#I usually don’t make coloured art for asks but I liked this piece

[taegularities]

entertainer (teaser) | jjk (m)

Summary: Growing singer Jeon Jungkook is as charismatic as he is self-absored – that is, until he meets you. Caught in a web of secrets, he finds a riddle in you he urges to solve; even ready to turn the spotlight towards you until nothing remains… but regret.

➳ pairing: Jungkook x reader ➳ rating: 18+ ➳ genre: strangers to lovers (or something); angst, bits of fluff, smut ➳ warnings: do not fall for this jk i repeat do not f– 🚨 he's kinda hot though; (not so) silent yearning, flirting, sexual tension, he is so attracted to her :'), mystery, oc is a big question mark, full jk pov!, dark past(s), crying, fear, confrontation and fighting, cocky kook, secrets and revelations, explicit sexual content (kissing, fingering, teasing, drunk shenanigans, sooo much lust, big dick jk, etc.), more warnings on drop day once the fic is finished!! not much for the teaser itself, though <3 ➳ wc: 1.8k :') (around 20k for the full thing) ➳ a/n: scratches head. this has been a long time coming and i'm beyond curious how y'all will like it :') very new and experimental, so let's see how it goes!! as always, drop a message to lmk what you think of this lil glimpse, i'll be waiting with dangling feet hehe!! <3

➳ give the Entertainer playlist a first listen! 🖤   

TAGLIST | MASTERLIST | WIPs 

“Why are you the textbook definition of a fuckboy, honestly.”

“Fuckbo—”

“Nevermind.”

If he wasn’t well acquainted with this little game, he would’ve missed your subtle, nearly veiled intent to tease. But he’s done that a million times before — hence, catches the faint twitch of your gorgeous lips immediately.

You’re enjoying this. So he should join… right?

Yet.

You’re not being entirely insincere. In fact, he hates how he picks up on the note of truth in your velvety voice.

Trimmed nails scratch the back of his head, and he barely notices once the two of you halt in front of another piece of work. Distracted, he doesn’t bear the art any mind, instead asking, “You really think of me like that?”

You shrug a shoulder. Nonchalance a constant feature, but so natural, even somewhat gentle, that he can’t help but feel drawn to you. “A little.”

“Well, shit.”

“Don’t overthink it. Enjoy the art.”

“Sure.”

Reluctantly, he glances to the canvas. It’s a mess of hues; a random arrangement of spontaneous emotions. Resembles the masterpieces he used to create in Microsoft Paint, back when his legs would still dangle off the chair.

“So,” he starts, nodding towards the painting, “what do you see in this?”

You hesitate. Or maybe it’s not hesitation — more like… a thinking pause. Sometimes, when Jungkook notices a whirring mind, he sees a steaming brain through a skull. Working at full blast.

But somehow, he only recognises a tranquil ocean as he observes you gather your thoughts. Everything about you is tender, but wrapped in dark mystery.

How much mental training does it require to become this inscrutable?

When you finally speak, you’re saying similarly odd things.

“I see… colours.” Right. Stating the obvious. Jungkook chuckles, delivering a head tilt. “And am wondering how the painter got to create this at all. I mean, this looks so meaningless at first, doesn’t it?”

“But it’s not, yeah?”

“We’re fast to think that. Most of the time, there must be a trigger, or a thought on something, no matter how small. Something might have been bothering him. This is—” A hand gestures towards the painting. “Such a chaotic mind.”

Interesting…

“Is this what you usually think about all day?” Jungkook wonders.

You scoff. “I’m just a person, too. I think about a lot of random things.”

“Ahhh. Like what?”

“Like… seeing all the green in this exhibition made me realise how that colour makes me cry.”

Jungkook takes a haphazard look around. Now that you say it — there’s no hint of a nature theme, but the abundance of green is striking. It’s as calm as you. No wonder you’d immerse yourself in a showcase such as this.

You continue, as if tracing and reading his mind like an open novel, “It’s soothing, right? And unique. These earthly things sometimes make me feel like not all of us are deserving of seeing such beauty. Like it should be reserved for those who've earned it.”

Earned it? How? 

Jungkook can’t see your thoughts as clearly as you’re apparently capable of doing, but he has an inkling of what you might mean. Truly dazzling souls merit the stunning bloom of the world, right?

And then…

If that’s what it is.

He wonders — do you think he deserves to see the colour green? Or is it already over if he has to ask? Perhaps, should he be perceiving it as grey right now? He doesn’t know.

He doesn’t know how you think of him — doesn’t know anything about you at all. You’re a tough nut to crack. 

“Hmm… that’s a way to think about it,” he says.

“Only because it’s the same for people. And I’ve had this thought about humans a lot… I…” You hesitate, blink, and then grant him your gaze. “I knew someone who was the colour green. Not everyone deserved them, either.”

Someone…

Poetic minds carry a certain pain in their eyes.

He’s been seeing it in yours. He just doesn’t know how to handle it. So he doesn’t. Yet.

Instead, he asks, “What else are you thinking about?”

“Uhmmm,” you voice, straightening your back a little, as if waking up from a dream — a nightmare? “I’ve been thinking about trying that, too. Painting, I mean. It doesn’t have to mean anything or be good. Just a great way to capture something that resonates with what I feel.”

Every word you’ve uttered today was otherworldly. You didn’t talk like this when you were at the meeting, or in his office. Your soul is somewhat free-floating here, and he doesn’t understand why.

And it’s a behaviour he usually strays away from. The vulnerable ones can be dangerous.

But somehow… you’re too strong of a magnet.

One who shrugs all the puzzles away — and he sighs in despair. Maybe it’s not time to find out what you feel just yet. What resonates with you — even though he’s dying to hear it.

He inquires, “Are you always this much of an open book?”

“No. Not at all.” Of course not. Rhetoric question — he knows this much. “But I like thinking out loud sometimes.”

“I’m glad to be a sounding board then.”

“Hah. Well, I was also thinking how I appreciate that I met you here.” Pause. Oh? What a surprise. Strokes his ego, though. And then, out of the blue again, “You wanna go to the museum restaurant?”

Jungkook has barely inhaled half of the exhibition yet. But just for today, he couldn’t care less.

Perhaps this is enough for now, visiting the overpriced restaurant, watching you from afar as you inspect your nails calmly. You’re not busy on your phone like the rest of the crowd — entertained by the same media that he’s part of.

Maybe he can be a bigger part of their lives one day — be the one flitting over their screens, the one they adore. The one they worship.

But you don’t seem to indulge in those mind-numbing devices for now. You might be an addition to his team, but privately, you float in your own world. Distracted by the thoughts you won’t disclose.

Your hands retreat, arms crossing on the table and lips curling into a smile once he strolls back to you. Satisfied, he informs you, “One cake to go with the coffee. As the lady suggested.”

“Oh. One?” you ask, “Don’t you want one?”

“I do.”

“So…” You stall, and he waits until it clicks, your head tilting in understanding. “Are we sharing?”

Jungkook lifts a thumb, pointing over his shoulder, back to the register, “Those chocolate cakes are sweet as hell. I’ve got a sweet tooth, but believe that it’ll be enough for us two.”

You laugh — a candied, disarming chuckle before you breathe an, “Alright.”

Jungkook doesn’t know you well enough to feel any skip of his heart; yet, you stir something else in his mind. While he does avoid them, it’s still always people like you who intrigue him the most — those who veil themselves in a coat of secrets.

He sighs.

“That was fast,” you note, eyes at a point behind him.

And he understands when the waitress arrives a couple moments later, serving two perfectly prepared cappuccinos and a mouth-watering chocolate fudge piece.

You thank her with a gentle smile, and tuck a hair behind your ear, fingertips grazing your dangling silver earring.

And he watches.

Watches as you nod towards him, urging him, “Start then.”

Observes your smile as he signals you to start instead. And he gazes at you as your delicate digits reach for the fork, tearing off a piece, wrapping your lips around the utensil.

And then… oh God.

He feels his guts twist; hears all background noise fade; blood rushing away from his head.

All the way through his body as you slowly relish the sweetness and then drag the wet tip of your tongue over the fork. Licking away the leftover chocolate.

Jungkook swears it happens in slow motion. And witnessing your elegance in snail’s pace… makes him sick.

When your eyelashes flutter, gape lifting to meet his, the sound around him comes alive again — as does he. He averts his stare from your mouth, covered in the same colour as the coffee, but you notice.

You catch him looking. And it makes you… smile? Shit.

But you don’t boast your effect; only digress as you say, “Well… tastes as fancy as it looks. Try.”

You’re as relaxed with him as you can be. But you always are; with everyone. He craves that bit that’s only reserved for him — and maybe he’s too zealous too fast. He hasn’t known you for long.

Making you smile must be an achievement, though, right? If only… you didn’t think of him like…

He nods, and then leans over the table ever-so-slightly. His knees brush against yours, a soft but deliberate move. He places an elbow on the table, grasping the fork, close to you. If he lifted his hand, he could touch your cheek.

He wishes he could.

His eyes meet yours through his bangs, the cake’s taste irrelevant to your presence. And when his ego doesn’t let him live, he finally asks, almost as if insulted, “Do you actually perceive me as a fuckboy?”

The question catches you off guard. You hesitate, furrowing your eyebrows, and then giggle before questioning back, “Jungkook… that’s bothering you this much? Mmmh. How would you like to be perceived?”

“Just. As a decent guy who wants to get to know you. And I know you know.” You blink, but he doesn’t buy it. So he elaborates, “I’ve been trying to make clear that I find you interesting. And somewhat attractive.”

People usually display a flicker of glimmer in their eyes upon hearing such praise. But you don’t budge; in fact, your eyes remain the same, if not a little darker. Why?

Yet, you cock an eyebrow, sporting a teasing, playful tone, “Somewhat, hm?”

He shakes his head, clicks his tongue.

“You’re pretty and I think you know,” he blurts, “and I don’t want to screw up right away.”

Is it the habit of never failing; getting what he wants? The urge to solve an enigma? The chance to dive into you until you’re bared to him? Why are you so interesting to him?

You’re just a person.

Maybe it’s just the unsettling need to discover what you’re hiding — it won’t let him rest. There’s something about you that screams to him to unravel. 

He doesn’t know what it is. Doesn’t know if you’re even from the same world as him — even though you seem to have crossed his realm before.

No matter what it is; Jungkook only understands for now that he wants to take off your layers.

Wants you to be the colour green for him. 

wrote most of it now and while sick, so it might change hehe! but i hope it's okay so far, and it shall only get better!! i'm so so excited for this, like i've been working on it and putting thought into it since october, so i hope it's worth the wait <3

as always, send your thoughts, questions, complaints lol lemme know what you think or i might perish sniff. super curious to know!! also, here's the taglistttt 🤍 love and appreciate you all <3

#jungkook fluff #jungkook smut #jungkook angst #bts smut #bts fluff #bts angst #jungkook x reader #jungkook x you #jungkook fic #jungkook imagine #jungkook

[midnightarcheress]

Simon takes you to the museum.

pairing: bodyguard!ghost x actress!reader cw: implied ptsd. 4 | gold rush masterlist.

the timid yellows creeping up the tree leaves announce the beginning of autumn, crisp air filling their lungs as they walk through the Tuileries Garden. Simon tries his best to act calm, focusing on how you make your way on the footpath around the octagonal lake, but the city’s sounds and the bustling crowd in the park keep him on edge, fingers rhythmically touching the dense fabric of his jeans for a faint sense of safety in the present.

despite his anxiety levels spiking, he still manages to appreciate the view. the remaining flowers from warmer days paint the grass with vivid colours and, on the horizon, he catches a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower on the other side of the river. the sun shines brightly in the sky, almost casting a golden halo over your head, the tender heat warming his brittle heart in a brief moment of peace.

“the museum is that way,” you look back at him, pointing to your left. ever since Daniel complied with your request for time off, you’ve been researching the perfect spot to spend your free afternoon, ultimately landing on the Orangery Museum. at least a museum is supposed to be a quiet place, Simon thinks.

“did you know that this building was actually a greenhouse?” you ask, walking through the entrance, “it was created to store the citrus trees from the garden, that’s why this side has so many windows.” your head tilts to the riverside facade and he silently hums, acknowledging you.

his lips involuntarily curve at your enthusiasm. the two of you don’t talk much on the daily, but it was endearing to see how happy you were for being surrounded by art, and he didn’t mind hearing you babble about the paintings. or about anything, honestly. the sound of your voice was soothing, pacifying the nerves that had been eating his insides since he stepped out of bed. 

“oh, those are my favourite!” you tug on his forearm, pulling him into an oval room with huge panels, the tiny inscriptions on the side reading ‘Claude Monet’, “those are water lilies, y’know, the flower? he did two-hundred-and-something paintings based on a pond in his property, can you imagine that?” 

“they’re pretty,” he mumbles, observing the thin brushstrokes. art is far from his strong suit, but he liked how the paintings captured the fickles of light and how they lacked the usual restrained aspect seen in other pieces – they seemed relaxed, floaty, free. so different from your life. maybe that’s why you loved it so much.

you drag him through the whole exhibit, explaining little details of the museum, the garden, the techniques, and he listens closely, his attention never leaving your mouth, completely entranced by your words. he didn’t feel the weight of the duty nor the need to protect you there, it was a different world. your own little bubble, and you allowed him inside. 

his hand brushes on your shoulder while exiting the building, guiding you through the door. he’s not keen on being outside again, sirens already buzzing in his brain with the idea of potential threats lurking in the shadows.

trying not to let the perpetual concern flood his mind, he clears his throat and sparks up conversation, ignoring the rules pairing over his head. no talking, no touching. “so, how did you learn so much about... all that?” he gestures back to the museum.

“oh, uhm, i used to paint,” you start, hiding the smile sneaking up your lips at his unexpected interest, “took a course in art history too.”

his eyebrows raise. “used to?” 

“yeah, when i had more time to myself,” he notices your sigh, studying the sudden solemn expression that outlines your face. your beautiful face, “but i wasn’t very good at it.” you chuckle, downsizing your abilities, and he snorts, not fully believing you. it’s the first time you’ve seen him showing any sort of emotion besides indifference, and he prides himself on the surprise gracing your features. 

it was nice, walking with you. not behind you. did he enjoy the view? yes, but this – him by your side, arms swinging together, matching steps – was real. genuine. it almost felt like a date, not that he would ever dare to say it out loud. everything was perfect.

until it wasn’t.

it happened so fast. a loud blast on the street made Simon wrap an arm around your waist and pull you to the nearest alley, one hand firmly pressing you against his chest and another holding your head, broad shoulders covering your body as the intense blood pump on his ears muffle the deafening ringing rattle. he stays in the position for a while, blown-out pupils frantically darting around and searching for any indication of danger. 

he takes a deep breath and his head dips down to you. for a minute, the only thing he sees is the gash on your forehead and your bleeding eye. you’re paralysed, partially because you’re brain is still catching up on what’s going on, and partially because his tight grip doesn’t admit any movement. 

