#she’s really chatty but i love her regardless

[alltheirdamn]

Killing Me Softly | (Joel Miller x teacher!f!reader)

Chap. 2: See me

Chap 2. Summary: To be loved is to be seen. You're slowly learning that Joel sees you a lot more than you realize. Rating: 18+ MDNI (for future smut) Word Count: 6.7k Warnings: pre-outbreak AU, no smut (yet...pls be patient), tension, banter, a fuck ton of angst, mutual pining, language... I think that's it this go around? A/N: trust me, we're building up to the good stuff. I'm just enjoying developing Joel and the reader a bit more, so pls hang tight. It's all coming soon, I promise.

Masterlist

It had been two weeks since you had last seen Joel. You managed to get through the first round of tests and projects for each of your classes, but as the midterms slowly approached, you began to notice a shift in your students—specifically, Sarah. It wasn’t noticeable at first; she was still chatty with her friends, but her grades were slipping. Then, it became her grades and mood. During lessons, you’d catch her staring out the window blankly or doodling dismissively on the margins of her notebook when you were running through the guidelines for the midterms. She lingered longer after the school bell, choosing not to leave with her friends. After a particularly dull day of presentations, you decided to pull her aside after class. Sarah was reluctant to stay, but you reassured her she wasn’t in trouble. 

“I’ve noticed you’re a bit off lately, Sarah,” you said, leaning against the edge of your desk. 

“I’m just tired, that’s all,” she shrugged. 

She wouldn’t meet your eyes, and you noticed her shifting her weight between her legs the longer she stood in the empty room with you. You feared something was happening at home with Joel, but you didn’t want to explore that topic with your twelve-year-old student. Instead, you gave her a soft smile and tried a different approach. 

“I know you’re on the soccer team. Has that been tiring you out?” You asked.

“I mean, I guess so.”

“When’s your first game?” You were really trying now. 

Sarah tightened her fingers around the straps of her backpack, staring at the floor. 

“This Saturday,” she mumbled. 

“Are you excited? I’m sure your dad can’t wait to cheer you on!”

There it was—the breaking point. 

She looked up at you through blurry eyes, biting her lip to stop from crying. You immediately regretted bringing up Joel. You had overstepped a boundary, and you were paying the price. Dipping your head to meet her at eye level, you placed both hands on her shoulders, trying to comfort her the best you could. 

“Oh, honey,” you sighed. “I’m sorry. Is that what’s been upsetting you?”

She nodded, sniffling back the tears. 

“He’s always working,” she explained. “I don’t really think he’ll make time to come watch me play.”

“I bet he wouldn’t miss it for the world,” you assured her. 

“Yeah,” she said, wiping away a stray tear. 

You watched the defeat etch itself into her features, the deep frown across her face, the brightness in her eyes dwindling. You wanted to believe Joel was a good dad, and you had no doubt he was trying his hardest, but that clearly wasn’t enough. Tipping your fingers under her chin, you coaxed her eyes to meet yours. 

“Look, how about I go?” You offered. “I know I’m not the person you want to see on the sidelines, but I would love to watch you play.”

“Really?” She asked, her eyes growing wide. 

“Really,” you promised. 

Your words seemed to have soothed a bit of the ache inside of her, and she left the classroom with a smile growing on her face. If Joel wouldn’t show up for her, then you would. She deserved someone cheering her on; she deserved to be happy. 

Whoever decided to schedule soccer games at eight AM on a Saturday was cruel, but regardless, you threw on some leggings and a sweater and made your way to the school soccer fields. The parking lot was littered with minivans and families walking with lawn chairs tucked under their arms, their coolers filled with juice pouches and snacks dragging behind them. Obviously, you were uncultured in the sports world and came without a chair or blanket…or anything. So, you opted to stand behind the line of parents on the field, swaying under the morning breeze as you watched the kids chase the ball across the field. 

Your eyes never left Sarah while she was on the field; her bouncy curls and lean figure were easy to spot among the other players. She was quick when given the ball, dodging the opponents as she neared the net. There were only three minutes left in the first half of the game, and she had possession of the ball, weaving in and out of the players tracking her moves. You held your breath as she ran closer to the net, the ball easily controlled under her feet. An opponent was gaining on her, trying to kick the ball away, but Sarah did a little twirl and evaded them perfectly to shoot the game's first point. You were cheering and clapping loudly with the other parents on the sideline, watching her teammates swarm her with hugs. But as the cheering died out, you were left with this profound sadness that her dad wasn’t here to see her first goal. 

You let that bitterness grow inside you as you watched the remainder of the game.

When the final whistle blew, the team won 1-0, with Sarah being the game's star player. With a sheen of sweat over her forehead and a juice pouch in hand, Sarah skipped over to you with a bright smile. 

“Great job!” You cheered, welcoming her into a warm embrace.

She squeezed her arms around your torso, babbling off a slew of ‘thank you’s.’ You put aside your anger towards Joel as you grounded yourself in the moment. Sarah deserved this celebration, and you would happily give her every bit of attention you could. 

“Do you need a ride home, honey?” You asked, pulling away from the hug. 

Sarah’s cheery exterior faltered as she looked around at the families embracing their children. You knew where her mind was going. Looking around, she nodded slowly, clutching her drink tightly. 

“My friend’s parents took me here, but I think they’re going out to lunch. I was hoping my dad would be here, but…” She trailed off. 

“I’m happy to take you home, Sarah. Want some food for the drive home?” You offered. 

That bright smile was back as she happily agreed, following you back to your car. 

Both you and Sarah were munching on fries and singing along to pop tunes when you finally parked in front of her house. To your detriment, Joel’s truck was parked in the driveway. Sarah timidly looked between you and the truck as she gathered her sports bag and soda cup, thanking you again for the day spent together. You gave her the best fake smile you could conjure up and watched her head to the front door. 

You sat in front of the driveway for an extra few minutes, debating whether you should confront Joel, but before you could even decide, he was walking down the front porch and towards your car. That bitterness and anger you had suppressed all day surged forward, and you jumped out of the car to face him with a frown drawn on your face.

Joel greeted you with your name falling off his tongue, and you didn’t have time to register the beautiful way it sounded in his Southern accent before you began spewing a litany of remarks about how you felt. 

“Why weren’t you there?” You shouted, your body at arm's length from his. You needed to distance yourself from him, too afraid that your anger would send a hand flying across his face. You had to remind yourself that he was Sarah’s dad and you were her teacher, but that wouldn’t stop you from speaking your mind. 

Joel looked at you with a furrow of confusion and guilt, his hands tucked in the pockets of his jeans. It was apparent he regretted missing the game, but that didn’t matter. Saying sorry wouldn’t turn back the clock and magically make everything better. You knew that firsthand.

“Tommy and I had an early meetin’ with a contractor,” he explained. “Trust me, I hate that I missed the game.”

“You didn’t just miss the game. You missed her first goal,” you snapped. 

“I’m sorry,” he muttered, rocking his heels. “I appreciate you takin’ the time to go and watch her play. And drivin’ her home… and gettin’ her lunch.”

“I did everything you should have done,” you accused. 

Joel swallowed thickly, his eyes settling on yours with a wave of sadness passing through his irises. Those big puppy dog eyes wouldn’t soothe the anger steamrolling over your professionalism. Fuck being professional. Sarah deserved a dad who was present, and if no one were going to call him out on his bullshit, you’d do it.

“I feel real shitty ‘bout it,” he sighed. “You ain’t gotta remind me.”

