desire burned in his eyes, but there wasn't any urgency about it. His gaze promised her pure, dirty pleasure.
He reached out, and she grasped his offered hand. He pulled her up, until she was kneeling in front of him. He brought their joined hands to his lips and kissed her knuckles, but when their eyes met, his lips stretched in a small devious smirk. Her insides squeezed at the sight and she stopped breathing. He knew exactly what he was doing to her with that smile.
He let go of her hand and moved back. She wanted to chase after him, but a broad hand gripped her neck and showed her forward. She landed on her hands and knees with a gasp. The hand on her neck grabbed her hair and tugged her head back. She yelped in surprise, but the sound was muffled by Law's cock slipping between her parted lips. The taste of cum, her own juices and Law's precum spread all over her tongue, and she sucked greedily, swallowing every trace of her mates.
"That's it, suck him good," Zoro's rough words penetrated her lust-crazed mind. His chest was plastered against her back, his hand still in her hair, and as he spoke, his face was just a small distance from her mouth and Law's cock. The guttural moan that left her throat reverberated from the walls, and was followed by Zoro's low throaty laugh. The swordsman withdrew, and Law's hand slipped into her hair, gripping it by the root, holding her head still.
She looked up at him, her mouth stuffed with his cock, but his gaze was focused on his other mate. The moment she felt Zoro's cock at her opening, Law's lips stretched in that sinful smirk. His golden gaze met her watering eyes, and they both moved at the same time. Zoro drove his fat cock all the way into her cunt, while Law showed his dick deep into her throat. They didn't give her any time to collect herself; they took her fast and deep. All she could do was to take it and catch a breath in that short moment when Law withdrew his cock before plunging it deep down again. She was ready to come just after a few thrusts, her walls clenching hard on Zoro's thickness, but they held her still in the bond, not letting her come, until she was a whining mess, with her pussy dripping wet and her face covered in tears and saliva.
The moment she felt Law's cum in her mouth, they let go, and the triple orgasm obliterated her. She was stuffed from both sides, stretched to the brim. She couldn't breathe, couldn't think, couldn't scream. All she could do was surrender to the overflowing pleasure. It was bliss. They were one, drowning together in their shared pleasure, their bodies shaking with the intensity of their collective orgasm. The moment they loosened their hold she fell to the floor, her body weak and her mind empty. She didn't want to move, just soak in the post-orgasm bliss.
She was cradled against a broad chest, and Law's scent enveloped her. She loved his scent, crisp as fresh snow and dark as the moonless night. Her eyelids felt too heavy to open, so she buried her face against Law's neck and breathed him in.
"I love you," she spoke softly against his skin. "I love you both."
Her heart was so full like it never was before in her entire life. The feeling was completely overwhelming to the point she hardly could breathe. Law's ominous laugh brought her down to reality.
"You love us so much, but you want to leave us," his words stunned her, and her body stiffened while her breath sped up. 
"Law..." she managed to choke out through her squeezed throat.
"Shhhh," his hand stroked her back soothingly. "You seem to forget that you are ours. We need to simply remind you who you belong to."
Her eyes grew wide as she felt slick fingers trace her opening, circling the rim of her entrance several times, stretching it. Then the fingers dipped inside her, four at once. She gasped in surprise and arched against Law's firm body.
The fingers pumped inside her, stretching her wide. She let out a strangled moan and gripped Law's bicep for support. They were laying on their sides, and the moment the fingers left her pussy, her leg was yanked up, exposing her dripping centre to the cool air. Law rocked his hips forward, his cock brushing her wet pussy only to be pushed into her a second later. Her breath hitched while she hid her face in the crook of his neck. But she wasn't allowed to hide. A firm grip in her hair made her crane her head back until she met Zoro's gaze.
His predatory grin sent shivers down her spine, straight to her clenching cunt.
"We'll fuck you into oblivion," Zoro promised, a merciless shine in his eye. "It seems to be the only language your stubborn brain understands."
All her thoughts screeched to a stop, and she watched him wide eyed.