“Ghost? what’s wrong?” the scared tone of your whisper readjusts his vision to what really is in front of him – you. safe, without a single scratch, tucked in his arms with a strength he hadn’t used to this extent in a long time. and he feels bad, pathetic even, because nothing happened. the blaring sound was a car crash in the avenue, not a grenade destroying everything in sight.

“it’s nothing” he pulls back, averting your eyes like the plague, “i'm sorry.” stupid. 

you frown, overlooking his avoidance with utter sympathy, “are you alright?” he grunts, unintelligibly, reverting to his cold stance and nodding. you don’t buy his half-answer, but decide that it’s better not to pry.

he knew it was coming, the uneasiness brewing in his gut was only waiting for the right trigger to crawl up his oesophagus and spill all over you. 

the rest of the walk is quiet, with him returning to his position a few steps back. never should’ve left. you sneak glances at him, checking, but his gaze seems too far gone. next thing he knows, you’re both on the jet, Daniel snoring in the front seat, him looking out the window, lost in thought. of course i'd fuck up. 

he barely hears when you approach him, trembling fingers handing him a card. the card. you’re trusting him. he glares at you for a second, hazel irises shifting between your spooked appearance and the paper. ‘don’t like you travelling without me, darling. i’ll be waiting for my souvenir  – your prince.’

i've never been to france lol. and yeah i had a monet phase when I was fifteen.

little fun fact - the painting in the fic masterlist is part of his water lilies series.

#simon ghost riley #simon riley #ghost #ghost cod #simon ghost riley x reader #simon riley x you #f!reader #fem!reader #ghost x reader #ghost x you #ghost imagine #ghost fanfiction #bodyguard!ghost #bodyguard!simon #actress!reader #bodyguard au #cod mw #cod mw2 #cod mw3 #gold rush #bodyguard!ghost ☾ #nyx writes ☾ #midnightarcheress

[hansoeii]

Hellooo :D!! I just wanted to ask if you have any tips for coming up with ideas for full pieces. It could totally just be “oh this seems cool/cute” and then just testing compositions/colours/etc on the spot (and I’d be happy with tips about that too), but I was curious if there’s any brainstorming you do when/if ideas don’t just pop up in your head (or you do have a very loose idea, but need a bit more planning before actually starting the piece)

Also I obviously need to mention that I ADORE your art!! Your most recent piece with angel Crowley had me in AWE (I’m pretty sure my jaw actually dropped).

Thank you!!!

It's a mix of both "oh my god I have this great idea I gotta draw it NOW" and "let's scroll through pinterest for 2 hours and hope that something inspires me".

For example this piece under the rain was an idea I had while taking a nap. I didn't have any proper references for it and just put a bunch of puzzle pieces together and hoped for the best, haha.

I usually have this one specific idea that I wanna turn into an illustration and then I spend hours searching for references that make the process a little easier. This was my reference sheet for it:

Most of the time I just go through my Pinterest poses board and see if there's something I'd like to draw, though. I save a lot of poses I like constantly that I can go back to later on. This was the case with the angels illustration I did!

I didn't have anything super specific planned for it when I started working on it. I actually planned for it to just be some small and quick little drawing. It somehow turned into the best thing I've ever made djhdhd

Here's my reference sheet for this one:

With most of my work I don't really do a lot of planning. I do that enough in my school assignment already, so I tend to just draw loosely when it comes to personal work, haha.

So the tip I'd give you is to get as many references as you possibly can! It makes your life so much easier. Also look for color palettes you enjoy, see how other artists use colors! And be willing to just experiment. Most of my art is just one experiment after another in hopes that one day I know what I'm doing.

Hope this helps a little bit! Thank you for supporting me and my work! :D

#Ask #art resources #good omens

[drarry-mini-bang]

Fest rules

What is this fest about?

Drarry Mini Bang is a collaborative fest in which writers and artists come together to create fanwork. The writers will submit their detailed concept for a fic, and artists will claim one or several (up to you!) to create an art piece.

Who can participate?

You must be at least 18 years old at time of signing up.

We also expect you to treat everyone taking part, including the mods, with respect. 

All work must be your own, and we do not allow any kind of fic or art produced with AI.

You may register as both a writer and an artist, but due to the collaborative nature of this event, you cannot make art for your own fic. All the matching will be done through the claiming process, therefore we will not allow pre-made collabs between artists and writers.

What are the requirements for writers? 

Writers will need to write an original fic of at least 10k.

The fic needs to be a stand-alone, unpublished fic. You will be asked to submit your fic concept with an estimated word count, a list of tags and possible warnings/triggers and the rating of your fic. If any of these details change after you’ve submitted your concept and before preview day, you need to let the mods know asap. If something changes after the teams have been announced, please talk to your partner and let the mods know if there are any issues.

Please do not share details of your fic before you are matched with an artist. You can share small snippets and talk about your story after the teams have been formed.

Your fic must be complete and has to be beta read before the submission deadline. Should you need an extension, please let us know as soon as you can.

When you fill in your sign up form, you will be given a chance to decide what type of art you would like to receive for your story.

We will cap writers at 25 participants, but we will open sign ups for pinch hitters. We will try our best to find everyone an artist to work with, but due to the collaborative nature of this event, should we not have enough artists, the people whose fics have not been picked might have to be dropped.

What are the requirements for artists?

You can create a variety of original fan work based on the story your writer is working on:

- illustrations, both digital and traditional (they don’t need to be in colour) 

- moodboards (at least 6 elements)

- plastic arts (including embroidery and origami)

- playlists (a minimum of 10 songs)

- fic binding

- podfic

We will ask you to create a minimum of one art piece based on the story your writer is working on. If you would like to work with more than one writer (which would make us extremely happy), please let us know in your sign-up form.

There is no cap for artists.

What kind of rating is allowed?

Any rating is allowed for both art and fics, but please tag your work appropriately. 

We support SALS (ship and let ship) YKINMKBYKIO (your kink is not my kink, but your kink is okay) and DLDR (don’t like – don’t read), so we will not tolerate any shaming. 

For this fest, we will not accept any works that contain darker themes or tropes that are usually covered by the "Dead Dove" tag. If you have any doubts about specific content and would like to know if it will be accepted, please do not hesitate to contact us.

If your work is rated Mature or Explicit, the characters involved must be at least 18 years old (Hogwarts 8th year fic are therefore acceptable with any rating).

What is the schedule for posting?

Sign ups open for writers and artists: 20th January

Sign ups close: 18th February

Deadline for fic concepts and details to be submitted by writers: 18th February

Fic concepts sent to artists: 24th February

Artists claim: 27th February

Teams announced: 2nd-6th March 

First check-in: 6th April

Second check-in: 11th May

Last check-in: 8th June 

Submissions due: 2nd July 

Posting begins: August 

Do I need to keep my creation secret?

You can share your WIPs only after the teams have been announced.

This fest is not anonymous.

What if my partner ghosts me or is being rude?

Please let us know and we’ll speak to them. This is a collaborative event - ignoring your partner causes unnecessary stress and anxiety, and we will not tolerate any rudeness or abuse.

We also ask that you stick to deadlines, because we don’t want anyone to be let down and end up without a partner. If you think at any point during the fest that you need to drop out, please please please let us know as soon as you can, so that we can find someone to replace you.

I still have a lot of questions about this, how can I contact you?

Send us an ask, a DM or contact us at  and we will gladly answer.

Your mods @orange-peony, @pato-roldnart, @bubble-gumhead

#rules #mod post

[candyje11yfish]

Hello!! I really like the way your art looks- style, coloring, and everything!! I’m kind of curious how you draw faces, that’s one of the main things I’ve always struggled with (maybe because I used to just draw a ton of Sans and Wheatley who…don’t have much going for faces)

Anyways that’s all!! You don’t have to tell if you don’t want to!

-Starlo fan

hii! thanks for the ask :D made this Real quick 4 u:

sooo im admittedly not that good at drawing different facial features/ expressions. the main things i do though are big eyes, lines on the nose and cheeks, big ears. i want it to look sorta like a mix btween cartoony and anime?? 

might be a little long so more under cut :]

whenever i draw a character, first thing i do is choose a shape that suits them! ill base it on personality most of the time. (explained further next paragraph). for the eyes, theres 2 main ways i draw them! ill either make the pupil half black with a highlight in the middle, or make the eye 2 colours with a highlight on the side!

A big thing i like to focus on is shape language! an example of this is how i draw Pearl and Marina from splatoon! i use sharp, triangular shapes for Pearl, on her eyes, tentacles, clothes, basically everywhere. For Marina, I use round, circular shapes! ig to portray the contrast in their personalities? something like that. My main inspiration for this and my artstyle in general is starrysharks (twt & tumblr)!!!! please check out his art its so shapey and colourful probably my favourite artist ever. 

if u struggle w making faces even, what i do is duplicate for example most of the time ill draw one eye, duplicate then flip it lol. u could also use the symmetry tool!! i usually never use guide lines and the sketch is my lineart most of the time.

big piece of advice that helped me a lot is to copy!! if you really like the artstyle of ur favourite show, try redrawing a screenshot from it! just remember to give credit if u reference from an artist👍👍

aaaand thats all i can think of to say!!! hope this helps! thanks sm for reading, have a nice day :D i drew a starlo for u!!!!!

-another starlo fan

#ask mari #Long post #starlo

[inkyvendingmachine]

Moving Pieces Season 4, Episode 2

💀 Call of Cthulhu: Haunted Hijinx Masterpost 💀 Call of Cthulhu Season Four Masterpost (Coming Soon)

Warning: This campaign is an edited version of  a Call of Cthulhu scenario from the Tales of the Crescent City book. While a lot has been changed, there IS spoilers for it throughout these posts.

The boys are going through a normal one.

Can you tell I recently played Betrayal for the first time,

Art Credit: @inkdemonapologist : sketching + inking @inkyvendingmachine : concept + colouring

Joey wakes up to Sammy bursting into his office and demanding an explanation of why he didn’t come home last night. Bendy happily lets Sammy know that Joey tried to do a dream spell, which just sets him off more. They go back and forth some, Joey confirming that yes, he did that, but he was just trying to see what the general feel of Y was right now… and he doesn’t seem to be like Moonlight had been before. It seems like he’s just… doing his thing, discussing possible options with some dream-version of his sister, and not that he’s specifically scheming or anything. 

While they’re doing their usual arguing dance, Sammy is suddenly interrupted by Prophet… urging him not to submit to the call of the yellow king. This is when they both notice that Sammy had actually been going for the ink faucet in Joey's office???

Joey takes this opportunity to turn the argument around on Sammy, asking if Prophet isn’t going for the ink, then why is he being called towards it? IS THE INK GOING BAD?? DID SOMEONE MESS WITH IT AGAIN!?!??

Bendy clarifies that the ink isn’t tainted, but it does seem to be resonating with something nearby… and that Sammy is sensitive to it. Sammy calls Prophet out to confirm this, as well as confirming it’s def yellow king stuff, before fading again. With that as solved as it could be, Sammy heads to Music to catch Jack up on these developments, while Joey goes and info dumps all the same info on Henry. During this he kinda talks himself thru realizing that maybe Y’s sister is not as dead as they expected… since they don’t really know what sorts of immortal properties come from making yourself an ink body.

Joey goes back to his office and gets in contact with Peter to make sure he’s still alive, gives him a command to check in at the end of day and immediately hangs up as Peter is trying to complete a response. Sammy and Jack try to find Norman to get him up to speed, but find he's called out for the day. And of course, he gave some outlandish excuse, so nobody really knows why he’s staying home. Joey calls Norman and, surprisingly, he actually picks up?? Norman admits part of the reason he’s staying home is because he’s noticed some weird shit is happening again. Joey gives him an update, which is cut off by him asking, “So when’s the trip to New Orleans? That’s where it started, right?”

That’s… a good point. 

Joey hangs up on Norman and calls Grace Fowler. He plays off the reasoning as wanting to thank her for the holiday gift, and catch up with her daughter Estelle, who’s also interested in catching up with him.

Especially because between an odd dream Estelle had, where her father showed up and told her to both be careful and stay away from New York, and that night of yellow mist, she thinks Joey’s calling because there’s something weird happening. Joey confirms this, he’s not gonna lie to a child that he likes, and manages to learn from her that a strange man had also been asking her about odd happenings recently. Joey asks if he looks like how he remembers Avedon, and Estelle is extremely impressed that he’s exactly right. 

So maybe this is why Norman is waiting at home for a call…

Joey promises to send her a present and tells her to keep up the good detective work, along with reinforcing not to worry her mother and stay safe and all that stuff. (the present is going to be a very good quality notebook that he gets Henry’s help to doodle Bendys and Friends on the page margins throughout it, and an engraved pen to go with it.)

Their strongest lead, at least as far as Sammy's concerned, is that weird performance of Sammy's old improv last night -- so with half a day of work done, Jack, Sammy and Susie head out to one of the clubs they remember some of that band from the charity event tends to frequent. They manage to easily get in, being recognized from their speakeasy days and Jack and Susie being their usual charming, talkative selves. People probably tried to talk to Sammy too, but he’s just interested in chatting with the Jumps after their set. Until then, they get to grab some drinks, sit back and actually enjoy the music for a while. It’s actually… kind of nice? No terrible haunted songs being played, no ink spread throughout the city gnawing in the back of Sammy’s head, no gun fire.

When they do get to talk with the band after the show, it’s immediately apparent that the clarinetist from the charity event is not there. That’s… interesting, since Prophet’s prophecy mentioned a “black wood” and Jack has noted that could be slang for a clarinet instead of a forest… Jack does remember some of these fine folks though, and starts off the conversation, only for Sammy to interject during a lull and ask where they got the music from the other night.

Everyone laughs and agrees that Sammy is still Sammy - A whole hecking gunshot weird cultist nonsense goes down and Sam’s here asking about where they sourced their music. Well, to answer that question, yes it came from a guest they were playing with that night, and yes it was the guy playing a mean reed. His name is Alan Leroy, and they’ve got a lot of nice things to say about him that can also be taken in an extremely concerning way, like how he can make sounds come out of his instrument they’ve never heard before.

Yay! That’s exactly the kind of descriptions of musicians we love to hear about!!!

Jack manages to get the information for where Alan lives, along with some of his friends. Sammy is content with this and attempts to head to the door (in entirely the wrong direction) while Jack winds down the conversation… finding out that also they haven’t been able to contact Al since the other night. He’s probably at home??? But he seemed so shaken up by that guy yelling nonsense at him…

Jack and Susie catch up to Sammy to lead him to the right door, but when Sammy opens it, it… IS the right door? Susie thinks so at least, but it seems odd to Jack, who thinks that they definitely entered through a different door, and Sammy isn’t sure what to think. Things like this haven't been reliable for him for an exceedingly long time, and he can't tell if this door is any different. Something might really be wrong if Prophet’s navigational skills are working with him and not against him…………

But outside, everything seems chill. Normal… Susie even thinks this is the same door, but Jack is very sure they were not on this block earlier. And when he turns to head back to the car, he notices a certain unmoving, pale face in a different car passing down the road. And it’s looking right at him.