“You should feel shitty. She’s your daughter. I shouldn’t have to be the only one cheering for her on the sidelines. Nothing should be more important than that.”

“Would you quit lecturin’ me?” Joel barked. “I know I fucked up, and I already apologized to her. Again, I appreciate you takin’ the time to be there for her, and I’m real sorry for makin’ you do that.”

You huffed a laugh, folding your arms over your chest. 

“You didn’t make me do anything,” you argued. “I wanted to be there for her, but she wanted you to be there for her.”

Joel said nothing at that, only stared at you in stunned silence. You were done with him, letting your anger get the best of you. 

“I know what it feels like when the one person you want to see doesn’t show up. I know that disappointment. Have a great day, Mr. Miller. Tell Sarah I’ll see her on Monday.”

You spun on your heel toward your car, flinging the door open with more force than you wanted. You shouldn’t have brought your past into it; Joel was nothing like Bennette, but it hurt all the same. 

Joel didn’t try to stop you as you drove out of the neighborhood, but he remained at the curb of his driveway, his eyes never leaving you until you were out of view. 

You barely managed to put your car in park before you broke down in tears. Everything was crashing at the surface, and you didn’t have the strength to bottle it away this time. Bennett had been your entire world for five years. Your whole life revolved around him, from going to the same grad school together to moving away from Boston to be with him in his new career. You left everything behind for him and were happy to do it because you loved him. Despite his flaws and the “not-so-picture perfect” relationship, you stayed because you loved him. And in that moment when you needed him to be there for you… he was gone. You weren’t lying to Joel when you said you knew what that disappointment felt like; it was that same feeling that kept you up at night when you wondered if you had done something to deserve it. But Sarah? Sarah did nothing to deserve to be abandoned by her dad. All she wanted was to see that one person cheering her on from the sidelines, to hug her and tell her she was loved. 

She didn’t get that today. 

And you didn’t get that two years ago. 

With whatever dignity you had left, you dragged yourself inside and into your bedroom, flinging yourself onto the mattress. Curling into a ball on top of the comforter, you let the tears continue to fall as you stared at the empty walls where the pictures of you and Bennett had hung before. Every inch of this house was a reminder of the scars Bennett left on your heart. You could have moved out months ago, you could have gone home, but what was the use when the pain would just travel with you? Shutting your eyes, you let the emotions exhaust you until you drifted asleep. 

“Bennett, I told you what time the cake tasting was scheduled for,” you shouted across the kitchen. 

Bennett wasn’t even listening as he responded to a thread of emails on his computer. The law firm he had been working at kept him on a short leash, always requiring him to be there at their beck and call. Between you and his job, his loyalty was in the latter. 

“I know,” he nodded, still glued to the computer screen. “They needed a proxy for the shareholder meeting and asked me to step in.”

“We’ve had this scheduled for weeks now. You can’t expect me to make all these decisions alone.”

“Whatever cake you choose, I’m sure I’ll love it,” he shrugged.

“That's not the point!” You yelled, slamming down the Tupperware you had been scrubbing. 

That caught his attention. Slamming the laptop shut, Bennett’s nostrils flared at your sudden outburst. You weren’t usually this outspoken; you were always the level-headed and obedient fiancé he expected to have. But the entire engagement had been a disaster, between work conflicts and the constant pressure he put on you. Every day, he expected to come home to a fresh meal, never considering that your job didn’t end when three PM hit. Being a teacher meant your responsibilities began at home, when you were hunched over curating the next lesson and grading papers. You never complained about his workload extending into the evening, either. God forbid you ask for more time together. 

“What is the point?” He snapped.

“The point is that I want you there. I want you to be a part of this wedding planning process. All I’m asking for is two hours together, where we eat too much sugar and choose a damn cake flavor. It’s not even about the fucking cake, Bennett. It’s about you being present in this engagement.”

“Are you saying I’m not present?” He accused. “Because I have been as present as possible despite me working so hard to fund this big wedding that you wanted!”

“I just want you there with me for these things. Even if they aren’t important to you, it’s important to me,” you said, your energy dwindling. He always found a way to make you feel bad, and you looked past it for the sake of your heart. You loved him and did everything you could to make him love you in return. If that meant placating your feelings, you’d do it. 

“If it’s so important to you, then just go. You can tell me all about it when I get home tomorrow.”

That was the best resolution you’d get, and there was no use fighting anymore. He would always win. 

“Okay,” you acquiesced. “I’ll do that.”

Bennett rose from his chair and met you around the kitchen counter with a big hug. He rested his chin on your head as you melted into his chest.

“I love you, honey. I don’t want you angry at me all the time. You know I’m trying my hardest to be everywhere all at once. Just work with me, okay?” he sighed.

“I’m sorry, I’ll be better about it. I love you, too,” you whispered.

A firm knock on your front door jolted you awake from the flood of memories in your dreams. The shadows in your room were a telltale sign you had slept through most of the afternoon, which would put a hefty dent in the list of never-ending work you needed to finish. Sulking through the house to the front door, you smoothed down your hair and sweater, trying to gather your bearings. With one last heavy inhale, you pried the door open and stood paralyzed at the further standing before you. 

Joel said your name softly, his eyes tired and hair ruffled at the crown of his head. He looked as just a mess as you did, but most definitely for different reasons.

“Mr. Miller,” you said. “What are you doing here?”

He swayed back on his heels, holding your eyes apologetically. It was written all over his face; he didn’t need to say the words.

“Our conversation earlier ain’t sittin’ right with me,” he sighed.

“I overstepped, and I’m sorry,” you said honestly. “I shouldn’t have spoken to you that way.”

Joel held his hand in protest, shaking his head at your words.

“Don’t apologize, okay? You were right about everything. I shoulda been there, and I wasn’t. I let her down.”

“Mr. Miller, I—.”

“I let her down,” he repeated. “And I let you down.”

You stood in stunned silence, trying to understand his words. Joel watched you turn the words over in your head, his eyes never leaving yours. He said everything you had ever asked to hear from Bennett in just a few words. You didn’t understand the emotions stirring inside you, nor could you control the tears welling in your eyes. This would be the second time you cried today, and now it would be the second time you cried in front of Joel. 

“You didn’t let me down,” you faltered. 

“I did. I want you to see that I’m not a bad father, but I seem to keep makin’ mistakes left and right. She expected me to be there, and so did you. I’m the type of man who makes and keeps his promises, but lately, I’ve been fallin’ short. It ain’t fair to her, and it ain’t fair to you.”

“You don’t owe me anything,” you whispered, wiping your tears. 

“I sure as hell do,” he protested. “I owe you an apology. I’m sorry, okay? I’m gonna do better about bein’ there for her, and I want you to see that. I don’t wanna keep fuckin’ it all up.”

“Did you tell her that?” You asked. 

“I did, and now I’m tellin’ you. I want you holdin’ me accountable on all this, and I want you to call me out on my bullshit like you did earlier. I needed to hear all that.”

“I was just angry. I didn’t need to be that mean to you.”

Joel lifted his hand to brush away a stray tear falling down your cheek, the touch of his hand on your skin electrifying you. You flinched away, trying to curl into yourself. He noticed your movements, letting his hand fall back to his side. You glanced down, watching him clench his hand into a fist as if he were trying to control an urge inside of him. You were trying to do the same; being near him scared you. It shocked you to see someone act mature and actually own up to their faults; it was something Bennett rarely did. You couldn’t make sense of it. 

