#idk where rarity stands

[deityofhearts]

I have so many thoughts about mlp, especially trixie

#deity dialogue #mlp had an ‘I hate magicians’ agenda #justice for trixie all she wanted to do was put on magic shows to entertain and inspire :/ #she quite literally wasn’t hurting anyone until someponies showed up and started acting like she was being an evil liar #y’all ain’t never heard of magicians??? :/ #I feel like in my own imagining of mlp it would go like this #twilight thinks there’s right and wrong ways to do magic and doesn’t like how trixie does magic and gets upset about that #limited worldview that she needs to move on from #applejack would see the act as deceitful and lying and get upset #pinkie would love the show because she knows what acts are #fluttershy would also find it nice #rainbow dash supports her friends and if they’re mad so is she basicaly #idk where rarity stands #and basically the episode would be about acknowledging that sometimes you’re wrong and can just hurt people and lash out because of it #and like basically them going ‘hey we were really rude and hurtful to trixie’ #like hey started shit first from what I remember then trixie acted accordingly #like idk y’all started bothering her at her own damn show unprompted for what reason? yeah she did magic shit to y’all but it can be argued #that one it was because it was a part of the show to her and two it was because y’all were acting out first #thank you for coming to my Ted talk

[kirbyskisses]

shared || satosugu/reader

1.38k words

this was supposed to be like two sentences about a dream i had but I just… couldn’t stop??

cw: spitroasting, light overstimulation, mutual teasing, established relationship (throuple), light breeding kink, cervix mention, gojo curses when he’s pussydrunk

maybe had typos idk it’s 1 am and I wrote a whole screenplay today cut me some slack. also geto never left au ig???

suguru using your mouth as satoru fills your pussy :(

you’re spread over the table as they stand on either side of you.

satoru playfully teasing suguru for cumming first, the latter leaving thick white ropes in your mouth that connect your plush lips to his twitching cock head.

his huge hand is caressing your face as he coos that “you’re taking satoru so beautifully, my jewel. satoru, be gentler. you’re probably bruising her cervix by now.”

gojo gives a large smile, crystal blue eyes still staring into yours even as he addresses your black haired lover.

“ah c’mon sugu. you know she can take it. look at that fucked out smile. you want this dick don’t you, honey bunny?”

you smile both at the euphoric feeling - your walls are practically melting at the loud wet slaps of gojo’s long, pink cock sliding in and out - and at suguru’s calm concern. using whatever strength you have left - that is to say, whatever strength they haven’t simultaneously fucked out of you - you hold geto’s rough hands. your heated body shakes

“ ‘m okay, geto. promise.”

he smiles with a glint of pride in his eyes - leaning down to kiss you lightly, tongue sliding over yours to taste the sloppy remnants of the milk he had just spurted down your throat.

“see, man? she’s our girl. she can take anything we give her.” there’s a laugh in gojo’s voice, his nails digging into your thick thighs. “b’sides what’s so bad about kissing that sweet spot? just means i’m that much closer to filling up this nice womb.” he spanks your side with a deeper thrust that makes you squeak into geto’s mouth, a sound both your boyfriends thoroughly enjoy.

“that’s where my cum is supposed to go after all, right (y/n)?”

he smiles when you break away from geto, letting warm air fill from your nose to your lungs before exhaling a lascivious moan.

“yeah, satoru. fuck - your cum goes in my pussy.” his confident smirk falters just a bit as you squeeze down on his length, a strangled moan forcing itself out of his throat, silvery-white hair shaking as his body buckles.

“shit- holy fucking shit baby.”

suguru chuckles, fingers massaging your shoulders and lifting you to sit up - partially to relieve you from the discomfort of the hard table of your shared living room and partially to get a better view of gojo’s cock slapping into your dripping folds, while hungrily swallow him in.

“who’s fucked out now, satoru?” he gives a breathy laugh at his best friend’s sweaty disposition.

gojo bites his lip. “sh’t up, sugu.” almost as if punishing him for the demand, you grind your fat, little clit onto his white bush of lower hair the next time he goes balls deep. your legs wrap around his waist despite feeling like putty and when he’s trapped in their grasp, you squeeze again.

“fuck - baby! can’t pull out if you’re holding so tight!” his breathing gets heavy - your insides have a vice grip on his cock and his balls twitch. he knows - all three of you know that he’s only a few strokes away from spilling into you and he’s grinding against your innermost wall absolutely desperate to do so.

“don’t be so mean to sugu, ‘toru.” you pout and suguru can hide his expression of pride - obviously as best friend and lovers he and gojo make jabs at each other all the time. it’s like a game of seeing which one of them you’ll side with and which you’ll chide for “taking it too far.” usually satoru would just laugh it off or tease more, or pout until he gets a kiss from one or both of you.

it’s a rarity of mythological proportions when he actually apologizes but so ravenous to spill his seed into your womb and keeps thrusting his cock into your sweet, sweet hole - he has no choice.

“okay. okay fuck -” he’s practically drooling when the word shake out of him. “sorry. fuck - sorry suguru - you don’t have to shut up and you aren’t soft for cummin’ so fast - i would’ve too with a pretty mouth like our baby’s - so let me do it in her pussy. fuck it’s so tight and warm suguru - she’s just begging for it.”

at suguru’s nod, you unclench and unwrap your legs from gojo’s waist and he wastes no time battering into your perfect hole - he can tell suguru’s groping and earlier use of your throat has made you wetter than ever and it’s driving him insane.

“that’s it, my treasure. just let satoru treat you so nice. cum when he does. can you do that?”

between their two huge frames you feel so small and obedient that you immediately nod, hips rocking to the animalistic pace of gojo’s hips as your nails find his back and he pull you into him, one of his huge veiny, soft hands squeezing into your hair and the other into your shoulder.

you bury your face - teary from just how deep he’s thrusting in - into his neck and bite down. with one more curse and a shaky breath his eyes meet geto and they both share a mutual look of a sort of possessive, mischievous confidence - taking pride in how they’re the only people on the planet who could tear you apart and make you cum like this.

there’s no announcement when you cum, just a loud cry of both their names when gojo’s fat, dripping tip juicily kisses your cervix. you shake and convulse and squeeze as geto’s hand roll along any part of you not covered by gojo’s form, cooing as the latter shoots his hot seed into you.

suguru’s cum is thick, as is his cock, but his orgasms are usually quiet and produce less than your other lover - he’s almost always more focused on your pleasure.

but gojo’s a different story. equally as thick but with more length that shoots out thin continuous ropes that you can practically feel filling your tummy. he’s loud and fucks your crying form through your simultaneous climax. for every drop of his you feel fall out there’s another thrust to fuck it back in until his groans stop and his twitching cock settles. he gives you one last spank that is immediately healed by suguru’s calming touch.

“that’s our girl. fuck, my love.” suguru’s voice is hot on your earlobe as you disentangle from gojo who kisses your head and goes to get desperately needed towels to clean all the sweat and sticky stains of white they’ve covered you in. “you’re still shaking.” he presses a tiny series of kisses to your neck as gojo returns.

“hold suguru baby. this might feel cold.” he gives a well-meaning chuckle at your jumpy form when he wipes the cool water against your lovingly abused thighs. unable to resist he gives your little clit apologetic kisses, lips curving up at how it tastes and smells like the spunk he’s left brewing inside you. you squeal when his kisses turn into nips.

“toru!”

suguru’s eyes sharpen and gojo shrugs in mock sheepishness.

“okay, okay! couldn’t resist. no more, scout’s honor.”

“you’ve never been a scout.” suguru rolls his eyes but gives a content sigh, wiping around your mouth and cheeks and pressing his lips to them ever so occasionally. “but he is right, our dearest better half. kissing you is very hard to resist.”

gojo smiles. “kissable lips, nice tits, big heart, tightest sweetest fuckin’ holes to fill… we really hit the jackpot huh, suguru?”

“i’d most certainly say we did.” he smirks, turning your head gently to have your eyes meet his sharp brown ones.

you can’t tell if your cheeks getting hot is from blushing at the heartfelt compliments or the remnants of physical exertion from having the thoughts fucked out of your head by not own but two beloved men.

“aww.” gojo coos. “say (y/n). how about next time we trade places? i’m certain geto wants a chance to breed this nice hole and i’d love to fill my sweetie’s mouth with my own cream.”

#smut #gojo daddy #satoru gojo smut #satoru gojou x reader #satosugu #satoru gojo #geto suguru smut #suguru geto x reader #suguru geto #x chubby reader #x plus size reader #x black reader #jjk #jjk smut #jjk x reader #jujutsu kaisen x reader #jujutsu kaisen  #full fic #geto x you #geto x gojo #getou x gojo #gojo x reader x geto

[biggestsimponhere]

My beloved @kib-ble wanted a Joel bodyguard au so that’s what they’re gonna get.

Bodyguard!Joel miller x Famous!Reader AU, im sorry i couldn’t help but put a little angst between joel and ellie. it’s in my blood to make things sad. I’m also giving you famous friends from our world so don’t mind that. If you’re mad about being friends with them, idk, cry about it. (They aren’t bad people btw, just celebs i follow) I’m making you friends with the cast of the rookie. i don’t pay that much attention to celebrities but i like the rookie.

Warnings - TW! Sexual harassment/Assault (Someone grabs your ass unasked for but don’t worry joel will put him in his place) This is not tlou cannon it just has tlou characters if you don’t like it don’t read :) there are no zombies! TLOU CANNON LEVEL VIOLENCE (its really just a fist fight but yk) Sarah’s here too idgaf if she and ellie couldn’t be at the same time, don’t ask about ellie’s parents (fatal car accident 😔) (THIS IS WAY LONGER THAN I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE OR INTENDED IT TO BE PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU WANT MORE OR IF YOU LIKE IT)

“You know you’re not meant to run away from the person protecting you?” A voice interrupted your silence. Not just any voice. His voice. “Well i wouldn’t have to run away if i could have five minutes to myself, miller” You replied standing up. “You know it’s for your safety right? We’re not just here to bother you” He said walking over to you. “Oh trust me i know, you only remind me everyday” You said rolling your eyes. “How did you even find me anyways?” You continued turning to him. “You’re not that hard to find princess” He remarked moving closer to you. “Come on, you’ve got a dinner to get to, and some creep was lurking out there with his camera” He said sliding his hand into yours to pull you out of the room you’d hidden away in.

“Why do I even have to go to this thing anyways” You said smiling at the feeling of his hand in yours. “Because it’s important, at least that’s what your manager said” He said continuing down the hall. “Stop here” He said letting go of your hand to grab the door. Your hand felt slightly colder without his warmth but you just shook it off. “Okay, no one’s there, move, quickly” He said ushering you out the door. Walking out the door you practically ran to the car with Joel trailing close behind. Once you were safely in the car Joel told the driver where to go. “So why do you spend all your time following me around, I mean i know it’s your job, but you hardly ever switch someone” You said turning to him.

He’s been your bodyguard for years and always seems to be around. “Well it’s my job like you said, and I only have one person to get back to” He said smiling slightly. Feeling a little dejected thinking he had a girlfriend you asked who. “Ellie. I’m like her guardian or whatever, I raised her, she lives with me in a small town, but she’s grown now, doesn’t need me hovering around her” He said looking out the window. “I’m sure she’ll always need you” You said smiling at him. “Yeah, i guess, but she spends a whole lot more time with her friends than she does me. I mean we don’t even go on walks anymore. It’s just ‘Bye Joel i’m going out with Dina and Jesse’. It’s like she doesn’t need me” He said a little dejectedly.

“Well she’s a teenager right? She needs her space and I’m sure if you just asked you could spend more time together” You said reaching over to pat his knee. You were about to remove your hand when he put his over yours and held it there. “Yeah i’m sure you’re right” He said smiling at you. That was a rarity. Joel Miller barely ever smiles so you feel pretty special when he throws one your way. After that the conversation died out but you still had your hand on his knee and his was still over yours. As the car rolled to a stop he looked down remembering your hand was there and he quickly removed his. He stepped out of the car and walked to your side to open the door.

“Miss y/l/n” He said grabbing your hand to help you out of the car. Much more professional than you two had been five minutes ago. There were photographers everywhere. They all kept shouting at you to look at them and you did your best to keep up. Eventually someone came outside and ushered you and Joel and your other guard Andrew inside. Once you were inside you were led to a table full of people you either knew or recognized. “Ahh y/n, you’re here!” Melissa cheered. “That i am!” You replied hugging here. “We wondered when we were gonna see you again.” Eric said smiling at you. You slid into your seat between the two and continued talking to all of them.

“Is he gonna keep staring at us like that?” Mekia asked looking over your shoulder. You turned around to see Joel glaring at the table but softening a bit when he caught your eye. You smiled at him and then turned back, “Joel’s always like that, but he won’t do anything unless one of you tries something” You said laughing. “He doesn’t seem like he’s always like that considering he smiled after you turned away” Nathan said raising an eyebrow at you. “Now he’s right back to glaring” Mekia said laughing. Soon the food arrived and you started eating. The whole point of this event was to make friends with other actors and actresses, but really mostly people just stuck by people they already knew.

“Are you gonna come dance with us?” Alyssa said after you’d all finished eating. “I suppose” You said pretending to be reluctant but smiling anyways. “Come on they opened the bar!” Melissa said grabbing your hand. “Well i’ll never say no to free alcohol” You said letting her pull you. After a few drinks (more like 5) you were still dancing with your friends. “Hey pretty lady” Some guy whispered in your ear as he came up behind you. This immediately caught Joel’s eye but he didn’t want to step in until it was a problem. Everything was fine, until it wasn’t. You had just silently moved away but he followed you. Once he grabbed your ass you pushed him away.

He stumbled back into a few people but came back almost immediately after he moved forward Joel was by your side. “I suggest you take a few steps back” He said pulling you behind him. “What’re you gonna do old man” The man said challenging him. Joel walked you back a little before swinging at the man. He stumbled back into the people behind him who took this opportunity to flee the dance floor leaving you, joel and the man standing in it. The man quickly threw a punch at joel which he caught and then punched the guy in the stomach. After that the man got the upperhand for a second and you were about to do something, anything but Melissa and Eric pulled you back.

“He’s okay, this what he was hired for” Melissa said to you as you continued watching them fight. Eventually after a solid punch Joel knocked the man out cold. You ran over to him grabbing his shoulders. “Fuck Joel, you’re insane, he could have killed you” You said gripping his jacket. “Probably not, but im okay, just a little sore and a few scratches” He said rubbing his hands up your arms. As you continued scolding joel security came to drag the other man out to some car to take him to the hospital. “A few scratches?! Your knuckles are bloody and scraped to hell” You said turning your attention to his hand. You were close to tears by this point.

He stopped your frantic search for more injuries by pulling you into his arms. “You hear that princess? M’hearts still beating” He whispered into your ear. You stood like that for a couple minutes before he spoke again. “Are you okay?” He said pulling you out of his chest. Of course he’s thinking of your comfort when he’s all scraped up. “Yeah, I’m okay now, let’s get you to the hospital” You said wiping your nose. “I don’t want to go to the hospital, i’ll just go home tommy and ellie can probably help me better anyways” He said shaking his head. “Joel you need to go to the hospital” You scolded him.

“Please, i don’t want to go to the hospital, just let me go home, please” He practically begged you. You’d never heard him sound like this let alone say please. “Yeah okay, but i’m coming with you” You grabbed his arm before walking over to your friends. “I’m gonna take him home, just didn’t want to leave without sayin goodbye” You said hugging your friends. Joel stood behind you while you said bye to your friends. He’s never been as fidgety as he is right now, something must be really bothering him. “Alright, let’s get you home yeah?” You said grabbing his good hand. He just nodded and wordlessly followed you out the door. Once you settled in the car and told the driver to take you to joel’s you rolled up the screen separating the back and the front.

“Joel” You said quietly unsure how to approach the problem. He hummed in response tilting his head towards you. “Are you okay?” The silence filled the car after that. You didn’t want to speak again until he said something. It took him a few minutes but he spoke again. “No, not really” He said grabbing onto your hand. You unbuckled and moved closer to him. Wrapping your arms around him you buried your face in his shoulder. Joel’s never been like this in all the years you’ve known him. You were about to speak again when you felt tears hit your chest and heard his shaky breathing. Instead of speaking you just held him tighter and let him cry into your chest.

“I’m sorry” He said finally pulling away from you. “Don’t apologize, you don’t ever have to apologize for your emotions” You said swiping his hair off his forehead. He nodded and pulled you into another hug, which you returned. “Do you wanna talk about it?” You asked quietly. “No, at least not right now” He said pulling away as the car rolled to a stop in front of joel’s. You slid out with him and stopped walking when he walked back over to the car. You didn’t hear what he said but shortly after the car pulled away leaving you both alone. “Come on, we gotta get you cleaned up” You held out your hands to him which he took. Once you both walked through the door Ellie sprung up from the couch.

She took in the both of you before speaking. “What the hell happened to you” She said scanning joel’s injuries. “It’s nothin” Joel brushed it off walking past her into the kitchen. You stood there awkwardly before joel called you into the kitchen. “I called tommy he should be here in a few minutes, would you like something to drink?” He said walking over to you. “No i’m alright” You smiled before sitting in a chair at the table. “Joel? Are you gonna tell me what happened or should i ask her?” Ellie said walking into the kitchen. “It was just a little fight, ellie i’m fine” He said brushing off her concern. “A little fight? You’re all scraped up, you haven’t had a fight in forever too” She said continuing to pester him.

You enjoyed watching the two of them interact. “Ellie i said it’s nothing” He said coming off a little harshly. She shrunk a little before stepping back. “I’m sorry kiddo, it was just a rough day” He said turning towards her. Then the door to the house opened and tommy walked in. “Joel, what the hell happened?” Tommy said walking into the kitchen. Once he stopped he spotted you. “I didn’t know you had a girlfriend?” He said turning back to joel. “Girlfriend?!” Sarah said running down the stairs. “She’s not my girlfriend, and what’re you doing here? Aren’t you meant to be at home with your family?” Joel said turning to her.

You were happy to just sit quietly and watch joel interact with the people he loves. “I told them i was gonna hang out with ellie for a little” She said brushing off his question. “Sorry to butt in but joel you’re still hurt” You said finally speaking. “Right” Tommy said reaching under the sink for the first aid kit. As tommy worked on cleaning joel in the living room, Sarah and Ellie moved to sit next to you. Joel had begrudgingly left you alone with them but not without warning them to behave. “Soooo, what’re your intentions with my dad” Sarah said first. “You can’t just ask her things like that” Ellie said cutting her off. “What do you mean?” You said finally.

“Are you together? Do you like him? Do you love him?” She said, the questions flowing out of her mouth rapidly. “No we’re not together” You we’re about to continue speaking when joel walked back in and cut you off. “Stop botherin her” He said stopping behind your chair. “We’re not bothering her, right?” Sarah said looking from her father to you. “They’re fine Joel, really.” You said looking up at him. “Did you send Drew away or is he gonna be back?” You said turning to fully face him. “He’s gone, you can stay here tonight” He said with full confidence. “But we don’t have a guest room” Ellie said looking up at him confused. “She can just sleep in my bed, i’ll sleep on the couch” Joel said sitting in the chair next to you.

“Hell no, after tonight your sleeping in your bed, i cant take that away from you” You said shaking your head. “Why don’t you just share the bed?” Sarah said looking between the two of you. “Yeah, I mean you’re both adults” Tommy said patting joel on the shoulder. “Are you okay with that?” Joel said nudging your foot with his. “Yeah, Yeah, we can handle it” You said trying not to sound to eager. “Sarah can you go to yours and grab her some clothes?” Joel turned to his daughter. “Sure!” She said standing up and leaving quickly. “Alright, i’ve gotta get back home before maria strings me up but i’ll be seeing you” Tommy said pointing to you as he left. “Can i go have a sleepover at Dina’s? I meant to ask you earlier but you weren’t home” Ellie said turning to Joel.

“Yeah go ahead” And with that Ellie got up and grabbed the bag she had apparently already packed and ran out the door. “Guess it’s just us then” Joel said chuckling awkwardly. You nodded and then the door opened again. “I only have pajama shorts, sorry, but she can borrow one of your shirts right dad?” Sarah said handing you the shorts. “Of course you can” Joel said slightly smiling. “Alright, gotta go” Sarah said turning back around and leaving. “Let’s go to bed” Joel said pulling you up and then walking you to the stairs. Once you two had reached his bedroom he walked in and pulled out a shirt for you. He handed it to you before turning around.

As you stated to take off your jewelry you remembered the zipper on the back of your dress. You tried to do it yourself but since you couldn’t even zip it yourself how did you expect to take it off. “Um, Joel?” You whispered into the room. “Yes?” He called back. “I, uh, i cant unzip it” You said too embarrassed to turn around. You heard footsteps move closer to you before stopping just behind you. You could feel his breath on your neck as he began to speak. “Do you need some help?” Your breath caught as you realized how close he is to you. You nodded and his hands moved to the zipper. His fingers brushing against your back sent sparks shooting through you.

“It’s unzipped” He said pulling you out of your thoughts. You realized he must have turned around again as you couldn’t hear his voice as clearly. You slid his shirt and the shorts on and turned back to face him. “You can look now” You said and he turned towards you. His breath caught in his throat at the sight of you in his shirt and extremely small shorts. He can’t help but think sarah did that on purpose. You both climbed into bed, as you settled in you thought to yourself how you could get used to this. Family talks, His shirts, Sleeping next to him in bed. “Joel” You said slowly. He hummed turning to look at you.

“Would you hold me?” You asked quietly. He nodded and flipped the light off before settling in behind you. He wrapped his arms around you and smiled at the feeling of finally having you in his arms even if it isn’t when he’s with you. That would be a talk for another time. “Goodnight joel” You said rolling over to face him. “Goodnight sunshine” Joel said as you snuggled into his chest. Yeah you could get used to this. And so could he.

#joel miller x you #joel the last of us #joel miller fluff #joel miller x reader #joel miller x f!reader #joel miller #joel miller x female reader #joel miller x y/n #joel miller x Actress!Reader #pedro pascal #the last of us #the last of us fanfiction #bodyguard!joel miller #bodyguard!joel miller x actress!reader

[papermatisse]

False Pretenses || W.JH

♗ pairing: merchant!wen junhui x f!reader

♗ genre: angst, fluff, regency

♗ word count: 19.5k

♗ warnings: none (period piece, historical anecdotes)

♗ synopsis: Wen Junhui was the epitome of perfection. Tall, handsome, intelligent, kind, a gentleman, and the list goes on for miles on end. So it is only expected that this man of everyone's dreams was regrettably taken already, right? Betrothed to another, and so condemned from being pursued by any other? But what's to happen if he himself begins the pursuit with another?

