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flowerandblood · 6 months

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The Prince and The Fox (5)

[ modern! • Aemond x friend! • female ]

[ warnings: angst, violence, swearing ]

[ description: After the events of her childhood, despite her best efforts, her neighbor and the younger brother of her friend Helaena, Aemond, does not want to know her. This state lasts until a house party organized by his older brother, Aegon, during which an incident occurs that will change their relationship forever. Slow burn, angst, toxic ex-Alys, rough Aemond. This is several anon requests combined into one fic. ]

WARNING: The main plot between the characters takes place in high school. Yes, in high school. The belief that teenagers wait with an intimacy when they are in love in high school is ridiculous to me. Aemond and the character here are the same age. Don't ask me how old they are, in my country you are of the age of consent in your first year of high school and an adult in the last year of high school, so if it is more convenient for you, think about it that way and decide for yourself. In this story, I am not following the trail that they are magically friends right away, but how they become friends and what that even means. I'm writing this fic to give the perspective of young, lost people, not adult women who want to see exactly themselves in everything they read. If that's all you expect, this isn't the fic for you.

I don't want whining about this in my comments or asks. I will delete these and block you. You have been warned.

Aemond + Evans Series Moodboard

This is my first story that has its own playlist, but yes! Get in the mood! Story Music Playlist Song used in this chapter: Ooh to be ah (Kajagoogoo)

* English is not my first language. Please, do not repost. Enjoy! *

Next chapters: Masterlist

_____

In the morning, she was woken from a deep sleep by Helaena saying that breakfast was ready and that if she felt like it, she could take a shower afterwards. She rubbed her eyes, not knowing for a moment where she was or what had happened.

She thanked her and swallowed loudly, remembering the scenes from the night before, wondering for a moment if it was real or if she had just dreamt it. She quickly unlocked her phone to see her message history and froze.

Oh fuck.

She pressed her lips together thinking only of how embarrassingly pleasurable what she had experienced with him was, a closeness that probably surprised both her and him.

He enjoyed it.

He wouldn't have done it if it had been any other way.

She thought she couldn't screw it up.

She felt something for him.

She was surprised to see that in the kitchen, besides their mother, was also their father, whom she saw extremely rarely, from what Helaena told her he was often away on long business trips.

"Good morning." She said softly, and he nodded with a smile, swallowing loudly a piece of bread roll he had just taken a bite of.

"Good morning."

She decided to eat something light and settled for cornflakes with milk. She almost choked on them when Aemond appeared out of the blue, apparently he had just taken a shower because his hair was still damp.

He sat down opposite her and gave her a meaningful glance that made her hot, then reached his hand for the pancakes, involuntarily running his tongue over his lower lip.

She remembered the touch of his lips on hers, how soft and firm they were, how well he kissed, and lowered her gaze, swallowing loudly as she continued eating, listening to the exchange between Aegon and his mother.

"Your tutor says you can't concentrate and you're constantly looking through your phone instead of listening to what the teachers are saying." She said lowly, apparently hoping her husband would pick up on the subject as well. Mr Targaryen looked at her surprised and grunted, glancing at his son.

"Is that true, Aegon?"

Aegon rolled his eyes, combing through his hair with an impatient hand gesture, and snorted.

"It's Sunday for goodness sake, can I have at least one day of peace?"

After breakfast she thanked their parents for their hospitality, grabbed her things and decided she would go home, not wanting to take up any more of their time, she had to study for a test on Monday anyway.

Helaena hugged her and thanked her again for the lovely time, she glanced out of the corner of her eye at her brother who was sitting at the table looking at her with an impenetrable gaze.

They had not written to each other.

She wanted to, was even dying over not having contact with him, but on the other hand she thought that she couldn't keep nagging him now, that she had promised herself that she would let it all go at a leisurely pace, that hurrying might only discourage him.

She wondered if he was also thinking about her and what had happened between them.

The next day she got up very early and ran to take a shower, excited to see him again at the bus stop, to talk again. She was afraid that it would be awkward and weird, but at the same time she couldn't get the smile off her face. She decided to wear her favourite black short-sleeved dress with a collar, fastened with big white buttons and topped it off with black trainers.

She showed up well ahead of schedule, however, she couldn't stand to be home anymore out of excitement. She could feel her legs bouncing with excitement as she sat on the bench.

She swallowed loudly when she saw him walking with his backpack thrown over his shoulder from across the street, earphones in his ears as usual. Not knowing why, she got up from her seat as he walked closer, looking at him with big eyes.

For a moment they stared at each other, not knowing how to act, she could feel her heart pounding hard.

He pressed his lips together and looked away, swallowing loudly, without even taking his earphones out of his ears.

Something was wrong.

She didn't know why she felt such a tight squeeze of disappointment when he didn't sit next to her on the bus, but somewhere in the back, sitting with his hood pulled over his head, his forehead pressed against the glass.

He took a few steps back for some reason.

She swallowed loudly, feeling tears under her eyelids, turning the other way, wondering what she had done wrong.

She wiped her cheek with a trembling hand, ashamed that he had broken her heart with such ease.

She didn't seek his gaze or his attention, subconsciously sensing that he didn't want it, trying to focus on the class but feeling only a tightness in her throat and discomfort in her stomach. She thought she wanted to maintain her dignity, that she wouldn't run after him and beg on her knees for an explanation.

If he wanted to move away and changed his mind, so be it.

She tried not to look at him while he and a few other people stood at the bus stop waiting for their bus to arrive. She shuddered, however, when she heard someone say his name, a low, feminine voice.

She turned over her shoulder and noticed how a college-looking girl, much older than them threw her arms around him, she had long, beautiful raven-black hair, she was dressed in a smart, light-coloured coat and long, black heeled boots.

She looked so mature.

"Why aren't you answering my messages? Are you angry with me?" She asked, touching his arm in a way that suggested she knew him very well.

She saw him give her a quick, frightened look, as if he was uncomfortable that she was watching the scene, and then swallowed loudly, tense.

"Not here, Alys." He replied so quietly that she barely heard it.

"Are you ashamed of me?" She giggled, a genuine smile on her lips, her eyes bright, intense green, beautiful.

She felt tears under her eyelids again and turned her back to them, quickly putting her earphones in her ears, not wanting to hear this discussion, turning on 'Ooh to Be Ah' by Kajagoogoo on her phone, feeling the tears run down her face.

She stared dully ahead, wondering if they were together, if she had miscalculated in thinking that he was inexperienced and lost just like her.

She imagined him the way she wanted to see him.

She boarded the bus first, not caring if he was still talking to her or not. She sat down in the first better available seat, and when she saw that he immediately sat next to her she pressed her lips together and stood up, wanting to change.

She felt him grab her arm, felt him say something to her, but she pulled away from him.

"Now do you want to talk?" She growled, not even taking her earphones out of her ears, not even caring what he had to say, walking to the other end of the bus, tired and frustrated by his behaviour, by the fact that he didn't know what he wanted, by deciding for himself when they were supposed to talk and when they weren't.

She wasn't a toy but a human being who felt.

She figured real friends didn't behave like that.

She waited until everyone had left before heading for the exit and saw through the window that he hadn't gone home but was waiting, his earphones hanging by his neck from under his sweatshirt. She squeezed her eyes shut, sighing heavily.

Fuck.

She stepped off the bus, pretending not to see him, but he immediately followed her, grabbing her by her arm, turning her violently in his direction, ripping her earphones from her ears.

"− what −"

"− can you fucking wait? − I'm talking to you −" He growled, and she pulled away from him, frowning her eyebrows, furious.

"Just an hour ago you were pretending you didn't know me, my friend." She said with a sneer, turning away from him again, his hand again on her arm, this time clenched much tighter.

"That hurts." She muttered as he turned her again violently, holding her wrist, his jaw clenched, fury in his eyes.

"− just − just stop for fucking second and listen − okay? −" He asked, and she sighed heavily, looking away, standing still, feeling like her heart was in her throat.

She didn't know if she wanted to hear what he had to say.

"My ex-girlfriend texted me last night saying she wanted to meet me. That she misses me. I couldn't recover from her for a long time. I didn't know anymore what or if I felt for her after everything that happened between us… you know. Fuck. I just wanted to think it all through. Alone. And instead of giving me time, like you did, she came to our school nagging me. Okay?" He asked lowly, leaning over her, and she looked at him with a pained expression.

"Whenever you have to think about something are you going to pretend you don't know me? Don't worry, from me you will never experience nagging. I don't want a friend who cares only about his comfort. I will not be your secondary solace. I regret everything that has happened between us." She said with pain and disappointment, pulling away from him and moving towards her house without looking at him.

It took me a long time to recover from her.

I didn't know how I felt.

He still loved her.

He still loved her, and yet he himself proposed that she stay with him, that she kiss him.

He wanted to see if it would feel good with another girl?

To feel better?

She threw herself down on her bed as soon as she got back into her room and burst into loud sobs.

She felt used.

She believed him.

She believed him to have pure, sincere intentions.

She pressed her lips together as she saw her display light up in the evening, the screen showing that she had received a new message from him.

She shook her head and went back to reading her textbook, not wanting to talk to him, not wanting to listen to his explanations, not wanting to be his friend or anyone else.

After half an hour, however, she got another message and then another and sighed heavily, heartbroken, wondering why he suddenly cared. She figured he wanted her now because she didn't need him, but if she just got his interest back then he would pretend not to know her again.

She reached for her phone and unlocked it, going into her messages with a pounding heart.

She pressed her lips together reading his last two messages and swallowed loudly, feeling hot in her stomach.

I told Alys I'm sorry, but for now I want to focus on a relationship with someone else and by that someone I mean you.

Oh shit.

What was she going to say to that?

She sat and looked at the display, panicked.

She herself no longer knew what she felt, what she wanted.

She shuddered when suddenly a new message appeared below previous ones.

She closed her eyes and tilted her head back.

She decided she would do just that.

That she wouldn't answer him, she would just think about it.

Let him know what it was like.

The next day it was he who was already waiting at the bus stop when she left the house, as soon as he saw her he immediately pulled his earphones out of his ears, looking at her with wide eyes. She walked up to him and they stood like that for a while in silence.

"…did you get my messages?" He asked lowly, uncertainly, and she nodded. He swallowed loudly and hummed, as if he was thinking about something.

"Shall we go truant?"

____

Aemond Taglist:

(bold means I couldn't tag you)

@its-actually-minicika @notnormalthings-blog @nikstrange @zenka69 @bellaisasleep @k-y-r-a-1 @g-cf2020 @melsunshine @opheliaas-stuff @chainsawsangel @iiamthehybrid @tinykryptonitewerewolf @namoreno @malfoytargaryen @qyburnsghost @aemondsdelight @persephonerinyes @fan-goddess @sweethoneyblossom1 @watercolorskyy @randomdragonfires @apollonshootafar @padfooteyes

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makethatelevenrings · 2 years

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Habits and Roadblocks // B. Wayne x gn!reader

Requested? Yes!

WARNINGS: none that I can think of!

Summary: You were Bruce Wayne’s secretary, both for his day and night job. That’s all, right? Just his secretary. Jk unless...

A/N: I am on the tail end of COVID and I took nyquil right before I finished this and posted. I apologize if anything is whack. It’s been a #summer. Stream Jason Todd’s tits on Webtoons. Not necessarily Bale!Bruce. Picture it as whichever Bruce you want. The nyquil is hitting. Good night, I love you!

You were a creature of habit. Every morning, you got into work at ten minutes till nine with a tray of coffees in hand and two breakfast sandwiches. After greeting Ernie the security guard, you swiped your badge to access the elevators and found yourself in a slowly emptying elevator until it stopped at the top floor.

“Good morning,” you greeted Liza. The floor assistant gave you a half-hearted wave but didn’t glance up from the calendar she was staring at. You paused in front of her desk and placed one of the coffees from your tray directly in her eye line.

“You’re a godsend and a lifesaver,” she mumbled, making grabby hands at the drink. You passed it to her and blew her a kiss before continuing on to the desk on the far end of the room. Mikey, Mr. Fox’s secretary, snagged the drink that you held out for him with a quick thanks and a gesture to the bluetooth earpiece that was blasting a cacophony of voices in his ear. You were glad your boss was typically late, rather than early, so you never had to worry about coordinating meetings until after nine.

But your boss was here on time today. In fact, he was early. You faltered for just a moment at the sight of Bruce Wayne seated at his desk, but pressed on.

“Good morning, sir,” you greeted. “Long night?”

The question was asked with the hint of teasing. You knew exactly what he had gotten up to last night. In fact, the majority of Gotham woke up to his exploits. They just didn’t know that their darling playboy socialite was dressed in a bat costume. Three years of working as his secretary, however, and you knew exactly what he got up to during the nights.

“Oh, you know, the usual,” he commented lightly. You set his coffee and one of the breakfast sandwiches down on his desk, a small smile playing on your lips.

“A few rounds of chess with Alfred before a nice chamomile tea and in bed by nine, right?”

He took a long sip of his coffee and then sat back in his chair. “Exactly. What’s on the docket for today?”

You sat down on the chair on the other side of the desk and pulled up his calendar on your laptop. He watched you carefully as you dove into the detailed explanation of his meetings for the day. In the two years of being Batman, no one had wormed their way into his heart and stubbornly rooted there like you had. Alfred mocked him endlessly for his inability to express his emotions, but this was becoming embarrassing even for him.

He was Bruce Wayne. The tabloids were full of his exploits and people practically threw themselves at his feet. Did he take any of them home? No, of course not. He had an image of a playboy to maintain, but he had a cowl and cape to don every night.

Watching you wave and gesture your hands in the air as you spoke, he realized with startling clarity another fact that hadn’t come to mind before.

The only person he truly wanted to share his life with was you.

Damn it.

When you came in the next day, you weren’t surprised to find him not in his office. Batman and Scarecrow had gotten into it the night before and you were sure he would be sleeping in until at least ten. What you weren’t expecting was the bouquet of flowers sitting on your desk.

“Hey Liza?” you called. She poked her head up from the coloring sheet she was engrossed in and frowned.

“No one brought those by me,” she said. The two of you were immediately on alert. Someone could target Bruce Wayne directly but that would be a stupid move. Getting to him through his secretary, however, was something that had been tried before. You were adept at identifying threats at this point and unlabeled flowers that hadn’t been cleared by the front desk was a major red flag.

Security was in and out with the flowers in under two minutes, leaving you with your usual stacks of work on your desk and a small ring of dust around where the vase sat moments before. You were engrossed in corresponding with various journalists -- no, Miss Vale, you cannot do an expose piece on Mr. Wayne’s abs -- when your boss finally came in for the morning. He paused at your desk and you raised your head to look up at him, your pen cap trapped between your teeth.

“Good morning, sir.”

“How many times have I told you to call me Bruce?”

“At least eight, sir. Can I help you with something?”

His gaze raked over your desk before he offered you a tight smile. “No. I must be more mixed up after last night than I realized. Thanks for holding down things here.”

“Of course, sir.”

He shut his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose before pushing away from your desk with a heavy sigh. “One of these days, you and Alfred are going to unionize and I’m going to retire and flee Gotham.”

A wicked grin crossed your lips and you innocently batted your lashes up at him. “I’m not sure what you mean, sir.”

Bruce waved a dismissive hand at you as he headed towards his office. You watched him walk away, you smile slipping into something more wistful and fond. Of all the men in the world, you would be hopeless enough to fall for the one you couldn’t have.

A week later, Bruce was in his office when you walked in and a small box was on your desk. You glanced in his direction, but he was pointedly looking away from you. Easing the satin ribbon off of the top, you opened the box to find a tennis bracelet inside.

A diamond tennis bracelet.

“What the hell is this?” you asked as you walked into his office. He didn’t look up from the papers he was signing and instead offered a breezy reply, as if he was commenting on the weather.

“I believe it’s what the kids call a gift these days.”

“Asshole. Why did you give me a diamond bracelet? Bruce, this thing costs more than my yearly rent.”

“We should really find you a better apartment,” he added. “Do you need a raise?”

You scoffed. “I like my apartment very much, dipshit. What the fuck are you on?”

He put his pen down at that and sat back in his chair, eyebrows raised at your sudden change in vocabulary. You thrust the box at him and shook your head before dropping it on the desk.

“I am not your charity case, Wayne. I know I’m not one of the trust fund babies hanging off of your arms at galas, but I like this job and you pay well so please don’t start buttering me up with gifts because you think I need to have Gucci or something.” Pointing an accusing finger at him, you wagged it a few times and then planted your hands on your hips.

“The money you spent on this could feed three families in my complex for a week. If you want to give me a bonus, do that instead.”

Bruce cleared his throat and took the box from where you tossed it. He held the bracelet up and you almost snorted at how comically small it looked in his large palm.

“It’s a, uh, it’s a panic button,” he admitted. “I figured…if you needed me, you just hold down on the charm for ten seconds and it would send an alert with your location. So I could find you.”

There was something sincere in his gaze, something gentle. You let your hands fall from your waist and instead crossed them in front of you. Bruce folded the lid over the box and set it in a drawer.

“I can see I overstepped, though. I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry for reacting like that. I just…sometimes I remember that you’re Bruce Wayne and I’m just me.”

“You’re more than what you think. I mean.” He let out a short cough. “I wouldn’t have made it this far without you. Seriously.”

“That’s a lie and you know it.”

He barked out a bitter laugh and shook his head. “You came up, on the spot, with a lie to the media about me getting drunk and knocking an ice sculpture onto Lex Luthor when I was poisoned and got me out of the ballroom before anyone could stop you. I’m pretty sure Alfred has a shrine dedicated to you in one of the kitchen cabinets. I wouldn’t know, I’m not allowed in there.”

“Ah, yes, the Great Grilled Cheese Catastrophe. Alfred told me.”

“You two need to stop meeting for tea. Y/N, you are vital to this operation. This wasn’t a bribe or a way for me to remind you that I’m the richest man in Gotham.”

If Alfred was the man in the chair, you were Batman’s PR agent. You handled Bruce’s schedules and came up with lies for the media for his numerous injuries and disappearances. You were part of Batman’s team. Of course he would want to give you a way to contact his alter ego, right?

“I’m much more inclined to wear necklaces. Something simple. Maybe something with Wonder Woman? I’m a big fan.”

He scowled but you could see him fighting the smile that threatened to ruin his tough guy composure. Bruce never used his media smile with you. It was always the soft, gentle one he used with Alfred.

“Get back to work,” he called as you gleefully skipped towards the door.

The next day, Bruce called you into his office and handed you another small box. You slipped the ribbon off and lifted the lid to find a delicate chain with a simple star hanging from the center. You brushed your fingers along the piece and then lifted it out of the box.

“Will you help me put it on?” you asked quietly. He stood and took the piece out of your hands, his calloused fingers brushing against yours with an angel’s whisper tenderness, and you turned to expose the back of your neck to him. Bruce laid the necklace across your neck and then let the clasp fall shut. You turned back to face him and touched the pendant.

“So if I hold this down for ten seconds, you’ll come for me?”

“Always,” came his instantaneous reply.

“Thank you…Bruce.”

You wore the necklace everyday, even to the Wayne Enterprises Annual Gala where all the top performing employees and their schmoozing bosses gathered to brag about themselves. You were just glad it was at the manor this year instead of some glitzy ballroom downtown. Alfred was supplying you with food throughout the night as the two of you stood off to the side and watched as Bruce flitted from group to group, laughing and chatting. In an hour, you would interrupt whatever conversation he was having to inform him that Greta from the French Ballet was calling. You would slip away into the cave to prepare for the night while he made his excuses and Alfred handled the crowd for the night.

Easy, right?

So what was this sick feeling in your stomach at the sight of him dressed to the nines and flirting up a storm? It wasn’t like this was anything new so why on earth did you feel dread pool in your chest?

“He is an exceptional performer, don’t you think?” Alfred commented from beside you.

“Yes.” You swallowed against the lump in your throat. “It’s just an act.”

A gentle hand patted your arm and you tore your gaze away from Bruce to the kind butler next to you. Alfred smiled wistfully and sighed.

“Master Bruce is quite stubborn, but he’s not a fool, no matter how much he appears to be. It appears that you are the same which bodes well for me.”

“I- we’re just- he’s my boss. That’s all.”

“I have known Master Bruce since he was a little boy. I can assure you that he looks at you with the same intensity as he gazed upon the stars as a child.”

With that, the last tethers of your self control snapped and you found yourself drifting off to sea, lost and aimless. There was no way. You couldn’t possibly love Bruce Wayne. Bruce and all of his charm and money and thirst for justice. Bruce in his suits, both day and night. Bruce and that damn smirk when he’s bested you in some game of wits you unknowingly found yourself playing. Bruce with his complicated coffee order because while he could easily drink black coffee, you had slowly opened his mind to cinnamon and creamer and two sugars. Bruce Wayne who would come at the press of a button to save you because he was good and he was kind and he was unfailing in his devotion to this city and there was no way that he could ever love such a creature as you.

“I need some air,” you stammered out before escaping through the hallway that led to the main portion of the manor that only you, Alfred, and Bruce had access to. You hurried up the steps and practically sprinted towards the drawing room that had a balcony attached to it. Stumbling outside, you leaned against the railings and dragged in a ragged breath. How could you be so stupid?

“Y/N?” His voice was tinged with worry and you pressed the back of your hand to your lips to silence the pathetic sob that built in your chest. Bruce appeared in the doorway of the drawing room and he quickly crossed the room to join you in a few short strides. His hands came up to cup your elbows as you shook your head.

“You need to go back to the party,” you bit out.

“Not until you tell me why you’re crying,” he ordered. You shuddered at that hard, sharp tone that carried in his voice and he immediately softened his body in a way that you never knew he could do. Gentle hands brushed along your skin and that’s when you realized your cheeks were wet.

“It’s not important, Bruce. Just go back inside. I’ll meet you in an hour.”

“Really, what difference will it make if I disappear now or in an hour? Tell me what’s going on. Tell me how I can fix it.”

“You can’t fix it, Bruce. You can’t punch your way out of this. I’m crying because I have to quit this job and I don’t want to. I don’t want to give this up but I have to.” You pulled away from him and crossed to the other side of the balcony, your arms coming up to hug around your stomach. He stared at you, but made no move to follow.

“What did I do? How did I hurt you?” His quiet voice shocked you more than your anger and you ran a hand over your face to compose yourself.

“I can’t stay, Bruce. I can’t be professional and keep my feelings out of this. I can’t sit back and pretend that I don’t love you because it’s not fair to you or me and I can’t keep watching you play these roles when I know the real you an-”

And then he was there, pressing against you and capturing your lips in a kiss that seared into every facet of your being. He cupped your face between his palms and breathed his devotion over you like a prayer. Kissing him stoked the fire that rested in your soul and ignited every nerve in your body. You stumbled back against the railing of the balcony, but you weren’t worried. You knew he would catch you.

“Some detective I am,” he murmured when he finally broke away, his lips brushing against your temple as he drew himself to full height. You rested one hand on his firm chest and felt the steady beating of his heart under your fingertips.

“How long?” you murmured.

“Since the moment I fell into your apartment and you stitched me up in the bathroom.”

You chuckled and kissed the underside of his jaw. “That’s a long time, Mr. Wayne.”

“Too long.” He squeezed a hand on your hip and pulled you closer. “Does this mean you’re still quitting?”

“I might be reasoned with to stay. Given some necessary discussions and agreements, however.”

“I can be amenable to that.”

You were a creature of habit. Every day, you walked into Wayne Enterprises at exactly noon with a reusable lunchbox slung over your shoulder and, occasionally, a small hand gripped in yours. After greeting Ernie the security guard, you swiped your badge to access the elevators and found yourself chuckling as your son greeted every single person that entered and said farewell to everyone who left until you reached the top floor.

“Good noon, Liza!” The greeting made the secretary beam and she leaned over the desk to see the tiny figure next to you.

“Good noon, Dick. Lunch with Bruce?”

“Yes, ma’am!” He puffed up his chest and you grinned, ruffling his hair. When Dick first entered your lives three years prior, he brought a new challenge to your life that you didn’t regret. Becoming a parent was hard. Becoming a parent to a ball of rage and anger and grief who could backflip like an Olympian at the age of eight? Terrifying. But now he was eleven and calmed down some.

Putting his energy into beating the shit out of the criminal underworld seemed to be a good outlet for that rage, but you were still consulting the parenting books.

“Go on in.” Liza waved you through and you thanked her with a grin. Dick dashed ahead of you and entered Bruce’s office with a cartwheel. Your husband chuckled at the young boy and you raised a hand to brush against the star pendant that hung around your neck, now joined by two others to represent the other members of your family, Alfred and Dick.

You were a creature of habit, but sometimes, roadblocks in the form of vigilantes get in the way. You could learn to live with that.

Tags: @someoneimsure @perpetual-fangirl900

#bruce wayne imagine #bruce wayne x reader #bruce wayne fluff #batman imagine #batman x reader #batman fluff

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petitelepus · 7 months

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FOX'S WEDDING, PART 19

KITSUNE!RENGUKO KYOJURO X FEM!READER

Summary: It's your big day, the wedding day. Kyojuro and you finally become husband and wife and you celebrate your new status as a married couple in your own hotel room.

Warnings: SMUT HALFWAY DOWN

A/N: Female Reader, Kitsune Kyojuro, Kitsune Senjuro, Kitsune Rengoku, Monster Musume!AU, Kitsune Shinjuro, Kitsune Ruka, Slime Mitsuri, Papillion Shinobu, Alraune Kanae, Lizardman Obanai

PART 1 II PART 2 II PART 3 II PART 4 II PART 5 II PART 6 II PART 7 II PART 8 II PART 9 II PART 10 II PART 11 II PART 12 II PART 13 II PART 14 II PART 15 II PART 16 II PART 17 II PART 18 II PART 19

It was finally here. The day of your wedding.

When you woke up you were feeling nervous, but also happy and excited. By the same time the next morning, you would be Miss Rengoku and married to the man or rather a fox of your dreams.

One tradition you and Kyojuro wanted to cling to was that you wouldn't see each other for a couple of days until your wedding. While Kyojuro stayed back at your shared home, you had gone to stay in the same hotel as your fiance's parents stayed during their stay. That way you could get ready in peace and didn't need to worry too much.

You ate a small breakfast at the hotel's morning buffet, not wanting to gorge yourself sick right at the start of the biggest and most important day in your whole life. After taking a bath, a hairdresser and makeup artist came and started to prepare you for your upcoming ceremony. While the hairdresser was blowdrying your hair, you almost missed how someone knocked on your door.

"Please come in, the door is unlocked!" You called and the door opened and your mother-in-law and own mother stepped into the room. You gasped when you saw your mother in a modest black yet pretty kimono. You asked the hairdresser to turn the hairdryer off for a second so you could speak with the two mothers.

"Mom!" You exclaimed and the said woman smiled as she looked down at the dark dress she was wearing, "How do I look?"

"You look great Mom!"

"See?" Ruka smiled at your mother, "I told you how you are beautiful."

"Thank you," Your mother nodded and you looked at her up and down, "How does it feel, wearing a kimono?"

"A little tight, but I suppose it should be that way?" She asked and Ruka, your fiance's mother nodded, "But not too tight, I hope?"

"Oh no, nothing I can't handle!" Your mother lifted her head proudly and you chuckled lightly. Ruka, chuckled a little also and turned her attention to you, "How are you feeling, my dear daughter-in-law? Nervous?"

"Very," You admitted with a small laugh, "I mean… Soon I'll be married to your son?"

"A fact that brings me great honor and even greater happiness." Ruka nodded and you blinked, "Wait, really?"

"Yes," She smiled, "You accepted my sons, taught them a lot, and made them both so happy, but especially my eldest. A mother's greatest joy is to see her children happy."

"It's true." Your mother turned to look at you, "My little girl, I haven't seen you this happy in years."

"Ah, I guess that is true?" You wondered, but who you were kidding? Your life before Kyojuro was just waiting for days, months, and even years to just pass you by. You were never really living to your fullest or enjoying life…

But that was before the Rengoku brothers came into your life and changed it. It was really true, Kyojuro had brought you so much joy and now you were doing to marry that source of joy.

"Uh, pardon…?"

You and the older women turned to look and the hairdresser and makeup artist looked at you, "Pardon us, but we must hurry now if you want to make it to the wedding venue?"

"Ah, yes!" You nodded as you sat back down and let the professionals use their magic and skills on you. While you were being prepared, your mother and Ruka sat aside to chat a little.

You tried to listen from afar what they were talking about, but the women tending your hair and face kept telling you how beautiful they were going to make you so you didn't really hear what your mother and mother-in-law talked about.

Soon, once you were done came the time for you to put on the beautiful white kimono set. Despite loving the traditional Japanese style, you had no real idea how to wear one so you happily let the professionals dress you.

"Wow…!"

"Oh my," You heard the women in the room gasp and you turned to look at your mother and Kyojuro's mother, "How do I look?"

"Beautiful," They both said as they motioned you to turn around and you did so and saw yourself in the mirror.

"Wow…!" You were stunned at the sight of you in the traditional white kimono. You looked absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful yet gracious. "Is that really me…?"

"You're beautiful," Ruka said and your mother smiled as she carefully wiped her eyes, "I might cry."

"Mom, if you cry then I will also!" You laughed a little and everyone smiled, knowing that the time to leave was there.

"It's time to go." Your mother said and you nodded as you turned to leave, but Ruka stopped you, "Please hold on."

You looked at the fox woman and she took out the white cowl called wataboshi and gently placed it over your head, "Now you're ready."

"Thank you," You nodded and the three of you left the hotel. You couldn't help but wonder where you were heading since the wedding venue had been a secret for you. You knew that the ceremony would be held with only you and Kyojuro and your closest family members, but the wedding party was open to your friends also.

"Do you know where the wedding is held?" You asked curiously and the two mothers smiled, "You will know soon."

You quirked a brow but didn't ask. The drive wasn't too bad, but you had no idea where you really were when the car finally stopped. The driver came to open the door for you and you stepped outside-!

"Holy-!" You gasped as you saw the red gate called Torii from the Japanese religion standing there, in the middle of the gorgeous park, surrounded by trees with yellow, orange, and red leaves. The whole place was honestly so beautiful.

"How…?"

"A wedding gift from me." Came a familiar voice and you turned around to see Mister Smith himself looking at you.

"Mister Smith!" You gasped and the man lowered his sunglasses enough to wink at you, "My, you look gorgeous, soon-to-be Miss Rengoku."

"How did you do this?" You were absolutely stunned and the man laughed as he pulled his glasses over his eyes again, "I pulled some strings I had to make this happen. Anything for our bond between Japan's extraspecies and Demihumans. Speaking of…"

"My beloved?"

