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#correctly and timely and I need to do everything as quick as possible when I don’t know how to or can’t seem to make myself
kitasgloves · 3 months
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I'm in love with you
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next track
— ♬ how haikyuu characters would tell you they're in love with you
— ♬ SFW, fluff, gn reader, no beta
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— ♬ Kageyama Tobio
Kageyama was not familiar with romance, it was entirely foreign to him. He doesn't understand how people gain feelings for each other. He can't comprehend the enjoyment of having someone in your life. He thinks romance is trivial and doesn't bother associating with it. But as the typical turning point of every romance novel, someone was there to prove him otherwise.
You were in contrast to the setter. You met each other on your first day as the official manager of the SCHWEIDEN Adlers. Kageyama was curious about you. The sense of responsibility, resilience, and great humor oozed out of you that he can't help but be drawn. You were similar to a familiar orange-haired friend of his, but also different in many ways.
When he exhibited grey, you were bursting with colors. When he shines, you explode with light. When he took your kindness to heart, you brought out the best of him. After a long time of being exposed to you, Kageyama's heart can't help but beat so strongly when he's around you. It beats so strong that he fears he's going to need a second heart.
Kageyama has often thought about the beaming smile on your face, your melodious laughter, your hilarious comments, the scent of your clothes, the warmth of your skin, and the glimmer in your eyes. Kageyama concluded that he was probably going down with something, but what? The symptoms of his rapidly beating heart, his flushed face, and his antsy fingers are only present when he's around you. What the hell could this be?
"You're in love with [Name], aren't you?"
Hoshiumi teased him during their stretching after a practice match. Kageyama would've been quick to dismiss it with a logical response, but he falls silent and still. Ushijima takes notice.
"Hm, I notice the way you look at them, Kageyama"
"Yeah, you look all dazed and head over heels whenever [Name]'s around"
Their libero, Heiwajima added. Kageyama bites down an annoyed response and just shakes his head.
"I'm not in love with [Name]"
"Yes, you are"
"No, I'm not!"
"Yes, you are!"
"No!"
"Yes!"
Kageyama was about to smack Hoshiumi on the head when their captain Hirugami stepped in between them with a disappointed stare. Kageyama goes home that day, thinking about his feelings for you. He's come to accept that he has formed some sort of crush on you, but he tells himself that he doesn't want more from you. But as time progressed, these complicated feelings grew, clearly affecting Kageyama even when he was on the court. The coach had to bench him out one time because his performance wasn't up to expectations.
He had to do something about these stupid feelings because he couldn't afford to be constantly benched. Kageyama has thought about what the characters in romance novels do to confront such feelings. They express them through giving gifts and hanging out with their love interest. So, Kageyama copies them.
The setter tries to woo you by giving you small gifts during breaks, making sure he's as subtle as possible. He gains the courage to ask if you want to watch a movie with him. Kageyama thinks he's doing everything correctly when he compares your happy responses to the romance novels he read. As Kageyama grew closer and closer to you, these feelings grew as it began to stress him out.
What in the world is going on with him?
It's like he loses his athletic talents and logical thinking when you come around. It's like you've made him weak when all you did was behave the way you usually do. Kageyama frowns at the thought. What should he do next? In the romance novels, the character confesses their feelings.
Confess your feelings?
Kageyama swallowed as a bead of sweat trailed down his forehead. He thinks he should do it then maybe these feelings would go away. However, as he tries to set this plan into motion, he becomes speechless. The way you gaze at him warmly and tilt your head when he calls your name has his stomach in knots.
"Ne-nevermind"
He would say every time. Kageyama desperately wants to tell you how he feels about you but he can't fucking do it. And the frustration shows especially on the court.
"Ow! What the hell Kageyama!"
Hoshiumi complains as he fails to receive Kageyama's monstrous serve. His teammates have been murmuring how aggressive the setter was lately. They wondered what could have made Kageyama so angry. The coach blows the whistle and instructs them to take five. Kageyama sits down and aggressively wipes the sweat off his face. His eyes land on you handing the team water bottles, his leg bounces as he waits for you to come to him.
"Here you go, Tobio-hmmph!"
Everyone gawked in shock, their jaws dropping on the floor, and some dropping their water bottles. Kageyama has read somewhere in romance novels that characters sometimes confess their feelings with a kiss. So, he decides that if he can't say it, he'll show you instead.
When the setter pulls his lips away, he takes in the bewilderment in your eyes and the pink hue on your cheeks. He inhales and looks at you in the eye.
"I'm in love with you, [Name]"
All of a sudden, he can finally say it to you. Everyone cheers and hollers at the confession. The pink hue on your cheeks turned into crimson. You gently peeled yourself away from the setter, trying to come up with a response.
"I-uh, what?"
"I'm in love with you, [Name]"
Kageyama repeats. He sees you shield your face as you cutely shied away from him.
"You're joking"
"I am not"
"Oh my gosh"
Kageyama wasn't sure if he was getting rejected or friend-zoned. But as you regained your composure, you surprised him by pulling him by the collar of his shirt and kissing him. At this point, everyone loses it. When you both pulled away, Kageyama turned breathless as he blinked rapidly at you.
"I'm in love with you too, Tobio"
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— ♬ Kuroo Tetsuro
Kuroo thinks his job at the JVA in the sports promotion division couldn't get more interesting until you rolled by. Initially, he viewed you as an adorable younger co-worker that he enjoys riling up. He couldn't help it when you gave him the most entertaining reactions. Immediately, the two of you created a bond of making the work atmosphere like a comedy show. Kuroo would purposely say something stupid to annoy you and you'll reply by scolding him or just whacking him on the head.
But under the comedic scene of your work relationship, Kuroo has taken a certain liking to you beyond the teasing remarks. He has grown to show ways in which he cares for you. When he's not being a teasing piece of shit, Kuroo checks on you like asking about your day or if you've eaten lunch. Sometimes he'd drag you to eat lunch with him, he'd even pay for the food. If the two of you were working overtime, he insisted on taking a heavy portion of the work so he could send you home early. When you'd protest, he'd make a clever deal to have you agree. Even the little things like lending you his jacket when you're cold, sharing his umbrella on rainy days when you don't have yours, and walking you home when it's late.
He wonders if you've noticed any of these things, he thinks he shouldn't care but he can't help but seek your reaction. Kuroo was in glee when he found you warming up to him and returning his gestures. You'd bring coffee for him in the morning, you'd share your lunch with him, and even invite him to one of your friends' birthdays. As time escalated, the somewhat relationship once filled with teasing was now replaced with unspoken tenderness.
Kuroo can act dumb and pretend. He can pretend he's not actively seeking you when in a crowded room, he can pretend that your smiles don't make his heart race, he can pretend that he doesn't care about your interests, and he can pretend that he's not falling for you. He would hide everything with his signature smirk and teasing comments, but secretly, he's dying to know if you would reciprocate his feelings.
So, he tries to quietly profess his love through his actions. Kuroo hints at his romantic feelings for you through the mundane things he would do at the office.
"I bought you coffee"
I'm in love with you
"Have you eaten lunch yet?"
I'm in love with you
"Here, you can borrow my jacket"
I'm in love with you
"I'll walk you home tonight"
I'm in love with you
There are times you're only treating every clue as his kindness and it's making his chest tight. Kuroo continues to do everything through his teasing.
"Your shirt looks like a clown vomited on it"
I'm in love with you
"Nice pants, [Name]. Did you steal them from your grandma?"
I'm in love with you
"You have the music taste of an edgy teenager"
I'm in love with you
"I hope no one has a crush on you yet because they're going to be disappointed"
I'm in love with you
You would always respond to his teasings with irritated sounds or physically hitting him. Kuroo was going mad at how every hint was flying over your head. He felt like he wanted to fistfight god. He was hoping, praying that you would take a hint and return his feelings because truthfully he was too scared to tell you.
"Just fucking tell them like the man you claim you are, Kuroo"
Kenma, his best friend, rolled his eyes at him when he told him everything about it. He hates how he was right. He needed to man up and tell you how he's absolutely lovestruck by you. By man up, he means getting drunk during a karaoke with all of his co-workers while singing karaoke. To be fair, the majority of the people were even more wasted than him. You were making fun of his drunken antics, filming them on your phone as blackmail later.
"You're wasted, Tetsu. Let's get you home"
"M'not drunk! Get your ass back here [Name] and dance with me!"
Kuroo pulls you against him and dances along to the sound of your co-worker's singing. You'd snort and laugh at him. He doesn't let you go even at the end of the song, he keeps dancing with you.
"Okay big guy, that's enough"
"You have nice eyes, [Name]"
He slurred and you raised a brow. You chuckled and shook your head, thinking it was just Kuroo being drunk.
"You have the prettiest smile too and the cutest laugh. I just wanna pinch your cheeks and kiss you right on the mouth"
This time you freeze and gaze at him wide-eyed. It may seem that Kuroo was beyond wasted with his drunken smiles and giggles. But you know what they say, a drunk man's words are a sober man's thoughts.
"...Really?"
"Uh-huh. You put on the ugliest outfits but still look sexy anyway. You drive me crazy, [Name]"
Your heart skips a beat as heat blooms on your cheeks. While your co-workers were still partying, you took the responsibility to bring Kuroo home since he was too intoxicated. Kuroo wakes up on your couch, shirtless with a horrible hungover.
"Here drink some water and take these"
You were suddenly there to hand him some water and pills. Kuroo takes them graciously. You called him over for breakfast as he tried to recollect everything from last night. When he fails to remember what happened after drinking god knows how much alcohol, you'd laugh at him.
"I did something stupid, didn't I?"
"I got a video of it, don't worry"
"Anything else? I didn't throw up on you or something?"
"Not really but you said some interesting things"
And when you told him about everything he told you last night, Kuroo was mortified. His blood was cold but his face was hotter than summer. He watched in pure embarrassment as you sent him a teasing smirk.
"I didn't know you thought of me that way, Tetsu"
"I-I didn't me-mean it, I swear!"
"Aw, that makes me sad"
"God, [Name]"
Kuroo ran a hand up his face to his hair and tugged the roots. He swallows and sighs.
"Fine, I did mean what I said to you last night"
Suddenly, you're speechless. He leans forward, finding the courage to elaborate his feelings to you.
"You always run through my mind, I love the smell of your hair, the sound of your laughter, the way your eyes crinkle when you smile, and I just..."
Kuroo pauses to catch his breath. You look like you were holding yours as you were waiting for him to finish. He offers you a sheepish smile.
"In summary, I'm in love with you"
It happened in a blink of an eye, you threw yourself unto him and crashed your lips against his. Kuroo can feel his heart go to a screeching halt. But as his eyes fluttered close and his hands found their place around your waist, he returned the kiss like it was the most natural thing in the world. The moment one of you pulled away, it seemed like the world had stopped.
"God, Tetsu. Here I thought I was an idiot for having a crush on you"
"Well, you still are"
You rolled your eyes and smacked him on the arm as he laughed. Kuroo kissed your cheek and smiled.
"But you're my idiot"
"Shut up and kiss me more"
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— ♬ Bokuro Kotaro
Bokuto was naturally a free-spirited man who easily drew people into him and is easily drawn to people. It's mainly the reason why he has gained many friends and acquaintances. Bokuto was also easily intrigued by anything, especially if it was shrouded by mystery that aroused his curiosity. So, it was no surprise when he developed a fascination with you.
In summary, you were working as the MSBY Black Jackal's PR. You were reserved, professional, and oozing with confidence. You quickly gained the respect of both the athletes and your co-workers. Your first encounter with Bokuto wasn't anything spectacular, in fact, the spiker wished he had forgotten about it because it was embarrassing.
He has done something stupid that caused chaos on the internet and local sports outlets. It affected his image and reputation as a promising professional volleyball player, including his team. And as PR, you were tasked to handle it. It was decided that he should make an official statement to clear his and the team's name, so you created a list of do's and don'ts for the athlete's guidelines in formulating his statement and giving him the freedom to construct it.
You discussed with him the guidelines and Bokuto, eager to impress you, nods his head like an excited toddler. He knows he should've listened because all of the guidelines you told him were important yet it flew over his head. Bokuto was distracted by you the entire time you were explaining everything. He watched you like a fascinated owl, taking in your features. From the scent of your hair to your minuscule habits. He imprints your face in his head instead of the guidelines.
Fueled by the rapid beating of his passionate heart, Bokuto goes to make his statement. And it was a nightmare for you working as PR, the only thing that salvaged everything was how charmingly hilarious Bokuto was. It was a headache watching him say inappropriate and unnecessary sentences while live on television. You even considered resigning. However, after the ordeal, Bokuto comes up to you like an energized kid with shining eyes.
"How was it?"
Now, you were blunt. You made no room for sugarcoating your opinions. Yet the way Bokuto waited for your response made you bite your tongue. You sighed and merely gave him a thumbs up. He cheers.
Thinking back at it, Bokuto realizes how dumb he was. But hey, at least he still has his career and survived being canceled on the internet. Everyone was aware of how Bokuto was trying to befriend you, they didn't think much of it because the spiker always wanted to become everyone's friend. Somehow, he couldn't get close to you, or rather, you refused to let him near. It was odd considering that even Bokuto managed to be friends with Sakusa Kiyoomi.
"[Name] probably thinks you're annoying"
Sakusa said one time and it made his hair deflate. He didn't mean to come off as annoying so he tried a much tone-down approach. Bokuto would briefly form conversations with you during breaks, it was mostly about ordinary things like the weather or what you had for lunch. He thinks you're slowly warming up to him by being the first to initiate the conversations. Bokuto's heart flutters at you sharing your interests with him.
He knows things are taking a drastic turn when he finds himself sleepless at night. It was important for an athlete like him to have a good amount of sleep yet he failed to shut his eyes and fall into slumber. Bokuto's head was filled with impossible scenarios, romantic scenarios involving you and him. Bokuto would reach to brush your hair behind your ear, you'll wipe the rice off his cheek, you'll hold his hand, and he'll spin you around. Bokuto's eyes shoot open at the sound of his alarm, he checks the time and realizes he's thirty minutes late.
"Shit! I'm gonna be late for the practice match!"
He thankfully arrives just in time to stretch and play the match. While everyone was making fun of him for forgetting to put his hair up in his usual hairdo, you were giving him concerned glances. This was the fifth time he was late, and his performance on the court was less energetic, and he seemed sluggish too after practice.
"Bokuto"
You called out during the water break. Bokuto flinches but faces you with a bright smile.
"Hey hey hey [Name]! What's up?"
"...Are you okay?"
"Of course! Why wouldn't I be?"
"You seem...tired. Have you gotten enough sleep?"
You watched as he let out a nervous chuckle and it was enough to answer your question. You sighed and placed a hand on his shoulder.
"You should prioritize your sleeping schedule because it's affecting your plays. I know I am not your manager in the team but it could seriously affect your image during official matches"
"Right, yeah. Sorry, I'll work on it! I don't wanna put any burden on you as our PR"
"Bokuto..."
This time you look him right in the eye and Bokuto's heart skips several beats.
"I don't care about you putting a burden on me, I have handled much worse than you"
You tilt your head towards Atsumu and Sakusa, Bokuto has to hold back a laugh at that. You suppress a smile.
"I care about your well-being and health because you're my..."
You paused, casting your gaze away. If Bokuto's hair was styled up it would start to deflate right now.
"Because you're my friend"
You finished with a hint of pink on your cheeks. Bokuto holds back the urge to clutch his chest at the rare display of cuteness from your usual stoic face. What you said both gave Bokuto a sense of hope and despair. It meant that there was a possibility you could view him as more than a friend or a friend only.
He's been overthinking about it since then, resulting in losing more sleep. Bokuto didn't want to disappoint you but damn it these feelings are getting really complicated! He figured he had to let it off his chest someday or he was just going to continue suffering by carrying these unspoken feelings.
Bokuto tries to ask you if you want to go out and see a movie. The first time, you decline. But he doesn't lose hope. He asks again if you want to go party with him at a club with the team, and you are quick to say no. Well, third time's a charm.
"[Name], would you like to grab dinner with me tomorrow?"
"No, I'm sorry but I have something planned for tomorrow evening already"
Ouch
Bokuto brings a fist to his chest and falls down to his knees in a dramatic display, having to be rejected for the third time. You might as well have stabbed him right in the chest. All of a sudden, you extended him a small envelope. He gives you a puzzled look. He takes it and it was an invitation to your friend's birthday party, his eyes went wide at the bold and italic instruction that one must bring a date.
"Huh?"
"See, I can't grab dinner with you tomorrow, I need a date for my friend's birthday party. I'm wondering if you're willing to be my date"
"Yes!"
The spiker grins at you and raises his fists up in victory in a ridiculous manner. You chuckled and shook your head. Bokuto literally pleaded with his friends (a.k.a. the entire team) to help him get ready for your date with him tomorrow. Bless them because they had his back from his outfit to styling his hair.
Bokuto arrived at your place to pick you up and my god did he almost fainted at how gorgeous you looked that evening. When you linked your arm with his on the way to the venue, he felt like tearing up. But he keeps it together. Everyone at the party complimented his looks, the way his hair was swept back to show his handsome face, and his tasteful choice of clothing. He thinks the night was going well. After your friend blows their candles, the party resumes.
There was lively music, and people scattered around either dancing or talking. But you and Bokuto were stuck in your own world, sipping champagne and exchanging hushed jokes. When a soft melody begins, Bokuto holds his breath and says a silent prayer.
"Would you like to dance with me, [Name]?"
He asks while extending his hand out. You take it with a nod and he feels like his body is floating. Everyone was waltzing with their partner and when Bokuto placed his hands around your waist he froze. Panic is visible on his face.
"What's wrong, Bokuto?"
"I don't know how to waltz"
"Oh, then let me teach you"
Bokuto's heart melted. There was trial and error. Bokuto keeps stepping on your foot while making an absolute fool of himself and earning a few amused giggles from other people. You only smiled patiently at him as he found the perfect rhythm.
"Holy shit, I did it!"
"Congrats, you're a quick learner"
The spiker smiled proudly at himself and you couldn't help but laugh. As the gentle music continued while you two waltzed on the dancefloor, Bokuto gulped. This was his chance! His chance to tell you how he feels. However, you opened your mouth first.
"Bokuto, do you have feelings for me?"
Crunch!!!
You winced as your face displayed pain when Bokuto stepped on your foot, rather painfully. You both pulled away. He becomes frantic as he apologizes profusely, ruining the moment between you two. Great, he fucked it up. He couldn't meet you in the eye.
"Bokuto"
He looks down at his feet, his face featuring an embarrassed flush. You sighed.
"Bokuto, look at me"
He continues to behave like an embarrassed child. You grabbed his broad shoulders and forced him to look at you.
"Kotaro"
Your eyes met his and his chest tightened at the way you finally said his first name. You were giving him a soft look, silently assuring him that everything was fine. Bokuto draws in a sharp inhale.
"I'm in love with you, [Name]"
A lot of people turned their heads at the loud proclamation. Your eyes went wide and your face heats up at the sincerity of his tone.
"I've been in love with you since the day I met you. You're just so interesting and I've been thinking about you so much that I couldn't sleep properly"
Bokuto confessed. A few people gasped, it seemed like the music was fading away too. The blush on your face intensified as you watched him rigidly.
"I want to touch you, hold you, and kiss you. I want to be the one that makes you smile and laugh. I want to spend the rest of my days with you if you'll allow me"
There was a collective sound of 'aww's from the moved audience watching the spectacle. You open your mouth to say something but Bokuto keeps going.
"I want to buy a house with you, pay taxes with you, and grow old with you. I...I want to marry you!"
In a flash, Bokuto gets on one knee making everyone gasp as if he's going to pull out a tiny box with a shiny ring. You frantically wave your hands around.
"Wait, stop! This is going too fast! I'm pretty sure you don't have a ring right now, Kotaro"
"Oh, shit, you're right"
Bokuto stands back up on his feet. You quietly went over to him and grabbed his large hands. The weight of the people's anticipating eyes goes unbothered to you.
"I suppose you have beat me, I meant to confess to you first. I'm in love with you too, Kotaro"
And the crowd goes wild. Bokuto lets out a scream and picks you up in his arms spinning you around like he'd imagine. The cheering goes deaf in his ears as he focuses on the sound of your laughter. It fills him with absolute happiness as nothing could compare to the joy of knowing you're in love with him too.
Although it seemed like a win for him, it ended up being a workload for you as PR because someone filmed the entire scene and posted it on social media as it went trending. Now everyone was dying to know who was the person that Bokuto Kotaro ended up offering his heart to.
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— ♬ Oikawa Tooru
Contrary to popular belief, Oikawa had no luck when it came to romance. Sure, he had gorgeous looks, a hot bod, a charming personality, and a heart of gold. But he had no one to willingly lend his heart to. He had relationships in the past, all resulting in failure. But then he didn't mind, he didn't mind if he had no one to hold or share his secrets with. The Oikawa then wouldn't have cared if he didn't have someone to kiss. However now, he's growing conscious.
Oikawa was no stranger to being a heartthrob. He was used to being surrounded by people thirsting for his attention. Sometimes he reveled in it. But he thought how nice it was to have someone in the crowd to lock eyes with and smile because they saw him as who he really was. Perhaps, he's been consuming too much romantic media lately.
The setter is a hopeless romantic who believes in true love even though he hasn't technically encountered it yet. But he wishes to. Oikawa was growing tired of the media portraying him as a cool and super-talented athlete. He's just a stupid guy who's a volleyball nerd and obsessed with astrology. He's not out at night hooking up with someone, he watches Ghibli movies and listens to popular love songs. Oikawa was just an ordinary guy who wanted to be loved for who he truly was.
When he arrived back in Japan to have a vacation and reunited with his best friend, Oikawa wasn't expecting anything to happen. He thinks this is just another long vacation and after that, he'll return to Argentina and be back to the pathetically single moron that he is. And then he met you. Iwaizumi's roommate. Previously when he returned to Japan, Iwaizumi lived alone in his apartment, so he was surprised to see you answer the door instead of his childhood best friend.
"Woah, you're not Hajime"
You said and gave him a glance from head to toe. Oikawa stood stiffly with an awkward smile, hugging all his luggage. You raised a brow.
"You friends with Hajime?"
"Yes, I'm his childhood best friend"
Judging from the way you called his best friend by his first name, he thought you two were close. You furrowed your eyebrows and suddenly snapped your fingers.
"Oh, you! Heard a lot about you from my roommate, you're Oikawa right?"
"Yep"
"Cool, come in! Hajime was out doing some errands"
You smiled and opened the door wider to let him in. The apartment was livelier compared to the last time he visited. There were plants and aesthetic decorations that filled the spaces. Oikawa settled his things down by the living room and took a seat. You were only wearing a pair of shorts and an oversized shirt as you walked to the kitchen.
"You hungry, bud?"
"Oh, no thank you"
"Good, I don't know what to feed you. Hajime does the cooking around here"
You laughed and the setter found himself chuckling. Your demeanor was welcoming and interesting. Oikawa watched you walk around the place tidying up, seemingly to make everything more presentable. Oikawa decides he wants to get to know you more.
"The last time I visited, Iwa-chan didn't have a roommate"
"Really? Well, I kind of begged him to let me stay here since my last place was shitty"
"So, how long have you known him?"
"Long enough to know he's obsessed with Godzilla"
You and Oikawa shared a laugh. You settled in the living room, plopping on the beanbag across from the setter, and chatted. Somewhat having a playful interview and getting to know each other. The way you matched Oikawa's personality impressed him greatly. Why the hell has Iwaizumi not introduced you to him yet?
You were a breath of fresh air. You talked to him without regard for his popularity, hell, he thinks you don't have a clue he's a famous athlete. Maybe you didn't give a shit, either way, he was glad. Both of you found a lot of common interests like volleyball and astrology. Oikawa for the first time felt like someone had finally glanced at his true self.
