#anywho. shutting up now going to finish my assignment.

[neocitybooty]

I Choose You. [M]

Genre: Smut, Office AU, Multiple Partners, Fluff, Angst, M/F

Pairing: Jaehyun x Johnny x Original Character

Word Count: 2.6k 

Warnings: Oral sex, Sub/Dom dynamics, bodily fluids, masturbation, vulgar language, choking, rough sex, multiple partners, unprotected sex

Summary: Carmella requested a transfer within her company and moved to the other side of the world. She soon realizes she bit off more than she can chew once she starts working at the home branch...

A/N: Okay, I was def supposed to post this like last week ;__ ; But it's okay, it is here now! I’ve been really sick these last few days and I am happy to be doing better. I’m pretty sure it was the flu. Took me out for FIVE days. Oh my LORD. Also, has anyone watched Dear M? I watched it and I have a lot to say but I'll keep it to myself cuz I don’t want to put out any spoilers just yet. I also think y’all need some more time hehehe. But anywho, please enjoy this first chapter! I appreciate you all for reading and I hope you enjoy the roller coaster that is this story. Swear to God, you will hate someone by the time we finish. Hopefully it’s not me ;_____ ; 

Chapter 1

Come into my office in about thirty minutes. Alone. And get rid of that underwear.

Mela stared at her screen. Her boss was absolutely insane. A pain in her side. Her ass. Every part of her body.

Your request isn’t appropriate.

They never were.

I don’t recall asking if it was.

Mela’s heart momentarily stopped as her brain scattered to formulate some type of excuse. In the end, she had nothing. And she knew he wouldn’t ask again.

My apologies. Sure thing.

“Mela, please prepare the spreadsheets for the end of day meeting.” Ju-Ri said, not even looking at Mela but continuing to walk through the food court to get to the lobby. Her heels clacking as she hurried off.

Mela slightly dipped her head to bow and then she shut her MacBook. The work culture at this job was going to be the end of her. She couldn’t even get through a thirty-minute lunch break (that was very late) without being summoned and/or assigned a new task. And she already worked well over eight hours every day. It was becoming exhausting.

A whistle hit Mela’s ears and she turned around, in search of the source.

Jeong Jaehyun.

“What a pleasant surprise.” His smooth and deep voice nearly put Mela into a trance. “I was wondering why you weren’t in your office. You’re not trying to keep your distance from me, are you?” Jaehyun was slowly approaching Mela’s table as the nearby employees scrambled to grab their belongings and scurry away.

“No, I am taking a lunch break. If I can even call it that.” Mela scoffed.

“You’re taking your lunch break and I didn’t even get a lunch today. Oh, you’re quite the secretary.” Jaehyun laughed as he pulled up a chair and sat too close to Mela for her liking.

“Your lunch is catered to you every day, you’re being unreasonable.” Mela started packing up her lunch. She now had fifteen minutes to prepare spreadsheets for the biggest meeting of the day and then she was to rush to meet with, once again, the manchild that is her boss.

Jaehyun put a hand on her arm to stop her. “I’m not being unreasonable. I’m being serious.” He tugged at Mela’s arm, signaling her to face him. “I’m hungry and I want what you’re eating. Feed me with your spoon.”

Ain’t no way. Mela thought to herself. Jaehyun was the most interesting character she had ever met in her entire life. This wasn’t meant to be a compliment, by any means.

Jeong Jaehyun was twenty-six years old and the only son of the CEO of one of the biggest communications companies in the country. Being the only child, he was next in line to take over, once his father retired. He graduated at the top of his class from both high school and college campuses, spoke multiple languages, and was a highly skilled pianist. There was no record of him ever dating anyone and he kept his private life out of the limelight. To the untrained eye, he was the most eligible bachelor of their generation. But to Mela, the unlucky secretary that was assigned to him, Jaehyun was the worst thing to ever happen since One Direction’s disbandment.  

Jaehyun was attractive, confident, and spoiled. The worst combination. Mela replayed their first meeting at least once a day.

7 months ago

“Miss Jones, you will be working with Mr. Jeong. You are to report directly to him and accompany him on all business trips.” The older woman said to Mela on her first day. At least that is what Mela believed she said. She skipped out on one too many Hangul classes and in result she had a difficult time understanding and reading numerous verbs and more. But it wasn’t a cause for concern. She was to continue studying while in the company and Jaehyun was fluent in English after spending four years in America. There were also other employees, like Ju-Ri for example, who spoke English as well.

Jaehyun looked at Mela, scanning her from head to toe. His eyes showed an extraordinarily high level of interest and the corners of his mouth tugged upwards, forming a soft smirk.

“Carmella Cindy Mae Jones.” Jaehyun said in a low voice, once he was left alone in his office with his newly hired secretary.

Who also happened to be the most beautiful woman he had ever laid eyes on. Lucky him.

She was breathtaking. She had big, brown eyes and dark, long curly eye lashes. Her long, black, hair was very thick and full, resembling black wool. Her skin was smooth and porcelain-like except the color was closer to a dark copper. Jaehyun didn’t know how to properly describe her. She was truly a type of beauty that needed to be seen in order to be understood. He was certain that if she stood in the sun, she would glow. A dimple formed on her right cheek as she smiled and it drew attention to the small mole on the top of her lip.

Jaehyun couldn’t help but notice all of the details that made her. She was his for the taking, after all.

“Yes, but you can call me Mela.” Mela’s voice sounded like heaven to Jaehyun’s ears.  

He walked towards Mela, closing in on the space between them and leaned over so that he was next to her ear.

Mela felt her body freeze as she inhaled his cologne. It smelled expensive and made her heat up in her sensitive area.

“I’m hoping you will enjoy this as much as I will.” He said before standing straight again and walking over to his desk.

Mela stood speechless.

“Oh, you can take the rest of the day off. I’ll be seeing you bright and early tomorrow morning. Use this free time to make sure your wardrobe is to my liking, will you? See Ju-Ri for your personal black card on your way out and make sure to check your email. The handbook was sent there.” He then sat and immediately started typing.

“Uh ok, bye!” Mela awkwardly bowed and exited Jaehyun’s office.

Jaehyun chuckled after the door shut.

She was so cute.

Present day

“Sorry I’m a bit late. I had to do some last minute revising. It was-“

“You always have an excuse for everything.” Jaehyun cut her off as he waved his hand away to dismiss her statement.

His suit jacket was off and his shirt was unbuttoned to mid chest, with his sleeves rolled up. His tie was loosened and would probably come off soon. Finally, he held a glass of whiskey in his hand, indication that his day had been hard.

“Tell me Mela, has it ever occurred to you that maybe I care more about you showing up and not so much about the timing?”  He set down his drink and sat on the edge of his desk.

“With all due respect, if I decided to not finish my task, you’d only penalize me for it later.”

Mela’s first few months were complete hell. There were many days in which she regretted asking for the transfer from New York to Seoul. She was surprised they even accepted her. She was a high performer at her former location but that was to their standard. Now she was essentially a rookie at headquarters. She caused a stir when she miswrote a staff memo and confused the word “fuck” with a number during a morning announcement over the intercom, she double booked Jaehyun for numerous events and meetings, and was constantly missing deadlines.

Jaehyun had a soft spot for his dearest secretary, but he knew that his father wouldn’t allow her to stay in the company if he didn’t whip her into shape sooner rather than later.

His idea of fixing the problem was longer hours with him and his strict training methods were not for the weak. Although, she hadn’t had any hiccups for a very long time, the idea of getting in trouble with Jaehyun was enough to awaken Mela’s anxiety.

“I just wanted to spend some time alone with you.” Jaehyun ignored Mela’s remark. He set his glass down on his desk and walked towards Mela with his arms open. “It’s just that it’s been so long. May I hold you?”

Now he was standing in front of Mela, towering over her as he looked down and directly into her eyes.

Mela nodded and felt Jaehyun’s arms snake around her waist.

“That’s all you can do.” She adds in.

“Hmm?” Jaehyun pulled his head away from the top of Mela’s head. He then started to massage her ass, very slowly, pulling up her skirt in the process. “But, I’m afraid I want more.”

“Jaehyun, please we can’t.” Mela started to protest.

“We can do whatever we please.” Jaehyun then lifted Mela’s chin and kissed her long and slowly, inserting his tongue almost immediately.

Mela moaned into Jaehyun’s mouth as he pulled her into a tighter embrace.

Goodness, I’m losing. Mela thought to herself. Jaehyun let go of Mela, but kept his mouth attached to her own, and started to unbuckle his belt.

                                                       *

About four months prior, Mela did the one thing she swore she would never do.

She slept with her boss.

Not only once, but numerous times.

They were consistent for weeks until everything suddenly started going downhill. They started fighting. They couldn’t find common ground for many issues and a lot of women from his past just kept popping up, out of the blue. They never made their relationship official, but Mela was bothered by the thought of Jaehyun still involving himself romantically with other women. In the end, they cut things off and the ending was hard on both of them.

Mela and Jaehyun’s intimate relationship began on a week-long trip to Italy. Jaehyun was to attend a conference and Mela, per her job description, was required to accompany him.

Jaehyun had no intention of doing what he did, but he let his jealousy get the best of him when they were walking to the opening banquet and an Italian man looked at Mela and said “Bellissima!” He then proceeded to give her a rose. Mela giggled shyly and accepted without a second thought.

This angered Jaehyun and he made sure that she knew.

Before entering the banquet, he stopped Mela.

“Throw the rose away.” He said sternly.

Mela looked at him and frowned. “Excuse me?”

“I don’t like repeating myself. Why do you think it’s okay to accept things from other men? Are you trying to make me angry?” Jaehyun blocked the doorway.

“Maybe I am.” Mela said, holding on to the rose. “Besides, It’s not like you’ve ever gotten me any flowers.”

Jaehyun was taken aback by Mela’s sassy tone. She wanted flowers? He refrained from giving Mela gifts and special treatment in fear that the other employees would see. But after this, he didn’t care anymore.

As soon as they were seated, Jaehyun texted his male assistant, Joo.

Do me a favor and bring me the prettiest bouquet of flowers that you can find to my room tonight.

That same night, Jaehyun found himself in front of Mela’s hotel room with a bottle of wine and a bouquet of fresh roses.

Mela opened the door and gasped. She truly didn’t think Jaehyun had one romantic bone in his body.

“Um come in. I just need to finish sending this text to my friend” Mela let him in and continued typing out her text.

BITCHHHH. HE JUST CAME TO MY ROOM WITH ROSES AND WINE. FJAOHFGJKAEVG.

Jaehyun gave me her a soft smile, just enough for a dimple to make an appearance.

“You actually got me flowers.” Mela said, only slightly leaving her state of shock.

“This is my apology. I didn’t mean to snap at you. I just-“Jaehyun didn’t know how to explain his feelings. This was extremely exhausting for him. Why couldn’t she just want him in the same way that he wanted her? He didn’t understand why things were difficult. She had been working with him for months and although he had authority, he knew she wasn’t his in the way he wanted her to be.

“Please finish.” Mela said, moving closer to take the bouquet from his hands.

Jaehyun pulled it away from her reach.

“Carmella. I’m not good at this.” He started. “This isn’t something that I’ve done before. I’m not sure how to say this.”

Mela sat on the bed and looked at him intently. “Just tell me what you’re feeling. I’m here to listen.”

Jaehyun didn’t join Mela. Instead, he mentally searched for the right words as he started to pace back and forth.

“I just- I just need you to know that I acted in the way that I did because I really like you. And I know that you know this but it isn’t just a simple crush, Carmella. I want you. Ever since I first laid eyes on you…” Jaehyun trailed off and set the bouquet on a table.  “…I cannot bring myself to stop thinking about you.”

Mela did not know what to say. Her theory was that he just wanted to hook up and get it over with. But after hearing him speak, it was evident that Jaehyun wanted more. This was the first time Mela had seen him so…vulnerable. It took him a while, but he continued and eventually opened up to Mela about everything. He never had an official girlfriend- only hookups. Jaehyun barely had a childhood, missed many social milestones, and never learned how to properly date. Neither did he care to. What was the point, if his parents were going to choose his spouse anyway? But after meeting Mela, his mindset had changed.

Mela was in awe. There was so much about him that she didn’t know. It was nice to speak with him without the stress of her tasks looming over her head.

So she let him stay.

They ended up having sex twice that night.

They woke up the next morning with their bodies intertwined.

“Oh my God.” Mela groaned.

“Stay still, I’m very comfortable like this.” Jaehyun said, still half asleep, with his face in the middle of Mela’s chest.

“You need to leave.” Mela said. “We cannot get caught. People will start looking for you and they cannot find you here.”

“Fine.” Jaehyun got up and put on his pajamas and robe.

He walked out and thought nobody saw him, but Ju-Ri silently watched him from a corner, as he walked out of Mela’s room and towards the elevators.

                                                           *

“Jaehyun, please. You have to stop.” Mela pleaded.

It’s not too late to fix things between us.” Jaehyun said kissing Mela’s jaw and then proceeding to leave a trail of kisses down her neck.

“Jaehyun, I am seeing someone!” Mela shouted as she pushed him away.

Jaehyun wiped the lipstick from his lips and looked at Mela. The hurt in his eyes made Mela avert eye contact to look at the floor.

“Oh.” He said, with a nod. “Um. I understand. You can go home now. Thank you for telling me.”

“Please I-“

“I said you can go home.”

Mela gave up and made her way to the office door. She turned away before closing the door behind her to see Jaehyun sitting at his desk with his head in his hands.

Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10

#Jaehyun #Johnny #smut #nct smut #nct fanfic #nct fanfiction #kpop #kpop fanfic #kpop fanfiction #nct 127 #johnny suh

[weonbullshit]

I keep having things get in the way of my work, so I have to shorten stuff again. I'd wanted to do a timelaspe and a voiceover with a few things about the characters, but I don't have the time (or energy) and it was stressing me out and ruining my creativity. So instead, I'll have to save that Idea for another time and just show you guys the finished drawings.

That being said, here's a clipping from one of the chapters of "Earth to the Unknown" aka, the 'Newcomers' rewrite I've been working on for over 2 months now.

~~~

It had only been about a month since Optimus had split the team up to complete various assignments. Graham and Boulder were out in the pacific north-west working with Professor Baranova, Kade and Heatwave were working at the academy, and Dani and Blades were busy in China.

They came home and helped out whenever they could, but the family was still getting used to this change. Charlie had planned on retiring earlier that year, but ever since the Velgrox came, it seemed that that wouldn’t be happening any time soon.

Griffin Rock never sleeps after all.

“Hm.” Chase hummed curiously. Charlie was barred from his thoughts. “What is it, partner?” He asked. “Have you ever seen those children over there before?” He asked. Charlie followed his eyes to the sandbox, in it and around it was a group of five unfamiliar children playing. “No, I don’t think I have.” He said. What would a group of kids be doing out here alone, and why?

“We should check on them. Maybe they got lost or they were visiting family in the area.” Chase suggested. “I’ll check on them Chase." The chief corrected him sternly. "We don’t know how they’ll react to you, that could cause a larger issue.” He replied. Charlie stepped out of the car and shut the door behind him. “Wait here.” He said. “Alright.” Chase agreed.

~~~

I figured that's a relatively ambiguous piece to show you. Anywho, I gotta go to bed. Hopefully, I can start sketching before my mom's ordination later. I've already got a few plans! See you soon! 🪐

#tfrbau #tfrb #fanfic #otherworldly oddities #rescue bots au #rescue bots #transformers rescue bots #tfrboc #fanfic writing #fanfic writer #writer problems #artists problems

[munsnz]

Bittersweet Critic — Steve Harrington ☘︎︎

TW: Cussing??

Requested: None

Pairing: Steve Harrington x GN! Reader

Lydinous Radio: Bittersweet— Kennen

Summary: Steve is sick and tired after working at Family Video for months after the Starcourt incident. Christmas break comes up, meaning more people coming over to their homes. Unlike him, a witty college student comes by for an odd request, making him look like that douche from years back. Days later, he finds this person again, wanting to apologize for the prude actions from the previous..

Masterlist — Requests are open!

Another boring day.

Cold everywhere.

Showing where the bathroom was.

Rummaging through movie posters.

Checking out the pretty girls.

Organizing VHS shelves.