You yelped as you turned around and saw Kyojuro standing there, in a traditional black kimono, looking at you with those gorgeous eyes of his wide open. You stared him right back with your own eyes, and by God, he was handsome. The two of you were so mesmerized by each other that you didn't notice your parents and brothers reunite.

"You look gorgeous." Kyojuro said with a smile and you nodded shyly, "And you look so handsome."

Honestly, you could have stared at each other for hours, if it wasn't for Mister Smith clearing his throat.

"Great, now, there is a photographer there ready to take portraits of you all before the ceremony starts!"

"Ah, yes!" You nodded and you and Kyojuro walked to each other. The urge to kiss your fiance was so strong, but you fought against the urge as hard as you could. Soon enough you would kiss each other last time as a couple and the first time as an actual married couple.

"Congratulations on your wedding. I knew you were meant for each other." The human agent smiled and you and your fiance smiled at him.

"Thank you, Mister Smith." Both you and Kyojuro thanked the man from the bottom of your hearts, "We wouldn't have met if it wasn't for you."

"Nah, it was all fate, you two." The man grinned as he fixed his sunglasses, "I just helped it a little, that's all."

Ah, such a modest and humble man. You and Kyojuro smiled as you went to get your pictures taken by the beautiful fall surroundings. You never liked having your pictures taken, but when the photographer showed you some of his pictures, you were taken aback by how good you looked standing next to this gorgeous Kitsune.

But the prettiest pictures were the ones where you looked at each other adoringly with such love in your eyes. You both had your pictures taken with your families before the ceremony time was closing in.

"Our ceremony starts soon," Kyojuro said and you nodded humbly, "It really does."

"Are you ready to become Miss Rengoku?" He asked with such an honest smile and you confessed happily, "I've never been this ready before in my life."

"Then, shall we go and get married?" The Kitsune asked, his smile growing huge and you returned his smile with one of your own as you offered your hand to him, "Take me there?"

Your fiance smiled wider as he gently took your hand and walked with you to the small temple reserved for your Japanese Shinto ceremony.

Your parents and brothers were already there, and you, Kyojuro, and your families were led to the temple by the Shinto priest and two shrine maidens that Mister Smith had asked to perform your ceremony, requested by your fiance's parents.

As you entered the small temple, your families split, your parents and brothers sitting on one side of the room and Kyojuro's parents and brother sitting on the other side.

You all started with the Purification Rite aka Shubatsu. Every attendance stood and bowed to be symbolically purified before they took seats… Except for you and Kyojuro.

The two of you stood in front of the shrine's altar as the priest announced the marriage of you and your fiance, and the guests got up and bowed again, just like Ruka had taught your family to do.

Just like your family, you tried your hardest to follow the traditions. You did as you had seen people do in the traditional Japanese wedding videos that Kyojuro had shown to you, following every step carefully and precisely.

It was time to do San-san-kudo where you and your fiance were offered small cups of sake. You raised the cup to your lips thrice but didn't drink the sake until the third time. You didn't like strong drinks so you tried your hardest not to grimace at the taste of pure strong sake.

The priest said something in Japanese that you didn't quite understand, but thanks to your practice, you knew what was going to happen. Kyojuro cleared his throat as he reached for his dark kimono's sleeve and pulled out his wedding vow. For some reason that you couldn't quite understand only he was required to write one.

"My beloved bride, I am so thankful that we met," He started calmly, "You accepted me and my brother without any distrust, you taught us so much and you loved us so much. Words can't begin to describe how much I love you, and how I adore you for being yourself."

You smiled silently and Kyojuro returned your smile, "You're my sun, my Goddess, and my beloved. Life without you would be like life without colors, boring and lifeless. With you in my life, all the colors are bright and cheerful and full of life."

Oh no, you felt your eyes sting and burn as tears rose to your eyes. Carefully, you wiped your eyes so you wouldn't ruin your makeup. You knew Kyojuro could be romantic but when did he become so poetic also?

"As we got to know each other, I knew we were meant for one another and here we are now, promising each other to one another for the rest of our lives… And I couldn't be happier."

He put the paper down and gently grasped your hands in his as he smiled, "So please accept my confession and take me as yours?"

Okay, maybe you shed one tear, but you quickly wiped off any evidence as you smiled and nodded, "That would be my honor."

After the vow, you moved on to presenting the Sakaki Branch, which was a ritual representing the safe end of the ceremony. You and Kyojuro got sakaki branches from the shrine maidens and you placed them on the altar before bowing twice and clapping twice.

Finally, it was time to exchange the rings you and Kyojuro had gotten for each other. The Kitsune was all smiles as he gently took your left hand and put the beautiful ring on your ring finger. You returned the gesture, taking his hand and putting the ring on his hand and finally, you were married.

It was time for your families to toast and the shrine maidens split, one serving sake for your side of the family while the other one served sake for Shinjuro and Ruka since Senjuro couldn't drink. Once everyone had their cups of sake, they took a sip and the ceremony was over.

"So?" Kyojuro smiled at you, "Are you ready to celebrate our marriage, my beloved wife?"

"Say that again," You grinned and his smile just grew, "My beloved wife."

"My loving husband," You said right back to him and Kyojuro looked like he could burst with joy. The two of you turned and left the shrine, your families following you to the cars that would take you to the location of your wedding party.

While you were on your way, you removed your cowl and let your husband see you without it. The fox's smile never wavered as he looked at you, his darling wife.

"You're beautiful," He said, and you smiled, "And you are handsome."

"May I kiss you?"

"Wait, you want our first kiss as a married couple to happen in the car?"

"True!" He nodded, "I want everyone to see how much I love you!"

"Aww…!"

He was such a cutie. Once you made it to the party place, a lovely lounge, your family and the rest of your guests aka friends were already there. The moment you stepped outside of the car your friends cheered and thanks to them you felt like you were a celebrity walking on the red carpet.

"Congratulations!" People cheered together and you and Kyojuro were all smiles as you looped your arm around his and you entered the lounge reserved only for your wedding party. Time seemed to fly by when you were by your husband's side. You had dinner and you noticed that everything you ate seemed to taste better when you heard Kyojuro shout TASTY after each bite of his roasted sweet potatoes.

There was an open bar, but you stayed away from that after remembering the small hangover you had after the night last week when you had been talking and drinking with your father-in-law. You took notice that the bar was barely used and that even Shinjuro was staying away from it.

Even if you didn't remember exactly what you were talking about, you liked to believe that the two of you had bonded that night when you talked.

After the dinner, you, your fiance, and the guests were ready to party!

You and Kyojuro started the party with your very first dance together as a married couple and the two of you couldn't take your eyes off each other as the gentle music played in the background. At the end of the song, the two of you shared your first kiss with each other as a married couple and people cheered for the two of you.

The party started and people were talking and getting to know each other and you couldn't be any happier.

"My, what a cute first kiss!" Came a familiar voice and you turned to see your best friends from the botanical garden.

"Kanae, and Shinobu!" You smiled as you made your way to greet your dear friends. The sisters smiled at you and bowed in respect.

"Congratulations our dear friend!" Kanae smiled and Shinobu nodded, "You're married now. How do you feel?"

"Honestly, like there are butterflies in my stomach," You laughed as you glanced at the Shinobu's beautiful butterfly wings. Your answer made the sisters chuckle.

"We are happy that you invited us to your wedding, even if you didn't need bridesmaids after all." Shinobu said and Kanae continued, "You look so good in that kimono. Pure as fresh snow."

"He he, thank you!" You were very happy to hear that from them, but then the look in the sisters' eyes changed and they leaned closer to whisper so no one else could hear you guys, "So, wedding night, right?"

"Any big plans?"

"Other than bananas?"

Oh my God, you were both horrified and so thankful that they had the modesty to lean close to say that so others wouldn't hear. You blushed as you covered your face, "Why did I ever tell you about that night?"

"Because we are best friends." The sisters smiled as they giggled, "But honestly, we are rooting for you."

"Me too!" Came a cheerful voice and you turned to see Mitsuri herself, the lovely and kind pink slime running at you.

"Mitsuri!" You smiled as the slime hugged you, oh God she was so soft, and you returned her hug. "You came!"

"Of course!" She smiled excitedly as she pulled away, "Thank you for the invite, it made me so happy!"

"I'm happy you came!" You nodded and someone cleared their throat. You turned to look and saw the white-scaled lizardman from the Zoo standing there behind the pink slime. That's when you remembered that Mitsuri and he were dating.

"Hi there," You greeted him, "It was Obanai, right?"

"I see Mitsuri has told you about us…" The lizardman mumbled as he glanced at his girlfriend, who was all smiles as she looked at her beloved. Her loving gaze reminded you so much of Kyojuro. You wondered if you looked as adorable as she did when you looked at your husband.

"Congratulations." Obanai nodded quietly as he turned to leave the conversation and Mitsuri followed after him, waving at you, "Congrats one more time!"

"Thank you, both of you!" You called after her and her quiet boyfriend before turning to talk with the Alraune and Papillion, who were both smiling.

"Young love," Kanae chuckled and Shinobu nodded, "So pure."

"It is," You nodded before you noticed movement from the corner of your eye and turned to see the husband of yours making his way to you.

"My beloved wife!" Kyojuro smiled as he stopped by your side and looked at the demihuman sisters, "You came! Marvelous!"

"We wouldn't have missed your wedding day no matter what," Shinobu said and her words made you and your beloved happy. You both thanked her and you turned to look at your dear husband, "How is everything?"

"Amazing, but I think it's time for us to cut the cake!"

"Already?" You raised your brow in a questioning manner, but Kyojuro's smile just widened.

"You see…" He leaned close to whisper to your ear, "I can't wait to make love to my beloved wife any longer than I have to."

You were so shocked by what you heard that it took a second or two for you to actually understand what he had just said, but you blushed furiously once you realized what he had said to you.

"My, cake time?" Kanae smiled and her sister nodded, "We are looking forward to it."

"Not as much as I am!" Kyojuro laughed as he wrapped his arm over your shoulders and started to walk with you to the center of the room where the three-layered cake was brought. It was an impressive cake with dark red candy flowers all around it and it was your favorite, chocolate flavored.

People were taking pictures as you and Kyojuro took the knife and together cut the very first piece out of the cake. You didn't smash the cake on each other's faces like some people did during their weddings, no, you kindly opened your mouths and carefully fed each other the cake.

It was absolutely delicious but you couldn't truly enjoy the cake's rich chocolaty flavor. Not when your mind was full of images of Kyojuro and you sharing the bed and doing things you hadn't done ever before…!

After the cake, everything was a blur to you. You talked with your family, got congratulated by your brothers and even Ruka told you how well you had followed the traditions. You understood everything told to you and everything you said back, but the time flew by quickly and before you noticed, you were in the car on your way to your honeymoon suite.

"My beloved wife, how are you feeling?" Kyojuro asked and you flinched, finally snapping out of your mind. You looked at him and smiled, "I'm… I'm not going to lie, but I feel nervous."

"I see," He nodded, "About what I said earlier?"

"Yes," You admitted and your husband smiled as he gently leaned down and kissed your temple, "Please do not fear my beloved, because I will not do anything you aren't comfortable with."

"I know and I trust you, you silly fox." You smiled as you took his hand and kissed the back of it, "I trust you and love you so much you don't even know."

"Enough to marry me," He grinned and you giggled, "Yes, and enough to show you just how much I love you."

Kyojuro's fox ears twitched, a sign he was feeling happy and he asked, "May I kiss you?"

"You don't need to even ask." You replied happily as the two of you leaned forward so your lips met in a simple but still loving kiss. You would have probably kissed more than that, but you were finally at the hotel where your suite was waiting for you… And what a gorgeous room it was.

The bed was huge, easily one of the biggest you've ever seen, and absolutely covered with rose petals. The windows were hidden behind dark red curtains and the bathroom had an enormous tub there, alongside so many different soaps and scents and such.

"Wow, this is easily one of the best hotel rooms I've been in." You were awed as you looked around and Kyojuro chuckled, "Only the best for the stunning wife!"

"Or perfect husband," You grinned as you made your way to your beloved and gently pressed the palms of your hands against his clothed chest, "Shall we get rid of these clothes?"

"Yes, my beloved!" Kyojuro helped you to undo many layers of the white kimono you were wearing and then you moved to remove his dark clothes. Finally, the two of you stood there in front of each other, only in your underwear.

God, Kyojuro looked gorgeous, his body was like a work of art. This was barely fair how good he looked when compared to you. You were fine with your body, but what about Kyojuro? Would he like-!

"You're gorgeous," He chased away all your fears and you smiled as you sat on the edge of the bed and patted the empty spot next to you, "Come and kiss me?"

Kyojuro absolutely bounced on the bed, making you nearly bounce off if he hadn't caught you. He moved you with such ease, twirling you around and over until you were finally lying beneath his body as he held himself over yours. His hair was so long, it hung like a curtain around you.

"May I-?"

"Yes," You said as you grabbed his face and pulled him down to kiss you. There was nothing innocent in that kiss of yours, as soon as your lips touched you were both goners. Your tongues pressed against each other, dancing passionately together and your hands started to wander.

His chest was rock hard under your soft fingers and you silently thanked him for all the workouts he did daily. Kyojuro was still using his arms to hold himself up, but you grabbed one and greedily put his hand over your breast. The man groaned against your mouth and you moaned as you felt him squeeze your breast over your bra.

That thing had to go.

You pulled apart from the kiss and carefully used your hands on Kyojuro's chest to push him up until he was sitting. The Kitsune was confused and about to ask if he did something wrong, but you quickly undid your bra with your clever fingers and threw it aside, uncovering your breasts.

"Touch me…" You moaned and Kyojuro did as you told him to, quickly leaning back over you to kiss you and fondle your breasts. God, you were so soft, the Kitsune could feel all his blood heading down between his legs as his manhood got harder the more he touched you.

Kyojuro wasn't the only one getting turned on. Your body felt hot and you could feel your sex getting slick with your arousal. You rubbed your thighs together in a sad attempt to relieve the aching in your wet core, but you only made things worse for yourself.

Suddenly, your husband pulled away from the kiss and moved down to take one of your nipples into his mouth. You sighed softly as you felt him suck on your nipple, making it harden in his mouth, and once hard, he bit you gently.

"Ah, Kyojuro…!" You gasped and your hands went to tangle into his hair, but then you noticed his fox's ears and you got curious. What would happen if you touched them?

Carefully, you grabbed his ear with one hand and the reaction was instant. Kyojuro groaned against your breast and his hips bucked, rubbing his hard-on on the soft bedding. You blinked before you turned mischievous and you started to rub the base of his ear before gently pinching the tip and the voices your husband made were just so sinful.

"Careful there…!" Kyojuro groaned as he pulled off from your breast, "My ears are sensitive…!"

"I can see that," You chuckled as you gently rubbed them and your husband actually growled as he sneaked his hand down until his fingers touched the wet spot on your panties and pressed against it.

You yelped as your hips bucked this time, pressing forward, eager to feel more of your lover's touch. Kyojruo could feel against his fingers how wet you were and he was honestly so happy that you were also feeling good and not just him.

"May I take them off?" He asked and you blinked, "Whose?"

"Both."

"Ah," You nodded, "Yes."

With your blessing, Kyojuro kicked off his boxers and pulled down your panties. As soon as the little pieces of clothing were gone, his fingers immediately went back between your legs and your hips bucked and you yelped as you felt him circle your wet sex with one finger before pressing it inside.

"Ngh!" You winched and your husband stilled immediately, "Did I hurt you?"

"No…" You lied a little before shaking your head slowly as you panted, "Feel different when it's someone else…!"

"I'm going to slow down," Kyojuro said and you nodded but as soon as he even moved his finger, your hands snapped to cover your mouth, and stop the embarrassing noises from surfacing.

"Please, my beloved, don't hide those pretty sounds you are making."

"They're embarrassing…" You whined and he smiled, "Not to me. I love hearing how I'm making you feel good so please don't hide?"

"Ah…" You moved your hands from your mouth and as soon as you did that Kyojuro pulled his finger nearly all the way out before gently thrusting it back inside.

You were whimpering and panting as you felt his finger rub your insides. Just then, you felt him insert another finger, gently stretching you open as he thrust them in and out and then scissoring them.

By the time he inserted his third finger, you were a needy wreck, wanting and needing him to fuck you. How could he be so patient? This man was a saint.

"Enough!" You cried out, "Please Kyojuro, I need you…"

"Are you certain?" He asked and you nodded furiously, "Yes, please please please, don't make me beg…!"

Kyojuro was pretty sure you were already begging but he didn't say anything about it. Instead, he pulled his fingers out of you and licked his fingers clean, much to your embarrassment.

"TASTY!"

"Kyojuro…!" You whined and the man chuckled as he reached for his cock, but then he remembered that he needed a condom.

"Condom-!" He said and you blinked, stunned. You expected that he would want to do you without one, but he was thoughtful and so loving and it filled you with warm feelings. You were totally ready to let him fuck you without one, but then you both looked up, and sure enough, there was a packet of condoms and lube resting on the nightstand.

"At least this hotel comes prepared," You chuckled a little and Kyojuro laughed also as he reached for the packet and pulled out one condom that he rolled over his manhood. You hadn't seen his manhood since your blowjob and you didn't remember it being so big, but you could remember wrong.

Kyojuro squeezed a generous amount of lube into his hand before absolutely soaking his cock in it. Once he was done with that, he positioned himself between your legs and pressed the tip of his cock between your sex's lips, but he didn't penetrate you yet.

He looked at you and kissed your forehead, "Are you ready?"

"Yes, please, Kyojuro…" You sighed and he nodded as he carefully pushed forward until he popped inside and you winched but kept quiet by biting your lip. It felt tight but good. No real pain whatsoever thanks to your husband's preparation, but you felt pressure.

Slowly Kyojuro filled you all the way and you could tell he was keeping himself back by the way he was biting his own lip and groaning. He wanted to make sure you got used to his generous girth, which you did quickly and you whined beneath him, "My husband, please move…!"

"Yes, my wife…!" He growled as he grabbed your hips with his hands and pulled a little over halfway out before snapping his hips forward and sinking himself completely into you.

You cried out in sudden pleasure and Kyojuro growled as he took that pace, fucking you fast and eagerly. It felt so good, his cock was almost immediately hitting that soft spot inside you that had you seeing stars, and the way his cock massaged your inner walls left you breathless.

While fucking you, Kyojuro leaned down and pressed his lips against yours and you both immediately deepened the kiss, your tongues working together to bring you even more pleasure.

"So good-!" Your husband groaned as you pulled apart from the kiss to catch your breath, "My wife, you feel so good!"

"Kyojuro…!" You gasped breathlessly as you lovingly watched the focused look on his face. It looked to you that it was almost like he was holding himself back.

"Kyojuro…! Please, don't hold back-!" You whined, "Fuck me like you want!"

"My love…!" The Kitsune panted as he fixed his hold on you and with the new hold he managed to press his thump against your neglected and aching clit.

The reaction was instant. You threw your head back as you cried out in pleasure, your hips bucking against Kyojuro's and your sex tightening around him to the point it was almost painful.

You were getting close and so was the fox husband of yours. You knew it, you felt the orgasm coming. You just needed a little more…!

"I love you," Kyojuro suddenly said and you blinked as you registered his words. He smiled, "I love you, I love you so much!"

"Kyojuro-!" You gasped, "I love you!"

The two of you kissed and the time ran out and your body came undone beneath your husband. Pleasure wrecked your body and your sex squeezed so hard around Kyojuro's manhood that you coaxed him into cumming as well, the condom catching his release

The two of you were panting as you slowly came down from your high. You were both looking at each other so lovingly and you shared a quick kiss.

"You're amazing." You whispered against his lips and the Kitsune grinned, "You're gorgeous."

Your giggle was cut off by a tired moan as your husband pulled his manhood out of you, took the condom, tied it, and threw it on the floor to be cleaned later on. The man moved swiftly as he pulled a blanket over you and his naked body and you immediately snuggled against his warm body.

"Thank you Kyojuro." You thanked him and the man smiled, "For what?"

"For choosing me." You said and he grinned as he kissed the top of your head, "Thank you for accepting me."

Ah, could you two be any more in love? You enjoyed each other's company when you realized something.

"So… We are leaving tomorrow to go to Japan?" You asked and Kyojuro nodded, "That's what my parents want."

"And we are staying at your place?"

"Most likely, yes."

"I don't know if I'm able to have sex in your childhood home or that close to your parents." You said as you were afraid that you would be too loud and one of his parents would walk in on you two.

Kyojuro smiled, "I understand, so no worries."

"So…?" You looked at him and he blinked, "So?"

"Would you fuck me until I can't walk?"

Kyojuro raised his brow in a questioning manner and you pouted, "What, I'll be seated on a 10-hour flight to Japan so it's not like I need to walk tomorrow, right?"

"I understand your reasoning!" He nodded happily as he kissed your temple and reached for another condom, "Round 2 it is!"

52 notes · View notes

anna-neko · 7 months

Text

gonna absolutely be that "old lady shaking her walker, and screaming how olden days were better" for a minute here.....

There is a very specific thing I very much miss, and its the... well... lack of streaming. Scheduled programming! (be it both visual or radio. .... the radio one is whole 'nother rant, fuck ClearChannel/Viacom etc etc)

now don't get me wrong - i freakin luv the ability to watch some ancient b/w telly, carefully pumped pixel by pixel into my phone from the library server at 2:45am....

but its the fact Boring Dystopia today doesn't let you escape algorithms & their endless grey sludge

so like... TV! My set cannot pick up regular airwaves signal w/out additional "digital bunny-ears" or something similar. Most stations have switched to digital signals years ago, this is fact.

Back in the day you could flip on the telly, and have the choice of a few local channels. You got your usual local affiliates: FOX, WB, ABC, UPN, NBC, CBS and of course PBS. plus that one endless shopping network

Even as background noise you'd still end up getting all sorts of good stuff with different ads, local news flashes, whatever sitcom was running would have "on the next..." and you'd be like "heeeey, Friends is still making new episodes? and this channel still shows it?" Might hear about some movie didn't know existed because it was mentioned as scheduled for Saturday 8pm eastern, 7 central in that last ad-break, but the visuals in this tiny clip looked neat so might try to see it.....

what can i do today tho... Lets see, there's the option of a bunch of streaming shit. It requires a quick app d/l (again, don't get me wrong, TUBI and PlutoTV are a+ "thank fuck u exist" kinda things) buuuuut ... you can't just leave it be. Even the ads are somehow ... grey formless sludge. The same 3-5 shitty things that are determined by algorithm, never any variation. No news-teases, no trailers for movies coming to theater/streaming soon.... who'da thought would miss the damn Wendys new breakfast deals or local (local) car dealership promos

but no, with a streaming 'oooh wait, 'app' you gotta either scroll thru the shitty UI menu to pick what you wanna watch specifically... or in case of Pluto chose a channel.... Which will be just One Thing on a loop too (like a channel of nothing but Addams Family. nothing but The Walking Dead franchise. nothing but SailorMoon episodes) If you chose an episode of a show, and put away the remote it will just keep jumpin to next episode of same until it runs out...

.... i miss times of day influencing what was on. The kinda shit running during "primetime", early morning cartoons, early-noon little kids targeted shows, mid-afternoon soaps and bullshit talk shows, vs "middle of the night" The silly station eye-catches (TNT...dun dun dun, we know drama), ads for gushers mixed in with quick weather updates as the channel hopes you'll tune in at 10pm for the News. I miss discovering new (new to me!) shows or movies but flipping a channel. Disney Channel used to air ANCIENT b/w Alice Comedies or those utterly ridiculous 70s bebi Jodie Foster movies at 1am. AMC was full of old movies (pre-70s stuff mostly), TLC stood for "the learning channel", MTV and VH1 were 2 distinct separate entities showing actual ~ try to contain your shock ~ music videos. and if u were hella lucky, you'd glitch into (or it was free preview month) MTV2 which was for the alt rock vids!

_________________ No i don't miss the ancient shit like TV set that had round knobs and the numbers only went to 13. The horrid static noises. I don't miss VCRs (needing to rewind, hoping the tape hasn't demagnetized, or deteriorated frm too much use etc) . Fuck, don't even miss Blockbuster w/ their exceptionally ruined DVDs that wouldn't play past a certain point and them just goin "oh well, sorry...." and doin fuck-all

whoda thought would be missing an actual structure of some sort, running all sorts of diverse shit in pre-programmed blocks on set schedules. There was a human touch, the human element to it

#screaming into the void #old man yells at cloud #just an oldtaku who has seen some shit #boring af dystopia #heres a fun fact: people find it impossible how I can remember decades-old shit down to the hour #ya know why?#because The Simpsons were airing at very specific timeslots #as were a bunch of others shows

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red-hot-kick · 2 years

Text

i said id do it and i freakin did it

[Transcription of the video below the cut.] [Please read it there is so much text.]

[1 minute of footage scrolling slowly through Yusuke's profile in Alchemy Stars, a mobile game that features a Persona 5 Royal collaboration.]

FOX Water/Water Aurorian Info Character Profile * Aurorian Dubbing Tomokazu Sugita

• His Profile Name: Undisclosed Nickname: Fox Gender: Male Height: About 5'11" Birthday: Supposedly an Aquarius Birthplace: Unknown Element: Water Affiliation: The Independent (Rebellious) Fighting Style: Katana

• His Experiences He's tall and gracefully slender. Every twinkle and smile of his is beautiful. The way he puts his sword back into its sheath is a delight for the eye. He shows a great interest in sculptures of this world. Nothing but his eagle-sharp eyes peek out from behind his mask. Hmm.…. I suddenly remember something. He carries the same aura as those famous artists I learned about in art classes during my studies in Lumopolis. — Vice

• His Story (I) Code name Fox. Though he keeps reminding everyone that he's not the Royal Fox... • His Story (II) Fox wants to become a painter. He likes framing the air with his hands. • His Story (III) Once, someone randomly asked Fox how he deals with remaining soup after cooking, and he replied without hesitation that he uses it to make porridge with "extra wild parsley." • His Story (IV) Fox once told the story of how a respected teacher of his was how he came to join the Phantom Thieves. I can't forget the sad expression on his face from then.

[4 minutes featuring 51 pieces of voiced dialogue that occur within the game. Text translations below, with some minor edits for clarity/additions of left-out dialogue.]

"My experiences here will be inspiration for my drawings."

"Good morning. It's almost breakfast time, right? I'd like to taste the food here first."

"Are you on an evening stroll? [Not a bad] idea. Mind if I join?"

"Still [awake]? [How odd.] Though, the same goes for me." (NOTE: Correct me if I'm wrong, but another interpretation would be for Yusuke to say something like "Though, I'm not one to talk.")

"[Hm?] What? Oh, you're taking a walk too?"

"Is this the Colossus? It's a unique experience to overlook the land from the sky."

"There's no traffic expenses to worry about in this world... [Not bad]."

"The water in this world tastes great... On par with the tap water in my world."

"Seaweed tea and dessert [makes for] the best [combination]."

"When I sit down, the tail on my outfit seems to get in the way..."

"You calling yourself the Last Caelestite would be equivalent to me calling myself the Future Star of Nihonga."

"The Colossus is so spacious, I even want to [rent] a room from you as my [atelier]."

"This world has so many things I've never seen before, inspiration is just pouring in!"

"I love this world. I hope I can record it all on my canvas."

"The Colossus really has everything... [You'll show] me around later, [won't you]?"

"Meals are complimentary? That's amazing!"

"The interior design here... Was it done to your preferences?"

"[I'll handle this. Please] leave it to me!"

"This is Fox of the Phantom Thieves of Hearts. You need [my power], right?"

"The application of blade and brush share some similarities."

"I've gotten [a little bit] more powerful, it [seems]."

"It's going well. Keep it up."

"Push them back, Goemon!"

"Time for me to shine."

"Leave this to me."

"There's nowhere for you to run."

"Time to wake up!"

"He is another me!"

"An opening!"

"Slice it!"

"Cut it to pieces!"

"Perfect. Now, on to the next victory."

"Sorry you have to see me looking like this..." (NOTE: Some clarification here—it sounds like he's saying something more like "my apologies for showing you something unsightly.")

"Alchemy Stars!"

"I want to explore the mysteries of this world too, so let's go!

"Tails, cat ears, dragon horns... The creator of this world sure has [interesting] taste."

"Come, let me show you the most aesthetic performance you've ever seen!"

"Eclipsite figures... There's no artistic value in them whatsoever.

"Joker is a trustworthy leader."

"Having allies isn't a bad thing."

"Walking is pretty nice. You save a lot in travel expenses."

"My dislikes...? I want nothing to do with anyone who dislikes art."

"I can feel the beauty from the exterior of this Colossus."

"It's for me? I shall take it."

"[...Such a nice thing, for me? My apologies]...I shall appreciate it.

"A [present] for me? Hm? How lovely!"

"Terrific! Absolutely terrific! You really know what I like, [don't you?]"

"As long as I can draw and paint, I don't care where I am."

"I've been into donating blood lately." [Yusuke laughs] "Yes, it's my new hobby."

"I believe the supermarket's having a sale today... Oh wait, I'm in another world..."

"It's coming to an end!"

#yusuke kitagawa #persona 5 #alchemy stars #video #pita.txt

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atozphantomsquadron · 1 year

Text

IX - Flight

I only spent another week at the lab. During that week, many of my suspicions were confirmed, especially as I talked more with 37A and spent more time with her. It was becoming more and more apparent that there was something very dark and evil going on with this experiment, and I no longer wanted any part of it, although I doubted there was any way to get back to where I had been before.

37A and myself kept up the charade of training, continuing to hone our abilities with each other, learning each other’s tendencies, and getting comfortable with flying and firecasting. During that time, however, I started noticing less and less of the original eleven men being around, particularly at mealtimes. Three days after the entire unit had been introduced to their STB’s there were only six of them remaining. Sonny, thankfully, was one of them. On one morning shortly after breakfast, with time before either of us was due to train with our STB’s, I cornered Sonny just to talk to him.

“How has your training gone with 69J?” I tried to be casual about things.

“It’s been something else, let me tell you. I feel like we’re getting along great, there hasn’t been any instances where he won’t do what I ask him to.” Sonny gently scratched behind his jaw. Just as my metamorphosis had been commencing apace so had his, as the orange tone of his skin had been replaced by bright orange and white fur, his nose had lengthened to a fox muzzle, and his ears had pointed and moved slowly to the top of his head.

“Have you heard anything about what happened to the others?”

