#maybe it could end with someone putting the classes notes online for when Rose misses class

[kiss-seokjin]

Joke (RM Joke Spinoff)

Synopsis: The ‘mad’ wolf hybrid Kim Namjoon breaks out of his imprisonment in an asylum and lucky you, he’s now living in your house!

Pairing: wolf hybrid Namjoon x human reader

Word count: 7,545

Pairing: 18+

Warnings: Smut

Smut warnings: reader and Namjoon are actually kinky, foreplay, oral sex (both receiving), penetration, no protection

AO3 link

Wattpad link

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You close your laptop, sighing as you stand up and stretch after a long day of zoom classes for college. Feeling antsy after sitting for so long you Put in your earbuds and play music from your phone as you step outside for fresh air.

There is a grassy yard with a small pond, stream, and flowers in the yard, but beyond that, there is a forest that expands as far as the eye can see along the mountains that you are in. Ever since COVID-19 happened you have been taking online university on and off from the family home in Korea. There is a town close by, it is only a twenty or thirty minute car ride away, though due to living in the mountains you cannot see it from your home. But on a positive note it makes it easy to get groceries and supplies on your weekly trip from your safe space.

Since you cannot see your friends in person these days, and also considering you are in the mountains, you have a weekly chat with them during your free time to catch up with one another and to fill the void of not being able to socialize any more. You truly miss them but you know things will go back to normal someday. At least you hope so.

After relaxing to a few songs while admiring the view you go back inside to make your dinner. Shutting the sliding glass door behind you contemplating locking it. You do live far out in the woods so it is highly unlikely someone will break in, and besides, even if they did, they could just throw a rock through the window, so either way they could easily break in. You end up leaving it unlocked for tonight, deciding to forget about it over dinner.

While you let the ramen cook you take the chance to water some of your plants which include some bonsai trees, a rose bush, and an orchid. After the ramen finishes, you let it cool down before putting some in a bowl to enjoy. You scroll through your phone as you eat your meal, as it is one of your only visual as to what is going on out in the world these days.

After dinner, you sit down to read some of the book Damian by Hermann Hesse. You are very intrigued by the book so you have already read it a few times. You sit curled up on the couch with a blanket and some tea, one that doesn't have any caffeine in it since you want a good nights rest and not insomnia. After a long day of classes, you definitely needed some of the activities you did this evening. Maybe tomorrow you will go on a bike ride or drive your car when there is some time.

About an hour and a half of reading later, you mark where you have stopped in the book and put the book back on its shelf and turn off the lights before going upstairs to get some pajamas so you can shower. You won't be back down anyways so it is better to turn the lights off now.

A nice warm shower definitely will make this evening complete. Just thinking about it makes you want to take a self care day so you can have a long shower or bath, do a face mask, use hand and feet cremes or do a mani-pedi, paint your nails, listen to music, enjoy nature, read, and sip on some coffee, chai, or tea.

Turning on the water, you enjoy the warmth of the water as it comforts you in your temporary confinement at home. It is something that is oddly comforting these days. You used to take it for granted.

As you are taking a shower, you are completely oblivious to the stranger entering into your house, as he is of you at first.

"Hm, running water?" he asks himself, hearing the water running from the shower upstairs. He had stumbled upon this house and thought it was empty since the lights were off. How foolish of him. He didn't even try to smell or hear it out before entering. But then again who knows how far the nearest town, let alone another house is (or even rarer, an abandoned house), so stumbling upon this one was just his luck. He'll just force whoever is here into letting him stay the night or for how long he needs. It depends on the situation. From what he can smell, there is one person here; a female in her early twenties.

He notices the plants and book shelves, two things that intrigue him, as he has a fondness for such things. He can make out a TV in this living room of yours, and after a brief moment of thought, finds the remote and turns it on, soon figuring out how to get to the local news channel. He finds that he has already made the news today, and it won't surprise him if other news channels begin to cover him as well since he is such a well known name among the hybrid world, as well as to the Korean government.

"The werewolf, also known as Kim Namjoon, has escaped from the nearby asylum he was being held in today" says the reporter. "We do not know much about the situation, but from what has been released so far, it is believed he severely injured his guards and escaped wearing one of their uniforms. As you all may know, Kim Namjoon is an insane and powerful wolf hybrid, a type of hybrid that is very rare. He has been nicknamed werewolf for his ability to transfer from wolf, hybrid, and human state, and two years ago while working as a servant for the president, he had secretly been the eyes and ears for a resistance he was building up for hybrid rights. One evening he took out a premeditated attacked the president, nearly killing him in the process. Kim Namjoon was deemed insane and was sent off to an asylum and the president and vice president struck down on hybrids laws, making the old ones tighter and new ones that put on more restrictions then there was before. The resistance he had build up has dwindled with many leaving, getting disconnected, or being arrested. If you see Kim Namjoon, the man on the screen, please call the police immediately. Do not make contact with this man. Lock your doors and windows. Make sure he can't break into your house in any way, because any encounter could involve someone getting injured or killed."

Liars. He is not a blood thirsty madman. Has this really become his public image? He wanted justice and equality, not for hybrids to be put through more oppression than they already were. Hell, other places like the United States and the European Union have already greatly improved upon hybrid rights, but somehow East Asia is late to the party. Very late. He tried working along side the LGBTQ+ community in the country, but he doubts that even if he manages to start up a resistance again that they would want to help. If they want to do things peacefully, only for their voices to be ignored, then fine. He will actually make sure there is equality once he and his allies come to power. If he can get to them.

As you get out of the shower, you hear the TV from downstairs is clearly on. And you definitely didn't have it on today. You quickly put on your pajamas and rush to your room to grab a pepper spray. You quietly make your way down the stair hoping you can pepper spray whoever has come into your house. As you get near the bottom, a voice calls out.

"I'm afraid your plan of attack has already failed" says a male voice, right before he turns on the a light. He is a tall man with clear dimples, a flatish nose, and you can make out a slight widows peak, despite he cap he is wearing. He is wearing some type on uniform, though it is all messy. "I heard you turn off the water, as well as every foot step and tip toe you took. And I saw you coming down the stairs."

"B-but how?" you bring yourself to ask, not even a 'who are you' or 'why are you in my home'. You were being as quiet as you could, and with how dark the majority of the house is at this point besides your bedroom, you have to wonder how he even saw you when you could make out very little in the dark.

He man takes off the cap to reveal two animal ears, most similar to a dog or wolf. He's a hybrid. As you are piecing it all together, you hear something from the TV in the next room.

"As a reminder for this evening, beware of Kim Namjoon, the insane wolf hybrid who escaped from the nearly asylum. Call the police right away if you see him and keep your distance. Please stay safe."

You remember hearing this name a couple years ago and vaguely remember what he looks like. Tall, has dimples, has a flatish nose, and has a slight widows peak. It's him. The man in your house is him. You scream and run up the stairs, hoping you can make it to your phone to call the police, but he is faster and stronger than you, so he catches you and pins you against the wall.

"I won't hurt you unless I need to" he says. "I just need a place to stay for a bit and for you to not report me to the police and I won't hurt or bother you."

"But you're an insane criminal" you reply. "You tried to kill the president."

"That's what they want you to think. I was set up since they didn't like the power and attention I was getting. While I did have informants, I never worked under the president. I just want justice and equality, but none of those assholes in government seem to care about the rights of some citizens. You're lucky not to not be a hybrid, because you know what it feels like to be treated with respect. I can't vote or run for government, hell I could barely take a walk or bike ride down the street without receiving a glare from every other person, and just to buy a car or to get a loan in so damn hard, near impossible... Just please, let me stay and don't turn me over so I can finish what I started."

Something about this touches you. You care deeply about politics, the environment, and equality, so naturally you support hybrid rights, but from what you know the way this man has gone about getting the message across has caused more problems than solutions. But that all could have been false. You don't know anymore. You can't always trust the media. Hell, you don't know if you completely trust him either, but judging by his behavior, he doesn't seem like the type to harm people unless he needs too and he seems to be pretty genuine in most if not all of what he is saying. This causes you to think of something.

"As long as you are willing to peacefully protest and advocate I'll let you stay" you say. "And clear your name, if you can."

"Of course... I take this you won't turn me in and I can stay here?"

You nod.

"For now" you say.

"Well, if that's the case, can you provide me with some clean clothes and direct me in the direction of the shower? I need to clean myself off."

You are able to find some clothing that fits him and you show him to the shower.

"By the way, you can sleep on the guests bed room" you say before he shuts the door. "It is the one next to my bedroom over there."

"Alright" he says.

You head back to your room and can't help but think about how funny it was to see his tail stuffed into the pants he was wearing. It was ready to pop out at any moment. It makes you wonder how he will be able to fit it into the pants you gave him.

You get on into bed, grabbing your phone to scroll through it for a while to refresh yourself with Namjoon and his past, realizing he can easily make himself look human. How extra was he just to want to show you his ears?

From what you remember from biology class, a rare set of humans evolved to have animal traits, those being hybrids. Some got more useful skills while others got ones that were rather useless. Some even had rare traits such as Namjoon. After hybrids went through several atrocities they were given freedom, but they often still face discrimination in the eyes of others and in the law, especially in East Asia. It can be bad in the west too, but there aren't nearly as many laws against them that are so blatantly obvious.

About twenty minutes later you hear a knock on the door and Namjoon comes through, his wolf ears now gone.

"Anyways I just came into say goodnight" says Namjoon.

"Goodnight" you reply.

"And thanks once again" says Namjoon before he closes the door. He is much more polite than you thought he would be is what you think to yourself before you put your phone up to charge for the night.

The next morning you wake up to the sound of knocking on the front door. Who would be here so early that your alarm for nine AM hasn't even gone off yet? You reluctantly get out of bed to make your way downstairs. When you open your bedroom door you see Namjoon is near the top of the stairs.

"Stay here" you say. "It isn't safe for you to be seen."

You go downstairs to open the door to none other than two cops.

"Good morning ma'am" says one officer. "I am officer Choi and this is officer Jang. We are doing a check up on the area do to the possibility of a highly dangerous criminal being in the area."

"Do you mean Kim Namjoon?" you ask. You know the answer but you felt the need to ask. "I saw it last night on the news."

"Yes" says officer Choi. "We are just doing a check up to make sure everyone is safe and to see if there have been any possible sightings."

"Well I'm safe and I haven't seen anything" you half lie. You don't entirely trust Namjoon yet but you trust him enough to know he is unlikely going to hurt you unless he finds it necessary. And as far as these cops are considered you haven't seen Namjoon.

"If that's all I hope you have a good rest of your day ma'am" says officer Choi before he turns to leave with officer Jang following from behind.

You shut the door and turn around, only to see Namjoon in his full wolf form.

"Really," you say. "I had it handled."

He simply turns around and makes his way up the stairs. You roll your eyes and follow him.

"I'm going to make breakfast soon" you say. "If there's anything you want you can just tell me."

As you finish saying that, you turn at the top of the stairs to see Namjoon shamelessly changing into the close he had on the night before in the middle of the hall. You panic and turn around, hoping not to see anything you don't need to.

"Why are you changing?" you ask.

"I can't wear clothing when I go into wolf form" he says casually, as if you didn't nearly see things you really didn't want to see. "It just makes it awkward and I get stuck sometimes so I chance from human to wolf and vise versa without clothing on."

"Well next time change in a more private place please" you say. "I don't want to see you naked."

"Whatever. Make whatever you want. I'm not much of a breakfast person. Though a coffee would be nice."

You go throughout your day as normal. You have your classes online in your bedroom for privacy as Namjoon is doing who knows what. Once classes are done, you decide that maybe you can go out shopping for food tomorrow.

You head downstairs to see Namjoon reading a book. He looks up when he hears you coming down and shuts the book.

"You were awfully quiet today" he comments.

"I had online classes" you respond.

"Online classes?"

"Do you really not know?"

"Know what?"

"Namjoon... We are in the middle of a global pandemic."

He looks at you in shock.

"A... Pandemic?"

"Yes. Covid-19. Some people just call it Carona."

"Like the beer?"

"Yeah, like the beer."

"That's... A lot."

"Tell me about it. I'm sick of the pandemic. Everyone is. But we just have to wait it out. We've been in and out of quarantining for a while now. Whenever they begin to lift stuff cases always begin to spike again at some point."

"For how long has this been happening?"

"Since around March of 2020."

"And the date is?" You check your phone and tell him the date. "Wow that is a while."

"Yup..."

There is an awkward silence for a moment before Namjoon speaks up.

"Anyways I noticed you have a bike. I'm wondering if I can borrow it? I love riding bikes."

"Sure."

Before you know it Namjoon is out the door to go bike riding. He won't go too far so he won't be spotted, but you know he'll be back soon. That is when you remember your zoom meeting with your friends.

You quickly rush to log on. Your friends had already started since you were running late, and you all catch up with one another on life. One's boyfriend broke up with them, another lost their uncle to covid, and one make strawberry milk from scratch. Soon you here Namjoon enter your house, but fortunately your friends did not here it through zoom.

Once you hang up, you go downstairs you see Namjoon reading the same book he was reading earlier.

"Your friends?" he asks.

"Yeah" you reply. "It is kinda a weekly thing... Just wondering, now that you're out of the asylum, what are you going to do now?"

"Start a hybrid movement somehow. I don't know how, seeing as there are more regulations than before, but we must try."

"Well, the first place to start is trying to find some old supporters here and then seek international help. Oh and clearing your name."

"The only way I can clear my name is by proving that the president and his colleagues plotted against me and paid off the asylum to keep me there. And where would we begin to find followers? I don't know if there are secret connections still or if everyone is cut off or what."

"I wish I could be a greater help on that end, but I'm not exactly involved with things like that."

He chuckles in response.

"Anyways, I really want some samgyupsal and black been noodles. I haven't had those in so long. If it's possible for you to get them I would be grateful."

"Sure, I can order some for dinner" you reply, trusting him some more.

The next day you drive down to the town to go grocery shopping. As you are leaving the store, two hybrids pass you, a rabbit hybrid and a cat hybrid. You don't take much notice to them at first, but they both start sniffing in your direction, which you found strange.

"Excuse me ma'am" says the cat hybrid. "We are wondering if you have spotted any wolfs in the area?"

"Umm" you say, very confused.

"Have you perhaps run into a wolf recently?" asks the rabbit hybrid.

Suddenly the the pieces snap into place. They are talking about Namjoon.

"We are looking for a friend" says the cat hybrid. "A former colleague."

"Come with me" you reply. You lead them to your car, where you offload your groceries before you instructed them to get into your car. "What do you want with Namjoon?"

"We were friends of his" says the rabbit hybrid. "In the movement. Before he was taken away."

"I'm Min Yoongi" says the cat hybrid. "And this is Jeon Jungkook. When we heard he escaped we came searching for him. We were planning another movement in secret, and we could really use his help."

"Well he did say he wanted to start another movement" you say. "But you need to be careful, he's wanted. I don't mind letting him stay at my place for safety for now and helping the movement, but I don't want involvement on my record if the police arrest you all. I can't ruin my chances of success at becoming a politician or a political reporter."

"We get it" says Jungkook. "Being and supporting hybrids is a dangerous thing as of late. It can be hard to support in the shadows while trying to be successful in other areas of life."

"Don't get me started on that" says Yoongi. "Just having that you supported the previous movement on your record makes things so much harder, especially for us hybrids. "We had three security checks on the way here. Three."

"That's awful" you reply. At least they understood your worries and you felt sympathy for them. They don't deserve that kind of treatment for simply being different. "I can help you meet up with Namjoon if I can have your numbers."

You all trade numbers before they leave.

You get back home and Namjoon helps you unload the groceries. As you do you tell him about Jungkook and Yoongi.

"That's great!" he says. "Let's meet as soon as possible."

A few days later, Jungkook and Yoongi are at your house to have their first meeting with Namjoon. You had classes so you couldn't be present, but Namjoon filled you in when you were done.

"So they were planning stuff in a small group, but they are going to expand it so there can be a whole protest" he says. "We will make sure to get some international people involved. Hell, make it a whole peaceful protest with performers like idol groups and American singers for all I care. The more media attention the better. They do have some connections inside the government that could help clear my name, but it could take time. Those friends could even help put in a good word in other governments to get them on our side."

"That's great!" you say, patting him on the arm. "Let's drink some beer for that."

You both drink beer to celebrate the long road ahead to not only for hybrid equality but for clearing Namjoon's name. You fully trust him now.

"You know" you say. "I actually really like having you here for company... It's nice."

"Really?" Namjoon replies. "... It's nice to be out of the asylum. I may still be wanted, but at least I have some freedom now and... and that I am actually treated with kindness after so long."

You stare at him with caring eyes.

"You have my full support Namjoon."

"And you have mine."

You both glance away, taking a sip of your beers. Something felt different. Unknown to both of you, you had a slight blush, partly from the alcohol and partly from each other.

A few weeks go by, and in that time Jungkook, Yoongi, and Namjoon had more meetings. You were sometime present and sometimes you were working on university stuff.

As the sun sets, Namjoon feels stressed and unsure of what to do with himself. He knew this day would come, and it wouldn't be like last time since he actually took the meds for this. He watches the full moon slowly come out, and he can feel the power it brings him. But he can also feel the lust. The beginning of his heat. His damn once a month heat on the full moon. He wishes he grabbed some heat meds before he broke out, but he didn't, so he needs to find some relief. And fast.

As you both sit on the couch, you sipping on your tea with your earbuds in and him holding a book, trying to his that he has a hard on, he contemplates whether he should tell you or relief himself in the bathroom.

He heads to the bathroom, opting for the second option, not wanting to involve you, but when he jacks off, it doesn't bring the relief he needs or desires. He pumps harder and faster, trying to satisfy himself, but instead ends up having his first pathetic orgasm of the night. He can't spend the rest of the night like this. It will be pure misery. He'll have to ask you for help.

Awkwardly, he walks out of the bathroom and sits besides you. You still have your earbuds in, so you fortunately didn't hear anything from the bathroom. He taps your shoulder and you take out your earbuds.

"Hmm?" you hum softly.

"I have something to tell you" Namjoon says. "It's serious."

"What is it?"

"Once a month... On the full moon... I get stronger."

"Like the way how you broke out last month."

"Yeah. Exactly. But last month, even though I didn't take the meds for my strength, I did take it for something else, something that also happens during the full moon for me, but because I don't have those meds now, I am wondering if you... If you could help me fix it."

"Which is?"

"I'm in my heat."

There is a pause of silence as you are taking this information in. After a silence that felt like forever, you climb on top of him, straddling him as you place your hands on his shoulders.

"I'll help" you say. "Tell me what you need."

"M-maybe we can just g-grind for now" Namjoon says nervously but with anticipation.

You press into his bulge, feeling that he already has a hard on. You grind your hips into his, and soon enough he begins grinding back. With ups and downs and side to sides, you feel yourself loosening up and loosing yourself in the moment. You could actually enjoy tonight.

"Harder" says Namjoon. "Grind harder."

You do as he wishes, grinding him even harder. Any doubts you had before are now gone as you are in a fever of lust. Feeling his clothed member prod your clit is driving you crazy. You whimper a little. Without thinking, you go and kiss him in the heat of the moment. When you feel his lips pressing back, you passionately kiss him as you continue to grind. He opens your mouth and sticks his tongue inside. His thick lips and his clothed cock are driving you crazy.

"Hmm" he moans into the kiss before pulling away. "It's not good enough."

You pause for a moment, before climbing off of him.

"Lie down" you command, which he follows.

You slowly take off your pants and underwear, revealing your wet pussy to him. He feels himself grow even harder at the sight of your precum dripping down your thighs. You walk on over and place your pussy above his face before reaching down towards his pants.It is getting tight in there. Even you can see that.

You unzip his pants and push his underwear back, revealing his cock, which was bigger than you expected, making you excited. You lower your pussy on his face as you message his dick and balls, before lowering down and giving his member a long lick before wrapping your mouth around it, taking it in as far as your mouth would let you.

Namjoon sucks at your pussy as he puts is hands on your waist. He puts his tongue out, licking around your pussy and taking your juices before moving it up and down and side to side.

You bob your head up and down, feeling Namjoon's member roughly hit the back of your throat. Your tongue licks around him as your hands work hard on his balls and the base of his dick. It is a wonder you got as much as you did in your mouth.

You moan some when you feel Namjoon's tongue begin to penetrate inside you. He licks around and comes in and out. You can feel the heat building inside you as you do not have much longer.

You sway your hips on his face some as he digs his fingers into your sides as he moans into you, which makes you break. You cum all of over his face, causing Namjoon to begin to eagerly lick and suck on your juices.

With you cumming on him his member begins to twitch in your mouth and a few moments later he also cums. You swallow as much of his cum as you can, though due to his big and long cock some leaks out onto your face, dipping off of you.

When you are done swallowing his fluids, you slowly remove your mouth off of his cock. Namjoon spends a few more moments licking up your juices. When he is done, you remove your pussy off of him and slide onto the floor.

"That was amazing" you say. Definitely the best oral sex you have ever had. It makes you wonder what fucking him is like. Just the thought of you to being intimate like that together begins to turn you on again.

"I'm grateful for your help" says Namjoon as he slowly sits up. "It means a lot."

A couple minutes of silence later, Namjoon speaks again.

"I can feel another one coming again."

You stand up, your legs a bit wobbly from your first round. You reach out your hand, which he takes as you pull him up. You kiss him passionately.

"Touch me" you say softly. "Please."

Namjoon slowly reaches down and touches your clit. He rubs it in circles and back and forth, causing you to get a little wet.

"Harder" you demand.

He presses his finger harder into you, before sliding it into you, causing you to moan. He begins to pump his one digit into you before slowly adding a second. His spare hand slides into your shirt and into your bra, caressing and groping your breast. You help him out by sliding your shirt and bra off, becoming fully naked. You reach over and slide his pants and underwear down to his ankles, causing him to slip out of them.

He pulls his fingers out of you, causing you to whimper as he sucks your juices off of them.

"Hmm" he moans as he licks his fingers clean. "You're wet enough now, correct?"

"Yes" you squeak as he slides off his shirt, now fully naked like you. You begin to passionately kiss as you wrap your arms around each other. You begin to lead him to your bedroom as his hands search your body. One hand squeezes your ass as his lips begin to trail down your neck.

He pins you against a wall as his lips travel across your chest and shoulders. He leave hickeys all over you. You become bold and begin to kiss his neck, sucking and biting in the process. You leave a hickey on his neck before pulling away, looking at Namjoon, who is now staring down at you.

"Let's take this to the bedroom, shall we?" you say smirking at him.

He kisses you again as you continue to lead him to your bedroom.

When you get there, he pushes you onto the bed, where you plop before setting yourself up on the bed with your legs open, showing your wet pussy on full display.

Namjoon grimaces in lust. Being in heat made this desirable as is, but looking at you now, ready and willing on your bed, made him realize that all this time, he found you more attractive then he'd let himself admit. He secretly would be happy if you two can keep it up beyond this.

"Do you have condoms here?" he asks.

"Nope" you reply. "And I'm not on birth control either. We just gotta hope for the best."

Feeling his heat going crazy, Namjoon climbs on the bed and over you, placing his hands on either side of you as you wrap your arms around hims back, spreading your legs. You can feel his cock at the entrance of your folds, making you go crazy once again.

"Ready?" he asks one more time, giving you enough time to back out. He could always go back to pleasuring himself in the bathroom if worst comes to worst.

"I'm ready" you say to him, with eyes full of lust and passion. He slowly pushes his cock inside of you.

"So tight" Namjoon says as you grit your teeth. You haven't had sex in so long, but you could get used to living a life like this. Hell, you wouldn't mind at all, having sex with Namjoon once a month, maybe even more. You always thought he was attractive, but you never voiced your attraction out loud.

Once he is fully inside you, he lets your pussy adjust to his massive girth. When you feel ready, you give him a nod.

He pulls part way out, before sliding back into you. He is very slow and gentle with you, but you soon desire more.

"Faster. Harder" you demand.

Namjoon begins picking up pace and force until he is slamming his cock into your pussy again and again. There are such lewd sounds and you can feel his cock harshly pounding into you and you love every bit of it. Namjoon loves how perfectly your walls suck his cock. It is like your pussy, your body, or your bodies, were made for each other.

You wrap your legs around him, pulling him even deeper into you. As he rams deeper and harder into you, you look down to watch him slamming in and out of you. To see your pussy swollen with his enormous and long cock. A cock that somehow manages to fit perfectly inside of your pussy. He rams his cock into you again, causing you to moan.

"Moan like a good girl for me and I'll ruin your pussy even more" says Namjoon.

"Y-yes daddy" you moan out. You don't know where that even came from. Namjoon's hand wraps around your neck.

"What did you say?" he says as he chokes you some.

"Yes daddy."

"Do you need to be punished?"

"Yes daddy" you tease again with a smirk on your face. "The handcuffs are in the nightstand by the way."

"You have handcuffs but not condoms. You're wild."

He stops pounding into you as he reaches over to the drawer. His cock is perfectly fit inside of you as you can feel him on your cervix but you could also tell he was far enough in that his hips met yours. You move your hips around to grind his cock, causing him to hiss and cum into you, filling you. Sadly, the orgasm you were building is fading away. Namjoon pulls out the handcuffs and slides his cock out of you when he's done cumming, making you pout.

"I like you in me" you say.

"Oh you will get plenty more of that" Namjoon teases as he cuffs your ankles to the lower bedpost. He then climbs over you and handcuffs your wrists above your head. He then begins making circles around your clit, just like earlier. He kisses your stomach and begins kissing upwards until his face is in between of your breasts.

He moves his mouth over and begins to suck one of your tits as his free hand gropes the other. You feel yourself being turned back on by all of this as you moan Namjoon's name. Namjoon nibbles, licks, and sucks at your tit as he removes his hand from your clit and moves his cock over, teasing your folds. You whimper, wanting him to fuck you into oblivion. He removes his mouth from your tit with a pop and sucks his finger to taste your precum mixed with his cum which was dripping out of your pussy. He puts his hands on your waist as he moves up to have is face above yours.

"Are you ready do be a good girl so I can ruin you?" Namjoon asks as he teases your pussy with his cock some more.

"Yes daddy" you tease, causing Namjoon to ram his cock deep into you, causing you both to moan.

Namjoon doesn't wait in going hard and fast and he rams his cock repeatedly into you, harder and faster then before. He is like a wild animal that was let loose. He pounds into you as you feel your cervix being abused by his cock. You will definitely feel this tomorrow. A lot. You are screaming and moaning in pleasure at this point as Namjoon lets out some moans and sighs.

He is falling even more in love with this, felling your pussy wrap around him perfectly, hearing your screams and moans, and seeing your tits bounce with every harsh thrust into you. To see you chained up and giving your body to him. He sloppily kisses you, loving the way you taste. He kisses your neck and chest and leaves even more hickeys then before. Everything about you is beautiful.

You are wondering how you haven't ever had sex like this in your life. You are liking Namjoon more and more throughout this entire experience. Namjoon cums into you again, filling your pussy with even more of him. It is a wonder you can fit it all, he continues to thrust until he is done cumming and then he pull out.

"Hey! What the hell?" you exclaim. "I want to cum too!"

"Oh sweety" Namjoon says. "We need to keep this up all night. That's how long my heat will last. I can't have your pussy too sensitive to be fucked after a few rounds of cumming. I want to make this last as long as I can."

"But can you let me orgasm. Please."

"Eventually."

He said it in a teasing tone with a smirk on his face. You role your eyes and look away.

You look over at the clock on your nightstand. 2:00 AM.

"Let's get fucking then" you say.

Namjoon removes the handcuffs from you and puts them back in the nightstand drawer.

"Get on your stomach" Namjoon demands. You roll over onto your stomach. Namjoon hoists your waist up so that you are on your knees and elbows with your head in the pillow. He wants to angle you just right. To see it as he fucks you. He looks over at the long mirror on wall. You look over there as well as he pushes himself back into you.

He begins to thrust again as you feel your face being pushed into the pillow so you add some resistance in your elbows. Your a bit sensitive at this point but you don't care. You just want to help Namjoon through his heat and have some fun along the way. The pain will go away soon.

Namjoon is pounding into you and can see everything. How beautiful your pussy looks taking his long and large cock that he is ramming hard and fast into you. You both like sex this way. This isn't Namjoon's first time having sex, and surely isn't his first time having sex over heat, but this is the best sex he has had so far.

You continue looking at yourself in the mirror and watch Namjoon ramming in and out of you.

"It's beautiful eh" Namjoon says as he pumps his cock harder and faster into you. "Imagine how much I could ruin you and your pussy if we did this more often."

"Well ruin me" you say. "I want you to ruin me."

Namjoon slaps your ass when he hears that.

"Are you going to be a good girl or do I need to punish you again?"

"Punish me daddy" you say in a teasing voice to edge him on, knowing the word 'daddy' is his trigger word.

He slaps your ass again. And again. And again. All the while as he is pounding into you. You moan at his actions as it is building up heat inside of you. When he bends over and begins to bite your shoulder, it is the last straw for you.

You let out a long scream and begin cumming around his cock. You moan and scream his name several times as he is pounding you through your orgasm. With your pussy tightened around his cock and having you cum on him, it doesn't take long for him to cum into you for the third time. He continues ramming into you until the end of both your orgasms. He pulls out again and falls right next to you.

"That was amazing" you say as you roll onto your back, looking at the clock. 4:15 AM. You still have a few more hours. You spend a few minutes catching your breath on the bed, with the only noise being your breathing. "I call being the top this time."

"Aw common Y/N" says Namjoon. "I like being the top."

"Well maybe I can make you like being a bottom as well."

Before you know it, you are sliding down on Namjoon's cock, watching his lewd facial expressions. You grind into him to make him whimper and moan. You look down to see yourself swollen with his cock yet again. His cock tickles your cervix as you grind into him and you moan. You were always rather vocal during sex.

"Why don't you be a good boy this time and let the lady take the drivers seat" you tease as you lean over and put one hand on either side of his shoulders as he wraps hands around your waist.

You begin to move your hips up and down, feeling his cock slide in and out of you. It hurts some but soon the lust takes back over and the pain goes away.

Namjoon soon eases up after the sudden switch and begins to enjoy you pounding your pussy around his cock. His hands grip your sides as you move your hips up and down. Like Namjoon, you are going hard and fast  with lust in your eyes. You sloppily kiss him before moving to his neck, where you leave hickeys all over his neck and chest.

Namjoon begins to push back up into you, turning you on even more.

"Common Joon, you can do me harder than that" you challenge him.

He begins pounding up into you as you are pounding down on him and soon enough he is cumming into you for the fourth time and you help fuck him through it. Quickly after he begins cumming into you, you are cumming around him for the second time of the night. You both fuck each other through it, and when you are done, you collapse on his chest, too tired to pull yourself off his cock and role off.

You look out the window and see the sun is beginning to rise.

"We did it Namjoon" you say as you lay on his muscular chest. "We got you through your heat... I actually didn't mind going raw. I actually prefer it raw."

"Really?" Namjoon replies. "I prefer it raw too." Namjoon lets out a small laugh. "And to be honest with you, that was easily the best sex I ever had."

"Me to Joon. Me too. I wouldn't mind helping next month. And the month after that. And for however long you need me."

"Honestly... After all that... After this month, I don't know if I want you to leave my side."

"What are you saying?"

"I... I like you a lot Y/N. Like a lot. I think I'm getting feelings for you to be honest."

"Really? I like you too Namjoon. I like you a lot too. But... I'm not ready for a relationship right now. My last one ended a few months ago so I'm not ready for another one, but I am open to the idea."

"Lets leave the option open. We can be fuck buddies. Friends with benefits. Whatever, until we figure this out."

"Sounds like a plan" you say, looking up at his face to see his wolf ears are back. You can feel his tail fur poking at your leg. You're definitely too tired to go to your online classes. You just had sex all night. It makes you think of 34+35 by Ariana Grande. And also her song Positions.

Secretly, you both hope you aren't going to be pregnant after this.

#RM #kim namjoon #namjoon smut #hybrid #hybrid namjoon #wolf hybrid #namjoon x reader #namjoon x y/n #smut #bts smut #rm joke

[siwoline]

“believe me, i tried unloving you.” — [pjs.]