Another Thursday in the cold mornings in Hawkins, Indiana. Steve Harrington had been sick of working at Family Video after working here for 3 months since the incident in July. Now he and Robin were taking different shifts in days and rarely got time to work together at the same times. Watching the customers coming in and out of the store, he sighed due to boredom working there. He would’ve been off to college, possibly coming back for Christmas Break since everyone was coming home for Christmas. More families and couples came in and out of the store now, happy-looking faces, and cheerful moods. Steve realized how lonely he was, after his heartbreak with Nancy, the rejection from Robin, just grew on him, leaving him with the group of kids he mentally adopted. Where was he going with his life now? Was there a possible future for him? Is there-

“Hello? Are you deaf or something?”

The voice made him snap out of his thoughts and feelings to find a conventional rather good-looking person who stood upon him. Steve shakes his head to focus on his attention. “Sorry I was..... I was.....”

”Distracted?” You smiled at him and tapped your fingers on the counter.

Steve nods at your response and shrugs, “I suppose you’re correct.”

“I’m always correct,” You boasted while trying to sound humble about it. There was a silent chuckle shared between the two of you, but continued with the silence, “Anywho, I was wondering if you could give me a good movie recommendation.”

”A what now?” He questioned while being throughly confused by the weird request given by this person who he had just met in 5 minutes.

You sigh at his reaction and lean closer, “I need a good movie recommendation.”

”Oh... Oh...Right,” Steve looks around, trying to remember the movies he’s seen. Although working at a video store, it was hard to keep up with the most popular movies nowadays. He snaps with his fingers and looks up at you, “Back to the future is a good one.”

”I’ve watched it and it wasn’t that good.”

Well, there went one shot. Steve tried to keep concentration in this memory from the last film he saw while dozing off to look at you. Realizing another movies, he chuckles, “Star Wars?”

”A new hope?” You say, furrowing your eyebrows. It reminded Steve when he first got the job at this shithole.

”I don’t really know,” He mumbles, digging his fingers into his hair and watches you cross your arms.

“Well isnt this store supposed to have good staff that actually know a bit about film?”

Steve squints his eyes and clicks his tongue, “Well, I’m just a teenage boy who couldn’t get into college and is trying to earn a living, so I don’t know much.”

“Oh,” You sigh, looking down at your feet, and slide your paper from a notebook harshly across the counter, “Thanks for the help dipshit.”

”Are you a movie critic or something?” He desperately blurts out, wanting to continue to talk to someone,making you turn back to him.

In awe, you look at him up and down, sternly as you said, “I’m not, but I’m studying to work in the film industry in the future as if I’m here to fill out this assignment about the public’s perception on movies, but it’s okay if you don’t want to help, you don’t seem like it.”

”No! It’s actually okay,” Steve apologizes, softening his face and extended his hand to give him the paper, “I really got nothing else to do.”

You watched his hand, almost with pleading eyes to do something in such boredom he was in. After a hot minute of decided, you smiled and breathed to walk away to the exit of the store, “No thank you dipshit! Just remember first impressions are important!”

”What?” Steve gasps, with his mouth open at such rejection, watching you swiftly walk outside into your car to drive off. First impressions were important, he had looked like a total asshole in front of them. Now this was just a huge blow for him, no luck.

☘︎︎ ☘︎︎ ☘︎︎

“So..... what are you doing tomorrow?” Dustin questions, shuffling his feet in the snowy cement, putting his small hands in his pockets to avoid frostbite.

Steve sniffs, watching the people inside relaxing inside the cafe on a Tuesday morning in Hawkins, it was still Christmas break and now both guys were going to have their own day after the holidays.

”I don’t know, I’ll probably catch a movie,” He sighs, shivering in the snow falling on his hair. Watching the people inside, he sees that one familiar person. That movie critic. Different it was though, the person looked awfully stressed with a huge amount of papers scurried everyone on the table, not that one put together person he saw a few days back. His stomach dropped at the sight, not wanting to interact with them, “oh shit, oh shit, oh shit, can we cancel this? I’m not comfortable.”

Dustin looked up at Steve, “Why not? We get a free time to hang out together, I heard they give the best hot chocolate!” Seeing Steve flustered, Dustin turned to see at what he was looking at before getting so weird, it seemed to be a person, somewhat Steve’s age, good-looking meanwhile scribbling notes onto sheets of paper. He hangs his mouth open and nudges Steve with a sly smile, “Oooooh! Someone’s got a crush!”

”Shut up,” He snaps, making Dustin stop giggling like an idiot. Steve gulps and feels a bit anxious about it, after all this time, why did he feel this way?

“Try talking to them,” Steve’s friend advices, both of them watching her through the window in deep concentration, “Until you feel the electricity.”

Steve glances at Dustin, “Don’t use my advice against me.”

”It’s not that bad, Steve,” Dustin claims, moving his jacket around a bit, “Maybe this is your chance.”

”Chance,” He scoffs at the comment, “I haven’t felt like this in months, what ever happened to the glory days where everybody would fall for me at first sight?”

“They probably like you,” Dustin shrugs and looks up at his friend hopelessly sigh, “What’s the matter? Do they not?”

“Well......” He mumbles, trailing off, “I made a really bad impression on them, they came over to the store and I seemed like an asshole, they don’t like me.”

After peering through the window, both boys noticed that same person’s eyes meet theirs. Panicked, they looked away rapidly, trying to not make the situation awkward. The person they were eyeing went back to their task, Dustin ran to the door, dragging Steve inside, “Go talk to them.”

Steve flattened his jacket and breathed deeply, feeling Dustin’s pudgy hands push him forward, making the bell ring as soon as he walked inside. Feeling awkward, he slowly trudged towards the table where you were sitting.

”Hey,” He shyly whispered, ruffling his hands inside his sweater, you looked up to meet his warm, brown eyes, confused of who this might be.

”Hey?” You watch him stand weirdly in front of you, feeling a sense of awkwardness in the air, “Take a seat if you want.”

Steve pulls the chair back to sit, scooting himself forward into the table. He looked over at Dustin who was grinning from the outside of the cafe, “How are you?”

”Fine, but have we met?” You squinted, trying your best to remember him, although you couldn’t, then went back to scurrying through your assignments.

”I believe so,” He watches you scurry through more and more assignments, writing quick notes on each page, “What are you working on?”

After finishing the second to last pair of notes, you reply, “Assignments, it’s crazy how college still wants to make you work your ass even though you’re on break. And how have we met?”

”Film student right?” The comment he made making you look up, he was correct. You nodded, watching his every move on how he knew, he sighs and goes on, “Well I’m that asshole that couldn’t do your stupid assignment for college.”

Wide eyed, you nodded your head and breathily giggled, “Oh yeah, the dipshit.”

”The dipshit,” He nervously repeated, remembering the brood impression he made on you, “Yeah so...... how did that go?”

”No one else wanted to do it,” You huffed as the memories of what dick he had been towards you, he seemed sorry for you, rapidly making sharp eye contact and looking away.

Steve watched your expressions changed as your thoughts did too, “Sorry about that.” Was all he said.

“It’s whatever,” You shrug, getting irritated a bit, but before you could comment anything else, he blurted out.

”Wecouldgowatchamovietogetheranddothatwork.”

All you did was giggle at his flustering comment he gave you, he looked so hopeless and dazed off. Taking a sip of your French Roast coffee, feeling the bitter taste touch your taste buds, a new burst of energy filling you, you scratched your head, “Not so easy..... Dipshit. A. I don’t even know your name and who you are, B. you’re desperate.”

”I- w-what?” His words tumbled off his mouth, denying the answer, “I’m not, I-I just wanna help you.”

His dumbfounded expression made it harder for you not to laugh, “It’s okay, I was just teasing you. And I’m free around 4, if that works out.”

”O-oh, yeah I mean I have work but a day to skip won’t hurt,” Steve chuckles, feeling tingly around his hands, he had never felt this for years on end. Cliche much right?

You raised your eyebrows up and a tiny smile escaped your lips, “Okay, just so you know, it’s going to be a challenge to warm up to me.”

He nods his head, bringing his hands together in front of you, “Well I’m up for that challenge!”

”You dipshit.”

”You movie critic.”

#Steve Harrington #steve harrington fanfic #steve harrington masterlist #steve harrington smut #steve harrington x original character #steve harrington x reader #steve Harrington x you #steve Harrington x gender neutral reader #Steve Harrington x gn reader #Robin buckley #stranger things #Stranger things oneshots #Stranger things x reader

[alfredosauce50]

You’re gonna go far, kid [Punk! England x reader]

Synopsis: Ever since coming to England to study, you haven’t had the time to do what made you come in the first place--tourism! The only friend you have is an exchange student from Russia, Ivan, so why not kill two birds with one stone? He schedules a little playdate with Arthur, a local, so he can show you around the hottest spots in London. You two immediately hit it off. Ivan is quick to notice his interest in you, so he starts teasing the poor man and making things hard for him. Camden is the last destination, and there’s no saying when he’ll ever see you again. Will he be able to get over himself and ask you out before the night ends?  Note: Attractions are italicized and have a link to a picture. Wordcount: 4,641 The reader is referred to as she/her.

This was the day you had been dreading, and yet, looking forward to. The first part was easy to explain. Picking up your hot latte, you set it down after a quick sip. You didn’t even have time to enjoy it. Not when you were typing away at your keyboard like a speed demon. You promised your friend you would finish your assignment before today’s meet-up, but your procrastination habits were a bitch. Nevertheless, you were eager to uphold your side of the deal, even if it meant stressing your hair out to get it done. 

So long as he didn’t show up before you were done, right? 

After burning your tongue for the second time that morning, you let out a small groan at the sting you felt but gasped at what you saw outside the window. It was a sound made from genuine terror--rather than the quiet streets of London at seven AM, you spotted a man pressing his face right up to the glass. And he was staring at you, menacingly. 

Anybody would’ve been creeped out by the sight, but you knew the guy. “Aha--Ivan! Hey! Morning?” You began rather awkwardly. 

He waved in response, and his glower melted away in exchange for a childlike smile. “Dobroye utro, (F/N)! I hope that’s not your assignment you’re doing.” He hummed, placing two hands on the glass to peer at your screen from outside. Oh shit. Glancing briefly at said screen, you turned it away before clicking the upload button. 

“Of course not.” You grinned, shutting your laptop immediately after. “I was just... Surfing the net. Checking Instagram. You know?”

“Is that so? I’m gonna check.” He made his way inside. And in no time, he was looming over your shoulder to start browsing through your internet history. You, on the other hand, were sweating balls. 

“You’re so funny, (F/N). Who checks Instagram on their computer?”

It seemed like only yesterday he was the oblivious exchange student from Russia who had no concept of social media. He had been a country bumpkin through and through, but a few semesters after befriending you, your influence rubbed off on him. Even you had no idea what went through your head when decided to talk to him, the intimidating new kid who spoke broken English, but there was no turning back now. He was attached to you by the hip and picked up on your habits faster than you could deal. 

He only became more of a menace when he discovered Twitter.

A displeased expression contorted at his expression when he saw that there was no evidence of you ‘surfing the net’. Google Docs couldn’t possibly count, after all.  “... Hm... Apparently, not you. Why didn’t you finish this yesterday, sunflower? Remember our promise?” 

You sighed. “Look, I’m sorry. I passed out last night. But hey, I technically finished it before you came, didn’t I?” 

He craned his head from side to side in thought. “Maybe. But if you hadn’t, you know what that means.” Ivan coiled his arms around your neck and a sickeningly sweet smile curled up at his lips. 

“You will come with me to Moscow for Christmas!” 

A chill ran down your spine at the thought. Going to Russia was bad enough. But during Winter? You were never good with the cold. If you could barely handle London, Moscow was out of the question. “Oh God, please no.” He nodded giddily. “I’m never going to Russia. Maybe I’d consider it during Summer, but--anyway, that’s not the point here! I didn’t break any promises so I won’t be turning into a popsicle this year. Got that?” 

He pouted. “Aw...” 

“You damn sadist.” 

“Hehe.” 

“I wonder how you even became friends with him. Arthur, was it? Poor dude.” You mumbled, but he didn’t look all too offended. 

He tapped his chin and hummed. “Now that you mention it.” Then, he let out a short laugh. “It’s a long story. Let’s just say it was a happy little accident.”

“Unfortunate.” 

“But don’t worry! I don’t plan on bothering you as much as him today.” Ivan clarified, earning a slow nod from you. Phew. The clock was inching closer to eight and you weren’t much of a morning person, so hearing that was like music to your ears. “That’s why I wanted you to finish your work yesterday. I want him to be the only one making mistakes! It’s interesting to see him mess up and get embarrassed.” 

You had to wonder if he was using ‘interesting’ as a synonym for fun because he was clapping. “... Ivan, you really are a sadist.” 

The two of you stayed in that café for another hour or so, ordering some breakfast during your stay. Once the table was cleared and the bill was paid, you and he caught a bus to the London eye. You could marvel at the iconic ferris wheel for a few minutes as you walked up to the London aquarium next to it, your first stop. The building was huge to start with, and it didn’t look like they’d be storing fish in there considering how fancy it was. But wasn’t everything in England fancy? 

“He should be waiting in the front. Look for a short grouchy man with a bad taste in fashion.” You shot him a weird look, beckoning him to elaborate. 

“... And blonde hair.”

“Alright. I guess I’ll try my best.” Glancing around the sea of people filled with tourists, couples, and families, you skimmed the crowd for someone who fitted the description--but to no avail. It was only when they walked up to you both did you find the guy. He had short and choppy blonde hair that framed a heart-shaped face, and under his fringe was a pair of lime green eyes staring on with a neutral expression. And did Ivan say he had bad taste?

You couldn’t agree. Yes, his charcoal pants were ripped and he had a bandana tied around his neck with a Union Jack on it. But he still had a kind of style you liked. Under his black leather jacket was a gray shirt, and combined with the piercings in his right ear, you couldn’t help admiring him for a second. 

“Arthur! I was wondering if you were trampled because we couldn’t find you.” Ivan began, causing the said man to furrow his brows. And boy, were they thick. 

“You just arrived, so don’t start now you twat.” He grumbled. Ivan never teased you for your height, even when you were a little shorter than the Brit. He always found it cute, but you figured it was only because you didn’t care. The Russian always found amusement in poking fun at others, after all. “Anywho, I’m glad I won’t be spending the whole day alone with you.” 

Turning to you with a soft smile this time, he held out a hand for you to shake. “Kirkland. Arthur Kirkland.” 

You shook it, but not without a laugh. It hadn’t even been a minute since meeting him, and his personality seemed to clash violently with his appearance. He sounded so prim and proper, but his outfit screamed punk rock. 

“(L/N). (F/N) (L/N).” 

He released you from his grip. Placing his hands on his hips with an accusing stare, he felt a grin upturn his lips. “Are you copying me, (F/N)?” 

“I don’t know. Do all British people introduce themselves like James Bond?” 

Arthur clicked his tongue. “... Not all of them. Just a force of habit.” 

“Mhm. Right, right. Well, it’s nice to meet you, Arthur. I’m a student here too and I could only imagine how busy it gets for you--so thanks for coming out today!” He didn’t respond to those comments and simply nodded. 

Ivan stayed quiet in the back, but he was probably reading the atmosphere like he always did when he didn’t speak. 

“It’s nice to meet you too.” The blonde turned on his heel and closed his eyes. “As much as I’d like to stay out here and chat, we can do that in the aquarium. Wouldn’t wanna waste our tickets, do we?” 

While the group of three wandered slowly through the establishment, Ivan lingered in the background while you walked in the front with the Brit. For the first ten minutes, you’d look at him expectantly, gesturing for him to join in the conversation. As the mutual, wasn’t he supposed to be the icebreaker? He’d shake his head every time, offering you a smile as if to say, go and make some friends. But soon, this brief spell of irritation morphed into gratitude.

“I’ve been here probably a hundred times, so don’t take it personally when I don’t seem as excited as you.” Turning to him to watch his face as he spoke--which was filtered through a bluish tinge from the Antarctic setting-- you only caught a brief glimpse of it before he turned away. Huh. Maybe it was just you not paying enough attention. 

Either way, what came out of your mouth next would surely grab his. 

“Don’t worry about it. But hey, this is the first time you’ve been here with me, so look alive, won’t you?” It happened to be a slip of the tongue, something bold and improvised, but luckily, he reacted fairly quickly before the regret set in.

“Oi, you better not be flirting with me already,” Arthur grumbled, feeling another smile come as he heard you chuckle. Since when was he this expressive? He pinned it on the fact that he was starting to have a little fun himself. 

“Couldn’t imagine it.” Before he could add anything else, you hopped in front of the penguins and started waving your friend over with great gusto. “Ivan, c’mere. Arthur, mind taking a photo of us?” Once he joined your side, the two of you held up peace signs for the Brit to snap a photo. 

