#I didn’t proof read this properly cause I’ve not been feeling great lately | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

wizkiddx · 3 years

Text

a friendly face

a lil one inspired from seeing the recent interviews abt cherry - yes im a couple days late but am very slow. This is basically stolen and adapted from another of my stories so I don't think there's any bits left over by my dyslexic proof reading isnt that great so apologies!!! very speech heavy so sorry am trying to balance my writing more

Summary: Tom is having a hard time filming Cherry and dealing with the emotional baggage of it, so Harry recruits someone to make everything that little bit better.

tomhollandxreader

fluff and a little angst I guess?

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Harry, Tom and their driver Sian where all sitting in the car having left the set 20 minutes ago, heading back to their accommodation. Or more precisely, Harry and Sian sat in the two front seats- Harry only in the front as to allow Tom to lie down across the three back seats. He was asleep, or at least looked asleep, but Harry knowing his brother so well knew he was just wishing he was. The day had been torturous for Tom, they’d been filming a hospital sequence in which his character was heart broken. The sequence had involved him being thrown onto the floor multiple times, by a heavy handed stunt double who was not nearly as precise as those he’d worked with at ‘marvel’. Furthermore, there was also multiple scenes of him having to properly cry on camera, which although it sounds tame, is one of the hardest things you can ever ask an actor to do. At least, someone who commits half as much as Tom. For him to show that emotion, he had to go back to a place in his life where he didn’t really ever want to venture again. But even then, this character was such a fuck up, he had to do deeper. He felt completely drained, emotionless and cold. But he couldn’t sleep, not for the guilt he felt for being short with everyone on set- he had never been like that before, he just felt like no one was respecting or understanding what he was going through. So instead he just lay on his side, facing the backs of the leather seats, arms folded in stubbornness- even if he had no idea why.

“Tom?…Tom, I know you’re awake… Look, we need to make a quick stop. You gotta come out.” Harry was actually slightly nervous his brother would just point blank refuse, even if he needed this so bad.

“I just need to get back to the apartment. Please Harry. Can’t we do it tommorrow?” The desperation dripping off Tom’s voice actually pained Harry to listen to. He knew Tom was having a crisis about how he treated everyone today, so chose to ignore his please in favour of some assurance.

“You know everyone understands… They just kept asking me if you were alright?” Harry could see the guilt radiating off Tom. It hurt him to see his big brother like this.

“Please… I just need to get back” His small voice barely made it to the front of the car, but Harry heard it all.

“It will take 2 minutes tops, I had a delivery but I need a hand carrying it, come on” Harry spoke as Sian turned on the indicator to pulled up next to the sidewalkpavement; the car slowing to a gentle halt. Tom didn’t reply, instead huffing as he used the head rest of the middle seat to pull himself up. Already out the car, Harry opened the door for him waiting patiently, because Harry knew he would be a hundred times better off in just a few moments.

“What the hell have you even ordered that’s so big?” Tom sighed while ducking through the door into the cold Cleveland air, keeping his eyes on the sidewalk as Harry motioned for him to follow his feet.

“Oh um don’t know, a good friend sent it actually” Harry tried to hide the grin that was spread over his face from showing in his voice, as he saw a very familiar head of hair running toward them.

“What friend?” Tom looked up sassily toward Harry, shortly questioning who would send Harry a parcel from England that was too big to be delivered or carried by himself. Only then, nearly 5 metres away from Sian in the car, did Tom look up to see where they were. It wasn’t the nearest post office or delivery warehouse - they were at the airport. “Harry what’s going on?” Tom questioned with a low and warning voice, skipping a step or two in order to catch up with his younger brother.

“We’re collecting her” Harry smiled as he nodded forward. Following his gaze with eyes wide open, Tom turned forward just in time to see Y/h/c flying over his face as he was engulfed by someones arms. Immediately sensing exactly who this was, Tom did not hesitate to wrap his arms around your waist and push his head into your neck. Smelling the familiar perfume, Tom couldn’t help but scoff, allowing a the jerky breath to leave his lungs as you arched away from the hug, cupping Tom’s face with both her hands.

“I’ve been reliably informed you could use a friendly face” you smiled, noticing his raw emotions threatening to overtake him, so swiftly pressing just pressing your lips onto his. Seemingly frightened to move, Tom barely reacted to the kiss, so you pushed and deepened into it a little more- till you felt him relaxing against you. With that, you arched away again and smiled massaging his stubbly hair behind his left ear.

“How are you here?” He croaked staring deeply at her, switching between her left and right eye as if that somehow would confirm that this was real, not some cruel dream he was having.

“Someone somewhere knew you were in need and bought me a plane ticket over… I’m coming home with you on monday” You grinned while watching Tom’s eyes light up, he leaned in again to your lips instead of replying.

“Er-cuh-huh” Harry loudly cleared his throat, causing the two to pull away from each other. “Sorry to interrupt, but Sian isn’t really allowed to stop there long sooo” They both nodded, before Tom lunged at his brother, holding him close and whispering thanks too. It was clear this was at least partly Harry’s doing, and he could never thank his brother enough.

“Umm.. as much as I’m enjoying this brotherly love we really do have to get back in the car” Harry awkwardly spoke as he almost pushed Tom off him.

“Awww my favourite little brother being all mature” You giggled, taking your turn to hug Harry, admittedly a little shorter than Tom’s, but still with lots of gratitude.

“Please get stop loving me and get back into the car!” Harry yelled as he stormed off to Sian, leaving both you and Tom in fits of laughter. Grasping each others hand simultaneously the laughter continued as you followed Harry down the street to the car.

Seeing you standing there; feeling your arms wrapped round his neck ; hearing your oh so sweet voice had Tom feeling…. Feeling lighter. It was as though your mere presence gave him the strength to carry all the things that were previously weighing him down like a truck. What was extraordinary though, was how it wasn’t just psychological. He literally felt his joints feel looser, he felt his body flood with warmth and he felt his heart calming down. When you’d first been getting close to each you’d had rather the opposite effect. Which was surprising because that was at the point Tom had never felt more confident - he had just returned form a avengers press tour, where naturally everyone had just loved him and played up to his every whim. He had legions of girls, some of them drop dead gorgeous where falling at his feet. And yet, when he met you it was as though he was transported back into his incredibly awkward teenage years. It was infuriating, he knew he could act cool and unbothered and smooth however as soon as you stood informant of his it was like his mind melted, filling it with utter gibberish and garble. In fact, he was plainly floored by you - how kind and pure hearted you were, how respectful and how you found hhis jilted flirting adorable and not to forget how drop dead gorgeous you are.

It had taken a while and a hell of a lot of opening up, but over time he found the opposite happening. Your presence became something else entirely, not one that would put him on his toes and have his heart racing - more of a comfort. He slept better when you were beside him, his nerves never got the better of him if you were there to cheer him on. He could relax completely without any fear of judgement, any worry at all with you. What you had done is change the definition of something so fudemental and a given in life. You’d changed home from a place to something much more intangible. A person; a feeling; a connection. You were his home.

“Sian are we close?” You asked, turning your attention away from the two brothers annecdotes from filming, realising Sian must’ve been driving for about 30 minutes.

“Yep just the next right I think” Sian replied gently while turning the wheel as the indicator clicked.

“Where are we going?” Tom asked, looking first at you then pleadingly at Harry- knowing he had more of a chance with his brother.

“Well” You started and he whipped his head back round “I know it’s late and you’ve been working all day, but you have alater 10 o’clock call time tomorrow instead of 6, so this is the best night to do something. We found a driving range-with heaters” which was a very important factor since Cleveland was bloody freezing “- that we thought you’d like to play a game or two?” The massive smile in response meant you’d hit the nail on the head.

“And soz but I’m crashing the game otherwise- and no offence, but you would win waayyyy toooo easy Tom” Harry butted in and sniggered as he interrupted the lovey-dovey stares. You gasped at that in mock offence, holding your hand over your chest.

“Oi you, Paddy has been teaching on the Holland boys days out you both missed- I’ll have you know I now am aware that you have to get the ball into the hole, not a goal as previously thought.”

The boys both groaned in unison and Y/n wiggled her eyebrow grinning, elbowing Tom slightly in the side. “Things might have changed since you left you know?”

Yet another thing Tom loved so completely about you, was how effortlessly you had fitted into his family. Honestly, none of the Hollands could imagine life without you anymore - especially Nikki, who had quite literally attempted adopting you so she officially wasnt the only female in the immediate family. Sam used you as an expert taster for all his marvellous culinary creations (even if your judgement was always the same, it was very good); Dom often ended up picking your brains about your work, he found you ‘actual proper’ job as a doctor simply amazing , where all his family had never been especially acadmeically gifted; and Paddy just plain saw you as his older sister. So it was hardly surprising at all that when two of their actual kids flew across the world , you’d been the obvious placeholder. Yes, golf was most definitely your forte - but you were enthusiastic, with a positive (if flightily misguided) give it a go attitude.

The try-try-and-try-again attitude that never really worked … until Paddy taught you how to hit a clean drive.

“I am not joking, I am asking the lady at the desk there’s no way!”

“Tom you are the worst looser I have ever met! I didn’t cheat, I’ve just taken up a new hobby”

“There is no way Tom… no way she can get that good” Harry huffed as he ran straight past you to catch up with Tom, making sure that you did see the harsh glare he shot him. The outrage that Y/n had beaten them both at the driving range was way worse than anything you could’ve predicted- now you sort of were wishing you’d let them win. Oh wait…. Of course you weren’t - this was priceless. Especially their faces when you’d launched your first ball super accurately inn the centre of the second furthest away target. They had reacted as if you had just stripped butt naked, you thought; standing their jaws hanging with a look of almost fear in their eyes.

“You could see the balls land with your own eyes! Practice makes perfect!”

“Thats not fair though! It took you like 8 weeks to be like that?”

“I mean you were obviously just taught by the wrong Holland, Paddy’s a pretty good teacher!” You smiled as your trio turned the corner and walked through reception, seeing Harry desperate to ask the receptionist but Tom just looking over his shoulder to give a hurt look to at you.

“I’m going to ban you from being closer to my brothers than me”

“I can’t help if he’s cuter then you alright?” You smirked and raised an eyebrow, as Tom stopped in his tracks and turned to face you.

“That’s it… your gonna get it” he spoke in a low voice, with a mischievous look in his eye, abruptly he launched himself at you - barely having time to swerve away from him and start a sprint towards the exit, giggling as you took a glance back to see Tom chasing you out, Harry quickly in tow too.

“Your not allowed to beat me at golf!” In a jokey voice, you heard Tom yell, just as you reached the sleek black 4x4 and hurdling yourself into it.

“I’m in the car it’s a no fight zone!” You cowered in the corner,back pressed up against the opposite door and arms crossed to make an ‘x’ sign in front of her body.

“That is not how it works” Tom and Harry grinned from the open door. As fast as lightning they both vaulted in and started tickling you, making you screech curses at the two of them.

“Alright alright kids, no fighting while I’m driving thats an order.” Sian calmly spoke, trying to hide the laughter from her voice, as the two men retreated and helped to pull you up from the position half on the floor that your squirming had gotten you to.

“Get off my leg Tom… arghhh… thanks Sian, I’m sorry they’re so moody, I just whipped their asses at golf”

“You’re here to make me feel better right? Not doing a good job so far” Tom’s snide remark meant you scrunched up your nose while plugging her seatbelt in, making sure to jab Tom’s side hard as you did so.

“How did I end up sandwiched in between you two twats then?” You grinned from the middle seat as Harry just rolled his eyes looking out the window, and Tom gave you a loving smile- not able to hide his relief of your presence.

“Think it’s about a 40 minute drive you gotta enjoy” Sian smiled looking at you via the rear view mirror, to which Tom couldn’t quite stifle the yawn that escaped.

After all he had done much more than the typical 9-5 hours work, and the golfing was an unexpected addition to the already long day. His excitement and just pure joy at having you here had made him forget about It all for a couple of hours - but now his exhaustion was catching up with him with a vengeance. Instinctively you wrapped you arm round Tom and in doing so pulled him into your side.

“Get some rest huh?” You whispered into his forehead, and all Tom could do was reply with a weary nod, letting his eyes slip close to the constant beat of Ally’s heart. You immediately sensed Tom was properly out of it, and contented yourself looking out his window for a few minutes, before you felt something heavy briefly whack your other shoulder. Jumping a little at the contact, you looked round to see Harry’s head bobbing side to side in a light slumber. In the midst of worry for Tom, you hadn’t realised the kid had been doing the same long hours as him. Plus dealing with Tom and being Tom’s support, which surely took it out of him. Harry had always been ‘the most important brother’ in your eyes. Just because Tom trusts him so implicitly and completely, they had an understanding only real brothers could get to but also extended far beyond blood. When you’d first been introduced Harry had been colder to you. It wasn’t personal though, he just wanted to be sure on you and your intentions with Tom because as he well knew often when people saw Tom they didn’t just see an opportunity for love. It was an opportunity for a lifestyle, for fame, for relevance. Harry took a while before he trusted you but now you were miles and miles beyond that point. So now, being at a stage with Harry where he was phoning you to come and fly out to save Tom (and him too). It was not to be taken lightly. Therefore, you gently pressed your hand to Harrys face and pushed him to lean against her other shoulder too- hoping to cure the dark circles under his eyes a little bit too.

You were quite content for the rest of the journey, feeling warmth radiate through your body as the two men breathed deeply and calmly either side of you. You sort of didn’t want the car journeyer to end - but sure enough it wasn’t long till Sian was pulling into the hotel entrance.

“Get you a girl that can do both, beat yo ass at golf and look after your family” Sian whispered as she handed the phone back to you, after having taken some of your favourite ever photos, the 2 boys asleep on your shoulders while you pulled a variety of different faces. Smiling back at Sian, you then sighed-knowing she had to wake the two up, given their exhaustion you didn’t really want to either.

“Boys…boys… hey let’s get you both into bed yeh?” You spoke softly, gently raising your shoulders in order to disturb them both. Harry’s head immediately shot up, his eyes puffy and half open, but a sheepish look on his face as he realised how he was sleeping. Just responding with a smile that said it was all okay, before you turned her attention to Tom- forever stubborn to wake up, at least nothing had changed there.

“Come on Tom, can’t have you sleeping in the car all night” You pushed again, this time lifting Tom’s head, earning a very deep groan as his eyes slid open and he pushed against the movement. It was at this point Harry slammed the car door shut, making Tom jump out of his skin, you loosing the hope of any serene wakeup call. Rubbing Toms arm, relaxing the tension now present in his body you encouraged him once again. “Come on lets get inside mister”

His hotel room was exactly what you’d expect for an a-lister and lead actor in a million pound film. Large, modern, squeaky clean and posh. It was almost too big to be filled by one person though, Tom had always found it a bit cold and just not cosy - why he opted to spend the majority of his down time either fast alseep or in somebody else’s company. Both of those also stopped him getting too much in his head - or more accurately in his characters head. Cherry was a weird character and from interviewing all the veterans and lengthy discussion of his past, Tom almost felt as if he had in some small way experienced what Cherry had. Felt what Cherry did. Thought like Cherry did.

And that was a sure fire way to fuck yourself up.

Now, with you here in his room haphazardly digging through your case, if felt warmer. The cold but brilliant white lights seemed to have softened to a gently warm glow that bounced off your skin and made your figure look almost angelic to Tom. You were his home.

“What are you waiting for?” You mused while turning away from your (now) inside out suitcase, proudly carrying her pyjamas which you had found hidden at the bottom the whole time- not the most practical packing in the world. All the while Tom sat on his bed, back leaning against the headboard and arm bent behind his head too.

“Just thinking that I need to go through all the scenes for tomorrow” A monotonous tone laced his voice, for he knew he couldn’t spend the night the way he really wanted to, safely wrapped up with you.

“Oh… well let’s go through it together then hey? We will be done in no time; but if you want we can go over them again tomorrow morning.” It was a practical suggestion, a helpful action you could implement - even if you had a feeling Tom wouldn’t just agree. Since his lines clearly weren’t the only thing on his mind this evening.

“Yeh but everyone on set is already sick of me after today… I can’t be being shit as well as horrid” his voice was small as the memory of how he snapped at some of the extras had him cringing inwardly at himself. He shouldn’t have been that rude, shouldn’t have blurted it out, should of offered a solution rather than just critiquing.

“Hey would you kindly shut it? No one is sick of you, everyone is just ready for christmas and missing their families. Now get changed” Your soft tone turning into an imperative order, as you threw his pyjama bottoms at the him, smashing into his face before falling into his lap.

“Oi” he shouted, but followed instructions and stood up reaching round to pull his hoodie off. Stood shirtless, his side was exposed to the now changed you, the sight making you gasp and clamber over the bed to gently touch Tom’s back. You followed the outline of an impressive patch of bruising, stretching from the bottom edge of his shoulder blade all the way to his hip.

“Tom, what the hell happened?” Whispering in fear, Tom turned round to face you, seeing your eyes watering up as you kept glancing at his back. He was littered in a variety of purple, yellow and slightly green marks on the whole of his left flank. It looked like a minor crush injury, not something a pampered actor gets after a day of filming infront of tens of people including an onset medic and health and safety risk assessor.

“What?” Tom asked before turning to the mirror and looking back over his shoulder to see the bruises for himself. He hadn’t expected the ache to look that bad. “oh - I - er… Today the scene, I get smashed to the floor by someone and I kept doing it wrong so we had to do it lots I guess.” He looked away and down at your feet, not being able to meet his girlfriends eyes suddenly. You just nodded, trying to blink back the tears- he had truly been broken by this role both physically and now mentally- he hadn’t even put a stop to the constant and clearly severe pain.

“Put your stuff on” your voice was muted, as you waited for Tom to get prepared. He turned around again and then replaced his trousers and quickly pulled a top on to hide the marks, suddenly embarrassed. In the silence the sound of his clothes dropping to the floor, then of him sitting on the bed again- throwing his legs over so now he mirrored your position - the sounds were pretty defeaning.

“I love you so much….” Barely whispering, you suddenly ripped the duvet out from under you both holding it over you as you swung a leg over Tom so you straddled him, slightly leaning over him and letting the blanket rest on top of your back.In your position you looked down in an almost scary way to his warm brown eyes. Tom swore you were literally reading his thoughts, your intense gaze absolutely crumbling any walls he thought he’d be able to hold up. Pressing a gentle peck to his lips you then whispered onto his lips, letting him feel your words as well as hear them. “ …So that’s why we are going to sleep right now and you can worry about all of that tomorrow”

“Y/n I-“

“Your safe with me.” You were not standing for his nexuses and arguments, as you slid down his body - ending with your head resting on his chest, you legs tangled with his. Once you’re properly rested you’ll learn them ten times faster than what you can now… Before you get ill I am telling you to take a break. I’m not going to let you not. So relax and-….Tom?” Ending with a whisper, you delicately lifted your head off his slowly rising chest to see your broken boyfriend already asleep; lips parted as soft snores crept through the silence. In reality as soon as you’d said that he was safe the exhaustion had completely over taken him. Desperately needing to recharge his batteries, no matter how much he had wanted to stay up and work late it could never really happen - at this point physically impossible.

“Sleep well Tom” she smiled, planting a kiss on his cheek with a sad smile.

///////////////////////////////////////////

The next day rolled around all too quickly, but the morning was much better than any of the past couple of months because you were together. Tom, having had a solid 7 hours of sleep compared to his normal 5, was for once ready for the day. He’d gone through the script with a certain someones help in record time, and now the three were just pulling up at the set.

“You’ve been awful quiet this car ride…” you grinned as she clasped Tom’s hand across the empty seat, making Harry turn around and give you a warning glance. Oops. In a moment where Tom went to the loo at breakfast, Harry had fully disclosed everything that had happened on set yesterday- especially the burst of anger. So naturally, Tom was feeling nervous and scared to face everyone.

“It will be fine I promise… and if not tell them I’m your personal body guard- no one will be rude to you if me and Harry are ready to attack” Tom let out a breathy nervous laugh, only then meeting your eyes.

“ A fly wouldn’t be threatened by you two. Harry would just take a photo while you’d check their pulse or something”

“Errrm” Harry furrowed his eyebrows as he contorted round from the front seat so Tom could see his disapproving look, meanwhile Tom was dodging your affectionate fake-slaps.

“Children we’re here” Sian sighed as she brought the car to a steady halt “and if you could get through the day without killing each other I’d appreciate it, otherwise I’m out of the job”

“Not promising anything when I’ve got these pair to deal with” Tom grinned as he opened the car door, before anyone else could retaliate.You laughed before quickly following suit, joining Tom at the front of the car and interlocking your fingers with Tom’s. Hesitating for a moment Harry took a second before unplugging and leaning for the door handle.

“You see what I mean?” Turning his head to look at Sian “It’s sickening how happy they are.”

“Yeh but your glad about it don’t lie” she grinned, before practically shooing the poor boy out her car.

“But dont tell them!” Shouting in reply, as the car was already pulling out.

Tom’s body seemed to tense more the closer you walked to the crew tent, you could feel the way he squeezed his shoulders back and his jaw tensed and untensed. There was little you could do apart from squeezing his hand that little bit tighter - further reiterating the fact you would always always be in his corner. Perhaps the most telling about Tom’s own character was how truly guilty he felt for the way he was with the crew. Normally, he was one of the most down to earth actors around - no trace of an ego or superiority complex. It didn’t matter if you were a cleaner or head of a multimillion dollar studio, Tom would pay both the same amount of respect. He always out that completely down to his upbringing and mum and dad, but even that was being humble. He was just a good person to the core, no one saw that more than you either. It’s part of love, you see the good and the bad parts of a person and promise to unashamedly love them all.

Just before you both had made it into the main tent, Tom was pulled away. “Oh Tom we wanted to talk to you about yesterday!” The familiar voice of Joe Russo called, as he and Anthony ran up to Tom from his left, giving a little nod of greeting to the actor, before falling in step with him.

“Morning, I-uh I wanted to apologise actually-“Tom was cut off while you hung back off to his right, not wanting to intrude on this conversation.

“No we should. The team were all being slow yesterday, and they were making some hard scenes harder on you. We really appreciate what you are putting yourself through for the sake of the film.”

“But still I acted like a brat and I’m sorry”

“Tom” Anthony spoke up for the first time. He was a man of limited words- but whenever he spoke everyone listened. “ You are one of the best, most-dedicated actors we’ve ever worked with. We’re all overtired, run down and ready for the holidays. You’re missing your family too. It’s already forgotten… So let’s just get on with the movie?” Tom smiled, pressing his lips together to stop their kindness overtaking his emotions. Tom always felt safe with the Russo’s. They’d dealt with him when he really just was a kid actor - overwhelmed and without a clue what was happening. They’d dealt with hiM adjusting to fame and the much bigger part Marvel seemed to want him to play in the future. They trusted him with this, most incredibly complex and also personal film for them. So when they spoke and they said it didn’t matter, Tom was much more likely to agree. Then proceeded the bro-hugs, as the men all showed they were good with each other.

“Well lets make a motherfucking movie!” Tom exclaimed once they broke the hug and the brothers laughed at him. “Oh where-d….” He muttered as he looked round before meeting your eyes, still standing rather awkwardly a couple of meters behind them. “ Joe, Anthony you remember Y/n?” Nodding and smiling the brothers beckoned you over; both greeting you with a warm handshake.

“Good to see you again!” You grinned and the directors responded nodding.

“We didn’t know you were coming! I would’ve made a list of all my doctor question for you.” Joe winked, knowing your pet-peeve was people asking you all their gory body questions as soon as they found out she was a doctor. You didn’t need to know about you dentists acid reflux issue, you didn’t need to know about your granny’s friend’s constipation, and you really really didn’t need to know about an old friends erectile dysfunction.

“Ha ha ha “ You rolled your eyes sarcastically “ and no it was a bit of a spontaneous trip, I just landed last night.” Throughout the whole of the exchange Anthony had taken an aloof stance, just observing you and Tom. Observing the bright smile Tom gave you, even when you were simply making small talk. The way he looked so much healthier, well rested and just happy, in the space of a single evening.

“I’m glad you’re here” Anthony basically interrupted the conversation, addressing you then immediately turning on his heel towards the set.

“Uhh right- get to make up we’ll call a cast meeting in a bit” Joe stammered, giving his brother a funny look before addressing Tom “ and we’ll have to have a proper catch up later.” You nodded in response, as Joe turned and did a half jog to catch up with his brother.

“That was weird!?” You frowned as you looked up at Tom. He explained the encounter in rather simplistic terms.

“That was Anthony.”

The morning was spent with Tom doing what he does best in front of the camera. They were shooting a larger scene for the army section of the movie, with at least 100 actual soldiers as extras, all geared up in full camo outfits. It was impressive, but also gave you a chance to meet Ciara - you’d been dying to meet her since Tom told you what a laugh she was. Fair to say you weren’t disappointed at all, you guys hitting it off instantly and you going as far as giving Ciara some embarrassing Tom stories that she could wind him up with in the future. Of course though, the main attraction was seeing Tom act first hand. Every time it astounded you, even though you knew that face so completely, in all his movies he fully had you believing he was someone else. It was mesmerising and you couldn’t be any prouder.

“You’re amazing! I seriously forgot how good you are!” You ran over as Joe Russo called cut to the end of the morning shoot.

“Well er thanks I guess” Tom furrowed his eyebrows as you wrapped him in a hug. He’d just canned a pretty hard scene and everyone was more than ready for a lunch break. You’s been watching from behind the cameras with Harry the whole time, after Tom gave you permission to sit in his special set chair.

“Seriously I’m very…. “ Her speech broken with an impressive yawn “….very proud of you.” In thanks Tom gave you a kiss first to your nose and then lips.

“I take it someones not adapting to jet lag?” He chuckled as he pulled away and cupped your face in his hands.

“Which I’m totally ashamed about considering I work night shifts… my body clocks supposed to be better than this” Angrily, you vented, frustrated at your own body when all you wanted to do was stays within reaching distance of Tom. Even if Tom had had the best sleep of this whole shoot last night, you’d been to over excited and enthralled just absorbing every little thing about him that you’d missed so much that you’d been wide awake the majority of the night. If you blamed you fatigue on jet lag alone, it would be an impressive lie.

“Go take a nap in my trailer… Harry can you take her?”

“Yes master” Harry bowed down and wobbled his head sarcastically, making you giggle.

“At least this way you get a break from him” You grinned to Tom’s brother, which Harry could only agree with. Giving Tom a parting kiss , you followed Harry away from set. It was at this point that Anthony excused himself from the monitors reviewing the footage, and approached Tom.

“Kid… that was great that scene.”

“Thanks mate, means a lot” Getting his directors approval forever reassured Tom, letting him relax his shoulders a bit as he nodded gratefully to Anthony.

“Well it’s just truth… so your girlfriend, Y/n right?”

“Yeh that’s her” Tom nodded, suddenly a little concerned as to where Anthony was going with this. You had met the Russo’s a number of times, and it never before seemed as though Anthony had an issue with you- at least to Tom’s knowledge.

“Right well um… you know how I don’t really get involved in all this stuff…” Tom nodded, folding his arms apprehensively. “But I just thought I should say that she’s really good for you.” Tom silently breathed a sigh of relief and waited for Anthony to get to the point. “Joe told me you had a rough patch at the beginning of the year so… I don’t know our industry is hard. And harder for you and her in the spotlight… Just seeing you with her today…Don’t be afraid to take the next steps with her…Don’t let her get away.” Tom was stunned to say the least. Anthony is the last person he had ever expected to get relationship advice from.

“I um yeh… I don’t know I hadn’t really thought about it. I mean we’ve been together for 2 and a bit years, well including the break… she means the world to me-“

“Well don’t waste it”

And that was the end of the conversation. Anthony turned to his trailer to get lunch and Tom just stood, replaying the conversation in his head. Weird to say the least.

But it did get the cogs turning. It did get Tom really seriously considering his future. Or rather considering your future together.

And that was for certain. It was you and him, always.

#tom holland #tom holland fluff #tom holland x reader #tomholland #Harry Holland #tom holland x y/n

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jae-canikeepyou · 4 years

Text

| hey m.v.p. | j.jh

pair: jaehyun x fem!reader

genre: fluff

a/n: okay. this is not the first that i’ve written a scenario based on basketball, so i hope this can maybe(?) make your hearts giddy again? also! it’s really not proof read nor well written but please do enjoy reading! hehehe 🥰 ~j.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

the continuous, long, ringing sound of the impact from the bouncing amber colored ball boasted its decibels at the outdoor mini court.

today was another date with your boyfriend; a varsity basketball player of the university. unlike most couples, girls would wait for their darlings to finish a game. for you however, would join him for a one-on-one match. serious or not he’d always let you play; not because he would go easy on you, but because you knew how to take on his challenge.

jaehyun called a timeout, noticing how heavy you exhaled and your lungs struggled to catch breath. he tossed you a bottle and you gladly took it to quench yourself. he watched you standing at the center of the mid-court, the sun’s rays acting like your glowing background, defining beauty and a heaven-sent figure he was blessed to have.

feeling squirmy and shy around you was something he couldn’t resist to feel out in the public. he was affectionate with skinship and you didn’t mind that at all.

“baby!” you jogged towards your boyfriend, helping him wipe the rolling beads of sweat by his temples and forehead. “teach me how to nail a through-the-leg shot.”

“why?” he interlocked his fingers behind you so you wouldn’t escape.

he copied and mimicked your whines because it was the nth time you have asked him, and he always refused to teach you. “but every time i do it i miss a shot-” your words close to inaudible but jaehyun understood what you meant and he pressed his lips. “-or i end up falling.” you shrugged.

“y/n. your form’s okay. it’s just your jump landing and timing.” he pinched your cheeks lightly. “i wanna teach you but i don’t want my baby to get hurt, so no.”

you took the towel that was placed on his head as he took the ball, feeling bummed that this time yet again he wouldn’t teach you. he gestured you to go to him and you obliged no matter how salty you slightly felt towards him.

a short break was enough for you both to continue with the sport. with all the small matches you’ve played against him, there was one thing you’ve always known: jaehyun was very competitive, so whatever ball game or any game you both played, he was always, always going to play it better. you loved how concentrated his eyes were, the tiny smirk when you were open, the deepening of his dimples once the ball went in the hoop, and the victorious stretch of his arms as he celebrated.

he dribbled the ball and you tried to steal it away from him, but given your smaller frame with his, he probably held himself back and went a little lenient to you. “there’s a game that mark taught me. it’s called h.o.r.s.e. we played it for at least thirty minutes. wanna give it a shot?” he stopped moving and spun the ball on his pointer finger.

