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maes-flowers · 2 years

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We’ll be okay [2] (Marc Spector/slight!Steven Grant x Reader)

Summary: After Marc Spector leaves your life to focus on his own goals, what happens when he comes back into you life at full speed after years of being apart?

Word Count: 1,845

Warnings: none

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It had been three months since you last saw Marc and Steven at his mother's shiva, but you still couldn't get Marc out of your mind. It had been easy before this, acting like he was a ghost in your life that only appeared in dreams. It was always easier to act like he didn't exist in your life until he would text or ask on a rare occasion for a video call that only got rarer after Marc told you he got discharged from the army and was going to do work for hire for a old coworker. This mindset was what allowed you to finally leave Chicago and get your degree before finally getting your dual doctorate in comparative mythology and archeology. A passion that you fueled by working at universities and museums to earn enough money to work on being able to return sacred artifacts from the hands of greedy people.

It was the only thing you felt gave you joy in life, you avoided relationships and friendships as much as you could to avoid the eventual hurt it would bring you. So you threw yourself into your work, often focusing with no issue allowing you to push yourself into a male-dominated field. But now it's getting harder and harder each day to do anything when Marc hasn't bothered to send you a sign he was even alive.

You blinked tiredly at your laptop screen on your desk, the blinking cursor for a half-written article for a university newspaper staring back at you. Groaning you closed the laptop and stood up, popping your neck as you walked into your tiny kitchen pulling open the fridge and grabbing a beer, and tossing the cap haphazardly into the trash.

You looked at your phone at your desk before you huffed out an annoyed breath and grabbed it before scrolling to Marc's contact and hitting the dial.

“Why do I even bother it's not like he’ll pick u-” your voice halted when you heard breathing on the other side.

“Yeah?” A soft voice called out, and you laughed in disbelief.

“Oh my god, you're alive.”

“Yeah, alright.” Marc's voice said and your relieved smile dropped.

“That's it?” you exclaimed, annoyance coating your voice. “I have been calling and texting you for months! You could've given me any sign you were okay and you just left me in the dust worried you were dead in a ditch.”

“I'm sorry,” Marc said. “I just found this phone in my flat and I'm just trying to figure out whose it is.”

“What's with the accent?” you scoffed. “What's wrong with you?”

“Sorry, who do you think I am?” he asked, you wish you could reach through the phone and punch him.

“What do you mean who? Marc, you're stressing me out.”

“Who is this? Why did you call me Marc?” he replied.

You pulled the phone away from your ear before you hit the end call button, tossed your phone on your couch, and ran an irritated hand through your hair.

“Stupid prick,” You mumble, you wanted to be mad but mostly you were relieved he was okay. “Who does he think he's fooling with that accent too? it barely sounds British…” you trailed off in thought before puzzle pieces clicked into place. You cursed before scrambling for your phone and dialing the number again but no one answered.

You should've known it was Steven, you felt like an idiot for not realizing as soon as you heard that accent. You looked at the number and then at your laptop, before looking back at the phone again.