Law's low chuckle didn't help at all.
Then Zoro's fingers returned to her pussy, stuffed with Law's cock. One by one, the swordsman slipped his fingers inside her, rocking them to the rhythm of Law’s shallow thrusts. Law was setting the pace until Zoro's fingers lined with his cock, gripping the length, and Zoro took control of Law's dick. Her leg was pushed wider, giving them all the access they needed.
"That's enough," Law almost growled. "Come here."
She knew what was coming, but her breath still hitched when Zoro's girthy cock poked her entrance and slipped in, stretching her impossibly wide.
The pressure was delicious, and her moans bounced from the walls until Zorro was fully seated inside her. The moment they both moved, a scream of raw pleasure escaped her. Zoro silenced her with his demanding mouth, plunging himself deep inside her with both his cock and his tongue.
The pressure, the fricktion, the pleasure was too much. She couldn't stop screaming; it was beyond her control. A hand wrapped itself around her throat and squeezed, silencing her screams. The pressure on her throat, the restricted blood flow to her head, the crazed thrusting of two cocks inside her, it sent her flying. The orgasm that hit her was an out-of-body experience. The pleasure sent her high into the atmosphere, only to let her crash hard. 
Her face was wet with tears while deep sobs shook her whole body. She felt so good, it was too much to process, and her body crashed.
Gentle hands stroked her hair and brushed away her tears. Soft lips left reassuring kisses on her temple and her wet cheeks. A calloused hand stroked her belly and her tights. Then a warm tongue caressed her oversensitive pussy, soothing her quivering core with delicate laps. A full-body shiver shook her, and a deep sob escaped her lips. After that she began to settle with every kiss and stroke. Finally, a broken sigh left her chest and she fell limp into Law's embrace.
"Oh my fucking god," she mumbled. "That was crazy."
She gasped when Zoro's lips closed over her clit and he sucked hard.
"What the fuck Zoro," she hissed. "Give me a break, I just died there for a hot second."
Fingers closed in a firm grip over her jaw and her head was tilted to face Law. That fucking smirk was still on his face. A foreboding feeling crawled through her chest.
"We're not done with you yet," Law's voice was so smooth it raised a quivering pang of arousal that made her whimper. She didn't know if she could keep going. She felt absolutely drained.
Zoro chuckled raspily and sucked mercilessly on her clit. 
"Oh fuck," she didn't know what she felt. She was too spent, but they were on a mission to kill her with orgasms, and she didn't have it in her to deny them. They would be gone soon, she wanted everything they were willing to give her.
Zoro sucked and stroked her clit until she was panting again, heat gathering between her legs once more. Then he licked down her pussy, dipping his tongue inside her, and she realised that he was licking her clean from both his and Law's cum. The thought made her clench all around Zoro's tongue to the point it felt painful. Her breath came out as a rasp. "Zoro," she moaned.
"It turns you on, doesn't it?" Law said against her ear with his sinfully sexy voice. "Him eating our cum, it makes you wild with lust."
"Yes," she confirmed, her eyes transfixed on Zoro.
The swordsman met her gaze and chuckled, sending delicious vibrations up her core. Her pussy clenched, dripping with new arousal, and this time Zoro moaned into her, sucking on her juices that flew out her clenching pussy. It was all still mixed with her mates' cum, and she nearly came, but Law chose that moment to sink his teeth into the juncture of her shoulder and neck. Pain shot through her, and she bucked wildly while more wetness flooded her core.
"Enough," Law ordered, and Zoro pulled back.
A broken whine escaped her lips, leaving her an absolute mess.
She watched as Zoro stood up and stepped towards the bed.
"Come on," Law loosened his hold and stood up, his kimono was a mess, sliding from his shoulders and hanging around his elbows, falling in cascades down his waist, making him look like a debauched sin.
Law let it drop to the floor while he stepped towards the futon. "Come, Rage, we're not finished yet."
She wanted to move, but her limbs felt too heavy, and with a failed effort to sit up, she slid to the floor with a groan.