By the time Iwaizumi arrived at the apartment, you and Oikawa were blasting Taylor Swift in the speakers and talking about zodiac signs while sprawled out on the floor. There was a mixture of shock and disgust on Iwaizumi's face.
"Hi, Hajime!"
"Hi, Iwa-chan!"
You both greet him enthusiastically. Iwaizumi closed the door and crossed his arms, giving you two an odd look. He pointed at his best friend.
"How long have you been here?"
"Long enough for me to know all of your embarrassing high school moments"
You replied with a mischievous giggle. Oikawa copied you. Iwaizumi mumbled to himself as he entered the kitchen while rubbing his temples. Oikawa was going to stay for a week, occupying the couch to sleep on. But the two of you grew close so quickly and suddenly, that you two would lay your mattress in the living room and have some sort of slumber party every night.
Oikawa expected to catch up with Iwaizumi but instead ended up bonding with his roommate instead. How could he not when you literally matched his energy so well? It was like you were the missing piece of his soul that made him whole. Like the Yin to his Yang, the sun to his moon, or the water to his fire. It seemed like the planets aligned when he met you.
His stay in Japan was unexpectedly filled with new memories with you. The two of you were always out and about either partying or exploring. Iwaizumi witnessed how his best friend slowly carved a special place for you in his life. The man witnessed everything. When you two would get home at five in the morning wasted, later Oikawa would assist you when you're throwing up in the toilet. When you two would get into stupid arguments, mostly Oikawa would get upset and you would be the first to apologize as you two made up. When you and he would blast loud music in the speakers and have a mini concert, Iwaizumi got a complaint from the neighbors.
And most importantly, Iwaizumi witnessed how his best friend was falling in love with you. From the tender stares to the caring gestures, it was no mistaking that Oikawa had feelings for you. Iwaizumi knew the setter well, how he was a romantic but could be devasted and hurt because of it. How he desperately worked himself to the bone to become better. And how he longed to have someone who saw him past the charms.
Oikawa pouted when Iwaizumi forced him to hang out with him and Matsukawa and Hanamaki. The four of them went out for drinks and did some catching up. However, Oikawa was occupied texting on his phone, most likely chatting with you.
"Hey! Iwa-chan give that back!"
The setter whined when Iwaizumi snatched his phone and pocketed it. Matsukawa and Hanamaki laughed at him.
"Are you seriously talking to [Name] right now?"
"Huh? How did you know?"
"Iwaizumi filled us up with your unfolding romance with them"
Hanamaki replied. Oikawa glared at him and blushed, Iwaizumi and Matsukawa shared amused laughs.
"Just admit it Shittykawa, you're in love with [Name]"
"I am not!"
The way the setter immediately denied provided a great amount of proof. Oikawa loved to deny the truth, especially how painful it was. He denied how he wasn't naturally born with talent, he denied the fact he hasn't gone once to Nationals, and he denied how he was harboring strong feelings for you.
Because the truth was he was petrified. Now, that he found someone who can make his heart beat so fast, he doesn't want to fuck it up. Oikawa doesn't want to fuck up the friendship he had with you. Oikawa was sure you only saw him as a friend and only held platonic feelings for him. He thinks confessing to you would just fuck up everything, so it was better to stay as friends than ruin what he had with you.
"Just confess, you idiot"
"I can't, Mattsun!"
"Why? Are you scared?"
"...Yes"
Oikawa exhales. His friends shared a look. He was about to leave Japan tomorrow. He won't be seeing you again for god knows how long. His heart aches at the thought of being so far away from what he deemed as his soulmate. He felt so stupid for falling so easily. Curse his stupid heart and stupid feelings.
"Oi, you're not stupid for falling in love, okay?"
Iwaizumi reassured him. Oikawa gives him a grateful smile and gulps down his beer.
"I know. It's just never met someone who made me feel so complete and I would hate to ruin everything because I admitted what I feel"
"That's love, dude. You get happy and hurt at the same time"
Hanamaki said. Matsukawa gives him a pat on the back as he tries not to get teary-eyed.
"I shouldn't have returned here"
"Hey, cut that out. How else you would've met [Name]?"
"Yeah. Just tell [Name] how you feel and if all goes to shit, you'll still have us"
"No homo tho"
Everyone shared a lighthearted laugh. Oikawa has really been counting his blessings but meeting you was the greatest blessing of all. As he finishes another glass of beer, Oikawa takes a confident stand.
"Okay! I'll tell them how I feel!"
All of his friends cheered and patted him on the back. Oikawa thinks it will be fine, even if he'll inevitably end up sobbing like an ugly baby on his flight tomorrow back to Argentina. As he returns back at the apartment, he sees you scrolling on your phone. When you see him enter, a warm smile spreads on your lips and it makes his knees weak.
"Hey, Tooru"
"[Name], can I tell you something?"
"Sure! I got something to tell you too"
"Oh, you go first!"
Oikawa insisted. He was nervous as fuck, he needed spare time to prepare how to spill his feelings for you. But you shook your head and laughed.
"Nah, you can go first"
Shit
"No, I insist"
"Come on, Tooru. I don't mind"
"No, you go first"
"No"
"Yes"
"No!"
"Ugh! Fine!"
You raise a brow as he runs his hands down his face with a frustrated groan. Oikawa looks you in the eye, his eyes growing wet the longer he stares.
"I've been thinking this through and...fuck! I can't do it!"
The setter turns away and collapses on the couch. You give him a concerned look and join him on the couch.
"Hey, you know you can tell me anything?"
"I'm leaving tomorrow, [Name]"
"I know, it's making me sad as fuck, Tooru"
"I...I don't want to leave"
"But you can't"
"I don't want to leave you"
Oikawa sniffs. You frowned and grabbed his hands, he looked at you. Your gaze meant something deeper, like you were gazing directly at his soul, witnessing his flaws but seeing past them by holding his hands. Oikawa was convinced you have always seen the real him no matter how much he pretended. And he stares back at you like you're the best thing that has ever happened to him in his life. Oikawa inhales.
One, two, three...
"I-"
"I'm in love with you, Tooru"
You blurted out. Oikawa's eyes bulge out of its sockets. His mouth goes agape as his face displays sheer bewilderment. You nervously smiled.
"Sorry, I can't stand seeing you leave without telling you how I feel"
"[Name], what the fuck?"
"I understand if you don't feel the same-"
"I'm fucking in love with you too, [Name]"
Oikawa finally confesses. You gasp in response before letting out a breathless laugh. He doesn't miss the way your eyes became glassy.
"Oh my god, tell me you're kidding!"
"No! Never! [Name], I'm in love with you. I was about to tell you but I got nervous"
"We're fucking idiots"
You said as you both burst out laughing. Tears gathered in the corners of your eyes both from relief and joy. As the laughter subsided, you both gazed softly at each other. This time Oikawa grabs your hands.
"[Name], you have completed me. You see me as who I am and I just want to be on your side all the time"
He goes to kiss your knuckles turning your face red. Oikawa sighs as he traces your knuckles with his thumbs.
"But I have to leave you behind, here in Japan. I wouldn't mind if you want to start a long-distance relationship"
"Oh, about that"
"Yeah?"
"Remember when I said I was going to say something to you?"
"Oh, wasn't that the confession?"
"Nope!"
You grinned and went over to your bag and pulled out your passport and a flight ticket. You showed it to Oikawa.
"I'm coming with ya to Argentina!"
"Oh my god!"
Oikawa couldn't control himself as he picked you up in his arms and spun you around the living room. You laughed as he excitedly babbled how he was excited to return back to Argentina with you. Oikawa felt like the luckiest man alive, striking the ultimate jackpot to romance. Because he gets to be with you, who made his heart whole.
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©kitasgloves (do not steal or copy)
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mysumeow · 6 months
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I accidentally took the wrong potion and now I have fox ears?! 1/2 ✦﹐
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gn pronouns, afab genitalia, PWP (plot what plot), breeding mentions, overstimulation, cunnilingus.
Summary: The seasonal allergy is killing you, and the cart containing your medicine was destroyed by a group of hilichurls! Luckily, your dear friend Albedo can help you with that, but because of a mistake on his part, you end up taking the wrong medicine.
a/n: THE TITLE lmaooo. I'm poking fun at the premise of this smut, but I did enjoy writing it! Sorry yall i tried to finish this and post it as a one shot but i caught a cold and im fighting for my life akljhfsdlkjfhkhajf heres a drabble with sort of a similar idea to this
› MASTERLIST ‹
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You stared at your reflection in the mirror, unable to stop darting your eyes towards the pair of fennec fox ears that seemed to stare right back at you, mocking you for your misfortune.
The Chief Alchemist was a busy individual, but despite that, he found a way to open his schedule for you.
"A group of hilichurls and mitachurls destroyed the cart that was loaded with the allergy medicine. I have to wait until next week for the next stock," oh, your eyes were so itchy. Spring is known for carrying not only the sweet aroma of flowers in the air but also pollen and other allergens. "If you're not too busy, would you give me a hand with that?"
"I understand. Dealing with allergies can be exhausting. Relief for a common allergy isn't difficult to brew. Sure, I can help you with that."
You looked at him as if he was an angel sent from heaven.
"You're so nice—" unable to finish expressing your gratitude, you had to cover your mouth before sneezing. "Uhg... My nose clogs so bad when I lie down. It makes it hard to sleep, too."
"I'll have Sucrose hand you the medicine, yes? I'll have it done as soon as possible."
"Oh, don't worry about it! Don't rush yourself."
Albedo smiles. "I'm almost done with work, anyway."
With one last thanks, you parted ways and went back to work.
Something as simple as that shouldn't have made you face the predicament you dealt with the next day.
You woke up at your usual time and followed your everyday routine until you saw yourself in the mirror.
"Please excuse Sucrose for mixing up the vials. I'm at fault for not labeling them correctly."
"It's okay! At least my allergy is mitigated, see? I was even able to sleep last night without having to wake up to blow my nose."
You couldn't find it in you to be angry at them. It was a funny outcome, at least!
The not-so-fun outcome, however, was that the herbs that needed the cure to revert you to your original form were Sumeru native and not easy to come across.
In any case, you felt like you were the one at fault, since now Albedo had to go with you to Sumeru's rainforest. Aside from Mondstadt’s best alchemist helping you, the renowned forest watcher offered a hand as well.
“If you need some noise-cancelling earmuffs, take them. Oh, and if you don’t like the attention they attract from people, I can show you a way to fold them without hurting them—”
“It’s okay, Tighnari. Thanks.”
The forest watcher seemed more worried about your new assets than you were, which you did find endearing but just made you feel more guilty too.
“You two must be exhausted from that trip. I’ll go and make one last check on the guest rooms and ensure everything’s alright. I’ll be quick.”
“You look exhausted. Want me to take you to your guest room?"
"Yeah, I think I'll go ahead and sleep," you yawned, tiredness catching up to you. "Good night, Albedo. You should rest too,"
"I will. Rest well."
As you were following Tighnari down the hallway, he stopped and turned towards you. "Albedo asked me to accompany him tomorrow to fetch those herbs you need. We will be heading out at seven, so if you want to join us, you'll have to wake up earlier."
"Hm… I’ll try, but there's no guarantee.”
 “If something’s bothering you, do tell me. Good night,” he nodded.
Later that night, something woke you from your peaceful sleep. You opened your eyes, feeling the sheets too warm on your body, so you kicked them off. The night wasn’t even that hot; in fact, considering how Sumeru gets at this time of the year, it was quite chilly.
And then you became aware of the warmth taking over your body. There was a warmth like no other you had felt; it was like every cell in you was clawing at you to get rid of that sensation.
Barely being able to stand without stumbling over, you managed to exit your room.
Just as you were heading towards Tighnari’s room, which was the closest one, you stumbled upon Albedo, who called out to you.
Your dizzy-like state of mind didn’t allow you to understand what he was trying to say. All you could perceive was his pretty pink lips moving and how nice his arms felt around you to support you.
You sensed his hand go on your forehead, and a shiver made your body tremble.
“I’ll take you to my room, okay?”
It’s not like you had a choice, given your state, and you, with stumbling steps, allowed him to guide you to his room.
You registered the faint sound of the door closing, and the alchemist’s scent enveloped your senses. There was a distinct aroma of cecilias, and a very subtle smell of some chemicals he might’ve used on his last experiment.
“Dilated pupils, labored breathing, high temperature, sweating... I would’ve thought it’s a fever, were it not for the…ardent and hazy look in your eyes,” he helped you lie down on his bed and then sat on the edge of it, thoughtful.
“Hot…m’so hot, Albedo,” you whined, fingers fumbling with the buttons of your shirt.
“Are you in any pain? If you’re feeling discomfort, I can provide you with painkillers.”
You weren’t paying attention to anything about what he was saying; you did what felt natural to you at that moment.
You notice Albedo falling silent, and then you recognize that you had taken his hand while he was talking and placed it on your chest, right where your heart was supposed to be.
“Please…help me. It’s too much.”
You heard his breath hitch, and the longer he took to ponder the situation at hand, the more the need to just grab him by his shirt’s collar and kiss him resonated in your head.
“This is the result of an oversight from my side. Were I not to take care of it, it could be considered negligence on my part. Besides, I’m always up for helping a friend in need,” Albedo began undoing the buttons of your shirt, and as soon as the fabric split open to your sides, you embraced him.
Albedo seemed to stumble a bit to regain balance, his fist clenched next to you in an attempt at holding himself together. He would be lying if he said he didn’t enjoy how you kissed him with such eagerness and the softness of your chest pressed against him.
“Tell me, where do you need me the most?”
“I—you know where.”
“If you don’t tell me about the root of your distress, I might not be able to help you,” he teased.
You wanted to smack off the little smug expression he had.
“Oh, for the love of—” you locked his hips with your legs and grinded down on the obvious stiffness forming beneath his pants. “There, I need you there,”
Albedo nodded as he got rid your pajama shorts down, along with your underwear.
Under normal circumstances, you would’ve been a bit more modest about having your privates at the mercy of a lover’s tantalizing touch, but the moment his deft fingers traced upwards of your lower lips, an involuntary moan escaped your mouth.
“That was quite the reaction. Looking forward to pulling more of those soon,” he observed your body’s responses, taking note of when your hips trembled more. “You’re drenched. I’d say about twice as much a human could be under similar circumstances,”
You couldn’t care less about the nonsense he was mumbling about, but you were close to your orgasm with how he was touching and prodding. One thumb on your clit, and two other fingers going in and out of you.
His unoccupied hand went up from your waist, tracing the figure of your sides, and gently squeezed your chest. His thumb pressed down on your nipple, the pleasure coursing through your body, wave after wave of his attentive care.
“Are you close? You’re…” Albedo’s own sight was hazy, and his heart was beating fast. He swallowed hard, the cloud of lust further obfuscating his rational mind. “…”
He observed how fast you liked it and how rough. He made sure to keep it how you wanted it, if your whines were anything to go by, until your hips stilled from your climax and your release coated his fingers.
While you were panting, he examined the transparent strings of your release when he separated his fingers. He stuck his tongue out and licked his fingers clean, humming pleased at the taste.
You tugged at the sleeve of his coat, the effects of the heat leaving you unsatisfied.
His eyes widened at the fact of your need; even after an orgasm, your body was asking for more. His face relaxed into an amused one, and he shrugged his coat off, followed by him undoing his blue shirt and the rest of his clothing.
“I’ll ensure your hunger is satiated for the rest of the night,” he kissed your cheek tenderness, his soft pink lips lingered on the sensitive skin for a moment before pulling away to gander at your face for any sign of discomfort.
Every part of your body was demanding more, and despite his attempt at keeping everything as attentive as possible, you couldn’t wait any longer and urged him on.
The proximity let you feel the tip of his cock press against your entrance. You jolted as if struck with electricity.
He eased in with a push; your slicked walls took him in with little discomfort. You were dripping ever since you entered the room. Albedo faltered for a second, like he wanted to give you time to adjust, but it wasn’t necessary.
Albedo inhaled sharply, stifling his own groan. Pleasure embraced his physique the moment he slipped in, stuffing you.
You also moaned in pleasure, urging him to already fuck you.
Your words were efficient in making his own craving spiral into something uncontrollable, and he grasped your legs and pushed them as far as they could go against your chest.
“I should’ve expected this. Greed is part of human nature,” he reveled in the tears prickling in the corners of your eyes. “And I don’t mind feeding into yours,”
The position allowed him to stuff you full. The added weight helped with this. You thrashed around at the overwhelming sensation; if anything, it fueled your sexual appetite to receive everything he would pour.
Albedo’s mouth slotted against your exposed neck, tongue lapping your skin, and suckling marks.
You clawed at his pale skin, imprinting crescent shapes of your fingernails onto him, marking him in your way. Albedo groaned louder this time; you had made the soft-spoken alchemist raise his voice.
You watched, amidst tear-filled vision, the sight of his hips pulls away until just the tip was inside, and then drop them down again against yours, filling you to the brim.
And again, and again.
Until the pace became sloppy, moaning into each other's mouths. His tongue delved between your parted lips, his thumb rubbing your clit.
"You're tightening so much," he gasped.
"A-Albedo..." you cried, your legs pulling him in even closer as you came.
With a couple of more sloppy thrusts, his hips faltered, and he stilled, his cum spilling into insides. Entranced by the ravenous nature of sex, he embraced you and made sure you couldn't move an inch away, body taut on yours.
You looked at him, expecting him to fall into your open arms when you outstretched them to him. Instead, he sat back on the bed and pushed your legs open.
You shivered when you felt his tongue tease your clit, you tangled your hands into his blond locks and whined at him to give you a minute.
"You're not satisfied yet, I can tell," the tip of his tongue circled your delicate nub.
He opened his mouth to say something else, but someone opened the door.
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blessedwithabadomen · 2 months
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in love with the mess - day one
summary : Aubrey is going on tour and, for once, she's decided to focus on having as much fun as possible. Oli can be a little shit but he does nothing short of adore Audrey and... well, maybe Noah a little, too. Noah likes the flirting, as long as no one gets too close, emotionally. But what will happen when the three of them take it too far?
content : fluff and flirting
length : 3.1k
tags (let me know if you want to be tagged!) : @veronicaphoenix @cookiesupplier @lma1986 @jilliemiw86 @bngurngheart @lacktoesandtoddlerants @narcissisticbehavior81 @flowery-mess @shilohrosechicken
a/n: I'm not home this week so I hope this posts correctly from my phone 😬 enjoy the chapter!!
•••
day one
If there was one thing to know about me it was that I was an absolute whore for a breakfast buffet. And the one at this hotel had both a waffle station and a chef to make you omelettes on demand so really, I couldn't be to blame. It was simply unfortunate that I was elbows deep in a plate of chocolate croissants I’d balanced on my table when Noah appeared.
For a singular moment I still had hope that he would not see me or even then, decide to ignore me and enjoy the quiet morning by himself, but after a quick detour to the coffee machine, he confidently took the seat across from me.
“You stuff everything in your mouth with that much vigour?”
Both of us froze in the middle of our movements. From the look in his eyes, I was pretty sure that he was not insinuating what we were both thinking now, the realisation of what his words could mean hitting him only after they’d already been spoken. I was trying so hard not to let my face twist into a grin, or full on laughter, and it was becoming increasingly difficult with every second of horror passing through his eyes.
“Wouldn’t you like to know?”
Finally realising that I was very much seeing the humour in his slip-up, he cracked a handsome smile, half-hidden by the hand that was rubbing his face as he groaned. I had half a mind to throw another remark at him, tease him about his faux pas a little further, but my eyes were trained on the back of his hand and the dark flower design inked into the skin.
Carefully reaching for him, I pulled the hand away from his face, lying it palm-down on the table between us between my plate of sweets and his coffee, just to study the tattoo further. Tracing every line on every patel, I committed the design to memory. It was gorgeous and it was perfect on him.
“You got any tattoos?” Noah tried very hard to sound normal, but I heard the huskiness in his voice, one that hadn’t been there before. I hoped it had to do with my touch. It was why I didn’t quite let go of him when I answered.
“A couple,” I mused. “Most of them hidden away though. Had some, quite ridiculous I can say now, ideas about wanting to have the option of a normal job that might not like to see me covered in ink. Although I’m pretty sure that ship’s sailed, so I’m definitely looking to get started on my arms soon.”
“Where’s the ones you have so far?”
He was probably expecting my legs, my shoulders, something easily shown with barely any clothes removal. Something I could let him see right now. He wasn’t entirely wrong. I did have a couple in those spots, too.
“I don’t think I can show you in a public place without becoming a menace.”
Noah’s hand visibly flinched underneath mine and he pulled back, immediately making me miss his warmth. He took a long sip of his coffee and I wondered if it was an attempt to buy some time.
“This was, um,” he coughed in between his words, “a great talk but you’re a fucking flirt and I need a bit more caffeine to deal with you.”
Disappointment flooded my veins as he got up from the table - had I been too much? Said the wrong thing? Come on too strongly? I knew I had vowed to take Lia’s advice at being a little more offensive and letting myself do whatever I was in the mood for, but that didn’t mean it was appreciated. Maybe I should back down. Keep more to myself after all. Not be so damn-
“Find me later?” He asked with a grin as he stopped next to my chair on the way out.
Well. Maybe I didn’t need to change much at all.
•••
I had forgotten how much running around was involved in a job like that. I wasn't complaining really, I did enjoy that it kept me on my toes, but I was thoroughly exhausted by the time I basically dropped Oli off for soundcheck. He'd had several appointments beforehand that I accompanied him to and even when he was busy, he still found time to think of fifteen different things he had forgotten in some place or other and needed immediately, making me cross the arena and the hotel several times more than necessary. He had way too much fun with it too.
Now I finally saw a chance to take a breather, so I grabbed a couple of things from catering (surprisingly good catering actually, Bring Me The Horizon had really moved up in the world it seemed) and went on a hunt for a quiet backstage room. I was fully planning on bunking up in one of Bring Me’s dressing rooms as they should all technically be empty now, but when I walked past a different door, half open, half closed, I couldnt help but stop as I looked inside. Noah was sitting on a couch - well, I said sitting, I really meant he was halfway to sliding down off it, his head collapsed onto the back ledge, eyes closed, looking ridiculously uncomfortable.
I didn’t mean to disturb him. In fact, I didn’t quite know what the plan was at all, but in one split decision, I walked into the room, quietly closing the door behind me and sitting down on the couch next to him. Balancing my stuff on the table, I scooped some of my (honestly deliciously smelling pasta) on a fork and carefully held it under Noah’s nose.
It was like watching a dog sleep that suddenly started dreaming of the very smell that surrounded him in real life. His nose was starting to twitch in the most adorable way, then his breathing changed a little. One by one, his body was waking up, not quite sure yet why, but pulled from his sleep anyway.
His eyes finally opened, a little at first, then more, slightly swollen from the nap had seemingly had taken him by force, as he tried to focus on where we was. Blinking, then blinking again, he finally set sight on the fork in front of him, brows furrowing as he pulled his head back to look at it better in utter confusion.
“What the-”
Noah finally sat up properly, only just now noticing me sitting next to him, amused beyond belief as I finally pushed the fork in my mouth. The pasta was a little cool already, but still surprisingly tasty. Good venues came with good catering apparently.
“Want one?” I asked, scoopin up some more pasta and holding it out to him. Still a little dazed, he simply opened his mouth and let me carefully feed him a portion.
“Didn’t you two meet, like, yesterday?” I looked up in surprise as someone entered the room. Folio, I think his name was, drummer for Bad Omens, currently looking at us with an questioning, but not unkind smile. “What’s with the married couple behaviour?”
“Very funny,” Noah commented, but there wasn’t the usual playfulness in his voice. I instinctively pulled back a little.