“okay!” you cheered, making him smile wider at the willingness you showed. “how does it go?”

“i’ll do a move and you follow what i do, but you’ll gain a letter if you failed to shoot. the game ends when either of us reaches ‘e’.” he tossed the ball to you. “i’ll let you start.”

“hold on, i feel hot.” you dropped the ball to hold in between your feet, and removed the thin layer of jacket sticking to your skin. you wore a loose white crop top over the new sports bra you bought and grey sweatpants.

jaehyun averted his gaze although he blushed unnecessarily at your carefree action. he cleared his throat from thinking of unnecessary thoughts entering his brain. he tossed you the ball again and the game started with you doing a simple free throw; followed by his layups and double clutch. the punishment were always the same; buy food for the other. this time you didn’t want to lose and made sure you make the shot while he misses.

he began to smirk, something he’d usually do to signal you. the battle was on. there was no way he would lose this, so he went for a move that he knew you wouldn’t do. you guessed it, the through-the-leg shot. however he groaned right after he realised what he had done, and was too late when you got the ball in your palms.

you attempted the move and just when you thought you had it, the ball missed the ring and fell— so was the view before your eyes, you were falling too. the good thing was you managed to get on your toes, but collapsing on your knees afterwards.

“aww, that’s an ‘e’ for me.” you hissed and laid down on the ground, defeated again.

“it’s okay.” he helped you up and hugged, but you immediately pulled yourself away from him.

“tsk, you’re sticky.” you ran towards the bench, to no avail he picked you up and turned you non-stop. “put me down jae.”

jaehyun loved spoiling you the way he could get his chance upon, that included almost every little thing you did— from the pursed lips when you were feeling embarrassed to your breaking smile that sent his heart flying everywhere. however, he wasn’t the only one you sent his heart flying and bursting in the sky.

it was a given that in the campus, you weren’t part of the ‘visual spectrum’ the students have created, but it was your beautiful soul and kind-hearted personality that attracted them to you. and jaehyun was pulled to you like a magnet once his friends continuously nudged each other that one time at the locker hall. since then he was one of those secret admirers who skilfully and secretly left you letters after class, a carton of juice or milk in your bag, and offered you an umbrella on rainy days.

you didn’t like the attention, in all honesty you weren’t even craving for some. there were worries whether if you had done something wrong that caused them to talk about you all the time despite being a transfer student of the creative media department. so that one day when your friend invited you to watch a basketball match, it was when you saw jaehyun for the first time.

the team noticed your existence at one area of the blenchers. imagine the impact they gave when they all stared at you like meerkats and yet smiled like adorable quokkas. one certain quokka however got your attention, well not because he had dimples, but because he was hit in the face with a basketball.

let us all say you became friends and he invited you to be in his group project. great chemistry and ideals for each other. what made jaehyun fall for you even more was that, you played basketball, just like him.

the memory of that time was interrupted with jaehyun leaving you at the bench, off to somewhere the heavens knew where. as you waited, your eyes led to the ball, tempting you to try out the skill you’ve always failed at. this is the chance, you thought. dribbling the ball several times, your attempts to try it failed miserably again.

you stood right at the arc of the lines beneath your shoes. determination fired your eyes and felt like goku from the dragon ball animation. the repetitive sentence echoed your ears, telling yourself ‘you could do it’. however that was stopped when players you’ve never seen before circled around you, almost hovering your small frame.

“hey, mind if we.. teach you?” they offered, but their intentions were very transparent. and you should’ve worn your jacket.

“no thanks. i pretty much can handle it myself.” you picked the ball up and went back to the bench, only to be stopped halfway when one of them grabbed your wrists. “let go.”

a smug look on their faces had you stepping backwards. “little miss killjoy, we’re offering you help-”

“she’s already gotten help.” jaehyun soon came behind you and your back hit his chest.

“who the heck are you?” they asked as if putting up a front would scare him.

“i’m her boyfriend and i’d appreciate it if you lot stop staring at her like that.” he let you sit on the bench once they scurried off, placing his towel on your head that was large enough to reach your lap. “from now on you’re wearing my my jacket and don’t take it off.”

you gulped when he stared into your eyes, full of worry and as if he sent protective shields to wrap around you. “the weather’s getting hot jae, and do you want me to die out of so much heat?”

“it’s better than getting your skin so exposed like earlier. you know you attract guys in the way i can’t tolerate.”

ah this argument again. more fingers and toes were needed to count because this wasn’t the first time jaehyun has been protective of you; although you couldn’t really blame him as to the whole campus— maybe to the majority of your admirers, he did win your heart. it wasn’t that you hated that side of him, you couldn’t bring it up to tell him that it limits you to be free.

a sigh was heard from your lips, catching his attention and he knelt down to see you properly. “but i’m not hiding anything!” you whined, removing the towel and jacket all at the same time, jaehyun startled at your childish response.

he arched his brows like he had something up in his sleeves. “really? you’re not hiding anything?” his palms reached for the ends of your sweatpants. he pulled and rolled them up until the fabric reached your thighs.

“what are you- look jae i swear i’m not hiding-” you then hissed at the pain soon as the wind hit your wounded, scarred knees.

“well?” he asked, tearing off the plaster packaging with his teeth and cleaned the wounds on both. “you’re not good at hiding something like this though.”

a spread of heat and embarrassment crawled your cheeks. “how did you know?”

jaehyun let out a soft chuckle. “you’re easy to read, honey.” he planted a kiss on your forehead and sat beside you. “you should’ve told me you’re in pain- why are you staring at me like that?”

he saw how your eyes widened and they asked for a quick stare contest. he was definitely lured into you, and that wasn’t new to him. “what?” he questioned again.

“ugh no good. i can’t read you at all.” you defeatedly laid on the bags. “i was confused why you left so suddenly. i thought you felt guilty because i lost the game and that you bought us snacks. i didn’t know you went all the way to tend me.”

“at the beginning of our relationship i told you i’ll treat you like a princess.” he pulled you close to him. “so let me treat you like one.”

“i’m no damsel in distress.” you rolled your eyes, a faint smile curving by the corners of your lips.

“uh clearly you were? i saved your butt from those guys.”

“and you saved me again with this.” you pointed at the carefully-plastered knees of yours and nudged him. “m.v.p.”

jaehyun felt you kiss his cheek, stunned with the title you named him. “i call you all cute nicknames and that’s all i’m gonna get? and you know i’m already the m.v.p.” his bummed voice caused you to giggle.

“not in basketball.” you reasoned.

“you expect me to play ‘guess the word’ now? because y/n, i’m not in the mood for-”

“you’re my valiant prince. m. v. p.”

jaehyun now laid on your lap, covering his ears at sudden nickname; obviously was awestruck and have never blushed so hard in his entire life.

#nct 127 #jaehyun imagines #jaehyun scenarios #jaehyun fanfic #jung jaehyun #jaehyun fluff #jung yoonoh #jaehyun au #jeong jaehyun #jeong yoonoh #nct scenarios #jaehyun oneshot

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bazypitchandsimonsnow · 4 years

Text

Missed Moments with You

Rating: M

Genre: Fluff/Angst

Word Count: 14353

Summary: Almost six months after Baz drunkenly stumbled back into Simon's life, they're still together and happy. Well, mostly. It'd be great if they had more time together, but work keeps getting in the way. Can their relationship survive their real lives?

Read on AO3

Sequel to “Back to Haunt Me”

AN: HAHAHAHAHA I DID IT BITCHES!!!! I FINALLY FINISHED A FIC AFTER MONTHS OF ILLNESS AND WRITER'S BLOCK!!!! Seriously, I could not do ANYTHING for so long. But I was finally able to do this! Big thanks to @carryonmylovelies for all her help and encouragement. She is the best.

Sadly, I couldn't get this to fit into any of my requests. I will try to get to those, I promise. My brain is just not functioning at full capacity and really hasn't for awhile. Hope you enjoy this one tho :)

Disclaimer: I am not a teacher or a psychiatrist. Most of my knowledge comes from being a student and a therapy/psychiatry patient, plus a little research online. This is not meant to be a super duper accurate representation of either. Dramatic License was taken.

———————————————

Simon

Even though it’s soft, I still hear the door close. It’s not like I have super ears. I’ve just been sleeping lightly, trying to stay up until Baz comes back. I hear him quietly take off his ugly shoes, walk towards the room, and open the door. I stay still as he flops down next to me and gets under the blanket. He lazily throws an arm over my side, long nose pressed against my neck. I love when he does this, wraps himself around me. Baz makes me feel so happy.

“Hey,” I say, barely a whisper. “How was the hospital?”

Baz’s groan reverberates down my skin. “Nearly punched a patient’s father in the face.”

“Sounds like the usual.”

“Mhm. Just another day and night at University College Hospital.” He tosses his leg over mine. Sometimes I swear he wants to bloody climb me. “You should be asleep, Snow, it’s late.”

“You’re up.”

“Because I’m a medical resident and my hours are completely insane. You’re allowed the luxury of a mostly normal sleep schedule, take advantage of it.”

I grab his hand over my stomach, weaving our fingers together. “I like waiting for you.”

“Mm.” He nuzzles closer and holds me tighter, then presses a soft kiss behind my ear. I’m in heaven. “Sap.”

“Always.” I kiss the back of his hand. “We should both sleep now, love.”

“Yeah,” he mumbles. “Night, love.”

I close my eyes, finally sinking into sleep as my wonderful, exhausted boyfriend holds me tight.

———————————————

I’m woken up by my alarm blaring shitty hair metal at top volume. Baz lets out a loud groan into my shoulder.

“Why do you play that rubbish?” he growls. “Why not some nice classical?”

“Because this rubbish wakes me up.” I reluctantly extract myself from Baz’s lovely arms. I hear him roll onto his stomach and spread out in a starfish on my bed. He loves cuddling with me, but he also likes to stretch out his long limbs. I grab my glasses, returning my ability to see properly, then turn around to look at him, and my mouth drops open.

“Baz!” I shout. “You climbed into my bed in your fucking scrubs again!?”

Baz lifts his head slightly and pulls at his light blue scrubs, eyebrows pulled together. “Hm, looks like I did.”

“They’re filthy!”

“No.” He flops back down, face smushed into my pillow. “I washed them yesterday. There’s just a bit of dried blood on my trouser leg. No sick or spinal fluid this time.”

I shake my head, but it’s with a smile. “I can’t believe my neat freak former roommate has developed such low standards of cleanliness.”

Baz makes an annoyed grunting sound before sinking further into my bed. I chuckle and press a kiss to his hairline. He’s already asleep again.

I grab my bathrobe and go into the kitchen, a smile on my face. It’s been five months since Basilton Pitch drunkenly wandered his way back into my life. I never imagined we would see each other again, let alone start dating. But it’s been pretty great. Baz is so much more than I thought he was. I already knew he was brilliant, but he’s also hilarious and kind and utterly amazing. I’m happier with him, and I think Baz is happier with me too.

The only problem is exactly what Baz warned me about when we started dating; he’s insanely busy. The hospital has him on a weird, inconsistent schedule. He’ll sometimes work for over twelve hours then collapse for an entire day afterwards. If that wasn’t hard enough, when this started, I didn’t factor in my own job. Very dumb, considering what I do. When I’m not teaching, I’m usually grading or writing lesson plans, so it’s not like I have a lot of free time either. We once went two and a half weeks without seeing each other. It was awful, but both of us understood. Still missed him though. I miss him a lot. In nearly six months, we’ve been on three proper dates. It’s not that I like fancy dinners and shit, I just like being with Baz. I wish we could be together more.

I stop to give Cherry her morning pet and wet food. She purrs under my hand. Then I make myself instant coffee, the ambrosia of primary teachers, and toaster waffles. I leave some for Baz to heat up later. He has pretty refined tastes, but no one can resist toaster waffles. He’ll probably be up to eat them around noon, when we’ll Skype chat while I have lunch at school. It’s my favourite part of the day. I want it to happen more often.

The phone ringing breaks me out of my lovesick melancholy. Penny’s grinning face stares back at me. I quickly pick it up. “Hey, Pen.”

“Hey Si,” she says, voice crackling slightly. “How’s it going?”

“It’s going alright. Just making myself some shit coffee and toaster waffles.”

“I’m a bit horrified your breakfast habits haven’t changed since uni.”

I scoff very self righteously. “Neither have yours. Last time I visited, you were stuffing your face with pop tarts.”

“You have no proof of that.” I can feel Penny’s glare from across the bloody Atlantic.

“No,” I chuckle. “I guess I don’t. Oh, I did almost get video proof of Baz wolfing down two Big Macs. He finished just after I got my phone out, it was amazing.”

“Ha! Get a video of it when it happens next time, then show me that and I’ll owe you a pint.”

“I’ll try next time we go out.” I slump a little in my chair. “If we go out...”

Penny sighs in a particular way. It’s the one she uses when she knows I’m down and wants to bring me back up. “Baz still working those long shifts, huh?”

“Yeah, so he’s tired a lot. And our schedules have trouble syncing up. It really sucks and it’s not like either of us have a choice in it, especially him. But still it...it’s like- I just-”

“Part of you doesn’t give a shit about work, you just want to be together more.”

I sink further on the chair, so much so I fear I’m going to melt into the vinyl. “Kinda, yeah. Does that...does that make me a bad boyfriend and person?”

“No, no, absolutely not, Simon. It makes you a normal person who desires their partner.”

“Okay, yeah, sure, but Baz warned me about his job. He told me that he would have insane hours and it would make having a relationship really hard. I told him it was okay, that we would make it work, so I can’t get mad now, right?”

“You’re allowed to be upset that you don’t get to see your boyfriend as much as you wish you could.”

“I guess, yeah.” I shove half a toaster waffle in my mouth. It marginally helps. “I don’t know what to do, Pen. I can’t ask Baz to cut his hours, it’ll mess up his degree and piss off the doctors cause they’ll say he’s ‘not being dedicated’, which is a load of bollocks but it’ll happen. And it’s not like I can change when I work. There doesn’t seem to be a solution.”

Penny sighs. “I don’t know what to tell you, Si. There’s no easy way to deal with this. I think you just have to talk things out.” I groan heavily. “Yeah, I know, you hate talking. But can you think of anything else?”

“No,” I grumble. “Save for just shagging him senseless so we can both let off some nervous stress.”

“Sex doesn’t fix everything.”

“Well, no, but it would be nice to try it period.”

“You two still haven’t slept together?!” she says far too loudly. I hope Micah isn’t home. God, that would be embarrassing. “It’s been months!”

“I know,” I groan, “but we’ve both been busy and tired, especially Baz. Mostly we’ve just been snogging, which is awesome. Baz is a great kisser.”

“Too much information, Si.”

“Sorry, sorry. I like kissing, I’d just like to do...other stuff too.”

“Which is perfectly understandable, and the only way it’s going to ever happen is if you figure out where to go in your relationship. And that’s only going to happen by talking about it and working something out that both of you can live with.”

I eat another toaster waffle. Again, helps a little, not enough. “That’s hard.”

“And necessary if you want to keep this relationship.” There’s a short pause and I try to speak before Penny interrupts me. “You definitely do want to keep it, right?”

My leg jerks so hard I nearly knock my coffee over. “Of course I do! Baz is kind and amazing and funny and brilliant and I fucking lo-”

We both go silent. I put a hand over my mouth. Holy shit, I can’t believe I almost said that. I haven’t even thought about it before, until now. (Typical, I don’t figure it out until I’m right in the middle of shit.) I mean, I’ve thought about it in a sort of abstract, future way. But not right now, not after only five months together when we spent seven years apart and an equal amount of time hating each other. Could I really be in love already?

“Shit, really?” Penny whispers. “You love him?”

I bite my nails, something I haven’t done since second year of uni. “Uh, I guess, maybe. I don’t know. It’s way too soon and I’m not exactly that experienced in love. I don’t think I can say for sure of anything...”

“Okay. What can you say for sure then?”

“Well,” I stop chewing on my nails, “I know I care about Baz. I enjoy being around him. And I really, really, really like him.”

“Is that okay with you?”

“Yeah, I can deal with that.”

“Good, stick with that, don’t jump too far. Figure out where you two stand before you start talking about love.”

“Yeah,” I sigh, “you’re right.”

“Of course I am.”

I scoff and roll my eyes, similar to Baz. I’m picking a lot up from him, “I know, I know.” My eyes catch the clock. “Oh shit, I’ve got to go right now. If I’m late my kids are going to destroy the classroom.”

Penny snorts. “The trials of a parent of thirty two children.”

“Exactly. Talk to you later, Pen, love you.”

“Love you too, Si, bye!”

The phone clicks off, leaving me hopelessly alone with my thoughts. So, I want to be around Baz more. That’s reasonable, he’s my boyfriend. But neither of us can be around more because of our beloved jobs. I’m going to have to find some solution. But not right now because I’m going to be very, very late. I rush out the door with only the thoughts of the tube schedule on my mind.

———————————————

“Lishie, no,” I say, taking the marker from her hand, “that’s a shared class writing utensil, you can’t chew on it.”

Lishie pouts at me, blinking her big brown eyes. “But Mr. Snow,” she whines.

“None of that, please. If you must chew on something, please use your own pencil.” I lean down to look at her drawing of a castle. “This is your favourite place, huh?”

“Yeah.” She points at her lovely pink palace. “This is my Lishie only place. It keeps my brother out and shoots lasers at bad guys.”

I nod with a big smile. “Both are very important. Nice work.” I turn to Zahir. His drawing is of a beautiful shoreline with a fiery sunset. “And what place is this?”

“It’s the view from my grandparent’s house,” he chirps.

“It looks lovely, Zahir, good job.”

I stand up and check the other kids. They’re all doing wonderfully. I help where needed, handing them markers and giving colour suggestions. Luckily the kiddos are being good today. I don’t think I can handle their particular brand of tornado like insanity right now.

“Mr. Snow, look what I did!” I lean down to Harrison’s level. His picture is of himself with his two Mums holding hands under an abundance of trees.

“It’s amazing, Harry,” I say. “Where are you three in this picture?”

“We’re at the camping ground where my Mums met. They got married at the lake last year. We go there every summer break.”

“Aw, that’s very sweet.”

“Are you married, Mr. Snow?” Rosanne calls out. I hate mean nicknames. They’re a dumb bullying tactic. At the same time though, “Nosey Rosie” is occasionally apt. Not that I’d ever say that out loud, of course.

“No, I’m not married, Rose,” I say calmly.

“Do you have a girlfriend?”

The kids start muttering and giggling. I sigh, shaking my head. “No, I don’t have a girlfriend either. But my love life is none of your business, munchkins.”

“A boyfriend?” Liza shouts. “My mum said you probably have a boyfriend.”

I sigh and rub my temple. Well, while her mother is correct, the beautiful and single Ms.Thorn has also made many advances on me. I suppose me being gay rationalises my kind rejections of her. I believe she needs to get over herself.

“No, I don’t have a boyfriend.” I hate lying to the kids, but I’m not going to talk about my relationship with them. “Again, my love life is personal.”

Thandi gasps, and leans over to Riya beside her. Her tone suggests a whisper, but her volume shows she absolutely means to be heard. “What if Mr. Snow has a secret girlfriend or boyfriend?”

They all start chattering away with big grins on their faces. I sigh heavily. There is nothing ten year olds love more than gossiping, especially about their teachers. I’ve caught my munchkins talking about if the football coach and year 11 science teacher are together. (They aren’t. Both Coach Markova and Mr. Saadia have been married for over twenty years. Their husbands are wonderful friends.) I don’t want to become the next rumour on the playground.

“Okay, hush up all of you,” I say loudly. They all quiet down. “It’s not appropriate to discuss my personal life, so you’re going to stop right now, understand?”

“Yes, Mr. Snow,” they reply all at once in a shamed, slightly annoyed tone. It’s one I’m extremely familiar with.

“Good. Now go back to your drawings, or we’ll start the maths worksheets early.”

They all gasp, then go back to drawing. I hear whispers about normal things, like Power Rangers and Disney movies. I sigh and return to my desk, leaning back in the chair. Honestly, even if I did want to answer the kids, I wouldn’t be sure what to say. I do have a boyfriend officially, but I barely see him. Twice a week at best. It’s not his fault, he tries his best. I fuck up more than him honestly. I just wish we could be...more boyfriends? That doesn’t make sense.

My pocket buzzes and I pull out my phone. I’m not supposed to use it during class hours, but the kids are working right now, it’s fine. The text is from Baz. My pulse speeds up like it does every time. But when I open it, my heart drops instead.

Baz [13:40] Hey love. So sorry but I can’t come over tonight. Need to pick up an extra shift. I promise I’ll make it up to you ❤️

I sigh heavily, trying to suppress the disappointment and hurt. It’s not his fault, he’s doing his best. We’ll figure something out. Right?

Simon [13:41] it’s alright love we’ll find another time

Baz [13:41] ❤️

———————————————

“No, no, hold the rock like this.” Baz adjusts my grip. I love his fingers, long and elegant. If he wasn’t a doctor, I think he would make an incredible pianist.

“How does the way I hold the rock change anything?” I ask.

“It helps you get the right angle to skip it.”

I frown in confusion. “I thought the rock’s shape helped with that.”

“Both help. So,” he guides my arm back, “let’s try.”

Baz’s callused fingers caress my bare skin. I let out a shaky breath. God, I shouldn’t get this hot and bothered from Baz just touching me. I’m not some horndog, I can wait for sex. The pent up tension is just...getting to me a bit.

“Now flick it, Snow,” Baz says.

I fling the stone forward. It flies over the pond, sending ripples across the aquamarine water. The stone nearly reaches the other side before finally dropping. I’m grinning ear to ear. When I turn around, Baz is too.

“Wonderful job, love.” He presses a kiss to my temple. “I knew you could do it.”

God, I’m going to melt into a puddle. I peck his lips softly. “Thanks for showing me, love.”

He kisses me back, a bit firmer. I would snog the life out of him right now if we weren’t in the middle of Regent’s Park, apparently a popular relaxation spot for UCLH. We’re surrounded by nurses chatting, residents resting, and doctors smoking cigarettes. (Baz says doctors truly have the least regard for their own health.) We sadly pull apart and take a seat on a bench. I put my head on his strong shoulder, and he throws his arm around me.

“How were psych rounds today?” I ask.

“Awful,” he groans. “Mr. Teversham still refuses to take his medication, and Mx. Joseph is fighting therapy at every turn.”

“Hm, well, you expected this. Any ideas?”

“Mx. Joseph needs to be in therapy without knowing they're in therapy. Mr. Teversham needs to be sedated so he can’t yell at me anymore.”

I snort. “Not sure that’s legal.”

“It’s not, but one can dream. Both probably need adjustments in their medications but that would affect serotonin levels too much at this delicate stage of treatment.”

“Mm, that sucks. Anything you could do for now?”

“More group therapy and coping techniques, I suppose. Little else we can do.”

I nod thoughtfully. Honestly, I have no idea what he’s talking about, but I try to be interested. It’s important to him so I do my best.

He slowly strokes my hair. I lean closer to him. “How’s your work going, love?”

“It’s alright. Kids aren’t being too destructive. Oh, I’ve been working on something else though.”

Baz smiles, pulling me closer. “What’s that?”

“A new scone recipe.”

He lets out a joyous laugh, throwing his head back so far some of his gelled hair gets dislodged. I like the way a few raven strands fall in his face. “You seriously haven’t run out of new ones to try?”

I shrug. “Not yet. Maybe one day.”

“And then you’ll start making your own.”

“Probably.” I throw both arms around his torso, squeezing him tight. “I’ll give them to you to try.”

He chuckles softly. “Well, maybe. I have to stay in good shape to keep up with the other residents, and I can’t mess up what little sleep I have.”

I deflate slightly. Right, he’s gotta watch his health more than me. I should remember that. Bloody hell, I’m a terrible boyfriend. “R-Right. Well, I’ll make something else for you I guess...”

He makes a humming noise, but I can’t tell what it means. I’m horrible at non-verbal cues and unfortunately Baz is still no exception. I want to ask him about being around, about us being together, but the words get all tangled in my throat. I don’t know how to ask him without sounding like a selfish arse.

(Maybe I am a selfish arse. Maybe I don’t deserve this, deserve him.)

(No no, Simon, stop it, stop with the self deprecation.)

(Even though he is better than me...)

I’m about to open my mouth when two clashing beeps ring out. Baz and I scramble to our phones.

“Fuck,” I groan. “Emergency staff meeting in twenty minutes. I’m gonna need to get a cab.”

“Me too,” Baz sighs. “Dr. Dehnavi wants to talk to me about a new inpatient. I suppose I should be flattered, but I’m more annoyed.”

“We’re both suffering it seems.”

“Apparently.” Baz leans over and pecks my lips. I lean forward, just slightly, asking for more that I can’t have right now. “I’ll text you later, love.”

“Yeah, me too.” We dash off in different directions. The questions I have still hang in my throat, but I put them down for now. Next time. Maybe...

———————————————

Thursday April 21

Baz [06:06] Hi, love. I’m finally done my night shift. We still on for the cafe this afternoon?

Simon [07:01] hey sorry I didn’t get this until now. unfortunately i’ve got some last minute extra tutoring to do with Sasha sorry

Baz [07:02] It’s alright. You free Friday night?

Simon [07:02] nah got grading ☹️ gotta go to class ttyl!

Baz [07:02] Alright, talk to you later.

———————————————

Sunday April 30

Simon [17:37] hey baz can I come over tonight?

Baz [17:58] Unfortunately not. I’m on call for OBGYN all night. Lots of sitting with tiny sick babies in the NICU...

Simon [18:05] fuck that doesn’t sound fun at all ☹️

Baz [18:06] Absolutely is not. I’ll text you later okay?

Simon [18:06] Okay ❤️

———————————————

Wednesday May 8

Baz [22:24] I miss you

Simon [22:24] I miss you too

———————————————

My phone rings at lunch. Baz’s slightly smiling face looks right back at me. I took the photo one night when we were watching telly. He’s got his hair all piled up in a bun, wearing an LSE sweatshirt. He looks gorgeous, as always. I’m so entranced by the picture that I answer it just before the last ring.

“Hey,” I say. “What’s up?”

“Not much,” Baz replies, sounding extremely tired. (He’s been sounding like that more and more lately.) “How’s your day been?”

“Not too bad. Joey fired a spitball at me, but I took the straw away pretty quickly.“

“Dear Lord, you teach monsters.”

I chuckle, shaking my head. “Nope, just children, love. They’re naturally nightmares.”

“Don’t have to tell me, Snow, I have four younger siblings.” He sighs, and I can imagine him tilting his head back, hair falling down behind him. It’s a nice image. “Are you free next Friday?”

“Hm, let me check.” I look at my Google calendar, which is filled to the brim with multicoloured event tabs, everything from field trips to when lesson plans need to be done. (I consider the second one more a guideline than a rule.) Friday is surprisingly blank. A grin breaks out across my face. “Yeah, Friday is good. Got something in mind?”

“Well, I finally have a Friday off. So I was thinking we could dress up and go somewhere nice. Somewhere with fine food, candles, a generally romantic atmosphere. Does that sound good to you?”

I can’t help biting my bottom lip like some stupid teenager. I haven’t seen my boyfriend in person in nearly three weeks, sue me. Sure there’s been some texting and calls and Facetimes, but none of that compares to the real thing. I’ve missed how Baz’s long fingers feel between mine, or the way he cups my cheek perfectly when he kisses me. I just want to be with him. And finally we have a chance.

“That sounds very good. And uh...” I take a pause to muscle up courage to say what I really, really want to say. “Do you want to go to my place afterwards? And sleep over? But y’know...not sleep?” Baz snorts. My cheeks are probably bright red. I groan and rub my forehead. “Sorry, that sounded dumb. I’m an adult, I should be able to talk about sex openly.”

Baz sighs in his strangely affectionate way. “Well, we both know you’re not the best with words, Snow.”

I chuckle and shrug. “Okay, true. But the message still got across right? What I’m asking? But please don’t feel pressured, I just wanted to ask if we could try...”

“Yes, it definitely did. And I would love to try. I think six months is a long enough wait. And I’m really sorry about that.”

“Don’t blame yourself, love, we’ve both been pretty physically absent. Life has just been nuts for us.”

“Agreed. So it’ll be nice to...unwind a bit.”

My face is absolutely bright red now. A lot of inappropriate thoughts are racing through my head right now. I have to shove them down so my brain doesn’t start dribbling out my ears before I have to go back to teaching.

“I-I would like that a lot too.” And of course the first lunch bell decides to ring just then. I groan loudly. “Fuck, lunch is over. Kids will be back soon. Text you later to set up details?”

“Sounds good. Bye, darling.

“Bye, darling.”

I listen until Baz hangs up, then press my phone to my chest with a sigh. I feel so unbelievably giddy. It’s ridiculous, really, to be this excited about a dinner and (possible) sex. But for some reason, my chest is so full it's about to explode. I want to run around the room, shouting to the heavens that I’m going on a lovely, romantic date with Basilton Grimm-Pitch.

Fuck, maybe I really am love. That’s a terrifying, wonderful thought.

———————————————

“Does my hair look alright?” I tousle it to the left, then to the right, then to the left again. Penny sighs and shakes her head on my screen.

“It looks fine either way. But if you don’t decide soon, you’re going to be late!”

I groan and tighten my tie, trying to see myself in my tiny image in the corner. “I know, I know, I just want this to be perfect.”

“Nothing can be perfect, Si.”

“Yeah, but I can try.” I sigh, buttoning my grey suit jacket. This is the one nice suit I own, and I took great precautions to keep it from getting wrinkled on my way to work. “So much hasn’t gone right or easily in our relationship. I want one thing to not go down the drain.”

Penny nods thoughtfully. “Understandable. Just also be realistic.”

“Yes, I will.” I check my watch (a graduation gift from Penny that goes really well with my suit) and inhale sharply. “Shit, I really do have to go. Bye, Pen!”

She waves with a big, toothy smile. “Bye, Si, good luck!”

“Thank you!”

We press the red button at the same time. I tuck my phone into my jacket, then do a last cursory look at myself. No wrinkles? Check. Dashingly messy hair? Check. “Supplies” for later waiting in my bedside table at home? Absolutely check. Awesome. I’m so bloody excited I could seriously start flying right now.

“M-Mr. Snow?”

My head head whips around at the small, familiar voice. It’s Jeremy, with his wavy brown hair and little freckles. He’s sniffling, wiping his nose and blood shot eyes. I immediately rush forward and get on my knees in front of him.

“Jeremy? What’s wrong? Are you okay?”