“There ain’t a single part of me that’s mad at you, okay? Don’t ever be afraid to speak your mind—at least not with me,” Joel said. 

You only nodded, too afraid that if you spoke now, you’d succumb to an ugly sob. Joel’s broad frame was shadowed and looming over you in the dying sunlight, a cloud over the haze inside your mind. Joel didn’t understand the weight in those words, the way they sewed shut the empty holes left inside you. It wasn’t Bennett saying them, and it definitely didn’t rewrite the past, but it was writing the future. It was a future with the possibility that you weren’t as broken as you thought. 

“Thank you,” you muttered. “I—just thank you.”

“Somethin’ tells me you ain’t been told these things before, huh?” Joel prodded. 

“It doesn’t matter. I appreciate you taking the time to come out here, and I’m sorry again. I promise I’ll be better about my anger,” you laughed, hoping you’d be able to brush it off with a forced smile. 

Joel saw right through you; his lips tugged down into a frown. You watched the crease between his eyebrows appear as he watched you minimize yourself right back down to zero. It wasn’t easier that way—making yourself small. Too big, and you’d be too much to handle. You were tired of being too much for anyone; it had already been your downfall once before. 

“Whoever made you feel like y’need to apologize all the time is a real piece of shit,” Joel huffed. 

“It’s alright, Mr. Miller. Thank you again for stopping by.”

“It’s the least I could do. And y’know what? I’d be happy if you joined me at the rest of her games. She loved havin’ you there, and I know it would mean a lot to her to see you on the sidelines again. Think that’s somethin’ you’d interested in?”

“I’ll think about it, yeah,” you smiled. 

“Yeah? Good,” he exhaled. 

Joel met you with a genuine smile, his eyes dancing over your face. You swayed in the doorway, unsure of what to do now that the conversation was coming to an end. A strange part of you didn’t want it to end; the stillness with him had managed to bottle away all of the lingering memories of Bennett, even if only for a moment. You’d take this over, crying yourself asleep like so often did. 

“You should head home to Sarah,” you sighed. “I hope you have a good weekend, Mr. Miller.”

“You have a g’night, alright?”

You watched him walk down the porch steps, the muscles in his back tense as he retreated back to his truck. You should have walked your ass back inside, but you couldn’t tear your eyes away from him. Before opening the truck door, Joel glanced back at you, waving a quick goodbye. You waved back and waited until his truck dissolved into the distance to finally shut your door and sit in the blaring silence. 

You watched the night fade away from the comfort of your couch, a half-eaten sandwich in front of you and a wine glass in hand. Not only did you overstep your boundaries as a teacher, but you overstepped every possible rule between a teacher and parent. Despite what happened at the bar with Joel, he was still Sarah’s dad and completely undeserving of the anger you had toward him today. He was slipping behind every brick wall you had built up around you, a fortress no one could penetrate, yet he was managing to do it so effortlessly. And it was infuriating. How were you supposed to protect yourself from him? Bennett had been the perfect man at the start, always saying the right things and showing his love in so many different ways, but even with the rose-colored glasses on, that all crumpled away as time moved on. Nothing about your relationship was perfect, yet you tried to mend the broken pieces in hopes the possibility of marriage would solve all your problems. But clearly, it didn’t. It never even made it to marriage.

You weren’t even considering dating Joel, but that didn’t stop you from doubting he would be any different than Bennett. Sure, he might seem interested now, but that would change once he saw every damaged piece of you. You were hardly controlling your emotions, as it were, so why would you spend the time sharing the rawest parts of yourself with someone who would end up leaving?

I’ll do better, you told yourself. Bottle it away.

Another week passed by without fuss; the students passed their practice exams and had even begun working on their group presentations on the new poetry unit you had created. After next week's midterm exams, you’d be on a plane heading to Boston to see your family during the fall break. You hadn’t been home in over a year, and you were well aware of the fact your parents and sisters missed you. It’s not that you didn’t miss them, but going home was another reminder of all you had lost. But you’d steer clear of the roads you’d traveled down with Bennett, you’d avoid the bars and restaurants he had taken you to, and you’d absolutely banish all thoughts of returning to the Public Garden where he had proposed. Every corner of your hometown was haunted by the ghosts of what had been, but you’d brave it for the sake of family. 

You had forfeited any thought of going to the soccer game out of sheer self-preservation. Being around Joel more than necessary was putting you at risk for an inevitable heartbreak, and it just wasn’t something you were ready to deal with. You didn’t want to let Sarah down, but Joel would be there for her, and that mattered more than you standing on the sidelines. She didn’t need you there; you’d only gone to the game to fill a void within her life. Joel was going to stick to his word, and you’d be able to maintain your teacher-parent relationship once again. You still had yet to forgive yourself for Saturday’s outburst. 

It wasn’t until Thursday when Sarah approached you, that you were reminded of the game.

When she approached your desk at the end of class, she had her textbook in hand and her backpack slung over her shoulder. You were feeling particularly drained from the day after spending most of the night tossing and turning between nightmares, and you had to muster up the strength to keep things light between you and her.

“So,” she started, a bright smile plastered on her face. “My dad said you might come to the game Saturday.”

“Oh, yeah. I—I haven’t decided yet. I’ve got to make sure everything is prepped for testing next week,” you lied.

“Oh,” her face fell. “That’s okay. I know the exams are important.”

Fuck.

You were transported right back to the kitchen with Bennett.

“I’m sure the prep work can wait till after the game,” you smiled, already giving up on your initial plans to avoid everything—everything being Joel Miller.

“If you don’t want to come…” Sarah trailed off, looking down at her sneakers.

“Hey,” you said softly. Her eyes traveled up to meet yours again. “I’ll be there. You have my word.”

Sarah perked up, nodding her head enthusiastically. 

“I’ll tell my dad! Maybe we can all get lunch after!” She babbled excitedly. 

Oh, Christ. 

“I’m sure you guys will want the day together,” you smiled, your patient wearing. “Go enjoy your night, Sarah. I’ll see you tomorrow in class. Don’t forget your notes on Shakespeare!”

“Bye, Miss Smith!”

You watched her sprint out of the room to catch up with her friends, and you sunk into your chair, dreading what may come during the weekend. 

Maria stopped by your classroom after the final bell, skeptically looking at you while you gathered your work bag. Thankfully, you both had Thursdays free of crosswalk duty, and you were ready to get home and sulk away under the guise of cheap wine and a bubble bath. 

“You’re extra grumpy today,” Maria noted, slinging her large purse over one shoulder. 

“I’m not grumpy,” you huffed. “I’m fucked. Completely fucked.”

She barked a laugh and watched you stuff files into your bag before you grabbed your keys and shooed her out to lock the door. The hallways were empty, except for a few teachers trickling out, and you walked a pace quicker, trying to escape the building before anyone else stopped you. 

“Why do I get a feeling this may be because of a certain parent?” She asked, shoving into you playfully. 

“Yes,” you grumbled. 

“Explain!”

“Ugh, okay. Listen, all of this is against my own will, okay?” 

You peered over at her, seeing a wicked smile splitting across her face. If anyone was on board with your confused emotions towards Joel Miller, it was Maria. She had been all for it since day one, and you knew she wouldn’t shut up about it until she saw you and him together. Which wouldn’t be happening. 

You dive into retelling the events of Saturday, including the outburst and the conversation with Joel that had followed. All through your rambling, Maria was squealing like a little girl and inserting small remarks here and there—all of which revolved around the idea that you should fuck out your feelings and get it over with. 