“Ivan, change your pose. We can’t have both of you doing the same thing.” 

The said man moved his peace sign to the back of your head so he could stick two fingers over it. “Is that better?”

“... Better.” Trailing his emerald eyes to you, he felt his cheeks heat up a touch at the sight of you grinning ear to ear. What the fuck, Arthur. Just take the damn photo. And that was exactly what he did, showing you both right after. Whatever just happened, he boiled it down to him idealizing a stranger. That was right. He had yet to get to know you, so his perception of you couldn’t be any better at this stage. 

But there was one thing he couldn’t deny.

“Damn, I look really ugly in this. You two better not post this anywhere.” You settled a hand over the screen to lower it with a nervous laugh. Then, you looked away, and what was that? You looked a little flustered. 

You were cute.

Hanging his head to look at the photo, he knitted his brows together. You? Ugly? He couldn’t imagine it. 

“... I bet I could take an even uglier one of you.”

Spinning back to him, you folded your arms. “What did you say?” 

“Nothing.” He shook his head slowly, and the amusement in his voice made it blatantly obvious he was lying. 

“That’s what I thought.” 

Walking off at that, Ivan followed. Because he was behind him, he could brush his shoulders against his. Arthur looked up at that, but almost wished he didn’t. Ivan was smiling down at him so shrewdly, it was threatening. Then, he raised a hand to his mouth so he could laugh softly. “Huhu. You like (F/N)~” 

His eyes flew open and blood rushed up to his face. “What the hell gave you that impression? I literally just met them!” As adamant as he sounded, he knew deep inside he liked you, but only platonically. Your personality was refreshing, and talking to you was as easy as breathing. Even if it wasn’t platonic attraction, he was endlessly frustrated the other figured it out earlier than he could. 

Whatever it was, he was certainly more sociable than usual, even to the point of being a tease. And not to mention the rosy cheeks. Maybe he should’ve just kept his trap shut--otherwise, his huge outburst let Ivan milk the obvious. Fuck. He even started to giggle like a schoolchild. 

Giving him a rough shove, he muttered a string of curses under his breath.  “I bloody hate your arse, you know that?” He hissed, his face now redder than a tomato. God, why he did have to be born so pale? Every slight change to his complexion was jarring, and it was embarrassing. 

“Don’t hate me because I’m right,” Ivan hummed, joining his side as your back came into view. “Once you realize, it’ll be too late. I’m not letting you have (F/N). I will always be (F/N)’s number one.” Lighting up at that, he skipped off to you in the front. “Wait for me, sunflower! Don’t leave me alone with Arthur!”

Arthur stopped in his tracks and clenched his fists. How annoying. If he was going to continue being a little tyke, then he figured he’d up his game as well. He didn’t know what that exactly entailed yet, but he’d do it. Ivan didn’t even sound like he wanted anything more than friendship, so what was with that? Pointing a finger at him as he walked off with you, his face scrunched up. 

“What did you even call me out for then, you idiot? I’m supposed to be guiding you both!” Picking up his pace at that, he slotted himself between you and him. Flashing you a brief smile, he gave Ivan another push without breaking eye contact. “It’s a tight fit for three, so he’ll stay in the back.” 

“Hey, no fair!” 

By the time the whole aquarium was toured, you and Arthur were laughing to yourselves while leaving through the exit. 

But the joyful atmosphere was short-lived. 

The Ferris wheel just outside was the next stop, and the Brit offered to splurge a little to have a carriage without strangers. That way, you could run around as much as you wanted, even if that meant leaving the two men to sit in their lonesome. While Ivan was sitting on the bench in the centre out of his own volition, the same couldn’t be said for him. 

Sitting back to back to the other, he pressed his legs firmly together and leaned over in a hunch. Then, he dug his hands through his hair, all while keeping his round eyes fixated on the ground. His heart couldn’t stop pounding, and his head was spinning like a carousel. What was he thinking, taking you here? That was right. This was an iconic destination you couldn’t miss, that was why. He was initially planning on staying back there on the ground, but you were so excited, he couldn’t help but hop on with you. 

Fuck. Maybe Ivan was right about him. But he wouldn’t let him know it. Speaking of the guy, he didn’t know if he was sitting there by choice, or just rubbing it in. While he was incapacitated by fear so he couldn’t even stand, he was sitting there because he wanted to. 

“You should’ve stayed on the ground if this was going to happen.” 

Arthur screwed his eyes shut and tightened his arms around his stomach. “... Shut up.” 

“I was just saying.” Ivan murmured, looking at him over his shoulder. Poor guy. He really was down bad, wasn’t he? Down bad for you, that was. Too bad Arthur was hoping he wasn’t convinced--but it was too obvious. So all Ivan wanted was to prove his point, and later on, keep you away from him. But maybe he’d save it until after the ride was over. “... This ride is thirty minutes long. You’ll live.” 

He heard the other groan. “Thirty minutes? How long has it been?” 

“Mm... Ten.” 

“Fuck me.” 

Unfortunately, it wouldn’t be long before you would pull away from the railing and return to the company of the two. Arthur had been praying that somehow, you’d leave him alone sitting there, pathetically, but he couldn’t expect something so cold from you. So while he hung his head, he wasn’t surprised to feel your hand on his shoulder. 

“Hey, you okay?” He heard you ask, but he never looked up. 

“... Yeah. Just give me a minute.” 

“I have. Ten, actually.” Taking a seat beside him, you leaned down to peer at his face, which was a few shades paler than normal. He didn’t even have the energy to respond, and kept his eyes fixed to the ground. Concern immediately contorted at your features, especially when he looked so shaken. “Arthur, you look a little sick. What’s wrong? Can you talk?” 

He shook his head slowly before managing a weak smile at you. “Sorry, love.” It didn’t even faze him he just called you that. He was far too uncomfortable to feel the embarrassment from a nickname he should’ve saved until a little later. 

“I’m not... Too good with heights. Never have been... I was hoping you wouldn’t notice.” His voice was slow and faint, and you were beginning to suspect he was having a panic attack. “... Sorry if I seem a little lame.” 

“No, of course not.” You frowned. “Things like this happen. Just breathe with me, okay? You can do it. Just count to ten.” 

Arthur took a deep inhale. “... Okay.” 

Around ten minutes later of these exchanges, he calmed down some, especially when you kept on reminding him that the carriage was finally descending. Once the ride was over, you had to help him up and walk him out. Now that he had his two feet planted firmly on the ground, it didn’t take long for him to recover. Even then, you remained rather cautious and stuck with him on your journey to Soho. By the time everyone took their seats in Circolo Popolare, a beautiful Italian restaurant Arthur so kindly booked, you were still looking out for him.

Leaning over to rest your head on the table, you glanced up at his face with a soft smile. “... You okay now?” 

A light blush dusted his cheeks and he nodded. You didn’t need to be this observant with him considering he was well now, but he loved your attentiveness. It wasn’t something he was used to. “Yeah, I’m fine now. Thank you. Now quit worrying about me, alright?” Rubbing the nape of his neck at that, you couldn’t help lingering on his body language for a moment.

It didn’t matter what he dressed like, or what his personality was. He could be endearing when it came to it, and a total softie too. And the thought made you smile even wider. If he thought you were cute, then you thought he was adorable. “Fine. I’ll leave you alone.” You slowly turned to Ivan, the action making Arthur tense up a little. 

Reaching out to your hand, he took it. “I didn’t mean it like that.” 

The feeling of his warm fingers around yours made your heart skip a beat. Did he just? Your thoughts manifested into your look of shock, and you darted your eyes over his neutral expression to try and decipher it. Before you could come up with anything, there was a phone in your face, followed by a flash. 

“Wha--?” 

He turned the screen to you to reveal a photo of you, and in your opinion, it was the least flattering picture anybody had ever taken of you. “I said I’d take an uglier photo of you, didn’t I?” Arthur grinned, the words acting like a cold splash of water to bring you back to reality. 

“... You sneaky little shit.” You growled. “Delete that right now!” 

“How about no?” 

“I’ll never forgive you for this, Arthur.” 

“I think you already have, love. You’re smiling right now.” 

You stared at him wordlessly for a few seconds. Then, out of nowhere, you reached out to snatch his phone right out of his hands. Tapping furiously on the screen to get rid of it, you heard his chair scrape back violently as he tried to retrieve it. “Why, you--” 

But it was too late. Gone forever. Lost in the abyss of cyberspace. And so, he immediately channelled his frustration by jabbing his fingers into your sides. “If I can’t have that photo of you, at least let me do this!” You burst into a fit of laughter so loud, nearby patrons turned their heads. Only then did he pull away, leaving you to recover through breathless wheezing. 

“Fuck you, Arthur.” You whispered, but it was on an affectionate note more than anything. As you glowered at him from your seat, you never noticed Ivan doing the same thing, but he was glaring at the Brit for an entirely different reason. Arthur had to be the most self-aware person out there, and to make a scene in a restaurant like this? He really fell for you, didn’t he? 

When he realized Ivan’s scorching gaze burning into him, he froze. 

Not just out of how intimidated he was, but the epiphany that he was right all along. Why else was he acting so out of character? The only explanation was this--in the short time of being with you, he may or may not have developed a little crush. But that was no problem, right? 

All he needed to do was to ask you out. 

But that would prove a task easier said than done, especially when Ivan decided to attach himself to you by the hip after that stunt. That cunning bastard knew what he was doing. After a little window shopping around Bond street and Mayfair, he stuck to you like a tattoo, and kept it up until night fell. While the group walked around Camden, Ivan kept you by his side with a firm grip on your hand. 

When you asked why he was suddenly so clingy, he simply justified it with, “It’s dangerous for small people like you to wander around at night!” 

But Arthur called bullshit. Especially when the other went ahead and smirked at him right after saying it. Maybe he liked you too, but was refusing to admit it. How hypocritical. If not, then he probably didn’t want you making friends when you were the only friend he had. Whatever it was, he wasn’t about to back down so easily. Camden may be the last destination for the night, and perhaps, the last time he’d see you again for God knows how long, but it was his trump card.

If this didn’t sweep you off your feet enough to get you to pull away from Ivan, nothing would. 

As a town famous for its thriving nightlife and punk culture, it encompassed everything he was passionate about, and he’d give anything to show it to you. So he included a visit to the bar here on the agenda today, one that hosted live music. While you and Ivan got comfortable in your seats, Arthur never made a move to sit down. 

It was already dim inside, so you never noticed him leave. The next time you saw him, it was a few minutes later when he was on stage with a few other musicians. Leaning forward with surprise, you watched him strap on a bright red electric guitar. Walking up to the microphone, he adjusted that. No way. 

You were still trying to process him being a professional performer, but a lead singer as well? 

The second he strummed the strings to start a guitar riff, he opened his mouth to start singing.

Play this while you read

Show me how to lie, you're getting better all the time

And turning all against the one is an art that's hard to teach

His fingers never stopped moving as he belted out note after note. His voice was so different to how he talked, you had to do a double take. He sounded a little more rasp, a little more punk. To say you were impressed was an understatement. 

Now dance, fucker, dance, man, he never had a chance

And no one even knew it was really only you

While he jammed out on stage, he was electric. The energy in the bar exploded, and he had everyone singing along. You could almost see the confidence in him shoot up from the excitable crowd, because he was smirking. 

Nice work, you did. 

You’re gonna go far, kid! 

Turning his head to you as he sung that line, you raised a hand to your mouth. Whether he did that on purpose or not was a mystery. But no words could describe how attractive it was. Hell, it even made you mind blank for a few moments. This was Arthur? He was like an entirely different person! Needless to say, you were completely star struck. 

You couldn’t even make out what Ivan was telling you when the music was blaring in your ears. But you didn’t care. Arthur had you caught in a trance with his voice and guitar all until the end. When the song finally ended, the band bowed graciously and threw up hand signs as the audience erupted in applause and cheers. 

When he stepped off the stage, you didn’t hesitate to run up to him. There, you practically pounced on him for a tight embrace. “Oh my god, you were amazing! I didn’t know you could play so well! And sing, too! Why didn’t you tell me!?” You exasperated, pulling away to be met with his dazzling smile. It was the first time you’ve seen him so energetic, as if performing sparked a fire inside him that burned with youthful intensity. 

“I was dying to show you all day. I wanted it to be a surprise, and I had to save the best til’ last, didn’t I?” He grinned, feeling his heart swell up with warmth as he watched you light up. 

“Well, good on you! I loved it!” Squeezing him again, you felt his chest shake under his laughs. When you pulled away, you reached up to cup his face. But it felt so natural in the spur of the moment, even he didn’t seem to care. 

“Thanks again for today, Arthur. I really appreciate you taking us out today. You completely blew me away.”

The way how you phrased it reminded him of why he was here in the first place. That was right. He still had to ask you out. And with Ivan watching on from afar, this was his chance. The thought reddened his cheeks, but while you had his face in your hands, he couldn’t feel more comfortable. “Is that so? If that’s the case, how about I take you out again?” His expression grew serious. “A proper date, I mean.” 

It was your turn to blush, but you managed a quick answer. 

“No need to look so serious, love. Of course I’ll go on a date with you.” 

He chuckled and leaned in to peck your lips. “Stealing my vocabulary now, are we?” 

“Stealing kisses now, are we?” 

“Touché.” 

Now a third wheel of the group, he breathed out a soft sigh and rested his cheek on his hand. “I guess my job here is done.” It didn’t really look like it, but he had been trying to play the wingman all along. Arthur was always one to go a little crazy when he wanted something, and only more so when he was desperate. So all he gave him was a little push in the right direction. 

Maybe he would thank him later, but for now, he’d leave you two be. 

This is a request. Thank you for requesting.

#hetalia fanfiction #hetalia #aph #aph england #england x reader #aph england x reader #arthur kirkland #request #oneshot #hetalia x reader #Axis Powers Hetalia #Axis powers ヘタリア #alfredosauce50 #hetalia fanfic #ivan braginsky #aph russia #aph russia x reader #reader insert #x reader

[singeramg]

Finding Forever: Chapter 3

Here we are folks! I told you I would get this one up today! Don't be disappointed but no smut yet. I thought this chapter would lend to it but nope! Plot was not on that. Anywho I hope you will enjoy.

Warnings: Cursing, angst and sexual assault ( while brief can be triggering for some)

Character: Henry Cavill x Black!OFC

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

 Aura: Hey I forgot about this research I need to do for my next role. I had to head to the local library and I don’t know how long it will take. Sorry to cancel chicka.

 I shot off the text message from the back of the cab I had hopped in to get away from the hotel as quickly as possible. I had the cabby take me to an across town museum I could hide in for awhile. I just needed time alone to process my emotions.

 Mia: Alright just call me when you are done getting dicked down.

 Aura: I AM NOT GETTING DICKED DOWN!

 Aura: I really forgot about this. My manager will kill me if I don’t nail this callback.

 Aura: I’ll text you once I’m done.

 Mia: Okay. Talk to you later.

 I huffed in relief, the last thing I wanted was was Mia to think I was ditching her to mess around with Henry. That would ruin any chance they had of working out and I was also relieved because I had a chance to breathe. I wasn’t mad at her, hell I wasn’t mad at anyone, but I couldn’t face harsh reality of having to smile in her face and pretend I was excited for what her and Henry could be, not when just hours ago I was the wondering what he and I could be. 

 *The Next Day*

 “Damn it Carson I wouldn’t ask you if it wasn’t important. Please?”

 “Why should I even help you? You’ve treated me like a disease since I started.” 

 (Carson asks Anya with an angry look to which she responds with one of her own.) 

 “It’s the both of our jobs if you don’t.”

( Her hands move to her hips.)

 “This was your assignment.”

 “OUR assignment. If we lose this account it’s our ass. All y..

 “CUT”

 Marshall yelled out and I looked at him in surprise. I was filming with Henry today and doing my damnedest to stay professional. I was just keeping to myself with everyone I spoke with. Honestly I just wanted a large tub of cookie dough ice cream and to be left alone. Henry had tried to engage me in conversation but I mostly shut it down, not wanting to be used to learn more about my best friend. If he wanted to get close to her he didn’t need to use me to do it. I just wanted to film and get this over with, to start however I needed to figure out why Marshall stopped my line.

He came over to us with a smile.

 “I’m sorry Marshall, did I deliver my line wrong?”

 “No it’s just....something is missing. Wrong...ummm off?”

 “I’m sorry I don’t understand?” I questioned.

 “It just seems like you two aren’t clicking today?  Are you trying something new?”

 “No.” 

 I answered. 

 “Let’s try it again?”