He makes a big sniff, more tears falling down his cheeks. “M-My dad was supposed to pick me up outside, but he never came! And Ms. Reinhart tried to call my mum and she’s not answering and I don’t know what to do!”

He breaks out into another sob. He wraps his little arms around my neck, crying into my shoulder. I pat his back, trying to comfort as best I can. Poor kid. I’m unfortunately aware of what Jeremy’s parents are like. This isn’t out of character for them. His dad’s probably off with his college age mistress and his mum is partying late with her friends. From what I know, Jeremy was an accidental teen pregnancy, and now his parents hate each other and resent Jeremy for “ruining” their young lives. (Baz would say something about emotional stunting and projecting and shit.) This is the first time they’ve truly abandoned him though. Poor, poor kid.

“Is there anyone you trust who could come get you?” I ask quietly.

“My aunt,” he sniffles. “But she’s super far away.”

“Okay, where does she live?”

“L-Luton, I think.”

Fuck, he’s not exaggerating. Luton is an hour away on a good day, and it’s the middle of London rush hour. His parents may be able get here before her, but she’s probably much more stable than both of them put together.

“Alright. Do you know her number?”

Jeremy nods and moves off my shoulder. He pulls out a cheap flip phone. One of his parents probably gave it to him for emergencies. That’s one good decision on their part. He then hands it to me. The contact is listed as “Auntie Caroline.” I stand up and press dial, Jeremy still clinging to my leg. It only rings twice before it’s picked up.

“Jeremy?” a seemingly female voice says, sounding utterly frantic. “Are you okay, love?”

“Hi,” I say, “I’m Simon Snow, Jeremy’s teacher. Don’t worry, he’s here with me, he’s safe.”

She lets out a very deep sigh. “Oh thank god. Is there something wrong?”

“Unfortunately, yes. His father was supposed to pick him up but hasn’t shown, and his mother isn’t answering her calls.”

“Those bastards,” she growls. “My brother and his good for nothing wife have already put him through hell, but this just takes the bloody cake!”

“Believe me, I agree with you. Considering our shared opinion, I was hoping you could come pick him up? I know it’s a lot to ask this late and you’re all the way in Luton but-”

“Don't have to ask me twice. I’ll be there as soon as I can. But it’s going to take me an hour, maybe two.”

I think about Baz, about everything we have planned, about every missed connection these past few weeks. But then I look down at Jeremy, who has the most tragic expression I’ve ever laid my eyes upon. I sigh heavily, then put the phone back to my ear.

“Don’t worry, I’ll stay with him at school until you come. Let me give you the address.”

I rattle off the school’s address, my room number, and the best route to get here. She listens raptly, obviously scribbling it all down.

“Alright, got it. Thank you, Mr. Snow, this means so much to me.”

“No problem, see you soon.”

The line clicks off. I get back down in front of Jeremy. “Your aunt is going to be here soon, Jer. Until then, we’re gonna stay here and sit tight. Okay?”

Jeremy nods, wiping away more snot. “O-Okay.”

“Awesome. How about you go sit in the reading corner and I’ll join you in just a sec.”

“Okay.” He throws himself at me, hugging me tight. “Thank you, Mr. Snow.”

I smile and pat his head. “You’re very welcome, Jeremy. Now go read and get your mind off all this.”

He pulls away and runs over to the reading nook, throwing himself into the neon pink bean bag chair. He grabs a Harry Potter book. Good pick, it’s something he’s familiar with. Though I hate to think how much he relates to the way Harry grew up.

I go to my desk on the other side of the room and take my phone out. Baz’s beautiful contact picture stares back at me, and my heart twists painfully. I hate this situation. I hate that I’m doing this again after nearly three bloody weeks of no physical contact. I can only hope he can understand. And forgive me. The other end rings three times.

“Hey.” Baz’s honey sweet voice is both comforting and painful right now.

“Hey,” I sigh.

“Oh no, that’s not a good ‘hey,’ is it?”

“No, unfortunately, it’s not.” I run a hand through my hair. “Remember Jeremy? One of my kids?”

“Yes, the one with the arsehole parents.”

“Yeah, that’s him. And tonight his parents have really taken the cake. Dad was supposed to be here but is probably off shagging his barely legal mistress, and mum is probably out clubbing and not picking up either.”

“Bloody hell, what a nightmare.”

“Exactly.” I slump into my chair, tugging my tie loose. “His aunt’s coming to pick him up, but...she lives in Luton...”

It’s Baz’s turn to sigh deeply. “And you’re going to have to stay with him until she gets there.”

God, I'm such an arsehole, and a predictable one at that. “I’m so, so sorry, Baz. I really wanted to go out tonight, and I know you don’t get many days off. This is such an out of the blue thing and I can’t just leave him. I promise I’ll make it up to you.”

“It’s alright, Snow, I understand. I’ll hold you to that promise, okay?”

“Please do. I’ll text you later, yeah?”

“That’s good. Bye, love.” The tinge of sadness in Baz’s voice fucking kills me.

“Bye, darling.”

He hangs up, and I hang my head with a quiet groan. I’m such a dickhead. I could’ve left Jeremy with Ms. Reinhart and went on my date, but I know she has a sick mother at home that she takes care of. Then I would have ruined the date by feeling all guilty and shit. I hate that this is probably the best choice.

“Mr. Snow?” I turn to Jeremy. He’s looking at me with a furrowed brow and pout. “Are you okay?”

I shove all my guilt and worry deep down, and put a big smile on my face. “Yeah, I’m good, Jer. Now how about you read some Harry Potter to me? I’d love to hear it.”

A grin breaks out on his face. “Okay.”

I leave my jacket and tie on my desk and stride over to him. I sit in the beanbag next to him. (Of course I didn’t get these things just for the kids.) Jeremy opens the book to his page.

“Chapter 12,” he starts with gusto

And I sit there listening to him for God knows how long. I laugh, make comments, correct his pronunciation when needed. I'm still a teacher after all. Then when the chapter is done, we watch silly animal videos on my laptop. I make sure Jeremy is happy. He deserves that after all of this. He needs to feel safe. I just wish it wasn’t at the sacrifice of Baz getting stood up, again. God, am I ever going to get to see my boyfriend again? Is the universe ever going to let us have a moment together? I can’t really blame the universe though, I guess. This was my choice. I’m awful. Baz doesn’t deserve this. I don’t deserve him, honestly.

Soon enough, a middle aged woman with long pink and purple hair sticks her head through the door at the other side of the room. “Hello?”

Jeremy grins and drops the book immediately. “Auntie Caroline!”

Caroline grins and catches Jeremy right in her arms, holding him up high. I walk to them but keep a good distance. “Hey munchkin, good to see you. You okay?”

“Yeah, yeah, Mr. Snow stayed with me. We watched kittens!”

“That sounds awesome.” Caroline turns to me. “Thank you so much, Mr. Snow. Is there any way I can repay you?”

I wave my hand. “Don’t worry, no payment is needed. Just glad Jeremy has somewhere to go.

Her face falls slightly. She puts Jeremy down, touching his head. “Can you go get all your stuff, dear?”

“Okay!” Jeremy races off to the cubby area at ten year old speed. It’s a unique phenomenon. Caroline looks at me with a very serious expression.

“Here’s the thing,” she says in a hushed tone, “I’ve been trying to build a custody case for months, but I haven’t been able to get concrete proof of abuse and neglect. This changes things. If my lawyer needs you to, could you please testify at the custody hearing? I know it’s a lot to ask. You’ve already done so much, so if you can’t, I understand-”

“Say no more.” I take a sticky note from my desk and write out my mobile number. “Here. Tell your lawyer they’re free to call me. I’ll do anything to help Jeremy get somewhere safe.”

She sighs and takes the note. “Thank you, Mr. Snow.”

“Please, call me Simon. Only my students have to use my last name so I can pretend I have their respect.”

She chuckles. “Okay, Simon. It’s no wonder Jeremy says you’re his favourite teacher.”

Well, I don’t need an ego stroke (at least that’s what I tell myself), but...it’s nice. I nod with a humble smile. “Good to know.”

Jeremy runs up, wearing his bright red power rangers backpack. “Ready.”

“Awesome. Say goodbye to Mr. Snow.”

Jeremy gives me a big, full arm wave. “Bye bye, Mr. Snow.”

I tousle his hair, making him giggle. “Bye, Jeremy. See you Monday.”

“See you!” He grabs Caroline’s hand and literally skips away with her. Honestly, I’ve never seen him this happy outside of class. He usually hangs his head and slumps off after hanging around in the cubby area for as long as possible. I know the patter well. It's what I used to do before I went to Watford, when I was stuck in shitty group homes. I hope Caroline gets custody. Jeremy deserves to be happy.

Slowly but surely, I collect all my stuff, from my snot covered jacket to my book bag. I look at my phone, and see a few texts from Baz.

Baz [16:56] Hey, just wanted to reassure you that I’m not upset, I understand. I’ll get another day off eventually.

Baz [18:30] I’ve got some takeout, it’s lovely. I’ll save some for you the next time you come over ❤️

Baz [19:18] I’m going to bed soon. Hope Jeremy gets to his aunt’s safe. Good night, love.

I sigh, my heart feeling like a lead balloon. I absolutely need to make this up to him. I’ll figure something out when my brain isn’t so exhausted. For now, I can at least text him back.

Simon [19:23] Sleep well, love. I’ll talk to you in the morning ❤️

Baz doesn’t reply. He’s probably asleep. Probably...

I walk home with my shoulders slumped and feeling like an utter, utter twat.

———————————————

“I’m a dick,” I groan.

“You’re not a dick,” Penny says. “You did the right thing and kept a student safe. That makes you an incredible teacher.”

“And a crap boyfriend.” I throw my cookie dough on the counter a little too hard. It makes an awful splat noise.

“Well, maybe, but Baz has bailed because of his work as well. And he said he understood.”

I grumble as I roll out little balls between my hands. Baking always helps me calm down. Well, usually. Right now I’m close to crushing each one. “Yeah, I guess, but I still feel super bad.”

“Well, take him out on his next day off.”

“Yeah,” I chuckle darkly, “that’ll probably be in about two or three months.”

Penny sighs, sounding just as defeated as I feel. “That fucking sucks. I can’t believe his schedule is really that insane.”

“He works himself to the bone, because he’s a great doctor and he’s going to be a great psychiatrist. It just means we don’t get a lot of time together, but it’s fine.”

“No, it’s not fine. Both of you need to carve out more time for each other. You’re not the only one who is having issues, Si.”

“Yeah, but like, he can’t help but work more. Being a doctor is more demanding than being a teacher. He doesn’t have control of his hours.”

“Neither do you!” She’s practically yelling. “Being a good teacher means going above and beyond for your students. Therefore, you have to put in extra hours if you want your students to have a great education.”

I make a semi agreement noise. My non-verbal way of saying she may have a point but I don’t like it. “Okay, maybe. But Baz doesn’t deserve to be neglected because of it.”

“Of course he doesn’t, Si, which is why you have to make time for him. And he has to do the same for you if you want this relationship to work.”

“I know you’re right, Pen, I just don’t know how.”

There’s a small pause, and I can imagine Pen stroking her chin like the old scholar she is in spirit. It’s comforting to think of. Penny thinking was a staple of the best parts of my childhood.

“What time is it where you are?” she asks.

I look down at my watch. “Uh, about 11?”

“Good. Finish what you’re baking, bring it to the hospital, surprise Baz with home baked treats. Then see if you can get Baz to go to lunch with you. If not, at least give him something to eat during his insane shift. Try to talk to him or ask him to talk about all this later. Sound doable?”

I’m grinning so wide it threatens to dislodge my earbuds. “Yeah, definitely sounds doable. Thanks, Pen.”

“No problem. Si. Now can I run this new lesson plan by you?”

“Absolutely, go ahead.”

Penny starts rattling off her curriculum points while I throw the cookies in the oven. And for the first time today, I feel good. I feel hopeful. It’s nice. I’ve missed it.

———————————————

UCLH is a towering, intimidating giant of white metal and panes of glass. It’s hard to not feel freaked out looking at it. Anytime I went to the hospital as a kid it was because of a fight at the group home or injuries from particularly awful foster parents. There was never a good reason to be here. Until now, that is.

From what I remember, Baz said he would be on psychiatry today. Problem is, I have no idea where the fuck that is. I can barely navigate my tiny school. This is an entirely different, far more sterile beast. I walk to the front desk where a man with big round glasses and very cool arm tattoos is sitting.

“Hi,” I say cheerily as possible.

“Hello,” he replies with a perfect, pearly white smile and a thick American accent. “How can I help you today?”

“Uh, I’m looking for the psychiatry wing? Specifically for Dr. Grimm-Pitch.”

“Okay. Are you a patient...?

“No, no, I’m his boyfriend. Got some stuff to drop off for him if he’s not too busy.” I hold up the Christmas tupperware filled with raspberry and white chocolate chip cookies. They’re Baz’s favourite.

The man’s eyebrows shoot up. “Oh, you’re Basil’s boyfriend?”

“Yeah, last time I checked,” I chuckle.

“Wow. Nice to finally meet you. I’m Shepard, from Omaha, Nebraska.”

He holds out his hand, and I of course shake it. “Nice to meet you, Shepard from Omaha, Nebraska. I’m Simon, from uh, Lancashire, I guess.”

“Good too meet you too, man.” He leans his cheek on his hand. “Y’know, Basil has mentioned you exist a couple times, but won’t say anything else no matter how much I beg him.”

I shrug with a smile. “He’s a private person.”

“Yeah, but if I were dating you, I’d be bragging about it.”

Well, now my face must look utterly ridiculous. I’m twenty five years old and blushing from one compliment. “T-Thanks, wow. You’re pretty forward.”

He throws his head back laughing. “Nah, just blunt, man. And way too nosy, at least according to your boyfriend. Says I have some sort of anxiety fueled need to overshare and figure out everything about people."

"That...sounds odd."

Shepard shrugs. "Pretty sure it's made up. Besides, I already have two therapists. Don't need a third one." He laughs, and I laugh along with him. Thought part of me is truly concerned about him. Hope he's okay, he seems nice. "Anyway, I hope Basil is less intense outside of work than here.”

“Most of the time, yeah. He’s got his softer side, just has trouble showing it.”

“Believe it when I see it. Also,” he hands me a pamphlet, “psychiatry is on the fifth floor. Take the south elevator up and turn to the right. Basil should be at the front desk. Said he had patient files to sort all day.”

“Awesome, thanks.” I take out a cookie and hold it out to him. “Here, you can have this, unless you’re allergic to berries, gluten, or dairy.”

“Nope. I will happily take that.” He plucks it from my hand. “Thanks, man. Tell Basil I say hi, and I still have his pen.”

“Will do, thanks!”

He waves me off with half the cookie already in his mouth. Interesting guy. I may have to come back to talk to him more.

I follow Shepard’s instructions as best I can. Though I get lost trying to find the elevators, twice. The halls twist and turn and loop back in on themselves. Seriously, who designed this hospital, Willy Wonka? Eventually I finally make it to the elevators and suffer in the sanitizer smelling tube for five floors. The psychiatry floor itself isn’t too bad, just kind of bland. Lots of blank grey walls and inoffensive paintings of scenic nature. And it’s pretty straight forward compared to the first floor. I just have to walk down the hall, turn at the “front desk” sign, and there will be-

I freeze in place. There’s Baz, with some redheaded guy leaning on his desk.

“Come on, Basil, you can’t be serious,” he says in a smooth, beautiful voice. “I’d totally shag Dr. Mayer over Dr. Dehnavi. Mayer has such polished charm.”

“Hm, I prefer a more ruggish look,” Baz replies with a half smile. “And Dehnavi gets that wonderful five o’clock shadow after a day of rounds.”

“True, very true. Not so hot when he’s yelling about oral board prep.”

Baz lets out a laugh, shaking his head. Wisps of black hair fall in his face. He looks at the redhead with a sly smile. “Well, I haven’t gotten to that point yet. But I do get an earful about SSRI dosage levels.”

“Oh lord, you’re giving me baby doctor flashbacks, stop. I’m scared Dr. D is going to be on the other side to yell our asses into submission.”

They laugh together, and redhead moves closer to Baz, their hands nearly touching. My heart drops to the ground and burrows into the centre of the fucking Earth.

Baz looks at ease, content, and most of all, this guy seems to understand what the hell he’s talking about. Definitely more than I ever have. And he’s super bloody attractive. And he’s there, like I haven’t been. Fuck. Deep down, I thought this was going to happen, but it’s still ripping me apart. Baz has found someone better. I’m just the stupid poor orphaned kid he had a crush on in school. Now he’s gotten those old feelings out of his system and he’s found someone, another doctor no less, who can easily be a better boyfriend. Bloody hell, I’m about to cry. I need to go, right now.

I quietly and quickly get away. Going back through the hospital is a blur. And not just because my eyes are filled with tears and fogging up my glasses. My brain is a jumbled, heartbroken mess that can’t focus on anything. I think Shepard waves at me as I walk past but I can’t bring myself to respond right now. I don’t stop moving until I throw myself into my car, tossing the cookies on the front seat.

Finally, I have to stop. And worse I have to think. So, Baz has found a new guy. Some pretty red haired doctor who makes him laugh with doctor humour and probably doesn’t bail. He’s probably going to break up with me today. I should just break up with him, save him the hassle...

I’m gripping the steering wheel so hard my knuckles are white. My cheeks are raw from wiping tears away. I think about losing Baz, losing a chance to make things better, and it's the worst pain I've ever felt. A small part of me thought that maybe Baz was it. That he was the person I could actually, possibly spend the rest of my life with. Maybe it was a stupid thought. I was so stupid.

My head falls forward, forehead pressed against the wheel. And I just cry.

———————————————

I’ve called in sick for a week. I’ve never called in for that long, not once in my teaching career. But I can’t get off my couch, let alone leave my flat. I’ve been laying here for days, surrounded by takeaway wrappers, watching old Dr. Who episodes, cuddling Cherry nonstop. Penny is probably worried about me but I haven’t really been using my phone. I’ve tried to call Baz a few times, but always hang up before it starts dialing. I know I should just rip off the band-aid already. But I’m a coward, I guess. I’ll just lay here, waiting for Baz to call me and finally dump me. Every time I think about it, I still cry a little.

The phone rings and my heart gets so tight I can hardly breathe. Fuck, this is it. I slowly lift it up. But it’s not Baz’s photo I see, or Penny’s. Rather, it’s Agatha’s, grinning with her soft California tan. I press talk right away.

“Hello?” I say

“Oh thank god,” Agatha sighs, “you’re alive. We were all sure you’d been in a horrible accident or something!”

“Um, no, I’m fine, just a little under the weather.”

“Then why haven’t you been answering your fucking texts, you arse?!”

I move the phone away from my ear slightly to avoid hearing loss. “I told you, I’ve been sick. Haven’t felt like responding...”

“Okay, that excuse could work on Baz or even Penny, but I’m not buying it. Cut the crap, Simon, what’s wrong?”

I sigh, running a hand over my face. Well, she’s here, and I’m too tired to make up another lie. “Baz is breaking up with me.”

“What?!” I move the phone again. Agatha is going to make me go partially deaf in one phone call. “That dickhead! I- Wait, what do you mean is?”

“Well, uh...he hasn’t dumped me yet...”

Agatha takes a pause. I can imagine her expression right now. Probably a lot of confusion mixed with disbelief. “Okay, please explain this to me, because I’m so lost.”

I sit up, scratching the back of my neck. “Well, um, Baz and I have been having issues meeting up for the past month. Things kept happening. Baz had this wonderful date planned after three weeks of not seeing each other. But then a kid from my class needed someone to stay with him because his stupid parents wouldn’t show up and we had to wait for someone else. So I cancelled and Baz said he understood but I still felt awful. Then the next day I was going to bring him cookies to say sorry, but when I got there, I saw him chatting with this redhead doctor. And I realised Baz had found someone better. Hoped it wouldn't happen but yeah, he’s going to break up with me. Just waiting for him to call or come over. I’d do it myself but I’m too much of a wimp.”

There’s a long drawn out silence. The only sounds are the California waves on Aggie’s end and Cherry meowing for attention on mine. More than ever, I wish I was a mind reader. I want to know what’s going through her head. It’s probably less muddled than mine.

“Simon,” she says slowly, “I need you to know that I’m only saying this because I love you very, very much. This all comes from a place of caring.”

“Uh...okay?” Now I really need to know what’s in her head. But I think I’m about to find out.

Agatha takes a few deep breaths, and then, well...explodes. “You absolute, goddamn fucking numpty! You’re seriously throwing away objectively the best relationship you’ve ever had because you saw him chit chatting with some redheaded twat!? For Christ’s sake, Simon, this is beyond idiotic and self destructive!”

“Hey I-”

“Shush, Simon!” I shut my mouth. “I get you have some serious self esteem issues, Si, but what happened to acknowledging and dealing with them? You are not a warm body for Baz until he finds someone ‘better.’ He’s been pining after you since bloody Watford and being with you is his dream come true. I know because he’s told me so!”

My cheeks flush a little. “R-Really?”

“Yes, really! He adores you, Si, he thinks you hung the bloody moon. In no world would he just up and dump you!”

“I-I mean, yeah, but like, I’ve been an awful boyfriend lately. I wouldn’t blame him if he did...”

“You really think Basilton Pitch, king of overthinking and future psychiatrist, would dump you without first trying to talk?”

“Um, well, I can see your point.”

“Good. I promise you, Simon, he doesn’t want to break up with you. But if you don’t talk to him soon, it may be too late. So get your arse in gear and get your guy. Or I’ll come from all the way across a continent and an ocean just to smack you upside the head.”

I chuckle softly. Huh, this is the first time that’s happened in awhile. Feels good to laugh. “Okay, will do. Thank you, Ags.”

“You’re very welcome, Si. Please send me an update later so I know you’re okay? And Penny too so she doesn’t blow a gasket.”

“I promise. Talk to you later?”

“Talk to you later, Simon. Bye.”

“Bye.”

The second my phone is off, I jump up. I’m invigorated with new energy, both happy and terrified. I may have just ruined the best thing that’s ever happened to me because I’m insecure as fuck. I’ve got to fix it. Before it’s too late.

I pick up all the takeaway containers at lightning speed. They don’t all fit into my trash though (God that’s sad), so I have to get a new trash bag. At least I don’t have a depression nest anymore. That’s a good start. Next step, I run to the shower. I smell fucking ripe. No way I can apologize while smelling like the bottom of a McDonald’s dumpster. Thank every god that I still have some hot water left. I scrub quickly and furiously until I stop feeling so gross.

I jump out and go to my room. Unfortunately, I haven’t done my laundry in a week either. The only things I have are a baggy pair of jeans and one of Baz’s shirts. It’s soft cream with flower buds on it. For all his dark brooding, Baz has a thing for florals. It smells like him, cedar and bergamot with a hint of hospital antiseptic. I put it on.

I’m halfway through the buttons when I hear my door open and close. What the fuck? Who’s here? Who has a key?

“Snow?” Baz’s voice calls out. “Simon, are you here?”

Oh. Oh shit. I dash out of my room, shirt still half open. I even slide on my laminate floor like a cartoon character. Baz is standing in my entryway. And he looks like a total mess. His hair is disheveled, there are huge dark circles under his eyes, and he’s got close to an actual honest to god beard. We just stare at each other way too long. Until I can find my words again.

“Baz,” I stutter. “Hi. W-What are you-”

“Oh thank god.” He runs forward and throws his arms around me in the tightest hug I’ve ever felt. “You’re alive. I thought you were dead or in a coma or-” He pulls back. His eyebrows are all scrunched up. “Is that my shirt?”

My face starts to heat up. “Um, uh, yeah. Didn’t have anything else. I was going to see you. What are you doing here? Are you okay?”

He scoffs, but it’s with a smile. “No, not really, I’ve been worried sick all week. You weren’t answering my texts or Bunce’s. I was scared shitless. I came here because it was my last resort.” He pushes back my hair, rubbing his thumbs along my temple. It’s downright tender. “I’m just so glad you’re okay.” His hands move to my shoulders. “Where did you go?”

“I, uh-” I hang my head. “I-I did something dumb. And I got super sad and I didn’t know what to do. So I was just here a lot...”

His eyes grow wide. “You were here at your apartment? All week?”

“Um, yeah...”

He steps back and blinks. His face is just blank, and honestly it’s more freaky than him panicking. “You’ve been home alone all week, and didn’t tell me?” I nod slowly. That blank face suddenly morphs into unbridled anger. “What the fuck, Snow?! You couldn’t take two seconds to text me back to let me know you’re bloody alive?!”

“I-I didn’t know you texted.”

“Check your phone!”

I scramble over to my couch and scoop up my phone. I haven’t looked at my notifications out of fear. Oh...oh fuck. 53 missed text messages, and 42 are from Baz. My stomach feels like it’s full of rocks. I really am the worst.

“Oh god,” I say, voice very strained. “I’m so sorry, Baz, I was just so caught up in my shit, I wasn’t checking my phone-”

“Obviously.” He rubs the bridge of his nose. “Why did you come to my work?”

My eyes go very wide and my body becomes very stiff. “Wait, you saw me there?”

“No, but Shepard came to talk to me the next day. He asked if my boyfriend was alright because he ran out looking upset. I was surprised he knew who my boyfriend was, and even more so that you were there. So why were you at UCLH and talk to me?”

“Uh, I wanted to talk to you and say sorry for standing you up. B-But when I came, you were um, talking to this guy...” I curl in myself, rubbing my arm. “And I freaked out because I thought after I fucked up the date you’d found someone better and...were going to dump me.”

I look up, and Baz’s jaw is wide open. He drags his hands down his face. “Oh my god, Simon,” he groans, “after all the time we’ve spent together, I can’t believe you still think that low of me.”

“N-No! I don’t!”

“You thought I would dump you after six months together because of a cancelled date? Which you cancelled to help a neglected child?! I’m not a monster, Snow, I’d never do that.”

“Y-Yeah, I know, Baz. It’s just...” I rub the back of my neck. “When I saw you with him, it made all this shit come up and I totally panicked-”

“I understand that, Simon. But it was one conversation with another guy! Why did you ghost me instead of just talking?”

He sounds less angry, more desperate than anything. But it makes me feel even worse. “Because...because I got scared and anxious and I hated seeing it so much...yeah.”

Baz’s mouth is a thin line. “That’s not a real answer, Snow. Why on Earth did you think the worst of me instead of trying to talk?”

“It’s not about you!” I shout desperately. All the words are so muddled up, I can’t get them out. It’s not Baz’s fault, my brain is just being so unhelpful right now. I wasn’t ready for this talk, fuck.

“What does that mean? You stopped talking to me because you thought I was bloody cheating on you! How is this not about me in some capacity?!”

“I didn’t think you were cheating! I just- I thought- I just got so freaked out because I didn’t want to lose you-”

“You weren’t going to lose me!”

“But I thought I was and that scared me so much because I- well, I-”

“Because what, Snow?!”

“Because I love you, you massive arsehole!”

The room goes absolutely, perfectly silent. Baz’s lips have fallen wide open. I inhale sharply. Oh God, did I really just say that out loud? I clap a hand over my mouth and look down, trying to get my breathing under control. I can’t believe I just did that. I’m such an idiot. Baz is going to dump me for sure. Adores me or not, I’ve probably scared him off. My hand falls down.

“I’m so sorry, Baz,” I say softly. “I-I didn’t mean to say that. It just came out-”

“Did you mean it?” I lift my eyes up slightly. I expect Baz to look horrified, angry, maybe even disgusted. But instead he looks...kind of awestruck? His eyes are wider than I’ve ever seen them before. I think about lying, but I don’t think he’s upset. And I have a feeling that if I lie he will be. I think I need to stop hiding my feelings from Baz.

“Yeah. I did.”

His lips fall open even more. And I swear, he’s smiling a little. My heart is beating faster. “Seriously? You...you love me? In love with me?”

I take a deep breath, trying to calm down my racing mind. I nod and take a small step forward. Not crowding Baz, but getting closer. “Yeah. I'm in love with you, Baz. I-I know it’s too soon, but I can’t help-”

Baz cuts me off with the most intense, head spinning, world shaking kiss of my life. He presses the small of my back with one hand and grabs my curls with the other. I literally stumble backwards from it. Baz takes the chance to press me against my hallway wall. Like he’s shielding from the world with his own body. He’s kissing me so hard, so passionately, and I can’t help but melt.

Is this Baz’s way of saying he loves me too? I don’t know. Honestly, I don’t care. This is heavenly to the Nth degree. I’m good at turning off my brain when needed. So that’s exactly what I do.

I push back against Baz with equal force. He groans so deeply it makes me shudder. I grip his face tight, pushing my fingers through his tangled but still soft hair. He drags his tongue along my bottom teeth, slowly and carefully. I nearly melt into a puddle. We’ve never kissed like this before. Even our most intense snogging sections don’t come close. It’s like Baz is trying to touch and grab every part of me but can’t decide which. I don’t mind. He can have it. I’d give him all that I am and more. I’d tie our hearts together, chamber by chamber.

Baz runs his hands down my thigh. I can feel the heat through my trackies. He hooks under one of my knees, pulling it up. I think I get the message. (I hope). I jump, fully prepared to fall flat on my arse, but Baz catches me easily. I wrap my legs around his waist while he holds me up above him. Christ, he’s strong. It’s so hot. And I love this angle, because I can snog the life out of him more easily. This is amazing. But I still want more.

I pull off his mouth (sadly), just enough so I can speak. “Bed?”

Baz just nods and kisses me again. He pulls us off the wall. He barely stumbles as he walks us through my flat. I scramble to unbutton his shirt. I know Baz is really into this because he’s making no fuss about me possibly ruining his clothes. Soon enough, we stumble into my bedroom. Baz quickly kicks the door shut, cutting off the rest of the world, and I don’t mind one bit.

———————————————

Baz and I roll apart solely because we need to breathe. Our chests are heaving. My blankets and sheets are completely tangled around us. I’m more sweaty than the one time I tried to go to a cross fit class. However, this was a way better workout. I’m glad I kept all those supplies in my nightstand.

So, now I know what sex with Baz is like. It’s sweaty, vigorous, a little awkward, and so, so incredible. Pretty sure my brains have been thoroughly fucked out. It takes me a few panting moments for me to muster up a singular word.

“Wow,” I say. My voice is really hoarse, but I absolutely don’t mind.

Baz lets out a small laugh. His voice sounds rough too. It’s really hot. “Still very eloquent.”