♗ (a/n): lol surprise the reason I rewrote my regency beomgyu fic was bc I was reminded of it whilst writing this one lmao.

funny story: this was supposed to be 8k words lmao. but then I kept writing and here we are jskfjsjf. idk how or why but yeh I wrote. please enjoy!

main masterlist

The symphony of strings filled the atmosphere with their delicate and transcendent melodies. Candle lit chandeliers dangled above the attendees beneath them, the lot waltzing together as one fluid mass. Plethora of shades and hues meshed together, blurring like a Monet to form this masterpiece of motion. Mirrors lined the walls, only adding to the grandiose image before her with its decadent lights and colors. Gold trimmings adorned the area they resided in, intricate carvings swirling and writhing together like vines as they stretched up to the ceiling above, revealing this scene of the heavens opened to gaze down upon the people basking in all of the splendor and extravagance of the scene.

A sight most would envy her for, a rarity amongst others yet something so incredibly common and recurrent in her life. The music was nice, yet felt tedious after some time. The people dancing, once a spectacle so wondrous to her as a child now a bore to gaze upon. Even the venue they resided in, a tribute to the baroque era and all of its grandeur, was yet another tacky and bothersome factor upon her life.

Perhaps it was because she had been trapped in this room, standing against the wall for the past hour or so, that she was filled with such spite. Or perhaps it was merely because life was beginning to feel repetitive and empty in its whole. Perhaps she was merely tired at the moment and it would all pass after a good night's rest.

Whatever may be the case, she desperately wanted out. Yet she remained rooted where she was, because her father was elsewhere speaking with the other gentleman at the party, her mother was prancing about socializing with every living thing she could find, and her brother was heavens knows where.

Her cold exterior was enough to ward off any prospective partners seeking a dance with her, and her unladylike stance against the wall had frightened any women from mingling with her. All she had to do was wait and she'd soon return to the comfort of her home.

"(y/n), dear!" Her mother's frantic shouts carried above the orchestra's next piece, drawing some onlookers who spared her a moment's glance before continuing with their own endeavors. "(y/n), my lovely (y/n)."

"Mother, what is it?" She huffed out as her mother had finally reached her, already tugging the girl into a standing position.

"There is a fine gentleman speaking to your brother right this moment." She rambled on as her hands darted to and fro, fixing her hair, adjusting her dress, smudging away any imperfections in her makeup. "Tall, young, handsome, and perfect for my beautiful daughter."

"And his name?" (y/n) raised a brow at the daft woman before her, who merely smoothed away the wrinkles in her daughter's irate expression before glancing back in the supposed direction of said man.

"That's for you to find out on your own once you go over and talk to him." Her mother's hands grasped at her shoulders, attempting to tug her away from the safety and comfort of her corner, but before she could make it even a foot away from her spot, (y/n) raised a hand to her mouth. With one exhale, a loud whistle expelled from her, briefly garnering the attention of passersby who glared her way for a second before returning to their party. The attention span of the average noble will never cease to amaze her.

Moments later, as her mother berated her for her indecent act in public, her brother came strolling over.

"You called?"

"Joshua, mother would like to know who your new acquaintance is."

"I just want to know if he's single or not." She sighed, seeing how she wasn't getting anywhere with her children's mannerisms. Joshua chuckled, rolling his eyes at the usual dilemma of his mother playing matchmaker for the two—an occurrence the two siblings were far too accustomed with.

"His name is Wen Junhui. He's a merchant who's just recently settled here in town for the time being. We've been discussing matters of supplies for father's business, and–"

"Oh, a merchant, (y/n), how splendid!" Her mother whispered enthusiastically.

"–he has a betrothed awaiting him back home." Joshua finished, biting back a grin as his mother's shoulders immediately slackened in defeat. (y/n) nodded with a smile, thanking her brother before he left to return to Mr. Wen.

"Don't be too saddened, mother." (y/n) began. "There's plenty of fish in the sea. I'm sure with your resilience, the next one will surely be the right one." She patted her back mockingly, earning a vexed scoff from her mother who grumbled to herself indignantly. (y/n) could only hear some utterances regarding her mother only wanting the best for her daughter, as well as silent curses for birthing problem children.

The tendency of her mother to scour the premises for prospective marriage partners was a habit that (y/n) had unfortunately gotten used to. Perhaps yet another reason to loathe parties, as it merely exists as another breeding ground of men (y/n) could potentially marry. Wen Junhui was yet another victim of mother's unabashed ogling, and yet another man on the ever growing list of disappointments in the marriage spectrum.

And so she was led to believe that the ordeal was done and over with, as were most of these marital occurrences that so frequently disrupted the stability of her life. That was until the day after said ball came to greet her, or more specifically a certain Wen Junhui strolling into her family's parlor in all of his elegant glory.

As described by her mother, he was quite the fair gentleman. Tall with broad shoulders and a slim waist, long legs that seemed to extend for days. His hair was light and blonde, sort of similar to the dusty yellow shade of one of the gowns tucked away in the back of her armoire. His features matched the rest of him, that being unrivaled beauty to any man she's ever seen. And to make matters worse, his manners were impeccable, already having her mother swooning by the first minute of his entry as he introduced himself to her.

"And over here we have the last of the family, my sister (y/n)." Joshua led the man over to where she rested.

"My lady, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance." He bowed his head whilst extending his hand towards her, to which she slipped her own gloved one into his as response. He leant down further, pressing his lips against her knuckles momentarily before slowly standing to full height once more.

Though still considered proper etiquette, it was a rarity in their day to greet someone as such. So whilst her mother and father simply continued on with familiarizing themselves with their guest, (y/n) had quickly tucked her hand atop her lap once more, turning her head away in embarrassment at the action. She could feel the warmth of his touch still penetrating through the cloth of her gloves, sending tingles up her arm. Such an old fashioned, traditional practice that she herself was well aware of, yet it was the act of a handsome man performing such a deed that sent this delightful warmth coursing through her veins.

"Mr. Wen, please take a seat anywhere you'd like." (y/n)'s father insisted, gesturing to the many availabilities they had scattered about the room. Her brother seated himself in the chair to her right, and instead of taking the seat beside him, Junhui had planted himself at the other end of the chaise lounge chair that (y/n) was situated on. And like nothing ever happened, the lot continued their discussion, leaving (y/n) to simply deal with her own internal panic.

'He's married, he's married,' she repeated to herself in her head, a mantra which was meant to have quelled some of the nerves alight in her body, yet it had done little of the sort. Junhui's presence alone seemed to completely affect her in such a way that she had little to no knowledge on what else to do.

As if through the blessing of sibling telepathy, Joshua leant closer to (y/n) as Junhui regaled some traveling tale to their parents.

"Is everything alright?" He asked. She nodded, leaning closer to him to continue their silent conversation.

"Yes, though I feel slightly overheated and tired." He nodded, backing away and waiting for the next opportune moment before joining the discussion.

"My apologies for interrupting, but (y/n) isn't feeling too well, may I escort her to her room for the time being?"

"Why, of course," their father insisted. "Send a maid for some water, as well."

"Yes, father."

He helped his sister up, guiding her to the entry of the parlor. Before they could make their exit, however, (y/n) found herself turning to face Junhui once more, his eyes already trained on her as if having never left in the first place.

"It was a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Wen."

"The pleasure is all mine, my lady."

"I apologize for having to cut our meeting so abruptly."

"No need for apologies. Please feel well soon."

She offered one last smile before allowing Joshua to guide her up to her room, summoning a maid for some water before retreating back downstairs. Through the thin walls of their estate, she could hear the resounding echoes of the company downstairs, more distinctly that of Junhui's voice carrying through the air and into her room. This low timbre, comforting and mesmerizing even through the obscured resonance from where she lay. It had that same warmth from before blooming in her chest, seeping into her body with this tranquil feeling alongside it.

A smile soon made its way unto her face, yet she chose to ignore it for the time being, burying herself further into her pillow to disregard the incessant flutter in her stomach.

"(y/n), are you okay today?" Juliet peered over from where she walked alongside the girl, pouting when she had blinked in confusion, as if having not listened to a word she was saying at all. "You're usually so attentive. I've already said about a dozen things that would have had you cackling in the most unladylike of ways, yet you haven't spared me anything more than a hum of acknowledgement. And even that feels generous to mention since I do not even think you actually are acknowledging me."

"I'm sorry, Juliet." She sighed, stopping in the middle of the trail they walked. Her friend solemnly gazed upon her, taking pity on the person who is usually so attentive and thorough.

"May I ask what has you so distracted on our outing?"

"Well," (y/n) nervously bit her lip, eyes darting about as if making sure no one were around to hear her admit her shame aloud. "There's this boy."

"A boy?" Juliet gasped, rushing towards (y/n) until she was face to face with her, barely any space between the two as she gaped in awe. "A boy has captured your attention? I didn't even think that was possible. You're usually so reserved no matter the person you talk to. Who could be so extraordinary enough to have won over your intrigue?"

"Well, that's the thing, you see." (y/n) brought her hand up, shielding her mouth as she leant into her friend's ear. "The man who I can't stop thinking about is married."

Juliet backed away, eyes blown wide from shock, yet an amused smirk settling in place.

"You have such an interesting set of standards. Why is it that the one thing you have ever desired is something not attainable?" (y/n) rolled her eyes, continuing with their walk and leaving Juliet to follow close behind. "Is it the fact that he truly is something you're not allowed to have? Like an impudent child who sets their eye on the most expensive of toys? Or perhaps it's the satisfaction you'll receive from having snatched away another person's treasure, like a seafaring pirate."

"Please, you're beginning to vex me with your nonsensical deliberation."

"Why, you can't blame me for being curious. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to tease the almighty lady of the Hong household." Juliet finally reached (y/n)'s side, linking her arm with hers as they continued on. "Or the lady of the Hong house currently, should I say?"

"Still harboring that crush on my brother, lady Juliet?" (y/n) rolled her eyes with a grin as her friend let out a childish squeal.

"Oh, you can't hold it against me. Joshua is the most handsome man I've ever seen in my life. And he's so polite and warmhearted and everything a girl can dream of." The girl sighed, tilting her head to rest on (y/n)'s shoulder. "I'll marry him one day, I swear upon it. And we can then be sisters. Isn't that exciting?"

(y/n) hummed in thought, resting her head against Juliet's as she faux considered for a second more.

"Perhaps it could be fun to have a sister such as yourself."

"You're such a coy thing." (y/n) laughed when she felt an elbow nudge into her side, earning a chuckle from the other girl in response.

The trail stretched on for a while more, the girls whispering and giggling in secrecy as they wasted away their day together.

For the past few days, Junhui had been all (y/n) could think about. Like a fresh wound, ever so slowly healing with its immediate pain and such, yet remaining even as the days stretched on; an irreversible scar meant to forever mar her skin. At least until she grows accustomed to the constant, that being the fact that Junhui truly does reside in her mind at all times, and she is to just grow used to this new presence.

She had begun presuming that her thoughts were manifesting themselves into some sort of self deluded hallucination when at one point, she saw a head of light blonde hair some distance away. Perhaps this withdrawal was assuming itself with consequences, such as imagining the man when he is nowhere in sight. Though that idea soon proved false when a head of black hair turned around, waving his hand upon spotting his sister.

"(y/n), oh heavens, it's Joshua." Juliet muttered, standing upright and separating herself from the girl. "Who is that beside him? Have I lost the battle in winning Joshua's affections?"

"No. You haven't." (y/n) responded, eyes not straying from said man as the two made their way towards them.

"How are you so sure?" Juliet asked, waving back to Joshua when she saw (y/n) frozen in place.

"Because Joshua's current company is already a married man."

It took only a second for Juliet to put the pieces together, head turning to stare at (y/n) in shock. Though she quickly schooled her expression once more when the boys had finally met with them.

"Good afternoon, ladies." Joshua began, bowing his head in acknowledgement to them. Juliet already had her hand extended before Joshua could offer his own, earning a chuckle out of him as he briefly held hers in greeting. "What brings you two all the way out here? I thought you said you'd be having a picnic with Juliet. I presume that would entail some sort of feast at her estate."

"We wanted to take a walk beforehand." (y/n) answered him, eyes glancing to Junhui every so often, only to find him staring back at her unabashedly. The attention flustered her greatly, and she found herself nervously opening up her parasol which had been previously dangling by her wrist. She hoped the contraption would at least shield her expression somewhat from the man's gaze, as she found it hard to hide how much he affected her at this point.

"Ah, I see." Joshua nodded in understanding. "We came to discuss some business matters with Juliet's father." (y/n) smiled at this, a subtle gesture of showing familiarity when not using proper titles towards people. Something the other two most likely didn't pick up on, but (y/n) knew her brother well. It was his way of showing his closeness to Juliet's family—his way of showing his closeness to Juliet. "Though we've arrived earlier than intended. I do enjoy being ahead of schedule, but it seems too early to be acceptable for our intended rendezvous, unfortunately."

"Then perhaps would you care to join us for our picnic?" Juliet asked, eyes brimming with anticipation. "For the time being, that is."

"Thank you for the invitation, Lady Juliet. We'd be delighted to accompany you two, if you'll have us."

"We'd be nothing short of honored to have you join us. Wouldn't you agree, (y/n)?" Juliet turned towards her friend, hopeful smile unwavering as she awaited her answer.

Truthfully so, (y/n) herself was conflicted.

On the one hand, there was the budding romance between her closest friend and her own brother. It was a relationship that felt both inevitable and yet so very impossible, purely for how oblivious the two were to one another's very real emotions for the other. Something so attainable, yet seemingly exhaustive in their efforts. A slight push in the right direction couldn't hurt anyone, (y/n) supposed.

Yet there was also the one concerning factor in the midst of all this; that being (y/n)'s own sprouting affections for a married man.

There really was no alternative to this. She could either stamp out her feelings entirely, or she could ignore them. Either way, she mustn't act upon them, as just the image of his doting wife awaiting her lover's return seemed to ground (y/n) into reality, forcing her to stray from those daydreams that seemed to occupy her consciousness on the daily.

Yet it felt so very uncomfortable to pursue that latter option. To simply push aside one's feelings as such felt so inhumane. It was upsetting how a simple infatuation could feel like such a taboo thing. But with everything considered, at this point it truly was.

The wise thing would be to reject the offer. Insist that the picnic be kept between the two friends whilst the boys head over to the business meeting. Distance makes the heart grow fonder, so Juliet and Joshua would fair well. And it would allow her space from Junhui to sort out those pesky emotions that seemed to continuously provoke her. In this case, distance making the heart grow weaker. The juxtaposition made sense in her head for now, at the least.

She looked up at the company before her, taking in the expectant expressions of her brother and her friend. And then she looked to Junhui.

His eyes were so beautiful, just like the rest of him. Round with this innocent glint in them, merely observing her as he would a performance. Yet there was this indescribable quality deep in his gaze, reeling her into their warm depths whether she wanted to or not. Drowning in this dark, unending sea of ember. Perhaps that's what led her to subtly nod her head, locked in this stare down with Junhui, too preoccupied to see the pitifully concealed excitement of the two others.

"Lady Juliet, may I be your escort this afternoon?" Joshua held out his arm, to which Juliet gladly accepted, the two already making their way down the path the girls had just come from.

"My lady," (y/n) blinked away her stupor to see Junhui approaching her, lips tugged into this effortlessly attractive smile. He offered his arm to her, head tilting as his gaze softened. "May I escort you to our eating arrangements?"

"You may," She responded, tucking her free hand into the crook of his arm, her other still nervously gripping the parasol resting over her shoulder.

She hadn't been in close proximity to Junhui before, merely a brief distance away from one another during his prior visit to her abode. She was reminded of his gentle kiss on her hand, as well as the incredible display of power he held over her as she couldn't stop thinking of him since. Considering their former encounter together lasted what felt like no more than five minutes, she felt this current situation was no good for her feeble heart.

"I apologize if my question is rather frank, but Joshua and Juliet… They are courting one another?" (y/n) snorted at this before immediately gasping and covering her mouth, parasol balanced precariously between her arm and her bodice. She looked up at Junhui with a mortified expression, though this only caused him to also burst into laughter, this delightful titter that had his eyes crinkling from how wide his smile stretched. Soon, she herself bubbled into laughter, having to lean on the man beside her for support.

"Heavens, I apologize for that," She spoke between chuckles. "I did not intend to release such a discourteous sound before you."

"No, I quite enjoyed it, my lady. I hope I can hear more of it from you." Her gaze dropped to the path below them, hoping to conceal her perturbed facade from Junhui at his implication of there being more joyous moments like this between the two. Perhaps she was overthinking it. Perhaps he meant nothing more than hoping she continues feeling happy as such.

Though the thought still felt nice to explore. Of simpler times spent beside him, spending days such as this one walking together. He'd whisper sweet nothings in her ear, his breath tickling the thin skin of such an intimate area and spiraling her into another set of giggles for only him to hear. And he'd gladly accept her jovial antics with a heart full of unadulterated love for her and her alone.

What a silly fantasy. One she'd have to stow away for later in her delusional daydreams of the man.

"To answer your question, they have yet to officially court one another." They watched as the duo they spoke of strolled peacefully together, a picturesque romantic scene of two lovers enjoying themselves on such a sunny afternoon. It brought a smile to (y/n)'s face. "Though I presume it won't be long before it truly is official. They are meant to be, you see."

"I do. Indeed I agree with you, my lady." Junhui's voice had lowered, so quiet that only (y/n) could possibly hear him, creating this atmosphere of sorts where only they resided. "And on that note, wouldn't it be nice to perhaps speed up the process some."

"What do you have in mind, Mr. Wen?"

"Do you trust me?"

"Should I not?" Junhui chuckled at this, a deep rumble in his chest that (y/n) could feel on her arm pressed against his torso.

"My lady, I hold nothing but good intentions."

He slowed their pace some. It was barely detectable, though she was acutely aware of his actions at the moment, curious as to what he had in mind. Soon enough, Joshua and Juliet grew more faint in the distance, carrying on their conversation without having noticed the other two members of the party had severely lagged behind.

"As suspected." Junhui noted, turning his gaze back down to (y/n). "Now they can enjoy their picnic on their own."

"You are a schemeful man, Mr. Wen." (y/n) noted, though she couldn't even finish her sentence without a smile on her face.

"So I've been told before. Come, guide me around Lady Juliet's estate for the time being."

(y/n) found herself willingly doing just so, redirecting him off the main path and deeper into the scenery circling the manor. Lavish greenery surrounded them, a viridescent landscape which seemed to stretch on for miles. At some point, she had given up her parasol, closing it so to feel the warmth of the sun once more. Her heels dug into the earth with every step, giving her a clumsy gait as she ambled through the residence, though she didn't mind one bit. Not when Junhui was there, balancing her with a gentle hand along her back and a thunderous laugh to coincide with it.

At some point, she found the garden maze. It was quaint, serving more as a divider than any sort of complex labyrinth. It's common knowledge to her, yet should have been a cautionary sight for Junhui, yet he seemed to dive in just as eagerly as she, as if having put all of his faith into her as their navigator.

"You know, my mother would not approve of you right now." (y/n) spoke, allowing him to trail behind as she navigated through the hedges.

"I find that hard to believe." Junhui hummed in an amused tone. "I hear she's rather smitten with me." His presence suddenly grew nearer until he was only just behind her, mouth lowered to her ear. In a low voice, more breathy than anything, he continued. "Wants me to be her son-in-law."

(y/n) felt warmth surging to her face, scuttling forward quickly as she waved him off of her, earning more arrogant laughs from the man.

"Perhaps you're right. I presume Joshua and you have been talking matters outside of business?"

"A natural occurrence between friends, yes."

"Though I don't say this in regards to your character itself. You are undoubtedly a gentleman suitable for any mother-in-law."

"You flatter me, my lady."

"However," she started, glancing behind her to where Junhui watched her closely, soft gaze trained on her as (y/n) came to a halt. "Have you forgotten one of the cardinal rules of etiquette?"

"And pray tell what that could be?"

"A lady and a man should never be left alone in the same room?"

It was a simple jeer towards him. Both a means of teasing the supposed gentleman arc he carried, though also a way to test the waters. To take a gander into the mechanics behind his thought process. Catch him in a moment of weakness as he tried to explain why a married man was willingly, and in her honest opinion seemingly ambitious, to be left alone with someone like herself.

She had expected perhaps a flush to cross his features, shaky pupils attempting to find an answer somewhere in the depth of the brush they were plunged in, perhaps even a stumble in his cadence as he tried to explain himself and his intentions, yet she received nothing of the sort.

Junhui grinned, biting his lip to conceal the act, though not fully committed to such a deed. He lazily stepped closer until he stood before her once more, perhaps becoming far too comfortable in her personal space, making himself a home in the metaphorical bubble designated for her and her alone.

"Of course, you are correct, as always, my lady." He started, eyes slowly straying from her own to take in the rest of her features at the proximity they stood in. "Yet you seem to have forgotten one minor detail in such a rule." Her head tilted in curiosity, not knowing exactly where he was going with the conversation. He straightened his posture and gestured grandly about the area, as if the answer was somewhere in the air. "A man and woman should never be left alone unless they are in motion. And if I recall, we are indeed in motion as of right now."

She slapped a hand over her mouth as laughter ensued afterwards, her eyes falling shut at the sheer audacity of the man before her. Never before had she met a man with such gall. A man who strayed so far from the stereotypical gentleman trope yet at the same time clung to such an image. Most men around her showed some form of fear or arrogance, yet Junhui showed none of the above.

His arrogance wasn't rude or disrespectful, but more humorous and casual. The only fear he seemed to display in front of her was in regards to herself, the wary glint in his eye that seemed to mistakenly shine through his facade as she left prematurely upon their first meeting.

He was quick witted and audacious, yet unbearably considerate to those around him. And these were only mere observations upon first impressions within their ten minutes of alone time thus far.

"Ah, there's that lovely sound I've been yearning to hear for a second time." His hand rose to her face, brushing back a hair that had fallen from its place as her giggles had diluted some. "My lady, you should be more liberal with such glee. It looks absolutely splendid on you. I'd love to see it more often."