Joey and Henry do a tour to check in with people after work, starting with Peter. He’s gotten in contact with his old paper and confirms the weird mist was down in NOLA. He also talked with the police and got confirmation that the shot was fired by some gangster named Johnny Nero, and some places they could look into to find out more about him.

Oh and also there was this weird guy. Peter saw him across the street during lunch, unnaturally pale, dark suit… but he didn’t get to see much more before he just up and vanished. Just a wee bit odd fella, that’s all.

Neither Joey nor Henry are feeling good about this info.

Maybe it’s time to install the buddy system again.

Joey also ends up just calling Norman instead of stopping by, from Peter’s phone of course, and updating him on what’s been going on, as well as asking him if HE knows what’s Avedon up to. Norman says he hasn’t been able to get ahold of him, but it’s good to know he’s out and about. 

The other three meet up with them at Peter’s place late that night and updates are had all around. We keep splitting up so you’re gonna hear that sentence a lot this season I feel. This is what happens when our DM has given us multiple NPCs we enjoy so we keep forcing her to take them along with us. c:

Anyways, between all these comparisons, Joey is starting to think that maybe their previous experiences in Carcosa-like situations in NOLA is perhaps giving them a different view of events than say, Susie, who’s very sure that the door they left out of was the same they went in. With this information in hand and a pretty good inkling that apparently things are moving around and there’s a weird pale guy following them, the boys decide they want to go and try to talk with that Alan guy tonight.

Arriving at a pretty nice house in a pretty nice neighborhood, the boys all shuffle out of their new fancy red Mercedes to go wake Mr. Leroy up in the middle of the night. Instead they get his… butler? Who is not too happy about our middle of the night bothering. After some standard Joeying Up, he admits that Alan hasn’t been home for a few days, but also that’s not unusual. He can give us some information of friends Al usually stays with and stuff, and Joey hands over a number to be called if he returns home soon. (A number for a second phone line he got installed over the last year. It goes directly to his office and is listed under an alias, specifically for situations like this where maybe he doesn’t want to lead every gangster and cultist back to JDS right away.) 

While Joey is doing his Joey thing, the others start hearing a lady around the side of the house chatting excitedly. Perhaps in a conversation with a beloved? But it seems to be just one side of it… like, WEIRDLY seems to be just one side of a conversation.

The group heads out from the house, around the corner and finds… the car isn’t there. However, there is another Mercedes up the street. Almost the same exact car, just parked somewhere different and now a stunning new colour!

It’s brown.

(well i guess they were out of blue ones.)

After closer inspection, they confirm that it is indeed their car. This is just a wee bit disorienting, and while four boys puzzle over this, Henry tiredly notices that apparently a lady has wandered up to him in the meanwhile. She takes his arm and starts talking about how she’s looking forward to when he gets his own ship, and when they sail away to spend their life together.

Henry just mumbles back “I’m married..?”

Jack and Sammy recognize her as the lady they heard earlier. Joey feels like he’s on the edge of remembering something about her, but none of them actually know who she is so. Uh.

TIME TO LEAVE.

Everyone awkwardly shuffles into the car, since it seems about as safe as anything else around them now, and drive off as the lady continues to monologue and wave Henry into the distance. 

Joey asks Jack to drive directly away from the water, and watches the car as they move out of the mist.

It’s still brown.

(also Joey is still taking the middle seat as he usually does, he’s just leaning over Sammy to stare out the window.)

While they could head out to the other addresses in the middle of the night, it’s starting to feel not very safe to be split up and looking for clues with these sorts of changes happening. They pull over and Henry makes a phone call to Linda, telling her he’s not heading home tonight since it feels like eldritch nonsense may or may not be following them, and they’re gonna stay in the studio tonight. He also sees… a familiar pale face in a black suit… reflected in the glass of the phone booth… but of course, when he turns, it’s gone. The group makes their way to Norman’s, wanting to check on him and Susie in case they’re actually getting Carcosa’d.

When they get there though, Norman and Susie seem to be perfectly fine, and don’t understand why Joey is insisting on them looking at the car. It seems to Norman a very odd midnight activity, to have him look at their new paint job.

Susie’s confused. Paint job? It’s always been brown.

Welp. That seems to confirm the suspicions. Whatever’s going on, it seems only those who touched Carcosa in some way have been able to tell that things are different. Anyone else is seeing these changes as if that reality had been true from the start. Susie isn’t pleased about being kicked out of the Oddly Affected Club (or the Oddly Unaffected Club?), but it is nice to have someone they can get reality checks from. Joey states they’re gonna go back to the studio for the night, but Norman declines the invitation. He’s still waiting for a call.

Alrighty, good luck with that.

The group gets back to the studio and starts pulling some cots out of storage, Jack sits down with Lurks and chats some, while Joey goes and starts to prepare a dream spell. When Henry questions him on this, he talks about wanting to try and reach out to Fowler?? Like… up until now, they had been running with the idea that Fowler wasn’t able to be communicated with at all. But if he reached out to his family through their dreams… then maybe Joey can reach out to him in his?

Henry offers to help, because he’s actually had dreams and communication with Fowler in the past, and they both have a sort of understanding with each other. Joey can’t deny that it’d probably work better than him trying on his own, so he sets up the spell for Henry.

And Henry finds himself in a very misty dream. There’s really nothing to see, except three lit corridors going off in different directions… Henry calls out to Fowler, and sort of hears someone in the distance call back? So instead of walking into any of the lit areas, he follows the voice into the fog, and calls out once again, letting Fowler know it’s Henry…

And suddenly, from all around, a very loud booming voice shakes Henry to the core, telling him to get his family out of New York, before it’s too late.

Henry sits up from Joey’s lap and immediately goes for the phone, saying he’s sorry, he didn’t get much information but he needs to call Linda. Telling Joey what he heard as he dials, a freshly awoken Linda gets an exceedingly serious sounding Henry telling her to get the kids packed up and get out of New York ASAP. of course, her first question is about whether or not he’s coming too. 

“No.”

“How do you know you’re going to be safe then?”

“I’m not.”

JOEY SNATCHES THE PHONE FROM HENRY,

and gives her an actual explanation of the situation. Something’s following them, tied to Henry, they’re trying to get it untied from them but the longer Linda and the kids stay in New York the more likely they might also get wrapped up in it which will be worse for everyone, Henry included. He’s not doing any dumb sacrificial bullshit, and Joey promises he will do everything in his power to keep Henry safe.

She knows he wouldn’t let anything happen to Henry if he could prevent it.

With that all actually said, Joey hands Henry the phone back, and he’s able to apologize for being dramatic instead of informative. With a soft I love you exchange, Henry hangs up.

And he goes and gives Joey a hug.

[Next Episode] (not yet released)

#call of cthulhu: haunted hijinx #joey drew #henry stein #jack fain #sammy lawrence #peter sunstram #norman polk #susie campbell #the prophet #they're all here in the text also yes i promise i am going easier on the thumbnails this time round #look it's not fully fully coloured

[rookthorne]

𝐒𝐮𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 | 𝐉.𝐁.𝐁

Pairing ➷ Baker!Bucky Barnes x F!Reader Word Count ➷ 965 Warnings ➷ Fluff, pet names Author's Note ➷ My third and final submission for @the-slumberparty's week 2 creator challenge - and it is also my late contribution to Valentine's Day... so happy Valentine's Day to y'all!

Slumberparty Masterlist

𝑪𝑶𝑶𝑲𝑰𝑬 𝑻𝑰𝑵  : ̗̀➛ a sweet biscuit having a fairly soft, chewy texture and typically containing pieces of chocolate or fruit.

There were very few plans you had come up in your life with that rivalled the sheer brilliance of what you decided to do - ‘twas the belated day for it, anyway. 

Time had slipped through your fingers, so much so you hadn’t realised Valentines Day had already passed by with not even as little as a notice, nor a message. It was the curse of working so hard; late nights, early mornings, so on and so forth. 

Your morning commute didn’t differ in its crowds - people bustling back and forth, rushing to get to their 9 to 5 jobs, or rushing to get to class on time. Though, you did not mind, your thoughts were too occupied on whether you truly were going to pull off such a brazen idea.

It wasn’t reckless per se, but it was out of your norm. A bakery on your usual route to work had signs out, declaring their cookies and treats to be the best in Brooklyn. You didn’t disagree whatsoever, but it wasn’t thoughts of the baked goods that your mind was clouded with, no–it was the baker that occupied the counter. His smile was beautiful, bright enough to light up even the dreariest days, and you couldn’t help but be pulled under the swell of his ocean blue eyes. 

Subconsciously, or instinctually, you found yourself before the very doors to that bakery with no recollection how you had got there, though you weren’t sour for the thought. You could see him talking with customers, bagging up fresh loaves of bread and slices of cakes with that same damn smile that enchanted you. 

The door opened with a whoosh and a tinkling of the bell, and you were inside.

“Have a nice day, ma’am,” he said, his voice smooth. The woman smiled and waved, leaving the bakery with bags and bags of sweet treats.

Another customer stepped forward to be served and you browsed the selection, a little overwhelmed; chocolate this and chocolate that, strawberry this and strawberry that, it was a wonder there were so many ways to use the same flavour in entirely new ways. You were no connoisseur, but you knew baking was an art. 

“Hey,” he called. “Whatcha after today?”

You turned and smiled brightly, trying to will your heart to slow the tattoo it beat against your ribs. “I’m not sure actually,” you offered, sheepish. “I lost track of time and…” A better idea struck you. “I didn’t have time to get a gift before Valentine's Day, so I have to make up for that.”

The man laughed and rounded the counter. “Alright, now that is something I can help with. My name is Bucky, by the way.” You offered yours, and Bucky smiled. “What does your partner like?”

“I want to surprise them, see, they don’t have a favourite–I just know that they love your sweets.” It was a wonder you kept a straight face at the admission, your plan depended on it, and the delighted smile on Bucky’s lips almost broke your facade. 

“The choc chip is by far the most popular, and not to be biassed–one of my favourites.” Bucky directed you towards the clear glass jars where a label was connected with twine, neat script defined ‘chocolate chip’. “And then there’s these,” Bucky continued, pointing towards a cream coloured biscuit with a heart shaped indent, filled to the brim with jam. “They are a safe, but still loved, classic for Valentine’s; even if it is belated.”

“Do you like them?” You asked, peering closer at the dusted sugar and how it sparkled under the soft lighting. 

Bucky nodded next to you. “It was my ma’s recipe.”

“Perfect,” you sighed happily. “I’ll take some choc chip ones and these,” you pointed towards the heart biscuits. “Thanks, Bucky.”

“No worries, doll,” Bucky grinned. Oh, the things you would do to see that smile all the time. 

A few moments later you met Bucky at the counter to pay, a shy smile on your face when you felt the slight crinkle of paper in your hand. Under the guise of digging through your bag, you wrote your phone number on a loose piece of paper and prayed to whoever would listen that this would work. 

Bucky gave you the total with a happy smile and you waved your card. “Here you are,” Bucky said, handing you the bag full of the sweets he had ever so carefully packed. “I hope they like them, be sure to give my thanks for such high praise.”

“I will,” you rushed, grabbing the bag. Bucky turned to the box behind him and fiddled with something, and you took your chance; the slip of paper with your number fell neatly on top of the sealed boxes, its placement obvious and impossible to miss. “Actually, Bucky?”

“Yeah?” Bucky said, turning with a raised brow. “What’s up?”

Taking a deep breath, you offered the bag back to him. “Happy Valentine’s Day.”

Bucky stared. Shock, bewilderment, and amusement flashed in his pretty eyes as they flicked between you and the offered bag, before finally settling on endearment; a smile and wide eyes softening his features. 

“Oh, doll,” Bucky breathed, taking the bag back and brushing his fingers against yours. His gaze flicked into the bag and his eyes grew even wider. 

Before he could say anymore, you squeaked and skipped to the door. “Enjoy!”

Not even ten minutes later, your phone chimed as you walked through crowds to get to work. You pulled it free and let out a breath. It was an unknown number and an attachment, though what it contained told you exactly who had messaged. 

Thank you for that, sugar. 😘

The attachment, much to your utter delight, was a selfie of Bucky’s bright smile, blue eyes, and he was holding up the piece of paper with your number. You floated on cloud nine for the rest of the day as you worked; giddy, excited, and happy.

↠  𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐨𝐱 | 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 | 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 | 𝐥𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲 | 𝐚𝐨𝟑  ↞

#bucky barnes x female reader #bucky barnes x f!reader #bucky barnes x reader #bucky x female reader #bucky x f!reader #bucky x reader #bucky barnes oneshot #bucky barnes imagine #bucky barnes fanfiction #bucky barnes fluff #bucky barnes drabble #navy and roo's sleepover #rookthorne’s works #Sugary Sweet

[rose-tea-and-strawberries]

Tea Set Painting Date With Riddle Headcanons

Masterlist

Warning: I write the Reader as female

This idea came to you one day to have a tea set painting date with your boyfriend so you went to Sam’s store (since you didn’t know if there was a Twisted Wonderland equivalent of Hobbycraft and he always seemed to have everything you needed) and purchased about five to six different blank white ceramic tea sets, the appropriate paints, paintbrushes, and all of the other supplies.

Then you handmade a very formal and professional-looking invitation card, telling Riddle to come to Ramshackle on the afternoon of the next day for your date and that you already double checked with Trey and you know that his schedule is clear, which you gave to the resident baker to give to the love of your life.

Strawberry boy is very confused but on the day of the date, he finds himself knocking on the front door of Ramshackle.

He was very excited for whatever it is you’ve scheduled. Whether it’s a study date, tea party date, picnics with his beloved hedgehogs or simply just sitting side by side in complete silence - he adores every minute he spends with his precious rose ♡

He even kept your invitation all nice and secure in the drawer of his bedside table.

You greet him with a beaming smile and usher him inside where he finds a newspaper covered table with an assortment of different arts and craft supplies

When he asks you what you’ve got planned you tell him that since you enjoy spending tea time with him, you thought it might be a fun idea to decorate your own tea sets together 

As strange as the proposal sounds, he’s all for it. After all, any time spent with you is worthwhile.

So you lead him towards your table and start your relaxing painting session by playing some calming classical music on your phone

At first he’s a little insecure - since he spent his childhood locked in his room studying all day he doesn’t have the first clue on how to draw and paint, making him worry on whether or not this would reflect poorly on him in your eyes - but you reassure him like you always do

“Don’t be silly, Riddle,” you smile at him, taking his hand and pressing a kiss on his knuckles before nuzzling your cheek on them, “art is subjective and beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And allow me to tell you that my eyes will always consider you and everything that you do beautiful. So just relax and have fun, dearest. I want you to enjoy yourself.”