“This is a bad idea.” you sighed.

~~~~~

The London traffic was more horrific than you could imagine, having to bite back insults and angry shouts at drivers as you maneuvered through traffic on your Vespa keeping your eye and the blinking dot on your phone telling you Marc's Location, the tracker leading you closer and closer to a large storage unit business. You were almost to the location before you heard shouting and then a man with a duffle bag sprinting out on the street until his foot got caught on a lip on the concrete and fell right in front of you. You yelped before yanking the handles to avoid the man on the road who clutched his head. When you finally stopped and looked down to see who you almost ran over all the air left in your lungs.

“Marc?” you breathed out, he looked up at you in confusion before he sat up.

“Y/N?” he said, the British accent clear as you reached down and grabbed his hand, and pulled him up.

“Steven, get on the scooter.” You demanded moving forward a little as he nodded frantically.

“Yeah, alright,” he said before getting behind you and wrapping his arms around your waist. You swallowed thickly, trying to ignore how your heart started to beat a little faster at the feeling of his chest pressed against your back.

“You know my name, do we know each other?” Steven asked. You kept your eyes trained ahead as you thought, he didn't remember what happened at the shiva a few months ago and you decided to not bring up that day.

“Kind of,” you admitted. “Although I know more about you than you know about me.”

“How did you find me?”

“I tracked your phone, if I'm being honest this was kind of an impulsive thing but I'm here now. Do you think you can take me to your apartment?” you asked and Steven shuffled his hands on your waist.

“Yeah, I guess.”

It didn't take too long after that to arrive at Steven's place, leading you through long dark narrow hallways and an elevator before he opened the door to his apartment. You walked around eyeing the cluttered studio full of books and paper everywhere. Your eye caught a rather large fish tank with a single fish in it, you tapped the glass lightly and smiled when it began to swim around. You then saw the queen-sized bed surrounded by sand and an ankle restraint on one of the posts and you froze.

“Are you living with someone?” you asked, scared to hear the answer but all Steven did was shake his head.

“No, this is my mum's flat.”

You were taken aback by those words, did he truly not remember anything from the shiva? Does he even know his mom is dead? You ignored that thought as you went to the bookshelf and pulled a book out and saw your favorite book of poems.

“Nayyirah Waheed?” you asked. Marc hated poetry, to the point you would do dramatic readings to him to make him mad when you were younger.

“keep speaking the years from their hiding places. keep coughing up smoke from all the deaths you have died. keep the rage tender. because the soft season will come.” Steven spoke and you ignored the feeling of your heart clenching at the words of your favorite poem.

“She's my favorite poet.” Steven continued and you chuckled.

“No, she's my favorite.” you smiled slightly.

You turned back to Steven and eyed the bag on the table and walked over to it. You recognized the blue bag that Marc was holding all of those years ago. You walked over to the bag and opened it finding foreign money, his passports, guns, and a small golden object. You grabbed the small object and inspected it. The hieroglyphs and the shape of a scarab made you pause, you held up the object to Steven.

“The scarab that's allegedly pointing to Ammits ushabti?” The myths you study come at you in full force. Why did Marc have this piece of history in his place and why was it even taken from its original home.

“Marc, you have kept so much from me and I've never complained but now after months of no contact, you have stolen money, guns, and ancient artifacts? You couldn't mask the hurt on your face at this point.

“No, no, no I promise I-” Steven stuttered but you interrupted him.

“Is this why you stopped talking to me? So you can do this one-man show for the rest of your life?”

“Take whatever you want! I don't want this I promise.” Steven begged. “Have it.”

You rubbed your eyes to make sure frustrated tears didn't fall, putting down the scarab on the table you let your arms fall.

“I am not Marc Spector.” Steven said, “I'm Steven Grant. I work at-well, used to work in a gift shop and this Marc guy sounds like an absolute twit.” he glanced at the mirror behind you for a moment. “I think I'm in real danger and I think you might be the only person who can help me.”

You look at Stevens's glassy eyes and nod before you step closer to him.

“So you have no idea about what you've been doing? Or even who I am?” you asked.

Steven shook his head.

“I wish I could.” You were about to speak before a loud knock on the door startled you and Steven.

“Steven Grant, can we have a word?” a voice on the other side of the door said.

“Oh god,” Steven whispered. “They've come for me.”

“Why?” you asked.

“I vandalized the toilet,” he said. He looked scared but went to the door. While you knew this couldn't be about a toilet so you stepped further back into the apartment and looked at the scarab.

“I could be about that though,” you said to yourself, grabbing the artifact from the table and going to the window climbing out of it, you managed to wiggle yourself in a wedge so no one could see you if they looked out the window. You couldn't hear much of what they were saying inside besides muffled words and the sound of handcuffs before the door slammed shut a few minutes later. You released the breath you were holding before climbing back inside. You slipped the scarab into the pocket of your jeans as you went back to the duffle bag on the table.

Your hand dug through the bag before landing on a small piece of paper, you noticed a date on the back.

“May 19th” you mumbled before you flipped it over and saw a photo of you and Marc, both wearing blue caps and gowns as Marc was holding your bridal style in his arms. Grins were plastered on both of your faces as you had your arms around Marc's neck. The picture was faded terribly and had fold creases indented as if it was carried around in a wallet or pocket for a long time. You closed your eyes and sighed sadly, putting the picture in your wallet and your hand hovered over a gun for a moment. If you were going after Marc then it's probably gonna be dangerous.

“Damnit, Marc Spector.” you mumbled as you grabbed the gun and ammo and walked out the door already tracking Stevens's phone.

Taglist:

@ayocee

#moonkight #moonknight fanfiction #moonknight fic #steven grant x reader smut #steven grant x y/n #steven grant x reader #steven grant #plus size!reader #marvel #marc spector x y/n #marc spector imagine #marc spector #marc spector fanfic #marc spector x reader #steven grant imagine #oscar issac x reader #oscar issac #mcu

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bitacrytic · 2 years

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Overheat [3]

Read Previous Chapter Here

(previously titled, “my omega for yours”)

---

"What are you doing?" Kinn asked.

"I'm trying to be sexy."

---

CHAPTER THREE

---

Just as Kinn stepped out of the shower, he heard a knock at his door. Wrapping a bathrobe around his body, he toweled his hair as he went to the door.

"Someone smells nice," Porsche said, leaning against the door with his hips angled to the frame and one hand in his hair.

Kinn scoffed.

"What are you doing?" Kinn asked, walking back into the room as Porsche followed him in.

"I'm trying to be sexy."

Kinn shook his head as he turned on the TV for Porsche and went to investigate his box. He hadn’t had time to unpack the whole day, so he just rustled through his things and took out a pair of navy blue pajamas.

"Where's Vegas?" Porsche asked. "I need a place to sleep and Toss has three roommates."

"Vegas is out."

"Where?"

Kinn couldn't answer that. Vegas was doing other stuff. Family stuff. Stuff that Kinn couldn't work into polite conversation. He had to be away. Which was why Kinn was shocked that Vegas had offered to stay in camp.

Kinn could afford to. He had Tankhun. He had Kim. If Kinn was missing in action for six months, his family wouldn't crumble under the pressure.

Vegas, on the other hand, was the only adult son. He had to do everything and he would rather put a bullet in his own eye than let their dad send Macau out on one of those jobs.

"Fine. Keep your dangerous family secrets."

“What happened to your own room?”

“My roommate is possessed.”

“What?” Kinn asked. “Pete is an angel.”

Porsche collapsed into the desk chair in the corner, facing away from Kinn so Kinn could get dressed.

"And I would never neglect you like this if I was your manager."

Kinn said it, jokingly. Well, half jokingly. It wasn’t a secret that Kinn wanted Porsche under his label. Vegas knew it. Porsche knew it. Every media outlet had covered a story on it, at some point. Because Kinn knew he’d be better suited for Porsche’s activism. They believed in the same things and there were so many organizations that would benefit from having Porsche appear at their functions. Vegas didn’t allow that. Mostly because he often had conflicting interests with said organizations, considering half the things Vegas had his hand in.

For some reason, Porsche didn’t fight Vegas on it. Causes that Kinn would have assumed Porsche would stand strong on, he usually caved to Vegas without question. It baffled Kinn and sometimes, it felt like Vegas was stifling him, just a little.

But they were passed that now. Porsche had shut Kinn down over and over and over again, refusing to explain why he wouldn’t work for Kinn. Why their relationship could never be professional.

Now, it was just a joke for Kinn to say this. At least, he always played it off as a joke. Because if Porsche chose to leave Vegas, Kinn would take him in a moment.

"Bullshit," Porsche said.

"I'd be better than Vegas."

"No, you wouldn't."

"Say what you want, but you wouldn't have had that two-year hiatus with me."

Porsche turned to him.

"What if I needed a hiatus? You don't know what happened."

"Tell me, then."

Kinn pulled on his trousers, then tossed the bathrobe away as he grabbed the top of the pajamas.

Porsche frowned at him, looking like he was seriously contemplating opening up about it. The media had speculated a billion reasons why Porsche was missing. It started out as a two-week break. But two weeks had become a month, and then half a year and before anyone knew it, Porsche was refusing every meeting there was, cutting off all ties to the outside world.

At some point, people thought he'd died and that Vegas' company was keeping the lights on by lying.

Porsche bit his lip and turned away from Kinn.

"Who's this?" he asked, reading what was on Kinn's laptop.

Of course, Kinn thought. For someone so chatty, Porsche sure did keep a lot of secrets.

"6ft1, brown hair, slender, 26-year-old omega male," Porsche read from the screen. Then he cringed and pulled away. "Is this an escort service, Kinn?"

Kinn went to him and shut the laptop.

"Don't be nosy."

"Are you hiring or auditioning prostitutes, Kinn?"

"It's not an escort service."

"No judgment."

"It's a marriage proposal."

The blood in Porsche's face drained as soon as he heard what Kinn said. He blinked. Several times, as if trying to get his head on straight. Then he smiled the fakest smile Kinn had ever seen.

"Your father did this, I presume."

"He thinks it's time," Kinn said, shutting his box and zipping it up.

"Wow," Porsche said, looking down at his hands. "A proposal." He shrugged, smiling again. "So... final."

"I'm not getting any younger."

"Hey like I said, no judgment."

Kinn sat on the bed, facing Porsche.

"You look like you have a lot to say."

"It's none of my business."

"Porsche."

"You're into omegas. I get it."

"Don’t belittle this. It's not just that. His father is a council member for a bunch of agricultural boards in very strategic parts of the country. Papa wants Kim to step into foods so..."

"So you're selling yourself for a seat at yet another table."

"Don't say it like that."

"No judgment."

"It does feel like you're judging me."

"You know what?" Porsche asked, standing up. "I shouldn't disturb you."

"Hey, wait," Kinn called, grabbing his arm as he went by and pulling him till he was standing between Kinn's legs. "What the fuck is this? Since when does Porsche not speak his mind?"

But Porsche turned away from him, one hand wiping at his eyes. Kinn was so confused. He trapped one of Porsche's legs with his as he grabbed his other hand and tried to turn him around.

"Stop!" Porsche whined.

But Kinn wouldn't let up. When he finally managed to handle Porsche into facing him, Porsche stood there, head up to the ceiling in petulance. Kinn laughed in triumph, until he noticed the stream of tears going down Porsche's face.

"Porsche," he said softly, letting go and reaching up to pull Porsche's face to look down at him.

"Don't," Porsche pleaded.

"Why are you crying?"

"Do you really not know?" Porsche asked back.

"Know what?"

Dazed, Kinn inhaled, just a second before Porsche's lips grazed against his own. He couldn't believe it, because Porsche was kissing him. Not that Kinn had ever fantasized about it, but his lips were more luscious than Kinn thought. Licking into Kinn's stunned mouth, Porsche explored him, desperately.

And Kinn would have let him. Because it felt good. Kinn would have allowed it.

But this was Porsche. His childhood friend. Porsche, a beta. Not that there was anything wrong with betas. But they tended not to have the... uh... requirements that Kinn longed for in a partner. Yeah, he could make do, but he didn't want to have to "make do" with someone as precious as Porsche. Porsche wasn't a stranger. The last thing Kinn wanted to do was lead him on.

Especially with Kinn's fiancé on the way.

So, Kinn pushed him away.

"Porsche-"

Porsche placed a finger over Kinn's lips.

"I know I'm not what you want."

"Porsche-"

"I'll never be an omega."

"Porsche-"

"But can I have just this one night?" Porsche asked, caressing Kinn's lips. "One night and I swear," he lowered his head again. "We will never have to talk about it. I swear." He kissed Kinn. "Please." He kissed Kinn again. "I'll do anything you want, I'll be..." he said, pushing Kinn’s top off his shoulders. "I'll be anything you want."

"This is crazy," Kinn said, looking into Porsche's eyes.

Because, where the fuck had this all come from? He would admit that Porsche was an awkward flirt, with Kinn. It happened all the time. But Porsche was also very, very generous with his loud, awkward displays of affection. With Kinn. With everybody.

Kinn couldn’t even get a moment of Porsche’s time because he was a weird social butterfly who fell in love with everybody he met. But it never led to anything. Because everybody knew that Porsche’s affections hardly ever led to anything sexual. Porsche was just Porsche.

"Are you playing with me?"

Instead of responding, Porsche kissed him again, pushing Kinn down to the bed as he climbed on top of him.

"One time," he begged, his breath washing over Kinn. "That's all I ask."

This time, he didn't kiss Kinn. He just waited, suspended above Kinn, his eyes wet with tears as they breathed in each other’s exhaled breaths.

On the one hand, this could lead to catastrophe. If Vegas found out…

But then again, Porsche was an adult. He was his own person. He’d made the decision to come to Kinn’s room. Kinn hadn’t pursued him. Really, what could be the harm? Porsche wasn't offering more than Kinn asked of any of his other partners. Just this once. It wouldn't complicate things if everything went back to normal in the morning.

No one would have to know. Not Kinn’s father. Not Porsche’s parents. Definitely not Vegas.

Besides, now that Kinn's dick was aware that this was an option, it had started to stir a bit. Because Porsche was gorgeous. And even though he’d been off the table all their lives, he was now suddenly smack, dab at the center of it: a tantalizing meal calling to Kinn by all three names. What harm, really?

None, at all.

This time, when their lips met, it was because Kinn had leaned up to press his to Porsche's.

#Kinn's POV #abo dynamics #kinnporsche #vegaspete #actor au

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purplesurveys · 4 months

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1787

Do you think you could handle a job in the medical field? Why or why not? I considered it once mainly because learning about the human body was always fascinating to me, but I realized that was all there is it - I just like reading about it. Emergency situations are 100% going to send me into a panic, and I'm not so much a fan of the hours either.

Would you rather edit photos on your phone or computer? Phone because there are loads of apps that can hand-hold your way through editing. I tried Photoshop on my laptop for a few months as a teenager but we just don't make a good pair.

What is one electronic device you own that you have not used in a long time? The very first iPad. It's actually my mom's, but my siblings and I ended up using it the most. I brought it back to life briefly in college when my old phone died on me and we couldn't really allot some money yet to get me a new one.

What is one thing you are currently behind on? Cleaning out my bag.

When was the last time you wore a dress or a skirt? I wore my flowy white dress for work a few weeks ago.

When was the last time you had a migraine? Same, it was a couple of weeks ago I think. I was coming back to work after a long weekend and I guess my head hadn't fully adjusted yet that day. I was fully nauseated by like 2 PM and had to power through for the rest of the afternoon.

What is your favorite thing about Instagram? The reels, which is also how I know I'm getting older what with the younger crowds preferring Tiktok LOL. I like how the interface for reels is able to account for all my interests, so I can get a wrestling video first then have it be a BTS video next. With Tiktok you only get one feed and it's always a mix of your algorithm plus whatever Tiktok wants to show you, so I always find myself ending up scrolling through and ignoring everything and just closing the app altogether.

When was the last time you wore a flower in your hair? Maybe in like 2016 when flower crowns were in?

List three words to describe yourself using the first letter of your middle name. Inquisitive, impatient, (sometimes) indifferent.

Have you ever had a friend with the same middle name as you? No, not with a friend; but in general I've noticed it's a lot more common as a first name. I don't get to meet a lot of people with Isabelle as a second name, and especially with the same spelling.

What color was your locker in high school? It was blue for a couple of years but I also remember having gray and white ones.

How many framed pictures of you and a family member or friend can you see from where you're sitting right now? No, I don't keep any in my room.

What is the first thing you think of when you see the rainbow emoji? 🌈? Either simply the rainbow, or the LGBT flag.

When was the last time you got a new pair of glasses? My birthday. I needed to get a new prescription anyway but because it was my birthday I went for the eyeglasses that would be double the price because it was an official BT21 collaboration/endorsement, lol.

Do you prefer to play chess or checkers? Checkers. I have a vague understanding of the game. I never learned how to play chess, no matter how often I've asked my cousins to help me.

What color was your first cell phone? I think the phone itself was gray, but it came in a red Winnie the Pooh case from the moment I received it s I've always known it to be red.

Do you remember when smartphones were a new thing that had just come out, and only rich people had them? Kind of. I was around 9 when the first iPhone came out and didn't care for gadgets for the most part, until I saw a schoolmate whip out hers and people were fawning over it and that's when I realized it was apparently a big deal. I found it bizarre because it wasn't even just an everyday rich kid thing, it was a completely filthy filthy 1% rich spoiled kid thing since even after months, it was still only a handful of people who had it at the time.

If you could choose to have been born in a different month, which month would you choose to be born in, and why? I'm perfectly fine with April. Based from the people I know, it's a relatively uncommon month for birthdays, and I like that.

….and which month were you actually born in? I was born in April.

Does your first name rhyme with anything? (If so, what?) Noggin? Hahaha.

Have you ever met anyone who didn't like the color blue? Not that I know of.

What color was the last pill you took? A lighter shade of lime.

How often do you use emojis? Pretty often. I tend to use them when I'm being super expressive or emotional in a post or message.

When was the last time you took a selfie? Friday.

How many E's are in your full name? Three.

What is the first letter of the name of the street you grew up on? Nope.

Which decade were you born in? Towards the end of the 90s. Late enough that I have virtually no memories of the decade.

Who was the last friend of yours to have a birthday? It was Jaynie's birthday yesterday.