"I think you broke me," she whined into the floor.
A pair of hands slipped under her arms, effortlessly hauling her upright. 
It was equally as hot as embarrassing. "Seriously, Law?"
He just smirked and threw her over his shoulder.
"I'm going to strangle you for this," she bristled.
He carried her to the bed, kneeled on the futon, then dropped her right into Zoro waiting arms.
"For fucks sake," she gritted through clenched teeth. She threw her hands out to soften the fall, but Zoro caught her firmly with his shark-like grin. She was pissed by the manhandling but the effortless display of their strength was fucking hot.
Zoro manoeuvred her over his cock and sank her down, filling her overstimulated pussy.
"You're so loose and wet," Zoro smiled sharply, thrusting up into her while holding her in place to prevent her from collapsing entirely on him. "I can hardly feel anything when I'm inside you."
 "Well, guess your dick's just too small," she shot back.
Zoro grin widened and he thrust up sharply, bringing her hips down at the same time. He hit that spot deep inside her that, for a short moment, blacked out her vision. He repeated that again and again until she was a mewling mess in his grip.
"Where's that smart mouth now?" Zoro laughed with a predatory smirk. "You seem to enjoy yourself while I still can't feel anything in that fucked out pussy of yours."
"Let me fix that," she heard Law's smug words before two slick fingers slipped into her ass.
The strangled moan that escaped her made both men chuckle. She was going to kill them.
Law didn't give her any time to gather herself; after just a few strokes he slipped a third finger inside her. The stretch balanced on the verge of pleasure and pain, and her breath sped up, while her blood pumped faster. Law's fingers retreated before she was pushed forward into Zoro's muscled chest, her face smashing between his gorgeous titties.
She giggled stupidly, reaching up to squeeze his pecs together, burying her face between them.
"The fuck you think you're doing?" Zoro sounded indignant.
"You've got bigger boobs than me, gotta appreciate a pair of fine tiddies," she flashed him a cheeky smile, which was met with a glare.
A loud slap echoed in the room, and sharp pain spread all over her buttock.
"I think we fucked her stupid," Law commented with an amused tone. "Take a deep breath, Rage."
She felt the tip of his cock nudging her barely touched ass.
"Are you serious, Law?" she sputtered, twisting her head to glare at the surgeon. "I'm not pre-"
She was shoved again against Zoro's chest. Two fingers were shoved into her pussy along Zoro's dick, and a thumb slipped into her lubed ass. She gasped when Law moved his hand, pressing his thumb down to stretch her ass.
"You've forgotten your place, for a moment there," his voice was filled with a warning. "You're going to take it all."
A heavy hand landed on her bottom with a loud slap. The pain shot through her muscles, and a heavy arousal uncoiled in her core. Realisation hit her with another slap when Zoro grabbed her wrists and folded her arms behind her back.
"I was going to slowly,' slap, "gently,” slap, "tease you open with the tip of my cock. You would've been a moaning mess underneath me," slap. "But you doubted we could take care of you properly, didn't you?" Slap. "I guess you wouldn't understand until you're reduced to a moaning, obedient mess." Slap.
Her ass was on fire. Zoro was holding her still while his cock twitched inside her after every slap, and Law's fingers were still inside her, stretching her out.
"I'm sorry," she sobbed into Zoro's chest. "Take me, please, take me raw, I need the burn, the pain."
"No."
Slap.
The fingers were gone.
Zoro's breath hitched at the same moment she felt Law's tongue on her stuffed pussy. The fingers were back, circling her entrance along with Law's tongue. The motion was slow and teasing, until the fingers slipped lower. She couldn’t feel them anymore, but Zoro's breath hitched, and he threw his head back. Law's lips  focused on Zoro's cock, just barely touching her pussy.
She watched Zoro, transfixed. She was sure Law was fingering the swordsman, while sucking on his cock, which was still stuffed into her.
"Oh my god," she whispered. She couldn't take her eyes off the swordsman. 
The pillow underneath his head suddenly vanished causing his head to hit the futon. 