 I offered and Marshall smiled at us then turned to walk back to his chair. Meanwhile I turned back to Henry, who had a concerned look on his face.

“Aura darling you seem like something is wrong. I haven’t gotten one of your beautiful smiles today. Anything I can do to help?”

 He asked with a wide smile that usually got me smiling back but that shit wasn’t working on me. I couldn’t let him know my disappointment so I smiled quickly and waited for Marshall and Anne to cue up with cameraman.

“That wasn’t the smile I wanted.” He said sadly.

 “Well this is what you got. Look I’m just not with all of this today. How you can help is to just do as you’ve been. Punch out those lines in spectacular Henry Cavill fashion.”

 I said not intending to come across as a bitch but as his face fell some I could tell it did. I instantly regretted it.

“Oh Henry, I didn’t mean to...”

 “Okay Aura and Henry we are ready!”

 I didn’t get a chance to finish my apologies as we both had to shift into character.

 I was in my trailer sipping from a cold coke a cola enjoying a few moments not on my feet. Mia was in there with me, having been entrusted to touch up my look with my makeup and re-steaming down my outfit before we moved on to get another shot. 

 “So are you going to tell me what is wrong with you or no? Do I need to slap a hoe?”

 I giggled but I knew my smile didn't reach my eyes. 

 “No Mi I’m good…

 “The lies.” She said pointing the steamer in my direction. I dropped my head to the back of the couch.

 “I swear I’m just tired. You see I’m drinking a coke and everything. “

 She pursed her lips as she worked on the blazer I had just taken off. I could tell that she was about to say something else when I was saved by a knock on my trailer door. Eager to drop this conversation I practically ran to the door, only to open it and barely stop myself from cursing at who stood on the other side. Henry was back in a zip up hoodie, which did not match with the suit pants he was still wearing.

 “Hey Aura, I was hoping to catch you in here. Can I come in for a moment?”

 I moved out of the way, waiting until he was inside to close the door, roll my eyes while still facing the door and then forcing a smile as I turned around. 

 “Oh hey Henry! What brings you over here?”

 Mia said with a smile and wave, as nonchalant as ever. As she went back to work.

“I actually came over because I noticed our Aura here was not her usual chipper self today and I wanted to check in with her.”

 I fought down the urge to roll my eyes again I couldn’t pull it off with so many eyes on me.

“What a coincidence, I was just having that same conversation with her. So now that I’ve got back up are you ready to talk?”

 I could feel my face get hot again, I couldn’t blush a small mercy but the anger was still fresh and hot in my veins, was at a tipping point. Years of acting had taught me to hide my emotions and bury them behind a wall. I smirked as I finish my drink. The room was silent was waiting for me to talk.

  “I am fine I swear...”

   “You know Henry I think she needs a hug! My hands are full at the moment but yours are free.”

            “Oh no I....”

Mia and Henry looked at each other and then back at me. Henry began to advance on me, and I backed up shaking my head.

 “I’ve been told I give pretty good hugs.”

 His arms outstretched and I backed up and he smirked his teeth making him look even more menacing than normal. 

“I think I’ll pass...”

 “Nope let him use his muscles for good instead of exploding ovaries across the globe.” 

Mia said and I knew she was trying to push us to interact, but little did she know it was for nothing. I decided to go with this just to get it over with. I wanted him gone and for my head to stop being foggy with him around.

 “Fine. If I hug Henry will you both believe I am okay?”

 “Maybe.” 

Mia waved me into his direction where he still stood arms open.

I stepped across the small space, not wanting to enjoy the hug, and honestly I felt sick to my stomach. I felt like a pawn being used to further his aims and it literally was making me sick so I pushed him off in a non assuming way and said

 “Well thank you Henry for that. Mia why don’t you get one too! I promise they are life changers.”

 Mia looked at me like a grew another head and Henry looked at Mia for a moment before opening his arms and folding her in. I could tell Mia thought it was awkward but didn’t say anything.

 “Great now that the love-fest has ended can we get back to set?” I said feeling moderately successful in pushing them towards what they wanted and getting off my back.

 “I had a dual purpose for stopping by. Seeing as we break a little earlier today a few of us are all headed out tonight. We could use a few beautiful ladies such as yourself to join in. Interested?”

He raised his eyebrows in question and before I could say no, Mia said yes, I shook my head in the negative.

 “Oh no I told you guys I am tired. I think I’m going to pass but Mia you should go.”

 I could tell she was getting pissed that I was not taking the opportunity to spend time with Henry but I was pulling back and I would explain it later once Henry had the chance to let her know how he felt. It was Mia’s turn to roll her eyes.

 “What time are we meeting up?”

She asked him.

 “Assuming filming wraps up for the night soon, they say about 10ish.”

 “Alright. Well WE will meet you guys. Thanks for the invite.”

 “Great! Glad you guys are in. I’ve got to go pull myself back to rights for our next scene. See you ladies soon.”

As soon as the door closed, I turned to Mia with a glare.

 “Mia. I just said I didn’t want to go. Why you tell that man we would go?!”

 “Because that man wants you to go. Did you see the way he face fell when you said you weren’t?!”

 “I think it was more of General disappointment.  As I said I’m tired.”

 “Well suck it the fuck up buttercup cuz we going.”

I sighed with resignation.

 “1 hour. Y’all getting one hour out of me and I’m going back to the hotel.”

 She yipped in excitement before holding my costume blazer back up for me to put on...

 *Later*

I had tried repeatedly to get out of coming to this club tonight. Mia would hear none of it, and all but held me at knife point and forced me into a deep red halter-top and tight fitting mini-skirt that was one wrong move away from a full blown wardrobe malfunction. She had dressed in a black fitted mini-dress and her ever infamous converse shoes that had seen us through many and plenty club nights as they added a casual feel to an otherwise club vibe. She paired with black lipstick and dark makeup that made her large brown eyes pop in contrast to the stark white ends of her dreads. 

Once inside the club, which was busy considering it was a Friday night. The music playing was some variety of Drake and pop catchy music, which normally wasn’t our taste but we would make due. 

I looked around for a familiar face and at the sound of my name being shouted over the music I looked to the balcony where I saw a familiar group of crew standing. I let Mia guide  me into the commandeered V.I.P sections of the club, all  bouncing with faces I had been running around the set with for the better part of three weeks.

Of course Mia was the type for fast friends so she practically knew everyone there in our section. I followed her lead as we floated from person to person, finally finding a seat in an open booth. I checked the time on my phone. 

 “Oh good only half an hour left.”

 “You cannot be serious! You really want to leave in 30 minutes? Henry isn’t even here yet.”

 I let all the emotion fade from my face and said

“And? Mia I told you I was only staying for an hour...”

 Commotion sounded as someone new arrived and judging by the name and excitement I gathered it was Henry. I finished my sentence with Mia just as he came over to our table. He looked just as good as ever in a navy button down and fitted jeans that his thighs were threatening to escape from. 

 “I meant it Mia. So thirty minutes or more like 25 now.”

 “Sorry I’m late. Had a quick conference call with my agent that took a little longer than planned.”

 Mia scooted over, which meant I had to move over since I was on the end for him to sit. Mia only moved over so much and with Henry’s large size taking up the real estate on the seat  it made our legs touch. He didn’t seem bothered and actually ended up leaning back, tossing his arm around the back of my area where my body would be if I were sitting all the way back on the seat instead of the edge. I inhaled discreetly, hating how good he smelled, or should I say I hated how much it appealed to me. I was more than frustrated with myself because none of the feelings I had before, had gone away. They hadn’t lessened, and if I could talk to Mia about this she would tell me I was being to hard on myself about attempting to get over something in only 24 hours. Before I could say anything in response to Henry, a waitress came over in a tight dress, yet sensible shoes combo, batting her eyes in Henry’s direction, asking him what he wanted to drink. He ordered, and turned his attention back to Mia and I, clearly disappointing the bottle girl.��

 “So having fun yet?”

 “I’m trying to get her to loosen up but she is determined to kill the vibe.”

Mia said with a smirk and took a sip of Bombay based drink.

“I’m having fun honest, but I told y’all earlier I’m tired.”

“That’s because you acting like you don’t know how to turn up. Come on!!”

Next thing I know she is pulling me by my arm and onto the dance floor.

“Excuse us Henry!”

 I yelled behind me only having time to say that before we were headed down the stairs to the dance floor. Some random song came on but recognizable to us and we began dancing together is jumping around, acting silly along with the crowd of people. The song changed and had Mia dancing wildly in the middle of the floor, me following suit, shaking everything that we had to shake. Simply having fun and leaving it out on the floor. I saw Mia began to dance with a random guy and I started doing much of the same, some okay looking guy that really wasn’t my type but was nearby and available ended up being my partner. The song changed to something faster and the random blonde haired man moved into my space even more. The more I pulled back the closer he got, trying not to rude and hoping he would get the hint if I turned away and danced with the air, paying him no mind. This only prompted the guy to grind on my ass and  and stick his hand down the front of my shirt. 

That was enough and turned around and pushed the guy off and away.

“What the fuck?! I don’t even know you! Keep your hands off!”

 “Oh so what you can fucking tease me all night and I can’t cop a feel?”

 “Fuck you! You self righteous prick!”

 I turned to leave but he grabbed the top of my arm, yanking me close, and it was then that I realized this guy was a lot drunker than I realized when I began dancing with him. I wouldn’t ever have started. I looked around but Mia who usually was right next to me had disappeared, I tried yanking back but he wasn’t letting go. 

“Let me go!”

 “Come on, let me get one more dance!”

 I was about to rear back and punch him but then my free arm was yanked and ended up being pulled backward out of the assholes grasp. I looked up realizing I was now behind Henry’s back, the look on his face was of pure aggression and thankfully not directed at me. 

“I believe the lady told you to let her go.”

He took one look at Henry’s massive frame, and for a moment his eyes showed fear, but it passed quickly. 

“That stuck up black bitch ain’t worth all this shit.”

 The next thing I saw was Henry lunge and grabbed the guy by the collar of his red polo shirt. 

“You keep her name out your goddamn mouth. You don’t even speak on her! I will fucking bash your face in the next time you even think about sexually assaulting any woman!  Fucking prick.”

 “Henry please let him go! He’s not worth it!”

 I put my hands around one of his arms the best I could trying to pull him off before he risked his career beating up some drunkard in a club. 

Henry seemed to listen, letting go of the man with a shove to which the crowd laughed and the man’s friends picked him up front he floor in which he landed. Dragging the now red faced man toward the exit as he threatened to come back and kick Henry’s ass despite Henry having a few inches on him and considerably more mass. Mia had come over, finally getting wind of the situation.

“What in the hell? Aura? Henry? What happened why does Henry looking like he’s ready to kill?”

 “It’s fine. I...”

 “Oh bloody hell! Would you stop saying everything is fine or okay all of the time? Everything is not always ‘fine’!”

 He said turning to me, now seemingly angry with me. I took a step back, rubbing my sore arm from where that jackass from earlier grabbed me. I was now embarrassed as I could feel eyes piercing me from every direction. I did what I always did and instead of handling it like a rational adult, I lashed back.

 “You are right! Being sexually assaulted in a club by a dick is not FINE! I knew this shit was a fucking bad idea! I should have stayed back at the hotel like I wanted! This is some bullshit. I’m out!”

 I pushed out of the crowd, glad of my lack of purse I was able to head toward the exit!

 “Wait Aura! You don’t have to leave!”

 Mia said running behind me, tears pricking on the corners of my eyes. I stopped walking, ending up standing in the hallway near the bathrooms.

 “Mia I honestly just want to go home. Please just let me go.”

 I said feeling tears fall down my face. Mia looked at me, understanding on her face. She reached up wiping the few stay tears. 

“Okay. I left my jacket upstairs. I’m going to go grab it and we can go.”

 “Don’t let me ruin your night. I can head back by myself.”

 “Like hell. It’s cool I feel like I’m down for going home. Besides  Dude from earlier could still be out there. I’ll be right back, stay here.”

 She walked away with a small smile in my direction. I leaned against the wall, hoping I could blend into it. I called for an Uber on my phone and I had been standing for five minutes waiting when I saw Mia come back around the corner but she wasn’t alone this time. I could not fight the urge to roll my eyes this time. I honestly didn’t want to see him right now.

 “Why is he here? Come to tell me I’m falling apart? Come to tell me how I am supposed to feel again Henry?”

 He looked mollified for a second then his eyes became sincere but by then the sight of seeing Mia and his standing side-by side just unlocked all of the disappointment I bottled up in the last 24 hours.

 “I didn’t mean to yell...”

 I tossed up a hand indicating I didn’t want to hear anything. He stopped talking.

“I don’t need anything from you. Apologies, protection, nothing! The last thing I need is apologies from you. In fact I just want to be left alone!”

 “But Aura,  I just wanted to help.” He started up again.

 “Henry leave it. In fact Mia and Henry y’all should stay here and have a good time. I’m just a third wheel anyway.”

 My phone dinged signaling the arrival of my Uber. 

“Come on Aura lets go...” 

Mia said, but in anger I tossed my hands up in front of me on an effort to keep her back. I shook my head ‘no’. I pushed backwards against the air and said 

 “Naw, you see I’m straight I don’t need anyone right now. You should stay here with Henry. That’s what he wants anyway.”

 I narrowed my eyes at them and with that I turned and walked away, leaving out the front door of the nightclub, also leaving behind two confused faces...

A/n: with five minutes to spear! Hope y'all enjoyed! 

#henry cavill x black ofc #henry cavill #henry cavill x ofc #henry cavill fanfic

[365daysofsasuhina]

[ 365 Days of SasuHina || Day Three Hundred Thirty-Nine: File Folder ] [ Uchiha Sasuke, Hyūga Hinata ] [ SasuHina ] [ Verse: Best Years of Your Life ] [ AO3 Link ]

When his alarm sounds, blaring from the speaker of his phone, Sasuke gives a groan and rolls over. A hand fishes around for the device, managing (after several fumbles) to silence the damn thing.

Once his room is quiet again, he sighs and sinks back atop the mattress.

...it’s Tuesday. He has work today.

Ugh.

An arm slung over his eyes, he shifts it up to his brow, staring at his ceiling. Most of the room is dark save for a soft glow that peeks out from a tiny gap above his window’s blinds. The entire space looks blue. Mind oddly blank, he takes a minute or two to let his brain catch up, and then heaves himself up out of bed with a grunt.

Footsteps take him to the shower, which quickly fills with hot water. To this day, he doesn’t know how Itachi manages those cold ones. He’d sooner cut off his left hand. Whatever benefits the elder brother claims they have are not worth it. Within seven minutes he’s back out, toweling off and getting dressed. Lacing up his shoes, he abandons the apartment bedroom and heads instead into the belly of the flat. Breakfast is two hard boiled eggs and toast, all washed down with a cup of coffee. While he indulges in meals out fairly often, today just feels like a morning in kind of day.

Finally checking his phone, he notes the small nine-plus on his messages. Seems he was pretty popular after heading to bed last -

...oh.

Opening his messages, he can’t help a flinch. They’re all (but one) from Sakura. The extra is from his brother, reminding him of a meeting they have this afternoon with a client. The rest he builds up courage for before opening.

It’s a long tirade that bounces between anger, woe-is-me, accusations, pleads for pity...a typical Sakura exchange. Seems her being fired yesterday didn’t go over well...and she is, as he predicted, blaming him. Claiming it’s all an elaborate hoax to get her out of his hair.

...well, she’s half right. His father’s decision to remove her was a good segue into him telling her he really isn’t interested anymore. But it wasn’t him who suggested or thought up the move. That was entirely on Fugaku, but...good luck convincing her of that with her mind already made up for his guilt.

Heaving a heavy sigh, he decides to try and head off a reply now.

Sakura, it wasn’t my decision, it was my father’s. I was just as surprised as you were. But you’re right - I think this is as good a sign as any that we need to get some distance. Whatever that was between us...it’s been over for a while now. I have to get to work. For now, we both have some adjusting to do. Good luck.

Maybe a bit blunter than he meant it to sound, but...he’s rather sick of her attitude, anyway.

And all of this reminds him of what, instead, is waiting for him at work.

In the interim as Fugaku finds his younger son a new permanent secretary, Sasuke’s been assigned a temporary one: a girl from their billing department is filling in until a new hire is found. She’s only been there since yesterday, and admittedly Sasuke didn’t see much of her - she spent a great deal of time being walked through the process by Itachi’s assistant. Thankfully Sasuke’s day had been pretty light, and he hadn’t really needed her for anything.

...there’s just one problem.

She’s really cute.