“Of course I will, my rose,” he clenched his free hand into a fist in front of his mouth and turned his head away so that you don’t see his blush

So the two of you start painting together, decorating the blank tea cups, saucers and teapots with his motifs: red roses (of course), strawberries, colourful hedgehogs wearing crowns (they looked more like lopsided spiky jelly beans, though), flamingoes 

You both even sign your initials inside a heart underneath every piece of crockery 

Riddle is having the time of his life decorating them, scrunching his nose in concentration as he paints on all of the finer details

Usually he’d raise a fuss if he got even a speck of paint on him but he’s having so much fun and your joy is so beautifully contagious that he doesn’t even think about the possible mess.

To anyone else they look a little slapdash and unprofessional and definitely amateurish, but to Riddle they were worth more than quadruple their weight in gold.

He keeps them all in a special tea cabinet in his bedroom so that he proudly gaze upon them in his own time, and to prevent anything from happening to them

Trey has walked in on his friend lovingly staring at one of the sets at multiple points in time 

At first he was too scared to use them because he was worried that they’ll get damaged and he doesn’t want your handiwork to go to waste but you point out that tea sets are meant to be used not looked at so he relents

He likes to use them whenever he misses you, smiling fondly as he traces over your artwork

Whenever the two of you have private tea parties, you bet that those sets are going to replace the expensive one-of-a-kind limited edition royal tea set that was imported straight from the Queendom of Roses.

At one point, he was drinking from one of those tea cups during a Dorm Leader zoom meeting and he looked at everyone, just daring them to say anything about his and his precious rose’s handiwork - no really, he wanted someone to say something so that he has a reason to brag about you

Riddle in the near future: *proudly showing off the sets, which have been placed in a rich, luxurious glass cabinet* And here we have the fine china

Poor unsuspecting person: *stares confusedly at a set of tea cups with a bunch of paint splatters that appear to have been done by reception aged children*

#twisted wonderland #twst #twst x reader #twisted wonderland x reader #riddle rosehearts x reader #fem reader

[till-you-scream-and-cry]

Shattered

Pairing: Ethan x Vic x Fem!Reader

summary: one day you bump into Vic and Ethan at the vintage shop, innocently unaware that it;s a beginning of a bitter sweet story that will change your life

word count: 8,6k

contents: polyamory, angst, smut, some fluff, mentions of being sick and anxiety, leaving marks on the body after being not careful enough (can be triggering), mentions of suffocating

author’s note: i really love this stor, even though it took me forever to write it, i hope you’ll like it as much as i do 💕

Måsterlist | tåglist

*******

1. SMOOTH

It was a rainy, gloomy day. You hated this weather, and usually, it was a reason big enough for you to stay in bed the whole day. Especially on Saturday. But not this time. You lazily dressed and decided to turn this day around with some thrift shopping. For a few weeks, you were on a hunt for vintage flared jeans, which would flatter your body. Staying home and rewatching your favourite show seemed appealing, yet you had a party coming, and you needed some new piece of clothing to add you some confidence. Ever since your work friend found out that you’re into modern art, she kept begging you to attend various expositions of the rising stars of Rome. Since your loneliness stopped feeling like freedom lately, you agreed to every invitation, in the hope of meeting someone special by accident. A girl can dream of a romantic comedy style ‘meet cute’, you thought. 

While going through the racks, full of colourful blazers, you noticed a raised voice of a woman on the other side of the small shop. She was laughing in such a contagious way that you couldn’t help but peek at the source of her amusement. 

“You look like a cowboy in a gay club, please for the love of god, take that off!” the blond girl chuckled. 

The guy she was with wore dark jeans, and a brown vest which was at least a few sizes too small, almost ripping on his toned, muscular chest. He had nothing underneath. His long, black hair covered his back. In response to the girl’s words, he grabbed a white cowboy hat and put it on. She wheezed.

“I knew what you were gonna say…so I completed my outfit.” He chuckled and took a spin to show off his costume.

You grinned, and as he was turning, your eyes met. 

“Don’t you think it looks spectacular?” He asked you with a soft smile.

“You look amazing.” You said, unable to take your eyes off his face.

You hoped that this exchange would last longer, that maybe you’ll manage to at least get their names. Unfortunately, right after you complemented his clothes, the girl picked up her phone and started yelling at someone for not calling sooner. They left in a rush.

A few days went by, and you were stuck in front of the mirror, making last-minute touch-ups on your makeup before leaving. The gallery wasn’t big, but the number of people gathered there was quite impressive. You strolled around with your friend before she abandoned you to talk to some man she met a day before. Suddenly you found a painting which caught your attention. You stood there, with your mouth hanging open, trying to take in every detail of the canvas. 

“You like it?” 

A familiar, a bit raspy voice appeared out of nowhere. You turned your head and saw the blond girl from the vintage shop. You smiled softly, as you realized who she was. 

“I saw you earlier, but I wasn't sure if it was you.” She said and bit her lip. 

“It’s me.” You cocked your head to the side. Her face brightened up, her blue eyes got even shinier.

“Well… I’m glad we’ve met again. I’m Vic.” She reached her hand to you and smiled at the sound of your name. 

“And yes, I like this one.” You turned to the painting again. 

“I can introduce you to the painter, it’s a friend of mine.” 

You spent the next hour with her and the painter, discussing her art and the life of an artist in Rome. The long-haired man interrupted your conversation.

“Who am I seeing again, hello stranger.” he smiled and reached for your hand. 

“Hi, cowboy” You smirked and gave him your hand. He kissed it gently, without breaking eye contact.

“Just call me Ethan.” he grinned and winked at you. You didn’t expect to blush this easily.

You started talking, and it seemed to be no end to your conversation. The words were flowing smoothly, and no amount of silence in between felt awkward. Fewer and fewer people were surrounding you, and finally, Ethan offered you some wine at his place. Normally you’d hesitate, say no, and expect him to be yet another man looking for a quick fuck. But Vic’s company, and his calm persona, made you feel safe enough to take the risk. Worst case scenario, you’d have a wild night with these two. 

As soon as you got to his place, he grabbed one of the vinyls from his large collection.

“Ethan and his jazz…” Vic kicked her shoes aside and walked over to you.

“Don’t pretend that you don’t like it.” He chuckled, clinking with the three glasses he carried in his large hand. “Some more wine?” Ethan offered.

The alcohol and another great conversation, quickly allowed you to relax, melting on the couch, listening to Ethan’s velvet voice, talking about his new favourite musician. Vic stood up and changed the vinyl for the man he was talking about. The beat was faster, but also extremely sensual.

“God, it sounds like liquid sex…” Ethan tilted his head back and closed his eyes, enjoying every tune.

Vic started walking towards you, swaying her hips to the rhythm.

“Come here.” She whispered, beckoning you over with her finger. You couldn’t resist.

She threw your hands on her shoulders, slinking hers around your waist. She pulled you closer and started swaying with you.

“Just feel the rhythm, and feel me” she whispered into your ear, her lips tickling your earlobe.

You moved closer, your hips pressed together, and very little room was left between your breasts. You kept staring into her eyes, her gorgeous angelic face and devilish smirk. Ethan lit his cigarette and watched you two with a grin, he draped one arm around the back of the couch. In a quick glance, you saw that he unbuttoned his shirt a little, the stretched material parted and exposed his chest. Suddenly you felt two fingers under your chin. Vic turned your face to herself.

“So kissable.” She dragged her index finger over your lips. 

You kept looking at her with hooded eyes and a racing heart. Vic moved closer and pressed her lips to yours. The kiss was gentle and made you crave more. Her lips were so soft and tasted so sweet. You moved your hands to the back of her head, and tangled fingers in her hair. Vic sighed and deepened the kiss, slipping her tongue into your mouth, holding your jaw with one hand, and wrapping the other around your waist to pull you closer. Just when you started losing your breath, your hands started wandering over her body, you felt another hand on your back. Vic pulled away, still holding you in her arms. Ethan smiled, looking down at you with a smirk.

“Such a pretty girl…” He cupped your face and kissed you. His hand was large and rough from years of drumming, yet his touch was tender. He tasted differently, but just as good. He nibbled on your lip, making you let out a quiet sigh. 

Being trapped between them made you feel so safe, even though you barely knew them. Their soft touch, whispers, the way they looked at you. You let go, allowed them to guide you to the bedroom, and you’ve let Vic gently push you on the mattress. 

Their hands and lips were exploring every inch of your body, making your head spin. Vic’s slender fingers kept teasing your thighs, before finally slipping under the thin lace of your underwear. Your sigh was muffled by Ethan’s kiss and quiet hum, full of satisfaction at how easy it was for them to make you eagerly spread your legs, begging for more. Her fingers danced inside of you, making you let out a series of high-pitched moans, his hands were cupping your breasts, squeezing them as he nibbled on your nipples. Soon after, you gasped loudly, feeling a warm and wet tongue being dragged through your folds. The world started spinning, moments melted into one long bliss. Soon later, Ethan flipped you around and entered you with a low grunt. You collapsed on your front, resting your face on Vic’s stomach. Just moments later, you were trying to keep your head clear enough to tease her with your tongue, tasting her sweetness as she kept whining and writhing under you. It all lasted long enough to fill your every cell with pleasure. All three of you came at the same time, panting heavily, kissing each other in a pile of limbs, sweat, and sighs. Soon later you fell asleep, embraced by Ethan, with Vic cuddled to your back, her hands laced in your middle. It felt different from just a hookup, not only the sex was better, but the atmosphere these two created, and how they made you feel. 

Your peaceful sleep was interrupted by some movement and a pair of lips pressed to your forehead. You smiled, taking your sweet time before opening your eyes, trying to go back to the memories of last night. You knew that the moment you sit up, you wouldn’t have much time before having to leave the flat. Just as you wanted to rub your face with a yawn, you felt a kiss on your bare shoulder.

“Good morning, belleza” Ethan’s raspy voice brought you back to reality. You lazily opened your eyes and looked at him.

His hair was a little tangled yet still gorgeous, falling on his bare shoulders. His big brown eyes were watching your face. Ethan smiled softly.

“No need to be worried about anything, take your time,” he said and gently stroked your arm.

“Sorry, I shouldn’t have stayed so long.” You blurted out.

“Nonsense. I hope you had as much fun as we did. And in that case, we obviously don’t want you gone so quickly.” He smiled again, melting away your racing thoughts. 

“I have coffee, but I need some help with pancakes.” Vic came back into the room, dressed in nothing but Ethan’s shirt. She looked at you with a bright smile. “Ciao bella.” She sat down at the edge of the bed and gently caressed your cheek. “How did you sleep?”

“Very good” You smiled back, nuzzling her hand.

“Alright, you two catch up, and I’ll take care of the food.” Ethan kissed Your head, then Vic’s and got out of bed. You watched him putting on some boxers, carefully studying the beams of sunlight hitting his toned muscles. 

A few minutes later the three of you were sat on the balcony, dressed only in underwear and tops, enjoying his pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. It felt like a dream, a perfect morning everyone would love after a night like yours. You could swear you had known them for years, the conversations were deep, and both of them were great listeners. You caught up with details of your life and listened to their stories of life as band members. Before you noticed, it started getting dark, and it was high time to get back home.

“Well… I guess here is where our lovely time together ends.” You sighed and grabbed your bag. 

“Why would it end?” They both looked at you confused. “We thought you had a nice time?”

Vic frowned a little.

“Well…yes. It was great. But I thought…” You stopped, seeing their faces. “Wasn’t it just a hookup?” You said a little embarrassed.

“Bella,” Ethan walked closer and smiled, “Why do you feel the need to label it? We felt a connection, we had a great time, we both like you…why should we end it?”

You listened to him, stunned by his accuracy. Yeah, why should you end it? Life taught you many times that it just doesn’t work like that, and that sooner or later the fairytale ends. They were hot, smart, and gentle, and made you feel safe. Your body was screaming to get ready for a painful disappointment. Yet they again surprised you in the best way possible. 

“Here is my number. Call me when you feel like meeting again.” Vic handed you a small piece of paper.

You smiled and left, leaving them in that cosy little flat, unaware of what was about to come.

*** 

The next few days felt like forever. Your inner battle kept you awake for a few nights, before you finally messaged Vic, asking for a meeting. She invited you to her flat and opened the door with a bright smile. Vic got some wine and handed you a glass.

“Ethan should come over in a bit.” She poured the wine and licked the dark red drop on the edge of the bottle. She looked at you and smiled softly. “I was getting worried you’ll never contact me.”

“Why wouldn’t I?” You took a sip and sighed, “Alright, I wasn’t sure if I should do it. It was great, really, but… I guess I thought it was too good to be true.” You chuckled. 

Vic kept looking at you. She stepped a little closer and tucked a loose string of your hair behind your ear. You smiled, trying not to spill the wine. Her touch was so intimate and gentle.

“So we’re too good to be true?” She asked with a smirk and took the glass from you. Vic took a sip and put it down on the table, almost reading your mind. 

“In some ways.” You whispered, watching her slowly licking her lips. 

“Good. Because we feel the same about you, cucciola.” Vic said and gently cupped your chin. 

She moved closer, wrapping her free hand around your waist, pulling you closer. She kissed you softly, letting you taste the wine off her lips. It tasted much sweeter this way. When she pulled away, you caressed her cheek, looking deeply into her blue eyes.

“How was I not supposed to fall for that?” You asked with a smile. 

“Hope I’m not interrupting.” Ethan walked into the flat and threw his keys on the table. “What a pleasure to see you again.” His warm smile made your heart flutter.

You grabbed some pillows and blankets and made a comfy nest on the balcony. You and Vic laid with heads in his lap, as he kept lazily playing with your hair. He was reading you a book, in his soothing, low voice. The sun was setting, the summer heat was finally fading away, eased by the evening breeze. One of the characters in the book Ethan was reading, mentioned a song, to him and Vic sighed. 

“Oh dear, I feel like I should know this one.” You mumbled, looking up at him with apologetic, wide eyes.

“Well…” Ethan leaned down to kiss your forehead. “Nights In White Satin is a classic, and one of my and Vic’s favourites. Up, up.” He gently patted your side to get up. 

A few moments later, he was smiling happily after finding a vinyl of said song. Vic lit up some candles and left the balcony door open, even though the wind got stronger and kept moving the long curtains. Ethan turned on a small lamp and as the music started flowing from the record player, he sat by the piano. His thick fingers were moving smoothly and with ease, adding charm to an already beautiful melody. Vic wrapped her arms around you and started swaying, softly kissing your neck. You smiled and let her lead you in a slow dance. The whole evening you spent dancing, drinking wine and talking. It felt surreal, but worrying about what was real or not was the last thing you wanted to think about.

Your friends were giving you side eyes, questioning your idea of living in a three-way situationship. Yet, every day you spent with Vic and Ethan, felt better than any experience you ever had with other people. Days turned into weeks, and somehow you spent over three months with them. Your relationship grew stronger, and you joked about being a throuple. Your insecurity made you have a serious talk with them, where you established that you’ll try being exclusive. At least when it comes to something more serious. They both agreed, reassuring you of their love for you. As unnatural as it felt, you were finally happy, feeling loved and safe with two people you started loving dearly. It was beautiful, so beautiful that you missed the dark clouds on the horizon.  