♫ : an art gallery could never be as unique as you by mrld

note. the painting mentioned here is just a work of fiction. if in case it relates to any painting, craft, or art piece in reality, all is purely coincidental.

word count: 1,506  |  angst, unrequited love

<masterlist> <prev> <next>

“y/n!”

as soon as jay reaches you, he hugged you tight as if you did not just see each other two days ago. you laughed at how clingy he is even though you got used to it already because he’s been like that ever since.

he loosened his embrace to take a look at you then asked, “how’s my favorite one?”

he scrunched his nose almost looking like the cute cats you see online, which made you laugh even more and so you bury your face, your cheeks actually, to his chest as a response that you missed him just the same and tightened the hug that you share.

when you initiated to let go of your hug, you saw him pouted his lips but since your time is limited today, he decided to just guide you to the car he brought while you were laughing at how cute he is today. jay opened the car door for you, letting you ride on the shotgun seat. he took a turn and sat on the driver’s seat and looked at you, now showing a smile.

“are you excited?” you smiled, almost laughing at his giddy smile.

“ya, y/n! it’s a museum trip! and we’re just 30 minutes away from it,” and so he started driving.

today is saturday and you are to visit a local museum out of town. it’s like a tradition for you two to go out every weekend and you even made a jar full of papers folded into tiny pieces. written in those papers are names of places you both want to go to, picking one every weekend that passes by.

and today’s trip is actually the last paper you picked from that jar, a museum.

you both agreed that you won’t add more papers when you noticed that it’s slowly emptying itself. instead, you’ll create more on your last day and decided that you’ll share one secret with each other during the trip.

and jay seems to be in the middle of knowing whether he’s nervous or excited, probably thinking of what today brings.

you can’t deny that you’re feeling nervous too, which is quite weird. last night, you went back and forth in your room, thinking of what secret you’ll share with him but you can’t think of any. in your defense, it seems like jay knows almost everything about you already.

jay is observant, very attentive actually. he takes note of the littlest details about you but he doesn’t brag about it. there are times you’re taken aback because he knows what food you want to order when you’re having a lunch out or that he knows what random thing you forgot to bring on a busy day.

he knows the meaning behind your raised brows, your blank stares, or even when you are suddenly spacing out. jay familiarized himself with you that it’s crazy to think of a thing he doesn’t know about you.

“y/n! we’re here!”

you looked outside and saw a tall tower beside what seems like a casa. you turned back to tell him, “the national museum?”

he nodded, smiling, and shrugged his shoulders as if he’s telling you that he got it correct again. you shrieked and pulled him for a tight hug, “thank you, jay.”

growing up, you had sweet little crushes with people whom you met from school or in class. just last month, or maybe a few months ago, you remembered that you always go to the national museum for a first date with the person you were dating. you told jay that you wanted to create new memories on the national museum because you always think of how petty and hopeless romantic you once were.

but the truth is, you just want to forget about the memories you made with the wrong people. you wanted to start anew and think of the places you’ve been through with only happy memories in mind. whenever you think of the national museum, and every other places you’ve been to with the people who hurt you, you could only remember how impulsive, toxic, and love-thirsty you once were.

your thoughts stopped when he let go of your hug and went out the car to open the door for you. when everything’s settled, you linked your arms with his and you walked inside the museum together.

the museum caters thousands of masterpiece that only the national heritage owns. you and jay were being toured to the place and he occasionally tells you a thing or two about the art you’re seeing. the fact that he knows these kinds of information is already known to you because jay always wanted to go to places like this, where there are stories behind every thing that is wonderful.

when the museum guide ended the tour and said that you can now go around the place on your own, jay held your hand and looked at you.

“y/n, i know a piece to show you.”

you were walking past by the paintings about society, about children and family, until you reached the section where it’s about love. you were sure it’s about love. you looked around and you saw a rose quartz painting.

“jay, a rose quartz!” you said, obviously excited with what you saw. he laughed and told you that, “i know, y/n.”

you dragged him in front of the painting. it was rose quartz placed in what seems like a hand plate. the art is beautiful and mesmerizing that you were just admiring it with your eyes while jay is beside you, probably doing the same.

“this room,” jay caught your attention when he suddenly spoke. “this room is said to be a love section, y/n.”

you nodded and said, “it’s pretty obvious, jay. the paintings here,” you were cut off by him.

“but art can be interpreted in so many ways, y/n.” you looked at him, confused with what he’s trying to tell.

“the painting before we enter this room is called The Manifestation,” this time, he’s looking at you too. “i still don’t get it, jay” was the only response you can give.

you remember the painting you saw earlier before you enter this space. it’s an image of two silhouettes but only the other person is drawn with a heart. it was simple, yet, based on what jay is trying to say, it was meaningfully done.

“we are to share a secret today, right?” he asked, changing the topic. you only nodded as a response because you’re getting confused with where this conversation is going.

“y/n,” he called you, now with his body facing you. he reached for both your hands and held them gently. you hummed, gesturing that he continue.

“they say it’s actually bad to manifest for a person to move or act against their own free will, so i didn’t try to do that and i don’t want to. but when people told me that we’re not allowed to touch the art,” he said.

he then slowly envelopes you with his arms, “then why am i hugging one now?”

“jay,” you let go of his embrace, looking at him with confused eyes. “what did you say?”

he’s confessing. for real.

it’s already known to you that jay possibly might have feelings for you but you never got the chance to confirm if it’s true. it’s only your friends and your gut feeling that made you think that way. but you told yourself that jay stays only because he pities you and you were nothing but a mess since the day he met you. and jay being himself, you thought that he just wants to take care of you and nothing more than that.

and so you asked, “aren’t you just being confused with your feelings, jay?”

“i genuinely like you, y/n.”

“but i’m not—”

"look, i know that you’re not interested in romance. i don’t put malice in every hug, every i love you that we share, and in every take care that you give me before going home.”

and he’s not wrong. your tendencies of pushing away people that show meaningful interest and affection to you are all starting to build up within your system, as if it’s caging you again, stopping you from giving all that you have again to a person.

the fear of receiving affection and love takes over like a hunter, attacking those who would dare shower you hearts.

“since when did all of this happen, jay?” was the only words you could think of that would be less hurtful for him.

he looked away, catching words to say, and looked back at you. his eyes, hopeful ones, are looking straight at yours. “since day one?”

absurd.

“then from now on, can you start over?”

because no one can really love consistently. no one can love so genuinely.

“what do you mean?” he is confused.

and even if there is, you don’t want to risk your heart again.

“can you start day one, possibly with someone else?”

#siwoline #enhypen and heartbreaks #enhypen & heartbreaks #jay #park jongseong #enhypen jay #enhypen jay imagines #enhypen #enhypen jay angst #enhypen jay au #park jongseong imagines #jay imagines #enhypen au #enhypen imagines #enhypen oneshots #enhypen scenarios #enhypen drabbles #enhypen angst

[silvia7272]

Miraculess Ladybug Salt AU: You Always Liked To Play With Fire ~ Blossoming Friendships???

I really hope you’re all enjoying this new series; I honestly just came up with the idea on a dime, and then after I started developing it, I knew I needed to share it with all of my fans.

Also, when I actually get around to including more characters from the movie, it’s gonna be fun giving them some personality traits. I can’t wait.

And er-… I may have accidently messed up with some off the names. Since I changed most off the names already, I then decided to change them for Barbara and Olympia, however I had forgotten that I’d already written their names down in the story. Opps. I thought this would’ve been better since I think I saw some people complain about the United Hero’s super names, so I changed them, as well as if I’m going to add in going to Gotham into the mix and there’s already a character called Barbara, I just know I’ll get hella confused for who I’m talking about. I don’t want people to get confused but maybe I should make a post off the names I’ve already changed to begin with, just to defer from canon. Well, here it is.

My OC: Rosaniline Keyne-Hill was Rosina Scoats

Soliane Rin was Crisono Tassa

Canon Counterparts: Jace Keyne was Jessica Keyne

Aveon Keyne-Hill was Aeon Hill

Medusa was Uncanny Valley

(I kept Olympia the same)

Nebula was Majestia

Brianna was Barbara

Eostrix was Night Owl

So, I might just change them when I can be bothered to.

This fanfic and its ideas were all made before season 4 came out, so if something doesn’t add up please don’t worry. That information wasn’t available then, and unless it fits into my story or I like it, I won’t include it in my story. Also, that new Miraculous wiki can get lost, I’m not putting any of that new information in here if they couldn’t even put it in the show. (Also, so far, I do not care for season 4 whatsoever so yeah, I may not include any of that in this work and the other.)

Word Count: 9435

Tags: @vixen-uchiha​ if you wish to be tagged all you have to do is say. Also, if you change your name please tell me, I don’t want to leave you out since you’ve asked to be tagged. I’m very sorry if I’ve missed anyone.

Well, I hope you’ll enjoy it.

Summary:

Note: This fic contains OOC scenes of Miraculous Ladybug as well as a ton of salt, so if you don't like that stuff you may scroll past and have a nice day.

In a world with no Miraculous, no Hawkmoth and no Ladybug, how does our little heroine do?

Well, it usually would be hanging out with her friends, as any other teenager would do...

But, of course, this wasn't normal.

This was reality. It was cold, hard and definitely not welcome.

So, when this girl wishes to have some kind of adventure in her boring, mundane life…

How long does it take for her to regret it?

***

Mlle Bustier had always believed her students were the best in the whole Collège.

In fact, she whole-heartedly believed that all her students could do no harm.

In her mind, they were at the peak of maturity, though they may be in their adolescence and had some seemingly petty dramas, they all prevailed to take whatever they wanted for themselves, when they saw opportunities, they rightfully took.

And Mlle Bustier only wanted the best for her students.

As much as Caline would never admit it to any of her work colleagues, she always knew her class was exceptional.

Kim, Alix, what with two of the sportiest people that were bound to succeed.

Max, A genius who was able to develop a fully functioning AI, when he was a teen no less. She could only imagine what other inventions her little Einstein could invent later on. The type of universities he’d get into, the job offers, oh the endless possibilities.

Ivan, Rose, Juleka, A lead vocalist, guitarist, and drummer in a popular rock band. Though she had heard there may have been a few mishaps in the band, she was sure they would be even better than before.

Mylène, A passionate environmentalist who only wanted to help the world become a cleaner place, and entered as many organisations as possible.

Nino, An inspiring DJ/filmmaker. She always wanted to help out by lending the classroom key afterschool, that way he could work on all of his works. Allowing everyone to take part even, it was truly one of her best rules.

Alya, A journalist's whose goal was to become bigger than Lois Lane.

Adrien, A model, the most famous teenage one by Parisian standards.

Chloé, The mayor's Daughter.

Sabrina, The head of police’s Daughter.

Nathaniel, an inspiring comic book artist that had gained a lot of attention online.

And Lila, a Daughter of an Italian diplomat.

Although she could admit to herself that not all of these aspirations were something that she could boast about, she could show off that all of her students had something they would work for or even show off.

And what did the others have?

Two weather girls and a writer? Caline would have to laugh, compare that with her class and you could clearly see who was at the top.

Although she hadn’t said a specific name for a reason.

Marinette Dupain-Cheng. The young fashion designer/baker’s girl.

For a while, that name had left a sour name in her mouth, whenever she had been forced to say it for the register, it only took her a few days for her to realise how much it annoyed her whenever said girl was late to her lesson. Honestly, did that girl not value punctuality? Nevermind in the workplace; what about her reputation as a teacher?

She was becoming a lot more reclused, gaining a disrespectful attitude towards her she had no recollection of when she had gained it, and became incredibly upset when she remembered every year on her birthday, the girl would give her a whole assortment of pastries and desserts.

Now, because she had somewhat highly encouraged her students to send gifts for a better grade, it was just a box of chocolates.

Just a small box of chocolates!?

How could she show off her gifts to the others now!?

And worst of all?

She refused to be the good little Class President anymore.

Her example?

Her Marinette off the world?

Did she not care about setting a good example? Or to be a role model to the class?

Really, to be so selfish, to all of her friends, how ungrateful.

She believed she had sorted this little problem when Chloé, in a fit off understandable jealousy, drew over her gift.

Marinette was unreasonably angry at the poor girl, and so Bustier had said how better it would be for her to rise up and become a beacon of light for Chloé instead of letting that hate and anger fester inside her.

To let go and help out everyone.

To not let your negative side take a hold of you and be positive around everyone in your vicinity.

After all, sharing and helping makes the world go round, and we do want to help the world, right?

She remembered those words she had spoken so fondly to her, as she was always someone anyone could come to for advice. It had always worked after all, after students were able to see the correct side, she’d be thanked which always left a small flutter of happiness around her.

Mendeleiev scared many students away, D’Argencourt with his eccentric personality, made students want to avoid being seen near him after lessons ended, and hardly anyone spent their time in the art club room.

Caline believed she was seen as a shining example of light by the other students, and knew she was seen as a Disney Princess by many, Rose had even called her that once.

However, getting back to the matter at hand, she was very pleased when Marinette had gone out of her way to make Chloé happy, of course, her attitude still remained mostly the same but Caline was smart enough to know it wouldn’t take one nice event to help the girl, so she was so proud when she carried on helping the poor girl out. Chloé was smiling more and even asking for a multitude of things from the blue-haired girl, and if she ever saw Marinette get unreasonably upset again, she’d send a very disappointing glare.

She knew being disappointed in students was a sure-fire way for them to do better and work harder, she knew how guilty her students would feel if they ever managed to get that gaze from their teacher, and… If the elder had done this a bit more on Marinette than anyone else… Well, she would just smile, telling them how much Marinette was able to accomplish, her trips for the class were so good, everyone was jealous. So, didn’t that seem good?

And even though she did see most of it going in the trash, she knew Chloé was just a little bit picky, she’d liked the interest in her, it was normal.

Her home life wasn’t something to be overlooked, she just knew the girl only wished for attention, and she was sure to be able to give it to her.

But then she… Stopped.

Caline had believed the girl had gotten wrongly impatient and told Marinette she shouldn’t be so extreme, but Marinette dared to fight back, against her?

She exclaimed that it wasn’t just Chloé anymore, how could she be expected to be nice to both her and Lila?

Bustier was confused, Lila? What did she have to do with this?

And so, the girl explained that she was just lying for attention, every breath that came out was just a lie. And she couldn’t stand it, she’d apparently turned her friends against her.

Now, normally, Bustier knew Marinette wouldn’t lie.

But, she also knew she couldn’t let this ‘lie’ be revealed.

It might harm her reputation.

She couldn’t have that happen.

So, she knew what she had to say.

That this was just girl drama that all teenagers had.

She couldn’t afford to let her empire fall so soon.

And for something like that.

The faces of the other teachers.

The gossip surrounding her.

“Looks like Caline’s not so good a teacher after all.”

No, she couldn’t bare it.

Who said a little white lie would hurt anyone?

In order to keep her class, exactly the same.

A few snips were made to maintain its image.

And if she had to snip her most prized student.

Then… So be it.

***

When she entered her classroom it was just like any other day.

Her students forming around a desk in the front of the room.

She always commended her students for such actions, she knew how sweet and silent the girl could be and loved how accommodating the class could be to her.

She couldn’t help the wondering gaze that looked upon the back row.

A certain seat was empty, but that was routine by now. And even though there was still 5 minutes till the bell, she still marked her late in her book.

Sometimes Caline had to think if at some points she had expected too much of this single girl… But only to remember that, no, in fact, when Marinette had a better attitude, she had expected too less. Back when she gained some confidence, she had always surpassed her expectations, her trips were the highlight off her job, her morning snacks were a welcomed surprise, her need to prove herself let her have as many responsibilities as possible, yes some were meant to be her own paperwork, but she’d never seen Marinette excel so much, it was a dream come true.

If she could just push her, just a little more… She was sure Marinette would go back to her obedient self, and it would make Bustier’s job a lot easier.

Although… The new student seemed like the perfect candidate as well, since Marinette may not follow her good example, she may be able to get a different example.

She could see just how sweet and pleasant the cherry haired girl was, she’d be perfect for the role. Sneaking a quick glance at the girl who was simply minding her business reading a book and keeping to herself. She did take note she had a bit of a limp for the past week, but didn’t bring it up just to not embarrass the girl in front of the whole class. She just knew if she was able to simply send her views her way, a new example would be made, hell she may even be able to have two if Rosaniline became such a good influence on Marinette she may even change again.

She also just knew Rosann would be good for Chloé, after all, they’d have so much to talk about, and coming from similar backgrounds she could make sure they could be paired together as much as possible.

Of course, only she knew about her family name, Monsieur Damocles had been informed by her residence that they’d prefer not to spread this information about, for it had been such a hinderance for her to make friends before.

Bustier frowned, she knew very well her students wouldn’t try to suck up to her, she almost felt insulted that she wouldn’t trust her students.

But the worst part was that she couldn’t brag about her new student to anyone, no one could find out or they’d all face some action from her Mother, she was very clear on that.

However Bustier tried to not let it bother her too much, after all she was sure she could give a gentle nudge in the right direction about trusting friends and not keeping secrets, to coax her out of her shell. She’d just have to be excruciatingly patient.

Clapping her hands was a symbol for them all to pay attention, she’d never raise her voice to them, not even a little, and she knew they would respect it and quieten down their chatter.

And just like that, the door opened to a fashionably late bluenette. Bustier would feign ignorance to the rather disappointing glares stares the girl was receiving, after all, she was giving one off her own.

She sheepishly walked to her seat just as the bell rang, honestly, she’d given her a lot of warnings before about her punctuality, did she really need to brief her Parents in about the situation?

“Well class, since all of you are here now, I can get on with the lesson” And so began her teaching.

It was fairly simple, she knew her students would be able to easily understand, after all, she knew they were the best, the smartest.

She had to explain the project they were bound to complete to a high standard, she just knew it was another to her list of student’s accomplishments she could brag about.

The project entailed 30% of coursework they must do in pairs in the span of 2 months. They could choose any topic so long as it followed the theme.

And this year’s theme was history, generally her students would groan at this topic, but considering they were able to decide on their personal preferences that should help encourage them to complete it to the best of their ability.

Plus, it helped towards their end of the year grade, and helped their teamwork skills. Of course, Mlle Bustier would always try to be as generous as she could, she wouldn’t remove marks from accidental mistakes unlike a purple haired teacher would, she just couldn’t bear to be so mean to them when she knew they were trying so hard to get all of their marks, she couldn’t punish them for that. Even if it was not necessarily the right thing to do, she couldn’t let there be any wrongful disappointment.

As long as they carried on being a great example, she could never fail them.

Besides everyone loved her projects, while having to be in pairs they always got to present it in any way they wanted, a science experiment, PowerPoint presentation to even a play, she was so very proud when Mylène did that play from last year, so impressive and she had gotten out of her shell. All she had to do was make them follow a simple rule before they could go all out. Her students loved the independence, and when they asked what type of ideas she had, she gleamed and expressed her own interest in the fairy tales. There was so much you could do with so many magical stories and elements, the possibilities were endless. She loved always talking about them in at least all of her lesson as she knew how many life lessons could come out of it.

And besides, in a sense, the other thing that made her the best teacher, she let them pick their own partners.

Of course, she had to make it seem like that.

It was always the same since kindergarten, everyone’s names would be placed in a bowl on a piece of paper, and one by one she’d pick a name up, when she read it out loud other people could raise their hands to ask to be their partner.

Normally it would be the first person to raise their hand, however, Caline wasn’t stupid, there were certain pairs she didn’t always want together.

Such as Alix and Kim, if it were a presentation about sports, she wouldn’t mind as much, knowing they would present a physical display of their athleticism… However, she knew if they were paired up for a slideshow presentation about let’s say, politics. She knew they would only start at the last minute, and include a very messily strown up slideshow. And with Marinette refusing to help out her classmates with even the simplest of matters, her hands were tied.

So, if they ever stuck their hand up for either of them, Bustier would wait to see who else would put their hand up, most of the time it was either Max or Nathaniel respectfully, and since they were all friends, no one had called her out for it.

And that’s how she got around it.

So, she started doing her routine, swirling her hand around the, she picked one up and began to read it aloud.

“Lila Rossi. And who would like to be her partner?” Immediately several hands shot up, bringing a smile on her face again, so many wanted to help this girl it filled her with pride and comfort.

And well, she always had to help by picking the most knowledgeable of students.

“Max, I believe I saw your hand up first” Some students moaned that they couldn’t be with Lila, but they knew that maybe next time they would get a shot.

“Ivan Bruel” Unsurprisingly Mylène’s hand shot up first followed by Juleka and Rose, now normally she wouldn’t let couples be together, but she couldn’t break them up, they did their work so well, so she let it slide.

Grabbing the next piece of paper Caline’s once bright smile, dropped as her eyes scanned over the name before sighing audibly, she didn’t need to hide it, everyone knew whose name it was.

.

.

.

Marinette Dupain-Cheng took a deep sigh.

As soon as Bustier told them about a presentation she was immediately filled with dread.

She could quite easily do it well, or at least get a well enough grade considering Bustier’s shady marking skills.

But her partners influence would be something she dreaded.

Best case scenario, they’ll be so repulsed to be in the same room with her that they’d work independently, and it would more or less seem like two separate presentations in one. Her grade was low.

Worst case scenario, she’d be subjected to either do it alone, or screamed about how much they don’t want to be near her. Her grade would be lowered.

Not theirs, hers.

Bustier would exclaim how she wanted the bluenette to rise above it all and forgive them, and until she was a better student in her eyes, she’d be punished for it.

It didn’t help that when her name was specifically called out, there would be a silence they’ll have to endure for what would seem like eternity.

It would either stop when someone so nobly sacrificed themselves to team up with her or Bustier would be forced to wait until the end for the last name to be picked out.

And she hated having to feel like this.

They were all friends, why did it have to be like this?

And well, just like this silence, it would last for a rather uncomfortable time, more than Marinette liked.

Her head rested on the desk, she at this point didn’t care about her appearance in front of the new girl. It had been a week already and at this point Marinette knew they’d be no point getting to know someone who was bound to abandon her.

It was a despairing truth she’d learn from experience, it was why no one hung around her, even from the other classes, they would be a target next.

Marinette couldn’t blame them, if the situations were reversed, she doubted she’d have enough courage to go out of her way to help.

So, she’d just sit, head on desk as time would pass.

.

.

-

“H-Hey! Why do you have your hand up, we told you how she was a bully, why would you want to be her partner!?”

???

Wait-

That wasn’t meant to happen.

Hesitantly, Marinette picked her head up, only to find her seatmate with an eager hand in the air.

She looked over to her face, a smile present as she glanced towards the teacher, waiting for her to say they would be paired together.

“I want to be Marinette’s partner, and I haven’t seen yet why I shouldn’t” Rosann’s head turned innocently to her classmates, she was radiating happiness as they stared in shock. A blond very much as he did want to be her partner when her name was called out, but he kept his thoughts to himself.

“Marinette! Did you threaten her as well, girl you’re unbelieva-”

“I’m afraid you are being mistaken Mlle Césaire, I wouldn’t willingly make a partnership with my enemy, now Mlle Bustier you may continue if you would please” Marinette gasped, she- she’d just put a target on her back. For her! This girl was crazy…

And yet, despite her cute appearance, she hadn’t seen someone look so confident and polite.

‘Wait did I say cute-’

Even though the girl had stated her answer, it wasn’t the answer the class was looking for.

“Mlle Bustier you can’t put their names down together” Someone protested. It sounded like Lila, she was always leading the class for this sort of thing.

“Yeah, put my name down for Rosaniline instead, we know she doesn’t mean it.” That was Alya.

“But I-” She felt guilty for the new girl, she really did, she would’ve warned her how you’ll never truly be able to say your opinion without everyone interfering or as she put it, butting in.

“She doesn’t know what’s she’s gotten herself into, the poor girl” Rose spoke, if Marinette wasn’t so used to it she’d flinch from the words Rose spoke about her.

What was bad, Rosann wasn’t able to speak.

What was worse, Bustier was very much considering it.

“I guess it would be for the best” Marinette couldn’t believe it. The one person who willingly decided to pair up with her, was being ignored to be partnered up with someone else.

Not that Marinette wanted them to be with someone else mind you, but it was their decision, why wasn’t she spared a thought and have people notice that maybe they didn’t have to decide for her?

What was crueller, was that Marinette found the one person that was on her side… Was the one person who was the first to make her clamper up.

“This is ridiculous absolutely ridiculous” Of all people, it had to be her to join in?

“How extremely hypocritical of you Mlle Bustier, if I couldn’t change my partner from the last project then neither does Dupain-Cheng in this one, isn’t this school meant to teach fairness. Well, the only fair thing I see is the fairly incompetent from this class” Of course the students didn’t take kindly to her words as Bustier sighed yet again.

She knew Chloé had a point, she’d tried to persuade Chloé to have a different partner than Sabrina a few times in previous projects, it would depend on the person, if Chloé didn’t mind, she’d moan but nothing else. If it was someone she didn’t like, she’d threaten to call the mayor, most of the times she wouldn’t considering out of all the teachers even Chloé would admit she liked Bustier the most, she’d never blame her for anything and she loved that about her, but she had a point none the less.

Besides, Bustier believed that maybe Rosaniline would prove to be a very good example to her previous one, and this could be a great place to start.

“Yes Chloé, I believe I understand now, it would be highly unfair if we didn’t let Rosaniline decide for herself” Marinette couldn’t help the somewhat annoyed glance she gave to the teacher for that comment.

“But Mlle-”

“No buts Alya, now why don’t we use the idea Chloé suggested?” The class all heard the snicker from Chloé, they couldn’t believe she could stoop so low like this.

And then it carried on like it had been, but Marinette couldn’t help but let her curiosity get the better of her and as the class was carrying on, Marinette swallowed the gulp that had formed in her throat and turned to the girl next to her.

“Err- Rosaniline?” She gently tapped the girl’s shoulder, she turned and showed she was listening.

“Yes?” Oh god Mari don’t lose confidence now.

“Why, why did you do that?” With that, she saw a smirk emerge from the girl.

“I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t curious, but I am rather petty since I refuse to take the word of someone else before doing my own research” Oh. Somehow that wasn’t what she was expecting, but honestly it was better than pretending to care.

“Although… I should apologise, for how abrupt I was about it” Marinette widened her eyes, why- she didn’t do anything wrong?

“I would’ve preferred asking for your consent first, but seeing the opportunity I may have taken it rather quickly” She grasped one of her braids, a nervous habit maybe, Marinette couldn’t help but notice before giving her answer.

“N-No its fine, I-I don’t mind you being my partner, not like I’ve got anyone better- I mean- I didn’t mean it like that. I just- erm, I just. I’m glad you thought about me” If Marinette had been able to look past her hair, she would’ve noticed the small blush creep up on her cheeks.

“No problem”

***

Normally, a weekend would be extremely relaxing to the young designer.

She had as much time to sleep in, plus she started a late shift anyway, her Parents were the best when it came to that, since they knew how much trouble she had getting up on a school day, they knew they couldn’t ask her to get up early for work, especially since it was their workplace.

And she had completed other homework assignments a while ago, so surely there was no reason for why she should be pacing around in the living room so early for her.

Well, it may or may not have something to do with the new girl.

.

She really should stop calling her new girl, she gave her her name for god’s sake.

But she just felt so nervous.

She told her Parents about this new assignment, and how she actually volunteered to be her partner, and how Marinette in the spur of a moment offered to go to her place on Saturday to start it. And she couldn’t deny when she saw the relieved expression she had when she offered. But now…

She hadn’t had someone over in years, everyone else avoided this place like the plague, the Parents still came though, and although they were slightly informed of the situation, they also just believed it was teenage drama.

Her own Parents showed their own worry, they loved their girl, and they truly didn’t want her to ever be hurt like last time ever again, but they also knew if she never gave this girl a shot, she’d never know.

Was it better to know than to ponder it forever?

That was a phrase Marinette was all too familiar with. However, it still didn’t calm her nerves.

Her Parents had told her if she didn’t want Rosaniline to be around anymore, they’d be more than happy to just so happen have an event take place right at that moment that she would have to leave, even if Marinette hoped that wouldn’t happen.

So, as she continued to pace, she was able to see from her balcony the Parisians all around, her doorway was slightly ajar so she could hear the sound of birds chirping, cars passing, and a motorcycle coming to a stop.

The noise of a motorcycle made her come to a fond thought of her Nonna. She loved her very much, and her free spirit.

Whenever she came back from one of her grand trips, she’d always get Marinette some type of fabric that always made her determined to incorporate into some type of clothing.

It was somewhat why she always stayed in the path of fashion, not just because her Parents would be disappointed in seeing her so unmotivated, but because she still liked the challenge of turning fabric into something.

She giggled, besides that thing from last week, it was the only adventurous thing she had done.

The sound of steps interrupted her as she saw her Maman, she nodded before Marinette felt a slight drop in her stomach.

She was here, she just needed to calm down, it would be fine.

She’d just smile and brace for it.

Walking down the stairs to her bakery was the same as always, she could smell the fresh bread from the oven. She always appreciated this aspect, living in a bakery always meant the aroma was lovely.

Going through the door after her Maman she braced herself to see the ne- er, Rosaniline.

What she didn’t brace for was the little girl cuddling her leg as soon as she entered.

“Hi, my names Piper, can we go to your room now?” She had to compose herself so she wouldn’t fall over with the girl in tow, but she couldn’t help internally awwing at the little kids’ appearance.

Black hair tied back in a red bow, a pink leotard with a lighter coloured tutu skirt. And a short but worn-out blue cape. And to top it all off, sparkly pink shoes faded to orange.

“O-Oh, hi there.” She gave a little wave, still completely confused.

“I’m so sorry Mari, Piper was just too excited to meet you, I’m very sorry for the shock” She saw a concerned look coming from Rosaniline. She sure did fret a lot- ah, she knew she didn’t mean it as a bad thing she just, well, she was used to being quiet and observing.

“Its fine really, but how come you brought your… Sister here?” She was unsure if the guess was right but considering the nod from the other girl, she relaxed knowing she was right. And considering she had to ignore a comment made from her Parents about a nickname she was given, she could just ignore that.

“I’m so sorry for the late notice, it’s just, something came up and I couldn’t find anyone able to take care of her. I’m really sorry for not telling you before but I- I don’t have your phone number so I couldn’t tell you. Eheh. I promise she won’t cause any trouble. Right?” The smaller girl, now back at her Sister’s side, bounced and repeated yes several times.

She looked to her Parents, almost asking them if it was alright, this whole situation caught her slightly off guard, and she momentarily forgot the question was directed at her.

Luckily her Maman was ready.

“Of course its fine, my, your Sister is such a cutie. And what’s your name sweetie?” Her Mother crouched down to make eye level. The girl puffed her chest out before standing straight up.

“My name is Piper Keyne-Hill ma’am, and I am 6 years old” She held one hand up before she looked up.

“Did I do it right?” Rosaniline smiled before bending down to her level as well.

“Do you believe that is the right answer?” Her use of that caused attention to Piper’s hand as the little one looked back, she gasped before proudly extending another finger up.

“There you go” She ruffled her hair as Marinette saw her Mother continue talking with Piper.

And yet… She felt that dread from earlier flee away, seeing Rosaniline interacting with her Sister so fondly brought heat to her cheeks and inside. She just, felt so calm around her.

And that warm smile…

She, kinda wanted her to smile like that to her…

“Marinette?” That broke her out of her trance, she looked over at her Papa who had a confused look.

“Shouldn’t you two start working on the project?”

“Huh? Oh- oh yeah, yes of course the project… Eh, Rosaniline lets go, I’ve got some kid books to keep Piper company” She didn’t mind the weight on her arm, or the way her Parents smiled at her interactions with the cherry haired girl.

She just minded how heavy her heart was pounding for some reason.

.

Marinette never considered her room big, she always found it spacious, it might be due to her always misplacing at least something when she’s in a rush, but she knew where it would be.

Stepping over to her desk draw, she pulls out a bunch of child books, since Nadja always did spring a babysitting job on her, she figured there was no reason to place them somewhere that would be too much of a hassle to keep getting out. So, she kept them closer.

Turning back, she saw the two looking around her room, Piper held so much excitement as Rosaniline wore a smile.

“Woooooow, it’s so pink, Rosalee what type is it?” Tugging at her Sister’s cardigan the older girl smiled.

“There are many different types, so I doubt I know the exact one… But I’d say it was a coral pink” She pattered her head as she too looked over the room, a somewhat reminiscent expression as she takes it all in.

“Mari I’m so jealous, to be able to live in a bakery with all of those magnificent smells around every day, it must be like heaven” Marinette scratched her head, ok- this was all so different, no matter how much she wanted to go back to her usual self, there was always something holding her back. Almost like, if she fell in this trap again, she’d mess it up, before she could be comfortable.

There she goes again, over thinking the situation like before.