“Oh them? They washed out, actually. That’s all I heard. Well, all of them except poor Chris Bawyer … his STB turned on him and killed him, and in turn died itself.”

“You’re kidding! What happened?”

“Y’know, I’m not sure. One minute, he’s excited to meet his STB, the next he’s a statue and so’s the beast. Something went seriously wrong there.”

I shuddered at this. So if anything happened to me, 37A would be hurt, and vice versa? That was too much to bear. I composed myself as much as possible. “How have you been feeling, Sonny?”

“I suppose all right. My energy level’s been off the charts lately, so I suppose all of the excess body hair is a small price to pay for feeling like a million bucks. What about you?”

I sighed gently. “I’m not entirely sure. I’ve got the same thing happening, high energy and weird bodily stuff. I just wonder about the constant injections, what are they giving us?”

Sonny stroked his elongated chin. “I’ve been wondering that myself.” A beeping distracted him. “Uh oh, sorry, 69J and training sessions are calling. See you in a bit, L.T.”

I nodded. Inwardly, I let my mind drift to 37A. Can you commune with the other STB’s?

=Some of them, not all. Not all of them are intelligent enough to do this.=

Can you talk to 69J?

=Yes I can, but he’s quite rude. He prefers to be called “Kitsune,” by the way.=

Has 69J… err, Kitsune been talking to Sonny?

=No, and that’s disappointed him greatly. Sonny’s brain is apparently not attuned enough for communication.=

I wanted to include Sonny in on my plan to escape, but I needed a way to let him know that wasn’t obvious. It finally struck me how to get an indirect message to the man.

37A, tell Kitsune to “accidentally” steer Sonny into your cell. I’ll talk to him there.

=I’ll try, Ariel. Kitsune is a bit difficult to reason with sometimes.=

The tone chimed for my own training session with 37A to begin. I made my way to her cell, down the long, dark staircase once more, until finally I was at 37A’s side again.

Sonny had made it into the cell. He looked at me with a bewildered expression. “L.T.? What’s going on?”

I walked up to 37A and kissed her nose gently. “Thank you, my friend, and thank Kitsune for me.”

=I will. Give your message to Sonny quickly.=

I nodded, turning to Sonny. “I’m going to look for some answers to all of our questions, Sonny. I need your help, you and your STB.”

He looked around fast and panicked. “What about the security? Reed and Gerard aren’t going to let us just waltz into their records and find what we want.”

“If we run into trouble, we have the STB’s to help us. 37A already said she would. We need help from Kitsune … 69J,” I corrected myself, remembering that Sonny did not know his STB’s preferred name.

Sonny swallowed hard. “I’ll ask him, L.T., but he’s got an independent streak.”

“Just try, please. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.” I gently pushed Sonny into the stairway, then jumped up on 37A’s shoulders and rode her out into the gymnasium. That day’s training involved a battle simulation. In the midst of immolating several targets and flying over them to escape, 37A’s voice popped into my head.

=Kitsune says he will help you and Sonny.=

High above everyone, near the ceiling, I leaned over and hugged 37A warmly around her neck. “Thank you, my friend.”

The training session ended quickly afterward, and our combat scores were entered into a console designed for tracking progress. Reed shook my hand enthusiastically, not disconcerted by it no longer having five fingers.

“Congratulations, lieutenant. You have the top scores of the team in these exercises. We’re very pleased with your progress, and are looking forward to putting you out in the field.”

I forced a smile. “Thank you, captain.” I looked anxiously over at Gerard, who marked notations on his clipboard.

“Return to your quarters, Vibria. We’re through with you until tomorrow.”

I saluted Reed, who returned the salute and walked away. I backed away until I felt 37A against my rear end. Gently I put an arm around her neck.

“We’re finding answers tonight, girl.”

=Tell me what I can do to help, Ariel.=

I patted her flank in a friendly manner. “Just hang tight for a little bit, my friend. I will call you if I need you.”

After returning 37A to her cell, I crept along the hallway until I reached X16, Sonny’s barracks room. He ushered me inside quickly.

“So what’s the plan, L.T.?” He crouched next to the door, listening for anyone to break in. I settled down next to him.

“We head out in the hallway, make our way to the medlab, and take a quick look at Dr. Gerard’s records. We find out exactly what happened to the withdraws, and hopefully exactly what the STB’s are.”

“I’m with you, L.T. Lead the way.” Sonny squeezed my hand gently.

“Thanks. And please, call me Ariel.”

Sonny nodded. I opened the door and quickly pressed myself against the wall of the darkened hallway. Sonny followed behind just as quickly, and we crept our way down to the medical lab. Thankfully, at the time of night we were sneaking around, no others were around, not even security personnel (which surprises me greatly, even now).

I opened the lab door gently. My eyesight had greatly improved since my changes had been taking place, so I made my way confidently through the room and back to Dr. Gerard’s enclosed office. I flipped on a light switch … even with improved eyesight I still can’t read in the dark … and opened a file cabinet next to the desk. Sonny kept a lookout by the door as I flipped through files, searching for information.

Every file on the men marked “withdrawn” had further information about what had happened. A chill coursed through my body as I realized that all of these men had not actually withdrawn: they had all died, many from reactions to the “vitamin” injections.

I found my own file. Pulling it out of the drawer, I flipped through it quickly. On one of the first pages, I found all of the information I had been dreading to learn:

“Subject G66 has received injections since first arrival date consisting of several hormonal by-products of her designated STB, #37A. Hormones extracted from the STB for injection include progesterone, estrogen, pinearin, thyroid extract, insulin, testosterone, and growth hormone. These combined hormonal extracts have had the effect of increasing stamina and speed tenfold, with the added side-effect of creating unusual skin growth and metamorphosis of ears, forearms, ocular organs, and hands. Subject’s injections with hormonal by-products have created the ideal bond: 37A-G66 can be considered a successful pairing.”

I shuddered coldly. The next file after mine in the drawer was Sonny’s. I pulled it out and read the same information in regards to him and Kitsune: they had extracted the same hormones, with similar side effects.

The text changed, however, and that chilled me to the bone.

“Subject’s bond to 69J is tenuous at best, and cellular degradation has been observed in post-injection blood tests. Subject’s increased metabolic state has been damaging his organs to the point of near-failure, masked by his increased abilities and stamina. Subject is expected to expire within the next 96 hours: STB designated 69J will perish at the same time.”

I dropped the file, creating a loud noise which startled Sonny. He looked into the room. Only when I looked up at him did I notice that he was trembling.

“Come on, Ariel, we have to go.”

My heart ached as Sonny tried to ensure I would escape. I grabbed his arm tightly.

“You’re coming with me, you and Kitsune. Come on!”

We both rushed out of the lab, toward the cells, toward our STB’s. Quickly we opened up the cell windows to expose our respective beasts. Sonny rushed toward the door to his beast’s cell, while I turned to 37A.

“We need to get out of here. Sonny doesn’t have much time, and neither do we.”

=I know. Kitsune has been ill tonight, I fear he has little time left.=

Tears started forming in my eyes. “We need to get you out of here.” I desperately searched the control panel, looking for any way of opening the window. My breathing became ragged with panic and fear.

A shattering noise behind me distracted me from my search. Kitsune had smashed through his cell window, with Sonny astride him. Alarms started blaring, as emergency lights bathed the entire room in harsh white fluorescence. I quickly motioned to Kitsune.

“Come here, break this window!”

Sonny patted the giant fox on his cheek. Kitsune reared back then pounded his head through the window, shattering it. In an instant, 37A had flapped her way through the opening, and I was atop her.

“Let’s go!”

Sonny clamped his chest then waved me forward. “You go, Ariel! I don’t have a lot of time.” He patted the fox again. “Kitsune’s told me as much. You guys are going to survive, we’ll cover you! Go now!”

I looked back in anguish. “We can’t leave them.”

=We must, Ariel. They are going to be overtaken any minute.=

“We’re staying to fight, then! I won’t let them die for us!”

=Ariel, they’re dying already. It does not matter whether they fight or not, they still die. We still have the opportunity to live, let us take it.=

I wept bitterly. “Goodbye, Sonny,” I whispered as 37A ran out of the hallway, then shattered the walls of the lab barracks and plunged us out into the rainy night. The dragon continued her flight up, into the night, until we were above the rain clouds and the only warmth I could feel was the beast’s great internal furnace.

Emotionally and physically spent, I collapsed on the dragon’s back, my head cushioned by the nape of her neck. I cried hard that night, the tears steaming against the night’s chill and evaporating against 37A’s hide.

=We must hide, Ariel. They are sure to find us somehow.=

Where can we hide? How can we hide?

=You have the best chance, you are human. I shall find a cave, or a grove, or some place where I can be hidden.=

I can’t leave you, 37A. We’re bonded, we have to stay together because if one of us dies, the other will die as well.

=This is how it must be, my friend. I will protect you some way. Sleep now, Ariel, and I will try to take care of you.=

I snuggled into 37A’s skin, still weeping.

=Do not weep for Sonny and Kitsune. Their sacrifice will allow us to live. Sleep now, Ariel, and know that this creature loves you like her sister.=

My mind slowed then stopped, as sleep overtook me.

(Transcriber’s note: All efforts to find any further information regarding CIBO #D70 has been blocked, both my efforts and those of my DC friends. Apparently, the project disappeared off the face of the earth shortly after Ariel’s escape, and left not even a scrap of evidence it even existed in the first place. Attempts to find any of the command structure, either a “Captain Lance Reed” or a “Dr. Benjamin Gerard,” have likewise proven fruitless. However, I do not doubt Ariel’s account of the events, nor do I question the assessment she gives of the science behind her bond with 37A.—DAM)

#phantom squadron #dinetah dragon

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allie-and-her-fandoms · 3 years

Text

The Joy of A Fae

A/N: Hello guys. After 6 months, I am back with a new fic celebrating White Day AND Elaine's birthday (I might be a bit rusty though). This is only part one, and I intend to upload the next, STEAMIER part by the end of the next week. Anyway... enjoy, or endure!

---

The morning rays shyly entered the room, wrapping Elaine in a warm embrace. When they kissed her eyes, she started blinking and sat up on the bed, her hand instinctively looking looking for her beloved, who unlike most times, was not to be found in the cradle they had been sharing for months.

Worrying thoughts began to start wandering in Elaine’s mind, but as soon as they arrived, they left when she heard the sound of a pan coming from their kitchen. Which meant that either a thief decided they wanted to try their luck, or that The Fox’s Sin of Greed had a project in progress.

Without hesitation, Elaine’s wings carried her towards her destination, as her nose picked the scent of the air. Vanilla and fruits enveloped the entire house with their fragrance, and it got only stronger with every flapping of her wings. And the second she reached the threshold, Elaine was welcomed by an intriguing sight.

Over a counter, Ban dripped some vanilla extract, followed by him energetically stirring a rather thick liquid with a whisk. After a few seconds, his fingers reached for a teaspoon that he soon dipped in the liquid and raised it to his mouth, tasting its content. “Mhm, still missing a bit sugar,” he muttered in a melodious voice, as he reached for a jade-colored jar and started humming. Behind him, there were two plates filled with chocolates; one was filled with heart-shaped ruby chocolates, and the other was home to animal-shaped white ones. But Elaine’s eyes were not on the chocolates, but on the one who made them – more exactly, on what he was wearing.

An apron covered his torso and ended right above the knees, leaving the back uncovered. His muscular arms were not constrained by clothing, and his bottom was covered by a pair of ankle-length crimson red pants. Distracted by the sight in front of her, Elaine failed to notice that the humming had stopped, alongside the stirring. Before the blink of an eye, Ban’s silhouette left her eyesight, and before she could wonder where he went, she felt a strong yet gentle grip on her waist.

“Gotcha!” Ban hummed, as his right hand circled Elaine’s petite frame. “Didya think you can sneak up on me without me noticing? Or did you just enjoy the view?” he started teasing her, earning a muffled squeal from his beloved.

“I-It wasn’t that!” Elaine protested. “It just- When I woke up, you weren’t there. What are you doing here? What is with all the chocolate?” she asked Ban, her arms now resting on his.

“Don’t tell me you forgot,” Ban stated, surprise in his voice. “Did you really forget what today is?”

“Eh? Is there a holiday today?” this reply earned an indignated scream for Ban.

“You did not! You are just doing it to mess with me!” Elaine freed herself from Ban’s embrace, now facing him. As his ruby gaze insersected with her golden one, Elaine could hear his thoughts: “Is she trying to make a joke?”

“I am not kidding, Ban.” she replied and started frowning, and those words earned a disappointed look from him.

“Don’t tell me you forgot about your own birthday, Elaine!”

“Oh…” Elaine’s frown vanished, as her eyes widened and her left hand covered her mouth.

“Yep. Wanted to surprise ya a bit, so I woke up a bit earlier today,” Ban explained, leaning towards Elaine and removing her hand from her now closed mouth, covering it with his lips. Elaine deepened the kiss, which made Ban hum as his right hand found its way to her head, drawing her even closer.

After both were left breathless, blood red met topaz once again and Elaine felt two hands cupping her face ever so gently, feeling herself melting under Ban’s loving gaze.

“Happy birthday, Elaine,” he voiced, his mouth being immediately covered by Elaine’s, which he reciprocated in an instant, for his flame of passion would only start growing stronger with every touch, every word murmured, every memory engraved in his brain.

“Happy birthday to me, indeed,” Elaine chuckled. “Ban?”

“Hmm?”

“Why is there so much chocolate though?”

“Ah!” Ban beamed. “Cap’n told me about this the other day - it’s called White Day, and it’s some sort of reversed Valentine’s Day; the guys get to give chocolate to the ones they love. And since it is both White Day and your birthday, thought I should pamper ya a bit more.” he winked, earning a blush from Elaine, which made the corners of his mouth reach his ears.

“Oh! Thank you so much, Ban. Now, if you don’t mind…” she turned his back to him, and flew towards the chocolate plates, where she picked a little rosy heart. Before it could touch her lips however, the tiny chocolate was no longer between her fingers. When she turned around, she heard Ban’s boisterous laugh, as he held the little pink heart between his own fingers.

“BAN!” Elaine let out an exasperated scream. “Give it to me, please! I really want to taste it!”

“Oh? You wanna taste it so badly? Come and take it, then.” he hummed, the chocolate no longer between his fingers, but between his lips.

This caused Elaine’s blush to extend from her cheeks, until every inch of her face turned the shade of Ban’s eyes. However, determined to get the sweet treat back, Elaine flapped her wings and flew past Ban before he could register what had happened. “It looks that I got it, Ban,” she giggled at the expression adorning his face. “It melted a bit though,” she added, as she bit into the chocolate, the melted part painting her lips rose.

“It’s delicious!” Elaine squealed in delight. “Ban, you should try one too! They are fantastic! You’ve outdone yourself!” she completed, gleeful giggles leaving her lips.

“Oh, I will…” Ban murmured, stepping closer towards Elaine. Before she could react, Ban leaned in for a kiss. He then took a step back and licked his lips, now also adorned with liquid blush.

“My favorite taste,” he hummed out loud, the tip of his tongue out.

“BAN!” Elaine shrieked, blood rushing through every inch of her body frantically. Her reaction earned another round of mischievous laughter from her beloved.

---

After breakfast, during which Elaine had tried her best to be unapproachable (and had failed miserably) - which made Ban pepper her cheeks with kisses and embrace her until all the anger dissipated – the two lovers moved to the living room, where their mouths and hands decided to once again explore each other’s bodies. After a round of passionate kisses, Elaine rested gently on Ban’s now bare chest, as Ban let his weight drop on the couch.

The silence filled the room and after a few seconds, Ban tilted his head and saw Elaine blush and frown at the same time; an expression he rarely saw on her face.

“You okay?” he asked, caressing her back between her wings. Elaine quickly stood up, leaving Ban confused.

“Ban…” blood painted Elaine’s face scarlet once again.

“Hey,” Ban stood up as well. “What is wrong?” he asked, with concern palpable in his voice. Elaine hesitated, but she soon let out a sigh.

“I-I want to try something, but I don’t know if you would be okay with that…” she replied, refusing to look at Ban’s face.

“Does it involve you getting hurt? ‘Cause if so, I’m not doing it!” he argued.

“No, no no no. It’s just… I want to try something with you… when we’re alone…” Elaine blushed once again. “But it might be a bit too much for you, and I do not want to do it!” her words boomed between the four walls, leaving Ban shocked and confused. His expression soon softened, as he cupped her cheek.

“As long as it’s you, I can take on anything,” he whispered, his forehead touching hers, and a loving look sent her way. “I would do anything for you, Elaine.”

“Are you sure about that, Ban?”

“I am,” he nodded. “Besides,” he took Elaine’s hand and gave it a gentle grip, “I kinda wanna know what you have in mind. Now I’m really excited!” he cheered, earning a playful eyeroll and a couple of chuckles from Elaine. She led Ban to their bedroom, where she would start to discover a new side of him.

#nanatsu no taizai #the seven deadly sins #banlaine #my writing #otp: i'll steal you away

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fresafresitawrites · 3 years

Text

paloma’s cards and water

my latest creative writing assignment! adding onto the next series of my vignettes! involving my oc andrew as the main boi. u can find them all here this one is a lil long but my prof really liked it so im happy w it. rest is under the read more! id be so happy if anyone reads this slkajf inspired by tarot reading, my grandma, and that one chapter in the house on mango street w the tarot reader

I was on the first floor of my building getting the mail when I heard my downstairs neighbor sweeping her entrance mat.

“Buenos días, m’hijito.” Her voice was like the strum of a guitar.

“Buenas, Señora Paloma.” I replied. I gave her a quick glance as I skimmed a letter about my academic probation from last semester.

She set the broom aside and looked up at me.

“Ah, so formal now that you’re older, and taller too. You’re always getting taller and taller.” I’m only five foot six, five foot eight when anyone asks. “I haven’t seen you too much lately.”

“Oh, disculpe.” I crammed the envelopes into my messenger bag. Most of them were junk anyway, like dollar store advertisements or auto companies offering me a car loan. “I’ve just had a lot on my mind, a lot going on with school and work and everything.” I closed the mailbox unit.

“Ay, perdón, Señor Ibarra,” she teased. Somewhere after I turned eighteen, I went from calling her Mama Lola to using formalities. “Do you have some time, actually? I need help with something, si puedes.”

I checked my phone. I had work in an hour. “Sí sí sí, yeah, whatdya need?” I cracked my knuckles. Usually, she just wanted me to move furniture or get something from the top shelf of her kitchen cabinets, like the blender she used during the summer to make watermelon juice. Her oldest son also bought her an iPad for Christmas three years ago when he visited from Buffalo, and I’ve memorized the passcode after troubleshooting it for her so many times.

Paloma waved me inside her one-bedroom apartment, two floors directly underneath my family’s. We lived in an old house with four floors that probably used to belong to one rich family in the nineteenth century but was now broken up into several apartments. Paloma’s door was the first one on the ground floor across from the staircase. Her apartment always smelled like dryer sheets, and the television was always on some Spanish talk show, and water was always boiling over the kitchen stove because she didn’t trust the pipes. The yellow walls were adorned with Mexican folk paintings, plastic floral garlands, and family photos attached with Scotch tape. In every corner there were figurines of Catholic saints.

A few years ago, I asked Paloma to watch Sofi and Eli for me. I had tickets to see The Strokes at Madison Square Garden and only that morning did I double check the date of the concert. My mom was at a student’s piano recital, and I agreed a week earlier to watch the girls that night.

I was carrying Eli in one arm and held Sofi’s hand with the other outside Paloma’s door. The girls were four at the time, so I just gave them each twenty bucks to never say anything.

“Hmm!” Paloma lifted her eyebrows and crossed her arms. “And you think your momma won’t find out?”

I thought about it. “Well, don’t tell her.”

Paloma laughed, squinting her dark eyes like a fox.

Thankfully, Ma’s train got delayed on the way home that night.

In Paloma’s kitchen, two Devil’s Ivy plants sat in the sink with their vines trailing over the edge, hesitating to touch the tile floor. On the left was the glass door to her own small patio, where a few stray cats lay across the concrete. Paloma pointed to her wooden breakfast table, leaving her broom aside, so I pulled out a chair.

She sat down across from me, laying a purple and gold silk cloth between us and placed two tea lights on each side.

“Oh, is this what you wanted me for?” I sat up, surprised. She tied her long, gray-brown hair into a bun.

Paloma has never tried to use her cards on me before. I was never interested in these things. Hemera was the one who came to visit often after her break-up during freshman year with this film studies major, Vladimir, who played the accordion and was originally from Portland. Hemera and Paloma would lean over the tarot cards, speaking low, like candleflames. I usually sat on the couch and watched Looney Tunes, since Boomerang was one of the only channels on Paloma’s television other than the news or Telemundo.

“How’s your friend?” Paloma asked as if she read my mind. “Is she your girlfriend yet? Or has she found someone?” She pulled out the deck of cards from her apron pocket and shuffled them.

“Oh, no, she’s okay. She’s doing okay.” Hemera told me two weeks ago she was “focusing on herself” which meant she deleted Tinder and would reactivate it within the next week. “And nah, she’s like a sister to me. That’d be weird.”

Paloma watched me. “You cold?”

“What? No…” Well, now that she mentioned it… ‘Actually, yeah, kind of, maybe.” I zipped up my wool sweater. Was there a breeze?

“Good.” She spread the cards out with her delicate hands. “That means the spirits are here.”

“Uh, okay. Sure, Paloma. They are.” I tried not to sound too sarcastic.

I closed my eyes and hovered my left hand over the fanned-out cards, mimicking how Hemera used to do it. I tapped three random cards and Paloma flipped them over.

She read them out loud. “El ermitaño, la rueda de la fortuna, y la muetre.”

The late February sun casted a soft glow over the kitchen like a dream.

“Your past, present, and future cards.” Paloma’s tone shifted into something softer, as if her words descended from the clouds. “Ah, look at you. Always keeping to yourself, always, always. Like the old man here on the card… alone on the mountain, holding a lantern trying to illuminate his path.”

I tilted my head.

“Right now, you’re in a critical position. It’s a marvelous position to be in! See all the arrows on the wheel going in all directions? They can lead you anywhere. You just steer the wheel like the helm of a sailboat and go wherever the wind takes you. How exciting!”

I leaned forward. I examined the card that depicted what looked like a large, gold coin covered in strange symbols and surrounded by hybrid animals and angel figures.

“And here, look, don’t be afraid of this last one. Everyone’s always afraid of this card, but don’t take it too literal. This card means transformation, it means upheaval, it means purging, it means endings.

I picked up the card, fixated on the small boy kneeling before the skeleton-knight riding a white horse. I put the card back down.

“This sounds… vague.” I leaned back in my chair, half skeptical and half on edge from her reading, but I didn’t want her to know the last part. “I thought you’d tell me something terrible would happen, or something like who I’m going to marry or whatever. Not that I would believe it, but I’m just wondering why you wanted me here right now.”

Paloma smiled and crossed her arms. She’d been expecting this reaction. “It’s not like that. It’s not a math test, like in school. There are no right or wrong answers here. I know you don’t like that. Frustrating, no?”

“Yeah, a little.”

“Half of the work is you. It’s like looking at art or reading poetry. You’re participating. You’re drawing your own conclusions.” She placed the deck back into her pocket. “You have to marinate on the words, m’hijo. Everything will reveal itself.”

I took a deep breath, swung my bag over my shoulder, and checked my phone.

I had work in five minutes.

16 notes · View notes

bubblyani · 4 years

Text

Bail Out: 05

(Bruce Wayne x Reader)

A Bruce Wayne Multi Chapter Series

Chapter 05: “No Fun”

Summary: One fateful, drunken night gets you arrested for assault. However, once you get bailed out by Billionaire Socialite Bruce Wayne, surprising obstacles get in the way, forcing you to question all your choices in life, career, and in love.

Word Count: 8500+

Rating: Mature

Warnings: Swearing and Slight Violence

Author’s Note: So glad I could finish this on time. Now I’m impatiently working on the next part. When you read it, you will know why. Thanks again for the wonderful response. Enjoy!

Chapter LIST

The rapid sound of gunfire, infused with blood curdling screams, certainly forced your heart to beat right out of your chest. The beating, increased without any prior announcement shocked you, as if the live, blood pumping organ might literally fall out of your flesh vessel. The scene you witnessed, was never expected but only imagined in modes of fiction. Be it novels or films. However, when you truly got to taste it in the rusty reality, only then did you realize the gravity of its horror. And only then at that fateful moment, did you genuinely fear for your precious life.

Just when it seemed trouble had finally set you free.

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

(A Few Days Earlier)

Allison Hughs was your quintessential fun-loving, living in the moment party girl with complete control over the pace of her existence. Apart from all that, she was also a loyal friend, blindly following you to the ends of the earth in ranting.

“SHE DID WHAT?”

Her inquiry was loud and dramatic, to which you nodded. “Yep” you replied, “She straight up went there…”

Safe to say, the ‘She’ that was being mentioned here was none other than Clara Bennett, the Consultant who slithered her way into Wayne Enterprises, solely to make exaggerated inspections on HR Operations, and to make your cooperate life a living hell, drenched with self-doubt and insecurity. It certainly traveled up a notch when she proactively invited you to take part in a Basic HR Crash Course, that was mainly designed to New Recruits. Simply because she assumed that you would find the Course ‘helpful’ to your own line of work. The fact she indirectly implied a trace of incompetence in you caused so much embarrassment.

“The hell is that bitch’s problem though?”

Allison kept inquiring, as she wiped off the milk from her lips, “Seriously…” she muttered, standing by the opened refrigerator in her pajamas.

“Yeah” you continued to nod, as you stuffed a spoonful of cereal into your mouth, “..and Lillian…being my senior since day 1, didn’t even treat me this way” you added, with a full mouth.

Already dressed for work, little did you expect to see Allison awake and engaged while you had your breakfast, “I look like a fucking joke…”you muttered, after finally gulping the food down.

“Hey!”

Allison cried, pointing her index finger at you, “Don’t you dare give up” she said with seriousness, standing before you, “You need to stand your ground and carry on with dignity…” she continued, her tone quite similar to a heroic speech, “Make Lillian proud she left you in charge…” she added, putting both hands on the table. Leaning forward, she took a closer look, “This will be good for you…” finally as her voice grew soft, she flashed a soft smile. You could not help but look at her affectionately, as you exhaled deeply.

“Talking to you makes me feel so much better…” you admitted. Pleased, Allison stood up straight.

“That’s why I’m your hype man, Sweetie!” she said, turning towards the window, “Watch out Gotham! The Bruiser is here to SLAY-”

“HEYYY!!-” your shushes exited along with your embarrassment. Your friend covered her mouth quickly.

“Sorry, Sweetie….” Allison whispered, taking the hands away, “But it just sounds so badass…” as her tone grew normal once more. You shot her a deranged look.

“Do I look like someone who deserves the name?” you inquired. “Well…” she said, folding her arms, “…the fact you punched that guy is a good enough reason…”

Shaking one’s head with a chuckle, you watched her head to the bedroom with a maniacal laughter. The sudden vibration of the table forced you to look down at your phone. The chuckling stopped, permitting your pulse to quicken with liberty. Rubbing your neck nervously, you proceeded to read the text from the only sender who was capable to send you through an emotional wild ride: Bruce Wayne.

Sorry, long night. Good Morning!

Pausing for a few seconds, you exhaled loudly as began to type:

No worries. Hope your day goes well, Mr. Wayne.

Being an appropriate response, you sent without hesitation. Long night?, could it possibly truly mean a hectic night of crime fighting and city saving in disguise? A strong urge suddenly arose to pull up the search browser on your phone, and type in the words: Batman. And what appeared first in the results certainly made your eyebrows rise with curiousity.

“Ali….” You yelled loud enough for her to hear, “You’ve heard of a website called… ‘Where’s the Bat’?

“EH?”

Her response was equally loud and echoing, “Oh yeah…” she added, whilst you opened the web page, “…Matty was talking about it sometime back…” she continued, “Some nerdy site about The Batman…”

“Damn!”

The word abruptly left your lips as your eyes widened. For you were treated to such a sight, “Ali…get this…” you said, proceeding to read the description of the page, “Welcome to ‘Where’s the Bat?’ Your Online Resource for all things Batman: Gotham’s Caped Crusader…” you squealed excitedly, “Ha! It’s a freakin’ fan site! Oh! Oh!” you exclaimed as you continued to read out loud:

“… reliable sources from our very own admins and enthusiasts all over Gotham City…” with a whistle, you nodded, “These folks are not kidding around, huh?” you muttered, letting your finger slowly scroll down, “And they have posts on almost every appearance he made in the city…” you said out loud, yet it seemed that Allison was never interested.

The Website backdrop was in black, but encompassing a very beautiful design concept. The immaculate detail was beyond believable. Detailed posts on possible weapons owned, vehicles, fighting styles and costume, Photos ranging from Low Quality to High, even blurry videos by camera phones, it was certainly a network of information. Your eyes widened when you saw the recent post title:

Batman and The Bruiser?

“What the-?” Muttering to yourself, you clicked on the article.

“…also known as The Bruiser (Click Here for the Viral Clip) was spotted nearby when a group of muggers had reportedly attacked her. According to the anonymous source, Batman had arrived right on time. A clip of the incident may not be available, yet we did manage to find a small clip as he escaped the scene. And according to Gotham PD, the Caped Crusader had appeared once again to The Bruiser’s aid the night after. As much as we feel sorry for the bad luck The Bruiser attracts, we could only be nothing but envious of her opportunity to meet the Dark Knight twice. And some of us could not help but wonder: Could romance possibly be in bloom between the two?”

“What?” Nervous chuckles were all you let out as you whispered, “Hah! In your dreams, fanboys…” you uttered, closing the browser, “Batman would never go for a woman like me” you said, almost dropping the phone by its sudden vibration. For a reply was received.

You too. Stay out of trouble :)

“And you stay out of my head” you said to yourself, putting the phone back on the table. Covering your face, you could only groan with frustration. Ever since that evening at the hospital a mere week before, casual texts from Bruce Wayne began to appear on your phone, starting off on the very next day:

Couldn’t thank you for running that errand for Fox.

The errand, meaning the black box that Mr.Fox entrusted you with. A small yet long box which was quite light. The very box that granted you access to his penthouse and to the friendship with Alfred Pennyworth.

Just doing my job, Mr.Wayne.

You remember replying that day at office. It was not exactly necessary for him to thank you this way, yet his action was commendable. He did not hesitate to quickly respond:

Much appreciated.

Just when you thought it was the end, he greeted once again two days later. During an important meeting, for example:

Hi there! Is Ms.Foster enjoying the gift?