Knocking at your door woke you up from an afternoon nap. You rubbed your eyes and sat up, trying to find your phone. Three missed calls from Vic. You unlocked the door and opened them while yawning.

2. CRACKS

“Oh, it’s you! Hey, gorgeous.” You smiled and let her in. 

“Hey…sorry, you weren’t answering and… Did I wake you up?” Vic looked tense, squeezing the belt of her bag. 

“Yeah, a sleepless night. But don’t worry, I’m better now. You smiled and let her kiss you softly. 

“Well, you look adorable.” She smiled and stroked your hair before sighing loudly.

“So what’s so urgent? You look a little nervous.” You sat down with a frown. 

“Right…do you have any plans for a next month?” She asked, biting her lip.

“Next…what?” You crossed your arms on your chest. 

“You work online, so I thought that maybe… Ahhh, I’m sorry, I should’ve explained.” She chuckled nervously and sat next to you. “Next week we're going on that tour we told you about, for a whole month, and I wanted to ask if you’ll go with me.” She blurted out.

“With you? I mean…yes, I’d love to. It shouldn’t be a problem with my work, but…are you sure about that? Was that a mutual decision?” You moved closer and took her shaky hands in yours. 

“Of course I’m sure! The boys said they’re fine with that, it’s not unusual for us to bring someone on tour. And I want to take you.” She smiled.

“Wait…you keep talking about yourself, what about Ethan?” She looked down. “Vic? Is something wrong?”

“Fuck, I don’t know how to say this… Ethan wanted to bring his friend. He was excited when I asked about you, but apparently… Maybe he should talk to you about this.” She leaned back with a sigh. 

“Vic, talk to me, please.” You bit your lip, feeling a slight pinch in your chest.

“Recently he got in touch with his ex-friend. I refuse to call her otherwise. He said he wanted to spend some time with her, but that's it. As friends. If you’re not OK with that, we can talk to him…” 

“No. That’s alright. I’m not exactly excited about it, but if she’s a friend…” You took a deep breath. “From what you said, I feel like you don’t exactly like her.”

“God no. She’s pretty manipulative, and I watched him cry because of her too many times to like her. But it’s his choice.” She sighed, sliding down, placing her head in your lap. You leaned down to kiss her temple and wrapped your arms around her. 

“I’m sorry baby. But if that’s any comfort, I’d love to come with you. And if she’s mean to him, we can always add hair removal cream to her shampoo.” You whispered into her ear. Vic chuckled.

“My evil witch.” She booped your nose and turned on her side, kissing your thigh softly. 

The next few days went by surprisingly quickly. Eventually, Ethan showed up and shared the news about his friend. You wanted to act hurt and make him regret his choice, but when it came to it, you realized how immature and childish that would be. He reassured you of his love and spent a night with you before the first flight. 

He smoothed your worries, yet they came back as soon as you saw Her. She looked confident, had a big smile plastered on her face, and what made you wince the most was how his face lit up when he saw her. She jumped into his arms and kissed his face with loud, high-pitched noises. Vic watched you, which you noticed from the corner of your eye. She stepped closer and wrapped her arm around you.

“She’s insufferable, but a friend. He promised.” She kissed your cheek and grabbed the handle of your luggage. “Come on, I need a hot bath…with you.” 

After freshening up a little, you hoped to see Ethan. But his room was empty, and as Thomas informed you, he went out with Her. You got back to your room and cuddled into Vic.

“I shouldn’t be jealous, why am I acting so stupid?” You whispered into the crook of her neck.

“Because he’s more stupid and can’t see that it was a bad idea. But she’ll remind him why he wanted her out of his life. Just wait.” She kissed you softly. “Maybe we should grab dinner together? I won’t miss a chance to have a date in Paris with you.” Vic caressed your cheek.

On your way back, you kept drunkenly giggling, getting touchy and smearing each other’s lipsticks with sloppy kisses on the hotel corridors. You suddenly got quiet while walking past Ethan’s room. Even through the thick door, you could hear the loud moans and screams coming from inside his room. You gasped, pressing your hand to your chest. Vic grabbed your arm, her jaw clenched.

“Come…please!” She hissed, pulling you towards her room. 

As she closed the door with a loud bang, she grabbed your face, smearing your tears with her thumbs, and looking deeply into your eyes. 

“It’s just sex, she’s just another whore for the night, he doesn’t love her…” She held your head, which you kept shaking in disapproval. She gripped you more firmly. “He doesn’t love her!” You could swear her eyes started watering as well. 

Vic pulled you closer into a rough and messy kiss, moving onto your neck and chest, leaving love bites and lipstick stains all over. She moved you onto the bed, pushed her knee between your legs and snuck her hand in your underwear. You spent the next hour having the wildest and roughest sex, after which you immediately fell asleep, not having the energy to worry about anything any more. With your half-closed eyes, you saw Vic watching you, wiping her eyes and bouncing her leg.

After the gig in Paris, you managed to talk to Ethan. He kept avoiding eye contact, making sure his hair cover his back, covered in deep, red scratches. You watched him with empty eyes and excused yourself as soon as She walked into the room backstage. 

The next stop was London. You got your hopes up, knowing that she couldn’t come there because of an invalid visa. During the dinner at the hotel restaurant, you sat next to Ethan and tried to hold his hand. He winced.

“Sorry.” He smiled apologetically, taking your hand in his and kissing it softly. 

“I thought that we could go out, maybe grab some drinks?” You said, gently squeezing his hand. 

“Oh…wish you told me earlier. I wanted to meet with my buddy who lives here.” With his words, you eased your grip. Vic coughed and put down her glass with a loud clink. 

“He's back in town? Just in time.” She scoffed, making Ethan frown.

“I haven't seen him in months, I’m sure you both understand.” He looked at you softly. “I’m happy that you’re here.”

“Are you though?” You asked, taking your hand away, grabbing your drink and downing it in one gulp. 

“Of course I am, don’t be silly.” He leaned in and kissed your temple. “We’ll hang out later, I promise.” 

After the dinner, he vanished, like many times before. You took a long, bubble bath with Vic and got comfortable in bed, cuddled up. She woke up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat, with a high fever. Thankfully, they had one more day before the gig, which she promised to spend tucked into bed, sipping the ginger-lemon mixture you made for her. 

“I love you, but it’s disgusting…” She winced and took another sip from the steaming cup. 

“Well, I don’t care. It works. You’re really not made for this weather, aren’t you.” You pressed your hand to her forehead and glanced at the clock. “Time for more paracetamol.” 

“Damn it, I had such fun things planned for us today.” She sighed and took the pill from you. “Please just go out with the boys, they promised to take good care of you.” She took a big gulp of water.

“I’m not sure if they even like me…” You mumbled, holding her cup in your hands.

“Nonsense, of course, they do. It was their idea.” She sent you a warm smile before falling back onto the pillows. “I need another nap…” She mumbled. 

“Sleep. I’ll leave you and go with them if that idea makes you happy. But please stay in bed.” You leaned in and kissed her head.

“I’ll be a good girl.” She mumbled, pulling the duvet over her back. 

Vic was right, you actually spent a really nice day with Damiano and Thomas, going through the best second-hand shops in London. You finally managed to talk to them and get a little closer. 

“I have no idea why he dragged this bitch along if he has you…” Thomas mumbled while pushing another chip into his mouth.

“Thom, come on…” Damiano scolded him. “Well, she’s not exactly liked by anyone but Ethan, but what can we do? Let’s watch him getting tired of her ass. Again.” Damiano rolled his eyes and winked at you. Only then you realized how much you were frowning. The idea of Her alone was giving you wrinkles.

You got back to your room with a bag full of candy for Vic. After a quick shower, ingesting all vitamins and meds you gave her, she devoured a whole pack of sour gummies and fell asleep. You kissed her cheek and made sure she was tightly wrapped in the blankets. The light in the room was dimmed, but you could see enough to make your way to the small table with a wine bottle. You poured yourself some and took a big sip. The moon was shining bright, the night was very peaceful. Almost too peaceful. You glanced at Vic and wrapped yourself in a big blanket, before going out on a balcony, to enjoy your wine in the moonlight. 

Watching people hurry to their next bar of choice, laughs, and occasional fights between lovers kept you entertained for a long while. Just as you were about to go back inside, you noticed a familiar figure. Ethan was standing on the pavement with some blond guy. They were really close, and suddenly Ethan pulled the guy by his shirt and kissed him. You gasped quietly as his companion tangled hands in Ethan’s hair, turning the kiss into a rough and sloppy mess. You bit your lip hard and went back inside. What seemed like a peaceful day, turned into another sleepless night. 

“I’m sorry baby… I think I know who that was.” Vic said softly, stroking your back the next morning. “Why is he acting like such a dickhead. I get hookups, but he could be more discreet, or at least admit to what he’s doing. What is this?!” Her cheeks got red, this time it wasn’t the fever.

The gig went very well, Vic was back in shape and kept praising your healing mixtures and English gummies. Ethan walked up to you after the gig and kissed you roughly. You were taken aback and gasped into the kiss. 

“Fuck, I missed those lips…” He mumbled, his sweaty chest glistening in the harsh lights of the backstage room. Yet all you could focus on were the dark love bites on his neck.

“Well, I was here all along.” You sent him a pale smile.

Later that night he came over to your room, as you and Vic were getting ready for bed. He stayed the night, showing you both how much pent-up energy he had. He was rough, almost angry, and you loved it. When you finished, he went out for a smoke and left you and Vic alone in the bedroom. Vic kept staring at him through the window for a long while, before turning her attention to you.

“He’s rarely this rough. His mind was elsewhere.” She said quietly. “Fuck…does it hurt?” She gently touched your bruised wrists.

“No…maybe a little.” you looked to the side and felt her warm fingers on your neck. “Cazzo…” She mumbled, and after seeing her face you knew he left more marks. 

“It’s alright, I’m not in pain Vic!.” You yelled after her as she wrapped herself in a blanket. She slammed the balcony door to muffle what she was saying. You could hear bits of it. Ethan threw his cigarette on the ground and rushed back inside. 

“Did…did I hurt you?” He sat at the edge of the bed, staring at your wrists with big eyes.

“It’s alright, there’s no need to make a big fuss…”

“Perhaps if your mind was here with us, not with god knows who, you wouldn’t go so hard and noticed what you’re doing?! I have marks too, and I need to perform in a few days!”

Ethan dropped his head and kissed your hands.

“I’m sorry, so, so sorry. It will never happen again.” He looked at you with teary eyes. 

Ethan’s face managed to melt even Vic’s anger. You got back to bed, and he covered every mark he made with a thousand kisses, gently massaging your skin. You fell asleep in a cuddle pile, like back in the good old days.

The next stop was in Barcelona. You knew who was about to join you, and you hated the idea of seeing Her again. But after the previous night, you wanted to believe that something in Ethan's mind has changed. You arrived at the hotel and went out for a late dinner. She wasn't there.

“Is it possible that someone stole her ID?” Thomas said at the table. Quietly, so that Ethan wouldn't hear, but loud enough to make you and Damiano chuckle.

“I'm afraid that's not the case. I saw her name under the guest's list in Ethan's room.” He cleared his throat and got back to eating. You felt Thomas' eyes on you for a long minute. He sighed and poured you some more wine. 

The next day you woke up to Vic's grunt. You rolled on your side and saw her pressing a pillow to her face.

“I'm not sure if you can suffocate yourself like that. If you wanted to get a little kinky, all you had to do was wake me up.” You moved closer and took away her pillow, exposing her flustered face. “Hey.” You said. 

She smiled back and opened her mouth to speak. Vic was brutally interrupted by the noises coming from the room next door.

“Fuck me harder!"

"You've gotta be kidding me!" Vic yelled and sat up angrily.

"What's…whose room is that?" You asked, knowing the answer damn well.

Your question was answered by a loud grunt which you knew all too well. Ethan. You felt sick to your stomach. How much of what he was saying was a lie? He technically loved you, but had no time for you at all, and somehow forgot to mention that he will drag his ex-friend/lover with him, to screw her on the other side of your wall. You suddenly felt the anxiety flowing in your veins, making your head spin and heart pump faster. You clearly weren't enough. He needed something you couldn't give him, hell, maybe it wasn't just sex. Maybe you didn't know the whole truth and Ethan needed Her to feel truly happy. Maybe he loved her more, and you were just a rebound after he ditched her? Maybe you were a fun fuck he had in Rome, but not a permanent part of his life? Maybe he never wanted a relationship with you two? Why the hell he suddenly stopped acting like your boyfriend, why did he flinch when you touched him, why was he so rough and absent the last time you had sex, why, why, why?!

You quickly got off the bed and ran to the bathroom, feeling physically sick. Vic followed you and held your hair, stroking your back gently. She didn't have to ask any questions. She knew exactly what was wrong. You flushed and sat down heavily on the floor, with your eyes red and watery. You felt like your chest was about to explode.

"Shush cucciola. Take this." She handed you your anxiety pill and a glass of water. You smiled at her, wondering if Ethan would do the same.

Later that night Damiano and Thomas decided to go out together and take a late-night tour through the city. Ethan was nowhere to be found, which meant he was busy with someone else. Vic was basically babysitting you, seeing how poorly you were. She kept forcing you to hydrate, encouraged some small meals and kept handing you snacks throughout the day. She wouldn't let go of your hand, reassuring you of her love with gentle touches. Knowing what you might hear or witness in your room, she kept dragging you around the city, until it got dark.

"I have wine, grapes, and some cheese. I'm afraid this will have to be enough." She arrived at the big porch of the hotel, facing the beach. 

You could go straight down the stairs from the lobby onto the golden sand. You sat close to the barrier, to see the waves crashing quietly in the pale moonlight. Vic got you some blankets and opened the wine. 

"I'm really sorry about what happened. I wish he understood how we both feel and most importantly how you feel." She whispered, wrapping arms around you.

"I could tell him everything, be honest, but… Vic I don't want him to think I'm jealous. After all, he said she’s just a friend. I can't let my insecurities ruin what we have."

"She…they were dating. Well, I don't know if there was an official title, but he was obsessed with her. They were exclusive, and he never did that before her. Or after. Until we've met you."

You looked at her with a frown.

"So…what happened?" You asked, and took a big sip of wine, subconsciously knowing you might need it.

"She…" Vic chuckled ironically, "She fucked his childhood friend." You gasped

"But how…and now he's OK with that? That's why Thomas hates her so much?" 

"Yeah, it was their mutual friend, but Thomas was really close with him. He never forgot what she did. Bitch basically ruined Ethan for months."

"So you think they're more than friends now? You wouldn't be so pissed if it was otherwise would you."

Vic looked at you sadly in response.

They haven't even noticed you bundled up in the corner. Ethan and Her ran down the stairs onto the beach. Vic's grip around you tightened. Ethan kept chasing that girl, clearly trying to take back something she took from him. She kept waving with a notebook and making loud squeaky noises. You knew this notebook very well. He kept it as a diary and shown you its contents only once, to share with you the poem he wrote after your first night together. 