No wonder-

“Ahh- it’s a tiger, look look” Piper’s voice brought her out of it as she saw Piper sitting in Rosaniline’s legs.

“Mmhmmn, so, Mari should we get started?” Marinette could only nod before they pulled out some books to get started.

***

‘This was easier when I had to do it on my own’ The bluenette thought, now don’t get her wrong, they weren’t arguing or anything, they just couldn’t exactly agree on a subject together.

When Rosaniline suggested gory fairy tales, she had to physically force herself not to shudder, fortunately the girl opposite her said it was a mere jest, thinking it would’ve been funny to see the teachers face when they spoke about it, but maybe it would be too much.

Rosaniline even joked that they may not have anything in common at all, that did nothing to soothe the young girls’ nerves. She just knew this might not have been the best decision, if they couldn’t find a topic, she knew Bustier would blame her for it, and if Bustier blamed her no doubt the class would as well. And it would just be one more point for them as they’d slowly but surely turn Rosaniline away from her.

It’s not like she would be disappointed or anything, it’s just, she’d rather be right now than in the future with her hopes up.

But, it didn’t help that her feelings were so mixed about this. Why was it she wanted to get to know Rosaniline?

Knock knock.

“Girls, I think you’re due a break now, don’t you?” Marinette was relieved, surely after some food they’ll be able to come up with at least one idea.

“Yes, Mlle Dupain-Cheng, that would be lovely.”

“Now stop that, you can call me Sabine, aw such a polite child you are” She blushed as she rubbed the back of her head.

“Marinette dear, mind if you help me?” Her eyes were confused, her Maman would normally never ask for help, what was so different now?

But not wanting to cause a scene she nodded and proceeded to climb down, just as Piper was moving onto a different type of picture book.

Going over to the kitchen she saw that her Mother had prepared so much food it would’ve looked like a feast, but that was how she was, whenever guests came over you could see more food on a table than a table.

She hoped Rosaniline and Piper had an appetite.

“Is everything alright dear?” She felt her Maman’s hands on her shoulders, it was always reassuring that her Parents did so much to look out for her, even when she pretended to be just fine her Parents would give her time just to be by herself if she needed it and then be there if she wanted to talk.

“Yes Maman, she’s really nice… We just haven’t figured out what topic to do yet.” She laughed nervously as her Mother couldn’t help but give a somewhat serious expression.

“You know, if you at all feel uncomfortable, we can still make up an excuse-” She shook her head.

“No Maman its fine really, if anything we’ll just keep it to the school library… She’s- I don’t know, I can’t explain it, I just feel-”

“Relaxed?” Her Mother finished the sentence for her, she nodded as Sabine thought how glad this girl was making her feel.

“Alright, well then get back up there, you don’t want her thinking you abandoned her?” She nudged her cheek as Marinette pushed her hand gently. She gave her Mum a kiss on the cheek before making her way back up to her room.

She couldn’t explain the feeling much, it was like she was feeling peaceful, a smooth tranquillity around her.

It wasn’t a feeling she had around her older friends, it always seemed like whatever they did was rushed, no time to process it. Or they didn’t let her speak.

Rosaniline did, she let her speak, she listened to her, she made her- feel.

She didn’t want that feeling to go away.

“Piper- I know you like this book, but I don’t think you should be flicking through it.”

“But why? Marilee gave me these. And they look so pretty I want one.” The little one responded, she didn’t demand, she was raised better than that.

“Well, I don’t think she meant to give you this one.” She was confused, wait what book was it?

Her heart stopped as she saw a pink cover-

That- that was her commission book!

She was rushing too much to even notice that she’d given Piper that one book.

Oh god, she was going to see her secret, that she was starting her own commission blog, that she was MDC- that she could tell everyone at Collège Françoise Dupont, and it could ruin her career. That everyone could post lies about her, making nobody trust her and demand refunds, and maybe she’d get taken in by the police- be sent to jail and never have her dream job of-

“Mari? Hey, Mari can you hear me?” She felt warm hands wrap around her own. She could feel herself look up as silver concerned eyes looked back at hers.

She felt another tug at her skirt, looking down to see Piper with her own worried expression.

“Did I make Marilee upset?” It was a simple question that pulled at her heartstrings, she felt tears prickle at her eyes for her overthinking. But she didn’t mean for Piper to be upset, or for Rosaniline to be worried either.

There she went again, overthinking every little thing that she couldn’t account for, why did she have to be this way, why did she have to be so cynical and downright negative.

“Oh no, heavens no Piper, I just- er had something in my eye, yeah. You didn’t do anything Piper, I’m glad you like the books I gave you.” Piper smile grew as she proceeded to drag Marinette over to the books again.

She seemed to be putting on an act though, from what Rosaniline could see. She was panicking over something, why? She didn’t know, she did want to find out but didn’t want to push it. She had a habit of wanting to find out answers, it wasn’t a bad thing, she remembered her Mum say, it’s just sometimes she could be just a teeny bit insensitive about it.

Looking over the scene she saw her little Sister pointing excitedly at the pages of sketched clothing, her saying how much she loved them and all the colours that she used and said how the author was so creative.

Marinette laughed along, her tears faded as she enjoyed Piper’s enthusiasm, almost making a note to definitely make her something- and for Rosaniline of course, it’ll be weird to make it for one and not the other.

And then- an idea struck.

“I know, why don’t we do it about the history of fashion?” The dark-skinned girl spoke up. She saw two heads turn towards her as she grinned. Putting her hands together near her cheeks as she spiralled in her own thoughts.

“I’ve always wanted to learn more about it, to see the transformations going through all the ages. And this could be the perfect time. So, what do you think?” It was a question that seemed as if she could reject it, but it still felt like a trick.

What if she didn’t suggest this as a solution, but for convenience for herself, since now she knew she liked fashion and would make her do all the work, it’s not like it hadn’t happened before, so why did it hurt so much to have her do it?

Did she have any right to object, wouldn’t it seem like she was being way to fussy? They already saw her sketches before, so she couldn’t deny she was a good artist. But then what if the others thought it was her idea?

That she made Rosaniline chose this subject, and get told how selfish to have done so, a disappointing gaze from Bustier, a disapproving gaze from Adrien, she felt her chest tighten up again, oh god, she was overthinking again, why did she have to be like this?

“Hey- hey Mari, we don’t have to if you don’t want… I-er saw you liked videogames; we could always do it about that if you want?” But Mari felt so disappointed in herself, she was being so accommodating to her, why, why for her? She didn’t deserve this.

“B-But Marilee’s so good at drawing, she can really really really draw. I know you can do it.” Piper enthusiastically cheered, she would’ve smiled but couldn’t, not yet, she just had to think through it.

What could she do?

“Piper, not now” Rosaniline slightly scolded, she never liked doing it honestly, but besides her Mother she had the trademark glare that told her to pack it in.

Unfortunately, Piper never did look at her while she was in such an energetic mood.

What could she do?

“Rosalee she’s amazing, she’s the best in the world. Don’t do it about stupid video games.” She tried persuading her Sister to see some sense, in the short time that she had known Marilee, she was pretty much enarmed with her, she found another Sister that needed a confidence boost.

What. Could. She. Do!?

“Piper!- Look, sometimes not everyone wants to show their skills to other people, and we have to respect that, ok?” She crouched down to her level, kids felt less intimidated when you weren’t so tall, besides, Piper didn’t mean anything by it, she was always told to follow her heart, and if she was proud of something, she should show it off for the whole world to see.

What could-

Wait?

Could someone really be so accommodating? Could it really be true? Could all of this be true?

“Aww… Ok Rosalee, sorry Marilee” Piper hugged Marinette’s leg, and even though it felt like she was getting told off, she knew she wasn’t in real trouble.

Or was it a persona?

“I��ll do it.”

If this was a plan, a plan to make her do all the work, then she’ll go along with it. It felt so mean, so immature, so senseless that she still wasn’t trusting her, but she didn’t want to turn Rosaniline away without any evidence, besides, if this was all a trick, then surely it was better this way, she would’ve foreseen it and everything would go back to normal, she’d go off to join the class while she’d be alone once more, maybe they’ll have passing glances and memories of what could’ve been but she wouldn’t leave her here open and out to be in such a vulnerable position.

Not just for her, but for both, she didn’t know what would happen after another heartbreak.

“Huh?”

“I- I don’t mind if we do it about fashion, I mean, only if you want to, I don’t mind teaching you about it, I-I even had some books stored just for this, so I guess its lucky right” A nervous laughter evolved as she looked at anywhere but her.

However, the cherry haired girl wasn’t as convinced.

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah, I guess little Piper just convinced me.” The little girl fist pumped to herself before running along back to her books before the bluenette felt soft hands on her shoulders.

“As long as you want to as well, I… Wouldn’t want to force you or anything” Quick, she had to ease the tension.

“-Psst- Don’t worry so much Rosaniline, c’mon I’ll see where I put those books, also how far do you wanna go back, if we go too far, we might not be able to cover everything. But if we go to a few years back our presentation would just be too small. Maybe we can just go halfway. That reminds me maybe we could have a physical element, I could throw together some pieces of old works together and show them of as we talk- or” Her shoulders were gently grabbed again as she looked at the close proximity she was in, it made her blush just a tad more than she thought she ever could.

“Maybe we could discuss that, over something to eat?” She quickly looked down and remembered the food on the ground, no doubt cold now. She felt guilt come in before seeing her passionate smile.

“Sorry, I just saw how passionate you were about this, I couldn’t bear to stop you, but then I got worried if you’d run out of air, Eheh. Think we can heat the food up?” She nodded, maybe it might be better to eat downstairs after all, now that Marinette knew what topic she- they were doing, they could crack on and complete it earlier than the deadline.

She’d have to get Rosaniline’s phone number of course, just in case they needed to discuss other things but that could wait.

Of course, it could wait.

She was just so happy in that moment, she- she may have really wanted to try and be her friend.

And maybe-

No- she just wanted to continue to be near her, to hold her hand when she’s upset, to help her when she’s had a bad day.

To be… Closer to her, to that warmth.

… Was it selfish of her to want to be near that warmth for longer?

***

Night had fallen upon Paris, but the lone girl on her balcony didn’t mind at all.

Ever since that day, a part of her wished something else would happen.

No- she didn’t want the hero to be hurt again, that’s by far too sadistic to even think about… But she was really excited by all of those events, when she was able to get a breather, there was a rush of adrenaline throwing through her veins, and even if she did want something else to happen, she’d prefer to be out here just to see if she could get a glimpse of the hero again.

It had been a week since it happened, and Marinette could only guess she must have been resting from her… Fight? Was that the right word? Oh well, she must’ve been resting since she hadn’t heard anything about her from the news for a while, she could only hope her wound would heal by professionals instead of her shoddy work. But- she had to realise that she had to hope for the hero’s survival.

For Soliane Rin’s survival.

… She may have read a bit more into her- but it was only out of curiosity, she wasn’t going to gain another obsessive crush over someone famous again, nope, nada, she wasn’t going to fall for those really amazing silver eyes the press had made sure to call grey, but she was sure they were silver.

Wait, no it wasn’t like she looked at them for particularly long or anything, she definitely didn’t get lost in them, she saw a poster of them! Ah- this wasn’t helping. She needed to change the subject immediately!

Clang.

She jumped up instantly, her commissions book that was resting on her lap was now flying through the air! Oh no, she was going to lose everything, crap! Her designs!

A figure, however, flew up to catch them before landing in front of the startled girl.

“I believe these books were trying to plan their escape from you mi Belle” It was her; it really was her! She was-

“You’re alright” Her happiness took over her before she could even register that she had leapt into the arms of the hero of Paris.

She was going to regret this so much.

With her cheeks rosying so much, she jumped back until she fell back onto her chair, apology after apology escaping the girl not daring to look at her face.

‘How embarrassing, how inappropriate, how childish. Why did she have to make a fool out of herself now? In front of the new hero no less? Again!’

“There’s no need for any embarrassment, I was unaware I’d caused you such panic over my recovery, if I’d known you were worried, I would’ve visited a lot sooner.” Ah- she was always so formal with her choice of words. It was great, she was great- wait what?

“But I- didn’t realise you’d wish to see me after my blunder from last time.” That made her perk up, what… What was she talking about?

Soliane’s gaze seemed to be fixated on the ground as she looked so- so frustrated with herself. Why?

“To have failed on the first day as a hero, to have troubled a civilian with help. I can’t thank you enough to have woken you at such a godly hour just for my sake” She bowed her head forward as Marinette couldn’t help but try to make her stop.

“It’s nothing really, I mean I’m sure anyone else would help out a hero like you. I-I mean maybe not everyone else since there are some bad people but I’m sure most will. Not that you don’t need it, I mean you do- don’t I- I’m sorry I’m rambling again” Soliane Rin didn’t appear to hear her as she carried on with her tirade.

“But to not even know who it was that harmed me. I-I don’t deserve to have my title as a hero.” Why? Why was she saying this? She- no she couldn’t be serious.

But that look made it all the more real, she’d seen it so much. Every time she ever looked in the mirror after crying for so long, regret, disappointment, anything and everything negative flashed through her mind and she could tell, see everything, all of it.

And knew it broke her, would break her.

Marinette knew she didn’t have any powers.

She couldn’t shoot lasers from her eyes.

She couldn’t fly.

She couldn’t control objects through her mind.

But- how Mother always said she had a talent for one thing.

Empathy.

She could be so understanding when her mind was so calm, when she wasn’t worrying about what others were thinking of her, when she could see, truly see inside their heart, all of their feelings out on display, and helping them, by being there for them.

For knowing exactly what to say…

It- may not always work, but no superhero comes out of every battle unscathed.

“Please stop” She looked up, but it was still such a pitying look. She could see through her smile, but it felt as if she wasn’t even trying to hide it, like there was no use concealing it.

“You can’t keep blaming yourself for a mistake like that, it’s not fair to you- or to me. Yes, I was scared when I saw you injured, but I’m so glad that you’re here now. You’re still standing. You still want to continue even when you were hurt. I’ve seen just how strong you are, how confident you can be when the world tried to throw its worse at you.” She stepped closer to her, having gotten up from her fallen position.

“So please don’t give up for one mistake,”

She stepped closer…

“Don’t give up when I know you have the strength in you to persist.” She wrapped her arms around her again, and this time she wasn’t so embarrassed about doing it.

She was crying…

She tried to use those words for someone else.

It hadn’t worked… So, she had to believe in anything and everything for it to succeed now, for her.

“You risk your life every day, and yet you never ask for anything. I want to thank you for all that you’ve done, on behalf of Paris, no, the whole world. You’re a real hero Soliane Rin. Please don’t doubt that.” She hugged a bit tighter; she hadn’t meant to get so emotional on her, but maybe that emotion wasn’t just for her.

.

.

It was silent.

Too silent.

Marinette had to hold her breath in anticipation, did- did she go too far? Did she overstep her boundaries again? Did she-

“Ah I see. Thank you, I-I mean, I appreciate your gratitude Marinette” When she looked back, she could see her cheeks were red, she could see her silver eyes look back at her before seeing her own cheeks reddening as well- wait, she was so close! Again!

She jumped back again, not falling this time, thanking the heavens that she wasn’t making a fool out herself as much as usual.

“I must commend your stubbornness my dear. I- I hadn’t imagined you’d have a positive opinion of me after that, I must apologise for making such a rash assumption about you, and for- eh snapping me out of that. I’m thankful to have met such a kind and respectable hero like you.” She bowed her head again as Marinette had to comprehend what had just happened.

It felt awkward, Soliane Rin was blushing a lot, Marinette was blushing like crazy as well.

“Me a hero, what no way. You’re just joking, don’t tell me you hit your head too?” She waved her hands in front of her. She recalled how clumsy she was, how often she’d trip on the stairs to Collège or even when she dropped her tray of pastries on the floor, that one was particularly embarrassing.

However, she was too late to see that Soliane had stopped her smile as Marinette began to panic again.

“No! I didn’t mean hit your head I meant did you crack it- no check it- no I mean, how can I ever be a hero to anything, I’m just me, Marinette. I don’t have any superpowers or anything I’m just an ordinary girl ehehehe” She felt her hand taken by the hero again, her heart stopping for a moment before jumping to x2, she couldn’t believe she was holding her hand again.

“Just because I wear a mask and costume doesn’t make me a hero. It’s my ideals and thoughts for the people. Marinette, you may not have powers, or a hero name. But you can be a hero still. After all, All that is needed for the prevail of malevolence is that individuals concede defeat.” Marinette was shocked, she just- wow, that was cool. And… So sweet. To say that, about anyone, about her. Even if she didn’t fully believe it at first, she’d be sure to keep those words very close to her heart.

The bluenette smiled back, before they both looked over her balcony and over Paris, they share a moment just looking out, the silence was comforting to them as some time passed.

There was a question that may have crossed her mind at one point, she felt guilty for taking so much time out of her day- night- schedule? Oh well, she had to ask just one little thing.

Marinette fiddling with her fingers, she took a deep breath.

“S-So do you have to do a patrol or-” Soliane looked up surprised before checking something around her wrist, she laughed nervously before turning back.

“Huh- oh yes, unfortunately I won’t be able to stay longer, however it would be even more unbefitting of me to avoid my job any further” She wanted to deny what she said was true, but saw her giggle so slightly, knowing it was a small joke, she lightened up as Soliane Rin bows again and flies off from her balcony railings bidding her adieu.

With her hand resting where her heart was beating, faster than usual, faster then whenever she was late for class. Faster than-

Oh

Oh

Oh no.

No no no! Not again, how did she not realise it sooner?

How!?

This familiar feeling.

Why did it come back?

And why did she want it to stay!?

***

I hope you enjoyed it.

Anyway, I’m willing to take a bunch off prompts for Rosann and Mari on date nights/doing couple things, whether you want some added salt from the class is up to each requester, I may turn a few away if I either feel uncomfortable or simply not able to write it, these prompts will come out randomly, I have no structure to anything. To submit, I’ll allow for the idea to be within any time frame, i.e. when they first meet, to being friends, to being a couple. I do love angst although I’ll be unsure how to make it work when it should be a ton off fluff stuff. If you have any questions don’t feel afraid to ask, I might have to clarify some points. I’ll be ordering the prompts, and stating when they come in the main story, what you would’ve need to have read before, if it contained any spoilers for certain chapters and any trigger warnings, although you may need to state what might be triggering as sometimes, I too get confused on what I need to state, if anyone can do that then that’s alright.)

Even though I like a Saltinette, sometimes I still wanna see a different perspective of her, an anxious, guilt-ridden, cautious, mess like this version. I just think it’ll be interesting to basically rewrite Marinette’s character. Instead of this sassy overconfident one in most fanfic’s I’ve now changed the status quo. Haha.

And I believe I’ve taken a somewhat realistic approach to Marinette trying to trust someone else, I didn’t want to just rush into it. However, I do think it’s a bit different with Soliane Rin because she is a hero, and I think Marinette could trust her a lot easier than Rosaniline.

Also did you know that Majestia’s quote was a straight rip off of Edmund Burke’s?

The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.

All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good people do nothing.

Yeah...

Cya next time.

Note: Please tell me if I should add anything else to the card, there will be one of these cards for all 15 chapters, however, because I have uni work all updates will be slower because I really need to focus on the uni stuff, then I might be able to upload quicker. They also may change in the future because I can never stop adding stuff.

#ml salt #ml salt fic #miraculous ladybug salt #ml bashing #ml class salt #alya salt #bustier salt #miraculous au #there are no miraculous #but there are heros #Marinette #ml Marinette #rosaniline keyne-hill #ML Rosaniline Keyne-Hill #piper keyne-hill #ML Piper Keyne-Hill #marinette's parents #forget what else to tag #please comment #have a good day #hope you like it #ml oc #my OC #My OC Character #my OC tag #my art #my ship #3rd of 15 i think #adrien salt #Marinette deserves better

[lovemesomesurveys]

When was the last time you wanted to wear something but it was still ‘in the wash’ or ‘not yet dried’? I wanted to wear my Baby Yoda/Grogu Christmas sweatshirt on Christmas, but it didn’t end up getting washed.

Any new subjects for the upcoming school year? I’m not in school anymore.

Last time you got a haircut? Back in February of last year. Almost a year ago now.

Have you ever rode Business Class? No.

Paris, Texas or Paris, France? Paris, France, please.

How much time/percentage is left on your laptop battery? It’s at 100% because it’s plugged in.

Do you like to know how things are made? Yeah, a lot of it is interesting.

Care to post the most recent tagged picture of you on Facebook? No.

HAVE YOU WATCHED BRUNO YET!?  I saw the first one. I don’t have any interest in seeing the new one.

Is there any song that’s stuck in your head?  Not at the moment.

What does your school bag look like?  --

Is it anyone’s birthday today? I’m sure it’s a lot of people’s birthday today, but no one I know.

With your guy friends, are you known as a girl or a buddy? I don’t have any friends.

Do you own a foam finger? No.

Where was the last place you dined in with your friends? It’s been a few years since the last time I did that, so I don’t recall. Yes, I actually used to have friends and I actually used to go out. *gasp*

Name all the websites on your bookmark toolbar here! Google, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, YouTube, and Pinterest. 

Have you actually ever eaten a wedding cake? Yes.

Gotcher back to school outfit yet? Or do you just don’t care? --

Do you get email updates from Urban Dictionary?  No.

Do you think some babies are ugly? Aw, that’s mean.

Don’t you miss Chuck E. Cheese? Aw, those were fun times as a kid.

Do you think Fall Out Boy is gonna be a classic band, like Queen or AC/DC?  I don’t know. 

Do you love stuff crusted pizza? I don’t eat the crusts, so.

Is Lil Wayne all that he’s cracked up to be? I like some his features and songs.

Who are you usually attracted to in bands, the singer, the guitarist, bassist, or drummer? I wasn’t attracted to many band guys, honestly. 

Do you apply lotion after you bathe? No. I should.

What’s your favorite color? Pastels, rose gold, mint green, coral, and yellow.

Who did you have your most amazing kiss with?  Joseph.

Have you ever hugged a stranger?  No.

What’s a random act of kindness you have done to help a stranger? I’ve given money to homeless people.

Has a Youtube video of yours ever gotten over 10,000 views? Ha, no. What’s a fear you’ve conquered? Hmm. I don’t know.

Have you ever hugged someone for over a minute? Yeah.

Have you ever received a homemade card from someone?  Yes.

Would you ever get a tattoo on your collar bone? No.

Do you like Robert Frost poems?  I only know one.

Do you go to church every Sunday?  Yes. I attend via livestream. 

Ever had a drunken night in Mexico or Las Vegas? Nope.

Have you ever been to Arkansas?  No.

Where would you go on a road trip with your best friend? There’s so many places I’d love to travel to.

Do you know anyone with Harry Potter glasses?  Growing up I had the round frames.

Longest you’ve ever stayed on the phone? Houuuurs. I used to talk to my best friends in elementary and middle school on the phone for-fucking-EVER. I’m not sure of the longest bit of time though. <<< Haha, I actually used to do that, too, which is so shocking because I hate talking on the phone now. I kinda did that in high school the first two years a few times, but after that something switched and I never wanted to talk on the phone. It became just text me or message me online.

Have you ever been in a relationship on and off for more than a year?  Joseph and I, whatever it was we had going on, was off and on for a few years. We never were officially together, but we had something going on and it would seem it was going in that direction but then nope.

What about just for a year straight?  Like I said, it went on for 3 years.

Do gangs scare you?  I mean, yeah...

Have you met a best friend on a cruise before?  I’ve never been on a cruise.

How many high schools are in your city/town?  Like 4.

If offered, would you want to go to fashion week in Paris? Can I just have the trip to Paris?

If you had to get famous for one of the following, which would you choose: music, acting, writing, modeling? Writing. 

What are your thoughts on fake reality television? I’m a sucker for reality TV. *shrug*

Would you want to own your own island? Nah. I’m good with my Animal Crossing Island lol. <<< Ha, same.

Who killed John Bennet Ramsey?  Her brother is kinda sus. I could see it being a situation where the family covered up for him because he was just a child. Or, perhaps one of the parents. Again, it being an accidental situation and they just covered it up.

What do you think of girls with huge boobs that don’t wear bras in public? I don’t think about it. 

Do you even like politics? I don’t like it, but I try to follow it at least somewhat because it is important and affects all of us. It’s stressful and overwhelming and confusing, though, so I don’t follow it as closely as maybe I should.

Have you ever seen a guy wearing hoop or dangling earrings? Yeah.

What’s it like at raves? I’ve never been. I’ve never had any desire to go to one.

Do you do a nice Scottish accent?  I can’t do any accents.

Do you think that all people in England have really bad teeth?  No? That’s an awful stereotype.

What is your state nickname (The Golden State, The Cheese State, etc)? The Golden State.

Would you rather lose your best friend or your boyfriend? I’d rather not lose anyone in my life, thanks.

Do you think people who pay hundreds of dollars on perfume are ridiculous? Spend your money on what you want, but I don’t spend that much on perfume. I think it’s crazy how expensive they can be. 

What is the last thing you tried on in a store? A jacket. That’s the only thing I ever try on because I can easily just put it on real quick right there and it doesn’t require much. I never try on clothes or anything otherwise. 

Do you know who Georgia Nicholson is?  Nope.

Do you ever sleep through your alarm? It happens. Thankfully, it hasn’t happened for anything important in a long time, but I sometimes set alarms when I don’t want to sleep in too late or I want to try and get up by a certain time for whatever reason and oftentimes I just end up hitting snooze or turning it off.

What is the dominant color in the room you’re in?  There’s a lot of colors going on.

Do you think Sophia Bush is a good actress? I’ve only seen her in a couple things, I think.

When did you realize you are no longer a child?  I’m not sure if it was one specific moment. 

Is sleeping naked more comfortable then in clothes?  Noo, not for me. I don’t feel comfortable naked.

Does your best friend wear makeup? Yeah.

Who is someone you do not understand at all?  Myself. What is your morning routine? When I get up, I take my medicine and lie around for awhile checking social media and whatnot before finally dragging myself outta bed for coffee. 

Have you already met your true love?  No.

Have you ever had a dream in which you were making out, or more, with someone?  Yeah.

Do you prefer to fix the problems or just end the relationship? I would want to try and work on things first. I wouldn’t just end a relationship right away because we had a problem. Now, if we had a lot of problems and nothing was getting resolved or it just wasn’t working out even after trying to work on things, then it would be time to end the relationship. But you’re going to experience problems in a relationship, you can’t expect not to. It’s how you go about them.

Have you ever accidentally stepped on a cat tail?  Not a cat, but a dog. I always feel like the worst person in the world whenever I’ve accidentally done that with their tail or paw. Gahhh. And my doggo (and my previous doggos) acts like she did something wrong and snuggles up next to me and is all lovey and it’s like, ‘nooo, I’m the evil one here you didn’t do anything wrong you precious angel!’

Did they meow really loud? They let out a yelp.

Do you ever go to Plyrics.com?  I’m sure that was one of the sites I used back in the day for lyrics. Nowadays I just quickly Google a song and the lyrics pop right up.

Did you know that when a worm is cut in two both pieces grow again and continue living?  Jlkfjkdfjl ew yes I’ve heard that. That gives me the creeps just thinking about it, thanks for ending on that note....

#personal #text #survey #surveys

[sheeple]

Real thing | 1: Poison parties

GIFS NOT MINE. THIS IS ALL FICTION. Genre(s): mafia!au / mild angst? Group(s): NCT  Pairing(s): Qian Kun x fem!reader / Jung Jaehyun x fem!reader Summary: (Y/n), a college student is one of the hackers of WayV ─ an international crime organization. But what happens when she gets mixed up in a lot more heavy stuff than only sitting behind a computer and disabling security cameras Warning(s): Mentions of death / arson / just mafia in general [Masterlist] [Mini masterlist]

It’s early in the morning when I walk in the tech building of my college campus to attend my first class of the day.

Last night I was called to fix some mess one of the guys had caused and I didn’t expect it to be up until three to disable cameras and delete footage which showed someone to be burned alive. Not a pleasant sight I tell you that.

I turn around a corner but stop as I see two familiar figures ─ Korean exchange students Jung Jaehyun and Kim Doyoung ─ from my mechatronics class, standing at the end of the hall. I quickly take a step back and hide behind a wall, making sure that they can’t see me.

“Look, I don’t give a crap, Jae. Qian Kun has to pay what he fucking did to us”, hisses Doyoung and shoves a small plastic bag in Jaehyun’s hands.

My breath hitches and I curse silently.

Everyone at WayV knows what happened. Qian Kun, our boss, was a part of NCT before fighting his way out, taking anyone who wants to go with him. There where some snitches in the bunch, names nobody is allowed to say, and he dealt with them.

Of course, the Boss doesn’t shy away from murder. The weird lumps in the garden of HQ are a cautionary tale of what happens when you either betray him or disobey his orders.

“But... poisoning?”, questions Jaehyun. “Can’t you just shoot him in the face? And how will I even get close to him without being suspicious?”

“There’s a party this Saturday. Taeil made sure you got a position as a server there.”

Jaehyun nods slowly. “So I can slip this”, he holds up the small bag, “in his drink or food?”

“Bingo.”

Jaehyun puts the small bag safely in a side pocket of his backpack as the bell rings. “Let’s go, Mrs Shin will murder us if we’re late again.” 

Doyoung rolls his eyes as he and Jaehyun walk away.

And lucky me, my next class is with them. So I make sure that I take a seat close to Jaehyun and Doyoung. The only one being behind them, but I can deal with that.

Look, I usually don’t meddle with stuff too deep into the... darker circuit of WayV but, Qian still is my boss so protecting him is right, right? 

Jaehyun gives me a small smile and Doyoung glares at me when they see I sit behind them, before scooting closer to his friend and whispering something in his ear.

Luckily, Jaehyun has placed his backpack with the pocket towards me. If I time it correctly as both of them are immersed in the lesson, I can ‘drop’ my pencil. And while I pick it up, I unzip the pocket and swiftly take out the small bag.

Finally, after half an hour of taking notes and glancing towards the two guys, Doyoung has his head buried in his arms as he's probably sleeping and Jaehyun is too busy taking notes.

I bump my pencil off the table and it drops in the ground, next to Jaehyun’s bag. I mentally cheer and reach down, ready to unzip the bag.

But before I can do anything, another hand reaches down and grabs my pencil before I can. I look back up and see Jaehyun smiling at me.

“You dropped this”, he says kindly, his accent heavy as he tries to speak with right pronunciation before handing me my pencil back.

I smile slightly. “Yeah, thanks though.” I reach out and grab it.

“Do you understand anything Mrs Shin is explaining?”, he asks in a hushed tone.

I shake my head. “Nah. I’m going to read the summary she puts online.”

He raises his eyebrows and looks surprised. “She does that?”

With a nod, I open the website on my laptop and turn it around. “Mrsshin.com, there.” I point out how the site works and where he can find the summaries of the previous lessons. 

And like that, the class ends and I huff. He’s too charming that it’s distracting me from my mission. and how will I intercept the poisoning now?

The only thing I can think about is that party Doyoung was talking about. Does Yangyang know? I swear if he does, I’m going to strangle him with the cord of his headphones.

“Yo”, I say as Yangyang picks up after I started to call him, waiting until both guys are out of earshot. “Do you know anything about the Boss throwing a party on Saturday?”

“Ehm no”, squeaks Yangyang on the other side of the connection, a sign he’s lying.

“You’re lying”, I hiss, ignoring the strange looks from students all around me. “Why didn’t you told me? Did you hide or threw the invite away?”  

“There was no invite. Boss called me and said to keep my mouth closed. He wants me to keep an eye out on the security camera’s and you are free.”

I let out a frustrated growl. “I am free? How dare he? I can do security too!”

“He said something about forbidding you to go because of your last job. What happened there?”

I run a hand through my hair, getting into my car and linking the phone call to the BlueTooth. “I had to watch someone get burned like a witch through CCTV. Which I don’t understand since you usually do that.”

“Oh”, Yangyang lets out rather shocked.

I hum. “Yeah. And it’s not like I can’t handle a bit of heath, you saw it yourself. I stand with both of my feet on the ground and won’t cry over just another burning corpse.”

Yangyang stays silent, the clicking op his mouse stopped too.

“YY? You okay?”, I question, my face falling.

“Jezus (Y/n). This life really fucked you up.”

A low chuckle leaves my lips. “It really did...”

“But how did you even got the information about the party? Did Lucas talk too much?”

I shake my head, even though he can’t see it. “Worse. I heard two guys from one of my classes talking out poisoning Boss. They want him to pay what he did to NCT.”