“Maria,” you snapped. “I’m not going to fuck him! Would you quit that?”

She shrugged, laughing off your stubbornness. 

“All I’m saying is that there is clearly some sort of chemistry between you both,” she sassed. “One night of hot sex might clear your mind, and you can resume your up-tight ‘teacher-parent’ bullshit you’re trying so hard to keep.”

“It’s not bullshit, Maria,” you argued. “It’s called being professional.”

You both had made it to the parking lot, and you tried to inch closer to your car in hopes of coming out unscathed from this conversation. But Maria was anything but relentless. 

“You really need to get laid,” Maria huffed. “Dust off the cobwebs and get back out there.”

“I’m perfectly fine with how my life is right now. I don’t need to get laid, and I certainly don’t need to be in a relationship.”

Maria grabbed your hands in hers, leveling you with a stern look under her thick mascara-coated lashes. With her lips set in a firm line, she squeezed your hands.

“It’s been two years,” she sighed. “Stop letting Bennett control your life. He’s in the past, and you need to find a new future—preferably one where you’re happy and in love.”

You squeezed her fingers in return, giving her a sad smile. You knew somewhere inside you that she was right, but it wasn’t in the cards for you right now. Not when you still had so much healing to do. 

“Thank you, Maria,” you whispered. 

When you arrived at the school, the soccer game had already begun. Your car sat idle in the parking lot for nearly twenty minutes until you finally found the strength to head toward the soccer fields. Among the line of parents on the sidelines, Joel was standing further away, his body swaying against the windy morning as his eyes stay focused on the field. You walked up slowly, smoothing out your t-shirt and running sweaty palms over your jeans. You definitely didn’t spend too much time getting ready for a simple game. As if he felt your energy circling him, Joel turned toward you with a beautiful smile breaking across his face. 

“I was hopin’ you’d show up,” he said. 

“Good morning, Mr. Miller,” you greeted. 

You weren’t sure what to do with yourself beside him, so you mimicked his stance and folded your arms over your chest. With the morning sun rising above the soccer field, you watched as his skin glowed in the sunlight, his tanned skin illuminated in the soft hues of the sunrise. He was undeniably gorgeous, but you forced that thought away along with all of the unruly ones that seemed to constantly evade your mind. 

“Sarah’s doin’ great out there so far,” he mentioned. “Got herself close to scorin’ a goal ten minutes ago. No doubt she’ll get one at some point.”

“I bet she will. She’s amazing out there.”

Joel beamed at your compliments of his daughter, his eyes tracking her as she ran across the field. A teammate shot the ball to her, and you both stood silently as she kept control of it toward the goal. Instead of taking the shot herself, she crossed the ball to another teammate, letting them score the first goal of the game. The parents on the sidelines sounded off with a round of cheers, and you and Joel joined in on the excitement. 

“She’s a team player,” you commented. “That’s a good quality.”

“That’s my girl,” he smiled proudly. 

This. This is what you had hoped to see for Sarah. A dad who was present and proud of her accomplishments. You could give her all the applause in the world, but his voice cheering above the rest was what mattered the most. 

There was a lull in conversation for a while as you both watched the game with rapt attention. You tried hard not to notice the way Joel shifted closer to you or the fact that he had dropped his arms so that he could casually brush his against yours. Each touch of his skin against yours was like a wave of heat rushing through your body, an electric current that started with him and ended with you. There was no doubt he did it on purpose, but you did nothing to stop it. You were losing the war between self-restraint and vulnerability. 

“How’s she likin’ class?” He asked, making small talk. 

You shrugged, glancing at him with an easy smile. 

“She’s one of the best kids in her grade. This new unit we’re working on will be a challenge, but I know she’s up for it.”

“What’s the new unit?”

“Poetry.”

Joel snorted a laugh, his fingers brushing against the denim on your leg. You shifted to glare at him, amused at his response. 

“What’s so funny, Mr. Miller?”

He ran a hand through the curls atop his head, giving you a lopsided grin. 

“Nothin’,” he chuckled. “Just don’t understand why poetry is so popular in schools nowadays.”

“Poetry has always been popular,” you said pointedly. 

“Has it? Must not have paid much attention back in the day,” he smirked. 

“It’s my favorite unit to teach,” you confessed. “I think poetry gets a bad rap—clearly—but it’s important to understand the way words can convey so many layered emotions in the simplest of ways.”

Joel eyed you as you spoke, nodding along with you as you spoke. Even if he wasn’t completely sold on the idea of poetry, you enjoyed how attentive he was to the conversation. In the distance, you heard the parents cheer again, and you glanced at the field to see Sarah running with the ball toward the goal. 

“Look!” You said, pointing toward the field.

Joel snapped his head back to his daughter, watching as she sent the ball soaring into the net. You jumped up and down, clapping at her goal and yelling out her name in excitement.

“That’s my girl!” Joel cheered. “Way to go, Sarah!”

Sarah looked over at him, her cheeks rosy from the play, and shot him two thumbs up. Joel returned the same hand gesture; his cheeks stretched wide with a smile as he watched his daughter dance into an embrace from her teammate. 

“You were sayin’,” he pressed, his eyes sliding back to you. 

“Oh,” you laughed. “That’s okay. I don’t want to bore you with all the school talk.”

“You ain’t borin’ me. I wanna hear what you have to say.”

Your cheeks warmed at his words, realizing he wasn’t just asking these things to make small talk. He sincerely wanted to know the things you were interested in and the work you did, which was far from what you received from Bennett. Half the time you talked about your lessons, Bennett would just aimlessly nod while typing his emails and debriefs, his attention far away from you.

“Well, I’m starting off by teaching them about Shakespeare,” you explained, watching Joel open his mouth to make a retort. You held your hand up in defense and continued. “Before you go complaining about Shakespeare, I’ll have you know he’s one of the most renowned dramatists in history. His stylist choices in his playwrights were unlike anything else, and his work has completely impacted modern-day English. It’s because of him that we have so many words and phrases in the English language. Say what you want, but he really is worth learning about.”

Joel studied you for a moment, his lips curving up at the corners. You weren’t used to rambling off about useless things, more because you never really had the chance in the past. It was exciting to talk about the things you were passionate about, and you didn’t realize you’d find that moment being with Joel Miller. 

“Maybe I need to read some of his work,” Joel said. “What’s your favorite?”

“My favorite?” You blinked at him. “Oh, um, it’s cliche, but my favorite is Romeo and Juliet. That’s what I’m starting with on the unit.”

“Sarah got a copy of it?” he asked. 

“She should, yes.”

“Might need to steal it from her so I can see what all this fuss is about,” he smiled, bumping his arm into yours. 

“You don’t need to do all that,” you muttered. “I’m sure Sarah could tell you all about it after she’s done reading it.”

“I’m sure she could,” he acknowledged. “But maybe I'd like to do the research.”

“Research?” You questioned, raising an eyebrow. 

Joel leaned into you, his face drawn closer to yours. 

“Yeah, research,” he repeated. “I wanna know why y’like it so much.”

Your mouth opened and closed, all words seemingly melting from your brain. What the hell were you supposed to say to that? He wanted to take the time to understand your interests… but why? Once again, Joel was proving to be everything you never saw in Bennett. And it scared the fuck out of you. Because you couldn’t date Joel, nor did you want to. Giving yourself up to another person, exposing those vulnerable parts of yourself like that would just be inviting the possibility of another heartbreak. 