And Fugaku had given him a lecture about office romances when he’d broken the news about Sakura’s being let go, citing his fallout with her as a small but real part of her being fired. But Sakura, to be fair, hadn’t really been much of anything except a casual, once-in-a-blue moon sort of deal. Her ‘distraction’ had been minimal at best, and it was far more her behavior that got her sacked. Sasuke’s attitude toward her making her sour had just been a chip off the iceberg.

Now she’s out of the picture, and Hinata - the girl from billing - will be there two weeks tops, according to his father. Then back to billing she’ll go, several floors down. And Sasuke’s new help, as Fugaku warned, will be someone he won’t be too keen on sleeping with, in hopes of curbing his tendency to make the office...tense.

Which, in his mind, isn’t wholly fair. Sakura was the one who made it such a big deal...and it was the only time it happened. It wasn’t like he had a list ten people long he’s messed around with! The way Fugaku spoke made it sound like a bad habit…

But now he’s got this to deal with. Hinata. Unlike Sakura, she’s been charming, sweet, and far more polite. As much as he hated to admit it...he was a bit smitten almost immediately. And he did not want to prove his father right. So, he’d holed himself up in his office, watching through the windows as she got mini lessons from the other secretary.

So...what to do. She won’t be in the department forever - and Fugaku had, even if he hadn’t been wholly serious, suggested that being that removed would make any possible relations more...excusable. Should things go south, they wouldn’t be forced into close quarters like he and Sakura had been.

But his pride also tells him it’s a dumb idea if only because he knows his father will give him shit about it.

Scowling to himself, Sasuke glances at his phone - he’d better get going, or he’s going to be late.

He can’t avoid her forever.

Thankfully it’s a short drive to the proper building, and then an elevator ride to the right floor. It’s already bustling - any day a new client comes to have talks, it’s all the executive department can talk about. Itachi’s already agreed to brief him on it - it’s rather last minute, arranged over the weekend and only confirmed yesterday morning.

...to his honest surprise, she’s already there.

Back to him, she’s fishing through a file cabinet by her desk. The top drawer is just a little too tall for her, stood on her tiptoes to peer into it. She’s got a pencil skirt, a dark purple in color that matches the jacket she has on. Dark leggings run all the way down to her shoes, which have just a hint of heel (and yet still not enough to see what she’s looking for). While it had been down yesterday, her hair is caught up in a neat bun this morning.

To his own aggravation, he finds himself subtly giving her backside a glance. He can’t really help himself - that skirt is just -

“Aha!”

Startled from his staring, Sasuke makes to appear as though he’s just approaching, watching as Hinata fetches a file folder before closing the drawer and smiling. “Find what you you were looking for?”

It’s her turn to jump a bit, not expecting him to be so close. “O-oh! Mr. - um...Sasuke! You got a flag from your brother asking you to look over some, um...some forms that pertain to your meeting this afternoon. I believe these are the c-correct ones.”

Head tilting in interest, he accepts the file and skims through it. “Seem to be. I’ll double check with him just to be sure. Thanks for digging them out.”

“Of course!”

Shutting the folder, he looks back up to her. “...seems you’re settling in okay. Anything giving you grief yet?”

“Not so far, no...a-any questions I’ve had, your brother’s assistant has been able to help me with! I think I have the hang of the b-basics. I’ve been trying not to bother her too much...I want to try to get the r-rest on my own. Unless, um...unless something pressing comes up, of course. I don’t want to waste any of your time -”

“It’s fine. It’s pretty rare anything has less than a day’s turnaround. And if they do, you’ll know, and she can help you.”

A light shade of flustered pink alights her cheeks, and he inwardly curses. “Ah...all right. Well, um...I’ll let you get to it! Your brother wanted you to l-look over those forms sometime before this afternoon, so...I don’t want to distract you.”

“All right - I’ll page you if anything else comes up.”

“Got it!”

Taking the file with him, he closes the door to his office and sets it on his desk, standing for a moment with a heavy sigh.

...this isn’t going well. It isn’t going well at all. Why did it have to be her out of anyone in billing? She’s so damn distracting! And not in bad ways, he just...really doesn’t need this right now. Any other time…

A hand reaches and eases at the tension in his brow. Well...best he start going over the paperwork. He rarely has to do much in meetings like this - mostly just pay attention and help make sure nothing is awry - another pair of eyes and ears. But Itachi seems a bit more serious about this one than usual, so...best he put in the effort.

And maybe it’ll help get other things off his mind...

                                                       .oOo.

     (This is a sequel to day 262!)      The sequel no one saw coming xD I know continuing this one - especially almost 100 days later - is SUPER random, but I couldn't NOT do something office related with a prompt like 'file folder' lol - and I like this concept anyway =w=      Poor Sasuke. He goes from a not-great hookup with one secretary (and getting in trouble for it) to having one even CUTER and more appealing show up! He just can't catch a break! Well...maybe once she goes back to billing, he can give this a shot. Otherwise, his pride (and his dad xD) won't stand for it.      Anywho, I'm still UBER behind, like...17? 18 days? I can't math, but uh...a lot. idk if I'll really have time to do much catching up before the end of the year, but obviously at least SOME of it will spill over into 2020. Whoops? Can't really be helped though, life has just been too much to keep up here like I wanted, but...I won't get too much into that. This was Dec 5's prompt, and uh...well, it's 3am, so it's technically the 23 here, so...yeah, I'm very behind :'D But I'll finish up whenever I can - just wanted to reiterate that, aha~      But for now, it's late, as always...I need to sleep. Thanks for reading!

#sasuhina #uchiha sasuke #hyūga hinata #best years of your life [ au ] #365daysofsasuhina

[artificialqueens]

The Silent Land, Chapter 2 (multi ship) - Grey Darling

a/n: Just realised I was a dork and didn’t label the first chapter as such, whoops. But anywho, here’s chapter two, read it you feel like it, and I hope you all enjoy!

Morgan didn’t even know why she was there.

She’d only just finished her first day of classes and she already hated this damn performing arts college. She didn’t even like performing - hence why she was taking the management course, but still, she was surrounded by theatre nerds who were very loud and very proud to be so. If they said “Oh my god, we are such theatre kids!” one more time, Morgan was going to burn the damn school to the ground.

Why did she leave Scotland? At least Scotland was pretty.

Flopping backward onto her bed, she blew out a sigh and reached for the tin of shortbread her mother sent over shortly after she arrived in LA. Bless her cotton socks. At the very least she’d have something to help her get through the eternal suffering that was the mountain of readings she had to get done - although she’d never have to get up on stage (thank god), there was a lot of terminology to memorise if she was going to do this whole management thing.

Or maybe she could open up her window and smoke. That sounded like a better idea than doing work for a course she didn’t care about. And besides, no one could complain. That was the benefit of staying in a hall - no roommates, therefore, no one to judge you when you slowly killed yourself with nicotine instead of doing the work that could actually lead to a successful career. Priorities, right?

Her socked feet didn’t make a sound as she hopped off her bed and onto the less than soft blue carpet, the socks in question decorated with the Scottish flag (another gift from her blessed mother, who seemed to think Morgan would forget she was a Scot if she didn’t have enough gift shop merchandise with the flag slapped across it). Grabbing her pack of cigarettes, she padded over to the window and opened it up, looking out over the urban view of Los Angeles, California, the USA, the land where dreams came true.

Bullshit.

Sitting in the window, Morgan pulled out a cigarette and lit it in one swift motion, letting her eyes drift shut as the smokey taste tingled in her mouth. Now, that hit the spot. As she took puff after puff, she watched as the sun slowly set over the horizon, setting the sky on fire with its brilliant orange glow. Even Morgan wasn’t too angsty to admit it was gorgeous - nobody could diss a good sunset.

When voices from below started to drift upwards, Morgan tore her gaze away from the sky to the ground to find the source. Her room overlooked the little patio area attached to the hall, so if she felt like being a stalker nothing was stopping her. Glancing downwards, she spotted two girls wandering out onto the patio, one black-haired and the other blonde, the former with a sketchbook in hand. If she listened hard enough, she could make out what they were saying.

“You’re so, like, studious,” said the blonde, her sweet southern accent clear even from Morgan’s distance. It couldn’t be more different from Morgan’s own brogue, which was thick and heavy and difficult to understand at the best of times. Well, for anyone who wasn’t Scottish, anyway.

The black-haired one turned to her, and Morgan raised her eyebrows at the blonde streak that ran through her locks. “I’m the opposite of studious - if I was studious, I’d be at an actual university.”

“Ok, maybe studious was the wrong word… I dunno what the right one is, though. But you’re, like, already workin’ on your first assignment and it’s only the first day!”

The other girl shrugged. “I just like what we’re doing, that’s all. You could get a head start too, y’know, do my hair while I sketch.”

“Serious? Thanks, ‘Nila! I dunno what I’d do, though…”

“Just do whatever, doesn’t bother me.”

The artist sat down at one of the little patio tables dotted about the place, and blondie pulled up a chair to go behind hers. It just so happened that she glanced up at the hall, and Morgan felt a twist of slight embarrassment in her stomach when she was caught watching them. But instead of leaning down to gossip and bitch with her artsy friend, she simply smiled and waved.

“Hiya!”

“Uh… Hi?” Morgan called down. Their tiny conversation caught the attention of the artist, and she glanced over at blondie with a quizzical expression but refrained from participating.

“Watcha doin’ up there?”

“Nae much.”

“Wanna come down? I could do your hair!”

Morgan had to admit, her enthusiasm for socialising was kind of cute. She self-consciously ran her hand through her short red hair, which she’d cut into a shaggy pixie cut shortly before leaving her home country. “Thaur isnae much hair tae dae.”

“So? Beats smokin’ in your room alone, right?”

Damn. She had her there. But Morgan liked smoking in her room alone…

“I’ve, uh, got readings tae dae.”

“So? Come do ‘em down here! It might be more fun with company.”

“Oh my god, just leave her alone, Sonique.”

Sonique… so that was her name. Sonique… So-neek. Morgan had never heard a name like that before, but it was nice enough. She shook her head slightly - why was she thinking about the name of a complete stranger so much, anyway? It’s not like it mattered - they’d probably never speak again after this.

Even though the artist told her to leave well enough alone, Sonique persisted. “Please? Dinner’ll be ready soon anyway, may as well come down.”

Not a bad point, actually. “Fine, I’ll come doon, but only if ye teel me wa ye want me tae sae much.”

“You look lonely up there, and I ain’t seen you with any friends today.” Sonique gave her answer quickly and bluntly, which gave Morgan some cause for concern. Had she really looked like she’d been bumming around campus with no friends all day? To be fair, it was true, but no one was supposed to actually know that.

“Reit… doon in a sec, ‘en.”

Morgan hopped off of the window sill and shut the window itself, prematurely cutting off Sonique’s reply. Stubbing her cigarette out into the ashtray she’d bought earlier that week, Morgan contemplated what she was getting herself into. Did she really want to spend her evening with two people she hardly knew? Hanging out with them once meant that she’d no doubt hang out with them again in the future, and given how bubbly Sonique and her artistic friend seemed to be, that wasn’t necessarily a prospect Morgan enjoyed thinking about. But then again, if she’d looked like such a lonely weirdo all day, it would probably be to her benefit to make a friend or two. Sonique seemed nice enough - certainly nice enough to invite a smoking stranger down to hang out for the evening. Besides, if she blew them off and didn’t go, she’d have to face them when dinner was served anyway, and no doubt they’d want a reason. Something told her that “couldn’t be bothered” wouldn’t cut it.

Sighing, Morgan surrendered herself to her social fate. Grabbing her laptop and slipping on her shoes, she pushed open her dorm room door and stepped out into the hall.

*** The air outside was pleasantly crisp, and a cool breeze ruffled Morgan’s already messy hair as it blew past. Sitting cross-legged on the stone patio, laptop in front of her, she tried to focus on her readings, really, she did, but Sonique and Manilas - the once nameless artist - constant chatter made that rather difficult.

“So what’re you studying, Morgan?” Sonique asked, her tone cheerful and bright as she combed through Manila’s thick dark hair. She was sitting backward on her plastic patio chair, a toolkit of hair care products, combs, brushes, clips, and hair ties on the table beside her.

“Aam daein’ th’ management coorse.”

“Oh cool! So like, directing and stuff?”

Morgan shrugged. “Kin’ ay. Aam lookin’ mair at advertisin’ an’ finance an’ shit.”

“What does that have to do with performing arts? Sounds more like a business paper to me,” Manila remarked, narrowing her eyes and cocking an eyebrow. She had very expressive eyes, Manila. Quite pretty ones too, not that Morgan cared.

Sonique’s were prettier, after all.

“Ye cannae jist pit oan a shaw withit fowk fa ken their shit behin’ th’ scenes,” Morgan retorted, strangely offended that her course had just been insulted. “Try puttin’ oan a shaw withit onie advertisin’ ur financial backin’, see hoo ye dae.”

“Yeah… right, I have no idea what you just said.”

Morgan rolled her eyes - of course she didn’t, bloody American twat who couldn’t tell her Irish from her Welsh from her Scottish. No doubt southern Sonique would fair much worse-

“She was just sayin’ that it’s hard to put on shows without advertising and money and stuff.” Sonique looked down at Morgan with wide eyes, batting her thick, mascara laden lashes. “Right?”

Not bad. “Yeah… reit.”

Morgan’s gaze went back to her laptop, the screen getting brighter and harder to look at as sunset turned to night. She ended up squinting, which was probably horrible for her eyes, but did she care? No, not really. Maybe if she went blind she wouldn’t have to do the rest of this bloody course.

After a little while, Sonique and Manila got the message that Morgan needed quiet to get her readings done, and so they let her have it. Save for the occasional murmur of Sonique asking Manila something about her hair, the evening was a silent one. And Morgan liked that, she liked it a lot - especially since it gave her the chance to glance up at Sonique without her noticing, too absorbed in braiding Manila’s streaked hair to have any sort of awareness of what was going on around her.

And Sonique was… cute. Very cute. She obviously looked after her hair, because each curl fell into perfect place around her bare, slightly tanned and freckled shoulders, the blonde locks glowing in the moonlight. A curvy figure dressed in a summery pink blouse and denim shorts, her tongue sticking out in concentration as she worked in the darkness, Sonique was, well…

Morgan didn’t know what Sonique was, but she knew she liked it.

“Did you say something?” Manila asked after another moment of silence, looking around with those expressive eyes of hers and furrowing her brow slightly.

Sonique shook her head. “Nope, not a peep from me.”

“Morgan?”

“Nae. Micht hae jist bin someain in th’ hall.”

“I could’ve sworn…” Manila trailed off, looking more than a little concerned. “I just thought they sounded closer, that’s all.”

A grin lit up Sonique’s face. “Maybe the stress is gettin’ to ya already?”

“Maybe… Or… No. Nevermind.”

***

Maybe hanging out with Sonique and Manila hadn’t been the worst idea in the world. In fact, it had been quite a good one.

The three of them ended up eating dinner together, and even though Manila had seemed distracted throughout the meal, it was rather nice. Morgan felt as though she’d really got to know Sonique, especially since she was so talkative and Morgan was so, well, not. She went on and on about where she’d first met Manila (second year of high school after moving to LA from Atlanta, best friends ever since), what she was doing at Ginsberg (the design course, hoping to branch out into hair and makeup in the second year), what she wanted to do with her life (hairstylist for the stars). It was a complete history of Sonique, and Morgan could have listened to it forever.

Sonique… Bubbly, charming, beautiful, strangely captivating. A smile like sunshine, a laugh like bells, an accent with such a beautiful, soft southern lilt to it. Morgan didn’t know what it was like to be in love, not genuinely, so when the butterflies in her stomach started to flutter and her chest grew tight just at the sound of Sonique’s voice, she thought there’d been something wrong with dinner.

But alas, good things never lasted forever, and Morgan had to part ways with the southern belle so she could sleep. Yet she felt as though she was walking on air as she jogged up the stairs to her dorm, almost skipping as she went. Suddenly, spending a year at this college didn’t seem like such a bad idea after all. Morgan was floating on clouds of unknown love, humming romantic tunes she didn’t realise she knew, and she felt as though she could start flying at any second.

Which is why the torturous, pounding headache that hit her next came as such a shock.

It was pain like she’d never known, as if her very brain was expanding and pressing against her skull, bursting to get out. As Morgan brought her hands to her head, she forced a groan through her clenched teeth, falling against the wall and trying to keep herself steady. Her ears were ringing - louder, louder, louder! The whole room flashed into unbearable brightness, her eyes stinging at the very sight of it, and she slammed them closed, begging, pleading for this pain, this torturous, searing pain, to end.