"I'll only show it when you've earned it." She remarked, turning around and continuing down the maze so as to hide the smile that still etched itself in her expression.

At the end of the brief maze, the hedges lowered in stature until they were merely shrubs, allowing them to look past what they once obscured from their sight. A garden with white stone paths, flowers littering the grounds in unorganized patterns. The speckles of color surrounded the marble decorations populating the scenery. A statue of a lady, the vines of the plants licking at her podium as they accepted her as one of their own. Fountains with cherubs pouring out of a pitcher, a seemingly endless supply of water that trickled down into the base of the structure, filling the air with the hypnotic murmurs of water. Dragonflies and butterflies flitted to and fro, flying past the two spectators as they pursued their next floral conquest.

And past the grandeur of the seemly garden was a river. It was narrow and shallow, allowing a person to safely wade in its waters without even getting their hair wet. (y/n) and Juliet would spend far too much time playing there when they were younger to the point that (y/n) could still remember the sensation of the cool stream numbing her skin, the feeling of the smooth rocks beneath her feet, even the exact spot where a root had plunged out of the ground and tripped Juliet, causing her to plunge her entire body into the water.

This entire place brought back fond memories, warming her heart and reminding her of simpler times. It was a place that was near sacred to her and her friend. So why did she so willingly bring Junhui here? He was practically a stranger, not a person deserving of such a nostalgic haven to her, yet she slid her hand back into the crook of his arm so easily and allowed him to guide her through the area.

It was quiet between them, this peaceful tranquility that soothed away the tensions in her heart. As if momentarily in this instance, in this little pocket of heaven away from the eyes of the world, everything was okay. That warm feeling in her chest, the way her heart beat so apparently, the undeniable comfort that came with being so close to Junhui. None of it was shameful.

She didn't flinch as his free hand rested on top of her own holding him, thumb softly brushing over her gloved fingers. Her head rested against his side, lips tugging up at the corners of her mouth as she embraced whatever fleeting contentment she could derive before the moment would eventually be revoked from her. Before she'd have to settle back into reality and accept that Junhui is not someone she should be doing any of this with.

She shouldn't be falling victim to her own fantasies, succumbing to the temptations conjured by her own psyche, betrayed by her own being as she fell for a man she was not allowed to pursue. A cruel and unfair jest on the universe's part, and one she'll forever hold a grudge against. Offering such a perfect man to her like a carrot on a stick which she'll never capture, only existing to desperately chase after.

And just like that, the day seemed to pass by as if in mere seconds, this warm orange glow settling in the sky as the sun dipped beyond the horizon. The once crystal blue river was now like molten honey as the day waned, and the only indicator she had was Junhui finally speaking.

"It seems it's gotten rather late, my lady." Surveying her surroundings, (y/n) nodded, shocked by how obvious the change had been and she hadn't been made aware at all. "Allow me to escort you home."

She held no form of protest, allowing Junhui to retrace their route and head to the carriage he and Joshua had arrived in.

"Would it not be rude to abandon Joshua here?" (y/n) asked, climbing into the body of the coach with the assistance of Junhui's hand in hers.

"We're merely granting him a viable excuse to spend even more of his time with Juliet. I'm failing to see the issue here."

Junhui was such pleasant company, silly in his mannerisms yet able to hold intelligent conversation for long periods of time. (y/n) was completely enamored by his intellect, a side she knew had to have existed with his merchant background, yet something she had failed to truly anticipate the extent of such information as he began discussing his business matters with her.

"You are well versed in this subject, my lady." He noted with a curious tilt of his head and a fond smile.

"Should I not be?" (y/n) riposted, a coy grin slipping past her facade as Junhui hummed in amusement.

"On the contrary, I find it to be refreshing." (y/n) met Junhui's genuine gaze, his intimidatingly honest eyes seemingly concentrated on (y/n) and (y/n) alone. "Many ladies are condemned from learning such proceedings. It's nice to share such discussions with someone outside of these matters; gain a perspective with no bias."

"I see." She tore her stare from him, instead opting to admire the passing surroundings as they neared her family's estate. The world was slowly growing darker, though there was just enough orange in the sky to make out minor details and simple silhouettes of the trees and buildings which they encountered. "Well as you've said, women are often condemned from learning such things. My parents have never outright forbade me from pursuing such knowledge, but I am keenly aware of the connotations of our day and age. However, I feel the library is just vague enough of a gray area that I can escape the gender restraints subjected unto us."

"So you've your library to thank for such intel?"

"Indeed. A grand library with shelves stretching to the ceiling, completely stocked with every variety of book. And what else is a lady to do in her spare time than to waste away her life reading everything she can get her hands on." Junhui smiled at this, teeth on display and his eyes crinkling as he listened to her speak.

"I'd ought to visit such a place one day." He inquired, voice lowering in volume as if sharing a secret with her. A secret of a married man insinuating a second rendezvous with a young lady he should not be affiliated with. (y/n) cleared her throat, fiddling with the embroidery of her gown as she attempted to bypass his lax mannerisms in speech.

"You must. I'm sure Joshua would be delighted to give you a tour of our home upon your next visit." The words felt as awkward as they sounded, her subtleties flying out the window as the day waned. She dare not look at Junhui for fear of his expression revealing his truth. Of yet another factor to add onto her already ever growing list of reasons to question her reality and everything she had grown to know. Though even with her futile attempts at avoiding his honest expression, she failed to take into account his equally honest intonation he used in every word he spoke.

"I'm sure he would, ever the gentleman he is." Junhui began, voice undeterred by her initial evasion. "Though I'd like someone with proven familiarity to show me about the library, wouldn't you agree? Someone who has shown their validity in this realm to me?"

Finally she met his gaze once more, flustered by how direct he has always been. And he hadn't an ounce of shame from his words, that same smile stretched across his face as if he hadn't a care in the world. As if asking his business associate's sister for a personal tour of their home was a matter that came so often and so common that there was no need for courtesies to be regarded.

But this was not what the world was like.

A man and a lady should always bear some decency in their actions. Unless they are courting one another, they should not be left in the same vicinity alone. A married man should not pursue a lady outside his matrimony in such a way that it can be mistaken for adultery. The two of them have delved into dangerous waters. They've foregone the initial area of concern and have instead been thriving in this forbidden area that they should have never passed in either of their states. And strangely enough, (y/n) felt to be the most victimized in the situation.

The misogynistic tendencies of news outlets to paint the mistress as the villain who broke a perfectly stable marriage, yet here she is thrust into the role of potential mistress with no means of escape. Every fiber of her being cried to run away, leave everything behind, abandon Junhui where he stood because he was no different from a devil tempting her in malicious ways and luring her into a sinful rapture.

Yet this idiotic part of her yearned for him. Desperately sought out his attention in any form he'd grant her. She could still feel the warmth of his body against hers when they had walked in the garden. She could hear his laugh playing repeatedly in her head, his voice serenading her as she thought about everything he's ever said to her. He was so kind and witty and funny. Everything a girl could dream of. And she soon understood the mistress in all of those articles, because she truly was on the brink of becoming one herself.

The carriage stopping was like a godsend, an answer to her prayers as she all but scrambled out, hopping down at a mind boggling speed that had Junhui leaping out of his seat to rescue her had she fallen. But instead, she merely brushed off her dress and turned back to Junhui, staring in awe at her after her sudden burst of movement.

"Thank you for today, Mr. Wen. I truly enjoyed our little walk and I appreciate what you've done in regards to my brother and my best friend's prospective marriage. I'd love to hear about how it's gone once my brother comes home, but you really must return to the estate, as I'm sure your business meeting is soon to start. Thank you again." Her words came out rushed and jumbled, sentences threading together with barely a moment's breath spared. Before Junhui could even respond, she was rushing into her home and up the stairs before anyone could question her and see how absolutely perturbed she had become in the past hour or so because of Mr. Wen Junhui.

When she had said she'd love to hear how the matters regarding the soon-to-be couple had gone once Joshua returns, she had intended it to be a sign to Junhui that rather than he tell her himself, her brother instead tells her, thereby cutting off any necessity for the two to ever speak again.

Yet Junhui in his spectacular ways of skirting around the issues of formalities and such had taken it upon himself to skew her words to his benefit.

His first letter had come quite literally the next day when her brother had gotten back, Joshua himself handing it to her before going off to do whatever he does in the day. It was a simple envelope, her name written in swirled ink at the front to show who its intended reader was meant to be. A red wax seal concealed its contents; a simple design of a cat pressed into the seal. From the looks of it alone, it seemed to be devoid of any nefarious purposes. Love letters tend to be doused in perfumes, blue seals with rose and heart imprints. Yet this one seems to lack any sense of personal touch, aside from the cat seal, which (y/n) could only assume was a mere preference on Junhui's part.

My lady,

I hope this letter gets to you swiftly. As swiftly as it takes Joshua to arrive home, as you had made clear to me.

As intended, the two seem to be smitten with one another. Joshua had almost forgotten his entire purpose for arriving at the manor had I not returned after our carriage ride. They seem closer than they originally were, and I believe we've achieved our goal! Though I expect nothing less from such a savvy and clever lady such as yourself. You truly must show me those business books of yours so I may learn from them as you've done.

Jun

Upon reading the first part of the letter, (y/n) couldn't help but to roll her eyes at Junhui's sarcasm, though slowly but surely, she ended the letter with a smile that she couldn't contain. And she made sure to note her distaste for such a letter in her reply, biting back her giggles as she wrote about how discourteous Junhui was and how he lacked in any sort of manners.

With a circular red wax seal, she handed the envelope to Joshua, asking him to deliver it to Junhui whenever he was able to. And what started out as a simple letter with a response became a full fledged exchange of letters on the daily, and perhaps the highlight of (y/n)'s day whenever Joshua would return home.

Junhui was as funny in writing as he was in person, chiding her for using a golden seal once as if he were a lady she was exchanging letters with. Though he forgave her once she changed from their usual formal red seal to a green one—an indicator of friendly relations between the two correspondents.

He also rather obviously insisted she begin referring to him as Jun, as indecent as it were. From his first letter merely ending with the name, 'Jun' slowly grew more and more apparent, from growing in size to becoming bolder compared to the other words to even taking up the entire bottom portion of the page once.

And (y/n) couldn't help but continue the exchange, as wrong as she knew it was. She reasoned it under two friends merely talking to one another, opting to forget the circumstances between them and instead revel in whatever form of Junhui her conscience would allow her to accept.

And for the most part, as stated, it truly was friendly relations. He'd ask what she'd done that day, discuss things he'd seen since his prior letter, even send doodles and newspaper clippings to her. The times he'd seemingly grow more coquettish were times she'd chastise him almost immediately, before then continuing on with where they left off. And it seemed she'd have to do the same thing now, as Junhui supposedly never learned from her admonishments.

"(y/n), dinner is being served." The family's maid announced from beyond the door.

"I'm on my way." Even though she responded, she could sense the woman still lingering in her spot.

"The madam also insists you make yourself presentable."

"For what purpose? Not like we have a guest over." Silence. (y/n) raised her brow, pushing back from her writing desk to finally open the door. The maid still stood there, offering an apologetic smile. "Who is here?"

"Supposedly a prospective marriage partner your mother has been eyeing for you."

(y/n) nodded at this, thanking and dismissing the woman before closing the door. Back in the sanctity of her room, she groaned aloud, begrudgingly making her way to her armoire.

Although (y/n) has been distracted with her internal battle revolving around Wen Junhui, her mother has seemingly long forgotten the disappointment of the failed courtship and has once more prowled for yet another eligible bachelor she could lure home in hopes of having her daughter wed. It was a common occurrence, though nevertheless uncomfortable every time she had to endure it.

Her eyes landed upon that same dusty yellow dress that Junhui's hair had reminded her of when they first met. It brought a smile to her face, at first gentle in nostalgia and remembrance, though then shifted into a sly smirk, opting to remove the gown from its hanger as her own personal gag. To wear a dress that reminds her of another whilst she rejects whoever resides downstairs.

Perhaps through spite alone, her energy came bounding forth when she made her way downstairs, excited to send home yet another man, until she entered the parlor and came face to face with none other than that same head of yellow that inspired her current look.

Junhui turned his head up to her, his grin stretching from ear to ear once she had come into view.

"My lady," he had stood up from his place, reaching for her gloved hand to place yet another kiss onto her knuckles. "You look as lovely as you did the day we met. Your beauty seems to be unwavering."

"Mr. Wen," (y/n) bowed her head, ignoring the rapid warmth seizing at her heart from where Junhui still held her hand in his. "It's a pleasure to meet you again."

"Mr. Wen? Have we not moved on from such formalities at this point in time?" Her eyes widened at his statement, glancing around in hopes that her mother wasn't around to hear of such nonsense. Though luckily it seemed the only other person in the room at this moment was Joshua, who laughed at his sister's reaction.

"Junhui, stop tormenting (y/n), you know how she is when it comes to holding proper etiquette."

This seemed to silence the imp of a man, though it hadn't stopped the mischievous glint in his eye as he continued to stare at her. Or more specifically, her dress, attempting to absorb as much as he could without blatantly gawking at her. Though still, it was enough to have her dismissing herself from the two boys, scurrying away to the kitchen where her mother was currently discussing meal plans with the chef.

"Mother," (y/n) muttered, shuffling to a closer proximity to her parent to keep her voice low, lest there be stray ears listening about.

"Oh, my dear, you look absolutely lovely." Her mother gushed, nodding to the chef one last time in confirmation before closing the distance between her and her daughter.

"I look this way because you urged me to dress as such."

"Yes, Mr. Wen is just in the other room. Go greet him, I'm sure he'd feel flattered to have such a pretty hostess."

"Mother, might I remind you that Mr. Wen is indeed a married man. Not only is he a married man, but you as well are a married woman. I suggest you cease with your blasted fawning before you manage to upset someone." Her mother sighed, eyes shifting up to the ceiling in consideration at the words spoken.

"I understand where you're coming from. However, he has not directly told me such. So I'd like to continue this potential courtship between you two until he says otherwise." (y/n) clenched her jaw. Not in anger at her mother's words, though rather also considering what she had just said.

It's true that Joshua is a reliable source, as he is their very own son and brother, but Junhui doesn't know Joshua told them. Her mother's reasons, though highly improbable and immature as they are, made some sense in the grand scheme of things, and (y/n) had nothing more to say but to nod at her mother and scamper out of the kitchen.

Luckily, the boys remained as they were in the parlor, laughing freely at whatever was being exchanged between the two. Junhui's voice always carried itself throughout the house, drifting in the air easily and reaching (y/n) where she stood. She wanted to go back in. She had grown more accustomed to Junhui through their letters, though meeting him again in person felt like an entirely different circumstance she wasn't fully prepared for.

Her mother's words remained in her head, the arrogance reminding her of the sole reason her and Junhui first exchanged letters. How the two parties both seemed to ignore implications in words and actions and instead pursued their own endeavors through sheer intended miscommunication. It was funny in a way, though still terribly irritating, especially when she sat at the table and realized how swimmingly the lot got along together.

Banter flowed easily, her mother and Junhui bonding well as they ate. Father was much more reserved, though still seemed rather taken with their guest. Joshua equally so, though as his friend, it was a given that he'd be invested in whatever Jun had to say.

And to (y/n), it felt like the obvious was just lingering in the air, dangling precariously above them all like the sword of Damocles. All it took was a mere mention of marriage for that thread to snap, to have the sword barreling down into mother's dreams of having Jun join the family through marital relations with (y/n). Yet no one dare mention it.

A topic her mother was so seemingly obsessed with was never uttered. Joshua and father likewise danced around the subject, avoiding it as if it were the plague. And funnily enough, (y/n) found herself doing the same. The words felt forbidden, like poison on the tip of her tongue. And when spoken, this entire fantasy concocted by her family would dissolve away before her eyes. For the time being, it felt alright to accept the delusions set up by them all.

Dinner soon came to an end, and by the time they had all finished eating, the sun had long set, the entire outside world blanketed in darkness with only the obscured half moon to offer some reprieve. Her parents deemed it right to invite Junhui to stay for the night, not wanting to cast out their guest on such a dark and dreary night. And as if it were a sign from the gods themselves, some time after Junhui had accepted their invitation, the heavens began releasing this dreadful onslaught of rain, heavy enough to have the roads flooded within minutes of it starting. As such, (y/n) herself couldn't even find any fault in their suggestion, thoughts of Junhui getting hurt and abandoned out in the rain keeping her from even jokingly casting him aside.

The thoughts remained long after she had retired for the night. Images of what could have happened had Junhui rejected their offer of staying for the night. Some righteous part of her brain insisted she'd take the role of some fictitious hero and brave the storm to save him herself. Another part of her brain attempted to rationalize that former statement, saying she'd have done the same had it been Juliet or Joshua out there. Yet that reasoning did nothing to quell the fact that had very well made itself known at this point—that Junhui had nestled himself comfortably in her heart right beside those who she held nearest and dearest.

Junhui was as dangerous a man as one could be. It was concerning how quickly (y/n) had grown so familiar with him in such a short span of time. It was unnerving how happy his letters made her and how she cherished every scrap of paper he sends her. She dotes upon his script as one would a lover, noting every detail of his writing and filing it away under Junhui. She brushes her fingers over his letters to the point that they seem already worn by the time she's done reading, as if she could feel that burning touch of his through the parchment he'd slave over, if his careful and intricate penmanship were any sign of the attention he puts into every message he sends her.

Eventually, it had grown rather late, to the point that she didn't even have to count the chimes of the grandfather clock, as a singular ding sounded through the house. It was futile to even attempt to continue pretending to sleep when all she could think of was everything Junhui. Whether it was one in the afternoon while she busied herself with books and household chores, or one in the morning when she was once more on her own with no other companion than that of the moon, Junhui seemed to remain a resolute entity in her thoughts. Even as she wandered outside her chambers, Junhui was still at the forefront of her mind, and she found that her feet had naturally taken her to the library.

It was indeed a grand archive of books and documents, and she must have read most of them by this point. With a candlestick in one hand, she held its light up to the shelves, browsing through the selections of novels at her disposal, all the while still with Junhui plaguing her thoughts, especially when she reached the business section, nestled in the corner right beside one of the windows of the room. It was a cozy area that offered seating on its large pane, and the angular bay window brought in the perfect amount of sunlight to read for the entire day. She was just about to sit at her usual reading area when she suddenly heard the door click open.

As quickly as she had fled the carriage beforehand, she leapt into the darkness away from the window, blowing out her candle and praying for the shadows to obscure her enough to stay hidden.

As if a cruel and sinister ploy on her part, the tall mahogany doors pushed open, unveiling the blonde newcomer as he padded into the library. His hair was tousled some, though still retaining the general shape of his usual styling. Gone was his coat and vest, instead displaying his flowy white undershirt, neckline untied and parted, revealing a rather generous portion of his collarbones to her eyes.

He looked near ethereal. The candle in his hand flickered with life, casting its warm honey glow across the planes of his face. And in the contrasting cerulean ambience of the moonlight seeping in through the window, Junhui stood there as the outlier. The eccentric oddity he has always been. And it seemed as if he were near beckoning her to emerge from her place of hiding, calling to her like a beacon to a mindless moth.

She couldn't tear her eyes from him, helplessly standing there in this futile battle with herself. He had caught her at her weakest point, after having been assaulted by thoughts of him and nothing else for what has felt like days on end, as well as with her weakened resolve at such a late hour. It was a miracle in itself that she still stood firmly where she resided and hadn't fallen victim to her own inhibitions, so desperately wanting to fall into his arms and let him embrace her. To hide away from the rest of the world, push aside those worries that had hung over her for so long, as if Junhui's hold would erase it all, protect her from the outlash she so feared.

He stood there like an angel, his mere presence enough to weaken her to the point that she shook from her restraint, though beneath this facade, he was more like a snake in her garden of Eden, tempting her into pursuing her personal transgressions.

His back was to her as he browsed the selection of books, fingers skimming the spines as he perused about. (y/n) was tentative with her steps as she mirrored him, ensuring she remained out of his sights. The closer he came to the window, the further she got. She had nearly reached the door when her foot pressed upon a weakened floorboard, the squeak which came from it near deafening in the otherwise silent room. She grimaced as Junhui had also come to a halt, too afraid to turn around and verify for herself.

"Is anyone there?" His voice was low and stoic, unflinchingly rigid, and whether it be from lack of use over the past few hours of nightfall or true hostility, she remained as is, too wary to find out for herself.

Perhaps if she stood as still as she possibly could, he'd dismiss it as the house settling and she'd be able to slip away without him ever noticing. Yet unfortunately, she underestimated Junhui and his perceptive abilities, as he had immediately rerouted to head in her direction. She had no hope from the very start.

She saw her silhouette slowly come to life as his candle grew nearer and nearer, until she was now facing a perfect outline of herself in an orange aura, and beside hers was Junhui's own shadow.

"My lady!" All initial signs of malice in his voice dissipated, replaced by that same saccharine timbre he has always used with her. It was enough to coax her into finally facing him, eyes trailing up to meet his unabashedly joyous smile upon seeing her. Who else would be as elated to see her if not Junhui, whose eyes darted to every feature of her face, cheeks warming and smile widening under the heat of the candle illuminating his expression. "My lady, what are you doing out here? It's far too late for you to be reading, and much too cold!" His free hand patted his chest, as if forgetting he came out of his room without his coat to offer her. His immediate regretful countenance brought a smile to (y/n)'s face, the tension in her body melting away the longer she gazed up at the boy in front of her.

"I'll be alright, though I thank thee for your concern nevertheless."

His expression was so unbearably tender. His soft eyes filled with mirth, dark like cocoa and ever so inviting. She was grounded in her spot, helpless under his gaze. It was as if she were staring directly into the universe held within those deep, brown orbs that seemed unwaveringly fond of no one else but her—as if she was his universe.

And it was frightening. How easily she found herself falling into this world made of only themselves. As if nothing else existed or mattered, as long as they were by one another's side. It was frightening how right it all felt.

It had taken every ounce of her being to tear her eyes from his, head turned to the door she was so close to slipping out of.

"I really must be on my way." She attempted to step away from him, but she froze. His hand wrapped around her own, gently tugging her back to him. His skin was warm against her own, and that heat seemed to slowly trail up her arm, keeping her rooted in her spot, effortlessly allowing him to reel her back to him.