“I can save you the time and tell you instead,” you offered. 

“Nah,” he smiled. “I wanna find out myself.”

The game came to a close, with the school team winning 2-0. Joel embraced Sarah when she ran off the field, wrapping her into a gigantic bear hug and planting a kiss on her forehead. You gave her a small high five, congratulating her on the win. You followed them out to the parking lot, watching as Joel kept his arm wrapped around Sarah’s narrow frame. From this angle, they looked like the perfect father-daughter duo, and your heart seized with happiness knowing he had kept his word. 

Digging through your purse for your car keys, you said a quick goodbye and made a beeline for your car. You wouldn’t insert yourself in the rest of their day; you needed to find some distance between you and Joel before he started crawling further under your skin. But as you tugged open your car door, a warmth grew behind you, and you turned to see Joel standing a few steps away. Sarah was nowhere in sight, so you figured she was already waiting for him in his truck. 

“Yes?” You asked, standing idle between the open door and Joel’s tall body. 

His eyes bounced between your lips and your eyes, never settling on one too long. 

“Look, this is gonna sound forward of me, and I can probably guess your answer,” he started. “But can I take you out to dinner sometime? As a ‘thank you' for everything.”

“Mr. Miller,” you sighed. “I appreciate the invitation, but this needs to remain purely professional. I’m Sarah’s teacher, and I don’t think that would be appropriate.”

He rubbed a hand over the back of his neck, his eyes trailing to the ground. Despite every cell inside your body screaming yes, you needed to stick to your rules—whatever the hell they were.

“I figured you’d say that,” he mumbled. "Listen, let me give you my number at least. If you ever change your mind, or if you need someone to drive you home from the bar, y’can shoot me a call. Is that okay?”

“I…” You trailed off, considering his offer. “Yeah, that’s okay.”

You searched for your phone in your purse, handing it over to him with shaky hands. His fingers brushed against yours as he took it, a crackle of energy bursting through your skin at his touch. He must have noticed, too, because his eyes met yours before he typed in his number. With a few more clicks on your phone, he handed it back, brushing his hand over yours once more. 

“I sent myself a text on it,” he confessed. “Now I have yours, just in case of anything, y’know?”

“Yeah, just in case.”

Joel gave you a soft smile before turning and walking away. You watched his figure fade into the cars still filling the parking lot and caught him glancing back at you one last time. You stared down at your phone, seeing the text lit up on the screen. He had sent one simple word to himself: your name. Not Miss Smith, not ‘Sarah’s teacher’, but your name. 

You opened his contact information and typed one simple word: Joel

#joel miller x reader #joel miller x f!reader #joel miller x teacher!f!reader #joel x female reader #joel miller fanfic #joel tlou #tlou fanfiction #joel miller #pre outbreak!joel

[fuck-customers]

Had a really wild and weird customer interaction that I hope doesn't result in a bad survey.

A couple came in towards the end of the night looking for specific shirts and we happened to have some that got what they were looking for. Because of Easter coming up we had a BOGO half sale going on so they decided to each get one. The entire time they were very chatty and nice - I should specify that. From beginning to end they - especially the wife - were in relatively good spirits.

The weird part happens when they ask about trying on the shirts I explain yeah but that it's only one person allowed in the fitting room at a time. I think you can imagine why that rule exists. We do have what should be another fitting room, but we use it for storage for shipping supplies (no where else to store it) because the lock is broken. So I share the one person rules and tell them the others fitting room is storage right now when they ask.

The wife proceeds to tell the husband to use the fitting room and she'll just try hers on out there. I'm thinking she's just going to put it on over her shirt or that she has a tank top on under her shirt. I also don't know what to tell her because she was decisive about it. Regardless I step away but not too far (like 10ft) since she's still talking to me.

It's also important to mention we were slow so we didn't have many customers in and when we did they were all up front. Also to get to our fitting rooms you step through a doorless doorway into a little room/space. If you stand around the corner of the doorway then you can't be seen unless at an extreme angle.

So after a few seconds she emerges to check out the mirror in our storefront and is loving the shirt and goes back to tell the husband and take it off. I'm looking towards the front of the store to see how my coworker is fairing when the lady talks to me again and I see that she leaned out from behind the corner and is mid shirt over head and that's just her bra on. Like ma'am! I'm so sorry!!

I apologized and quickly looked away and thankfully she didn't seem upset or affected that I saw her half undressed. But she never commented on my sorry so maybe she didn't hear me but idk. When they went to check out she was still in good spirits and joking with us and left with fist bumps and a "lady's get shit done" comment. I explained to my coworker what happened and she just started laughing.

So that was the wild and weird interaction. I'm hoping this lady truly doesn't care I accidentally saw her half undressed. We've had customers who seemed to have a positive interaction with us who would end up leaving a bad medallia review. I can imagine that being a thing but who knows.

Posted by admin Rodney

[sageteapost]

Hey! If you don't mind, can I ask for some headcanons for Cloud and/or Aerith from Final Fantasy with a really friendly and chatty but super dumb gf

| Cloud & Aerith HCs With A Ditzy S/O |

[ Cloud Strife x Fem! Reader, Aerith Gainsborough x Fem! Reader ]

TW & CW + Tags: None. [Established Relationship. These pairings are separate. Fem! Reader]

Summary: HCs of Cloud and Aerith having a ditzy and sweet girlfriend.

[ (A/N): Hoo-boy. I am so sorry anon for waiting to post these, they're a bit shorter since you asked for two characters. I might have misinterpreted what you asked, let me know if so! But I hope you like them! ]

Aerith:

I think Aerith doesn't really mind it!

You're really sweet and friendly, nothing wrong with that. If anything she sees it as endearing and a great quality.

Even if you are chatty, she likes it. Talk to her! She will always be happy to start talking to you about anything.

Aerith wouldn't call you dumb. Never. It's too mean, she says. Maybe clumsy or ditzy.

Always there to catch you whenever you needed it. And if you said something incorrectly, she'd remind you kindly.

She might tease you from time to time, she can't help it. But never with any intention to hurt your feelings.

Overall, she doesn't mind it at all. She finds that part of you unique and still loves you for it. You are her girlfriend, after all.

"(Y/N), don't say that about yourself! You know I'll always keep loving yo—watch out! You're gonna hit–"

Cloud:

Cloud definitely would be conflicted at first.

First of all, he loves how kind you are. He basks in it. It makes him feel warm inside, and you melt his exterior a bit.

However, he's not the most chatty person ever. Sure, he doesn't mind striking up a conversation and especially with his girlfriend.

Let him warm up to you. He'll get used to it eventually.

As for the clumsy/ditzy bit, Cloud isn't too harsh. Maybe scolds you every once in a while, mostly out of concern.

Wouldn't call you dumb. It's too harsh.

But no worries, he still loves you regardless. He will just have to get used to it entirely. Even if you drive him nuts sometimes.

"No, hun. That's a horrible idea. It's way too dangerous for—hey! What are you doing?!"