Both men exchanged looks I couldn’t quite interpret. I didn’t know either of them well enough to know what they were silently communicating, but I knew there was a conversation happening that I wasn’t part of. The intensity of it was felt in the whole room though. If I was the reason for it, I wanted to never be put in this position again. It even put me off the pasta I’d been shovelling in my mouth with vigour.
Then Folio turned away from him and toward me, once again showing his smile which seemed so out of place for a moment that I wondered if I had purely imagined the unease I had felt before.
“Oli’s looking for you, by the way. Apparently he left his phone in his dressing room.”
“I’d wondered why it was so quiet,” I mumbled with a look toward my own mobile. “Not sure why I thought I could escape him.”
Folio sent me a pitiful look, even though I was sure he knew as well as I did that I wasn’t really complaining. Getting up from the sofa, I cradled my pasta again, determined to finish it one way or another, putting my phone into the pocket of my jeans, when I felt a hand on me.
Noah’s fingers were wrapped around my wrist. He had sat up slightly just to reach me. I both wanted to lean into his touch and pull away, almost overwhelmed by the sensations running through my body with his fingers on my pulse point.
“Are you watching the set later?”
“Yeah, I… Oli said I could watch the show from the sound desk.”
“Good. I hope you enjoy it. I’d say I’ll look for you but I don’t think I can see that far.”
And then he sent me a smile that had my heart soaring and I was once again ready to throw all caution in the wind.
•••
“Are you sure this is okay?”
I carefully slid into a designated spot at the sound desk, giving everyone around me smiles that I hoped would convince them not to hate me for intruding into their workspace.
“Well if you touch anything, we’ll have to burn you at the stake… Other than that, welcome to the sound desk!” The woman next to me cheerfully explained. “Don’t worry, Oli vouched for you, so unless you’re extraordinarily clumsy and manage to undo all our work with the sweep of a hand over our stuff, you’re grand.”
“I’ll try my very best,” I promised. “And if I fuck anything up, take it from Oli’s wages please.”
“Oh, gladly!”
I watched as she went back to work, preparing for the upcoming Bad Omens set, and I couldn’t help but study her a little bit. If I hadn’t known from the AAA pass around her neck and, well, the fact that she seemed to know what she was doing and wasn’t in the process of getting kicked out, I couldn’t have told her from the fans that were starting to crowd around us in the venue.
She hadn’t overdone it by any measure and her face, as far as I could see, was blank of any make-up, but she had dressed the part with ease. Heavy boots accompanied her black shorts perfectly, making her look both tough and delicate somehow, her black top was wrapped in a corset, she was wearing a choker and several earrings. It just made sense. Looking down at myself, I was suddenly less thrilled with my hastily put-on choice of clothing from that morning. A simple pair of dark jeans, a non-descript shirt, no accessories whatsoever.
I didn’t know why I hadn’t made more of an effort. It wasn’t that I thought it was expected of me or necessary in any way, but looking at the sound tech reminded me of how much fun I usually had dressing up. In fact, half of my wardrobe at home was stuffed with elaborate pairs of trousers, laced tops, skater skirts, platform boots. Only I hadn’t really packed any of it.
Pulling out my phone, I shot a text to Lia.
Aubrey
Have I been hiding myself away lately
Lia
context pls
Aubrey
I can’t remember the last time I dressed up and it’s just hit me with everyone in this venue looking so fucking fab
For a moment, I wondered if she was already giving up on messaging me, but when I looked back at my phone, I realised that she was instead recording an audio message. Oh dear. Checking the time, I made sure I would manage to get a good listen before the lights dimmed and Bad Omen’s show began.
“Babe, since you’re finally realising it yourself now, yes, you’ve been letting yourself go. I didn’t want to push you too hard - well, I would have if you’d gotten really bad, you know that but then Oli called so that was off the table. But since… you know, you had that girlfriend and it was all fucked up and your family basically - well, let me just say I’m still available to beat any of them up. The ex and the family. You know that. But yeah. It’s taken a toll on you and you’ve not been yourself lately and it’s been painful to watch. Which is why I’ve been telling you to have some fucking fun on this tour. Put on that dress and that lipstick and get back to being yourself, yeah? And now enjoy the show and give Noah some air kisses from me, love you, bye!”
I felt dumbstruck. Had it really gotten that bad? Had everyone noticed but me? I knew I’d been struggling a bit since my last relationship drama and everything that followed (and technically preceeded) it, but… Lia’s words were ringing in my head. Maybe I had been letting myself go. It wasn’t worryingly bad, surely, but had I been my usual self? I thought I was seeing glimpses of it again now that I was on tour.
Quickly checking the schedule on my phone I realised that after today it was one more gig before a day off between Bournemouth and Birmingham. I shot Oli a message.
Aubrey
I don’t care what kinda disguise you need to go out but you need to take me clothes shopping in two days xoxo
Oli
I’ll get a fake moustache
•••
Bad Omens were a force to behold on stage. I couldn’t help but keep my eyes on Noah as much as the distance would allow me to, hanging onto his every word, studying his every movement. It was mesmerising. I’d never had the pleasure of seeing them live before but I already knew I’d make sure to catch them several more times on this tour. There was simply no way around it.
The break was spent chatting to the sound tech whose name I finally learned was Becky. It turned out she was extremely passionate when it came to talking about her craft and I was a willing listener. Nothing she said made a lot of sense so far as she threw all kinds of technical terms at me, but it was fascinating to hear her explain how much of a part she and her team really played in making this an experience, rather than just a live show.
She barely managed to stop talking by the time she was nudged by someone else on her team to notify her of the performance being about to start, which left her busy for the next one hundred minutes and me with too many thoughts and no one to voice them to. So I did the only sensible thing I could think of. I spam-texted Oli all of them for him to find after the show.
Aubrey
Opening with darkside is bold but I love a bold man
Aubrey
I love this setlist so much
I know you showed it to me yesterday but it doesn’t compare
Also the visuals wow
Aubrey
You look very good in red btw and so does your ass
Aubrey
Cause you got a taste noooow drank the kool-aid by the juuuuug
Oh dear I hope everyone’s ok
I’m glad you’re stopping shows liberally these days to make sure
Aubrey
I said it before and I’ll say it again, strangers into diamonds is fucking insane and I don’t know who allowed you to do that
Aubrey
Antiviiiiiiist!! Tell Noah he looks good in that mask
Aubrey
Also why were you getting a headrush after that song hmmm was it performing with Noah do you love him I’d get a headrush to if I screamed with him like that and got to give him two hugs
Aubrey
Yeah the doomed montage is making me cry, fuck you
Aubrey
I hope you have fun whenever you find these messages
I promise I wasn’t drunk when I wrote them just high on live music heyyyy
•••
Walking backstage, I immediately ran into the band leaving the stage. Lee held out his hand for a high five, massive smiles all around from a successful start to the tour, and I wasn’t one to leave him hanging. It ended with everyone who came up behind him following suit on the high fives, until Oli appeared at last, who instead grabbed onto my hand and clumsily twirled me around myself. I was still stumbling over my feet, uncoordinated feet unable to keep up with the sudden movement, when he pulled me into his chest for a hug.
Oli was made of pure adrenaline. I could basically smell it radiating off him. There was laughter in my ear, exhilaration from the first show having gone well, his hands pushing against my back so tightly I had no choice but to melt into him. Any attempt at not touching his bare skin were futile as my fingers slipped under his cropped jacket. He was hot and sweaty, but I didn’t mind one bit. If anything, it awakened something more primal in me. Something that begged to claw at his skin, push him against the nearest wall, have a taste of the droplets running down his chest. I was almost glad when he let me go for fear of what my hands would do if he didn’t.
“I sent you a couple of messages during the set by the way. You can read them as a slightly unhinged bedtime story,” I explained as he nudged me to get a move on toward the dressing rooms.
“Oh I bet those will put me right to sleep,” he laughed.
“Did you actually say that you had a headrush on stage after performing with Noah?”
“Fuck, yeah, my head was fucking spinning, thought I was gonna faint.”
“Was it so stimulating be around him?” I teased, moving to tickle his side, but he quickly dodged me and fell onto the sofa alone. “Does he make your heart race?”
Oli eyed me for a moment, pushing his hair back. I tried my best to ignore how good it looked on him.
“See, you talk about him so much, I can’t tell if you wanna hook up with him or if you want to set me up with him.”
I genuinely didn’t know how to answer that. I didn’t think I quite knew it myself.
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normoully · 8 months
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no plz tell me all your thoughts about the gregory hate so I can reblog it💀
OHHH boy this is gonna be a long one buckle up
Ever since Gregory was first announced I believe most of the fandom have interpreted him as this frail child who was always on the verge of tears and needed G.Freddy’s protection (think C.C 2.0), but once the game came out most ppl were shocked to see this kid actually has a lot of bite to him and kicked ass (ppl’s first reactions to him destroying the animatronics still make me laugh).
This was MY first introduction to him, so I wasn’t completely taken aback but still pleasantly surprised. Most if not all his actions made sense or at least made sense for a 10yr boy to think/act. Giant robots coming after me with the intention to kill (and insulting me for no damn reason)? Yeah I’d probably add an extra kick in there for good measure. Then came the first repair scene, when Vanessa revealed the high possibility of Gregory being an homeless orphan everything just clicked into place for me.
OF COURSE that’s why Gregory was so aggressive, he had to learn how to fight on his own to survive he’d probably had to face even worse than this! He wasn’t going to let that all go to waste bc some weird murderous rabbit lady wanted to drag him into her plans. It explains why he brushed off G.Freddy’s worries about him bc he’s used to have to just keep moving and bare thru pain, especially in an environment where that’s really the ONLY thing you can do. It’s why he’s so blunt and can come off as rude bc he was most likely never taught how to behave “correctly” bc really who has the time?
He was just using all the knowledge he learned on how to survive from a cruel and harsh environment for another. But this time he has an ally for once, an adult (father) figure who actually cares about his wellbeing, it’s no wonder why he became so attached (but struggles to show it bc he’s not used to it). And through all that easily irritable aggression, there are moments to remind us he’s still a kid.
A useless fridge magnet? Yeah that is pretty lame man.
Now imagine my shock when I see others hating on him and calling him a villain. “How could he KILL the poor animatronics? He was so mean, he’s the true monster!” Wh- DID WE WATCH THE SAME GAME? You mean the same animatronics that says he doesn’t have anyone to care about him? Yeah real sweethearts they are. Gregory isn’t a damn monster, he’s a survivor! He’s doing what he only knows best, IT’S TO SURVIVE!
“How could he be so mean to G.Freddy??? Those are his friends! He made Freddy feel bad!” Trust me when I say that Gregory cares about G.Freddy ALOT, did you see his reactions whenever G.Freddy got hurt??? That’s his father thank you very much!
“How could he have killed Vanny in that one ending?! He’s the real villain!” …Do I even need to explain this one?
And ohhhhhh don’t get me started on the awful “bratty gremlin devil” Gregory HCs. Now this isn’t to say that Gregory can’t be a gremlin or whatever. He can be, he is a bit cheeky, but then some started to intensify it and made it his entire personality. No, Gregory wasn’t just itching to rip Roxy’s eyes out or do the next batshit insane thing, he noticed the other upgrades and put two and two together (It gets more weird and slightly disrespectful when they add in the homeless thing as if that automatically makes someone act “feral”….tiktok.)
And then we have the complete opposite where some portray him as what I mentioned in the first paragraph. The poor helpless child who cant handle anything by himself…even though that’s complete bullshit (he’s also usually portrayed to be obnoxiously sweet for some reason). I don’t think many ppl realize how often were not in G.Freddy during SB, and Gregory is described to be quick on his feet and wits (plus his tools) and he doing damn well by himself! [Obviously this isnt to say that he didnt need G.Freddy’s help and protection, ofc he did, he just didnt need to RELY on it like some ppl make it seem he did].
(I know we went a bit off-topic for the last two paragraphs, trust me it connects)
All of this comes down to simply that some just can’t accept the fact that Gregory isn’t their perfect victim. He doesn’t crumble to the floor and beg for G.Freddy to help him up like they want him too. He’s not shy and sheepishly asking for help like they think he’s supposed to. And when they realize that part they try to push him into the other far end where he’s crazy, cold, and cruel. But he’s not. He cares, and he cares deeply. He’s still a little boy, he cried and tried to cover his face when he saw Vanny die. He should be leaping in victory, he killed his killer after all right? But he didn’t, bc despite everything she was still a human being, and he was so scared.
He has complex trauma (duh), he’s not this way or that way, and I get it. It’s hard to write or draw that kind of trauma for Gregory, especially when SB didn’t really give us much. But the way ppl act as if that’s what he actually is is soooooo frustrating. In my opinion the fact that his trauma is so complex and the fact he’s not your typical written victim is what makes him so interesting! And I feel like a lot ppl were slowly getting around to it…
Until GGY and Ruin happened and the hate came back so much worse, Welcome to the real Freddy Hell.
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psychopomp-enthusiast · 8 months
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Uninvited Guest
Blade x reader, one sided enemies to lovers ish, sfw, Vidyadhara gn Reader, Blade's past name being referred to as Ren, and bc this is Blade: some description of death, injury, and mental health decline. Some update 1.2 & Dan Heng spoilers. I'm commemorating losing my 50/50. This could be a series if I remain to be unlucky and motivated. 2.3k ish words I think.
Wherein, Blade's Mara runs its course after another failed lethal wounding. You're just here for the ride while he recovers.
Also on AO3 here! Part 2 here >>>>>
"Get away from me."
"I'm not-"
"Don't ruin this for me," he snarled, and you bit back a groan.
Blade is– yet again– on your operating table. This has got to be the third time this week. He hadn't even given you the courtesy of putting down his sword before entering your care.
"I promised I wouldn't heal you without your consent. But I can't watch you suffer," it has always been hard for you to watch strong emotions in others, especially negative ones, maybe that's just how the people who grow up around Lady Bailu are now, "Can I please have your consent to administer a light anesthetic? Just for the pain, nothing else."
This operating room of yours was more like Blade's second home at this point. He was in and out, or Kafka would drop his body off if he hadn't returned to the living world just yet. Your only saving grace for those first few times he awoke and assumed you revived (note the lack of term: saved) him was the ice that burst into being at your fingertips to slow him down long enough to plead your innocence. And also scream for Kafka. Standard procedure at this point.
"...fine, but get out when you're done." He reminds you of a stray cat you took in many years ago, that hissed, scratched, and yowled at you while you did everything you could to make sure it lived until the next day through the bustle of the Luofu lifestyle.
Except that Blade is not at all a cat, which is smaller than you and justifiably intimidated by a world run by unknowable beings. Blade is a 6"2 man with a sword and exactly no fear of you or the consequences for killing you, and is very knowledgeable on the Aeons if you recall correctly. The fact that this room was directly attached to the apartment you were assigned… yeah. It gave you a new appreciation for Silver Wolf’s teleportation and soundtrack taste, given how often you used it to physically or emotionally escape from the insane screaming from time to time.
By the time your brain jumps off of autopilot, Blade has an IV drip running into a vein in his hand, and he's watching with rapture at the gruesome work done on his torso by whatever pitiful creature tried its luck today. The table is already half raised so that he's sitting up, which makes it easier for him to self monitor. You only ever fully reclined the table when you had a willing patient, who was never him.
You wonder briefly if you should give him your usual dialogue about what button to press if he needed anything, but for the sake of your mental health today, you elected to leave quietly while it was still possible. You may not be the most fond of him but… a part of you hopes he finds what he's looking for today.
'That' being his death of course. For a once medical student, watching a physically well man pray for death was… unsettling. But as a Vidyadhara? It made all too much sense, and you'd seen plenty of terminally ill outworlders and early stage Mara onset Xianzhou natives enter that same desperate mentality for relief. It made it all too obvious why Lady Bailu learned to work with her eyes and ears shut tight when she could. Her strategy was to ease their suffering as quick as possible through healing, but in your case, healing doesn't seem to be the best solution, as much as pain management is.
As for what you do these days… live-in family doctor one might say? You didn't exactly apply or anything, having been grabbed off the street one day on the way to the Alchemy Commission archives back on the Luofu. Any sane person would have been melting down when that happened but… maybe your reality just never set in entirely? Sure, it was tense at first, but one cannot expect to live a satisfying rebirth cycle in unending stress. You had to carry on. You learned Silver Wolf’s favourite games, and the drinks that Kafka liked to pair with her music. The others, Sam and Blade, were around less socially, but you still learned the displeasure of Blade's disposition.
Maybe you were kidnapped in a past life and got used to it. Small oddities were known to carry through reincarnation sometimes, like that one Vidyadhara man who always fell in love with that Xianzhou woman from the Divination Commision. Some people never change no matter how many times they start over. If you had any records or way to track down your last life, you wonder if you'd find anything interesting.
You know there is something wrong with Blade's past. Everything about him is wrong by now. Even when he swears he'd rather be anywhere but your operating room, he stumbles in, waking you in the late nights, rambling like a mad man about cures and debts and three prices long unpaid. Blade hates you, but always returns to you. It's obviously the Mara again, and it's highlighted as he calls you by the wrong name: a name that sends shudders up your spine. Blade isn't a fan of Vidyadhara, perhaps another reason he can't stand you.
Once he bolted upright after you had put him back together, and grabbed your sleeve to pull you as close as he could and manically began to speak, "Dan Feng, you must listen to me, my time is near and you must swear to me, you must honour my final rites. You must leave Baiheng alone, you must bury us. Do you understand?"
It had scared you more than being kidnapped had, but you agreed, used to the ramblings or men long lost to old age illnesses, "of course, anything for you. Your final rites will be honored."
His wide red eye looks at you sadly, with a hint of another emotion that you dare not name, "you always say that, but you don't do as you swear you will. You won't let go, no matter how many times I ask?"
Being an Alchemy Commission archivist and Vidyadhara has afforded you some privileges to knowledge that is far from common. You do not tell Blade what you know, or what he has said to you. You value your life too much for that.
In the middle of pouring yourself some tea that Kafka recommended for migraines, an enraged wail comes through the walls. Must be your unwilling patient. It would be one of those days it seemed, and you filled a second cup of tea and set everything on a tray to cart into your operating room. You'd clean up to keep it sterilised after he left.
Blade is right where you left him on the table, staring down with familiar disappointment at his gut, which had been something out of a horror movie when he arrived, but now resembled seamless but dirtier skin. His life may have continued, but it was definitely the end of the line for his jacket, and the stains on his pants would be a pain for anyone tempted to try and restore them. Usually, that would be his own responsibility, but on the days that Elio needed Blade back out in fast order, it fell to you to try and mend fabric instead of flesh wounds.
Blade mindlessly turns to you as you set down the tray of ceramics with as much grace as you can manage with a first aid kit tucked between your elbow and your side. The painkiller must be reigning in his motivation to take his frustration out on you today.
"It healed again."
"I'm sorry to hear that," you said quietly, "that must be infuriating."
By all means, you should be relieved by how tame his behaviour is, even without Kafka to subdue him. But that immutable voice in your head that made you join the Alchemy Commission in the first place grieves with him, as the satisfaction of eternal rest evades him once more.
"Think you can handle some tea right now?"
He gracelessly flops his free hand and shakes his head. That's enough anesthetic for him then, you decide, if he's already healed.
"I'll get rid of the painkillers and leave the tea for when your head is clear again."
He just hums his acknowledgement, but that one visible eye of his is still transfixed on the bloodied hole in his coat where his wound used to fall behind. You should probably help him out of the coat at least and clean what you can. You disconnect the IV drip and put a bandage on his hand, while your trained hands make light work of his coat and its shreds.
You didn't owe him anything. He hadn't earned anything from you either. This was just your job. He wasn't like Silver Wolf, where her lighthearted banter had earned your stock of her favourite candy after each time you patched her up, or in rarer cases, Kafka’s spa face masks when you saw her. Elio said you didn't owe them bedside manners, as long as you healed them.
So why–
"What flowers do you want at your funeral?" You ask as you used a wipe to reduce the blood and grit from his abdomen.
"Never thought about it," he grunted, watching you with that single red eye like a predator eyed a small creature, "red spider lilies are traditional."
"Do you want a traditional funeral?"
"Yes."
"Okay. You'll have the funeral of your dreams when you finally die then. Was your homeworld in the habit of using caskets or…?" You look up and your jaw stiffens.
He's smiling. Not in that unhinged mara-stricken way that you're used to and long since grown indifferent to. No. This is a regular, disarming smile, for a regular, harmless man. And it unsettles you deeply. Blade is not ever like this, and you wonder just what kind of recesses of his past you must have opened up by accident, because this could not be anything else but a glimpse of that long forgotten life.
"Doctors aren't responsible for funerals, are they?"
You shrug, finish with cleaning his skin, and begin searching your cabinets for the spare clothes you keep in his size, "no, not usually. I had a couple jobs on the Luofu and the doctor was an older one. My usual job was as a medical archivist at the Alchemy Commission, so I made sure care or lives that ended were documented, and then final rites were properly carried out. I know a lot about the proceedings of those at peace."
What was his shirt size again? L, or XL… you grab one of each and turn back to him, figuring that you'll hold them up roughly in front of him and pick the best from there.
"Already putting my clothes back on?" He asks, in a tone that is... far too casual for what you expected of him.
"I suppose I don't know you well enough to leave you without them," you answer back, mimicking his levity. This isn't Blade. But you don't know who that makes him.
"I'm a forge master. I designed and created the weapons for the High Cloud Quintet, did you know?" The man– who cannot be Blade, not if he's in the memories of a different life, right– says proudly.
"Really? What's your best work then?" XL it is.
"That Vidyadhara Elder has one of my polearms, there is no better master for one of my works than him. He hasn't visited in so long, I wonder what is keeping him this time…" there's a saddened look in his eyes, and it's with morbid fascination that you realise: Blade was not a long life species or a Xianzhou native. Whatever impedes his current search for death is not standard long-lived genetics or the remnants of a War with The Abundance.
"I'm Vidyadhara, so I can only imagine what it was like to build something so formidable," you mused as you dressed him.
"And lovely too," he says with hopeful eyes.
"Weapons clearly aren't your sole area of mastery." This man is fun. Charming even. If this weren't technically an impossible conversation, you'd be getting your phone out to exchange information.
"Nowadays I'm working on a sword for myself now. It will be difficult to wield, but I'll figure it out. It will be beautiful. It will be my last project, did I mention? I'm getting old, and my hands just don't work like they used to. I wish I had taken on an Apprentice to pass on my art…"
The Archivist and the Doctor in you beg you to do something, to help this artist preserve his life's work. It's those same voices that compelled you to ask Blade what he wanted, when you should have just left it well alone and not triggered… whatever this was.
"Tell me your name? I can't pass on your art form, but I can make sure it's preserved. Maybe one day somebody new can take up your tools again. I promised you a funeral, I can find mourners."
"I'm Ren. Make sure Dan Feng is there, would you? If nobody else, he must be there."
"Of- of course," but you can't hide the tremble in your voice. You know those names. You know many things.
You wish you had not asked.
But Ren's eyes look heavy now, and you recline the table. He mumbles his thanks as sleep takes him. If only death would claim him so easily. You should have known better. You know by now that Blade's Mara symptoms have progressed for so long and so far that the stages are all out of order, and it seems you just saw early onset. Early stages can be identified through patient confusion, a sense of displacement, and of issues identifying what stage of their life they are living in, often mentally returning to a time of their youth or young adulthood. You know this well, having diagnosed one of your caretakers who minded you during the period after you hatched until you became independent.
It is cold reassurance that Blade, or Ren, or whoever is now before you, can not get any worse than he has already been. Had this been the Luofu and you in your regular position, this would have just been a job, but this is the middle of Aeons know where, with the Stellaron Hunters, and this is Blade. This was a look into his life that not even he would want to take.