"My lady, please forgive me for my indecent manners, but… Perhaps you may keep me some company?" Junhui's expression faltered some, eyes wavering as they flicked from her to the ground beneath them. "For a few minutes is all. I still have yet to see this business section we've been discussing."

How had he been reduced to such a vulnerable state in mere moments? His usual bravado, that could oftentimes be mistaken for arrogance and the like, seemingly vanished without a trace, instead leaving behind this boy who trembled under her touch, eyes glazed over with this pleading look that was near impossible to deny.

With a minute nod so subtle that it could have been missed if one had blinked, Junhui burst into that same smile that (y/n) found herself more enraptured by day after day. She shuffled ahead of him, softly towing him along behind her as his hand remained in hers, appearing to have no intention of slackening his grip any time soon.

She led him to the window sill, where adjacent to them stood the bookshelf of business and political books she had delved into the previous summer. Some were older classics with yellowed and torn pages while others were the latest edition of recently published novels. She took a seat at the window, knowing that with such a large collection, Junhui would be bound to browse the selection for some time.

Yet instead of the shelves before them, Junhui's attention remained on (y/n), sitting beside her immediately as to not disconnect their hands. At this, (y/n) looked to him, bewildered by his eagerness to remain attached to her.

A fool. There was no better word to describe the way he looked. Mouth agape in wonderment, breathing slowed and steady as if in a trance. Eyes hooded over and glassy, looking as if he were in desperate need of shut eye, yet refusing to close them for not even a second.

In any other circumstance, (y/n) would've corrected his posture and snapped him back into reality, but instead she remained as is, equally captivated by him and his close proximity. Her eyes traced along his features, greedily absorbing any and every detail she could before the moment passed. His candle sat behind him, the light long forgotten as his broad back blocked the glow from her eyes.

They sat there together, under the watchful gaze of the moonlight above them, completely and utterly and unashamedly taken by the other.

"My lady," Junhui whispered, volume dropped until he spoke in nothing more than a breath. He paused, allowing the words to stir in his mind before slipping out. "I truly do hope you aren't entirely irate upon my abrupt request. Especially since I had already questioned you as to why you were out of your chambers at such a late hour."

"You are forgiven." (y/n) responded with a smile, gaze descending to their conjoined hands resting together. It felt so right. It felt as if she were born for this very moment with how destined it seemed for them to be together. How her heart mended together in mere moments, and she hadn't even realized how fractured it had become on its own before meeting Junhui. Yet even with the stars aligning above them, nothing could prove this to be moral.

Not Junhui looking upon her as if she were his sun and his moon, with such earnest fondness pooling in his eyes the longer he's with her. Not the way his hands ceaselessly quake no matter how much restraint he believes he holds, holding her so desperately as if she'd disappear if he lets go, yet also hesitant, afraid of harming her in any way possible. Not the way her entire body seems to be betraying her code of ethics; heart pounding forlornly for him, arms itching to hold him and never let go, stomach fluttering with butterflies and flower blossoms as if spring had come early.

Because in the back of her mind, like an ink stain drenched into the rug, forever there no matter how many items you stack upon it to conceal it—Junhui has a beloved back at home, waiting patiently for his inevitable return.

"Perhaps now that you've found the books, you won't be needing me any longer." She laughed softly at her remark, hoping it would conceal the pain in her voice. The agony that she is the one that has to do what's right. She's the only one attempting to correct these wrongs that have transpired over Junhui's stay.

"Perhaps it's not the books I want." She stiffened at Junhui's words. No implications. No nuances. No underlying meanings at all. "Perhaps it's you that I want. Perhaps it's always been you." His thumb ran back and forth across her knuckles as he spoke, and she couldn't tear her eyes away from the sight, afraid of what honesty his expression held now. "Perhaps there will never be a time when I no longer need you."

Her mind was near throttling her, an internal frenzy taking place, demanding she run far away immediately. As far from him as she can. No good could come out of this. She'd be shunned as a mistress, her family would fall into disgrace because of her impulsive actions, Juliet would even be ridiculed by high society for even being associated with the likes of her. And instead of getting up and fleeing, instead of pushing back against Junhui and refusing his advances, she sat there.

She sat there, eyes glassy with unbridled emotion, lips trembling from the impending tears coming her way. Junhui had raised her hands up closer to his view, fingers interlocking almost naturally. The sight brought a smile to his face.

"I love the way your hands fit in mine. Don't you agree?" Silence on her part. Not that she could even speak if she wanted to with this lump in her throat from the cries she's holding back with all her might. Yet this didn't deter Junhui in the slightest as he continued on. "Ever since the first day we met, I've dreamt of this. Feeling your hands without any obstructions." He brought their intertwined hands to his face, pressing the back of hers to his cheek endearingly. "To feel your touch without those infernal gloves." He slowly dragged her hand down from the side of his face to his lips, shutting his eyes as he gently pressed a kiss to her knuckles. "To feel your skin against my lips." She wanted to yank her hand away, his touch so warm it practically burned into her nerves, yet it was near addicting. She was slowly becoming more and more obsessed with his touch, in any way she could get it.

He littered soft, mindless kisses all over her hand, having released his hold on her to cradle his face against her palm, lips pressing into the center in the most tender manner possible. The moment was tranquil and calm, everything she had ever dreamt of experiencing, and it was undeniable at this point how absolutely enamored she had become with Jun.

A harsh creak sounded through the library, startling the two who bounded up to their feet in moments. (y/n), who had wanted to run away like prey from a predator, was prevented from doing just so as Junhui grabbed her, spinning the two around and bringing her to his chest. His back faced the door, alert as ever as his arms kept (y/n) safely tucked away against him. And after some seconds passed and nothing came of the noise, they slowly relaxed, tension slipping away as they begrudgingly departed.

"Our house is rather old, it settles at times." (y/n) stated, eyes trained on Junhui's torso.

"Ah, makes sense. I just grew nervous. I didn't want you to be seen in your nightgown."

"Everyone in this house has seen me in my nightgown. I'm sure the only worry we had was you seeing me in my nightgown." She had chuckled at this, momentarily lowering her defenses and gazing up at Junhui. It had shocked her some to see that dazed look in his eyes still remaining. That warm, loving smile still etched into his face as he brushed back stray strands of hair from her face, his touch lingering with every stroke. And she savored every last bit of it she could, memorizing the way the pads of his fingers skimmed across her face, leaving behind undeniable heat in its wake like matches against a surface.

But eventually, it all had to end.

Junhui walked (y/n) back to her room, bidding her goodnight with a kiss to her hand and a charming smile alongside it. She closed her door, standing there for a moment more, still feeling his presence on the other side. That comfort that seemed to radiate off of Jun in waves, granting her one last reprieve of the night, because as soon as he had finally walked away, her reality quickly came back, settling upon her shoulders heavily. This burden that seemed to endlessly torment her wherever she resided.

Her chest grew tight, squeezing into her as if this insurmountable pressure was against her. Those tears she held back finally broke free, the first few drops cascading down her face before a broken sob finally caught up. And in this mind-numbing, monotonous like frenzy, she began moving about her room.

She grasped the letter that was meant to be delivered to him and tore it apart. The dress which reminded her of his golden locks was shoved under her bed, hopefully never to be seen again. The parasol from the day they walked in the garden together was tossed deep into her armoire, in hopes of it never resurfacing and bringing with it memories of him.

Though she finally collapsed in on herself as she reached her drawer of his letters, weak and numb whilst leaning against her desk for support. The beautiful words he'd write to her, the tedious flourishments in his calligraphy in a feeble attempt to impress her, his humor that translated into his writing so effortlessly.

Such minuscule sheets of paper felt like the world to her, clutching them to her chest like a remedy to her maladies.

Like the only piece of Junhui she could allow herself to keep.

The next day, she stayed in her room, long after Junhui had left. Under the guise of an illness, she was able to hide away for a few days more. Though when the doctor cleared her of any disease she could possibly have, she left the confines of her room, opting to remain within the borders of the estate.

Junhui would come occasionally, and she'd sneak off into her room before he spotted her, or she'd be at Juliet's when his visits were confirmed beforehand.

Joshua would hand her his letters. Everyday. Everyday without fail, Junhui wrote to her, neither discouraged nor put off by her lack of response. And as if routine at this point, she'd toss the unopened letter into her Junhui drawer.

It pained her to be so cruel to him. He's been nothing but caring and affectionate towards herself. Selflessly putting her before anyone else, proving she remains in his thoughts even if he's busy, pouring his heart out to her without any form of regret or denial in him. As much as she knew she loved him, she knew he loved her. But what else is she to do? Force him to divorce a lady to be with her? Commit blatant adultery in front of their friends and family as if nothing were askew? How would she feel if she were in that woman's shoes? Allowing her husband to go about traveling as a merchant, with only hopes and prayers that he'd return to her at the end of each visit.

To fall in love with Junhui truly was a divine privilege, an inevitability yet one that felt utterly sublime to delve into. He was as endearing as he was handsome, a dangerous combination to any weak-hearted imbecile out there. And to be loved back was just as much a delight as was loving him.

(y/n) couldn't ruin Mrs. Wen's marriage for her own selfish endeavors.

They say distance makes the heart grow fonder, and in her case, this proved far too correct for (y/n)'s liking as she accepted her fate.

She'd often find herself seated against her door, head leant against the wooden frame to hear Junhui's muted voice talking to her brother. She'd allow herself at times to be more vulnerable in front of Juliet, a rarity that neither of the girls expected from the likes of someone such as (y/n), yet nevertheless went along with it to allow her an outlet to freely yearn over Junhui. And at night, long after everyone had fallen asleep, (y/n) would lay beside her desk, thumbing through those letters, rereading his words, tracing his cursive, more often than not falling asleep with one cradled to her chest.

She longed for him, more than she ever had before. Her feelings hadn't waned in the slightest as she had initially believed them to do. They remained as is, with her heart tugging forward in hopes of searching for Jun and reuniting with him. Though she feared ever meeting him again. Feared what would come of her if she truly did have him once more in her grasp. She had exhausted all of her restraint in the library that day.

Twas better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all. She hoped this proved as true as the former statement. She hoped that upon Junhui's departure, she'd willingly let him go. Accept the heartache as growth, a cornerstone in her life to revisit when she was older and wiser. To perhaps laugh it off and tell it at teatime with the other ladies in town. About how smitten (y/n) had become for a married man. They'd all laugh about it, and so will (y/n). Ignore the pain that will linger in her heart for years to come and just laugh.

But how long will it take? How long does a broken heart take to recover? How many more nights of crying herself to sleep will it take for her to finally grow numb? For the wounds to cease its bleeding and begin healing? Is it more like a scar, forever residing there as a faded memory of what had once happened, or will it forever be chronic, something that will sting arbitrarily when she sees the color yellow or reads a business book?

Will Junhui think of her 10 years from now? Or will he continue on with life as is? Will he even remember the girl he had absolutely ruined with just his smile alone?

Will she be okay in the end?

Another ornate ballroom. Another orchestra entertaining the masses. Another night where (y/n) stands at the side, warding off anyone who dare approach with her usual cold stare.

She hadn't wanted to come. Her mother dragged her out, insisting she needed socialization after being in the house for so long. And just like every other party they attended, her mother disappeared to mingle, her father off to drink with the other men, and her brother gone to who knows where. Juliet was nowhere to be seen either, perhaps not even attending this banquet.

And so here she stood.

Alone.

Tired.

Dejected.

She felt an elbow suddenly nudge her arm, snapping her out of her daze.

"How can I help you, Joshua?" She asked, turning back to face the crowd after confirming the presence of her brother.

"I've come to ask you the same thing. You look absolutely miserable."

"Thank you. It is the new look I'm trying to achieve. I hear it's rather popular among the ladies of high society—"

"Will you cease with your sarcasm and be serious?" Joshua hissed, sliding into her vision to get her attention. "(y/n), do you not see how terribly worried we all are?" She didn't respond, averting her gaze so as to not feel swayed by the sincerity in his voice. "There's someone that wants to meet you. I'll go get him now."

"Oh, for the last time, Joshua, I am not interested in Soonyoung!" (y/n) huffed, the first emotion she's displayed in the night: complete and utter irritation. "He is a fine gentleman, but I feel nothing for him!"

"(y/n), that's not—"

"I am going to take a much needed breath of fresh air. Please give Soonyoung my best wishes. And with that, good day to you, Joshua. I will see you at home."

Upon finishing her speech, (y/n) stormed off, weaving through the throngs of party goers to slip out the back.

The outside was a stark contrast to whatever hell she had emerged from. The wind was cool with a gentle breeze flowing, picking up stray leaves and petals in its wake. The white stone staircase she found herself on descended into a grand garden, uniform and pristine as opposed to the more natural one she frequents at Juliet's manor. Vines were kept at bay, the grasses evened and trimmed. There wasn't a flower out of place nor a statue out of line.

It felt as miserable as she was.

Though brimming with flowers and the like, it felt lifeless. Every aspect of the garden felt staged, as if a mere facade for others instead of a reflection of its owner. She loathed it, grimacing at every gaudy decor she stumbled upon, at the statues that hadn't a sign of wear upon them, at the flowers that feared growing out of their beds lest the gardener trim those that cross the threshold.

It was perfect. The ideal garden. Not a flaw in sight. And yet she hated every aspect of it.

She collapsed onto the marble bench at the center of the garden. It resided beneath the grand fountain, the focal point of this horrid attraction. But it was the furthest resting point from the party, and it allowed her to finally drop her act of indifference.

Tears began slipping past her waterline, an occurrence which has become second nature to her. She didn't bother to wipe them away, as a fresh coat will only come to replace whatever she erases.

It had been a week since Junhui had departed. The life of a merchant was arduous, ever changing and mobile. And just as he's done for every town before them and every town after, he wrapped up his business and went on his way. The pain was constant, as if he had left town with her heart personally. She remembers sitting in her room, hearing his final goodbyes to Joshua before he left for good. While she knew it was for the better, she truly did feel regretful not saying goodbye to him. She lives with this fact, that she wasted her final chance of seeing Junhui by crying alone in her room. And yet even with the clear avoidance on her part, Junhui still never failed to think of her, as Joshua slipped Junhui's final letter to her.

One with a deep lapis blue wax seal.

Like the others, she tucked it away. Perhaps another day when she's gathered enough strength, she'll open them and read his final words to her. But she couldn't bear it in the state she was in now. She couldn't bear the reminder that she lost perhaps her one true love.

(y/n) could hear footfall nearing her. Her eyes rolled in annoyance, knowing Joshua had sent Soonyoung over anyway. Though I guess it made sense. To the others, Junhui was just another failed suitor, and it was time to move on to the next one.

Soonyoung was indeed kind and handsome, but he was incomparable to Junhui in her mind, as cruel as it may sound. Though the least she could do was amuse the boy one last time before dismissing him like the others.

She felt a coat suddenly drape across her shoulders as a presence descended unto the empty seat beside her, and she felt her heart plummet upon the realization.

"My lady, you shouldn't be out here on such a cold night."

"Junhui." (y/n) shot up onto her feet, backing away instantly as she clutched onto the coat resting along her back.

And there stood Wen Junhui in all of his glory. He looked like an angel having descended from the heavens. This image in white from head to toe with golden accents from the jewelry dangling along his body, his blonde hair gently parted at the center and framing his handsome face so immaculately. He looked as if he had just walked off his marble pedestal, standing before her like one of the many statues in this garden.

It had felt like an eternity since the last time she'd seen him, and the sight had ignited this burning sensation in her eyes. Her breaths came out in puffs of white, the condensed air obscuring her vision as it hid Junhui behind its wall of vapor. Perhaps that's why she couldn't truly take in his face until he had moved, standing in front of her with that same adoring, lovestruck gaze of his.

Her breathing was labored, heavy as if having run about the garden, and it only seemed to grow harsher once Junhui had offered her his hand.

"May I have this dance, my lady?" His voice was so soft, nothing more than a whisper into the night, but it held such unadulterated emotion. This lovingly yearning tone in his words as if on the brink of pleading. And at this point, every function of her body had shut down. That incessant turmoil in her that had resided since Junhui first entered her life suddenly silenced, this peace in her mind that she had seemed to forget was even achievable. With such a clear head, it made way for her body's natural intuition to kick in, and she found herself sliding her hand in his own, drawing nearer to him just as the orchestra's distant playing began a new song.

It was faint, drowned out by the murmur of the fountain before them, yet it was that soft tinkle of a tune that waded in the air around them that created such an alluring, tranquil atmosphere. Junhui twirled her about the area, the tap of their shoes against the stone pavement in unison as they melted into each other's embraces. Junhui's tentative touches that had traveled along her lower back, as if wanting to run his hands over as much as her as he could in their position, had given up their initial courtesy and instead dragged her against him, hands gripping her like his life depended on it. And his unwaveringly adoring stare had her entirely mesmerized by him. That sweet grin of his on display for her, eyes darting to and fro along her face, cheeks rounded from his delight at being reunited once more.

It was a perfect reunion. One she had never imagined she'd ever receive, yet felt like her wildest dream nevertheless.

"How are you, my lady?" He finally spoke, his voice just as honeyed as the rest of his presence. His brows curved in absolute intrigue, as if she were the most interesting thing he'd ever come across. He practically dragged her closer to him in anticipation, if that were even possible.

"I've been well." Her voice had cracked at the beginning of her sentence, prompting her to clear her throat as unnoticeably as she could muster to hide whatever feelings he had begun stirring in her. "And you, Mr. Wen?"

His hold on her had stiffened momentarily, but he proceeded nevertheless.

"I'm… not so well."

"Oh? I'm sorry to hear that."

"It's quite alright, my lady. It's just been a rather curious past few days. You see, I met this woman." She spared him a hopeful glance, and his eyes hadn't strayed from hers for even a moment. "A fine woman. Intelligent. Thoughtful. Humorous. Fun to banter with." His gaze flickered down to her lips as his own twitched upwards at the corner. "This gorgeous smile that knocks the wind out of you, if you're ever given the privilege of seeing it." She couldn't help but to let out a helpless chortle at this, smiling widely at his words as tears began flooding her eyes. Junhui's dancing slowed some, his hand along her waist trailing up to lay along her face, thumb swiping away the moisture collecting at her waterline. "And I had fallen so terribly in love with her."

Her heart throbbed at his confession, and her head felt light as she stared into his wholly genuine gaze. It was frightening how terribly honest he was at almost all times of the day, yet it seemed even more daunting now with not a person in sight nor any motive aside from his own true feelings for her.

"However," he continued, eyes lowering away from her face as his eyebrows knitted together in thought, "I feared I may have lost her forever." His hand had retreated back to her waist, bringing her to him once more, as if a comforting action in the midst of his momentary distress. "Perhaps it had been due to my indecency one night where my feelings had gotten the better of me." He hesitatingly met her eyes once more, breath stuttering and pupils shaky. "Perhaps I've made her uncomfortable with my presence. Perhaps there's no redeeming myself. Nevertheless, I've wanted to apologize to her. Apologize if I've ever forced her into a situation she found to be miserable, or have made her discomfited in her own home. I'd like to apologize, and hope she finds it in her heart to forgive someone like myself?"

"I…"

It was strange. His words something she had to process for another minute to herself as she sorted through these weird circumstances. He had returned to her to apologize for the night in the library. A night she cherished as her final moment with Junhui, as well as the closest she'll ever come to living out her fantasy of being by his side.

It was both something he should apologize for, for giving her such a wondrous moment that she'll never truly be allowed to claim, as if giving her a taste of her favorite dessert before revoking it from her forever. Though it was also something he shouldn't feel obligated to apologize for. Because he truly did give her this wondrous night she'll never forget. Something she can look back upon fondly and remember better times. It felt almost unfair to apologize for giving her such happiness.

Yet in the grand scheme of things, he still hasn't apologized for the largest issue between the two. So with a resolute mind, (y/n) straightened her back, tilting her chin up assuredly as she pressed on.

"Do what you wish. Do whatever you believe feels right." This brought a smile to Junhui once more, his mouth opening as he was about to spew out his many sincere apologies to her, yet she continued on before he could. "However, I feel inclined to remind you to take into consideration not only you and this person, but perhaps someone else you've seemed to fail to consider." His mouth had shut immediately, brows furrowing as she spoke, as if completely and utterly lost, and this only served to irk (y/n) who held back an exaggerated roll of her eyes. "Perhaps someone awaiting you back at home."

"Pardon me?"

Those were his final words before the orchestra had ceased its playing and (y/n) stepped away from him.

"I thank you for this final dance, Mr. Wen. I pray you'll find your way home safely." She curtsied to him as he remained frozen in place, expression contorted into this forced stoicism, yet still riddled with absolute confusion. "I'll be off then. Do not feel pressured to escort me as you always do. I highly suggest roaming about the garden! It's lovely tonight."

And so she once more and for the final time fled from him, hiking up her dress once she was out of view from him to quicken her steps before her tears could fall. She had marched up the stairs at a surprisingly fast rate, garnering shocked looks from those around her who murmured at her indecency, yet she couldn't care less. No one approached her irascible self as she stormed her way through the party, finally spotting her mother towards the back of the room, conversing with her acquaintances.

"Mother, I'd like to return home now." The woman was about to laugh off her words, which was something she frequently heard from (y/n) at these sorts of events, that is until she had finally faced her daughter and saw the despair written across her face. The way her eyes glossed over with a sheen of tears, her lip quivering as she forced it into as straight a line as possible, and just overall barely composing herself whilst in this public setting. Her maternal instincts had finally settled in as she dismissed herself from the other ladies, wrapping an arm around her daughter whilst leading her through the party.

She had passed by Joshua and Juliet, the two looking to her filled with concern, though neither approaching, merely looking to her with this sense of disquietude in their eyes.

Her father had almost immediately summoned their coachmen the moment he'd seen his daughter in such distress, instructing the man to return (y/n) to the manor right away.

It was such a quick ordeal that she supposed Junhui was perhaps still standing there stunned in that garden. And the whole way home, she reminded herself this was for the better.

Though she had laughed at some point upon the idea of just tossing it all away and becoming a mistress to Junhui, it wasn't until she was there being offered that very role that she realized she couldn't find it in herself to be so selfish. It was something she was not in the slightest bit prepared for, in both the case of becoming this person who'd ruin the lives of everyone around her, but also in just the mere act of being granted such a tempting opportunity.