And then it did.

As suddenly as it arrived, the pain vanished. The ringing in her ears came to an abrupt halt. Breathing heavily, Morgan warily opened her eyes to find that the burning brightness had faded - but something was wrong.

The sun was up. It was the middle of the day - last time Morgan checked, it was nighttime. Digging around in the pocket of her jeans, Morgan pulled out her phone and tried to turn it on, but no luck. The screen remained blank, and no matter how many buttons she pressed or how long she held them, nothing happened. Frowning, Morgan slowly put her phone away and started down the hall - if she’d blacked out for that long, surely someone would’ve found her? Taken her back to her room? But she hadn’t blacked out, and besides, the carpet was a different colour. Red, not blue. Had she suddenly gone colourblind?

Arriving at her dorm, Morgan couldn’t help but notice how new the door looked, the battered wood she was used to replaced by a smooth, unworn surface. In some ways, Morgan didn’t want to open her door - what if something was waiting for her? Everything about this just seemed so strange, discomforting, unsettling. There was this sick feeling in her stomach that something did await her inside, something dangerous, not of this world.

But she had to be brave. Besides, there was every chance that she had blacked out, and this was just a dream. Nothing could hurt her in a dream, right? Taking a deep breath, Morgan reached for the doorknob and turned it, slowly, and with a shaking hand. The door pushed open with a creak, and Morgan braced herself for what she’d find inside, closing her eyes and taking one brave step in. Quiet… quiet… quiet… Nothing jumping out at her yet. Although she dreaded to do so, Morgan opened her eyes, greeted by the sight of something very strange indeed…

Madonna posters. All over the wall.

Morgan could only stand there, flabbergasted. Her room, which she had only just finished turning into a little punk rock cave of happiness, had been turned into a shrine to Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and about a dozen other pretty boy synthpop MTV acts from the 80s. Whether this was a dream or reality, it was just about the most surreal thing she’d stumbled upon in her life.

Then the voices came, drifting down the hall and only getting closer. Someone angry, yelling, another voice trying to calm her down. Morgan could only breathe a sigh of relief as she spotted the pair of girls in 80s style clothing walking down the corridor, one taking great striding steps, the other dashing to keep up with her despite her long legs. Not that she was tall, her companion was just very short. But all that mattered was that they were people, flesh and blood people who Morgan could talk to and get some answers from and wasn’t it strange how they didn’t seem to notice she was there?

The pair were heading straight for Morgan’s dorm, and the closer they drew the more she expected to be seen. But they didn’t. In fact, they just passed right through her like ghosts, sending a shiver up Morgan’s spine and turning her blood to ice. Was this even real?

“I cannot fucking believe her!” the shorter one cried, slamming the door shut. Morgan was trapped now, in a room that wasn’t hers, yet had been an hour ago, apparently unable to be seen by people standing right in front of her.

Whit th’ ever-lovin’ fuck is goin’ oan?

“Jesus, Phi Phi, calm down. It’s not like she killed your cat or anything,” said her companion, flopping down on the bright pink duvet of Morgan’s former bed. Her style mimicked Morgan’s own, just a bit grungier and more, well, 80s. If Morgan didn’t know any better, she’d been miraculously sent thirty years into the past.

Wait a minute…

“She may as well have, the bitch,” Phi Phi grumbled, kicking the wall with her sticker-covered, bright purple converse. “She is such a freak - why do you even hang out with her?”

“Because she’s cool! And has all the best records at her flat.”

Phi Phi looked at her companion with glowering contempt, although Morgan couldn’t be sure if the rage was aimed at the girl herself or whoever they were talking about. “Seriously? You want to hang out with Sharon fucking Needles because she has good music? Jesus, Adore…”

“What? I’m easy to please,” Adore replied with a shrug. “Why do you hate her so much, anyway?”

“Isn’t it obvious? She’s a freak and a satanist.”

Morgan raised her eyebrows - of all the directions this conversation could’ve taken, that was not the one she expected. It seemed she and Adore were of the same mind. “That’s kind of harsh, don’t you think?”

“It’s true.”

“Let me guess, you saw her playing D&D once and freaked?”

Phi Phi scoffed. “No, I didn’t see her playing fucking D&D. But she’s into dodgy stuff!”

“And you know this how?”

“I’ve seen her, asking all the professors and lecturers weird questions about Ginsberg’s history. And then she’s got that obnoxious leather jacket with all those weird symbols painted on them? It’s like, what the fuck, Sharon?”

Clearly, Adore wasn’t buying it. She just rolled her eyes at her much tanner, much shorter companion. “Whatever. You’re just paranoid because you think I’ll start liking Sharon more than you.”

“No! I’m serious, Adore, something dodgy is going with her, and I seriously don’t like it.”

But that was all Morgan ever heard of that conversation. As soon as Phi Phi had finished speaking, that same surge of pain hit her like a tidal wave, so bad that she just wanted to curl up in a ball and hide until it was over. But now she knew that these headaches meant something, she kept her eyes open even though she risked the intense brightness that came with them. Only this time, everything started to grow dark. Shadows cast along Phi Phi and Adore’s faces, the music posters started to wrinkle and tear and float away into dust, and for a moment, Morgan was trapped in a void of endless, crushing blackness.

And then everything was just as it had been.

Safe and sound in her own bedroom, her own posters on the wall, her tin of shortbread still on the nightstand, the mountain of gift shop merchandise still scattered about the space, and the moon high in the inky black sky. Breath heaving, Morgan ran to the door (battered wood) and forced it open, and the sight of blue carpet was more relieving than she ever could’ve expected.

Shutting her door again, Morgan slid down onto the floor, bringing her knees to her chest. All thoughts of Sonique forgotten in favour of the most bizarre evening of her life, Morgan literally had no clue what had just happened to her. Why everything had changed back and forth so suddenly, why there were two strangers in her room, why it seemed she’d been teleported back to the 1980s. Burying her head in her hands, Morgan took deep breaths to calm herself, and there was only one sentiment she could mutter under her breath.

“Whit th’ actual fuck?”

#rpdr fanfiction #morgan mcmichaels #manila luzon #phi phi o'hara #adore delano #kylie sonique love #morgan x sonique #university au #paranormal au #the silent land #grey darling #lesbian au #college au #rare pair #concrit welcome #submission

[readerwinterbarnes]

Help Me - Pt. 14/?

Bucky x Reader

Summary: Bucky’s refusing to give in and decides to get to bottom of Steve’s secret. But is Steve still willing to take the risk or will he finally come to his senses?

Word Count: 2,838

Warnings: Swapping POV, time skips, angst, so much angst. Not Steve friendly, you get to meet Winter, Steve needs some sense knocked into him

Notes: Right, so school just started again so I won’t be able to post as much as I wanted too. BUT I’ll be posting on the weekends!!! So don’t worry if I seem distant during the week, school’s gonna kick my ass this semester. 

Anywho, I hope ya’ll ready for this, cause it’s gonna get tense and as per the warnings it’s not going to be Steve friendly for a bit. Also….you get to meet Winter in this part as well. Let me know what you think! Don’t be a stranger, feel free to talk to me about things! :) 

Y/N and I were in the kitchen making breakfast for the others when FRIDAY notified us when the others landed on the pad.

“Pardon the interruption, but it appears they have returned from the mission. Shall I send them up?” From my peripheral vision, I could see Y/N calmly cutting the fruit with a slight tremor in her hands. I myself was standing rigid, knowing full well Steve would most likely start something when he sees her. Like he always does.

“Have them clean up first FRIDAY, they can debrief afterward,” Tony informed him as he filled his mug with more coffee. He looked towards me with a knowing look. “Gives us some time to get ready also.”

“Got it, Boss.”

“Thank you, Tony,, for...for doing that,” I said softly as I went back to taking care of the eggs, noting Y/N having shifted closer to me.

“No worries Frosty, Y/N’s family and we protect family. Just gotta face this shit storm first.” Clint and Bruce murmured in agreement from where they sat at the table. It helped that we had some on our side, but the thought of having to run into hiding with Y/N was beginning to creep in. I would do anything to protect her, Winter would do anything.

Y/N and I were just placing the food on the table when I felt the air shift. Out of pure instinct, I placed myself in front of her just as Sam and Natasha walked in. They looked at us five and gave us all kind smiles. Sam broke the silence first.

“Morning! Y/N I hope you were the one to do the eggs, ya know Bucks is always trying to find ways to poison me.”

“Shut up Birdman, if I wanted to poison you, you’d be dead already.” I snarked back at him, smiling when I saw him freeze, eyes going wide.

“Bucky made the eggs, Sam, but you’ll be fine. We bought poison free Grade A eggs fresh from the market.” Y/N replied in amusement. Sam just shook his head smiling as he sat down with Natasha, who took her place beside Clint.

“I swear, sometimes,” he mumbled as he ate his eggs warily, but soon ignored the possible food poisoning and continued to eat. Nat gave me a small nod, letting me know that they were okay before thanking Clint for the toast with a smile. It wasn’t much longer until Steve came walking in and helping himself to some food, but not before sending Y/N a cold hard glare. I slipped my hand under her shirt, knowing she’d want skin to skin contact to keep her grounded. Her back was rigid as soon as he walked in and kept it together throughout breakfast. Not once looking up to meet Steve’s glare. From an untrained eye, she looked calm, however to a trained one, she looked as if she wanted to bolt out of the room.

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

I left Y/N to catch up with Natasha, letting them have a girls night. Knowing that it would help ease her mind from what happened yesterday.

“You could join us if you want Bucky, you do have the perfect hair length for some braids,” Nat said as she plopped down on the floor gracefully next to Y/N.

I shivered, “No thanks, knowing you, you’d probably just chop it all off and call it a day. Nah, I think I’ll leave you with your nails, hair and spa time. I’m gonna blow off some steam though,” I replied to Nat, who just shrugged with a smirk. I knelt down to kiss Y/N before I left, knowing she’d be safe with Nat. “Stay with Nat, alright? I’ll be up in a few hours. Let JARVIS know if you need me.”

She kissed me back before smiling, “I’ll be here, love you.”

“Love you too, doll.”

It’s not like I wouldn’t have joined them, but the thought of my hair being curled, face masks and nails done made me cringe. No, this is where I wanted to be. Just me and the bag, nothing else. That was until Steve decided he would join me. I chose to ignore his presence and continue with my workout. If he wanted to talk to me, he’d have to make the first move.

“We need to talk.” Ha, ‘course we need to talk, but you’re not going to listen to what I have to say. So I ignored him.

“Bucky, seriously, we really need to talk.”

“Then talk, I got ears.” I snapped out in annoyance.

“Face to face Buck, I don’t want to be talking to a brick wall.” Brick wall? Huh, least that’s still holding up. Wish my patience wasn’t wearing thin though. So I indulge him and hold the bag steady to my side as I turn around slightly, still not face to face, so he’d have to deal with it.

“Alright, talk. Gonna tell ya right now I might choose to block a few things.” I respond stiffly, just wanting this conversation to be over with right now.

“She needs to go and by go, I mean leave the tower.” I groan, resisting the urge to roll my eyes.

“Seriously? Steve, we’ve been over this. She ain’t leavin’.”

“You’re not thinking clearly about this, Bucky. So make a choice, either she leaves the tower or she’ll be transported to Wakanda. Permanently.” He was clearly asking for it. Why couldn’t he just understand that she was here to stay? To stay with me, whether he liked it or not. My hands turned into fists as I shook my head.

“No. No, she ain’t leavin’ Steve. I don’t care what you say, but she ain’t leavin’. It’s either she stays or I leave with her.”

“I can’t let that happen, Buck, she has to go. She’s using you, how many times do I have to tell you? Hydra made damn well sure she’d get any and all information she could gather from us. And she’s using you as the main source!” Before Steve could finish his whole ramble hate speech, I took three long strides across the room and bashed my fist against his face. Watching gleefully as he stumbled a bit from the force. I punched him again and again, each one harder than the first.

“Don’t. You. Ever. Say. That.” I made sure to add a few kicks as well, making sure to aim them towards his ribs, face, any weak spots that would slow him down. I slammed my fist into his face once more before standing up straighter, chest heaving. Steve breathing heavily on his hands and knees.

“At least with her, I can feel things and fuckin’ want to do things every day. I can do things Steve, I can sleep in, eat peanut butter straight out of the jar, breathe and eat when I want to. When I was with Hydra, I didn’t have to feel, didn’t need to. I was just given missions, eliminate the target and do whatever else was needed. No emotional strings attached. But with Y/N, I want to feel. I get to feel my heart burst whenever she laughs, I lose my breath every time she smiles at me.” I glared down at the man that used to be my friend and it hurt. I didn’t know this Steve anymore. I sure as hell am not the same Bucky he used to know. That man died when he fell off the train and he wasn’t coming back, no matter how hard Steve tried. “And if I have to leave with her to keep doin’ that? Then don’t think for a fuckin’ second that I won’t leave without her.”

“And as your friend, I’m going to make sure you’re safe.” With that, Steve charged at me, a huge mass of muscle colliding with mine as we tumbled to the floor. My head flew back as he punched my jaw, giving him the chance to grab my wrists and pin them to my sides. Using my head, I rammed it into his face, knocking him off me with my feet.

“When will you understand that I’m already safe?” Speaking loudly, already done with this bullshit.

“When the threat is gone and I know you’re safe. You don’t know what she can do, Buck.” He replied, standing up already prepared to go another round if need be.

“Oh, and you do? Do tell me, Steve, what else can she do that I don’t already fuckin’ know about?” I looked him straight in the eye, waiting for him to respond.

“She can make you go under, for you to be refrozen for those sons of bitches. She’ll be assisting them when they wipe you again when they re-control you.” I could feel my breath start to quicken at his words. Memories came flying back, me being in the chair, the orders they gave me, the lives he took withering away right before his eyes. The pain. Nothing but pain.

“Don’t…,” I couldn’t help but feel a little bit useless, I was getting overwhelmed by the past that it started to cloud my judgment. If I didn’t retake my control, Steve would win and I wasn’t going to let him. “Don’t talk about things you know nothing about.”

Steve just looked at me with cold, hard, blue eyes. “I know plenty Bucky, enough to know that I am right in what I stand for. Either she leaves, or I’ll have SHIELD send her on a permanent assignment in Wakanda. Away from you.” I watched as he left the room, bloody and clutching at his ribs. But there was something in his eyes that was unsettling. I knew he wasn’t telling me everything and that thought alone sent a curdling feeling to my stomach.

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

The next few days were torture. I was agitated, irritated with everything and everyone. I spent most of my time down at the gym rather than around the others. I couldn’t sleep and food meant little to me. But most importantly, that curdling feeling never left. I could sense something was off with Steve, from the way he acted around the others, how his eye twitched when he saw Y/N and me together.

“Barnes?” I was pulled out of my thoughts when I noticed Tony looking at me paled face, a hint of concern, mixed with panic filled his eyes. I looked down at my hand to notice it holding what was left of the chair arm in its grasp. I was so deep in my own thoughts that I never registered what I was actually doing. Releasing the remnants of the chair, I slumped back away from Tony. Not wanting to accidentally injure him in any way.

“Uh, sorry, ‘bout the chair,” I mumbled softly, turning my eyes away from him. Hating myself for losing my control so easily.

“Um, it’s, it’s okay, never liked it much anyways.” He laughed forcefully, his hands twitching at his sides. Itching to call the suit if need be. “But uh, you okay though? What happened just then?” He sat down at his desk, watching as I slid down to the floor. Making myself as small and non-threatening as I could.

“I’m fine? I don’t know, I just got stuck in my own head. It hasn’t happened in awhile.” Tony hummed in understanding, still not moving from his seat though. I wouldn’t blame him.

“This have to do anything with Steve?” I immediately tensed when he brought him up. The feeling in my stomach intensified, I was more than convinced that there was something he wasn’t telling me.

“I need the location of that base they went to.”

“Uh...what?” This time I looked up at Tony, hands clenched on my knees.

“Their past mission, the location, what is it?” Tony looked at me for a few seconds, eyes widening slightly when he started to connect some of the dots.

“You don’t think he would…?”

“He would, coordinates. Now. I want to leave within the hour.” Turning around abruptly, he had FRIDAY bring up the location of where Steve, Sam, and Nat went to a few days ago. I remembered it instantly, I had to drop off a scientist there before. Never been inside it much, but I had a good memory of it.

“Send Y/N down here.” Tony noticing how tense I was, and didn’t hesitate to have FRIDAY call her down. A few minutes later, a worried Y/N came rushing out of the elevator.