Are you looking forward to your next birthday? Why or why not? 🥳 I'm always excited for and make a big deal out of my birthdays. Idk, it's the one time in the year I get to have things my way so I like celebrating it. That, and because growing up my birthdays were for the most part just an ordinary day and I'm desperately trying to make up for those years.

When was the last time you blew up a balloon? October 2022. I bought balloons for when I went all out for my watch party of BTS' Busan concert and had friends over.

If you had to go an entire week without using any technology, what do you think you would spend most of your time doing instead? Go back to painting and coloring and trying new, farther-away restaurants. Restyling my room doesn't sound like a bad idea too.

What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word "mast"? Boats.

Where is the weirdest place you've ever slept? At the Metrowalk parking lot.

Would you rather travel to Asia or France? There are still so many places in Asia I'd love to visit.

What is something new that you've learned recently, that you didn't know before? My dad taught me how to start my car if it refuses to.

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miastideclock · 2 years

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stray kids reaction; realizing they love you

wasn't requested, i just wanted to do it lol UNEDITED! warnings; mentions of alcohol, and a few curse words peppered in

bang chan

int. studio. night.

1:32am, friday.

chan found himself staring at the screen in front of him, the blinking line at the end of his sentence, taunting him.

it was official. bang chan was in a slump

he most wanted to just shut his laptop and go home, but he knew himself too well, and if he did that - he would never be able to fall asleep.

he removed his headphones and fell back in his chair, taking a breather, but only for a second,

cause suddenly you! were in his doorway.

"bubba, what are you doing here?"

big, big smile on his face.

you hand him a cup of something hot, having one for yourself as well.

"i wanted to give you a bit of a booster!" you grinned and cheers'ed with him, knocking your cups together gently before both taking a sip of your respected drinks.

he tanked you and kissed you on the cheek, reminding you that he had a key, so you could lock up when you returned home to bed.

"oh, i'm not leaving until you do!" you almost scoffed, removing your jacket and shoes before dragging an extra chair over to him, getting comfortable.

"you don't have to! it will get late before i'm finished up here." he admitted, but you weren't having it.

"it's already one thirty, it honestly doesn't matter anymore how late it gets. anyways, maybe it will go faster if we work together? now, show me what we're working with here."

a warm feeling shot out from chan's stomach and through his body.

while you kept your eyes locked on his screen, he fixed his eyes on you, taking you in.

he couldn't help but let a smile ghost over his lips when he looked at you.

you were so supporting of him and his job, he had no idea what he would do if he were to lose you.

he thought back to a conversation he had had with his mother a few months ago about relationships and love, where she had let him know that if he knew, he knew. and now? he knew.

he loved you,

from the bottom of his feet to the top of his head.

"chan? are you okay?"

your words broke him out of his trance, and he nodded profusely, turning to look at the screen as well, but he couldn't focus for the life of him.

he loved you.

lee know

int. bedroom. night.

11:57pm, sunday.

after scrolling one last time for the night, minho plugged his charger into his phone, then laid it on his nightstand.

he waited to turn off the lights until you came to bed, which wouldn't be in too long as you were currently brushing your teeth in the bathroom.

"i was just asked to stay an hour late at work tomorrow, and i said yes, just so you know." you spoke as you came into the room.

minho nodded along, signalling that he caught it, even though he was one long blink away from falling asleep.

"i won't be home until tuesday morning anyways." minho reminded you, making you mentally slap yourself.

"i knew that, sorry, i forgot." you chuckled and took off your jewelry and placed it on the dresser.

"don't worry, bad memory comes with old age." he jabbed at you, making you snap your head towards him with a look of laughing disbelief.

judging by the smug look on minho's face, you could see he was well satisfied with his joke.

"you're older than me you loser!" you cried as you ran towards the bed and attacked him, unable to conceal your giggles.

you came at him flying, instantly tickling him, sending him into a fit of spasms and scream-laughing.

if he wasn't awake earlier, he sure was now.

it took him a second before he retaliated, quickly gaining the upper hand, it now being him tickling you.

you gasped for air, holding onto his shoulders to contain yourself, but it was hard.

but when readjusting your grip on his shoulders while squirming and laughing, you noticed something

"stop, stop!" you called out, minho instantly doing so as he noticed the urgency in your voice

he let go of you, and you immediately bounced to your feet, standing behind him on the floor.

you pressed gently against the muscles in his shoulders and almost gasped.

"dude, you're all knotted up! you have a long day tomorrow, get on your stomach, i'll try to get some of these out."

he did as he was told and took off his shirt and flopped onto the bed.

you got grabbed some lotion from the bathroom then got onto the bed too, positioning yourself so that you were sitting on his lower back.

it wasn't a professional massage, but you did your best.

he groaned as you rubbed the tense muscles, and you apologized everytime.

every now and again you would bend down and kiss his neck or cheek, apologizing but letting him know it would hurt now, but feel so much better after.

while laying there, getting kneaded like a damn bread-dough, minho let his mind wander.

how lucky he was to have you,

someone who took care of him,

even when he didn't take care of himself.

he loved that.

he loved you.

changbin

int. livingroom. day/evening.

5:43pm, tuesday.

the sound of keys jingling and the lock on the door opening, caught your attention.

being in a playful mood, you sprinted to the door and got your face as close to it as possible.

the following events played out exactly how you had planned it.

changbin opened the door, living in a fool's paradise, he saw your face and got startled and jumped as he screamed.

you, of course couldn't contain your laughter, but moved so he could enter the hallway.

"you're so stupid." changbin laughed along as he closed the door behind him.

he removed his coat and shoes before he entered the living room, looking at you who were still doubled over in uncontrollable laughing.

"you good?" he chuckled as you finally calmed down, wiping a tear from the corner of your eye. you nodded and took a few laughing breaths in an attempt to fully stop.

you soon joined him in the living room and you sat down on the couch.

"what are we thinking for dinner?" he asked, but you were already a step ahead of him.

"the delivery guy is on his way. i ordered your favorite from that restaurant next to felix's place. hope that's okay." you smiled and kissed his clothed shoulder.

changbin lit up, he loved that place.

"thank you, darling." he replied and kissed the top of your head and gently squeezed your thigh before getting up to get a glass of water from the kitchen.

you grabbed your phone and went through your socials in the meantime, listening to your boyfriend hum along to a random song, then to the sound of the water dispenser on the fridge.

changbin made his way back, but stopped and leaned against the doorway between the kitchen and the living room.

after taking a sip, it looked like something dawned upon him.

"wait, the place next to felix's?" he asked.

you nodded and hummed a reply, looking up from your phone for a second to give him a smile.

"but you hate that place." he announced.

"so? you love that place." you countered, not really seeing what he was coming at.

he smiled and walked over to the couch, placing his drink on the coffee table at your feet. he then sat down and dragged you onto his chest and held around you.

"thank you, baby."

you didn't reply, but you did put your phone down and rested against his chest, closing your eyes, just for a second.

he kissed the top of your head, then used yours to rest his head on.

he wanted to freeze time and stay like this forever, a mundane tuesday. nothing crazy, nothing exciting, but somehow, so special.

it was moments like those he loved.

he loved those moments with you.

changbin loved you.

hyunjin

int. night club. night

12:15am, saturday.

to say the music was loud would be an understatement.

"what can i get you?" the bartender half yelled over the music. you quickly ordered two simple drinks to make it as easy as possible for him, and paid.

not too long after, he gave you the drinks and you headed back to your table, handing one of the drinks to your boyfriend and sat down.

"thank you sweetheart." he spoke directly into your ear so he wouldn't have to yell.

"anything for my prince." you grinned back, taking a sip of the drink. the alcohol didn't taste very good, but then again, it rarely ever did at night clubs.

hyunjin had been invited out by the boys, so after hearing that you would love to tag along, he accepted the invite.

the lights were flashing, and the atmosphere was intense.

the night started how it usually did, by having a few drinks at a table, before you would eventually getting more into the scene.

mid sip on your second or third drink, hyunjin tried to say something to you that you couldn't quite catch.

he saw your confusion and tried again, but the music was just too loud.

he then decided to just grab your hand and lead you to the dancefloor, as he had been trying to ask you to dance.

you quickly followed and nodded eagerly, having been waiting for people to get intoxicated enough to want to dance.

the music was at a high tempo as the dj matched the energy of the dancers.

you and hyunjin had started at the edge of the crowd, but somehow you had managed to get danced into the midst of it. not that you really minded.

you felt the beat of the music in your feet, both because the bass was so intense the floor was shaking, but also because you loved to dance.

hyunjin watched you as you lost yourself to the music, completely ignoring the other dancers who were jumping around the two of you.

the music was suddenly inaudible to him.

it felt for a second, like you were the only people in the world.

hyunjin was completely out of it, until you grabbed his hands, then it was like someone hit play. suddenly he could hear the music again, and the world was no longer in slow motion.

"c'mon! dance with me!" you smiled, and so he did.

he spun you around, and wrapped his arms around you, moving in the sync with the beat.

it was the most fun he could remember ever having, dancing in a club with the love of his life.

love of his life.

it was true,

he loved you.

han

int. living room. day.

3:46pm, wednesday.

no noise, no sound, only quiet.

for a second it way maybe considered, too quiet.

jisung was currently on his computer, scrolling through his schedule the next couple of weeks, trying his best to plan his days and time off and whatnot.

by now he had just assumed you were taking a nap in the bedroom, considering how quiet it had been the last hour.

he wasn't surprised, you had been working a lot recently.

it was a well-deserved nap.

it didn't seem to last a whole lot longer though, cause a few minutes later, you came tumbling into the living-room, very obviously just woken up.

your clothes were wrinkled, you had a few red lines on your face form the pillow-seam, and your hair was.. questionable.

"good morning, dear-" jisung started to mock you after looking up from his computer, but he was soon cut off by you.

"what do you call a magic god?"

"what are you talking about?"

"answer the question, what do you call a magic dog?"

jisung could see from a mile away that you were gonna reveal the answer and than laugh so hard you would damn near throw up.

he had seen you like this before, and he loved it.

"i don't know, what do you call a magic dog?" "a-" you didn't even get to say the joke before you cracked and burst out laughing.

you used the armrest on the sofa to support yourself as you struggled breathing.

"a labracadabrador!"

jisung found himself first chuckling at you, then laughing loudly with you as the joke was actually funny. then he too had to put down his laptop as he laughed so hard he cried, all because it was so fun to watch you absolutely lose it.

in the end it was just the two of you losing your goddamn minds at a magic dog.

and he wouldn't change anything for the world.

he loved you.

felix

int. dorms. day.

6:49pm, sunday.

"anyone want anything from the store? me and jeongin are heading out now." chan spoke loudly so everyone would hear him.

"banana milk? i'll pay you when you get back!" you asked, and he nodded, telling you to just text either him or jeongin if you could think of anything else.

"sir, yes sir!" you replied.

the two boys weren't even out the door before felix called for chan from the living room.

"channie-hyung! i need help." felix yelled, making chan give you a look. you nodded and hurried him out the door along with the younger half of the duo.

"sorry, buttercup! he just left out the door."

you already knew what he was asking about. felix had been struggling with a video game the past hour or so, and begged chan to help him.

he had helped a few times, but the leader was tired and needed a break.

"oh, i'll get help when he comes back then." felix settled and paused the game.

"i mean, if you teach me, maybe i can help?" you suggested, sitting down next to him.

he gave you a peculiar look, a mix of confusion and happiness.

"you'd do that?"

"sure! i mean you play quite often, it would be nice to do something together." you smiled and grabbed a controller.

then started the lessons.

felix started an earlier, much easier level so it would be easier to get you into it. x to jump, triangle to crawl and whatnot.

you actually got into it quite quick, impressing both yourself and felix.

after learning the basics, felix reckoned you would be able to help him with the level he was struggling with.

and much to your surprise, you actually could.

"oh hell yes!" you exclaimed once the green letters revealing you had won flashed on the screen.

felix attacked you in a hug and peppered your face in kisses.

he was so happy, not only because you had won, but because you were happy.

it gave him a special type of joy to see you excited over one of his hobbies.

and he loved it.

and also you.

seungmin

int. kitchen. day.

7:02pm, thursday.

eyes darting across a page, eager to reach the next sentence, then the next, then the next.

seungmin chased the words on the page, unable to stop.

he had started the book that morning when you left for the day, and by now, he only had a few pages left.

funnily enough, just as he flipped to the second to last page, you entered the apartment, hands full of different bags.

"hi, lovebug." you greeted once you passed him, walking by him to get to your bedroom where you planned on placing the many bags you had in hand.

"hi, i'll be with you in a second, doll. i have like one page left." seungmin apologized, but you didn't mind in the slightest.

you placed your things, and took out the new items and things you had purchased.

you had been gone all day, having a girls day with some of your friends, and you had wound up shopping.

you had of course gotten something for seungmin.

you and the girls had entered a shop you and your boyfriend had been in a few weeks back, and seungmin had then eyed a beret he really liked, and he was planning on coming back and buying it sometime when the shop wasn't as packed, since he didn't feel like queuing up to the register.

you grabbed the box it came in and walked back into the living room where seungmin was putting down the book he just finished.

"finished the book already?" you asked, and he nodded, telling you how he had barely moved from the couch that day just so he could finish it.

"it was phenomenal! i really recommend it. did you have fun today?"

it was your turn to nod, and give him a few updates on how the day had been.

"we were supposed to just grab lunch, but before we knew it we were shopping! here you go." you smiled and kissed his nose before you walked to the kitchen to start making a grocery list.

seungmin was confused to say the least, but opened the box regardless.

his jaw felt like dropping when he saw the beret he had been thinking about for like two weeks straight.

"you remembered?" he was in disbelief.

"of course! i also got them to alter the seam on the inside to the way you like it." you replied from the kitchen.

he quickly got to his feet and went to hug you, thanking you a million times.

you were too kind to him.

and he would never have figured you would remember small stupid details like that about him.

he couldn't help but fall for you more and more everyday.

he loved you.

i.n

int. award show. night.

8:23pm, sunday.

"and the winner is..

stray kids!"

the boys almost fell over as they heard their name.

to be honest, you almost fell off the couch in your apartment living room as you watched the live broadcasting of the show.

you damn near threw your popcorn to the ceiling, but you last minute managed to control yourself, at least a little bit.

your upstairs neighbour had called, asking what the screaming was.

jeongin was ecstatic to have won, but he had a weird feeling about it, cause even after their leader had given a thank you speech, and they had sat back down at their table, he wasn't really - satisfied?

no matter where he turned to express his happiness, it wasn't right.

freaking out in between jisung and felix was fun, sure, but it missed something.

it missed you.

he wanted you there to celebrate with.

it almost pained him that he had to wait until much later that night before he could share his joy with you, he couldn't even text you until they were in the car leaving the show.

message to princess: eiufhsadfljh did you see?!?!? // sent!

message from princess: i did!!! congratulations pumpkin!!

message to princess: i can't wait to come home!! will you jump around and scream with me?? // sent!

message from princess: of course!! i already warned linda upstairs hehe

message to princess: god, i love you

jeongin stopped himself before he pressed send. he stared at the words on his screen

i love you.

he quickly deleted it and just replied with an emoticon of a heart.

it was true. he loved you.

but he wanted to wait a bit before he told you.

but just because he wanted to wait didn't mean it wasn't as true as if he had said it right away.

he did love you.

hope you liked it! -bennie ♡

397 notes · View notes

geekwritersworld · 3 years

Text

Luck

Summary: Henry rocking your crying 5 month old daughter to sleep.

Pairing: Henry Cavill × reader

Warnings: none, just fluff

Usually you were expected to say that you hadn't slept too well, that's if you're being modest, but truthfully you hadn’t slept more than an hour in 9 months.

5 months being ever since your daughter Emerson was born and the other 4 being last 4 months of your pregnancy. You'd wake up in the middle of the night to throw up, Emerson being quite the kicker in your belly.

But you weren't complaining. The sleepless nights were definitely worth the bundle of joy you and Henry had created.

Henry had gone back to working a month ago; he didn’t want to, but you made him. Because despite the fact that he adored your newborn daughter and he loved being a father, it was evident that he clearly missed being on set.

Sliding your glasses off and letting out a sigh, you stretched your arms and stood up. You don't remember how long you'd been sitting in front of the brightness of your laptop trying to find the right words to start the 17th chapter of your book.

You had a deadline to meet and so far you were doubtful if you were going to be able to meet those deadlines.

Henry was going to be home soon , so you decided to just go and lay down for a bit and wait for him there, that is right after you checked on your hopefully sleeping daughter.

Padding across the wooden floor, Henry's oversized blue tank top hung just above your knees as you quietly slipped into your daughters bedroom and quietly leaned over her crib, you squint your eyes at her tiny sleeping figure.

Leaning closer and placing a very gentle airy kiss on her cheek you turned around slipped out of her room just as quietly as you came in. You left her door slightly ajar and walked into you and Henry's shared bedroom.

You could feel your shoulders loosen and you let out a sigh as well at the warmth and comfort of your bed.

Feeling a little groggy, you let your eyes adjust to the now dim lights before glancing at the clock beside you.

You immediately perked up at the sound of humming and muffled whimpers. Panicking you pushed the duvet off yourself and quickly but quietly walked towards your baby's room.