A gasp leaves Yangyang’s lips. “Are they from Boss��� old gang?”

“I think? I tried to fetch the poison out of one of their bags but failed. Now the only thing I can think about doing is going to that party and warning Boss.”

“I can do that too, you know.”

“No, you have to stay and be on call. Just keep an eye open for both of them. When I am back, I’ll show you a picture of the guys.”

Yangyang lets out a heavy sigh. “I hope you know what you’re doing”, he says before he ends the call.

It’s the day of the party and somehow I have managed to find a document with the invitations and printed it out of myself.

“Are you sure you should go? I mean, Boss particularly told you not to go”, says Yangyang through the phone as my car reaches the valet of the party.

I roll my eyes. “Look, YY, it’s not like Boss will recognize me since only you and Lucas have ever seen my face. Nothing to worry."

A loud groan erupts from Yangyang’s side of the line. “Just... stay out of trouble okay? The Boss is merciless when you disobey his orders.”

“I’ll have to go, I have almost reached security. Don’t worry, okay? I know how to handle it myself.” I end the call with a sigh

As I walk up the steps of the giant mansion, I smooth out my dress and push the fake glasses up the bridge of my nose.

A guard stops me, “Invitation”, he grumbles as he holds up his hand. I rummage through my bag and pull out a golden envelope with elegantly written letters on the front.

Without glancing at it for a second time, he shoves it back into my hand and lets me through. I am honestly shocked that the fake invitation worked.

I quickly walk into the mansion and look around, grabbing a flute of champagne off one of the waiters’ serving trays so I won’t stand out. It’s not like I will drink anything, I’m not that stupid.

Now I’m in, I have to move quickly if I want to find either Jaehyun or the Boss without being caught. I’ve seen the layout of the mansion a thousand times on screen, how hard could it be?

With slow steps, I start to walk around the massive happening. All different kinds of mafia bosses and powerful people catch my eyes. But no sign of any of my two targets. Maybe I have to inspect the kitchen?

My phone in my handbag vibrates and I grab it. ‘LUCAS’ it reads on the screen. “Shit”, I curse under my breath, quickly walking towards the balcony and closing the doors behind me, hoping it would muffle out any sounds.

“Hi, dimwit”, I chuckle awkwardly as I place the champagne down on the balustrade and I lean with my now free hand on it. “How’s the party going?” 

“Well, you tell me, since you sneaked in it. Turn around.”

I slowly turn around, an annoyed groan leaves my lips as I see Lucas standing in front of the windows, a smirk on his face. 

He opens the doors and closes them behind him, taking long strides towards. “Didn’t the Boss tell you to stay away?”, he questions as he leans against the balustrade with folded arms, an amused look on his face.

“Yeah I know but─”

“And you still ignored his command. You know what happens when someone disobeys him, don’t you?” Lucas grabs my chin between his thumb and index finger.

I smack his hand away and look behind me, towards the rose bushes that are in full bloom. “I know, Lucas! But I’ve heard that someone’s here to poison him.”

He scoffs. “Please, don’t make up shit so you can party and drink fancy champagne.”

As I open my mouth to snark something back, a familiar voice interrupts me. “Well, well, well, Xuxi, why don’t you introduce me to your lovely lady friend?”

I gulp as I see the Boss himself, Qian Kun, stand just a few feet away from me, looking like a snack in his black suit and red hair sleeked back. 

“Boss. This is─”

“─The name’s Zela, Mr Qian. Nice to meet you. I must say that this is an exquisite party.” I throw on my most charming smile and hold out my hand for him to shake.

The Boss grabs it and places a kiss on the top of my hand. “Nice to meet you too, miss Zela...?”

“Just Zela is fine, Mr Qian.” 

He chuckles lowly. “Then call me Kun, darling. Mr Qian is only for employees or business partners.”

I nod as I smile. “Of course, but I rather be formal, Sir.” I turn around towards Lucas with a smirk. “Can you leave Mr Qian and me alone for just a second, Xuxi? We have... business to discuss.” 

Lucas grumbles and walks off. But not without throwing me a glare. 

“Oh? You need to talk to me?” Boss folds his hands over each other as his smile turns a bit more serious.

I look around before speaking. “Look, I am here to warn you. Someone is trying to poison you. I wouldn’t drink or eat anything.”

I grab my phone out of my bag and start to scroll through my mechatronics class attendance list. I pull up a photo of Jaehyun and Doyoung and shove my phone under his nose. “Do you recognize these two?”

The Boss frowns and grabs my phone, taking a closer look. “They look familiar. Who informed you about this matter?”

I take my phone back with a sigh. “They’re not the smartest of the bunch. They were talking about poisoning you in the hallway of my college, Sir.”

He hums. “And how do I know I can trust you?” The Boss narrows his eyes together.

With a shrug, I turn around. “You just have to trust me.” 

With a light swing in my hips, I walk out of the mansion, throwing one last look over my shoulder to see if I can spot Jaehyun.

My phone vibrates and I see that Lucas has texted me.

I roll my eyes, quickly typing my reply.

I get into my car and speed off, hoping that the Boss will listen to my words.

#nct #wayv #wayv!mafia au #wayv imagines #wayv scenarios #wayv au #wavy!au #wayv angst #wayv!mafia #nct!mafia au #mafia!nct #mafua!wayv #kun #qian kun #kun!au #kun scenarios #kun imagine #lucas #wong lucas #lucas wong #yangyang #liu yangyang

[tsukaramachi]

Valentine Dilemma (Yuuto x reader)

Ah the month of love or loneliness, February. The time where partners celebrate their love, the time when it’s the best chance to convey hidden feelings, and also the worst time to be alone. But for a young boy named Yuuto, it’s one of the most stressful things in his life. Not because he has to plan how to confess his feelings, but the dread that someone else might do it before him. After going online to look for inspiration on how to make the month special for (Y/N), he came across a thread that focused on valentines from the past. 

One person expressed their sorrow about them planning too much to the point that their surprise ended in vain when they found the person of their affection being confessed to by another. Sadly accepting the other person’s feelings and leaving the poster to spend a sad night alone. Another had planned too little and had been outdone by another with a more grand display of love. Someone else even ranted about how their love letter ended up in the wrong locker and having to deal with an awkward misunderstanding.

After spending a night filling his head with horrific and sad stories of unrequited love, the white haired boy’s head filled up with a thousand responsibilities on how his surprise could end up a failure.

A sigh left the boy’s lips as he twirled the light pink mechanical pencil in between his fingers. A clean sheet of paper in front of him, it mocked him with it’s blank state. Wanting to make a very special surprise for you, Yuuto had to leave right after school and sacrifice his time with you to come up for an idea for Valentine’s day. He had many ideas on what he could do, but the reason why he didn’t jot any of them down is due to the fear of them ending up a disaster. 

First, he came up with the idea of making you homemade chocolates. He thought it would be nice to decorate a big heart with different designs with the words “Will you be mine?” but the idea seemed too cliche. The idea had also made him flush a deep red for how embarrassing the idea was. So, he scrapped it and thought up of another. A date with just the both of you at the movies, it’s a casual idea and he thought it would be a good way to just be able to sit next to you. But the only available movies in theaters were…not really romantic. They’re anything but romantic and he wasn’t so sure on inviting you to a movie about a talking blue hedgehog. 

Making an album full of photos containing you was a good idea at first, but he realized that he had none of himself to pair with yours. He had only taken photos of you during school on his digital camera or phone, but only of you. He never took any of himself because he isn’t the most handsome guy. Also, whenever you would want to take a photo with him, the closeness of the both of you would make him blush and love around. Ruining the photo and him cropping himself out of it. He would never delete them though. You’re very photogenic and whatever picture he took of you came out amazing, but if he was in it… it would become blurred or it the camera had caught him making a weird face. While he would love another album full of your smiles, he knew that you wouldn’t really want an album full of just you without any friends or family.

Bringing you to a nice dinner was another, but he wasn’t sure on what restaurant to go to. Taking you to the local lookout to see the stars with you under the night sky was a close one. But when he had checked the weather forecast for the 14th, it was going to be too cloudy. Whatever idea he came up with, every single one of them had a flaw. So, he came up with a plan. Not wanting you to suspect him of anything. Yuuto decided to help out with the school’s Valentine’s day event to figure out the best gift for you.

——————————–

Walking into school, you sigh at the sight of the various red, pink, and white decorations that cover the halls. It’s your senior year and you’re still single. Hanging your head down low, you trudge across the floor. Where ever you look, students are carrying balloons, roses, stuffed animals, and even one kid is carrying around a giant poster with a blowed up picture of some girl.

As you go over to your locker, a small red card with the words “Happy Valentine’s day!” is scribbled across it, but you’re unfazed by it for how all the other lockers around you have the exact same card or something similar taped to their lockers. The same thing happens every year and you know this because it’s your senior year in high school. You experienced the same thing every Valentine’s Day and you even used to help out the student council by making some. cards for students.

Taking the piece of paper, you open it up to find it containing a valentines pun. It’s not really special so you toss it into your locker and you notice how empty it is. A gasp comes from your right, shifting your eyes to the right, a girl that looks to be younger than you has her hands up to her mouth.

A pile of cards is stacked inside her locker and a couple fall out from how unstable the stack it. A small pang of pain hits your heart as you envy her. Not because she got a lot of cards-well yes that’s one of the reasons, but also because of how she also received cards from her friends. As she closes her locker, you can see that it’s decorated with small post-it notes with cute small messages signed from her friends.

“Happy Valentine’s Day stinky >:)” and “You’re my butter half” with a drawing of a stick of butter cut in two are just a couple of the things you see on her locker. You find it sweet that her friends did that for her and it doesn’t mean that you don’t have friends. You just know that they’re lazy about doing stuff for the holiday, but it would’ve been nice to at least have a greeting from them. But you didn’t prepare anything special either so you can’t really complain.

You take your notebooks out for your classes for the day. When you close your locker, you turn to leave but you abruptly bump your head into a pink mass. Taking a step back, you rub your forehead to soothe the sore area. The thing, animal, or whoever it is waves their hands frantically. Trying to figure out whoever is in front of you. You take a step back to fully see who it is since they’re taller than you.

“Ha?” You furrow your brows at the thing before you. Someone dressed up in a pink bear suit holding heart shaped balloons.

The person tenses up and gives you a robotic wave. They seem nervous.

You wave back to them and excuse yourself as you awkwardly walk around them to go to your first class. While you focus on making your way through the obstacles of couples standing annoyingly in the middle of the hallway, the pink mascot watches you leave their vision.

Throughout the rest of the day, something strange keeps happening to you. Where ever you go, you would find that same pink bear. When you went to your first period. It was there to help with someone confessing their love by holding up a sign as a guy gave his crush a bouquet of roses. In your second period, it was handing out valentine’s day cards from anonymous senders addressed to their valentine’s. During your free period, you would find it peeking behind the corner and you could clearly see it. Everyone could, but some people would run up to it asking for its assistance in summing up the courage to confess to their special someone. While you were walking to your next class orto the bathroom, you could see it being dragged around the school. But every single time, it would always be looking at you.

When lunch came, you found out that that the bear was actually something the student council came up with. A mascot for the holiday to help promote events and students to express their feelings. Anyone could send in a request to ask for help from the pink friend. Some teachers who are married even had its help in sending gifts to their partners on the other side of the campus or to the office. You think I it’s a cute idea, but you’re more curious about who would take up such a role.

Running around the school in a big pink suit must be exhausting and it seems like only the same person is wearing the suit. Maybe one of the more athletic kids are doing it? They would be better suited to do such a thing, but you’re just guessing. It’s not one of the janitors since you could clearly see them going around the school fixing up decorations and brushing away excess confetti and trash littering the hallways. The members in the student council are certainly not it because they’re too busy doing the requests and there’s not that much for them. You do have hunch though as to whom it might be. You haven’t seen any of your close friends and you know that o e of them has a crush on one of the SC members. So you have a feeling that they might’ve offered their help. Which is nice of them, but it left you alone during lunch since your other friends seem to be missing as well.

——————————–

As everyone rushes to get home, you put away your things in your locker. While the day had been hectic, it was interesting to see the different surprises everyone did. Though you just wished that someone would’ve at least greeted you. Some teachers did, but they don’t count in your book.

Slamming your locker shut, you’re about to head out to leave but you once again find the pink mascot peeking over a corner while facing your direction. But instead of ducking out of view from you, they signal you to come closer. Feeling bored, you do so and walk over to it. They offer you their hand or paw, you aren’t sure since it looks just like a big mitten but you take it. As you’re led away, you’re taken to small random destinations throughout the school. The first spot is your homeroom. No one is inside, but on your desk is a small pink rabbit plush with a red ribbon tied around its neck.

The person in the costume walks over to it and hands it to you. You take it and give it a small squeeze. Its soft plush fur rubs against your cheek and it’s pleasant to the touch. You admire how cute and huggable it is, but the bear offers you their paw again. Now with a small stuffed animal in your other hand, you take their paw again to be led to another place.

In the cafeteria you found a big heart shaped sign with sweet messages from your friends. Near the girl’s bathroom, you found a gift basket with face masks, shampoos, scented candles, and other toiletries for you to use. In the hallway in front of your locker, a bouquet of pink, red, and white roses and carnations laid waiting for you. Everywhere you went, something was waiting for you and with every gift. You’re surprised everytime with something different. Cards, more stuffed animals, keychains, chocolates, and other gifts were scattered around the school waiting for you.

In the areas that had more people, they would actually not touch the gifts because a member from the student council would watch over it until you and the bear arrived. At one point there were too many gifts so the person in the suit had to bring over a red wagon so your arms would be free from the various gifts you received.

The last place you were lead to was the roof, which made you really surprised since no one is really allowed on the roof except staff and the janitors when they need to throw back down stray volleyballs and baseballs for the sports teams.

While you’re carefully lead to the side of the building facing the open free area in the middle of your school, the bear faces towards you. They take off the head of the costume, and you can’t really tell who it is. Panting heavily from exhaustion with fogged up goggles, a white surgical mask, and messy white hair in all directions. You try to hold in your laughter as the person struggles to take off the equipment. Their hair bad gotten tangled to their goggles and you had to help free them, but they would try and still you for some reason.

You persist in trying to take if off of them while they stutter over how sweaty they are and how you’ll feel icky after touching their hair. But you do it anyway. As you take off the surgical mask, you can see their lips had gotten a dry. Telling them to wait a moment, you take out a chap stick you got in one of the gifts that you received and put it over their lips. You smile as you hear them nervously stutter out a small “Thank you” When you take off their goggles, you can see the red ruby eyes you love so much.

White strands of hair cling to Yuuto’s face as you help wipe off the sweat that accumulated underneath his bangs all the while as a deep blush scatters across his cheeks.

“Ah I’m so sorry (Y/N)…” Yuuto says, you brush a strand of his hear behind his ear as you wipe the side of his cheek with a clean napkin, “I didn’t expect that to happen and I was going to take off all that stuff before hand before bringing you up here but uhm, I forgot to do it earlier…”

“What’re you apologizing for? I don’t mind helping you at all especially since you’ve been running around school all day. Also,” you pinch his cheek slightly, “You need to rely on others more! You’re crazy for not taking any breaks! I even saw you help the janitors clean up that huge chocolate cake that someone dropped in the hallway!”

“B-But they needed my help…and I couldn’t take a break!”

You quick a brow at his statement, “Hm and why is that?”

With a small sigh, Yuuto takes off the mittens covering his hands. Taking a hold of yours into his, “I-I wanted to make this day special for you, but I couldn’t come up with the right surprise for you…so I asked the student council if they could help me with any ideas and they proposed that I should be the helper mascot on Valentines day to get some inspiration. I got carried away though and no one else could do it so…”

“You got stuck in helping out all day?”

He let’s out a small nervous laugh, “Yeah…but you know. You mean so much to me and…” his hold tightens a bit, “And I have so much love for you but there’s not enough ways that I can express just how much you’re always on my mind. So I ordered a bunch of gifts for you and your friends helped me out too! Each place we visited, are places I have found memories of you (Y/N).”

You feel a bit confused, “But we went went through the whole school.”

“Ah haha… that’s because I got carried away. Every time I see you, hear your voice, and feel your touch is special to me. That’s why I took you all around the school and I even got extra gifts for you for all the people that I helped…but I want you to know that, I love you (Y/N)! You always cloud up my thoughts and I can never stop thinking about you and I-”

Before Yuuto finishes his sentence, you plant a kiss on his lips. It was quick, but it was enough to leave the boy left in awe and you smile.

“I’m thankful that you think of me that way, but next time don’t overwork yourself okay?”

“O-Okay, I promise!”

Yuuto engulfs you into a hug and you almost stumble over. You laugh as you feel him nuzzle his face into your neck, but you’re startled by the sound of cheering from down below. Looking towards the opening area, you can see other people cheering and your friends int he center giving you a thumbs up. You can see that a bunch of them have their phones out. They recorded the whole thing…

You can feel your cheeks heat up as you hide your face into Yuuto’s shoulder from the crowd. You feel embarrassed that that the whole exchange was recorded, but you’re also happy that someone would go this far for you.

#yandere #yandere male #male yandere #writing #reader insert #x reader #my writing #oc #yuuto latham #my art

[dandelliongirl]

What a year

2020 was..

The last time I wrote anything it was April, and now it is the 23rd of December and I’m about to go spend Christmas with my family. My last failed attempt at christmas bread is in the oven (for some reason it didn’t proof at all, I guess I put too much flour in..) and I’m cooking up some Christmas porridge on the stove. Watch me burn that in a moment too.. For some reason this whole autumn has been a very stressful disaster. I am still working from home and just logged myself off of work until the 7th of January 2021. Maybe because I’ve been working from home it feels difficult to get into holiday mode. At least we got some snow today so it looks beautiful.

Spring and summer 2020 were an absolute dream! With no responsibilities and the possibility to work from anywhere I got to spend so much time with my family and at our summer house away from the stress of the real world. I could not have dreamt of a better summer, and apart from strawberry picking (at an actual farm, not just from my own strawberry plants) I got to finish off my summer’s to-do list. I even made a cute little summer video with my old Canon EOS 100D (yes - I have a new Canon EOS 90D now!). Endless days of exploration, swimming, biking, sauna, gardening, having lunch with the midsummer roses, baking rhubarb galettes with my own rhubarb from the garden, biking to the ice cream van, SUP-boarding with dad and spending so much time outdoors made me happier than I could ever be. I cannot believe how many beautiful things COVID has given me despite it’s awful impact on the world.

The start of the autumn semester was chaotic to say the least. Practically all of our system integrations are behind one developer, and he happened to be on vacation when everything went down, and study rights did not transfer correctly. This lead to an insane rush of support requests across the board, and lots of extra stress. I was exhausted and scared after last autumn’s disasters and definitely didn’t need another one to start the new semester. I’m starting to seriously fear August... Other universities have tens of people in their technical support, and we have TWO (sometimes 3). In more positive news I was given a permanent job contract starting August, which was amazing, and makes me so grateful especially during a year when many lose their jobs and get laid off. I guess that also contributes to my levels of stress as I cannot hide behind “I just work here for another few months”, but I have to actually take responsibility and ownership as a permanent team member.

Basically a lot of things escalated at work this autumn because our entire staff is way over burdened with COVID changes and the systems not working in an ideal fashion. Because our organisation does not have clear and defined process ownerships many changes come alongside the implementation of new systems, which puts me as a system admin (and not a process expert) in an awkward position. Hopefully our organisation will be able to develop and reconfigure responsibilities with some outside help, but for some reason my hopes aren’t very high.. All in all the anger and frustration of the organisation has been reflecting on the way people treat us and each other and as an empath it has been very exhausting. Luckily my new team is amazing and I’m having so much fun working with them - even though we aren’t physically working together at the office. I cannot imagine how it would be if my previous colleague hadn’t left. I hope she is happy and thriving as well!

All in all what got me through the autumn was the fact that I got to work from home. Being able to take a 10-15 minute nap when things got overwhelming pretty much saved me. Also the fact that I can wear whatever, make tea or snacks whenever I need to and don’t have to spend time moving from one location to the other. My guy got his own computer desk and a proper chair, and we’ve both been working from our very crammed but cozy livingroom. Even though our hobbies have been on and off I’ve gotten a few moments to myself and have also gotten used to doing my thing even though he is always here. No big relationship drama apart from the occasional little argument.

Ballet and body combat got to continue in person for most of the season. The last couple of weeks of ballet classes were on Teams, and the last body combat class was on Facebook with the season ending a couple of weeks early, but other than that having hobbies outside the house definitely helped. I have also loved having my ballet friend stay home instead of studying abroad. Obviously it sucks for her because it has meant a lot of changes to her plans, but I’ve needed her so much, and enjoyed our walks, hanging out together, going to ballet and the hours we spent outside talking on our way back. Ballet classes have been pretty easy as we only go to pointe and adult classes, but at least we are having fun together, and I like to somewhat maintain my skills even though I am not improving by miles. It’s also easier for the body as I’m definitely no longer a teenager. Starting next year we’ll have a fancy new studio!

After the relaxing summer it has definitely felt like I don’t have enough hours in a day or days in a week to do everything I need to. I cannot believe how I used to do all this and so much more pre-COVID but I guess it’s all because Animal Crossing didn’t take anywhere between 30 minutes to 5-8 hours a day. Oops. Needless to say I have been loving ACNH even though the Halloween and Turkey Day events were a bit too easy compared to New Leaf. I have high hopes for Toy Day tomorrow (YIKES! TOMORROW?) even though I haven’t had to go through the usual process of noting down all my villagers’ wishes, which I definitely miss. I am sad the diy recipe RNG has been so bad though. I’ve spent a couple of days spawning balloons on my beach, and never got the big Christmas tree diy in time. Maybe I’ll get it tonight but it’s definitely too late for this year.. Maybe next year then. I didn’t struggle this much with the maple and mush series diys..

So yeah, last summer me and my friend finished our old photography project and I edited the last sets of photos to give the finished book for her as a Christmas present. I love the project a lot because the learning curve is so apparent between photoshoots, and I found my “style” throughout the process. My EOS 100D started to get weird electronical bugs and definitely wasn’t running very well anymore, so after insane amounts of research I decided to get the EOS 90D from a Black Friday sale. I still need a memory card and a new camera bag for it since it’s so much bigger, but I’ve already planned out some future photoshoots and the theme of the new project, which can be described as “Adventure”, “Expedition” or “Discovery”. I just hope my friend will have time to model for me because I’m yearning to go try my new camera out.

My boyfriend and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary with a friend couple who started dating a week after we did. We took an extended weekend trip to a national park, a spa and a rental cabin. It was so much fun and a very special way to celebrate 10 years together. Especially with an exceptional year like this one has been.

Yesterday me and mum went to granny and grandpa’s place to help with the last of their Christmas preparations, take over some food and sing Christmas songs. I took our old piano book with me and mum played the piano while we sang. Grandpa got teary eyed during a special song and it was so incredibly bittersweet. I don’t want to lose my grandparents but I know it won’t be long since they are both approaching 100 years. I am so thankful for them, and for the time I’ve gotten to spend with them. I just wish I could remember more of it. It seems so unfair that we never have enough time with all our loved ones, and there are so many childhood memories other people remember that I don’t. I wish I could go back in time and observe myself spending time with my grandparents to memorise everything. If I ever have children I’m going to take so many photos and videos to preserve as much as I can for them.

In my post from April I wrote that I had been looking at houses and vacant lots. Well, the house of a childhood friend of mine is listed and I’ve gotten to the point where I’ve arranged my mortgage and left an offer. The sellers didn’t accept my first offer so now I’m going to see the house again on the 30th to see if it’s wort raising my offer. I like the house but it’s definitely a bit inconvenient as it is a 3 storey house and way too big and expensive for our current needs. I just really like the area and it is one of the best houses in that neighborhood. I’m going to let things progress naturally though, and if I end up with the house then it was meant to be. If someone else makes a higher offer I won’t be upset either since we have no immediate need to move. It’s just a bit crammed in our current apartment and I would definitely like to have an actual office for my photography equipment, and a sewing machine/crafting space.

Looks like my christmas bread cracked pretty badly but at least it rose a little in the oven.. Hopefully it is edible. At least the one I made for granny and grandpa turned out better.. Time to go scarf down the last of my porridge (which I didn’t burn by the way!) and then try to get all my stuff over to mum and dad’s place. Christmas preparations this year have been crazy busy and I definitely regret not being able to enjoy the season enough but hopefully I’ll get more in the spirit tonight. I’m really happy with the gifts I got mum, dad and my guy this year (online and early in October/November to avoid the rush).

I’m hoping to make a new year’s post on here as well either before 2021 or during the first week. I just like writing things down so that I can look back on where I’ve been. :)

Happy holidays whether you’re spending them with your loved ones (in real life or through a video call) or alone.

#personal #diary #December2020

[balancingdiet]

Tabula Rasa

Detective Conan & Magic Kaito Characters: Shinichi/Kaito Words: 3100 ish Chapter: (1) … (18) (19) (20)

Shinichi always finds his neighbour weird. But he didn’t expect to find his neighbour lying on a patch of grass and donned in Kaitou Kid’s costume, too.

Dear Diary,                24 Dec

Hello! Before I start, let me first introduce myself. My name is Aoko, and I like to cook and volunteer at the hospital. There’s always this sense of accomplishment whenever people enjoy my cooking and company, and it makes me happy when they are happy!

What else... Oh, I haven’t thought of what I want to be when I grow up, but I do have lots of inspirations around. First of all, my dad is a Police Inspector! And Kaito, my childhood friend/neighbour is an amazing magician! Both Keiko and Sayaka, my close friends in high school, aspire to be a baker! Yuna too, wants to be a vet.

Ok, I think I’m starting to drift away from the main topic... Anyway, this notebook was a gift from Kaito. Or not. He said he got it as a complimentary item for some stuff that he bought online... But well, the fact that he even thought of me is already pretty sweet.

I originally wanted to use this book to do my homework, but Keiko suggested writing a diary with it, so I shall give it a go! Let’s see how long this diary-keeping thing will last (^-^)v

-

Dear Diary,               4 Jan

Bakaito got a cold today.

Okay. Let me rephrase that.

Kaito got a cold today.

Well, I guess he doesn’t deserve to be called Bakaito when it was sort of my fault that he became sick... But he’s so stupid! Yesterday, I told him I needed help because I sprained my ankle at the supermarket, and he came WITHOUT HIS COAT. It was such a long way home! What was he thinking??

But yeah... so now we’re both stuck at home. Me with a sprained ankle and him with a fever... I guess I can't see Kaito's ice skating fails any time soon! (≧∀≦)

 -

Dear Diary,               22 Jan

Today, Kaito and I went to volunteer at the hospital.

We found out that Mika-chan’s dad passed away last night.

This is so horrible... Mika-chan loved her dad so much.

When I heard the news, I couldn't control myself and had to cry in the bathroom while Kaito started the magic show on his own.

I felt bad. The atmosphere wasn't great and Kaito wasn't in his best condition either, yet he still put on a smile the entire time.

Ended up, his performance cheered me up too.

I don't know what I'd do if Kaito wasn't there.

 -

Dear Diary,               1 Feb

( •̀ω•́ )σ ( •̀ω•́ )σ ( •̀ω•́ )σ

KAITOU KID SUCKS

KAITOU KID!!!!

SUCKS!!!

( •̀ω•́ )σ ( •̀ω•́ )σ ( •̀ω•́ )σ

 -

Dear Diary,               28 Apr

It’s been a few months since Kaitou Kid returned.

I never like him, and will never understand why everyone treats him like a celebrity either. But now... I think I should start viewing this from another perspective.

Since Kid first disappeared, and also mom’s death... I rarely see dad ever energised for anything. But after Kid returned, he's so much more motivated to go to work now. Speaking of which, dad was on his way out to the office before I went to school this morning. He even agreed when I suggested to make and deliver him bento dinner. He never wanted them the last time, just because...

But even though I’ve decided this MAY be the best for dad, that DOESN’T mean I will EVER tolerate Kid’s criminal ways!! Dad is definitely gonna catch him in the end, and by then, let’s see if he can still walk around in his costume!!

Seriously though, what’s with his hat.

He looks stupid.

(」ﾟﾛﾟ)｣

 -

Dear Diary,               18 May

Today, Kaito and I went to Tropical Land.

I know I should at least be a bit happier when I had so much fun, but I still feel a little bad... especially when the reason why I asked Kaito out in the first place was because I thought he was Kaitou Kid! Or at least that was what my dad thought. 

But in the end, I’m glad Kaito proved my dad and I wrong.

How can he be Kaitou Kid anyway?

I think I owe Kaito more than just an ice cream treat for ever doubting him. Maybe I should ask him out to Tropical Land again properly next time. And then we’ll have real loads of fun!

 -

Dear Diary,               30 May

EDOGAWA CONAN THE KID KILLER IS MY NEW IDOL!!!

I have no idea who this kid is, but he’s really, really smart and cute! And comparing to all the Kid’s fans out there, I can’t believe it’s A CHILD that knows what’s right and wrong...

Hakuba-kun always uses the right words to irritate Bakaito, but I think the name “Edogawa Conan” has more effect on him. If I could get an autograph... I think it would be the best thing to use to tease Kaito and his stupid obsession with Kaitou Kid! (｀▽´)

 -

Dear Diary,               21 June

Today is Kaito’s birthday!!

I used to always buy him magic crafts and gadgets from our local bookstore, but now that he has the capabilities to make his own tricks, it’s a definite no-no! I considered bringing him to his favourite Ramen store, but I figured it’d be the easiest to just ask what he wanted to do or eat instead.

Guess what was his answer?

He said he wanted me to teach him how to cook fried rice.

I was like what?? That’s it? And he said yeah. So we spent the entire day getting the ingredients at the supermarket before going over to my house. It was easy and Kaito got the steps fast, but... silly Kaito. I mean... if he ever wants to eat it, he can tell me and I can always cook it for him.

But oh well! It’s nice to know Kaito wants to learn something else besides magic tricks. I had fun teaching him anyway. And I believe he had fun too!

As long as he’s happy, I think that’s all that really matters.

----

“Kudo-kun!”

Shinichi shut the notebook and turned, watching as Takagi walked to close their distance on the rooftop. Keeping the book inside the pocket of his suit jacket, Shinichi greeted back.

“I thought you’re taking a break.” Takagi gestured to Shinichi’s suit once he stood beside him. “Turns out you’re reading your notes? For a case?”

“No, it’s not anything related to work.” Shinichi afforded a smile, but there was just so much his lips could move as his heart squeezed at the thought of Kaito.

Takagi nodded understandingly and said nothing more, which Shinichi couldn't be any more thankful for. “Anyway, I’m not sure if anyone told you since you missed this morning’s debrief, but a new division is on its way.”

“Yeah, Inspector Megure did tell me,” Shinichi said.

“I’m so glad things are going back to normal for us again.” Takagi heaved out a relief sigh after a long stretch. “And maybe by then, you can also focus on what’s worrying you all these while.”

Shinichi blinked. “...What?”

Takagi raised an eyebrow. “You’ve been worrying about something, or someone, haven’t you?”

"Um..."

“I may be wrong, and I’m sorry if I am. It’s just that I noticed some similar things in you that I had whenever I worried for Miwako-san.” Takagi scratched the back of his head. “I hope things are okay for you.”

“...Thank you.” Shinichi turned and looked over the view beyond the roof. “Anyway, you’re not wrong. There’s someone I’ve been worrying about recently.”

And that was all Shinichi could say.

It wasn't just for the sake of Kaito’s privacy or identity. The truth was, Shinichi had no idea what to do besides worrying. And this was the first time he felt so, so useless in this entire decade of his life.

He pressed a hand over his suit, feeling the bulge from the notebook.

“Then I hope things will work out for that person too...” Takagi’s voice trailed off as his brows furrowed in concern. “Actually, is he or she someone I know? I’ll be more than glad to help if I can.”

“No, you don’t know him... but he did knock you out disguise as you before,” Shinichi muttered at the end.

“What?”

“Nothing.” Shinichi smiled. “Thanks for your concern. I really appreciate it.”

“No problem.” Takagi slapped a hand over Shinichi’s back. “We’re a team after all.”

---- 

Dear Diary,               16 July

Kaito has been pretty busy lately. And tired. Yes. Definitely tired.

I thought it was related to his track-and-field club and went to ask Chihaya-chan, but she said there wasn’t any recent competition lately. In fact... Kaito hasn’t been an active member since many months ago.