"Pull her up," Law instructed, and her hips were hauled higher. Zoro's dick almost slipped out of her pussy. "Move your ass up." Zoro's hips slammed into her, showing his cock deep inside her. The swordsman relaxed but his hips stayed in the same position as if propped on something. She swallowed heavily, when she heard a familiar crinkling sound of a condom being opened.
Zoro's gaze travelled over her shoulder, and he nodded once before throwing his head back with a guttural groan. She was then hauled from Zoro's chest into a sitting position, her back hitting Law's chest. One of his hands wrapped around her jaw, while the other held her waist firmly in place.
"Look at him. See how good he takes my cock?" Law all but growled into her ear.
Her mind was reeling, while her pussy clenched around Zoro's furiously twitching cock.
Law's hips retreated before snapping forward with a loud slap. Zoro's hands fisted the sheets.
"Zoro," Law barked with a sharp thrust. "Hands above your head, and keep them there."
With another sharp thrust, he stopped abruptly until Zoro grabbed the edge of the futon just above his head. His chest arched in a delicious display of muscle while his hard nipples shot into the air. She craved to close her mouth around those tempting nipples, suck on them until Zoro writhed underneath her in an overstimulated agony. But she couldn't move, couldn't touch the swordsman because Law was holding them both in place. Physically, he restrained her, and Zoro willingly surrendered to the invisible restraints of Law's will.
Then Law started fucking Zoro in earnest and her mouth went dry.
She watched Zoro straining underneath her, trying to buck inside her, only to groan loudly when Law thrust harder. She couldn’t move, held firmly in place while only Law's hips slapped tirelessly against her ass, driving his cock into their mate. She only could imagine how Law's ass looked while moving incessantly back and forth. If she could watch them both, she was sure she would come untouched. But she could only watch Zoro's straining body, feel Law's breath against her ear while listening to the slew of filthy words that came out of the surgeon's mouth.
"It could've been you," Law rasped. "But he has to pick up your slack. He just wanted our cocks stuffed into both your holes. He would've felt my cock moving in your ass, fucking you both. And look at him now. He gets my dick all to himself. Look how he loves getting his ass pounded." Law picked the pace, thrusting faster. Her pussy clenched around Zoro's cock. "Will you come for me, Zoro? You'll be good for me, won't you?"
"Oh, fuck," came Zoro's strangled response, before he lost it. His cock twitched and pumped hot cum into her waiting pussy.
"Yes, that's what I wanted to see." Law gloated and released her.
She immediately went to Zoro, catching his lips in a needy, apologetic kiss. He groaned into the kiss but slipped his hand into her hair and kissed her languidly, savouring his afterglow. His cock slowly softened in her pussy, and she felt his cum seeping out of her.
"Mmmm..." Zoro hummed, pulling her back by the hair. He caught her gaze, and smiled a lazy, content smile. "That felt great. It would've been even better if Law would've cum inside me. I love the feeling when it flows out."
Tears stung her eyes as a broken moan left her lips.
"Do you want it?" Zoro asked, holding her gaze with a satisfied smirk. "Do you want him to fill your ass with cum?"
"Yes! I want it!" she replied instantly, desperation lacing her words.
"Maybe he should fuck you with a rubber. When he wrecks you, I'll suck him off, and let him come down my throat," Zoro's smile grew feral.
"No! Please! I want everything! Everything you have to give, I want it all, please," she pleaded, her voice breaking into a moan.
"Will you be a good girl for us?" Zoro asked, brushing her hair from her face.
She nodded fiercely, swallowing a sob. "Yes, I'll be good for you."
Zoro's gaze left her face. "What do you think, Law?"
"I think I need a bit more convincing," Law's amused tone filled the room. "Come here, Rage."
Zoro released her so she could crawl off him, groaning when his cock slipped from her pussy. She turned to Law who was kneeling on the futon, fisting his bare, hard cock. She crawled to him on her hands and knees, tilting her head to take his cock in her mouth.
"That's a good girl," Law praised. "Now, take me all the way to the base and stick your ass out."