“Fuck off.” I lightly push his sweaty shoulder. But when I start to pull back, Baz grabs my wrist and tugs me towards him. Before I know it, Baz is kissing me again. It’s soft, slow but so unbelievably hot. I completely melt into his arms. He’s so warm and strong and I could spend an eternity wrapped up in him. No more work or life, just Baz and I in this bed forever. My god that would be a dream come true.

He pulls off to kiss across my cheeks, then down my neck. He already knows the exact spots that drive me insane. (Well, Baz has always been a quick study.) My eyes flutter closed. I’m falling into that haze again, where my head gets foggy and I can only think in “yes” and “please” and “more.” Part of me wants to sink back into that bliss, but the aching of my out of shape muscles is unfortunately more insistent.

“Baz,” I whisper, “as much as I would like a fourth round, I’d also like to be able to walk tomorrow.”

Baz groans, but relents and rolls onto his back. We settle for just staring at each other. I don’t mind. Baz is always gorgeous but he is a different kind of beautiful right now. His face is all flushed, pupils blown wide, black hair plastered to his damp forehead. And I thought I couldn’t get more attracted to him.

“You alright?” he asks.

“Yeah, absolutely.” I cup his face, running a thumb on his cheekbone. “You?”

“I’m bloody fantastic.” He spreads his fingers out on my side, tracing the most delicate patterns that make me shudder. “Can’t believe I was so scared of this.”

My heart beats faster as my eyebrows scrunch up. “Scared? Of what? Me? I’m sorry-”

“Don’t apologize, Snow. I wasn’t scared of you, not at all.” He sighs and pulls me a little bit closer. “I just built up sex with you so much in my head that it became overwhelming. I was terrified of fucking it up after wanting it for so long.”

“Yeah, I’ve been thinking about it from the start too. Six months of sexual tension really mess with your head.”

He chuckles. I like the way his breath hits my skin. “Simon, love, I first fantasised about sleeping with you when we were 15.”

I was already flushed, but now I’m on fire. It’s a miracle I’m not a pile of ash right now. I flap my mouth open and closed like a fish for too long. Baz just smiles at me like I’m beautiful or something, not a total deer in the headlights.

“R-Really?” I finally get out. “That long?!”

“Mhm. I told you, Snow, I figured out I wanted you in fifth year. Puberty was a bloody nightmare with you right across the room.” We laugh quietly together. But I genuinely feel bad for Baz. I hold the back of his head, running my fingers through his soft hair.

“I’m sorry you went through that, love. Must’ve been awful.”

Baz sighs, putting his hand on mine. “Thank you. At least things worked out in the end." He pecks the tips of my fingers. "I’m glad we finally did this. Real life was far better than any fantasy.”

I kiss the corner of his smile. He giggles, so small and adorable, something I never would’ve thought Baz was capable of until six months ago. I’m so happy. And my heart sinks, thinking about how this was almost over because I was so insecure.

“I’m sorry,” I blurt out, and Baz’s face becomes much more serious. “I-I’m sorry that I vanished without telling you. That was immature and dumb. And I’m sorry for scaring you. I promise I won’t ever do that again.”

Baz nods slowly, mouth twisting from side to side. He brings our hands between us, holding me tight. “I accept your apology. Just, what happened, love? I’m still not sure what you meant.”

Well, I knew this was coming. Doesn’t make it any easier. I clutch him hard, like I’m scared he’ll go. But if the last hour or two means anything, I don’t think he will. Still, I hold him tight.

“That’s a long story,” I sigh.

Baz presses his lips to the back of my hand. It’s firm and comforting. “You can tell me. It’s okay.”

I carefully roll onto my back. Baz goes onto his side, propping his head up with his free arm. We keep our hands together. I really can’t let go of him right now.

“I meant it when I said it wasn’t about you,” I say. “It’s really not. I don’t think you’re a terrible person who would dump or cheat on me. It’s more that...that I was scared and felt worthless. Part of me has always felt worthless, unlovable. Sometimes my brain is like ‘your own parents didn’t want you, why would anyone else?’”

“Simon-”

“You don’t need to tell me it’s not true, Baz, I know. Most of me does, anyway. But sometimes that mean voice gets louder, and it’s been louder lately. Not because of you, not really. It’s because I think you’re incredible and brilliant and that mean voice kept telling me ‘why the hell is he with you? He’s way too good for you. He’ll find someone better.’ And after weeks of missed dates and the whole dinner fiasco, it got worse. Then when I saw you with the other doctor I guess the anxiety just took over. And I just sort of shut down.”

Baz moves closer. “I’m sorry, that’s horrible.”

“Thanks.” I sigh and run a hand through my tangled hair, like I’m trying to pull the stress out of myself. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you this. I didn’t want to dump all my shit on you. It’s a lot to deal with and I should deal with it on my own, not pull you in.”

“Simon,” Baz says firmly, holding himself above me, “you can absolutely pull me into your shit. I want to know everything you’re worried and scared about, so I can be there to help if you want. You never have to hide anything because I love every single part of you, no matter how insecure or sad.”

I stare at him for too long. My heartbeat is roaring in my ears. Slowly, a smile stretches out across my face. “You love me?”

Baz’s face pulls together in confusion, and for a moment I’m scared he’s going to take it back, because I’m not worth it. But then I push that fear down because Baz cares about me. He’s shown that again and again. I'm not unworthy of his love.

“Did I not say it?” he says, genuinely surprised and concerned.

“I mean, maybe, but things were a bit...chaotic before.” My eyes flick over to our rumpled clothing strewn across my room. It honestly looks like a tornado somehow hit both a Primark and a Topshop. Baz laughs with a nod.

“Okay, good point. Let me correct that then.” He delicately holds my chin, making sure our eyes meet. Black hair surrounds his face like a dark halo. His deep sea eyes sparkle with his gorgeous smile. Everything about him is absolutely stunning. “I love you, Simon Snow. I’ve been in love with you since we were kids, because you are the most kind, most caring, most wonderful man I’ve ever known. You are not a holding place or my second choice. Got that?”

I nod very vigorously. I can’t speak right now, my throat is too filled up with all my emotions for words. I wipe my snot and tears with the back of my hand. Extremely unsexy. God I’m a mess. But Baz still looks at me like I’m the most gorgeous thing in the world, because he loves me, imperfections and all.

“Don’t cry, love,” Baz chuckles, “it’s okay.”

“Just overwhelmed,” I say, still sniffling, “and happy. I love you too.”

Baz kisses my forehead. “I know, and I’m very happy as well.” He tucks his head into the crook of my neck. “Not to get all psychiatrist, but these issues of hidden insecurities and fear we both have are going to reoccur if we don’t communicate more.”

I nod, rubbing the arm he has across my chest. “Yeah, I agree.”

“Good.” He rolls slightly, chin placed on my shoulder. “In the name of communication then, I think not seeing each other for weeks on end isn’t good for us. We need to try to meet in person more.”

“Yeah, definitely. I think not seeing you for a while made my anxiety get worse. Thought you would dump me because it was too hard for us to meet up.”

“Honestly,” Baz sighs, “I felt something similar. Not as badly as you, I think, but still not fun. The self deprecating part of me wondered when you would finally get sick of my insane schedule and break up with me. I’m not exactly the easiest person to date. Or the easiest person, period.”

I laugh quietly and tug him closer. "Me neither, love."

Baz smiles all the way to his ears. He kisses me firmly, making my head spin, before pulling me away just as quickly. Our noses stay pressed together. “Suppose we match then, love.”

I throw my arms around his neck. I’m grinning, I can’t stop grinning. “And you like that?”

“I love it.”

“Me too.” I press against his back, reveling in his warm, smooth skin. “I promise to make more time for you. I want this to work. ”

Baz kisses a mole on my cheek. “So do I. I’m in this for the long haul, Simon.”

“Good, because I’m not letting you go.”

“I would love nothing more.”

I grab Baz’s head and smash our mouths together again. Baz instantly returns it, holding me tight. His body is a warm blanket on top of me, protecting me from anything bad in the world. Yeah, I could spend the rest of my life with Baz. I want that so much. Our snogging gets more intense. And each of us can definitely feel our mutual arousal pressed against our thighs.

Baz pulls off my mouth, but only a little. “What happened to needing to walk tomorrow?”

I shrug with a sly smile. “Eh, who needs walking? You can just carry me everywhere.”

He grins once before kissing me hard. I’m truly a lucky guy. And it’s incredible that Baz thinks the same. I’m living a charmed life.

———————————————

Three months later

“Y’know,” I pant, “you could help.”

Baz looks up from his phone, one eyebrow propped up. “Who carried all your KitchenAid hardware to our new place?”

“Okay, yeah, but that was down the hall, not up four flights of stairs.” I drop another box of books and breathe heavily.

“That mixer was very heavy.”

“Baz.”

He lets out a very dramatic groan, making a show of hanging his head over the back of Penny’s settee. “Fine. I’ll help.”

I don’t miss the joking glint in his eyes. Arsehole. He just likes making a show of it. He kisses my cheek on the way out. I slap his arse, making him yelp, but his smirk tells me he’s not upset at all.

“Are you two flirting?” Penny calls out from the hall. “I told you, my flat is a flirt free zone!”

“No flirting, Bunce,” Baz says. “Just some light groping on Snow’s part.”

Penny groans so loud I’m pretty sure the whole floor can hear her. She walks in with a box filled with figurines. She glares at me viciously. I throw my hands up in surrender.

“I slapped his arse, didn’t grab it.”

“That’s not much better, Si.” She places the box on the ground and puts her hands on her hips. “Focus more on moving and less on your boyfriend’s arse.”

“Aw, don’t be mad, Pen, I’m sorry.” I wrap her up in a tight hug, and she holds me just as close. She’s been doing that a lot lately. I don’t mind. “Y’know, that offer to fly to Chicago and kick Micah’s arse is still on the table.”

That finally makes her laugh. She shakes her head against my chest. “No, it’s alright. I’m mad but not really vengeful. He tried to break up with me, I just wasn’t listening to him.”

“Still not an excuse to start dating someone else.”

“Yeah, I guess," she sniffles. "Thanks for subletting your flat to me."

I kiss the top of her head. "You're very welcome, Pen. Anything for you."

She holds me tighter. I let her hang on to me. It’s the least I can do.

“After all the fuss you made about me helping,” Baz shouts, “now you’re just standing there, Snow? Really?”

I sigh and look up over Penny’s head. Baz is balancing two large boxes because he likes to show off how strong he is. But he’s being helpful, and his strength is hot, so I don’t mind.

“I am comforting my friend,” I say, tone very high and mighty and mocking.

“Yes, but avoiding work must be a plus.”

“Oh, absolutely. And teasing you.”

Penny laughs and pulls back from me, looking at Baz as he puts down the boxes. “As a psychiatrist, you think it says something that even though you’re together now, you two still bicker like in school?”

Baz tilts his head side to side, stroking his chin like a great scholar. “Probably could say something about regressing to old patterns of behaviour from when we were children. But now after time together, working out our issues, and forming better patterns of behaviour, the bickering is now a show of affection rather than true antagonism. Therefore it has transformed into a healthy relationship feature from a bad one. A rare but possible event.”

Penny blinks at him. I’m trying to hide my blush. Don’t really want Penny to know how hot I find Baz being all smart and shit. Still have no idea what he’s talking about, but now I definitely want to rip his clothes off. Penny would kill me though. Murder would not be sexy.

“God,” she chuckles, “you really are a psychiatrist.”

“Yeah he is!” Shepard stumbles in, a box wobbling precariously on his arms. “Either that or he’s a weirdo who enjoys being in a hospital all the time for some reason.” The box tips over. I run up and catch it just in time. “Oh, whoops, sorry.”

“You break it, you suffer Bunce’s wrath, Shep,” Baz says.

“Damn right you do.” Penny walks past him, leveling a look over her glasses. Shepard gulps and watches her as she goes downstairs. And he follows her to help, looking totally out of it.

A pair of familiar arms wrap around my waist. Baz rests his chin on my shoulder. “In my humble psychiatrist opinion, I think our dear American might have a little crush on Bunce.”

I chuckle, cupping his cheek. “I wouldn’t blame him. Pen is pretty awesome.”

“Oh," he says with a teasing lilt, "should I be worried that she’s living down the hall from us now?”

I scoff and roll my eyes like he does at stupid people on telly. “Should I be worried about you working with Dr. Lamb?”

Baz makes a very unattractive dry heaving sound. “Never. That backstabbing twat can go eat a bag of rusty screws. Only reason I give him the time of day is because he’s got my supervisor wrapped around his stupid finger.”

“And if you piss him off you’ll lose important psychiatry rounds, yes, yes, I know. He’s still gonna try to flirt with you.”

“Yeah, because he’s a twat. But I only want you.” He kisses a mole on my neck, his favourite one. “I love you, Simon.”

I kiss his temple. “I love you too.”

“I love you so much I’m willing to give up my lovely condo to move into your weird exposed brick hipster building.”

I scoff and turn to him, arms around his slender neck. “Wasn’t it your idea to move into a bigger place here because it’s closer to both of our workplaces?”

He smiles, kissing the tip of my nose. Bastard. I hated his teasing in school, but he’s right, now it’s out of love. Crazy, stupid, wonderful love. “Since when do you listen to me?”

“You have a good idea every once in a while.”

“How about this one?” He kisses me firmly. When he pulls back a little, my heart is beating rapidly.

“Yeah, I like that one.”

“Good.” We kiss again, soft and slow. Never before have I felt so safe and content kissing someone. Baz can hold me close and make all my worries go away. Part of me still can’t believe I get to have this. A person who adores me completely, including every single weird, flawed, stupid part too. But I have to stop thinking like that. I’m allowed to be happy. I’m allowed to be with someone so incredible. And someone so incredible can absolutely love me back. The work we've both put in to being together shows our mutual care again and again. We deserve to be happy together. It's amazing.

“Oh for fuck’s sake!” Baz and I pull apart to look at Penny’s glaring face. “We leave you two alone for five minutes and you’re already defiling my apartment?”

“This is still technically Snow’s flat, you know,” Baz says smoothly.

“And you don’t want to know how we’ve already defiled it.” I give the biggest shit eating grin I can.

Penny waves her hands in front of herself. “Nope, nope, I’d rather live in blissful ignorance. Also, Simon," Penny hands me an envelope, "postman came. This is for you. Thought I'd grab it before they accidentally delivered it to me."

I rip it open with ease. Inside is a paper with familiar terrible handwriting. I grin ear to ear. Baz looks over my shoulder. "What is it?"

"It's from Jeremy." I scan down the letter. Luckily I'm adept at deciphering kid writing. "He says he misses me but likes his aunt's place a lot. They garden a lot and he's playing football on a community team.:

"All sound great," Penny says, having moved to the shoulder not occupied by Baz.

"Yeah, definitely. Oh, and he's got a new kitten. And guess what he named him?"

"What?" Penny and Baz say at the same time. It's pretty hilarious but I keep myself from laughing to avoid any glares.

"Snow." I hold up a Polaroid picture of a grinning Jeremy holding a small, fluffy white cat. Both of them can't help but make awing noises.

"Adorable," Baz says. "You did a good job with that kid, Snow."

I kiss his cheek. "Thanks, love."

"I want a cat," Penny sighs. Her nose scrunches up. "Am I going to turn into a crazy cat lady?"

"Hey," I say, "you were the one who told me that was a sexist stereotype. So no, you're going to be a very sane, wonderful, brilliant cat lady." I lean closer, whispering in her ear. "And maybe, once you feel better, you can try talking to a certain American. I think he's got a thing for you."

Penny sticks her tongue out, but before she can respond, Shepard comes stumbling in with a box of china. He places it very carefully. I can see him not so subtly watching Penny out of the corner of his eye. I don't think he wants to piss her off again. “Okay, I think that’s all of it. Wow, a lot of books. Reminds me of my Mom's office back in Omaha.”

"So I remind you of your mum?" Penny asks, arms crossed over her chest. Shepard's eyes go wide. I snort into Baz's shoulder

"No! No, definitely not, I just mean...you're both super smart."

Penny scoffs. "Good answer, American. Now let's get all my books unpacked."

I groan loudly. “Come on, Pen, not today. Why don’t we go to mine and Baz’s flat and we’ll make you dinner?”

“You mean I’ll be making dinner.” Baz raises his eyebrow at me. “You can’t cook, Simon.”

“I’ve been learning!”

He sighs over dramatically. “Very well. You can chop the onions.”

“I’ll take it.” I put my arm on Penny’s shoulders. She leans into me like always. “Come on, let’s eat.”

“Can I come?” Shepard asks, beaming wide. Who could say no to that face?

“Of course! You deserve a reward for all your hard work.”

“Awesome!” He dashes up beside Pen, looking all cute. And I can see Penny smiling, just a little. I’m glad to see her happy.

I put Jeremy's letter in my pocket. It's going right on the fridge the second we get to mine and Baz’s new place. Baz takes my hand in his, weaving our fingers together. He smiles, looking at me from the corner of his eye. I feel like I could fly on the power of love alone right now.

God, I truly have an amazing life.

———————————————

Awwww stupidly in love, just how I like it. Tbh I started writing this before Wayward So came out, and after I decided I wanted to deal with their communication issues like in the book but resolve them. I'm not throwing shade, just stating an opinion, plz don't kill me lol. But I do hope you all liked it! I never planned on writing a sequel but sometimes shit works out like that. I do have another idea for a short one shot but don't hold me to that, life is pretty nuts rn and I don't have a lot of free time, hence why this took me so long. Anyway, have a good day/night y'all!

#carry on #wayward son #snowbaz #simon snow #baz pitch #penelope bunce #shepard #lamb #established relationship #angst with a happy ending #jealous simon #communication failure #mysnowbazfic

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drowseoftaylor · 5 years

Note

Could you do a fluffy fic where Brian is in college and he really really likes the reader but he’s very shy so all the times he’s tried to ask her out/talk to her the words didn’t come out, and she gets kinda tired of waiting so she makes he first move instead and he’s taken aback?

hi sorey this took so long I’m a terrible person but here we go (and I’m writing this on mobile so hopefully the format or anything isn’t shit) (not proof read deal w it)

Brian was the quiet kid in the front of the room who always kept to himself

He wasn’t really going out of his way to look for a girlfriend as he was primarily focused on his physics studies and his new band called smile

Brian shifts through his bag to find his calculator at the start of class as this is the first day of the new semester and Brian always liked to look prepared before the professor came in

The bell was seconds away from ringing and everyone was in the lecture hall softly speaking to thier neighbors and really to learn as an empty seat next to him sat

Brian didn’t think much of it as Professor Baker walked in and placed his coffee mug and bag down on his desk

“Welcome young, scientists! This class is Astrophysics 101, you’re all in the right room, correct?”

His eyes scanned the room and heads nodded and a “yes” was murmured here and there

“Great, let’s get started with-“

Suddenly the professor was cut off by the sound of the lecture hall door slamming open and the sound of someone running down the stairs to the front of the auditorium like room to fill in the vacant seat at the front of class

Brian, like everyone else, turned their heads and watched this girl messily scurry to a desk and quickly slag her bag off then slumping down in her seat and not making eye contact with anyone

“Ah, thank you for joining us, Miss?” The professor walked closer to her desk smiling slightly

“Miss Y/L/N.” You said a little smug, not really knowing why you got put in this class anyway. You were an English major for Christ’s sake. What did you care about space for?

“Mm. First impressions are everything, wouldn’t you agree, Miss Y/L/N?” Professor Baker said pushing his glasses back on his face and then turning away to walk back to his desk to write something down

“Whatever you say.” You say and roll your eyes. You were not really in the mood for another teacher with a stick up thier ass. How were you ever supposed to get thorough this class?

Professor Baker shrugged the situation off and began going over the content and syllabus for the class and your brian immediately zoned out

Your hand dropped down to the front pouch of your bag and you pulled a cherry red lolly and began eating it while looking around the class at all the bored faces surrounding you

When your eyes landed on the curly haired boy next to you, your heart skipped a little. He was so fucking cute

Brian had been staring at you ever since you walked (well, ran) in. The way you were dressed. He loved the clothes you wore. A black and red plaid skirt with black fishnet leggings matched with a black leather jacket and a white band tee. Doc Martens too. You look so cool. Your red lipstick. Your beautiful hair. The way you carried yourself. The way you crossed your legs and looked like you had a million things to say yet no one to tell them too.

He could tell you were different from him. But not really. He couldn’t really explain it. But he wanted to know you so so bad. His heart swelled. He had never felt so strongly about a girl before. You were just so...beautiful.

You looked over and him and gave him a wink and small wave before turning your gaze back up front. Brian felt heat creep up his cheek and his stomach flutter. He felt like a teenager in love. Were you even real?

As class was dismissed, Brian was far too shy to say anything to you so he quickly tried to pack up all his things and leave before you could stop him

Right as he got up out of his seat, he heard your voice from behind.

“Hey! Excuse me, could you tell me where “Shakespeare in the Now” class is at? I’m new and I don’t really know my way around yet.” You softly chuckled and looked up at him. Wow he was tall. Beautiful too, no doubt.

“Um, yeah. I’m actually headed my way towards the English department myself. Wanna walk together?” Brian’s palms started to sweat a little and his throat started to dry up. How was someone as beautiful as you talking to him?

“Oh yes, that’d be great!” You said as you walked in front of him and gave him a warm smile as you look back. A warm smile in which he returns.

As you walk across the grass in a comfortable silence. Brian musters up the courage to break it and say. “Shakespeare in the Now, huh? Pretty eccentric name for a class.”

You smile and laugh lightly at that. “Yeah well, I’m a total English nerd, you know? Wanna be a professor myself one day.”

Brian’s face lights up. “Ah, so you want a PhD as well?”

“Yes! I’ve always loved school, believe it or not from my entrance today.” You pause and both laugh lightly.

“I promise I’m never late to my English courses.” You say putting a light hand on Brian’s forearm and his heart rate quickens a little.

“Oh yeah I’m sure.” He says playfully rolling his eyes and he nudges you a little, causing you to laugh more.

“So, if you’re an English major, why the high level physics class?” Brian asks as you both stop in front a of a Victorian style building.

“It was a requirement for my degree. I’m not really into that kinda stuff. But hey, maybe you could make it more interesting?” you say smiling up at him and he clearly blushes and gets a little flustered and you notice.

“Y-yeah maybe.” He says looking away slightly.

“Well, I gotta go. But I’ll see you Wednesday okay, space boy?” You say holding your handout for a handshake and he kindly follows suit.

“Absolutely Miss Y/L/N.”

“Ew no, call me Y/N. Please. And wait, I never even found out your name?” You say.

“It’s Brian. Brian May.”

“Aw that’s such a nice name,” you say warmly. You let go of his hand and turn to walk into the building.

“Later, Brian May!” You say waving.

You were too far out of reach to hear his response. But he definitely could not wait for Wednesday.

As the weeks went on in your class all he wanted to do was to find the courage to ask you on a proper date. You’ve talked about studying together and things like that, but he wanted more. He wanted to pick you up, take you out to dinner, and treat you like a lady. But he knows he will never have the courage to do so.

Of course, you wanted more too. Luckily for the both of you, you were not too afraid to ask.

Class was particularly hard today and your head was spinning with all this talk of zodiacal dust and things of the sort.

“You okay there, Fitzgerald?”

“Not in the slightest, Galileo.” You relpield with a huff and the look of defeat.

You two had developed nicknames based upon the greats that had done memorable work in your fields of study and it was so cute.

“You know what I was thinking?”

Brian held the door open for you as you both walked out of the hall.

“What?” Brian said with a small smile on his face.

“If I told you something, would you freak out?”

Brian’s hands started to clam up a bit.

“Ah, no I- I don’t think so?” What the hell were you gonna say? Were you gonna break off your friendship? Things had gone so well! Had he done something wrong?

His thoughts were quickly cut off by your voice.

“I really like you, Bri. You make me laugh. You listen. You always have something to offer. You make me love the things I hate. And...I like you. Do you maybe wanna go out properly with me?”

Brian’s heart nearly fell out of his chest. This girl, no, angel, stumbled in his life. Turned it upside down and finally he got his opportunity to treat you like the goddess you were to him.

“I’m so glad you asked Y/N. I’m too much of a wimp to ever ask an amazing, wonderful, beautiful, girl to go out with a guy like me.” Brian grabbed your hand and gave it a kiss.

“So I take it you like me too?” You say smiling up at him wide eyed and almost giddy.

“Absolutely. The Charles Dickens to my Einstein.”

Brian wrapped his long arm around your shoulders and pulled you into him as you walked to your real first date.

“You could’ve at least picked a female author for that analogy you know?” You say lightly pinching his side and he laughs.

“Oh shush. Does it look like I’m the English major here?”

“No space boy. No it doesn’t.” You say with a soft smile as you lean your head on his chest.

Wooooooo okay this was a lot longer than I expected and it’s not proofread because it’s late as fuck but I hope you all liked it!! Feel free to leave requests 💘💘💘

#brian may #queen #queen band #brian harold may #brian may x reader #mine #brian may fluff #holy shit this be long #this actually turned out so cute aw #i wish i was the reader in this so bad oh my lord #ok goodnight

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kanasmusings · 5 years

Text

[Translation] QUELL “Matchless People” Track 5

Track 5~ It’s the last track for the actual CD but there’s still the mini drama that comes with it ^^ I hope you all enjoyed this as much as I did because the angst and resolution was all just great!

Thank you again to Deea for the files~! Please don’t ask her for them as per her request and please don’t ask if I’ll be sharing mine as well, thank you ^^

※ Please don’t re-post these translations without permission. Instead of reposting, please just like/reblog instead ^^

Under the cut, enjoy~!

Track 05: [君の隣に立つために] “So that I can be able to stand next to you.”

[0:00]

(Issei walking around)

ISSEI: (yawns) Hm? There’s no one here…

ISSEI: Are they all out somewhere? Hm?

ISSEI: This is breakfast. Oh.

(Issei picks up a note)

ISSEI: “We went out for a bit but we’ll be back by lunch.” From Eichi…

ISSEI: Ah, he’s really considerate.

ISSEI: I have to eat properly before Eichi comes home.

(Issei opens a pot’s lid)

ISSEI: I knew it. There was some miso soup.

ISSEI: Let’s warm it up.

(Issei close the lid and starts pressing buttons)

ISSEI: And then… I have to prepare some rice and make side dishes at the stove... Ah, I have to make some now.

(Issei turns the faucet on)

ISSEI: I wonder what Ichiru’s doing now…

ISSEI: It looks like he wasn’t in his room. It’s his day off today so maybe… he went out somewhere?

(Issei turns the faucet off)

ISSEI: Wait… It’s been a while since Ichiru and I weren’t together…

ISSEI: Until recently, I felt uneasy whenever we weren’t together but… I wonder why?

ISSEI: I feel like I’m not that worried at all.

(Ichiru comes running in)

ICHIRU: Ah…!

ISSEI: Ichiru?!

ICHIRU: Issei… You were awake?

ISSEI: Yep, good morning. You were out? Were you with Eichi by any chance?

ICHIRU: Yeah, well, for a bit.

ISSEI: I see. I just woke up.

ISSEI: Did you eat lunch, Ichiru?

ICHIRU: Not yet.

ISSEI: Want something to eat? I’m about to eat breakfast so want me to make something while I’m at it?

ISSEI: Is there something left in the fridge?

(Issei opens the refrigerator)

ISSEI: Um… Eggs and tomatoes and…

ICHIRU: Issei, um…!

ISSEI: Hm?

ICHIRU: Um… I’m sorry about… yesterday.

ICHIRU: I’m really… sorry.

ISSEI: (closes the fridge before turning to Ichiru) You didn’t say anything wrong, Ichiru.

ISSEI: I should be the one saying sorry.

ICHIRU: No…! You didn’t say anything wrong either.

ISSEI: That’s not true. I didn’t follow my own advice. I only thought it was natural that you’d scold me.

ISSEI: I’ve already reflected on it. I’m sorry, too.

ICHIRU: But, I… Shouted at you in public.

ISSEI: Ichiru, I have a favour.

ICHIRU: What?

ISSEI: I want to go eat. Can we talk about it while eating?

ICHIRU: Y-Yeah, of course. I don’t mind at all.

ISSEI: (smiles) Thank you. Ah, I forgot about the miso soup!

ICHIRU: Miso soup? W-woah…! (Ichiru rushes to turn the pot off)

ICHIRU: That was close… It almost overflowed.

ISSEI: Ah… I forgot I switched it on…

ICHIRU: I’ll do it. I just have to eat it up, right?

ISSEI: Yeah… But—

ICHIRU: Just let me. I’ll do it.

ISSEI: Got it. Then, I’ll go get the table ready.

ICHIRU: Geez… I’m sure that he’s still half-asleep or something.

ICHIRU: Um… heat the miso soup and then er…

[04:00]

ICHIRU: It’s done.

ISSEI: Thank you.

(Ichiru sets the table and Issei takes a picture suddenly)

ISSEI: I got a nice picture~ Thank you for the food.

(Issei starts eating)

ICHIRU: I made that eggplant miso soup… Though, I made it with the broth that Eichi made yesterday.

ISSEI: It’s delicious.

ICHIRU: Right?! It got a bit over boiled so I was worried the taste might change.

ISSEI: It’s okay.

ICHIRU: You were that hungry, huh?

ISSEI: It’s like Ichiru said.

ICHIRU: Huh? Did I say anything?

ISSEI: I didn’t get to eat much yesterday. I think it was because I was too tired from not being able to sleep.

ICHIRU: Oh, that? You’re only realizing that now?

ISSEI: Yeah.

ISSEI: I thought I’d be fine if I didn’t sleep for just one day.

ICHIRU: Geez… You’re too thick-headed, Issei.

ISSEI: I guess I am.

ISSEI: From now on I’ll eat properly. And I’ll sleep when I’m sleepy. I’ll discuss with everyone if I can’t fall asleep.

ISSEI: I’ll stop judging easily whether something is a big deal or not.

ICHIRU: Yeah. I’ll be happy if you do that, too.

ISSEI: That’s why, if there’s something that bugs you again, I want you to tell me properly.

ISSEI: I want to fix my bad points, too.

ISSEI: Oh, and, I’m sorry for being too nagging. I trust you properly and--

ICHIRU: Ahh…!! Wait a sec, stop!

ISSEI: Ichiru?

ICHIRU: If you go and apologize that much, it’d be hard for me to apologize, y’know?

ISSEI: Hm? You already did, didn’t you?

ICHIRU: I only got to say ‘sorry’, didn’t I?! I haven’t said anything else yet.

ISSEI: That’s more than enough.

ISSEI: Plus, now that I think about it, the things I kept warning you about were just me being overprotective. You don’t have to mind them.