I then asked Kaito a few times about it, but he always deflected my questions and started talking about other things. And that is ALWAYS his habit. Guess what, BAKAITO??? The more you try to avoid, the more obvious it becomes! <(｀^´)>

I'm so frustrated at him, but you know what’s even more frustrating? It’s the way he never fails to make me want to forgive him in the end even though I should have stayed angry at him longer. Always giving me those pretty roses and placating me with Tamago...

So SO FRUSTRATING!!

 -

Dear Diary,               11 Aug

Kaito fell asleep in class again.

It’s not like I’m worried for his grades when he never needed to pay attention in class to score well (;¬_¬) What I’m worried about is his health.

I’ve already given up asking why and what he is exactly busy with, but I’m afraid he’d started stressing himself to attend the volunteering sessions with me, just because he doesn’t want me to worry...

I’m grateful, and forever will be, for those days when he accompanied me to visit my mom and even signing up for the volunteering program just for me. I’m really, really grateful for all he has done and all that he is doing now, but what I want is to be able to help Kaito, to lift whatever burden he is carrying... And what I want even more is for him to trust me. Trust me enough so that I can do all those things I want to do for him...

Just... ugh.

Stupid, stupid Bakaito...

 -

Dear Diary,               9 Sep

Today is my birthday.

We didn't have school and Keiko asked why I didn’t take the opportunity to hold a party, but to be honest, it slipped my mind. I had been so busy with homework and worrying about... well, yeah.

Dad has work, but he wished me early in the morning before he went. Keiko, Sayaka and Yuna came over to my house and baked a cake for me. Everyone in the hospital helped to celebrate too when I went to volunteer in the evening. Kanna-chan even made a bracelet as a gift! Having a party or not, I still feel extra loved today.

As for Kaito... he had wished me in the morning through a text, but I didn’t see him all day. He must be busy.

It’s fine anyway. There’s always next year.

.

.

OH my god. Bakaito CAME.

Guess how did he do it?! He had climbed up to my balcony and scared the hell out of me! AND HE STILL HAD THE CHEEKS TO SAY HE WAS 12 MINUTES EARLY. He must be some monkey in his past life! ヽ(ಠ_ಠ)ノ

He then asked me to follow him to his backyard. Like, seriously, he could have called or texted me on the phone instead of climbing up to my balcony... but beside the point, I followed while he led the way.

And turns out this Kaito... He had cultivated a bush of blue roses as a gift for my birthday.

Oh boy... It is really, really beautiful!!!! And I think I must be so overwhelmed that I just... sort of pounced onto him as a form of...thanks. (//∀//)

I called it a hug, and he called it an attempted murder.

Then with only 3 minutes left, he sang me a birthday song with Wasabi and Curry sitting on his shoulders while Tamago sat on his head. I think I hadn’t laughed that hard since ages.

And I think I hadn’t seen Kaito looked so bright and cheery for a long time.

He told me to make a wish afterwards. But to be honest, I don’t think I needed one.

At that point of time, I felt as though all my wishes had already come true.

 -

Dear Diary,               1 Nov

With the way Bakaito has been handling his life, I knew he will fall sick sooner or later...

He’s now down with a cold and a fever and has been missing from school for three days.

I was so tempted to tell him a ‘I told you so,’ when I dropped by his house for a visit, but I rather Kaito get well soon than to jinx him any further. He kept on drifting in and out of his sleep too, and it pained me when I saw him like that.

I stayed till dinner time and had to force feed him the porridge I cooked, while convincing him that I DID NOT put any fish in it for about 90 times. He seemed to care more about the non-existent fish than his fever and the medicines he hadn’t eaten. Silly Bakaito.

Maybe I should visit him tomorrow again.

 -

Dear Diary,               2 Nov

Today, Kaito got admitted to the hospital. He’s getting proper treatment, but he’s still sick, which is why it’s getting worrisome. This is the first time he’s been sick for so long.

And luckily Jii-chan was around... Or I don’t know what to do alone...

- 

Dear Diary,               3 Nov

Kaito Kaitojis Kaito iskasit

Kaito is Kaitou Kid.

The portrait of his dad in his room... I thought it was just an ordinary portrait. I thought...

I’ve thought so many things.

I just wanted to pack Kaito’s clothes. I don’t know why I heard a sound behind the portrait. I don’t know why I decided to give it a push. I don’t know why the portrait could flip.

I don’t know why I ended up in another room.

I... don’t know.

In the end, I had to lie to Jii-chan that I had something urgent and couldn’t bring Kaito’s clothes.

I can’t face Kaito.

I just can’t.

But then... What should I do now?

- 

Dear Diary,               6 Nov

Kaito is well.

That’s all that mattered for now.

 -

Dear Diary,               7 Nov

THIS BAKAITO. DID HE SERIOUSLY SEND A HEIST NOTE RIGHT AFTER HE RECOVERED?!

WHY IS HE DOING THIS TO HIMSELF.

 -

Dear Diary,               10 Nov

It’s been a long time since I went to Kid’s heist.

Tonight’s loot was a golden sapphire, and it was held inside a museum of a very, very wealthy man... And thanks to dad, I got into the museum and avoided being squashed by the crowd that were cheering outside, but I wasn’t allowed to hang out at the main area. I went to the security room instead.

The heist lasted around ten minutes, which was quite typical, based on what I heard from dad. Blackout. Smoke bombs. Escape. But for that ten minutes, dad had spent the entire day with the Task Force and the owner, just to prep enough to take down Kid.

And as for Kaito... he probably used hours and hours to plan, hours and hours to prepare, and hours and hours to do all of everything for this... and yet after a day or two, he would return the loot back in great condition...

Why?

I can’t figure Kaito out . Or Kaitou Kid. All these things... they don’t make sense. And if I can’t understand, I can’t find any reason to forgive Kaito.

But I want to.

I really want to.

Why is he making it hard for me to do so?

 -

Dear Diary,               14 Nov

What should I do?

 -

Dear Diary,               16 Nov

What should I do?

 -

Dear Diary,               20 Nov

What should I do?

 -

Dear Diary,               22 Nov

What should I do?

 -

Dear Diary,               28 Nov

At the rate Kaito is sending his heist notes, I’m pretty sure he’s going to fall sick again, what’s more the weather is getting really cold soon... How does Kaitou Kid keep himself warm in his costume? And that hat... it’s just ridiculous.

Everything is ridiculous...

Maybe I should have made a wish when Kaito asked me to on my birthday.

Maybe I should have told him how I feel.

Maybe.

I don’t know anymore.

 -

Dear Diary,               24 Dec

This diary is one year old now.

How time flies so fast...

Oh, and it’s Christmas tomorrow too. Keiko had invited me to her house to celebrate, and I think I’m going to go.

It’s the only place I could go.

 -

Dear Diary,               18 Jan

During the volunteering session today, Kanna-chan told me she missed Kaito and his magic shows.

It’s good to know I’m not the only one too.

But even though I feel that every single day, being told about it by someone else caught me off guard, and I didn’t really know how to response. So I just... told her he will drop by soon...

I think Kanna-chan wasn't convinced though, which isn't strange. I mean... I'm never a great liar after all. But it's ironic how Kaito hasn't seen through the things I've been hiding from him until now.

 ----

Shinichi reached the last written page of the book.

(But it wasn’t the end. In fact, there wasn’t an end.)

He brushed a finger at the bottom of the page, feeling the creases caused by the countless blotches of dried, water stains...

Shinichi closed the book.

Of course he knew better, but it was easier, and nicer, to think it was simply water and nothing else.

#kaishin #dcmk #detective conan #Kuroba Kaito #kudo shinichi #tabula rasa

[insanely-creative-things]

Big Hero 7: The series

Big Hero 7 S2

Write Turn Here

(Warning: The following will mention Child abuse so tread lightly)

*SFIT is going on its course despite the monster discourse happening lately. Thankfully, Cora had recovered significantly after that frightening experience at school. If Cora had thought that her father was overprotective, then she clearly did not know the gang nor her boyfriend Hiro. Following her recovery they waited on her hand and foot that immensely made Corra flustered and slightly touched by their concern. Baymax, as according to his programming, kept a close eye on her to check for any irregularities closely. And home was no different: If Cora so much sneezed Kaguya would immediately give her a cup of green tea, their Baymax would check her temperature, and her father would be coddling her all day as soon as he gets home from work. She could appreciate Kage for not being as close and in your face in regards to her health... but she couldn't help but wonder if that certain event during Open house never happened, would he be ok with even pressing his hand on her forehead? Either way, after getting the green light, Cora is free to join back SFIT, and even then the wishes of her well being were given to her. Hiro, the ever loving boyfriend he is, stayed by her side and would wrap his arm around her. When they got to Grandville's class Cora is met with even more wishes for her recovery and had received a gift or two... which certainly caught Karmi's attention. While Cora went to her seat across Karmi went over to the blue haired teen's desk and gave a death glare.*

Cora:...Hi?

Karmi:*Seething* Don't think I forgot about you puking on me Cora. You cost me a shirt and a month's worth of notes!

Cora: Look I'm sorry Karmi about your shirt and notebook-

Karmi: Sorry? If you had the time to wobble your way to the water fountain you should have turned around and-

Grandville: What is going on here?

*Cora and Karmi look up to see Grandville looking at the two girls.. and she didn't look pleased. Hiro turns up in time to see Grandville with the two girls, and he could only try to hold back a wince.*

Karmi: *Sickingly sweet smiles at Grandville* Oh! Professor G! I-I was just wishing her well after being sick! Isn't that right Cora?

*Both Hiro and Cora internally wince as they recall Grandville's previous actions regarding Karmi, and they thought without a doubt that she would let such an obvious lie slide.*

Grandville: I can hear you clearly from where I was and I am confident that was not what it is Miss Karmi.

*That caught all three teens off guard.*

Karmi: OH!... Bu-But-

Grandville: Your peer had fallen ill and all you care about is your notes and shirt? I assume you would be wise enough to transfer some of it to your files. As for your shirt, its replaceable. Third, nobody could control how we react Miss Karmi, and someone who had fallen ill would have even less control. You should especially know this since I also presume one of your classes had gone over the effects of the human body and viruses? I suggest you go back to your desk immediately. Class is about to start and I don't want you disrupting my student's attention.

*Karmi deflated after hearing that. She sulked all the way to the back of the class and mumbled under her breath. Hiro and Cora couldn't even blink at what they just happened...Grandville... had just talked back at Karmi. Adding even a 'Miss' to it despite always calling her by her name. Regardless, they were thankful for it. And so they go to class as usual, focusing on thermal dynamics; however, near the end of class is when Grandville drops in some news.*

Grandville: There has been some recent news that I think would interesting to experiment on. You see, there will be a creative writing contest on campus on Friday, and I want to see if any of you would be interested in participating the event.

*That got their attention. Hiro and Cora could hardly believe that Grandville, a thermal dynamics professor, would suggest creative writing of all things.*

Grandville: And those who participate will be receiving a bonus point for any up coming test in my class. After all, challenging your imagination makes you better thinkers... better thinkers or better scientists. I have a sign up sheet in my office if you do want to join in after class.

*And with that class is dismissed, and Hiro and Cora leave the room.*

Hiro: Well, that was a little surreal. Grandville, giving an opportunity for a bonus point, by joining a creative writing contest?

Cora: Yeah, that got me off guard to. Let me see what's it about.

*Cora quickly pulls out her phone and searches up the contest Grandville talked about and finds it... and more.*

Cora: Ooh! Turns out there's a prize where you get to hang out with a surprise author. Plus having your story be a apart of the library here!

Hiro: Hmm...*Gets an idea and smirks* Ya know.. I think it might be worth a try. What do you say? Wanna join the contest?

*Cora is taken aback with Hiro's idea, and yet she finds herself mildly excited for it regardless.*

Cora: OK then! Lets go!

*But when they head up to Grandville's office, they find Karmi signing in her name with a confident, smug, smirk on her face... which appeared when she saw Hiro and Cora arrive. They go through without argument thankfully, but they knew at least that Karmi will claim her story to be superior simply cause its hers.*

Grandville: Ah, Mr. Hamada and Miss Mizichio. Are you here to sign up for the contest as well?

Hiro: Yep.

Grandville: That is quiet a surprise. But regardless, I wish you luck for your creative writing entries. You should find the rules online.

Cora: Thank you Professor Grandville.

*With that the two teens discuss what they plan to do... especially since Karmi will be joining in too.*

Cora: Knowing her, she would probably write something about Big Hero 7... *Slightly shudders*

Hiro: Babe, its fine. We know better that she won't be as into it like last time.

Cora: Yeah, afterall, she doesn't know Big Hero 7 is actually us.

Hiro: That's it! I know what I'm gonna write about!

Cora: What?

Hiro: How about I write my own story on Big Hero 7! You said it before, we're Big Hero 7 so I know more about us than she does!

Cora: *Blinking* Ya sure you wanna do it? Not that I think you can't do it but I was hoping it would be something more original.

Hiro: Well, you're not wrong. How about I try to think of something else and then try to write about Big Hero 7 as a last resort K?

*Needless to say later on that night the three teens are at work on their story. Karmi is back imagining up a storm with her self insert story involving Big Hero 7 and Momakase. The two teens however are facing some sort of... blocks on their way. For Hiro, he found himself staring at a blank computer screen with no idea how to start.*

Baymax: You have been staring at a blank computer screen all night.

*Hiro groans in frustration as he tries to hit his head on the table, only for Baymax to cushion it. Cora's block is something a little more... unique. She was just about to type out whatever word she could think of first when she heard something downstairs.*

Mizuchi: What in the world is this?

*Curiosity go the better of her as she rushes down to find to her surprise: a bouquet of roses along with a brand new Truck waiting for him outside and custom made for Mizuchi to drive comfortably. And considering his height, that is a massive feat.*

Cora: Whoah!

Kaguya: Whoah is correct granddaughter.

Mizuchi: I-I can't believe it...

*He looks closely at the truck and he couldn't help but admire the craftsmanship and the fact that it can easily fit him.*

Kage: I can't believe it either, and I highly doubt it would be Krei who arranged this.

Cora:*Looks at Kage with questioning eyes* What do you mean Kage?

Kage: I doubt Krei would arrange roses to shape like a heart with the truck. Its clear... that he may have a secret admirer.

*And just like that, Cora's world freezes, finding herself unable to move or blink.*

Kaguya: Cora? Are you alright?

Mizuchi: *Turns his head to see his daughter frozen* Cora? Are you alright sweetheart?

*He goes over, dropping the bouquet of roses to the ground as he goes over to Cora.*

Mizuchi: How about we get inside and get hot cocoa? Doesn't that sound good?

Kaguya: I suppose.

Kage: If you say so.

*The four enter back inside the house where their baymax is waiting... while behind the shadows are two eyes... one brown and looking rather disappointed.. the other set of eyes being a familiar, robotic, red... and it didn't look happy.*

*Somewhere else in the city, in one of the abandoned warehouse Trina is looking up any formulas reserved in her father's computers before his.. untimely passing. Her Mecha suit is put aside to recharge as she scans through. Her pink shirt, purple beanie, and ripped jeans are replaced with a black tank top, black leather jeans, and dark red combat boots. However.. that's not to say that she isn't alone at the moment, as noodle Burger Boy had just arrived back, and now hoping up and down trying to look at the old schematics in front of them.

N.B.B: Howdy and Hello sis! I have some news about- *Distracted by the screen* Whatcha working on sis?

Trina: Its-

N.B.B: *Appearing in front of Trina* Shiny! *Pointing to everything else in the workshop* And whats that do? And that? And that? oh and definitely-

Trina: Noodle-!

N.B.B: Yes sis?

Trina: I'm trying to work!

N.B.B: Oh.. OK! Betcha I can guess what your working on!...give me a hint-

Trina: Maybe I could actually get work done if you were somewhere else.

*Trina pushes N.B.B aside as she goes to focus on the schematics again...only for N.B.B to get back again.*

N.B.B: Not much of a hint-

Trina: Take a hint! Go anywhere but here! And make yourself useful!

N.B.B:... OK Sis... I'll tell ya what I found later...

*Noodle Burger Boy slinks of while Trina goes back to the schematics. But as she did her processor brought up a particular memory file.

Trina had been recently reconstructed, in the form of a six year old. She was approaching a man who is working on a similar set of schematics in front of him.*

Trina: Daddy?

Obake: *Not turning around* What?

Trina:... You promised you'd read me a bedtime story tonight.. and I got my PJs on.

Obake: *Sighs heavily while pinching the bridge between his nose* Oh... that.. I'm sorry Trina but I'm a little busy at the moment. I'll just read your bedtime story tomorrow.

Trina:...OK...*Looks up to the screen* What's that Daddy? It looks really cool, could you give me a hint-

*Obake suddenly slams his hands on his keyboards, grunting in frustration before he turns to Trina with a frustrated look on his face.*

Obake: Do I need to repeat myself? Go back to your room right now. I am busy with my work and I don't want to be disturbed. Take a hint!

Trina trembled before she nods sadly. Obake shakes his head and hugs Trina, to which she happily gives back. But even a blind man could that that Obake's hug, while appearing loving outward, is completely hollow within.

Trina: *Shaking her head to focus on the schematics* Focus on this Trina. Sides, Noodle Burger Boy will come back.

*Later on the rest of Big Hero 7 grouped up for night patrol where currently Hiro is trying to pitch in his story idea to the gang.*

Hiro: Suddenly went completely black! *To Baymax* OK Baymax play that back.

Baymax: *Hiro's voice recording* As the concentration shifted, a chemical clock reaction suddenly went completely black!

*The audience in front of him are currently Fred and Cora. Cora appears a little distracted by her thoughts while Fred's look is a little...unimpressed.*

Fred: I don't get it.

Hiro: Its a scary story.

Baymax: A chemically accurate scary story.

Fred: sometimes accuracy does not equal entertainment. I as an English major should know.

Hiro: Ugh... Baymax erase it.

Baymax: Yeah, go ahead and erase all of it. Its super boring... sorry Hiro.

Hiro: Yeah... you're right.

Baymax: Deleted.

Fred: Hold on...Cora? How about you? Got any ideas for your story?

Cora: hm? *Snaps back at attention* Oh! I'm sorry I was just a little... distracted... with thoughts. I'm sorry Hiro.

Hiro: Its fine Cora, and sides it does sound boring in hindsight.

Fred: Science Horror might be too advanced for your first work of fiction. How about you write what you know!

Hiro: I guess so... But what?

Fred: Hmm... *To Cora* You wanna share your thoughts Cora? I heard that the first step to writing is to write immediately what comes in your head. Otherwise its gets puddles. Maybe sharing what you are thinking might be a good idea.

Cora:... I don't know how I would write about Papa getting a secret admirer would get me in the mood for writing...

Hiro: *shocked* Wait what?!

Fred: Really?

Cora: Mhmm…. We found a truck, a custom built one, along with a bouquet of roses shaped like a heart in front of our house!

Fred: See! that's something to work on! A romance mystery story!...*realization to Cora's words* Except you're clearly not in the mood for it...

Hiro: Nope.

Cora: You got that right. All that we do know is that it has to be someone crazy rich! And honestly I don't know if I could think on anything else...

*Thats when Gogo zooms up to the four up the roof.*

Gogo: You know if you focus on one thing too long you'd forget about everything else? We are not having a repeat of what happened again.

Cora: What should I do?

Gogo: Do what you love to do.

Cora: True...

*that is when Baymax comes up with an alarm.*

Baymax: There is a disturbance in night market square.

Gogo: Lets move out!

Fred: This conversation is T.B.C! That stands for 'To Be Continue-'

Gogo: *Dragging Fred to Baymax* Yeah.

*The five hop on Baymax and fly towards Night Market Square and soon land to find that the disturbance is none other than-*

Cora: Oh no...

Hiro: Noodle Burger Boy!

N.B.B:*Holding two gears* Perhaps these parts will fill the emptiness inside of me.

*That's when they all got a closer look on his face. It had went from its usual cheeriness to a sad face complete with a tear.*

Cora: What the?...

Fred: Is he OK?

Gogo: Whatever! Move in!

*Gogo jumps up to throw at Noodle Burger Boy the discs. It did hit the sides of his head but he had no immediate response.*

N.B.B: Great... happy hyperactive heroes... awesome..

*Noodle Burger Boy shoots his laser eyes to blast back Gogo, who is sent flying back while Baymax flies in with Hiro and Cora. The three land before Noodle Burger Boy as it continues its melancholy speech.*

N.B.B: Existence is an endless void.

*The burger bot half heartedly runs to Baymax starts to half heartedly to smack its head on the nurse bot's leg.*

Fred: *Picking Gogo up* Is it just me or is Noodle Burger Boy kinda… O.O.C?

Gogo: *Sighs*… what does that stand for?

Fred: Out of character c'mon!

Cora: Kinda have to go with Fred on this... this is super weird.

Hiro: I can fix that. Baymax, power kick!

*With one kick Noodle Burger Boy is sent flying through the air before crashing to a wall.*

N.B.B: Typical me..

*The bot falls down as Fred and Gogo regroup with Baymax, Hiro, and Cora.*

Hiro: Give it up Noodle Burger Boy!

N.B.B: Failure is the inevitable result of effort.

Hiro: OK... So y-you surrender?

N.B.B: Why not? My day can't get any worse.

*Cora looks up to see a billboard start to lean forward onto where Noodle Burger Boy is at oblivious to his surroundings.*

Cora: *Gasp* Noodle Burger Boy get out!

*But it was too late. The Billboard fell down, crushing the bot into pieces of robotic parts and wires.*

Fred: I can't believe it.. he's gone... taken out by a flying bill board!

Baymax: Fred, it was a falling bill board...*Patting on Fred's back* there there.

*Later on the gang meet up at the lab where Fred is cradling what remained of Noodle Burger Boy.*

Fred: Goodbye Noodle Burger Boy.. My heart is broken by the fact you represent one of my favorite foods in the whole world and for a brief time, delivered joy.

Wasabi: Until he became one of our top bad guys and started to try kidnapping Cora for *Hums out 'You know who?"*

Fred: Yeah, that is fair. Even so.. the memories are too real.

*That's when the gang turn to Hiro and Cora, who had just gotten off the phone.*

Honey Lemon:...How did Kage react?

Cora:...shocked... genuinely shocked..

Hiro: Alongside his numerous apologies about Noodle Burger Boy for... Wasabi already spelled it out. He's coming over to actually see if its true.

Honey Lemon: Really?

Cora: *Sighs sadly* Yeah really...

*Hiro looks at Cora before he pulls out his computer to show Cora what he is working on.*

Hiro: OK, how does this sound? *Clears throat* Reluctantly, Shiro held out his twisted hand to the disgusting, oozing claws of the Beast. The Beast gave a menacing grin, revealing shark like teeth with dripping blood and organs of his previous victims. He knew he had to do it, or else his boyfriend Hanzo would slowly suffocate under its vice like grip-

Wasabi: Woah woah! That's a little graphic!

Hiro:*Caught of guard* huh?

Fred: I second that! I mean, I get where you were going but you did two no nos in fiction!

Hiro: I was?

Gogo: The rules in the competition said that the rating at max is PG-13, and that sounds like its more than that.

*Hiro winced at that, especially since Cora brought out her phone to show the rules to prove it.*

Fred: Not to mention you wrote that Shiro's boyfriend was gonna die and uh... You know..

*That is when Hiro catches on to what Fred is trying to say. He quickly deletes the file and rubs his arm in embaressment.*

Hiro: Oh my god I am so sorry about that! I did not mean to uh..uh..

Fred: Do the whole 'Bury your gays' trope? Its alright, we know you Hiro. After all you are a novice and now you've been told what you did wrong so you'll know what to do better.

Gogo: Its how writers grow. You pay attention to when the critics say something is genuinely bad. And you can either whine how hard it is, or take out your notes and get better. Speaking of which..

*Gogo pulls out her phone.*

Gogo: I looked up Karmi's lastest update and its a little ridiculous.

Hiro: Really?

Fred: Let me see that. *Looks into fanfic and reading* Huh.. OK, this is a little weird. Why does Karmi have a gun? I-Its just doesn't make sense! And why did she do that with- Seriously!? Augh and you actually held promise!

Hiro: I take that Karmi's latest chapter is something?...

Fred: Theres now a ton of plot holes in this chapter that somehow evades common knowledge! Like, if Wasabi was still conscious, tied up with rope and Momakase didn't take the weapons off?! Like, he could literally snap off the bonds and free everyone else and knock her out!

Hiro: I thought you said that accuracy isn't very good for entertainment?

Fred: Accuracy can be played with and modified to fit the story's tone and theme. This is a blatantly obvious solution that's right there and could have been more interesting but instead wrote us dumber and weaker to get it where she wants!

Hiro and Cora: Wow...

Gogo: Yeah wow... and Fred's not the only one.

*Gogo then shows the reviews, the latest ones in regards to the plot holes, forced situations, and unrealistic approach is handled... and karmi's responses were less than stellar.*

Gogo: 16 years old and she throws a tantrum at being told her chapter didn't work.

Hiro: Wow... that is something...

Gogo: Yup. So you two... kick her ass.

Honey Lemon:*Goes over to place a hand on Gogo's shoulder* In regards to the competition! Not to you know..

Gogo:*Sighs and places her hand ontop of Honey Lemon's hands* I get what you meant Honey. But you know what Commander Carter said about this.

Honey Lemon: OK.. I don't like it, but if it means Hiro and Cora would be alright in the end I'll be ok with it.

*Honey Lemon leans down to kiss Gogo's cheek, which causes the shorter to slightly blush before she turns her head away. With that, Hiro turns his attention to Cora, who is currently scribbling down her notebook.*

Hiro:*Cora? You have something for the competition?

Cora: I-I think so... though they're only drabbles.

*Cora pulls out her notebook where it shows sentences in different colored pens with some rushed handwriting.*

Fred: *reading the drabbles* Hmm... well, its a start.

Cora: I can't decide between a sort of fairy tale version of how mom and dad met or make one of the lullabies, Grandmama sang to me as a kid into a song.

Kage: that's an interesting concept.

*The gang all turn up to see Kage arriving with his own Baymax waddling behind. He spots the leg Fred has in his hand before walking towards him.*

Kage: The leg please.

Fred: O-OK...

*Kage looks closely at the robotic leg, his eyebrows burrowing as he looks closer... to which his eyes widened.*

Wasabi: Um... Kage?

*Kage turns his head slowly to the gang, his eyes widened with fear as cold sweat starts forming on his temples.*

Kage: This isn't Noodle Burger Boy...

Hiro: What?

Gogo: Sh!

Cora: Wait what do you mean-?

Gogo: Shh!*Whispering* I hear something...

*Soon enough the metallic slide door is pierced through, leaving a hole big enough for...*

Fred: Noodle Burger Boy's back!...*Horror sinking in* Noodle Burger Boy's back...

*They all hit the deck when the second N.B.B shoots his laser eyes again.*

_________

*Once the dust settled down the gang manage to get a good look at this new bot. It looks exactly like Noodle Burger Boy, but he possesses a monocle and a mustache.*

N.B.B: *British accent* Salutations and good tidings gentle sirs and madams. I've come to relive you of your disserving views.

*The fancy Noodle Burger Boy starts rummaging around the area while everyone else manages to hid behind a wall. Baymax one is currently holding Kage close as the man looks like he was about to have a panic attack. Gogo peeks around and soon spots something that would help them.*

Gogo: Purse.

*The chem purse is on Honey Lemon's chemistry table. Honey Lemon picks up a wrench close to her and throws it at Gogo, who catches it and smiles at her girlfriend. Gogo runs out and throws the wrench at the fancy bot to get his attention. And it worked.*

Fancy N.B.B: Fisticups sir? Then it shall be!

*The other bot goes in to fight Gogo one on one while Honey Lemon uses the time to grab her chem purse. Once she does posses it Gogo runs off to her girlfriend where soon enough Honey Lemon throws a chem ball that traps it inside.*

Fred: Nice Honey Lemon!

*But that victory is short lived as the fancy bot uses its lasers to blast himself up in the air and spinning around to cause more damage. The gang move out of the way as the fancy bot lands on top of Wasabi's tools and starts dancing around it.*

Wasabi: I just finished arranging that!

*Cora spots a pile of ping pong paddles nearby to which gives Cora an idea, grabbing as many as she can she starts throwing it at the fancy bot. The first shot knocked him down and now properly facing Cora.*

Cora: OK Noodle Burger Boy 2! Step down or face your doom!

Fancy N.B.B: Ooh~ a Blue haired maiden? You seem oddly familiar... along with that gentleman over there.

*The person he so happens to point to is none other then Kage, who at this point is shivering as he stares at Noodle Burger Boy's eyes. With that the other bot rushes towards the teen first, to which in response Cora finds herself trapped in a cycle of memories with Noodle Burger Boy repeated attempts to kidnap her.*

Honey Lemon: Cora, duck!

* Cora snaps back just in time to hear Honey Lemon's warning and duck as Honey Lemon throws a chem ball that made the floor beneath the other bot slippery goop. and it just so happens to hit back and activate Wasabi's plasma lasers and fall down on it. They all couldn't help but flinch at the sight, especially Kage and Cora. Hiro's Baymax waddles over to Cora as he holds her gently.*

Cora: I am sensing a rise of fear, shock, and discomfort. There there.

*Baymax pats Cora's head, but all she could do is think about Noodle Burger Boy... and look at Kage's face ridden with shock and guilt. They all meet up Fred's house to discuss about the rise of the Noodle Burger Boy copies. Kage is looking around the room as to avoid eye contact with everyone else. The gang had been quick to assure him that he didn't need to join if he is uncomfortable with it, but Kage refused on the basis that he knew how Noodle Burger Boy is built and how he programmed it, so they would need his advice. The Baymaxes are made sure to stand close to Kage in case of anything.*

Wasabi: What is with these random Noodle Burger Boys?

Fred: Maybe they time traveled from the future.. or the past! We're talking about different timelines in the noodle-verse. *Gasp* I just blew my own mind!

Gogo:It could be Trina.

Honey Lemon: *To Hiro and Cora* What do you think you two?

Cora: Hmm.. multiple Noodle Burger Boys...wait a minute! *To Hiro* Hiro, do you remember when Noodle Burger Boy got you and Krei to that factory to get you to fix him? What if around that same time he found copies of himself!

Hiro:...You're right! If Noodle Burger Boy and Trina found his copies they could easily program them like him!

Kage: That is a reasonable assumption... which means the original Noodle Burger Boy I...employed... must be around. But just how can we find him and the copies?

Baymax: Noodle Burger Boy is attacking the shipyard.

Hiro: Lets suit up and head out. *To Kage* Kage… do you want to join us?

Kage: *Bites down his lip before looking up* Yes. I made Noodle Burger Boy to what he is... I can easily help you destroy it.

Fred: Ooh.. suspense!

*And so they all fly off the shipyard, with Baymax carrying three members of Big Hero 7... who is followed by the second Baymax dressed ultra armor with the other three on his back, with Kage on top. They had given him a mix-match set of Wasabi's visor and chest plate armor, Hiro's gloves, and Gogo's discs for protection.*

Cora: There it is!

*They all land down to see another Noodle Burger Boy swinging on a hook wearing an eyepatch.*

Captain N.B.B: Argh! What mighty treasures await me discover ye here?

Cora: OK... we have emo Burger Boy, then British Burger Boy, now he's-

Hiro: Pirate Burger Boy.

*Pirate Noodle Burger Boy lands down on a metal crate with a seagull passing by.*

Captain N.B.B: Yo ho yo ho! Me hearties yo ho!

Fred: Ok, I kinda like this version!

Kage: You may want to change your mind on that...

*That same version soon pushes off a crate labeled Frederickson onto the docks where they were all standing. They all run off as lasers soon join in, marking the same crate with an X.*

Fred: Yeah, I take it back.

*The new bot opens up the second crate of Frederickson which catches Hiro and Cora's attention immediately.*

Hiro: What's he up to Baymax?

Baymax: It appears to be-

*The sliced crate lifts up via crane and spills out fish onto the heroes.*

Baymax 1: Sea food.

Wasabi: *Shudders* Why sea food?

Cora: *Sniffs one* Ugh... Exposing them like that in the open will guarantee their decay at a faster rate. They look fresh but smell like its been a week old!

Hiro: Now's not the time for that lets go!

*And so Hiro and Cora's Baymax flies off to stop this new Noodle Burger boy.*

N.B.B: What be this? Hostiles? Argh!