You curse your sentimentality, and gently drape a blanket over his sleeping form, and turn off the main lights. There are plenty of small appliances that light the room enough for him to see when he wakes. You take your teacup, still untouched, with you.
You feel sorry for whoever this man is. But you also hope he has no memory of this later. Perhaps there are still some blessings found in what splintered remains of his mind there are left. Just like the history of the event itself you supposed.
"Dan Feng, what have you created?"
You think you'll take up Kafka’s offer for that expensive brandy she brought back recently.
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simpinberry · 1 year
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Hii xx
could you do bella ramsey hcs where reader is jealous of bella because shes with other girls but then they end up together in the end 🫶
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heyyyy, i’m backk. i tried to make this as healthy as possible while also adding a bit of spice to it. i hope i interpreted this correctly <3 should i also write jealous!bella hcs? hehe lmkk
established relationship, jealous!reader, kisses and cuddling
bella is fine as hell (we all agree, can i get an amen) so naturally lots of people want them. bella is very much in the public eye and has got promotional duties as an actor. she has to go to lots of events like fashion shows, premiers, award shows and interviews. they’re gonna meet lots of ppl and you’re usually extremely proud and happy for them! u pride yourself on not being the jealous type.
usually bella doesn’t text when she’s working/at events, mostly because she gets too overwhelmed and would rather be focused and present where they are. so you decided to go on twitter and check up on how it was going. unfortunately smth about a video of bella with a bunch of girls at a fashion show didn’t sit right with you. they were surrounding her and getting too close. bella didn’t do anything wrong and was being super polite as usual but the girls were all extremely pretty. they were all so elegant and looked so incredibly cool. it was both dumb and understandable at the same time. you trusted bella for gods sake. you shrugged the thought away and tried to go on about your day.
you ended up calling your best friend to rant about the whole situation because you couldn’t get it out of your head, “listen it’s not like i wanna go to these events and it’s fine that she talks to other girls i just ugh, i’m so jealous and i hate it”. your best friend told you exactly what you expected her to, “bitch just talk to them istg, you’re overthinking it too much”. ofc you spent another 30 mins ranting about it but you knew you were gonna do the healthy thing at the end of the day.
“honeeeyy i’m homeee” you hear bellas mocking american accent before you even see her. she finds you curled up on the couch binge watching willow. with a quick kiss to your forehead she heads upstairs to take a shower after such a long day. god, u have to talk to them about this.
by the time bella gets out of the shower you’re already settled into bed, comfy as hell tbh. crawling her way into bed, they lay next to you, facing you. “babe, you awake?” “MHMMM” you had to make your move now. “how was the fashion show today?” bella being the cutie she is, tells you everything. talks about her favorite looks, a fit she took a picture of because they thought it would look good on you and how she ran into her past costars. as much as you love hearing about her day you’re overthinking and trying to find the perfect moment to talk to her abt ur jealously and all the girls and how pretty they are and how you’re scared and worried and god so so jealous and how you feel- “can i confess smth?” bellas face drops and she’s full of concern. “DID U EAT MY LAST MUFFIN CUZ ISTG” oh, that’s what they’re worried about. “no, not this time….. i’m, i mean i was, kinda super jealous today. cuz like you were with all these pretty girls at the show and they were surrounding you and god- ik how fine you are and how lucky i am but i just felt,,,, like rlly jealous”
iwl bella was a bit shocked by your sudden outburst. you’re rarely ever jealous so this was a first, maybe a second. “mhmm i understand, i didn’t think you were the jealous type but i get it” she takes your face into her hands, you snuggle into her touch. “i know it’s hard dating someone in the public eye, i’ve actually embarrassingly asked pedro for advice on this before. thank you for telling me though, my love. a little bit of jealousy is normal. in myyyy expert opinion it means you need some reassurance and lottts, lottts and lottssss of kisses”
this idiot. they always know how to turn smth like this into a good thing. “yeah sure i mean those girls were nice and everything but at the end of the day i only want you and i’m just as lucky to have you darling” they bring you into a sudden kiss. melting into the kiss, you tangle your legs together to be as close as possible. It was a tense, reassuring and urgent. she poured a lot into that kiss and you gladly accepted it all.
i’d like to think she’d make an extra little effort in the future to make you feel more secure. whether that’s with physical affection, words, time or gifts. bella is yours and they wanna make sure you always remember that.
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servantofthefates · 1 year
Text
The Most Useful Lenormand Tips
Where is Lenormand Better than Tarot?
Shallow but essential questions — “Should I stay at home tonight? If I attend this party, will I have fun?” “Should I bring an umbrella? Will rain overpower the sun?” Tarot knows the answers too, but it prefers questions of a profound nature over little things like the weather.
Mindless gambling and betting — When there’s a sports match I want to bet on but I’m not a fan of either players or teams, tarot will never answer me correctly, because it will feel that I’m not invested emotionally. Lenormand won’t care. It will tell the truth fair and square.
Quick yes or no — When tarot answers a yes or no question, it attaches a thesis as to why it is so. But sometimes, people’s intentions, a situation’s history and my own motivations do not concern or interest me. So I ask Lenormand instead for a snappy decree.
How to Predict Timing with Lenormand
January - Fish
February - Snake
March - Stork
April - Paths
May - Woman
June - Ring
July - Man
August - Child
September - Rod
October - Heart
November - Clouds
December - House
Soon - Rider
Temporarily - Birds
Quickly - Clover
Suddenly - Scythe
A long time from now - Anchor
About a year from today - Tree
Yes or No with Lenormand
Hearts - Yes
Clubs - No
Diamonds - Could Be
Spades - Unlikely
How to Do a Line of Five
STEP 1: Lay out the cards.
Get the first 4 cards from the top of the deck.
Use the card at the bottom of the deck as the 5th card.
Note that the middle card is the theme.
STEP 2: Read the cards.
Read them like a sentence, from left to right.
Then read them as a string, with the leftmost card as the subject, and the succeeding ones as adjectives.
Mirror them: 1 + 5, 2 + 4.
Note any possible date predictions. (See above.)
STEP 3: Read the playing card inserts.
Note the suits for yes or no. (See above.)
Add the playing card pips to get the Lenormand card number. (Ace to 10 is 1 to 10, Jack is 11, Queen is 12, King is 13.) If the sum is more than 36, add the two digits.
Then read the Lenormand card that your calculation led you to as the one message you need to remember, if you forget everything else.
When to Do a Grand Tableau
1) On December 31st, or on your birthday, to ask about your whole year ahead.
2) At the beginning of every quarter, to ask about your next three months.
But just choose one or the other. Don’t do them both together.
Recommended Lenormand Decks
The Blue Owl — This classic deck is the equivalent of a blue box vintage Rider-Waite. It is complete with playing card inserts and has no-nonsense images.
Pixie’s — As a Rider-Waite reader, I find this one great to use side by side a tarot spread. It has Pamela Colman Smith’s art, so together, they’re nice and seamless to look at.
Seventh Sphere — The perfect crossbreed between modern and classic. In look and design, it is no doubt new. But just like the older decks, it speaks clear and true.
How to Master Lenormand by Yourself
If you are the type who deeply values tradition and prefers to read almost purely through intuition, buy Andy Boroveshengra’s book, “Lenormand Thirty Six Cards”. It teaches the Near and Far method — perhaps the oldest and most valid way of reading this system.
If you are a technical learner and reader who is a stickler for the rules, look to Caitlín Matthews’ masterpiece instead: “The Complete Lenormand Oracle Handbook”. It treats Lenormand as Linguistics. You would feel like you are taking a college course.
But… if you do not wish to take Lenormand so seriously, that is, if you do not care to learn everything about it entirely, simply download the “Seventh Sphere Lenormand” by Labyrinthos from the App Store. It will teach you all the basics, though perhaps nothing historical and classic.
Have fun with Lenormand!
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tellmealovestory · 5 months
Text
Pumpkin Spice
Summary: A modern AU where Eddie doesn't understand the pumpkin spice craze.
Warnings: A few swear words.
Spooktober Masterlist
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“Wanna remind me what was so damn urgent that we had to drive over here in the middle of the night for?” Eddie grumbled as he rubbed sleep out of his eyes. 
There were a few things wrong with what he just said such as it was six p.m which could hardly be considered “the middle of the night”, but you let it slide as the automatic doors whooshed open and you breathed in that familiar target scent as the fluorescent lights shined down on you. 
“I just need a few things,” you said vaguely, debating if you should take a basket or a cart. Definitely a cart you thought, you were on a mission tonight and you had a habit of going a tiny bit overboard in this store. “Besides, you could have stayed home, you know. I didn’t force you out of our bed or force you to drive me here.” You gave him a pointed look to drive your words home, but he chose to ignore it all with a roll of his eyes. 
“Yeah, yeah, but if I didn’t go with you you’d come home with the whole store shoved in the back of the van and probably a few stray pets too.” 
“One cat, one time and if I remember correctly you’re obsessed with that cat.” 
You have Eddie there and you both know it. Standing by the carts you both exchange a goofy, loved up smile ignoring the customer behind you who’s trying to get a cart that you’re both blocking. Stepping out of the way you gestured to the endless aisles of possibilities, heart dancing a rhythm in your chest as you think up all the things you need and can buy in this wonderland. 
“I’ll meet you back here in say an hour? Good?” You don’t give him a chance to say anything, but when you give him a parting glance over your shoulder you giggle when you see him sputtering because you both know letting you alone in Target is a horrible, awful idea, but you both also know that trying to stop you is an impossible task.
True to your word an hour later you’re pushing your overstuffed cart back to the meeting spot where Eddie’s waiting rather patiently for someone who spent the drive over grumbling about this outing. 
“Hi!” you chirped, pressing a quick kiss to his cheek as you begin to push your cart towards the checkouts all while hoping that he won’t notice your purchases. 
“Got everything you nee-” he started, before stopping as his eyes began to roam over your purchases. He picked up a bag of marshmallows, but not just any marshmallows pumpkin spice marshmallows before he tossed them back in and picked up a jug of pumpkin cider. It goes on like this for a few minutes, him pawing through the cart, picking up and discarding items before he finally meets your gaze. 
“Uh princess,” he started a little slowly while he tried to figure out a way to put this delicately. “You think you got enough pumpkin stuff? Maybe a little too much?” 
You scoffed because there’s simply no such thing as “too much pumpkin” and you’re quick to tell him that.
“There’s hardly any pumpkin in this cart!”
“Jesus christ woman the whole cart is full of pumpkins!” He screeched as he began to get started on his rant. “Do you really need pumpkin cheese? Or pumpkin pringles? Kool-aid? This is an abomination!” He shook the container of pumpkin spice kool-aid in the air and you shouldn’t laugh because clearly this is important to him, but when the first hint of a laugh escapes your lips it’s impossible to stop the rest of them and soon you’re doubled over the cart, tears springing to your eyes and yet even with that you refuse to give in and admit that it is too much pumpkin.
Eddie is still on a roll though he’s stopped digging through the cart. “You are an insane person,” he muttered with a shake of his head and a twitching smile. “Fucking bat shit insane you gotta know that, right, princess? No normal person would think this is okay.” He gestured wildly at your cart and all you do in response is shrug your shoulders. 
“You got that out of your system, Eddie? Are you all good now? Done judging my culinary delights and perfectly picked out prizes? Or do you have more things you wanna critique cause I don’t know if you know this, but this,” you paused in your own ranting as you pointed a finger down at the cart, “is me controlling myself. I could have gone more overboard and you know what? It’s early yet, stores still open for a few more hours I think there’s a few more things I wanna gra-”
“Nope, uh uh, princess, I learned my lesson letting you run wild in here and we’re done now. Somebody needs to be the adult in this relationship and put a stop to this. Gonna fucking write these companies and tell them how wrong they are,” he muttered as he grabbed the cart with one hand and takes your hand in his other like you’re a runaway child that he has to keep tabs on and maybe he’s not so wrong about that. 
Walking towards the check out he’s still muttering about companies that have taken this too far and how you’re still a madwoman and he only stops when you squeeze his hand and give him your sweetest and most innocent smile. 
“If you promise to stop talking I’ll share my pumpkin shaped reese's cups with you,” you tempted with a winning smile and as his shoulders cave in you know you have him. “And I might even be convinced to let you use my cinnamon pumpkin spiced trash bags.” 
For the life of him Eddie can’t tell if you’re joking or not about the garbage bags and the cart is too full for him to paw through everything to find out the answer to that, but with the smirk dancing on your lips and the other pumpkin scented and flavored things he’s seen he’s leaning towards you’re being serious. 
“Goddamn. Madwoman,” he seethed between his teeth, but just as quick as the venom pops up it disappears when he sees your smile and the amusement flickering across your features. “You’re lucky I love you, but we’re not using those garbage bags, you’ve gone too far with that one.” 
70 notes · View notes
hongcherry · 7 months
Text
pretty please (stay with me) || c.sc | 6 (m)
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“After being assigned a fashion show for your big senior project, you set off to find volunteers to make it successful. However, when you meet Choi Seungcheol and his unfriendly clique through your volunteers, you realize they’re an unwanted package deal you can’t escape from. Can you handle Seungcheol’s obnoxious friends, and can he handle your brash behavior?”
🍒 Pairing: businessMajor!Seungcheol x fashionMajor!Reader (afab)
🍒 Rating/Genres/AUs: M(18+); Slice of life (!!!), slow burn, drama, fluff, angst, smut; Unrequited enemies to lovers, strangers to lovers, college au
🍒 Warnings: General tws + the big talk 🫣, mentions of slut-shaming and degradation (not in bed) -> plz lmk if im missing any! | [Smut warnings] protected sex, oral (f.), multiple orgasms, fingering, cum play, cum swallowing
🍒 WC: 12.6k
🍒 Betas: Sarah, Indi, Kelly, Freya 😻
🍒 Author’s Note: It's always so exciting and saddening when a series ends! It's been over a month since this series started! Special appreciation and thanks to those who have given me feedback and/or were here from the beginning! I really enjoy reading your reactions and analysis!
As I said before, this is the longest fic I've ever written, so this fic holds a special place in my heart for that reason alone. Anyway, thank you again (no this won't be the last time I say it!). Please enjoy the last chapter of "pretty please (stay with me)" 🥹❣️
also read here: AO3 | Wattpad
seventeen masterlist | main masterlist
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previous chapter \\ series masterpost // the end
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You haven’t stood still in the past hour—buzzing around to everyone in the dressing room to make sure everything is being executed correctly. From last-minute wardrobe alterations to doing makeup and hair touches, you’ve been moving non-stop. Overseeing a fashion show is not easy, or maybe you’re just overthinking the tiniest details.
You aren’t getting a second chance at this, so you want to reduce the possibility of mistakes.
“Everything looks great; take a rest,” Mingyu tells you gently.
You glance up from your clipboard, having printed your to-do list and notes prior. Mingyu stands next to you with a kind smile. Your eyes scan him briefly. You reach forward to fix his outfit for the nth time, but he carefully grabs your wrists.
“It looks fine,” he chuckles.
“Exactly. It looks fine. I need it to be perfect,” you huff.
“You have twenty minutes before the show starts. Let’s go get some fresh air,” he says.
Despite your several headshakes, Mingyu pulls you out of the dressing room and toward the lobby.
“…doing here?”
“You weren’t answering my text or calls. I’d figure you’d be here.”
“We should talk another time.”
You strain your hearing when the voices register in your head. Mingyu glances at you and slows in his steps. From how clear their voices are, you figure Hajun and Seungcheol are around the corner.
“Let’s go out the other way,” Mingyu says, stepping in the other direction. You put a hand on his arm to stop him. You’re too curious to not eavesdrop.
“I’ll be quick,” you hear Hajun say.
Seungcheol sighs. “I already told you over the phone that I didn’t want to be around you when you’re being disrespectful.”
“I know, I know,” she says. “I’m sorry I said all those things to her. I just…I just wanted to look out for you.”
You have no doubt who she’s talking about. If she wants to apologize, she should apologize to you.
“I appreciate the thought, but I’m fine. She’s fine. She’s not as bad as you think,” Seungcheol replies.
“I think you’re just too kind, Cheollie,” she says. “She’s not very nice. She’s not been a good influence on you.”
“That grade wasn’t because of her,” he reasons as if he knows what she’s referring to.
Your eyebrows scrunch at that. What is he talking about? What grade?
“No? Then why have you been so distracted in class? Or why do you show up exhausted?” 
“Those have all been my choices, though,” Seungcheol argues.
“Perhaps, but does she know the world doesn’t revolve around her? She should be considerate and stop being so clingy,” Hajun explains. 
Maybe if you viewed her neutrally, you would think she genuinely has his best interest at heart. But with how she’s treated you, it’s difficult to believe that. 
Mingyu tugs on your arm gently.
“You have ten minutes until showtime,” he whispers in your ear.
You close your eyes, listening to Hajun give more reasons for why you aren’t fit for Seungcheol. You want to stay and hear it all. You want to know if he will keep defending you. However, you’re not about to let all your hard work go to waste.
You nod, tearing yourself away and striding back to the room. You roll your shoulders back, head held high as you channel your attention on doing another round of adjustments.
When it’s three minutes until the show, you discreetly peep your head around the curtains. The theatre is packed, mostly with faces you don’t know. Though on one side, you can see your dad and sister. On the other side, are your new friends. Though the one person you are hoping to see isn’t there.
Seungcheol’s seat is empty.
You know he’s here. You hate how your mind starts forming negative thoughts. Perhaps Hajun has succeeded in making him hate you. Maybe he left with her.
You move away from the curtains and stare at the floor. There’s a tightening in your chest that’s a painful discomfort. After the argument, you were prepared not to see him here. Yet after the brief conversation and learning he had still gotten tickets, hope had risen. Even if it was just a sliver, you wanted to believe you could go back to where you were. Part of you even wished you were blissfully ignorant of his assumptions of you—even though they’re wrong and a “joke” to him.
You have the sudden urge to stand him up tomorrow. You don’t want to see him knowing he was here for you but left with her. However, you need to stop running away. You know you will be happier in the future if you have closure.
Before you can take another glance at the audience, Dr. Lim’s voice sounds.
“Alright, everyone, you’ve all been working hard this semester, and I’m very proud of you all,” he starts, “Remember, you’ll all give a quick introduction of your collection, and then once all your models have walked, you’ll give a final statement.”
You feel a hand on your arm. You turn to see Dae beside you. She’s smiling at you, wiggling your arm as if to say, “We did it!”
You offer a small one, trying to focus on the show again. Too much is going through your mind, and you need to narrow it down.
“You look nervous,” Dae whispers in your ear while Dr. Lim keeps speaking.
“I am, a little,” you answer.
“Don’t worry, I am too. At least we’re done, though. Well, we will be in a few hours,” she giggles.
“Okay, everyone is free to watch from anywhere backstage except for the person on deck. If you’re next, you must be here and ready to go. Everyone ready?”
You nod along with the rest of your class.
“Great, George, you’re first. Siwon, you’re on deck. Don’t forget your order, everyone!”
With that, people start moving. Dae guides you to a corner backstage that has a decent view. It’s angled so you can see your family more than your friends. You crane your neck to check the seats again. This time, two seats are missing. Jeonghan isn’t there anymore. Odd.
“Good evening, all,” Dr. Lim greets as he walks onto the stage. There’s faint music playing in the background, and your heart starts to race knowing there’s no going back now.
“Thank you for coming to support our designers. I am eager to show you the student’s work. Please keep in mind that each student was in charge of their theme, hair, makeup, music, lighting, promotion, and of course, their clothes,” he explains. 
“There won’t be an intermission as the show is rather short, so if you need to go, please exit quietly. With that, also please turn off your cellular devices. Now that I’ve rambled long enough, let’s get started!”
The audience claps as the lights dim. You and Dae watch your peers conduct their shows, both commenting on them quietly every so often. The themes range from specific colors, to movies, to holidays. Although you don’t like most of your classmates, it’s nice to see the variety of art being presented. Soon, it’s yours and Dae’s turn. You wish each other good luck before tending to your models.
You’re on deck, going down the line of your models as you listen to Dae’s introduction. 
“Hello everyone, I’m Dae, and my collection is titled, ‘Limitless’.”
You smile when you hear a few familiar hollers. You’re glad she befriended all your new friends too.
“My theme is space as I want to learn and grow endlessly. Although our space is dark, I want to be one of the stars that shine.”
Dae’s voice fades out as you continue your inspection.
“Take deep breaths,” Mingyu says when you approach him. You reach up and shift a few pieces of his outfit. He stands still as you do so.
“Thanks,” you murmur. “No funny business out there, okay?”
Mingyu smiles. “Of course. I wouldn’t do that to you.”
“Good, because I know where you live,” you threaten. It’s meant to be told jokingly, but you both know you’re serious.
“Always so charming,” he laughs.
“So I’ve been told,” you smile and pat his chest. “Thanks for agreeing to do this, Mingyu.”
“I could never say no to showing off my handsome features,” he replies, tilting his chin up with confidence.
“Maybe I should have asked Jeonghan instead,” you tease.
Mingyu scoffs playfully, opening his mouth to reply but stops when Dr. Lim appears.
“Yn, ready?”
You face him and nod. “I’m good to go.”
“Excellent,” he pauses, “It was nice having you in class again. I’m wishing you a bright future. You have talent, and I’m excited to see what you do with it.”
“Thank you, Dr. Lim,” you reply. He gives you a grin before leaving again.
Mingyu’s thumbs raise in encouragement when you glance at him. The small smile you offer fails to hide your nervousness.
“People are going to love your designs,” Mingyu reassures. “Now, go get yourself ready.”
“R-right,” you say.
You make your way to the front of your model’s line as you hear Dae give her ending speech. You want to listen to what she’s saying, but you’re too anxious. You glance at yourself in the mirror that is situated backstage, quickly adjusting the outfit you made yourself.
It’s all red—not because of Seungcheol, you tell yourself, but because you needed to match the fabric Jeonghan had bought you—with the top being covered in rhinestones and fading out. The dress hugs your torso and then flares into a flowy bottom with a slit. Over your neck and shoulder blades is red lace that is attached to the fabric Jeonghan got you, giving you a cape that pools on the floor a little. The space between your dress and the cape shows enough skin to be sexy but not overly so to be inappropriate for a school event. 
Although the fabric was meant to be used for one of your model’s outfits, it wasn’t the blue you wanted, and you had already switched your design after Tori took the original from you. You had already planned to make your own dress for the event but hadn’t decided on the design. Since you didn’t want Jeonghan’s fabric to go to waste, you created a design based on it—using your original idea meant for the blue fabric but tweaking it.
Applause erupts, cueing you that you are next. Although you aren’t able to watch Dae’s show, you know Seoah is recording, upon your request, so you can watch it later.
Dae walks backstage as Dr. Lim goes to introduce you.
Dae is beaming, eyes crinkling and mouth open in utter happiness. She goes to you and wraps her arms around you.
“What a rush! That was so fun,” she gushes. “You’re going to do great.”
You return the hug quickly. Her energy bleeds into yours, and your heart races with nervousness. After years of being a spectator of the show, it’s finally your turn to be a participant. You feel all your years at the university have led to this moment. 
“Please welcome Yn,” Dr. Lim says.
Dae gives you an encouraging pat on the back before she steps away. You take a moment to inhale a deep breath, rolling back your shoulders and stepping out onto the stage.
The stage lights are blinding, making it difficult to see out into the entire crowd. You take the mic from your professor and curl your fingers around the object a little tighter than you should. Your eyes dart across unfamiliar faces as your eyes try to adjust to the lights.
“Good evening. My name is Yn, and my collection is titled, ‘Pinwheel’,” you start, voice wavering to show how anxious you are. As you take a quick second to recollect yourself, your eyes snag on a face you’re keen to see.
Seungcheol.