Once the meeting wrapped up, you made sure to respond :

Very much, from what I know. You’re making motherhood very easy for her.

You would be lying if you did not look forward to write him back. The manner your fingers tingled was quite evident.

That’s a relief.

Clearly with his corresponding reply, he displayed quite an interest in conversing with you, by finding meager excuses to obtain your response. Yet, a part of you wondered what his actual intentions were. Be professional, a phrase that lingered in your head always. A warning, more like. As much as the desire to carry on the message thread was strong within, you did not reply back.

Two days passed, and surprisingly you were dying with curiousity. Could it be that his intention to communicate had finally gone? Or could it be that you were finally missing him? Forming a clever excuse to obtain his signature, you liaised with Jessica, only to find out Bruce Wayne was currently on a business trip in Singapore.

Intoxicated with impulsiveness, your thumbs grew stubborn as they formed a message on your phone:

Heard you’re in Singapore. How is it?

“Shit! Roaming Charges!”

You sighed, your palm slapped over your forehead. Putting the phone away to enjoy the view of the bus ride, you sincerely hoped he would never notice. But to your surprise, the phone vibrated instantly:

Loving the Food here.

Despite roaming charges, he was kind enough to reply. And that touched you very deeply. Then again, money was never an issue for a man of his stature. him. However, you were not Bruce Wayne. Still, a few extra dollars seemed nothing compared to the inner secretive joy you indulged in as you replied:

Not surprised. The Bakkwa over there is to die for.

He did not reply. He did not do so for a day and two. You grew worried, if he was really knee deep in business, or literally knee deep in trouble. But the next morning, you were finally assured of his safe arrival back to Gotham, especially when you found a gift at the door. A Gift which came in the form of a beautiful red box full of Bakkwa, the Chinese sweet dried meat, one of your favorite treats. You did not miss the handwritten note inside:

You’re right. It IS to die for. - B.Wayne

Chuckling with happiness, you were only compelled to quickly text him a grateful reply:

The Bakkawa enthusiast sends her Thanks.

To which you finally received a reply this morning as you indulged on your cereal:

Sorry, long night. Good Morning!

Groaning in frustration seemed rightfully reasonable for you. Stressing out seemed rightfully reasonable as well. Who would not, when there was a storm that brewed inside of you. A storm of emotions that contained the sticky quality. The adhesiveness that was stubborn to the core. For if you look at the situation in it’s entirety, this was not your average instance of a man and woman forming a textual habit in order to know one another. You were an acting Head, informally socializing with the owner of Wayne Enterprises. Being in HR, you could already feel the weight of unprofessionalism heat on you. That guilt which already seemed to haunt you subtly. Thus, not responding further seemed logical, yet it certainly was a hard pill for you to swallow.

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

“You sure you don’t want anything? Coffee or Tea?”

You asked Officer John Blake, ushering him to his seat as you sat down. He shook his head.

“I’m good, Ma’am” he said with a smile. Smiling back, you were drenched with guilt. A week earlier, the police officer had requested to meet, yet with your unexpected work load, you reluctantly had to send him back the previous time. Forcing him to wait so long for a week was something you knew you would go to hell for. But John Blake did not judge, or as it seemed from his expression.

“Didn’t know you were running a tight ship here .” He said, looking back to witness the bustle in the main hall outside.

“Well, the Head’s on Maternity leave so…I’m stuck here, hehe…” You answered nervously, “Once again I’m so sorry Officer. You said it was something urgent?”

“It’s about the two attacks…” Blake said, capturing your attention. “Now I’m sure you’re probably wondering if those are simply coincidental or something more…”

“I honestly have been afraid to go down that rabbit hole, but yes I did wonder…” you replied. Looking sideways, he finally turned your way as his lowered his voice:

“I have reason to believe Erik Henderson may be connected to this…”

The image of the mocking man, and his bloody nose flashed before your very eyes. Given his anger, it could be a high possibility. Yet, you were in disbelief.

“What gave you the idea?” You inquired with curiousity. Blake kept his police his hat on his lap securely:

“The men who attacked you, the ones we arrested…” He said, to which you nodded in acknowledgment, “They were bailed out the very next day by-”

“-Henderson’s Legal Team?” You asked blankly, for you were still in disbelief. Blake nodded.

“I may be wrong” he said, “Bailing the people who attacked you, it could also just be a power move, maybe to scare you off…” he added, leaning forward, “So far we cannot be sure…” He continued, “But I think it’s best for you to keep an eye out-”

Your eyes suddenly darted towards the phone screen. For an email just appeared in your personal inbox with a title:

“Job Offer for General Manager”

Eyes widening, you were certainly not expecting that. Quiet for a few minutes, you found yourself staring at your own table, for you were confused beyond all measure with everything you just heard and saw.

“I’m sorry...” Blake began, shaking you from your thoughts, “ if I’m causing you any discomfort-”

“No…it’s alright” flipping the phone downward, you shook your head with a soft smile, “I just…all this was just so unexpected. Didn’t think there would be any possibility for anything like this, that’s all” you said, smiling even more, “I appreciate the information, Officer”

Truthfully, you were nothing but grateful to the man. Perhaps it was because he was the arresting officer who was in charge of that fateful night. Nevertheless, he was nothing but kind to you. Blake grinned widely.

“The Precinct still thanks The Bruiser for Common’s Coffee” He said, to which you were genuinely surprised.

“Oh! I’m glad-”

“BOSS!”

Greg’s cries forced both of you to look to the door. Distress never looked good on Greg. Giving a heavy sigh, he began:

“ I’m sorry to keep doing this but…” he said, “Clara’s gone off the rails!”

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

As he made his way down the Lobby through the crowds, John Blake made his careful observations, fascinated by all that he glanced upon in the Wayne Tower. “Officer Blake!” Stopping in his tracks, John turned upon hearing a familiar voice. He smiled.

“Mr.Wayne…” He addressed, “Didn’t expect to see you here” Smartly dressed in a pinstriped three piece suit, Bruce Wayne stood before the much younger man with a reciprocative smile.

“Well,” he began “You can’t just play hard….so…” Nodding in acknowledgment, Blake held on to his hat. With the silence between them growing longer, John began to speak:

“I’m actually just coming down after meeting one of your Senior Managers” He said, which caught Wayne’s attention.

“Who is…?”

When Blake provided him with the name, Bruce nodded nonchalantly. “Is this anything to do with the Henderson case?” He asked, suddenly growing serious. Surprised by his knowledge, the officer nodded.

“Yes….” Blake added. But then again, there was nothing to be surprised of. Given Wayne was in the hotel when it all happened.

“How did she take it?” “Surprisingly pretty well” Blake said, as he began to walk alongside Wayne ,“But she seems to have her hands full today, doesn’t look too good” he sighed, involuntarily empathizing with her. And given Wayne’s subtle yet concerned expression, Blake realized he was not alone there. Finally reaching the exit, the officer was compelled to do the unexpected:

“Since you were a witness to the incident,..” he began, making Wayne look at him, “ I think it’s probably best that you also know…”

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

You have always put your trust in Lillian Foster. That trust had lasted throughout your time in Wayne Enterprises without forsaking you for a mere second. Thus, you were certain she did the needful in approving the Revised Policies and Regulations before taking her leave. For you had personally witnessed it.

However, when a company email from Clara Bennett to Lucius Fox claimed HR was seemingly incapable of carrying out their operations under the current leadership, you were not surprised to find your anger making an appearance.

And the embarrassment you had to face when she even went so far as to copy you and your managers in to that said email. Professional was nowhere near this behavior. For this was simply child’s play. The panic all your department staff went through was understandable. Especially when they worked only to their very best.

“You wanted to me see me?”

Clara asked, as she entered your office. Raising your head up, you threw a cold expression her way: “Close the door please” Your tone was stern. Looking around, Clara furrowed her eyebrows. “But aren’t you supposed to-” “I’ll take my chances, Ms. Bennett” You interrupted her, lips forming a tight smile. With an uncertain nod, she closed the door shut, before taking a few steps towards you. Slowly getting up from your desk, you quickly walked over to her. It was now or never. “We saw that little email that you sent to Mr. Fox.” You stated, to which she did not flinch. Scoffing, your hands rested on your hips, “I know how things work: When people mess up, even after many warnings, they get complained about to the superiors…” you said in a matter-of-fact tone, “But…” you paused, as you were on a dire attempt not to explode, “how can you expect us...” Surprisingly you felt emotion trickling in, “...to take this lying down when you DIDN'T PERFORM EITHER OF THOSE ACTIONS?” With your voice surprisingly getting louder than expected, Clara found herself folding her arms in defense: “Look, I get it...” She said, her smile suddenly faded, “You don’t like me snooping around” You scoffed in disbelief, “Ms.Bennett, this is not you snooping around. This is you desperately finding excuses to make US LOOK BAD” you stated loudly, “I mean…What exactly on the policies and regulations are you complaining about?” You inquired. And to your surprise, Clara grew quiet before she finally answered:

“I just...” she paused, as if she was seeking excuses, “...don’t understand why the Policies couldn’t be circulated if they were revised” Your jaw dropped in disbelief, “What are you talking about??They were already revised and circulated” you answered with certainty, appalled by the childish games that were being played. “Well…” pausing again, “I don’t see them in the Public Folder”she said stubbornly, to which you sighed, rubbing your temples, “ And according to my sources, It’s Paula Yang’s responsibility, am I right?” Though authority was rife in her tone, you could sense the menace that lingered invisibly.

“Ms. Bennett...” you gritted through your teeth, taking your hand away, “Paula is on bed rest after breaking HER LEG...from a biking accident last weekend” you burst out, “...if you looked up on our employees with the SAME ENTHUSIASM you did on our work, then you would probably know that” you spat, fuming with anger, “But If you expect me to deprive her of her paid leave, JUST SO she could just limp over here to UPLOAD SOME POLICIES to a server? then you’re sorely mistaken! ” You cried out, panting.

Subtly shocked at your response, Clara stood silently. Given her reaction, it was quite evident something disastrous would soon follow. Your threw your hands up in defense.

“Fine” you said, “If you prefer to pin this error on me, please do. But… not the department” you said, as your voice grew soft , “...please” you breathed. Closing her eyes for a few seconds, Clara opened them once again, shooting you a stern glance.

“Do you know…what I was told about you before I came here?” She posed a rhetorical question, to which you rightfully did not answer to, “An unprofessional thug, with anger issues.” She said.

In all your years of working at Wayne Enterprises, this was the far from what you had ever heard from anyone. The silence ruled over the atmosphere for a few more seconds.

“So I came in with a mission...” Clara went on, “...to tame you. Or to rile you up enough to expose who you really were” she said harshly. Folding your own arms in defense, you took a deep breath:

“Well,” you began, “I believe I was angry For the right reasons. So no regrets here” you answered with confidence. Whatever consequence that may follow, you were not aware of, for your justified rage may possibly have outdone yourself this time. You only wished Lillian would forgive you.

“But…” Clara paused, “...from the way you stood up for your employees and your department…,” she said, as her expression softened, “ I guess… I was badly misinformed.” Confusion took over you for the next few seconds, as she looked straight into your eyes before taking in a deep breath:

“I’m sorry!” Your eyes widened, “P-Pardon?” Sighing, Clara reluctantly rubbed the sides of her thighs: “I’m sorry…If I insulted you in any way” she said shyly in a low tone, “Honestly speaking, no matter how much I tried to deny it, everything seems to be running smoothly” She added.

Relief quickly washed over you. Leaving you questioning reality all the sudden. “ I would gladly leave you all alone but..,” Clara smiled, “I’ve been contracted here for a while. So, I hope we can all cooperate together till I leave. Maybe a fresh start?”

Extending her hand to you, she presented a genuine smile. A smile possibly carrying hope to gain your trust. Sincerely impressed by her bravery, you smiled back: “Sure, Apology accepted” You said, shaking her hand, “I really appreciate it, Ms.Bennett”

“Clara, Please.” She insisted, “Ms.Bennett just pisses me off even more”

Chuckling together, you nodded, “Okay, Gotcha”

The phone rang loud to your surprise. Giving her a friendly wave, you quickly moved to your desk in a cheerful manner, growing even more cheerful upon seeing the extension on the phone screen.

“Mr. Fox!” You answered, as you sat down, “How can I help you?”

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

Since the fateful day she first laid eyes on him in his glorious return to Wayne Enterprises until now, Jessica would certainly never not blush whenever Bruce Wayne politely greeted her. Upon seeing her red face, he stepped into Lucius Fox’s office, walking over to find the CEO on the phone wearing a smile on his face.

“Don’t worry about it.” Fox said over the phone, “So you’ll come? Perfect…” He smiled, nodding at Wayne as he finally appeared in his eye line, “Hope to see you then” He added, hanging up the phone.

“I have to admit…” Fox began, ushering Bruce to sit, “… seeing you here every day at Wayne Tower is a happy surprise” He said. Bruce smiled.

“Everything alright?” He asked the CEO, “The Audits aren’t happening till another month or so..”

“No…” Fox shook his head, surprisingly impressed, “ I was actually wondering if you would…like to join me in the Company Dinner, this Thursday night. It’s a little gathering I normally do with the Heads of Departments...” he continued, glancing upon Wayne’s confused expression, “...to form a closer bond and… give them morale” He said, tilting his head. As much as the sentiment was kind, Wayne sighed with exhaustion.

“Mr.Fox, you know very well how I rather be stuck in the basement than go to that…” he said, slowly getting up, “I’m afraid I’ll have to pass”. Offering a polite smile, he turned around to make his leave. When opportunities to make a choice were given, he would certainly rather choose to not wear that mask in public. It tired him.

“She’s coming too”

Bruce froze, the moment Fox’s words reached his ears. Turning to him, he raised his eyebrows.

“She?” He began, “You mean…she?” He asked, highly emphasizing on the said pronoun, for both of them knew the person being discussed.

“Yes” Fox said, “Just got off the phone with her as you came in” he added, “I just thought you would like to know” with nonchalance, he casually put on his glasses.

Silently nodding, Bruce turned back to resume walking. Only except he halted once again, just to spin back around smoothly.

“Thursday…what time?” He inquired with genuine curiousity.

Being a man of his age, Lucius Fox could not help but smile at his response.

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

Being the workaholic, Lunch Breaks was nothing short of special for you. The moment the last bite of your delicious meal reached your lips, it was off to work once again, giving you ample time to finish your tasks. But this Wednesday, you cast that usual habit away, taking the luxury you rarely took during this entire decade.

Just to decide on a dress.

With your lunch on the desk and Allison on speakerphone, your eyes moved back and forth from two beautiful dresses on the website. With Mr. Fox casually inviting you to the Company Dinner, all you longed to provide was a good impression. Most women in your position would feel greatly pressured and stick to a salad just to fit into the dress. However, you were far too greedy to ignore the great Spaghetti Bolognese that was on the table before you.

“Sweetie, You know I love you, So why won’t you fucking listen to me?”

Allison’s echoed out loud, as you stared at the screen with concern. “Cause it’s a crazy idea, that’s why ” you said, stuffing pasta into your mouth, “Better go with the black one…” you said with a full mouth, pointing at the long sleeved black dress, “It’s tame, and I can just blend in with crowd” squinting, you attempted at imagining yourself in the outfit.

“Boo! BORING”

Allison’s response was quite obvious.

“Hey!” Clara’s whisper reached your ears, urging you to find her standing by the door with a smile. Ever since the intervention, the atmosphere underwent a surprising change, and all was well with the both of you. It was quite unbelievable how cooperative she had become. “I’m sorry but...could I borrow a twenty?” She asked politely in a whisper, all in order not to intrude your call. “Sure…” You whispered back, reaching into your bag to grab your purse, “Hah! Lucky you, that’s all I have” You grinned, fishing out the only dollar note as she headed over to take it from your hand.

“Hey! Hey! Sweetie, Did I lose you?”

Allison’s voice brought you back to the phone call. “No! No! You didn’t…Sorry! Argh!” Groaning in frustration, you looked back at the computer screen, “I don’t know what to do, Ali…” You muttered.

“What is it?” With her still standing there, Clara finally asked out loud. She genuinely looked concerned. Embarrassed, you pointed at the screen.

“No it’s just…” you paused, “I have to go to this Cooperate Dinner thingy tomorrow, and I don’t know what to get…” you added, “…the Black or the White”.

Silent for a few seconds, you stared at Clara as she rubbed her chin with seriousness, while making a careful observation at the screen. Finally, her fingers snapped loudly.

“The White One…” Confidence oozed out of her voice as she replied. Looking back at the dress, you took a deep breath. V neck on the front along with a low cut in the back, the pure white silk evening gown certainly possessed the potential to be a show stopper.

“I mean…Why be afraid to stand out?”

Clara’s words, they rang in your ears so loudly. Pointing at the dress, she continued:

“Wear this, and No one will be able to take their eyes off you” The manner in which she uttered, you were suddenly filled with enough power to head out to the battlefield. Her words, they were simply invisible embellishments to the dress, making it the armor and the secret weapon. It simply became powerful. And finally, you were convinced on which dress to finally purchase. Lips forming into a warm smile, you thanked her inaudibly.

“YAY!” Allison cried out on the line, “Whoever just said that, I agree with you” Chucking, Clara cleared her throat and looked at your mobile phone.

“Hey there…It’s Clara by the way…” she said to Allison. You suppressed a huge grin as you imagined Allison’s surprise upon hearing that.

“Oh…YOU’RE Clara?…” she said, pausing, “Well I like how you think, Clara” she said happily afterwards. Relieved by the sight of both your best friend and your new friend being acquainted, your eyes moved back to the beautiful dress.

“Wear this, and No one will be able to take their eyes off you”

Clara may be right. But you were a simple woman, and your wishes were just as simple. Little did anyone know how your heart simply longed for just one person to indulge your presence for the entire evening. But the possibility of that, was just your wishful thinking. You could only hope for the evening be as successful as imagined. As long as it had the perfect touch of jazz piano playing in the background.

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

With notes played with the fluidity of a free flowing stream, the jazz piano music was certainly better tonight than it was that Friday evening weeks ago. With tonight, you only hoped to replace the horrid memory of violence that linked the genre of music with an evening more refined. For tonight, you were no violator, nor a drunkard. You were merely a lady in a beautiful, silk dress.

Walking through the Lobby in your silver open toe heels, you came into the realization of how the dress simply became you. Contrary to your fears, it embraced your curves effortlessly, while the material was kind to you, caressing and cooling your skin.The dress itself contained a sense of assurance you would most likely receive from a trusted friend, some good Samaritan, kindly whispering positive affirmations. Fashioning the outfit with your Mikimoto pearls, you felt you were prepared enough.

You were punctual, fortunately. Lillian would have been proud. When you arrived at the reserved table, the other Heads were just about to take their seats. Cold, curt nods were passed on to you the moment they caught sight of you. Lucius Fox, however was humble enough to smile widely upon seeing you.

“I appreciate you coming in tonight…” He stated, as he politely ushered you to your seat, which granted you access between him and Head of Legal, Ted’s Boss, “This is usually Lillian’s gig” he said.

“Yes I heard,” you agreed while sitting down together, “And she does it flawlessly”

“I think you’ll be able to hold off your own” Fox assured, quite impressed by your appearance tonight. You smiled.

“Thank you, Mr. Fox” you nodded, looking at him, until he suddenly rose from his own chair.

“Ah! The man of the hour”

He said as he looked ahead, “…so glad you could come, Mr.Wayne”

The mere mention of that man’s name made you turn forward in a flash. Bruce Wayne was simply Suave incarnate. He certainly brought forth great depth to his presence everywhere he set foot on. You swore the airways inside began to dry out as your breath was taken away in secret. However, that breath was quickly stomped and discarded recklessly when you realized he was no alone. With a beautiful woman on his arm, he arrived at the table.

When that strong, sour feeling came over you, you were mature enough to admit it was simple jealousy. Yet then again, the playboy lifestyle certainly was demanding. The flashing smile Bruce wore slightly disappeared , when his eyes met yours from the corner of the table. With your sour jealousy stewing you, it was a sheer relief that he took his seat on the other far corner.

“Really Mr .Wayne, This is such a pleasant surprise” Mr. Kline, Head of Accounting mentioned with joy.

“Well, Mr. Fox is getting better with power of persuasion, I suppose ” Wayne said, looking at Lucius, “So...” rubbing his hands together, he smiled, “What are we all having? My treat...”

To everyone’s delight, the night certainly started off on a positive note. According to the trusted word of Lucius Fox, Sushi was the prime choice of food on every single dinner . It was the shared interest with all the Heads by coincidence. Thus, becoming a tradition.

Fortunately for you, you knew your way with Japanese cuisine enough to save your face. Wine and Sake were in abundance in the table, leaving most of the Heads and Wayne’s date quite excited with intoxication. It was certainly a surprise for you, to see the Heads break out into wide smiles and childish attitudes once the alcohol entered their systems. They did not speak much with you, which you were fine with. You were the new one there , after all. But with Fox next to you, you felt a fatherly figure watched over you. You listened to him with earnest, which was not so difficult with his charismatic voice.

You also longed for a distraction. A strong distraction from Bruce Wayne’s eyes secretly claiming ownership over you the entire time. Could he be watching Fox? Or you? You honestly did not know. As much as your inner heart jumped for Joy by the thought of him watching you, confusion ruled supreme.

The turn of the conversation topic from Work to Sailing suddenly tempted the Heads call Mr Fox over to the other side, forcing him and Bruce to change seats instead. His date did not even notice, as she was busy engrossed in her phone. Though you were at your element, calmly eating your maki rolls in silence, your heart beat increased in an instant when his presence nearby was confirmed. His aura gently murmured a greeting of affection, urging you to look up from your plate. Covering your mouth, you politely swallowed the food. With the others engaged in their own little world, it seemed that you and Bruce were suddenly left to yourselves.

“Thank you again for the Bakkwa”

You began, clearing your throat “…it was heavenly” you said, smiling whilst flashing your full red lips. Smiling back warmly, he leaned forward to the table.

“I don’t wanna brag but...” he paused, “I found that store all by myself” He said softly, as it was a dramatic secret. Eyes widened, you played along: “Oh! I find that hard to believe” You said, chuckling.

“Ask me the address, I dare you” He said blankly, making you chuckle harder. Nodding, you generously accepted his kindness. Be it text or face to face, talking to Bruce Wayne symbolized pure joy to you.

“Well, well, well…”

An eerie voice, a voice that haunted your intoxicated memories, and a voice that caused the hairs of the back of your neck to stand. It was a voice you knew well. So bloody well.

“Isn’t this a surprise?”

The entire table looked over to find Erik Henderson. With a gracefully beautiful and age appropriate woman standing beside him, Henderson was as smug as he could be. “Mr. Henderson...” Fox said. Henderson looked right at him. “Lucius...” He uttered, without casting a single glance at Bruce Wayne. The sight of him brought a sense of fear to you. According to Officer Blake, he could very much be responsible for all the attacks you were victim to during the past few weeks. The possibility was high. Thus, the intimidation was justified. Funny how the intoxicated group of Heads managed to maintain their frozen states for a few seconds. As if their buzz was killed right off.

“Well,..” Henderson began, maintain his unimpressed expression, “I wish you all have a pleasant evening” He stressed , slowly turning to leave. “And You!” A gasp left you the moment he spun back to point his index finger at you with such ferocity and anger. With bated breath, you wondered if time froze. Until he suddenly smiled at you. “You behave now...” He said mockingly, chuckling with power as he finally left the table. With the awkward silence taking control, embarrassment injected itself into you. The way he spoke to you was certainly disrespectful. So much so, your right hand quickly clenched into a tight fist , forcing you to revisit the trauma even now by his cruel words. All your anger, centralized into this fist.

But that anger suddenly vanished into thin air, the moment you felt Bruce’s palm rest over your fist. A literal warmth spread across every cell on your being, as his palm comforted you, and empathized with you more than ever. A few seconds of that sent you to a level of peace you never visited. The fact that a man such as he was with his inner conflicts could still heal you unexpectedly, it was magic to you. Finally looking at him, you nodded with gratefulness, leading him to take his away politely.

With silence still in charge, you were guilty of your past actions ruining tonight’s occasion as well. “Maybe it’s the alcohol but...” Kline slowly began, “...that Henderson’s face always reminds me of an…animal…” he remarked, breaking the ice, “l can’t place which one exactly...” He struggled, snapping his fingers away to remember. “A Bat?” Another Head inquired. “YES!” Kline yelled out loud, causing others to finally laugh and feel the comfort take center stage once more. Letting out a sigh, you were relieved to let them converse and make merry. You were occupied enough, recovering from Bruce’s sudden touch. “...and speaking of Bats...” Kline slurred out, “That Batman fella...” “-He comes up every time…” Fox yelled towards your direction with a sigh, while the others clapped in glee. Being so popular, it was no surprise that many consider Batman to be a celebrity of his own right. “-wonder if he ever has any off days?” Kline sniggered, red in the face with sake. “Ha! Like paid leave, you mean?” “And don’t forget insurance! Boy! that man needs a big one” “Hahaha!” “Mr.Wayne! Mr. Wayne!” Kline yelled at Bruce, “Any idea about him from the grapevine ?” He inquired. “What?” Bruce asked, “…that Looney!?!” He added with an amused smile, “Eh! Not interested” he replied with an unimpressed tone. “Why?” It seemed that everyone was curious. Even you were. “Because...” Bruce paused, “Well…he’s a Looney! That’s all….” he laughed, shaking his hand in the air with dismissal. His carefree laughter infected the others, except you. As you were too occupied observing him, you could not even focus. He may have not worn the cowl, but he was certainly wearing his mask. Noticing your stare, Bruce turned to find your face filled with a soft smile.

“You really don’t mean that about the guy, right?” You murmured softly. And all the sudden, that carefree expression of his slowly melted away to reveal his true form, unmasked. “No” Calm and collected, he shook his head with a gentle smile. A sudden urge to embrace him was birthed in you for some reason, it was certainly out of your control. “Hey! Lillian’s Backup!” You jumped upon hearing Kline call you out loudly. With all eyes on landing towards your direction, you quickly sat up straight, “What’s your take on him? The Batman?” Kline inquired informally. “Oh!” Pleasantly surprised, you were speechless for a few seconds. What were you to say really? “I -I rather not say...” you admitted, as you found yourself chuckling shyly. “Eh!” Kline muttered, seemingly unamused, “She’s no fun”he claimed, “…not like Lillian now, is she?” The others hummed together in agreement. They may have gotten lost in their own world of conversation once again. Yet, the words Kline blurted affected you deeply. “Well….” You sighed, “Nothing I haven’t heard before” “What is…?” Bruce’s inquiry made you look at him. Placing both your elbows on the table, you took a deep breath as you kept a brave, fixed gaze at him:

“You’re.. no… fun”

You said, in a low yet strong tone as you emphasized on every word with pain, “…that one”

“I find that hard to believe” Bruce said. He did not flinch. Instead, he accepted your stare and held on to it firmly. Even with the golden lights you were still able to make out the beautiful hazel green eyes of his up close. His gaze, it was as powerful as anything physical. As if his eyes could caress the back of your neck, brushing the loose hair from it, leaving nothing but shivers on you.

Finally breaking free from it, you sat back with a chuckle.

“Well” you began, “…you obviously haven’t met my ex”

You watched his eyebrows furrow the moment those words exited you. Taking a huge sip of wine, you pressed your lips together.

“He said I fall too fast....” you began, “or care too much...or something”

Revisiting that dark period in your life was akin to walking a thousand miles backwards, just to get your heart pricked by sharp, rusted nails. The mere image of it forced you to gulp more wine.

“Well, Where is he now?”

Bruce asked softly. Taking a third sip, you looked back at him:

“You mean after he cheated on me?” You asked, chuckling sadly, “…He flew off somewhere…with his new girlfriend” you said, sighing “Apparently I was too predictable and doesn’t play hard to get”

“Then…” Bruce began, “…what about you throwing punches at Henderson?”

“That?” You widened your eyes, “Oh that’s just the whiskey”

Laughter ensued, breaking the tension between the two once again. Truthfully, you felt much at ease right then.

“I bet you don’t have that problem, playing the field and all” You said, holding on to your wine glass. Bruce smiled.

“Ah! Getting too attached doesn’t help anyone, I guess” he answered. And for some reason, you could empathize. Now more than ever.

“True...” you agreed, looking at him. However, that warmth you carried for him was also enlarged, and suddenly emotion overpowered logic.

“I know this is the corniest you’ve heard always….” you paused, “…but when the right person comes along...it’s so worth it” you continued, taking a deep, shaky breath, “…even if your heart gets broken into millions...billions of pieces”

Your eyes locked onto his with every word you uttered, and to your surprise, he did not look away. For a moment, his gaze on you translated into deep belief. For a Moment, his gaze dismissed every other occupant in the restaurant, except you. For a moment his silence proved that anything was possible.

Until you realized, never was life that easy.

“But like I said…” You added, blinking away the heavy stare, “... it’s not your problem” You said, fiddling with your clutch purse mindlessly. “Actually I-” “Whoops!” You sniggered when the clutch purse dropped out of your hand. Laughing together, you both found yourselves bending down to search for it.

“Let Me get that-” Bruce volunteered, as he spotted the purse, grabbing it for you.

“Thank you” You murmured shyly, reaching out your hand to take it.

The mere act of a clutch purse being transferred from one hand to another never felt this intense. A circus act commenced inside your stomach all the sudden. The manner you found yourself blushing, certainly proved his effect as a whole. The warmth of his palm earlier, it brought protection and comfort in the time of danger. However, the slightest brush of his fingers just now, it birthed confetti of butterflies, causing the internal circus to go berserk.

As he looked you up and down, you prayed he did not notice the red on your cheeks. For this man had such power over you, it was sheer chaos. But a beautifully, addictive one.

“Your Dress...” he breathed, making your own breath shake, “You look very-” “Bruce!” A seductive voice emerged out of the blue, as you realized it was his date walking over to his side. Being one of Gotham’s most well known supermodels, she exuded beauty with her tall and thin frame and brunette locks flowing down her shoulders. Wrapping her goddess-like arms around his neck, she whispered a few words to him before heading over to the restroom area. Compared to her, you felt like a little cinder block. “She’s beautiful...” you muttered hoarsely, looking down at your wine. You heard him sigh uncomfortably. “Listen...” Bruce began, causing your heart to long for hope, “I-” “Would you like anything else, Sirs?” The emotional roller coaster unexpectedly finished its ride when an over enthusiastic waiter’s loud voice caused everyone in the table to look up. “No, Thank you...” Fox said, slowly getting up, “Actually, I think might head home now” “And I will join you” You said, standing up in a flash, “Ladies, Gentleman...” you nodded to the Heads, “...Mr. Wayne” Giving him a slight nod, you turned to follow Lucius Fox. You dared not turn back to see his face. That would just show weakness. Just walk away, it was the right thing to do. The longer you will linger, the stronger your attachment will be. The stronger your need to love him will be. And what would be the use of strengthening that existing love, when the odds were always in the way?