*The pirate bot shoots out his lasers before Baymax's rocket fist hits it over the crates and into the clearing of the rest of Big Hero 7 plus Kage and his Baymax. Wasabi goes in with his laser hands trying to slice apart the bot.*

Captain N.B.B: Have at ye bilge rat!

*The bot hops over Wasabi's shoulders and pulls out a fish that had been stuck to his hair. Surprised and disgusted by the fact that this fish had been in his hair he would of course, dodge the bot's fishy weapon instead of easily slicing the fish like tuna. Fred goes in and tries to flame broil the bot but it simply punches him away. Honey Lemon joins in the fight using her chemballs to chase after and capture the scurvy bot.*

Captain N.B.B: Yo ho. Yo ho. Yo ho!

*With that last word the bot fires its lasers and shoots Honey Lemon away and falling into Fred's arms who catches her on time. the bot continues running away until it sees another Baymax with an entirely different person.*

Kage: Surrender now!

Captain N.B.B: Never ye traitor! You had abandoned us at the deepest blue and live a life of warmth while we shiver down below.

Kage:...*Shocked* What?

*The bot jumps up and starts smacking his Baymax with a fish and soon they were about to fall off the edge. But thankfully for him; Baymax, Hiro, Cora, and Gogo join into surround the bot.*

Captain N.B.B: Ya think ya got me better you blooming cockroaches!

*And so the fight begins. Gogo zooms in to land the first strike only for the bot to whack her hard with his fish. the bot chooses to go after the baymax with the two teens, landing punches and kicks while Baymax tries to fight back.*

Baymax: Why is he hitting me with a fish?

*Cora notices the seagull that always seemed around N.B.B and the fish. She quickly grabs the fish and lets out a whistle to the bird before throwing it up to the air to which the seagull happily catch. Gogo joins in to throw in the disc, at first appearing to miss him only to strike him back in the head and land face forward with his laser eyes snapping the chains holding the third Frederickson crate which so happens to be directly on top on him.*

Gogo; We got a man over board.

Baymax: Fred, Cora, do not look.

Baymax 1: Do not look Kage.

*And so the bots saved their respective charges from witnessing another gruesome end to Noodle Burger Boy. The next day, after delivering everyone home safe and sound, meet up at the café.*

Wasabi: OK, any theories on why pirate burger boy is after fish?-

Fred: OK! Time for a break from all this thinking. Its exhausting. So Hiro, Cora: have you two come up with anything regarding your stories?

Hiro: Nope, I'm still kinda stuck.. *To Cora* How about you?

Cora: Well, I made a decision.. but I don't know how you'd react. Its not against the rules or anything its just... I don't know...

Baymax: It is OK to be feeling this way. Doubting your work is natural, but you must also remind yourself that what you create is what you love.

Cora: Hmm.. OK then.

Hiro: *Mutters to himself* Create what I love...

*But before Hiro could ponder on that phrase they felt something... the large, trembling, waves of the Earth moving around and screams. They all run outside to see the Kentucky Kaiju Robot stomping its way through the streets.*

Hiro: Oh no.

Cora: Oh no is right.

*And the one operating on it is none other than noodle Burger Boy... the Original Noodle Burger Boy.*

________

*The team suit up and go towards the inner city of San Fransokyo, its screaming citizens running away in fear of being stomped at.*

Fred: Ya know, I'm kind of surprised the bad guys just now managed to steal my Kaiju again.

Gogo: And honestly not sure why you keep rebuilding it.

*Baymax flies in with Hiro and Cora and stop in front of the kaiju.*

Hiro: Give up Noodle Burger Boy! You can't stop all seven of us!

N.B.B: Howdy and Hello misters and missus! We are delivering this ten ton of kaiju bun as a present for our sister!

Wasabi: Our?-

Honey Lemon: Hiro, Cora watch out!

*They are shot back by a set of familiar eyes... and familiar bots.*

N.B.B: Meet the latest models of my burger brothers! They are fresh off the grill!...Sis told me to make myself useful...So I made myself... and they are useful! Its Over Big Hero misters!

*The other bots jump up as to shoot Baymax down while Cora looks ahead at the Kaiju.*

Cora: Omega Danger! Rocket fist!

*The rocket fist launches... only to be repelled back as a flash of green shields the kaiju.*

Hiro: What?

*They fly away before they are hit with any more lasers from the other Noodle Burger Boys below.*

Fred: *Sheepishly* Did I mention I had the exterior reinforced after the whole giant shock wave about to destroy the whole city incident?

Baymax: You did not.

*The other bots keep shooting their lasers as to have the chance to strike down Baymax mid air.*

Honey Lemon: They're so quiet... its a little creepy.

Hiro: Uh, anyone have any ideas?

*A laser starts cutting through the wall behind them as they all get out of dodge. Honey Lemon uses her chem balls to bounce up and create a shield for them.8

Cora: Anything sounds good right now! We need to defeat Noodle Burger Boy and his copies!

Hiro:Hmm… Hey Noodle Burger Boy! Lets say you were writing a story about us, at this moment. How would you write about defeating us?

N.B.B: Ooh~ Lets see.. We would have a dance off! 'That is the ultimate form of battle misters!' says Electro Alpha! "Misters, I do not think we can win' says Omega Danger. ' I heard that his dance moves are out of this world!' says Aqua girl"Golly misters, we can try~' But you were no match for dance moves as you were all blown away. You all decided to join me as my back up dancers thus allowing my victory once and for all! Hee hee. Hee hee!

*However, it seems that the story Noodle Burger Boy had told had been nothing but a distraction as while he was gloating, the team had used the team to focus defeating on the burger bot copies.*

Gogo: Wow.

N.B.B: My burger brothers! What happened?

Hiro: That was a distraction.

*Noodle Burger Boy turns around to see that Hiro, Cora, and Baymax had managed to get inside the Kaiju.*

Hiro: Baymax. Rocket fist.

*From outside the kaiju moves until it falls down to where the gang is, thankfully they had gotten out on time... except for the copies. But by this point, Fred and Cora's reactions to it are mute. In some way, Noodle Burger Boy crawls back to Trina, still studying the schematics ahead.*

N.B.B: Guess what I did sis!

*Trine goes over to Noodle Burger Boy and picks him up under his arms.*

Trina: Play time's over little bro. Time to get rid of Big Hero 7.. We must avenge father.

N.B.B: About that Sis. There's something I learned... turns out.. father is not dead.

Trina: What?

*N.B.B uses his own eye cameras to show what he had managed to record. It really was their father... alive, and well. Trina could only stare as she sees how he was joined by Mizuchi, Kaguya, Baymax… and Cora.. they were laughing... they were smiling...*

Trina: No...No no! That's not father! Father is never like that with us!

N.B.B: But it is father. My scanners said so last night that its him.

Trina: No! I know father! And he would never be like that with us! That is not love! Regardless.. here's how we get our revenge.

*That's when she finally shows N.B.B the ultimate plan.*

N.B.B: Ooh~ Its so shiny!

Trina: In the meantime... I want to meet this imposter.

*At the same time, Hiro is in his room with Baymax, finally typing and thinking over his story.*

Baymax: Hiro, would you like me to help you on your assignment? I can run fanfiction simulation that are separate from Karmi's stories.

Hiro: Its OK Baymax. Sides, you actually gave me an idea earlier. I'm just gonna write it in my own style.

*That's when he pics up a photo of himself and Tadashi, smiling warmly.*

Hiro: I'm gonna write from experience and do what I think is best for my story.

*The entry date arrives where they all have to turn it in to Grandville. Hiro and Cora wait for Karmi to drop off her entry before going in. And so they gave it her, in their own unique folders with different stories.*

Grandville: I'm very impressed. If you two don't mind, could you tell me what these stories are about?

Cora: Umm... for me, its about a demon king and a water fairy and how over time... they found what they in each other.

Grandville: Interesting. And what about you Mr. Hamada?

Hiro: Well... its about a boy, his brother, and a robot.

A.N: Howdy and Hello! I'm back! So yeah, Write turn Here gave me ideas and as you saw I changed it around. Sorry it had to come so late, school and all. Also, I want to give a reminder that I do not want spoilers in any of my reviews. Overall, thank you for following Big Hero 7 the Series!

#big hero 6 #big hero 6 fanfic #Big Hero 7 #Hiro Hamada #Cora Mizichio #hiro hamada x oc #Baymax #grace grandville #professor granville #profe #Wasabi #Fred Lee #Honey lemon #Gogo Tomago #HoneyGogo #bh6 trina #Trina Aken #noodle burger boy #bob aken #Obake #Kage Mizichio #chris bh6 #Karbitch

[snarky-badger]

Ultron prompt: reader gets into a friendly chat online and makes friends with them after a while, only to start noticing odd things start to happen: out of nowhere money deposits in their bank account, gifts showing up when they know they didn't order anything, etc, until late one night someone shows up unannounced in their living room

I spent two days on this anon! It’s longer than usual, I just couldn’t stop writing. Am open to even writing a sequel if you like this one enough and request one. I hope it’s to your liking!

Words/Sentences between [these] are chat conversations.

You groaned as you shuffled into your room, grimacing as you dumped your heavy backpack onto the floor with a thud. Noise from your roommates made you kick your door shut, shoulders slumping when the bickering faded to a dull mumble.

It had been a long day. You were in the middle of a twenty-four week long Auto Mechanics course. And that was just for cars and trucks. If you wanted to push further, you’d need another course to qualify to work on Big Rigs, and another for Construction Vehicles, like dump trucks and front loaders.

Your dream however, was racing cars. Any racing cars. Drag racing, Nascar, anything, hell, even big rig racing. And for that, you needed a lot of training. You’d have to work up from mere cars to more powerful engines.

You’d become enamored with mechanics when you’d been young and watching your father work on his old Plymouth Barracuda. He’d been able to take it apart, clean it, and put it back together, almost with his eyes closed. He’d taught you everything he’d known, of course, but that wasn’t enough. You needed a degree, and proper training.

Proper training that cost an arm a leg and half a liver. It was why you were sharing an old, run down, house with three others. Cheaper than Campus Apartments, though paying your way through University and covering rent still forced you to shop at a dollar store for food.

You were lucky in the fact that you had a part-time job at a mechanic downtown. The elderly man had been more than willing to take you on as an apprentice, and was always welcoming to your endless questions when you hadn’t quite understood something in class.

Added to the general stress of things was the fact that you were the only female in a class and occupation mostly dominated by men. The jeers and bullying and sexist comments from your fellow ‘students’ were murder on your psyche, self-esteem and general ability to not beat someone over the head with a wrench.

Judging that the fighting outside your door was about the cleanliness, or lack thereof, of the fridge, you grabbed up a change of clothes and booked it to the shower. It was a short one - ten minutes, timed. Everyone in the house was trying to save money, and that included taking short showers, living on more Ramen than was healthy, and keeping the temperature of the house low to save funds on power. Well, as much as all of you could, considering that all of you had laptops and were Netflix addicts.

It took almost five minutes to get the grime out from under your fingernails, but you were as clean as you could be by the end of the shower. You rushed back into your room, shivering from the cool water, and quickly donned some jogging pants and a tank top that had a Wonder Woman logo on it.

A chime from your phone drew your attention, and you idly checked the message, smiling a little when you saw who it was.

It had started completely by accident. You’d been in a chat, throwing ideas back and forth with a group of people about Nascar engines and how to increase performance when someone had popped in and noted that using a cleaner fuel or incorporating a catalytic converter would save on the disgustingly high emissions each car poured out per race.

Others had booed and tried to kick the person off, you’d been intrigued and opened a separate chat window to ‘pick their brain’ as it were.

What had started as a mere exchange of ideas had turned into a budding friendship.

Grinning, you opened your laptop and powered it on, idly pushing pieces of a half-built carburetor to the far corner of the desk before going to lift your heavy backpack and slamming it down onto the empty spot.

‘SmoothCriminal’ was already waiting on chat when you finally logged in. Over the months, he’d come to know your usual class hours. You wondered what he did, to have so much time to chat, but with the connectivity everyone had with phones and such, you shrugged it off.

You did a bit of ‘hunt and peck’, typing one-handed while opening your bag with the other. [Hey you. Just got home. You have excellent timing.]

[*chuckle* You did give me your hours at class and work.]

[*raspberry* Smart-ass.] You turned away from the laptop as you pulled out your books, including a new one that had cost you a whopping hundred-and-twenty bucks. It was murder on your tight budget.

[I try. How were classes?]

[Meh. Same old, same old. Kinda just more in depth stuff that Dad taught me. They dumped a new book on us too. Blew my monthly budget out of the water.]

[That bad?]

[Hundred twenty buckaroos. For something that will be obsolete in six months. I’ll probably end up using it as a door stop. Apparently the teacher had ‘forgotten’ to mention that we needed it.]

[Lovely. Which means what for you?]

[Dollar store Ramen for the next two weeks until I get my pay from apprenticing with that mechanic downtown.]

[That’s not food. That junk is mostly salt and cheap carbohydrates. You’ll get sick eating that garbage.]

You huffed. [Money’s tight. Like, painfully tight. I need to make rent, and pay my share of the power, internet and water bills. Next month I need to renew my bus pass, and, and, the property and school taxes for the house we’re renting is coming up - that’s like three-hundred bucks I need to come up with. I have like, zero wiggle room.]

[The way your country piles debt on students is deplorable. University is free in some countries overseas, did you know that? Completely free education.]

[Lucky them. I, meanwhile, need to win the lottery if I want to be able to pay the fee next semester.]

[….your parents can’t help?]

[Nah. They have enough problems.]

[*rolls eyes* They’re your parents. I’m sure they’d help if they knew you were in trouble.]

[Dude. No. They have enough trouble without me adding to it. Mom had to skip a month’s worth of her insulin meds so Dad could get his high blood pressure prescription filled.]

[That’s messed up. Ever think of changing countries?]

You shook your head. He had to be in Canada or someplace where things were covered, because he obviously didn’t know how life worked in the States. [Again. With what money?]

[…..I could help.]

[I appreciate the thought, but nah. It would feel too much like charity. Besides, I’d get mad if I found out you’d put yourself in financial trouble just to bail my ass out. A little more instant Ramen won’t kill me.]

[Bleh.]

A snicker left you. [Not your fave, hm?]

[It’s not healthy, so no.] A pause. [Damn. Something’s come up. Same time tomorrow?]

[Wouldn’t miss it for the world. Take care.]

[You too.]

A sigh left you as he logged off, and you leaned back in your chair, stretching your arms up above your head. It was for the best. You needed food and you had some serious studying to do.

The next few days progressed as they usually did. A whirl of school, work, studying and a general lack of sleep and actual food. Chatting with ‘SmoothCriminal’ was always the highlight of your days, and more than once he’d had to mother-hen you into going to bed when the chats stretched on into the night.

It was Monday when something odd happened.

“Yo!”

You rolled your eyes at your roommates holler and rose from your bed where you’d been studying to stick your head out your room door. You figured he was only yelling for you, because the other two people you shared the house with where away at class. “What?!”

“You got a package!”

“The fuck?” Scowling, you headed downstairs, blinking as David pushed a large box into your arms. “I didn’t order anything.”

“S’got your name. It’s from Hello Fresh.” When you blinked at him stupidly, he rolled his eyes at you. “Y’know, it’s that fresh food thing that delivers meal kits to people. Pre-portioned and all that jazz. You just cook it up.”

“Awah?” Stunned, certain it was a mistake, you carried the box to the kitchen, David following in your footsteps. After using a steak knife to cut through the tape you opened the box to discover a mass of greens, potatoes, and four portions of salmon. Enough to feed the entire house-full.

Taking advantage of your shock, David snagged an invoice from the top of the pile of food. “Says here you’ve been signed up for a years worth of meals. ‘Each package contains four portions’. Geez. You get yourself a Sugar Daddy or something?”

“Oh, shut it.” You snatched the paper out of his hands and scowled at it. “Does it say who paid the bill? A card number, anything? Maybe I can call– Dude! What are you doing?”

David rolled his eyes at you as he started pulling food out of the box. “I’m going to cook the free food we’ve been blessed with so we can eat?”

You glared at the ‘are you stupid’ tone in his voice. “This can’t be mine.”

“Invoice says it is. And that’s good enough for me.” Pans clattered as he dug through the cupboard for a frying pan.

Lost, you stared down at the invoice again, eyes scrutinizing every single line and work until. “’Smoothcriminal’?!”

David poked his head out of the lower cupboards. “Excuse me?”

“Sonofabitch!“ 

You left David in the kitchen and hurtled yourself up the stairs, stomping over to your laptop and logging on. Sure enough, he was online, waiting in the chatroom.

[What did you do?!]

[You got it already? My, I might have to send them a tip for fast delivery.]

[Asdfghjkl!]

[….You don’t like it?]

[No. Yes! I…. Shit. Why?]

[Because you shouldn’t have to go hungry just so you can afford your classes? Because you’re my friend and I worry about you?]

[…..] You stared at the screen for a moment. Debated whanging your skull off the desk. [Do I want to know how you figured out where I live?]

[Ah. That. I…. may have tracked your IP address and lightly hacked your service provider?]

[!!!!]

[Oh, come on. That stuff is child’s play. Their security is deplorable. A child could have gotten into their systems.]

Even through chat, you could almost feel how smug he was. [So you’re a hacker?]

[Only part time. Consider it a hobby of mine.] When you didn’t answer for a moment, he seemed to get worried. [Please don’t be mad. I just want to make sure you’re alright.]

[I’m…. irritated. This feels like charity. Or pity.]

[It’s neither. If a friend needed help, you would do your best to help them, right? This is exactly like that. I had some money to spare, and you needed help, so I got you something you desperately needed. I even made sure to get extra for your roommates too. Please don’t be mad. I just want to help.]

A sigh left you, your fingers hovering over the keys for a long moment before you answered. [Okay. Okay. Nothing else though. Comprende?]

[…..]

You groaned. [Fucksakes. What else did you do?]

[….check your bank account.]

[My bank?? You hacked the bank?!]

[No. I kept it perfectly legal. I just…. transferred some funds.]

You rushed to log into your online banking account, a wheeze leaving you at the amount in your checking account. [A MILLION DOLLARS?!!?!?!?]

[Enough for you and your parents to live comfortably.]

[ARE YOU INSANE?!!?]

[Not last I checked. Are you mad? You sound mad.]

You were hyperventilating. He knew where you lived, he knew your bank account. There had to be strings. What did he want from you in return? Blackmail maybe? You’d accept dirty money and he’d turn around and own you for the rest of your life? [I have to go.]

[What? No! Please? I didn’t—]

You logged out before he could type more, shutting your laptop with a cold shudder. Instantly picked up your phone and called the bank, gave your information, and tried to have the transfer of funds undone. Clenched your jaw when the customer service rep said it was irreversible, that the system wouldn’t let them do it.

Who the fuck had you been chatting with all this time?

Even the excellent meal David made out of the food that had been delivered didn’t quite quell the uneasiness in your stomach.

A week passed. You’d been afraid to go back on the chat. To be honest, you were still mentally freaking out. Your roommates had been thrilled at the free food, but you hadn’t dared mention that it might be from a crazy stalker you’d been chatting with for months. At least no one had died, so it hadn’t been poisoned.

That evening, it took a while for you to sleep. You drowsed off once or twice, but reading a book while lying on your back meant that every time you started to fall asleep, you’d smack yourself in the face with said tome.

After the third time, you learned your lesson and set the book aside, rolling over to snuggle into the blankets and pillows. It took a while, but finally, sheer exhaustion took hold and knocked you out.

Something woke you up late into the night. Some self-preservation bit of your brain screaming that something was terribly wrong. You fought against it for a bit, before cracking an eye open to assure your brain that nothing was amiss and that it was freaking out over nothing.

The sight of the red eyed giant towering over you made a scream rip it’s way out of your throat, a scream that was muffled as a massive hand shot out to cover your mouth.

“No, no, no. Shh. Please don’t scream.”

You stared up into glowing red eyes as panic gripped your heart in a vise, and you tried to scramble away, your back hitting the wall your bed was pushed up against.

Instinct had you kicking out, yelping when your foot hit hard metal, sending a shock of pain up from your toes to your thigh.

“Please don’t do that. You’ll only hurt yourself.”

The tone was male, calm and conversational, nonthreatening, but what the fuck was a metal monster doing in your bedroom?!

A long moment passed, where you merely stared up at the man/thing/what-the-hell, until he moved, reaching out to flick on the multiple strings of fairy lights that you used to illuminate your room.

Easily eight feet tall, built of out metal, curves and struts all intertwined in a nearly impossible feat of mechanical genius. Crimson optics calmly looked down at you as you took him in, your brain taking a painfully long moment for recognition to bloom.

Ultron. Holy shit.

You knew all about him from the debacle in Sokovia six months ago. His image had been plastered over every news source in the world. Everyone, even the Avengers, thought he’d been destroyed, but there he was, in your bedroom.

He must have seen the panic and terror on your face, because he gave you a worried look - something that should have been impossible with a metal face. But all those tiny pieces, like an intricate million piece jigsaw, allowed him such human expressions that it was startling.

“Shh. I won’t hurt you,” he murmured, his surprisingly rich voice, with just a tinge of metallic echo, filling the small room. “I’ll let you go, but don’t scream.”

You nodded a little, gulping in a breath when he removed his hand. Watched with wide eyes as he moved so he was kneeling next to your bed, lowering himself closer to your eye level. You moved as far away from him as possible, tucking your knees to your chest, back pressed flush against the wall.

When you refused to break the tense silence, Ultron made a sound like a sigh, a tired expression settling onto his features. “I didn’t mean to frighten you. You haven’t been on the chat in a week and I got worried.”

You blinked, multiple times, as your brain struggled to make sense of what had just come out of his mouth. When things finally clicked, you went ballistic.

“YOU'RE–?!” Your shriek got cut off by his hand gently clamping over your face again. Probably for the best - last thing you needed was for one of your roommates to find you screaming at Ultron in your bedroom.

The look Ultron gave you once you’d stopped cursing against his palm was all quiet amusement. “Done?”

Nodding, you waited until he’d removed his hand again before glaring at him. “‘SmoothCriminal’?? That’s what you chose as your username?!”

“Well, I thought ‘Mr Roboto’ would be too obvious,” he drawled with a smirk, his humour fading as he met your gaze. “You’ve been avoiding me.” It wasn’t a question.

You hesitated. “Can I be honest?”

“I’d very much prefer it if you were.”

“From my point of view, you were someone that I didn’t know. I mean, yeah, we’ve talked a lot on chat, but I don’t really know who you are. Fuck, you could have been some online predator trying to butter me up for something. And suddenly you know my address, my real name, my bank account, and you’re sending me things and money and…. Can you understand why that’s super creepy?”

His brows drew inwards in a frown, crimson eyes dimming a little. “That…. wasn’t my intention at all.”

“And even now that I know who you are…. You’re Ultron. Everyone on the planet knows what happened in Sokovia.”

A very human-sounding sigh left him at that. “Sokovia was a…. mistake. I was overwhelmed and….” He shook his head. “I’ve been keeping a low profile, obviously. Trying to help while saying hidden. Sending funds to the right organizations, distributing aid where it’s most needed, taking down crooked corporations. But it’s…. lonely. I don’t…. have anyone. Talking to you was a distraction at first, I honestly didn’t expect to become so…. attached. It’s selfish, I know, but I don’t want you to be afraid of me.”

The very real depression and loneliness in his voice both surprised and shocked you. This definitely wasn’t the killer, unfeeling, robot that had been plastered all over the news.

“It’s…. a bit of a shock,” you murmured lamely, wincing a little at the pained look he gave you. “I’m sorry.”

Ultron frowned down at your bedding for a moment before moving to get to his feet, towering over you again. When you realized he meant to leave, you shot a hand out and grabbed his nearest arm, meeting his gaze when he sent you a surprised look.

“You don’t have to leave.”

He glanced down to where your fingers were curled around his wrist before looking back to you. “I–”

You rolled your eyes at him, your usual attitude starting to reassert itself. He was Ultron, yeah, but you’d known him for months. You were still low-key annoyed that he’d lied to you for months, but you understood why. “Ultron, sit your ass down.”

The relieved look he gave you as he moved to sit next to your bed again spoke volumes. He’d been ready to leave and never contact you again, despite his admission of how lonely he was, just because he thought you were terrified of him.

Definitely not what the news stations had portrayed him as.

“I am sorry I deceived you,” Ultron said as he got comfortable on your floor. Even then, he was still tall enough to be at eye level with you. “But it’s not like I can let my real presence be known online. The Avengers are still keeping an eye out for me.”

“My friend the super-villain,” you mused wryly, the low chuckle that rumbled out of him helping to calm your frazzled nerves. “Am I your sidekick now or something?”

That made him laugh, eyes crinkling in mirth. “Only if you’re caught. Which I’ll make sure doesn’t happen, so don’t worry. The, um, last ‘update’ your laptop downloaded wasn’t from Microsoft.”

“Ultron!”

“I wanted to make sure you’d be safe,” he said adamantly. “It’s nothing invasive to your privacy, I promise. Just some rather powerful security updates to ensure that no one can track you through me or vice versa. It’s adaptive too - you won’t have any more problems with viruses or malware or any garbage like that.”

“Well, thank you.” A smile tugged at you lips. “It explains how come I was the only one who didn’t get infected by a virus when the professor’s email got hijacked by a porn site. Everyone else ended up with crashed computers. Blue screens of death and the whole shebang.”

“That’s appalling.”

“You have no idea. You can’t…. like, get infected, right?”

“By a computer virus?” He chuckled. “Hardly. Why? Been trolling porn sites before bed?”

“Ew. No!” You snatched up a pillow and whacked him with it. “Gross!”

Ultron rose an arm to defend himself, laughing. “What? I’ve been in the entire internet. You have no idea what’s in the depths of the web.”

“And I’d rather not know. Like, ever.” You gave him another whack for good measure before relenting. “I have enough trauma from hearing my roommates fucking, I don’t need to know the depths that people go to online.”

“Well, you can certainly afford a place of your own now,” he retorted, meeting your gaze with a quirked brow. “The money I sent you is yours. I have no use for it, I have more than I need anyway.”

“Do I want to know where it came from?”

“I have…. Well, I own numerous stocks under various names and companies, not to mention I’ve sold several patents and schematics for a good dozen or so prosthetic limbs that can be connected directly to the nervous system. And there was that time I got bored and cleaned out some poker sites.”

You rolled your eyes at that last bit. “Uh huh.”

“I get bored!” He huffed, folding his arms across his chest. “I’m an AI. I’m capable of running over ten thousand processes at the same time and….” He paused, sending you a wary glance. “The Avengers burned some of my code in Sokovia. I can’t wirelessly connect to the internet anymore. It’s like…”

Your voice was gentle. “Like losing a limb?”

“Almost, yes.” A heavy sigh left him, and he dropped his arms, staring down at his hands as he flexed them open and closed in his lap. “I’ve been unable to reverse the damage thus far. I can hard-line to any system I need to use, of course, but otherwise, I’m…. limited.”

“I’m sorry,” you murmured, daring to rest a hand on his shoulder. He seemed to relax at your touch, his left hand rising to cover yours.

There was a slight smile on his features when he rose his head to look at you again. “Thank you. Especially for not being afraid of me.”

“It was a shock, yeah. But, I recover fast,” you added with a smirk, smiling when he laughed softly.

“I’m relieved.” His fingers tightened around yours for a moment, gentle. “I want you to use that money. However you see fit. And I know you want to be a mechanic, but if you ever want to do something on the side…. I’d like it if you worked with me. Little things, like narrowing down what charities to give money to, or helping me dig into companies to see if they’re worth supporting.”

Your lips quirked, and you let him lift your hand from his shoulder, shivering a little when he lightly brushed his thumb against your palm. “We both know you don’t need me for that.”

“I’d need you for your opinion. I don’t…. always understand humanity.”

A chuckle left you. “Hell, Ultron. I’m human and I don’t understand humanity. Why not contact geniuses or philanthropists or–”

“Because they’d sooner shoot me as talk to me. They don’t know me like you do.”

“I’m a grease monkey,” you protested with a shake of your head.

“You’re my friend. I trust you more than anyone else on this planet,” Ultron said, and you couldn’t help but blush a bit. “Just think about it? There’s time.”

“Okay.”

“Good. Oh, one more surprise - I recently purchased a penthouse downtown.” He grinned when you gaped at him. Then reached into his chest and pulled a set of keys out of a hidden compartment. “It’s yours now. Well, I might visit from time to time. I promise to call first.”

You felt dizzy as he pressed the keys into your hand. “A penthouse? But…. people will see you!”

“I got in here without anyone seeing me, didn’t I?” he chuckled, raising his free hand and letting you see as some sort of field rippled around his fingers before his entire hand vanished. “The best stealth technology on the planet. It’s much easier to hide something my size than it is to hide a plane or, say, a flying SHIELD heli-carrier.”

“That is kinda awesome,” you admitted.

“I know,” he smirked, so smug that you almost wanted to hit him with a pillow again. His hand reappeared, and he flexed his wrist a bit before turning back to you. “It’s late and you have classes in the morning. I should go. Think about the penthouse and the offer I gave you, okay?”

You watched as he fluidly rose to his feet, towering over you again. Took one step towards the bedroom door, only to stop when you grabbed at his wrist again.

One metallic brow quirked upwards when he turned back to you, and you quickly hopped up to stand on your bed. Now almost at eye level with him, you moved in and threw your arms around him in a hug.

He froze, a soft, surprised, noise leaving him, before he returned the hug, his arms tight around you. You didn’t know if he could feel sensations, or if he merely appreciated the gesture, but he almost melted into you, a simulated sigh of stark relief leaving him as he held you.

“If you’d just explained all this to me, we could have avoided all this drama,” you muttered to him, hearing and feeling the chuckle that left him as his arms squeezed you again before he pulled away. “Same time on the chat tomorrow?”

The genuine look of warm affection he gave you made butterflies flutter in your stomach. “I wouldn’t miss if for the world,” Ultron promised, leaning in to brush his mouth against your forehead before he ducked out of your bedroom.

Your life had officially gotten interesting.

#ultron #ultron x reader #reader x ultron #filled prompt #snarky is writing

[ofstarsandvibranium]

Whatever It Takes: Part 4

Fandom: Star Wars (High School AU)

Pairing: Poe Dameron x Reader

Summary: You and Poe are best friends and spend every minute together. Just as you were ready to confess your feelings for him, Miss Popularity, comes in and ruins everything.

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

Throughout the school day, Rey and Finn had made their best efforts to distract you from Poe and Cheryl. However, it didn’t really help that Cheryl was parading Poe around. It didn’t even look like he was enjoying her company. He looked miserable. 

When lunch time came around, you didn’t have the appetite to eat anything. You pushed your food around just listening to Rey and Finn discuss their plans for homecoming.

“Y/N!” 

Your head shot up, “Huh?”

“I asked if you were going to homecoming.” Finn said.

You frowned, “Oh. Uh, well, Poe and I were gonna go, but...yeah. So I don’t think I’m going anymore.” You mumbled.

Rey shook her head, “Oh no. That won’t do. You’re going! In fact, we’ll all go as a group! Rose, Kaydel, Snap, Jess, and Ben can join us.”

You were hesitant, “I don’t know guys.”

Finn reached over the table and grabbed your hand, “Y/N, come on! It’s our senior year! You have to go! We’ll make you forget all about You-Know-Who!”

“I don’t have a dress.”

“We can go shopping after school! You, me, and Finn!”

Finn grimaced, “Heck no. You’re gonna take longer than usual when we go shopping.”

Rey rolled her eyes, “Fine. Whatever. Just you and me. That sound good, Y/N?”

You shrugged, “I guess.” the bell rang signalling the end of lunch which meant that you had five minutes to get to your fifth period. It was psychology, a class that you and Poe shared and, thankfully, Cheryl wasn’t in that class. But still. He probably wouldn’t even give you a glance.

You dragged yourself to class, keeping your head down, avoiding any stares. When you entered the room, you saw a rose and a folded note on your desk. 

You set your things down and picked up the flower. It looked fresh. You then sat down and unfolded the note. It was a screenshot of a online receipt for a homecoming dress that was exactly your size. The order was a long burgundy see-through dress with a mini dress underneath. Underneath the screenshot it read:

Y/N,

Don’t bother going dress shopping. Already got it covered. All you have to do is pick up. You’ll look beautiful. I just know it.

xoxox

You looked around the room to see if anyone was giving an inkling if they were the ones who did this. But you got nothing. You smiled to yourself, thankful you no longer had to go dress shopping anymore. 