He didn’t leave.
Normally, you would question why he took so long to be seated, but you’re too jittery with the show. You don’t have the energy. Rather you focus on his eyes. They watch you fondly. His hair is pushed from his face like he put some product in it. You feel honored he dressed up for you.
He tilts his head and stretches his lips into a reassuring smile. Although it makes your heart pump quicker, it also gives you the push you need to continue.
“You’ll see an array of colors and designs that represent the four elements—air, water, earth, and fire. I wanted to try different styles that still coordinated together in some way. I hope you all enjoy,” you continue.
The crowd applauds, and amongst the noise, you can make out a few hollers from your friends. It eases your nervousness as you walk off stage. The lights adjust, and the track Jihoon created begins to play.
You motion for the first model to begin walking. You stay in the same spot as your volunteers ascend the runway. You fall into a rhythm as you time your models. When it comes to Mingyu, you expect him to sneak in a joke. However, his face is set in stone and is serious. You smile softly and lightly touch his arm to signal him. 
You glance beyond the curtain to watch him for a second. As Mingyu promised, he doesn’t do anything to ruin your show. If you didn’t know he was a photography major, you would suspect he was an actual model. A goofy part of your brain wonders if he practiced his walk in his apartment.
Two models left and then everyone will do one more walk. That’s all you have left. Despite the already short time of your portion of the show, it feels a lot shorter. Everything has been going well so far. No models slip, your outfits stay intact, and there aren't any technical difficulties.
You appear in front of the audience again as your models finish their last trip around the stage. Your models stay on the stage, allowing the audience to associate the designs with the designer.
“As you’ve heard many times tonight, thank you for coming. This project was challenging, but the reward was worth it. If you have any questions about my collection, please don’t hesitate to ask me after the show. Thank you,” you conclude, giving a bow.
Each clap from the audience chips away at the weight on your shoulders. You can breathe easier knowing that that is it. The project you’ve been waiting to do since before your freshman year has finally come and gone. And gone well nonetheless.
You watch as your friends and family stand, big smiles on all their faces. Although they all mean a lot to you, you can’t help but look for Seungcheol out of all of them.
He stands tall, hands clapping together, with a huge grin on his handsome face. His eyes shine with pride, and you can feel that familiar warmth spreading across your chest again. It feels like you’ve just given your first fashion show as a big-name designer, but in reality, it’s simply a senior project. Seungcheol makes it feel more than it is. And that makes you feel all the more confident.
There are only three more students after you. You and Dae go back to you where you were originally seated, this time accompanied by Mingyu—now dressed in his own clothes. As the show ends, all the students file onto the stage.
“It was a joy to witness the progression of the student’s works. Thank you for another successful show. Seniors, you should all be proud of your work,” Dr. Lim pauses to glance at you all. “Please enjoy the refreshments in the lobby. You’re welcome to mingle and network for at least another hour. Now, please give another round of applause for our talented students.”
The sound fills your chest with a bittersweet feeling as you take your final bow.
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“Your designs were gorgeous!” Seoah exclaims when she finds you in the lobby. She runs into you, wrapping her arms around you in a tight hug. Your father comes next, joining in a three-way embrace.
“You did amazing, sweetheart,” he compliments. Your heart is swelling from their kind words. They have seen some of your past designs, but this is different. Even though it’s a school production, it’s still the biggest fashion show you’ve ever been a part of.
“I need you to make me that green one! The one that looked like it was made of leaves and vines. That was my favorite. You get to keep your clothes, right?” Seoah speaks quickly in excitement.
You laugh softly, nodding. “I’m afraid family relations only grant you a five-percent discount.”
“What?” she huffs. “I should get it for free for being the best sister.”
“You’re my only sister,” you argue.
“Which makes me more special!”
“Alright, girls. We can arrange a business deal at home. I’m going to take Seoah to get some ice cream. We’ll see you later,” your father says. You give them each a last hug before waving them goodbye.
You don’t even get a minute break before you feel arms wrap around you.
“I told you you would do great!”
Soonyoung’s loud voice rings in your ear, causing you to flinch. He tears himself from you with a big smile. Your friends gather around in a semicircle, all showering you with praises and words of encouragement. However, like before, one face is missing from the crowd.
“Even though I just met you this semester, I’m proud of you,” Yejun says. You thank him before watching as he leaves to go to Dae. He’s more her friend than yours, but you’re still grateful for his words.
“Does Mingyu get to keep his outfit?” Vernon questions.
You shake your head.
“Good,” Seungkwan chimes in. “He doesn’t deserve such nice clothes.”
“Hey!” Mingyu gasps, offended.
“Excuse me?” an unfamiliar voice interrupts your crowd. All heads turn to see an older woman, dressed professionally. “Yn, right?”
You turn away from your friends to greet the stranger. “Yes, hello.”
“My name’s Park Quinn. I work for a local agency and wanted to give you my contact information. I loved your collection,” she says.
Your eyes widen. “Oh, that’d be great.”
You take the card she gives you.
“I don’t want to take time away from your friends, so please contact me whenever you can. We can try to arrange something if you’re interested.”
You nod, trying not to seem too enthusiastic and eager at the proposal.
“Of course. Thank you, Ms. Park.”
She smiles and then turns away. Before you can dive back into your friend’s bickering, which you can hear faintly in the background, more people come up to greet you. Many of whom you don’t know. Some are prospective students; others are more recruiters.
You’re talking to different people for what feels like ages before the crowd finally slows down. Your friends left a few minutes ago, telling you they’ll arrange a time you can all hang out. 
You’re backstage to gather your belongings and clothes when there’s a soft knock on the open door.
“I’m almost done,” you announce, figuring it’s Dr. Lim coming to tell you to hurry so he can lock the theatre.
“Take your time, Cherry.”
Your hands pause in reaching for a garment bag, gaze whizzing to see the person.
Seungcheol stands in the doorway with a small bouquet of flowers. They’re a mix of reds, pinks, and greens. It’s beautiful. 
Too nervous about the show earlier, you finally take in his attire. He’s wearing an all-black suit, the undershirt being a turtleneck. You saw his new hairstyle while on stage, but it still surprises you to see it up close. 
He looks stunning.
“What are you doing here?” you ask, a little shocked to see him.
He smiles, walking farther into the room. “I wanted to give you these.”
He holds out the bouquet. You stare at it a little too long because Seungcheol starts to chuckle.
“Not the ones you like?” he teases. He begins to set them down on a nearby table, but you stop him. You take it in your free hand, the other occupied with other items.
“They’re pretty,” you reassure. “Thank you.”
He grins when you finally accept them. In exchange, he grabs your belongings from you. You tilt the flowers to your face, breathing in their fresh smell and grinning slightly.
“Your collection was incredible,” he says.
“You think so?” you hum, eyes glancing at the clothes which are hanging in bags. 
“The best out there.”
You smile. “You sound a little biased, Seungcheol.”
“Maybe,” he shrugs, “but I’m sure I’m not the only one who thinks so.”
Silence fills the room as you both stare at each other. His eyes drift to your body. You feel a little shy, and the need to fill the silence grows. You want to ask what took him so long to come into the theatre, but that would mean you were actively looking for him. It would also mean Hajun would most likely be mentioned if he decided to go into detail. That topic could wait until tomorrow. You’re enjoying being able to talk to him like you used to, albeit a little more consciously.
“D-do you like it?” you ask in lieu.
Seungcheol’s eyes move back to yours.
“You made this?” he asks, gesturing to your dress.
You nod.
“You’re very talented,” he praises. “Though that was evident earlier… You look beautiful, Yn.”
Something about hearing your real name from his mouth has the compliment’s meaning more impactful.
“I do?” you ask, shifting your weight.
“I’ve never heard you so doubtful before,” he observes with a gentle grin. “First about your designs, and now about your looks.”
He reaches out to you, and for a split second, you think he’s going to caress your face. Instead, he grazes his fingers over the cape’s fabric.
“You do look pretty,” he hums. His eyes scan the material, gaze softening as if recalling something bittersweet.
“Jeonghan bought it for me,” you state. You’re not sure why you disclose that information. Why does it matter to Seungcheol if Jeonghan gifted the fabric to you? He probably doesn’t care. The air just felt too suffocating to stay silent. 
“That’s nice of him,” he mutters before pulling away. Maybe you’re imagining it, but he sounds more monotone than before.
“Y-yeah.”
Another pause.
“Actually, I should probably change out of it. Do you mind?” you ask. You expect him to make a joke of “having seen it all already,” but he doesn’t.
“Oh, yeah. Of c-course,” he answers, turning around.
You wait a few seconds to ensure he isn’t going to peek before finding your bag with your spare clothes. The dress you don is too long to wear outside. You don’t want it to get snagged on anything; plus, you’ll probably get your foot tangled in the fabric in the car later.
You quickly change into a simple dress and sneakers, stuffing your red dress in another garment bag.
“Okay, I’m done,” you announce.
Seungcheol turns slowly. He takes in your new outfit, and if you didn’t squirm and look away, you would’ve spotted the little smile on his lips.
“Do you need help cleaning up?” he asks, glancing around the room. It’s mostly empty. You just need to carry the clothes back to your car.
“You don’t have to stay. Thank you for the flowers,” you say.
“Well, I’m not letting you walk to your car alone,” he replies.
“I’ll be fine. The campus is well-lit.”
Seungcheol eyes you, mouth pursing to tell you he doesn’t care.
You sigh and hold out the bouquet, knowing he isn’t going to leave. “Hold these.”
He does so and watches as you drape the garment bags over a table. You start to dissemble the clothing rack.
“I could’ve done that,” Seungcheol says.
“I’m sure you’re capable, but it’s quicker if I do it. I know how to take it apart,” you reason. You place the pieces in the bag they came in, zipping it and placing the strap on your shoulder.
“Let me,” Seungcheol offers.
“I don’t know,” you say slowly, stepping away. “You look awfully pretty holding those flowers.”
And he does. 
His dark clothes and hair contrasting with the bright colors of the flowers, create a pleasing sight. 
Upon hearing your teasing tone, he grins. “You look prettier with them, so take them.”
He holds out the object, but you shake your head. You hang the clothes over your arms despite his second protest.
“I need a good view on our walk to my car,” you explain and start to move to the door. He follows reluctantly.
Somehow along the journey, you end up swapping items anyway. You now hold the bouquet, unable to stop taking several whiffs. You can’t remember if you’ve ever gotten flowers before. Maybe one or two, but never a whole bouquet.
Seungcheol packs your car carefully, ensuring he doesn’t accidentally destroy any of your outfits. They’re all protected in bags, but that doesn’t make them invincible.
“Are we still meeting tomorrow?” he asks when you’re seated in your car; your window is rolled down to talk to him. He has one hand resting on the roof of your car as he peers in.
“If you’re still willing to,” you reply.
“I am,” he answers.
“Okay.”
A pause.
“Will you text me when you get home?” he asks.
“You don’t need—”
“Or I can tail you. It’s your choice, Cherry.”
You exhale audibly.
“I’ll text you,” you decide.
He smiles. “I thought so.”
He stands up to leave, telling you a goodbye you barely register as you debate something in your head.
“Wait, Ch-Seungcheol,” you call and peek your head out.
He pauses in his steps to look back.
“Will you… text me when you get home, too?” you ask hesitantly. The question shouldn’t make you nervous, but it does. Maybe because it’s a hint that you still care about him. 
The corner of Seungcheol’s mouth rises, a gentle chuckle escaping into the night.
“Yes.”
The simple word has you reflecting your own grin, giving him a final wave as he walks to his car, which is easily visible due to the nearly-empty lot. You wait for him to get into his vehicle before you leave.
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You [10:48 PM]: Home.
Choi Seungcheol [10:56 PM]: good
You [10:57 PM]: Are you texting and driving, or are you home as well?
Choi Seungcheol [10:57 PM]: home (:
You [10:58 PM]: Did you forget to tell me?
Choi Seungcheol [10:59 PM]: no i just got home
You [10:59 PM]: Okay.
You [10: 59 PM]: Thank you for coming and for the flowers.
Choi Seungcheol [11:00 PM]: u dont need to thank me. i enjoyed it
You [11:01 PM]: Still… Goodnight, Seungcheol.
Choi Seungcheol [11:01 PM]: sweet dreams cherry
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The trek to Seungcheol’s apartment door is grave.
As much as you try to push away the last memories you had here, they’re difficult to ignore. Each step makes the feelings resurface. You just wish this visit won’t end in the same way. His words from that day still sting, but you’re tired of staying in the past. The short interaction with him last night reminds you of how nice it is to be around him when you aren’t fending off his business friends. It spurs the hope you once felt that you could somehow make it work with him.
Seungcheol had messaged you earlier that something had come up and asked to meet at his apartment instead of the café. You were hesitant at first, but he reassured you he wasn’t going to offer a ride. It’s a bit silly that the decision is based on whether he is driving you, but you feel more comfortable knowing you don’t have to rely on him if things go awry.
Seungcheol opens the door with a kind smile.
“Come in,” he greets, stepping to the side.
You move past him and take off your shoes while he shuts and locks the door.
“I’m sorry about the change in plans, I—”
Your scream has him halting.
You hastily push yourself behind Seungcheol, shoving your back against the wall and clutching his shirt roughly. 
The abrupt yank on his clothes has Seungcheol stumbling backward. His hands come up to steady himself on the wall, trying not to crush you. 
You hold him close to your body as a shield.
“Get it away! Please, Cheol! Make it leave!” you yelp frantically.
“W-what? What’s wrong?!” Seungcheol asks, completely startled by your sudden outburst. He tries to turn to face you, but your strong grip on his shirt limits his range of motion. “It’s only… Oh.”
Seungcheol laughs.
A chorus of “ha’s” that has you hitting his back in frustration.
“Cheol!” you whine when a loud woof sounds in the room.
“I didn’t know you were scared of dogs,” he muses.
In front of Seungcheol is a big, furry dog. The breed is unknown to you, but that’s the least of your worries. You truly don’t give a fuck. You just need it gone.
“Well, I am, so make it go away!” you cry and give his muscular back another thud. 
“Okay, okay. Let go, Cherry,” he chuckles. You slowly release him, keeping your body one with the wall.
“Come on, Cho, let’s give Cherry some space,” he says cheerfully to the dog; the pitch is higher than before. Why does the beast get to hear that tone from him?
“It’s staring at me,” you huff, eyes on the animal carefully.
“He’s just interested in you,” Seungcheol chuckles, hand rubbing the dog’s head. He moves away and tries to call the dog to him, but it doesn't listen.
Another yelp comes from your lips when it starts to walk toward you again. Seungcheol kneels down and holds onto its chest instead, almost as if he’s hugging it.
“Go to my bedroom; I’ll be there in a second,” he instructs kindly.
“It’s going to chase me,” you say.
He laughs softly. “I’m holding onto him. You’re safe.”
“Are you sure?” you ask cautiously.
“Yes. Go on,” he smiles encouragingly, nodding in the direction of his room.
Slowly, you push away from the wall. You stay a good distance from the beast in Seungcheol’s arms. As if it wants to tease you, it barks at you. That lights a fire under your ass that makes you break out into a sprint.
You shut his door in a hurry.
You step away from the entry in case the dog decides to knock it down. As you unwind, your eyes scan his room. Nothing has really changed—not that it should’ve. While his bathroom door is ajar, his closet is on full display. You don’t think anything of it, but then your eyes catch on to something red. He has red in his closet, so the color isn’t what intrigues you. What catches your attention is that it’s a dress.
A red dress in Seungcheol’s closet.
You shouldn’t be touching his stuff without his permission, but your hand reaches out on its own. You carefully graze your fingers over the material. The silk is smooth under your touch. It feels good against your skin.
There’s a bag hanging off the hanger. You should stop while you can—snooping never ends well for anyone. Yet, that doesn’t halt your hands from removing the bag and peering inside. It’s empty except for a receipt.
You figure it’s for the dress; however, the name of the place at the top isn’t a clothing store.
It’s a fabric store.
Seungcheol’s door suddenly opens, jolting you from your spot, paper still in hand.
“Are you okay? I would’ve put him in another room if I had known you were scar—”
His eyes fall onto your hand. They grow slightly, and he stands still.
You take the moment to look back at it, scanning the item to try to figure out what it’s for. Before you can examine it for long, it’s pulled from your grasp.
“What’s that for?” you ask as he stuffs it in the pocket of his jeans.
“Nothing. Why are you looking through my stuff?” he questions back. His tone isn’t unkind, but it’s not as cordial as it was before.
You can lie about it, but it was in a bag you deliberately opened. Unless he forgot where he put it, he would know the truth.
“I was curious,” you answer truthfully.
“It’s not polite to look through people’s things,” he scolds and walks to his closet door. He starts to shut it, but you can’t move past the mysterious dress.
“Are you seeing someone?” you wonder. There’s something sharp prodding your heart at the possibility. Perhaps it shouldn’t matter. Maybe you’re just here to mend a broken platonic friendship rather than a romantic one. You were never his to begin with, but something breaks in your chest at the idea of the opportunity being taken from you.
Suddenly, “Are you dating Hajun?”
All those times you pushed him away… Were you pushing him into her arms instead? Is that why he never let go of her? But he didn’t sound like her boyfriend in the theatre’s lobby.
Seungcheol finishes shutting his closet door before he focuses on you. His eyes dance across your face for a moment. You can’t tell what he’s thinking.
“What makes you think that?” he asks. He moves to sit on the bed, patting the space beside him, but you shake your head. You don’t want to be close to him right now.
“The dress,” you trail off, “in your closet.”
He releases a dispirited exhale.
“It’s not hers,” he says.
The grip around your heart loosens an inch but still holds on tightly.
“Hana’s?”
“No.”
“Then?”
“Let’s resolve our other issues before we get into another, okay?” he suggests.
Your eyebrows furrow. “So, the dress would cause another issue?”
“Hasn’t it already?” he sighs. “You weren’t meant to see that.”
You scoff, arms crossing. “I would’ve never guessed.”
Seungcheol frowns at your sarcasm.
“We can talk about it later.”
“Why dance around the topic? Just tell me if you’re seeing someone,” you argue.
“Why?” he replies, eyebrow quirking.
“Because—” I want to know if there’s a chance for us. “—that would explain the dress.”
“Just dro—”
“What’s the big deal?”
“It’s—”
“Just tell me.”
“Cherry,” Seungcheol groans.
“Yes or no. It’s simple.”
“No.”
“No, you’re not dating, or no, you don’t want to answer me?”
“No, I’m not dating anyone.”
You narrow your eyes at him. Some relief floods in your chest, but there’s still something odd about the wardrobe addition.
“Then—”
“It’s yours,” he finally huffs out, irritation laced in his tone.
That shuts you up successfully.
“It’s for you,” he sighs, voice softer, and stands up. “Or, it was for you.”
He pulls open his closet and takes the garment off its hanger. He grabs one of your hands and places the item in it. Before you can get a proper grip on it, Seungcheol lets go which forces you to clutch it quickly. 
“Wha-What do you mean? I-I didn’t leave this here. I’ve never worn this. I—”
Seungcheol shakes his head. “It’s new. I got it before… before our fight. It was supposed to be a surprise for you.”
Your eyes drift to the dress in your hands, lifting it up to see it better. It’s nothing too flashy, but it’s still beautiful with its simplicity.
That pang in your heart comes back but for a different reason.
“You’re not just saying this as an excuse, right?” you ask, the thought bubbling in your mind.
He gently takes the dress from you, laying it out on one side of the bed while guiding you to the other. He sits you down.
“No,” he answers. “I’m telling you the truth. It’s yours if you want it—no strings attached. If not, I can donate it.”
Your eyes move back to the clothing item.
“Why did you get it for me?” you ask and look at him.
Seungcheol rakes a hand through his hair, ears turning a light pink. “I was going to ask you on a date.”
“Y-you were?” you stammer, eyes wide. You’ve always wondered if what he told you while you were crying in his arms was true or if it was all just said in the heat of the moment. Your heart races knowing he meant them. He really did like you then.
“And I was going to ask you to wear this,” he explains, eyes moving from yours.
You continue to stare at him, flabbergasted. His plan was sweet, and part of you feels bad for having ruined it. Though, that wasn’t entirely your fault.
You’re not sure how to respond. You feel utterly honored that he got you a dress for your potential first date with him. However, you don’t know where you stand right now. Unresolved issues still hang in the air.
“Let’s talk about something else, then get back to this, alright?” he tries again.
This time, you nod.
“I know I already apologized, but I truly am sorry for what I said here last time,” he begins.
“Were you really just joking?” you wonder.
“It was a mix, honestly. I was a little shocked at the thought of you never having sex before.”
You frown but try to keep your emotions in control. “Why?”
“Because I’ve heard you’ve gotten around.” He winces as the words come out. You glance in your lap for a second, grabbing the hem of your skirt to play with it.
“From who?”
You aren’t too surprised to hear this information. You have plenty of “enemies” on campus. One of them was bound to start rumors. Hell, you have a few exes that go to the university, so they could’ve spread false information too.
“Several people,” he speaks softly so he doesn’t hurt your feelings. “I actually knew about you before we met at Jeonghan’s.”
“Really?” you question and look at him again. 
“Yeah, but I heard about you a lot more when Hajun and Hana realized who you were,” he explains. “I guess their words stuck without me knowing.”
Your lips dip down. “Did you believe them?”
You hold your breath as you wait for his reply. You already have a feeling Hajun and Hana have talked enough shit about you to fill two whole toilets, but their opinion of you isn’t the one that matters.
Seungcheol sighs, gaze drifting from you and then away.
“I’ve never seen you act the way they described, so not completely,” he answers.
“Not completely?” you repeat.
“There was always that thought in the back of my head… Wondering if you just wanted to sleep with me.”
A scoff. “You thought that even when I kept pushing you away at the start?”
“Maybe you were playing hard to get,” he attempts to reason.
“No, I was genuinely annoyed,” you say.
“Ouch,” he frowns.
“Also, need I remind you that you were the one that kept approaching me?” you add.
Seungcheol leans back on one hand, the other running through his hair again.
“I know,” he says. “I think I just heard Hajun and Hana talk so much that the thought was just always there because of them. I never saw the person I heard about… Well, you weren’t always nice, which I also heard.”
You roll your eyes, not truly irritated at his last comment since it isn’t entirely false. “I’m not one to play along if I don’t like you.”
“I’m aware,” he answers, a small smile on his lips.
“Why did you stay friends with them when they said bad things about me?” you question next.
“Like I said that day, I had known them a long time, and we were in a project together.”
You recall his reasoning, but you still want to ask. “That’s it?”
“Why do you think I did it?”
“Because you agreed with their views on me,” then you mutter, “or maybe because you liked Hajun.”
Seungcheol’s eyebrows angle downward. “I’ve never felt anything romantic toward Hajun, and I didn’t believe them.”
“Did it not bother you when they said that stuff?” you ask.
“It did. I really did tell them to stop when you weren’t around,” he answers. “It’s not easy to let go of people you’ve known for years.”
“I beg to differ,” you huff.
“Would you ditch Dae if she spoke badly about me constantly?” he questions.
You tilt your head. “That would mean I have to care about you a lot.”
“Don’t you?” he teases lightly, leaning toward you.
You smile small. “More than her? No.”
“Breaking my heart, Cherry,” he chuckles and pulls away. He inhales deeply and then continues. “I was hoping something would change, and you would all get along.”
“I told you it would never have worked out,” you reply.
“Wishful thinking,” he shrugs.
You nod, moving your gaze again. An important question lingers in your mind. You want to ask, but you’re truly nervous about his answer. At one point, you would’ve found a way for it to work, but now, you don’t know if you can.
“Ask me,” Seungcheol coaxes softly. You glance at him, wondering how he knows you have a question for him.
He chuckles. “I know there’s more running in that pretty head of yours.”