“Bucky? Are you okay? Did something-” She cut herself off as took me in. I could tell she was taking in my aura and how it was causing her to shake. How she was holding back the need to use her powers to calm me down. I took her face in my hands, gently, feeling calmer just by her presence.

“Doll, I need you to listen and listen good. Alright?” Once she nodded, I kissed her softly, “You need to stay down here until I get back.”

“Why?” Both Tony and Y/N asked.

“ ‘Cause I have to leave for a few hours and I don’t trust, I don’t-I can’t...I can’t protect you when I’m not here.” I glanced over her shoulder at Tony. “So the safest place for you is right here. He and FRIDAY will be able to protect you better down here.”

“This has to do with Steve doesn’t it?” Pulling her into my chest, I breathed her in, not ever wanting to let her go.

“I don’t know Y/N, but I’m gonna find out.” I lead her to the couch, wrapping the blanket there around her shoulders. “Protect her, Tony, especially from Steve.” Tony nodded already setting up the protocols with FRIDAY.

“Why the others?” I looked back at Y/N.

“Because I need them to stay away from you. The need to protect you is strong, wanting you safe and that right now is right here. I’ve done a damn good job and suppressing Winter all these years, but he’s persistent. You’re our mission and we need you safe. You need to promise me Y/N, promise me you’ll never leave this room until I come back to get you.” Y/N’s eyes filled with concern, but she agreed anyway.

“I promise Buck, but promise me you’ll come back to me.”

“Always doll, I’ll always come back to you.” I kissed her again before I made my way to the elevator, hearing the locks click into place. Sighing heavily knowing that at least she was safe. I headed straight towards the armory, gathering my things and anything else I might need before heading into the quinjet.

“Hey Buckaroo, Tony here, if you find anything and I mean anything, bring it back with you. Oh, and Y/N says come back in one piece.”

“I’ll radio you when I’m heading back, keep my girl safe Tones.”

“You got it, Barnes.”

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

You and Tony shared a concerned look, Bucky hasn’t acted like this for so long. Disconnected, detached from others, but yet even more aware of his surroundings. You knew Winter was a part of him, has been ever since his programming, but he’s never made a move to surface for years. The longer you thought about it, the more it made sense.

When you entered Tony’s lab, you were immediately hit with such a warning aura, you could literally taste it. It seemed to surround Bucky in a light black fog that threatened to overwhelm you. Not only that, but his posture portrayed his fury along with Winters. Whatever was going on in his head wasn’t good and was bound to have him do something drastic. If Winter was being persistent like Bucky said, then it means that Bucky’s going to let him do what needs to be done.

What exactly, you weren’t sure.

“Is, is he going to be okay?” You asked Tony softly, looking back out the window watching the speck of the quinjet disappearing behind the horizon.

“I don’t know Y/N, but I have a feeling he’s going to need all the help he can get when he comes back.” Together you and Tony chatted, worked in the lab to pass the time. Letting Tony distract your mind with his technical jargon about Dum-E, U and his suits, rather than what Bucky was going after.

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

After a few hours, I prepped the jet into stealth mode as I reached the coordinates. It looked so different from above, hovering over the snow covered trees rather than weaving in between the trees. Finding a clearing, I landed the jet, having FRIDAY lock it down after I leave. I grabbed my gear and headed off towards the location.

First time in a long time, I dug up the connection I’ve buried in the deepest part of me. It was as if meeting an old friend.

‘It’s been a long time, Barnes.’

Bolded ones won’t tag :( Tags ALWAYS open! :)

Motionless Tag List:  

@marvel-fics  @green-spotlight  @sebs-sugar-cookies  @akm0o  @extraterrestrialsky  @allyp1023  @skeletoresinthebasement @chipilerendi @terminatedimpala @debbienewnes84

Help Me Tag list:

@believeitseeitdoit  @ellen-reincarnated1967  @suchwildloveisthis  @skeletoresinthebasement  @9erfect-9osts  @loverofthosebands  @xoxoaudreymarie  @dead-silence  @winter-in-wakanda  @azaleawardrobeo  @isaxhorror  @lostinspace33  @musichowler  @callie-swagg1 @capandbuck @sorryidontspeakgrounder-world @everythingintensifies @melconnor2007 @screechinginternetcoffee @hellstempermentalangel @emily-ily2 @spideyhufflepuff @thefandomplace @s7sense  

Gentle Touch: @debbienewnes84

Everything Tag list:

@sebseyesandbuckysthighs @marvelatmytrash @oh-goodness-loki  @jotink78   @foreverlovecaptainswan  @pickylittlebitch  @just-call-me-mrs-captain  @buckyismyaesthetic   @debbielovesbucky  @shes-a-little-weird-but-perfect  @anxuanpham  @saladalpaca  @specs15 @earinafae  @frolicsomefawkes @chameerah  @sorryidontspeakgrounder-world  @the-witching-hours12-3  @unevenpages  @midzilla9957 @feelmyroarrrr  @auskitty @unluckyybuckyy @dinah1997 @supernaturaldean67 @httpmcrvel​

#help me #help me update #Help Me Part 14 #Bucky x Reader #bucky barnes #bucky barnes feels #bucky barnes angst #protective bucky barnes #angst #so much angst #not steve friendly #bucky barnes fandom #bucky barnes fanfiction #marvel #marvel fandom #marvel fanfiction #avengers #avengers fandom #avengers fanfiction #time skips #swapping povs

[vizhi0n]

Sundown - Part 6 (Alt Ending)

If you haven’t finished Sundown - because I kno some of ya have it queued up for later - ignore this and come back bc ya know spoilers (i feel awkward for saying spoilers for my own story lmfao) 

Masterlist

Well, bc I’m a sack of ass and felt bad for brutally murdering off you-know-who in the last part, I thought I’d indulge myself in another chapter where stuff actually doesn’t end up shitty for Negan. I guess, in a way, the ending felt too rushed and I feel like I always kill off my OC’s. But yeah, this isn’t necessarily “part of the story” but just an alternate as to what could have happened had I not been an asshole. Anywho, enjoy!

Warnings: just some violence and a fuckton of cursing and dick references. my aesthetic 

Homies: @flames-bring-a-ton-of-ash @lucifers-trash-stash @i-am-negan-trash @crzcorgi @superprincesspea @strangersangel9 @hannibalssweaters @heartfulloffandoms @negans-network @jasoncrouse @genevievedarcygranger @kijilinn @my-achilles--heel @alyisdead @rickydillon @backseat-negan @wolfhart18 @gremlinfuck @ladylorelitanyfanfiction @kellyn1604 @manawhaat @fairytale07 @fxcking-negan @lovingzombiechaos

I opened my eyes.

Shit.

Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit.

My ribcage hurt like a bitch. Like I’d been hit by a car. No, like I’d been hit by two cars, and then ran over repeatedly by a fire truck.

I sat up anyway, one eye squeezed shut as I surveyed my surroundings. I sure as hell was alive — I recognized the shitty walls of the Sanctuary, the crisp smell of rubbing alcohol. My eyes began following a dizzying light as it flashed back and forth before my vision.

“There you go. Follow the light — doesn’t seem like she’s to badly concussed. Not anymore.”

“You fucking sure about that, doc?”

Oh, jeez.

I groaned, my eyes finally fully adjusting. Negan was sitting in a chair, nestled in the corner. Harlan Carson — the Hilltop’s doctor — was leaning over me, lips pressed into a thin line. I couldn’t tell if that was a good thing. His face seemed expressionless.

“I’m alive?”

“Barely,” Negan grunted. He looked pissed. “Regina put you in a fucking coma.”

My mouth felt dry. I swallowed, nodding at Carson. He hurried away, returning with a bottle of water. He had to help me drink — my arms were to weak to really even lift the bottle to my lips. The entire time Negan watched, dark circles under his eyes pronounced.

After taking several gulps, I said to Negan, “How’s your leg?”

“Been better. I don’t really fucking mind.”

Harlan and I glanced at each other, a bit put off by his dismissive attitude. Harlan looked as if he wanted to say something, eyes raking over my injured form. He recognized me, I knew. I could see it in his gaze. He wasn’t stupid enough to point it out to Negan, however.

“You should be good for now,” Harlan said softly. “Take it easy. Don’t push yourself.”

“Thank you,” I squeezed Harlan’s arm, smiling. Negan watched the exchange before standing, brushing past Harlan as he exited the room. He regarded me with a cool, almost hesitant smile. It was a warm smile, though, the facade he’d been holding disappearing.

“We’re alive. Both of us,” I let out a shaky laugh. “I can’t believe we pulled that shit off.”

“Not to bad for someone with a busted fucking leg, huh?” Negan chuckled, taking a seat next to me on the bed. “Simon and I had a long fucking chat. He’ll apologize. Eventually.”

I absently rested my head against Negan’s shoulder, trying my best not to drift off to sleep. I was even more difficult when Negan softly moved from under me, maneuvering my body so I could lay more comfortably on the bed.

“You don’t have to stay awake.”

“Stay,” I murmured.

“I fucking can’t. I want to, but I have shit to deal with. This whole fucking compound is surrounded,” Negan sounded bitter. “Nobody gets in, or out.”

“Let me help—”

“No,” Negan said firmly. “Stay here. You got two fucking bullets put in you. The last fucking thing we need is for you to get bit.”

“I won’t. I’m a ninja,” I gave a bubbly laugh, peering at Negan through half closed eyes. I wasn’t expecting him to lean down and press his lips against my forehead, but he did, leaving without another word.

I slept for two more days. I was only awake to eat, piss, and occasionally talk to Negan while working on becoming steadier on my feet. The situation outside hadn’t gotten any better. Even if I’d wanted to leave and head back to Rick, I couldn’t.

I was basically stuck with the Saviors. That bothered me only because some of Negan’s men hadn’t taken to kindly to me being spared and not killed or thrown into a cell.

“You shouldn’t be here,” Arat was the one bringing me food this time. I recognized her from Alexandria — I’d watched her blow Olivia’s brains out from the top floor of my town house. Needless to say, I had no intention of getting along with her.

You had no attention of getting along with Negan, either.

Now look where you are.

“I don’t really have a choice,” I replied, taking the tray of food and setting it on the nightstand. I expected Arat to leave after that, but she didn’t. Instead she leaned against the doorframe, analyzing me with a piercing gaze that, quite frankly, made me want to crawl into a hole and never come out.

“I’m just saying what everyone else thinks. You’re an outsider. It’s weird that Negan threw Regina out a window for you.”

“Ya’ll two were friends? You and Regina?” I said through a mouthful of food. “Shit. Sorry, dude. Lady was hella trigger happy.”

Arat glared. She made a noise of disgust, promptly leaving before I could say anything else.

Nice social skills, Rachel.

For all you know she and Regina could have been fucking!

The next day was when I finally mustered up the strength to leave the room. I’d been cooped up for a week, my only company being Negan, Arat, and occasionally Harlan Carson. I had yet to see Eugene or Dwight — I had a feeling both men were avoiding me. They had to know that I was here. Negan had made a big scene out of tossing Regina into the sea of the undead, and I assumed the news had spread like wildfire.    

I still wasn't trusted to walk around without some sort of supervision, so I’d been assigned a, to put it loosely, babysitter. The man didn’t talk much, and when he did, it seemed to be in grunts or nods. Reminded me of Daryl, in a way.

One of the only times I was left alone was to shower, however, this time when I exited, hair still dripping and dressed in an oversized sweatshirt that I suspect had once belonged to Negan, my babysitter was gone and instead Simon was waiting.

He was way taller up close.  And muscular He practically had to bend his neck to look at me, and I felt increasingly self conscious and a bit scared. We were alone. I had no weapon. Was he here to execute me? Kill me in one of the showers so I didn’t get blood everywhere?

Or maybe he was here to apologize. Maybe. I’d almost forgotten that he and Negan had gotten into it over that little…incident.

We stared at each other. There was an awkward silence in the air as we waited for the other to speak. Finally, Simon gave in, pinching the bridge of his nose and saying, “I’m sorry about what I did. It was rude of me.”

“Um, apology accepted? Have you been standing out here the whole time?”

Simon shrugged. He looked around, before admitting, “I guess. I thought it was only going to be a minute, but you take long showers.”

“Can I ask why?”

“I’m escorting you to you to Negan’s room,” I could hear the annoyance dripping from Simon’s voice. “As part of my ‘apology.’ He wants us to ‘bond.’ For the ‘better good of the community.’”

“Why are you putting air quotes around those words? It makes you look like you don’t really mean it.”

“I don’t. That’s the ‘point,’” Simon bared his teeth. “Sorry, girlie, but I don’t take to kindly to people who fire a bullet at my face.”

“I was trying to help get rid of that ungodly facial hair of yours.”

He lunged at me and I shrieked, darting back into the bathroom. I poked my head from around the corner and saw him standing there, eyebrows raised. Then he started laughing.

Asshole.

“I’m not going to hurt you. Negan would be…distraught if I did that,” Simon said. “He’s fond of you. Everyone can see it.”

“Is…that a good thing or a bad thing? That everyone knows?”

“Well, I’m the only one that knows you and him,” Simon gyrated his hips, tongue poking past his lips. I groaned, embarrassed. He stopped, laughing. “Yeah. I know all about that. He told me, in great detail. I didn’t even ask.”

“We were stuck in that trailer, and we got bored.”

“Hey, I don’t blame you. Or him. But not everyone thinks that way,” Simon waved a finger. “So you’d best be on your utmost behavior. There are consequences, here. Negan has to make sure people know he’s in charge.”

I stepped out from around the corner, flinching when Simon came closer. Giving me an almost childlike grin he pinched my cheeks, adding, “I wouldn’t want to tarnish that cute little face of yours. Now c’mon. He’s waiting.”

Carl had mentioned how Negan had a harem of willing women, but I’d brushed it off as Negan and his theatrics. The dude could have been a great actor.

But nope. He had a harem of pretty women and a nice parlor with an even nicer room. And in that room he was waiting, along with a guest.

Eugene.

He refused to make eye contact with me. He was sitting adjacent to Negan, speaking softly. The moment I entered he stood, dismissing himself.

“No. Eugene, sit the fuck back down,” Negan gestured with Lucille. Eugene obeyed, one leg bouncing restlessly. Negan crooked a finger, pointing to the open cushion. “You sit down, too. Thank you for bringing her here, Simon.”

“My pleasure,” Simon wasted no time in leaving.

I reluctantly sat, keeping a good gap between Eugene and I. He had yet to look at me.

“I assume you two know each other pretty fucking well?” Negan lazily raised Lucille, pointing and letting her drift from me to Eugene. When neither of us replied, he rolled his eyes and spat, “Loosen the fuck up. Shit. You’re not in trouble.”

“She and I were acquaintances back at Alexandria,” Eugene said smoothly. “We didn’t talk much. I only admired her from afar, something I now regret.”

Admired — oh, fuck.

Negan raised an eyebrow. “You had a thing for her?”

“Yes, but only because she and are homologous in that we both lack proper social skills and share similar tastes in extracurricular activities. I would refrain from calling it anything but a minor fondness.”

I was staring at the ground, hard. Negan gave a hum of either approval or distaste — the noise was so generic that I couldn’t tell which it was — before saying, “Let’s keep it that fucking way, okay? That’s not what I wanted to fucking talk to you about, anyway. I want you to tell your friend why you chose to stay with us, even after you were given an opportunity to escape.”

For the first time, Eugene looked at me. There was no fear, no facade that he was putting on. “I simply weighed the disadvantages and the benefits. My skills are being utilized to their full capacity here. Yours could be, too.”

“Babysitting and gardening isn’t a skill, really,” I said. “I can’t make bullets or fix shit like you. I can’t do most stuff.”

“Untrue. Your attitude is truculent and you have an aptitude for combat. Rick unfortunately never saw that — I did.”

“With Regina dead, I’ll need someone to replace her. I sincerely hope you consider the offer. It’s a pretty fucking generous one,” Negan smiled. “What I told you in that trailer is still fucking true. You’ll be respected here. Eugene is an example of that.”

Negan dismissed Eugene with a wave of Lucille. He left slowly, glancing over his shoulder the entire time. The moment the door closed, Negan tossed Lucille onto the couch and let out a sigh.

“God, he’s fucking weird.”

“And you’re not? I’m not?”

“You are. Don’t fucking know about me,” Negan smirked. “But I wouldn’t change you. Hell no.”

“I wouldn’t change you either. Well, maybe some minor stuff,” I grit my teeth. Negan licked his lips, staring at me curiously. I said, “Is that all you called me here for? So I could listen to Eugene make a sales pitch?”