Quickly pushing her door open, scared at what you were about to see you found your gaze instead falling on your husband cuddling your tiny 5 month old daughter, in his arms.

His big hand gently held her head, his left arm supporting her tiny figure while he rocked her slowly from side to side.

As you stood there watching them, smiling, pride and warmth spread through your chest at the sight of your husband cradling your tiny baby in his arms.

Henry raised his head and looked your way, giving you a small smile.

"Hello sweetheart" his voice was a husky whisper, sending goosebumps down your arms.

"Hi" walking up to him, you gave him a gentle peck on the lips.

"Go back to bed love, I'll be there in a few minutes " He kissed the top of your head.

"Mhm" you snuggled your head into his arm, wrapping your hand around his waist, taking in his familiar scent .

He kissed your forehead once more "go" he smiled.

Kissing Emerson on the forehead, you turned around making your way to the door, turning around to take in the sight one last time .

You couldn't help but get slightly teary at the sight, you’d truly been blessed .

#henry cavill x reader #henry cavill #henry cavill fluff #henry cavill daughter #henry cavill imagine #henry cavill daddy cavill #henry cavill fanfiction #henry cavill one shot #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill fic #henry cavill imagines #henry cavill x you #henry cavill x y/n

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a-pretty-nerd · 3 years

Text

Tomura Shigaraki x AllMight!Daughter!Reader

Chapter 9

Premis:

When The League of Villains discovers that AllMight has a daughter, they are quick to snatch you up and hold you hostage. Shigaraki had a careful and thought out plan, but that was before you got there. Now you’re in the mood for some not-so-healthy rebellion.

Word count: 2,756

Warnings: Cursing

A/N:

Oh dear lord I'm slow at getting these out. Life's been kickin' my ass lately. But thank you to everyone who's been giving me feedback on my stuff, I really love to hear from you guys!

Taglist:

(So sorry, I forgot when I originally posted!)

@craftybean13 @babayaga67 @imjustverable

@bat-eclecticwolfbouquet-love

@kamenoyaki @hentaiqween101 @skzero-99 @justanotherlifeff

@witch-o-memes

Chapter 8 Chapter 10

Two months. You've been "missing" for two months now. The days flew by, your time occupied by quirk training Shigaraki insisted on but never told you why. The times you tried to ask he'd brush it off, or say something like:

"So you don’t throw another fit." His words were harsh but he said them with a flat and bored tone. Like it was a poorly acted line.

So now you had better control. You could move things on command, you knew basic combat, you certainly knew how to kick Dabi's ass by now, that didn't take too long. You were being allowed more and more freedom. Even allowed to leave for a convenience store runs with Toga once or twice. No one policed you, told you what you could and could not do anymore. You could have easily ran away by now. You supposed they really didn't need you either. For their plan to work all they would need was some blood and Toga could easily pass as you.

That idea sent a shiver down your spine. You're sure Shigaraki has thought of that already, so why hadn't he? Why was he training you? Would he use your quirk against the heroes in some way? Was he grooming you to turn and fight your father? You wouldn't. No matter what you wouldn't fight your father. Would you? You shook yourself of this thought as you walked down the ally to the back door of the hide out.

Toga unlocked the door and you stepped in, greeted by a dark and dingy back room. You made your way through the dark halls, following closely behind her as she led you up the stairs that finally led to the parts of the building with power. Soon you found yourself walking to the familiar living space where a few people rested. Dabi laid himself out on one of the couches, Spinner sat fiddling with his burner phone, and Twice had started yelling at the TV before you arrived.

"Luuuunch!" Toga shouted. Toga was often used as the errand girl, she brought back necessary supplies, oftentimes food. Today Toga asked you to tag along and help out, and there wasn't a single objection to the hostage going out on the town. You sat the heavy bags down on the coffee table, taking out the contents as you spoke.

"Where are the others?" You asked.

"Mr. Compress was sent on an errand of his own. And Shigaraki's probably pouting in his room. He'll come out when he's hungry." Dabi groaned as he took his meal from your hand.

"Oh. I'll just bring it to him." You said, absent-minded. All eyes turned to you, looking confused and shocked. "What?" You asked.

"Nothing! It's just-"

"He doesn't like to be disturbed." Toga and Twice spoke. You paused and looked at the box in your hand. It would get cold if he didn't eat soon, and besides, none of you had had much to eat lately, you were sure he was hungry. You knew you were.

"I'll just leave it at the door and knock. It'll get cold and then he'll be in an even worse mood." You told them. They watched you turn and walk up the stairs to his "room". You stood in front of the door, with such thin walls you could hear furious typing on the other side. Loud clicking of a mouse, and the sound of a computer's fan. You took a deep breath and softly knocked on the door. Suddenly the sounds abruptly stopped, followed by a bark.

"What!?"

"Foods here." You called back. You heard footsteps on the other side growing louder and louder until the door flew open. You stared up at the tall man as he looked down on you. His hair hung over his face, his eyes hardly visible. Your heart rate quickened the longer you looked at him. What the hell is wrong with you?

"Give it to me." He held out his hand, his pinky holding out in preparation to receive the box.

"You said you liked spice stuff, right?" You asked as you placed it in his hand.

"Yeah."

"We got you their spicy special. I hope it's not too much. The sign said 'caution' on it." He scoffed at you, turning the box and looking at the writing on it. He fell very quiet. Inspecting the box, you suddenly worried that something was wrong with it. That maybe you'd messed up somehow. But before your anxiety could reach its peak-

"Thank you." His voice was low and soft. You could hardly hear him. Then before you could respond he closed the door and left you alone again. Did he really say that? You never heard him say that to anyone. Granted, you hardly knew him but still, the way he said it, it made you feel... special in some way. You shook yourself from your train of thought and shuffled down the hallway, pausing when you heard movement and the door to Shigaraki's room open. You froze.

"Wait a minute." He barked. You turned too look at him. He hung out of the doorway to stare at you.

"W-What?" You asked. Shigaraki had a way of making people feel like they were in trouble. His ability to easily become an authority figure was something you were beginning to understand now.

"You...went out?" You nodded. He paused and looked away, his eyes shifting as the gears spun in his head. He turned back into his room as he spoke, "come here for a second." He asked. You slowly made your way to his room, the door left wide for you to peak inside. A dark room lit by portable light fixtures and a laptop computer which sat on an old desk. A cot thrown to the corner covered by the same old and tattered blankets the rest of you had.

"Am I... in trouble?" You croaked.

"What? No. Close the door behind you, you'll let in a draft." He ordered, seeming genuinely confused by your question. You closed the door behind you, leaving you completely alone with him in his space. Your heart raced.

You watched him turn and look up at the wall which he had decorated with plans. Pictures of heroes and villains cut out and pinned. Newspaper clippings, printed out articles and research essays. He was planning something, but what it was was difficult to determine. You did notice however, a cut out of an empty figure with your name on it pinned to the center of it all. You stared at it for a second before he broke you from your train of thought.

"Well?"

"Huh!?"

"What do you think?" He asked. His attention turned to his meal, he picked at it, taking a few bites.

"Of what?"

"...the plan." You looked back at the wall, puzzled you tried your best to gain any sort of information from it. Only being able to find bits and pieces. You knew it involved you, your father, and the take down of hero society. A cut out piece of article said something about the rise of villains, that more and more people were turning to villain work. How those rates have a correlation with classes. You slowly turned back to look at him.

"I'm sorry you're gonna have to explain this to me." You told him. He rolled his eyes and stood, directing his attention to his work as he spoke.

"This is the second part of the plan."

"What was the first?"

"Taking you as a hostage."

"Right. But, didn't you say the plan was to expose the heroes after they weren't able to rescue me and not only expose the faulty heroes but also my father as a neglectful and flawed individual not worthy of the hero title?" He paused.

"Yes."

"But that didn't go as planned."

"....."

"Didn't you say something about making a video to broadcast outing myself as All Might's daughter and causing panic? What happened to that plan?"

"It became leverage. If they attempt to come for you, then we'll go with that. But if we do that now, they'll come for you now and we'll be forced to fight."

"Isn't a fight...a good thing? You'd get news coverage and You'd no doubt gain supporters."

"Normally it would. But a fight isn't what we need right now. The heroes have us surrounded. If we make any move at all, we're in their hands. We won't be able to win."

"Not even with your quirk? Couldn't you-"

"Not with everyone here. As strong as I've gotten, I'm not strong enough to keep them from getting swept up and dusted too."

"Right."

"We're in a tight spot. One wrong move and we'll be wiped out."

"What about your supporters? Couldn't you get help from the outside."

"I could, but the heroes would see it coming. They have our signal tapped. Any sort of communication has to be verbal or written."

"Homing pigeon?" You offered. It made him smirk.

"Right now we're like a fox trapped in its own hole by hunters."

"So... we dig?" That made him smile, wide.

"Dig. If we could smuggle ourselves out of the city, we could reach a clear spot where we can call for backup to get us."

"Why not send one person to smuggle themselves out? Toga could easily disguise herself and leave."

"They have a barrier."

"What?"

"Part of the city is closed off until further notice. They know exactly where we are. If one gets out, they won't hesitate to come for all of us. We all have to get out at once and they can't notice until it's too late."

"But how the hell are you gonna do that?" His smile widened. He looked truly excited and happy. For the first time you saw your capture seem truly excited about something.

"We have a few secret recruits in the city. Spies." He turned his attention back to his meal box, reaching in to pull out the inner box that held the food, to reveal a piece of paper sitting underneath in the flimsy take out box. "I didn't know they were letting you out of the base now." He spoke as he opened and read the note within the box.

"I thought, you knew. I thought you were the one that said I could. Dabi said it was fine." He read the note and stood to pin it up on the wall before speaking.

"I've been too busy with this to worry about you. You shouldn't believe everything that Dabi says. I told him to make sure you just don't have another episode and cause a scene before we leave. I thought assigning him babysitting duty would keep him busy." He chuckled. "There's just one thing I don't understand." He turned back to you. "Why didn't you leave?"

"I...I..."

"You had the opportunity, but you're still here. Why?" You froze. Why? Why didn't you run?

"I was scared I'd be killed." You lied. He laughed at you.

"Don't lie to me. You lost that fear a long time ago. You know that's not true. If I wanted you dead I would have killed you a long time ago."

"You've kept me alive to use me as bate. To, to expose the truth." You argued.

"With Toga, we wouldn't need to." You swallowed hard. You knew he had thought about this.

"I'll tell you why I stayed, if you tell me why you've been training me." He scoffed.

"To keep you busy, to keep you from having another episode."

"That doesn't make sense. You could have drugged me, killed me, you said it yourself. But you kept me alive, you kept me busy. You could have kept me on my meds, unable to use it at all but you insisted I learn my quirk. You trained me yourself. Why?" His smile faded and his expression became dark.

"I asked you first." He growled. You looked away from him and thought for a moment before gaining the strength to answer. You knew the truth for a while now. You never wanted to say it out loud. You refused to look at him as you spoke.

"I don't wanna go back. But you probably already knew that by now. You just wanted to hear me say it, huh?" His smirk returned.

"Had a hunch." He snickered.

"Now you answer me."

"Why don't you wanna go back?"

"We had a deal. Answer my question now." You barked at him. It took him a long pause. A full minute of waiting in silence felt like agony.

"I thought it would help you feel better." He muttered in a surprisingly husky tone. "Keep you from asking me to dust you again." That's right, during your episode...

"I'm sorry." You blurted.

"What?"

"I'm sorry I... I asked you to kill me." You hid your face from him. He shifted and crossed his arms across his chest.

"It's not a big deal, I dust people all the time."

"No, I know. But like, I can't imagine being asked to by someone having a fucking break down happens all the time too. I kinda...kinda put you in a shitty position." When you looked up, he looked confused. Comically so. "What?"

"I took you hostage." He reminded you. You couldn't help but chuckle, that made him more confused.

"Shit, yeah, you're right. Guess I shouldn't be so hard on myself huh?" He looked away. "Still. My intentions weren't to upset you."

"You didn't upset me."

"It seems like I upset you." You toyed. His guard was down, he was vulnerable, and allowing you to be there.

"Shut up. You didn't answer my other question!" He shouted in an almost playful tone. You couldn't help but smile, only to have it slowly fade as you thought about your second answer.

"I don't want to go back because..." you stopped, the words getting stuck in your throat. You were unable to speak. He looked down at you, waiting for an answer. He seemed almost relaxed. He seemed normal. Like a normal guy leaning against the wall of his bedroom with his arms folded across his chest. Your eyes wandered up to his scarred neck, bright red scabs forming. Inflamed and fresh. He had recently scratched at it again, clearly in an upset state too. When he blinked you got a clear view of the scarring around his eyes.

"Boss!" A familiar voice shouted from outside the door. "Boss!" Before you could move the door was thrown open, Spinner's wide eyes finding you standing there. He shook his confusion loose before turning back to Shigaraki who quickly changed his position to attention. "Come quick!"

You followed him back to the living space where the old television sat. The news playing loudly as everyone gathered around to watch in panic. Swat teams and heroes decorated the screen as shot after shot showed them surrounding your building. Fear ran from your toes to your head, making you feel nauseous and dizzy. Shit. Shit. Shit. They're here for you. But you...you weren't ready to leave. And what about-

"Not again! - We can take 'em'!" Twice shouted at it like a sport was playing.

"Tomura, what are we going to do!?" Toga asked, frantically bobbing up and down in panic. He watched the TV intently listening in.

"After receiving a tip from an anonymous source, police and heroes found missing tourist Y/L/N Y/N being held captive by The League of Villains in this abandoned office building. Officials are working now to safely rescue the hostage."

Suddenly a loud voice was heard both on TV and through the halls of the building.

"League of Villains. We have you surrounded. Please let Y/L/N go and no one will be hurt." A cop shouted through a megaphone.

"C'mon Shigaraki, what's the plan?" Dabi asked, clearly starting to get uncomfortable. Before Shigaraki could respond, you spoke.

"Well, looks like this is it for me." You began walking away, only to be stopped by a strong, four-fingered grip pulling you back.

"Where do you think you're going!?" He growled.

"The jig is up, Shigaraki! Let me go! I'm not useful anymore. All they want is me, if I'm out of your hair you'll be able to escape easier." His grip tightened, pulling you closer as his red eyes bore into yours.

"So long as you're here they won't dare make a move. You're still my most valuable player. You're staying right here."

#shigaraki x reader #shigaraki tomura #tomura shigaraki #Shigaraki #bnha fanfic #league of villians

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zuffer-weird-girl · 3 years

Text

Interruption (modern au)

The school of U.A was one of the most popular and importants around Japan and the area. You and a few other teachers were considered lucky to work as teachers there and some even envy you all for the payment.

Well... you and your coworker Aizawa could say other wise.... Toshinori, Mic and the others could sure be happy but the job was draining. And now with this pandemic thing going on it seemed that online classes were more exhausting then the normal ones... the hell?

'At least you dont have to get out of the house' you commented once on a teachers reunion and some answered you by laughter, others by whines and Aizawa only sipping his slcoffe while petting his cat as Eri gave all of you a cheerful greeting.

"Eh?!?!?!? So is not 160 the answer?!" You heard Denki Kaminari voice at your computer as you giggled at the bunch of laughter on the zoom chat.

"By my calculations is seems like the answer is 90, right (L/n)-sensei?" You nodded at your camera at seing and hearing Momo as you clicked on some things and showing the online board.

"You guys can see the results and the solving of the problem here. Any questions? Kaminari?"

"Oh shit it was that simple?" You snorted as some of the bakusquad as they named themselves laughed.

"Fucking stupid who cant solve a problem."

"Bakugou..." you scolded softly before you saw it Midoriya's hand raised "Yes Midoriya?"

"(Y/n)-sensei there is a problem of anatomy that I wanted to discuss with you!"

"Oh, of cour-!"

"No one cares DEKU!"

"Bakugou!" You scolded again and sighed, supporting your head on your hands as you tried to control your laughter... Those kids never failed to amuse or to entertain you.

You heard the door cracking open and you turned your head to the apartment door to see your boyfriend coming from work with a exausted face. Tossing his jacket aside as he called your name softly.

You mouthed a sorry to your students while pressing the mute and turning off the camera... well, that's was what you wanted to do at least.

"Hey." You spike softly as he only scotted to you, wrapping his bandages arms on your waist and making himself at home in your arms as you giggled softly, combing his dyed hair on your fingers as he rested his face on the crook of your neck.

You took the chance of grabbing your computer and your notebook with your pens, placing the laptop on top of you and your tired boyfriend as he breathed in and out on you, ocassionaly tightening his hold on you.

"Sorry guys, I will have to continue the class without the camera but moving on-" you heard giggles and snickers from many of your students but you simple brushed off as then messing ok his phones instead of paying attention to classes... you could only scold them softly with a joke or two but hey, is not like you can do what you usually did on classes.

The class moved on, you answering questions and praising everyone for their hard work as the male on top of you smuggled his face every once in a while on you, coincidentally the giggles getting just after that.

"Well usually we would have ten minutes left, but since I know all of you are exausted I will let you all have a break." You said while writing on your notebook some annotations as some students cheered.

"You're the best (L/n)-sensei!" You shaked your head with a smile at Kirishima's words, glad at least that your voice wasn't mumbled by your boyfriend's hair.

"Thank you thank you. Any more questions? I will be solving them." You hummed at seing Shoto's hand raised, Todoroki wasn't much of a talker yet his relationship with you was particularly interesting and like he was even a little brother to you as well. "Yes Todoroki-kun?"

"First, thank you for the class (Y/n)-san." You snorted, your only student who called you that "And second, Touya. Mom, Natsuo and Fuyumi send a hi and asked if things were okay for both of you."

Your eyes widened as one turquoise eye cracked open lazily, staring directly at the camera before you bursted in embarrased laughter along with your students, poor Shouto not understand why everyone was laughing that much.