Taking a deep breath, you nod.
“Are you still talking to them?”
He was just talking to Hajun yesterday, so you aren’t going to be surprised if he says yes.
“No, I’m not,” he answers sternly.
That shocks you more.
“Y-you’re not?”
He chuckles, shaking his head.
“I realized I care about you more than I do them,” he says, echoing your earlier words. “I choose you. I’ve always chosen you in the end—even if it didn’t feel like it.“
You’re on the edge of inwardly celebrating. It’s relieving to finally hear he has cut ties with the people who made your life miserable.
“I-I saw you… I mean, I heard you yesterday with Hajun at the theatre,” you confess.
It’s his turn for his eyes to open bigger. “Nothing happened between us.”
“What was she talking about with your grades?” you ask, recalling how she used that against you.
Seungcheol rubs his temples. “I just got a low test score. It really isn’t a big deal.”
“Because of me?” You frown.
“No,” he’s quick to reassure, “it had nothing to do with you.”
“But Hajun said—”
“She was just finding excuses for me not to be there,” he explains. “Her words didn’t mean anything. I’ve gotten low grades before.”
“She seemed serious,” you argue.
“Because she was,” he sighs.
“Do you really think she was looking out for you?”
Seungcheol rubs at the back of his neck. “Sort of, but I also think she was exaggerating things to make you seem worse.”
“I’m sorry if I distracted you from your studies. I should’ve left you alone,” you apologize, averting your gaze.
Seungcheol reaches out to grab one of your hands. You look at him when you feel his touch.
“Even if you tried, I would’ve kept bugging you,” he replies. His words make you feel a little better, but you still feel guilty despite him saying it isn’t your fault.
“Why would you have?” you ask.
He smiles kindly, eyes softening at the thought of his reply.
“Because I liked you and wanted to get to know you more.”
Your face heats at his words, or maybe it’s because your body is tingling with his skin against yours. Regardless, you feel the butterflies awaken in your stomach.
“Do you—do you still,” you trail off, feeling anxious at the question.
“Do I what?” he presses gently. His thumb glides against the top of your hand.
You stare at his floor when you continue slowly, “Do you still like me?”
There’s a moment of silence before you feel his fingers against your chin. He guides you to look at him; he’s staring at you as if he cherishes and adores you. 
It’s the same look he had when he was watching both of your friends at the restaurant. It’s difficult to believe he’s giving that gaze to you now. 
You can’t tear your eyes from him.
“I like you very much,” he declares confidently.
Your mouth twitches as you try to suppress your smile, but it’s pointless. Your lips stretch until they hurt.
Seungcheol mimics your grin. “Do you like me?”
At one point, you would’ve profusely denied it. You’ve been pushing away those tempting thoughts for so long that you can’t do it anymore. There is something about Seungcheol that you can’t shake off.
It could be the way he always holds the door open for you. It could be that he always takes care of you—carrying you so you won’t hurt your feet, offering his home when you need it, holding your belongings so you have to lift as few fingers as possible. Or perhaps it could be the way he makes you feel like your head is in the clouds. 
You always thought you’d want a partner who you didn’t constantly argue with, but you found the light bantering between you two entertaining. Sure, it does get under your skin at times, but you never stay truly mad at him.
Seungcheol makes you feel special. He makes you feel wanted.
He makes you feel loved.
So, with the smile still etched on your face, you answer, “Yes. I like you.”
Seungcheol’s eyes go from quarter moons to waxing crescents. Small wrinkles form as his mouth widens to a gummy smile. The happiness on his face has your heart skipping.
“May I kiss you?” he asks, eyes hopeful.
You nod without hesitation. “Please.”
Seungcheol’s lips still have the same effect as before. It takes your breath away and makes you giddy.
He moves a hand to the back of your neck, pulling you closer until you are nearly on his lap. The position doesn’t offer you much balance since you’re trying not to knee him in the jewels.
You start to pull away when you feel your body slipping off the edge of the mattress.
“Wait, Cheol—” you try to warn, but it’s too late.
You tumble to the floor, dragging him with you.
You both land with a thump as you’re pulled from each other.
Seungcheol’s booming laugh echoes in his room, causing your own stomach to hurt from giggling.
“Are you okay?” he asks between breaths while sitting up. You stand from the floor, straightening out your clothes. He follows you up.
“Yeah,” you reply. “You?”
“I’m fine,” he reassures.
You jump when the dog outside barks at the noise. Seungcheol smiles at you and reaches out to give you a comforting pat.
“Relax, Cherry. Cho isn’t going to hurt you. He’s a big baby,” Seungcheol soothes.
“It didn’t look like one,” you huff, recalling the size of the animal.
Seungcheol guides you back to the bed.
“Do you have any more questions for me?” he asks, easing back into the somber conversation.
You pause as you think. When nothing comes up, you shake your head.
“Do you?” you offer.
“Three,” he answers.
You breathe slowly, preparing yourself for them. “Okay, what’s your first?”
“What else did Hajun tell you by the restroom?” he wonders.
“Oh,” you mumble, not expecting that. You go back to that memory in your head. “A-are you sure you want to know?”
Seungcheol's face grows serious, head nodding curtly.
“She said you left me because I was a slut. She told me you said I was the ‘worst fuck you’ve ever had,’ and she called me worthless,” you pause as Seungcheol’s jaw clenches and eyes narrow. If you weren’t talking about someone else, you would be worried to see such an intense stare. 
“She said you were trying to get rid of me, and the only way you could do that was to sleep with me… Since you know, I just need ‘something between my legs to be satisfied’.”
He’s quiet for a moment. Usually, it doesn’t bother you, but combined with his stare makes you shift uncomfortably.
“I didn’t say any of that. I hope you know that. She made that up,” he says, expression easing when he speaks to you. “I wasn’t even going to say anything, but she kept wondering why you weren’t around. I just told her we had a falling out, and that’s it.”
From the look in his eyes and the tone of his voice, you believe him.
“I believe you,” you voice aloud.
His once-tensed shoulders relax at your words. “I never wanted you to leave. I never wanted to hurt you. You’re not any of the names she called you.”
“Thanks,” you murmur. Although you’ve been trying to ignore Hajun’s words the past few days, you feel better knowing Seungcheol’s true feelings.
“I’m still sorry,” he says.
“I know. I forgive you,” you respond, hand resting on his thigh.
“You don’t have to. I know what I said was disgusting and rude.”
“It was,” you concur, “but I’m willing to forgive you because I don’t think you mean what you said.”
And now he won’t have those toxic people whispering lies in his ears.
“I don’t,” he repeats. “I think people are intimidated by your confidence. You know what you want, and you know your identity, while some people don’t. It scares them, so they take it out on you. They’re jealous of you.”
“It sounds like you're buttering my biscuits, Mr. Choi,” you hum as you listen to him analyze the people who dislike you.
“I’m just being honest,” he says, a slight frown on his lips.
“I appreciate it,” you reply more earnestly. You’re grateful he confirmed he didn’t think those negative thoughts about you. You feel you can circle around the topic for hours, so you ask for the second question.
“Do you like Jeonghan?” Seungcheol asks.
That takes you by surprise. “No, why do you ask?”
You almost laugh at the idea of dating Jeonghan, but you refrain from it. You don’t want Seungcheol to think his question is stupid even if it is.
“You two just seem close,” he says.
“I tolerate him more,” you explain. “I only like you. Now, next question.”
“Wait, I want to make sure you don’t like hi—Hmph!”
Your lips meet his to stop his sentence. He melts quickly against your mouth, a hand reaching out to your waist. You pull away before it can go any further.
“I would never kiss Jeonghan like that,” you smile.
Seungcheol grimaces at the image you put in his head. “That doesn’t mean you don’t like him.”
“So, I would like that fool, but not kiss him?” you wonder. “Okay. Then I like you, but we can’t kiss anymore.”
“What?” he asks, startled.
“If I can like Jeonghan and not kiss him, then I can like you and not kiss you.”
The corner of Seungcheol’s mouth pushes down. His lips purse slightly when he speaks, “Alright, I get it. I believe you. Kiss me.”
“No,” you say defiantly.
“If you like me, then you’ll kiss me,” he explains.
“But you just said—”
“I lied. You have to kiss the people you like,” he corrects quickly, leaning toward you.
“Is that so?” you ask, a mischievous smirk forming on your lips.
Not having a good feeling with the look on your face, Seungcheol sulks, “You only like me, so that means you can only kiss me.”
You smile at hearing his dragged-out words.
“Is that the rule?” you tease.
“Yes,” he huffs.
“Then I guess I can kiss you,” you say. However, you don’t move from your spot.
Seungcheol fusses, “Now, baby.”
“Oh,” you giggle. “Fine.”
You move in closer, smiling when he meets you halfway. The kiss doesn’t last long as you pull away to ask for his third question.
His tongue darts across his bottom lip as he stares at you. His gaze is solemn, and you mentally prepare yourself for what he has to ask.
“It hurt me to know I caused you pain,” he starts slowly. “I never wanted you to think I believed the rumors about you, but I guess they had an effect on me that I wasn’t conscious of. I regretted everything I told you that day the second it came from my mouth. I was so desperate to fix my mistakes that I didn’t take the moment to think.”
You watch him intently. Each word is taken in with great care, trying to push aside the initial feelings of anger and hurt to hear him objectively.
“I know I made a mistake by keeping them my friends for so long. I just wanted things to work out, and I wanted you all to see the good in each other. I know that sounds a little cliché, but it’s true… Maybe I just didn’t want to choose between you all,” he pauses to take a breath.
“Though, most of all, I wanted to know you more. Despite not having the best first impression, I realized quickly you weren’t what people made you out to be. Along the way, I started to see you as more than a friend, but I had trouble finding the right moment to see things through. Then I fucked it up, and I didn’t think I could fix it… but you’re here now. And we’ve talked things through.”
You nod to show you understand what he’s saying.
“So, where do we stand?” he finally asks.
“I’m sure we could go around each other for days, but I’m ready to move on. I was fully prepared to never talk to you again, but I couldn’t,” you stop gradually, not sure if you want to disclose your next thoughts.
“You couldn’t talk to me?” he asks, confused.
Sighing, “No. I couldn’t stop thinking about you.”
“Oh,” he replies, a small smile on his lips.
“Don’t get too happy now. They weren’t all good thoughts.”
“I know,” his smile faltering, “but there were some good ones?”
“Yeah… There were good ones too,” you reply softly.
Seungcheol takes your hands in his, shuffling closer.
“What were they about?” he ponders.
You squeeze his hands. “Your smile.”
At your answer, his lips begin to lift again.
“How you held me,” you continue.
Seungcheol takes that as an invitation to push you back against his pillows. You smile, raising your arms to wrap around his neck as he presses his body against yours. One of his hands snakes under your back while the other rests on the mattress so he doesn’t squish you completely.
“How you kissed me,” you whisper.
The man above you grins wider, pecking your lips tenderly. You chase his lips, and he grants you a lingering kiss before pulling away.
“And most importantly, how you made me feel.”
Seungcheol rubs your back gently. “And how did I make you feel?”
“Like I was yours,” you murmur as your face warms at the confession.
“Will you be mine? Officially?” he asks, gaze darting back and forth between your eyes.
You wonder if he can feel your racing heart against his chest.
“Yes,” you say. “Officially.”
He chuckles, pressing his mouth on yours as if to really make it official.
Your mouths move languidly. You can feel his hair fall around your face, tickling your cheeks. Smiling, you tuck the strands behind his ears and then keep your palms cupping his cheeks.
When you adjust a leg to wrap around his lower back, he moves the hand under you to rub your bare thigh—exposed by your skirt. His hand trails up and down your skin for a moment until it goes lower. He grabs your ass, massaging it over your panties. His lips slip from yours to kiss along your jawline until he finds your neck. You have no doubt that you’ll end up having to hide a purple mark later.
Both your clothes are off in a matter of seconds. Seungcheol’s hands move across your body, exploring each bump and crevice as if it’s his first time. However, you’re no different. You feel like you’ve touched every part of him, yet you still want more.
Your soft moans fill the room when he scatters kisses down your body before latching his mouth on your clit. His hair quickly becomes tangled as you grab it. Your hips roll against his face, chest rising and falling as you get closer to your high. 
His fingers accompany his mouth, pumping and scissoring in your wet hole. His raspy voice sounds sexy as he praises you when you come, but his moans are sexier. His eyes are hooded, drinking up everything you give him until you lax on his mattress.
You don’t even realize he put away your new red dress and slipped on a condom until a dip in the bed catches your attention. Your vision is coming back to you gradually. Seeing Seungcheol with messy hair and his lower face covered in your juices has you pouncing on him. 
His laughter rings out, grabbing your face and slotting his mouth against yours while you straddle him. You don’t care that you can taste yourself on his tongue. You just need him to fill you.
You slide your dripping folds along his thick length, making sure it’s coated so he can sink into you easily. And easy it is.
Both your sighs and strangled moans permeate his room. You stare down at him, mouth open as you move your hips. His brows meet; he’s trying to control his breathing. Each drag of his cock against your walls feels heavenly. Although the pace is similar to the first time, it feels different. There’s more meaning with every circle and rock of your hips. Maybe you’re making it up all in your head, but when Seungcheol pulls you down on top of him to hold you as he begins to thrust his hips up, you know you aren’t.
The way he kisses you tells you he feels the same.
There’s less desperation in his movements now. You don’t have to worry about this being the last time. You don’t have to worry about him hooking up with another person. He isn’t available to anyone anymore. He’s loyal. He’s kind.
He’s yours.
Your legs press against his sides, a loud cry tearing from your throat as he pushes you over the edge. Your walls flutter around his cock that’s still gliding inside you.
“Just for me,” he pants. “You’re just for me.”
You nod, spewing a variation of agreements as you cling to him. Your body rubs against his while he keeps thrusting up. Mewls fall from your mouth as you start to become overstimulated.
Seungcheol coos in your ear, telling you he’s close and that you’re a good girl for letting him use you for his pleasure. His hips stutter each time you clench your walls around him.
By the time Seungcheol pulls out, you are a moaning mess. He flips you over, pulls off the condom, then comes onto your stomach and breasts. You’re sure the sight arouses Seungcheol as he fixates on your body.
His fingers run through his seed, spreading it more across your skin. His tongue darts out against your breast. You watch as he trails the wet muscle along your skin, his cum gathering on it until it’s full. Before you understand what he’s doing, he brings his mouth to yours. You open your mouth, greedily drinking what he’s giving to you. You don’t even stop to think how filthy the act is.
Even though you can tell Seungcheol is spent, he still cleans you with a damp towel before snuggling back in bed. You both fall into slumber a few minutes after.
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You wake to a sudden cold breeze.
Whining in your sleep, you roll over to snuggle closer to Seungcheol; however, you’re met with empty space. You peel your eyes open reluctantly, leaning up on an elbow to see where he is.
Seungcheol sits on the edge of the bed with a sweatshirt and sweatpants over his body.
You crawl closer until he’s in arm's reach.
“Where are you going?” you murmur as you snake your arms around his wide frame.
He jolts at your abrupt touch but quickly relaxes once he realizes it’s you. He places his arms over yours, craning his neck to see you.
He pecks your lips. “I have to go walk Cho.”
“Can’t it wait?” you ask.
“He,” Seungcheol corrects, to which you roll your eyes. “And unless you want to clean his pee or poop, then no.”
He carefully pulls your arms from around him and stands, leaving you shivering as the cold air hits your bare body.
Seungcheol pauses by the bed when his eyes see your naked torso.
“You do make it hard to leave, though,” he sighs.
You smile and put a hand out for him to grab. He does, and you instantly tug him back onto the bed.
You kiss him quickly, bringing his hands to your chest, covering them so he can’t move away.
“Stay,” you say between kisses.
“Baby,” he protests while squeezing your breasts. His lips purse every time you lean in for another kiss. You grin in hopes you’re convincing him.
“I have,” a kiss, “to go,” a second kiss, “walk the dog.”
You finally stop your torrent of smooches to pout at him.
He chuckles at your expression. “You’re welcome to join.”
“I rather not get mauled,” you scoff and try to pull him closer, but he resists you this time.
“Why are you scared of them?” he wonders.
“I got attacked by one as a kid, and they never are friendly to me.”
“My poor baby,” he coos as he brushes your cheek. “Don’t worry, Cho is really sweet. Why don’t you meet him? Let him sniff you and then I’ll go walk him quickly.”
You shake your head frantically. “I don’t want it—him anywhere near me.”
“I promise you’ll be fine, but I understand. Maybe another time, okay?” he replies. 
You nod and let your arms fall when he pushes off the bed.
“I’ll just be a few minutes,” he informs while walking to the door.
“Okay,” you mutter and pull the covers over your body. He smiles at you before pushing open the door. Your body freezes when you see black fur at the entrance.
“Hey, sweet boy,” Seungcheol greets the animal happily. He stops the dog from coming inside the room, giving him a few pats and ruffles of the fur before easing him backward. “No, she’s not ready to say hi yet. Come on, let’s go out. You wanna go for a walk?”
Your body relaxes at hearing Seungcheol’s light voice. You’ve never heard it before, and you realize there’s still more to learn about the man.
The door shuts softly. The last thing you see is the dog jumping excitedly as he runs out of view. You hear Seungcheol laugh.
It dawns on you that you don’t know when he got the animal. He definitely wasn’t here the last time you were here. Does this mean you’ll have to stop coming to his apartment now? He spoke highly of the dog, and you trusted Seungcheol to keep you safe, but animals can be unpredictable. Still, you can tell how much Seungcheol likes him.
As instructed, Seungcheol comes back ten minutes later.
“So, how much did you miss me?” he teases while raking a hand through his hair. He takes off his sweatshirt, giving your eyes something to stare at as he walks toward you.
You stop him when he begins to climb into the bed. “Wait.”
“Did something happen while I was gone?” he questions, playfulness replaced with concern.
“No, I just,” you breathe in slowly, “I’d like to meet your dog.”
His eyes grow. “There’s no pressure to do so.”
“I don’t want to be run off by your dog anytime I come here,” you grumble. “Just a quick sniff; that’s all he gets.”
Seungcheol laughs and raises a hand to rub circles against your back. “I forgot to tell you that Cho isn’t mine. My brother had an emergency and needed me to look after him for a few days.”
“Oh,” you hum.
“So, you want to come back here?” he asks, recalling that part of your sentence.
“If you want me here,” you bashfully answer.
He leans down to kiss your forehead, easing your nerves.
“You can come over whenever you want,” he offers. “I would prefer it actually.”
“Why?”
You expect a sweet response, but instead, he just smirks and says, “Because I need someone to clean the place.”
You scoff, smacking at his chest and rolling your eyes.
“Kidding, kidding,” he laughs. He grabs your hand when you go to hit him again. He tugs you closer for a playful kiss, nipping at your bottom lip. “Do you still want to meet Cho?”
“Are you sure he won’t bite off my hand?” you ask.
“I’m sure,” he replies confidently.
Hesitantly, you nod. “Okay then.”
Seungcheol smiles and leaves you with a kiss on the cheek. Like before, the dog greets Seungcheol as soon as the door opens. His tail is wagging, and his mouth is open as he breathes.
“Cherry wants to say hello,” he tells the dog, slowly guiding the animal closer to the bed. Your body is rigid, and you clutch the sheets to your chest. You just hope this isn’t going to be your end.
“Sit,” Seungcheol commands. You watch as Cho does so.
“Okay, hold out your hand, palm down. Yes, just like that. Breathe, baby, it’s okay,” Seungcheol instructs you softly. You glance away but quickly look back. Maybe you can pull your hand away quickly enough before he chomps.
The dog leans his head close, nose wiggling as he sniffs your hand. The few seconds it takes feels like half an hour. Suddenly, the dog’s tongue sticks out. The act coats your hand in slobber, and you screech as you tug your hand to your chest hastily, thinking he bit you.
“It’s okay, Cherry. You’re okay,” Seungcheol soothes you, sitting on the bed. He puts the dog between his legs as he rubs your arm softly. You pull your hand back, sighing with relief when you see it still intact.
“Cho just licked you,” Seungcheol explains.
“S-sorry,” you say, eyes searching for the dog. He sits staring up at Seungcheol with his tail wagging. The pet isn’t lunging at Seungcheol or nibbling off his flesh.
“It’s okay. You did good, baby,” Seungcheol praises, giving you a kiss on the cheek as a reward. “I’m going to take him out, okay?”
You place a hand on his arm. “Has he ever bit you?”
Seungcheol glances at Cho and shakes his head. He gives the pup a loving head rub. “He’s just a big baby. He’s well-behaved. He’s even good with kids.”
“Has he ever bit your brother?”
“I don’t believe so,” he replies.
You peer down at Cho once more. You’re still scared of him, but seeing how much he likes being around Seungcheol, you feel a little bad kicking him out again; especially, since he doesn’t have anybody out there to keep him company.
“H-he can stay if he doesn’t come close to me,” you say cautiously.
“He’ll be fine out, it’s okay,” Seungcheol reassures.
“I trust what you say about him. He seems… okay.”
Seungcheol grins, slowly letting the dog go before climbing into bed. “He is.”
The dog stands, shakes out his fur, and then does something that has you clutching onto Seungcheol. Cho jumps on the bed.
“Oh god, he’s going to eat me,” you cry. Seungcheol wraps an arm around your body, pulling you close. He rubs your arm tenderly.
“No, he’s not,” he laughs. You watch as the dog walks around himself once before plopping down. Luckily, he’s on Seungcheol’s side. Cho rests his head on the bed, watching you both. His tail wags a little, but not as much as before.
“He just wanted to sleep up here. Is that okay?” Seungcheol asks you.
“You let him up here?” you question, knowing some people don’t like their pets on their beds.
Seungcheol shrugs. “The covers are dirty anyway. Might as well let him have a comfy place to nap. Speaking of, do you want to stay the night?”
“That’d be nice,” you smile at him.
You reach for the purse you brought when you first ran from Cho. You tap on your phone to see it’s nearly four in the evening. You didn’t realize how long it’s been since you arrived at eleven.
“Unfortunately, I’m not the best cook, so we may have to do takeout,” Seungcheol says shyly.
You giggle, sending a quick message to your sister that you won’t be home tonight.
“I can cook,” you offer.
Seungcheol looks at you sadly, hand coming up to rub at his neck. “Actually, I only have ramen. I haven’t gotten groceries yet.”
“Oh. I like ramen,” you reply and put your phone down once Seoah replies. Your phone keeps buzzing as she tries to get more information from you, but you simply put the device on Do Not Disturb and place it back in your bag.
“I wanted to treat you to something better than ramen,” Seungcheol says. There’s a faint frown on his lips.
“I don’t mind,” you reassure. “Now, can we sleep a little longer?”
You carefully guide Seungcheol down until his back hits the mattress. After pulling the covers over the both of you, you snuggle against his body.
“I guess I don’t have a choice,” he chuckles as he lets you lay him down. He holds you close, eyes staring at the ceiling as he rubs your back.
“Hm.” You close your eyes, letting the gentle rise and fall of his chest hypnotize you.
“Baby?” Seungcheol asks. You’re on the verge of sleep, but you hum again to let him know you heard him.
“Will you go on a date with me?”
You smile, forcing your eyes open to peer at him. “Can I still wear the dress you got me?”
“You can wear whatever you want, Cherry.”
“Can I pick out an outfit for you, too?” you ask.
“While you have great fashion sense, I’m not sure—” he stops when you begin to plead with your eyes.
“Fuck,” he curses more to himself.
“Please, Cheol?” you ask, voice soft and lips pouting.
“You know I’ll eventually become immune to this, right?” he grumbles. 
The way he words it makes it seem like you’ll be around long enough for that possibility to occur. You nuzzle closer at the thought.  
“Maybe, but right now you’re not,” you smile wickedly. “What do you say?”