ICHIRU: Of course I would! Ah, but… I don’t mind being told to be careful and it makes me happy but… that’s not it!

ICHIRU: I want to be able to do something even without being told.

ICHIRU: Like you and Shu.

ISSEI: Ichiru doesn’t have to be like me or Shu. You’re fine as you are.

ICHIRU: But…!

ISSEI: Then, what would you do if I said that I want to be like you or Eichi?

ICHIRU: Huh? You don’t have to, you know? Ah…

ISSEI: See what I mean?

ICHIRU: That’s true but…

ICHIRU: (groans)

ISSEI: What’s wrong?

ICHIRU: I just can’t win against you…

ISSEI: Do you want to?

ICHIRU: No… It’s not like I want to, it’s… I just don’t want to be left behind…

ICHIRU: I want to stand beside you or something…

ISSEI: (chuckles) Oh, so felt that way, too?

ICHIRU: Eh…?

ISSEI: I do, too. I feel the same.

ICHIRU: Eh…? What?!

ISSEI: I want to be prouder and confidently say that we’re twins someday!

ISSEI: I’ve always thought so. Maybe we really are similar somehow.

ICHIRU: Because we’re twins…?

ISSEI: No, because we want to always do our best together.

ICHIRU: I see… That’s right!

ISSEI: Yeah, I’m sure it is.

ICHIRU: Ah, wait a sec.

ISSEI: Hm? What’s wrong?

(Ichiru leaves to grab something)

[08:05]

ICHIRU: Here. I bought it for you.

ISSEI: Can I open it?

ICHIRU: Yeah.

(Issei opens the present)

ISSEI: Ah, it’s the fashionable glasses we saw yesterday!

ICHIRU: I had Eichi take me there and we kinda discussed what would be good…

ICHIRU: But I knew that these were the best style!

ICHIRU: It matches with mine.

ISSEI: Did you go and buy these this morning?

ICHIRU: Yeah. I kinda planned to be home before you woke up.

ICHIRU: I was gonna hand these to you and then we’d make up.

ISSEI: Even though I wasn’t mad?

ICHIRU: I wanted to apologize.

ICHIRU: I didn’t want to just “sort of” make up.

ICHIRU: Plus… I didn’t want yesterday to remain a bitter memory…

ICHIRU: That’s why I had Eichi come with me shopping but only I came back earlier.

ICHIRU: I wanted to talk with you properly.

ISSEI: So that’s why… (smiles)

ISSEI: Thank you! I’ll have to thank Eichi later, too.

ICHIRU: Did you say anything to Shu this morning, Issei…?

ISSEI: To Shu? I haven’t met him today though…

ICHIRU: Ah… You’re the type who doesn’t remember sleep-talking…

ISSEI: Should we go out somewhere after we eat? Just the two of us while wearing these (the sunglasses)?

ICHIRU: As a disguise?

ISSEI: Yeah! And a hat, too~!

ICHIRU: Let’s go! Yeah, let’s do it.

ICHIRU: Oh yeah! Wanna go take a look at the boxed lunches from yesterday?

ISSEI: That’s a great idea. Let’s buy four then~

ISSEI: Oh, I wanna see the pet stores, too.

ICHIRU: Since it’s our day-off, too!

ISSEI: Let’s enjoy ourselves today~

[10:00]

SHU: Shiki!

SHIKI: Sorry for making you wait.

SHU: No, I just arrived myself.

SHIKI: This is unusual. I thought that since it’s you, you’d be sitting at a private booth.

SHU: Don’t you like it?

SHIKI: Nah, I’m the type who enjoys myself in any kind of situation.

SHIKI: You’re the one who doesn’t like crowds, aren’t you?

SHU: Have I ever mentioned that?

SHIKI: I can tell that much just by looking.

SHIKI/SHU: Cheers.

SHIKI: This is delicious.

SHIKI: You’re drinking tea? You really not up to trying at least one glass?

SHU: Unfortunately, no.

SHU: I’d end up causing trouble for everyone around me if I started feeling bad.

SHU: It’s just my constitution so I can’t do anything about it.

SHIKI: I imagined that you couldn’t handle alcohol but I didn’t think you’d be this much of a non-drinker.

SHIKI: Well, I guess that’s so like you. So? What did you want to talk about?

SHU: It’s um…

SHIKI: Oh? It’s rare for you to be tongue-tied. Even though you hounded on me when I left our former unit.

SHU: That’s…

SHIKI: You were the only one who directly told me not to quit. Multiple times, too.

SHIKI: The others didn’t really mind or care or they thought that it’d be wasted effort, or just laugh and say “that’s so like you.”

SHIKI: Each of them either understood me or didn’t.

SHU: I didn’t want to give up even if it seemed impossible.

SHIKI: I see.

SHU: I didn’t want you to get too far ahead. Even now, I still want to catch up with you, with SolidS.

SHU: I didn’t want to be protected, taught, and then catch up a long while after.

SHU: I wanted to stand at the same place as you.

SHIKI: (smiles) I thought so.

SHU: (smiles) I told you all I felt and that’s the extent of your reaction?

SHIKI: I told you a while ago, remember? I can tell that much just by looking at you.

SHU: Am I really that easy to read?

SHIKI: Lately, you’ve become easier to read. Though you did manage to put on a passable poker face during the general meeting.

SHIKI: Though, your true feelings showed afterwards.

SHU: If only that would count as a good poker face.

SHU: I think I keep losing face when it comes to you. It really is a bit frustrating that you can always notice it.

SHIKI: I get nervous if I don’t notice it. I mean that in a good way, of course.

SHIKI: As an artist, there’s really no one who’s in full control of their emotions.

SHU: Shiki…

SHIKI: Also, I don’t particularly dislike tenacious people, you know?

SHIKI: As proof, I’m constantly surrounded by those kinds of people.

SHIKI: You can compete with me anytime you want, you know? I’ll take you on as long as it’s not a drinking competition.

SHU: (smiles) Got it. I’ll cling on to that while relying on you at the same time.

SHU: Anyway, without further ado.

SHIKI: Hm? This is?

SHU: The talks about the promotion. I gave it some more thought.

SHU: Would you take a look at them?

SHIKI: You… It would’ve been better to discuss this in a private booth, you know?

SHU: If we talk quietly, it would be no different from our usual meetings in a meeting room.

SHU: I wanted to be more frank about it.

SHU: It’s a material that I planned to bring so I prepared for this beforehand.

SHU: If someone caught a glimpse of it, the words inside are only things we can understand.

SHU: Also, since I don’t drink, there’s zero chance that I’ll lose the files from being drunk.

SHIKI: Wait, I can’t let that last line slide.

SHIKI: I haven’t lost anything even when I was drunk, you know?

SHU: I heard a rumor that someone’s a bit difficult when he’s tired though~

SHIKI: Ah… The rumor’s origins are so easy to tell that it makes my head spin.

SHIKI: Damn it… Don’t treat me like a forgetful old man just because I hit 30.

SHU: You’ll listen to me, won’t you?

(Shiki takes a sip of his drink before replying)

SHIKI: Yeah, of course.

==END==

※ Please don’t re-post the English translations without permission.

If you enjoyed this, please consider buying me a ko-fi here to support my work if you want. (o^▽^o)Thank you!!

#quell #quell translations #my translations #tsukipro #drama cd #i'd like to say it's the final one but there's still the mini drama cd XD

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petty-revenge-stories · 6 years

Text

My tale of sweet petty revenge on a boss who treated me terribly for 3 years and tried to sabotage my career.

I worked at my previous job for over 3 years. It was there that I met the worst boss on the face of the earth, who we'll call Ariel.

Ariel wasn't that bad the first year and a half I worked there. She was very narcissistic, could not stand being wrong or anyone doing better than her, and could be very belittling, but overall once you got to know her and her ways you could kind of deal with it. It wasn't great, but I loved the work I was doing so I put up with it. At the year and a half mark I got promoted! Ariel was still my boss, but I had more responsibility and authority over the coworkers I had previously been working alongside. All of them were very happy for me! Everyone except Ariel. It's like a switch turned inside of her, and her crazy, micromanaging, narcissistic behavior increased tenfold, basically only directed at me.

She would straight up lie to me, steal (impressive!) ideas that I had floated to her and take credit for them, and look for any excuse whatsoever to reprimand me or talk down to me in front of her boss ("big boss") to make me look bad. Reflecting back on it, I don't really know what her problem with me was. The best guess I could come up with was that she felt her job was threatened by me moving up in the company? I was very good at what I did, and do know how to do a lot of the things her job involves, but it also comes with several responsibilities I had no interest in and she knew all of this. Aside from that, she's been with the company for nearly a decade, all the higher ups loved her (and were not wise to how she treated her subordinates, since she put the fear of god in all of us and since no one wanted to be on her bad side, no one spoke up) so she really had no reason to feel so threatened.

Since the promotion I had been dealing with her unprofessional and outright terrible behavior of me and taking it all in stride. I really liked my job, I could handle things. Then, shit got worse.

First, remember how I said she lied? Well, I had a very important client coming in for a meeting with me. It was absolutely imperative client was informed of XYZ before they came in. This was part of Ariel's job. The day of the meeting comes along, and I am reading through an email correspondence between client and Ariel which Ariel forwarded to me (literally the morning of an afternoon meeting, as late as she could possibly send me the information). I notice that XYZ is not mentioned. We do often have phone conversations with our clients, so figuring this is what happened and wanting to verify that, I call up Ariel. I ask her if she is absolutely sure client knows about XYZ?

In a snotty 'are you a moron' voice she tells me "Of course I did. Did you not read the email I forwarded?"

I explain that yes, I did, and the lack of it mentioned in there is what prompted my call. She practically cuts me off to say "Oh, yeah. Client called. I told them over the phone."

I was super skeptical but I trusted her. She knew how incredibly important it was and surely she couldn't be this much of an asshole. (Spoiler alert: she could!)

I went into the meeting thinking client knew about XYZ. He did not, and him having to find out at what was essentially the last minute made him (understandably) very angry. He also had lost trust in us, because here I am, talking to him like he knows about it and being just as surprised as him when he doesn't. We lost their account. This reflected badly on me because I was the one meeting with him. Unless I personally spoke to big boss, and then their boss, and accused Ariel of lying, it would just be assumed I screwed up as there was no way Ariel would defend me or admit her lie. We had spoken about it over the phone too so there was no concrete proof she lied.

Another one of her shining moments came a few months later. A meeting was scheduled with an important potential client, which would be handled by big boss, Ariel, and myself. I don't want to be too specific but the company had created a new product, and it was Ariel's responsibility to explain to me the functions and limitations of it, as was usual protocol.

Big boss was essentially sitting into the meeting so her seniority made the client feel important, Ariel and I are running the show. Meetings ran by Ariel and I were pretty usual, big boss being a part of them was uncommon. I go to explain to the client how this new product cannot do this one specific thing, which Ariel specifically told me it could not, when she swoops in and corrects me that it does in fact do that thing, as long as you turn this nob first!

I was livid. She made me look as if I had no idea what I'm talking about, like I'm an utter idiot, in front of not only the client but big boss! It was such an incredibly simple thing too, and big boss loves Ariel, that it wouldn't have even crossed her mind that Ariel didn't properly explain it to me, let alone straight up lie about it! And even then, if I called her out on it, it would again just come to he said she said thing.

That was my breaking point. This was ridiculous and I had to get as far away from Ariel as I could. She was sabotaging my career. Thankfully about a month and a half later I accepted an offer from a great job with better pay and even a better commute! I gleefully put in my two weeks notice.

On the morning of my second to last day at the company, my brother calls. My niece has lice, and both he and his wife have it too. Knowing I spend a lot of time with her they called to tell me to check myself out. Lucky me, I also have lice.

It's like an hour before I have to start work, I do not have time to go get a lice treatment and deal with this right now, so I google and find the best way to prevent spreading it is to pull your hair up into a neat, tight bun and spray with a barrier of hairspray to decrease the chances of stray hairs flying around. I do so, and head into work to deal with getting rid of the lice when I get home. I wanted to prevent the chances of anyone else contracting lice, because if you've ever been unlucky enough to have it, you'll know that it is a bitch to deal with. Pain in the ass treatments that have to be done a few times (which are extremely harsh on your hair), lots of washing clothes and spraying down furniture, because even just one tiny little nit could reignite the infestation.

One thing you should know about Ariel is that she absolutely loves her hair. It's this beautiful shade of auburn, long, and perpetually has the most perfect relaxed wave to it. As much as I hate her and hate to admit it, she really does have gorgeous hair most women dream about. Honestly, she looks like Disney's princess Ariel. She is obsessed with it and does everything she possibly can to maintain it's beauty. She even goes so far as to keep some dry shampoo, hairspray, and a brush in her desk. I know, because I've seen her pull them out and use these things many times.

Well, that morning she was extra sour and in supreme bitch mode, probably because my leaving caused a lot of work to fall on her shoulders until they found someone qualified to replace me. I was already leaving for a much better and more peaceful job, but I was and still am astounded at how she treated me. So, when she left to go to lunch, I quietly made my way into her office, took out my bun, shook my hair out, and ran her brush through my lice infested hair.

I hope she enjoyed constantly itching her head and lice treatments causing damage to all that beautiful auburn hair.

TLDR; Boss is terrible to me for 3 years and sabotages my career so upon leaving for a much better job I make sure she gets lice.

(source) (story by PettyPettyPatty)

#pettyrevenge #by PettyPettyPatty #petty revenge #revenge stories #petty revenge stories #petty #revenge #revenge story #last10

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spideyspence · 5 years

Text

no one nowhere knows me better than you ; tom holland

and it’s done wow. my lil bby is done oh my gosh. this is my first little series that i wrote and sorry that this has taken quite a while. i had 3 assignments to do for school and and i was prioritising school over this fic. so it’s done, i hope you guys enjoyed. i’m going to say thank you again to @jazzyjoc for proof reading this and i apologise for any spelling mistakes.

thank you all for joining me on this lil journey.

masterlist

part one ; part two

You stood there in your apartment with the music blasting through the speaker in the kitchen, dancing and wearing a hoodie.

This time, the hoodie wasn’t Tom’s.

You loved oversized hoodies and you knew that the way to get over Tom (for good) was to pack away the clothing he never came to pick up. You put them in a card box, to be forgotten at the back of your wardrobe. You went out shopping and bought five new ones, and you called it ‘self-care’ which seems funny, but it was what you needed.

You had tried to rush getting over Tom, but now you knew that it wasn’t an overnight thing. It never would be because your relationship with him meant so much to you.

Over the music you don’t hear the door knock on the door, nor were you expecting it. It was only when your speaker turned off to sound your phone ringing that you heard the knocks on the doors. You see your close girlfriends all standing around, one ending a call which quietened your phone.

‘Oh my gosh, sorry guys I’ve just been caught up lately.’ You apologise.

Your friends brush it off as you continue back into the kitchen and they follow you into your apartment.

It’s been a couple of hours and you and your friends are completely smashed. Starting off with a nice glass of red wine and then someone revealing that they had a bottle of vodka in their bad.

Your original plan for the night was a nice chat with your friends with a glass of red wine, and that being it. The bottle of vodka was not on the agenda but with the events of that night, you don’t regret it at all.

‘So, Y/N, how are you going with Tom?’ One of your friends said to you, wanting to know how you were going, if you were getting over the man.

‘Tom? Tom who? I’ve moved on. I don’t need anything other than you girls, my hoodies and this great shot of vodka I’m about to drink.’ You laughed as you drowned the liquid that burned your throat.

Your friends joined you in your laugh but in your drunken state you still managed to lie well. You were getting over the boy, but you still needed him.

You missed him.

After a few more shots, your friends decided to call it a night at 11pm. You were a bit shocked at their early departure, but they said that they were officially tired and a couple of them were about to crash.

You offered for them to just stay where they were and to let them borrow some of your clothes so they could just fall asleep in the spare room or even the couch. They insisted on going home though.

So, they called an Uber and went home. It again, wasn’t the night you had planned, but you still enjoyed the night.

You were still buzzing from the alcohol and you weren’t ready to go to sleep yet. You were also lonely, which you weren’t surprised about because that’s one of the things that usually happens when you’re alone and drunk.

That’s why sober you would be disappointed in your decision to call Tom, but she would understand.

She also wouldn’t regret the decision.

‘Tommy, it’s an emergency.’ You whine when he answers the phone.

‘Y’N, what’s wrong?’ He says, panicked but also confused.

You both hadn’t talked nor caught up in too long. You were both distant and it was hurting the two of you. Everyone around you both could see it, but you couldn’t see the pain you were causing one another.

‘I’m all alone. My friends have gone home, and I miss you and I’m lonely.’ You mumble but after so many years of Tom knowing you like the back of his hand, he understood.

‘Do you want me to come over?’ Tom says, slowly and carefully.

‘Yes please.’ You say with a drunken, soft smile.

Tom turns up at your place half an hour later, and when you open the door you give him a hug.

In your intoxicated state, you didn’t focus in on the look of tiredness on the curly-haired boys face, like he hadn’t been sleeping properly. His hair was all over the place, but when he wasn’t working, he just let them roam free. You would always run your fingers through his hair, one, because he loved the feeling, two, his curls are so soft.

You missed your best friend, even if you still felt that little pull of your heartstrings whenever you saw him, missing him hurt more than that pull.

Tom smiles as he looks at you, neither saying a word. You invite him in as you jump on the couch and wrap yourself up in a blanket.

‘Guess what Tom, I’m a burrito.’ You joked as you rolled around, trapped on the blanket. You laughed as if it was the funniest joke you had made, and Tom laughs along with you.

How could he not? The reflection from the light in your eyes is a place that Tom never wants to leave. Your laugh always being contagious and managing to stir emotions in his stomach that make him feel like he’s just seeing you for the first time all over again.

You grab the remote and turn on the TV because when you were drunk, you tended to be a lot more stubborn than sober you.

You continue watching Orange is the New Black, a show your friends had been nagging you to watch but when two of the characters start to have sex, you had to protect your best friend.

You jump over to him and cover his eyes with your hand.

‘Y/N, what are you doing?’ Tom chuckles.

‘It’s a naughty scene, I have to cover your eyes. It’s a sex scene and you’re still this small,’ you say as you indicated with your index finger and your thumb that Tom is about a centimetre ‘small’. ‘You need to be protected, you’re not old enough to watch this kind of stuff.’

Tom laughs at your childish acts and when the scene finishes, you return to your previous spot on the couch and watch the rest of the episode.

Tom could be watching the show but instead he’s watching you. How you seem so much more relaxed around him but what scares him is he doesn’t know if it’s the alcohol or not. He wants things to go back the way they were prior to him and you dating but he doesn’t want to have to continue to look at you every time with this sense of longing.

It’s now one in the morning and you have both watched two episodes of the Netflix show and you’re about to pass out. You’re warm with the blanket around you so you fall onto your side with your head landing in Tom’s lap.

‘Night, night Tommy, I’m tired.’ You mutter sleepily as your eyes start to flutter shut.

‘Do you want me to put you to bed sleepy head?’ He says as he (still out of habit) starts to run his fingers through your hair.

‘No, I’m gonna sleep right here.’ You mutter as your curl your arm around Tom’s leg, much like a teddy.

‘Okay then,’ Tom smiles. ‘Night, night.’

‘Love you.’ You mutter as you doze off into a deep sleep.

Tom sits there in silence, unable to comprehend what he heard. So, he doesn’t say anything, as he removes you hand from his thigh as he lays onto his side.

Your couch is only small so in your tired daze, when you feel Tom move away you make grabby hands in his direction for him to come back.

So, he doesn’t move to the other couch, instead he lays beside you with his back facing you. He doesn’t wrap his arm around you (as much as he wants to) because he doesn’t know what you’re going to be like in the morning, or what your reaction will be.

So, he smiles, as his mind repeats the two words you had muttered just before, as he falls asleep right by your side.

You wake up and you feel a weight over torso as you lay on your side. You look down to see an arm and you tilt your head back to see that it was Tom. He’s fast asleep and looking as soft and peaceful as ever.

Tom being a heavy sleeper, you sit up slowly and rest your back against the arm of the couch you two had passed out on. Tom stirs for a moment but doesn’t wake up as he moves and places his head on your lap and continues to sleep.

It’s all familiar, this position. Mornings like these had happened so often and you couldn’t help yourself, but you started running your fingers through his hair.

You haven’t noticed the light throbbing in your head due to the alcohol you had drank last night and thought about what had happened the night before.

With all events coming back to your head, you laughed at the memory of you two watching Netflix and your stupid reaction to the sex scene.

Then you remember passing out and that being the end of the night.

You notice Tom start to stir and you feel panic starting to form. You stop running your fingers through his hair, but you don’t have anything to, nothing to distract yourself with.

‘Don’t stop.’ You hear come from his mouth and he moves his arms and grab onto your thigh and hugged it like a teddy.

You smile as Tom moves his hand around to locate yours and then moves your hand so you can continue to run your fingers through his hair.

You didn’t want this to end. You thought you were in one of the final steps of getting over him but now you were thrust straight back into the deep end. You didn’t want things to become awkward between you again and you knew that you wouldn’t be able to handle being ‘just friends’ without having to take bathroom breaks to pull yourself back together.

You were going to treasure this until the end, the moment where everything felt right for the first time in what felt like too long.

But you also knew that you shouldn’t feel like this. Tom was over you. He didn’t like you anymore. He was over you and had found someone else.

You were now confused on why this man was lying on your couch with his head in your lap if he didn’t like you anymore.

Shouldn’t he be with the one he actually has feelings for?

Your curiosity was starting to eat away at your insides and as much as you didn’t want this end, you had to know.

‘Tom?’ You say with a sick feeling, not wanting to face the outcome of this information.

‘Yeah?’

‘Why are you here?’ You ask quietly.

Tom sits up and you almost whine as your thighs are greeted with the cold air, no longer kept warm by Tom’s body heat.

‘You called me last night, or do you not remember?’ He asks slowly, as if he’s now worried where this conversation will go.

‘No, no, I remember what happened. Watched Orange is the New Black, covered your eyes from the sex scene and fell asleep.’ You smiled, almost wishing that you hadn’t started this conversation.

‘That’s all you remember? You didn’t remember what you said?’ Tom asks, now very nervous.

‘Did I say something embarrassing?’ You joke, trying to swallow your nerves.

‘It wasn’t really embarrassing…’ Tom says, trailing off while playing with his hands.

Something he does when he’s nervous.

‘What did I say?’ You smile nervously, as your fingers start to tap your thigh, another nervous habit.

‘When you were about to fall asleep,’ Tom started as he ran his fingers through his hair.

‘You muttered ‘love you’.’

You feel your breath catch in your throat.

‘But I understand it’s just the general best friend love we have for one another. Don’t worry, I understand.’ Tom starts ranting.

‘And I know that you’re over me, I know this now. God, I texted you. I texted ‘her’, like you told me to, and she didn’t reply in the way I wanted to. You didn’t reply like I wanted you to.’ Tom says, his voice now weak.

He’s shaking and it scares you.

As it clicks in your head, you look down at your fingers that are now resting in your lap. You move them forward and hold Tom’s hands in yours.

‘Y/N, I asked you for ideas even though I know you so well. I wanted you to know and realise but you didn’t. You know I’ve never been that good with properly talking about this stuff and I didn’t want to have to see that look on your face if you didn’t like me anymore. It just hurts so much because I know that you’ve moved on, but I feel like I can’t even put one foot forward without taking two steps back.’ Tom says with tears in his eyes.

You knew that you needed to say something, before he starts to continue on with his rant and you really couldn’t stand to see him with any tears in his eyes.

‘Tom, goddamnit I know that you’re bad at it, I know you’re with communicating our emotions like this, but I wish that you would’ve just come out and said it.’ you said, looking to so Tom could also see the tears in your eyes for the first time.

‘All your stuff is in a box, packed away so I can’t touch it. I forced myself to put in away because here, when I was alone, I would only wear it. I couldn’t stand being without you. I brought too many new hoodies, so I had an excuse to not wear yours. I brought them in a larger size so I could feel like I was wearing yours even though I wasn’t. I kept that though pushed away because I didn’t want to admit it.’ You said, wanting Tom to know that it hasn’t been easy for you either.

‘And that night in the pub, when you were with her, I swear it was like my heart broke all over again. I drank shots so the burn in my throat would numb the pain that I felt in my chest. Waking up next to you that morning scared me because I didn’t want to find out that it was just a ‘drunken mistake’ for you. I left before I could find out. I don’t even know why we broke up. Tom, I still love you and I doubt I will ever stop loving you. You’re the one who knows me the best and sometimes it scares me, but I wouldn’t want anyone to know me as well as you do.’

Tom smiled and you returned it. It was as if you could feel your heart being pieced back together after it being broken for so long.

He leant forward and kissed you and you knew that your heart was back in one piece. Kissing him felt like home and with his arms wrapped around your torso, you always felt safe.

You sat on his lap, just like you did that other night, the last time you kissed, and you couldn’t get over how good it felt. You were overwhelmed with how right this felt and how at home you felt.

When you both broke away from the kiss, you both look deep breathes and smiled at each other. You could feel Tom toying with the bottom of your t-shirt, and you took a deep breath as you lifted up your shirt.

You softly kissed his cheek and lasted the dried saltiness of his tears. As you wiped his cheeks to rid any dry tears, Tom started to lie back down on the couch. You went back to kissing as your love’s arms were still wrapped around you.

You both smile into the kiss as Tom slowly started to move his hips, testing out the waters, to see how you were feeling about where this kiss may lead.

You join Tom and move your hips in time with his. Your kisses slowly start to speed up and become much needier. Your breaths come out heavier and a moan slips from your mouth and at that noise, Tom also groans.

With your smiles and your movements, you knew that this time it’s going to end well.

You both knew.

Tom runs his fingers through your hair as your rest your head on his bare chest. You traced random shapes on his chest, enjoying this moment in time. One hand was still linked with Tom’s as it was during your actions prior.

Sure, the sex was always good but that silence after was what you loved the most. It was what made you feel at home.

Nothing was needed to be said between you two.

You knew that you didn’t need Tom, you could have continued on without him, but without him, you felt as if half of you was missing.

It was no longer in your head, instead your head was on his chest.

#tom holland fanfic #tom holland imagines #marvel imagine #tom holland imagine #tom holland x reader #tom holland x y/n #marvel #peter parker #spider-man

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melodyalanaroster · 5 years

Photo

Messages and Curiosities

Alana had not shown up for class in nearly a week. Nora was sent from the Black Tower with a note stating that she was sick and would be staying home and keeping correspondence for her classes strictly in email.

Rayan Zaidi had spoken to Alana casually on a handful of occasions. At the beach, they established that it was okay for them to call each other by their normal names. She had even notified him why she preferred to be called “Alana” over “Melody” around campus. But he was still curious to know more about her...

One night, as he’s walking out of the Art Building, Rayan checked his phone and noticed a message from Alana’s email, and a conversation began.

“What did I miss in class today?”

“Just a lecture on Oscar Wilde.”

“Ah, so nothing that applies to me.”

“Apparently. How are you feeling?”

“Better. I should be coming back to class next week... But I’ve lost my voice.”

“Don’t you just have a common cold?”

“Yes, but my immune system isn’t the best... And every time I get a cold, I lose my voice.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah, my mother isn’t the only one who gets sick easily.”

“You don’t talk about your mother... May I ask why?”

“Every time the topic of my mother gets brought up, and people are forced to think of me as “Melody Roster” rather than “The Grim Reaper” or “Alana”, I get pitied or underestimated.... I hate that.”

“What do you mean?”

“Melody Roster is expected to be Lynne’s responsible, docile, elegant, daughter. That is what has been forced upon me by mom’s fans, and the rest of society. But, ever since mom got sick, especially now that she’s better, when people realize precisely who I am in that form, they pity me because I was the one who gave up everything to go make sure she wasn’t alone.”

“I had no idea.”

“You wouldn’t. You read mom’s books, you know I’m both “Melody Roster” and “The Grim Reaper”... But, while you do look at me with curiosity in your eyes, you don’t look at me with pity or fear.”

“I see no reason to. You are a fascinating young woman. You don’t talk much at all, and when you do, its only to a very select few.”

“I have my reasons behind that.”

“May I ask what those are?”

“Take the people you know that are around me... The ones you spend the most time with... Leigh, Rosalaya and Melody. I have great disdain for the girls and a neutral feeling towards Leigh.”

“Why?”

“I’ve always been better friends with Leigh’s brother, Lysander. Leigh has always been either “Lysander’s brother” or “Rosa’s boyfriend” to me. We don’t talk much. Rosalaya used to be one of my best friends... And, well, you saw what happened at the beach when I slapped her.... That was simply the straw that broke the camel’s back. As for Melody.... I’ve given her enough rope to hang herself with multiple times over the time we’ve known each other and she’s hung herself ten fold.”

“And the others that you talk to?”

“Care to specify?”

“That rock star?”

“Cas? He’s part of the old High School group. He and I are friends.”

“That woman who runs around dressed up as a fairy?”

“That’s my aunt, Agatha. She’s my mom’s little sister. I can always talk to her.”

“What about that blonde boy who is constantly causing trouble? You talk to him a lot.”

“Nathaniel is a special circumstance. I enjoy talking to him for many reasons.”

“Special circumstance?”

“I’m going to tell you the same thing I told the Director a couple of weeks ago... My dealings with Nathaniel Jacott is my business. Please don’t pry on that note.”

“My apologies.”

“Did you know? Because of our handful of conversations, there is a rumor that you and I are together?”

“There are a lot of rumors surrounding you. Why are you bringing this one up?”

“Because this one has been brought to my attention by various people and I feel the need to address it.”

“I am aware that this rumor has been circling around the campus...”

“Are you interested in me?”

“You do realize its wrong to ask your professor that.”

“You do realize that, while you are my professor, I outrank you by society’s standards because of my R.D.R rank. So, in fact, it’s perfectly okay for me to ask you that.”

“Alana...”

“Don’t make me ask again, Rayan. I hate repeating myself.”

“It would be better for me to discuss my feelings in person.”

“That, dear sir, would only emphasize the rumors.”

“Why do you say that?”

“Because, the only place I can properly communicate with people is the Tower. Unless you’d like my response strictly by text while you talk to me. So, inviting you to into my home while you discuss your feelings for me would emphasize the rumors simply because someone always has their eyes on the Tower. Its widely known that I’m the only student at Anteros who lives there. So, everyone knows that you’d be there to see me. So, please, answer my question.”

“With what you are, how would emphasis on the rumors cause trouble?”