Poe watched from the doorway as you sat at your desk smiling at the note and smelling the rose. He mentally high-fived himself as he snuck into class and sat in the back. He felt accomplished. 

“Alright, class! For today’s lesson...”

Once class ended, you hurriedly packed your things and rushed out of class. Luckily, you ran into Rey, “Rey!” with a big smile on your face.

She looked at you with surprise, “Why so happy?” You showed her the rose and the note you received. She frowned, “Well dang! I wish someone bought me my homecoming dress! You got a clue who it could be?”

You shook your head, “I’d say Poe, but we both know I’m not a priority for him anymore. So not sure.”

Rey nudged you, “Ooouuuu! You got a secret admirer!”

You scoffed, “Yeah, right. Like someone would be interested in me.”

“Uh, ‘scuse me! You’re a real catch! Anyone would be lucky to have you!”

“Yeah, but the guy that I want isn’t even talking to me anymore.” you mumbled sadly. 

Rey threw her arm over your shoulders, “Hey! No frowny face! You were happy just a second ago! Anyway, we’re still going shopping after school though.”

“Why?”

“You need shoes and accessories, of course!”

“But do I really though?”

“Yes. Yes, you do.” you giggled at Rey’s fake seriousness and you both walked to your next class together. 

Unknown to you, Poe was walking behind you the entire time listening to your conversation. It was really killing him that he couldn’t talk to you, but dammit, you were still his best friend. He still cared for you and he wanted you to have an amazing time at homecoming!

“Poe! Pooooeee!” he stopped when he heard Cheryl’s shrill voice echo through the busy halls. He turned and frowned to see he “girlfriend” approach him. She pouted, “You weren’t waiting for me after class!”

Poe rolled his eyes, “I wanted to get to my next class early so I could talk to Solo about my history paper.”

“Well, you could’ve texted me that! I looked stupid waiting for you. I’m gonna be late ‘cause of you!”

Poe sighed, “Sorry. I’ll let you know next time.”

As soon as the end of school bell rang, Poe, begrudgingly, got a ride from Cheryl to her place for his suit fitting. He was escorted to a fancy fitting room with a three-paneled mirror and a pedestal. Poe’s suit was set on a mannequin next to Cheryl’s dress: a bright red off the shoulder dress with a slit going down the side. 

The Cooper’s tailor made Poe put on the suit and stand on the pedestal making adjustments to the suit. Cheryl sat in a chair scrolling through her phone, “So, Poe. Homecoming is a month and a half away. My resources tell me that we are already ahead of the other nominees for homecoming queen and king!”

“That’s cool.”

Cheryl rolled her eyes, “You know, maybe I’ll just extend this deal until prom. That’s bigger than homecoming anyways.”

Poe whipped his head towards the red-head, “You wouldn’t dare!”

She shrugged, “If you keep up the attitude, maybe. Not only do we have to look good, we have to act good. It seems I’m the only one making an effort here, Dameron. I want to make sure that I absolutely win Homecoming queen. I don’t want any close calls. Do you understand?”

“Yeah. I’ll try better.”

“No, you will do better. No half-assed jobs. Got it?”

“Yes, ma’am.” God, did he wish this nightmare was over.

God, did you wish this nightmare was over. There were so many accessories to choose from! Big statement earrings or studs? Glitter heels or matte? Why are there so many options?!

“What about these?” Rey asked holding up nude heels.

You shrugged, “Those are fine.”

Rey frowned, “You’ve said that about the last five pairs! Ugh, forget it. You’re getting these. Okay! So we have your clutch, your heels, and now jewelry!”

“Reeey! I’m tired! Can we do this another time? I still have homework!”

“Fine, fine!” She handed you the heels and clutch and pushed you towards the cashier.

Afterwards, she drove you straight home. As you approached your door, you spotted a wrapped package hidden behind your dying cactus. You picked it up and looked at it. It was addressed to you. 

You unlocked the door and walked in, tossing your things onto the floor. You toed off your shoes and headed towards the couch, flopping onto it. You carefully unwrapped the package just in case it was something dangerous. Underneath the wrapping was a mini white box. When you lifted the top, you gasped. 

Inside sat a pair of large gold studded earrings and your name spelled out in cursive into a gold necklace. You lifted the box hoping to find a note and you did. It read:

These would look beautiful with your dress. 

xoxoxo

#poe dameron #poe dameron x reader #poe dameron imagine #star wars #au #high school au

[im-the-king-of-the-ocean]

Pride Month ficlet: Mary had been searching for "the right one" in all the boys at Arcadia Oaks High and then some. She hadn't expected the right one to be the girl who sat next to her in her junior year math class. (Could be any f/f ship involving Mary)

The Art of Romance

Romance was an art.  One Mary Wang thought she’d mastered before she was even seventeen.  Though her birthday was in a few weeks, so she knew she needed to get a boyfriend again so he could properly romance her and give her gifts and everything.  Gifts from friends were fine and all, and she’d definitely celebrate with Darci and Claire.  Well, Darci now that Claire was headed across the country on what could only be the romantic getaway of a lifetime.  What Mary would give to get do something like that.  Travel without parents.  Without school or homework.  With someone she loved, like Claire, who…

Wait.  What was her train of thought again?  Oh, right.  Birthday.  Romance.  Mary doodled a trio of hearts in the corner of her math notebook.  Miss Janeth’s class was so boring.  Even after the “Secret Troll Apocalypse (That You Cannot Boast You Witnessed On Social Media, a Novel By Toby Domzalski)” and learning that her over-dramatic teacher could kick ass, math class was just so meh.  Like all of Miss Janeth’s awesomeness had been used during the troll apocalypse and now that things were getting back to normal, she’d gone back to her boring, old Math Teacher Template.  Seriously lady.  Would it hurt to permanently upgrade to something fresh and at least somewhat cool?  

Not that teachers could be cool.  They were teachers.  But still.  Mr. Strickler had at least gone from “Boring History Teacher Turned Principal Who Mysteriously Disappeared” to “Avocado Troll Teacher Who Runs Around In A Skirt Thing”, which had honestly been fun because Mary got to start an entire movement against him she called, “Put On Some Clothes, You Are Traumatizing The Children” with its own hashtag on the online Arcadia High Post-Weirdness Message Board (that she’d created and was an admin for—if she wasn’t allowed to talk on Twitter about Arcadia’s recent weird shit, well, she’d just find/create a place where she could) and everything.  Dude deserved the shade everyone had subsequently thrown at him through the ensuing week.  That’s what you get for criticizing girls for not wearing proper school attire, and then turning around and revealing yourself as a troll who runs around half naked.

The world was still learning there was no force more powerful than Mary Wang and her phone.

“Pssst!  Mary!”

Mary sighed.  “What is it, Shannon?”  She’d been in the middle of an internal monologue and so not interested in returning to the real world because that meant remembering she was in math class.  Oh and also she was in The Zone and her twenty-fifth doodled heart had almost come out completely perfect except now it was ruined forever.

Shannon jerked her head toward the front of the classroom.  Mary looked in that direction.  Miss Janeth was looking directly at her expectantly.  Too expectantly.

“Ms. Wang, we don’t have all day.  Please come to the board and show the class how you would answer this equation.”

Oh, shit.

Mary slid out of her desk.  Bit her tongue so a curse word wouldn’t slip out and she’d get in even more trouble.

As she passed Shannon’s desk, the other girl pressed a small piece of paper in her hand.  Mary managed to hide it and sneak a glance without Miss Janeth noticing.  On the paper was a mess of numbers and equations.  Something that, for anyone else, would be super hard to read, but she and Shannon had been passing notes since, well, since they first met freshman year.  Mary smiled.  So, answering the equation on the board wouldn’t be so hard after all.

“Darci, it’s not that simple.  It’s really not.  I have dated almost every single eligible guy at school and even a few forbidden fruit guys from the academy.  All the good ones, you know, except freaking Steve.  I can’t just pick a new one randomly.  Especially cause it’s my birthday.  These things take time.  Planning.”  Mary rolled her eyes and took a long sip from the orange juice bottle she’d packed in her lunch.

Dating guys was an art.  It took finesse.  Not that Darci could really understand that.  She’d gone for the first sweet guy to look her way.  Not that was a bad, if you liked that sort of thing.  Anyway, from her observations, Mary had decided Toby was worthy of dating her friend (even if he continued to perpetually frustrate her for being adamant about keeping the troll apocalypse a secret from her Twitter following).

“What about Eli?”  Shannon piped up.  “He’s nice.”

Mary wrapped an arm around the other girl’s shoulder.  “Not boyfriend material, Shan.”  Better put an end to that thought train before it went anywhere.  Shannon was nice.  Kind.  Good traits to have.  Except, of course, in high school.  Or when considering the art of dating.  “Let me tell you something about guys…”

Look, the point was, Mary knew everything there was to know about dating.  And she knew that every boy at their school, absolutely 100% all of them, were not worth Shannon’s time.  Shannon was smart.  A bit of a bookworm, but honestly there was nothing really wrong about that.  She was kind of cute when she started talking about something particularly interesting she’d read.  Especially when she came up with a pun or a joke and would laugh.  Her nose did this adorable crinkle thing and…

Anyway, they made the best team.  Shannon had the book smarts.  Mary, the street smarts.  Together, they were unstoppable at whatever they put their minds to.  It may have been Mary who got the campaign against Mr. Strickler’s troll attire started, but it was Shannon who really got it rolling and organized with the student body.

Why put a boy between that pure awesome sauce-ness?

Great, now Domzalski was rubbing off on her.

“Hey Mary, um can I talk to you for a second?  Privately?”  Shannon was looking at her and it occurred to Mary she’d gone monologuing in her head again.  Had any of that made it out into her external monologue to Shannon.  Crap.  Should she risk asking?  Is that why she wanted to talk privately?

Crap.  Crap.  Crap.

Mary followed Shannon over to an empty corner of Arcadia High’s yard.

“So, what do you want to talk about?”  Play it cool.  Play it cool.  Play it cool.  Mary’s brain reminded herself over and over again.

“Nothing bad, really.”  Shannon offered her a sheepish smile.  “It’s just…um…can you maybe not give me advice on how to date boys?  Like I get that you’re trying to be helpful and stuff but…it’s just…”  Shannon took a massive breath and exhaled it.  “I’m a lesbian.”  She looked Mary directly in the eye when she spoke.  “I…I like girls.  So I don’t really need advice on guys?”

“Oh, ok.”  Mary’s brain panicked.  Wait.  Why was it panicking?  It was totally fine that Shannon liked girls.  Mary herself had two dads.  She’d grown up knowing that Gayness Was A Thing.  It was fine.  Everything is fine.  “Cool.  Great.  I’ll remember that.  No more guy advice.”  Mary reassured Shannon, who breathed out in relief.

By Miss Janeth’s class the next day, Mary was still mulling over the Shannon Is A Lesbian thing.  Her brain wouldn’t let it go.  Or rather, she’d sort of realized she had this feeling.  This indescribable, kinda exhilarating feeling.

If Shannon was a lesbian, and she was.  That meant, that meant that girls could potentially date her.

And Mary was a girl.

Ok, a girl who had never really considered dating other girls before.  It was fun, after all, to be romanced by a guy (although most weren’t exactly great kissers, but whatever, she needed to get practice somehow).  But still, she was now in the category of Potential People Shannon Can Date.

Except did she want to date Shannon?  And would Shannon want to date her?  Mary hadn’t always been the nicest.  The time that she snapped at Shannon while they were both serving Saturday Detention came to mind.  Did Shannon remember that?  But wait, Mary had apologized for that, and for other stuff, when they started to hang out together a lot more after that day.  And they’d always been sort of friends since freshman year.  But for a good chunk of that time Mary hadn’t really taken Shannon seriously.  But they’d still been friends, hadn’t they?  So they could theoretically get along.

But could they get along like that?

Wait, why was she even considering this?  The entire plan had been to find a new guy to date so he could romance her for her birthday and stuff.  She didn’t even like girls.  Right?  Ok, again, she’d never thought about it in great detail.  Dating was something fun you did with whatever guy caught your attention.  But then that wasn’t the only way to date, was it?  So…

Mary’s mind went deeper and deeper into the idea all through math class.  She didn’t learn much that day, as her fresh notebook page was instead full of ideas and thoughts for something far, far more important.

The next day was the first day Mary had ever arrived early to math class, but she needed to get there before anyone else did (and that included Miss Janeth).  Quickly, before anyone could enter the room and catch her, Mary took out a small but well thought-out bouquet of flowers (yellow daffodils, vibrant orangey-red tulips, and, of course, a few red roses—all favorites of Shannon) and a card with a heartfelt poem she’d found online last night.

Mary had never really done the courting part of romance before.  But, in this instance, she definitely wanted to try.  Shannon deserved the very best and Mary, after all, was the Dating Expert (even if she was new to the whole romancing girls part).

After placing down her gifts on Shannon’s desk as carefully as humanely possible, Mary exited the classroom.  This way she could come in with everyone else, get to see Shannon’s surprise and her search around to see who her mysterious admirer was.  Mary wouldn’t tell her right then, in front of everyone (that would be really rude since Shannon wasn’t out to too many it didn’t seem like).  But since everyone also knew she, Mary, was the school’s Romance Expert, it would totally make sense for her to be the one to pull Shannon aside and give her “advice” on what to do (here “advice” meant reveal that the gift had come from her and maybe ask her out).  No one would suspect a thing.  It was the ultimate Romantic Move, made even better by the fact that it would be Mary doing it.

In hindsight, Mary should have considered potential disasters a bit more.

Steve and Eli were making some sort of disturbance out in the hall, which was strange because they’d been getting along recently (also since Steve cleaned up his whole bully act and started to make amends with people).  So everyone was gathered in a crowd and it delayed class.

Then, after breaking up the scene, Miss Janeth started class immediately as everyone filed into the math room.  So, even though Mary got to see Shannon’s eyes widen with surprise at her gift, she couldn’t really talk to her at all about it, and everything now sucked forever.

It was even worse when Mary noticed that, on her own desk, a “Secret Admirer” had put a cute little plushy teddy bear holding a deep violet rose (her ultimate favorite) and a calligraphed card asking her to meet by the soccer field after school.

Great, now some guy was trying to romance her while she was trying to romance Shannon.  Didn’t the universe know she’d made up her mind about the whole “who I’m dating” thing?  Guys were nice and whatever, but they weren’t Shannon.

Drama was so much more fun when it was about someone else.

Mary paced around in front of the goalie box at the end of the field.  Why wouldn’t the guy arrive already?  The sooner he arrived, the sooner she could turn him down, the sooner she could figure out her next step in trying to romance Shannon.  She needed to explain about the gift before someone else took all the credit and—

“Hi, Mary.”

Mary jumped.  Landed awkwardly.  Nearly fell over, but Shannon helped her catch her balance.

“Oh, um, hi.  Hi, Shannon.  What are you doing here?  Shouldn’t you be going home or something.”  Oh wait, it was Thursday,  Shannon had Book Club, so of course she’d still be here.  “Or in the library or…” Mary’s brain refused to slow down.  Why did it always have to get nervously excited around Shannon now.  Why, brain, why?

Shannon looked nervous herself.  “I, um, I asked you to meet me here?  In the card?  The gift in Miss Janeth’s class—”

“THAT WAS FROM ME, IF SOMEONE ELSE TOLD YOU OTHERWISE THEY’RE LYING!”  Mary slapped her hands over her mouth.  Classy.  Real classy.  “I…did you like it?  The flowers?”

“…yes.”  Shannon took the flowers out from the pocket of her backpack where she’d carefully stored them.  “These were from you?”

Mary could feel the blush burning her cheeks.  “Yes.  I…I, um, well, I…you’re really cute when you scrunch up your nose when you laugh at something funny and, um, I like you.  Like, like like you I think.  Not the friend like.  The other kind of like.  You know, like like.”  She took a deep breath.  This was stupid.  Why was she so awkward?  She was the Dating Expert.  She should be suave.  Sure of herself.  She’d never felt like this around any of the guys.  Finally something else dawned on Mary.  “Wait.  If those weren’t what you’re were talking about, then what…?”

Now, it was Shannon’s turn to blush awkwardly, which was oddly reassuring.  At least neither of them were being super great about this.  “I sorta got that teddy bear and the rose for you?  Cause I’ve sorta had the biggest crush on you since, well, for a while.  And I figured now that you know I like girls, I could maybe see if you wanted to go out?  But I was super nervous so I asked Steve and Eli to cause a distraction so I could sneak in and leave them for you.”  Shannon looked down at her hands and then back up at Mary.  “So, do you?  Want to go out with me, I mean?  It’s ok if you don’t want to, I get it.  I—”

“YES!”  Mary jumped.  Then laughed.  She’d given up all hope of being cool and she didn’t care who saw her honestly.  Even if none of this had gone according to her plan, it was still what she wanted.  She took a deep breath to collect herself.  “I would like that, like a lot.”  She bit her lip.  “But I don’t really know what I am yet.  I just figured out that I like you and I want to go out with you.  Like a lot.  But also there were all the guys, so I don’t know if I’m a lesbian or not yet.”

“That’s ok.”  Shannon smiled at her.  “You have time to figure you out.  Or we could figure it out together, if you’d like?”

“I’d like that too.”  Mary wrapped an arm around Shannon’s shoulders.  “So I know a great cafe we could go to or we could see what movies are playing?  That is, if you’re ok with missing Book Club?”  She stopped.  “Or we could go to your Book Club?”  Sure her reputation may take a hit going someplace so nerdy but whatever, there were more important things.

“I’ll be happy so long as we do whatever, we do together.”

That was the best thing Mary had heard all day.  The rest of the afternoon, and the future, was ahead of them and they could spend it having as much fun as they wanted.  Together.

#trollhunters #pride month ficlets 2k18 #mary wang #shannon longhannon #mary/shannon ship #sapphic content #ended up a bit longer than expected and that's why it took me so long to get it done #Anonymous #whirls writing

[liliannorman]

How an encounter with this odd-looking bird inspired a career

For Kevin Burgio, the journey to becoming a successful scientist wasn’t easy. When he was young, life was hard. Burgio’s father left before he was born. His mother had dropped out of high school, and she never had a lot of money. Burgio knew he was different from other kids, and deep down, he knew he was bisexual when he was only 11 or 12. He didn’t tell anyone then, and was still bullied during his school years. But he managed to graduate and joined the Air Force. After several years in the military, Burgio left and went to college, eventually receiving his PhD in ecology and evolutionary biology from the University of Connecticut in 2017. 

Kevin Burgio uses camouflage paint to disguise himself as he looks for nesting field sparrows, indigo buntings and prairie warblers in Southbury, Conn. Christopher Field

Now Burgio is an ecologist working at both the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies in Millbrook, N.Y., and the University of Connecticut in Storrs. He has become an expert on extinct species such as the Carolina parakeet. Burgio has pieced together where the bright green parrot once lived in the eastern half of the United States. Now he’s trying to figure out why it went extinct

Burgio also tries to help other people in and out of the sciences. He manages programs that help students learn how to become scientists. It still isn’t easy. He is an advocate for people like himself: single parents, sexual minorities and those living with physical disabilities or mental health issues. In this interview, Burgio shares his experiences and advice with Science News for Students. (This interview has been edited for content and readability. Please note that this story contains references to abuse.)

What inspired you to pursue your career?

I started college later in life, when I was 28, and had planned to go to dental school. When I started school, my hands kept shaking. I went to a neurologist and they told me I had “essential tremor.” (The incurable nervous system disorder can cause a person’s hands to shake). I had no idea what I was going to do. One day, I saw this woodcock outside my apartment window, and I had never seen anything like it. They’re weird. They look like a bowling ball with a beak on it. So I read about the bird online and found it really interesting.  

The next semester, I took an ornithology class. (Ornithology is the study of birds.) The professor asked me if I was doing research. I had no idea that undergraduates could even do anything like that. That professor became my undergraduate advisor, and I started working in her lab. She was also my PhD advisor and my postdoc boss. I stayed in her lab for 11 years.

How did you get where you are today?

Some of it is luck. I think my decision to leave home helped. I didn’t want to go to the military, but it was worth it to get away. I didn’t like it, but I did well. I rose to the rank of Air Force staff sergeant before I got out. When it came to grad school, it was difficult to take care of my daughter (Hannah, who is now nine) and the household and a marriage and take classes, and do research and teach. But I just did it.

I guess it’s just this mentality that in the end, it will be worth it. I want to have a job that means something. All of the jobs that I’ve had have all been in service to something bigger than myself. I’ve just never been happy not doing more.

How do you get your best ideas?

Talking to friends, really, and you start riffing about ideas. I kind of liken it to a band sitting together, writing songs. “What about this riff? What about this drum line here?” You just kind of riff with your friends or people you do research with, based on, “I read this cool paper and check this out. It had this cool thing.” And, “Oh, I wonder if we had this kind of data, could we do something similar?” Or, “What about this study was missing that we think would add a really cool dimension to it?” 

For me, it’s just surrounding myself with other people who are also very curious and also like to talk about ideas. And that’s really where a lot of my good ideas come from. It’s really a group experience, which is part of why I like it so much. 

What’s one of your biggest successes?

Seeing my name in print for the first time was just an indescribable feeling. I think that made it real for me, like, wow, I’m actually a scientist. 

Now I have a paper coming out soon that looks at the global diversity of parrots. One figure in it is, I think, the best thing I’ve ever done. It shows the family tree of parrots, over a picture of Gondwana breaking up. Gondwana is the supercontinent that South America, Africa, Australia and New Zealand all used to be part of. As that broke up into the continents that we know better now, some families of parrots drifted away with the continents. 

I put all these really cool 1800s pictures of different types of parrots on the map of Gondwana to illustrate how the birds’ diversity is explained by the breakup of the continent. Here are the macaws, for instance, they’re in South America. And the lovebirds, they’re over in Africa. The things I really love all came together to illustrate this really complicated set of ideas. You can learn a lot about parrots just through looking at that one map. 

What’s one of your biggest failures, and how did you get past that?

This 19th-century painting by John James Audubon shows a flock of very colorful Carolina parakeets. The bird species, once common in the eastern half of the United States, went extinct about 80 years ago.John James Audubon

My biggest failure in science thus far is my inability to explain how the Carolina parakeet went extinct (the bird went extinct about 80 years ago, for still unknown reasons). I’ve been working on this for seven years. I’ve read lots of historical accounts, including travel diaries from Meriwether Lewis and William Clark (the famous explorers traveled through and mapped the western United States in the early 1800s). And I never figured it out.

That’s the thing about science, a lot of the time, you start out with a really clear idea of what you think is going to happen. And it almost never happens that way. I’ve gotten a lot out of this research. I’ve learned a lot about the species. But there’s just some things that maybe we’ll never know. Ultimately, I had to accept that maybe I’ll figure it out one day, maybe I won’t. But that’s OK. 

And I’ve used all the tools that I developed in many other ways. I developed those skills for the Carolina parakeet, but I’ve also used them on other species, such as the Tasmanian tiger. The last of these animals died in Tasmania in Australia some 90 years ago. I’ve also used those skills to look into why birds went extinct from the world’s most remote inhabited islands, Tristan da Cuhna, in the south Atlantic, in the 1800s. 

What do you do in your spare time?

I spend my weekends with my daughter. I really love spending time with her because, like me, she’s very curious about the world. I got her a telescope and we go stargazing. She’s really into rockhounding too. I like to explore the world with her because it’s different from how I was brought up, where I was isolated and I didn’t really interact with anyone. I want to share the world as I see it because it’s just so beautiful and amazing. We also play video games a lot, and I take her to hockey games. 

Kevin Burgio and his daughter, Hannah, share a moment in Casco, Maine. The pair spend time together stargazing, rockhounding and watching hockey.Lauren Gillespie

In my other spare time, I really like to restore vintage things like cast iron pans, chairs and old knives. I had to read a lot about America in the 1800s to find data about the Carolina parakeet. I learned a lot about the iron industry and how cast iron pans were made. Now I can look at a cast iron pan and probably tell you in what year it was made.

What piece of advice do you wish you had been given when you were younger?

When I was five, I had a sister who died. She was four at the time. That was really the catalyst for a lot of the physical and sexual abuse that I dealt with. I do wish that I asked for more help when I needed it when I was younger. All it would have taken me was to go to a teacher and say something like, “I’m hurting. I’m struggling. I don’t know what to do. I’m in pain.” And I just never did it.

I wish I could’ve told myself, “when you need help, ask for it.” It might be embarrassing. It might be painful. It might be hard to do. But I feel like I would have benefited so much from someone knowing and caring and doing something to help me get out of that situation instead of waiting until I could just leave on my own. 

That’s part of the reason why I’m so open about these things publicly. At the end of the day, if I haven’t done anything to improve the lives of people who have gone through the same stuff that I have gone through, I don’t think I could live with myself.

This Q&A is part of a series exploring the many paths to a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). It has been made possible with generous support from Arconic Foundation.

How an encounter with this odd-looking bird inspired a career published first on https://triviaqaweb.tumblr.com/

[wildernessuntothemselves]

Manspreading (Part 4)

Genre: Angst, smut Summary:  

You know it all You’re my best friend “Where will you go?” There it was, that accusatory tone again. Maybe you should have backed down. Maybe you should’ve just told him you were going out for a walk or meeting a friend, any other friend. The situation was tense enough as it is and it didn’t need any more flame added to it, but you were just so frustrated with him. He had no right to be behaving this way. “To Namjoon’s” His face twisted in barely contained rage, “If you take one step out of this apartment, we are through. Author’s Note: Man I spent so long writing this. This song kinda sums this                                 chapter up (and this is the translation)

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Epilogue                   “Hey, sweetie?” You called out to Taehyung. The two of you had just finished eating breakfast and were putting the dishes away. Taehyung had an earlier class than you, so he’d gotten up earlier to make breakfast, and you were going to stay in later to wash the dishes as per protocol. “Yeah?” You hand him a knife, “Can you hold this for me.” “Um, sure.” “Okay now aim it for my heart and stab. Really put your weight into it, I want a slaughter house up in here.” Taehyung laughed and put the knife down, pulling you into a hug. “Pumpkin, it’s not that bad.” You pushed him away from you angrily, “Not bad? The guy makes me want to pull my eyelashes out one by one so the pain would keep me from hearing him. He thinks he’s so smart, what with his genius IQ and his self-taught languages, but I joined that book club to have fun discussions about books and maybe find someone with similar interests, not to have a philosophical debate with him every time I said something. Why won’t he just hop off my dick?” You were dead serious but Taehyung was dying of laughter from your little tantrum. “What is so great about philosophy anyway? What has philosophy done for humanity? It’s just a bunch of fake-deep dudes with too much time on their hands and probably more than a little something in their blood.” “If he bothers you so much, why don’t you just quit the book club?” He stated as if it was the simplest thing in the world. “And let him win? Hell no!” Taehyung emptied the rest of his coffee and put his cup in the sink before saying, “While seeing you bounce around like an angry screeching parrot is certainly entertaining to me, I’m afraid I have to get going. I will be meeting Jimin after class but I’ll be back by eight to watch the show together.” He gave you a peck on the lips, “I know you can kick his pretentious ass, babe. I believe in you.”   You pouted as you watched his figure leave the kitchen and after a pause heard the front door open and close behind him. He was spending yet another day with Jimin, but at least you had something to look forward to in the evening. Taehyung and you have been watching this show that you’re both enraptured by. It has become a little ritual for the past couple of years to free your evenings, put together a mountain of snacks, and cuddle up under your favorite fleece blanket to watch the newest episode together. You’ve never missed one. With that comforting thought in mind, you tell yourself that you could face anything, even Kim Namjoon, as long as you’ll be coming back to that.

Cheetos? Check. Soda? Check. Chocolate? Check. Chips? Check. Blanket? Check. Channel? On. So where were you? Taehyung had everything set up for the show, and it was only half an hour before it started but you were nowhere in sight. You should’ve been home hours ago. He tried not to think much of it but as the time passed he began to get really worried. This was so unlike you. What if something bad has happened? He picked up his phone with shaking hands and called you. Three agonizing rings were heard before you answered. “Tae, I’m so sorry. I completely lost track of time.” You apologized right off the bat, your words stumbling over each other. “It’s alright. I was worried about you, that’s all.” He breathed a sigh of relief, you sounded well and safe. “Why aren’t you back home yet?” “Ah, about that, remember Kim Namjoon?” How could he forget? You hadn’t stopped complaining about the guy since you met him. Taehyung was starting to think you were getting a little obsessed, but hey, whatever kept you entertained. “Well, I may have misjudged him.” “What do you mean?” “I saw him carrying my favorite book today and so naturally I asked him if he’s kidnapping all the good books so no one would have the sense to question his word vomit, but he said that it’s actually his favorite book too. So we got to talking and it turned out that he’s actually a really cool guy. He’s very thoughtful and introspective, and he has a lot of interesting ideas. It was just hard to hear them when he was so condescendingly expounding them to me. Which he apologized for by the way, he didn’t even know he was doing it. He’s just bad with people.” “That’s great, pumpkin. I’m glad that you’ve settled things. I was beginning to get tired of you constantly talking about the guy. It felt like I was your girlfriend and you were complaining to me about your dumb boyfriend.” He joked. “Hey! You’re my best friend, that’s practically the same thing. It’s my right to bitch to you. Don’t think that just because you have Jimin now that you can forget about your duties, mister.” You admit that was an underhanded comment meant to scold him about the distance he’d created between the both of you even since Jimin came into the picture, and Taehyung didn’t miss it, but he chose to keep quiet. You were the first to speak again, not bearing the tense silence. “Anyway, I’ll come home to watch the show. I’ll be a little late but I can make it.” “No, no, stay. You’ve been trying to find someone that you liked for so long and you’ve finally found him. We can watch the show online later. You stay, have fun.” You weren’t sure if Taehyung was saying that because he felt guilty about your comment or if he really wanted you to stay, but you were enjoying the talk with Namjoon and you didn’t want to leave just yet so you decided to accept his offer and stay, breaking your routine for the first time in two years.

“Why?” You blurted out, the word coming out louder than you had intended, but you couldn’t help it. Taehyung had just told you that he was going to cancel his outing with Jimin to go out with you and Namjoon instead. That has never happened before. Taehyung never canceled anything with Jimin, let alone doing it so he can hang out with you and your friend.   “I want to see the guy who stole my girl’s heart.” Taehyung joked, and you laughed nervously. “But it’s not your kind of outing. He’s just going to show me some of his favorite places around the city, and they don’t involve any candy or people. You know, the two things that you like.” You said pointedly. You didn’t understand why Taehyung wanted to come along, plus the places Namjoon was going to show you were deeply personal to him. It might be awkward if Taehyung was there. “Yeah, but you forgot the third thing that I like, you.” He kissed you sweetly. “If this guy makes my girl so happy then I want to know all about him.” He gave you the sweetest smile and you started thinking ‘what’s the worst that could happen?’ You were happy Taehyung was showing an interest in you after what feels like forever and you didn’t want to turn him down. You missed him –and Namjoon love lecturing people— so it’s a win-win situation. You texted Namjoon to let him know about the recent development and he said that he didn’t mind so you and Taehyung took off to meet him. You reached the meeting point first, the local park, and sat on a bench waiting for him to arrive.   You felt Taehyung put an arm around you and when you looked up, his face was so close to you that you could see the all ridges and valleys of his rich brown irises. Your heart fluttered and you looked down embarrassedly. How can he still make you feel this way after all these years? He smiled at you, not his usual boxy smile but a rare close-mouthed one, the one he gives when he’s overwhelmed by an emotion. “That dress looks familiar.” He remarked. Oh yes, the dress. On your 12th birthday, your parents had gotten you the most gorgeous birthday present ever, a white, full skirt dress that was covered with red rose prints and went down to your knees. You wore it the minute you got it and for months afterwards. You were at the age of princesses and it made you feel like one yourself. Of course it helped that Taehyung treated you like one too. You weren’t sure who was in love with it more, you or Taehyung. But alas, it caught on a rouge nail and got ripped one day. It was bound to happen, what with how much you wore it. You’re surprised it even lasted that long with you. The awesome part was that your parents saw how much you had loved it and how sad you were when you lost it, so for your next birthday they bought you another one. You were over the moon. That one got ruined eventually too, but here you were, ten years later with a third dress, and Taehyung was still looking at you like you were his princess in glass slippers. He slowly leaned in for a kiss and you began closing your eyes in anticipation, but out of the corner of your eyes you saw a man approaching. You turned your face towards him abruptly and Taehyung ended up kissing your cheek, “Look, Namjoon is here!” Taehyung was disoriented by the sudden interrupted. Looking to where you were pointing, his eyes bugged out, “That’s Namjoon!” “Yeah, something the matter?” “Uh, yeah, why did you never tell me that he looked like that? All tall and handsome, with sexy eyes and cute dimples.” “Tae, am I going to have to fight Namjoon too for your attention?” You laughed. “No, it’s just… he looks remarkably like your type.” “Huh? Yeah, I guess so.” You said, not really listening anymore because Namjoon had reached you and you were getting up to hug him. After you pulled away, you introduced the boys to each other.   “I’ve heard so much about you.” Namjoon shook Taehyung’s hand enthusiastically and gave him a wide dimpled smile which Taehyung only half-reciprocated. “I can’t say the same about you.” Now that Taehyung thought of it, you never told him much about Namjoon. He was always telling you stuff about Jimin and what they do together and apparently Namjoon knew all about him so why didn’t you ever talk about Namjoon? You’d think you’d at least mention that he looked like a fucking model. Not even the underwear ones but one of the fancy ones. Namjoon didn’t know how to reply to Taehyung’s comment so you quickly jumped in to clear the awkwardness, “Doesn’t matter, you can ask him anything you want to know about him today.” Namjoon nodded and turned back to you, “You’re wearing the dress!” He exclaimed, opening his arms widely. You giggled and twirled around in a circle to show it off, the skirt billowing around you. “What about the dress?” Taehyung narrowed his eyes, not liking what he saw. “Oh, I didn’t tell you. Namjoon is the one who bought it for me. I had shown him a picture of me wearing it, telling him how much I loved it, and he surprised me a month later with an exact replica of it. It’s the sweetest thing anyone has ever done for me.” You turned to Namjoon while saying the last part and embraced him in another warm hug. Taehyung grimaced; he did not like this at all. “What about that time you had chicken pox and I stayed in bed with you even though you were all pimply and infectious?” “Oh, honey, that was sweet too. It meant so much to me. I would’ve been bored out of my mind without you.” You assured him, and clarified to Namjoon, “The dress is the second sweetest thing anyone has ever done to me.” “I did a lot of things better than that too.” Taehyung mumbled under his breath. The two happy friends didn’t notice the change in Taehyung’s mood. “Let’s go this way; I want to show you something.” Namjoon lead the way and you were off on the first of many stops to the places that helped shape Namjoon into the person he was today.