"So you catched us huh?" You giggled as Touya sighed, closing his eyes once again and answering a few of questions including of his little brother.

"Oh gosh." You spoke after seing the time writen on your laptop "I took the break of all of you, I'm so sorry kids."

"Don't worry (L/n)-sensei!" Urakaka spoke on the mic as the others agreed to her words.

"You with Todoroki-kun's older brother is just so cuteeeee!!! I ship it!" Mina made a signal of heart with her hands on her camera as you giggled, your boyfriend shaking from the movement of your chest.

"Right right, thank you guys. Now I will leave the class to Aizawa before he rips my head out." They all whined as Touya tsked on your neck at they behaviour.

"Mom also asked if we could visit on this weekend." You snorted as the other students laughed at Shouto's words before Touya just raised his hand to give a thumbs up before plopping down to your waist. "He said yes."

"Okay now, dont forget to do your homework and study for the online text tommorow, I'm looking at noth of you Mina and Kaminari." They all made a salute out of joke as you rolled your eyes and wished them a good day before finishing your class.

You looked at your boyfriend, whose was still face deep buried on your neck a syou chuckled.

"Come on! It was kinda of funny!" You yelped at the pinch you received on your thigh before softening your gaze and playing with his hair, his natural color slowly growing and coming back.

"Is everything okay? You want to talk about it?" You felt him shake his head as a no on your neck before breathing in and tightening his hold on you.

"Shitty day doll..." he mumbled before you kissed his head as you cooed over your boyfriend.

"Its okay baby, take a nap, my job is over for today so..." you layed with his hair as he hummed, body relaxing and slowly giving onto slumber.

You soon received both messages of Natsuo and Fuyumi on the group chat you were added some months ago. The only member being the todoroki siblings, you and Rei.

Natsuo:

Party rock onto Touya's house tonight!😝🎵🎶

Fuyumi:

Thanks for accepting us in your apartment (Y/n)-chan!

Natsuo:

Yeah! Thanks a lot... but can you do us ust a favor? Send a pic of that sleepy head to us will you?😂👌 we saw through Shouto screen right when you ended the classes and we couldn't get it!

You snorted, clicking on the app of camera and snapping one or three pics of him sleeping on your chest as you sended only two, the most precious one where you got him smilling on your neck you decided to make as a wallpaper.

Natsuo:

Doesn't even look like the old man he is 😂😂😂🤣🤣

Fuyumi:

💕💓😚

Rei:

Thank you for taking care of him (Y/n), my son looks so peaceful on your arms sweety 😊🙏

Shouto:

Classes are over.

Natsuo:

ALREADY?!😱

Shouto:

Yes. I was just going to ask if (Y/n)-san would like to taste cold soba. Do you, (Y/n)-san?

"Look at what you got yourself into.." you yelped softly at the vibrations of his voice on your neck before carresing his cheek.

"I thought you were sleeping?"

"I have ears, the flash also bothered my eyes doll." He mumbled as you deadpanned.

Shit...

#dabi x reader #touya todoroki x reader #bnha villains #bnha characters #bnha x reader #bnha villains x reader #dabi #touya todoroki #todoroki touya #zuffer writings

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halfelven · 2 years

Text

if you're wondering why I haven't written anything lately...

I went through my finals week with my Internet barely working + got pushed to once a month for seeing my psychiatrist + cannot find a therapist + left for a different country like two days before omnicron hit + spent hundreds of euros to go see my sister and dragged her heavy suitcase over a km and up seven flights of stairs while sick (chronic not covid. tested), only for her to push me away when I tried to hug her and then set her tiny bag down and then pushed me away again when I tried a second time to take off her not wet coat?, after which she proceeded to ignore me most of the days I was there, going so far as to stay in her room most of the time, and not even just chat with me in the kitchen if I were baking or cooking, only hugged me two other times, and never once asked how I was + made lemon meringue pie and whipped the meringue by hand only to drop the pie going in the oven because the rack was not in the correct way and losing all the meringue that I whipped by hand

+ started for Cairo and had to wait for an hour and a half at the bus transfer station because the bus didn't come and worry about not making my flight + get to the airport and have to go to the basement where it takes over an hour to get checked in for the flight because their systems are down + then rush through security and to the gate in like ten minutes to make this flight to find out that they delayed the flight but didn't tell anyone until old boarding time + get to Cairo and spend two hours trying to pay for the visa because the banks hate euros and the two atms there were broken and they wouldn't take my bank card because it had a different name than my passport and were like um that's fraud because I have two passports with different names on them because the USA still hasn't changed my name yet and I couldn't use my Finnish bank card because I literally had 22 euros in the bank and the visa was 23 + had way more panic attacks than I expected from being in a big city and bothered constantly by men + got stalked by two men in the desert + kept running into the gps system not working on the streets + everything had winter hours but nothing listed winter hours + had such bad anxiety from going to the grocery store I had to keep taking valium + my school wouldn't make it clear if we had in person or online classes + I didn't get enrolled in the classes I wanted so I had to email three teachers three times + two of my bills didn't go through even when I had money to pay them + my mother kept ignoring me even though I sent her Christmas presents + had three essays to write and the last one I followed the guidelines so carefully and today the teacher writes back and says it doesn't follow the guidelines at all because she didn't think that Gon using his full strength and losing his Nen was relevant to the topic of Gon and Kite's relationship showing cycles of abuse by forcing children to be strong at any cost and ignore their own limits and called the images I chose "random" even though they are literally the catalyst of the events of the Chimera Ant arc and then the climax of it?????? + almost missed another flight within the country + had to keep navigating without gps based on my cool ranger skills + have the worst seatmates on two flights + get shouted at for using a disabled toilet even though I have chronic illness very invisible and very much related to needing to use the toilet + feel sick after coming back (not covid) + have to go to the er for it and get admitted to hospital because I have a bad infection + find out that it's two separate bacterias having fun inside of me despite me doing everything right to stay safe + having to have stay in hospital without laptop + find out that the friend group of four I had last term did drop me and become a friend group of three and I have no idea why because they never spoke to me again + the package my friend tried to send me for Christmas got returned to sender + my teacher told me my essay didn't follow the essay guidelines even though I literally went out of my way to follow the guidelines to such detail that I line-read hxh only for her to say it was random images??????? now keep in mind I'm still sick with bacterias and also chronic illness and I found out about friend group, package, and the essay all in the same day today and I have no idea how to even cheer myself up a little bit! and this is following last term which was the term where everything went wrong it became comical. it has shifted now from being comical to being horrid again.

like obviously good things did happen. I saw my friend after three years, went to a new country and continent, just went out into nature all the time to be responsible, saw a desert, saw mangrove trees (new friends!), and banyan trees (new friends!), and saw lots of pyramids, and went snorkelling and saw coral reefs! but the amount of shit that happened means I haven't had a chance to catch my breath. I also didn't visit many of the museums I wanted to see because a.) covid b.) I was having too much anxiety about people to go out alone bc a.) covid and b.) ptsd

and I was so stressed while doing everything nice too because of all the shit and I'm like shall I do anything or shall my depression inflict me because I always feel so unwanted despite the fact that I have friends who seem happy enough that I stay with them because everyone in the country that I live in keeps just silently closing doors on me. I was too stressed to even paint to destress. I don't even know what I do wrong! it's like everything seems fine for two months and then without warning or comment it's over.

okay I'm done I'm just like hmm I tend to have rotten luck and I was already depressed about having no one here who would be happy I had returned and now it's going to be another winter of isolation and I'm already behind on school because I was sick and am still sick

#txt #narn #life updates!#i don't expect anyone to read that #I just wanted to put it as a wall of text to show how comical it looks #even though it's not comical anymore and now just horrid

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lovingthereign25 · 3 years

Text

Never say Goodbye

Part 7

Baby, I got to go Jules is here crying" I lie

"Okay Mama I love you call you later" Derek says

" I love you too," I say hanging up.

"What're you doing here?' I say

"Y/n, it's Lyndsey, she in the hospital" Joe says

"What?, Why? " I panic

"I'll explain on the way, grab your things I'll grab Noah.

Joe explain the Lyndsey passed out at work and hit her head pretty bad

"When Josh called me you automatically came to my mind, you two are closer than anything" he says placing his hand on yours.

"Thank you, I appreciate you coming to get me and Noah" I say

When I arrived at the hospital, I was greeted by Josh and my parents telling you Lyndsey was stable but couldn't remember much and was asking for me.

"Joe can you please sit with Noah" I ask

"Of course" he smiles, taking Noah from me.

After I saw Lyndsey, I stepped out to call Derek noticing I had a missed call from him.

"Yea Y/n, how's Lyndsey?" He asks

"She's…..wait how'd you know? I ask confused

"When you didn't answer, I called Julianna and it turns out she was at the hospital already waiting to get in touch with you, so my question is where were you?" He asks

"I was at the hotel on the phone with my husband, they sent Joe to pick Noah and I up" I say

"Yea of course, Joe ...is this always gonna be a thing Y/n?" He asks

"What? I ask

"This you and Joe shit, I thought when we got together you were over him, he was past was the past and we were the future, but now it seems there's situation with you and Joe" he says annoyed

"Derek, there is no me and Joe, we are friends, that's it and that's all" I say

"I gotta go, the team is waiting for me" Derek says hanging up not even saying " I love you" .

*A few weeks later*

I was sitting at home planning Noah's first birthday while he was napping when I heard our front door open.

"Hey," Derek says walking into the dining room where I was sitting.

"Hi," I reply looking back to the laptop screen of party supplies.

"Where's little man?" He asks

"Napping finally, his back teeth are coming in pretty bad" I say

"Damn poor kid" he says, grabbing water from the kitchen.

After a few minutes of being silent, which was nothing new in the last couple of weeks ever since Joe brought you to the hospital to see Lyndsey.

"You working?" He asked

"No, just planning Noah's party" I smile

"Without me?" He asks

"It's not official just themes he would like, places, and guest list" I explain

"I was joking Y/n, so what're we looking at here" he says sitting beside me

"Well he's into Mickey Mouse and…" I was cut off by Derek's phone ringing

"Hold that thought" he says looking at his phone and leaving the room.

Later that night I just finished putting Noah to bed. I went into our bedroom, Derek was on his laptop.

''Don't forget to send you mom her ticket for the he plane ride to Florida for Easter" I remind him

"Shit, I completely forgot, there's a big case in Colorado we're we wanted for, I leave tomorrow." He sighs

"What? Derek you just got home a few hours ago." I say

"I know baby, but it's part of the job" he says

"Fine I'll send her the ticket information, will you at least be here for Easter ?" I ask

"Can't promise anything," he says closing his laptop.

Easter had come and gone, Derek of course was still away now on a new case, spending a few extra days in Florida I ran into an old friend who wanted me to design her wedding dress and bridesmaids dresses. Of course I accepted, she also told me about a small boutique her fiance's mom was selling.

" I immediately thought of you, and how incredible it would be for to to be able to sell your designs, Y/n you're so talented everyone should see it " she smiles

"Awe, thanks Trish I'll definitely think about it, this would be a dream come true for me to have my own shop" I smile

When I arrive back home Derek is already home, he takes Noah as I grab our bags bringing them into the house.

"How was the case?' I ask

"Exhausting, miss my boy" he smiles at Noah"

"Oh, yea thanks, I missed you too" I joke

"Like you didn't have a good ole time in Florida, I'm sure Joe was around" he says

"What the hell's that supposed to mean?' I ask

"Nothing forget it" he says

" Derek, how long are you gonna keep throwing what I did with Joe up in my face, I've apologized countless times, I don't know what else to do'' I say

" Make a decision our family or Joe" he says

"You're not serious, Derek that's crazy" I laugh

"I am serious Y/n, Noah and I or Joe" he say again

"Derek, you and Noah are my life, there's nothing between Joe and I, he's my past like your exes are your past" I say stepping closer to him

"Good, whatta say we go out to eat, just the two of us, I'll see if moms can keep Noah" he smiles kissing my head

All I did was not, trying to register how in the hell I was gonna cut all ties to Joe.

At dinner I tell Derek about running into Trish, about her wedding and the shop.

"Congratulations sweetheart, but how are you gonna run a shop in Florida from Virginia" he asks

" That's the problem, I'll to be in Florida until I get the shop fully staffed and running properly" I say

Just as Derek is about to speak I get a awful pains in my abdomen hitching over in pain

"Y/n, are you okay?Baby Girl talk to me" Derek says but I can't answer the pain is too unbearable.

Next thing I know I wake up in the hospital.

Derek and I lost our baby.

*October 2016*

Noah's birthday was emotional, and wonderful. Derek's sister Desiree, Lyndsey and I planned the most amazing sesame street birthday party.

All of my family and Derek's family came to celebrate our favorite boy.

I had rented a house in Tampa, so I can be close to the shop and my family. Derek flies down as often as he can. The shop is coming along great, I hired a few girls to help run the shop, and Lyndsey is the manager. I was setting up a manikin with a gorgeous sun dress I had recently designed when I heard a tap on the window.

I look up seeing Joe.

"Hey stranger how's it going?'' he smiles

"Hi, yeah sorry been a little distracted" I smile.

I know what you're thinking, but I couldn't do it, I couldn't cut all ties with Joe he meant to much to me, and after talking to Lyndsey she had suggested that I tell Derek what he wants to hear and pretend to cut all ties with Joe but really I would be discreet about still being friends with him.

"I see that, the shop is coming along nice, oh by the way this is for my buddy Noah, sorry I missed the party" he smiles handing me a gift bag.

"Joe you didn't have to" I say

"I wanted too" he says

"Thank you" I smile

"Hey," Joe says grabbing my hand." Sorry to hear about the baby, if you need anything I'm here,"

"Thank you, that means a lot," I say .

"Oh, before I go I'll have Jojo this weekend, she's been bugging me to see Noah..maybe we can set something up?' he asks

"Yeah of course, I'll call you" I say .

*March 2017*

The shop was getting more business that I could ever imagine, I was originally supposed to give up the rental house a few months ago but with the business I had to postpone that plan, Derek helps when he can, which hasn't been very often so I left Lyndsey in charge of the shop and Noah and I headed to Virginia to see Derek.

"Y/n, what brings you here?" Erin Derek's boss asks as I enter the office with Noah.

"Hi, Erin, just came to surprise Derek" I smile

"He got so big, looks just like you and Derek, and he's in his office" she smiles

I knock on Derek's door.

"Come in" I hear him say

As I enter in, I see Derek at his desk and a blonde woman sitting in a chair in front of his desk.

"Sorry I didn't know you were busy we can wait" I say

"No Y/n, it's fine we were just finishing up paperwork on a case come in… and this Nina she's a new team member here." He says

"Hi" I greet her

"Nina this is my wife Y/n, and our son Noah" he smiles picking up Noah

"Hi, Derek he's adorable!'' she smiles

Derek takes Noah and I for lunch

"So how'd you like Nina?" He asks

"She's nice" I say cutting Noah's food

"Glad you like her, she's my new partner" he says

"Wait what about Kevin?'' I ask

"He's out on leave, and with no given date on his return I asked for Nina" he says

"Hold on, you asked for her?, And why was that?" I ask

"She's a great cop, she basically ran a whole unit in Colorado" he shrugs

"Reassign her'' I say

"What? Y/n are you crazy?" He snaps

"No, I'm not crazy. I saw the way she looked at you Derek" I say

"Y/n, come on you're being ridiculous" he says

"Are you sleeping with her?" I ask

"What? Y/n this is nuts!" He says

"Answer me, there was a big case in Colorado was there?, You went to meet her, are you sleeping with her Derek" I almost yell

"Y/n, I think we need to discuss this his at home" he says .

"No, Derek I don't we do..I think I just got my answer" I say grabbing Noah and walking out of the restaurant.

#roman reigns fanfiction #roman reigns imagine #roman reigns x reader #roman reigns smut #never say goodbye

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imalifegen89 · 3 years

Text

A Legacy Left Behind - Chapter - 5 - The Gemmond Incident

Rating: Mature

Category: M/M

Fandoms: Stargate Atlantis, Hawaii Five-0 (2010), Stargate SG-1

Relationship: Steve McGarrett/John Sheppard

Characters: John Sheppard, Steve McGarrett, Danny "Danno" Williams, PO Higgins (OC), Kono Kalakaua, Adam Noshimuri, Alicia Vega, Laura Cadman, Bates (Stargate), Original Stargate Wraith Character(s), Original Characters, George Hammond, Jack O'Neill, Catherine Rollins, Evan Lorne

Additional Tags: Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Swearing, Character Bashing, Not Catherine Rollins Friendly, Violence, BAMF John Sheppard, BAMF Team, No DADT

Summary: Team SG-11 goes on their first off-world mission. It's supposed to be a 'walk in the park,' easing them into the hectic life at the Stargate Command. But things have a way of going off the rails when this particular team is involved. One way or another, they'll prove that they've got what it takes to fulfill their mission.

-o0o-

The first official mission of SG-11, yay!

As always, Salchat, you are the best!!! Thank you so much for all your hard work. I'm improving but I'm still a lot of work for my Beta.

If there are any mistakes, they'd be my own.

Part - 1

Officers Quarters, Pearl Harbor-Hickam Base - Hawaii

The Naval Intelligence Command Analyst, Lieutenant Catharine Rollins, was tired. The 18 hour or so trips from Hawaii to Libya and back were taking a heavy toll and all she wanted to do was go to her quarters, take a long, hot bath, and collapse on her bed for a long, uninterrupted sleep until the next day. Both she and Harrington had been dismissed by Commander Joe White with orders to take the rest of the day off and report for duty the next day when they had returned to the base. Harrington had invited her to go out but she had declined politely, citing jet lag and the need to rest. In her mind, she had been cursing at the damn idiot to stop trying to get attached to her like a freaking limpet and just leave her the hell alone.

She sighed in relief as she finally reached her quarters without having been called away for something or other, despite her being off duty. That had happened a couple of times before and that was part and parcel of her glamorous career as an Intelligence Analyst. She entered her quarters, threw her traveling bag to a corner, and started taking off her sweaty and dusty uniform while fantasizing about a nice, hot, bubble bath. But being just a lowly analyst, she only had a cramped shower in her quarters. 'Ah well, at least it's not like I have to go for a communal shower.' She shuddered at the thought.

Her much-needed long shower turned out to be only fifteen minutes as the hot water got cut off. She sighed and got out, still quite travel weary. Then she found her most comfortable and baggy sweats, an old t-shirt that was a few sizes too big, put them on, and got under the blankets in her bed. She was hoping to catch a few hours of sleep before she had to go out for dinner.