“Fine, alright,” he caves.
You lean up, giving him a big kiss as a thank you. He hums against your mouth. You feel his hands go south, but you quickly stop him.
“It’s sleepy time, not sexy time,” you scold light-heartedly when you pull away.
Seungcheol sighs dramatically but yields. “Hurry and sleep then.”
“You’re not going to run away, are you?” You narrow your eyes.
“Never,” Seungcheol smiles down at you.
Your gaze lingers on his eyes, quickly scanning his face. Finally, you let your mind wander freely. You let yourself indulge in how comfortable you feel around him. You don’t have to ignore those illusions you had produced, nor do you have to convince yourself that you only see him as a friend. You can fulfill those fantasies little by little. You don’t have to hide from your emotions. You already feel lighter at letting go of those conflicting thoughts.
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Although Seungcheol jokes about keeping you around to clean, you wind up doing it without being asked. You suppose he knows you won’t be able to handle the clutter.
You’re picking up his discarded jeans when something flutters to the floor when you do so. You bend down to grab it.
It’s the receipt from earlier.
While Seungcheol is in the bathroom, you finally have the chance to examine it.
You notice the fabric store name, having only been there a few times since it isn’t local. Your eyes trail down to the item's name. Although it’s a shortened version of the name, you know what it is. 
That brat.
The sound of the bathroom door opening has your eyes snapping up and hand lowering to your side.
“Why did Jeonghan lie to me?” you ask him before he can take two full steps.
Seungcheol looks at you, head tilting and eyebrows knitting.
“What did he lie about?” he questions.
“He didn’t buy that fabric for me,” you scoff and hold out the receipt. “You did.”
Seungcheol’s gaze drops to the paper in your hand. He releases a small exhale.
“It’s not a big deal,” he replies.
“You always say that,” you huff. Your eyes fall back to the receipt, glancing at the price. That makes more sense as to how Jeonghan got it.
“Because it’s true,” he says. He moves to stand in front of you. He carefully takes the receipt from your hand. “I just wanted to give you something you wanted.”
“Why? How’d you even know?”
He folds the paper as he answers, “Dae mentioned it at dinner that one time and Jeonghan told me about it.”
“You didn’t answer the first part,” you call out.
He chuckles softly. “That’s because it should be obvious. It’s because I liked you… I still do.”
“You can like me without buying me expensive things,” you reason.
“I know,” he says. His eyes fall down to the sweater that you wear—it’s his. Your legs are bare and have ankle socks on. “But I still wanted to. So, deal with it, Cherry.”
He gives you a smile before walking away and into the living room. You follow, still weary of Cho and huddling against Seungcheol if he gets too close.
“Hey, wait, you didn’t tell me why Jeonghan lied to me.”
Seungcheol takes two glasses from a cabinet and then shuffles to the fridge. “I asked him to.”
“You? He didn’t steal it or something?” Although you know Jeonghan likes to con others, he isn’t one to steal. Yet, you still want to ask since the whole situation puzzles you.
He laughs, filling the cups with ice as he replies, “No, he’s not like that. I wanted you to have it before the show, but I knew you wouldn’t take it after our fight.”
“You let me think he got it for me,” you state; your lips begin to dip down as you ponder on the thought. 
You remember feeling so thankful to Jeonghan for getting it for you. There’s a pang of guilt knowing you were thanking the wrong person. You finally understand the look on Jeonghan’s face when he gifted it to you.
Seungcheol sets the glasses on the counter, grabbing your chin gently to make you look at him. His fingers are chilly, but they feel good against your warm skin.
“I’m just glad you used it, baby,” he says kindly. He lets go of your chin with a smile.
“Cheol,” you call, a hand reaching out for his bicep. He pauses in turning back to the fridge.
Once he is staring at you, you speak, “Thank you.”
“I’m sorry it wasn’t the blue you wanted. It was out of stock, and it would’ve taken too long to ship,” he explains.
You shake your head. “It was perfect. I liked the red more.”
Seungcheol smiles, though one side is lifted as if it’s a borderline smirk.
“I did too. Red looks good on you,” he compliments. One that takes you back to that cursed poetry lounge night. It was the first time he called you Cherry, and you called him Cheol. The first time you were alone with him for longer than fifteen minutes. The first time your body reacted in ways that went beyond the line of friendship.
“So I’ve been told,” you murmur.
“Have you?” he teases. “Whoever said that must be really smart.”
“Yeah, sure—” you begin, only to jump and knock into Seungcheol when Cho unexpectedly rubs his nose against your leg. 
Seungcheol’s laugh doesn’t drown out the sound of your thudding heart in your ears, but at least it offers some (annoying) comfort. Cho is going to take some getting used to.
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previous chapter \\ series masterpost // the end
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A/N: Although the series is over, I would love to continue writing this couple in the future! Please look forward to some bonus scenes... Perhaps from Cheol's POV? My ask box is open for any questions or comments about this series! Thank you for reading!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😭 omg *trying not to freak out that it's over* (also wattpad says this fic's read time is 6 hours and 11 minutes LOLOLOLOL... nice 😅 but if you're a slow reader like me, that time is prob way more haha. this being said, ty for ur time while reading!)
For my “shy/silent” readers, I’ve created a feedback form where you can share your thoughts on my fics in a more anonymous and private way. ^-^
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©️hongcherry // DO NOT REPOST OR MODIFY Please consider reblogging if you liked this work to show your support. Feedback/commentary is always welcomed.
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blackjackkent · 7 months
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Programming object lesson of the day:
A couple days ago, one of the side project apps I run (rpthreadtracker.com) went down for no immediately obvious reason. The issue seems to have ended up being that the backend was running on .NET Core 2.2, which the host was no longer supporting, and I had to do a semi-emergency upgrade of all the code to .NET Core 6, a pretty major update that required a lot of syntactic changes and other fixes.
This is, of course, an obvious lesson in keeping an eye on when your code is using a library out of date enough not to be well supported anymore. (I have some thoughts on whether .NET Core 2.2 is old enough to have been dumped like this, but nevertheless I knew it was going out of LTS and could have been more prepared.) But that's all another post.
What really struck me was how valuable it turned out to be that I had already written an integration test suite for this application.
Historically, at basically every job I've worked for and also on most of my side projects, automated testing tends to be the thing most likely to fall by the wayside. When you have 376428648 things you want to do with an application and only a limited number of hours in the day, getting those 376428648 things to work feels very much like the top priority. You test them manually to make sure they work, and think, yeah, I'll get some tests written at some point, if I have time, but this is fine for now.
And to be honest, most of the time it usually is fine! But a robust test suite is one of those things that you don't need... until you suddenly REALLY FUCKING NEED IT.
RPTT is my baby, my longest running side project, the one with the most users, and the one I've put the most work into. So in a fit of side project passion and wanting to Do All The Right Things For Once, I actively wrote a massive amount of tests for it a few years ago. The backend has a full unit test suite that is approaching 100% coverage (which is a dumb metric you shouldn't actually stress about, but again, a post for another day). I also used Postman, an excellently full-featured API client, to write a battery of integration tests which would hit all of the API endpoints in a defined order, storing variables and verifying values as it went to take a mock user all the way through their usage life cycle.
And goddamn was that useful to have now, years later, as I had to fix a metric fuckton of subtle breakage points while porting the app to the updated framework. With one click, I could send the test suite through every endpoint in the backend and get quick feedback on everywhere that it wasn't behaving exactly the way it behaved before the update. And when I was ready to deploy the updated version, I could do so with solid confidence that from the front end's perspective, nothing would be different and everything would slot correctly into place.
I don't say this at all to shame anyone for not prioritizing writing tests - I usually don't, especially on my side projects, and this was a fortuitous outlier. But it was a really good reminder of why tests are a valuable tool in the first place and why they do deserve to be prioritized when it's possible to do so.
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jjkamochoso · 15 days
Text
My Boy’s Got His Own Ringtone
Nanami x gn!reader
Based on 100 gecs’ song “Ringtone”
Warnings: none (idk why it’s marked as a mature post, there’s nothing sus in here)
[My boy’s got his own ringtone, it’s the only one I know, it’s the only one I answer]
You glanced at the clock, seeing the hour and minutes hands being precisely where you didn’t want them. You still had about 3 hours left in the workday and you were drowning in mission reports that had to be looked over, edited for clarity, submitted to the higher ups, then filed correctly. With the influx of high grade curses roaming around, paperwork from sorcerers for office people like you was bound to increase as well and you were getting the brunt of it. You were exhausted, to say the least. Not to mention, your cellphone wouldn’t stop ringing with people asking you the stupidest questions, leading you to almost throw the damn thing in the dumpster. Instead of costing yourself the extra money that you don’t have by ruining the (unfortunately necessary) piece of technology, you had put the annoying rectangle on do not disturb and shoved it in one of your desk drawers.
“30 minutes of peace and quiet, that’s all I can afford,” you had muttered to yourself, but now that time had passed and you found yourself grasping the phone once more. Taking a deep breath, you glanced at the lit up screen—27 missed calls and 45 group texts. Scrolling through the texts, you were thankful that none of them were urgent matters. The phone calls, on the other hand, were ones you had to attend to and make sure all questions were answered. You were about to press the “call back” button for the first sorcerer who needed your assistance, but your phone rang with a call from someone else. Before you smashed the phone into little tiny pieces, you registered the ringtone and quickly answered, a smile forming on your face for the first time today.
“Nanami! How can I help you today?” you asked, any trace of previous annoyance immediately dissolved.
“L/n, hello. I have a question to ask you, and I’m sure you’ve been busy. Is this an alright time to talk?”
You practically swooned. You couldn’t believe how respectful of your time and work Nanami was and it made him even more attractive, if that was possible.
“I’ll always make time for you,” you answered sweetly.
“And I, for you,” he replied, and then dove into his question. It was a fairly simple one and you were honestly surprised he needed clarification. Maybe he was teaching Yuji how to write reports and wanted to hear it being explained from the source? Whatever it was, you were just happy to hear his voice, no matter the situation.
“Does that make sense?” you asked after explaining.
“Yes, thank you very much. I appreciate your help today and whenever I may need assistance in the future.”
“Don’t ever hesitate to call, text, or seek me out. You know where my office is!”
It was true, Nanami did. He had spent many hours there with you, in comfortable silence, typing away reports and filling out various paperwork. He would try to convince himself that the reason he sought out refuge with you was because no one would find him there to bother him while he was working, not because he desperately wanted to watch the way you would crinkle your nose when you caught a horrendously bad typo in a report, or be enthralled in the way your nimble fingers made quick use of the computer keyboard, or anxiously awaited your invitation to a coffee shop during lunch breaks where everything would feel like a perfect date instead of an outing with a close friend if he just admitted his feelings to you. No, he chose the office he did most of his work in because he was helplessly, selfishly in love with the person whose nameplate graced the door.
You, of course, returned Nanami’s undisclosed affection, but you knew it could never work. He was a Grade 1 sorcerer while you were a lowly office clerk, a glorified secretary, no better than the salaryman position he had left behind. Status and money were of no matter to either of you, but you felt, deep in your heart, that your lack of status and achievements could never win over the 7:3 sorcerer. He was so handsome and accomplished that he could have anyone in the world and certainly deserved better than someone like you.
Anyway, back to the phone call.
“That I do, I’ve spent many days in there. Thank you for sharing your space with me. Speaking of, do you mind if I drop by at the end of the day?”
Your breath hitched in your throat. You hadn’t seen Nanami in a fair amount of time since he had been dispatched on all sorts of missions lately.
“Of course! What’s mine is yours. You’re welcome here anytime,” you said, hoping he understood that you truly meant it with every fiber of your being.
“Thank you. I’ll see you soon,” he said, and hung up. As you went back to your work, you noticed you had a new jolt of energy. You didn’t even realize you were supposed to be off 5 minutes ago until there was a knock at your door.
“Come in!” you said, shuffling the rest of your papers away to deal with them tomorrow. In your haste, you didn’t notice your phone flying into the pile and landing somewhere unseen.
“It’s just me,” Nanami said, slipping past the doorframe.
“Just you, huh?” you teased, earning a small smile from him.
“I’m here to staple a few things, if that’s alright,” he explained, and you gestured to the stapler on your desk. In reality, he wanted to come by and see you since he’d been gone for so long. You had become a source of comfort to him, something he knew he could depend on to be there when he came back from a mission. In a world where his existence could be easily taken from him, he liked the idea of loving someone who lived a more peaceful life. Sure, you thought your job was boring, and it was, but Nanami wanted that for someone as precious to him as you were. You, on the other hand, were thinking about how blessed you were for being able to see his muscular forearm on full display as he leaned over to staple papers, his shirt sleeves rolled up to his elbow. You didn’t want to look away, but certainly wouldn’t be caught staring. You grabbed your bag before trying to head home, but you absolutely couldn’t find your phone anywhere.
“That stupid thing causes me more and more trouble,” you mumbled, furiously digging through drawers. Nanami had never seen you so flustered before, and he had to admit, it was pretty cute. However, he knew he needed to help with whatever it was you were talking about.
“Trying to find something?” he asked, gaining your attention. You huffed, moving a stray piece of hair out of your face.
“I lost my phone when I was going through piles of papers,” you explained, “but of course nobody needs me anymore or else I’d hear it ring and could find where it went.”
“Want me to call it?”
“Please,” you said, exasperated. With a slight chuckle, he clicked on your contact and it started to ring. All of a sudden, you heard Nanami’s custom ringtone coming from your trash can.
[It’s my way of trying to let you know, I’ve got a little thing for you, I’ve got a little crush or something]
“Found it!” you exclaimed, pulling the phone out as it continued to blare his very own theme song.
“That’s a ringtone I’ve never heard before,” Nanami commented, “did you choose a new one while I’ve been gone?”
Damn him for being so observant! You weren’t sure if you wanted to tell him the truth but the words spilled out of your mouth before you could stop them.
“Nope, this is your own special one,” you said sheepishly. You figured you should explain yourself further since he gave you a look that implied he wanted to hear more. “You’re the only person I actually like to talk to, so it’s my way of filtering out the calls I don’t care to answer.”
“I see,” he said, his warm brown eyes staring into your own. His expression was unreadable as always and you hoped you hadn’t made him uncomfortable.
“Is that weird? I can change it if you think that’s weird, I—”
“No!” he said, hurriedly, “please don’t. I find it… endearing. I feel the same, your company is the only one I can stand most days.” With his confession coupled with yours, it was hard for both of you to make eye contact out of embarrassment.
“Okay well, I guess I should head home,” you said, trying to make a beeline for the door, but you felt Nanami’s large hand gently grab hold of your arm so you didn’t leave.
“Wait, l/n, I need to ask you something else.” These words that left his mouth were quieter than usual.
“I’m off the clock, Nanami, you can call me y/n if you want,” you told him, and you could’ve sworn you saw a hint of a blush on his face.
“Okay then, y/n, you’re well versed in the rules of jujutsu workplaces and colleague relations, right?”
You nodded and he continued.
“I know we don’t technically work together but please tell me before I get my hopes up. Would it be wrong of me to ask you on a date?”
You couldn’t believe your ears. Was Nanami being serious? He was never a man of jokes like Gojo so he must be for real. You gulped.
“There’s no rules regarding that subject that I know of,” you replied and Nanami looked relieved.
“Oh. Then, allow me to ask you properly this time. Y/n, would you grant me the privilege of taking you on a date?”
“I would love nothing more, Nanami,” you said, smiling.
“Please,” he said, his eyes shining, “call me Kento.”
You felt like the luckiest person in the world.
It was a brisk fall day and you were enjoying your time out of the office for the weekend. The market you were at was pleasantly busy, enough people to observe for a bit but not too many where it was overwhelming. It was nice to get out and walk around for a while. Taking in the smells of the pastries, you followed your nose to a vendor selling the cutest little loaves of bread.
Nanami would love these, you thought to yourself, and bought a few of them for breakfast. As you strolled away, bag in hand, you heard a phone ring. It was that same ringtone that lived in your mind since the day you set it for the man you loved. You hurriedly dug your hand into your purse, excited for once to find your phone, but you were greeted with a dark screen. All of a sudden, you felt a sensation like someone grabbing your heart and twisting it out of your chest.
[Used to love that ringtone when you called me, now it makes me sick]
No. It wasn’t Nanami calling you. He couldn’t.
Kento Nanami was dead.
A/n: it was my first time writing some evil like this, I hope you enjoyed the heart shattering moment😈 also I can’t remember if there’s report writing and paperwork in the JJK universe but I’m sure there is so take this with a grain of salt okay love you byeeee <3
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multifan2022 · 8 months
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Golden Lies 3
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PART 1 PART 2
Interviews.. Dazzling people.. Making people like you.. That's the game that you were playing tonight. Really you figured it wouldn't be hard, you were going to the whole ‘protecting the innocent’ and ‘here with my best friend’ thing. Which was what the two of you had done, so it wasn't a stretch. The biggest thing would be wording things correctly. Making sure that what you said didn't offend anyone, or cause upset.
You paid close attention to the crowd while Lavanna and the others dressed you. The TV was on so you could see and listen to them as Caesar warmed them up for the show. You watched as the careers went, saying things like ‘yes I've been ready for this my whole life’. Or ‘I'll see you in a few weeks because I am going to win this’. 
Boring.. They must learn their lines at the academy too because they sound exactly alike. You were saddened when the tributes from four got on the stage though. The girl was terrified, speaking so quietly that she could barely be heard. The boy talked about how he was going to do his best to protect his friend but didnt think they would last long. 
It really sunk in that you weren't the only one who had really committed to the fact that you were going to die. While it was a similar situation to yours, you knew that you could get so much further than them. You prayed through, to whoever was listening that their death was quick and as painless as possible. You also wondered if Finnick worked with them at all. 
He annoyingly had been on your mind today, for whatever reason. The way he watched you whenever you were both in the same room. How when Hardin needed your help with the sugar cubes, Finnick didn't bother you. He didn't ask questions or call anyone over, he just stood there and waited. 
His gorgeous green eyes were stuck in your head and you hated it. But you could push it far enough aside to deal with the things at hand, like your outfit for interviews. It was gorgeous and something you never pictured yourself wearing. Light gold in color except for the sheer bodice, that had lace and gold fabric strategically placed to cover your boobs. Your sides, most of your stomach, shoulders and back were exposed. 
The zipper up the back had lace appliques to hide it, while there were still some shiny crystals here and there. The bottom was full and large, layers upon layers one gold and sheer tulle making it up. The top sheer layer had the same crystals from the top of the dress and the bottom had black swallowtail butterflies and monarch butterflies. They fluttered softly, opening and closing their wings. 
Your hair was up in a chunky braided wreath around your head. It had lavender and olive branches weaved into it, it gave the effect that you had a crown on. Your make up was dramatic again, gold lid with black brushed around the outside. Big wing and false lashes again, but this time your lips were painted. Gold on one side and black on the other, meeting and mixing in the middle. 
It was quiet in the room, your scoring last night was low which is what you wanted. You had received a five and Hardin a six, the team thought you were upset with it. But it was all part of the plan. They knew you had thrown that spear, but they didn't know if it was beginner's luck or if you were trained somehow. 
You knew if you could get to a bag and a weapon during the bloodbath, you could get away and survive. It was getting both you and Hardin supplies and getting away that would be the problem. The silence was nice though, calming and relaxing as they tinkered with this or that making sure that everything was perfect. 
Lavanna walked you out to the hall where some of the others were waiting. Even those who had already interviewed were waiting around for it to all be over. There was quiet chatter talking about what to say or not too say. Talking about who did well so far and who still needed to go. 
 The girl from four pointed as you came into the hall, whispering to Mags about how the butterflies on your dress seemed to be alive. You didn't want to give away the surprise that Lavanna had told you about, but you couldn't resist seeing the 12 year old smiling. Lavanna nodded to you when you turned to beg with your eyes. 
So you bent down, stuck a finger under one of the black butterflies causing it to crawl onto you. You held it in the palm of your hand as you made your way over to her and Mags. When you reached her you leaned down and held your free hand out. When the young girl laid her hand in your palm you guided the butterfly from your palm to hers. She squealed with excitement as it stayed there just fluttering its wings. 
“If it's ok with your mentors you can keep it. Take it up to your room with you.” You said smiling at her, when she looked up at Mags with the best puppy dog eyes you had ever seen. Mags laughed and nodded before pointing at Finnick “You'll have to ask him too.” The young blond girl's face dropped, shoulders sinking in disappointment. 
But you lifted her face with your hand and smiled again. “I'll go ask him for you, promise I won't take no for an answer.” She jumped up and down a little as she watched you walk over to where Finnick and the 13 year old boy were talking. The boy's eyes widened and his mouth opened a little as he watched you walk over, which caught Finnicks attention. 
He sucked in a breath when he turned to look at you, he couldn't figure out what he liked the most. The dress and the way it clung to your top but flowed around at the bottom. The way your hair and makeup was done, it was all perfect to him. He quickly shut his own mouth and slammed his walls back up, turning up the charm and down the feelings. “Well well well.. You must be going for the Goddess of the Capitol.. Very smart choice if I'm allowed to say so.” 
You smiled at his words, hating that you could feel the blood rushing to your cheeks. You waved at the boy who gasped, waved back and then ran off to find Maggie. “Sorry about him, he's clearly scared of gorgeous women.” Finnick said again as you turned away from watching his tribute and back to him. That's where he wanted your attention, on him. 
You nodded, choosing to not respond to his comment but answer the first statement. “Anyways, you're allowed to speak your opinion freely if you allow your tribute to keep the butterfly I gifted her.” You both turned to look back at her, Finnick hadn't even noticed you go over there. He had been so wrapped up in trying to calm his boy down. He quickly put together that it was a butterfly from your dress. He nodded over at the group, causing her to shriek in happiness before running off with the boy. 
Neither of you would admit that your hearts squeezed knowing that she would probably be dead tomorrow. When they were gone, you noticed Haymitch and Lavanna standing with Hardin and Cress. All four were watching you talk to Finnick, and Haymitch didn't look too happy about it. Finnicks hand on your wrist brought your eyes back to him. He spoke quietly “You look gorgeous. Y/n you could win this if you're smart.. 1 and 2 are still after you and your friend.. Be careful. I wish I could help you more.” 
He squeezed your wrist, then smirked at you and walked away winking at Lavanna on his way. 
The group quickly made their way towards you all speaking over each other in different tones. 
“What did he want? Was he trying to scare you?” In a slightly annoyed tone from Haymitch. 
“Did he hurt you? Or threaten you!” In a worried tone from Hardin.
“OH MY GOD! You were just touched by Finnick Odair! I wouldn't wash that arm if it were me!” In an excited tone from Cress. 
“I can't believe he just winked at me.. Who does he think he is?” From Lavanna in a disgusted tone. 
They all turned and looked at each other for different reasons. Before anyone could speak an avox came up and pointed toward you, then the stage. It was your turn next and you needed to get into place. “We will talk about it later, I'm fine though.” Was all you could get out before the Avox was making grunting noises at you and pointing aggressively, probably scared to not get you to your place on time. 
Your heels clicked softly as you walked to the X, you really were running behind because you barely paused on it before Caesar was welcoming you to the stage. The light was slightly blinding as you smiled and waved, blowing a few kisses to those in the front row.  “Wow, Wow!” He said as he grabbed your hand, the two of you sitting down. 
You bent your knee lifting one leg to cross the other, but had to move slowly to not disturbed the butterflies. When the crowd settled a little Caesar got right into it.  “I think everyone's first question is about the girl you volunteered for.” You nodded and looked down, allowing tears to fill your eyes before you looked back up. 
“Cissa.. She's my neighbor, she had just turned 12 the day before. She's such a kind soul and her family has done so much for me. I work in the fields you see, sun up to sun down during the season. And her mother and the children take care of my very old, very sick grandparents while I'm gone.” 