It was unfair that everything had to have resulted in such a way. That she couldn't have just loved Junhui the way she desired. That she couldn't accept his affections for her which had felt so genuine and wholesome. That so many obstacles stood in their way, and it was near impossible for them to have ever gotten their own happy ending.

She thought this as she stumbled out of the carriage and into the manor, lazily dragging her feet along the wooden floorboards as she drowned in her self pity. Yet her body had strayed from its designated route to her room, instead detouring until she found herself standing in the middle of the library. The library where Junhui had showered her in such caring love which haunted her for weeks. A love she'd never experience again.

This was the way life was. A bittersweet exchange. Happiness is a rarity, some being blessed to obtain it so frequently and others merely hoping to stumble upon it as they make their way through such a journey. Life can hold its own humor, able to devastate a person with the slightest of inconveniences or unforeseen circumstances. And (y/n) was merely a victim to life's trials.

It would eventually all pass away. Her torments would soon drift away with the wind as she persevered through it all. It was temporary, she insisted. It was something everyone went through. The loss of a first love. The first person to awaken something in her heart. To brighten her world and show her the vibrancy in everything. The warmth of his hands would forever haunt her own, the love in his eyes something forever ingrained in her memory. And with his absence, he'd take away with him a part of her. Something that will never be there again. Something only he can ever bring about in her.

She mourned the loss of her first love, and she mourned the loss of that part of herself that would forever lie dormant. But this was a chapter in her book she'd have to close. And though it may take some time to do so, it'd eventually happen.

Leaving the library felt more like leaving the book open on its final page, but it was a small step she needed to take. Allow her to stew over Junhui some more, bid him goodbye from her heart, and let bygones be bygones. Because while Junhui couldn't be her last love, he was her first. A position no one else could ever take from him. And while it hurt her, she nevertheless would accept it as such.

The next day came, and she found herself absentmindedly getting dressed. Her head was still hazy from slumber, eyes shutting on their own as she tugged on articles of clothing one after the other. It was early, the morning condensation still clinging to her window as the sun streamed through the droplets, casting warped shadows across her floor as she moved about. The birds sang to her scampering, as if reminding her that a new day was here and it would be a good one.

And it was a relieving omen as she finally exited her room, gloves in hand while she descended the stairs rapidly. She was going to visit Juliet and spend time with her dearest friend, and the sooner the better. Her gloves and bonnet could wait until she was in the carriage to be put on.

"Lady (y/n)." The maid called to her just as she reached the bottom of the stairs.

"Yes?" (y/n) asked, turning around to face the woman.

"You have a guest."

A guest? This early in the morning? As the sun was still stirring awake?

Her curiosity only grew as the maid halted her in her steps.

"Not in the parlor."

"If not in the parlor, then where would this guest have requested we meet?" (y/n) laughed it off at first, taking the time to start tugging on her gloves before she suddenly paused at the next words spoken.

"He requested you meet in the library."

She stopped, glove still dangling at the tips of her fingers as her laughter was replaced by a shocked expression. Junhui? Again?

There was a small part of her that was becoming irate at his constant reappearances every time she had prepared herself for nursing her heartbreak, though a greater portion of her that had already begun rushing to the library, heart leaping at the prospect of seeing him again.

When she had arrived at the doors, she had hesitated, breath stuttering as realization soon set in. What else could he have to say to her? She's already dismissed him as is. If she had to outright reject him directly to his face, she wouldn't be able to live with herself. Perhaps he was just here for a final goodbye—hopefully he was just here for a final goodbye.

The doors had felt heavier than they ever had as she pushed them open, sliding into the room through the generous gap offered before shutting them behind herself. She hoped for a moment to herself as she faced the closing doorway, but she had forgotten who she was dealing with for a second.

"My lady!" His excited voice sounded out from across the room, and the juxtaposition from the solemnity she had expected was quite jarring, enough to shake her from her stupor as she turned to him incredulously. And there he was, practically bounding to her with wide strides and a manic smile on his face. The sight was terrifying, prompting her to press her back to the flat surface behind her as Junhui finally stopped a foot before her.

"Mr. Wen." She responded, and this time, he didn't even flinch at the usage of his last name, merely extending his hand towards her one gloved hand. She tentatively slipped her own into his, and so began the journey back to that damned window sill, Junhui beginning to ramble the entirety of the way back.

"Good morning, my lady. I hope this wasn't too early a wake up call for you. I haven't been waiting long, if you were worried for that. I just wanted to speak with you once more." He had stopped speaking as he sat them both down, his eyes as eager as a retriever of sorts whilst waiting for her response. (y/n) had to have looked petrified, but this didn't deter him in the slightest.

"Good morning to you, too, Mr. Wen…" Her voice came out as tense as her body was, eyes darting about the room as if hoping for some sort of answers to come to her soon. Answers as to why Wen Junhui sat there so enthusiastically before her as if she hadn't already declined his feelings as subtly as she could. "I was actually already awake. You see, I plan to visit Juliet today. So I was already dressed and ready."

She hoped he'd get the message. That she already had plans and that this meeting should go as quickly as humanly possible, but yet again, he chose to pick his own story.

"Oh, how delightful!" He let out a breathy laugh, eyes still trailing across her face before finally some resolution settled in his features. "I wouldn't want to disturb your set plans, so I thank you for taking out some time from your day for me."

The guilt bit at her heart at his word choice, at how grateful he was for her having just sat down for him, but nevertheless she nodded and allowed him to continue on.

"I actually came here to continue our discussion from last night. I felt it hadn't ended the way I wanted it to."

(y/n) scoffed at this, almost amused at how arrogant his words were.

"Well, I'm sorry the conversation did not fit your standards of social expectations, but I feel it ended as well as it could regarding the circumstances." He lit up almost at the end of her sentence, smile coming back into place as she sat up.

"No, that's the thing. The circumstances you speak of are gravely misinterpreted."

"What ever could you mean?" She tilted her head at this, still failing to grasp what route Junhui could possibly be taking their meeting.

"Well, I'm afraid I haven't been entirely honest. That's not to say I've lied directly to you, but perhaps the lies I've spouted to others have finally come back to bite me." He pursed his lips into a thin line, eyes wandering up in thought, as if deliberating once more on these supposed lies he's gotten himself tangled in. With a shake of his head, he returned his attention to her. "Please, allow me to explain. I know I don't deserve a moment, but please spare me a moment to try and salvage what has transpired?"

She took a deep breath, shutting her eyes before nodding at his request. He scooted closer to her, back with that enthused smile on his face as he held her hand in his, thumb softly stroking the skin beneath the glove's seam.

"So as you know, I'm rather handsome."

She snorted at this, hand slapping against her mouth as he chuckled at her reaction.

"That's how you've decided to start this conversation?"

"Yes, now allow me to continue." (y/n) nodded, granting him permission to continue speaking, though this time more lighthearted as a smile fell upon her lips.

"Go on, Adonis."

"Anyways, I am burdened by my good looks, you see? Though it is something I must live with." She bit her lip, attempting to contain the laugh wanting to burst from her, but nodding again, indicating she was paying attention. "And so when I go to places, I'm often courted by many a fair lady. I'm sure your first impression of me was something along the lines of a potential marriage partner, was it not?"

"I'm afraid so." She answered, keeping her voice as steady as she could manage. "My mother was quite smitten when she first laid her eyes upon you."

Junhui laughed, thumb slipping further into her gloves until it rested at the base of her palm.

"As most are. I am something of a mother-in-law wrangler."

This time, she couldn't help but laugh aloud, leaning on Junhui for support as he also laughed, shoulders bouncing with glee where her head rested. When things had finally settled some, he continued with his plight.

"It was around the time I had first became a merchant that I realized this. I'd go to a different town, come to know the people, get a handful of marriage requests, and I'd have to reject each and every one." He pouted, slouching against the window behind him. "I don't like hurting people. I don't like breaking hearts. But it was something that became so frequent with my job." He glanced over at her to make sure she was still listening, and when he saw he had her undivided attention, he proceeded. "So I came up with a diversion of sorts. To already be betrothed before anyone asks me. So as to not outright reject anyone anymore, but also to easily ward off future marriage prospects."

(y/n) hummed at this, realizing it truly did work that first night at the ball. Her mother had looked so defeated and downtrodden as she came to terms with Junhui already being off the market, and hadn't pressured (y/n) to talk to him at all.

But once she finally processed his words, she felt her heart skip a beat. Her eyes widened and her hand clenched around his own, jaw falling slack at the information told to her.

He's not married.

Junhui's lips twitched up into a smile when he noticed her realization at his confession.

"My lady, I am very much so single and available."

That was all she needed before she had all but launched herself at him, laughter filling the air as she tossed her arms around him. Junhui easily caught her, pulling her into a warm, tight embrace as they reveled in one another's presence.

Tears pricked at her eyes, and her arms were beginning to feel sore from how tightly she held him, but she couldn't have been happier. She hugged him just as she always imagined she would. As greedily as she had always dreamt of being. She inhaled his scent as if breathing the open air for the first time in a millennia. She hadn't realized how restrained she truly did feel until her shackles had dissipated into nothing. How liberating it was to love as freely as she so desired.

(y/n) was the first to pull away, though not by far as she sat herself atop his lap, gently carding her fingers through his hair whilst taking in his features once more. Taking in the face that, presumably, now belonged to her very own soon to be betrothed. He smiled, this cat like, sated grin with his eyes shutting under her soft touch. And she was wholly endeared by such an expression, finding herself unconsciously leaning forward and pressing a kiss to the corner of his lips.

His eyes had fluttered open upon this, though he held no surprise in them. Merely curious wonder as he watched her with his wide, observant eyes. And (y/n) watched back, just as calm as ever.

Within the next moment, Junhui had reciprocated her action, tilting his head so to press his lips against her own.

A gentle, ever so loving kiss. One which held the weeks of yearning from the two of them, yet also the passion that blazed between them. This adoration that once sparked could not be tamed in any way. And it was almost humorous to think otherwise. That a love of their caliber could have been foregone had it not been for Junhui's clarification.

Her hands cupped his face, thumbs softly brushing against his cheeks bones as his hands reached up to her wrists, holding her closer to him as he spoke every silent utterance of his love for her through his kiss, hoping that whatever superfluous words he could have possibly ever managed to profess to her in some helpless way of describing what he feels for her would be able to be conveyed in this manner; felt rather than heard.

Once more, (y/n) was the first to separate, pulling away from his warmth after some few moments later. His eyes remained shut, though his lips had absentmindedly trailed after her own, dazed from such an ordeal that she couldn't help but giggle at his antics, snapping him free from his stupor.

Serene. That was how it felt. Being wrapped in Junhui's arms, feeling the warmth of his soft lips still lingering on her own, falling deep into his sweet, dark gaze, the honey-like embers in the chocolate of his eyes enough to have her drowning in that tender stare of his. And he seemed so tranquil from beneath her, as if having no worries in the world. As long as she was there, perhaps he'd never feel another ounce of anxiety ever again.

"I love you." He spoke first, timbre smooth and delicate as he spoke such fond words. His eyes seemed glassy with emotion, prompting (y/n) to kiss him once more.

They were words she had craved to hear him utter. Something she had dreamt of happening for days to come, and something which had felt even sweeter in person. And soon, all of the turmoil she'd gone through over the past few days seemed redundant. The efforts to hide Junhui from her memories futile as she now embraced him in hopes of him never leaving again. In hopes of forever reveling in this feeling for however long she could.

"I love you, too."

"The weather is divine today, don't you agree?" Junhui spoke as he led the two through Juliet's garden once more. The vines were overgrown, the flowers plentiful and random, and the attempts at achieving perfection had been missed greatly. But it couldn't have been a more beautiful sight, especially whilst beside her love, Junhui.

Things had fallen into place rather seamlessly, as if the flow of things had been momentarily obstructed, though now was able to move about freely with no hassles. Junhui had cleared away any and all misunderstandings rather quickly once (y/n) had accepted his intentions.

Supposedly it had actually been Juliet's father whom Junhui had begun the rumor with, as he has done in every town he ventured to: planting the seed and allowing it to grow and spread to others. It was he who told Joshua, who then told (y/n). Junhui hadn't expected news to travel as quickly as it had, as silly as it sounded. But nevertheless, all was clarified, and soon everyone knew (y/n) was Junhui's betrothed.

His prior betrothed had been promptly retired, though not before having caused a momentary raucous between the two lovers.

"How long have you been doing this betrothed charade?" (y/n) had asked one night as they sat alongside each other in her library. Junhui paused from his reading, humming in thought before answering her question.

"Five years."

"Five years?" (y/n) was taken aback, jaw dropping as she drew away from him to take in all of his person. "You've been dragging this poor girl as a false betrothed for half a decade?"

"No, no," Junhui placed his book down in a panic, pivoting to face (y/n) as he sensed a new misunderstanding to arise. "I've been dragging a poor girl's corpse as a false betrothed for half a decade."

His words, as they usually tended to do, caused even more of a misunderstanding between the two, but he had swiftly explained himself, having used an unmarked grave by his hometown as a name for his betrothed, so that if anyone had dared investigate his motives, they'd come across the grave of a widow's wife, and perhaps feel an ounce of guilt for having dug into Junhui's life.

Yes, he was quite the imbecile, though it was endearing to her, especially as he scrambled over his words moments after the two had confessed their love to one another in the library that day.

She was still seated in his lap as he had begun rambling nonsense.

"(y/n), I truly am madly in love with you. My affections are entirely genuine. Everything we've experienced, every encounter we've shared, has truly been moments with which I shall cherish with my entire being. Aside from this one fib of sorts, I have not hidden anything from the likes of you, nor shall I ever. You shall always be my top priority. I'll take care of you, I'll drop everything at your beck and call. I–"

"Jun." His name sounded so lovely coming from her, as if she spoke such vibrant life into that singular syllable, and it was enough to silence Junhui who stared up at her in awe at how in love he truly was with her. "My dear, you're rambling these promises to me, yet you haven't even verified whether I've accepted them or not." He could hear the tease in her voice, feel the way her heart beat for him from her pulse where his thumb rested over her wrist. But he always enjoyed a good game, especially if no matter the outcome, he'd win. And so he gathered her hands into his own, eyes sparkling with mirth as he gazed up at her.

"My love, though this may not be the most wondrous of locales we could have chosen, nor is it the inimitable romantic moment with which I had dreamt of asking you, but I can only hope you'll forgive my inopportune choice in time and consider me nevertheless. Consider whether you'll accept my affections as they are; truly and wholly genuine in every sense of the word. Though I may lack in etiquette at times, say strange things, conjure deranged ploys that no man on earth has considered nor executed, I still find myself yearning to be by your side, if you'll have me, as your betrothed?"

And how could she say no to such an eloquent proposal? Especially from someone as undoubtedly dashing and humorous as Junhui.

He filled her days with laughter, happiness practically radiating off (y/n) whenever they were together, and he showered her in all the love he could possibly offer a person.

With the security of their now stable relationship, she had also found the strength to open those letters she had stowed away, and it was as painful an experience as she thought it would be.

The first few letters had been vaguely casual, attempting to keep the air of normalcy that had been established in their frequent letter exchanges, but had soon been abandoned upon his realization that she was no longer responding. Desperation sprawled across pages as he tried so dearly to reach out to her. Hundreds of apologies, questions as to where she'd gone, pleads of her returning to him. And that final letter on the day he left—that letter sealed with its deep blue wax—was his attempt at confessing to her before leaving, never to see her again.

"Though strenuous, it is possible for me to hide my affections for you, as I have done through the entirety of our encounters, yet hiding the tenderness I feel for you is not as viable an option for me. I cannot hide the way I naturally care for you, my fondness which reveals itself whenever I am near you. I hide my love for you, yet it seems to seep out no matter how desperately I hold it back. I only wish I could've held on a little longer, perhaps not have frightened you off. I regret my actions dearly. I am left praying for a second chance, as I fear a life without you near."

Life has been terribly cruel to them. Not only had she gone through such hardships, dealing with a love she believed to be impossible to attain, but he had gone through a love he believed to be complex and unrequited.

Yet again, life is funny that way. Life has its humorous moments that seem terribly unfair and tragic, but in the end, it all works out. Perhaps not as smoothly as one would have intended it to, but she couldn't necessarily complain. After all, here she was standing side by side with her beloved Junhui as he regaled her with stories of his latest travels.

"My love, I really must take you on one of my trips with me. What do you say? Perhaps the next one? It's only some few hours from here, I believe." He looked at her hopefully, eyes shining with hope and adoration, the latter being a rather permanent fixture in his gaze whenever she resided in his sights. He was so sappy, yet so endearing. Continuing to send letters to her no matter where he was, surprising her with gifts and displays of his affections, already searching for a manor of their own in town for once they were wed.

He was right. It was impossible to hide his tenderness for her, long before they had even gotten together. He cherished (y/n), treating her as he would his most precious, coveted object. And she splendored in the love he rained down upon her, her only complaint being that she herself seemed to falter in this little game of love of theirs as she attempted to keep up with him. She was sure he'd grow tired of the many knitwear and cross stitch she'd gift him, but he hadn't shown even the smallest signs of growing weary of them, adorning his gloves in the winter and his embroidered handkerchief at meetings.

But the greatest gift they could have ever given each other was merely themselves. In an overgrown, messy garden on a windy day with the sun beaming above them, she couldn't have asked for a better moment.

"I'll go wherever you go, my dear." (y/n) responded, resting her head along his arm and shutting her eyes peacefully. Junhui hummed in delight at this, bringing her hand up to his mouth and pressing a kiss to her wrist, right along her vein where it pulsed against his lip.

"We could even bring Joshua and Juliet along as a double date of sorts. I'm sure they'd enjoy the scenery of the shoreline."

She chuckled in delight at the reminder of her brother and her friend, the two courting one another soon after (y/n) and Junhui had themselves. Apparently they had gotten much closer when they were attempting to get them together, perhaps a much more complicated ordeal than it had been for Junhui and (y/n) to play matchmaker with them, as Junhui was believed to have been married at the time. Though it seemed to work nevertheless.

Joshua had managed to lure Junhui back and into (y/n)'s direction. He was even the one that had cornered him about his intentions with his sister whilst being married—and so enlightened Junhui of the situation at hand, as he then confronted (y/n) the very next day in the library, delighted to realize the misunderstanding occurring.

"I believe they'd like that very much." (y/n) agreed, turning her head to look up at Junhui once more. His golden hair was much longer, pulled back with a ribbon she had tied on him herself in their carriage. He was as handsome as ever, perhaps a beauty that would never fade, with soft, charming features that seemed timeless to her. Her face would heat up whenever his dark, warm eyes landed on her, and her skin would practically burn whenever he'd press his lips onto hers, reminding her of that ageless, apodictic love he held for her; a flame in the depths of his heart that seemed to never extinguish.

"I'd love to show you the ocean." He confessed, seating her alongside him on a bench under a flower archway. That gentle smile of his melted onto his face, a sigh of relief expelling from his nose as he took in his lovely (y/n) again and again. "It's indescribable. It stretches far beyond the eye can see. The waters are cool and the winds are refreshing under the sun." He brushed back a lock of hair from her face, fingers resting at the junction of her jaw where her ears resided. "I'd love to experience everything the world has to offer with you. If you'll allow me."

"That sounds wonderful to me."

Her poor heart couldn't possibly take such tenderness, such warm devotion on a daily basis. This incessant thudding in her chest whenever Junhui held her in his arms, he could quite possibly kill her one of these days from how fatal he was to her fragile heart. But she'd die happy. Knowing Junhui had become her first love, her last love, and her forever love.

#seventeen x reader #junhui x reader #seventeen fanfiction #seventeen fanfic #junhui fanfic #junhui fanfiction #wen junhui x reader #wen junhui fanfic #wen junhui fanfiction #jun x reader #jun fanfic #jun fanfiction #svt x reader #svt fanfic #svt fanfiction #kpop x reader #kpop fanfiction #kpop fanfic #junhui au #jun au #seventeen au #svt au

[saphirered]

hiii idk if you know the musical Wicked, but I was thinking of an imagine surrounding the song “Not That Girl” with Vax or Percy?

Wicked is soooo good I love it! Hope you like what I cooked up for this one! Did go with a at twist and happy ending though so hope you don't mind. 😘

Percy laughs. Like a proper unburdened laugh. Those have been a rarity for him for many years but finally he is free. Finally he has his love in his arms. Together they are spinning across the dance floor, surrounded by the many who watch them, or dance with them. The halls of this castle no longer drown in the blood of others, instead they shine clean and bright in the candlelight. There is joy once more despite all past horrors. He didn’t think himself capable, to live a life without that constant pain and anger, and while he still has so much grief to go around, it’s more bearable. He doesn’t feel guilty for being happy, and instead finally feels he’s worthy of it, he’s worthy of the beautiful half-elf in his arms. He’s worthy of her smile. He’s worthy of her kiss and her attention. He’s simply worthy. It took him some time to get there but he can finally believe it too, and take her word for it. She is the best thing to ever happen to him. 

From that same floor, polished and shining, along the strings of that same music that bounces with the beat of a heart and lulls along the limbs of the restless in beautiful symphonies, there stands another, watching the happy couple as they look at each other lovingly. They deserve this. They have fought for this. That’s what you keep telling yourself. You tell yourself you’re happy for them, and you are. You truly are but you too , are haunted by the memories of a past and your demons have not yet been vanquished by a lover bright. All your life you were told you’d be the one at his side. Your entire existence was built around these chains that constricted you, to live up to that expectation, that destiny. You were supposed to be the one in his arms and you are not. It is not jealousy that fuels you now. No, you do not burst green with envy. You do not long for the Lord of Whitestone. You long for love. You long for the life you were promised and to see that it will never be yours, that hurts, for what is your path now? Where do you go? Where do you belong if not here at this castle? You mourn what could have been, but it does not do well to dwell on such things. 

He loves her so, but you’ll never be her. You can’t be and you don’t want to be but that does not make the ache of what could have been go away. So you watch, like so many others, watch them dance, watch them be in love and be happy for them, even if your heart clenches. You dream that maybe someday you will be lucky to find that kind of love, find someone who stares at you like that, who holds you like that, shields you from this world when it becomes too much. He is exactly all those things you’d wish for, but he is not the one for you. So you smile. You smile until your mourning of the life that could have been becomes too much because he loves her so and tell yourself something different. You tell yourself the things you were promised are not what you were born for after all. You’re not meant for the rose and pearl. And thus you slip from the crowd, slip from the beautiful halls, away from the light and into the shadows. You look back at your old life just the once, and you miss the warmth the further from that glow you get. You long to go back but you can’t. You’ll refuse to be stuck in a castle you do not belong. You will never be what you need to be there and you owe it to yourself to just be you. 