Despite the physical exhaustion, her thoughts turned to the past few hours.

'Why is it that the handsome ones are always either taken or gay?' she asked herself rhetorically.

She had tried her damndest to flirt with the navy SEAL she'd had her eyes on for a while now. But the stupid asshole had been completely oblivious. She had been sure, when they were on their way, in that transport - his loud-mouthed friend had pointed it out clearly to the Commander. But the man had seemed utterly uninterested and even annoyed at his friend. Catharine had been reeling at that response, although she had kept up the pleasant conversation with the idiot, Harrington. Then she had seen the subtle drama between her SEAL and that rather unremarkable pilot. That had given her a clue as to the lack of interest from the guy. She knew she was a very pretty woman and was not quite used to her rather demonstrated feelings going unreciprocated in that manner.

'But he’s got to be bi, hasn't he? So there is still a chance. Claire was pretty sure when she told me that McGarrett used to go out with Anna from the Enterprise during the first year after he got his trident. Pff... I'm a much better catch than that woman, certainly much better than a damn pilot...a plain guy with dumb hair-do, at that...Argh. Besides, fighter pilots don't really have that long life expectancies now, do they? Oh, Steven, you could do so much better, really..' She let her thoughts wander about the latest individual that had caught her attention and his rather ungainly love interests.

She was dragged away from her musings by a certain ringtone on her phone that had only rung twice before. She sprang up in her bed as if she had been electrocuted.

'Shit, shit, shit! I should've anticipated this,' she berated herself, especially after what had happened and where she'd been.

She hurriedly got off the bed, found her personal laptop, and plugged in the special USB/Dongle she had been given about a month ago when she was recruited. She then switched it on, disconnected her internal internet connection to the base, and connected to a different server - a server with an IP address that bounced off several satellites and countries making it impossible to track the connection. She finished running the encryption she had been given along with the USB when a window opened on her screen, indicating an incoming call. She clicked the button to accept, with trepidation.

As usual, a black screen greeted her as the call connected. She had taken steps to protect herself as much as she could and had her camera already covered. She was reasonably sure that whoever was on the other side wouldn't see her either, but she couldn't guarantee it.

"Agent CR-17, this is Zero. We have questions for you," the disembodied and distorted voice coming through the connected call informed her. She grimaced at the 'handle' she'd been given. Then she took a deep breath to clear her mind and remember the details of the past 30 hours.

"Yes, please ask your questions," she replied when she was sure her voice was even and polite.

"You have participated in a certain meeting. Give us the particulars," the voice ordered.

'Well, that's easy enough,' she thought as she mentally listed the main points of the meeting. And then she launched into an account of the meeting that happened at the base between her, Harrington, SGC, and the SEALs, the gathering at the Wheelus Air Base in Libya, the points they discussed there, and the revelations that came to light about the alliance between the Wraith and the Goa'uld agents.

The voice was quiet for a long time before it answered. "Are you quite sure of this, Agent? They have seen our involvement at the Detention facility?"

"Yes, I am. I'd advise you to take precautions if you are going to conduct further operations in this manner. I'm certain they will be able to track your transporter movements. The scientists they have at the SGC seem very competent," she answered truthfully.

"Very well." said the voice, with grim finality.

"Now, this is your next task. Send the personal files of the members of the SEAL team who were involved in this meeting. We need to deal with this before things get out of hand - well - even more out of hand. Do you understand?" the voice asked with emphasis.

Rollins felt sweat running down her spine despite the shower she had just taken only a few minutes ago. Giving them verbal reports once or twice in a while was one thing, but sending highly classified personal files was something else entirely. But she knew that refusing was not an option, not if she wanted to keep her career or her life for that matter.

"Yes, I do." She answered the only way she could.

"Make sure we receive it all by the end of the month. You do not need to send them all at once. Take steps to cover your tracks. But make sure we have what we need by the deadline." The voice cut off abruptly, just the way it always did after it finished giving orders.

She stared at her now empty laptop screen for a few moments, trying to wrap her mind around the conversation she'd just had. Not for the first time, she regretted the circumstances that led her to accept this arrangement. Having a fat retirement fund to return to when she finally took her early retirement from the navy after putting the minimum years in, was a nice feeling. But she certainly couldn't enjoy it from a military prison or an early grave.

She shook her head and switched her laptop off. It was too late to do anything now. She had to concentrate on planning how to get around various security restrictions and get her hands on the files that were requested by her beneficiaries. She needed someone from the Human Resources Administration for this, didn't she? Then she felt a small smile creeping up on her lips - She knew exactly the person she could easily persuade into letting her take a glimpse of such things! Feeling quite satisfied and making further plans for her treasonous mission, she decided she was hungry enough and started to get dressed to go out in search of a proper dinner.

Stargate Command, Cheyenne Mountain - Colorado

Embarkation Room

(Four weeks later)

"I know you said renaissance age, but what does that mean, exactly?" Danny asked as he adjusted the strap of his MP7.

Everyone in SGC was issued FN P90 Personal Defense weapons. But the SEALs were partial to their own submachine guns and other weapons. The first thing they'd done when they began the training, was to raid the armory in the SGC to make sure they had those specific weapons and ammo they needed. The Master Sergeant in charge of the armory had gleefully sent out requests for the Navy to re-supply them with the standard weapons and kits for the Special Operators. The Navy had reluctantly given in, needing to keep up their standards.

"Like you just stepped into a Rome-Egypt hybrid planet in the 14th century," Bates replied with a grimace. He was not a fan of the planet. He had been on one of the Gate teams who had visited the planet before it was reformed by the SG-1. He hadn't been impressed.

"Hey, it's a nice enough planet,” Major Evan Lorne interjected. “Well, they were a bit uptight before, but then SG-1 sorted them out. They are good people now, took on refugees from Nasya and everything. It's safe enough for first-time planet hoppers. Besides, they are having their harvest celebrations this time of the year. Food, drinks, and merry people all around. And we have a standing invitation every year for the party," Lorne had visited the planet two years ago for his first 'travel through the Gate' experience and it had been a blast. He was very much looking forward to an encore.

"So, what do we do there?" This was from Higgins.

"Nothing much. We go and say 'hi' to the leaders, go to a party or two and come back home," answered Cadman. She had heard good stuff from Lorne and was looking forward to the experience as well. It would be nice for once, just to go to a planet and join a celebration, just enjoy the visit other than fighting or running for their lives, for a change.

"Nice," Higgins agreed.

The Stargate Command's newest addition - or the newly re-arranged SG-11, was waiting to go on their first extra-planetary mission. Four weeks had passed since Colonel Sumner initiated the first-ever SGC team combined with the SEALs and the CIA agents. They had all been heavily involved in training for all sorts of scenarios they could think of since then. Their days had been full of weapons, physical, tactics training, going through all available information about galaxy's bad guys, and then a couple of weeks spent in earth's Alpha site for field training. Sheppard and Lorne had had to beam down to Antarctica in between for projects at the Outpost and then visit Peterson Base a few times to keep up their flight qualifications. Altogether, those six weeks had been hectic and they were all looking forward to this outing. Listening to Lorne and everyone else who had already been to planet Gemmond painting a merry picture of their culture, had them all eager for the visit. The Wraith and the Goa'uld had been silent and hadn't made any noteworthy moves so far. They all knew that when they finally did, SG-11 needed to be ready to move. This trip to Gemmond for their harvesting celebrations was sort of a break before they had to go to war, so to speak.

"Dialing the gate now." Sergeant Harriman's voice could be heard over the speakers. He had started the dialing sequence for the planet designated P3X-422, aka Gemmond.

"Chevron One encoded,"

"Chevron Two encoded,"

"Chevron Three encoded,"

"Chevron Four... not encoded."

That was not the usual script during a dial-out. Sheppard exchanged a glance with Steve and turned back to look up at the dialing station. They were all waiting in front of the ramp while Harriman dialed. The day's duty officer-in-charge, an Air Force Colonel called Dixon, was standing behind the station where Harriman was sitting. He was also frowning at the diversion from the norm.

"What's happening, Sergeant?" They could all hear the Colonel asking Harriman over the speakers.

"Sir, the gate is not connecting. It's almost as if someone from that side is already dialing. You know, it's like, we're getting the 'line busy' tone," Sergeant Harriman guessed.

"That doesn't make sense. They know we're visiting them today. They usually like it when we visit," said Colonel Dixon, his frown deepening as he glared at the dialer. Then he looked over the see-through window to stare at the group waiting to go off-world. He grimaced as if SG-11 personally had something to do with the Gate refusing to connect.

Colonel Garry Dixon wasn't a big fan of the newly initiated team. His personal opinion was that the lot of them were too arrogant and cocky for their own good. And he hadn't really tried very hard to keep his opinions to himself. But SG-11 didn't let it bother them. They hardly needed validation from the opinionated Colonel. The man had only earned his stripes just by spending the required years in service without a single active combat tour under his belt. He had somehow landed his position as head of Public Relations for SGC, mostly thanks to his political connections.

"Well, dial again," said Dixon after a pause. The Sergeant did as ordered.

"Nope, still not connecting," Harriman said after the third failed attempt. The fourth Chevron refused to connect and the Stargate stubbornly stayed dormant.

"I don't like this. I don't like this at all. Something's not right," Bates muttered, shaking his head.

Sheppard stared at the Gate, thoughtfully. He could feel it in his mind. The Gate was trying to establish a connection with the input destination. He knew that Walter had guessed correctly; something was blocking the connection from the other side. Moreover, he could feel the Gate trying to force the connection, but not succeeding because something was lacking from SGC's side. It gave John an uneasy, itchy feeling in the back of his mind - like a puzzle piece that's been forced to fit into a place that it didn't quite belong. It gave him an idea.

"Sir, permission to take the Puddle Jumper on this visit?" Sheppard addressed the Colonel.

They had only just found this super-cool, little spacecraft back in Antarctica a week ago, and John had felt like he had been given a gift. He had been on the Chair running a diagnostic on weapons systems when the link had guided him towards one of the storage areas that was recently uncovered to show him the ship. He had finished the routine quickly and taken off towards his prize, with the mental connection in his mind laughing softly at his eagerness. He and Rodney had spent two days going through the ship top to bottom and declared it safe for flights. He had taken the newly named 'Puddle Jumper' (Rodney had insisted on calling it ‘Gateship,’ but John had exercised his veto power as the pilot and put a firm stop to that nonsense) on a few rides and returned with it back to the Mountain at O'Neill's orders. Jack O'Neill had promptly jumped in with Jackson, Carter, and Mitchell in tow, and taken it on a tour to space. He had returned after a few hours with all of them grinning like kids on Christmas, and then given his official stamp to put the Jumper on active service.

"What can you possibly do with the Jumper, Sheppard? We can't dial. The damned line is busy," said the Colonel, starting to lose his patience.

Sheppard mentally rolled his eyes. He knew that Dixon was quite skeptical when it came to believing in Sheppard's affinity for all things Ancient.

"I know that, Sir. But I also know that the Jumper's got a DHD in it, an Alteran designed. As advanced as our dialer is, it's still primitive compared to the real thing,” he replied. “And when there's the real thing, there's a chance that I could do something with it," he put on his most innocent expression and stared expectantly at the Colonel.

John could see Danny openly rolling his eyes and Steve trying hard to hide a snort. Bates was staring stoically ahead, staying away from the officer's spats. Agents Kalakaua and Noshimuri were staring at the Gate serenely, not letting this petty nonsense bother them. Cadman and Higgins were grinning ear to ear, watching the drama unfold. Lorne and Vega were doing the same as Cadman and Higgins, but they were carefully hiding their grins behind blank masks.

"So sure of yourself, Major?" asked Dixon, not bothering to hide his disdain.

It was obvious that he didn't believe for a second that Sheppard could do anything about the situation. The Ring was busy on the other side - there was not a damn thing they could do from this side until it closed, period.

"I don't see any harm in trying," Sheppard drawled with a shrug.

The Colonel looked for a moment like he wanted to refuse. Then he seemed to realize that it would be more fun to let John try and then berate him afterward when he inevitably failed.

"Fine then, knock yourself out. Just don't break the Stargate or the Jumper, Major." Dixon gestured grandly for them to get on with it.

...........

The team reached the next level where the Jumper was parked. The floor of the level had a trap door that could be remotely opened to let the jumper fly vertically down until it came face to face with the Stargate.

They all got themselves situated comfortably inside the craft. Sheppard took the pilot seat with Major Lorne as the co-pilot at his side. Lorne hadn't had the chance to take it out for a spin yet and Sheppard wanted him to familiarize himself with the controls during the flight. Steve and Danny took seats behind them in the cockpit. The rest of the team made themselves at home in the back where there was plenty of space for them and the equipment they carried.

"So, you think you can force a dial-in?" Lorne asked while he watched Sheppard going through the pre-flight.

"I don't know yet, Lorne. It's not like I've tried it before," said Sheppard with a crooked grin, not bothering to look up from what he was doing.

"Well, you sounded awfully sure back there," said Lorne.

"Let's just say, I have a feeling." Then he turned to look at Lorne and give him an impish grin. “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.”

"Ah, Jesus! Please tell me it's not going to be like the time when we were doing that thing in Baghdad... Please! I'm begging you," Danny implored. His eyes had gone wide with what looked like genuine fear.

"Fucking hell, Danny, you had to bring that up," said Steve, trying to hide his fear behind annoyance.

"McGarrett, tell me that is not the case now - cos man, I'm gonna climb outta this tin-can right now." Higgins was already halfway up from his seat and looking furtively at the back door of the Jumper.

"Come on guys, relax. I'm pretty sure I know what I’m doing." Sheppard had finished checking on the flight controls in front of him and was now fiddling with the switches directly above him. He looked completely at ease, in direct contrast to the mounting fear in the atmosphere inside the craft.

"What happened in Baghdad?" Bates piped up from the cargo bay, stoic demeanor forgotten as his curiosity was piqued.

"Don't ask man. Just. Don't..." Higgins was shaking his head from where he was inspecting what looked like an electronic keypad with door controls.

"Oh come on, you can't just say things like that and expect us to let it go. Now you've got us all intrigued and shit," Vega cajoled.

"She's right brah, you gotta spill," Kono seconded. They were all getting increasingly curious as to what could possibly have these badass SEALs shaking in their metaphorical boots.

"Okay, people calm down. If we make it through this mission in one piece, I'll get drunk and tell you all about it - there’s no way in hell I'm going to talk about that shit while I'm sober," Danny promised the group, visibly collecting himself and.

"Stop exaggerating, Williams, it wasn't that bad. Got you all out of there, didn't I?" Sheppard defended himself with a full-blown, mischievous grin. Whatever he'd done, John was enjoying the memory, Lorne could tell.

"I was never the same again, man - none of us were - for a long time," Danny said petulantly. Steve nodded his agreement.

Sheppard finished off his flight checks with a chuckle and gently guided the Jumper above the opening on the floor. The technician outside opened the trap door, obeying Sheppard's signal. The little craft descended smoothly and came to a stop in front of the dormant Stargate, hovering just above the ramp.

..........

Sheppard dialed the address of the planet Gemmond on the Jumper's DHD. He could feel the connection failure even as he dialed due to the disturbance from the planet. He concentrated. He could feel the Jumper in his mind, wanting to co-operate eagerly.

'The Astria Porta is open on the other side. Is it imperative that we gain entrance to this specific planet, at this time?' John knew the inquiries that appeared in his mind were unmistakably Alteran, but he had no difficulty understanding what was being asked.

'Yes,' John thought confidently.

'Please enable the emergency override.' Another smaller, Ancient equivalent of a keypad appeared from the side of the DHD where John's palm was resting. He replaced his palm on the new sub-dialer, thinking 'Override.’

The new keyboard went back inside the DHD and John removed his hand to place it back on flight controls. The DHD started dialing the Gate address by itself and then dialed another sequence at the end. The Stargate in front of them came to life and the Chevrons started locking at double their usual speed. When the seventh and the final Chevron locked, the wormhole burst into life with a swoosh and stabilized with a splat. Then it waited patiently for the Jumper to fly through the gently rippling, blue surface.

The team chuckled, hooted, laughed, and whistled their praises.

John tapped his ear and activated the comms. "Sheppard to Control. Permission to visit Gemmond, Sir." He waited for the 'Go' order from the Colonel.

"Permission granted, Major." They all clearly heard the sour note in the Colonel’s voice, but they refrained from commenting, wanting to get going without any more delays on their first mission as a team.

#fanfiction series #stargate atlantis #steve mcgarrett #john sheppard #ao3fic #cross over #hawaii five 0 #stargate #fiction #my writing #writers on tumblr #bamf!John Sheppard

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tres-spades-hotel · 4 years

Note

I am not sure you are taking requests or not, but I got this idea and I really wished you could write something for it, 'about Eisuke falling in love with his secretary and make it a bit dramatic'. I know it may be a lot to ask but all your written works have been so beautiful, I just had to ask you. No problem if you couldn't do it :).

Hi there! I’m so glad you sent a request! Yes my requests are open, I only just realised that I haven’t put it anywhere on my blog that they are open... oops! Anyway, I’ve never written a secretary story before so this was definitely a challenge, thanks to @flatsuke and @leoamber66 for helping me find a solid plot to use. And thanks to @lin-ful for just being amazing! This story is 8000+ words so that’s why it took some time to get this to you. I hope this is what you wanted, if not I hope you at least appreciate the time and effort I took to writing this. Enjoy!