Seduced by the women with the highest standards of beauty and power, you obviously must seem like nothing for a man such as he. You were simply charity, the employee in need. Perhaps your ex was right, You really were no fun.

Besides, being jealous was never your right, not especially when you did not even pour your heart out. And when you would not even consider doing so, being tied to morals, ethics and rules?

And if he even had not shown you his own heart, what gave you the right to be angry with anyone, except yourself?

You asked yourself, why were you wasting your time?

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

Allison’s eyes grew wide with excitement the moment you arrived home.

Clutching onto her bowl of popcorn, she watched you close the door and lean against it to look back at her. Though her hair was in a messy bun, she still managed to pull off ‘homely cool’.

“So...” she began softly, “How did it go?” Silent, You took a deep breath, not knowing where to begin. “Well-” “-Did you make Wayne cream his pants?” Allison cut you off with glee, seemingly over excited. Jaw dropped, your face contorted with disgust. “Ali! …ewww” You exclaimed, seeing her perverted expression and suggestive eyebrows. Truthfully the thought of it brought some laughter soon after. You felt calmer. “Well, did he?” Allison was persistent. Pushing yourself from the door, you began to take off your shoes, “Well…” You paused, “I think he liked what he saw” you said smiling shyly. “Yeah?” Her excitement still intact, as you sat next to her.

“I think so…” you said, reminiscing those precious moments his blessed eyes watched only you, “…but…” you paused, “it doesn’t matter…”, Sighing, you shook your head frantically, “…cause he was with a Supermodel tonight so...” “Supermodel? Sweetie, I’m sorry” laying her head on your shoulder, Allison sighed in response. Patting her on the lap, you got up. Just like that, the little giddy excitement between two women suddenly crashed and burned upon knowing they were hopeless going against a supermodel.

“Hey! by the way…” Allison began, “…did you give money for Mrs. Hernandez’s going away party?”

You froze.

“Shit!” You cried out, “ I forgot!”

Mrs. Hernandez was one of the lovely tenants in the apartment building who will be moving out this week to go live with her son. All tenants were supposed to pool in for the going away party, today being the deadline. Opening your purse with haste, you groaned. “Damn it! I don’t have any change...” Of course you did not. Not when you gave away your last note to Clara yesterday. With the current use of cards and e-payment, you rarely used cash these days.

“Me neither, Sweetie” Allison replied, mindlessly staring at the television. You sighed. Transferring the money will not do as it wont be convenient for the others. And being a bad tenant was the last thing on your mind.

“Screw it!” You said, “I’ll just go get some now” Running to your room, you proceeded to change.

“Cool…” Allison uttered quietly, until she remembered, “By the way, can you also get milk?”Allison yelled to your room, “WE’RE OUT ALREADY!!”

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

If wearing an elegant dress brought out the glamorous woman in you, then leggings and an oversized black hoodie brought out the homebody. With the hood over your head, you dug your hands in the deep pockets whilst standing at the line for the ATM. What was taking so long?

Almost 11pm, yet the neighborhood was bustling more than usual. In fact, it fascinated you. Younger folk in higher numbers lingered hanging about by the Bodega. You wondered if a party was taking place somewhere nearby, as most of them wore clothes with a similar vibe. Some danced to the loud music that played, some drank sitting on the pavement, while some lined up in front of you in the ATM line. Was it a party? Or a flashmob? Or were you suddenly intruding the filming of a music video? It simply seemed so unrealistic. Could it be the sake and wine were forcing you to imagine all this?

Then moment your phone started to ring, you knew you were not imagining. Not when the phone vibrated in your hand, not when the name of the caller caused you to breath deeply.

“Mr.Wayne?”

His breath over the phone sent shivers down your spine so subtly. Attraction was indeed a strange phenomenon.

“Hey! Did you go home okay?”

He asked. Nodding, you looked around.

“Of course.” You replied, “Mr. Fox was kind enough to drop me straight home”

“Good. Good,” As he muttered in a rush, you heard him exhale, “ Listen, can we talk? ”

Nervousness took you over with a sudden burn in your face. What must he wish to say? Was he attempting to confirm what you already dread about? Was he fully acknowledging your desires to be futile and hopeless? You kept quiet as he continued:

“About tonight…I really-” he paused, “Where are you?” The loud cheers of some of the younger folk interrupted the conversation. Amongst the crowd, a lone figure walked over to the middle of the street.

“I’m at the Bodega nearby my place” you replied, trying to be nonchalant with him. However, somehow that lone figure standing managed to capture your attention, "Huh! Strange...”

“What is it?”

Your eyebrows furrowed the moment the figure turned to face your direction. Familiarity was quite strong in him. “There’s this guy here…” you said, “… who looks just like-”

You froze, “Oh no!” You breathed.

The moment the figure effortlessly pulled out a portable machine gun from his oversized long coat, it clearly dawned on you on who he really was:

“Mr. Slender?” You muttered to yourself.

Pointing the weapon upwards, loud and rapid shots were fired, causing panic amongst the public. The shock forced your hands to lose control, almost dropping your phone to the ground.

“Hello? Hello?”

You heard Bruce loud and clear, yet you were not in the right state of mind to respond. The chaos, certainly forced your heart to beat right out of your chest. The beating, increased without any prior announcement shocked you, as if the live, blood pumping organ might literally fall out of your flesh vessel.

“EVERYBODY ON THE GROUND, NOW!”

Mr.Slender bellowed, finally revealing his masculine and controlled voice. The public, including those inside the Bodega made their way to the ground. With Mr. Slender’s reinforcements inside the building, it was made sure no one were to reach out for law enforcement any time soon. Just when it seemed all had complied to his command, one obstinate young man rose up quickly.

“Hey man!” The man cried out, walking over to him, “Be cool…Be-”

“I SAID ON THE GROUND!”

Blood curdling screams erupted from the crowd when Mr.Slender brutally fired at the man, sending him flying back, falling on to the ground like a bloody piece of meat. Given the continuous reactions from the people nearby, he was certainly dead. Emptiness and fear swallowed you whole upon witnessing this.

“DON’T EVEN THINK OF BEING STUBBORN!! ”

Mr.Slender yelled out, brandishing his gun around, “MY DEMANDS ARE SIMPLE...”

He continued, “I’M LOOKING FOR ONE PARTICULAR PERSON…” he said, “AND I WILL NOT LEAVE…UNTIL THAT PERSON STEPS FORWARD!!”

Scenes such as these, they were never expected but only imagined in modes of fiction. Be it novels or films. However, when you truly got to taste it in the rusty reality, only then did you realize the gravity of its horror. And only then at that fateful moment, did you genuinely fear for your precious life.

Especially when the person he was looking for, was you.

——————————————————

Chapter 6 HERE

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petitelepus · 9 months

Text

FOX'S WEDDING, PART 6

KITSUNE!RENGUKO KYOJURO X FEM!READER

Summary: You, Kyojuro, and Senjuro go out to a Zoo and you meet a grumpy Lizardman. Things happen.

Warnings: Kissing

A/N: Female Reader, Kitsune Kyojuro, Kitsune Senjuro, Kitsune Rengoku, Lizardman Iguro, Monster Musume!AU

PART 1 II PART 2 II PART 3 II PART 4 II PART 5 II PART 6 II PART 7 II PART 8 II PART 9 II PART 10 II PART 11 II PART 12 II PART 13 II PART 14 II PART 15 II PART 16 II PART 17 II PART 18 II PART 19

The next day came so slowly, it felt like you were waiting for your date with Kyojuro forever. You could barely sleep that night because you were busy thinking about all the different places you could go during your date.

As you woke up, you felt tired because of lack of proper sleep, but you were also giddy because of the idea of going out with your fiance.

Kyojuro had given you free hands so it was up to you what the two of you would be doing and what time. You wondered if you should get something to eat, but you were a little worried about your fiance's habit of shouting TASTY after each bite of food he took.

Not that you minded, you had grown used to this habit of his, but you were pretty sure that what the other people would think about it. You usually didn't care that much about some random strangers' opinions on things, and you were pretty sure that Kyojuro himself didn't care either, but you wanted this to be a fun experience for him.

Movies? What there was even coming… Maybe some action movie? You hummed thoughtfully as you picked up your phone from the bedside table and used it to check upcoming movies.

…Nothing that looked interesting. You frowned, how could there be nothing interesting in cinemas? Plan B, move along and try to come up with an idea for the date.

Dinner by candlelight? No, he would no doubt shout and you two would get kicked out of the restaurant and you didn't want that to happen. Also, wouldn't it be a little too intimate for your first date?

A zoo? Ooh, wait, you could totally go to the zoo!

…But the more you thought about it, you thought that Senjuro would probably also enjoy visiting a zoo and seeing all kinds of different animals. You wanted to include Senjuro, you really did, but shouldn't your first date with Kyojuro be with just the two of you?

You stared at your phone as you thought about what you should do until you snapped, grabbed a pillow, and screamed against it. Fuck it, you liked Senjuro so he could come also! You just had to ask!

With that in your mind, you got up and put on some slacks and a shirt and made your way downstairs to get the breakfast started… But as you walked the stairs down, you could smell food being cooked. You were confused and made your way to the kitchen where you saw the younger Kitsune cooking breakfast.

"Senjuro?"

The young boy flinched and turned to look at you, but seeing that it was just you he relaxed and smiled, "Oh, big sis! You nearly gave me a fright."

"I'm sorry," You nodded and then looked at the table that was already filled with different breakfast dishes. You blinked before looking at the young fox, "Did you make all this?"

"Yes, I hope you don't mind. I woke up and wanted to be useful somehow," He nodded as he moved the skillet in his hands and cut equal parts of scrambled eggs on three plates.

"I don't mind, but you are a young man, you shouldn't worry about housekeeping as I should." You replied and Senjuro looked at you, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you…"

"N- no, nothing like that!" You quickly shook your head, "I was just worried!"

"Oh, you could never offend me! I enjoy being helpful." He smiled and you had to control your instincts that were telling you to call him cute and hug him.

"You are too pure for this world Senjuro." You said instead and the young boy smiled happily at your sweet words. Suddenly you heard steps coming from behind you and you turned around just in time to see Kyojuro step into the kitchen.

"Good morning!" Your fiance greeted you and his brother happily before looking at the table filled with food. "Did my loving bride do all this?"

"No, but your loving little brother did." You said and Kyojuro smiled brightly as he walked to his younger brother and petted his head, minding his fox ears. "Wonderful Senjuro! You are better at cooking than me!"

"Or me." You added with a small smile and the young fox blushed, "T- thank you, but I'm not that good yet!"

"We will be the judges of that." You said and all three of you took seats and started to enjoy the breakfast that Senjuro made. You could feel your eyes widen, the scrambled eggs were so fluffy and well-seasoned, they were just perfect.

"TASTY!" Kyojuro shouted and you nodded alongside him, "This is really good Senjuro! Way better than the eggs I make!"

"I will happily eat my brother's or my bride's food!" Your fiance shouted.

"T- thank you, I looked up some recipes from the internet with my computer." The young fox said as he blushed a little. You swallowed the mouthful you had and smiled at him, "I'm happy you are using your computer also. You learned really quickly how to use the electronics."

You could feel someone looking at you and you turned to see Kyojuro staring at you. You grinned, "You too Kyojuro. I'm proud of how quickly the two of you learned!"

"Thank you!" Both brothers thanked you and you smiled. That is when you remembered that you had a plan for your date.

"Kyojuro?" You asked and the older fox turned to look at you, "Yes, my Hime?"

"It's about our date today…" You started, "I was wondering if you would like to visit the city's zoo?"

"Zoo?" The foxes glanced at each other and you smiled, "It's a place where you can admire different wild animals around the world."

"That sounds like fun!" Kyojuro nodded and you smiled, "That's the thing. I wanted to ask if it's okay for your brother if you come with us?"

"Me?" Senjuro blinked in shock, "You want to take me on your date?"

"Only if you want to come and it's alright with your brother?" You asked as you glanced at your fiance.

"Hm!" Kyojuro nodded with a wide smile, "I like that idea!"

"It does sound like fun! But…" Senjuro looked down sadly and you frowned in worry, "But?"

"I… I don't want to intrude on your two's special time with each other." He finally said, "The two of you should spend time alone without me being a third wheel."

"You aren't a third wheel! You are my dear little brother!" Kyojuro suddenly shouted and you nodded alongside him, "If I didn't want you to come I wouldn't have asked you to. You can come or stay, but it's your decision."

Senjuro thoughtfully looked down at his plate of eggs and after waiting for half a minute, he glanced at you shyly, "Then… Can I come with you?"

You and Kyojuro smiled happily, "Of course!"

The three of you finished your breakfast and went to dress up for your trip to the zoo. Since it was going to be pretty hot, you all dressed lightly.

You chose to wear this beautiful long red floral dress with yellow flowers on it. You had found that beauty in a second-hand store, but you knew that wouldn't matter because it was a pretty dress, no matter where it came from.

Kyojuro and Senjuro both put on capri pants and T-shirts, the older fox having something written in Kanji on his shirt and the younger one having a cute little cartoon chibi flame on his. Since it was promised to be sunny, you made sure to take something cold to drink, such as a bottle of water and one bottle of Cola. After that, you were ready.

The trip to the zoo wasn't that awful, but you could tell that people were looking at you and the brothers. Probably because of their good looks… And fox's ears and multiple tails, but they seemed completely ignorant to the looks you were getting so you chose to ignore the looks also.

Since you were there early in the morning, the lines to the zoo weren't that awful. You used the debit card Mister Smith had given to you to pay for the three of your tickets inside.

The brothers were in complete awe when they looked around the place, big cats being the first thing the visitors saw when they entered the zoo. The three of you went to look at the lions and tigers they had behind huge glass walls and bars. Senjuro was in awe when he saw the huge cats and you were also impressed by them.

That was when you couldn't help but notice that the workers around the zoo all appeared to be some sort of demihumans or such.

"Kyojuro, can you wait here a second? I'll go and ask something from that mouse person there?" You asked and the man nodded, "Go ahead, we will wait for you here!"

"Thank you!" You smiled and quickly caught up with this small woman with mouse ears and a tail.

"Excuse me?" You asked and the woman turned to look at you, "Yes?"

"I couldn't help but notice that there are many demihumans working here?"

"Oh, yes, you see, the zoo itself is pretty new and the owner is a demihuman themself and wanted to employ people like them in here." The mouse woman told you and you nodded, "I see! Thank you so much for the info!"

"Thank you for asking, we are here to guide you, visitors." She smiled back at you and you returned back to the fox brothers who looked at you.

"You're back!" Kyojuro smiled, "You weren't gone for long!"

"What did you talk about?" Senjuro asked and you smiled as you explained to them how the zoo employed demihumans. The two of them were in awe, "That is great!"

"Yes! I'm excited to see both animals and different demihumans!" Now you were really excited. The animals were nice, sure, but the demihumans were also fascinating because Kyojuro and Senjuro were the ones also. If you got to know more demihumans, would you learn more about the fox brothers?

You and the brothers kept exploring the zoo and animals and as you did, slowly, but surely, the zoo was getting more and more visitors and you noticed that your fiance and his brother were also getting more and more attention.

"Ugh, honestly…" You groaned as you wiped your forehead with the back of your hand, "I feel like such a bag of potatoes when I'm standing next to you guys."

"What do you mean, my bride?" Kyojuro asked and you glanced at him, but he genuinely didn't know what you meant by saying that. You smiled, he was just too kind and pure, just like his little brother was.

"Nothing, sorry." You smiled and the brothers were confused, but they didn't pry any further. As you explored, you saw different kinds of demihumans such as minotaurs, couple centaurs, catgirls, and many more.

You and the brothers were so engaged with the animals and demihumans that you all lost track of time. You felt so bad, you had missed lunch and the clock was getting closer to 3pm. You were hungry, yes, but you couldn't even begin to wonder how hungry the Kitsunes were.

That's when the Gods blessed you three as you made it to the food court. There were different kinds of foods, anything for anyone really. You glanced at the brothers and you could almost see drool leaking from their mouths and you were reminded of the first time you three ate burgers the day you met.

"Would you like to eat?" You asked, even if you already knew the answer. The brothers nodded eagerly and the three of you gathered almost everything on your plates. While you enjoyed a pulled pork hamburger with fries, Senjuro was enjoying the same as you were except he chose pulled chicken and Kyojuro? He was having the whole menu.

You were thankful that you had taken Senjuro with you because he was able to cast the silent spell so only you and he could hear his older brother shouting TASTY with each bite he took.

Finally, after eating for an hour, the three of you were on went to check the other attractions that the zoo had. That's when you noticed something that made you really excited.

"Ooh, there is a reptile house!" You awed as you pointed forward at the building with a glass ceiling, "Can we go there next?"

"Of course!" Both Kyojuro and Senjuro said and you cheered quietly, excited to see some reptiles like snakes and froggies and such. The three of you entered the house and you were immediately hit by this hot humid air, that was perfect for reptiles.

You watched in awe how these bright little frogs inhabited a terrarium, long and beautiful pythons enjoyed the warm light, turtles rested in the water and so many other reptiles that lived in the humid building.

"Snakes are just so cute…!" You whispered excitedly as you watched a bright green python yawn.

"You talking by yourself…? Talk about creepy…"

You yelped, jumping a little in fright before turning to look at who had spoken to you. You blinked, as your brains registered this young man standing there before you, with a white face mask over his lower face.

You were almost mesmerized by his heterochromatic split eyes, the left one being turquoise and the right one being yellow, but his skin was so pale, save for the dark hair, scaly hands, and scales that covered the sides of his face and long lizard's tail.

Ooh, he was a Lizardman! You smiled at him, but you didn't get to say anything before he squinted his eyes at you, "It's rude to stare."

"Ah, I'm sorry-!" You were saying when you noticed a beautiful albino snake wrapped around the man's neck. "Oh, you have a very beautiful snake!"

"His name is Kaburamaru and he isn't just some snake." The man said and the snake flicked its tongue at the air between you two.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be rude-!"

"My bride, are you here?" You heard Kyojuro calling you and you turned to look and sure enough, his head peeked from behind a snakes' terrarium. You waved at him and the Lizardman squinted his eyes at the two of you.

"You…" He mumbled quietly and as Kyojuro joined you, you turned to look at him and smiled, not quite hearing what he said. "I'm sorry, did you say something? I didn't hear?"

"A Kitsune engaged to a common human…?" The Lizardman glared at you, "What a waste…"

You flinched, hearing him say that, your worst fear. You felt insulted and yet, like he was onto something. You forced a smile on your face, trying to ignore the feelings that his words brought up, but it was too late, Kyojuro had noticed the change in your mood.

Your fiance wrapped his arm around your shoulders and pulled you against his side. You blinked in shock and looked at him, but just as you turned, you felt something soft touch your forehead and saw Kyojuro's face before yours.

He just kissed your forehead.

You were so shocked you couldn't even blush once your brains registered what happened, it was too late. Kyojuro smiled at the Lizardman, "I don't think it's a waste if I love her. I think it's a blessing. You know it when it happens when you meet your other half or destined partner."

He looked at you and you were stunned by the look in his eyes. Genuine love. "They are your best friend, your biggest supporter, and accept you as you are. They are someone that makes you happy to wake up each morning, knowing they are there for you no matter what."

You were stunned by the Kitsune's words. Did he really feel that deeply for you? As you stared at Kyojuro in wonder, the Lizardman scoffed.

"Don't get me wrong…" He grumbled quietly, "I'm in no way the same as you two…"

"You don't need to be." Kyojuro smiled, "You just need to be happy!"

That seemed to be enough for the demihuman because he turned and left you two be. As soon as he was gone, Senjuro appeared from behind from one of the terrariums and smiled at you two, "I saw a blue frog there!"

Ah, he had missed the whole conversation. Maybe that was for the best since that Lizardman wasn't the nicest person to talk to. You smiled as you looked at the younger fox, "Really?"

"Yes! According to the information, it's one of the most poisonous frogs there is in the world!" He said excitedly and you awed, "Wow, I like frogs, but not that much!"

"Would you like to see it?" He asked and you smiled, "Lead the way!"

The three of you explored the reptile house in peace and you didn't see the Lizardman anymore, which to you was a small blessing. Once you left the house you noticed that it was already half past 5pm, but you had managed to explore the whole zoo in one day. It was an achievement on its own already!

You guys stopped at the gift shop before leaving, buying you and the brothers identical, and not to mention super cute fox keychains for your keys.

The trip home was lively as you talked about all the animals you had seen and by the time you were home, you were all a little hungry, but not enough to make a proper dinner so you all ate sandwiches.

The rest of the day went relaxing and taking a long bath, both you and brother taking one separately of course. Before you knew it, it was time for all three of you to go to sleep. After the day you guys had, you were pretty sure that you were going to fall asleep the moment your head touched the pillow.

You sighed as you were done brushing your teeth and stepped out of the bathroom, just in time to see the brothers wish each other good night before Senjuro went to his room, and Kyojuro was about to go to his but then he noticed you from the corner of his eye and stopped to smile at you.

"My bride, how are you feeling?" He asked and you smiled as you stifled a yawn and walked to him. "I'm feeling good, thank you for asking. Tired, but good."

"I'm happy to hear that!" He nodded happily and you smiled a little, but something had been bothering you ever since you guys left the reptile house.

"Kyojuro…?" You started carefully and he nodded, "Yes?"

"You… Earlier, you kissed me… On forehead…" You murmured quietly, feeling yourself getting embarrassed over nothing serious.

"Did I?" He blinked as he smiled, and you rolled your eyes, knowing that he was just teasing you now.

"Did you kiss me because you wanted to protect me from what that Lizardman said?" You asked and he grew quiet. You swallowed nervously as you waited for him to reply and finally, he did.

"That, and I really had wanted to do that for the longest time." He admitted and you smiled, "Good."

"Wh-?" He was about to ask when you gently placed your hands on his cheeks and leaned forwards to kiss him. Kyojuro's eyes widened as he felt your lips press against his, but slowly, he closed his eyes and leaned forward to kiss you back, his hand going to press against your upper back and the other holding you by the back of your neck.

Slowly, the two of you pulled apart, and as you opened your eyes, you both could see the feelings you held for each other in your eyes.

"Thank you." You whispered as you quickly pecked his lips one more time before pulling apart and running into your room. Kyojuro stared after you and smiled as went to his room, but little did either of you know, you were both thinking of each other when you made yourself comfortable on your beds, excited for the upcoming day.

46 notes · View notes

full-hd-sun · 3 years

Text

Instagram algorithms

Pairing:

Johnny/Ten

Warnings and genres:

Romantic Fluff, Happy Ending, Strangers to Lovers, Idols, Attempt at Humor, Dancer Chittaphon Leechaiyapornkul | Ten

Summary:

They say, "Never say never." In an instant - you don't even think about dancing and it's annoys you, but in another moment - you are ready to make a room with a pole in your future apartment, so that "he" dances only for you.

- By today, the shooting of the video is over! Thank you all for the work done, everyone is free! - said the director, and the guys could finally exhale. The staff collected the decorations, and the guys went to the dressing rooms. They had ten minutes to change - a car was already waiting for them on the street to take them to the dorm.

Johnny was sorry to part with his clothes for filming, because he really loved the style that the stylists chose for him. When he went to the store himself, he could choose clothes like a bum-style type, which upset him. While Johnny was changing, he had the thought that now he would have to return to his empty dorm room, where no one was waiting for him, and the second part of the bed was cold and not warmed by anyone’s body.

He had a neighbor named Taeyong, but the next week he is going to move to his boyfriend Jaehyun’s, so they would leave him all alone in the room. Sometimes he was so jealous of them. Johnny also wanted to have someone who could lie on top, and he would bury his fingers in the hair of this “someone”, which are still a little damp after a shower, and would exchange soft kisses with him, talking about something of theirs, secret.

And so the group was standing by the car. While the guys getting into the car, Johnny tried to order food delivery, because he is exhausted. He take a seat next to Mark, and they started discussing the filming and remembered how Jaehyun blushed when they forced him to shoot a video with the tackle phrase “Jeogiyo nuna hokshi namjachingu isseoyo”. After hearing it, Yoonoh blushed again and hid behind Taeyong’s back, who responded by gently stroking his head.

While they had such conversations, they quickly got to dorm, and fled to their rooms, because everyone wanted to wash finally off the makeup that irritated the skin. Taeyong took the bathroom, and Johnny cheered himself up and go to Instagram, while waiting for a friend to free room. Since he is a great connoisseur of high-quality photos, he follows many photographers and on average he spent four hours a day on Instagram.

- This is outstanding ... Taeyong, come here! Look what a gorgeous shot! I’m crazy about this photographer! - Johnny yelled while lifting his phone into the air.

- You say that about every photographer you follow, - Tae replied trying not to move his facial muscles to keep the mask from slipping. - And if it’s an animal on the photo ... - he did not have time to finish the sentence, because Johnny poked him with his phone almost in the face.

- Just look! What color correction, what kind of exposure, and how well the background is visible, which does not distract from the foreground. Everything is harmonious as hell! - Suh shakes his phone. - I won’t find content on Instagram better than animals or professional photography, - Johnny switched to the recommendations feed.

- I wouldn’t be so sure. I also thought so before, but you know, Instagram recommendations can throw something interesting. I’ve found so many edits made by our fans. When I’m not in the mood, they amuse me, - replied Lee, removing the mask and smearing the remnants of it on his neck with thin fingers.

- Well, yes, artificial intelligence does not stand still, but it will definitely not be cooler than well-taken photographs or animals. - said Johnny, accidentally clicking on the first post in the recommendations.

The video showed a guy was on his knees and pressed his buttocks to the pole. When the calm music began, he threw one hand on the pole, and the other temptingly ran over the body. Then he spread his knees to the sides, grabbed the pole with both hands and turned over in the air, as if this did not require special strength, standing on his right leg, and wrapping his left leg around the pole. All his movements were smooth and calm, like a surface of a sea on an early sunny morning. The video was short, but Johnny seems to have spent a lot more watching, and Taeyong pulled him out of the trance by snapping his fingers to his ear.

- Hey, I told you here how the guys and I spent the weekend, and you didn’t even hummed. You seem to have seen a new photo there that fascinated you? - said Lee and tried to look at the elder’s phone, but last quickly blocked it.

- No, I thought about the upcoming photo sessions. Again, so many things will have to be applied, the hair will be torment ... - Johnny tried to redirect topic in another side, because he knew that Lee was a fan of crying about transformations during each comeback and how he fed up with everything.

- Oh yes, this is awfull. They will paint me in long-ass colour again and dress something on me, like in Fire Truck’s era ... - Taeyong complained.

_-_-_-_ -_-_-_-_ -_-_-_-_ -_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_ -_- _-_- _-_- _-_- _-_- _-_- _-_- _-_-

Several weeks after that video, Johnny followed actively that dancer. His name was Ten, and it turned out that he danced not only on the pole but also hip-hop, traditional Chinese dances, and even ballet ... Of course, pole dancing received the most views and admired comments. Suh watched and commented on all Ten’s videos, were on all the lives and tried to memorize every guy’s emotion.

- So, we have everybody here broken down by parts, so while the rap-line is being recorded, the vocals can have some rest. You can go take a coffee, - said the record director and disappeared into the studio with Mark and Taeyong.

Jungwoo promised that he would stay at the studio and write to the American in case of anything, so Johnny went to the cafe downstairs for calm breakfast with meringues and coffee.

He felt like a teenager when he thought about how to get attention from this handsome guy dancer. At first Johnny thought about writing Ten in direct, but he probably already has a lot of fans, so Johnny’s message will just get lost among a bunch of others. Then he thought to invite Ten as a backing dancer to their video, but they already had enough people, and then Suh thought if he received such an offer, he would definitely block this person. Therefore, Johnny was waiting for an opportunity to drive up to the guy as invisibly as possible.

Suddenly, a notification came that Ten had a new post. Opening it, Johnny flew out of this world altogether: in the video, Ten, slightly sag in the back, leaning on the pole only with his shoulder blades, but what Suh paid all his attention to was that the dancer was on high heels. Rather rhythmic music played, but Ten hit the beat with every particle of his body, captivating the American’s mind. He arching as if his bones were made from gelatin. Ten playfully shot his eyes into the lens, and Johnny felt like these eyes were hitting into his heart. Eagerly absorbing every movement, repeating Ten’s emotions on his face. When the dance ended, Ten found himself in the same position as in the beginning.

Johnny really regretted that he didn’t smoke, otherwise he would have smoked a whole pack. So he took a cup of Americano brought by the server and drank it all in a few sips. Johnny just forgot how to breathe. Previously, he did not notice a special love for dancing, especially the pole, he just did not understand the meaning. And now he is ready to find out the address of the studio where Ten dances, and even if this is some god-choked club somewhere on the edge of the city - Johnny is ready to come there and watch the guy dances, and then come to the hostel and will fantasize, remembering his cunning, fox gaze and light movements. Although somewhere deep in his soul he wanted Ten to dance only for him. Johnny was even ready to give him a room in his future apartment where Ten would dance only for him.

From such thoughts the blood rushed to the right place, but Johnny had no time to go to relax - he saw a message from Jungwoo: he wrote that it was time for them to go recording. So he quickly finished eating the meringue and having paid, ran up the stairs.

-_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- -_- - -

The guys were exhausted: they had a promotion for the “Cherry Bomb” tour, and the last city they sang was Seoul. Before the concert there were three days off, the group divided into units: one unit slept all day, got up to eat in the evening, and went to bed again, and the second unit just played games all day, ate a lot and lay in bed, conducting live.

The time was approaching midnight, when Johnny tired of watching YouTube, so he remembered about Ten’s Instagram. When he opened the application, he immediately saw a post about Lulu, a cute short-legged cat, very popular on YouTube, who also had a “brother”. It was a short video of Lulu trying to steal a piece of cake from the hostess. This made Johnny uwu-face and flipped down the page, bumping into Ten’s post. It said that they were recruiting for a pole dancing group.

At first Johnny lit up with joy, as this is a great opportunity to roll up to the guy and pull him into his net. But he is an idol, the day after tomorrow is a concert, he needs to rest ... He weighed the pros and cons for a very long time and finally went to Taeyong, who probably did not sleep because he is working on the lyrics of a new song.