“I was hoping I could fuck your brains out, too.”

“You have a bunch of wives out there, all dolled up,” I snorted. I’d never get over the nerve this man had. “I had to walk past them. I don’t know why of all people you would want me—”

“We went over this. I think you’re hot as shit.”

Solid logic right there.

“I appreciate that, Negan, but what happened in that trailer…do you really think its smart to carry that shit over?” I heard Negan stand, coming to sit by my side. “Like, that was then…just the two of us. Alone. This is here.” “And here is where I’m the fucking boss. You saw all those people kneel when I walked by them? I’m a fucking god to them. And god’s can fuck whoever and whenever they damn well please.”

I didn’t push him away when his lips began suckling on my throat. I just groaned, playing into his little game. I didn’t care. He always made me feel so good, each squeeze and kiss and touch sending my brain flatlining into submission. I wanted him, desperately.

“Don’t hold back on me,” Negan murmured. “This is no different than last time.”

“It is. This time we have a bed,” I chuckled, leaning in for a kiss. My mind wandered to a particularly dirty place, and I paused, glancing at the door. “Why don’t you ask Simon to get in here?”

Negan raised his eyebrows. “I didn’t think you liked him.”

“He’s growing on me. So are those muscles,” I kissed the scruff on Negan’s cheek. “I’m kidding, you know. I was a virgin until I met you. I don’t know what makes you think I’m already ready to have two dicks in me.”

Negan, face flushed, looked embarrassed. I pulled away, looking him up and down.

“Are you jealous?”

“Fuck no,” Negan replied. “I’m not fucking jealous.”

“Why don’t we get one of your wives in here, then?”

“Are you trying to piss me off?” Negan’s eyes went from mirthful to hostile. I raised my hands in a placating gesture, still unsure of how far to push him. I desperately wanted to say my piece, especially before I fell into his arms once more.

“No. I’m just saying. If you’re jealous of me and Simon, who’s to say that I’m not jealous of you and your wives? It’s a two way street, you know.”

“Hell, as far as I’m concerned, you’re one of them,” Negan snorted. “Look, I know you have your little crush and all. I know what we talked about back in that fucking trailer. Just because I opened up to you doesn’t mean that I’m going to drop everything and make you my one-and-only or whatever the fuck you want to call it.”

His words hurt, but I wasn’t at all surprised. I was more mad at myself for asking. For ruining what could have been a perfect night of great talks and great sex.

Instead I was siting before him, doubting. Doubting myself.

“Look at me,” Negan grasped my chin with his fingers. “I care about you. I wouldn’t have fucking tossed Regina out that window if I didn’t. But whatever it is you think you feel for me? Throw it away. Get rid of it. I’m not going to be able to return any of the shit you give me, and that’s not fucking fair to you.”

“Have you ever killed someone like that before? Like Regina?” “I’ve killed plenty of fucking people, and all of them deserved it.”

“No. I mean…Regina was one of you. She was a savior. You trusted her,” I swallowed. “I was a nobody. Yet you killed one of your own men for hurting someone on the other team. It shouldn’t have mattered to you whether or not I died, but it did. If I’m no better than your wives or the other saviors, why don’t you treat me that way?”

He visited your room. There were plenty of other injured saviors, yet he spent a majority of his time with you.

Why? 

“Because I invest in people I think can do fucking better for themselves. You’re one of those fucking people. It’s why I’m pushing so hard for you to stay here.”

“The sex is a bonus?” I gave a sad little laugh, feeling Negan’s lips against my own. This kiss was chaste, gentle.

“If that’s what you want to call it. It’s something I fucking enjoy,” Negan purred. He stood, growling lowly. In one swift motion he’d lifted me from the couch, discarding me onto his bed. I squealed, giggling.

“Sex and…what was the other thing?” I beamed.

“Chocolate covered strawberries.”

~ ~ ~

I awoke first. I could feel Negan’s length poke against my lower back, one arm draped across my torso. We were both in a state of undress, and I’d practically moaned at the feel of soft bedsheets. Hell, they were better than the ones back at Alexandria.

I could get used to this.

I stirred, feeling Negan’s grip on me tighten. Before I could try and slip from his arms he mumbled, “Everything is fucking cancelled today. Stay.”

“Don’t I start babysitting today?” I said sarcastically. “Don’t want to be late.”

“I’m too fucking tired to determine if you’re serious or not. Shit. What time is it?”

“From the angle of the sun I’m guessing—”

“There’s a clock right there, smartass,” Negan replied, kissing my shoulder. Quieter, he said, “Shit, you mouthing off gets my dick hard.”

“I can feel,” I grimaced. I checked the clock — almost nine. I flopped back down, groaning and saying, “It’s to early for me, that’s for sure. Shit. I thought it was, like, lunchtime.”

“Even more of a reason for you to stay,” Negan kissed the back of my neck. His arms snaked around my waist, face nuzzled into my shoulder.

“You’re extra clingy today. What’s the deal?”

“Even though everything around us has turned into a shitshow, I’m feeling pretty fucking content right now,” Negan licked his lips as I turned to face him. “You being with me is the icing on the fucking cake.”

I smiled, but internally I was wincing. I still hadn’t forgotten what he’d told me last night.

He wants you to bury all your feelings for him.

You can’t. Not when he says stuff like this.

Maybe I was incapable of just fucking. Years of abuse and neglect made it very easy for me to get attached. Even now, I still had trouble distinguishing actual romantic feelings from platonic fondness.

“Why are you fucking looking at me like that? Did I say some shit wrong—”

“No. It’s not you. It’s me. It’s always me,” I snorted, struggling not to shed any tears. I could already feel them bubbling up inside me, threatening to spill forth. I didn’t want to burden Negan with whatever stupid shit was on my mind.

“Hey — shit. Don’t cry. Look at me,” Negan cupped my cheek with his hand. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s not important.”

“Yes, it is. It’s fucking important to me,” Negan replied. “Start talking.”

“About what you said last night. About…burying whatever feelings I have for you. I can’t. I don’t know how. I can’t tell if I’m in love with you, or if I’m only feeling this way because you’re one of the few people to ever give me attention like this. To care. Or maybe I’m in love with the idea of being in love. I don’t know. It’s all a big, confusing mess.”

Negan took a long pause. His face gave away nothing. I immediately began worrying that he’d kick me from his bed for rambling on.

Before he could say anything, I added, “I’m fucked up in the head, Negan. I have been, way before the world ended. Maybe this isn’t the right choice. Maybe I need to grow up some.”

“If you get any older, you’re going to fucking pass me. You don’t need to ‘grow up’ — you’ve aged enough. Hell, you’ve been dealing with this shit for years? Before the dead started walking around, eating people and shit like that? The fact that you’re alive, even after all that, is a fucking triumph,” Negan said firmly. “I’d trust you with fucking anything, because I know you could get it done. But what you’re talking about now — I’ve said my fucking piece, Rachel. I can’t love. Not anymore. I don’t feel shit — no happiness, no sadness, no nothing. I just…am. I do what I have to do and don’t think about it.”

“What about when Regina shot me? You would have let me die if you didn’t really care. I know you saw something in me. I know that. But you didn’t have to kill Regina. You didn’t have to throw her out the window. She did her job — it was a mistake. If she were alive, I would have forgiven her and moved on. You reacted because  it hurt you to see me hurt.” Negan rubbed his eyes, chuckling to himself. At first I thought he was going to scold me, but instead he murmured, “Shit. I never fucking though about that. I didn’t remember what it fucking felt like,” he threw his head back and laughed. “Holy fuck. That’s what it was. I fucking remember that now.”

“Negan—”

“I felt like I couldn’t fucking move on when Lucille died. I sat in the fucking corner like a pathetic fucker, numb to the core. Couldn’t even put her out of here misery,” Negan said. “I told myself I’d never feel that way again. Couldn’t even keep my own fucking promise.”

“You,…felt that with me?”

“Fuck yes. But I wouldn’t have been able to put you down myself after you turned. I knew I would. Seeing you as one of them would have fucking broken me, and I guess I know why.”

You can say it now.

“I love you.”

Negan met my gaze, smiling. His face was flushed, and I could tell that he was embarrassed, like a young kid approaching his first crush. It amplified his boyish charm, tenfold.

“Shit—”

“Try and say it without cursing.”

“That’s no fucking fun. Besides, you curse just as much as me,” Negan leaned in for a kiss, murmuring, “I fucking love you, too.”

#vizhi0nw #negan #negans thirst squad

[365daysofsasuhina]

[ 365 Days of SasuHina || Day Ten: Essence of ___ ] [ Uchiha Sasuke, Hyūga Hinata, Orochimaru ] [ SasuHina ] [ Verse: Like Magic ] [ AO3 Link ]

“Today, class...we shall be looking into several herbs related to healing potions.” The smooth, almost slimy voice of the potions master carries over the dungeon classroom of both Slytherins and Hufflepuffs.

“Didn’t know I was signed up for a second herbology class,” Sasuke mutters, chin leaned in a hand. A few students snicker around him, earning a small smirk.

Orochimaru’s serpentine eyes look warningly to their favorite pupil. “Potions are inarguably tied to many subcategories of magic, Uchiha. Herbology, yes, is one of them. But rather than looking into how to grow or tend to these plants...we will be discussing their uses and harvesting methods in regards to brewing potions. Specifically those used to cure diseases, heal wounds, and otherwise mend abnormalities in the human body.

“First, we have dittany. An intriguing and somewhat rare plant that…”

Rolling his eyes with a small sigh, Sasuke finds himself no longer paying attention. Plants aren’t exactly his most riveting subject. And potions about healing aren’t really his forte, either. He’ll just get notes from a classmate later - no one ever refuses him. Hard to do that with someone with a family as old and renowned as his own.

Instead, said eyes take to wandering the classroom, looking over countless jars and stones he’s studied a thousand times before out of this same notion of boredom. He’ll snap back to it when they get to some actual brewing rather than a floral lecture.

Glancing across the aisle of desks to those mostly inhabited by the Hufflepuffs, he happens to find one especially notable. Scribbling frantically upon her parchment, a dark-haired witch he knows only as a Hyūga barely looks up as Orochimaru speaks, too involved in her writing. It’s not until the teacher holds aloft a sample that she peers forward, gaze intense before taking more notes.

...what a geek.

He vaguely remembers such enthusiasm from her in their shared Herbology class. Seems she, unlike him, finds the subject enthralling. If only she was in Slytherin...surely her notes would be top tier to copy, if not a bit excessive. And he’s not about to ask a Hufflepuff for notes.

A good twenty minutes pass into their hour block before they’re allowed to start brewing. Paired with a classmate he only faintly knows, Sasuke gives their parchment many a glance as they go about making a potion literally just called Essence of Dittany. At first, it seems simple enough...but it soon becomes clear his partner didn’t write everything down. By the end, he has a rather piss-poor potion.

Peering into the cauldron haughtily, Orochimaru lifts disgruntled eyes to their pupil. “Perhaps next time you’ll pay proper attention, Uchiha.” They write a note in their grade ledger before moving on, ignoring his glower.

“Tch…”

Whatever. He’ll leave healing potions to the Infirmary.

Once class is dismissed, he gathers up his supplies into his cauldron (having Vanished his half-assed potion) before heading toward the door. The professor calls out an assignment: one parchment on the plants they discussed in class.

Perfect.

“Hey.” Snagging a classmate by the shoulder, he spins them around. “After classes, let me have your notes.”

“What? Why?”

“I need to borrow them.”

They shrug out from under his hand. “Do the work yourself, Uchiha - sounds like you need it, eh?”

Bristling at the counter, there’s no time to rebuke before they’re gone in the crowded hallway. Fine then! He’ll do it himself!

With a blank period at the end of his day, Sasuke uses it to haul himself and his supplies to the library. He can’t even remember the last time he had to come in here. It’s only sparsely occupied, as he expected. Most prefer to do their work in their commonrooms, where friends and housemates can chime in and lighten the load. But Sasuke will admit he’s gotten a bit of a chip on his shoulder, now. He’ll write the bloody paper. And he’ll brew it again for Orochimaru tomorrow. Perfectly next time! Then they’ll see who’s in need of doing the work himself.

Pairing both his Potions tome and his Herbology anthology, he bounces between both references as a quill scribbles along the parchment. It takes him over an hour, but eventually he manages to scrape together a decent paper. Not his best work, but given the subject, it will have to do. Dinner’s started by now, but the dredge has left him a little lethargic. Pushing his chair out a ways from the table, he flops back against it, head craning and...smacking into a bookshelf behind him.

“Oh, bloody he-!”

Before he can even finish his swear, a book careens off the topmost shelf before nailing him square on the brow with its sturdy spine. There’s a holler as he feels skin split, hands groping at the wound that quickly begins to bleed down into his face.

“O-oh!”

Eyes squinted shut against both the pain and the mess, Sasuke doesn’t know who’s found him, but his pride stings nonetheless. An impressive string of curses dribbles from his lips.

“Here, h-hold still - I’ve got something that will help!” A hand carefully cradles around the side of his head, trying to steady him. “Just - just let me -”

Deciding to obey, Sasuke eases his hands from his face, waiting a long moment as the voice warns, “It will sting, but o-only for a moment.”

Oh, gr-

“Merlin’s beard!” he cries out as the liquid droppers onto his split brow. There’s a bright flash of pain before...it suddenly ceases.

His companion then gives a quick, “Scourgify” to clean up the blood, and he dares to twitch open his eyes. They blur for a moment before finding none other than the studious Hufflepuff from before. “...you…?”

“Are you all right?”

He sits up, gingerly pressing a finger against his skin. It’s whole now, and he can’t even feel a trace of a scar. “...what did you…?”

“Essence of Dittany. We, um...we brewed it in class today.”

Sasuke looks to her suspiciously.

She squirms a bit. “I...I knew I’d done it right, so...I might have taken a vial or two, j-just in case. And it’s good I did, or we’d have to haul you to the hospital wing instead.”

“...didn’t think a Hufflepuff would do such a thing…”

“It was my potion!”

“Yeah, and all the professor’s ingredients…” At her look, he can’t help a snort. “I’m not about to tattle on you, Hyūga. After all, can’t say I’m not glad you had it.. Pause. “...thanks.”

Her cheeks flush pink. “...you’re welcome.” Eyes flicker to his parchment. “...working on our assignment…?”

“Yeah, though…” He sighs. “Looks like I’ll have to rewrite it.” A hand gestures to a splatter of blood along the bottom. “Don’t think they’d appreciate that much.”

Lips purse thoughtfully. “Um...could you scour it…?”

“Maybe, but it might take the ink with it.”

“Oh...true.”

“Besides, at least I have it done. Just need to copy it over. I can do that after I eat.”

His companion nods.

“...you know, I don’t know your given name. Seems like something I should know, given you saved my ass.”

She can’t help a laugh. “We’ll, technically it was your forehead, but...you’re right, I suppose. It’s Hinata. And...you’re Sasuke.”

He just nods - there’s few that don’t know him.

“Well, I hope the rest of your evening goes better than this,” Hinata offers, smiling sheepishly.

“Me too.”

“Um...you know, if - if you ever need notes, you can always borrow mine. In truth, I’m usually rubbish at potions...at least, in brewing. But it seems you’re usually pretty good at it.”

“Except today.”

“Well...y-yes, but - if...if you would help me with brewing, I’d gladly lend you my notes when you need them.”

Sasuke blinks. “...sure. I suppose that’d be fair.”

“O-okay! Just, um...let me know when you need them next. For now though, I suppose we’d best to eat or there won’t be anything left!”

Sasuke almost notes the Hufflepuff proximity to the kitchens, but...restrains himself. “S’pose you’re right. Go on, then - I need to pack up.”

“...but -?”

“Go - I’ll see you enough later,” he rebukes, waving a hand. Only once she’s gone does he give his skin another prod. Doesn’t even ache. “...huh.”

     Welp, this one's rather late (technically after midnight), but I had a rather grueling day. But hopefully it still counts, haha!      As soon as I read this prompt, Essence of Dittany popped into my head, so of course we went with a HP crossover! I've not gotten to write much of this particular combo. A little strange perhaps, but I enjoyed it!      Sasuke you need to pay attention where your head is at - figuratively, AND literally! But at least Hinata's here to save the day in both cases!      Anywho, that's all for today! Er...yesterday >_>; Hope you enjoyed, and thanks for reading!

#uchiha sasuke #hyūga hinata #orochimaru #sasuhina #like magic [ au ] #365daysofsasuhina