Ethan finally put her down on the sand and pinned her, holding her hands above her head.

"…you need to give me a kiss or…" 

"Such a pretty yet naughty girl, hmm?" He leaned down and kissed her. 

They rolled on the sand, she was now straddling him. He kept playing with her skirt, mumbling something you couldn't hear. Maybe for the better. You felt the hot tears rolling down your cheeks.

"I can't do it any more. All I can think of is that I'm not enough for him. You never made me feel this way, but for him, I'm clearly just a fun accessory. Look at them…you seriously think he still loves me the way he did a month ago?"

Vic didn't respond for a long while. She kissed your temple.

"What do you want to do?" She asked with a trembling voice. 

"I need a break, go back home, clear my head. We'll talk when you're back." You said, feeling your throat tightening. 

"Maybe…maybe it was too good to be true. Maybe you were right." She whispered, swallowing back the tears. "I love you, but I can't give you the love of two people. No matter how much I want to make up for whatever this idiot is doing." 

You turned to her and cupped her face.

"You don't deserve to be struggling like this. Maybe it was a beautiful mistake. Beautiful, but a mistake." 

You got back to your room, and she helped you to pack your bags. The next flight to Rome was in over four hours, so you decided not to waste any minute. She ordered a taxi and went with you. She stood there in tears at the security check, watching you with pain. 

"Let me know when you're back from Berlin, OK? Please. Vic?"

She just held you, unable to articulate how sorry she was. Her tears stained your shirt, her nails were pinned to your back. 

"I'll let you know. Safe travels." She kissed you softly.

3. FALLING APART

You woke up with a small gasp, sitting up on the bed. The construction site next door didn't let you sleep for long. You rubbed your eyes and saw the dark smudges on your hands. You forgot to take off your makeup. A few moments later you realized why. You weren't in your bed, not even in your flat. Next to you were a man and a woman you met last night at the club. After glancing at him and seeing his long, dark hair, you understood every decision that led you to fucking them last night. 

You slowly and as quietly as possible slipped out of bed. You collected your clothes but gave up on your panties which were nowhere to be found. You got dressed, made your face look semi-presentable, or at least kinda clean, and left the building. You felt the dirty looks people were throwing at you, the judgemental comments muttered under their breaths. You couldn't care less. Your soul and heart were in pieces and for once you've decided not to judge yourself on how your body decided to cope.

Vic walked away, and you could still feel her salty tears on your lips. A painful reminder of your failed little paradise.

You got back to your flat and kicked the heels away. A long hot bath, painkillers for a hangover and some food finally helped you to feel more human again. At least for a few hours. As you were finishing up the leftover pasta, trying to catch up on a new episode of your favourite show, your phone started ringing. Vic.

"Hey" you mumbled, wiping the cream sauce off your lips.

"Hi, sorry I hope I'm not interrupting…" she mumbled incoherently.

"No, not at all. I'm just being lazy." You said in a tone that sounded oddly cheerful and fake.

"Well, we're in Rome…do you want to grab a drink? Just me, promise." 

You were ashamed to admit that you hadn't even thought that someone else might join you. Ethan hasn't sent you a single message since you left Spain. Not a message, no missed calls. Nothing, absolutely no contact at all. You were grieving, which was clearly working, judging by your reaction to her words.

"Oh, that's fine. Yeah, I'd love to see you. The usual? At seven?"

"Perfect. See you tomorrow." She finished the conversation fast, probably not sure what she could possibly add. Mentioning anything else would mean talking about Ethan, and none of you was ready for it.

When you've met, your heart quickly reminds you how much Vic meant in your life. You talked for hours, and after a few drinks moved to her flat. She kissed you the moment the doors got closed. Your hands were eagerly wandering over her body, sliding her clothes off her. Just as she was getting down to tug on your underwear, the lock clicked and someone got in.

"Vic? I wasn’t expecting to see you here. Weren't you going to visit…oh. Hey." Ethan stood there, struggling to form sentences after he saw you. Currently topless. You grabbed a top and put it on to keep some dignity.

"Look who showed up! Perfect fucking timing, as always!" Vic got up and put her top back on as well.

"My flat flooded while we were gone. You allowed me to crash here for a few days, remember? ." He threw the keys on the table. 

"You tend to crash things, you have a real talent." She scoffed. Vic's drunk thoughts were dangerously honest. 

You felt like a witness to a train wreck that was about to take place in front of your eyes. And it was now way too late to do anything about it. 

"Oh I'm sorry, I'm fucking things up all the time? Please. You got almost too fucking drunk to play in Berlin, and whose fault was that, princess?!"

"I was a mess because you fucked up hard enough for her to leave!" She yelled and pointed at you.

"Not my fault that you both imagined something that wasn't there!" He screamed.

Neither of you knew what exactly he was talking about. Your love or the fact that he picked Her over you two. Ethan seemed angry, but equally confused, only now realizing how it sounded. Vic shook her head, grabbed her jacket and left, slamming the door behind her.

"You meant us, didn't you." You said quietly, feeling your tears forming.

"I…you both were so vile towards my friend. You think I couldn’t hear your comments and the looks you were throwing her? I really wanted us to have a nice time, I wanted to save it all, have her and you and…"

"So I wasn't enough, huh." Tears rolled down your cheeks. "Fucking say it, Ethan, I wasn't enough! I was only a fun fuck, which apparently you need in every city you go to. Besides Rome, I was useless!" 

"How can you say shit like that! I loved you!" 

"Loved?" You asked quietly, your voice cracked.

"Love…you know what I meant." He mumbled, rubbing his face.

"Yeah, I think I know exactly what you meant." You shook your head, and grabbed your bag, ready to leave. “You love me so hard that you haven’t sent a single message since I left.”

"Fuck, please don't go! Please?!" He grabbed your hand and pulled you back in. You let him. “I didn’t reach out, I wanted to give you time. Stay, please.”

"What, is there more painful shit you want me to hear? What, fucking Her was better too? She's prettier, more confident, and maybe even doesn't have anxiety, she’s low maintenance. Just admit that I was your second choice, a backup! Unlike the perfect slut for Mr Torchio!"

"Shut up! Please! Don't make me sound like a fucking monster that I'm not!" 

You winced at his scream and widened your eyes. At that moment you hated him so much, yet your body was telling a completely different story. Something about the sense of impending doom made you crave him, this one last time. 

"Of course I love you, in my own way. I love talking to you, your voice, your eyes, your smile, your silly brain. I fucking love your body and sex with you was always amazing. Don't try to tell me I must think otherwise." 

He moved closer, making you take a step backwards till your ass hit the door. His perfume hit your nostrils, the scent of his shampoo, the cigarette smoke, the leather of his shoes. Your mind was going crazy.

"And even now, as much as I'd like to strangle you for what you just said, I'd fuck the soul out of you if I could."

You gasped quietly, making him smirk.

"Something tells me you wouldn't mind that at all. You want me to show you how angry you made me? How much I'd love to humble you and remind you how good it felt when I was inside of you?"

You nodded, completely giving up and letting your instincts take over. Ethan gripped your chin and kissed you roughly, pushing his tongue into your mouth. He gripped your breast and squeezed it hard, pushing his leg between your thighs. You whined and started playing with his belt, trying to unbuckle it with your hands. You missed his body, his touch, the attention he was giving you. Ethan pulled your underwear down and helped you undo his trousers. He set his cock free and gave himself a few pumps. He was already hard and wet from precum, twitching against your thigh. Ethan hooked your leg over himself and slid his cock inside with a loud grunt. His wild eyes were hooded and pinned into your face, turned into a grimace of pleasure. He started thrusting fast, causing you some pain from the stretch, but making you see the stars at the same time. Ethan gripped your throat with one hand, holding you steady with the other. You were both aggressive, loud and desperate, chasing your release. You screamed loudly, clenching around his cock. He came soon after you with a moan, making sure his cum was deep inside you. You kept panting, watching him with a pink face and parted lips. He kissed you softly, slipping out of you, letting his cum drip down your thighs. Ethan pressed his forehead to yours and whispered:

"I fucking love you, and I probably always will. But I can't give you what you need and the way you need it. Maybe I'm too scared, or maybe I simply can't. Maybe I’m built different. Maybe it's for the best if we go separate ways."

You wanted to scream, cry, or punch him for saying that. But you knew he was right. 

"It was too good to be true, but at least for a moment it was perfect." You said with teary eyes.

He smiled at your words, pulled his pants back on, kissed your forehead and left.

***

A few weeks had passed since you split up. Vic and you decided to try an exclusive relationship. And partially because of that, you became a natural part of the group – attended some events, local gigs, and parties and got closer with Thomas and Damiano. You gained new friends, memories and a loving girlfriend. It was all going so well, Vic gave you the warmth you were craving and helped you to understand what a healthy relationship can look like. Of course, you were happy, but some days were rough and all you could think about was Ethan. The memories kept coming back in dreams, familiar sounds and smells. Vic understood. She wasn’t jealous, mad and never questioned your feelings for her. She was grieving too, in her own way.

From what you've heard, Ethan also became serious with Her. You wish you could say you were surprised.  You could swear that every time you saw Ethan, he was looking very sad, and distant, with his head in the clouds. Once when you kissed Vic at one party, he stormed out of the room, his new girl was chasing him, spilling her entire drink on the floor. You’ve heard some bits and pieces of conversations between Vic and the boys, who kept saying that Ethan constantly goes back to the months spent with you two. Often as funny anecdotes or whenever he was tipsy, but usually after even mentioning you he was vanishing in his room to listen to depressing songs. 

At last, January arrived, and with it Damiano's birthday. It was a surprisingly warm night, and after a long party, the boys made a big fireplace in the garden of their band house. You curled up on one sunbed with Vic, tightly wrapped in blankets. Thomas and Damiano were across from you, and Ethan with Her right beside you. The sky was clear and studded with stars. You laid there peacefully, listening to Thomas playing some soft melodies on his guitar. Ethan was gazing at the stars, and you were pretty sure that you saw tears shining in his eyes.

"God, I wish you would look at me like that." His girl suddenly spoke, making Damiano snicker. 

"Yeah, I know," Ethan replied coldly, making all four of you turn your heads towards him.

"Well, why aren't you?" She asked, her tone got a little more serious yet still remained playful.

"There are only two women I could look at like that". Vic gasped at his words, so quietly that only you could hear it.

"Come on…you mean your sisters, right?” She nervously glanced at you and Vic. Thomas stopped playing and Damiano stared at you with wide eyes.

"No," Ethan said calmly.

"Why didn't you say it's me?" She was getting more and more mad, losing control over the usual, overtly sweet tone of her voice. Ethan kept looking at the sky.

"Because I never loved you. And I never will." 

Even the crickets and owls shut up at this point. The girl made a series of noises, like a child whose toy had been stolen. She stormed off while cursing under her breath, mumbling something about wasting her time. Thomas and Damiano stood up and cleared their throats.

"We should…yeah." Damiano winked at you and dragged Thomas back inside. As soon as they disappeared, Ethan spoke.

"It's you. It's always been you. My life is so miserable without you in it." Ethan sat up and looked at you with tears rolling down his cheeks. "I've been so stupid and scared of how much I feel for both of you…"

You and Vic both stood up and walked closer to him. You sat beside him, trapping him between your bodies.

"We've all been stupid. Or maybe not stupid, just…we expected a paradise to last. Maybe it doesn't have to be perfect. 

You caressed his cheek and kissed him softly. Vic kept stroking his hair. 

“I wish I never invited her for that damn trip, I wish I understood quicker how it must've hurt you. I wanted us to be exclusive, but it was so scary. I didn’t want to lose myself and my freedom. Only when I lost you, I finally understood what I value even more.” He said, and started crying. 

You looked at Vic, her eyes were wet, she kept biting on her lip. 

“Ethan, we love you. So dearly. We never stopped.”

“Never.” Vic interrupted you and smiled. 

“Maybe we just had to grow up a little, we had to fuck up to fully commit.” You said and wrapped your arm around him.

“I want to try again…if you want it too.” He sniffled and looked at you with red eyes.

“I do, I really do.” Vic smiled more and cuddled into his side.

“I kept dreaming of this, of course I want it.” You said, feeling the hot tear rolling down your cheek.

Ethan wrapped his arms around you two, cuddling you both close to his chest. His heart was pounding fast. Ethan kissed your heads and looked up at the starts, sighing deeply.

"We don't need this to be perfect. We have each other, and as long as we do, it will always be good enough.”

********

tåglist: @thewitchinthemountain @8iunie @tempobrucera @coven-daddy @bethanysnow @writingmaneskin  @blackberryblossom @hiraetheral @theimpossiblehologramtree @ilwiwbysmv @weareoddlydrawn @jrj2 @bieberhoodforever @chesirecatt @que--sera--sera @iamtashaquinn @butkutee @ohdamiano @stardustingold @woahzz11 @cuzimitaliano @thegeminisgirl @bisexual-babygirl-mj @maneslut  @eliseline @dpaccione @xweirdxsceletton @agentreid2 @roisinlove123 @vicdeangelis @ohladymoon @ykaaarus @androgynouscloudenemy   @lovelyy-moonlight @anaislfbv @DarcyMåneWinx @esposadomd @chiaraxtargaryen @flowerfeastrry @mandy-bo-bandy @itsbearss @woddiemmi @sournatromanoff @lavendernlemons

#maneskin #måneskin #ethan torchio #victoria de angelis #maneskin fiction #maneskin writing #polyamorous fiction #maneskin smut #maneskin imagine #maneskin angst #ethan torchio imagine #victoria de angelis imagine #ethan torchio smut #ethan torchio angst #vic de angelis smut #vic de angelis angst #my writing #shattered #maneskin polyamory #ethan torchio x reader #vic de angelis x reader

[tothepointofinsanity]

how much planning do you give your art pieces? do you play out the composition by ear or is there a lot of iteration involved?

Ah, hello. I usually do the planning in my head. The clearer the mental image of it is, of the final outcome, the less time I would need to spend on drawing itself since the composition is set. At some point I became less preoccupied with tidiness and the feel of the piece, and I find that being familiar with the “shape” of what you want to draw in mind and using an entire chunk of singular colour makes it easier to visualise the end product.

The exceptions are when I am handling a particularly important piece, such as a previously drawn Valentines Day illustration, and even that was more weighted on colours than the sketch because I was emulating my companion’s art style. Sketching out the composition always helps, but I honestly don’t do it often - I more or less just outline things. I directly colour onto my sketches to achieve a certain effect and experiment with how colour goes. For my monochromatic pieces, I just like shading blocks to fill up the otherwise empty space of the canvas.

Here is a timelapse of a recent drawing, where the hardest part of it was deciding how to make Sayaka Miki smile. The hand itself is just a giant chunk of colour made comprehensible by cleaning and shaping it.

As always, I’m only an amateur at what I do, so this purely accounts for my own experience. <- Plenty of people plan their works and revise them on canvas, but unless it’s for something truly important that calls for attention to detail, I otherwise practice it in my mental space.