At the bottom of the stairs Vax’ildan has settled down. Behind him he hears the music, and chattering of the fancy and the fooled. He knows that life all too well. Knows what he was once pushed into, and what he broke free from. He’s not cut out for that life and while he will humour his friends, by attending these gatherings when he needs to, or simply to spend time with them, he can only put up with so much before he’d rather slip back into the shadows. Let the people who glimmer in the candlelight shine. He is perfectly content not being there. But sometimes he wonders; what if he had not discarded that part of his life? What if he had done as his sister had, had tried to fit in and not given up? Would he be dancing with them right now? Would he be clinking glasses over empty promises and charming smiles? Would he have enjoyed it? He doesn’t really know the answer to that. Instead he’ll sit outside on the stairs, in his fancy clothes playing with the dagger he’d kept hidden to distract himself before he made himself scarce. 

“You look lonely.” A voice behind him speaks and nearly makes him jump out of his skin. He drops the dagger and it clanks against the stone, beginning to bounce down as his eyes fall on you. You look positively radiant, so much so you catch his breath and he forgets where he is, what he’s doing. You quickly reach out your hand in the air and the clanks fall silent. A translucent hand brings the dagger back to his side as you take some more steps down. Vax shakes himself off. 

“I-uh. The company inside didn’t really suit me. What’s your excuse?” It came out a bit more hostile than he intended, given the way you flinch. 

“I needed some air and a change of scene.” You speak as proper as ever but that flicker of pain that crosses your features when you look back at the grand castle does not go unnoticed to the rogue, even if you managed to sneak up on him before. You stand there for a few seconds before you take another step and then another. You place the dagger back by his side and dispel the mage hand you summoned to catch it with the flick of your wrist. 

“Sorry.” You mutter under your breath even though you know not what for, when you’re about to pass the rogue. 

“Come sit with me.” The offer was an impulsive one, Vax will admit but something within him screams. It’s done so before but he’s quelled it then. Now he loosens that restrain simply for one reason; you look lonely too. 

“Are you sure?” He gives you a look that answers your question enough and so you look at the step, then at your clothes and the step he’s seated on again. 

“What? Scared of some stains on your pretty clothes?” He jokes and you simply plop yourself down. He knows you’ve never been scared to get your hands, or clothes dirty for that matter. He’s seen you crawl through swamps and soil and gore plenty of times. No matter what, you’d always manage to look stunning to him. He’s never shared these thoughts of course because he knew where you came from, he knows where you’re meant to go. He’s not meant for a life like yours. He may once have been among rose petals and gilded halls but that’s not the life he resigned himself to. That’s exactly why he sits on these steps now. You are meant for a different life and he can never be the man that drinks champagne over talks of politics. He’ll never be the one to smile through the bullshit of others. He will never get his steps right of those fancy waltzes no matter how quick and light on his feet he may be. You belong among the shining gems. Not in the shadows with him. 

Sometimes Vax wonders, though. He dreams of what a life with you might be. Would he be standing next to you in this life of extravagance? Would he be on that dance floor now with you in his arms, swaying back and forth with a crowd more akin to an audience, ignorant to the performance you’d have to put on in favour of enjoying his time with you? Would he pick you up in your fancy clothes and carry you through the halls to make you laugh? Would you laugh? Would your smile be so bright it would make him feel warm and wanted inside? Would you love him so? Could you love him so? It is not meant to be because you belong up there among the golden ones while he lingers in his shadows, away from the light. His heart aches for what might have been had he chosen the same life as his sister. Where might he be now? Where might you be now?

“You look sad.” You state when you see his frown, and the distance of thought in his eyes as you observe the rogue. It’s an innocent statement, and you seem to reflect his mood in your own voice.

“It’s nothing.” He brushes it off. You always know exactly how he feels. He can’t hide anything from you. No matter how hard he tries, for better or worse. And so a sad smile graces his lips. “You shouldn’t stay too long. They’ll miss you in there.” 

“Do you wish for me to leave?” You ask concerned. It nearly breaks his heart how you sound as if you’ve offended him.

“No! No. Please, stay, if you want to. I invited you to sit after all. I just mean, they’ll notice you’re gone. Just don’t feel like you have to because you don’t want me to sit here on my own.” When you visibly relax Vax feels like he can finally breathe again. You relax into your spot; shoulders drooping, and posture slouching just a little, leaving enough of a trace of what you were born into and were you a child, you’d have been scolded for it. You’re at ease. Or as much as you can be. He counts himself lucky to be one of the few people who you feel comfortable around to do so. But then he notices on your features; an expression that mimicked his own and he frowns once more, but not for his own thoughts, and instead for what might run through your own head, whatever it is. You shouldn’t feel sad. You deserve all the happiness in the world. You once claimed you enjoyed nights of dancing and dining, that they never failed to bring a smile to your face but tonight, that seems a forgotten dream. 

“You look sad.” He repeats your own words from earlier but fills them with compassion and kinship, fills them with kindness and acceptance because while he’d rather you’d be smiling happily, he understands that sometimes sadness is just as much part of life. You are no stranger to pain and neither is he. Sometimes you just have to be reminded you’re not alone in this and he will gladly show you he’s there for you when you need him, because at the end of the day, even if your life is not meant for him, he still cares about you and still wants you to have all that is good in this life of yours because you deserve happiness. You deserve it. You’ve more than earned it. 

“Normally, I might have pretended to smile and dismiss the pure notion of sadness in the eyes of others. But I don’t think I can muster the strength nor courage to do so tonight.” You admit hesitantly. Layer by layer you are shaking off the burdens that were placed upon you. Perhaps this is the start of it; to be true to who you are, who you might be without these comforts you’ve grown accustomed to but were they comforts in the first place? Or have they always been chains?

“It takes just as much strength and courage to say the words you just said.” It’s a simple statement. Not a counter argument. Just an acknowledgement. You take a deep breath as you feel his eyes on you. You opt for staring at the skyline, if only not to break apart now. Vax continues. “You have lived a life shaped by others. You’ve been raised among shining gems and have become the brightest of jewels in turn. But I know it comes with many downsides. I ran away from that kind of life for a reason. I admire you for staying.” He speaks from his heart, true feelings without deceit or some kind of twisting fanciness compelled by the rules of social engagement. 

“Sometimes I’ve found myself wondering what would have happened if I had run away. Tonight I just find myself wishing I’d never stepped into a gilded life at all. How did you do it? How did you know your decision was the right one?” Your voice tremors. You’re troubled, it’s clear to see. Vax slowly brings his hand over to yours, placing his palm over it as he wraps his fingers around to hold your hand, giving a reassuring squeeze. He thinks about his answer for a second. Just a second.

“I didn’t know it was the right decision. Sometimes I still wonder if it was, or what might have been if I hadn’t. I think I might have been up there.” He nudges his head towards the castle. “With the others. With you. I might have been dancing and drinking among ‘esteemed company’ even though we both know they’re a bunch of fucking drunkards with too much coin in their pockets.” That brings a smile to your face and lets a light chuckle escape your lips. You look more relaxed this time, and while the sadness still lingers it feels as if some rush of joy remains within. You curl your own fingers around his and squeeze lightly. 

“You’re not wrong.” A moment of silence passes. “If it matters, I think you made the right call.”

“How so?”

“Because unlike you, I’ve watched the life set out for me crumble in the end, and be resigned to a futile purpose no longer necessary nor wanted. I don’t belong up there. Not anymore.” There’s the sad again. You look at your clasped hands so Vax turns sideways to face you better. Lifts his fingers beneath your chin and turns your gaze to look him in the eye.

“Hey, it’s your life. If there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s we get to choose where we want to be; up there between jewels and champagne, down here under the stars and moonlight, or anywhere else we choose to be. Life doesn’t end here nor there. You matter and you are wanted. I know you are. Even if you can’t see it yourself, I see you.” He speaks from his heart. You do not need twelve scholars on social encounters to have taught you that because you feel it in your own heart. You feel like you belong again. Neither here nor there. You belong here right now in this moment and you know, you made the right call walking out here because in a way, the air feels less stuffy and you feel the chains lifting little by little.

“I think those are the most truthful words I’ve ever heard someone say.” 

“I think that’s sad.” 

“I know it is. But it’s true no less.” Vax rises to his feel, never letting go of your joined hands. 

“Come on?” He asks more than anything. You don’t find it within yourself to question, let alone refuse and simply allow him to pull you to your feet and further down the stairs until you stand on even ground once more, the sounds of the party in the distance still audible. He’ll admit he’s acting on impulse and stupidity but that’s exactly what this calls for. He faces you, takes a step back, lowers his head and bends his knees in a curtsy. 

“Would you do me the honour of a dance?” Vax asks awaiting your answer patiently, not moving a muscle. Some training has stuck with him, even after all these years. Perhaps that was because it was not some teachers and governesses that taught him this. No, his mother did. She taught him how to dance, and while it were no palace waltzes, she taught him the proper etiquette. That’s why he cared to remember them because every time he practiced them it made her smile. He knows you enjoy dancing, be that your fancy and practiced routines, or simply letting loose in the tavern when everyone is a little too deep into their cups. 

“I-… yes…” You breathe. And with a smile of his own he rises to look into your bewildered eyes. He crosses his arms at the wrist, lets his palms face upward for you to place yours within. 

“Now, tonight we dance the dance of peasants. No more melancholic string quartets. Just let yourself go. Think you can do that?” You give him a thoughtful look, as if you’re debating but he know it’s your lightheartedness coming through and he feels relieved. he feels his heart leap when you take a step closer and place your hands in his with a smile. 

And so you spin and twirl and jump and step to the beat of your own drums. You laugh and chime and sing songs of the taverns, and whatever else you might have picked up on your adventures. Vax has rarely seen you like this, this alive, this unrestraint because with every time he twirls you, every time he wraps his arms around you, you seem to grow lighter, less burdened by the weight you didn’t even realise you carried. And finally you are free from the chains that bound you. Like him, you have found your freedom in the shadows. It took him a long time to realise the shadows aren’t so lonely, and only now he realised, perhaps you didn’t belong in the gilded halls. That doesn’t make you less of a perfect diamond. You were simply to precious to be among the many jewels and your beauty truly shines here under the moon, not because of some fancy appearances or good manners but because you smile and laugh and dance to your heart’s content. No longer do you worry about what others might mean or think or say or do at every turn. You can simply be free. Thanks to the rogue who showed you what it means to live instead of just be alive. 

It comes to him as a surprise when by the end of the night your lips find his cheek and you mutter a thank you. His cheeks stain crimson when you say you hope this will not be the last of these kind of nights and if it’s up to him, he’ll offer you this every night to come, just to see you happy. You deserve happiness. He’ll hand it to you at every opportunity. 

#critical role x reader #vox machina x reader #vax’ildan x reader #vax x reader #vax'ildan #critrole x reader #critical role #critical role fanfic #legend of vox machina #tlovm x reader #vox machina #critical role fanfiction #critical role imagine #percy de rolo x reader #percy de rolo #vex'ahlia

[jadeylovesmarvelxo]

You should be with me

Request by anon.

Hi queen, I’ve been reading all your writing and I think you’re amazing! I have a little angsty idea I think might be good Idk maybe reader x eddie where she is also part of the hellfire club and she and eddie get into a fight/discussion because of something, maybe cause her character gets killed off hahaha.

💞💕

Unfortunately, I don't know enough about d&d to write a whole game or killing off a character so I took a different route for the fight. I hope you don't mind anon 🙂💕

Warnings; Angst, fighting, making up. Fluff 💕

The current D&D campaign was forgotten. A rarity in the Hellfire Club but a far more interesting scene was taking place.

Y/n couldn't believe how much of a dick Eddie was being. For all his talk about accepting people for who they were, he was full of such shit at times.

"I can't believe you agreed to go out with Daniel". Eddie hisses, his brown eyes are flashing wildly and he's as pissed off as she is.

Since she told the Hellfire Club at lunch about Danny asking her out Eddie had been an asshole.

"I haven't even said yes yet Eddie! You are being such a dick. Danny is so sweet he's nothing like Jason or the rest of his cronies".

Eddie swears under his breath and narrows his eyes at her. "You are so naive. Jason put him up to this I guarantee it. He's plotting something y/n".

Dustin and a few of the other guys groan and her anger reaches fever pitch. "That's the only reason you can think of why someone would want to date me!".

Eddie is silent because she knows he's not that dumb. He won't make things worse...

"Well yeah". She gapes and Lucas whispers shit under his breath.

Her heart breaks just a little bit because secretly she's always hoped Eddie would be the one who would ask her on a date but evidently it is a concept he finds disgusting.

"You're an asshole, Eddie Munson". She shouts and Eddie's eyes widen in panic and before he can say anything else she leaves sobbing.

💞

She avoids Eddie the next day still heartbroken over what he said and she really wants to about Hellfire tonight but it's an emergency meeting and as a member she has to attend.

Why did Eddie have to be so mean? Break her heart? Was it because she wasn't pretty like Chrissy Cunningham?

Or was she that repulsive to him?

Whatever the reason she was feeling like shit and kept her head down when it was time to head to Hellfire.

Once again though the campaign derails because the tension between her and Eddie was intense and he kept trying to catch her eye constantly.

"Princess please look at me. You have to let me explain what I meant yesterday". He pleads to her and she scoffs.

"It was pretty clear Eddie. I'm not pretty like Chrissy Cunningham, the cheerleaders". He shakes his head in frustration and stands up walking towards her.

"I didn't mean that at all. I should have explained myself clearly. Was going to until you run off. I think you're beautiful princess, even more than Chrissy or the other cheerleaders".

Slowly the pain she feels ebbs away slowly but she still doesn't understand why he acted the way he did.

"I was jealous. He admits softly because you shouldn't be with Daniel. You should be with me but shit I can hardly compare to a rich, popular athlete can I?".

Oh, Eddie... She cups his cheeks.

"You're such a dingus. There is no comparison because I'll always choose you".

His whole face lights up and he tugs her to him and kisses her.

It's mind-blowing. When he releases her they both exchange shy little smiles.

"Tell that douchebag that there isn't going to be any date. You're mine now princess and I have no intention of letting his slimy hands anywhere near you". Nodding she kisses him again and cuddles into his chest.

She's on cloud nine throughout the whole campaign.

❤

#eddie munson x reader #eddie munson fluff #eddie munson imagine #eddie munson angst #eddie x y/n

[secondtolastfr]

i want to start a hatchery but idk where to start, any advice for a newbie hatchery runner???

Oh boy- I’m not the greatest at giving advice but I hope this helps

Theming can help bring people to your hatchery. Popular themes are plague/sickness, darkness/shadows, pastels, jewels or bakery/patisserie. There are a ton more, but that’s what comes to mind right now, haha. You can also focus on a specific breed or gene combo. (I don’t have a hatchery theme because I can’t commit to a single theme, rip).

Bump your thread as often as possible- people won’t visit your hatchery if they don’t see it. Affiliates can help with that too.

On a similar note- advertise, advertise, advertise. Post on Discord and Tumblr, use Find A Dragon (make sure you follow the op’s requirements!), anywhere you can.

Graphics will make your hatchery stand out. You can commission people to make them. There are so many super talented artists who would be happy to help- look in the Art Sales or Creative Corner for them. You can also make your own, like I do- I use this website for the pair ranges and Canva for everything else. Once you make your graphics, Imgur or Discord can work as image hosts.

As for the pairs themselves, I would say work on consistency. In my own experience, pairs with huge ranges don’t sell well. Try to keep breed rarities, gene rarities, and color ranges as close as possible.

Matching eyes, though not necessary, do help. I use the Nest Network.

Pricing is tricky, but measure it with your heart lmao. Rarer breeds like Wildclaws and Coatls sell for the most. Don’t be afraid to mark up your special eyed hatchlings, especially primals. Discounts, like for flights or birthdays, can help too.

Hatcheries take up a lot of lair space and food. It can be discouraging when hatchlings don’t sell, but don’t give up!

I hope this helped! If you do make a hatchery, reach out to me- I’d love to be affiliates ^^

#flight rising #fr hatchery #anon ask

[lifeandlies-of-regulusblack]

Hmm… I guess my fandom experience must be different because I feel like I rarely see people saying Regulus let Sirius be abused or blaming him for it but i do see a lot of people saying that Sirius abandoned Regulus, had a responsibility to Regulus that he failed by leaving an abusive household, and was a bad brother bc he left. And it often comes from people who claim to love both brothers and their relationship and want to portray them fairly, which leads me to believe it’s an almost subconscious bias that some people aren’t aware they have. Idk just my two cents.

Scarcity and bias, huh?

I'm not saying i don't see people doing the same shit to sirius but i have to disagree with you, on regulus being victim blamed, being a rarity. Then again, you DID say your fandom experience must've been different from mine.

I've seen people talk and write about abuse like some sick test of character that sirius passed, because he fought and ran away and regulus failed, because he stayed and didn't fight back. I'm so sick of it.

Regulus has been getting a lot of sus takes on quora, on reddit, on tumblr, and even in popular fic tropes. One of the most popular and enduring headcanons in the fandom across multiple media forms is that sirius is the sibling who does his best to stand up to their parents, making sure to take punishment for regulus as well. However brave (and tragic), this is almost ALWAYS, ALWAAAAYYYYSSS paired with depictions of regulus, cast in a light of someone who simply didn't fight for his brother just as hard, in the shadow of cowardice. and let me tell you, nonnie -- i've seen people take this to the next level. I'm gonna put the rest of my answer under the cut because BOI do i have a lot to say about this.

One of the dude's most popular characterizations is being reduced to a coward. Too cowardly to stand up for his brother. Too cowardly to say no to abusive parents. Too cowardly to run away (never mind his lack of financial and social support outside his family). In stories where he survives the cave, I've seen his willingness to die angled like his inability to deal with guilt, -- often framing suicide as a metaphor for cowardice. And people have been dissing regulus for this... too many times!

People will diss on regulus for the mere act of staying behind. For being the brother who failed to make the same decisions as sirius, when the two never really had the same choices to begin with! When the two never had the same access to help. Or resources to grow out of indoctrination and/or de-radicalization.

Regulus is very much! often! used as a moral foil for his brother :)

And I'm not saying the opposite doesn't happen to sirius. It does and I also think it's beyond painfully stupid to hate on another abuse victim for leaving.

But regulus also gets a lot of shit from people saying stuff that are borderline victim blaming. This isn't a rarity you're making it out to be. I've seen iterations/headcanons of him being unable to fight back in response to abuse, be recklessly compared to sirius and andromeda's actions with an astounding lack of awareness when it comes to the matter at hand.

Because for most people, it's a lot easier to empathize with someone who you think is responding to abuse "correctly" by fighting back, being vocal, and running away. In contrast to someone who responds to trauma "wrongly" by staying, silent, doing as told to avoid punishment, and staying because they believe they've nowhere else to go.

And on bias, idk about you but I got into this fandom a whole ass sirius stan. I mourn my loss of enjoyment and connection to him, driven largely by fandom discourse and characterization. I used to LOVE the man! It was a slow and gradual process of seeing so many people try to justify his actions by making regulus as evil as can be! And I would've been fine if they turned him into an actual villain (that would've been fun)! But people do so by angling valid and very real trauma responses to abuse -- as selfish and self-serving.

I did not start out in this fandom as a regulus stan. So, this whole thing is not about me looking at this issue as someone prepared to make regulus out to be the innocent victim (boi still went on to be a death eater for a short while before snapping out of it). I've truly seen this stuff one too many times, and it's even caused a huge and stupid rift between myself and what used to be my favorite character.

me being a regulus acc now, is due to me finding much more connection and concern for the dude, while i was out parading as a sirius stan and seeing some of the takes others have put out about regulus.

At no point have i ever devalued or dismissed sirius' side of things. you won't see me doing that shit here.

I'm sorry to say that i haven't been "subconsciously" making shit up, my friend. I've just seen this way too many times, you're kinda lying a lil if you think you haven't seen at least half of the stuff I'm talking about in the fandom. then again, maybe you're not. we're just seeing different things.

idk. that's just my two cents.

#disk horse #ur gurl used to be whole ass sirius stan :// #fun fact #ngl I'm not cool with some of the things you're implying here #but I'm gonna answer in good faith

[krikeymate]

Fic Notes - you're the flame that keeps my soul alight

Inspired by this conversation here with wabitham.

Post here, and I commissioned art for this.

The main thought process was:

I wonder what type of tension-filled situations they could use to up the ante in 7

Huh, what about a fire? They haven't done a fire right?

*Thinking about the picture of Melissa holding Jenna* Sam could totally be all badass carrying her sister out of a fire

Tara's asthma would hold her back in that situation

So, the fic actually doesn't go into a lot of detail about the how or why behind the situation, it's just about dealing with it. I actually didn't start it off with any context planning, just a vague idea of things I wanted to happen. Context didn't come to me until after I had finished writing Tara's POV and started on Sam's.

I tried to figure out where they were and what would make sense. What did Sam remember last? I went with her and Tara having dinner, decided they were celebrating Tara's first 3 months of therapy, and from there the location had to be their apartment. Whether that's the apartment from 6 or a new one, doesn't matter.

This was poll option "you're the fire in my heart" however I had already been calling it "you're the flame that keeps my soul alight" in my fic folder.

What changed: My original plan actually had Tara trying to drag Sam by her tied wrists, before succumbing to the smoke and collapsing beside her. Which would have made sense - Tara's standing, she's the one most in danger due to that. I managed to include a little of that but it was originally going to be longer. That plan also doesn't account for why Sam would suddenly wake up. Otherwise, not really a lot changed, which is a rarity for me.

What didn't change: Starting with Tara's POV and then moving to Sam's. Sam's wrists being tied and Tara being unable to undo it. Sam burning the rope off her wrists, and of course, Sam carrying Tara out of the fire.