#ffvii x reader #ffvii fanfiction #cloud strife x reader #cloud x reader #aerith x reader #aerith gainsborough x reader #cloud strife #aerith gainsborough #cloud strife x fem reader #aerith x fem reader

[vshthestmpede]

Hiya, I've had this idea tinking around in my brain for a while now but- How do you think Wolfwood would be around someone who's Vash and Knives' younger sibling?

wolfwood + vash/knives' sibling(platonic & romantic)

word count; 562

warnings; none!!

note; gawd this man is so FINE i swear to gods,,, anyways thank you so much for requesting!! this is such a cute idea, i totally ran with it haha <3 sorry for the tiny break, got caught up w birthday stuff and work!

cross-posted to ao3

PLATONIC

at first, nick honestly saw you as a bit of a nuisance

"great, a jr needle noggin. we gotta babysit while trying to keep our hides safe as well?"

instead of being offended, you ended up laughing - which took him by surprise

unlike most who endured his constant teasing, wolfwood was glad someone could go back and forth with him

on top of that, you made a show of proving you could handle yourself fine, effectively showing him up

"not bad, kid." a playful, teasing ruffle of your hair as he passed you

"i know, right? 'm pretty awesome," you shot back, earning a chuckle

"sure, sure, whatever floats your boat."

"i'd sure love to see you take down two bandits at once without using that cross of yours," you quipped back, catching up to him

ROMANTIC (all of the stuff above + more)

one day, the teasing became something. . .more to wolfwood

it wasn't the same as when he went at meryl, or what it was when he started with you

he would often get flustered and stumble over his words whenever you would prod at him

this, in turn, would cause you to dig into him even more until he would storm away from you or stop talking altogether

the rest of the group would also notice this change in wolfwood's behavior, meryl catching onto what was going on way before you and vash would

god, the two of you were so similar

seeing that you were too oblivious and wolfwood would be way too prideful to admit anything, meryl decided it was up to her to clear the air

she took advantage of the peace aboard the sand steamer, right as day began to fade into a beautiful, starry night

the four of you were on the observation deck, watching the great expanse of the great sand ocean whiz by

"hey, vash, can you come with me? i wanted to, uh, check out something," meryl said, tugging on the sleeve of his red coat.

"why do i have to go?" vash questioned as meryl tugged him along regardless

as they left, vash complaining that he wanted to look at the stars and meryl hushing him, you glanced sideways at the always stoic wolfwood

"sure is pretty." you broke the silence, leaning forward against the railing. "you okay?"

snapping out of his stupor, wolfwood mirrored you and leaned forward as well, nodding his head

"just been in my own head is all," he admitted and you raised an eyebrow as a cue for him to continue. "it's nothin', really."

"clearly not," you responded, bumping your shoulder against his. "did i overstep a line or somethin'? you're hardly as chatty as you used to be, nico. i'm sorry if i did, i just thought-"

"(name), you didn't do anything wrong," he interrupted, slowly reaching over and putting his hand over yours. "i just, i -"

"WOULD YOU TWO JUST KISS ALREADY?!"

you both whirled around, wolfwood scowling and you blushing, to see vash dragging away meryl, who fruitlessly punched at the air

you heard wolfwood 'tsk' and as you turned to look at him, to laugh it off, you were met with his lips on yours, needy and somewhat desperate for you to kiss back

you happily did so, noting that it seemed his favorite flavor of lollipop was strawberry with how the sweetness mixed with the bitter of cigarettes

#nicholas d. wolfwood #wolfwood x reader #trigun stampede #trigun #meryl stryfe #vash the stampede

[cuprohastes]

Lunch In Space

Part 1

Wherein we are introduced to two of our main characters, the perils of interspecies cafeterias and the alternate uses of dog jumpers, and the Narrator is too self-obsessed to introduce themselves properly

4am, in the vast darkness of space, the lightless void that's darker than the stygian depths.

Apart from the stars. They're actually pretty bright. Famously so come to think of it. Also all the lights on the station, so you can look at it and admire it and spot any fresh new exciting holes that have appeared.

And if you're on shift, like me, use those handly lights to find the cafeteria and very carefully pick through the offerings because believe me, while Yarrick won't kill you, your body will basically say 'What the heck?' and treat it like a nice big plate of Silicone jelly and you will be experiencing a whole new and exciting set of sensations, and hey, sometimes you just have to clutch the toilet seat and scream a bit: We've all been there.

So I get my nice human safe food, and an extra roll of purple stuff that's not bread but it might as well be, and relocate my heiny to the big table by the window, the one that's always a bit chilly which is why me and Atrix and Atrix are usually the only ones who sit there.

I mean Atrix does because she's comfortable with a little extra cooling, and Atrix is there because he's not driving, he's just along for the ride.

"Yo." I say to my good buddy, the giant purple kangaroo dinosaur. She gives me a Yo back and dual finger guns.

Atrix the pocket lizard sticks his snout out and makes grabby paws at the roll.

I slide it over to his wifey, the purple lizard woman with the colour changing face and a degree in Astromechanics (Also horticulture, Art History and apparently, Interspecies erotica).

"You're over feeding him." Big Atrix says. Small Atrix grakkles. He has opinions and he really wants that bun, but then again if he gets too fat he has to move out, change gender and start paying taxes.

I also know that Godzilla here always skimps on the husband food because she knows I'll swing by with a little something something for her pocket hubby.

"Yeah well, someone has to be the fun Aunt." I say cheerfully. You're always the Aunt with the Atrix, regardless of gender.

I settle in, to eat a lovely meal of... what appears to be chicken flavoured... it's... hmm. Well, it's chicken flavoured and guaranteed not to cause anything to go a funny colour and fall off. It actually tastes great, but I'd describe it as being yes, a thing.

"So," I say around the food flavoured... stuff, "Picked a good solid Traditional Human Name yet?". My friend bobs her head again: Practicing her human physical emotes.

-This should be good. Atrix are good people but they don't have spoken names. They have a word that means 'I'm gonna show you name' then they change their face colours like a cuttlefish. They literally just turn into another person for a moment: This drives most species nuts.

Humans find it hilarious. Atrix can see the funny side. Humans and Atrix get along a little too well for everyone else's comfort and That's The Way We Like It™️.

Big n' Purple thinks about it, then says, "I was thinking... Gondolier Dottirsdottir, or maybe Luminal Effervescence."

OK so the Atrix tend to go for names that are just really fun to say. hence the Secretary General of the Combined Human-Atrix Interstellar Survey, a really big female with as much or more gravitas as a class two black hole - a very serious pocket pal all 'round - being named Pingbing O'Candyfloss.

I consider it. "People will call you Gondy, or Lumy." I point out to her as she feeds purple... bread-y stuff... to the iguana-sized male that lives in her belly pouch. He grakkles at me. He's a sociable little guy, quite chatty, I just have no idea what he's saying. Gondy grackles back and he does Upsies arms.

"Gondy. Ahm-hum. That sounds good. Gondy." she says trying it on. I can see she's definitely enjoying the mouth sound.

She hauls her hubbins out of her pouch, which is covered by her overalls and a big apron flap so he can sleep or play games on her phone.

"Did you... put him in one of those dog jumpers?" I ask as she puts her guy on the table. He looks smug and shows off. It's a small, chihuahua sized Christmas sweater. It's currently May, or close enough. But I'm not going to harsh his mellow. The little dude's obviously stoked to be a fashionista.

Gondy bobs her head looking pleased. "I'm thinking he should be Raxyplank Magellan. Raxy's a cute name." she says.

Raxy looks up and says "Rax!" around a mouthful of hubby food. Well, I can't fault that. At least he gets a name he can say.

For an Atrix male, he's pretty adventurous - He'll talk to people and even come out and walk around if he can keep one eye on Gondy.

Traditionally, or "Back in the day" - Several tens of thousands of years ago, until an Atrix got big enough to be safe, there was a good chance that something would camper up and make a meal of them.