Johnny tapped his knuckles gently on the wooden door. After a couple of seconds, he heard Tae’s stomping outside the door and a tousled head appeared from there with glasses slipping to the tip of his nose.

- Oh Johnny, it’s you. Come in, just try as quietly as possible - Jae-na fall asleep, he was spinning for a long time and could not sleep, - Lee whispered, opening the door wider and letting in the guest.

Suh sat down on Taeyong’s bed and wondered how to tell properly his friend about the situation, and decided that it would be better to dump everything on a clean one.

- Taeyong, I just decided ... I want to go pole dancing. What do you think about it? Johnny asked, looking up hesitantly at Lee, who was intently crossing out individual lines of the song in his notebook. He was not even surprised at this question and just asked.

-And who is this lucky guy that you want to attract? - with a slight grin on his face.

Johnny at first did not understand what the guy was driving at, and told that he had read somewhere there that it is useful for physical fitness, like you won’t be a jerk, but your hands will be strong. And then he realized, so he ran his eyes around the room, trying not to show it.

- In what sense of “lucky-guy”? I just decided for myself. I saw one guy dancing ... - Suh started talking, but was interrupted by Lee, who finished the sentence in his place.

- And you conquered him with your skills, am I right? Taeyong finally raised his head and turned sideways to his friend.

Johnny’s face was full of emotion, but the first thing Taeyong saw was embarrassment. He hit the mark.

- But how did you guess? - the American rubbed the tips of his ears.

- Well, first - you were never very interested in dancing at rehearsals, I never saw yours much zeal to dancing. Second, - Tae bent his second finger, turning his back to Johnny and recording something, - everyone has noticed for a long time that you spend a lot of time on the phone watching videos of some dancer on repeat. And our Doyoung, like a bloodhound dog, found him in your subscriptions and we also watched all of his videos. You have a good taste for guys, Johnny-hyung, - said Taeyong mockingly, making the elder blush even more and stare at the floor, - Well, third, even though you wear oversized clothes, yours “daddy” is all it is equally visible and he gives you up with giblets.

Johnny reflexively grabbed onto the aforementioned spot, covering it up, making Taeyong burst out laughing.

- But how did you all know? Johnny asked to deflect the subject from such an awkward moment.

- Well at least that you look hilarious when you watch him dancing and try to copy his facial expressions. And also, when you were dancing in the training hall with headphones on, I could admire how you tried to sit on the splits and your pants were torn right in the middle. - Lee could no longer restrain himself and burst into soundless laughter.

Johnny would fall through the floor if he found out that this shame was seen by someone else, but he can trust Lee, so they laughed, but not loudly, as Yoonoh tossed and turn in his sleep and Taeyong left to calm him down and sang him a song.

Johnny continued to sit on the edge of the bed, face propped in his hands, and watched about the couple. They were insanely cute: Jaehyun would often massage Taeyong’s back and legs on set because the latter was training too hard and was exhausted, and Yoonoh also brought food for Lee because Taeyong usually forgot to eat during day and then ate so much before going to bed and half of the night turning from side to side. Taeyong always asked everyone to be quiet in the car when Jaehyun fell asleep on his shoulder or lap; they were at the gunpoint of the cameras and behaved cautiously, no one could say that they were meeting, but the tenderness that they gave to each other was in the air and encouraged others to meet the soul mate, for whom they would want to move mountains. If they fought, then at most they could not talk for half an hour, one of them always came to another and childishly held out his little finger with the words “Make friends, make friends, Never, never break friends, if you do - You’ll catch the flu, And that will be the end of you”, and in the morning Mark and Donghyuck, who live next door, complained of banging on the wall and low sighs.

Johnny took a deep breath because he wasn’t sure guys like Ten needed a relationship. He seems to be married to the gym and pole. Meanwhile, Lee calmed Jung down and returned to the chair. Johnny looked up and asked hesitantly.

- Well, since you already know everything about this, then ... Should I try?

Taeyong was silent for a minute, and then he spoke.

- I think yes. It will be very difficult for you, but I am confident in you like in no one else.

- To be honest, I’m terrified. I’ll be like a cow on ice ...

- Love overpowers fear, - Taeyong whispered mysteriously and returned to his notes.

But really, what would he lose if he just tried? Yes, he will look ridiculous trying to climb the pole, but isn’t it worth it to make Ten laugh and cheer him up? When Doyoung was sad before the vlive, Johnny made him laugh in more ridiculous ways, and nothing, no one stopped loving him less because of this. Johnny decided that he should justify the feelings that arose in him six months ago, and he would rather get a refusal now than continue to sigh mindlessly for this guy.

- You’re right, - Johnny whispered sharply and frightened Taeyong, who had already forgotten that Suh is still here, - I’ll take this first step towards winning the dancer’s heart, and either I’ll be refused, or I can bathe in his love.

＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／

After speaking a little more with Tae and finally dispelling his indecision, Johnny returned to his room. Now he had to write to Ten about his desire to dance, but it was not as easy as he imagined. He could only hope that his message would not get lost among others. He opened a direct with Ten.

Hello! Saw yours last post about recruiting a pole dance group. Are there still free positions?

He wrote this with shaking hands, but was very glad that he dared to take such a step. Deciding to distract himself from waiting of the dancers answer, Suh turned on video. It was fourteen minutes to three o’clock in the morning when Johnny received an Instagram alert on his phone.

Hi Hi. Just in time for the last. When will it be convenient for you to come?

The American was as delighted with the message as the schoolgirl to whom her love was answered. He wanted to squeak, but remembered in time that it was now like night. So Johnny buried himself in the pillow and muttered something joyful in his own way and then exhaled deeply. For a long time he could not leave the message read.

I don’t know yet, because I have a work, but I would like to get to your group.

Johnny wrote to Ten, hit the send button and immediately fall asleep.

In the morning his message was read, but with no response. Johnny imagined thousand and one reasons of his stupidness and was already ready to cry in Taeyong’s shoulder but he was stopped by Mark, who pleased the older one to reconcile him with Donghyuck, because he accidentally deleted a game from theirs computer because of lack of memory, and now the youngest was mortally offended by him. During lunch and Johnny did not touch the phone again. And only when they went to their rooms, Johnny finally remembered the correspondence.

He had never run to the phone so quickly. Grabbing it, Johnny sighed with relief: Ten answered. He did not dare to open the message for a long time, fearing rejection, but then he remembered Taeyong’s words and said “Well, no matter what, i open” and read the message.

If you want, you can come to the introductory lesson tomorrow at twenty minutes to three in the afternoon.

Johnny could not believe his happiness: tomorrow he will see this charm boy live and that is why he became strange, because after that he happily jogged in the room and shouted - Who is sexy Frau? I am sexy Frau!!, without even thinking - Frau is a woman, but he can say so, he has such an event. He picked up the phone and wrote a message:

Oh, sure. What should I take with me?

The answer came quickly, as if Ten were expecting his message:

Yourself.

Johnny wondered if either Ten was as weird as he was, or that the message was not meant for him. But he decided not to upset himself and just hugged the phone, imagining tomorrow.

＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／

Arriving at the address showed by Ten, Johnny doubted for a very long time: was this message really was intended for him? Maybe Ten is expecting to see someone another. In moments like this, Suh forgets that he is an idol. He sat down on the sofa in the hall and waited.

Johnny was drawn from his thoughts by a human shadow blocking the light in front of him. He looked up and gasped - it was Ten who smiled to him. Johnny sat with his mouth open, and Ten realized how much he impressed Suh - he silently pulled Johnny with him. As the man stood up and followed the dancer, he noticed his height advantage and noted the strength with which Ten was pulling him forward.

They didn’t walk long, but during that time Johnny had time to study him: he had beautifully tousled silver hair, he was wearing a big loose T-shirt and sweatpants, and he smelled a mix of a little sweat and fresh mint. Johnny was so shocked to be so close to Ten that he didn’t even notice bringing him to the training room: it looked much smaller than theirs room, but it was just as cozy here, and Johnny thought the soundproofing was better here than in theirs company’s gym.

- So what dance would you like to dance? - asked Ten with honey voice, closing the door behind him. Johnny became very uncomfortable, because they were together there, and then his “daddy” made itself felt, showing through the fabric of tight jeans. I thought about wearing something loose,- he thoughts, and then looked up and caught the curious gaze of a dancer who was grinning and looking as sly as in his video.

- I would like to.. With you in ... I mean, dance on the pylon, you do it so wonderful and easily, it’s incredible ... - Johnny explained, looking at the floor like a child guilty of something. Ten only nodded in response to his praise.

- Well, since you are so amazed, would you like to see one of my best dances? - asked Ten after a pause and, without waiting for an answer, turned to the speakers behind him to find the music. - You can sit there - Ten pointed on the rugs.

Johnny decided that sitting down would be the best decision he made today. He sat down on the mat and, as it seemed to him, imperceptibly corrected his disgrace in his pants, but Ten saw everything watching the American in the mirror. Dancer just grinned at this maneuver.

Ten finally found the song, turned it on and ran briskly to the pole. He shook his head, stretched, and the song “Baby Don’t Like It “played. Johnny didn’t even immediately realize that it was a song from his group, he just thought he had already heard it somewhere.

Ten’s shoulders were wider than the guys his height, but he was very slim and flexible. Every movement of his hips made Johnny squeal inside, his arms were thin and even seemed a little feminine, but when he grabbed the pole, Suh opened his mouth in surprise and wondering where so much power in such a body. The song was alluring, and the atmosphere which Ten created with his dance was such that you can cut the air with a knife. At first, Johnny was controlling himself, but then he gazed at the guy. He even rarely blinked so as not to miss a single movement. There was nothing vulgar in dancer’s movements, but the way he presented the dance left nothing in his thoughts, except sexual fantasies. The guy glides along the pylon like a snake, and that sly look pins to Suh. Ten definitely understood his sexuality and knew what to press on. From time to time Johnny pinched his own hand to calm down a little.

Alas, Ten’s dance came to the end, and Johnny again did not even notice. His throat was dry, he wanted to drink even more than then in the cafe. With this dance, Ten finally won Suh’s heart.

- What do you think about it? - asked Ten. He slid down the pylon and sat on the floor opposite Johnny.

- You’re just like God, - croaked American. The dancer only smiled at this.

- You can just call me Ten.

Johnny didn’t know what to say to that and just hummed. He thought it would be much easier in live communication. Ten seemed not even tense. But he apparently felt that the tension was still there and emanated from Johnny.

- Well, will you sit and be silent, or will you offer to go on a date? - Ten interrupted the silence, getting closer to Johnny. Suh did not expect such a turn.

- Sorry, what?

- Come on, they’ve already told me everything about your love for me. I am the best friend of one of your group mate, and he told me about your feelings, - the dancer laughed, standing up from the floor and sitting down next to Suh, who was crazy about the situation. - At first I didn’t believe it either, because I have been a fan of yours group for a long time, and my bias is a fan of my dances, - Ten continued to twitter while Johnny was digesting the information. He could just use one of his morons - classmates, but he sat for six months like an idiot and suffered?

Did it suddenly happen that the person he loved was also a fan? Well, it flabbergasted me. Johnny just couldn’t help but smile with happiness.

Interrupting Ten’s speech, Suh pulled him into a gentle kiss, gently hugging the guy by the shoulders, because he was afraid of breaking Ten’s back with his strength. As expected, this guy is wonderful in everything, even in the kiss he brought his individuality. When they pulled away from each other, Ten chuckled.

- Well, actually, at first I would prefer to go on a date, but I also like your version. But wait a minute.

Ten got to his feet and turned the key in the lock, and then came back, knelt down directly to Suh and crawled on top of him like a cat.

- So where did we stop?

＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／＼（Ｔ∇Ｔ）／

After a hot relaxation in the training room, Ten and Johnny took a shower separately, and Suh, like a gentleman, invited the guy to dinner. They went to the ramen cafe, where they ordered a few servings of noodles because they lost a lot of calories. It turned out they were like two pears in a pod: Ten argued with Johnny, who would eat two portions of ramen faster. Suh would win, but so as not to upset Ten, he patiently waited for him to eat his portions first, and then, like a child, rejoiced for him, clutching his cheeks.

Until recently, Johnny did not even know how to talk to a guy, but now they tried the forbidden fruit, albeit in the hall, but they will definitely repeat this in all places, because the elder now knows how much Ten fell in love with him during this time. Johnny could not want more, but fate rewarded him for restraint with a gift in the form of this adorable kitten.

#nct #nct 127 #way v #johnten #smut #nct smut #pwp #fanfic #nct fic #nct pwp

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Win A Commission 25: May 2021’s story is The Lion The Witch and the Wardrobe! If you’d like to see my drawings in context with the story, please

Chapter 1 - Lucy Looks Into A Wardrobe

Once there were four children whose names were Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy. This story is about something that happened to them when they were sent away from London during the war because of the air-raids. They were sent to the house of an old Professor who lived in the heart of the country, ten miles from the nearest railway station and two miles from the nearest post office. He had no wife and he lived in a very large house with a housekeeper called Mrs Macready and three servants. (Their names were Ivy, Margaret and Betty, but they do not come into the story much.) He himself was a very old man with shaggy white hair which grew over most of his face as well as on his head, and they liked him almost at once; but on the first evening when he came out to meet them at the front door he was so odd-looking that Lucy (who was the youngest) was a little afraid of him, and Edmund (who was the next youngest) wanted to laugh and had to keep on pretending he was blowing his nose to hide it.

As soon as they had said good night to the Professor and gone upstairs on the first night, the boys came into the girls' room and they all talked it over.

"We've fallen on our feet and no mistake," said Peter. "This is going to be perfectly splendid. That old chap will let us do anything we like."

"I think he's an old dear," said Susan.

"Oh, come off it!" said Edmund, who was tired and pretending not to be tired, which always made him bad-tempered. "Don't go on talking like that."

"Like what?" said Susan; "and anyway, it's time you were in bed."

"Trying to talk like Mother," said Edmund. "And who are you to say when I'm to go to bed? Go to bed yourself."

"Hadn't we all better go to bed?" said Lucy. "There's sure to be a row if we're heard talking here."

"No there won't," said Peter. "I tell you this is the sort of house where no one's going to mind what we do. Anyway, they won't hear us. It's about ten minutes' walk from here down to that dining-room, and any amount of stairs and passages in between."

"What's that noise?" said Lucy suddenly. It was a far larger house than she had ever been in before and the thought of all those long passages and rows of doors leading into empty rooms was beginning to make her feel a little creepy.

"It's only a bird, silly," said Edmund.

"It's an owl," said Peter. "This is going to be a wonderful place for birds. I shall go to bed now. I say, let's go and explore tomorrow. You might find anything in a place like this. Did you see those mountains as we came along? And the woods? There might be eagles. There might be stags. There'll be hawks."

"Badgers!" said Lucy.

"Foxes!" said Edmund.

"Rabbits!" said Susan. But when next morning came there was a steady rain falling, so thick that when you looked out of the window you could see neither the mountains nor the woods nor even the stream in the garden.

"Of course it would be raining!" said Edmund. They had just finished their breakfast with the Professor and were upstairs in the room he had set apart for them - a long, low room with two windows looking out in one direction and two in another.

"Do stop grumbling, Ed," said Susan. "Ten to one it'll clear up in an hour or so. And in the meantime we're pretty well off. There's a wireless and lots of books."

"Not for me" said Peter; "I'm going to explore in the house."

Everyone agreed to this and that was how the adventures began. It was the sort of house that you never seem to come to the end of, and it was full of unexpected places. The first few doors they tried led only into spare bedrooms, as everyone had expected that they would; but soon they came to a very long room full of pictures and there they found a suit of armour; and after that was a room all hung with green, with a harp in one corner; and then came three steps down and five steps up, and then a kind of little upstairs hall and a door that led out on to a balcony, and then a whole series of rooms that led into each other and were lined with books - most of them very old books and some bigger than a Bible in a church. And shortly after that they looked into a room that was quite empty except for one big wardrobe; the sort that has a looking-glass in the door. There was nothing else in the room at all except a dead blue-bottle on the window-sill.

"Nothing there!" said Peter, and they all trooped out again - all except Lucy. She stayed behind because she thought it would be worth while trying the door of the wardrobe, even though she felt almost sure that it would be locked. To her surprise it opened quite easily, and two moth-balls dropped out.

Looking into the inside, she saw several coats hanging up - mostly long fur coats. There was nothing Lucy liked so much as the smell and feel of fur. She immediately stepped into the wardrobe and got in among the coats and rubbed her face against them, leaving the door open, of course, because she knew that it is very foolish to shut oneself into any wardrobe. Soon she went further in and found that there was a second row of coats hanging up behind the first one. It was almost quite dark in there and she kept her arms stretched out in front of her so as not to bump her face into the back of the wardrobe. She took a step further in - then two or three steps always expecting to feel woodwork against the tips of her fingers. But she could not feel it.

"This must be a simply enormous wardrobe!" thought Lucy, going still further in and pushing the soft folds of the coats aside to make room for her. Then she noticed that there was something crunching under her feet. "I wonder is that more mothballs?" she thought, stooping down to feel it with her hand. But instead of feeling the hard, smooth wood of the floor of the wardrobe, she felt something soft and powdery and extremely cold. "This is very queer," she said, and went on a step or two further.

Next moment she found that what was rubbing against her face and hands was no longer soft fur but something hard and rough and even prickly. "Why, it is just like branches of trees!" exclaimed Lucy. And then she saw that there was a light ahead of her; not a few inches away where the back of the wardrobe ought to have been, but a long way off. Something cold and soft was falling on her. A moment later she found that she was standing in the middle of a wood at night-time with snow under her feet and snowflakes falling through the air.

Lucy felt a little frightened, but she felt very inquisitive and excited as well. She looked back over her shoulder and there, between the dark tree trunks; she could still see the open doorway of the wardrobe and even catch a glimpse of the empty room from which she had set out. (She had, of course, left the door open, for she knew that it is a very silly thing to shut oneself into a wardrobe.) It seemed to be still daylight there. "I can always get back if anything goes wrong," thought Lucy. She began to walk forward, crunch crunch over the snow and through the wood towards the other light. In about ten minutes she reached it and found it was a lamp-post. As she stood looking at it, wondering why there was a lamp-post in the middle of a wood and wondering what to do next, she heard a pitter patter of feet coming towards her. And soon after that a very strange person stepped out from among the trees into the light of the lamp-post.

He was only a little taller than Lucy herself and he carried over his head an umbrella, white with snow. From the waist upwards he was like a man, but his legs were shaped like a goat's (the hair on them was glossy black) and instead of feet he had goat's hooves. He also had a tail, but Lucy did not notice this at first because it was neatly caught up over the arm that held the umbrella so as to keep it from trailing in the snow. He had a red woollen muffler round his neck and his skin was rather reddish too. He had a strange, but pleasant little face, with a short pointed beard and curly hair, and out of the hair there stuck two horns, one on each side of his forehead. One of his hands, as I have said, held the umbrella: in the other arm he carried several brown-paper parcels. What with the parcels and the snow it looked just as if he had been doing his Christmas shopping. He was a Faun. And when he saw Lucy he gave such a start of surprise that he dropped all his parcels.

"Goodness gracious me!" exclaimed the Faun.

Chapter 2 - What Lucy Found There

"Good Evening," said Lucy. But the Faun was so busy picking up its parcels that at first it did not reply. When it had finished it made her a little bow.

"Good evening, good evening," said the Faun. "Excuse me - I don't want to be inquisitive - but should I be right in thinking that you are a Daughter of Eve?"

"My name's Lucy," said she, not quite understanding him.

"But you are - forgive me - you are what they call a girl?" said the Faun.

"Of course I'm a girl," said Lucy.

"You are in fact Human?"

"Of course I'm human," said Lucy, still a little puzzled.

"To be sure, to be sure," said the Faun. "How stupid of me! But I've never seen a Son of Adam or a Daughter of Eve before. I am delighted. That is to say -" and then it stopped as if it had been going to say something it had not intended but had remembered in time. "Delighted, delighted," it went on. "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Tumnus."

"I am very pleased to meet you, Mr Tumnus," said Lucy.

"And may I ask, O Lucy Daughter of Eve," said Mr Tumnus, "how you have come into Narnia?"

"Narnia? What's that?" said Lucy.

"This is the land of Narnia," said the Faun, "where we are now; all that lies between the lamp-post and the great castle of Cair Paravel on the eastern sea. And you - you have come from the wild woods of the west?"

"I - I got in through the wardrobe in the spare room," said Lucy.

"Ah!" said Mr Tumnus in a rather melancholy voice, "if only I had worked harder at geography when I was a little Faun, I should no doubt know all about those strange countries. It is too late now."

"But they aren't countries at all," said Lucy, almost laughing. "It's only just back there - at least - I'm not sure. It is summer there."

"Meanwhile," said Mr Tumnus, "it is winter in Narnia, and has been forever so long, and we shall both catch cold if we stand here talking in the snow. Daughter of Eve from the far land of Spare Oom where eternal summer reigns around the bright city of War Drobe, how would it be if you came and had tea with me?"

"Thank you very much, Mr Tumnus," said Lucy. "But I was wondering whether I ought to be getting back."

"It's only just round the corner," said the Faun, "and there'll be a roaring fire - and toast - and sardines - and cake."

"Well, it's very kind of you," said Lucy. "But I shan't be able to stay long."

"If you will take my arm, Daughter of Eve," said Mr Tumnus, "I shall be able to hold the umbrella over both of us. That's the way. Now - off we go."

And so Lucy found herself walking through the wood arm in arm with this strange creature as if they had known one another all their lives.

They had not gone far before they came to a place where the ground became rough and there were rocks all about and little hills up and little hills down. At the bottom of one small valley Mr Tumnus turned suddenly aside as if he were going to walk straight into an unusually large rock, but at the last moment Lucy found he was leading her into the entrance of a cave. As soon as they were inside she found herself blinking in the light of a wood fire. Then Mr Tumnus stooped and took a flaming piece of wood out of the fire with a neat little pair of tongs, and lit a lamp. "Now we shan't be long," he said, and immediately put a kettle on.

Lucy thought she had never been in a nicer place. It was a little, dry, clean cave of reddish stone with a carpet on the floor and two little chairs ("one for me and one for a friend," said Mr Tumnus) and a table and a dresser and a mantelpiece over the fire and above that a picture of an old Faun with a grey beard. In one corner there was a door which Lucy thought must lead to Mr Tumnus's bedroom, and on one wall was a shelf full of books. Lucy looked at these while he was setting out the tea things. They had titles like The Life and Letters of Silenus or Nymphs and Their Ways or Men, Monks and Gamekeepers; a Study in Popular Legend or Is Man a Myth?

"Now, Daughter of Eve!" said the Faun.

And really it was a wonderful tea. There was a nice brown egg, lightly boiled, for each of them, and then sardines on toast, and then buttered toast, and then toast with honey, and then a sugar-topped cake. And when Lucy was tired of eating the Faun began to talk. He had wonderful tales to tell of life in the forest. He told about the midnight dances and how the Nymphs who lived in the wells and the Dryads who lived in the trees came out to dance with the Fauns; about long hunting parties after the milk-white stag who could give you wishes if you caught him; about feasting and treasure-seeking with the wild Red Dwarfs in deep mines and caverns far beneath the forest floor; and then about summer when the woods were green and old Silenus on his fat donkey would come to visit them, and sometimes Bacchus himself, and then the streams would run with wine instead of water and the whole forest would give itself up to jollification for weeks on end. "Not that it isn't always winter now," he added gloomily. Then to cheer himself up he took out from its case on the dresser a strange little flute that looked as if it were made of straw and began to play. And the tune he played made Lucy want to cry and laugh and dance and go to sleep all at the same time. It must have been hours later when she shook herself and said:

"Oh, Mr Tumnus - I'm so sorry to stop you, and I do love that tune - but really, I must go home. I only meant to stay for a few minutes."

"It's no good now, you know," said the Faun, laying down its flute and shaking its head at her very sorrowfully.

"No good?" said Lucy, jumping up and feeling rather frightened. "What do you mean? I've got to go home at once. The others will be wondering what has happened to me." But a moment later she asked, "Mr Tumnus! Whatever is the matter?" for the Faun's brown eyes had filled with tears and then the tears began trickling down its cheeks, and soon they were running off the end of its nose; and at last it covered its face with its hands and began to howl.

"Mr Tumnus! Mr Tumnus!" said Lucy in great distress. "Don't! Don't! What is the matter? Aren' you well? Dear Mr Tumnus, do tell me what is wrong." But the Faun continued sobbing as if its heart would break. And even when Lucy went over and put her arms round him and lent him her handkerchief, he did not stop. He merely took the handkerchief and kept on using it, wringing it out with both hands whenever it got too wet to be any more use, so that presently Lucy was standing in a damp patch.

"Mr Tumnus!" bawled Lucy in his ear, shaking him. "Do stop. Stop it at once! You ought to be ashamed of yourself, a great big Faun like you. What on earth are you crying about?"

"Oh - oh - oh!" sobbed Mr Tumnus, "I'm crying because I'm such a bad Faun."

"I don't think you're a bad Faun at all," said Lucy. "I think you are a very good Faun. You are the nicest Faun I've ever met."

"Oh - oh - you wouldn't say that if you knew," replied Mr Tumnus between his sobs. "No, I'm a bad Faun. I don't suppose there ever was a worse Faun since the beginning of the world."

"But what have you done?" asked Lucy.

"My old father, now," said Mr Tumnus; "that's his picture over the mantelpiece. He would never have done a thing like this."

"A thing like what?" said Lucy.

"Like what I've done," said the Faun. "Taken service under the White Witch. That's what I am. I'm in the pay of the White Witch."

"The White Witch? Who is she?" "Why, it is she that has got all Narnia under her thumb. It's she that makes it always winter. Always winter and never Christmas; think of that!"

"How awful!" said Lucy. "But what does she pay you for?"

"That's the worst of it," said Mr Tumnus with a deep groan. "I'm a kidnapper for her, that's what I am. Look at me, Daughter of Eve. Would you believe that I'm the sort of Faun to meet a poor innocent child in the wood, one that had never done me any harm, and pretend to be friendly with it, and invite it home to my cave, all for the sake of lulling it asleep and then handing it over to the White Witch?"

"No," said Lucy. "I'm sure you wouldn't do anything of the sort."

"But I have," said the Faun.

"Well," said Lucy rather slowly (for she wanted to be truthful and yet not be too hard on him), "well, that was pretty bad. But you're so sorry for it that I'm sure you will never do it again."

"Daughter of Eve, don't you understand?" said the Faun. "It isn't something I have done. I'm doing it now, this very moment."

"What do you mean?" cried Lucy, turning very white.

"You are the child," said Tumnus. "I had orders from the White Witch that if ever I saw a Son of Adam or a Daughter of Eve in the wood, I was to catch them and hand them over to her. And you are the first I've ever met. And I've pretended to be your friend an asked you to tea, and all the time I've been meaning to wait till you were asleep and then go and tell Her."

"Oh, but you won't, Mr Tumnus," said Lucy. "You won't, will you? Indeed, indeed you really mustn't."

"And if I don't," said he, beginning to cry again "she's sure to find out. And she'll have my tail cut off and my horns sawn off, and my beard plucked out, and she'll wave her wand over my beautiful clove hoofs and turn them into horrid solid hoofs like wretched horse's. And if she is extra and specially angry she'll turn me into stone and I shall be only statue of a Faun in her horrible house until the four thrones at Cair Paravel are filled and goodness knows when that will happen, or whether it will ever happen at all."

"I'm very sorry, Mr Tumnus," said Lucy. "But please let me go home."

"Of course I will," said the Faun. "Of course I've got to. I see that now. I hadn't known what Humans were like before I met you. Of course I can't give you up to the Witch; not now that I know you. But we must be off at once. I'll see you back to the lamp-post. I suppose you can find your own way from there back to Spare Oom and War Drobe?"

"I'm sure I can," said Lucy.

"We must go as quietly as we can," said Mr Tumnus. "The whole wood is full of her spies. Even some of the trees are on her side."

They both got up and left the tea things on the table, and Mr Tumnus once more put up his umbrella and gave Lucy his arm, and they went out into the snow. The journey back was not at all like the journey to the Faun's cave; they stole along as quickly as they could, without speaking a word, and Mr Tumnus kept to the darkest places. Lucy was relieved when they reached the lamp-post again.

"Do you know your way from here, Daughter of Eve?" said Tumnus.

Lucy looked very hard between the trees and could just see in the distance a patch of light that looked like daylight. "Yes," she said, "I can see the wardrobe door."

"Then be off home as quick as you can," said the Faun, "and - c-can you ever forgive me for what meant to do?"

"Why, of course I can," said Lucy, shaking him heartily by the hand. "And I do hope you won't get into dreadful trouble on my account."

"Farewell, Daughter of Eve," said he. "Perhaps I may keep the handkerchief?"

"Rather!" said Lucy, and then ran towards the far off patch of daylight as quickly as her legs would carry her. And presently instead of rough branch brushing past her she felt coats, and instead of crunching snow under her feet she felt wooden board and all at once she found herself jumping out of the wardrobe into the same empty room from which the whole adventure had started. She shut the wardrobe door tightly behind her and looked around, panting for breath. It was still raining and she could hear the voices of the others in the passage. "I'm here," she shouted.

"I'm here. I've come back I'm all right."

Art Explanation - keep in mind I wrote this for a child

Ok! I was absolutely overfocused on this story when I drew it.

When I was four, Disney came out with the movie adaptation. It looked really cool and it had a lion on the poster, so I asked my Dad if we could go see it. He said no, partly because I was a bit young and partly because he’s a British snob who wanted me to like British-made things more than American-made things. So somehow, he dug up some copies of the BBC version of the Chronicles of Narnia, and we watched them. They were a little softer, with some clearly dated technology, and a chubby Lucy. I adored them. Out of the four BBC adaptions, though, I liked ‘The Silver Chair’, because of the more emotionally-complicated main characters.

Later, I both watched the Disney version and read the books, and loved them too. I did a relisten to all seven of the books a couple years ago, and they were still really fun! My favorite was *‘The Horse and His Boy’, because it gave us a bigger glimpse into the wider world of Narnia and sort of continued Lucy’s end of the story! (You’ll see what I mean if you read the rest of the series.) However, just like how you like and dislike different foods as you get older, you also get a different perspective on things.

*Unfortunately its arguably the most nasty book in the series.