What is not explained AT ALL within the fic: Their food was drugged. Sam ends up getting drugged more than Tara, just because she was eating more than her or whatever, drugging food is hardly a precise art idk suspension of disbelief. Perpetrators enter the apartment: Tara isn't down, but Sam is halfway there. A small fight ensues whereby Tara takes an absolute banger of a knock to the head, giving her a head wound that bleeds all over her. They tie Sam's wrists and tether her to something - I went with a pipe along the ceiling because I couldn't fathom what other option there is in an apartment. Then they set the place on fire.

The part where Tara says the voice in her head is wrong and usually sounds like Sam, not her mother: I wanted to make this clear in the fic but adding to it just seemed to make it less effective - the voice sounding like her mother but it being kind is what's wrong. I also mention briefly that Sam's inner voice is beginning to sound more and more like Tara, usually that voice is Billy.

I almost ended the fic on the line: "She doesn’t think of their apartment, now destroyed, or of their lost possessions. Tara is here, and that’s the only one that matters."

My favourite line here is "A part of her hopes she isn’t around to see it, she doesn’t even want to think of a world without Sam Carpenter in it, let alone live it again." Specifically, the live it again.

#/mp #Scream #my fic debrief

[angiestown]

finally finished fully rewatching mlp and

what tf am I going to do with myself now

rarity is most relatable pony

twilight is cutest pony (she isn't cute at all times but she has the cutest moments)

I feel like I NEED just one more episode where princess twilight considers making her friends all princesses and making their families all princess and making everyone princesses because she can't stand the thought of outliving everyone she cares about but she gets talked down and everyone gets proper goodbyes so I can get SOME SORT of closure on that but that seems too sad for this specific type of kids show

at least she has cadence and flurry heart and (probably) celestia and luna (idk if alicorns live forever or just a really long time), and I'm assuming spike will be around for a long time bc I'm assuming dragons live a long time, BUT HER FRIENDS AAAAAH

two favourite parts of the show are the episode about AJ's parents and the one scene in the second last episode where rarity throws the rock

#pony posting

[singswan-springswan]

a sudden Jack Thompson brainrot just attacked me out of nowhere and it won’t leave me alone so I Will Share. 

Idk just the idea of him being a selkie (despite the fact that even if there was an AU with everyone as some kind of mystical creature, he would still be a human) is really comical because he’s the same character, just also constantly carrying around the same jacket everywhere and never puts it on. He doesn’t let anyone touch his jacket--that’s his jacket, don’t get your smudgy fingers on his precious jacket gosh darn it. And it confuses everyone at the office because he never wears the bloody thing but it’s been going on for long enough now that they don’t question it.

He’s really possessive of his jacket. When they go out for drinks, he lays it across his lap and never sets it down much less lets it out of his sight. The clingy-ness is really bad on field assignments because he absolutely cannot stand to lose it in the chaos of a chase or shoot-out; usually he’s got a hand on the thing at all times. He has and will fight anyone who so much as touches it. Picking it up entirely makes him freak out and start screaming to “put that down! put it down right now!” and it’s scary sometimes. Like if he’s flirting with a girl and she tries to take his jacket as a lil jokey joke every ounce of fun and games with him shuts down completely and his regular jerkish growling swoops in full-throttle. Someone tried to hand it to him as a courtesy and he almost flipped his crap. He made the dude set it back down on the chair before picking it up himself lol.

A few times, people have gotten hold of his precious skin and he’s been at their whim until he could get it back and honestly he’s not a fan of being compelled to be their slave. I’m laughing over imagining Krzeminski taking it while Jack isn’t looking and locking it in his desk drawer or something and after Jack has a mini panic attack he realizes that he now shares a bond with his idiot coworker of all people and must do as he says and get him a kriffing donut and coffee from the bullpen though he’s seething and livid the entire time until he can find the key to the desk drawer and get his precious jacket back. Meanwhile everyone is shocked that he’s answering to Krzeminski including Krzeminski because it started out as a bet and now Jack is actually taking orders without having to be told twice hallelujah. I’d like to think this happens a couple of times with Dooley too because Jack trusts him and is comfortable enough around him to leave his jacket lying about. Dooley just takes it and hangs it on the coat rack in the corner but Jack is confused about why he suddenly feels like an ssr boy scout and has to pick his jacket up even if he just puts it back down again before the intoxicating surge of patriotism abates and his desire to follow the chief around like a pup returns to a normal level.

Actually putting the skin on is a rarity for him because where’s he going to swim that people won’t be able to see? Also the rivers in New York are filthy and polluted and he hates the water there, will even use a boat to travel through them if it means not having to touch it or breathe it. On long weekends, he probably goes to his Gam’s beach house in Jersey and spends all his time in the ocean because he’s Moana and it calls him haha. Gam chides him affectionately and tells him he needs to stop spending so much time on land it’s not good for his skin.

Does he fully transform into a seal when he puts the skin on? The lore disagrees about whether transformed selkies are seals or just mermaids that have seal tails. I’m more inclined to the latter because I have a chronic obsession with mermaids and Jack would make a sexy mermaid, but he’d also be a really cute seal idk. Maybe he can do both depending on which is most suited to his environment: for example, if he needs to breathe underwater and be able to grab things, or if he’d rather be round and unassuming/not identifiable as a freaky creature with the potential to scare ignorant civilians. But,,, maybe he needs to shed and re-don his skin to switch between mermaid-ish thing and seal to fill those plot holes also known as premeditated conveniences for having people accidentally encounter him naked on the beach because I am a cruel author teehee.

More comedy when he can’t swim in his human form because he never bothered learning like the douche he is. He arrogantly assumes he’ll never be in a situation where he’ll need to rely on his human form instead of just switching to a more water-friendly body. 

Maybe this leads to the angst (because it wouldn’t be me without it come on) when he’s stuck in a body of water--like the Hudson maybe--but people are watching him so even though he has his jacket clutched tightly in his hand he can’t change or he’ll reveal his true nature. Someone--probably Peggy tbh--has to jump in and haul his butt out when he inevitably drowns and he held onto the jacket so fiercely but he was unconscious and the current was strong so he must have let go. When he finally wakes up coughing and sore his first question is for the whereabouts of his jacket--not who saved him because Peggy’s soaking and she’s leaning over him with a disgruntled and annoyed look so it’s probably safe to guess it was her--tightly grabbing Peggy’s wrist and demanding to know whether she saved it too. Obviously she doesn’t understand the significance of it, and after the very unwelcome thrill of realizing he “couldn’t swim”, a replaceable piece of clothing is the last of her concerns right now, which she expresses with an exasperated “Jack, you never even wore the bloody thing. I think you can live without it”. 

But Jack starts panicking because it definitely isn’t replaceable, he only has one and if he loses it for good he can never go back to the sea and he’s pretty sure he can’t live without that, even if he spends most of his life on land these days. It’s a part of his soul, part of his identity, and he feels so incomplete without it. There’s no way she’ll understand that, but he can’t help feeling horrified, absolutely terrified knowing it might be gone and his true self locked away from him forever and screw professionalism, Jack breaks down right there and cries, full-on ugly sobbing and shaking and hugging himself feeling lost and exposed and a little bit violated like a chunk of his heart got yoinked by an ice cream scooper and Peggy and whoever else is there has no idea how to handle this situation because Jack has never expressed such strong feelings for anything other than his frigging jacket for reasons he refuses to disclose and they’ve never seen him so hysterical and agonized even when he got shot a few times in one sitting or fell off a building and broke his femur or got stabbed with a laced blade because losing his skin is so much worse than any bodily harm he could sustain. 

For weeks afterwards, he’s completely steeped in depression and totally lethargic and can barely remember to eat, meanwhile sleep is all he seems to know how to do. To the rest of the crew, it looks like he lost his dear wife or somethin, like he’s mourning a person he loved a big lot, so most of them think the jacket held sentimental value as a gift from someone he really cared about. And then since we can’t leave him wallowing in sad boi vibes forever, someone eventually finds his skin (maybe a pretty, young lady OwO) and--surprised by it being durable enough to survive the river while still looking fashionable and gorgeous--decides to keep it. I’d like to think that the skin changes appearances depending on who holds it. Jack’s GamGam preferred a shawl, Jack likes his jacket, and when the lady fishes it out of the river, it changes into a really chique, designer-esque style that’s impossible to give up. Jack immediately senses when this happens since... legally he’s bound to whoever is in possession of his skin to do whatever they want and stuff, so he knows that someone has it, but New York’s a big city. it could be anyone. 

Really it just adds to his misery because now on top of being deprived of his true self he’s also got this profound and compelling urge to do someone’s bidding but he has no idea where they are or what they’d even want him to do if they knew who he was so now it’s a daily struggle to just think straight ugh. BUT we can’t just leave him there either because where’s the fun in that? Chance encounter on the street, meet-cute, key witness for an investigation, whatever it is they meet somehow, and Jack’s whole focus tunnels on getting his kriffing jacket back. It’s really hard though, because this feisty lady says she found it for herself, and she really likes it and won’t part with it, and anyway it’s a woman’s style clothing so why on earth would Jack want it? 

Meanwhile Jack is just internally losing his sanity, so close yet so far, and at the same time he’s enslaved to her and can’t do a single freaking thing about it. To top it off, no one knows what the heck is really going on because that would require revealing his identity and haha no, so all anyone else can see is just Jack living, dying, breathing, and absolutely losing his braincells over a jacket they’ve never seen him put on and it’s baffling their minds. I’m sure he’ll get it back eventually. The whole ssr in the meantime is just watching him be weird while simultaneously trying to subtly investigate his butt but they keep hitting a dead end because while they may be the primary government agency for explaining the mystical and unexplainable, none of them ever actually accounted for those factors when considering Thompson. There’s a betting pool about whether he was deprived of jackets as a child and therefore developed a hyper fixation on them as an adult. The reveal will probably end up being loud and dramatic because those buffoons are Like That.

#jack thompson #agent carter series #agent carter #agent peggy carter #ssr agent jack thompson #jack thompson imagine #jack is a selkie for no reason other than Bucky wearing leather gloves in tfatws and refusing to take them off reminded me of selkies #the idea wouldn't leave my head #so I gave it to jack #honestly team carter is so cracked it only makes sense

[9w1ft]

Hi, 9w1! Hope you're doing well ❤️

What are your thoughts on Midnight Rain? A lot of people have said (or at least... joked?) that 'sunshine' was a reference to Karlie but I believe the song goes a lot deeper.

Perhaps it could be as simple as her talking about a private lover she had in her hometown before gaining fame, and the lyrics are quite literal.

Perhaps "her boy" in the song was only a stand-in figure for her to sing about how she chose the hardships of becoming a musician/celebrity in the big city over settling for a traditional, simpler, more comfortable life back in her hometown. As in, the "boy" here is a metaphor for all the people or simply the society expecting her to stay within her limits because it's much more comfortable that way to fit in with the norms whereas she chose the pain of deviating against the flow (not necessarily just in terms of her career, but also other things like not being a straight woman for instance.)

Perhaps it's to sing about how all of the women she's romantically involved with chose the comfort of publicly marrying a man over her. You see: sunshine is enjoyable, everybody loves sunshine, everybody sees sunshine, sunshine is usual, sunshine correlates with publicity to me. Whereas midnight rain is a bit of a rarity (at least where I live haha), it's two 'negative' things combined (the dark of the late hours and the blues of the rain) and it correlates with privacy or secrecy.

Would love to hear everybody's thoughts!

hi! i don’t have a full analysis or complete thoughts on this song, but it feels very much in the same realm as the thread of songs from folkevermore about the big shot coming home to the small town, so songs like dorothea or tis the damn season, for example.

this is maybe a gimmicky interpretation but i kind of wonder if this song is from a long night that taylor spent writing those characters from the albums. just an idea. then the lyrics like “deep portal time travel” or the boy being a montage (a series of pictures), or the use of a different voice through the track, kind of work to create a picture of the creative process, maybe. also, it wouldn’t be intentional but, i think that the transition between yoyok and midnight rain being so jarring would make a little more sense thematically.. taylor singing from the perspective of her early career years and mentally preparing herself for the challenge ahead, and then snapping years into the future where she’s smashing sales records with surprise albums based on invented stories… sorry i’m not being articulate here but maybe there’s a kernel of something here.

anyway at this point in time i tend to think it isn’t about karlie in the sense that, i don’t think karlie vehemently wanted it comfortable nor has she stayed the same. she’s always growing and doing more and putting herself out there. to me it would seem that she’s got just as much ambition as taylor, so there would not be that relationship tension or contrast going on, i don’t think. even as i’m writing this though i can imagine changing my mind.

moreover the song doesn’t give me the urge to pinpoint who it could be about for some reason. idk i’ve just been enjoying vibing to it, i really like it 😃 so yeah i am left to wonder if it isn’t a more abstract dealio

side note, and this is just my opinion but, i think that there are several songs that point to weather as being states of emotion that anyone can go through (forever winter or peace, for example) as opposed to a 1:1 attribution. in the case of sunshine, karlie is a key embodiment of it in taylor’s eyes, and has been the sunshine for her in dark times, of which taylor sings a lot about. so it’s definitely a symbol of karlie in a lot of taylor’s work, but i don’t think that every time the word sun comes up it has to be about her necessarily.

#it’s almost like the concept of saying someone’s your rock.. i think #plus the iconography of taylor actually calling karlie her sunshine on tape of course

[jentlemahae]

idk how to say this without it sounded insanely shady so just know that i mean the following statements in the nicest way possible. bp is a rare case where all of its members can successfully stand on their own as soloists. not all groups can say the same and that, IN MY OPINION, includes tw*ce. and that's okay! so if their fandom wants to wait until every member has a solo debut first, we're never going to hear nayeon's solo cb 🤷🏽‍♀️

the two members who have the most potential to be soloists already had their solo debuts and they were both great! but i can't really think of any other members who could also do that. putting jpn line in a unit was a VERY smart choice and i think other sub-units could be a good idea if jyp played his cards right. but yeah, to reiterate, not waiting for the other members solo debuts before nayeon's cb is probably for the best. pop was fun and i'm excited to hear what she follows up with 🤩

ooh agree on all accounts !!!!!!! yeah not all idols are fit to be soloists and that’s okay !!!!!! that’s why there’s groups !!!!!! bp was an absolute rarity for that and i genuinely cannot think of a similar group where all members have SUCH solo potential (there’s certainly someone in old gens but that’s not my area) 🤷🏻‍♀️ and that doesn’t mean idols who are not like that arent talented, but this is a different kind of talent we’re talking about. in twice, nayeon and jihyo had the most solo potential in my opinion as well, and agree that jp line worked the best as a unit !!!!!!

#anonymous #sophie ask

[callme-darling]

OKAY! i’m thinking about hate sex with pierre chavanges! idk! reader’s from another farming family or something and there’s always been a nasty rivalry! CULMINATING IN A MESSY ASS HOOKUP IN THE PASTURE IDKKKKK!!!

the cow prince & the dairy queen

word count: 2k

warnings: smut, fem reader, rival sex, teasing, petnames? (he calls you princess in a teasing way ig), praise if you squint, fingering, mostly porn, little plot, p-in-v, no protection, fingering, messy messy messy, dirty talk, outdoor sex, panty stealing (hehehe)

a/n: ANON!!!! THIS IS THE KIND OF SHIT I’M TALKING ABT!!!!

you can find pt.2 here!

your eyes rove over the newly published feedback for the farm’s overall status. surely your name would be sitting comfortably within the top five again. your brows scrunch together as your eyes slide down to #6, where the familiar letters arranging your last name were printed. “bull fucking shit..” you mumble to yourself as you see who took the “Top 5” slot out from underneath you: chavanges.

pierre-fucking-chavanges. you shake your head with a scoff and discard the papers on your kitchen counter. outside, you hear a distant cow, your signal that it was time to milk.

-

it’s well past noon when you find yourself in the far pasture. a recent storm had caused a lone tree branch to fall, damaging a fence post amidst the carnage. the branch had been chunked and hauled, leaving you to only worry about repairs now. you sat straddling the post when you hear the stones along the dirt road crunch behind you.

“the queen not with her herd? what a rarity these days…” the all too familiar nickname and voice instantly lit a fire under your skin. you twist around to shoot a glare at the man leisurely strolling up to you, his hands in the pockets of his blue jumpsuit.

“what business does the cow prince have with me?” you turn back to the skein of wire in your hand.

he crosses the shallow ditch and stands off to your side, eyes tracking your movements as you hop off the post to begin winding the thick wire between the posts.

“you see the new rankings?”

“if you just came here to gloat, you can fuck right off.”

“such a harsh mouth for a lady,” he chided, though his shit eating grin told you all you needed to know.

you stand on the opposite side of the mended fence, arms crossed over your chest as he leans his arms atop one of the posts. after a few beats of tense silence, you finally sigh. “what do you want, pierre?”

“i want to know what the hell you’re doing.”

“excuse me?” instantly, you’re taken aback. “uh.. fixing a fence? i thought that much was obvious?..”

“no,” he exhales, a hand running through his hair, “i want to know how your quality count is higher than mine.”

finally, it’s your turn to don the shit eating grin. “oh, is that what this is about?” you shrug, feigning an air of indignation. “i just know how to keep my girls happy.”

pierre rolls his eyes. “we both know you’re influencing the list.”

you give him a hard stare, eyes scanning his face, and when you see that he isn’t trying to pick at some stupid joke, you stalk up to him form your side of the fence. “are you insinuating that i’m bribing the fucking count?” you hold a breath,. “answer carefully, chavanges,” a warning.

he quirks a brow at you, and you swear there are fewer things that could’ve pissed you off more. “i guess maybe i’m asking. so, y/n, who did you have to fuck to give you those numbers? because i’ve seen your cows, and-“

your fist around his collar cuts him off. he stares at you, smug that he elicited a reaction. after a long moment, you shove him away. with a concentrated breath, you compose yourself.

“what, no denial from you?” he challenges again.

you watch him closely, face inches from his. then a sly smirk cracks on your lips, “careful pierre,” you lean in even closer, “you’re sounding jealous there. if you asked kindly, i may consider fucking you too.”

you catch how his jaw clenches, not expecting you to rebound it so effortlessly.

you keep pushing, “what?” you mock his tone from moments before. “no denial?”

“no.”

you make a small noise of surprise. “what?”

“i said ‘no’. i’ve got nothing to deny.”

you shake your head at his stoic gaze, his eyes unflinching as they find yours. “you’re crazy-“ you scoff.

“are you saying you don’t?”

“don’t what? want to fuck you too?”

silence hangs thick in the afternoon air between you two; a staring battle of wills. you could feel your heart hammering in your chest, the heat of the sun only adding to the suffocating tension. finally, pierre’s voice shatters the quiet.

“are you going to invite me over this fence, or do you intend to make me beg?”

you don’t know what compels you to answer, let alone so quickly, but your voice is quiet as you nod minutely, “didn’t think you’d need an invitation.”

and with that, he hops over the fence post.

you aren’t certain who drug who to the outskirts of the field, but you’re pressed against a tree, pierre’s thigh slotted between your legs, his lips pressed against yours. it’s a mess of tongue and desperation. his hands grope at your clothes, wasting no time in pulling the waistband of your jeans past your thighs, his long fingers teasing the soft skin of your thighs.

you suck in a breath as his knuckle brushes over your slick core. your head falls back against the trunk of the tree, eyes fluttering.

pierre is nothing but smug as he chuckles, “you can say what you want, but now i know all it takes is some kissing to make the little princess this wet..”

you want to glare at him, but with the way your lips are downturned, it comes off more as a pout.

“aw, come on now,” he coos as his fingers tease your cunt. “don’t give me that look.”

“shut up.” you groan, “you talk too damn much.”

a quiet “yes ma’am” is muffled by his lips on your throat, teeth scraping over the flesh before his tongue soothes it. two fingers sink into your heat, immediately stealing the air from your lungs as you gasp at the intrusion. he nips at the skin in the junction of your neck and shoulder, and you swear you feel his smirk.

he’s observant, you’ll give him that much. your hands grip his shoulders as his palm brushes your clit, his fingers knuckle-deep in your fluttering pussy, sucking his fingers in deeper as he prods experimentally at your gummy walls.

“oh, fuck..” you whisper, your nails pressing crescents into his back that are sure to bruise.

his fingers find that gummy spot that has your thighs shaking, his other hand coming to hold your throat, keeping you pinned to the tree as he worked your dripping cunt up to a climax. “is that how you like it?”

you can’t even bite back a remark, not with the way you only seem to be able to moan helplessly. “shhh..” he mumbles, mouth ghosting over the side of your face. “can’t have anyone hearing how i’m about to make you come… they’re gonna think i’m giving away my ranking.”

“fuck, fuck-“ you whine despite your own will, “shut the fuck up-“

his mouth is on yours. a tongue quickly prods into your mouth, swallowing any sounds and complaints.

your jaw falls slack when you feel his fingers hit that spot just right, eyes rolling to the back of your head as your legs twitch in an attempt to close. it’s embarrassing, really, how easily he managed to have you creaming around his fingers. you bite back a whimper when you feel pierre retract his hand from your core and bring his fingers to his lips. your face is unbearably warm as you watch him lick his fingers clean, blue eyes staring into yours.

you aren’t sure what confidence possessed you, but you knew you would lose your mind if you walked away like this.

“take off your pants.” you say flatly, tone hinted with an urgency you weren’t even expecting. you were already tugging your jeans down the rest of the way when he began to undo his jumpsuit.

his lips were on yours again, slightly softer this time, but with a lingering desperation. you allowed him to guide you, laying you back into the tall grass. he hovered over you, his body so close and so warm it made you feel dizzy.

as he kissed you, his hand slipped to his pants where he finally freed his leaking cock, his hand slowly pumping it a few times as he hissed into your mouth.

“hurry up,” you wiggle your hips, hand in his hair. “we don’t have all day, your majesty.”

his eyes catch yours and you find the familiar glint. “is this your way of begging for me?”

you roll your eyes, but suck in a quick breath when you feel his tip tease your folds. a breathy moan leaves your lips as you feel him slowly begin to push into you. “fuck, pierre..”

you’d never admit it, but the way he groaned when you said his name had your cunt gushing. “s-shit… so fuckin’ tight.., ah-“ his hands on either side of your head managed to keep him upright, but you both paused when his dick was fully sheathed in your clenching heat.

the moment of peace quickly gave way to an obscene display of primal lust. your hands gripped whatever they could find: clumps of grass and dirt, his arms, his waist. his own hand was clasped on your hip, holding you still as he fucked into you with a fervor unmatched by any man you’ve been with before.

you were rendered incoherent, broken spews of whiny moans and breathy whimpers all you could manage. at one point you feel a hand slip under your shirt to grope at your chest. his calloused fingers tugged on your nipple, making your back arch as your cunt spasmed.