Thank you for the ask, and I hope it made sense. U_U

#ASKS 💌

[midorisudachi]

“The Inquisitor And Her Commander”

As some of you may have noticed, I am a huge fan of the Dragon Age games, especially Dragon Age Inquisition. Last year, I had planned on drawing all the main [playable] characters up until Dragon Age Day (which took place on December 4th), but I just didn’t have time to draw more than three characters (the Inquisitor, Solas, & Varric…please check them out in my gallery) due to being busy with work and other things. I’ll eventually draw the other characters when I gather more motivation to do so.

For now, please enjoy this piece. I hope everybody likes this. I worked very hard on this artwork. It took longer than usual to create, due to all the small details, the poses, & the armour. (Armour is not easy to draw for me!) For those of you who are DAI fans, you may recognize the flowers: Crystal Grace on the bottom and Andraste’s Grace on the top. I know Andraste’s Grace is not in DAI, but I thought it would be pretty to add to the artwork (since it technically exists in the Thedas world).

 My OC Inquisitor is named Bryony Trevelyan. She is actually my 2nd Inquisitor character, the first one having been an elf (which I may draw someday). I had been playing DAI for the 3rd time, a few months ago, as a male character (since I wanted him to be in a romance with Dorian, so yes, my male Inquisitor is gay), but I stopped for a bit since I am playing Skyrim at the moment (with updates & mods). Anyway, back on the main subject: I drew Inquisitor Bryony Trevelyan in the Armor of the Dragon Hunter outfit (from the Jaws of Hakkon DLC), which I had altered the colours by tinting it with Veil Quartz. I based her crown from concept art for DAI. So much armour in the game! Which I love, especially since the DA games don’t give female characters the stereotypical skimpy outfits…I love that I get to make my female characters wear bad-ass armour.

Cullen Rutherford is such an adorable and slightly awkward character around my Inquisitor. I knew I had to romance him right away, because his looks are the type of man I am attracted to in real life. (I’m not going to lie…in the game, he’s hot for a video game character. Ha ha!) I’ve always enjoyed the flirting in the DA games when it comes to the relationships. The best scene was right before their first kiss, when Cullen got interrupted by a member of the Inquisition, and then got mad about it. Ha ha. I liked when my Inquisitor asked Cullen, “The day you kissed me on the battlements…how long had you wanted to do that?” And Cullen replied (with a laugh), “Longer that I should admit.” Awwwww.

I also liked the part in the Winter Palace, when all these people were flirting with Cullen, and one asked him, “Are you married, Commander?” And Cullen replied, “Not yet, but I am…already taken.” Double awwww, because a loyal man is so dreamy. :3 I actually had Bryony & Cullen get married in the last DLC. :3 They adopt a Mabari (dog), too!

I love DAI too much. :D It’s such a fun game with the most gorgeous graphics (especially on the Xbox Series X).

Drawn with Sakura Pigma Micron pens, then coloured in with a mixture of Copic Markers & Ohuhu Markers. I used Koi Watercolours for the background. White accents done with both a gel pen and white watercolour. Gold acrylic was used for the Inquisition Symbol & the lines, which the scanner absolutely murders...the gold is such a pretty, shimmery metallic in real life. The light green around my art was done in Photoshop Elements.

Dragon Age Inquisition © Bioware & Electronic Arts

Fan artwork © Jacqueline E. McNeese

#dragon age inquisition #dragon age #dragon age fan art #dragon age inquisition fan art #dragon age inquisitor #da inquisitor #inquisitor trevelyan #dragon age trevelyan #cullen rutherford #cullen rutherford fan art #inquisitor x cullen #dragon age romances #crystal grace #andrastes grace #my fanart #copic markers #ohuhu markers #traditonal art #bioware #dai #electronic arts

[striderl]

I have a general art-related question, if that's okay. I admire how _quickly_ you seem to be able to produce art -- whenever someone sends you a character-based ask, you seem to always answer it with a nice little picture (not just a scribble or something) with lineart and often colouring too! Do you have any advice for acquiring art stamina like that? I used to enjoy drawing, but got burnt out on it because every piece felt like so much WORK and it drained the enjoyment for me. I absolutely could not match the output you do!

Thanks for the compliment, lensman! Your drawings are equally cool too! I'm engrossed in the textures especially. And yes, sometimes I’m even amazed by the many asks I’m able to answer in a single week. Usually, I answer them within 3 days, in rare occasions, it may take me 2 weeks or so to answer them.

As for insights, there you go.

#1: Practice is the key. To not get art block, you need to be constantly practicing, like doing scribbles on your sketchbook when you have time. It can be anything, from basic shapes to “whatever you can spy with your little eye”. Also, improve your speed while doing it, and limit your time to finish an acceptable rough draft, so you won’t lose the motivation to finish the entire drawing.

#2: Mastery. READ THE MANUAL AND INSTRUCTION of whatever platform you are using to make art, and master the tools, so you won’t drag on too long on a single project. Personally, I use a mixture of Procreate and ibisPaint X to make art and comics. And the skills don’t come for free, you need to constantly learn new features in order to keep up the pace and limit the time you spend on each project. Honestly, I think I spend more time on Youtube, Pinterest, and Instagram scavenging art tips and resources than doing other things with them. The result is rather rewarding, the knowledge I gained about the color wheel, anatomy, and platform features like multiply and overlay are really helpful.

#3: Reference. I always have available anatomy or art references on my side, usually from Pinterest, so I don’t need to waste time speculating what the result would look like. I also collect references I’m interested in whenever I have time, so I’m well prepared whenever I want to start a new project.

If you want to check it out, this is the cover I made for Foley’s playlist, which I finished within 3 hours.

#4: Motivation. You need to truly enjoy the process of producing art in order to not get an art block. I think I never get a single art block period so far. Why? It’s the only way I get to relieve my anxiety. College can be really harsh sometimes, I have a really small social circle, and on top of that I need to deal with stress which most of my peers don’t even need to worry about, like managing an apartment, doing accounting on my own, taking care of electric bills, and more. What’s worse is that people can be massive suckers sometimes, and I just turned 18 a few months ago. I know I can’t just throw a tantrum or jump off a building whenever I feel stressed, so I just move on and focus my attention on doing better in art. If people want to insult me, I just insult them back with my talent.

Also, I mentioned this in my reblog to your Skibidi Toilet anniversary post. My parents don’t approve of me doing art like this, because it’s “unrealistic” and basically “useless”, I just want some space where I can express my creativity. Ironically, defiance can be a motivation sometimes.

Plus, I just purely enjoy the feeling of sitting in my room, listening to my favorite playlist, and sipping on a cup of hazelnut matcha, while doing art. And I always, ALWAYS appreciate people putting comments in their reblogs, it’s like an accomplishment, and it shows that people really check out my content and READ IT, instead of “wow, cool art”.

If I don't feel like doing art, I'll just go for a 5 miles run instead. Physical health is still important : }

#Ask #lensman-arms-race #Art advice

[i-am-the-avatar-of-idiocy]

i hope u are having a nice day! can i request reaction of the brothers when MC does a painting of them?

I’m having a great day thanks! I hope you are too!

part 1- brother. Part 2- side characters

Brothers reaction to MC’s painting of them

Lucifer

He was impressed when he saw a semi-realistic bust of him on a canvas in your room on an easel

it was incredible, the colours melting together and a stunning blend between colours

he saw you asleep on your bed too- clearly painting that was taxing on you

he thinks it’s amazing and that you should receive recognition for your art

he tells you that it is incredible when you wake up, and gives you a snack and glass of water

He asks to have it, and if you say yes he will put it on his wall, and he takes lots of pride in it

Mammon

Mammon barges into your room in the early hours of the morning and sees you slumped over

he thinks you might be asleep, so he creeps to you but you call out his name and ask him why he’s being quiet for once

he blushes at that but somehow chokes out a snarky response

he then sees you putting brushstrokes on a canvas, the tone of his smooth skin in the light on your brush

you blend it onto his cheek, completing the illusion of flesh

but then after a moment of shocked silence at your skill

he stutters out ‘of- of course you’d want to draw the Great Mammon’

you giggle at this and tell him it’s his, for free

His face lights up and he tells you you are talented for a human

Leviathan

He wakes up from a night in your room watching anime to see you putting colour onto a portrait of him

he is in awe, and sits watching you for a while

he has never felt as beautiful as he did in that moment

he usually thinks himself as ugly, but in this… he is stunning. Is this how you see him?

his face is red at the thought that someone like you views him in the way you paint it

he cracks a smile and tells you that ‘it’s amazing. But I’d expect no less of my Henry’

he loves it and admired it often, especially when he is in a rut of self-hate

Satan

He compliments you when you present it to him

‘I must say this is an excellent piece of me, I’m impressed MC. You’re incredibly talented’

this is said with a growing grin on his face

he seems so different to the sketch of lucifer you did. You only drew him, does that mean you value him more. Unlike some of the others

he is enamoured by the colour choice and how you make him look ethereal

Asmodeus

He squeals in delight at the sight of a painting of a photo he posted to his devilgram

’MC! You never told me you were an artist! I swear you are the only one who can capture my beauty in all its glory!’

he will hang it up in an elaborate frame and boast to those he meets in there

and the brothers that you chose to paint him

he will constantly compliment your skills and commission you

he also finds it therapeutic to watch you paint, and could watch for hours on end

Beelzebub

Beel thinks it’s amazing, being stoic as he is, you didn’t expect as big of a reaction as you got

he dropped his food, his mouth fell open and his eyes opened

‘you drew that? Of me? Oh my Diavolo MC that’s beautiful’

he usually doesn’t speak so emotionally, but hey what he’s saying is good so you’ll take it!

he will ask to see your over pieces!

he thinks you can be a professional and takes a photo to post to his Devilgram, and to show his fangol team

Belphegor

When he falls asleep, you take out a pad and begin to sketch his calm face

you would do it when he’s awake but he always looks so… menacing when he’s awake

You occasionally glance up to him as you block in colours and begin to render (I don’t know if that’s the term for on like real paint because I do mainly digital now)

when his eyes flutter awake, he sees you with your tongue slightly protruding from your lips and putting a white brush stroke on the book

he asks to see it when you put the brush down

you gladly oblige, happy with your work

he seems amazed, but he is still tired so he lets out a drawl of

’that’s amazing, but… I’m still tired’

you know what he wants as stretches an arm so you crawl under it and fall asleep beside him

(lmao imagine the brothers reactions to MC drinking paint water. You can deny it but we’ve all done it)

#obey me shall we date #obey me #omswd #obey me lucifer #obey me x reader #obey me headcanons #obey me mammon #obey me satan #mammon x reader #obey me headcanon #obey me beelzebub #obey me imagines #obey me leviathan #obey me lucifer x reader #obey me satan x reader smut #obey me scenarios #obey me! #obey me brothers #obey me swd #lucifer x reader #obey me leviathan x reader #mammon #mammon avatar of greed #obey me mammon x reader #obey me leviathan x mc #Leviathan #leviathan x reader #satan #satan x reader #asmodeus x reader

[spxllcxstxr]

Black Sheep • Bridgerton!Sibling

(Gif not mine)

Request: Maybe an angsty bridgerton sibling one where she's forgotten about a lot and they realise they don't even know her favourite colour or whatever, maybe they realise when playing a game and so she gets upset —anon

Summary: Your siblings finally take an interest in you

Warnings: fem!reader, kinda angsty??? Sibling stuff lmao

Word Count: 1.1k

A.N: uhhhh I’m hoping this is good lmao, fingers crossed, still shaky in writing Bridgerton I guess

•

The parlor was empty, besides you at the piano forte, and quite, besides the ticking of the grandfather clock on the other side of the room and the scratching of your pen on the parchment in front of you. Faintly, you hum out the tune of your new piano forte piece, something you’ve been composing for quite some time. It was a solemn piece, longing for a deep understanding and love from someone who cared. A reflection of yourself.

One would think that your love of the arts would bring you closer to your brother Benedict or maybe Eloise since she enjoyed hiding away from the insufferable balls and social gatherings you were forced to go to as “proper ladies.” But you weren’t. Benedict, Colin, and Eloise drifted towards each other like Anthony and Daphne. And while you loved your younger siblings, the bond the three of them had was something you couldn’t impose on. Though you were the twin of the diamond of the season herself, you two were polar opposites. 

All eyes were on her this season, though to be quite honest, all eyes were on Daphne since the day she was born.

“Sister dear, why on earth have you been at the piano for so long?” Benedict asks, strutting through the threshold, sketchbook in hand, before lounging in the couch on the other side of the room.

You glance up from your work, Benedict already engrossed in his drawing. His tongue resides in the corner of his pursed lips, brows furrowed in concentration as his hand run furiously across his paper.

Deciding he doesn’t actually care, you go back to scribbling notes and pressing certain keys. If it was bothering Benedict, he didn’t say anything.

Lost in both thought and the flow of the music, you don’t notice the rest of your siblings filtering into the room, no matter how loud Gregory and Hyacinth were.

“Do you not have anything better to do, (Y/n)?”

You pull your focus from your work and instead settle on your brothers, playing chess to pass the time. With one glance you can tell Anthony is winning, though Colin was never that hard to beat in the first place. He was too passive.

“Perhaps suitors to entertain…” Colin starts, eyebrows quirked in curiosity, though he knows no one has approached you in months despite your status.

“…or friends to write to…” Eloise snickers from behind her book. Benedict tries to hide his own laughter with a cough.

“And yet you are still sitting at that blasted piano forte,” Anthony scoffs, moving a pawn on the board in front of him.

“A proper lady must know how to play an instrument,” Daphne points out, sitting with perfect posture in her seat.

“That may be true, sister mine,” Anthony continues, “but (Y/n) has been there for far too long. A proper lady must do something else with her time,”

The ivory keys are smooth to the touch offering you comfort as your family turns their eyes to you. There has never been so many deep brown irises focused on you at once. Even your younger siblings pause their fighting to stare at you. Your corset suddenly feels more restricted than usual, the pins in your hair tugging harshly at your scalp, heels digging into your skin. The attention is unnerving.

“I am composing a piece,” You swallow nervously. “If you must know my every move,”

Benedict perks up at your admission, his artwork abandoned.

“You compose?” He asks, eyes lighting up. Artist recognizing another artist.

Your siblings gape in shock, making the hair on the back of your neck stand straight up.

“I—I have for years, Benedict, did you not know?”

Time passes, you squirm in your seat. The hardwood digs into your thighs and they ache.

“Of course you did not,” At the accusation, you stand up, gathering your materials, done with being in the parlor. “None of you know the first thing about me, never notice me unless it is necessary for your reputation or if mother tells you to,”

“(Y/n), that is not true—“ Daphne sweetens her tone as she stands from her seat. Her heels click against the floorboards, approaching you with her hand out.

“Oh be quiet, Daphne,” You scoff. “It makes perfect sense why you all do not care, I am not the diamond of the season nor am I the apple of someone’s eye,” This confession has your chest tightening and your face heating up, though you feel as if you can’t stop it.

The chess game is abandoned and your twin steps back.