So they have a general resistance to being out in the open, where it's cold and there might be cool alien eagles or space-lizard foxes.

Luckily when they get big enough they develop pouches and to they pick a male out and carry them around for safety and to have someone to talk to and hold shiny rocks (I'm a bit fuzzy on the finer details), so you almost always see two Atrix, even if one of them is usually hiding.

And now Raxy is hanging out with us like a regular little dude and getting crumbs on his ugly Christmas sweater. It is in all ways a pretty nice moment.

Anyway that's about when the station blew up...

#humans are space orcs #Atrix #lunch in space

[softquietsteadylove]

Hi I've got 4 requests for Agents AU 'cuz damn it is so good, so I'll just leave it here and maybe you can consider writing it🤲

So for the first part here it is: I am craving for some rivalry here, some big jealousy, with a bit of friendly competition. So what if Thena and Minerva in one room. Just them reporting to their bosses. Minerva over-complimenting Gil and Thena seeing that moment as a competition, like a who knows Gil better so both of them started throwing compliment on how good Gil is and how good looking he is🤭 But their bosses suddenly asked if Minerva wants Gil to be on her team permanently. And we all know Thena lost it there, she complained that Gil is still under her team and they can't do that without her permission. But while Thena was talking Minerva barged in calmly that she wants (likes) Gil on her team and suddenly looked at Thena and said that she thinks Gil is considering it. So Thena was just shocked about it on how she felt something different when Minerva said that she "wants" (likes) Gil on her team and how Gil was considering it. And meeting dismissed.

"Thena!"

"Minerva."

"How is Gil?"

Thena looked up. They had both said it at the same time, and it irked her that Minerva was asking when she arguably got to see Gil more often than she did, now.

Minerva just smiled, though, "he never has lunch with us--I just assume he's going to eat with you."

Thena bristled. She was right, of course, she and Gil ate lunch together as often as they could since his transfer. He sometimes had something delicious and home cooked, but even when he didn't they could order out, or they could cobble together snacks from the vending machines for all they cared.

Thena was glad to have the time with him at all.

Minerva continued on, regardless of Thena's answer, or lack thereof. She smiled, "Gil is doing better in Extrication than I ever could have hoped!"

Was that so? Thena sighed, slumping in her chair as they waited for the Section Chief to get out of whatever other meeting he was attending before theirs.

"The team just loves him, but I suppose I don't have to tell you how charismatic he is."

No, she didn't. Thena's eyes flicked to the clock, which seemed to be mocking her with its lack of a seconds hand to show her how much time was really passing. She eyed the minutes hand, willing it to move even a centimetre.

"He really is so sweet and lovely," Minerva continued to compliment Gil, perfectly capable and willing to carry on the conversation by herself. "Such a dream come true."

For whom? Thena continued to attempt to ignore her old colleague. She had no real vitriolic dislike for Minerva, they simply didn't get along spectacularly well. Her chattiness didn't help things, either.

"I have half a mind to ask for his transfer to be made permanent."

"Well it isn't!" Thena snapped, although even then, Minerva lacked any real knee-jerk reaction to her. Thena tugged at her suit jacket and then the hem of her skirt, "Gil's transfer is on a temporary basis. That was the agreement."

"Unfortunately," Minerva sighed. "I thought he was rather starting to like-"

Thena's eyes flared but her impulse to stand from her chair was well timed with the entry of the Chief. She puffed through her nose, trying to compose herself, "sir."

"Agents, sit," he greeted/ordered as he sat behind the desk to face them. "I have already kept you waiting so let's keep this brief."

"Yes, sir," Minerva began with that same smile on her face. "I think the transfer of Agent Gilgamesh is going swimmingly!"

The Chief at least looked at Thena to corroborate whether or not that was true.

Thena looked down at her lap, "I am sorely lacking in management on my team, sir...but we've survived."

"He does seem to be doing well in Extrication, and the unit has even done a few operations with him in tow by now, hasn't it?"

"Yes, sir," Minerva beamed at the opportunity to sing more of Gil's praises. "Gil is such an asset!--I think to any team. And they think so too."

Thena resisted the urge to roll her eyes. She did mutter, "my asset."

"He's a dream to have under me, sir," Minerva grinned.

Thena flinched in her seat. She could think Minerva was doing this on purpose, if she wasn't such an airhead. She glared over at her, but Minerva indeed wasn't looking at her at all, just sitting there smiling.

"Well," the Chief lazily flicked closed the files in front of him. "What if he were?--your asset, that is?"

"Sir?" Thena frowned, which he seemed to have anticipated based on the way he braced himself. "The transfer was temporary, and I only agreed to it on that basis."

"You agreed to it after the fact, Agent," the Chief 'reminded' her sternly. "The transfer was in fact punitive measures after a death occurred on an operation under the Agent's watch. The transfer is, in fact, to make sure he can still operate as an Agent at all."

Thena let out a slow breath. She wouldn't do anyone any favours by losing it now. "Yes, sir."

"And if the Agent is doing better in Extrication, then I don't see why I need to discuss this further."

Thena bit the inside of her lip.

"Well then," Minerva smiled and nodded to the Chief, "if that's-"

"What about Gil?"

Both other agents looked at her.

Thena cleared her throat, "should the choice not be Gilgamesh's, sir? He applied to Special Ops. He's been a member of the team and a supervisory agent for years in my command. I don't know if a transfer against his wishes is...the best move."

"Ah, yes, right," the Chief mumbled, only now reminded that Gil could make the decision for himself. "Well, arrange the meeting with him, Agent."

Thena blinked, "sir?"

"Ask him," the Chief barked at her. He stood and tugged at his decorated jacket, "and report back."

Thena gulped as the Chief decided for himself that their meeting was over, walking out briskly. Minerva stood and followed, brushing her hand over Thena's shoulder on her way out.

#Thenamesh Special Forces AU #pt 1 #okay we've got a few parts #so strap in #I tried to fit a good amount of your requests in! #I like the idea of Thena and Minerva being rivals #and I don't think Minerva means any harm #she just...gets under Thena's skin #I think Minerva really likes Thena and admires a lot about her #she just has a very positive attitude about things #and I think to contrast that Thena envies how relaxed and charismatic Minerva is #things have always come easily to her which annoys Thena #and this whole Gil debacle... #doesn't make that any easier #get ready for drama #and suffering :)

[gendervapor14]

For the headcanon ask game: Bellmére

👻 A headcanon about what scares them

🎶 A headcanon about music

🫂 A friendship headcanon

👗 A headcanon about their clothes

🔪 A headcanon relating to fighting/violence

😺 An animal related headcanon

Run with any that you'd like to answer, and I'll throw in the random headcanon if you wanted to answer that one too!

omG bell-mére!! yes yes thank you so much, this is perfect. anything to help me practice writing/characterizing her.

👻 A headcanon about what scares them

honestly i think this one is the hardest. she seems so fearless! i think maybe she fears failing the people who care about her. we don't get too much backstory from her, but from what i recall, she was a bit of a punk/rebel before going off to the navy. i think she specifically went into the navy to try and shape up. tough love upon herself. we also see this selflessness when they're low on funds, and she goes on her "diet" so her kids can eat. so. yes. i'll settle with fear of failing her loved ones.

🎶 A headcanon about music

she listens to classic rock. maybe calmer-sounding groups like fleetwood mac by the time she's raising nami and nojiko, but i could totally see her having this punk/metalhead side before joining the marines, or while in the marines.