This snippet of the first book (written, not in the reading order) doesn’t really show it, but the Chronicles is very Christian. When I was little, I was able to pick on some of the elements (nothing that I can say that won’t spoil it for you! Ugh!) but I spotted more as I reached adulthood. It’s really sweet and I think it helped me learn a lot about the religion and its intended values in a fun and child-friendly way. I won’t spoil those for you here, just because I personally liked them and I hope you find it at least interesting, if not enjoyable,

But I also spotted some unflattering and disappointing elements as well, especially as I learned more about the world. If you want to avoid some spoilers, however confusing and perhaps vaguely worded as they may be, I would suggest you skip past the ensuing paragraphs until you see the below symbol again.

######

Firstly, C.S. Lewis was most certainly a product of Victorian Britain. While having such a daring yet sweet little girl as his protagonist for three of the books was unusual for the time and definitely progressive (a good thing) she is limited. At a certain point in the books, you see that Lewis found her innocence and other characteristics befitting a young girl, were much more important to him than letting Lucy grow as a person. I’m not saying those qualities are bad, or even that she is without faults; but he’d rather let her die than grow up. And I think that says something. According to my British Literature class I took last year, where we focused quite a bit on the attitudes of Victorian Britain, apparently dead children are more pure than living ones, because they lost all potential for growing up to be evil. Isn’t that crazy?! All the grown human women are either weak, evil, or vapid. Susan is later vilified for trying to live past Narnia and having teen interests.

It’s saddening but from what I know about Lewis, this tracks :(.

Next is the imperialism theme. Ok, so you know how America used to only have Native American people?* And then the Spanish, English and other people moved here ever since 1492? Well, the colonizers disapproved of how Indigenous people lived, and were jealous of their understanding and use of the land. A big reason behind the Revolutionary War was because the colonists wanted to expand into Indigenous lands, despite the British government agreeing with the local peoples not to trespass, etc. And because of the hate and lack of care in their hearts, many settlers (later Americans) started fights, stole children, enslaved and destroyed Indigenous peoples and cultures**, among a kajillion more terrible things. Even today, Indigeous people in the United States still face a lot of problems. More and more is still taken from them.

*They generally prefer to be called ‘Indigenous’ at this point, but I didn’t really come across that word in school, so I wasn’t sure if you would see it either.

**One of the most terrible things was done by President Andrew Jackson in the 1840s - he forced the Cherokee Nation (among others - but the Cherokee had the most famous forced migration) to leave their ancestral homes and move to a land where no one else wanted to live, besides the Indigenous people who were already there. He made them leave during the winter, and many starved, got sick and died along the way. That march is now called ‘The Trail of Tears’. About 100 years later, Adolf Hitler felt inspired by his disgusting actions.

Sadly, we are not the only country to do these awful things*. The British Empire once owned a QUARTER of the entire world, isn’t that crazy?

*When you are a teenager, try watching a movie called ‘Rabbit Proof Fence’. But please don’t do that right now. It’s very sad.

They didn’t do everything exactly the same as the United States - but they weren’t good. They didn’t respect other cultures and religions, and pretended like everyone who wasn’t like them was dumb, ugly and gross. So they tried to make these conquered peoples know that their cultures were dumb, ugly and gross, and that Great Britain was perfect. And this attitude is very, very prominent in his books, especially once you see the wider world.

The Telmarines from ‘Prince Caspian’ and ‘The Voyage of the Dawn Treader’? A bunch of treacherous, brutal people. The ‘good’ ones were considered basically Narnian, which may sound like a compliment in theory but is actually an insult in practice. It's similar to when an adult sees you do something well, and they say you’re practically an adult. They may not mean to be hurtful, but sometimes it means that because you’re a child, you can’t do things well.

The Calormen (literally, Hot men) are stand-ins for people from the Middle East, which is known to be full of hot deserts. And they’re characterized as dirty, classist heathens who are awful to children and really gross about white women. Shasta, the main character of ‘The Horse and his Boy’, is good and pure because it turns out he isn’t actually a Calormen, but rather an Archenlander* prince. Aravis has to learn to be less classist and a ‘good person’ by leaving her entire culture behind, which is very unfair. And Emeth from ‘The Last Battle’ finds out that the religion he has been raised under (an Islam substitute) is basically the worship of evil and that he’s being allowed into heaven because his actions aligned with Narnian standards of morality. Lewis probably thought he was being generous when he wrote that - but it still ended up being very demeaning. Lewis was very Islamophobic.

*Archenland is basically Canada, if Narnia was America. The rulers of Archenland (and the original Narnian humans) are descended from an English couple. So of course they’re all automatically good people (sarcasm).

Both of these foreign peoples are also shown to be greedy slavers - ironic, because the institution of chattel slavery* was introduced to the United States because of the British.

*Older forms of slavery - which were present in the Americas before colonization - basically meant that a person became a slave, but only for a short time/could be turned into not-slaves. Their kids were pretty much always born free. Chattel slavery is when slavery is treated like a trait passed along to the kids - the general rule was that if your Mom was a slave, you were a slave. That’s a big reason why African people were brought over to the Americas - it was easy to tell who was a slave and who was not when the slaves looked different. Racism was started intentionally.

It’s especially ironic once you learn that Lewis was not English (the biggest boss country of the British Empire was England) but rather Irish (Northern)*. The Irish were one of the first people conquered and then told that their culture was stupid, by the English. I think somewhere along the line, Lewis realized this, but apparently not enough to the point that he understood imperialism and racism was bad.

*Northern Ireland is a separate country from Ireland. Northern Ireland, which is where Lewis was from, is mostly Protestant like England, and is part of the United Kingdom (what is left of the British Empire) unlike Ireland, which is its own country and largely Catholic.

Basically, it's very clear that these books are a product of their time and if that makes you not want to read them, I respect and understand that.

######

On to the art explanation! Now, when I was 14 (2015), I went to a lovely Canadian town called Stratford-Upon-Avon during its theatre festival, and I saw an absolutely stunning performance of this book on the stage. The Lion (no spoilers, you’ll find out later who I’m talking about!) was made out of actual pages from the books! And since we attended on an understudy day, I didn’t see the usual actor play Lucy. Instead, she was played by a Black actress (the rest of the family was white.). She did a superb job, and I was enchanted.

So obviously, this stuck with me. Combined with my interest in showing that People of Color lived in England long before modern day, I decided to make the Pevensies Black.

At first, I just figured I could email the theatre company and ask for some reference issues. However, due to copyright issues, they weren’t allowed. So I had to go down an internet rabbit hole.

Before WWII, there weren't many available records about the Black population in England. It expanded dramatically after WWII, due to the Immigration of Jamaican people and the American soldiers who were stationed there, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t there. The slave trade still ran rampant well into the 1800s, and freed people often settled in England or other British countries. Also, during WWI, Jamaican people were brought over as soldiers, and then after the war, there were race riots in 1919 and racist laws introduced, because the white people thought they were stealing jobs. You can read a little more about it here: https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-52939694

After a while though, it was clear that there weren’t going to be a lot of information or images of Black English children before 1950. So I mixed some African American hairstyles (because even back then America was kind of leading the world in terms of what’s cool or not) with pictures of Black English children and 1940s English child fashion and drew the Pevensies! Lucy is a little chubby in honor of the first Lucy I know, and because I need more practice in that direction anyway.

(By the way the kids have natural hair because they are kids, not adults.)

The title, at least the part that says ‘NARNIA’ is based on the font for the BBC adaptation of the series. The part that tells you the name of the book was just me trying to make a font that looks somewhat fancy and old-fashioned.

The second picture, of the Pevensie siblings all together, was somewhat difficult due to perspective. I wanted you to basically see from Lucy’s eyes, and to also make it seem like she is separate from everyone else. Hence, she is sitting on a different bed in a different part of the room. I also did a bit of research on how to design stained glass windows (the thing behind Susan’s head) and I think considering it was my first attempt, it came out very good! Apparently you don’t want angles larger than 180 degrees, otherwise the glass becomes weak. It’s supposed to be Excalibur*, looking an awful lot like a cross, in front of a Lion ;). Stained glass windows are often found in churches.

*Excalibur, from legend, was a sword stuck in a stone. Whoever could pull it out was the true king of England. This turned out to be a teen boy named Arthur. Keep in mind, Narnia is similar to England ;).

Mr. Tumnus and the lamppost were originally drawn next to each other, but I separated them and resized them so I could add a little depth to the picture. Yes I’m pleased with myself, lol :D. The lamp is based on both movie versions. I really liked how the Disney version of the lamp had roots (you’d find out why if you read ‘The Magician’s Nephew’, the prequel to this book.). I also combined both the Disney and the BBC versions of Mr. Tumnus (because I loved his eyebrows), although I based him more off the BBC version and my own goats. He originally didn’t have goat eyes or long ears, but I love Nigerian Dwarf goats*, so in went the floppy ears! He’s also supposed to have a long tail, but I nixed that.

*The kind we both have! Remember, your goats are the babies of my goats.

I drew this picture in class, so I wasn’t able to look at the reference pictures and text a lot. So I forgot to draw the packages and umbrella under his arm, whoops. But I’m really proud of that basket. We can just pretend that they’re in there. And don’t get me started on the blanket. It looks like it’s getting accurately blown by the wind! Tumnus’s goat legs were hard, by the way. Goat legs basically have their knees hidden when they’re standing on all fours, so it was hard for me to imagine how his knees would look when he’s standing like a human, or how to draw him balanced on two little hooves. But I’m satisfied with how it turned out.

Don’t forget stranger danger though! If you ever meet someone like Mr. Tumnus in real life, get away! Lucy’s situation leads to a lot of danger, and a real life situation like that will end very badly.

Now, you MIGHT have guessed, but the fourth picture took me the longest, lol. I just had to be super cool and artsy and continue to hide Lucy’s face. I never meant to start out a story like that, but quite a few of mine don’t have full face reveals until the very end. But I made sure there was stew over the fire, a decent fireplace (last one I drew was in Cinderella), a cool shelf above the fireplace with a portrait of Mr. Tumnus’s Dad, the hand and of course, the bookshelf. But let me talk about Lucy a little first. Lucy has her sleeve rolled up like that because I decided she wears Susan’s hand me downs. As you can see on Susan, a similar sweater has the pattern on the elbow, while on Lucy it's halfway down her forearm, and she has the sleeves rolled up. It isn’t really true, but ever since watching the Disney version, I always imagined Susan as noticeably older than Lucy.

As for the books, well. Since Narnia is sort of England, I decided to base some of the books off of the Encyclopædia Britannica. Before the internet, people used to look up information in books. Encyclopedias (The Brits are just spelling theirs different to be fancy) were basically giant fact books, and they had to be updated often. To have a full set was expensive and astatus symbol. Encyclopædia Britannica was considered the coolest of them all. And since Mr. Tumnus is a well-off creature, I figured he’d have a set. So I found a picture of the set from the 1840s and created something similar. Capricious Publishing House, which I wrote on the bottom of the encyclopedias, is a pretend faun publishing company. Capricious means ‘acting often in sudden and unexpected behavior’, with the root word, capra, meaning goat!

Of course, I made the books described from the text. Then I added in a couple more, with names of famous satyrs, fauns and cervitaurs (deer satyrs), mosty from various books, podcasts and movies I’ve watched. If you can tell me where Grover Underwood is from, I’ll give you a high five ;).

I regret choosing to draw Lucy and Mr. Tumnus running in the fifth picture. It’s always awkward and I fear I made Lucy’s feet inconsistently big. I had a lot of trouble with Mr. Tumnus’s legs of course. But at least he’s looking over his shoulder and interacting with the pine branch.

Last picture! Missed the mark on this one a little bit - apparently the doors are supposed to be mirrors. Again, I drew this in class and forgot to write down my notes for drawing this picture. But I had fun! There’s that lion again hmmm. Trying to make a pretty wardrobe was difficult, especially since I wanted to add a tree, some rings and apple motifs on there. The reasons behind that being important can be found in the prequel, ‘The Magician’s Nephew’.

I tried to make Lucy’s positioning look important as well. She’s a little fearful, sure, and she has her whole body pressed against the doors of the wardrobe (yay! Didn’t have to draw hands!) to make sure it’s shut. But she’s looking above in childlike wonder. She’s definitely going back to Narnia some day.

Anyways, as always, I hoped this intrigued you, and encourages you to check out more!

https://history.blog.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/08/IWM-Child-with-suitcase.jpg Literally the only picture I could find of a Black Child fleeing London during the Blitz.

https://www.voice-online.co.uk/news/uk-news/2020/08/03/black-and-white-photos-of-windrush-generation-members-in-leeds-brought-to-life/ This is just a nice collection of photos from Black families from the ‘Windrush’ generation. I based the Pevensie’s faces off of quite a few of these.

https://www.economist.com/img/b/1280/721/90/sites/default/files/images/print-edition/20160130_BRP004_2.jpg This is cute and it heavily influenced by choices of fashion for Lucy.

https://www.essence.com/news/black-hair-then-now-beyond/#320864 I used this as a reference for Susan’s hair. I’m not sure whether ladies actually walked around with flowers in their hair. But considering how fashion forward Susan is, I’m sure she imitated her idols.

https://samotako1.wordpress.com/2012/04/20/billie-holiday-in-her-dressing-room-in-1940/ Billie Holiday was my biggest inspiration for Susan.

https://www.essence.com/holidays/black-history-month/harlem-renaissance-hairstyles/#50165 Some more lovely ladies

#win a commission #wac #Narnia #the lion the witch and the wardrobe #lucy pevensie

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ninnodesu · 3 years

Text

The New Matriarch, ch 6

AN: Okay, this chapter is A LOT better than chapter 5 in my opinion, hahah. I'm just churning out chapters right now during christmas break, it's great!

Again; Thank you sooo much for reading! It's so much fun seeing the statistics and see that people like my little story. <3 Oh! Regarding the name "Kit": This is mostly just a placeholder name, do not fear! It is still You/Reader friendly ;)

TW: None, really. Maybe some light mentions of bullying!

Thomas B. Hewitt.

Thomas was grumpier than usual today at work. When he’d arrived, his work station had been vandalized. There were snickers and giggles behind his back as he had to clean up his little corner of the slaughterhouse almost all morning. It was covered in trash. People had literally dumped at least one trash can all over his station, might’ve been two, even. Rotten food all over his bench, some stuck to his cleaver. Everyone thought it was hilarious to mess with the residence retard. It was one of those days. One of those days where he was - apparently - only at work as some kind of comical relief to lighten the mood of the otherwise gloomy workers, at least that’s what they had decided.

At one point the ones responsible for the mess he had to clean had even pushed one of the shy girls right into Thomas’ chest, making cat calls and whistling towards them as a way to mock both at the same time.

The girl because she was shy and cried easily, and Thomas because… well… he looked like he did.

He wasn’t able to properly start butchering until maybe an hour before lunch, his boss yelling at him a handful of times before that.

What did I ever do to any of you assholes… Not only did he have to clean up the entire morning, there wasn’t enough food at home so he couldn’t bring lunch… and his cleaver was getting dull. A mental note to bring it home the next day to sharpen it.

This. Was not. His. Day.

I just want to go ho- , his inner sentence was interrupted by a hard dunk on his back, knocking a bit of air out of him.

“Hewiiiitt!”, one of the several bullies he’s had comes up with two of his friends holding his arms out wide, they’re smirking.

So you did this.

“Did ya’ like our present, Hewitt?”, he nods towards the trash can and starts laughing, “We got it specially for you.”, he chuckles before continuing, “Oh, and, I hope you don’t mind I take Laurie for myself, since you uh… wouldn’t know what to do with’er even.” A barking laughter erupts from the three of them at the end of his jab against Thomas, making everything personal. The end of his sentence makes Thomas turn towards them and glare down through his dark curls. The men take a step back, they can probably literally feel how Thomas’ anger starts boiling as he straightens up and flexes his biceps towards them. A clear sign they’re starting to royally piss him off.

He would never use his strength to physically hurt people, but he does know how to make them leave him alone, at least for a short period of time, they know he could crush their skulls if he wanted to. And they never go into fist fights with the giant. All they do is emotionally drain him, they make him know he’s different, not like everyone else, and that he never will be. He’s the village dumb animal and that’s his only purpose in life.

They laugh nervously as he stares them down. “Haha, you really are an animal, Hewitt.”, they just laugh as they turn and leave him alone in the now empty slaughterhouse. He plants his hands flat on his table and glances over at all the parts he has left to cut up before he can leave without getting reprimanded by his boss the following day and sighs heavily.

I fucking hate all of you.

It’s dark out when he’s finally done with his work, thankfully, his dull cleaver made it so he could snag more pieces of rejected meat with him home. At least something good came out of this shitty day at work. More food for his - now - bigger family and he tried looking at that like a consolation prize as he lumbered home in the dark, letting his mind wander.

I want a name for her.

Even if he didn’t want to speak to her, he still wanted to give her a name until she could remember her own, she couldn’t walk around with no name in the house.

Sure, I’m not going to openly talk to her…

He cleared his throat at that as a reminder for himself that he still had vocal cords. He made a conscious choice not to speak several years ago. But on lonely nights, or when he was alone - and knew no one could hear him - in general, he hummed, or spoke to himself, thinking aloud or mumbled reminders for only him to hear, to make sure his vocal cords were still there. The two words he had spoken in the barn a few days back the most he had actually spoken in… months, maybe years. His family had gotten used to his body language and mannerisms when they talked to him.

I can alwa-, again, interrupted. But this time by a family of foxes running across the dirt road. He stopped and just stared at the bigger one as it stopped in the high grass in the ditch on the other side, looking over at a small collection of babies that sprinted across it after looking over at the giant in the distance.

He smiled as he figured out what to call her.

Kit.

He hummed slightly, picturing her in his mind. Her face, the kind eyes that always crinkled when she smiled at him or his family, trying out the new name to see if it would fit her face.

Yeah. Yeah, I like Kit.

He readjusted the bag he had thrown over his shoulder and kept trudging home through the night, a tired sigh leaving him as he started to see the outline of the big house in the distance.

The house was silent, obvious evidence that everyone else was asleep, so he made sure to walk as quietly as he could on his way to the stairs leading to the basement, snagging a few pieces of the leftovers and shoving them into his mouth on the way down to the damp and musty basement where the coolers were loudly brumming and vibrating. Alone, he seized the moment to talk to himself.

“Let’s see… ”. His voice was raspy, but deep, and vibrated throughout his body. He rummaged and rearranged in the freezer box to take out the packages whose date seemed to run out to put it on top of the ones he had brought today. “Pen… penpenpen… ”, almost having to turn the entire basement over to find the one he usually uses - and mentally punishing himself for never putting it in one specific place - he scribbles down today’s date before putting them in the bottom of the box. As he stands and stretches he’s greeted with a series of tired pops in his spine. “Getting old, Thomas. ”, he mumbles before lumbering over to his basement corner. Not having the energy to climb the stairs.

He just wanted to sleep. Unbuckling his mask he rubs his hands all over his dried cheeks to ease the blasted itching all over him before kicking off his boots and laying down on the creaky bed. A yawn that transcends into a small, deep moan escapes him as he tucks one arm under his pillow and the other reaches under his shirt to scratch a spot on his stomach. “Kit. ”, he says out loud to try it on his tongue. “Mmmh. Kit is good. ”, is the last sound that leaves the basement before his snoring takes over.

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

You

You woke up in your bed, not really remembering when you went to sleep, but you decided to cuddle up a bit under your blanket before the morning heat reached your body and you had to force yourself up out of bed.

As usual, it was quiet in the house. “It’s really starting to get lonely here…”, you muttered to yourself as you descended the stairs. You were greeted by a few piglets running around in the kitchen as you entered.

A yellow paper struck you in the otherwise white and gray kitchen.

A note.

“Mornin’, dear. Breakfast is on the table.

Love

- Luda Mae.”

You looked up from the note and towards the table, and sure enough. There it was. A plate with a few sausages, a fried egg and a small piece of bread. You mentally thanked Luda Mae as you sat down, tucking a leg under yourself and started munching on your - now cold - breakfast while watching a few piglets running around. Occasionally you threw a piece of sausage at them which they happily ate. “I wonder why you live in here, piggies.”, you said to them as you downed the last of the meal. You hummed a bit at a thought before heading over to clean your plate and fork.

After drying your hands and putting the dishes away to dry on their own you turned on your heels and leaned back at the sink just looking around. “Now what…”, you giggled as you poked a pig with your feet and watched it twitch. “What should we do now, little guy?”

You sauntered away from the kitchen, into the dining room and just looked around. Taking in the homely - but not the cleanest - house you were in. You’ve never seen this before, never seen these people. But then again, maybe you weren’t even from around here… Everything before meeting Thomas in the barn was a blur, a darkness you really couldn’t remember. And right now, at this moment? You were happy you couldn’t remember anything. All you knew at this point was that you were relaxed.

You knew you’d been on the run, you remember the Box, but no details. Not your name, not where you came from, you knew an estimated age of yourself, but still no details.

You came from the darkness, yes, and Thomas was your light. Your beacon of hope.

Your venture took you into a room with a piano and a couch. You approached the piano and started tinkling on the keys, it was really out of tune and you couldn’t help but to laugh at how bad it sounded. But you shrugged and sat down in front of it and started poking the keys. Thinking you knew any kind of melody you could play, but it was fun nonetheless. After your solo concert you found yourself sitting in the grass outside, legs sprawled in front of you under a tree, the shirt you’d borrowed tickling slightly as a breeze caressed your skin and you closed your eyes. “This is nice.”, sure it was quiet, and sure you were lonely… and bored . But it was a relaxing kind of silence where you could lay in the grass if you wanted, take a nap on the porch if you felt like it. No stress and no need to live up to any expectations.

It isn’t until late afternoon that you finally notice the family starting to drop in. You’re on the couch in front of the TV lazily watching, not even paying attention to what is on when someone suddenly kicks the sofa. “Fuck you think you doin’?”, you jerk and look up at the grumpy man, Charlie, standing there with his hands on his hips shooting daggers at you. “Been home all day and not done anything ‘round the house.”, you don’t even get the chance to reply to him so you resort to shrinking in on yourself. “I uh…”, he interrupts you before you get any chance to defend yourself. “Listen here, girlie.”, he gets down low and right up in your face and grab it harshly to make sure you’re looking at him, “Mama might be treatin’ you good n'all, hell, she won’t stop talking ‘bout ya’”, he sneers and looks annoyed, “But you’re in my house, so you listen’ to my rules.”

His grip starts to loosen on you.

“So, ya’ see, honey. If you want to stay here, livin’ a good ass life, ya’ better do ya part, understand?” All you can do is nod weakly, after you do, he pats your cheek a little harder than he had to and gave you a tobacco smelling kiss on your forehead before he left. You mind starts hurting slightly, the treatment making something you can’t fully decipher before your eyes

You didn’t dare move off the couch after your meeting with Charlie. You kept your place on the couch until dinner was served. The other older man, Monty, had joined you, but you didn’t care. He didn’t care and acted like you weren’t even there. Dinner was just as uneventful, you all ate, but without Thomas. A knot started growing in your stomach when he wasn’t present, Charlie scared you already. And you had only been there for about three to four days. Barely talking to him, the few times you did meet him he shot you nasty glances. Eyes that traveled uncomfortably over your body.

After dinner was over and done with, Luda Mae invited you to have evening tea with her on the porch, and you, happy to accept, almost sprinted out to get away from mainly Charlie. He didn’t seem to dare say or do anything against you when Luda Mae was in ear shot.

Your house my ass... , you thought when you’d notice that small detail.

So, here you were having a cozy evening with at least one you enjoyed spending time with.

“You seem tense, darlin’”, she spoke up from her crocheting and glanced at you. “Is everything alright?” You looked over at her and gave a crooked smile. “I’m… I’m alright. It’s just…”, you shook your head and proceeded to rest your chin on your hand. “Can I ask you something, miss Mae?”, you tilted your head. “Mmhm.”, she hummed as she went back to her crocheting, the tone of her voice seemingly knowing what you were about to ask about.

Thomas.

The two of you ended up talking about Thomas for several hours. Luda Mae told you she found him in a dumpster outside the very slaughterhouse he works in, how he from an early age suffered from a skin disease they couldn’t afford to treat due to her and her family already living on the verge of poverty. She told you he was heavily bullied in school, and when he was around twelve left it altogether. Charlie helped him get a job at the slaughterhouse and that’s where he’s been since. He’s a gentle giant to the ones he considers family, he’s strong but never abuses his power.

“So, uhm… is there any specific reason he doesn’t speak?” She folded her hands in her lap and sighed heavily at that question, she had been teary eyed all through Thomas’ story, but now it seemed they started falling. “Due to him takin’ a knife to his face it hurt him too much to speak, and even eat. He stopped eating for a long time. He utters a word sometimes, but… that’s it.”, her voice trembled and she took a deep breath to continue, “My poor boy stopped talking completely when he was around… fifteen. And I haven’t talked to him since then.” You did the numbers in silence before gasping slightly “He hasn’t talked for nineteen years?”, she shook her head slightly. “I do miss talkin’ to him. He always did have the best laugh I’ve ever heard.”, she smiled to you. “Ya’ know the deep, rumbling kind, I remember him always laughing until he folded over.” You giggled slightly at that, picturing Thomas folded over in a deep laugh with his arms clutching his stomach.

It was a lovely image.

#The New Matriarch #TNM #thomas hewitt #thomas leatherface hewitt #thomas hewitt fanfictiom #tcm: the beginning #tcm #tcm fanfiction

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imjeralee · 3 years

Text

Comfort in Despair: Chapter 21 - A Tale of Two Sisters

Leon x F!Reader

Disclaimer: Do not own Pokemon

Summary:

Galar is rich in folklore and tales of the supernatural.

As a Pokemon Researcher who specialises in ghost types, this is a great opportunity for you to investigate and learn more about the paranormal.

Along the way, you meet Leon (in the most awkward way possible) who becomes embroiled in your adventures.

^ Basically this story is about ghosts :/

NOTE: First update of 2021! I used my blood, sweat and tears for this chapter lol. I hope you enjoy it but there is a lot of fluff

Rating: General/Teen

@marydragneell here is the latest update

A Tale of Two Sisters

…

[Tape 4A. Audio Recording. Subject: Ezra and I discuss evil spirits:

00:02.11: Me: "Isn’t there anything we can do to help them?"

00:13.33: Ezra: "No. Evil spirits are condemned to roam without a physical form and will be compelled to wreak havoc on the living. They are beings that died with unfulfilled desires or anger and are said to 'linger' until such issues are resolved."

00:15.73: Me: "Has anyone attempted to research them?"

00:23.01: Ezra: "It was once believed that there was a way to control or communicate with them but any research or attempt on this matter is condemned by the Church."

00:24.70: Me: “But we're not aligned with the Church.”

00:26.42: Ezra: "Don't even think about it, kid."

The recording stops here.]

…

“How peculiar,” you utter, “I can understand what you’re saying.”

Gengar blinks blankly at you before he tells you he’s been speaking to you the entire time since you met at his master’s manor.

This must be what Ezra had noticed about you earlier. You’ve grown stronger. Your senses have heightened to another level. You’re becoming similar to Rosie except it’s taken you longer. You recall how she understood what Dusknoir was saying when you found her playing in the basement and she could communicate with it.

You’ve always understood what Gengar was trying to communicate from his actions but this…? You can understand ghost pokemon now (or maybe just Gengar). Perhaps you would grow even stronger in the future.

Mimikyu is lying next to you so you gently pick her up. "Psst....Mimi, are you asleep? Say something."

Stirring, the little glowing dots blink behind the fabric of her ragdoll disguise. "What is it, mi? Let mi sleep."

She swats you away with a claw and you put her back down; the pokemon rolls away from you, curling up. "Huh, there's no difference. What about you, Vulpix?"

The little red fox looks at you as you lift her up in your arms, her paws dangling in the air. She cocks her head to the side. "Vul."

"Hm. No difference here either," you murmur as you gently let her back down.

Leon returns to the tent after he’s done a quick sweep of the area; there’s no ghosts around regardless and there is certainly no-one else in the vicinity.

You’ve told him there’s nothing to be concerned about but he was still adamant in checking the rest of the camp just in case. You appreciate that he’s trying to keep you safe.

He zips the flap up and watches as you ask Rotom to take a photo of the bloodied hairclip on the ground and once he’s finished, you carefully slip the floral hairclip into a sealable plastic bag; it’s piano black, sleek and shiny, with the occasional flecks of dried blood and a strand of long hair.

“So… a spirit left that for you?” he asks, as you inspect the bag keenly, holding it up under the dim light of the lamp.

You nod. “It’s evidence. Looks like I have a new case.”

You tell him you saw a ghost in broad daylight this afternoon and it saw you. Now it looks like the ghost has followed you all the way out here. Also, Vulpix sensed her first. You pet her fondly as she dozes beside who Mimikyu is also fast asleep, snoozing away.

“Remember the ghost of South Miloch? Well, this is more or less the same way she contacted me, so I know this one needs help,” you add, “she knows I got the message. She won’t bother us for the rest of the night.”

He looks uneasy. “What are you going to do with it?”

“I'll post it up on my blog," you reply, and you quickly access your website and upload the photo onto a new post, typing out a message. "'If this belongs to you, please contact me'. There we go, all done. Now we wait.”

You smile at him and he flicks a glance to Rotom. It’s 3am.

“Let’s go back to sleep.”

You’re a little excited to sleep though, knowing that Gengar had spoken to you and you want to talk as much as possible but the ghost pokemon pokes his head from your shadow and tells you he’s going to rest too so you suppose you should just take it easy and sleep considering how exhausted you are.

With a yawn, you nod and flop over the sleeping bag with Leon’s arms wrapped around you. Now that you think about it, you’re amazed you were able to sleep so soundly with him beside you.

You had enjoyed being spooned so you turn to lie on your side with your back pressed against his chest and as expected, he gently worms his arm around your waist and you sigh with content. You make yourself comfortable and cosy in your spot before grabbing his arm and holding it tightly to your chest. His heartbeat speeds up and he swallows down loudly.

"Leon?"

"Y-yes?"

"Are you okay?"

"...I'm okay."

You let out a stifled laugh. “Alright then. Goodnight.”

“G-goodnight.”

Reaching over, you switch off the lamp and the tent is encased in darkness once again.

…

You wake up before Leon and during the night, you’ve deviated a great deal; you find yourself lying flat on your back and he’s curled up beside you with his face buried against your neck and his arms wrapped around your waist. What surprises you the most is how tightly he holds you and how much he’s pressed himself against your body with your legs tangled together.

He’s still fast asleep and you don’t want to wake him up so you remain still, staring at the ceiling of the tent and thinking about last night before you swerve your gaze down to the sleeping champion once more.