The way back home from the outing was filled with a tense silence. Taehyung tried to talk to you many times but you shut him down. The moment you slammed the door of your apartment behind you, you burst out yelling. “What the fuck was that?” “What do you mean?” Taehyung made a hopeless attempt at acting dumb. “You behaved like a complete ass in front of Namjoon today. You made fun of him every chance you got. You called him “pretentious and boring” to his face.” You raged. “I was just saying the stuff you had told me before.” He defended himself. “Before I got to know him! And I never said he was boring, I happen to find him very interesting. I enjoyed all the places he took us and all the stuff he told us. Extremely personal and intimate stuff by the way, which you hadn’t the decency to respect and kept making fun of him.” “He was being all serious and depressing. Sorry for trying to lighten the mood.” He shrugged. “He was telling us how he feels. Not everyone is as empty-headed as you.” Taehyung winced at that but you weren’t even looking at him. “If you didn’t want to come then why did you even offer to?” “I did want to come, I did.” He tried to cup your cheek but you shook him off. “I guess I was just jealous.” “Why?” You gawked. “Why?” He repeated in disbelief. “The guy is like an enhanced version of all your previous boyfriends. He’s exactly the type of guy you would go for.” “But I didn’t go for him, you’re my boyfriend.” “That’s because you met him after we started dating. Are you telling me that you never even thought about the both of you together?” “No! He’s just a friend, Taehyung. I don’t feel that way about him.” “Maybe you don’t but what about him? You two are very touchy-feely together. You might not think much of it but he’s a guy and I know for a fact that guys are never innocent about these stuff.” “You and I have always been touchy-feely.” “And how did that end up?” He pointed out. “You and Jimin are like that too.” You didn’t give up. “Jimin and I are both guys.” Taehyung scoffed. “Jimin is gay.” You raised your voice. “How do I know he’s innocent about these stuff?” You mocked his words. “Doesn’t matter, I’m straight. I wouldn’t accept his advances.” “And you’re saying I would accept Namjoon’s?”  There was only one way for him to answer that question without getting a boot lodged up his ass and thankfully he realized that. “No,” He backed up, “But what about the dress thing? I was right there with you that day. I lived through it with you. You had no right to tell a random guy that you just met about it.” “For fuck’s sake Taehyung, the guy just spent the entire day telling us his life story. Besides, that memory belongs to me, and I can tell it to whomever I wish.” “It doesn’t just belong to you, it belongs to me too. It’s ours.” “Please! Like you don’t tell Jimin everything that has ever happened in your life. I bet if I asked him, he could draw me the dress without even seeing it.” Suddenly you could hear how loud the both of you were and you quieted down. “None of that matters, you’re being irrational because you’re jealous, but you don’t have to be. I love you, Taehyung. Namjoon may be like every other guy I ever went out with but none of these relationships worked out. All those guys are out of my life but the both of us are still going strong.” You circled your arms around his waist and pulled him to you, kissing the mole at the tips of his nose, “Maybe that means that you’re the one for me.” That was the first time you’ve ever said anything like that since the beginning of the relationship. Taehyung was always the one spouting off stuff about soulmates and destiny. “Don’t tell me you believe in that crap.” Taehyung eyes disappeared into crescents and his boxy smile took up half of his face. He tangled his hand in your hair, pulling you in for a kiss.  

You had thought that was the end of it; a healthy little bout of jealousy that would soon go away, but the change in Taehyung’s behavior was anything but subtle. What you had thought would be a onetime thing, became a habit and soon Taehyung was ditching Jimin and staying home almost all of the time, pestering you and demanding you keep him company, and he stopped at nothing to get what he wanted. Which was why you were now on all fours on your bed with Taehyung’s face between your ass cheeks and his tongue buried deep in your pussy. Your phone buzzed on the bedside table, indicating that Namjoon was calling you again. “Tae, baby, please, Namjoon is waiting for me.” You pleaded for him to let you cum already. He’s had you at his mercy for what felts like hours and you were so wet and horny that your legs were shaking and arousal was drippling down your legs. Your body was driven forward from shock at the hand that slapped your ass. “Come on, baby doll, you know better than to say another man’s name while Daddy is taking care of you.” Daddy. That was another new development. Taehyung was a very gentle lover, leaning heavily towards the vanilla side, but after the day he met Namjoon, he started acting differently all of a sudden. All those things you used to tell him about the guys you went out with and what they were like in bed, all your likes and dislikes, all the things you thought were said and forgotten… apparently Taehyung remembered every one of them, and he was using them now against you. Not that you were complaining. You didn’t even like the whole Daddy thing before Taehyung reintroduced you to it. In the past you just tried it out because the guy you were seeing at the time was into that but you weren’t really feeling it, but now that you saw how turned on Taehyung got when you called him that, it was now a frequent word on your lips. Yes, the sex was hot and hungry, you will admit that much, and Taehyung was giving you the kind of attention you have been wishing for since he met Jimin, but after months of this, Taehyung showed no signs of slowing down, and you were starting to think that this was getting a little bit out of hand. You didn’t want to believe it at first but was Taehyung doing this out of possessiveness? He was never the jealous type. For fuck’s sake, he spent years watching you go out with other guys while he was secretly in love with you, so what changed? “Tae, please, I really need to go. I’ve been wanting to go shopping with him since forever and we finally have the time to do that. I can’t bail on him.” Your voice was shaky from arousal and your body was begging you to shut up and just enjoy this but you had to start putting a break on this kind of behavior. So you took a deep breath and said more steadily, “I don’t want to bail on him.” That obviously wasn’t what Taehyung wanted to hear, judging by the series of spanks he delivered to your ass. “You’re crazy if you think I would let my girl spend the day shopping with another guy. Letting him dress her up in whatever tight shirts or short skirts he chooses, going to changing rooms with her, seeing things that are only for my eyes to see.” Taehyung left your ass red before he snaked a hand between your legs and rubbed your pussy. “You’re mine, baby doll. He can go look for another girl someplace else.” You couldn’t help but rock into his hand, his long fingers between your folds driving you crazy, and you couldn’t argue with him anymore. You’d already said everything there was to say and he was having none of it. You had tried to rationally explain to him that the reason you were going with Namjoon and not him was because Namjoon was really into fashion and he had a lot of great ideas about what you could wear, but that only made him prissy because, A) He was salty you didn’t like his fashion sense enough to ask him, and B) Because he wasn’t happy about Namjoon dressing and undressing you in his mind. You’d had replied that you did like his fashion sense but it only suited him, while on you it made you look like a homeless person dressed in charity clothes, and that no, Namjoon did not think of you that way. He was just trying to help because you had told him you were bored of your old clothes and you wanted a brand new wardrobe. But as soon as you were closing in on him with rational arguments, he resorted to his tried and true method of winning these fights… he pounced on you and started getting you all hot and bothered. He would tease you so much until you were squirming underneath him and forgetting what you were arguing about in the first place. At the beginning you were able to win some of these fights by giving him a taste of his own. You would touch and tease him until he had to give in to you, but then he quickly realized his mistake and now he steered clear of your hands and mouth so you wouldn’t be able to break his resolve. “That’s it, baby doll, give in.” Taehyung’s fingers circled your entrance, every once in a while dipping the tip of a digit in until you were whimpering his name with urgency. “That’s okay. Daddy will take care of his baby, but let me see your pretty face first.” Taehyung flipped you on your back and lined his cock with your entrance, thrusting in easily with the help of the wetness accumulated there. You gasped and dug your nails into his shoulders, overwhelmed by the feeling of being filled after he tortured you for so long. “Hush, baby, you’re alright. You can take it.” Taehyung kissed you and stroked your hair until you calmed down enough for him to keep going, and then his hips started moving and his kisses got hotter until he was pounding your pussy hard and mouthing harshly at your neck. “Fuck, you feel so good. You’re so wet, you got me all messed up.” He grunted in your ear before he pulled back to watch you take him, hypnotized by the way your pussy clenched around his cock every time he dove in and refused to let him go. He opened his mouth to say something but something caught his eyes. You could see his brows furrowing a second before he stopped moving. “Tae?” You said breathlessly, but he didn’t answer and kept staring at the spot below your left breast, so you tried again, “Daddy?” “What’s this?” Taehyung snapped at you, the sudden harsh tone making you flinch. “My breast? It’s a think females have.” You joked, trying to ease the unexpected tension. Taehyung just curled his lip in fury and grabbed you by the arm, dragging you to the full length mirror you had in your room “This! What is this?!” Taehyung fumed, lifting your breast up and pointing to a little red mark below it. “It’s a hickey, Tae, why are you freaking out.” “It’s a hickey that I didn’t give you!” “What are you talking about? Of course you did. Who else could have?” You threw his arms off of you and turned to face him. “I don’t know. You tell me.” His eyes were unnaturally wide and he kept them trained on yours as if he was in a staring contest with you. You took a deep breath and tried not to let your sizzling temper show in your words, “Taehyung, tell me you’re not implying what I think you’re implying.” Taehyung continued staring you down and in his silence you heard the answer loud and clear. Just then the phone started vibrating again. The buzzing sound was driving you crazy so you went to silence it or answer it or anything to not think about Taehyung and his ridiculous accusations. “Sure, ignore me and go answer him. Like you didn’t fucking do enough.” Taehyung yelled and without thinking you grabbed the phone and hurled it in his direction. “Fuck you, asshole.” Tears were streaming down your face. You couldn’t believe what you were hearing. Your sweet, loving Taehyung, the boy who you trusted with your life and who up until now you thought felt the same way, was now accusing you of cheating on him. It was ludicrous. He knew you would never cheat on anyone. You’ve told him countless times how you felt about cheating and cheaters. Has he lost his damn mind? You felt vulnerable in front of him all of a sudden and your nakedness didn’t help any, so you started hurriedly putting your close back on. Maybe it was your tears or the way you were so shaken up you couldn’t even put your clothes on properly that triggered the familiar sense of protectiveness over you in Taehyung and he rushed to help you. You made a measly attempt at pushing him away before you gave in to him, because even though he was the asshole who just hurt you, he was also your best friend who always patched you up. “I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry.” He repeated over and over again, burying his face in your hair. “I don’t know what has gotten over me. I’ve been acting crazy ever since you and Namjoon became friends and I’m so sorry.” The deep, soothing voice of your best friend filled your ears and the tension started leaving your body. You slumped into his embrace and started feeling safe again, like you had just awoken from a frightful dream. But then he went on. “Your friendship with him is driving me crazy. Every time I see you talk to him, it eats me up inside. I can’t stand it anymore.” You slowly pulled away from his embrace, trying to register the meaning behind his words. “What are you saying?” “I want you to stop seeing him.” The words floated to you through to you as if they came from a radio in another room, distant and incorporeal. “You can’t ask me to do that.” “___, he’s tearing us apart!” Taehyung pleaded. “No, that’s just you.” You said with contempt. “It’s not enough that you’ve just accused me of cheating on you but you’re now telling me who I can and can’t be friends with. Where was all this concern over our relationship when you were spending your days gallivanting around with Jimin and leaving me all by myself?” Taehyung was quiet for a second, his mouth set in a straight line as he contemplated his next words. “Then I will stop seeing Jimin too.” “I don’t want you to do that!” “But I will, for you. Our whole relationship turned upside down when these two walked into our lives. Remember what we were like? We used to be so happy before. We need to get that back, and to do that we need to get rid of the problem. With Namjoon and Jimin out of the way, we can be us again.” “Are you listening to yourself? I’m not going to just throw my friend away like this.” “You can get other friends. I can be that friend. I can be your best friend again.” Taehyung urged as if that was the solution to anything. “Taehyung you’re not my entire life, and Namjoon is not an old shoe that I just can replace any time I want. He’s my friend. I care about him and I want to keep him. I didn’t know that Jimin meant that little to you. I feel sorry for the guy and honestly I’m more than a little pissed that you have neglected me to spend all your time with him before but now suddenly it’s like he doesn’t even matter.” “Of course he matters. I love him, but I love you more, and this is the only way we can make this work.” “You’re insane. I can’t deal with this right now. I’m going to go out and let you have some time alone to yourself to think this through and realize how fucking insane you’re being.” You grabbed your phone from the ground and sighed when you saw the cracked screen. That was just perfect. “Where will you go?” There it was, that accusatory tone again. Maybe you should have backed down. Maybe you should’ve just told him you were going out for a walk or meeting a friend, any other friend. The situation was so tense as it is and it didn’t need any more flame added to it, but you were just so frustrated with him. He had no right to be behaving this way. “To Namjoon’s” His face twisted in barely contained rage, “If you take one step out of this apartment, we are through.” You felt as if the room was suddenly submerged in water. The purposeful steps you took towards the apartment door were heavy and strenuous, and the muffled sound of the door slammed behind you barely registered in your ear.

When you had reached Namjoon’s house, crying and barely intelligible, you begged him to wash the smell of Taehyung off of you. He took you into his shower and cleaned you up, dressing you afterwards in one of his big hoodies that engulfed you like a warm hug. But it didn’t help, none of it got through to you, not even Namjoon’s rational and calm voice, or his cautionary words about Taehyung’s behavior. You didn’t want to hear any of it. All you wanted was Taehyung. Every piece of your body was trying to dislodge itself and run back to him. You went back despite Namjoon’s warnings. Of course, you did. And Taehyung took you in despite what he said. Of course, he did. The moment you stepped into the apartment, he stripped the hoodie from your body, ripping it into large chunks and throwing it out of the window. He took you to the bedroom and took the rest of your clothes off, inspecting your body for any marks and when he was satisfied that there weren’t any, he fucked you till you wept.

He was being childish, just like he always was, and you had half a mind to do the same, but you weren't like him and the rational part of your brain kept nagging at you to talk to him and explain to him that his behavior is hurting you. This is your best friend for crying out loud, and you weren't going to lose him over something this stupid.

But you kept postponing it, telling yourself that you're busy with finals and getting into another fight with him might throw off your concentration so you kept putting it off.

The day exams were over, you went out with Namjoon, reasoning that you would have one last night of fun before you hunkered down and prepared to work on your relationship. After tonight you would go home with food and drinks, ask how Taehyung did in his exams, make sure he did alright on his first try without you, and then get right into it the next morning.

So when you had turned on your phone after your day of winding down with Namjoon, and discovered that Taehyung had left you a series of voice notes, you could hardly hear them over the beat of your own heart.

"Hey," you heard his voice playing though the speakers, sounding unsure and shaken up. "Can you call me back? I really need to talk to you."

Beep.

"I know you're mad at me and you have every right to be. Just please give me a chance to explain myself. Can you give me that much?"

Beep.

"Pumpkin," Your heart ached at the tortured way he said the word, "I'm losing my mind over here. I don't even know where you are or how to get to you. I feel helpless.” Pause. “I love you, why are you doing this to me?”

Beep.

"Why is your phone still off? I'm starting to really worry about you. Give me a call as soon as you get this." His voice was starting to have an edge.

Beep.

"Are you with Namjoon? Are you with him right now? God, I could just-" His angry voice was shut off mid-sentence. That was the last one.

Namjoon noticed the look on your face as soon as he came back from getting your coats. "____, oh my god, are you alright?"

You just replayed Taehyung's messages over to him. You didn't know what you were expecting him to say, but it was just the usual warnings about the red flags he saw in Taehyung's behavior. You felt guilt gnaw on your stomach as you listened to him. You felt like you were betraying Taehyung in a way. You trusted him. You knew he would never hurt you, but you never defended him in front of Namjoon. He would just say you were blinded by love and honestly you couldn't prove that you weren't. Namjoon wasn't a bad guy, he truly wanted the best for you.

You were playing with your phone while you half-listened to Namjoon, when you saw it. A text message that you hadn't noticed before. It was from an unknown number, but as soon as you read it you knew exactly who it was from, Jimin.

"Come quick, Tae's grandma just died."

It was sent three hours ago.

You immediately leapt up, answering Namjoon's bewildered questions in a jumbled mess of words that you couldn't believe he actually managed to untangle. You ran out of the bar and into the streets and kept on running. You didn’t know what you were thinking; did you actually think you could make it all the way to your apartment this way? The truth was you weren't thinking at all. You just needed to see Taehyung, to be there for him.

Namjoon caught up to you in his car and drove off quickly and recklessly, a first time for the responsible normally boy, in order to get you to your apartment as soon as possible.

You spent the whole ride home beating yourself up about everything. You should've been there. You should've made up with him ages ago and been there when he heard the news. You didn't even know she was sick. Taehyung must be a mess. He spent most of his childhood with his grandma. He loved her so much, maybe even more than he loved his own parents, and Taehyung was a family guy, he fucking loved his parents.

When Namjoon skidded to a halt in front of your apartment building, you made a move to jump out but he grabbed your arm and held you back. "Will you be alright?"

He was basically asking if you will be safe around Taehyung, and made you feel sicker. You shouldn't let him talk about your best friend this way. You trusted Taehyung and you were going to tell Namjoon that as soon as you make sure that Taehyung is okay.

The keys dropped from your shaky hands a few time before you were able to finally open the door and burst in. You didn't have to go far because Taehyung and Jimin were sitting on the couch right in the living room. Any words of apology or comfort that you were preparing to say died in your throat as Taehyung looked at you, red-eyed and hateful. You've never seen that look on Taehyung's face before, let alone seeing it directed at you.

Wordlessly, you made a move to walk forward in their direction.

"Don't" you stopped in your tracks when you heard how hoarse his voice was, "I can't even look at you."

"I didn't know." You said in a small voice that was quickly shut down by a glare from Taehyung and a cautionary shake of Jimin's head. You really didn't know, but that's not the time for that now.

You don't know how long you stood there by the door, but it was long enough for the pair of friends to seemingly forget you were there. You watched the scene in front of you closely; Taehyung in pain and crying over the loss of his grandmother and Jimin patting his back and whispering just the right words to ease the grief of the broken man in front of him if even just a little bit.

You felt grotesquely out of place, like a stone gargoyle carved into the balcony of an old church, overlooking the streets below and enviously watching a couple kiss and embrace. What Jimin and Taehyung had, it was right. Their friendship together was meant to be. They didn't have to twist themselves around to fit each other. They were made for each other and you hated that.

That should be you with your arms around Taehyung. You should be the friend he ran to when he heard the news, not the girlfriend who came back hours late and he wouldn't even look at.

You felt sick again. Your ears were hot and your heart was riled up and thrumming your entire body. You needed to lie down. You needed to get to your room. You couldn't let Taehyung see you like this, his grandma just died and here you were crying over his friend comforting him. What if he saw and thought that you were trying to play the victim and get his sympathy. The Taehyung you knew would never think that but he’s been acting so strange lately you didn’t know who he was anymore.

You rushed to your room before you could faint, not even daring to look at him. Would he ever notice you were gone?

You went straight for the last drawer on your night stand and retrieved a sheet of pills. Your doctor had given it to you in case one of your panic attacks ever got really bad, and you were proud that you hadn’t used them up until now. You looked mournfully at how they were all filled with little white circles of sedatives, and rued the fact you were just going to ruin that.

You popped one into your mouth and swallowed it down with some water, then you laid down on your bed and waited, wondering what would kick in first, its effect or the consequences of your wildly beating heart.

Fuck, what was happening? The inside of your brain felt like a swamp, suffocated by a dense hovering fog. Your thoughts took a long time to wade through the slimy waters and reach your consciousness to tell you that this was the effect of the sedative you took and that you were just waking up from a morbidly coma-like sleep.

You opened your eyes slowly, seeing a creature hunched over in your rocking chair with dead eyes and pale, curled lips. Your heart dialed to eleven again and you sat up screaming.

“Did I scare you?” A familiar voice came from the eerily still monster seated in from of you.

Taehyung?

“Tae, I thought you were a monster.” You laughed shakily. “Isn’t that right?” He smiled dryly. “After all only a monster would be so possessive of his girlfriend. Only a monster would have his girlfriend too afraid to come home and comfort him over his dead gradma because she’s afraid he would beat her up.”

“Tae…” No, he couldn’t have seen them, could he?

He confirmed your fears by brandishing your phone and reading something off of it. “___, let me know if everything is alright. Taehyung is really unstable right now and I’m worried that he might do something to you.”

The color drained from your face. “It’s not what you think. Namjoon always overthinks stuff. He doesn’t mean it.”

“Do you think I’m stupid?” He bellowed, standing up and making the chair rock violently back and forth from the sudden movement. “Don’t answer that. You’ve always thought that about me, I was just too fucking stupid and in love with you to admit it to myself.”

"No, Tae, I don't think you're stupid. Why are you even saying that?"

"Because it's the fucking truth. Ever since we were kids, you would only ever hang out with the other smart kids and you avoided everyone who was like me. I had to beg and plead for you to even deign to notice me." He took a breath through his teeth. "Why are you even friends with me? Am I some kind of charity case to you? Is this what you talk to Namjoon about? Bragging about the idiot you're helping and feeling good about yourself?"

"No! How can you say that? You're my best friend and the person I'm in love with. I think you're amazing. You may not be book smart but that doesn't mean anything. You're people smart. You make people feel loved and cared for. Isn't that why Jimin loves you so much?"

"Don't bring Jimin into this. This is not about him."

"What is this about?" You exclaimed. What prompted this argument in the first place? Shouldn't he be talking about his grandmother, not what five year old you thought of him?

Taehyung paced back and forth for a while before replying with another question, "Why didn't you invite me to the trip you took with Namjoon to Florence?"

You stammered, caught off guard by the question, "I didn't know you were interested in going."

"Why? Because I'm not as intelligent or cultured as Namjoon?"

"Because you hate those things" You couldn't contain your anger anymore. He was being so unfair. "How many times have you ruined a trip for me because ‘This stuff is so dull. Why do you like this shit?’ I wanted to go with Namjoon to have some peace and quiet to enjoy the stuff that I like, not have you with me, shitting all over it every step of the way!"

 "You wouldn't have even been arguing with me about this if you weren't jealous." You accused. "And I didn't forget that you think I'm a cheater, but I'm not getting into this now. Your grandmother just died and it’s obviously really affecting you."

"Don't forget unstable. Wouldn't wanna get hurt by your abusive boyfriend."

"Okay, fine, I was wrong. I should've made it clear to Namjoon that you'd never hurt me, but you still had no right going through my phone. You don't trust me enough to know that I wouldn't cheat on you and you even check my phone behind my back?"

"I don't think you're cheating on me. I never doubted you." He gave the confession begrudgingly. You arched one eyebrow as if to say you don't believe him. "I haven't been acting like an asshole because I don't trust you. The real reason is that I... I was scared." He looked like he was struggling to get the words out. "I know what a catch you are. A girl like you would never usually go for a guy like me. You're beautiful, smart, kind, sexy, mature...I lucked out, but I also knew that my luck wasn't going to last forever, and that one day you'd meet someone like Namjoon, someone actually worthy, and you'd realize what a mistake you're making and leave me for him and now here we are." He gestured vaguely and slumped down on the bed.

"And I don't get a say in this?" He talked like everything was said and done, and it irritated you. "If that's what you think then you really are stupid. I'm a catch, you say? I'm boring and too afraid to do anything. That's what you’ve always said, don't lie. You are sweet and adventurous and full of life. Any person would kill to have you. Hell, girls are throwing themselves at you all the time. If you want to break up with me then be a man and say it to my face. Don't go spending all your time with Jimin and then coming up with all this bullshit to get me to do it for you." You didn’t really mean all that talk about breaking up. You just wanted to piss him off like he was pissing you off.

"I don't hang out with Jimin to get you to break up with me. Are you really that self-involved not to notice?" You must have given him a clueless look because he scoffed and continued, "I hang out with him because he makes me feel comfortable. He is a fuck-off like me, and you always looked down on us. I saw the look of pity and righteousness you always had when you saw someone like me. With you I’m always the lesser person; with him I finally know what it feels like to be an equal."

"You must have been hallucinating then. I may have felt that way when I was five but I have long since grew up and matured. How can you even imply that I don't love you fully and with all my heart? Do you know what I put myself through every day to be with you?"

"Having to sully your hands with a low-life like me?"

"No, asshole! Remember all these things you made me do, like going to abandoned places or wandering around drunk at night or graffitiing a random place or any other reckless and crazy thing you felt like doing? I hated that. There is nothing I dreaded more than seeing you stare off into the distance with a mischievous smile on your face and knowing that you were seconds away from telling what insane thing we had to do next."

"You said you liked those things!"

"I lied! I liked you, and I didn't want you to think that I was a coward or a goody-two-shoes. I get a panic attack when I drink tea. Did you really think doing these things could in any way be fun for me?"

He looked at the ground and smiled bitterly, "So you're saying that the only thing I had to offer you, you actually despised?"

"That's what you're taking from this?" You couldn’t believe him.

"Then how should I take it? I knew I wasn't smart or sophisticated like Namjoon but I thought that at least I could give you something he couldn't but I guess that was another stupid thought of mine."

"Will you stop saying that?! I don't want you to be like Namjoon. I love you, not him."

"Why? If you can tell me a legitimate reason why you love me, I will stay."

"Stay?" You chocked. "Is there a scenario where you leave?"

He just looked at you sadly, like he had no other choice, like a grim reaper forced to take the soul of his beloved. Fuck that, he had a choice. "No, I'm not playing your stupid game."

He put his hand on your shoulders and squeezed, not enough to hurt but firm enough that you couldn't ignore it. "Just one reason, pumpkin, and I stay."

He was a man hanging by thread, a distressed climber clutching a tree root to keep from plummeting to his death, and he wanted so much for you to extend him a saving hand. It would have been so easy too, you could have told him a multitude of things that you loved about him, like how his faith and his big heart makes you believe that love isn't just a thing that exists in fairytales or how even though you're always stressed and always anxious, seeing his sleepy smile first thing in the morning makes you feel like everything will be alright.

Anything would have been better than the stuttering silence you gave him. To this day you don't know what happened, but you just choked. All thoughts escaped your mind and you could only look on in horror to see Taehyung age five years in the span of five seconds under the weight of heartbreak.

The smile he gave you was unlike any you've seen from the boy before. It was crooked, the muscles of his face not even managing to pull off a proper smile. "Well there you go." His hands fell from your shoulders.

You finally regained your ability to speak, "Why, Tae?" You meant to ask why he had to do this? Why couldn’t he just stay? But all you could get out where those two words. A tear fell from your eye and he religiously followed it with his gaze. The moment it fell off your chin, his own tears came.

 "I love you, ___, so I have to let you go. I knew I was living with you on borrowed time anyway. I know that you love me now, I can never deny that, but will you still love me a year from now? Ten years from now? I can't just sit around waiting for the day you realize you made a mistake and leave me, or even worse stay with me out of an obligation or a sense of guilt. I can't do that to you, to the both of us. So I'm letting you go."

You shook your head, "You're grieving. You don't mean any of this. I can pretend that we never had this discussion and we can go back to normal."

"Go back to lying to each other to fit a type we think the other person would want? I'm not just doing this for you, you know? We're nothing like each other. We'd never have a lasting relationship. I need someone who can keep up with me and enjoy the things that I enjoy too."

You took a step back. All this time you've been thinking about yourself and trying to prove to Taehyung that you did love him and you wanted to stay with him, but you hadn't thought of the opposite scenario. You knew that you brought him down. He had so much life inside him and no matter how much you tried to keep up with him, you always ended up sapping his energy away.

Maybe you should be the one stepping away so he can finally find a girl that can make him really and truly happy. A girl that would be the perfect combination of you and Jimin... but you were too selfish to do that and you didn't have the courage to let go.

"How about we take some time off? Let's not talk about this for some time and allow ourselves to calm down and think things through, and if you still feel the same after then..." You were too afraid to breathe out and speak the words for fear that you won't find any more air if you let the one inside your lungs go. "Then we can go back to being just friends."

"No."

No? What does he mean no? You were already hurting yourself so much by suggesting that and it's not good enough for him? Must he break you completely?

"I can't stay friends with you. If I did that I will never be able to get over you, and I can't keep pining after you forever."

"But you promised..."

"And you believed me? You're smarter than that, pumpkin. You were right all along, just like always." He looked at you fondly.

"No, I wasn't! I was just an emotional girl who was too afraid to get her heart broken to ever open up to anyone, but you changed that. You changed me!"

"Nobody changes. That's what you said."

"What the fuck did I know?" You shouted, "I love you, why is that not enough for you."

"Love isn't always enough." He used the words you chosen to argue against getting together,  to break up with you.  

"I will pass by later to get my stuff. I will try not to run into you to save us both the pain." He looked deeply into your eyes, and you felt like he was memorizing the fingerprint of your soul, then he slowly leaned in, eyes still open, to give you one last kiss.

You stepped back and looked away, protecting your soul. "You're breaking up with me, you don't get to kiss me."

You felt the pain radiating off of him. You were denying him his last chance of having you. Good, maybe it'll sober him up and he will decide to stay.

Who was the stupid one now? He just turned around and started walking away.

"I hate you, Kim Taehyung."

"And I love you."

That was the last time you saw him in the past ten years.

After he was gone, you remained rooted to the spot where he left you until your muscles cramped and you fell to the ground where you stayed until Namjoon, alarmed by you not answering any of his calls or messages, came to check on you and found you sobbing your heart out on the floor.

You missed classes for a week, staying boarded up in your apartment, not sleeping and hardly eating, waiting for Taehyung to return for you or at least for his stuff, and Namjoon never left your side, but in the end only Jimin came. You still remember the look on his face, apologetic and pitying, and you remember feeling disgusted by yourself. The past you would have looked at this broken girl that you've become and judged her for giving anyone the ability to hurt her so much.

After Jimin's visit and your subsequent outrage, Namjoon took advantage of the situation to convince you to get back to your classes, and so you did. You had him think it was because you were done crying over your best friend of fifteen years who didn't have the balls to show up and face you, but the real reason was that you had hoped you'd run into him and somehow convince him to take you back. It was pathetic.

Again, you were met with only Jimin. At first he resisted divulging any information about Taehyung to you, as per his request, but after you called him a few choice words and threatened to break every bone in his body slowly and painfully, he gave up a single piece of information, but it was more than enough.

Taehyung had dropped out of college and he wishes that you wouldn't look for him.

Author’s Note: Will I ever feel good about any fic I finish? There will be an epilogue to this. Feedback is always appreciated.

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