“While I am a high ranking person in society, whose organization funds Anteros’ Engineering program, I am still your student. I am still ten years younger than you. A professor being interested in me doesn’t affect me, personally. In fact, sparking people’s curiosity is expected. I don’t even have to be around to do that. But it does affect you. You are not allowed to show interest in your students, in that form. You know that, you’ve been made aware of that on multiple occasions. You could still, very well, lose your job.”

“And if I am interested in you?”

“For multiple reasons, I’ll have to turn you down.”

“May I inquire as to those reasons?”

“Rayan, while I do find you fascinating and physically attractive... I cannot be with you. I’m sure, by now, you’ve heard the rumor “The Grim Reaper broke her own heart to protect the one she loves most.”, right?”

“I’ve heard it multiple times, yes.”

“My enemies have been neutralized. I intend to restore my heart.”

“So, it’s true.”

“Yes.”

“May I ask, who it is?”

“You already have the answer to that. All you have to do is let your powers of observation guide you.”

“Do you think they’ll accept you back?”

“After traversing through the dimensions of demons, all I can do is hope they will.”

“And if they don’t?”

“Then I am doomed to walk through this world alone. For I can love no one else.”

“Alana, you know that’s not true. You’re still young.”

“Rayan, I have loved him for years. Much longer than I’ve even been “The Grim Reaper”. I have fought, bled, and nearly died on multiple occasions to get to the point where I have the freedom to even try to get him back. I am not going down without one hell of a fight.”

“I’ll admit, I do envy him. But if he hasn’t come back to you yet, he must be blind. Women like you don’t appear every day.”

“He’s tortured, not blind. Don’t insult him. And I am the only woman of my kind.”

“I didn’t mean to insult him. I meant that if I were in his position, and you came to me, I’d take you back immediately.”

“Would you? An ex breaks up with you for a reason that you can’t possibly believe because that person would never fall in with a crowd like that, only to come back about four and a half years later with a skyscraper full of proof of what they were doing and that they weren’t lying to you... You’d take them back so easily?”

“Logically, I would.”

“You and I both know logic and reason don’t entirely apply when it comes to matters of the heart.”

“You’re right. But I have a point.”

“A lot has happened to him and me in the last four and a half years. I have to walk through Hell again to reach him.”

“And you’re willing to do so?”

“He’s worth it.”

“I really do envy him.”

Alana’s eyes had begun to get heavy. She checked the time and noticed it was getting late.

“Well, sir, it was nice talking to you this evening... But I’ve grown tired and I really should get some rest.”

“It’s always a pleasure talking with you, Alana. Goodnight and sweet dreams.”

“Goodnight Rayan.”

During the conversation, Rayan had managed to walk to his apartment. He opened the door, took off his blazer and vest, grabbed a glass and a bottle of brandy, poured himself a drink, sat down in the armchair by the window, stared at the Black Tower, took a sip of his drink and thought for a minute. Suddenly, his eyes grew wide and he sighed.

“That Jacott boy had better realize what he has before him.”

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demifiendrsa · 6 years

Photo

Kohei Horikoshi x Eiichiro Oda interview that was featured in My Hero Academia volume Origin.

The man that Horikoshi looks up to –Eiichiro Oda. In 16 years the boy now walks shoulder to shoulder with his hero as a “serialized artist”. What kind of conversation will they have now that they're here?

Having an extreme formative experience in manga (comics):

In the illustration corner of “One Piece” Twenty Third Volume: Usopp Gallery Pirates, is where the two made first contact. Horikoshi-sensei, how did you feel about having your work published for the first time?

ODA: That was a good volume. It was the last for Alabasta, with the famous “Proof of Friendship” scene.

HORIKOSHI: I was shaken.

Shaken!?

HORIKOSHI: Yes. I believe that was when I was in high school, and to discover that one of my drawings was printed there on the page caused me to break out in the shakes. I was still shaken when I showed my mom the picture too.

ODA: It's good you're close to your family. (Laughs).

How many drawings had you contributed?

HORIKOSHI: Just the one.

Incredible! What made you decide to send it?

002

(Side text- Young Horikoshi meets his hero.)

HORIKOSHI: My friend and I love One Piece so we both decided to send artwork in. We both drew incredible things, but only mine made it into the gallery.

ODA: It's as if you were the one to get the green light at an idol audition. (Laugh.)

HORIKOSHI: Are you the one who writes the commentary, Oda-sensei?

(Side text- My name has been engraved into “One Piece” for eternity!)

ODA: Yup, I do. I write it as Usopp.

HORIKOSHI: I'm so thankful....ahh, I mean overjoyed.

I think it's incredible you managed to make it in with just one submission. Did this experience affect your life as a mangaka? HORIKOSHI: To be honest I was quite satisfied with that drawing....(laughs).

ODA: Oh in a “My art was good enough to be published” way?

HORIKOSHI: No, more like a “Wow it was published! Now my name will be carved into One Piece for eternity!!” Sort of thing. I was totally satisfied with just that.

Everyone laughs.

ODA: I wonder if it would have been better if you were more frustrated (laughs).

Might you have been more inspired if it had been rejected instead?

HORIKOSHI: No, no, it took a bit of time but I did believe that I should take manga more seriously.

You mean between the experience of success and the actual feeling of making it?

HORIKOSHI: Right.

ODA: At the time, social media hadn't yet become widespread, so there weren't as many opportunities to give people a place to display their artwork. So that's why having it published in print gives me a strange sense of happiness. Even I like to give as many opportunities as possible to show off people's artworks on that page I've created.

Inquiring about the confession five years into serialization.

Horikoshi-sensei, you were able to tell Oda-sensei about the artwork in 2015, after quite a bit of time had passed, right?

ODA: Even before “HeroAca” was serialized we met at New years parties, right? Although you hadn't yet had a “hit” right?

Oda-sensei at that point you were in volume 77 of One piece..

003

And you wrote “You should have said something sooner!” (Laughs.)

ODA: That's right! You shouldn't have been so reserved!

HORIKOSHI: I was just too embarrassed. For me to speak up about something like that when my serializations were in the back of the magazine...even if I had the opportunity it just didn't feel right.

ODA: I see, that might have been the right decision. It'd be more helpful for me to cheer you on if you had a manga currently serialized. (laughs.) So you spoke up because now you had the pride of serializing a hit manga then?

Horikoshi: Hmmmm....

--Shouldn't you be more proud of your achievement? (Laugh.)

HORIKOSHI: Where you say pride, I more feel embarrassment.

(Side text- So you spoke up because now you had the pride of serializing a hit manga then?)

Any Oda-isms that have had a huge influences on you?

--Horikoshi-sensei has One Piece had any influences on you?

HORIKOSHI: How do I put this...I suppose having characters say things that I feel naturally is one influence I've taken from One Piece.

ODA: Well, when I first started serialization, things were different –a character saying things that Luffy does was seen as embarrassing.

HORIKOSHI: Ohh? But it feels like everyone in my age group was writing like that.

ODA: That makes me happy. Back then I was pretty young and it felt like I was rebelling against current fads. Back then it was pretty popular for girls hair to be braided inward, so I did the opposite when I drew.

004

--So you proceeded by doing the opposite of the opposite?

ODA: It just didn't feel right to me unless it stood out. At the time I was told a lot that my art was really weird, so I didn't dare to dream that anyone would be influenced by me in later years.

HORIKOSHI: I was influenced by how your characters have very small eyes. However I couldn't quite draw it all that well and had a lot of trouble....So lately I've been drawing them a little bigger than before (laughs).

ODA: I've been doing the same thing (laughs).

--Horikoshi-sensei has One Piece influenced you in any other areas –aside from artwork?

HORIKOSHI: I love the Arlong Arc. Especially the exchange (between Luffy and Nami) “Help me...” and “Of course!!” I thought that part was especially cool, and I wanted to draw a Luffy like protagonist. Oh and this week's One Piece chapter was crazy good. (Jump has a scattered turnover)

--Lots of past characters showed up during the Reverie, huh?

ODA: It was pretty shocking huh? (Laughs) The serialization has gone for a long time so I'm able to have characters who appeared in the past show up again, but there are probably many readers of Jump who don't quite get what's going on. Maybe the people who read by volume are deeply familiar with what's going on, but those who read Jump probably haven't read everything...

005

ODA: So I had to include the past events so they wouldn't miss anything.

HORIKOSHI: Huh? Does that happen?

ODA: Quite often, to a surprising extent. When they aren't doing the polls it's like “I'm so happy that this character is popular!” And then when I draw them people say “I don't know who this is.” (Laugh).

HORIKOSHI: Huh!!~

ODA: When the serialization runs long those things happen.

--The one who's easiest to draw is not surprising oneself.

Oda-sensei what are your impressions of Horikoshi-sensei?

ODA: As the face of the next generation of big hit hero artists.

HORIKOSHI: I can't believe that.

ODA: My daughter will happily sing the “HeroAca” anime theme songs on bus outings, and it'll get everyone in a good mood. At home she'll ask “Dad is your manga going to be okay” She's really worried about One Piece.

HORIKOSHI: I'm thankful to hear that, but it's a bit....(laughs).

(Side text- My daughter will happily sing the “HeroAca” anime theme songs on bus outings, and it'll get everyone in a good mood.)

ODA: But I am a little concerned since it's a manga with a lot of characters.

--Why's that?

ODA: When there are a lot of characters to draw it gets difficult to unify the work as a whole, and properly, but if you are able to properly establish and understand the characters then the work will be a hit. It can lead to a lot of needless anxiety. I will say this though, I've always been impressed by Horikoshi-sensei's comic covers. They look great, and the sense of style is on point –and you're able to come up with some very good ones.

HORIKOSHI: Thank you so much that makes me so ridiculously happy.

ODA: What do you use to color them?

HORIKOSHI: Photoshop.

ODA: Oh so you use computers?

HORIKOSHI: Yes, I did get a little tired of using them so for volume 18's cover I went back to using analog (hand painting) it was overwhelmingly fun.

ODA: You like American Comics right? Your style of artwork is influenced by them.

HORIKOSHI: Yeah. I've read all of “Spiderman” and “Deadpool”.

--And what about character personalities?

HORIKOSHI: Ah, for this Oda-sensei is a huge influence. I thought to myself “I really want to draw a lively character like Luffy!!” But in the end I ended up drawing a character nothing like him and more like myself –an otaku who has a penchant for over analysis.

006

(Top text- A Shikishi that Oda-sensei drew ahead of time. To keep from dirtying Luffy, Horikoshi carefully draws beside him.)

HORIKOSHI: and at the end of that, just a bit of brightness added in for good measure which harmonizes into Deku the protagonist.

--The relationship between weekly manga artists and movies.

--How were you involved in this movie?

HORIKOSHI: I was involved and contributed to the script phase, and did the final character designs. If I had more time to, I would have done more.

ODA: If I said something like that (laughs) it would be endless. From the start, I said that the weekly serialization is most important to me, and I didn't want to do anything to disturb it.

HORIKOSHI: M—My stomach hurt. I thoughtlessly said “I want to do more”....

--This is the first movie for HeroAca. At the time it was confirmed how did you feel?

HORIKOSHI: I was really happy. I thought that getting an anime confirmed was the peak of my happiness –my dreams had come true. I really didn't think I'd get anymore than that so when they said the series would get a movie, I was like “Seriously?! No way!!”

ODA: I attended the screening on the morning of it's premiere and was moved by all the people lined up to see it.

HORIKOSHI: You were in the audience....

ODA: But I wasn't really able to talk to any of my readers live there.

(Side text- I was really happy. I thought that getting an anime confirmed was the peak of my happiness –my dreams had come true. I really didn't think I'd get anymore than that.)

007

HORIKOSHI: Then I'll definitely have to do that.

--Lastly, please give the moviegoers a few words.

HORIKOSHI: It'll be a lot of fun for those who don't read my manga, and more fun still for those who do. It's a kind of work that anyone can come into and enjoy. The movie is the only way to see a fight where All Might and Deku fight side by side! So by all means come on down and have a good time!

--And now a shout from you both.

ODA: Let us keep fighting together for popularity in Jump from here on in too!

HORIKOSHI: Of course...ah, no....

ODA: How many volumes do you estimate the series will be?

HORIKOSHI: Honestly I thought about 30 or so would be about right, but I hadn't really been counting at all...

ODA: Then shoot for about 50.

HORIKOSHI: Can I really do ten years though...? (Laugh).

ODA: Rather than if you can, it's more like you'll end up doing it.

HORIKOSHI: Then you had already decided on how many volumes One Piece would have from the start?

ODA: Of course. Though it's gone about triple my original calculations.

HORIKOSHI: It it because while you were drawing the series the amount of things you wanted to portray multiplied?

ODA: They multiplied and broadened.

HORIKOSHI: Yeah, even for me the Sports festival arc was about twice longer than I had originally expected.

ODA: That's what happens when lots of characters get together and act at once....it gets really difficult to predict how things will go. But I wish you luck on the battlefield that is Jump.

HORIKOSHI: Ah, yes...

ODA: How about a proper response with resolve?

HORIKOSHI: I'll do my best to to overcome even One Piece!!

ODA: I won't lose, you know.

HORIKOSHI: Ah, I said it. (laughs). Thank you very much.

Translated by Bomber D. Rufi.

#My Hero Academia #Boku no Hero Academia #Kohei Horikoshi #One Piece #Eiichiro Oda #Monkey D. Luffy #Izuku Midoriya #MHA #BnHA #HeroAca #manga #long post #Oda's daughter is cute

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buckybabybaby · 6 years

Text

Birthday Blues

A/n: This was meant to be posted nearly four weeks ago, but... better late than never? Not my fault for once! I haven't really written anything since last year, but hopefully now I'll have a little more time too.

Proof read by way of a text-speech device.

Summary: Your birthday gets a lot better when Bucky shows up.

Pairing: Bucky Barnes/Reader (Gender Neutral)

Word count: 1649

Warnings: Bad writing because I'm really rusty? Apart from than just fluffy fluff :)

Masterlist

***

The stars are bright above you as you lean against the roof terrace's balcony, a glass of something neglected in your hand as you stare out over the city. The noise from the party can still be heard behind you, but at least out here it is muted, and the fresh air is a welcome break from the stuffy atmosphere inside.

Readjusting your shoe tie you check the time and are in the process of wondering how long you can stay out here undisturbed, when a movement to your left catches your attention.

“Y/N?” Bucky asks from the lower patio he's just walked out on to.

“Hi,” You breathe, drinking him in as he climbs the steps up to you. You weren't expecting him to come, knowing he may not be ready for such a public event, and that just makes the vision before you even more special.

Bucky is wearing a suit for the first time since you've known him, and he is looking good in it. Really good. The dark blue jacket is well fitted and his hair has been tamed somewhat, the charming man from before the war evident underneath, and the sight is not helping your infatuation one bit.

“You look amazing.” You manage to sound composed despite how flustered his presence has made you.

“So do you,” He replies earnestly, and you smile properly for the first time this evening. “Why are you hiding out here?”

Your face falls as you remember why you are. “I'm not hiding, I'm sulking.”

“Why?” He moves to lean against the balcony too, facing towards you. He mirrors your frown and clearly feels the need to cheer you up as he asks, “Was the chocolate fountain not up to your standards?”

Normally you'd appreciate his effort to lighten your mood but today it's not quite enough.

“It's not that, actually. I don't want to be in there any more because somebody just asked me for more champagne Bucky. Me!” Your voice shakes as you try to explain. “Can you imagine me with a tray of drinks? I can't even carry one without spilling it but that presumptuous shit-”

“Language.”

“Fuck off.” He grins at you and you feel yourself returning the gesture. “That presumptuous shit has the audacity to ask me to serve him at my own party.”

To his credit he doesn't laugh at you, even though you think you must sound childish ranting at him. “I'm sorry. Do you need me to go knock some sense into him?”

“No. It's just,” You sigh “I'm tired of nobody recognising me. I know I'm just a technician for Mr Stark, and I would hate it if I couldn't leave the tower without being mobbed like you sometimes are, and I do love my job. Honestly. It would be nice though if it felt like people appreciated how hard I work and not only once a year when they get free drinks in my name.” You squint at him in mock suspicion. “I hope you're not here for the complementary gin and tonics, mister.”

“Definitely not. I'm here for the cake.”

You snort, rolling your eyes at him, so glad to have him as a friend as he chuckles along with you.

“But seriously,” He says when your laughter dies down. “You are appreciated Y/N. By everyone. Those people in there don't matter, if they can't see how amazing you are and are just here for the free alcohol then more fool them.”

You stomach flips at how heartfelt he sounds, and you thank him quietly as together you watch the lights of the cars driving far below.

Bucky breaks the comfortable silence a minute later. “So, what would you like to do if you had the choice?”

“I'm not sure. Something simple? Pizza in the park, dancing, not having to pretend to like people I don't even know.”

He nods, then offers you his hand. “It's been a long time since I danced with anyone doll, but I think I can remember the basics. If you'd like.”

You freeze at the image of Bucky standing in front of you like you've imagined so many times. He falters at your lack of reaction, and the way his smile drops has you leaping towards him to grab his arm before he retreats. “I'd love that. But, I've, er, never actually danced with anyone so I'm sorry if I tread on your toes.”

“That's okay, it's the only way we learn.”

He pulls you gently into him, his metal arm sliding around your waist as your free hand finds his shoulder. Being so close to the most attractive man you've ever had the pleasure to know makes your heart flutter and you fight with yourself to regulate your breaths as he repositions your hold.

“I take a step and you follow, okay?”

“No.” You shake your head, staring down at his shoes as he moves away slightly and you trip over your feet to keep up.

“Hey, look at me.” You reluctantly drag your gaze back up. “It's easier if you keep your head up and try to relax. Just feel it.”

“Just feel it,” You repeat under your breath, keeping your eyes on his as he begins to move again. “Just feel it, all right, fine, how exactly am I meant to do that?”

“Breathe. Enjoy it.” Bucky spins the both of you fractionally faster. “You're doing fine.”

Looking around in surprise, you discoverthat you're all the way on the other side of the roof. You hadn't noticed how far he'dled you, too lost in the feeling of being so close to him.

You beam at him when he congratulates you. “You're obviously not so rusty.”

“I guess it's easy with the right partner.”

Once again you misplace your footing, thrown by that statement. Bucky avoids your eye, and a tiny spark of hope grows inside you at the way he has gone bright red but isn't trying to get away or explain himself. Maybe this crush isn't as one sided after all.

As you slow to a sway in his arms, listening to him hum along to whatever song is playing inside, you commit this moment to memory, this feeling of complete contentment in an otherwise perilous world.

Resting your cheek on his shoulder, your hand leaves his to brush over the lapel of his jacket, admiring the soft material until you reach the front pocket.

“What is this made of?” You blurt out the question as you run your finger down it again, wincing at the static-y sound, “Seriously Bucky what is it made of, why are you so crinkly?”

“Ah.” Stepping back he smiles sheepishly. “I know you said no presents-”

“Bucky! I said that for a reason. What could I possibly need?”

“Birthday presents aren't meant to be necessities, Y/N.” He sees you about to protest again so continues quickly. “Please. It's not much, and you can't let your birthday pass with out receiving a gift.”

Not wanting to appear ungrateful you keep quiet.

“Remember that I went to England last month with Sam.” You nod. “Well, I may have lied about something that went on during that trip.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah. When I said they didn't have any of those sweets you asked for,” He pauses to slide a small packet out of his jacket, “That was not the truth. I hope you can forgive me.”

“Of course I can.” Quickly swiping them from him, you skip away happily, not able to wipe the grin off your face as you admire the packaging. Bucky follows you, pleased with your reaction as you tear into them. “Am I allowed to open them now?”

“Too late, silly,” He giggles as you shrug unapologetically. “And anyway, they are yours. But I think as the one who got them for you...”

He steals one off of you, untwisting the paper wrapping before you can blink, and pops it in his mouth.

You gasp, shocked at his cockiness. “You did not...”

He chews obnoxiously then swallows, smirking. “Afraid I did. What are you gonna do about it?”

The air seems to heat up between you as you lock gazes, and then you're both moving forward, the tension finally too much to bottle. When you reach him your hands find their way to his hair easily, and his lips meet yours as he pulls you against him once more, fitting together perfectly.

As he tightens his hold on you, all your troubles seem to fade away, and even as the music from the ballroom gets louder and other party guests join you on the roof you don't break the kiss, dizzy with delight at being able to show him how much you care

You only slow when the need to breathe becomes too great. Smiling widely at each other when you press your forehead to his, you think about your previous birthdays and decide that this one is the best so far, by a long way.

Especially with the soft way he's looking at you.

“I've wanted to do that for a long time.” Bucky's confession is hoarse and you immediately need to kiss him again.

However your eagerness makes you clumsy. Letting out a noise of distress as you accidentally drop the packet of sweets to the ground, you pull away from Bucky's mouth to try to rescue your precious present, causing him to sigh into your hair. “They're individually wrapped Y/N, they'll be fine.”

You pout and try to reach down to pick them up anyway, only to be stopped by Bucky pocketing them for you and pushing you backwards until you're flush to the low wall.

He cups your face. “Forget the sweets for a minute, Y/N,” Bucky begs against your lips, and when he leans in to kiss you again you find yourself doing just that.

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky x reader #bucky imagine #bucky barnes imagine #bucky barnes fanfiction #buckybabybaby

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yeeqing1203 · 4 years

Text

Retyped all the short story included the handwriting letter content（completed）

The topic i choose is no.8 Religious book. This religious book is about sui sui ping an ,encourage people to cherish the moment with family.

1. This story begins with a family living happily ever after.One day when brother was eating, he accidently dropped a bowl and it fell and broke, and mother told him it was all right, sui sui ping an. But one day, father was in a car accident , my mother rushed to the hospital where he was in a coma, leaving 15-year-old sister and 5-year-old brother at home. Sister and brother burst into tears when they heard about Dad's accident, and he broke all the dishes in the house no matter what Sister tried to stop him, but he kept on breaking dishes. When Mom came home and saw all the dishes broken, she was even more furious. Mom was already worried about father's accident, but when she came home and saw this, she was devastated, and she cried and scolded him for doing that, and brother cried and said, "I just want my father to be safe." You said it sui sui ping an before and when I break all the dishes, Dad will come back and be safe. However, the dishes fell and Dad didn't come back.

2. I hate my dad. He's always leaving early and staying late, and sometimes he doesn't even come home, my mom was very worries about him. Every time he comes home he gets a few more scars on his body. I don't like that about my dad. Other people's dads play with them, but I don't even have time to eat with my dad. Until one time when there was a big earthquake and I was trapped in my room, the door was pinned against a pillar and I couldn't get out, the only way out was through the window. I found out later that my dad was a fireman, a great fireman, and that his job meant that he couldn't be home with me much because he was always on call, and that he had the scars from when he saved people's lives, and my dad told me that was proof of his bravery, that my dad was a brave hero.

3.Grandma was diagnosed with heart disease, but she didn't tell her granddaughter for fear of worrying her, but she felt that Grandma was annoying and nagging, and was always controlling and trying to restrain her, and she had a big argument with Grandma. At night, when she was sleeping, she heard the sound of glass breaking then she ran to the kitchen,she saw a broken cup and her grandmother on the floor. She quickly send her grandmother to the hospital. The doctor told her that Grandmother was having a heart attack and that her life might be in danger, and told her to be prepared for her grandmother's death. At that moment, she suddenly realized how important Grandma was to her and that she was the only family she had left, but she didn't even know she had a heart attack. All she wanted now was for her grandmother to get better, but God had taken her life away. Grandmother said broken is safe, the cup has broken but Grandma is no longer with her.When granddaughter went home, she saw the note that grandmother had left for her on the table and she cried.

NOTES CONTENT : 'Granddaughter, don't be angry. Granny is worried about you. If you're annoyed with Granny, Granny will say less next time, okay.

Unfortunately there is no next time.

4. The son was busy with work and sent his father to a nursing home. The son bought a mobile phone for the father to call him whenever he missed him. But the son got busier and busier and the son didn't pick up the call from the father. Since the father couldn't contact the son, he left the nursing home in secret to look for his son. But the father had already forgotten the address of his son's company, but the father held the address of his son's company in his hand and asked passers-by, but since he was an old man with dementia, passers-by disliked him and no one want to tell him where to go. As the father was crossing the road, because he didn't see the traffic light, a car rushed by and hit him. Before father died, he still held his son's company address，a letter ，the broken phone in his hand.(电话screen碎了）

LETTER CONTENT : "Son, I miss you so much"

The letter was full of "Son, I miss you so much" and the father, who is mentally retarded, can't read or write... and his handwriting is very sloppy. Because of his son, he learned to write in a nursing home. In his whole life, he only knew seven words, his son's name and “I miss you so much”.

5. Fei is a responsible delivery boy. One day, when Fei was delivering food on his bike, a child suddenly ran off the road. 'peng' Fei crashed into the car himself to avoid the kid. The child is safe and Fei is only slightly injured. But Fei's job is gone because of the accident. Fei saved the kid in the accident but broke his own job(饭碗摔碎了 fan wan shuai sui le）. But then he got a letter from the kid

LETTER CONTENT : 'Uncle, I'm sorry that caused you to have an accident. The key ring that my father gave me accidentally fell off when I was crossing the road , my father pass away fews month ago, and the key ring is the only things that my father bought for me, that's why I rushed out to the road to pick it up, but I didn't notice the traffic light. Thank you for saving me. Without me, mom would have been all alone. Thank you, uncle.'

6. Tian Tian and his grandmother had lived together since Tian Tian was young, but Grandmother died of illness, leaving him only a dilapidated house and his grandmother's favorite potted plants. Grandma planted the potted plants on the top floor so that they could get enough sunlight. Tian Tian also took care of his grandmother's favorite potted plant after she passed away, and it was like a substitute for her, staying with him for a long time. However, one day, a heavy wind and rain suddenly fell in the sky, and Tian Tian remembered the plant are still on the top floor. Tiantian immediately ran to the top floor and tried to move the plant to a safe place. But the wind was so strong that it blew the potted plant over the railing and Tian Tian was so anxious to save the plant，he climbed over the railing to pick up the fallen plant. Tian Tian tried to climb back over the railing, but the wind was too strong and his center of gravity was unsteady （重心不稳 zhong xin bu wen ） , and the pot fell from the top floor. The flowerpot broke but Tian Tian met his grandmother.

7. The magical old man sells the watch to a boy. He tells the boy that the watch can let him back to the past and fix all the regrets of the past, and then the old man disappears. The boy is half convinced, but he wears the watch anyway. But if the watch can really go back in time, he wants to go back to before his fight with the girl. Two years ago, he and the girl had a fight and left her alone, with the girl following the boy. The boy, in a fit of pique, ran across the street with five seconds left at a traffic light, thinking the girl wouldn't follow him. But the next thing he knows, she's too late and hit by a car. The boy saw the girl get hit by a car right in front of him and regretted it. 'Why did he have to be so childish?' 'Why was he so headstrong?' 'Wait for her maybe she would have been fine, she wouldn't have died' He thought it was because of him that the girl died, and he very regretful and guilty. Just then he instantly went back to before the fight with the girl, this time he didn't fight with the girl but she still got hit by a car. He kept going back to the girl's accident, and as soon as he did that, the watch would go back to the past again. He keeps going back to the past to try to save the girl, but every time he goes back to the past, even if he doesn't argue, the girl gets hit by a car and dies. Then the old man appeared and told him, 'A watch can only make up for your regrets, it can't change the past' and then the oldman disappeared again. The boy went back to the past again, this time the boy still did not fight with the girl, but he hugged her tightly and said sorry, this time the girl gave the boy the letter in his hand. After that, the boy returned to the original world, the watch broke, although the girl was still not safe, but the boy had no regrets after he read the letter.

LETTER CONTENT : Hi, my love i met the magical old man and he told me everything.Don’t try to save me,I no longer exist on Earth. I don't blame you for the car accident, I didn't look at the traffic light. You don't need to feel sorry for yourself or blame yourself. I should be thanking you properly for being there for me all these years because of you I've had a great time. When you have a stomach ache, remember to eat on time, and when you can't sleep, remember to turn on the aromatherapy and set your alarm before bed.I'm not by your side anymore, no one will remember for you, in the end, please forget me, live your life, and in the future, get married and have children with someone who loves you. We're not destined for each other in this life. It doesn't matter. I'll see you in the next life.

8. Junichi had a younger sister who was 10 years younger than him. Their parents divorced because of debts, and their mother died after giving birth to the younger sister. The two siblings grew up in an orphanage. Junichi had a heart condition since he was a child. He had many operations and needed a heart transplant so he could live. Junichi was a very sensible brother who didn't want his sister to worry, so he told her, "My heart is made of glass, and I have to take a lot of medicine to keep it from breaking. What she didn't know was that his glass heart could only last for 3 years and had to be replaced every 3 years. The heart that brother is using now has a few months to go before it reaches three years. If the glass heart breaks, it means that brother will not live. Junichi heart has a few months to go before it reaches three years, but the hospital has yet to find a heart donor and he can only take medicine. Once the three years are up, Junichi glass heart will shatter. He took his sister to an theme park while he still had a few months left, and even though he couldn't do the thrilling things himself, he went with his younger sister because he knew he might not have the chance to play with her again after fews month ago. Junichi told her that he was going to the moon to be with his mother and might not come back because his mother was so lonely all alone there. The younger sister thought about it and also felt that mom was very lonely by herself at least she still had friends from the orphanage to accompany her and told brother to go to stay with mom early. A few months later,Junichi glass heart shattered and he passed away, but to his younger sister, his brother only went to the moon to be with mom. A few years later, the younger sister grew up and was adopted home by a couple. After leaving the orphanage, Junichi younger sister also received a letter from the head of the orphanage, and when she opened it, she saw Junichi's handwriting.

LETTER CONTENT : 'My dear sister, have you grown up well? I will tell you a secret now, actually I did not go to the moon but I went to a place more beautiful than the moon, HEAVEN. My glass heart was broken when you were a child, and the hospital couldn't find a heart to fit me, so I was forced to go to heaven and couldn't stay on Earth to grow up with you. You're a beautiful girl, and you'll be adopted by a happy family, and then they'll be your parents, so listen to them well, eat your meals on time, study hard, and come to the big city to work and repay your adoptive parents. I almost forgot, you may have a boyfriend in the future, but my brother may not be able to help you verify it, so listen up, your boyfriend must be educated and tall, and preferably know a little bit kung fu, otherwise how can he protect you and most importantly, he must love you very, very much, and love you more than I do. Lastly, if you feel unhappy one day and can't find anyone to talk to, it's okay, you can just say it to the sky, I'll hear it at any time, although you may not hear my response, but you must remember that i will always be there for you.