Keep Me By Your Side

They say patience is a fool’s game. Waiting for love will weigh your heart down heavily like an anchor in the ocean. But saying ‘I love you’ to Eisuke Ichinomiya will get you nowhere fast. What does he know about love? Kindness? Happiness?

He was young when he was made CEO of the Ichinomiya Group. He was even younger when he lost his mother to the scythe of death, when he lost his sister to a different, better, whole, and lovable family. When he lost his father to the mist of uncertainty. What could a man filled with emptiness from a traumatic childhood, know about love?

He’s arrogant but he’s suave. A businessman through and through. Ruthless and cunning. Intelligent and sarcastic. Sweet-toothed with hidden compassion. A passionate hater of peas. A wonderful smile when he is genuine. And believe me, I have only ever seen this smile once in my whole career.

He never gets drunk and he spends more time at his auctions than with women. No woman other than me has stayed longer than a night at his penthouse. No other woman knows that Eisuke prefers warm weather to cold. No other woman knows how he likes his coffee: sweet using three sugar cubes and milk. I still remember the first time I made him coffee.

‘It’s adequate.’

‘Really?!’

‘Do it again. It needs more milk.’

‘Okay!’

I remember when he told me about his life. I remember his touch when he wiped away dewy tears. Telling me that it was a long time ago. That he just wants the truth. Closure.

That’s why, as his secretary, I have to be there for him. Because Mr Ichinomiya, founder, and owner of the Tres Spades Hotels around the globe, the mastermind behind the black market auctions and my boss, has brought me down to my knees…

In love.

I am in love with Eisuke Ichinomiya.

I want to shout it out to the world.

Scream it at the top of my lungs as if his name is my breath.

But I can’t.

Because I am only his secretary.

‘Here’s your schedule for today. After lunch, you have a meeting with a potential investor for the new Tres Spades Restaurants. He wants to propose different menus and VIP arrangements plus staff requirements for the restaurant in Sydney, Australia.’ I hand Eisuke his tablet and a folder filled with paperwork.

‘Hm. And the auctions?’

‘All set. Baba is still looking for the specific item that you requested but we have plenty of other materials to sell tonight. Soryu has sent the invitations and Mamoru will get back to you about the increasing police activity here lately. And Ota… well he’s being Ota.’

‘Pfft, of course he is.’ Eisuke looks up at me.

‘And Luke?’

‘He nearly fondled my collarbones… again. But he is ready to proceed with the surgery this week.’

Eisuke narrows his eyes at me.

‘Tell Luke to come see me before then. And you know better than to visit Luke immediately after a surgery.’

I rub the back of my head nervously.

‘Well, you told me to see him right away so… I was just following orders.’ Eisuke sighs in response.

‘Oh! And Luke told me to tell you that he needs another x-ray of your collarbones.’

‘Why? I already gave him one a few months ago.’ The annoyance is written all over his features.

‘Because he left it in the other clinic in New York. Luke doesn’t have an x-ray here in Tokyo.’

He unconsciously pouts at his laptop screen.

‘Isn’t one enough?’

‘Apparently not…’ It takes everything in me not to stroke his head to comfort him.

‘What about your collarbones?’

‘When we got back, while you were still in London, Luke did a medical examination on me so he got an x-ray of mine.’

‘Remind me to ban him from using the x-ray machine.’ I reply with a giggle instead of words.

‘Vivian.’ He says with urgency.

I salute military style.

‘Yes sir!’

‘… You would make a clumsy soldier.’

‘Hey!’

‘If there’s nothing else, get me coffee and leave.’

I bow and attend to my duties. After giving Eisuke his coffee, I head down to the lobby to find Mr Kenzaki. The lobby is busy as always with staff running around attending to the whims of the guests. New guests checking in and old guests leaving satisfied by their stay. The Tres Spades never disappoints.

I spot Mr Kenzaki by the reception. I catch his eye and he walks towards me by the penthouse elevator.

‘Ah Vivian, is there something you need?’

‘Yes, the Boss will need the conference room after lunch. We will need it for a few hours.’

‘Of course, I will have it set up. Do you need the projector?’

I think for a moment.

‘I’m not entirely sure but set it up anyway. Better to have it on and not use it, than need it when it’s off.’

He smiles warmly at me.

‘I understand. I am glad to see that you have become a capable and worthy secretary to Mr Ichinomiya.’ I blush at his teasing words.

‘Thank you. But we both know that Boss would choose you over me any day of the week.’

‘Haha, I’m not quite sure he is that attached.’ I highly doubt that actually, but I don’t tell him that.

‘The guest is Mr Lance and he will be arriving in a few hours. Make sure the lobby is prepared. Boss and I will come down to greet him.’

‘Very well. Make sure to take breaks every now and again Vivian.’

‘Yes, I will.’ Mr Kenzaki has always been obedient and thoughtful. I admire his dedication to Eisuke and the others plus he was a huge help to me when I first started working at the Tres Spades. He’s almost like an uncle or a grandfather (I’m sorry Mr Kenzaki! I promise you’re still young!) to me and the others.

I return to the elevator, swipe my key card, press no. 51 and watch the metal doors close. Turning around, I watch the outside world grow smaller and smaller as the elevator pulls up. There was a time when I was bewildered by the sheer size of this hotel. Over 50 floors of suites and boutiques and shops and the auctions all bundled into one.

Funnily enough, I worked with Eisuke’s adopted father, Akira Ichinomiya before I came to work for Eisuke. Akira took me in when I was first starting out in business and he taught me the ropes. He introduced me to Eisuke a little after Akira retired and, although he retired, he still worked within the Ichinomiya Group to make things a little easier for Eisuke. We met a few times over the years before Akira decided to send me to Japan to work for Eisuke as his secretary instead. I was more than miffed to hear of his decision without consulting me, especially since we had gotten so close with each other. I lost my grandfather when I was young so Akira ended up filling in that void.

Akira assured me that Eisuke would teach me more about how the Ichinomiya Group runs and I couldn’t say more. With my salary increased and bags packed, I got into the private jet and waited to see my new boss.

Looking back, I think I put up a bit too much of a fuss because Eisuke became a wonderful teacher, and a great friend. He listened to me and my problems even though he never needed to.

‘I have to make sure that my employees are at their best. Physically and mentally. Hearing your small problems is nothing to the value you are as my secretary.’

His words back then bring a whole new meaning to me now. I hope he means them in the way that I think they mean. That he cares about me.

A vibration courses through me as my pager goes off. I pluck it out of my belt and answer it.

‘Hello?’

‘Vivian! Where are you? Come to the penthouse! I have something to show you!’ Baba’s excited voice reminds me of a child but I wait to see what he has in store.

‘Ta da!’ Baba’s jazz hands do nothing to appease the sight.

A large statue of Venus towers over us all as we gape at it.

‘How did you get it in here?’ I ask, bewildered.

‘That’s a secret.’

‘Did you break it in half?’ Ota asks next.

‘No! This is priceless!’

‘Then how did you bring it into the lounge?’ Soryu says.

‘That is also a secret!’

‘He used the helicopter and the window.’ Mamoru mumbles from the couch.

‘Oooooohhhhhh’ Ota and I say at the same time. Baba pouts in response.

‘Mamo! Don’t go giving away my secrets!’

‘That’s not my job. That’s Ayase‘s job.’

‘This isn’t what I asked for Baba.’ Eisuke glares at him after inspecting the statue.

‘Ah yes, well. The item belongs to a Mr Jason Taylor Lance. I believe his father is coming to the hotel today.’

‘He is.’ I say.

‘Fine, I’ll get it from him instead.’

‘What is this thing you’re looking for anyway Eisuke?’ Ota asks.

‘It’s a collection of gems found at a temple in Egypt. Rumours of the gems suggest that a whole manner of good things will happen to those who possess them. I figured they would go for a very high price at the auctions.’ Eisuke smirks.

‘They were unearthed a few years ago and have found their way to Japan.’ Eisuke explains. Baba sighs.

‘Well I need more time to find the exact location.’

‘Fine.’

‘Ota can you appraise the statue for me?’

‘Okay.’ He goes back to his room while I prepare coffee and tea. When he comes back, he puts on white rubber gloves and uses a magnifying glass around the statue. I check my emails, replying to some and deleting others when Ota quips:

‘It’s fake.’

‘WHAT! Are you sure!?’

‘Yeah. It was created with cheap materials. An amateur’s work.’ He says it in such a matter-of-fact tone that I don’t comprehend it for a moment.

‘You would never know just looking at it.’

‘Yeah but if you sell it then the person buying it would most likely be an art collector and they appraise everything.’ He sits down and takes out his phone.

‘Unlucky Baba. Just like your sex life.’

‘Hey!’

‘Baba take that thing out.’ Eisuke orders.

‘Alright, alright. Sor help me out.’

‘Why me?’ Soryu and Baba heave the statue out of the penthouse.

Eisuke and I have lunch and then we venture out to the lobby. Just as we exit the elevator, Mr Lance enters the hotel. He is a big man wearing a white suit and a silver chain around his neck. His bald head shines in the glow of the lights and I can hear his shoes squeak against the marbled floor. He spots us and smiles.

‘Mr Lance, I am glad you could make it.’ Eisuke plasters on his signature business smile, holds his hand out for a shake and I bow from beside him.

‘Eisuke, please call me Connor. If we are going to be business partners, we should at least start with first names.’ He wraps both Eisuke and I in a bear hug and I nearly gag from the heavy cologne smell. Mr Lance is overly-friendly and I can already tell that this meeting is going to be a long one.

When he lets us go, Eisuke straightens his suit.

‘Please follow me to the conference room.’ Eisuke walks away while I turn to Mr Lance.

‘Shall I carry your briefcase for you, sir?’ I ask politely.

‘Of course, please.’ He looks at me for a moment. During my time as Eisuke’s secretary, I have met many individuals who have looked at me in inappropriate ways but Eisuke is always there to make it clear my place by his side. Still, I always stand my ground. Even now, as Mr Lance studies my face when he suddenly gestures to the case on the floor and follows Eisuke.

I’m not sure what that look was on his face but something tells me that this meeting will twist horribly.

‘Of course the staff will be perfect in their presentation but I believe that…’

Mr Lance, despite his ‘we-should-use-first-names’ greeting, is actually quite the businessman. He and Eisuke have been discussing the chain of Tres Spade restaurants and how to profit the most without hindering their guest’s experience.

‘The Tres Spades always delivers in high quality standards. Our guests and what they desire are our top priority.’

‘I have no doubt. Reviews of your hotels are 100% which I completely agree with. But if we could…’

Although, they are at a stale-mate right now. Neither is willing to backdown which is making me nervous. Mr Lance is more insistent on getting his way and so is Eisuke.

‘Sir?’ I finally pipe up from my corner in the room.

‘Hm?’ Eisuke looks at me.

‘May I suggest something?’

‘I hope you do not mind.’ Eisuke says to the man opposite him.

‘Please, a second opinion is always valuable.’ Mr Lance says, nodding in my direction.

‘Well, I suggest that the guests are given a form to personally write down any changes they want or need to the menus. This way, waiters will be more efficient obtaining orders and will limit any commotion that may arise.’

‘Paper forms will get lost or damaged very quickly in a kitchen.’ Eisuke says.

‘Hm, electronic tablets? With the entire menu and a writing stylus or Bluetooth keyboard to use.’

‘The keyboard would be too bulky on a table for guests.’

‘Why not use both? Paper and technology alike. Reservations will need specifications on which apparition the guests would like to use. Spontaneous guests first arriving will be asked immediately before seating if they require the keyboard or stylus.’ Mr Lance suggests.

‘That would be agreeable for me.’ Eisuke says.

‘I also.’ Mr Lance responds.

I breath a quiet sigh of relief. Mr Lance looks at me again before turning to Eisuke.

‘Before I sign this contract, I would like to add something to this.’

‘Such as?’

‘You see, I have a son, who I assume is the same age as your secretary?’

I glance at Eisuke briefly before saying hesitantly, ‘I am 28 years old, sir.’

‘Ah perfect! I have a son who could use a woman like you by his side.’ At those words, both Eisuke and I look at each other. He glares at Mr Lance who does not seem to notice.

‘You are an impeccable woman. In just a few hours, I have seen your beauty, your perfect manners and now your incredible intelligence as a woman working in the business sector of society. I believe you would be a wonderful wife to my son and an even better daughter-in-law to my wife and I.’

‘What are you suggesting, Mr Lance?’ Eisuke could be a snake he spat out those words so viciously.

Mr Lance does not break eye contact with Eisuke. Actually, it seems as if he is not intimidated at all by Eisuke, which, despite his words, is impressive.

‘I will sign this contract. Only if your secretary agrees to marry my son.’

‘That is outrageous, as if I would agree to such a thing.’

‘I am not asking you, Mr Ichinomiya. I am asking her.’

There is so much tension in the air that I can see it. Literally. So if I don’t agree, Mr Lance will walk out of the project. But if I do… While there are other investors, Mr Lance has a large influence on the economy, just as much as Eisuke does. He’s too important to deny.

Maybe I should convince him to sign without the marriage?

‘If I may, Mr Lance, I am hardly worthy of being part of your family. I have no wealth which you would consider rich, neither do I have many connections or the reputation to be married into your family. The public and the media would, quite frankly, have a field day about this marriage which could result in backlash on your family and mine. Please, reconsider this.’ I think half way through, my reasoning became a plea.

‘My secretary has never met your son and neither have I. She has worked for me and my company for years. Her well-being is my responsibility.’

Mr Lance thinks over our arguments calmly, as if he has done this a hundred times to other employers and their employees.

‘Very well. Why don’t I have my son stay at the hotel for a week? They can get to know each other and when she agrees to the marriage, then I will sign the contract. Until then,’ he pushes the folder away, ‘I will not sign. This is final.’

He gets up, leaving his business card, and walks out whistling to himself.

* (EISUKE’S POV)

‘That bastard really believes that he can have whatever he wants just because I need him to invest in the project.’

‘Did he really ask you for Vivian’s hand in marriage?’

‘To his son?’

‘…..’ I don’t answer, I only glare at Baba and Ota who hide behind Vivian and Soryu.

Mr Lance has attempted something that I have never seen in my whole career. A marriage proposal during a business deal? Mixing his personal life with his work is extremely amateur for a man who has been in business for over 30 years.

‘That man’s head must have a few screws loose.’ Mamoru says in an exasperated tone.

‘So what did you say Vivian?’ Ota asks.

‘Well, I tried to tell him that I wouldn’t be a good match for his family but he wouldn’t listen to us. His son is going to be staying in the hotel and I have to attend to him.’ She says, clutching her tablet to her chest.

‘Eisuke, what is he planning?’ Soryu is right to be suspicious. Even I believe that there is something amiss here.

‘Soryu, Mamoru, find out everything you can about this man and the Lancer’s Group.’

‘Lancer’s Group?’

‘Mr Lance’s last name turned into-‘

‘A joke.’ Mamoru finishes her sentence. ‘What do you want to know?’

‘Criminal records, illegal activity, anything. Baba see if you can find something in their estates. I want to know what they have in their possession.’

‘Uh, okay Boss…’

‘Ota I want to know what the public think about the Lance family.’

‘Sure.’

I get up from the couch and head to the stairs leading to my penthouse suite.

‘Eisuke, what about the auctions tonight?’

‘The IVC and the auctions will continue as usual. Vivian, coffee.’ I say before turning around and ascending the stairs. I hear Vivian’s high heels against the floor as she rushes to me.

As soon as I get inside, I sit at my office desk and begin researching. If the Lancer Group is as influential as the Ichinomiya Group, they will have more than a few skeletons in their closets. The smell of coffee fills the room as she makes my daily beverage. For a second, I suddenly imagine Vivian making coffee for someone else. Mr Jason Taylor Lance. With his hands on her hips and his lips at her neck, attempting to distract her from leaving. It disgusts me that another man besides me would have Vivian by his side.

I feel myself get up from my chair and wander to Vivian quickly. She pours milk and three sugar cubes into the mug. Her waist feels small in my hands. The hair on her head smells like argan oil. Vivian is actually a small woman, her head is just below my shoulders with high heels on. Her long dark hair is straight with a braided crown around the back of her head. She wears a black suit and a purple blouse plus I notice the thin platinum band around her right ring finger that I gave her when we first met.

I hear her gasp at my touch and she turns around in my arms. Her eyes are wide open with her eyebrows raised.

‘Eisuke?’

Eisuke. She usually says my name when we’re alone. When she’s in work mode, she calls me Boss, like Baba unfortunately, but I still remember how casually she said it the first time.

‘Eisuke, you’ve been working for hours. Take a break for a few minutes, please? What will I do if you faint from exhaustion?’

My hands cup her chubby face. Her trembling fingers hold onto my hands. The only man I see reflecting in her eyes, is me.

I can’t imagine being without Vivian.

Wait. What am I thinking? Or rather what am I doing?!

I let go of her face and turn to leave the room. Her short arms suddenly wrap around my waist as she desperately holds on.

‘Eisuke, I don’t want to leave you.’ Her whisper is enough for me.

But why do I care so much for her? Have I become attached to this woman? This woman who Akira introduced to me? The same shy, bubbly personality who has stuck by my side for more years than I can count? No one has survived as my secretary or assistant ever but Vivian has held on.

What am I feeling inside? This warmth in my chest?

The next day, we prepare for Mr Lance’s son’s appearance at the hotel. Jason Taylor is a famous model and fashion designer who is also known for his… drunk antics.

‘Soryu, make sure your men keep an eye on Taylor and Vivian while they are together. If he dares to make a move on her, I want them to intercept immediately.’

Soryu, sitting in the chair opposite my desk, rubs his head and sighs with exasperation.

‘Eisuke, my men are mobsters, not bodyguards.’

‘Soryu.’

‘I know, I know. I care about her too you know, we all do. She’s the only woman willing to stick by you and your peculiarities.’

‘….’

‘My men will watch out for her and will keep me and you updated on their activities.’

‘Good. Have you found anything incriminating?’

‘There is something. Apparently, the Lance’s have a secret operation in Brazil. It might be money laundering.’

‘Hm, have your men take it. If it is money laundering, the evidence will move the scales in my favour.’ We share a knowing look when Baba’s loud voice booms outside the office door.

‘Boss! He’s here! Come on out!’ I sigh and stand up.

‘Looks like His Highness is in your territory.’

‘We’ll see how long he can stay on his pedestal.’

Vivian meets us in the penthouse lounge. I gave her the morning off to mentally prepare herself for the work that she will have to do. She wears a different outfit that she wears for work which makes me feel better inside.

‘Hey Vivian, why are you wearing that?’ Ota asks. She looks down at her suit then to me.

‘Because I’m still working.’

‘But he’s going to be your fiancé, shouldn’t you greet him looking a little sexier or something appealing?’

‘If you’re so desperate for a fiancée, why don’t you go greet him?’ I spit out at Ota who frowns at me.

‘Baba, Eisuke’s being mean!’

‘You kind of deserved it Ota.’ Baba says.

‘Damn I’m tired. Can we get going now?’ Mamoru yawns.

‘Slacker.’ I hear Soryu mutter under his breath.

‘What you say!?’

‘That’s enough. Vivian.’ I turn to leave and hear Vivian follow. The others grumble along to see who has made an enemy out of me.

Just as the elevator doors open, we hear loud noises and women screaming. In the centre of all attention is JT Lance, a known critic, womaniser, drunkard and an exceptional model and designer. He was already at the top when he was born, but we’ll see how far down to the bottom he falls when I’m done with him.