Leon grumbles incoherently before he inches even closer to you than ever before, burying his nose further into your nape and sighing under his breath. His hair tickles your chin, cheeks and nose and you try your best not to laugh.

Closing your eyes, you allow yourself to be at ease and to relax with a smile on your face until Rotom suddenly twitches in his spot and he rises into the air, his eyes glowing brightly before he emits a loud ring and this time, both you and Leon groan heavily in response.

“Bzzrt, eep! Mezzzage! You have received a private mezzage from PinkZzylveon! Bzz, I hope thizzz izzz urgent….” Rotom buzzes helplessly as he’s forced awake.

“Huh…?” you utter whilst Leon clings onto you, half-awake.

“Nmm…what time is it?” he mumbles blearily.

“Six am….”

“You can watch the sunrizzze if you’re quick enough…” Rotom adds, disgruntled.

“Oh….good idea…” Leon mutters and he settles himself into your embrace once more and you watch as he closes his eyes for a brief moment…then re-open again in a split second. He swerves his gaze up to you and you look at him, then Leon untangles his arms from you hastily, wide awake with shock, and promptly sits up. “Um, g-good morning…”

“Morning Leon.”

“Arceus, I-I’m so sorry.”

You watch him splutter and stammer for a few seconds before you say, “Sorry for what?”

His face turns various shades of red but when you smile at him reassuringly, he gradually calms down and smiles bashfully at you in response.

“Did you sleep well?” he murmurs quietly.

You nod. "Did you?"

"I did. It was the best sleep I'd ever had."

You are oddly flattered.

“C’mon, let’s get ready,” you reply, moving to stand, stretching slightly. “Do you want to watch the sunrise together?”

“Yes,” he agrees, as you rifle through your pile of folded clothes and hand him his hoodie to him before you grab your sweater and throw it on.

Afterwards, Rotom settles into your hands and you swipe the screen to see what this message is. It was sent to you via your blog, only visible to you. It says: This is regarding the hairclip. Please come to 23 Dorset Road, Motostoke. It belongs to my sister. We need your help. This is my number.

“Interesting,” you utter under your breath as your eyes roam over the phone number provided. The area code belongs to Kanto.

“Zzzhall we reply?”

“Not yet.”

You’re wanting to watch the sunrise with Leon, so you both get ready in the tent though he says he should leave to give you some privacy but it’s freezing outside so you tell him he can just turn round. When you’re fully dressed, you don your coat whilst Leon pulls on his thick hoodie. He takes his scarf and loops it around your neck before you both leave the sanctity of the tent and step out into the cold. It’s always frigid in the Wild Area on mornings like this which you’re beginning to get used to.

“I wonder if there’s a good spot nearby,” Leon muses under his breath before he brings out his own Rotom phone and tampers with it. He scrutinises the screen thoroughly before he beams widely. “Ah, found one.”

“Whereabouts?” you ask, joining his side.

“It’s telling us to go that way,” Leon says, pointing to the far right of the lake.

However, when you check the phone, something doesn’t look quite right with the direction he’s pointing to and the marker on the map doesn't align properly – on the contrary, it is indicating to the left.

You gently take his arm and swivel him round so he’s pointing to the other way. The marker follows his movement and the marker begins to blink, indicating he is now on the right track, in the correct direction. Leon blushes whilst you smile.

Despite having a cold breakfast consisting of berry juice, granola and yoghurt, it tastes ten times delicious than usual because you’re eating together and when you’re finished, you and Leon head for the direction of the marker.

Vulpix trots alongside you and Charizard lingers behind.

“Was she born like that?” you utter under your breath as you throw a sideways glance to the fox pokemon. She seems to be doing well despite missing an eye though she leans heavily to one side as she pads along.

“Yeah, so her owner deemed her unsuitable for battling,” Leon explains, “she was abandoned at the pokemon nursery.”

You shake your head at this.

Vulpix seems happy under your care and she looks up at you and you look at her. When you lock gazes, she wags her little tail.

“She’s still a baby. The tail is meant to split as they grow older, right?”

“Yep,” Leon replies jovially.

“I’ll make sure she grows healthy and strong.”

Vulpix yaps affectionately, you smile at her and Leon squeezes your hand tightly.

He wanted to hold your hand along the way; you had seen him glancing at you wistfully though he had remained quiet but alas, actions speak louder than words and he had gently reached for your hand, pulling you close to him and weaving your fingers together.

He blushes the entire time and his hand becomes sweaty as he sneaks little peeks at you every now and then from the corner of his eyes for your reaction.

And when you’d glance up at him curiously, he doesn’t look away as you expected; instead, he holds your gaze, smiles and brush his thumb against the base of your palm tenderly which sends numerous shivers down your spine. This is a side to Leon which you didn’t think you’d ever see at all.

It also occurs to you that you will need to tell Sonia, Jace, the professor and Graves about this. No doubt, Sonia might be squealing for days. Jace seems a little on the fence with Leon judging from your past conversations, and you’re not sure how Graves will react either but he seems relaxed about Leon.

That’s a thought for another time as Rotom leads you away from the campsite - at least a good twenty minutes or so - and you find yourselves situated at a grassy hill that’s much larger than the other spot you took Leon last time and on this occasion, the view is far more rewarding and grandiose.

A clean, grassy spot invites you to plop yourselves down along with Charizard but the flame pokemon decides not to be a third wheel; before he leaves, he nudges the two of you to sit closely together as much as possible, then he retreats to the direction of the trees where he joins Vulpix so it’s just you and Leon. Charizard gives you the equivalent of a thumbs up using his claws.

“I once told myself I’d see the sunrise with someone special…I always hoped it would be you," Leon says.

You blush heavily and he grins at your response.

When you realise he’s not looking away, it occurs to you he’s admiring you and your cheeks grow even warmer; he reaches over and wraps an arm around your shoulder, bringing you close and you blink wide-eyed for a brief moment before smiling widely.

You huddle together as the sun begins to peek out between the trees and hills. The dark horizon eventually begins to clear up, bathing the wilderness with a tawny, warm glow and you recall the dream.

“Are you free this evening?” he murmurs.

“Yeah.”

“Would you like to have dinner?”

It takes a lot to keep yourself calm and collected and you croak out, “I’d love to but where would we go? People are going to recognise you.”

“You could come over to my house. I’ll let my mum know you’re coming. She wants to see you again.”

You’re about to reply, but the sun becomes so bright you have to shield your eyes; you soak in the warmth of the sun, sighing with content and squaring your shoulders, causing him to chuckle. Unfortunately, the sunrise is over in a short period of time which prompts you both to leave.

It’s time to part ways though you have agreed to have dinner with him later at his house: Leon will return to Wyndon for his photoshoot with Miss Galar and you will check out the address in Motostoke and return the hairclip.

Leon helps you to stand and as you turn, you thought your eyes were playing tricks on you but you believed you had seen the dark silhouette of a man standing behind the pokemon as they were waiting for you.

In the blink of an eye however, the shadow disappears and you’re left staring at Charizard and Vulpix.

“What’s wrong?”

“…Nothing.”

Returning to the campsite, Charizard helps you take down the tent and roll it up whilst Mimikyu and Vulpix help Leon out with the packing.

Once everything’s stowed away, the campsite is vacated and you begin the hike to return to the challenger’s path, chatting and holding hands until a faint rumbling sound grabs your attention and you turn round to see a familiar and large wooden wagon approaching, pulled by a Tauros.

You wonder if Leon would let go of your hand (he doesn't) and you ponder if whoever is driving the wagon is staring (they are).

As the wagon passes you, it is driven by none other than the farmer from Turrfield, the one who passed you and Leon when you had first met. The one who wouldn't let you on and called you cursed and bad luck.

He's staring with widened eyes at you and obviously you're holding hands with the Champion. In fact, he gawks so relentlessly that he doesn't realise where he's going and he misses the gaping dirt hole up ahead. The wagon jostles, the wheel lodged fast in the ditch and he yelps as everything comes to a stop and Tauros rears with a bellow.

"Whoa there, Toro!! Easy, old boy...easy..."

The wagon's stuck; after calming the bull, the farmer jumps off to inspect the wheel and sighs, scratching his head underneath his straw hat.

You exchange quick glances with Leon before heading over. The farmer notices and begins spluttering at once.

"G-good mornin', Mr Champion! Fancy seein' you here again!"

"Apologies, have we met before?" Leon asks with a smile.

Leon doesn’t remember his face. The farmer looks as surprised as you are. You could tell him, say it's the old fart who wouldn't give you a ride last time, but you remain silent and the farmer throws a sheepish glance to the ground.

"Do you need help with that?" Leon asks.

He clears his throat and stutters out, "Nah, s’alright. You two young'uns better run along now. I got this covered..." he trots to the back of his wagon and begins to push, leaning his scrawny self against the wood. "God-freakin'-damnit, I knew I should've bought that lousy HM!"

True, the Strength HM would've been helpful in these kinds of situation. He struggles, grunting and growling, and Leon rolls his sleeves up, releases Charizard, and they both head to the back of the wagon to assist the old man.

"We'll give you a hand."

"Oh, thank you, you're so kind, Mr Champion."

"It's no problem at all, sir."

"Hey...you there, girl. Do you mind watchin' over old Toro for me?" the farmer asks, "but be gentle with 'im. He's still a brute."

You nod and stroll over to Tauros who huffs and stomps one hoof on the dusty ground, shaking himself. He's somewhat agitated but you do your best to calm him. Reaching over, you gently stroke his grizzled mane and he watches as you pat his horns and rub the bottom of his jaw. The pokemon grows still, and you smile.

"Good boy," you murmur.

"Be careful," Leon says, peeking out from one side of the wagon.

On the count of three, the men and Charizard successfully push the wagon out and you hop away as the wheel is finally freed and the wagon is back on the path, safe. The farmer looks pleased as Leon returns Charizard and heads over to your side with a grin. You check if he's fine before dabbing away at some sweat on his forehead with a tissue.

"Well, I can't thank you two enough," the farmer says as he hops into the seat. "And uh....here, this is somethin' for your troubles." He reaches to the side and pulls out two fresh bottles of moo moo milks and pots of honey which he hands over. “It’s not much but it’s the best I can do, sorry."

"No problem, sir. Have a good day."

"You too. Take care. Goodbye now."

With the minor distraction out of the way, you continue your journey and finally, you reach a fork in the path – one that will lead to Hammerlocke and the other to Motostoke.

You and Leon will part ways here.

The path looks unwelcoming all of a sudden.

You throw him a glance from the corner of your eye, wondering what he might be thinking of when he instinctively steps towards you and anxiously slides his arms around your waist, his warm hands brushing against the side of your body before he gently pulls you closer to him.

His gesture brings a smile to your face as you plant your arms on his shoulders, weaving and twirling your fingers through his thick, long hair.

“Be careful,” he murmurs, “are you sure you don’t need me to go with you?”

“I’ll be fine,” you reply with the same hushed tone he’s employed.

The moment your eyes meet, your breath lodges in your throat; neither of you make a move to pull away and you both linger a little longer than necessary before Leon begins to lean forwards.

Although you can tell he’s getting nervous again, you stand still for him as the gap between you grows smaller and smaller and your noses brush together.

Relishing your presence and the close proximity, he affectionately nuzzles you for a few seconds or so before he angles his face to the side, his lips pucker up slightly and you bite down on your lip, trying not to laugh.

Oblivious, Leon lightly skims his mouth over yours before he presses his lips against yours firmly.

He starts off gentle, being very careful not to hurt you or make you uncomfortable in any way. You let him lead this time and he kisses you coyly.

His lips are so soft against yours, slowly pulling you in and ensuring every inch of your lips are covered by his mouth.

Heat blooms in your chest and your heart thuds; your mouths seem to mould together perfectly and your thoughts are silenced as his scents enraptures you from all over along with the searing warmth of his hands on your body, his fingers faintly digging into your flesh.

He clutches you tightly to him, your lips pressing together until you sweep your hand over his cheek and your fingertips brush over the rugged stubble along his jaw.

Leon grins against your mouth then presses a light, feathery peck on your lips before applying just the tiniest amount of pressure to deepen the kiss.

You giggle lightly in response until your ears pick up the sounds of a twig snapping and you both stop at once, pulling away and glancing over to the source.

A few feet away, a couple of bushes rustle loudly until a chubby Gloom pops out and waddles from the undergrowth, followed by two diminutive Oddish; you and Leon watch as they cross the path in front of you and hop over to the other side, disappearing into the tall grass.

You sigh with relief whilst Leon chuckles and lifts your hand to his lips, pressing a small kiss over your knuckles then over your cheek before he retreats, his face reddening as he watches you for your reaction.

“H-how was that?” he asks nervously, and you know he’s talking about the kiss.

“Hmm, I think we should practice more.”

“I’d like that,�� he admits quietly.

You smile fondly at him in return as he swerves his glance to your entwined hands.

”Am I...your first kiss?” Leon is your first proper kiss, so you nod.

He gleams at once, ecstatic. He’s positively glowing now.

”You’re my first too,” he murmurs.

“You’re so sweet, Leon,” you reply, and his face turns a darker shade of red.

“...There’s something I need to ask you.”

“What is it?”

“Will you wait for me?” he murmurs, “I get challenged by gym challengers every day and I have been defending my title for many years…but there will be a day when I'm no longer Galar’s Champion.”

“Don’t say that,” you reply with a pout.

“It’s true, but until that day happens I’ll continue doing my best. It’s my dream to make the trainers of Galar the strongest in the world. I just wanted to know…when the day comes and Galar no longer needs me... will you be there for me?”

“Of course!” you reassure him with a wide grin, squeezing his hand. “I’ll always be there for you.”

His cheeks go pink and he nods.

“And, um…The party. It’s after my match with Volkner. The dress code is formalwear and there will be dancing. There’ll be a simple waltz.”

You go bug-eyed by the mere mention. “Dancing?? I don’t really dance…”

“Do you know how to dance?”

“No.”

He chuckles. “I can teach you the basics. I'm not an expert but I had to learn how to dance for events like these, though they are very rare.”

“Is it weird that I know how to deal with evil spirits but I don’t know how to dance?” you utter without thinking twice, and Leon laughs, shaking his head. “Alright, I’ll need to do a bit of shopping then. I'll need something to wear. I should go now.”

You toss your glance to the path and jab your thumb to the other direction with much reluctance.

“Sure, I’ll see you later.”

“Bye.”

“…Goodbye.”

You hop onto the path with your bag swinging behind you, turning round to wave as he stands limply on his spot. “Bye, Leon.”

He reluctantly sets off to his direction, waving. “Bye.”

The departure is painful.

It is strange, just waving to him and walking off. Maybe you should've kissed and cuddled more. A hell lot more. You remind yourself that you are seeing him later.

So here you are, unwillingly meandering down the path to Motostoke on your own and away from Leon who’s on the path to Wyndon; you keep throwing glances over your shoulder before he’s out of sight and he does the same; the moment your eyes meet and surprisingly enough, you’re not inclined to look away as you would usually do.

And unfortunately you no longer get to see him when you head down the bend of the path and a huge dollop of trees blocks your view and he is finally out of sight. Your heart is still hammering and your cheeks still feel very warm, your lips tingling. You can’t wait to see him again later in the evening.

Glancing up to the clear blue sky above your head, a flock of bird pokemon soars ahead in V formation and you sigh with content as you gaze at the lush forestry, at the flowing river to your left where little Woopers and Barboach weave their way upstream.

Smiling to yourself, you grasp the strap of your bag firmly to your chest as you close your eyes and inhale a deep breath of fresh, crisp air.

You head to an empty forest clearing in order to receive a better signal before you bring up the message you received about the hairclip and ask Rotom to call the number and wait for a response.

“Hello?”

The voice belongs to a girl.

“Good morning, this is the pokemon researcher of Wedgehurst. I received your message.”

“Oh! Thanks for the callback.”

“No problem. Have I called you at a good time?”

“Yes, yes, it’s all good. Do you have the hairclip?”

“Yeah. I was thinking of returning it to you today if possible.”

“Yes please, I’m free right now. Could you come over? You’ve got my address, right?”

“I do. I’ll be there in half hour tops.”

“Thank you.”

After you hang up, you call for a Corviknight taxi to take you to twenty three Dorset Road, Motostoke. The shops aren’t open yet, so you could do some investigation first.

When it arrives, you climb in and Corviknight spreads his wings with a loud caw and takes off to the skies and in a matter of minutes, you have arrived outside a quaint two-storey, detached house with umber red walls and a white door; it opens and the same pink-haired girl you had seen yesterday emerges with a Sylveon by her side.

When the carriage lands on the front lawn with a gentle thud, you climb out and as you’re about to pay the fare, the girl quickly steps over and pulls out a wad of notes from her pocket, handing them to the cabbie.

“It’s on me,” she says before she turns to you and nudges her head towards the house. “Come on in.”

“Thanks,” you murmur, as Corviknight and the cabbie take their leave.

She holds the door open for you and you step inside the house, arriving at a small entryway where she urges you to remove your shoes. She removes her slippers, leaving herself barefoot as she weaves into the lounge.

The house is an atypical home and you see nothing out of the ordinary, though you can sense a darkness has settled within. It’s slathered all over the ceiling and crawls down the walls. A pungent, sour smell invades your nose….possibly originating from old shoes or leftover food.

And somewhere upstairs, you hear muffled sobbing and wailing.

“That’s my mum,” she says, “don’t mind her.”

At the top of the stairs, the ghost you saw yesterday lingers by the banister, staring at you silently.

It’s bizarre seeing a spirit in broad daylight and in this shape and form yet your eyes do not play tricks on you. Stepping forwards for a closer look, you mentally note that her body is transparent yet her eyes are as dark as night. You scrutinize her form for a while before she turns a smooth one eighty angle and floats away, disappearing into the wall.

“That’s Flora. My sister,” the girl says, snapping you out of your thoughts.

“You can see her?”

“Yeah. I’ve always been able to see ghosts. And uh, thanks for coming by the way.”

She appears oblivious to your stunned expression and invites you to enter the living room where the negative energy is even stronger and the entire room is encased in darkness; your throat clams up, windpipe constricting and you struggle for breath. She doesn’t seem to notice how suffocated you are as you blindly make your way inside and she gestures for you to sit on one of the couches.

The Sylveon heads to a basket near the TV and curls up inside as the girl strolls past you and into the kitchen, asking if you want a drink. Tea or coffee. You opt for tea and a while later, she returns with two pink Jigglypuff mugs of steaming hot drinks and sits down on the couch adjacent to yours.

She looks at you from head to toe and you do the same.

The Delcatty clock ticks loudly on the wall.

You lift the cup to your lips and take a sip.

It's too hot.

The distorted weeping upstairs grows steadily in volume.

“I can’t believe you’re here in the flesh,” she says quietly, “I’ve read all about you, I’m a longtime lurker of your blog by the way and I love what you do. Ghosts, evil spirits, cursed objects…I’ve read every article you’ve posted.”

“Thank you very much for the patronage.”

“Oh, it’s no bother at all. I love your work. So…where should I begin?”

“You could start off by telling me a bit about yourself and what you need my help for.”

She nods and places her cup down on the glass table. It emits a loud clang. The sobbing begins to descend into persistent croaks and gasps before it acts up again.

“Sure. My name is Francesca Warren. Everyone calls me Frankie. I’m fifteen years old and I’ve been able to see ghosts for as long as I can remember. It wasn’t really a problem for me…I learned to ignore them but unfortunately, it means I can see Flora. I want to help her move on but I don’t know how or why she can’t, and that’s why I need your help. I know you wrote about this on your blog but I’d love it if you could tell me everything in person.”

You nod in response. “Of course. There are a variety of reasons why spirits can’t move on. It’s usually due to their attachments to people, places, and also there may even be things that could hold her back from making the transition.”

“Like what?”

The crying upstairs continues so you briefly flick your glance up to the ceiling.

“Sometimes it’s because there is a loved one who can’t let go of the deceased, so this emotional bond binds the spirit and thus it cannot move on.”

“Oh,” says Frankie.

“Then there are negative emotions such as hatred or injustice towards something or someone, usually their murderer. If they are severe, the spirit will refuse to move on and this is more difficult to deal with…but there are also instances when people are confused or disoriented at the moment of their death, so they may not realise they’re dead which can also impact their moving on.”

“Got it.”

“Either way, I’m glad you reached out, your sister needs to move on as soon as possible. I’ll see what I can do.”

You wonder if she may need time to mourn when you see the corner of her eyes begin to fill up with tears yet she suddenly clenches her knuckles and says, “Thank you so much. I know how much you charge and I’m prepared to pay.”

“We can talk about renumeration afterwards.”

“Thank you.”

And the crying upstairs eventually subsides.

You shift your gaze to the ceiling and Frankie does the same briefly, before she averts her gaze to you and you glance at her and for a second or so, your gazes linger for a rather uncomfortable moment or so before she smiles thinly and you are forced to respond with a smile of your own.

“Then let’s get started,” Frankie says, rising from her seat. “Uh…where exactly should we start?”

“Tell me a bit more about Flora. What are the circumstances?”

“Oh, right. Of course. Well…” she lowers her voice drastically and urges you to lean towards her so she can whisper, “my sister doesn’t remember how she died…nor does she know why she died or who killed her, but we do.”

She grabs a manila folder from a shelf of the coffee table and hands it to you; you lift the flap and pull out a newspaper clipping. The headlines says: “BLACKBELT KILLS GIRLFRIEND” and there is a mugshot of an attractive but stern-looking young man with dark eyes on the cover.

“It was him. He did it. And since then, Flora appeared to me. Do you know how hard it is to see your sister, dead as a doornail?" she says, her voice beginning to rise a few octaves.

"...I can't possibly imagine your pain."

Frankie regains her composure and takes a deep breath. "Anyway, I attend boarding school in Kanto, Fuchsia City, so I’ve been away from home for a while. I just flew back. And when I got the news, the weather was bad and I had a dreadful feeling, like something wasn’t quite right. Then I got a call from my mum, saying Flora had been killed and her body was found. I flew back home on the first flight.”

“I’m sorry. That must have been horrible.”

“It was, but seeing her like this is worse. I usually see her in the house but lately she disappears at night and cabbies are finding her at the Watchtower Ruins in the Wild Area. She’ll hitch a ride, come back to the house but she'll disappear in the cab mid-ride. It’s happened four times now. You can read how Flora was killed in that newspaper I gave you but there’s also something else you should know.”

Frankie heads to the mantelpiece in the lounge, beckoning you over.

There are only a few photos on display and the rest of the mantelpiece appears to be covered in a thin layer of dust, albeit there are some ‘clean’ spots which shows that there used to be adornments here but had been removed.

The photos contain a beautiful young woman smiling widely for the camera – Flora, of course – dressed in all sorts of evening gowns and donned in tiaras and ribbons. The awards, ribbons and trophies are also inscribed with her name and the ribbon says ‘Miss Motostoke’.

“Flora was Miss Motostoke?” you murmur, and Frankie nods furiously, “the beauty pageant is over though. Flora was supposed to compete?”

“Yeah. She made it to the finals. But obviously after news of her death, another girl from Motostoke took her place instead.”

You check the remainder of the photos and see another woman is heavily featured in some photos. “Your mum, right?"

Frankie nods.

“She’s an ex-beauty pageant queen?”

“Yep.”

Glancing at the mantelpiece, you inspect the clean spots. “What was here before?” you ask out of curiosity.

“I think it was my mother’s trophies. I'm sure her tiara was here. She must’ve put it away. She won Miss Galar a long time ago.”

It’s also worth noting that you don’t see any photos of Frankie or her father anywhere. “Is your dad…?”

“He left when I was born,” Frankie replies, a little offhandedly.

“I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine, I barely knew him.”

“Can I talk to your sister?”

Frankie deadpans. “Um….you can try,” she says dryly, “she doesn’t actually talk. I’ll show you what I mean. Follow me.”

Frankie leads you out of the living room and to the stairs where you see a tall and dark shadow standing at the top of the landing: you freeze on the spot but it’s not Flora – it’s a bedraggled looking woman with long hair framing the sides of her face….and she is bathed in squirming dark tendrils that has completely swamped her from head to toe.

Whilst you merely stare, Frankie is clearly alarmed and exclaims, “Mum! You gave me a fright.”

“Sorry, Frank,” she blows her nose into a tissue; her eyes are swollen, red and watery. “Who’s this?”

Frankie flings her glance to you and introduces you briefly, mentioning your name but she doesn’t say you are a researcher and that she invited you. Instead, she tells her mother that you are a friend of Flora’s.

“Hello ma’am,” you say, “I’m sorry for your loss.”

The woman looks a little confused before her eyes ultimately narrow into slits. “Flora never mentioned your name to me before,” she hisses with much suspicion.

“It’s okay, mum. We’re friends.”

Without another word, the woman tosses you another wary look before she retreats into her room and you hear the door slam shut.

Frankie glances at you and bites on her lip nervously. “Sorry. My mum usually isn’t like this. She’s completely changed since Flora died.”

You nod as you begin your ascent up the stairs which you find rather steep, and the higher you go up, the pressure of the house increases and you let out a loud gasp of breath.

“What’s wrong?” Frankie asks, with an eyebrow raised.

“Can’t you feel it?”

“Feel what?”

You shake your head limply and as you pass the mother’s room where more dark tendrils squiggle and writhe between the gaps of the door, you murmur a quick chant to bless it but at the same time, you can see Frankie's mother inside.

She sits on the edge of the bed, crying and clutching a silver tiara in hands. It's the Miss Galar tiara - a beautiful, glimmering silver crown that glints brightly under the light adorned with a pink gemstone in the middle.

You quietly step away; she doesn't notice.

The shadows dissolve in a quick moment and you follow Frankie as she escorts you to a room. The door is closed and a plaque decorated with flowers says ‘Flora’ in flowery print.

Frankie takes a deep breath and slowly eases the door open as silently as possible.

The first thing you notice is that the room is musty. Her room must have been closed off for some time and there is a thin layer of dust on the ground. Frankie instructs you to keep quiet and to be as careful as possible as she tiptoes around the bed where the sheets haven’t been touched and there’s a pillow with a dent in the middle where someone used to lay their head down on it.

You follow her, creeping around the desk where a sketchbook lays open on the surface containing a bunch of fashion designs along with an unused pen that stands beside a ballerina figurine. A dressmaking mannequin is propped to the right near the bookshelf where a beautiful, tailored ruby red dress has been slipped over.

Frankie heads over to the dress at once, dusting at the pauldrons with her fingers before she glances at you; you’re fixated on something else entirely. Flora stands in front of the wide window with her back to you, her neck uncomfortably bent to one side.

“Flora?” you say quietly.

She does not reply so you swerve your gaze to Frankie and she whispers, “See what I mean?”

Flora was responsive enough to leave behind her hairclip for you though.

A few seconds later and she slowly turns round, her eerie and empty eyes meeting yours. Now you believe otherwise, so you tell her your name and who you are, what you do.

“I’m here to help,” you add, “Frankie and I will do our best to help you move on.”

The spirit appears calm and docile but it is apparent she is responsible for the dark presence that has encompassed the entire house and most noticeably, their mother. The energy is emitting from her in little wisps.

“In order to do that, you need to tell us what you want.”

“The pageant.”

Frankie’s jaw drops.

Flora’s voice is faint. An echo.

“She talked,” Frankie breathes out.

”What about the pageant, Flora?”

“I need to compete. I know it’s over but I wish there was a way I could have participated.”

You contemplate for a while before you swerve your eyes to the dress on the mannequin. Frankie gawks at her sister with disbelief.

The room drops into silence before you say, “There is a way. I can... let you possess me.”

Frankie continues gawping. “What?”

“It’s not unheard of. I can let you possess me and we’ll hold our own private pageant. I think we're both roughly the same height and size, so...the clothes shouldn't be an issue.”

“S-seriously???”

You nod.

“Are you okay with that?” Frankie splutters out, “will you be okay??”

“Yes. We need to help her move on. If this is the only way to help her, so be it. If we do nothing, she’ll become an evil spirit; she’s already at an early stage-“

“Who on earth gave you permission to go in here?!” screams a shrill voice, and Flora immediately vanishes whilst you and Frankie wince uncontrollably from the extortionate noise.

Frankie’s mum stands at the doorway, her face flush with anger.

“Get out!! Get out at once!”

“S-sorry mum,” Frankie says and you’re both quickly booted out of the room.

You watch the woman inspect the dress before she hysterically checks the pillows and the sheets, before she sighs with relief when everything is intact.

“Um, let’s go,” Frankie mutters under her breath, tugging on your sleeve.

Once you’re downstairs, you tell Frankie you should take your leave, which she agrees. She watches as you pick up your shoes and slip them on.

“By the way, did you mean what you said…that Flora will become an evil spirit? Are you serious?”

“I’m always serious. She’s haunting you and your house."

"Don't say it like that, I'm glad I still get to see her!"

"It's the truth. There are spirits who have unfinished business and the longer a spirit remains on this plane, the more it will begin to lose consciousness of itself. It will begin to warp and lose shape and form. It will lose everything.”

“But Flora’s not…she’s not evil.”

“There are plenty of reasons why evil spirits are created. It doesn’t necessarily have to be because it is evil. They no longer belong to this world, Frankie.”

She nods meekly.

“But you’re right. Your sister was gravely injured, particularly on her head…so I think that’s why she doesn’t recall how she died because if she did, well...she would’ve turned into an evil spirit immediately. Most evil spirits want to exact revenge against their murderers or they inflict their pain and suffering onto others. By then, they’re unsalvageable.”

“So…it’s a good thing Flora doesn’t remember?”

“Well, yes and no...but let’s not focus on that. There are several things we need to work on right now. Firstly, since we’re going to help your sister move on and her wish is to compete in the pageant, we need to reenact it. That means I need the clothes she was going to wear for it, any props and accessories, but I also want you to ask your mum for permission. Second, we should get a tiara or something for the pageant if possible-“

“Oh! Leave that to me, I could just borrow my mum’s. She won’t even notice!”

“…Are you sure?”

“Yeah! Will this work though?”

“Yes, it should.”

“Okay, let me get my sister’s stuff ready. I’ll let you know how I get on. When will we hold it?”

”I’ll be in touch.”

Without further ado, you leave the Warren residence and turn to look at the house one last time.

Flora stands at the window of her bedroom, staring limply outside.

…

#jeralee #Comfort in Despair #fanfic #fic #pokemon #pokemon shield #pokemon sword #pokemon sword and shield #reader #reader insert #leon #leon x reader #Leon x you #dande #pkmn #pokemonswordandshield

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