“pierre-“ you warn with a gasp.

his mouth fell slack as he breathe heavily with a groan, leaning down to plant a sloppy kiss to your lips. he panted inbetween kisses, “show me. show me how filthy you really are.” he angled your hips up, his dick hitting even deeper with each thrust. “show me how pretty you are when you come on my cock.”

you don’t even register the sounds coming from you when you come. his grip on your hip is near-bruising and he thrusts a few more times before pulling out. a trail of white paints your stomach with warmth as his dick twitches in his hand.

you stay like that for a moment; him kneeling over your spent figure, both of you panting softly under the heat of the summer sun. few words are exchanged as you both begin shimmying back into your clothes. he tosses you your jeans as he’s adjusting his shirt.

something’s missing.

you look inside your pants and scan the small area around you, confusion etched on your brow. you’re about to say something when pierre cuts you off.

“i think you lost your underwear somewhere.”

you stare into his unflinching eyes. with a shrug, you sigh and step into your jeans, grimacing when you feel the rough material stick to your core.

you both wander back to the dirt road where the mended fence still stood. with a small nod, he lit a cigarette and began to walk back in the direction of his farm. you stood and watched him.

you were about to turn and go your own way home when your eyes caught a glimpse of a familiar baby blue peeking out of the back pocket on his jumpsuit. you curse under your breath, chuckling in disbelief as you slowly started your way back.

#ꕤ ₊˚✧ mailbox . #♱₊˚✧ filth . #swann arlaud #petit paysan #pierre chavanges #bloody milk

[justafairytailofinnocence]

Hi dearies💖 so I was inspired to write the last movie of potc. Idk how this will go down but I hope you guys like it💖.

Comment or reblog below if I should make this into a full chapter fanfiction.

Barbossa X reader☠️

Every sailors dream🌊

"I ain’t be the one for affections, I always thought it was stupid and prissy. I took pride in me self and me ship anything else goes overboard. Traveling around the seven seas is me life and I ain’t gonna let anyone take that away from me”

I held many secrets as a Captain. I won’t tell a soul and even if someone found out I’ll drag em’ to the depths of the seven seas where no one can ere em’ again. I swear me own secrecy, lock it away and never reach it again, I be soundin mad if I admitted I be in love.

I haven’t told the lass and you ain’t gonna make me confess, it’s been for some time and every time I see her, I freeze. I freeze like some stupid nitwit that can’t spell the words out of me mouth it’s annoyin I tell ya. I won’t deny the young thing ain’t even noticed me.  

I keep staring at her, I feel soft for her and even more I want to be with her. It’ll take some miracle for that to happen, but I know the lass don’t feel the same way.

I took out me telescope and look around the waters, Jack and henry were talking while Carina was keeping track. My eyes catch sight of her as she wore that white dress, if it were me old self, I would’ve tried to kidnap er and marry er. I know she would hate me but if it catches her eye for me then so be it.

I stare at her beautiful eyes, locks, and gorgeous skin. I dream of caressing her every night while she cooks me something. She loves to grow strawberries and her love for people is a rarity, I crave for her attention. Every woman I’ve been with ain’t like her, believe me every time I was with a beautiful woman me mind goes to her.

If there were a god or something up there, I would pray just for her to touch me. I would seek the day the lass comes up to ask me to be with er. Her voice was like a song in me ears, like a siren tryna take me in.

I had a dream the other night where I woke up from me cabin, and there she was standing by my door with that same warm smile.

“I’ve been making such great things; I made a cake for the two of us to eat, it even has strawberries on top” y/n smiled. Her scent reminded me of strawberries and peaches, “Thanks y/n” I smiled softly.

Her lips were so close, and I didn’t know what came over me, but I took y/n in with a strong pull kissing her lips. Me’ hands caressed her soft hair locks as I closed me’ eyes. I muttered to her “from the deepest of me hearts, I love you y/n”. Me eyes started to well up with tears of desperation, I was in love with her. I had to admit it right there and then, y/n was the love of me life and I won’t let go.

Y/n smiled even though it was just some sort of figment, a ghost of the woman that I was in love with. I was wearing a white blouse and she was wearing that white dress. I could feel y/n’s soft skin, touch my hand, as she started to dance with me. I slowly moved with her as she guides my body around the room, the younger woman smiled with glee.

We slowly fell to the ground as I could feel her arms wrap around my head, her scent filled me with so much warmth.

The woman vanished and that's when I woke up and felt utter disgust for how I acted. I was a fearsome captain fer god’s sake not some soft ninny. I scowled and barked at the crew below, I don’t care if Jack be a cap’n of my pearl but on this ship, it be me. “We be turnin’ into the main point” I turned the wheel as Jack looked out through his telescope, mine was bigger of course.

Carina and Henry jumped down into the waters while Gibbs shouts out “Cap’n Salazar’s men be tracking us” He points to the ship closing in on us. “Bugger!” Jack shouts trying to mend the wheel as I shoved him out of the way “Jack I be the Cap’n, get into position”. Jack scowled and grabbed his sword as I steered the ship out of the trenches, Henry and Carina jumped onto the rope. Y/n was on the side trying to hoist the ropes, “Get on with it Scallywags, we ave company” I shouted.

Y/n leaned down, she was trying to get Henry and Carina on board. I barked at her “Get on the ropes lass” but she didn’t listen, I watched as y/n grabbed Carinas hand and without hesitation Carina climbed up, but y/n wasn’t strong. I watched with horror as she fell overboard, I shouted at Jack “Jack take the darn wheel”. I bolted as fast as I could over board to find the lass hanging onto the rope, her hair was flowing in the wind as she struggled.

She was begging to get on and so with no hesitation I jumped overboard “No!” Carina shouted. Henry rushed to her side and held her back “we have to help Jack” he shouts. Y/n was struggling as I came to her side “can ye hold on” I shouted over the waves crashing in “I can’t, I can’t” she struggled. I took her hand; I knew I had to make a deal with the cursed seas just for this moment.

“Y/n I haven’t been a good man; I never will be” I softened my eyes. Y/n grabbed the rope “What, what do you mean” y/n sounded confused. “Yer young an’ kind” I exclaimed “I be old and I ain’t ever been the nicest, I’m sorry I wasn’t kind to ye enough” I looked into her beautiful eyes. “What are you saying” she shouts worried “ye be every sailor dream y/n” I latched one of my arms around her waist, I pressed my lips onto hers.

Y/n closed her eyes, I know Jack be gagging up there and I would slice his neck for mocking me. I took one more glance at the woman I loved before holding my sword out. “I-“ She sounded confused “ye be my own dream” I cut the rope as she flies up towards the ship.

I could feel myself falling as she was lifting towards a better life; I would’ve sacrificed anyone to save my own skin. I knew it was too little too late, from when I first met the lass it was attraction, but her kindness rubbed off on me and therefore cursed me with love.

Me’ stubborn heart wouldn’t move on even if it was the love for some other woman. I loved y/n to the point it led me to me own death. My eyes looked towards the sun as I saw the ship sailing away, I closed my eyes dreaming of her words:

“Strawberries are my favourite”

“Oh, you love it that’s so generous of you thank you Barbossa”

“You’re not going to kill me why?”

“I made a cake for the two of us to eat”

“Look it has strawberries on top”

I could feel the tears stride down my cheeks, even if her words weren’t real, it’s all I could ask for.

“I’m every sailor’s dream, I’m your dream”

I felt my body vanish within the seas as I stared at the sun muttering one word.

“Y/n, I love ye”

Anyways that's all I have for now:

Ta Ta 💫

#potc x reader #potc oneshot #pirates of the carribean oneshot #barbossa x reader #pirates of the carribean x reader #angsty oneshot #potc writing #potc headcanon #movie: potc #potc fic

[bookquotes-20]

Can you please do a fic where kenji, Nazeera, and warnette are all hanging out idk what they’re doing tho probably playing among us 🤷‍♀️ (I really enjoyed For You ❤️)

This has been nearly six months in the making but I promise I never forgot it! I'm sorry for such a long wait but I absolutely ADORED your ask. Sometimes I was in months of writer's block, and other times I wrote more than I thought I could! Thank you so so much for your ask, I really really hope you enjoy it :)) ❤️❤️

Context: The fighting is all done but no Warnette proposal/engagement.

Peace in Your Arms

Juliette smiled at the feeling of soft grass beneath her hand, the blades tickling her fingers. It had been nearly a year since they finally put an end to the Reestablishment, all of it this time. The world had begun to heal, slowly but surely. There were patches of land where the Earth was returning to its prior state. It was on such a patch that they had chosen to host the one year celebration of their liberation. Liberation from a world filled with nothing but pain and strife, where hope was a rarity few saw. A celebration was necessary, a reminder that they were working toward a world where happiness was no longer scarce; that their pain and sacrifice had meaning, was worth it.

Juliette’s smile grew as she watched her friends enjoying the party. Tents had been set up for food, activities, and music. Children raced around playing imaginative games with each other, trying their hardest to pull the adults in with them. Most feigned a weak protest before joining them easily. She couldn’t blame them, the kids’ happiness was infectious.

A brush of warm lips at the base of her neck brought her back to the source of her own happiness. The one whose legs she was nestled between on the grass, whose arms were wrapped securely around her waist, whose chest was pressed firmly to her back, acting as her pillar of support in more ways than one.

She couldn’t hold in the content sigh that flew past her lips as she pressed impossibly closer into his warmth.

“Are you enjoying yourself, love?”

She could hear his smile in his voice but struggled to determine if it came from mirth at her curling into him or if he was simply smiling at her just because. Both made her heart race for different reasons. As he pressed another brief kiss to her temple, she decided she didn’t care. She simply reveled in the feeling of that rare curve of his lips against her skin. She was tempted to turn to face him so she could take in his smile with her eyes as well, but that would mean moving from her current position. And she was quite comfortable there, thank you very much.

“Immensely,” she answered. His arms squeezed her slightly, pleased at the response.

“Do you guys ever turn that off?”

Juliette smothered a laugh as she felt Aaron stiffen in annoyance at the voice.

“Shut up Kishimoto.”

Kenji held up his hands in defense from his spot across from them on the grass. “I’m just saying! Believe it or not, PDA can get annoying pretty quickly for anyone in your general vicinity.”

“Bet you wouldn’t find it annoying if you could get some,” Aaron muttered. Kenji’s eyes narrowed and Juliette shook with silent laughter.

“Behave boys,” she warned lightly. They were all used to Aaron and Kenji’s banter by now, but some days she still worried about it escalating to the point she had to restrict one from throttling the other. They never seemed far from the line between friendship and enmity.

“These two? Behaving?,” Nazeera laughed from her spot next to Kenji. “We’re more likely to see flying pigs first.” Kenji turned to her affronted.

“How dare you! I am not some little kid you have to keep warning to behave.”

She scoffed, “I’ll believe that the day you act like it.” Kenji opened his mouth to reply before suddenly freezing. His eyes went wide and the three of us stiffened in anticipation of a threat. Kenji scrambled to his feet before moving to stand in front of me.

“J, it’s the song. Our song. Come on!” The tension from Juliette’s body seeped out at the disappearance of the threat. She narrowed her eyes at him.

“Are you kidding me Kenji? You scared us half to death!” He held his hand out for her to take while look at me with pleading eyes and a pout that was too adorable to refuse. She sighed and took it, climbing reluctantly out of Aaron’s arms.

Kenji had made it his personal mission to rescue digital copies of what he believed to be the best music of the past world and had insisted Juliette experience them with him. As she listened closer, she realized it was their favorite song playing on the speakers from the music tent. A smile slowly grew on her lips as Kenji pulled her forward to dance.

She laughed as he led her in an energetic choreography that seemed far too planned to be spontaneous. His expressions changed to match the lyrics and beat of the song, further adding to her amusement, and she couldn’t deny she enjoyed his excessive twirling and dramatic pull-ins and pushes as they danced on the grass.

She was grateful for the lightness of the atmosphere and for him. How he was always there as whatever she needed, a supporter, a listener, someone to make her laugh, someone to tell her the tough reality she needed to hear and lend her the strength to bear it. He was one of the few people who never gave up on her and she would be eternally grateful for it. It warmed her heart to see the genuine carefree light that shone in his eyes; they sparked with true happiness.

“Thank you Kenji,” she said as he pulled her in after a round of twirls.

“What for?” He asked with a grin. “Being the world’s best dance partner?”

She shook her head. “For being the world’s greatest best friend.” His grin softened into a warm smile.

“Always, kiddo.” His lips quirked into a smirk. “You’re stuck with me now, whether you like it or not.”

“I love it,” she said pushing to her tiptoes to press a kiss to his cheek. “And same goes to you.”

She saw a faint blush creep into his cheeks and her smile morphed into a grin. “Aww are you blushing Kenji?”

“Shut up,” he muttered, “Stupid J, you can’t do something like that and expect me not to fall in love with you.” I shook my head in laughter at how easily he fell back on that running joke. The pair heard a soft cough behind them, turning to find Nazeera.

“May I cut in?” She asked with a faint smirk.

His eyes lit up. “Sorry J, looks like I gotta— what?“ his eyes widened to saucers and his mouth froze midway as Nazeera stepped in to take my hand for a dance.

She turned to him with her best look of innocence, “Were you expecting something different Mr. Kishimoto?” Juliette’s laughter was barely contained at the satisfaction in Nazeera’s eyes and the shock in Kenji’s.

She heard the music in the background change to a Latin beat as Nazeera led her in a casual salsa. She kept it simple and slowly Juliette picked up the repeated steps and found herself grinning the more she got into it.

“Looks like Kenji made a dancer out of you yet,” Nazeera laughed.

“You know better than most, when that oaf becomes persistent there’s nothing anyone can do.” Juliette replied with a wink. Nazeera’s eyes flitted away for a brief second as a faint pink rose to her cheeks. “When are you finally gonna end his pining and give in to what you both want?” Nazeera opened her mouth to argue but Juliette cut her off with a look. “Don’t even think of denying it,” she warned. “I’m not blind Naz.”

In the last year, her and Nazeera had grown much closer. Aside from Kenji, Juliette would call Nazeera her closest friend. The latter had been wary at first — a lifetime in the world of the Reestablishment created a twisted idea of friendship in her mind, one that was more dangerous than it was rewarding. To Nazeera, friendship had always been a farce, a game of emotions with the end goal of acquiring power and influence. The last year had slowly taught her different. And Juliette was no less persistent than Kenji. Slowly they coaxed her out of the metal shell she had covered her heart in and slipped between its cracks. So much so that Nazeera even acquiesced to the nickname. (She would take it to the grave that the night that Juliette first called her by it, she had cried.) So long as she could return the favor with a nickname of her own.

“One day, I will Jules,” she answered with a smile tinged with sadness. “You guys loosened the bars around this heart of mine,” she said with a playful nudge, “but it still needs a bit more time before such a big leap.” Juliette nodded in understanding. Nazeera had made great leaps forward, but nothing happens before the time it is meant to. Juliette was quiet a moment. “Something on your mind, Juliette?”

Juliette hesitated.

“Can I ask you a question?”

“Of course.”

“Do you mind that I ask you to call me Juliette instead of Ella?” The question had been weighing on her mind for a while. She had asked everyone but Aaron to call her Juliette, because that was the her they all knew. But Nazeera too had known Ella, and sometimes Juliette wondered if she’d hurt her by asking her to use the name Juliette.

Nazeera smiled at her. “Ella was the girl I was always looking for. Juliette is the girl who fought beside me and coerced me into a friendship I never knew I needed, but cherish with all my heart.” She squeezed Juliette’s hand. “I don’t mind at all, Jules.” Juliette smiled at the nickname Nazeera she had received in exchange for permission to call her Naz. It was a sign that they were growing, learning to let people past their defenses in a way novel to them both.

Nazeera pushed her back before pulling her in dramatically in time with the climax of the beat. A laugh spilled out of Juliette as Nazeera’s mouth curved into a grin. The two girls giggled and danced and savored the freedom to do so till the song reached its final notes. Just as it did there was another voice speaking up behind them.

“May I finally have a turn to dance with my girlfriend?” Nazeera turned to Aaron and laughed at the tired look on his face.

“Oh relax, I only borrowed her for one song.”“I’m sorry Nazeera, but I can not tolerate that oaf any longer.” They turned to look at Kenji whose eyes were narrowed in a glare at Aaron before turning to us and waving with a goofy smile.

The girls chuckled. Nazeera wrapped Juliette in a quick hug before placing her hand in Aaron’s. “Take care of her Warner.” There was a seriousness in her voice and the look she gave him that Juliette didn’t know how to interpret. Everyone knew how much Aaron cared about her, and she about him. Why the need for a warning? Regardless, Aaron nodded to her in kind. With a satisfied smile, she stepped away and headed off to go deal with her special oaf.

Aaron’s hand wrapped around her own, but rather than pulling her into his arms for a dance, he tugged her away from it towards the forest. She followed with confusion swimming in her eyes. He looked back at her and gave a small smile accompanied by a gentle squeeze of her palm. Trust me.

She smiled and returned the gesture. Always.

For nearly ten minutes he led her through the winding thickets of the forest, occasionally raising her hand to his mouth to brush a kiss across her knuckles. She smiled at the vibrancy of the green surrounding them. Their world really was healing. After so long, there truly was hope.

Finally, Aaron stopped for a second and she followed. Wordlessly he tugged her forward and all thought evaporated from her mind. He had pulled her into the most beautiful clearing she had ever seen.

The patches of Earth they’d been walking on turned to lush green grass. The clearing was outlined by thick, healthy trees, each of which looked old enough to carry stories of a world they’d never known but were coming to see. A creek wound through the bed of verdant, the water startlingly blue and glimmering under the rays of sunlight peeking through the clouds. A waterfall spilled into the creek, water misting all along the top to give them glimpses of a rainbow before crashing into a beautiful white against the rocks at its base.

Her mouth fell open, eyes wide as they take in the beauty of it all. Juliette turned to see Aaron watching her with an expression she can’t quite name.

“Aaron,” she breathed, taking another glance at the wonder around them. “It’s beautiful.”

“You’re beautiful.” He smiled and extended a hand to her. Still in awe, she took it unsteadily. But the moment her skin touched his, it’s as if her every nerve calmed. The world faded away, all the vibrant hues bleaching to white until all that was left was him. Aaron.

In one fluid motion he placed Juliette’s hand on his shoulder, tugging her forward. His smile widened to a grin when she fell against him at the suddenness. His other arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer still. She looked up to glare at him, but the moment her gaze locked with Aaron’s, all of the bite disappeared from her expression.

She was drowning in a sea of verdant. The hand not on his shoulder floated to his neck, carding through his hair. Every reaction of her body to him is unconscious, pure instinct. Her heart raced in her chest. She wondered if he could feel it through her skin.

It’s only when he began to sway their joined form that she noticed the music around them. Her eyes flitted over his shoulder to see an iPod resting on a boulder behind them.

Just as Juliette opened her mouth to ask where he got the old device, Aaron’s lips are at her ear. “A gift from Kishimoto.” He paused. “On loan of course.” She laughed.

“He let you borrow his iPod? What spell have you cast on my friend Mr. Warner?”

“Your friend is not who I care to discuss, Ms. Ferrars.” Juliette shot him a look. “I didn’t mean it that way,” he reassured. His voice quieted. “Right now, I just want to hold you. To dance with you.”

Juliette softened and pulled his head backward to meet his eyes. She rose to her toes to press a kiss to his cheek. “Of course.”

Aaron’s eyes crinkled at the corners as the smile returned to his face. Her favorite dimple reappearing. She shifted to press a kiss to it. He raised their twined hands above them and spun her, tugging so her back was pressed against his chest and his arms folded across her front. The steady beat of his heart blended with the sweet song that enveloped them.

His lips brushed the shell of her ear as he whispered, “Love?”

Juliette hummed for him to continue. When she was met with silence, she craned her head sideways to look at him. She could hear the hitch in his breath as their eyes locked again. Hear the speed of his heart quicken beneath where her head pressed against his chest. Her hand found his cheek and worry filled her gaze.

“Aaron, are you alright?”

“Yes. No. I don’t know,” he whispered. “I just—“ a sort of desperation took hold of his voice as he spoke. “I can’t breathe when I look at you. Or find the right words to say.” He turned Juliette to face him. One of his arms stayed wrapped around her waist, keeping her close. The other cupped her face with tenderness and desperation. “Ella, I love you. I have loved you most of my life. I love you more than words can express. There isn’t a moment to come where I won’t love you.” His thumb brushed over her cheekbone, wiping away a tear that spilled over. “You are the air in my lungs. The blood in my veins. You are my world. My universe.” Aaron’s voice softened. “I can’t imagine a moment of my life without you.” His eyes never wavered from hers as he lowered himself to a knee. Juliette’s heart froze. Tears flowed freely down her face now as her hand flew to her mouth. “Ella, my love, will you marry me?”

Juliette went still. Deathly still. Struck silent in shock. She watched the hope painted in every line of his face, shining in his eyes, begin to fade into fear. “Love?” He whispered in question. The near break in his voice shook her out of her stupor as she threw her arms around his neck. They fell backwards onto the grass as she pressed her mouth to his. Smiling through the kiss. Tears falling from her cheek to his. “Is that a yes?”

She let out a watery laugh. “Yes. A thousand times yes to everything. To a future with you. To a lifetime with you. Yes to everything with you.”

A dazzling grin split Aaron’s face as he laughed and pulled her to him. His arms wound around her waist and his lips were moving over hers. His head pillowed on the soft grass. Her dark waves falling like a curtain over them. Shielding them from the world in their own private oasis. They had stolen love in a world of hate. They had stolen happiness in a world of despair. Now, they stole this moment from time. As they prepared to steal a lifetime together from the universe.

(Kenji/Juliette's Song: Love Runs Out by OneRepublic) (Aaron/Juliette's Song: Medicine by James Arthur)

#aaron warner #warner x juliette #warnette #shatter me fanfic #shatter me #kenji kishimoto #nazeera ibrahim #kenji x nazeera #kenji is my baby #they are all too adorable #aaron warner anderson #juliette ferrars #books #bookish #booklr #fanfiction #fanfic #shatter me fanfiction