She did as she was told, pushing her ass up, and relaxing her throat to take in Law's cock until her nose buried in his pubic hair. She swallowed, her throat flexing around his long cock. He hummed in appreciation, and put his hand on the back of her head, stroking her hair gently. When she wanted to move her head back to take a breath, he held her down until she choked. Only then he released her. Her throat burned, tears streamed from her eyes but she moved to take him again. She wanted to choke on his cock again. They continued until her face was a mess and she was panting heavily. She didn’t want to stop, but Law held her in place. He slipped the tip of his cock between her lips, ordering her to suck and lick it. And she did, as if her life depended on it.
A wet tongue liked her ass, and her breath hitched in surprise. Wide hands grabbed her ass and held her in place while Zoro ate her out.
"Hurry up," Law ordered the swordsman. "I think she deserves a reward for her effort."
Zoro's hot tongue was replaced with two of his lubed fingers. They slipped easily into her and just after a few thrusts she wanted to ask for more, but Law held his cock in her mouth, preventing her from speaking. She moaned like a wanton whore, desperately needing more.
Finally Zoro added another finger, which her ass swallowed greedily, and soon she wanted more, all four fingers or his whole fist, or his cock. All, she wanted it all. Zoro laughed and removed his fingers. He lined up his cock and only pushed inside when she exhaled.
When he was all in she moaned with relief. The stretch was delicious, pleasure exploded inside her, intensifying with every thrust. She gripped the sheets and pushed back, meeting Zoro’s every thrust, chasing her orgasm. She was right about to reach her climax when the cock was pulled out of her and she was hauled up to a kneeling position. 
Law was crowding her with that unbearing smirk. He gripped her waist and another set of hands held her hips. They manoeuvred her until she was straddling Zoro's hips, sinking on his cock while facing Law.
Her walls clenched in anticipation. She wanted Law inside her, she craved for his cock to fill her pussy. The moment Law urged her to lean back, she obeyed him eagerly. Her back was pressed flush against Zoro's chest, her ear next to the swordsman's mouth.
"Tell him how much you want him," Zoro's lips brushed her earlobe when he spoke.
"Please, Law, I want you to fill me up," the words left her mouth without thinking. "I want you inside me so much."
The surgeon kneeled between Zoro's spread legs and leaned over her, the smirk still lingering on his face, but a mischievous glint in his eyes made her breath catch.
She couldn't look away from his piercing gaze. Her eyes grew huge when his cock prodded her ass. A moan unwillingly escaped her mouth.
"Yes, yes," she gasped. "Yes, fill me up."
Law's smirk grew teasing, while he barely slipped his cock into her ass. Her breath caught in her chest and Law withdrew.
"You have to breathe, or I won't do what you asked for," he teased her, but to her it sounded like a threat.
"No, please don't stop, I'll be good," she pleaded, while Zoro chuckled into her ear.
Law's cock slid back into her ass, right next to Zoro's, but only just. The moment he was inside, he pulled out and then was sliding back in just a sliver further than the last time. It was agony. His movement was so slow and gentle, he barely made any progress. She wanted him to go deeper, to fill her up completely, to claim her every way possible.
She bucked her hips trying to push him deeper.
Sharp pain pierced through her, when his open palm slapped her clit. She cried out in surprise while hot, throbbing pain splashed all over the front of her pussy.
Heavy desire uncoiled in her belly, while all her focus spiralled to that one point of throbbing pain. "More," she begged hoarsely.
Her eyes locked with Law's, pleading with her whole body for him to continue. She wanted this so much; she needed him to punish her. She craved for her mind to go to that place where she couldn't think, just exist and feel.
Another slap landed on her clit and pain burst through her. The golden gaze bore into her savouring the sight before another slap came. She should have counted every slap, but she lost her focus when Zoro started moving, shoving his cock deep inside her ass. The slaps came one after the other without mercy. Then another cock pushed into her, and her mind stopped working. The slaps stopped, two cocks moved inside her while a hand was wrapped around her throat, restricting the blood flow and she was floating. Slaps landed on her breasts. Pain mixed with ecstasy. There was nowhere to run and she didn't want to. She surrendered to the onslaught of sensations, letting it all flow through her. Letting it all be done to her, while she could just exist, no thoughts, no worries, no plans, just pain and pleasure building inside her until the world exploded and sent her flying. She floated in the pleasure shared with two others. 