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thatonekawaiigirl13 · 6 years

Text

Who Said Death Was Easy? Death Note [Chapter Seven]

Chapter Seven: Examination

Keiko’s POV:

There were only a couple more days left until the day of To-Oh’s entrance exams. This was one of the reasons that Keiko had been on edge lately. The last couple of nights, Keiko and Light had been cramming together at his house, going through his To-Oh entrance exam study guide. While she knew that she was one of the top in her class, she also knew that To-Oh University was extremely selective with their prospective students.

The other reason she was so stressed? The fact that she was almost certain that she was being followed. Of course, she had no proof of this. However, as she walked home side-by-side with Light, she just felt like she had an unwanted audience.

Keiko actually had this feeling for the last few days, and made sure to be extra cautious when she was walking around and doing anything outside. When she was inside, she made sure that she kept the curtains in her mother’s house closed.

She stopped dead in her tracks the second she swore she had seen something lurking around in the shadows behind her. However, when she looked back, there was no one there. Aside from Keiko and Light, the street appeared to be empty.

No. Someone had to be there that time, I heard the footsteps as well. There’s no way I’m just imagining things...

“What’s wrong?” Light asked. He had finally noticed that Keiko had stopped, as she was no longer right next to him, but behind him. He turned around, watching as Keiko’s face drained of its color, “are you okay? You look a little pale.”

Keiko knew that there was no way she could tell Light, not without sounding crazy, so she just shook her head, “I-I’m okay.” She forced a laugh.

While she knew Light didn’t fully believe her, he also didn’t push the matter further, which she was grateful for. Instead, he started to walk forward again, motioning for Keiko to follow.

“Let’s keep going, don’t worry, you’re safe here with me,” Light said, and she hoped that he was right.

Keiko fell in step with Light once more, staying a little closer to him than she had before, and tried to ignore the bad feeling she had in the pit of her stomach. Luckily, they were almost to Keiko’s house, so the rest of the walk home didn’t take long.

Before she went inside, Light gave her a quick kiss on the cheek goodbye. While the two hadn’t made anything official yet, it was clear to Keiko that they were a little more than just friends but not quite girlfriend and boyfriend. She had to admit, she rather enjoyed his company. Keiko hadn’t bothered to get to know Light before. While the two were friendly at school, they hadn’t talked much outside of school related topics. After hanging out with him so often, she realized they had much more in common than she originally thought.

As soon as Keiko was safely inside of her room, she quickly went to her windows and closed all of her curtains. Afterwards, wanting the day to be over, she went straight to bed.

Light’s POV:

“Hyuk, hyuk, so this girl is being followed now too,” Ryuk commented as he and Light were walking home after dropping off Keiko, “L doesn’t suspect her of being Kira as well, does he? Oh boy, this is so interesting! ...now that I think about it, are you going to kill whoever is investigating her, like you killed Raye and the other FBI agents?”

Light said nothing and walked on, he was lost in his thoughts, determined to do a little research once he got home. He was glad that there were no longer any cameras or wiretaps in his house, as double checked by a thoroughly exhausted Ryuk the other day. Light knew that there was no way L could frame Light of being Kira now when there was no evidence for it, so he was safe there.

However, why is L now investigating Keiko? Is it because she’s close to me? I wouldn’t think that L would go that far unless...is Keiko herself that significant?

When Light got home, he went straight for his laptop, searching up Keiko’s name. A few hits popped up, including records of academic achievements and school photos, but what stuck out to Light was the newspaper article. It appeared to be some sort of special obituary in one of the local newspapers from a few years ago.

He clicked on it, his eyes quickly scanning through the article, the wheels turning in his head.

Hm.. so Keiko’s father was some hot shot investigator back in the day. Come to think of it, I think she’s mentioned before she wants to become a detective herself…is this why L’s investigating her? Wait, he doesn’t want her to become a part of the Task Force, does he? He must be making sure that she isn’t Kira first before letting her in. Did I make a mistake in getting close to her? If she starts investigating the Kira case with L and the rest of the Task Force, what if she starts to suspect me? Should I break things off with her? No, no I can’t. If I suddenly stopped seeing her, that would make me look even more suspicious...

Light read on, and pondered for a couple more minutes. He had to carefully consider his options before making a solid decision. What course of action would benefit him the most while being the least suspicious?

He could hear Ryuk laughing behind him. “Well, well, well, the plot thickens. Looks like you need to watch your step even more,” he commented.

Ryuk does have a point but...wait...no, I shouldn’t be thinking so negatively. I’ve clearly been given a great opportunity here. If I can gain her trust, and make her really fall for me…I know that so far she has some interest in me, otherwise she wouldn’t have kissed me back before. I still have a chance.

He started to laugh, causing Ryuk to stare at him. “What’s so funny?” he asked, biting into an apple.

“Think about it, Ryuk, really think about it,” Light replied, “L has to be investigating her because, in the end, he wants to recruit her for the Task Force. However, he’s keeping an eye on her first to one, make sure that she isn’t Kira, and two, he’s making sure that he would be making the right choice in recruiting her. He knows that her father was a talented investigator and by tailing her, he is trying to gauge how good her own investigative skills are. She knew she was being followed tonight, and by the looks of it, she knew that she’s been followed for at least a few days now. I have no doubt in my mind that he will end up trying to recruit her, which is another bonus for him as he knows that she and I have a close relationship.”

“So...how does this help you at all?” Ryuk asked, laying down on Light’s bed.

“I was just getting to that,” Light smirked, “you see, me having a close relationship with her is the advantage. I’m already gaining her trust, and making her fall for me, so if I continue to gain her trust and make an ally of her, there’s no way she would suspect me of being Kira. Of course, I also have to be careful not to make any sort of slip ups that would make it obvious that I am Kira, but so far, I’ve managed to be careful. As long as I continue to be careful, I don’t really see that being an issue. Even L had to end his investigation here because there’s no evidence that I’m anything more than just your ordinary teenage boy. If Keiko trusts me and she’s working on the Task Force, then she would defend my name as long as there was no hard evidence. Also, how could I, her loving boyfriend, be Kira?”

“Hyuk, hyuk, so you admit you’re dating her?”

Light chuckled, “well, the way things are looking, I might as well make it official soon, maybe sometime after the entrance exams. It appears it would be in my best interest to do so. Although, I need to be careful that I don’t start actually falling for her myself. That would make things a lot more complicated on my end, I can’t let myself have any weaknesses.”

Ryuk gave another low chuckle, “I see, hyuk, you humans sure are pretty complicated.”

Keiko’s POV:

As promised, Light was there right on time to pick up Keiko. Today was the day the both of them had been waiting for, the day of the dreaded To-Oh entrance exams.

While Keiko was mostly confident, there was still a small part of her that was freaking out. She was silently going over the review in her head on the way there.

As if Light could sense her nerves, he said, “Keiko-chan, please don’t tell me that you’re nervous. I have no doubt that you’ll make it. You are, after all, one of Japan’s best and brightest, as am I. The two of us have nothing to worry about.”

“I suppose you’re right,” Keiko replied, flashing a smile at him, “thanks, Light-kun.”

The two of them soon entered the classroom that they would be testing in. There didn’t look to be any particular seating arrangement, so Keiko took a seat next to Light, who took a seat at the end of the first row. She watched as the rest of the students poured into the testing center, noting one girl in particular giving her a dirty look as she passed.

It took her a moment to realize that the girl was probably jealous that she was sitting next to Light, and watched as many other girls stared at Light as they were walking in.

I knew that he was popular but this is just ridiculous. On the off chance that Light properly asks me out, will these girls despise me just for being his girlfriend? I wouldn't put it past them.

She was torn away from her thoughts when the proctor announced that the testing was about to commence. He was passing out exams face down to everyone in the room.

“You may begin right...now!” The proctor, a stern looking middle aged man, called out once he passed out the final exam.

Keiko soon found herself immersed in the exam. She finished the first page of the exam in only a couple minutes, earning her a few stares when she was one of the first people in the room to flip her exam over to the second page.

It’s much easier than I thought it would be. If the rest of the test is this easy, then I’m sure I will get into To-Oh easily. Light was right, I shouldn’t have worried so much.

“Hey, you there,” the proctor called out a few minutes into the exam, “student number 162, please sit in your seat properly.”

Startled by the sudden voice, Keiko slightly turned around in her seat, catching sight of the student that was being called out. He was sitting near the back of the testing center, his seat aligned with Light’s row.

He wasn’t even sitting at all, instead he was crouched in his chair, with his thumb in his mouth. To top that off, he was dressed in saggy blue jeans complete with a plain white t-shirt. Keiko also noticed that he wasn’t wearing any shoes, they were sitting untouched underneath his desk, revealing his bare feet. Instead of focusing on his exam, he was gazing somewhere else in the room, Keiko followed his gaze only to realize that he was staring at Light.

As if realizing that he now had an audience, he glanced over at Keiko, whose eyes widened as he gave her a lazy grin before focusing his attention back on Light. Keiko had to admit, while he clearly had weird habits, he wasn’t that bad looking, sporting messy black hair and matching captivating dark eyes. He also didn’t look more than a few years older than her.

What the…? He’s not even dressed like a university student… and why’s he so fixated on Light? Who is this guy? Ugh, wait no, I don’t have time to think about this right now, I have an entrance exam to focus on...mind your own business, Keiko. At least until after the exam is over.

Keiko attempted to stay focused on her exam, but in the background of her mind, she was still curious about a lot of things.

First of all, why was someone tailing her? Did they know she was keeping track of the Kira investigation? Also, what exactly was her relationship with Light? They were close, but still, labeless. Finally, who was that student sitting weirdly in the back, and what was his deal? She hoped that she would at least have one of these questions answered soon.

/timeskip/

“That was a piece of cake,” Light told Keiko as the two walked out of the testing center together, “you thought it was just as easy, right?”

Keiko nodded, “yeah, you were right, I shouldn’t have worried so much.”

She was distracted, catching sight of a man in a loosely fitted black suit loitering near one of the busier hallways of the university. He looked like he was trying way too hard to fit in, which only garnered him more attention.

“We should celebrate, don’t you think?” Light continued on, “how about we go out and grab a bite to eat soon? Or perhaps we could get some coffee together? We can make a date of it.”

“Mmm, sure, that sounds good,” Keiko replied, admittedly only half listening to Light. Her gut feeling was telling her that she needed to investigate this man. He stuck out like a sore thumb against the crowd in his suit, and he didn’t look like a student. He looked more like he could have been some sort of student teacher, but there were no classes currently in session.

“Are you heading back home now?” Light asked, gesturing towards the bus station on the other side of the campus.

Sorry, Light, there is something I have to do right now. I can’t be going home quite yet.

She shook her head, “no, you go on without me. I think I’ll stick around a while longer and explore the campus a bit more.”

“Oh, alright then,” Light gave her hand a gentle squeeze and planted a quick goodbye kiss on her cheek, much to the dismay of a couple female students who had been staring at them.

“I’ll talk to you later,” Keiko responded, waving to Light as he walked on towards the bus station.

Once he disappeared into the throng of people, Keiko turned her attention back to the task at hand. She tried to make it look like she was just exploring the area when her real agenda was to get close to the guy in the suit.

He must have sensed this, because as soon as she was in the same hallway he was, he tried to make a run for it. However, it appeared he wasn’t that graceful, and he ended up accidentally tripping over his own feet. Luckily for Keiko, she had more than enough time to catch up to where he was. When he finally stood up again, the two were face to face.

“You there, we need to talk. Are you the one that’s been following me the past few days?” as she spoke, she could see the color drain from his face.

Before he could work up a reply, his phone started to ring. “I-I’m sorry, just a moment, please,” he stuttered out, reaching into his pockets and answering the phone, “hello, Ryuzaki-san?”

Keiko put her hands on her hips, watching the man’s every move while he was on the phone. He seemed rather nervous, as if bracing himself for whomever was on the other end. There was a bead of sweat around the edge of his hairline, threatening to run down his forehead.

He looks like he’s about to get chewed out. Is it because I caught onto him? He wasn’t being very sneaky, it’s the middle of the day and he’s in a suit. Anyway, who is this guy?

A look of relief crossed over the man’s face, “yes, sir. I understand.”

After a few more seconds, the phone call was over.

Hmm. Looks like whatever the guy was bracing himself for didn’t happen. Also this definitely has to be the man that was following me. He’s just way too suspicious. I can’t let him go today without an explanation.

Turning his attention back to Keiko, the man said, “looks like you caught me. I, uh, I didn’t quite expect our first meeting to be like this.”

He gave a nervous laugh, and continued on, “I’m Taro Matsui, I’m a member of the Japanese police force,” he took out his badge, letting Keiko take a good look at it.

If it’s a fake, it’s a rather good one. However, this man doesn’t seem to be lying to me. From what I’ve seen so far, he displays his emotions way too clearly. It’s obvious I caught him off guard as well. But it still begs the question...

“Why is there a member of the police following me?” Keiko asked, squinting her eyes at him. There were so many thoughts reeling around in her mind.

The man, Taro Matsui, gave a little sigh, “look, about that, we need to talk. But it can’t be here, obviously. And don’t worry, you’re not in trouble. Just follow me, I will take you to a secure location where we can talk easily in private.”

She bit her lip a moment, but she decided, overall, it was in her best interest to go with him. So, she followed him into the car that was parked a little ways away.

Keiko knew that it was dumb to go off with a stranger, it was like practically asking for a death wish. Although, she knew if she didn’t go, she would regret it. Also, if this man really was who he said he was, then Keiko didn’t have to worry about her safety.

All she knew was that she wanted answers, and she was willing to do just about anything in that moment to get them.

Chapter Six

Chapter Eight

#death note #death note fanfic #death note fanfiction #chapter seven #examination #light yagami #l lawliet #matsuda #touta matsuda #lightxoc #writing #story #my works #post #personality #mine #who said death was easy

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miss-scientia · 7 years

Text

Noctis x Mermaid!Reader

Okay so here is that fic I’ve been working on that no one asked for! :P No but seriously, it was just so nice to be able to write something again! I’ve been writing this all day actually, and it’s not very well proof read or anything so I apologise if it’s not great grammar, and it’s not up to my usual standard. Things take so much longer to write when you’re ill. But anyway, this idea just came to me one day and I had a burning desire to write it so here it is! I hope you like it! (I’m such a sucker for mermaids and cliches. Oh and Noctis of course).

WC: 3515 SFW Noctis x Fem!Reader

Part One

Rock crunched beneath the sole of his boot with every step. Rocks and uneven flooring were things this cave had an abundance of, that was for certain. Noctis ran a hand through his raven hair, pushing the strands out of his eyes as he looked down, doing his best not to trip up.

“Whose idea was this?” Prompto grumbled from somewhere behind the prince, also trying not to trip up on the uneven floor. Ignis sighed and answered his question with the same answer he gave every time.

“I believe it was Noctis’.”

“Tch, you guys are acting like this is worse than climbing the Rock of Ravatogh.” The accused answered, rather sullenly. He was also starting to regret suggesting that they check out this cave. So far there hadn’t been anything in it, treasure or daemons, and he was feeling rather grumpy about it.

“I don’t understand what’s up with you all.” Gladio called cheerily from the front, sounding like he was having a whale of a time. Which the big guy was. Navigating over rough terrain was like a simple work out for him, and in comparison, was finding it a breeze. Looking back, he was met with three withering glances, causing him to chuckle deeply at his friends.

“There’s nothing here big guy.” Prompto protested what they were all thinking, and even Gladio had to nod in agreement with that.

“It is true, and there is a rather alarming lack of daemons. We have encountered none as of yet, which is unthinkable in such a secluded place.”

Noctis found himself nodding along with the strategist. However, although this cave was secluded, it wasn’t dark like the daemons needed. The rocky walls, ceiling and even floor around them seemed to emit a soft, gentle blue shimmer. It was like the rock itself was glowing.

Not what the daemons are comfortable with.

“Eh, problem guys.” Gladio’s gruff voice pulled the prince out of his speculation, and he looked up to see the problem his friend had mentioned. And he almost groaned.

“A dead end?” Once again, Prompto voiced the shared thought.

“Ah… it seems there truly was nothing here.”

“Hmm, but I could’ve sworn…” Noctis mumbled, feeling slightly confused and disappointed. When he had stumbled upon this cave, he’d had a gut feeling that there was something here worth their while. That feeling had been why he was so eager for them to explore it in the first place, but the shimmery blue, rock wall they were now facing left him hollow.

I was so certain…

“I guess we turn back.” Gladio stated, his tone not questioning, only accepting the obvious.

“Hey, wait!” Prompto’s voice sounded like an echo as he crouched down to examine the rock wall and floor closer. “There’s a thing here! Looks like some kinda manhole cover… I’m just gonna lift it up!”

Grunts and heaves of effort which involuntarily escaped his lips echoed as loud as before, as the blonde struggled to lift the cover. It was the same shimmery blue as the rest of the cave, but clearly didn’t seem to be made of rock. Noctis was impressed he had spotted it, it blended in so well with its surroundings.

“Now, why would there be a manhole cover here…?” Ignis mumbled thoughtfully, so quiet that if the prince hadn’t been stood so close by, he’d have missed it. Though truth be told, Noctis had wondered the same thing. Was it to stop people coming in? Or maybe to prevent something getting out…?

Even with these thoughts however, it was too late to stop Prompto; Gladio had taken pity on him and helped him lift the cover to the side. With the obstruction gone, it revealed a darkened hole in the cave floor. It was still made out of that same rock, however, this tunnel seemed to be very smooth. Almost like…

“People can go down here?”

“It would seem so.” Gladio answered Noctis’ question, inspecting the revealed tunnel closer. Instead of plummeting straight down, the tunnel seemed to curve slightly, making the drop not too steep. “Seems like it’s made for people to walk down.”

At once, three pairs of eyes turned to face Noctis. He looked at each of them, and they all recognised the determined, curious look reflected in the ice blue pools. Prompto groaned unenthusiastically.

“Scrabbling around underground… again. Fantastic.”

But Noctis just smiled, knowing the blonde would come along regardless of his moaning. Returning his eyes down to the tunnel, his curiosity burned. The odd feeling in his gut was back, telling him there had to be something down there. Slowly he walked to the edge, kneeling down and swinging his legs over the entrance to the tunnel.

“After you your highness.” Gladio chuckled, and Noctis slid off the edge of the tunnel. There was a short drop, then his feet came into contact with the jarringly smooth floor as he landed with a quiet thud.

“Everything okay?” Prompto asked as Gladio was the next to settle over the entrance. But just as Noctis opened his mouth to reply, his feet slipped out from under him, unable to stand properly on the smooth surface. Instead his yelped, butt coming into contact with the floor and suddenly he was sliding down the smooth tunnel.

Wait, we were wrong. It isn’t a tunnel at all, it’s made to be like a slide!

Noctis picked up speed, the dip of the slide progressively getting steeper. He could hear the shouts of the other three over the wind.

They’ve come after me.

But as Noctis continued his descent, he quickly approached three tunnels. Unable to change his route, Noctis ended up sliding through the far-right tunnel. He couldn’t slow himself; his hands unable to grip onto the smooth surface, his boots not providing any friction. Before he could start to panic, he was suddenly thrown roughly from the smooth tube like slide, rolling out onto the familiar rocky flooring. Finally he came to a stop, edges of the rocks digging into his arms. Coughing, Noctis pushed himself up off of the floor, standing up right to look at the ‘tunnel’ he’d just slid down.

I suppose that was the express way down.

He was filthy, covered in dust from his impromptu landing. He was also, Noctis realised, on his own. Had the other three followed him, they would have joined him by now, mere seconds behind him. But no one else turned up.

They must’ve been sent through one of the other tubes…

“Ah great.” Noctis groaned, kicking a rock half-heartedly with his foot.

Well, might as well try and see if I can figure out where I am.

The prince turned, resolving to try and meet up with the others. But as he turned, that thought was put out of his head for the moment.

“Wow…” He breathed, stunned. Noctis had found himself in a large dome shaped pocket of the cave. About a third of this was the same rocky floor as the cave had been above, and the other two thirds… pure water. A huge, calm lake spread out in front of him, the water casting reflections onto the blue shimmery rocks, giving the rocky dome an almost ethereal glow. It was much lighter here.

Enraptured, Noctis stepped forward slowly, making his way over to the lake in sheer disbelief. It was a beautiful sight to behold, prettier than any lake found out in the real world.

Huh, real world. It’s just that this seems so… unbelievable.

The prince mocked himself as he finally came to a stop at the lake’s edge. The water was a beautiful blue, all calm- Noctis’ eyes suddenly caught a movement from his peripheral vision. Like lighting his ice blue eyes locked onto an area of water, slightly in the distance…

There it was again! A gentle ripple in the otherwise calm waters. At once, Noctis could feel his palms tingle in excitement.

Just imagine what kind of rare fish are in here, in this secluded lake.

His eyes lit up at the prospect, and he summoned his rod at once. Just like a kid in a candy store…

Waiting, Noctis watched the waters again. He was cool, calm, focused. In his element.

There!

Noctis cast his rod near the faint ripple of water, eager to entice whatever lay below its depths. All thoughts of escape or rendezvousing with his team mates were gone as he concentrated, focusing only on the catch…

The rod tweaked.

Already? I wasn’t expecting this to be a quick deal!

The rod moved again, this time with more force, nearly pulling the prince into the waters. Noctis gasped, digging his feet into the rocky flooring, tightening his grip on his rod.

Whatever it is… it’s big. He’d never felt a force like it in all his time fishing. A jolt of excitement ran through his body, he had to get his hands on this!

I knew there was something here!

Eagerly Noctis reeled in the line, careful not to let the fine line snap. Whatever it was wasn’t thrashing about as much as the prince expected, and soon something came to the surface before he’d even finished fully drawing in the line. Just breeching the surface, there was a little patch of… hair? It looked like wet hair to Noctis, and he couldn’t help but flinch a little.

Just what the hell have I caught…?

He continued to reel it in, the patch of colour coming ever closer.

It is hair!

But he was too invested to stop. He reeled until it was closer, and more hair broke the surface of water… lots of it. He could see, buried somewhere in the twists of the never-ending hair, his lure was well and truly tangled.

It… it wasn’t a fish who bit on the lure…

Noctis gulped. With slight uneasiness, he reeled until the mass of hair was just beneath him. There was so much of it, the locks drifting in the water, that whatever it belonged to was obscured from his vision by the sheer amount of it.

“Well, I need my lure at the very least.” He spoke out loud, trying to convince himself to put his hand on this mass of hair. There was a dread building up inside him, but he was really trying to ignore that part. Surely there was no way it could be a… a body.

Suddenly, at the sound of his voice the mass of hair jumped and recoiled, attempting to retreat to the further away area of water. Noctis could feel his rod slipping from his grip, his attention having been diverted for a second. In shock, he grabbed hold of it, pulling to stop whatever it was floating away.

“Hey!”

Noctis watched, as the mass of hair started to rise out of the water… His mouth dropped open, and he nearly let go of his rod in surprise. Out from the water… came a human torso. Followed by two human arms, struggling at the hair still covering the face.

H…human? Noctis’ brain faltered at the sight, watching the human with an impossible amount of hair struggle to free itself. A lock of hair was pushed out of the way by a searching hand, revealing the face… her face.

“A girl…?” Noctis stuttered, bewildered. Again, the girl reacted to the sound of his voice; freezing up and lifting her [e/c] eyes to stare at him wearily. At once Noctis registered the sheer panic in her eyes, and instantly felt terrible.

“Hey…hey it’s okay. I’m sorry, I thought you were… never mind. Here, let me help you.” His voice softened at once, and he gestured to the girl. She still regarded him suspiciously, and so Noctis did something he thought he’d never do. Slowly, so as not to frighten her even more, he laid his rod on the rocky floor beside him.

[e/c] eyes watched his movements closely, as if waiting for a trick. However, we her eyes returned to his… the gentle kindness reflected in them quelled her fears. Almost shyly, the girl swam back over to the edge of the lake and towards Noctis, using her arms to pull her closer.

Noctis gulped, sliding to his knees carefully as she came closer. Hesitantly, she offered her main of hair to him, and blocking out any thoughts of worry, he gently grasped the lure in his fingers. He sucked in a gasp, not wanting to alarm the girl but… her hair was so soft. Slowly he unwrapped the tresses from the lure.

“Wow, it’s really stuck in there, huh?” He breathed, afraid of raising his voice. She seemed easily startled, and the last thing he wanted was to be pulled into the depths with her if she pulled away. There was no response, so he continued with his bizarre task until finally…

“There we go.” Noctis sat back, opening his closed fist to show the girl the lure was now out of her hair. She gazed up at him, a curiosity that resonated with his own reflected in her eyes. Gently, she lifted a hand toward the lure, and with her fingertips brushed along its surface. It was like… she’d never seen a lure before.

Noctis simply watched her, holding his breath, enraptured by this strange girl of the lake. As she played with the lure in his palm, her eyes wide with fascination, Noctis took this time to actually look at this girl. Her skin was beautiful, unblemished and invitingly soft looking, an almost translucent [s/c]. The ever-lasting mane of hair fell down her back and her chest, as if enveloping her. Which was luckily, Noctis thought, as he realised she was bare from the neck down.

Pink tinged his cheeks, and he was suddenly glad she was so interested in what lay in his palm.

Okay, so why is there a beautiful, naked girl in a strange lake hidden deep in a secluded cave?

Before he could voice his question however, a movement once again caught his eye, not too far away from the girl… a ripple in the water… a fish tail…?

And then it suddenly clicked in his head.

“Woah!” He gasped at the realisation, the shock sending him backwards so he once again fell on his ass. At the sudden outburst, the girl – mermaid – withdrew her hand and recoiled back. Within seconds she was under the water, the only evidence of her ever being there at all, the breaks in the water she left in her wake.

Noctis was scrambling to his feet again in a hurry.

“Wait! Wait I’m sorry I didn’t mean that!” He called, but there was no answer. His eyes skimmed the lake, but he couldn’t see her at all. Like she was a figment of his imagination.

“Please come back I… I was just startled, that’s all.” He pleaded awkwardly, a hand coming up to scratch the back of his neck. However, still no reply.

Noctis sighed heavily.

“Please? You were scared of me at first too… I honestly didn’t mean to startle you.” After another pause, Noctis hung his head. Scared away probably the only mermaid he’d ever see.

Typical. Real smooth there Noctis. He admonished himself. Ugh, what do I even do-

A slight sound interrupted his thoughts and he looked up. In the middle of the water, just peering out above the surface, there was those [e/c] eyes watching him curiously. He couldn’t stop the surprised smile that lifted the corners of his lips.

“You’re curious too huh?” Once again he lowered himself to the floor, this time sitting cross legged at the edge of the lake. Slowly the mermaid swam up to him, and finally lifted her head out of the water until her chin was free. Her little fingers reached out of the water, and tentatively curled over the rocky edge by Noctis’ feet.

He gulped. He could barely believe this was happening. A mermaid, here?

“Sorry that I scared you. It’s just, I’ve never seen a mermaid before.” He uttered. Although she didn’t speak, her eyes seemed to say she accepted his apology. A small smile graced her lips, causing Noctis’ heart to race in his chest.

I think that means… she accepts me?

For some reason, Noctis found that he felt it was important that she knew he meant her no harm.

“So… uh, h-have you been here long?” He almost cringed at the sound of his voice; awkward.

How do you even start a conversation with a mermaid?

Fortunately, she seemed oblivious to his awkwardness, and nodded her head. Noctis sucked in another gasp. She’d answered him, clearly understood him.

This is… surreal.

“Ah… I-I see. Uh, nice place you have.”

Excellent. He almost groaned aloud. This conversation is crashing and burning.

The mermaid watched him, tilting her head inquisitively. More accurately, she was watching as a pink hue blossomed over his cheeks. Lifting one hand, she put her palm to her cheek and frowned. And then, without warning, she lifted that palm and gently pressed it against Noctis’ cheek, lifting herself further out of the water.

Noctis froze as her hand came into contact with the warming skin of his cheek. He could barely register what was happening, unable to do anything about it. Her palm was surprisingly soft, cupping his cheek with such tenderness he couldn’t remember ever feeling before. His breathing stopped, and he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the strange creature before him. Beautiful, innocent, inquisitive. His heart raced once more, pounding oddly against his rib cage. Her touch wasn’t cool like he expected, but warm. Really warm.

Maybe that’s my face. His brain so helpfully reminded him of the blush deepening on his face. She was close, so ridiculously close. Seemingly unaware, she’d pulled herself out of the water so far that he could see where her stomach connected to her tail, her skin ever as translucent, contrasting against the brilliant colour of her tail. Her features were soft, kind, inviting. Her eyes impossibly big, lips looking incredibly soft…

Gulping hard, Noctis gently pulled his face from her touch, only a fraction. With the loss of her touch his head cleared slightly, but he couldn’t fully shake the enthralled feeling that has overcome him. She tilted her head again, asking him a wordless question as she once more pointed to her own cheeks.

She wants to know why my skin went red… oh boy.

“Uh, it’s called a blush… it happens sometimes…” Shaking his head, he moved swiftly on. “Anyway, I know that you can understand me, but… well, can you talk? Or are you just shy?”

Sinking back into the comfort of the water again until it rested just above her chin, she shook her head.

No. She can’t. I wonder why…?

Before he could voice the question however, a familiar voice called, not too far away.

“Nooooctiiis! Are you here?”

Prompto.

His eyes flickered to hers hurriedly to see the familiar panic within them.

“They’re just my-”

“Hey Noct, c’mon.” Gladio’s rough voice was next, their footsteps coming ever closer.

With one last shake of her head, the mermaid ducked under the water and disappeared, swimming away under the depths of the lake. Noctis didn’t have any time to say anything, or move to stop her. One minute she was there, the next she was gone.

Just as the prince stood up, the familiar faces of his friends walked into view.

“Noctis, there you are. You have had us on a very merry chase.” Ignis shook his head, but was pleased to see the prince well and safe.

“Noct! Where have you been man? We looked-” Prompto stopped short as he saw the rod next to Noctis. His blue eyes flashed back up to the prince’s face, then he rolled them in exasperation.

“Really? Here?”

“Dedication.” Gladio muttered approvingly, also spotting the fishing rod.

“Didya catch anything good? I’m starving.”

Noctis’ eyes flickered swiftly from the lake, back to the faces of his friends. He wasn’t quite sure what compelled him to give the answer he did, but he was certain it was the right answer for now.