“Francesca, Gregory, Hyacinth, go play outside,” Daphne tells the younger three, wide eyes never leaving your own.

“But—“

“Do as your sister says,” Anthony interrupts your younger brother.

The children hurry out of the room, though you know that they certainly didn’t go outside. They’re Bridgertons, meaning they’re snooping around trying to overhear the conversation.

“It does not matter that you are not the diamond,” Colin states, standing between the eldest Bridgerton brothers.

“Oh yes, all the attention was on Daphne way before that fateful day, was it not?” Your bottom lip trembles, everything tumbling out right then and there in front of everyone. The paper in your hand crinkles.

Anthony’s face is screwed up in confusion, as is Daphne’s.

“Is that truly how you feel, (Y/n)?” Daphne sounds broken-hearted, her lips pull down into a delicate frown.

“I am not just in your shadow, Daphne, I am in everyone’s,” Clutching your papers, you continue to vent to your siblings. “I do not need attention from everyone all the time, but I wish to not be forgotten by everyone, especially my own siblings.”

“I did not realize, (Y/n),” Eloise speaks up, daring to shuffle closer to you, eyes shining with tears in the afternoon sun coming in through the windows. “I genuinely apologize for not seeing this sooner; for not seeing you sooner,”

“It is okay—“

“It is not okay, (Y/n),” Anthony cuts in, stepping up behind his sister, a scowl twisted upon his face. It is not for you, however, it’s for himself. “We are your family and yet we have not acted like it as of late,”

You sniff, tears threatening to pour over. This was all you ever wanted. An apology, a promise to do better. A real spot in the family.

Colin runs a hand through his short hair and Daphne places a soft hand on top of yours. They agree that they will be better starting today.

“So this composition,” Benedict lightly starts, nodding to the wrinkled paper between your fingers. “What is it like?”

“We’ll it isn’t finished,” You smile at the interest, taking in the bright faces of your siblings. Comfort floods through your body, no longer do their stares fill you with uneasiness. “Though I believe it will have quite the happy resolution,”

•

#Bridgerton #bridgerton x reader #Bridgerton x sister reader #Bridgerton x sister!reader #Bridgerton x sibling reader #Bridgerton x sibling!reader #Anthony Bridgerton x reader #Benedict Bridgerton x reader #Bridgerton fic #Bridgerton angst #Bridgerton fluff

[solarishashernoseinabook]

HELLO HUSBAND MY BELOVED!

Can I get a Haltine treat please?

Have yet another lil ficlet featuring autistic!halt!

And make sure you check out Angel's accompanying art piece!

~

Pauline hummed quietly to herself as she pinned her hair in place. She wore a blue dress today instead of her usual white, and she had added a simple pendant to the ensemble: a colourful riverstone carved and polished to a shine and set on a delicate chain. She wasn’t going anywhere fancy tonight, but that didn’t mean she didn’t want to look nice. Gilan had requested help on a small matter in Merric, so Halt had sent Will along to deal with it. With the cabin empty, Halt had asked Pauline if she would like to join him for dinner. His letter had tried to make it seem like this was simply a matter of using up leftovers, but Pauline knew he was lonely. She and Halt had been spending a lot of time together over the past few months, which Pauline had found extremely pleasant. Halt was still quiet, but it was a comfortable silence; they had learned to anticipate each others’ needs; and, perhaps best of all, Halt had become more comfortable fidgeting around her. Pauline found herself relishing the time they spent together, and missing Halt keenly when they were apart.

When she was ready, Pauline swung her cloak over her shoulders and set off for Halt’s cabin. It was a pleasant evening, and she decided to walk instead of take a horse. Abelard whinnied when she got close, and she paused at the door of the stable to smile at him and scratch his nose.

She also took a discreet look in the compost barrel, just visible around the corner of the house, and smiled to herself. It held feathers from a freshly-plucked partridge and vegetable peels – Halt had cooked something fresh for her instead of using up leftovers. That was very like him, she reflected. Halt opened the door for her and Pauline drew herself away from Abelard to step onto the veranda. Halt took her hand and kissed it gently, and Pauline smiled warmly at him. ‘It’s lovely to see you again, Halt.’ ‘And you, Pauline. The food’s warm, I’m just waiting on coffee now.’ Pauline followed him to the small kitchen and took out some bowls, ladling stew into them. ‘Why don’t we eat on the veranda? It’s a lovely night, and this time of year I’m stuck inside all day.’ Halt nodded and put the dishes and coffee on a wooden platter, then went outside with her. ‘You’ve got a new crop of apprentices, right? How are they?’ ‘Oh, they’re quite fine, progressing nicely. All except for one young man – he doesn’t seem willing to use diplomacy when sneaking around would do instead.’ Pauline sighed softly. ‘I’m not sure he’s suited to Courier work.’ ‘You could send him over to the Ranger Corps,’ Halt said. Pauline smiled. ‘Oh? Volunteering to take on another apprentice, are you, Halt?’ ‘Oh gods no,’ Halt scoffed. ‘With how much of a pain in the neck Will’s been, I’m going to need a break.’ Pauline laughed. She knew, despite Halt’s gruff façade, that he would miss Will terribly. ‘Perhaps Gilan will be interested in taking an apprentice.’ ‘I could ask him for you,’ Halt offered. Pauline settled back in her chair, cradling her coffee mug in her hands. ‘Yes please, thank you.’ Halt set aside his empty bowl and topped up his coffee, then offered the kettle to her. Pauline shook her head. ‘If I have much more, I won’t be able to sleep.’ Halt put the kettle back down. He seemed to be gazing at her – no, she realised, at her pendant. She put her coffee down and unclasped it, handing it over. He accepted it and tilted it, catching the last rays of the day’s light and watching the faceted face sparkle. Pauline smiled, leaning her elbow against the arm of her chair and resting her chin on her fist. This was a side of himself Halt rarely showed, and the sight of his calm face and small smile warmed her heart. Before realising it, she spoke. ‘Why have we put it off for so long?’ ‘Hm?’ Halt looked up at her. ‘Us,’ Pauline said softly. ‘A relationship.’ After a moment, Halt shrugged. ‘Seemed like there was too much else we had to attend to.’ ‘It did,’ Pauline said, ‘but we don’t have to any longer.’ She reached across and took his weathered hand. ‘Halt, I’ve loved you for twenty years. These last few months have been perfect – and I don’t want them to end. I want to marry you.’ Pauline registered the look of momentary surprise before Halt quickly masked it. ‘You could do better than me.’ ‘No, I really don’t think I could,’ Pauline said. Halt smiled slowly. ‘Then I suppose I should say yes before you change your mind.’

#asks #ra #rangers apprentice #halt o'carrick #pauline dulacy #autistic!halt #trick or treat fic fest 2k23

[skelobun]

I wanna be yours (pt 4)

Ellie x overachiever/artsy!reader

Summary: You have always “hated” Ellie, but that seems to be changing now…

Part 3 Part 5

Not proof read, tell me if you find mistakes

As you go to Ellie’s house again, you can’t help but notice how you on keep thinking about her.

You already thought about her plenty, but this time was different…

It felt different..

It felt…nice? To say the least.

You didn’t know what it was, but it felt fluffy.

You finally made it to Ellie’s house, you do your normal routine.

You walk in, greet Joel, then greet Ellie and then go in the garage to paint.

Today, Ellie seemed more talkative with you.

[Bold means Ellie is speaking]

“Hey, your art is.. looking great” she said, sounding a little shy.

“The way you say that makes it sound like it’s actually bad” you say, obviously joking.

“No! No! I was just.. uh..” she seems nervous.

“Hey, you ok? You seem a little.. scared?”

“Nah, I’m good, just worried about.. the project you know?”

“Yeah, I know what you mean, don’t worry, you’ll do great, your art looks great”

Ellie chuckles, her face glows as she smiles. Her smile was something you always seem to have admired.

“You seem so soft, what’s goin’ on with you, hm?”

“Oh come on, I’m just trying to be nice here, would you rather me be mean?”

“No, I like this version of you better”

“You seem to be hating me less, too, so thanks”

Ellie looks at you confused.

“Hate you? What do you.. I never hated you?”

You look at her, confused. As you put your paint brush down, you continue to look at her.

“Wait.. you actually hated me? I thought we were, I don’t know.. just joking around, or somethin’?”

“We don’t hate each other?”

“No? I think?”

You stay silent, picking up your paintbrush again and continuing to paint.

“Y/N”

“Hmm?”

“Do you remember when we had that math test a few months back, and you got 95% and I got 90%?”

“Yeah? Why?”

“I actually got a 98% on that test”

“Why’d you lie? And why bring this up now?”

“I just want you to know something Y/N, I’ve never actually hated you. I lied that day because I wanted to see you smile. The smile that I’ve admired all these years”

You look at her, still staying silent.

“I’m bringing this up now Y/N because I don’t want you to think I actually hated you..”

[October, 14th]

“Y/N, here’s your test, and Ellie here’s yours” your math teacher tells you, placing a piece of paper on your desk.

You turn your paper around to see a 95% written in red marker.

Ellie asks you “what’d you get?”

“A 95%” you say with an overly confident tone.

Ellie groans and says “shit, I got a 90%..”

You smile and then silently cheer to yourself, proud that you got a higher mark than Ellie.

[Now]

As you leave Ellie’s house, you start to feel bad.

Ellie never hated you.

Dina was right about Ellie.

Ellie was never against you, but you just assumed she was because of the way she acted around you. You feel the need to apologize to her.

You walk into your room and grab your phone to call her.

“Hey, Ellie”

“Hey”

“We’re good right? I’m sorry if earlier was uncomfortable for you”

“Nah, don’t worry ‘bout it, it just caught me off guard, don’t worry”

You laugh from relief when you hear this.

“Ok, thanks, just making sure, bye”

You hang up the phone.

Maybe you should’ve waited for Ellie to say bye back, but you felt so awkward.

You sighed before changing into your pyjamas and laying in bed.

[at school the next morning]

You and Ellie have finally finished your art projects.

Ellie’s portrait of you is so detailed, it’s insane.

She captured details of your face that you’ve never even noticed on yourself…

The attention to detail and the colours are just so beautiful… you admire everything she’s done.

Your teacher calls you two up to her desk after class, she had given you both an A+, which had made you feel proud.

“Y/N, you did amazing as usual! You too Ellie! Keep up the great work you two, I knew it wasn’t a mistake to partner you two up together!”

You smile at your teacher and then smile at Ellie, but when you do this, she looks away. You feel your smile fade away quickly as you notice this.

You leave the classroom, trying not to overthink what just happened.

As you walk into your next class, you can’t help but think if what you told Ellie yesterday might’ve caused her to act like this.

This class is the only one Ellie isn’t in. Usually you’d be so happy that she isn’t in this class, but this time you want her to be there with you. You take your seat and listen to your teacher for the next hour.

When you get to your next class you see Ellie talking to Dina. You walk up to her and she notices.

You smile at her and she gives a small smile.

“Hey” you say, still smiling at her.

“Hey”

“You ok?”

“Yeah, don’t worry”

Ellie turns around and walks to your guys’ next class. You follow her and sit right beside her in class.

She seems to notice this and even though she tries to hide it, you notice her warm smile appear back on her face.

[after school]

You hear the doorbell ring.

You weren’t expecting anyone and it was way too early for your mom to come home.

So you run downstairs from your room and open the door. Although, when you open it you see someone you didn’t expect to see.

Ellie.

“Ellie? What’re you doing here..?” You ask in confusion.

She opens her mouth as if she’s trying to say something, but then she hesitates and you see her cheeks slightly go red.

“I’m so sorry that I was being off earlier.. I was just thinking a lot, y’know?” She says, looking down, not wanting to look in your eyes.

“Hey, it’s ok, don’t worry!” You say with a smile.

“Do you want to come in? To maybe talk about it?” You move out the way as a way of telling her to come in.

She nods and walks inside.

She removed her shoes and you tell her to follow you to the kitchen. She sits down on a chair that was tucked into the dining table.

“Do you want some tea or anything? I don’t really have any food to give you…” you joke, trying to lighten the mood.

“It’s fine..” she says, sounding upset.

You sit down on the chair in front of her.

“You wanna talk about something? You seem so upset..” you ask her.

Ellie’s head is still lowered, as if she is unable to look at you.

“Ellie?” You say to get her attention.

She seems so off.

“Hey, Ellie?” You repeat yourself.

She looks at you, she seems to be tearing up now.

Even though she’s not talking, you know she’s upset.

Ellie rests her face in her hands and starts crying. You never expected Ellie to come to you for comfort, but you don’t mind it.

You rub her back in an attempt to comfort her.

“Do you wanna talk about it?” You ask her.

She nods no and stops crying.

“Sorry.. I didn’t come here to cry.. I just..” she pauses, it’s obvious she has something bothering her, but she just doesn’t want to talk about it.

“Hey.. how about we watch a movie or something? Maybe that can cheer you up?” You offer Ellie and she nods.

You smile and guide her to your living room.

She sits on the couch and you grab the remote to turn on the TV.

You two decide to watch Jurassic World together, you put this movie on knowing that Ellie is a big fan of dinosaurs. The only reason you knew this is because Ellie has dinosaur pins on her backpack and when you went over to her house you saw multiple books on dinosaurs placed around her garage.

During the movie Ellie tells you facts about the different dinosaurs that are appearing on the screen.

“I didn’t know you liked dinosaurs this much!” You laugh when she tells you a fact about the triceratops on screen.

She rolls her eyes jokingly.

“I’ve loved dinosaurs ever since I was a kid!” She exclaims.

“For my birthday Joel brought me to a museum and I saw a bunch of dinosaurs! It was great!” She says, smiling brightly.

“Oh! Oh! And there was even a whole exhibit on space! I loved that part” the more the speaks the more happier she looks. You’ve never seen someone look so happy while talking about something.

She looks so beautiful when she’s excited like this.

Your thoughts about how beautiful she is causes you to blush slightly.

Ellie notices this and her face blushes as well as she smiles. She doesn’t point it out, but you know she notices it.

You both continue to watch the movie, watching in comforting silence.

You check the time, it’s 8:45 PM and the movie had ended. You didn’t realize it, but halfway through the movie Ellie had fallen asleep and she was leaning on your shoulder.

You go to tell Ellie something before realizing that she was on your shoulder, fast asleep.

You don’t want to wake her up, so you stand as still as you can. You feel your face heat up and your palms start sweating.

She looks so peaceful when she’s fast asleep. You can’t help but smile as you look at her.

You’re glad to see her like this, especially after she was crying almost two hours ago.

You lean your head on hers, still smiling. As you do this, you shut your eyes and drift off to sleep with her.

___________

Making at least 1-2 more parts!! This is a little shorter than the other parts

#ellie williams #ellie williams fic #ellie williams headcanons #ellie williams x fem!reader #ellie williams x female reader #ellie williams x reader #ellie x reader #lesbian #the last of us #the last of us fic #ellie williams fanfiction #ellie williams x y/n #ellie williams x you