He seems to be signing autographs on paper and magazines and on women’s bodies as well. Arms, hands, necks, chest, he’ll put his name anywhere. A typical celebrity. He wears a golden chain similar to his father and an open shirt revealing his body.

The lobby quietens down as I step out.

‘Oh, it’s the King!’

‘The King?’

‘Eisuke Ichinomiya?!’

The staff try to handle the guests as much as they can while I stride over to the man receiving his room key.

‘Mr Jason Taylor? It’s a pleasure to meet you.’ I smile at him and shake his hand.

‘Eisuke Ichinomiya, the pleasure is all mine! My dad says good things about you.’

‘Does he now?’ I highly doubt that considering our last encounter.

‘It’s a bit too crowded here to talk. Please follow me to the VIP lounge.’

‘Lead the way.’

In the lounge, JT sits making small talk with Ota and Baba while a female staff member serves drinks. I see her blush as JT winks at her from his spot on the couch.

‘Do you have any tips on how to attract women?’

‘Baba has trouble keeping a woman’s attention for more than a second.’ Ota quips.

‘Haha, the first thing a woman sees in a man is his fashion sense. And yours… is a little less than average.’

‘What?!’

‘You look a tomato with a head, hands and feet. You need to look more manly and dignified.’ He waves his arms around, looking a buffoon. Baba frowns, lost in thoughts.

‘I assume you wear that red… thing daily. Red is a passionate colour and bold to be worn in broad day light. But too much passion turns women off quicker than a light switch. A man should wear blues or purples, like Ota and Eisuke or that scary looking man over there.’ He points to Soryu whose face doesn’t change or move in the slightest.

‘… Um, even that man over there in the grey suit is more manly than you.’ He indicates at Mamoru who smokes at the window.

‘Hmmm, so I need to change my suit? But I love this suit…’ Baba mumbles to himself helplessly as Ota falls over laughing.

I feel Vivian fidget beside me as she gleans the man attempting to take her away from me. JT changes his focus to Vivian.

‘So, this woman is the secretary my dad told me about? What is your name? You are certainly a beautiful gem among the dirt. Have you tried modelling? I’m sure my designs would look stunning on you.’ His insult generates a glare but, like his father, he does not notice.

‘My name is Vivian Grier and I am certain that I am just an average looking woman, sir.’

‘Oh please, you would look divine! And call me JT, it would be plain weird if my future wife calls me so formally.’ I feel my eye twitch at his casual words.

��She is not your wife yet.’

‘That will be her decision, will it not?’

The tension increases with each passing moment as we size each other up. But Vivian cuts it like a sword slashing in the air.

‘Um, JT why don’t I show you around the hotel? Then you can relax in your suite. I still have work to do unfortunately but we can have dinner tonight in the restaurant if you would like.’ Her suggestion does nothing to quell the fiery rage that is slowly growing inside me.

His smile sickens me to my core.

‘I would be delighted to have that. Ota why don’t you come as well, we can discuss some new designs I’ve created.’

‘Sure. Don’t worry, the old man beside me won’t be coming along.’

‘Hey!’ Baba shouts out as usual. The four of them leave but not before Vivian pats my shoulder and says,

‘I’ll back in the penthouse in a bit, try not to exhaust yourself too much before I arrive.' She smirks and winks at me before rushing to the others.

‘You’re going to do what!?’ The words I didn’t want to hear leave Vivian’s mouth so simply that I shout at her in front of the others in the lounge. She flinches but continues.

‘JT is going to check out of the hotel tomorrow, and I will go with him. I’m going to agree to the marriage and stay with his family at their mansion.’

I can only glare at her, trying to dispel the unshakable resolve in her eyes. But she doesn’t look away nor does she back down.

‘Why?’

‘You and I both know that there is something not quite right here. They’re hiding a corpse underneath all that fame and money and I’m going to find out what.’

‘…..’

‘I know you have been investigating. I’m sure you’ll find the evidence we need but do it before the wedding. I…. One day, I want it to be you and me at the alter Eisuke. Truly.’

My eyes widen. Is she confessing to me? Now?

‘Soryu? Can I take Ryosuke and Samejima with me? For protection and friends to accompany me?’

‘Of course, they will protect with their lives Vivian.’ He takes his phone out and leaves to prepare his puppy and shark.

Vivian turns to me.

‘Eisuke, if I find anything then I will send it to you. And I promise I’ll come back. Come back to you.’

Vivian stands in front of me as the strong woman I know she is. She’s doing what needs to be done.

‘Money laundering.’

‘Huh?’

‘We have evidence that the Lance family is money laundering. Find me something related to it or something else I can use.’ I say. We look at each other for a moment then she smiles at me.

‘Okay.’

‘Good luck Vivian. We’ll be here if you need us.’ Baba pats her shoulder.

‘Don’t get yourself killed.’ Ota says from the couch.

‘Kid, don’t go doing anything stupid now.’ Mamoru puffs on his cigarette.

‘Thank you guys. Don’t worry, I’ll be careful.’ She smiles and bows to us before turning around.

‘And Eisuke?’

‘What?’

‘On JT’s phone, I saw a message. It said… the body is ready to be disposed.’

‘A body?’

‘Mamoru get on this.’

‘Murder, huh?’

‘Well, he gives lousy advice on fashion anyway.’ Baba says.

‘He was right about your fashion sense though.’ Ota retorts.

‘Kid, send me that message as soon as you can.’

‘I’ll try.’ Vivian’s heels stride out of the lounge. Strong and confident, she leaves with my heart.

The engagement is called on TV. Mr Lance announces the engagement and we watch as Vivian and JT exchange rings.

‘Such a tacky ring.’ I mumble to myself.

‘Hey, what’s that silver ring on her other finger?’ Ota points to the monitor.

‘Boss, didn’t you give that to her a few years ago?’

‘Obviously. I have more class than he does in style.’ I smirk. So even on TV, she continues to belong to me.

‘Eisuke, Inui and Samejima have dropped Vivian off at the hotel. She’ll be here in a few minutes.’

‘Good.’ My fingers hover over the pager’s call button. It has been confirmed that the wedding will take place tomorrow. JT has booked the ballroom for a party and invited me to attend.

‘So they recorded this and sent it to the media everywhere huh?’ Ota asks.

‘Yes. It’s hard to believe that it’s been 2 weeks since Vivian left us.’

‘She hasn’t left us. As if Eisuke would let the kid go, not with her skills.’ Mamoru, who for once is not asleep, teases me.

‘You’re not snoozing, has the station finally fired you?’ Soryu retorts.

‘Stop it. You all are too noisy.’ I order before Mamoru can fight back.

‘How are the preparations for JT’s party tonight?’

‘Going as well as I can hope. I’ve called the media here to capture JT’s antics on screen.’

‘Seriously? Does he know?’

‘Even if he does he’s not shy to the camera. Everyone knows his drunk habits. I’ve ordered for security to be ready to take action against him if he tries something.’

‘Ota, Mamoru and I will be there as well so you can count on us Boss!’ Baba says with as much enthusiasm as a balloon.

‘Why do I have to be there?!’

‘Because the alcohol is for free. I won’t have to buy you any tonight.’

‘Fine. I guess I’ll go.’ Mamoru grumbles to himself by the window.

‘Hook, line, and sinker. Point 1 to Baba.’ He tips his ridiculous hat and winks at Mamoru who pretends to gag on his cigarette.

‘Sir?’ Kenzaki enters the lounge with the woman I’ve been expecting to see since she left.

‘Miss Vivian has returned.’ His smile tells me that he has been missing Vivian as much as the rest of us.

‘Hey everyo-‘

‘VIVIAN!’

‘THANK GOD!’

‘GET US COFFEE PLEASE!’

Vivian jumps behind Kenzaki as the three men throw themselves at her. It is true that we’ve been miserable without her coffee. We have been living off of room service and Soryu’s tea.

‘I can’t believe you guys really missed me that much. I was gone for 2 weeks!’ She hands out the mugs and I sniff the coffee. It smells wonderful and for once, everyone is quiet in the lounge.

‘Would you like some Mr Kenzaki?’ Vivian asks.

‘No thank you, you can make me some another time. I have some work to do so I will leave you to it.’ He strokes her head like a father and leaves.

‘Vivian, upstairs.’ Still holding my mug and picking up Vivian’s bag, I climb the stairs with her in tow.

We sit beside each other when she looks up and smiles before taking out her tablet.

‘Even though I’ve been away, I’m still your secretary Eisuke. I’ve responded to all your emails and contacted everyone involved with the project. Mr Lance is going to sign the contract tomorrow after the wedding and-‘

‘Are you okay?’ I ask.

‘Hm, what?’

‘Did he do anything to you?’

‘No, not really. Despite the engagement, he hasn’t touched me. I thought he was seeing other women since he keeps going in and out of the mansion but I think it’s something else.’

‘Yes, the coordinates Soryu’s puppy sent is an office. It’s filled with counterfeit money.’ Vivian, Inui and Samejima were able to gain the site of Mr Lance’s operations from JT’s car’s automatic navigation system. The Ice Dragons stormed the place with Soryu and found over $200 million in cash.

‘What do you think it’s for?’

‘It could for a number of things Vivian. People have a way of finding things to buy when they millions to spare. Be it an object or a person.’

‘Did Mamoru find out about… the body?’

‘We’re still looking into it, but I have a hunch.’

‘Which is?’

‘You’ll see.’

‘No fair!’ Vivian pouts at me and I pinch her cheeks.

‘Oww!’ She says it in a more playful tone, letting me know that she’s happy.

‘You’ve gotten thinner since you left.’

‘I guess I was lonely without you Eisuke.’ She takes my hands and wraps my arms around her.

‘I missed you, so much.’ She hugs me tight, listening to my rapid heartbeat.

‘How have you been Eisuke?’

‘Fine. It’s not as if I need you by my side all the time.’ Who am I kidding? Her giggles tell me that she doesn’t believe my lies either.

‘But you will always miss my coffee right?’ Her teasing words make me chuckle.

‘Your coffee has done wonders for me. Even if you didn’t stay as my secretary, I would have made you the penthouse maid.’

‘Haha, I’m sure you would have.’ She raises her head and looks up at me through her long lashes. When did she become so beautiful?

‘Eisuke…’ When did her voice become so enticing when she says my name? And what would she sound like at night, beneath me with her head thrown back in pure bliss?

But before my lips can touch her skin…

‘Boss! Are you ready?’

‘Damn it, that thief always has awful timing.’ I grumble as we untangle our limbs from each other.

‘Don’t worry Eisuke. I’ll still be here when you get back.’ She takes my face into her hands and leaves a kiss on my forehead.

‘You know I will always be here.’ We lean our heads against each other, savouring the feelings that we hold dear. I’ve never felt love for a woman before. It’s not a bad feeling though.

* (VIVIAN’S POV)

I change into my casual clothing and go downstairs to find not only Soryu with Ryosuke and Samejima, but also Luke in the lounge. The TV has been set up for us to watch the party on mute.

‘Hey you guys.’ I sit on the couch next to Luke and see Eisuke, Ota, Baba, and Mamoru at the party, mostly drinking at the bar.

‘Hey princess.’ Ryosuke waves. Samejima and Soryu both give me a nod.

‘Hello Sexy Bones.’ I smile at Luke.

‘Why aren’t you down there Soryu?’ I ask.

‘Too many women.’

‘Oh I see.’ Soryu hates women with a passion. Eisuke was surprised when Soryu said he didn’t mind me being here. Apparently, I’m not the type of women he hates.

‘Where’s JT?’ I ask, trying to spot him on the monitors.

‘Over there, speaking to one of the politicians.’ Luke points to the far corner. For a while we wait and see what happens. Eisuke speaks to various celebrities, all with that sly smile on his face, while Mamoru drinks at the bar. Baba and Ota flirt with the other women at the party.

It all seems pretty calm when I see JT suddenly throw a glass of champagne at a wall.

‘Uh oh.’

‘What the!?’

‘He’s drunk.’ Luke observes.

JT seems to shouting at a staff member. One whom I know as my friend, Sakiko.

‘He’s going to hit her!’ I shout. JT’s large fist is balled up in the air, ready to hit its target when Eisuke grabs his arm and pins it back. He forces JT to the ground and Mamoru cuffs his wrists.

‘Oh thank god!’ I sigh with relief as Sakiko is attended to by the other staff members. Eisuke seems to be addressing the guests as Mamoru and security push JT off the premises.

‘The media will love this.’ I say.

‘Eisuke knew this would happen, that’s why he called them in the first place.’ Soryu says, turning his attention to clean his gun.

‘Mr Ichinomiya looked so cool! Just like you sir!’ Ryosuke says, looking at Soryu with admiration.

‘Indeed, Eisuke’s collarbones looked splendid.’ Luke smiles and Ryosuke gives me a look of bewilderment. I laugh despite the situation we just witnessed.

‘Eisuke did look really cool out there.’

‘Maybe you should make him the new Ice Dragon’s leader.’ Luke says.

‘No.’ Both Luke and I burst out laughing with Samejima trying to hide his smile and Ryosuke looking even more bewildered.

When Eisuke came back to the penthouse, I said good night to the others and followed him upstairs to his bedroom. I hugged him tightly as soon as we entered him room.

‘I saw on the monitors. Thank you for saving Sakiko.’ I nuzzle my face into his chest.

‘Hm.’ I feel the slight vibration course through his body.

‘Eisuke?’

‘What?’

‘Seeing JT be so… violent… made me think. Do you think sacrificing my freedom, despite knowing his flaws, despite knowing that there is always the possibility that he could become violent with me, that he could hurt me and cause me pain and trauma that I might never recover from, if marriage is about accepting the faults of the partner you love, should I accept his flaws no matter how abusive he could be?’

‘No. Because even the slightest possibility could destroy more than just your body, but your heart too. People like JT are not worth more than the dirt under our shoes.’

Suddenly, Eisuke dips down and hooks his arm under my knees.

‘Ah! Eisuke!’ Wrapping my arms tightly around his neck, Eisuke throws me onto the bed and leans over me.

‘You’re still here though.’

‘I am.’

‘Are you going to leave?’ I look into his chocolate brown eyes. I can see my reflection in them so clearly. I feel my love for him bubbling up inside me.

‘Only if you force me to.’

‘Pfft, as if that would ever happen.’ His kiss is sweeter than any candy. It melts me at my core completely. That night, our hearts finally connect with one another. The moment that I have always wanted has been fulfilled. And before I pass out, I hear,

‘I promise, tomorrow, you will walk out as my woman. I will save you.’

Standing at the church doors, I breath in and out. Clutching a bouquet of hydrangeas, I think about last night. Eisuke promised that he would save me.

‘Go to the wedding tomorrow. I will be there and stop this madness.’

Akira comes up and turns me to face him.

‘Do not worry Vivian. Eisuke will give you a wedding surprise you won’t soon forget.’ His smile warms my heart. I asked him to come from London to walk me down the aisle. With my parents gone since I was a child, Akira is the closest thing I have to a father.

‘I know he will. I just hope he hurries up.’ I say. Akira holds out his elbow and my left hand gently clutches his suit. We hear the music begin and the large doors creak open.

With thousands of eyes on me, I look straight ahead just as Eisuke would. Ignore all the stares and look straight forward always no matter what. Cameras and flashes and whispers fill the room as I see JT smirk my way. The wedding dress wasn’t my choice. It was designed by JT and Ota together but it still isn’t the dress I imagined I would wear to my wedding. It’s a backless, pearl white lace dress with a ring of diamonds at my waist. My hair is in a loose bun and a thin hair band with small flowers rests atop my head. The dress trails at the back slightly and I feel it drag the fake flowers those sitting on the benches throw at us. In the corner of my eye, I see the bidders who wave at me. I smile inwardly, knowing that I’m in safe hands.

We finally make it to the priest and JT presses a light kiss to my hand. I gag inside as Akira leaves me to sit down.

The priest begins to speak the formalities and my mind drifts away. Eisuke said he would save me. So where is he? I’ve hoped for years that Eisuke would love me the way that I love him and now that I finally have it, we’ve become entangled in this mess.

‘If there is anyone who would object to this couple’s union, speak now or forever hold your peace.’

The doors behind us creak open once more. Everyone turns to see the silhouette of the man I love the most in this world.

‘I object.’

Eisuke walks forward as gasps and whispers fill the room. All cameras pointed at the King of Spades.

‘JT Lance has no business marrying her.’ He nods to the priest who takes out a remote and presses a button. A projector rises near the back of the church and a picture of a woman appears.

‘Oh that’s Miss Freya Opaline.’ Opaline was a great gem collector who mysteriously died when she tripped and fell into glass which pierced her heart.

‘Miss Opaline was not killed by what we believed was an accident.’ Eisuke’s strong voice echoes in the church.

‘JT and Opaline were both after the same set of gems that were unearthed in Egypt. Opaline got to them first so JT attempted to bribe her for them. When that didn’t work, he killed her and took the gems for himself.’ Moans and groans of the shocked public begin to rise.

‘The next few slides have secret messages between Mr Jason Taylor Lance and his associates who covered up the murder. Let’s also not forget about Mr Lance, who has been making counterfeit money for nearly a decade.’

‘Damn it.’ I hear JT whisper in defeat.

‘If there is anybody else who would like to object…’ As if on cue, Baba and Ota shout out.

‘I object!’ Everyone follows suit and I back away. Suddenly, Mamoru and the police walk in, arresting JT and Mr Lance. Before JT is taken away, I waltz up to him where he is handcuffed. I smile and throw the bouquet at his feet. The sound a slap resonates inside the building, rendering everyone silent. JT stares dumbfounded. Suddenly, I hear cheers for my performance and the police take JT away.

Eisuke comes up to me and I kiss him. I hear many screams and see white flashes behind my closed eyelids but I don’t care. He did it all and I helped him.

‘I love you Eisuke.’

‘I love you Vivian.’ He smiles genuinely and I fall in love again. We lean our foreheads together, knowing our love for each other is true.

‘It was nice of Mrs Lance to sign the contract on behalf of her ex-husband.’ I say.

‘Yes. Now that Miss Felicia is taking over, their business might finally have a chance of being good.’

‘But not as good as the Ichinomiya Group. Right?’ I laugh.

‘Obviously.’ Eisuke smirks at me when we hear a crack.

‘Okay, I think I got it.’ Ota says. The large statue of Venus stands before us once again… in pieces.

‘I guess you finally did something right for once Baba.’ Mamoru says.

‘Yeah! Wait what?!’

‘We were lucky that this was the statue that Miss Felicia was talking about. Who would have thought that Opaline and Felicia were such good childhood friends that Opaline gave the gems to her?’

The gems were never with Opaline to begin with. She sent them to JT’s mother as a way to rekindle their love for each other. Unfortunately, JT killed Opaline before she and Felicia could run away and start life anew. After her death, Felicia hid the gems inside the statue made by an amateur to prevent anyone from taking them.

‘The gems were the beginning of so much sorrow. Whatever stories there are, those gems hold nothing but pain.’

‘It’s a tragic love story but I think Felicia will be happy knowing that she has her own business to run and that her lover’s murderers are in prison.’

‘What I can’t believe is that Mr Lance wanted Vivian in order to blackmail you into selling the counterfeit money at the auctions.’

‘A stupid idea by a coward.’

‘Guys, I think I found it.’ Ota pulls out a golden box from the statue’s chest.

‘Is that it?’

‘Must be.’

‘Open it Eisuke!’

He takes the box and uses the key Felicia gave Eisuke. Inside is one gem, not multiple like the stories. A large diamond the size of a fist sparkles in the light.

‘Now this, will fetch a very good price.’ Eisuke smirks.

‘$20 million! $50 million! $100 million! Do I have any more bids?’

‘It’s going up.’

‘Of course it is.’

‘$150 million! $200 million!’

‘Wow.’

‘Honestly, these people are far too desperate for something good to happen to ‘em. As if a diamond can bring good fortune.’ Mamoru says.

‘$300 million! Any more!’

The diamond sits on a pedestal on top of a purple velvet cushion. I hug Eisuke’s arm and snuggle into his side as I feel him kiss the top of my head.

‘$500 million! Sold!’

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