“Nah. There’s nothing in there.”

“Not surprising. There’s nothing in here anywhere.” Prompto moaned. Ignis adjusted his glasses, his eyes lingering on the prince a moment too long.

“While we were searching, Gladio managed to find a rope to climb out of these caves on. Seems like others have been here before us. Shall we depart, since there is nothing here?”

Noctis couldn’t swear by it, but he thought he heard an odd strain on the last part of his sentence. Almost like he was trying to say something.

Am I being paranoid?

“Sure, lead the way.” He nodded, as casually as he could manage.

As his friends filed out of the dome shaped pocket, Noctis turned to have one last glance at the lake. He was surprised to find he felt disappointed as the still waters looked back at him.

#I apologise now for the many grammar mistakes that are probably still in there #I just really really wanted to write something since this illness has really been getting me down lately #and then this idea hit me #I hope you like it!#I'm bullet pointing part two atm #Noctis Lucis Caelum #Prince Noctis #noctis x reader #noctis lucis caelum x reader #ffxv #final fantasy xv #final fantasy 15 #final fantasy fanfic #final fantasy scenarios

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mrevaunit42 · 7 years

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Marulous Gentlebug and Chat Noistar part 1

hey everyone, Mr.E here and trying my hardest to keep up with wholesome week. but as i write the prompts i figured I make good on my promise. So I’ve been writing about a year and a half now with about 96 chapters to show for it. All of them are up on Fanfiction but be warned, grammar and some spelling mistakes because I was getting back into the swing of things and sometimes I am horrible at proof reading. I decided to put some of those stories onto tumblr in case people don’t do the FF site and here is the first of the batch my Miraculous Ladybug AU for Star vs. I change some things because i personally do not like just directly copying things.

this part 1, this is looooong and i cleaned it up because I could. So enjoy, let me know what you think and have a great week. time to catch up!

It was a quiet, peaceful day in this little place known as Paris.

The sun was bright, the skies clear with puffy white clouds lazily drifting overhead.

The sounds of life filled the city of love as people went about the daily grind, countless footsteps echoing from every corner as cars switched between the smooth pavement of the newer roads and the cobbled streets that survived throughout the years.

As usual the Diaz bakery was overflowing with customers, the family of the tiny store/home never once having believed they would ever be considered the best bakery in all of Paris.

Above in the attic of the building was the room of the youngest Diaz, Angie and Rafael’s son Marco who was hiding a rather large secret.

There was a cute, little yawn as the morning light broke through the window, basking a small palm size sprite-like ladybug creature in its glow. The creature opened her bright blue eyes for a moment before blinking sleepily. Her two antennas twitched as the sounds of someone approaching shocked the creature awake and caused her to dive out of sight as the little trap door that led to the bedroom began to rise.

“Don't worry mom!” Marco called downstairs, the excited murmurings of the customers filling the empty room with noise “I still got a few minutes, I'll be fine!”

Marco shut the trapdoor with his foot, stretching his tired body as he began searching for everything he would require for the following school day.

The little creature peered out of her hiding place, watching the young teen carefully as he doubled checked the sliver badge pinned to his gray undershirt, attacking his wildly messy light brown hair with a brush, the other hand blindly groping for a nearby red hoodie but missing the article of clothing by an inch.

The creature giggled to herself before taking off skyward, soaring through the air while slowly tugging the hoodie towards Marco's waiting hand, shaking her head as Marco took it and slipped it over his head.

“Up a little early aren't you Marco?” The little creature asked, taking her place by his shoulder. Marco's head popped out of well loved jacket and grimaced at his newly wild hair.

Marco frowned, reaching for the comb he just put down “I was helping my parents with the morning rush. Today's Monday and the people of Paris can't survive without their coffee and horde of sugary Parisian sweets.”

Tikki frowned at what Marco was saying, wondering if he realized what was going on.

“You woke up at 5:30 in the morning?” Tikki questioned, hoping to get Marco to understand what the problem was.

“Yep”

“After staying up until 3 in the morning studying for future chapters.”

Marco nodded in agreement.

“Which was after fighting The Musketeer?”

Marco frowned “Wasn't the Musketeer during the carnival?”

“Which you volunteered to watch the kissing booth after you realized Star was going to be assigned to it as well.”

Marco turned bright red, letting out a dreamily sigh at the sound of Star's name being said by the kwami.

“Star.” Marco smiled brightly as he glanced around his room, the beautiful face of Paris's most popular model Star Butterfly staring at him from every direction. There she was in her viking battle armor, promoting some sort of horror movie about a human butterfly hybrid, holding onto some mysterious figure at a dance basked in blood red lights and of course his favorite picture of all that was tucked away in a sliver picture frame on top of his desk.

Star had wrapped her arm around Marco's neck, drawing him close and causing the young man to let out the goofiest smile ever recorded on film while she threw a peace sign over her own head, lips puffed out while the two stared into the camera.

Marco didn't really know Star but they were classmates at Echo Creek Academy and while she was on the reserved side, she was very friendly. More than willing to be friends with any and everyone, even Marco!

That is if Marco could get over his inability to talk properly in front of the seemingly magical girl. Or walk....or breath.....or carry and hold things. Or any basic general functions that ceased to work anytime he was anywhere near Star Butterfly.

He knew he should just stay cool, be calm but he couldn't help it. With her bright, oceanic blue eyes, long, sunshiny blonde hair and armed with the most beautiful smile, Marco Diaz's brain turned to mush every time.

Tikki laughed at Marco's awestruck face as he moved the picture frame Tikki hid behind back into its proper place. Tikki found it very adorable how much he liked Star even if he couldn't express it.

“What I am trying to say Marco” Tikki told him after a moment “Is that you are taking on so many responsibilities! Between your school work, trying to prepare for future class subjects and your duties as Lady...”

Marco's ears perked up, turning to face the little kwami with embarrassed cheeks “Ah ah ah! No no not Ladybug, Gentlebug.”

“Gentlebug” Tikki gracefully corrected, finding Marco's defensive tone about his superhero name amusing “you haven't been getting much sleep! You're going to run yourself into the ground if you keep this up!”

Marco scoffed, waving off Tikki's concerns “I'm young and I took karate, I am at my physical prime! I have energy to burn!”

and just to prove his point, Marco began unnecessarily striking at the air with lightning fast attacks, chopping and kicking invisible foes before dropping into a dramatic pose.

Marco grinned slyly at Tikki before a groggy yawn escaped his lips, causing the kwami to shoot him a knowing look.

Marco sheepishly scratched his head “Look I'm fine Tikki. Maybe a little tired but I can handle it.”

Tikki opened her mouth to say more but the sudden ringing of the alarm clock drew both of their attentions to the device.

“WHAT!?” Marco screamed at the top of his lungs “It's 7:56?! I'M GOING TO BE LATE FOR SCHOOL!”

Star let out a quiet sigh, dejectedly stirring her scrambled eggs with her fork as the scraping of her plate echoed emptily all around her.

Star looked up in hopes that her mother would be willing to speak more than a handful of words towards her but given how Moon Butterfly's blue eyes were glancing downward at the various papers on the dining room table and how absentmindedly she was playing with her long, straightened to perfection natural periwinkle blue hair, it wasn't going to happen.

“Star.”

Star nearly fell out of her seat at the sound of her mother's voice calling her name.

“Yes Mother?” Star excitedly called back, firmly planting her hands onto the table to steady herself in case she could not handle any more surprises from her remaining parent.

Moon Butterfly stared coldly at her daughter, eyes filled with a stoic calm that a politician would kill for.

“You say you wanted to go to school.” Moon began slowly, her voice rigid and unfeeling “You even disobeyed me, sneaking off to enter such a place without your bodyguard and overall were displeased with the idea of not going.”

Star's joyful expectations faltered for a moment “Mother, I...”

“And yet if I am correct, and I always am, the time is currently 7:56”

“Mother...”

“And what time does your school begin Star?”

Star's smile did a complete 180, the frown plastered on her face physically aching her muscles from the lack of experience with an upside down grin.

“It begins at 8 mother.....”

“So you are going to be late” Moon provided “And thus the entire folly of your desire to go to school has been wasted....”

Star held back the tears, determined to get her mother to see her point of view “But mother, it is your day off. I was hoping perhaps we could spend it together? You've been so busy that I hardly see you anymore.”

“Nonsense.” Moon answered, returning to the papers that were apparently more important than her daughter “I see you at breakfast and dinner.”

“Mother, please. I...”

“Go to school Star” Moon's voice held the sharp, finality to its tone “Or I will pull you out of that silly institution first thing tomorrow.”

Star said nothing, elegantly strolling out of the room, refusing to allow a single shred of despair and hurt she was feeling to show upon her face.

Moon watched Star carefully, shaking her head disappointingly “She is far too fragile....she is safe amongst these walls but on the outside?”

Moon trailed off, returning her attention to the various fashion problems that plagued the older woman.

“Oh man how could I be late?!” Marco cried, leaping over a parked bike and its unmoving owner, sliding under approaching cake held table, even narrowly skidding past a car that decided to the best way to deal with a pedestrian was to speed up.

Marco glanced down at his phone, trying to ignore the 8:24 that his internal clock showed, mocking his failure and his attempts to reach the school at a reasonable hour.

“Can this day get any worse?!” Marco shouted at the top of his lungs, whirling around the corner at breakneck speeds only to find himself colliding with something solid.

Marco flailed backwards, nearly steadying his footing when a gentle breeze pushed beyond him, sending his entire body wildly sprawling facedown onto the floor.

“Ugh...” Marco grunted in pain, rubbing his chin softly as he rose to his feet, trying his hardest not lament the twist of events he found himself in.

“Owie.” A familiar voice cried below him, a girl with bright blonde hair blanketing her face as she gently rubbed where she made contact with the ground, the devil horn headband looking very familiar.

“oh geez.” Marco muttered, running forward to help the girl to her feet “I'm really sorry. I'm super late to class and I was rushing and I wasn't paying attention.”

“It's okay” A cheerful voice answered, tickling his memories but producing no results “It happens and I was late too.”

The girl flipped her long mane out of her face and Marco could feel his heart stop dead at the sight of Star Butterfly's bright blue eyes staring back at him, a flicker of recognition dancing within her irises.

“Marco!” Star cried excitedly, trapping the red hoodie teen in her quick embrace.

“S-Star!” Marco shouted unnecessarily loudly, wincing at the sight of Star flinching at his volume “S-sorry I...well...”

Marco could feel his cheeks heating up, turning a brighter red each passing moment until Star finally broke her hold on him, the step back she took doing nothing to help his nerves.

“Wow Marco, are you okay?” Star's concerned look was worse than Tikki's had been. She leaned in, her bright blue orbs focusing solely on him and Marco swore he could feel the steam coming out of his ears “You look really tired.”

Marco's nervous chuckle was equal parts embarrassing and horrifying. Before he could stop himself, his hands were flying this way and that way in an attempt to help him explained what happened

“I was running and I was late because I was helping my parents bake today's inventory andI'vebeenstudyingallnightandIreallyreallywasn'tpayingattentionand....:”

“Marco” Star raised her own hands to stop the erratic movements of his “Marco it's okay. I'm fine! See?”

Star presented her arms and legs, gesturing to each individual limb like she was posing for one of her photoshoots.

“R...right....” Marco muttered quietly.

Star smiled gently at his embarrassed, shy tone, a trait Star always found endearing in Marco. She moved forward to give him another hug but stopped, remembering that she was in public and she couldn't be touchy feely with everyone.

Instead, Star placed her hand on his shoulder, squeezing it comfortingly as she gave him a little grin of reassurance.

Marco could do nothing but stare in wonder towards the famous Butterfly, her beauty up close completely melting his brain and any reasonable thought process.

“Now come on, we got school!” Marco felt all the blood pool in his face as Star gripped his hand tightly in hers, pulling him forward to ensure the two finally arrived for their class. Though there was one little problem...

Marco's legs had ceased to function, failing to even move an inch as Marco fell towards the ground once more, landing ontop of his chin a second time but with an audience this time.

Star leaned over Marco carefully, anxiously biting her lips as she wondered if she had done something wrong “Marco?”

“.hmm?”

“Are you okay?

“Mhm....”

“Did you want me to help you up?”

Marco shook his head, no longer able to trust his body if it became paralyzed by a single touch from Star Butterfly.

“Monsieur Diaz, Mademoiselle Butterfly thank you for joining us” Mademoiselle Skullnick, the trollish teacher spoke loudly to the rest of the class “I do hope you were not doing anything....inappropriate with one another instead of being inside my classroom.”

Marco felt faint, the snickering of a dozen or so students causing him to hang his head down low in a desperate attempt to draw less attention to himself.

“Not at all Mademoiselle Skullnick” Star confidently answered “ Monsieur Marco was assisting me, I had tripped over a rock and scattered my things all over the floor. I was working an early photoshoot and lost track of the time.”

“Are you sure you tripped?” Brittney sneered, smirking knowingly towards Marco's direction “That whole falling down bit sounds more like Senior Accident over there.”

Marco glared openly at Brittney, fist clenched in anger at the sound of Brittney's mocking Spanish accent.

Skullnick sighed, feeling disinterested and annoyed already and it was only the first class “Please you two take your seats and stop being a distraction.”

Marco grumbled his way over to the seat behind Star's, elevated and a perfect view to catch glimpses of the beautiful Star Butterfly.

Marco let out a loving sigh, dropping his head drop onto his waiting hand.

“You know if you keep staring at her, you're going to burn a hole into the back of her head.”

Marco let out a strangled yelp, trying his hardest to bit down the surprise from escaping his throat but Skullnick let out a frustrated sigh, turning back only to see the entire class focusing solely on Marco who gave a nervous chuckle and shrugged his shoulders.

“....do I have to send you out Marco?”

Marco bit his tongue so he wouldn't shout at Brittney to stop smirking his way with that knowing glint in her eyes.

“No..I...it won't happen again.”

Skullnick narrowed her eyes “good or else you will be sent outside. Understand?”

“Oui”

Marco took his seat with all possible haste, the orchestra of teenage gossip and conversations filled the room as Skullnick began writing on the black board once more.

Marco shot a dirty look to his best friend Jackie who simply smiled in response.

“Don't surprise me like that Jackie!” Marco harshly whispered

“Don't make it obvious you're staring at Star” Jackie countered, reaching into her bag and fishing out her phone.

Marco frowned before looking back towards Star, joyfully talking to her best friend Patrica “Pony Head” Harrison without a care in the world while Patrica braided her long, pink horse-like mane.

“I can't help it if she's pretty” Marco muttered back “She's perfect and I totally embarrassed myself in front of her coming to school.”

“ooooh” Jackie cooed, nudging Marco playfully in the side “did you at least manage to talk to her?”

Marco puffed out his chest with pride “Better, I managed to speak an entire sentence to her!”

Jackie's face slipped into one of playful disbelief “Let me guess? One long, run-on sentence that started calmly then broke down into rapid fire speed?”

Marco's face was everything Jackie needed to confirm her theory.

Marco slipped his head lower as Jackie patted his shoulder “I'm sure you'll be able to talk for reals to her next time!”

Marco tried to retort when Jackie shoved her phone screen directly into his face, a website whose theme was red and black ladybug pattern with the words “Gentleblog” on a banner written in some sort of unnecessary fancy writing.

“Now for my news, I got actual footage of Gentlebug and Chat noir fighting Musketeer yesterday! And it is amazing!” Jackie gushed, pulling her phone back to her, absentmindedly putting on her attention on the little video she uploaded to the blog.

Marco shifted uncomfortably. Ever since he found the miraculous and it's kwami Tikki, he'd been using the power granted to him by the little badge and its guardian. Luckily the suit change came with the territory and was not something he needed to carry around.

While he was growing more relaxed and confident in his role as a superhero, he did not like keeping secrets from anyone, especially his best friend Jackie or his parents and he always felt awkward whenever Gentlebug was brought up since everyone spoke highly of the teenage superhero but Marco knew they would be severely disappointed with the person behind the mask.

And yep, there he was.

Marco still was unsure how anyone took him seriously in his superhero outfit: A crisp white collared shirt always pressed to perfection, a red vest black slacks and loafers with the ladybug pattern tie and mask completing the look. He looked more like a theme waiter than a superhero.

“He is the coolest! And I even got when Chat Noir entered the scene.”

Marco stifled an eye roll when his fellow superheroine leapt flamboyantly onto the scene, soaking in the attention and admiration like a sponge.

Honestly, Chat Noir wasn't that bad. Reliable, passionate about doing the right thing and was a key member of their superheroing duo.

And she was really pretty with her long blonde hair tied up into two long braided ponytails, two adorable green cat paws on her cheeks. She wore a regular black blouse with 3 horizontal green stripes on her sides with a black skirt with an alternating pattern of green and black trim, black leggings and boots with her green and black elbow length gloves.

The thing about working with Chat Noir was...

“Hey, aren't we looking purfect today sir” Chat Noir's flirtatious voice called from the tiny speaker “And very dashing to boot.”

The flirting and the puns. She loved them no matter how serious the situation.

“Oh come on!” her perky voice shouted through the screen “You need to be arrested! You've stolen my heart!'

Marco frowned at Chat Noir's confession as Jackie quickly murmured under her breath about how cute the two would be paired up together.

Marco didn't know if Chat Noir was sincere or not. Most of the time it felt like another one of her jokes, her puns. Something said simply for the sake of saying it.

But there were those rare moments where....where she felt like she was bearing her heart to him, like she truly loved him and want nothing more than to be with him.

But that was impossible. She didn't know him, only what she thought she knew of him. If she knew who was really under the mask.....she'd.....

“Mademoiselle Thomas” Skullnick's voice appeared from nowhere, covering Marco and Jackie in her enormous, frightening shadow “No cell phones in class” Before either could say anything, Skullnick swiped the phone away from Jackie with a speed greater than anyone could've guessed.

“Hey wait a minute!” Jackie cried out, rising to her feet in pursuit of her phone, her foot accidentally kicking her beloved skateboard away from her.

“Are you arguing with me? Skullnick snarled, unable to believe a student had the nerve to talk back to her.

Jackie opened her mouth, only to close it under the older woman's dreadful gaze, shaking her head submissively before taking her seat once more.

Skullnick sulked away, the entire classroom's attention shifted onto what transpired rather than the skateboard slowly descending towards the middle of the steps.

The slow movement caught the sight of Brittney who smiled to herself, an evil plan forming in her mind.

She stood up without permission, strutting her way over to where the skateboard lay and, with purpose, put her left foot on its surface, her hands gripping a nearby desk for support as she pushed off.

Skullnick snapped the chalk in her hand, her tolerance for any more outbursts finally extinguished.

She turned around in time to see Brittney holding on for dear life as the skateboard slipped under her foot, propelling itself far away from the rich girl with forceful speed. Brittney managed to steady herself with the desk, taking deep dramatic breaths as Skullnick bellowed “WHAT IS GOING ON!?”

“J-Jackie's skateboard!” Brittney accused, pointing her finger directly at the confounded girl “It rolled over here and I nearly tripped over it! Jackie must've shoved it towards me when she stood up.”

“Hey!” Jackie shouted, standing to full height “It was an accident, I didn't mean to trip her even if she deserves it.”

“Mademoiselle Thomas!” Skullnick's voice threatened.

Jackie shook her head, unable to believe this was happening “But I...”

“Principal’s office. NOW!”

Skullnick's yell shook the whole building causing trails of dust to fall from the ceiling.

Jackie said nothing, opting to angrily grab her bag, roughly shove her things within and storm off, stomping her feet loudly as she picked up her skateboard and exited the class.

The class was quiet for a moment before Ferguson called out “So she's going to turn into an Akuma right? That's got to be like the shittiest thing to happen to someone today.”

Marco felt his blood run cold. the idea of Jackie becoming an Akuma, better known as a evil solider of the master villain The Papillon, was a scary thought indeed.

Everyone stared at Ferguson, silently praying that he'd say it was all a joke and that he was kidding.

Ferguson stared back at everyone “You know it's true.”

Jackie fumed, holding onto the strap of her bag tightly, her self righteous fury spreading all over her body in waves.

“What's this?” A smooth, slick voice called out, the window to their beautiful chamber opening and allowing the light to pour in, scattering the countless white butterflies that inhabited a room “Such despair, such fury. An injustice caused to an innocent? The perfect mix for a dangerous foe.”

The person held out their hand, allowing one of the beautiful butterflies to rest upon their palm, unable to escape once they clasped their free hand over it, dark energy surging into the creature, turning it a blackish-purple tinge.

“Go my little akuma, fester and feed on her sorrow, on her anger.

The butterfly flew into the sky, easily reaching the school within moments and finding a home inside Jackie's skateboard, completing the link between puppet and puppeteer.

Jackie felt a fog swirl inside her mind, clouding and confusing her thoughts, the feeling of a mask lightly touching her face as a soft, sleek voice called to her.

“Slipstream, I am The Papillon. I saw the injustice done to you and wish to help you correct it.”

Jackie smiled evilly, her rage and fury bubbling to uncontrollably heights “That little brat always ruins everyone's day. She needs to be punished!”

“Agreed but in exchange for this power, I expect something in return.”

“Name it Papillon!” “The heroes of Paris: That stupidly named Gentlebug and Chat Noir, their miraculouses. Bring them to me.”

“and what do these Miraculouses look like?” Jackie questioned.

“You...you don't know?” The Papillon hesitantly replied.

“Well unless you are imagining them and can transfer your thoughts to mine, no, no I do not.”

There was an awkward pause “Well most of minions don't really ask up front. I mean when they finally fight them, I usually tell them.”

Jackie scoffed “So you distracted your minions with information they needed to know before during a crucial moment of battle?”

“umm...well....”

“and what does your name mean anyway?”

Papillon's voice was indignant “You're french, how do you not know?!”

Another awkward silence.

“It's a badge and a ring.”

Jackie grinned slyly as she nodded her head in agreement “Consider it done Papillon.”

The class was quietly working when the sound of something approaching at high velocity broke the silence.

The windows began to shaking violently as the rumbling grew louder and louder, cracks breaking the glass's surface steadily as the door was blown in by a powerful gust of air.

Papers scattered, tables trembled from the force and everyone was knocked around while a lone figure stood in the doorway.

“Told you!” Ferguson cheered, raising his arms in victory “Jackie's an Akuma! Ferg for the win!”

No one celebrated with the overweight teen while Jackie rolled her way inside the room, her skateboard now blacken and covered with spikes.

Jackie wore a white helmet with a single streak of blue trailing across from the back to the front, a clear visor in front of her blue eyes. She was now dressed in a white skintight motorcycle suit with several blue strips crossing from one side to the other. There were three sharp, dangerous looking claws protruding from her closed fits.

“Brittney Wong!” Jackie called out, pointing a set of her claws directly at the terrified teenager “It's time to show you what justice can really do!”

Jackie pulled a seashell from her back pocket before throwing it as hard as she could at Brittney. the shell embedded itself deeply into the desk near the girl's face but remain still.

Jackie ducked low, her body tensed as both her and the skateboard shot off with an amazing display of speed, a wooshing, swirling cone of air current spinning around her so quickly that it produced gusts of wind that knocked everything and everyone off balanced.

Brittney scurried,shoved to her feet as Jackie smashed her bladed fist into the desk, the force of her attack causing the wood to splinter and fold under the weight of the assault

Marco covered his face as the air current caught up, slamming into the remainder of the desk, the weakened wood crumpling while a powerful burst of wind spread out from Jackie in all directions.

Jackie let out a maniacal laugh “You can't escape Brittney, I'll show you what happens when you push the wrong person aro...”

Jackie glanced around the room, the moaning of every student but one filling her ears.

Jackie turned to the door way to see a disheveled Brittney trying to sneak out of the room, more than content to leave her fellow classmates behind.

“BRITTNEY!” Jackie screamed with a bull-like roar that shook the building ferociously.

Brittney let out a little eep before bolting down the stairs.

Jackie narrowed her eyes, drawing out another seashell and tossing through the open doorway, trailing behind after a moment of preparation. The air current and speed of Jackie shattered the already cracked glass panels and spread the broken shards throughout the bottom floor of the school.

Jackie hovered in mid-air for a moment, the lure of gravity not yet grasping her or her board. She drew another seashell, arcing her arm backwards before tossing the item through the front doors of the school. Jackie quickly followed after the little object and blasted the doors off their hinges with her powerful gust.

Marco groaned, tiredness biting at his eyes as his body cried out in a sore pain.

Uneasily, he reached for support, using his desk to lift himself to his feet and steady his body

“Yep” Ferguson's bushed voice called from the back row “She's an akuma.”

“Shut up Ferguson” The class chimed in as one.

Marco shook himself out of his stupor, looking around to see if anyone was in dire need of assistance.

He spotted a pale hand reaching upwards, clawing at the air in hopes someone would help.

Marco limped over, taking the hand firmly in his own and, using all the strength he could muster, helping the person to their feet.

“Ugh, what happened?” Star muttered, leaning on Marco for support as she recovered.

Marco felt his whole body stiffen up at Star's touch, his cheeks blazing red as Star embraced him tightly, whispering into his chest “Thanks Marco.”

Marco cough loudly, pulling away from Star and sheepishly waving her off “No problem Star. I need to go to the bathroom! All this akuma thing has really made me....”

Marco trailed off, deciding that shutting his mouth and getting as quickly out of sight was the best course of action.

“me too” Star said to no one in particular “I need to freshen up my face. I feel so faint after such a dangerous attack.”

Marco ducked into the empty boy's restroom, covering his eyes with his open palms.

“Ugh, I have to go because the akuma freaked me out so much I have to pee? Seriously Diaz?!”

Tikki flew out of his pocket, staring down the distraught teen.

“Marco, this isn't the time! Jackie's been turned into an Akuma and we need to stop her.”

Marco peered at Tikki with one uncovered eye, letting a sigh escape his mouth before standing straight and agreeing with the little kwami.

“You're right Tikki, we need to get a move on. I can worry about how badly I embarrassed myself in front of Star later.”

“That's the spirit!” Tikki concurred, smiling brightly towards Marco.

“Tikki, spo..” Tikki closed her eyes, prepared to be sucked into the miraculous badge and fuel its power.

But Marco didn't finish the phrase.

“Tikki, do I have to say it?”

Tikki stared at him, unable to believe Marco was bringing this up now “Really Marco? Now?”

Marco raised his hands defensively “I know, I know it's silly but isn’t there another way to transform? I mean the phrase seems kinda silly.”

“Marco!”

“I mean it sounds like someone made it up to make it more...I dunno.....superheroy? You know? Why can't I say 'Tikki, transform me!'? I mean it's straight forward and to the point.”

“Marco!”

“I mean is the phrase region locked or something? I can only say it depending on where I live? I...”

“Marco Ubaldo Diaz!” Tikki forcefully called “this is not the time for this.”

“Right, right. Tikki....s...spots on!”

Tikki closed her eyes as she spiraled into Marco's exposed badge, turning it from sliver to red as a surge of magical energy coursed through his body, his superhero outfit forming around him. Marco could imagine a red splash background behind him as he dance this way and that to ensure that the costume properly tailored itself onto his body.

Marco look at himself in the mirror: Mask check, fancy clothes check, weaponized yo-yo, still wondering why it's a yo-yo but check!

“Here we go!” Marco shouted excitedly, propping open the bathroom window and tossing his magical yo-yo outside it, pulling on it once it secured itself around a suitable chimney and taking to the sky like Spider-man.

Star locked the girl's bathroom door behind her, letting out a sigh of relief once she was in a private, well secured area.

There was a lazy yawn that filled the room as a small, black cat creature floated out of Star's pocket and glanced around tiredly.

“Hey, this is the girl's bathroom” The cat creature whined, quickly covering it's feline green eyes “I can't be in here, I'm a male.”

“Plagg” Star scolded “This isn't the time. Besides no one else is here! Now come on, we got to hurry. There's an Akuma on the loose!”

“Oh” Plagg answered disinterested “Who is it this time?”

“Jackie. She turned into this bullet like speed demon.”

“Jackie?” Plagg paused thoughtfully “Isn't that girl you're envious of? The one who hangs around that guy all the time? What's his name...?”

“Plagg” Star cried, trying to wave off the cat creature from finishing his train of thought.

“Oh right” Plagg smirked “Maaaaarco”

Stat felt her cheeks flush and decided to glare at the mystical creature “I will starve you Plagg.”

“Then you can't transform into Chat Noir” Plagg countered, sleepily stretching his muscles “Besides I thought you were in love with Gentlebug?”

Star's flush worsen “I..well..he's...I mean....”

“You can't believe in love with two people, it's silly” Plagg teased, lightly pinching at the girl's blushing cheeks.

“I know I know but...sigh. It's hard you know? I mean Gentlebug is so confident, talented, amazing! And Marco he's so sweet. And kind and adorable and I...ugh...”

“You know” Plagg replied in a matter of fact style of voice “how can you be in love with Gentlebug if you don't even know who he is?”

“I know who he is Plagg” Star shot back “he's a hero, a handsome, great hero! And I love him.”

Plagg blew his tongue at the model “Love is overrated and way too mushy.”

Star stared at him, a partly annoyed and partly knowing gleam in her eyes “Love is not overrated.”

Plagg nodded in disagreement “Sure is!”

“Nah uh”

“Yeah huh!”

“Nah uh”

“You love Camembert cheese, don't you?”

Plagg gasped, appalled that Star would go that far “How dare you! Leave the Camembert out of this!”

Star smiled triumphantly “Check and Mate.”

Plagg pouted, sticking his tongue at Star “That was low...bringing the cheese into this. By the way, do you have any?”

Star shook her head “No time Plagg, we need to transform and meet up with Gentlebug.”

Plagg laughed “I can't believe Tikki found a guy to be ladybug. She's never done that before. I mean he must be really girly if she picked...”

“Plagg” Star's voice called, devoid of any emotion “Claws out.”

Plagg let out a surprised yell as he tried his hardest to escape the pull of Star's white ring but it was pointless. No matter how hard he tried, he could not shirk his responsibilities as a kwami.

Plagg was sucked into the ring while Star posed with the accessory, putting it near her face as the ring switch from white to black.

Star smiled to herself as her devil horns transformed into her cat ears, the cute blouse, dress, gloves and boots forming at once. She could see the green splash screen behind her as she couldn't help but pose for the invisible camera.

She checked herself in the mirror, satisfied how especially cute she looked today. She winked at herself, confident that she would win over Gentlebug this time.

“Well time to get to work!” She told herself as she kicked open the locked bathroom window, drawing her staff out before leaping out the window gracefully.

#my story #Star vs au #Ladybug

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