The crowd awed a little as Caesar nodded, “So this was your way of thanking them. By saving their daughter from the reaping.” You nodded enthusiastically while carefully thinking about your next sentence. “But if I can tell you a secret.. I mean we are amongst friends right?” You held a hand out and looked towards the crowd. 
They all started screaming ‘YES’ as Caesar looked at you, he then nodded “I guess so.. So what's your secret?” You both leaned forward just a little like you were really sharing a secret and not just saying something on national television. You held one hand up almost to your mouth “I volunteered for a selfish reason as well.” When Caesar flew back into his chair dramatically, his mouth was wide open in mock shock. 
You leaned back slightly still sitting up straight, and nodded a tight lipped smile as you looked over the crowd. You shrugged a little before speaking again, “I may have wanted to come and win for my district. There isn't any Victor right now for 9 and I wanted the internal glory.” The crowd started cheering loudly again as Caesar nodded saying that none of them would tell your secret. He was very good at his job, keeping up with whatever shenanigans you threw out. 
“So our next question is about your district parenter, Hardin, was it? How do you know each other?” 
You nodded turning to look back at him with a smile, he gave you a thumbs up before you turned back around. There was a genuine smile on your face when you started speaking of him. “We met when he was walking around our district. Ended up being in the same school together and when we were old enough they placed us in the fields together. They always said we just worked well with each other. That big meat head is my best friend, I don't know what I would do without him. But I'm kind of sad we are both here.” 
Caesar looked at you with a confused smile, “Well why would you be sad? That means that you can protect each other?” 
You nodded, “Well yes and don't get me wrong, Caesar I am so thankful that I will have him in there with me. But that means if I win, when I go home he won't be there. And then I'll be alone.” Real tears this time came and one streaked down your cheek as the crowd awed. You were now thinking about how alone he would feel if your plan succeeded and he won. He would have to live with knowing you killed yourself to get him home. 
Then he would have to come and train kids to go into the games, over and over again. 
Caesar patted your hand in fake sympathy, “But you will have all new friends from here. And we won't ever let you be alone, will we folks!” He says turning back to the crowd with a wide mouthed loud laugh. You both smiled as you thanked them a few times, “Well Our little goddess, our time is up! But I think we will be seeing you again.” When you both stood you held one finger up as Caesar looked at you questioningly. 
“I have a small gift, a token of my gratitude if you will for my friends here. If that's ok with you of course Caesar.” The crowd started screaming as Caesar looked up to his bosses. When they nodded Caesar nodded to you, taking a small step back as you grabbed the top few layers of your dresses skirt. Careful to leave most of the tulle down to cover your legs, you held the top layers up. “Caesar, could you actually help me, hold the back up please.” 
Caesar quickly moved, ecstatic to be part of whatever show you were putting on. “Now we are just going to push down on the count of three. Kinda hard, Ok?” When he nodded looking around at the crowd with a funny face, you laughed and counted down. “1… 2…. 3!” 
You both pushed down, you bending at the knees as all the butterflies that had covered the bottom of your dress flew into the air. The crowd that was cheering for Caesar or yelling was now screaming. The adults fighting over the butterflies that flew into the crowd. Pushing and shoving others out of their way as they tried to snatch them out of the air. One landed on Caesars suit jacket, and just stayed there like it was a pin. “WOW! That was amazing! Thank you so much Y/n!” You bowed a little before making your way off stage. 
Lavanna was waiting for you at the bottom of a few stairs, she encased you in a huge hug as you let out a breath you didn't know you were holding. “That was wonderful, you did so so well, darling!” As soon as you were out of her arms, Haymitch was clapping again. “Sweetheart, I don't know where you pulled that out of but you just keep on impressing me. My guys don't stand a chance.. But you.. You got something kid.. I hope to see you on the other side.” 
When he walked away you heard the crowd screaming for Hardin, who was in a black suit with a gold tie that had much smaller black butterflies printed on it. “Hello, Hello! I must say, your district mate is a hard act to follow! But I'm sure we will have a great time!” They both laughed and crossed their legs after shaking hands. 
“So how is it being in the Capitol veris being at home?” Hardin smiled and pretended like he was thinking “Really it's just amazing how big and brightly colored everything is here. The people are much more welcoming and loving than I thought and I absolutely adore all of you for that.” He brought both hands up to his mouth and blew kisses towards the crowd. They were literally eating shit out of his hands. 
“It of course helps having Y/n here” Hardin said as the crowd calmed down from the kisses. Caesar nodded “Yes, I think we all can tell you are very close. Is there.. Anything.. Romantic going on there we should know. Amongst friends of course.” Caesar held up one hand to his heart, waiting to hear another district 9 secret. 
But Hardin laughed, holding both hands while he shook his head. “No offense to Y/n, she's a very pretty girl of course. But she's my best friend. If I had to label it I would say she's my platonic soulmate. It's really sad that I won't be able to stay with her for long during the games. I just hope I can protect her for as long as possible before I become a burden.” 
The crowd scoffed, as if offended by the insinuation that he could be a burden. Caesar did too “How could you ever be a burden! Look at you!” Hardin shook his head, leaning forward and wiping tears from his eyes. From the TV you couldnt tell if they were real or fake but it didn't matter. “I have a condition, there's a medication I have to take every morning to control it. If I don't take it, then I get sweaty and disoriented. After a day or two my body starts to shut down. It's said to be very painful and the end comes with hallucinations.”
The crowd gasped, some yelling that he shouldn't have to go into the games. “Unfortunately I won't be able to take my meds into the arena with me. So I will probably only last a few days, but in those few days I hope to make things as easy for Y/n to win as possible.” Just as he finished speaking the buzzer went off, Caesar looked genuinely conflicted. Like he was trying to decide if he thought Hardin should be here or not. 
But he quickly recovered, stood, said a few more words to the crowd rehyping them up, shook his hand and shooed him off stage. 
~
~
~
@avis15 @liballer @avoxrising
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Do u think mai and zuko do a good job emotionally supporting EACH OTHER, I’ve seen a lot of hate towards mai dismissive stupid joke from their first scene buut if i remember correctly she does support him a little more in the next episodes!! Or she tries given her circumstances ¿? Idk what would u do differently in their relationship?
As I've already said before, the only thing I'd change about Maiko is actually showing the start of their relationship (first date, first kiss, that kind of stuff). Everything else made absolute sense and the fandom only hates on it due to a criminal lack of good taste/being bitter that Mai "got in the way of Zutara" (someone should let these people know that one cannot get in the way of something that does not exist and never a chance of existing).
Mai dismissed Zuko's feelings exactly ONCE and the people have been holding that against her forever - even though Zuko himself, who is infamous for being quick to anger and takes nearly everything to heart, did not seem to mind it one bit.
Even in Ember Island when she doesn't like the shell he gets her or makes a sassy comment because he accidentally dropped some ice cream on her, she did not sound like anything beyond just the typical teenager. Zuko had full on meltdowns over stuff that was just as minor.
Zuko needed emotional support from his girlfriend exactly twice: during the group therapy session by the fire on The Beach, and in Nightmares and Daydreams. Mai was there for him in both times, even though during the first she was still REALLY mad at him. Everyone always focuses on her not letting Zuko use his trauma as an excuse to be a dick to others (which is a GOOD thing), but never on how she says she cares about him, kisses and hugs him, and takes him back even though he is yet to apologize for the bad behavior that led to their break up.
Not to mention, she ended up in prison to save him from harm, and in the finale, when she sees him struggling to get dressed up due to being injured, she helps him out.
Mai is a loving, caring girlfriend.
As for Zuko, there is only ONE episode in which he is snapping at Mai constantly, The Beach, and the whole point of it that is Zuko is directing the anger he feels towards HIMSELF at other people because he's starting to feel guilty over betraying his uncle and joining Ozai again.
All the other times? He wants Mai around as much as possible, explicitly said he didn't ask to leave the Fire Nation with him BECAUSE HE FELT HE COULDN'T DRAG HER INTO THAT MESS, and everytime he sees or mentions her after the day of the eclipse he has THE dorkiest smile ever.
They love each other. They had their issues because they're two teenagers trying to figure out how relationships work AND because they're both deeply traumatized, but THEY LOVE EACH OTHER.
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karisomk · 11 months
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Attorney! Attuma x Ex Mob- Wife Okoye AU Pt. 1 (Possibly teaser?)
Characters: Attuma x Okoye but mentions of W'kabi prior relationship. Child from their prior relationship. Tags: Angst, Romance, some fluff moments, alluding to abuse and some verbal. Possession. Manipulation. Comfort and possibly death later.
Author's notes: So the muse hit me with this one a while back but I never posted it. I AM VERY AWARE that it is not realistic. But that's fine. I re-read it and still like it. So I'm sharing it afterwhile. And IF you would like to see PART 2 OR more etc. Let me know! Summary:
Attuma A. A well-known attorney for the mob gets a client that needs help with a custody case. W'Kabi desires to take his daughter away from Okoye just to show her he's unhappy about being divorced and because he gets what he wants.
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Attuma looked up from the folder he was slowly building for his new client, the urge to show his annoyance was becoming vastly difficult. He should have known how W'Kabi's assistant, argued with his front desk operator this morning, that he was going to be a pain in the ass when here. The soft jazz music that was playing in the spacious office, could be heard by overhead speakers in the front sitting area.  The lulling sound of bubbles, from his built-in wall large aquarium filled the silence in his office. The office was spacious, decorated with a black leather lounge that looked brand new near his aquarium. Two large cherry oak wood bookshelves, filled with various books along with a few small office plants. Various oil paintings of the sea were hung up on the wall around his office, fitting the water theme he often favored.
"So just to make sure I heard you correctly, you want full custody of your daughter even though you work seventy hours a week?" Attuma questioned.
"Yes."
W'Kabi's response was quick yet so smug in regard to talking about his daughter with his ex-wife.
"May I ask why when you spoke about how she has more time for your daughter anyway?"  Attuma lifted a brow, tapping his pen on his desk.
"I'm sorry. I wasn't fucking aware that the fifty thousand dollars check, that cleared into your account needed an explanation as well!" W'Kabi snapped.
Attuma stayed silent but merely looked at W'Kabi over his small black rectangle glasses, unphased by the insult. But part of him should have shut the folder right then and there. And advised him, the money that was processed will be given back to him promptly.  But instead, Attuma straightened himself leaning back into his black plush leather chair. W’Kabi’s attitude wasn’t new to him after all he worked with several clients that served the mob, but this level of spite was a little different.
"Mr. W'Kabi this is more in regard to the judge. He or she will ask you the same question so it is better to tell me now or at least tell me what you would like to tell the judge."
This seemed to cool W'Kabi's flaring temper, the brief scowl on his features now replaced with a smile. "My wife. Well, my ex-wife, she insisted on pushing for.  Wants to file for full custody and says that I do not have the time for our daughter."  He started to explain.
"I am filing for full custody because I want to. Because I get everything I want.  And because my fucking ex-wife needs to learn, it was a mistake for even divorcing me. So, until she recognizes that, my child will be staying with me.  And if she changes her attitude then maybe she can see her daughter.  "  The spite filled in W'Kabi's words made Attuma's skin crawl, his grip on his pen tightening slowly while he fought to be stoned face.
This wasn't his first time being selected to be a representative in a post-messy divorce and wouldn't be his last. But this pitiful excuse of a man beforehand chooses to hurt his ex-wife by using their own child.
"Understood, so the true answer to the judge would be that you are the better-fit parent in other words. Rather it is by being there more financially. But the judge will not hear any of this if you are not showing proof of being there for your daughter. But I am sure the judge can be convinced that you are now working a lighter schedule by the first hearing."
W'Kabi hummed in approval, "See and this is why you are the most recommended legal firm here in the city. If you get Namor and his gang out of lifetime sentences, this should be a breeze for you".
Attuma hated that W'Kabi was at least correct about that, with the right evidence or holes in cross-examinations he always got cases thrown out with ease.
------------------------
After an hour of debriefing with W'Kabi, Attuma was ready for a drink if he heard one more story about why his beautiful ex-wife didn't want him anymore. He was going to toss this man out on the street and his folder.  Any information about Okoye, left little room for him to argue in court about how she was a unfit mother.  W'Kabi knew that Okoye did everything for their daughter, she was the one that took her to school and practice. She was the one that their daughter preferred living with even as W'Kabi offered for her to stay with him.  The two didn't want anything to do with him, so this entire case was just sheer pettiness.
And yet somehow, W'Kabi expected Attuma to argue this down and have the judge favor him.  Attuma mentally called to Chacc, asking for patience for himself and for dealing with his fool of a client.
Once his contract of service started with W'Kabi, a notion was filed to get a peace officer to serve Okoye.  This settled the disgruntled man, after leaving his assistant's desk number and his personal line for Attuma to call him he left the office.
Attuma’s gaze was on the manila folder that still sat on his desk, his gut twisting in knots about his discussion with W'Kabi. Warm brown eyes flickered up once a soft knock was heard.  An elder dark-skinned woman stood in the doorway, dressed in a dark blue blazer with matching pants.  Her blouse of a cream color that matched her cardigan that was thrown over her shoulders.  Her grey coils were styled in a pixie cut.
"I don't mean to bother you and you know most of the time I do not pry. But you didn't just really take that man's case, did you?" she quietly asked. 
"I did, Mrs. Gia and hopefully you don't mind but I think we should close early today" Attuma sighed softly before moving to get to his feet.  Turning away to close the blinds in his office, he knew she was still watching him.
"Mr. Almehen-" Gia started to say, that familiar tone typical to that of what a mother takes before scolding their child.  A tone he knew well whenever he came into work sick, or just simply overworked himself.
Attuma moved to grab his briefcase afterward, still avoiding her gaze before he finally looked at her. And just as he knew from the tone, that light glare was in place.
"I could hear him in the front, that was how loud he was and the way he spoke about his wife." Gia gave a frown and shook her head. "Look, this should be an open and shut case no matter what Mr. W'kabi thinks. The sooner the cases start the better and then I won't have to see him anymore. Now please lock the doors for now until we’re both ready to leave, so no more inquiries for today.”
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lunathebee · 2 years
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THE MOON BOYS REACTING TO HORROR VIDEO GAMES
Warning: none, except cursed words and not 100% proofread 🤷🏻‍♀️
A/n: this is just a silly little idea that I think about so I just have to write it out!
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🍓 STEVEN GRANT 🍓
His motto would be "When danger is near, Steven Grant has no fear!" (I can already tell).
Read the instructions out loud and wants to make sure he is doing everything correctly.
Also the type to lean in closer to the screen because "it's too dark" and then gets jumpscared 💀
When he screams, he screams with all his body and might tbh.
I can see the scenario of you making a video with him playing horror games, posting it on the internet for fun and then it blows up because everyone is obsessed with him.
*pressed many random buttons out of fear*
*somehow defeat the monster and even get a new highscore*
"WAGWAN! HAHA YOU MESSED WITH THE WRONG PERSON MATE, YOU JUST GOT PLANTED"
I feel like people would want his merch and he would be like "mer- merch? Is that a Latin word?".
Overall, please don't tell him to play horror video games anymore. It's tempting, but he would probably pass out from having heart attacks.
Bonus: Steven would prefer Animal Crossing or puzzle games, you know those type of games like ball sort or move the block? Yea he probably have them in his phone. He is like Sherlock Holmes but in a quirky way
🍓 MARC SPECTOR 🍓
It took him a long time to figure out how to move the protagonist around cuz he refused to read the instructions.
"So what? You just go and kill the evil guy, done" Like no Marc there is a plot-
He isn't that scared like Steven. Marc wouldn't scream, but he would get started.
And say stuff like "Oh shit-"
He is also very competitive and will only quit until he wins. He saw the ghost so many times, to the point if he saw it again he would be like "Not you again, MOVE *shove the ghost away*"
He have dem quick thinking skills so I believe he would try speedrun
Have the most potential out of the moon boys to have the title "gamer bf" 😩😩 His angry looks is 👌👌
Overall I would give Marc a solid 8/10, he is open-minded when it comes to horror video games, people wait for his review whenever a new one got released
Bonus: Marc is an old-fashioned man. He never lets anyone touch his phone because it has Ninja Fruit and he doesn't want to be made fun of 💀💀 I can't blame Marc, he rarely ever uses his phone and just needs to find something entertaining enough for 5-10 min (because that's all the free time he got).
🍓 JAKE LOCKLEY 🍓
How you even convinced him to actually sit down and play the game is a mystery (and a miracle).
He thinks video games are for kids.
Therefore it's pointless to him.
Jake aren't afraid of jumpscare, jumpscare are afraid of him. He is very verbal when he gets started (Spanish mixed with English curses would fill the whole room)
Would definitely run head in to the serial killer on purpose just so he could tell you the game end and he gets to leave 💀 If not then he would just sit and refuse to move the character to go anywhere; it would just stand there.
I can't possibly think of anything else because he is not a fan of horror video games (or any video games).
Overall, not a good experience, do not tell him to sit down and play horror video games (or any games) cuz he will give you a death stare.
Bonus: If Jake ever took an interest in something, it would be racing games, but he need the real deal, like this ⬇️, he won't hold tiny phone.
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KHONSU?
Wait what are you doing here?.
You're not in the list.
"I want to try peasant's entertainment".
Khonsu: *look at screen and see the monster* "OH MY, WHAT HORRENDOUS CREATURE IS THAT? IT LOOKS EVEN UGLIER THAN YOU WORM".
You: Istg- 😃😃😃🔪🔪
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ashtonisvibing · 4 months
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"Take a fucking break already"
Fandom: Sanders Sides
Alternate Universe: None
Ship(s): Intrulogical
Character(s): Logan Sanders, Remus Sanders
Warning(s): Suggestive language
Originally Published: Nov. 23, 2023
Author's Notes:
fluffy intrulogical :}
pronouns check
logan - he/him
remus - he/him, it/its
Link:
if you liked what you read, consider giving this a reblog, please! it'll let more people see my work! and maybe even follow me on ao3 if you want to give me even more support!
Full Story:
Logan was certainly no stranger to overworking himself. He was pretty much the brains of the Mindscape being the embodiment of logic, he took up all of the work that made sense for him to do. Make schedules, plans, and lists, proof read the scripts that Roman wrote, store information that Thomas acquired. He even made sure that Thomas actually took proper care of himself in terms of hygiene and keeping the house clean. Although that self care was never extended to himself. He always had far too much to do, how could he possibly take a break? Everything would crumble if he didn't continue to work.
Right now was one such time where he was refusing to let himself stop working. He hadn't slept at all the night prior due to fixing up a script that Roman had brought him. This one had needed so much trimming and correcting that he decided to skip sleep all together. And now that he was planning this week's schedule he was just running on caffeine. He'd gone much longer without sleep before. His current record was four days straight before his body had made him pass out. Admittedly by that point Thomas was barely functioning without his logic working correctly, but it was better than his work not getting done. One hand was threaded through his dark brown and grey hair while the other held a blue marker, scribbling away on the whiteboard schedule sat on his desk, sometimes being switched out for an eraser to make a quick fix. Trying to find a balance between being productive and letting Thomas relax was a constant pain that he hated having to figure out but it was necessary, he knew that. He learned his lesson about leaning purely into productivity and how horrible that can be to one's mental health. As much as he hated trying to figure out the balance, he didn't want to make that mistake again.
Logan was about to reach over to his nearly empty mug when a pair of arms wrapped around his shoulders, a chin resting itself on the top of his head right after. He immediately knew who the arms and chin belonged to. There was only one person that had the figurative guts - although sometimes that was literally false - to come in and disturb the logical side in his work. "What is it, Remus?" He sighed, glancing back at the side behind him.
Remus let out a whine as he gently pulled the other back from his slouching position, his bottom lip sticking out in a pout. "Berryyyyyyy, I'm lonelyyyyyyyy! You didn't crawl to my bed last night, I had to sleep all alone without my favorite scientist to cuddle."
"I'm sure you were fine." Lo let out a small hum as he tried to go back to work. Curse the duke for his strength though, he made sure the nerd couldn't move. "Remus, I need to get back to work. I'm sure Thomas is waiting on this schedule and I can't exactly be late with it." Remus simply shook his head and kept his grip firm. "Remus." Logan's tone became stern, one that was really only used in bed when Re was being especially bratty. It usually did the trick and got the other to listen, but he shook his head again.
"Not gonna work this time, Lo. I'm gonna make you stop working, and no amount of lowering that buttery smooth voice of yours is gonna work." Re snickered a little as he left a kiss on Logan's cheek, who simply gave a roll of his eyes. "Aww, c'mon berry, don't be like that." Suddenly he poofed himself underneath the desk, right between the other's legs, hands resting on Lo's thighs. "I can help you get nice and relaxed~ Wouldn't be the first time I sucked you off from under the desk~" His hands gently rubbed at the nerd's inner thighs.
While Logan's breath did hitch slightly at the thigh rubbing, it didn't break his composure enough. He pulled Remus' hands away and gently held them in his own as he looked down at the other with a genuinely serious expression. "Remus, not now, please." Despite his nature making it seem otherwise, the duke knew limits and boundaries. And he knew that this was a boundary being put up. Logan was clearly not in the mood for anything sexual. It seemed that he had to switch tactics. So, pulling his hands away from the other's to give himself some leverage, he hoisted himself up from under the desk and into his boyfriend's lap. His arms gently wrapped themselves around Lo's neck as his own vibrant green eyes looked into the midnight blue's of the other.
"Alright, fine, nothing sexual, got that. But you gotta take a break." One of the duke's hands reached up and pulled Logan's hair out of its ponytail so he could gently play with it, earning a soft and content sigh. "You're always working yourself nearly dead. Yeah yeah, we're not real, it's only been a night, blah blah blah. What about Thomas then? Think he does any good when you're all exhausted? He can barely function when you've overworked yourself. Seriously, should've watched him try to make some toast with slices of paper. That wasn't even my idea, he did that all on his own! Would've burned the place down if Virg didn't jump in all panicked." He paused his talking to leave a small kiss on his boyfriend's lips. "Yeah, it's been one night of no sleep. But I like to think I know you well enough. One night's gonna really quickly turn into two or even three if I don't stop you now. So can we just cuddle for a while? Please?"
And there were those puppy eyes that Logan could never resist. He knew exactly what Remus' tactic was. Get him all nice and relaxed, pull the puppy eyes, and he'd be unable to keep working. It had happened a couple of times before. And it would happen once again. Despite his workaholic brain telling him that he needed to keep working since Thomas was waiting for the schedule, his own logic kicked in. He needed a break. And what better way than cuddling his boyfriend? So Logan let out a sigh as he leaned forward and gently leaned against the other, arms wrapping around Re's waist. "Alright, fine.. That sounds quite nice right now.." He chuckled a little.
Remus' lip turned into a soft smile as he left a kiss on his boyfriend's head. "Alright, let's g- Woah-!" His words were caught off as he was suddenly lifted up into the air and carried off to the bed. He sometimes forgot how strong Logan can actually be. His yelp as the pair were suddenly flopped onto the mattress was mixed with the nerd's laughter, a yelp that soon turned into laughter as well. The pair laid there and laughed together until there was barely any breath left in their lungs, in which they just laid in shared silence as they tried to catch their breath once again. Lo's head gently rested against his boyfriend's chest once again as they both held each other tightly.
They did little else for the rest of the day. Sure they ate when needed, but that was done in bed. Logan certainly needed a break from his work, and there was truly nothing better than a day of simply doing nothing but cuddling and talking about anything and everything with Remus. The duke did the majority of the talking like the chatter box he was. But Lo was more than fine with that. He always loved hearing his boyfriend's voice. While he knew he'd eventually have to return to his work, he would be happy to lay here listening to Remus speak for the rest of time.
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