When she finally drifted back to her body she felt pleasantly numb, nothing mattered, while she laid on a soft futon with her mates surrounding her.
They didn't let her go for several days. Time seemed to blur between mind-numbing, filthy sex, eating, bathing, and collapsing from exhaustion. This was their goodbye, and she savoured every moment of it. The things they did to her were absolutely dirty. It wasn't anything she hasn't done before with other people, but it felt different and better with her mates.
"So have you decided to sail together?" she asked, lazily stroking Zoro's hair while laying half on top of Law.
"No," came Law's short response.
She furrowed her brows. "But you told me you'd be fucking me until I decided to go with you."
"Will you?" he asked.
"No," she replied quietly.
There was no stir in the bonds, no reaction to her words.
"I don't want to spend another minute with Straw Hat-ya," Law admitted after a while. "I'm done with his type of crazy."
She let out a small laugh while Zoro huffed in irritation.
"Don't badmouth my captain," the swordsman protested, though without any heat in his voice.
They settled into a comfortable silence, lazily enjoying the sated heaviness in their bodies.
"I think you should go together," Rage said, nuzzling into Law's neck. "Kid should sail with you, too."
"What are you talking about?" Law's voice was flat.
"Don't get cocky just because you took down Big Mom and Kaido. It was a group effort; you wouldn't have succeeded if you were on your own."
"Kaido and Big Mom are dead. The balance of power in the New World changed in our favour," Zoro grumbled, laying motionless with his head on Law's abs.
"There are exactly three routes you can take to sail away from Wano, and all your enemies know that too. They know you'll be sailing for Laugh Tale, so they can plan an ambush or just attack you in the open."
"Who would do that?"
"The World Government," she paused for a moment, unsure of how the information would land. "Shanks.”
Zoro snorted. "Out of everyone who would want to take us down, I think Shanks is the least of our worries."
"Why? Just because he gave Luffy the hat?" Zoro just shrugged at her words. "Luffy was an inconvenience to Shanks from the moment he ate the devil fruit."
Her words seemed to bother Zoro enough for him to turn his head to look at her.
"Shanks stole the devil fruit from the World Government. Now that I think about it, he must have known that the fruit was something very special. Maybe he even planned to eat it himself to become Joy Boy. He knew that only Joy Boy could claim One Piece. Now he knows that Luffy is the key. All he needs is to meet Luffy on Laugh Tale and take One Piece for himself."
Zoro's intense gaze was focused on her, but he didn't say anything. He briefly locked eyes with Law and then a predatory smirk stretched his lips.
"I think you had enough rest if you have the energy to worry so much."
Their time together passed in a lustful haze and they couldn't get enough of each other.
But it all came to an end with a knock on the frame of the paper door.
"Captain," came Penguin's voice. "The Straw Hats and the Kid Pirates are preparing for departure."
"Zoro," Usopp sounded like he would like to be anywhere else then standing on the other side of the door to their room. "Luffy said it's time to go."
The swordsman grunted in confirmation.
"Give me a minute," Law replied, reaching for his kimono that was discarded on the floor for several days.
"We'll wait for you outside," Penguin announced.
"Rage," Usopp sounded unsure. "Will you come to the dock to say goodbye?"
"Sorry," she replied, her mouth going suddenly dry. "I don't do goodb-"
"She'll be there," Law cut her off while his golden gaze pinned her in place. "Don't even think you'll just turn on your heel and hide somewhere instead of seeing us off."
Her stomach dropped, and she felt a lump forming in her throat as she got choked up.
"I want to see you standing on that dock when I'll be sailing away," Law's voice was firm, and so was his side of the bond.
She couldn't refuse him, even if the sight of him leaving, them both leaving, would break her heart.
She weakly nodded, then got dressed and followed them to the dock.
She noticed Rita following them, then she spotted Maya waving at her as she headed towards the dock. To her surprise, all the Raging Witches were already there, some of them mingling with the pirates and saying their goodbyes.
She saw Mira sitting on a barrel, glaring daggers at Luffy. She figured Mira was pissed at him for not keeping the promise he made to her. It was an unreal request anyway.  Even if Mira was willing to forgive him, Rage would never forget what he did. She wouldn't trust him ever again. Even if he managed to defeat Kaido in the end, Luffy proved to be a reckless fool. He would never change and she didn't want to be weighed down by him. She only hoped Zoro would survive the journey with his captain.
She caught Zoro's hand and leaned their foreheads together.
"I hope you'll make your dream come true," she said softly.
His hand grabbed the back of her head.
"I will," he replied. "And so will you."
She barely held back her tears. She nodded silently, not trusting her voice.
He let her go and reached for Law, kissing the surgeon fiercely. "See you on Laugh Tale."
"I'll be there first," Law replied with a cocky smirk.
Zoro laughed and without another word turned towards his ship and walked away.
She almost ran after the swordsman if Law didn't turn her to face him.
His gaze was so gentle her heart clenched. Swallowing her tears, she hugged him tightly with her arms wrapped around his neck.
"I love you," she choked out.
"I love you too," Law replied, wrapping his arms around her and lifting her from the ground. "Don't overuse your devil fruit, ok? I want to spend my whole life with you."
Again, all she could do was nod.
Law put her down, and she let him go. He caressed her cheek, gazing deep into her eyes before he turned around and walked towards his ship.
She was left alone, her heart silently breaking apart.
Slim fingers twined with hers, and she glanced to her side. Mira was standing by her side, understanding painted in her brown eyes.
"You good?" Reid asked as she wrapped her arm around Rage's shoulder.
"No," she replied, her eyes watering.
"They're an awfully loud bunch," Veronica stood beside Reid and nodded towards Straw Hats. They were gathered by the broadside, waving at her. Usopp, Sanji, Chopper and Franky were shouting their goodbyes, while Robin smiled a bit sadly. Nami and Luffy were nowhere in sight until Momonosuke showed up. The shogun was offended that everyone was leaving without saying a word, then he was crying, and Rage didn't bother to follow his conversation with Luffy. She switched her gaze between Law and Zoro, battling herself to stay in place. She didn't want them to go! They were her mates.
Mira squeezed her hand in support when the ships pushed from the dock. Tears were streaming down her face while she willed herself to stand still.
The ships moved towards the waterfall instead of heading towards the safe pass down the mountain, and she held her breath when all three ships dropped from the edge. It was a dangerous drop! Why did they do that?!
"Rage!!!!" Luffy was in the air, gear fourth activated. His arms extended, catching the edge of the dock. "I challenge you for leadership of the Raging Witches!"
He slammed into the dock, showering her with a barrage of haki-reinforced punches.
She caught a fist to the sternum and it sent her flying.
Shit! He wasn't pulling his punches!
She rolled on the ground, evading another lightning-fast punch.
“Fuck!” she cursed under her breath. The punch left a hole in the ground.
Reinforcing her arms and legs with haki, she barely managed to block another punch and a kick. He was too fast for her to do anything more than blocking and she struggled to keep up. 
Fuck, fuck, fuck. Desperate curses streamed through her mind.
She grabbed handfuls of dirt when she made a flip to gain some distance and she threw it into his eyes.
She was not loosing her team to fucking Luffy.
She focused on the devil fruit while he was shaking the dirt from his eyes.
"If I win, your crew is mine," she shouted, focusing on the awakened technique. It was risky, but she knew it might be worth it.
The ground beneath her feet started to roll and shift, disturbing her focus.
Then a manicked laugh caught her attention. Luffy's hair was white.
"You're mine," were the last words she heard before the world erupted in pain and faded away.
17 notes · View notes