🫂 A friendship headcanon

everyone's best friend. she's like that super chatty acquaintance you can somehow trust right away. very warm, very open, often ends up giving TMI and trying to jam some humor into the conversation, regardless of the tone. i'm a sap so i imagine her and rosinante were besties if they ever got the chance to meet. they'd balance each other out perfectly.

👗 A headcanon about their clothes

there's a reason we never saw what bell-mére wore before joining the marines, okay. it was too much for oda's mind to handle. in all seriousness, i imagine she never really cared too much about her style. very free and loose, grabs whatever from the thrift store she finds first, regardless of gender or size. that's probably how she learned to sew and mend hand-me-downs for nami and nojiko.

🔪 A headcanon relating to fighting/violence

took a liking to firearms. but she was fearless, and had no issue defying authority and breaking formation. she could use her rifle like a club to beat on her enemies if the conditions were unfavorable. the way she jumped arlong lives in my brain rent-free.

😺 An animal related headcanon

dog person. loves them. would feed the strays around cocoyashi whenever she could. dreamed of owning one for herself, if their funds ever shaped up.

free headcanon!

i feel like something happened to bell-mére's parents when she was really little, and she was raised as a village kid. cared for wonderfully, but she still got up to trouble because there wasn't really anyone who was solely responsible for her. and i think that's one of the reasons she was so eager to drop everything and rescue nami and nojiko. i think she knows the pains of being orphaned, and she wanted to give them a solid family she always craved.

thank you so much for this!! 🧡 the bell-mére brainrot i have right now is pretty chronic so i appreciate this dose of self-indulgence. as you can see i answered all of them so that tells you something

#headcanon ask game #one piece headcanons #bellemere #bell mère #bell mere

[narcoticwriter]

You Can Have a Little Bit of Canon Neurodivergent Faruzan. As a Treat.

Featuring her voice lines as living proof:

"Speaking of "chatting"… I once contemplated this concept in quite some depth." (Chatting as a literal concept)

"As someone I greatly value, you may occasionally find yourself in receipt of a letter from me, or indeed I may approach directly for a face-to-face conversation . . . I just hope you won't find me to be excessively chatty." (Her formal speech, worries about talking too much, a mood)

"Good, good. It seems like I'll be able to research my interests here to my heart's content after all. Even if it ends up taking me another hundred years… Hehe, I will be quite content here." (Who else, if not someone with a special interest, would be content doing this?)

"Let's say, hypothetically, I were to discover some design flaws after staying here for some time… you wouldn't mind if I shared them with you, would you?" (Direct, but also considerate)

"We want to learn more about the other person's feelings, opinions, and preferences. Plus, conversing also allows us to share interesting experiences, as well as ease each other's burdens." (This is an extremely logical way of looking at talking as an action)

"The exact topic of the conversation doesn't matter as long as you're learning about the other person. Or to put it another way, every topic matters. For those who care about you, even the most trivial things about your life will be worth their full attention." (Defining a clear goal to why people talk to each other)

"Academic research isn't some kind of fad. Topics don't just go in and out of fashion." (Obstinate on pursuing what she to do wants no matter what everyone else is doing)

"I'm starting to get hungry... How about we go get something from the Grand Bazaar? Anything goes as long as it's not overly 'innovative'." (Safe foods, might be reaching a bit)

"Day after day, I shut myself in and toiled away at my research... Even when I was out traveling in foreign lands, I made sure to keep my letters to friends and family short and to the point. I never shared any bad news, only the good." (Not as much of being neurodivergent herself as just being relatable to me, who is neurodivergent so take it as you will)

"Maybe we'll be able to spend some fun times together copying inscriptions, deciphering runes, and solving puzzles..." (Lord, she really loves her puzzles)

"Those geezers at Haravatat love to decline my funding requests with the excuse that my research's become too niche and impractical." (Special interests are often described as 'niche' and 'impractical' by some who aren't of the same mind)

"I've visited numerous ruins of all shapes and sizes and interpreted what scant texts and symbols I could find. Ruin Drakes are indeed mechanisms of the highest order. Hmm... perhaps "mechanism" isn't the best word for them. You could argue that they're antiquated "living organisms" that have managed to survive until the present day..." (This entire chunk of dialogue is titled 'Interesting Things' and that says a lot)

"Happy birthday! Here's a small toy for you. It's an assembly of a number of miniature puzzle mechanisms — you can find a button and lever here, as well as a roller to the side. Just play with it however you want, and I'll take care of it if it breaks. Hmph, and don't think I'm treating you like a child. Everyone, regardless of age, could use a moment of happiness and relaxation." (It's a literal fidget cube)

I think I've made my point.

#genshin impact #genshin headcanons #faruzan #narky thinks

[katsigian]

1 for all three kids

3 for Vega

8 for Vesper

9 for Valen

Please and thank you! 😚

Thank you, love 😚 from this ask post

1. How does your OC feel about their full name?

Both Valen and Vesper were named by their dad, plus they have his last name. As most people know by now, Callen was an evil man who abused his sons. And yet, both boys have his name. Why? Because while their dad is nothing to be proud of, their bloodline is. The Kinlaw name is revered in many circles and both Valen and Vesper appreciate that. So they like their names.

Vega doesn't mind her first or middle names, she doesn't worry about them too much. But 'Flores' she picked herself and she does like it very much.

3. How does their social personality differ from how they act when they’re alone?

Vega honestly doesn't change too much. The switch from public to private is hardly noticeable because she is very true to herself in the majority of situations. Laid back, observant, calm, confident. Those things remain true regardless of where she is.

8. How much jewelry do they wear, and do they have a favorite or distinguishing piece?

Oh, Vesper 😂 he wears so much jewelry. Anything that really catches his eye and he thinks looks pretty. Whether that's chokers in various styles or chains that range from gold to silver, he wears them all. Rings and bracelets are also heavily rotated. But probably his prize piece is a 14k solid gold, snake chain style necklace. It sits right below his Adam's apple and was a gift. He rarely takes it off. Plus his wedding ring, which is very important to him, obviously.

9. Do they have a word or phrase that they tend to overuse?

Valen probably uses 'fuck' far too often 😂 that, or choosing to replace words with various sounds (not all the time, it's mostly with people he works with and people he doesn't know - he's chatty with loved ones) Rather than saying 'Okay', he goes 'Mhm'. Rather than saying 'I understand' he goes 'Mmm' with a small nod. Rather than saying 'No' he goes 'Mm-mm'. This tends to happen more often when he's in a bad mood. Which is...often. Though he does use Fuck an awful lot and that might be in first place.

"You fuckwit." / "Fuck out of here." / "Fuckin'--" / "Fucking hell." / you get the point 😂

#cyberpunk 2077 #cp2077 #asks 💌 #⠀- ̗̀ ⸨ 𝔳𝔢𝔰𝔭𝔢𝔯 𝔨𝔦𝔫𝔩𝔞𝔴 ⸩⁺☀︎⭒๋ #⠀- ̗̀ ⸨ 𝔳𝔞𝔩𝔢𝔫 𝔨𝔦𝔫𝔩𝔞𝔴 ⸩⁺☀︎⭒๋ #⠀- ̗̀ ⸨ 𝔳𝔞𝔩𝔢𝔫//𝔩𝔬𝔯𝔢 ⸩⁺☀︎⭒๋ #⠀- ̗̀ ⸨ 𝔳𝔢𝔤𝔞 𝔣𝔩𝔬𝔯𝔢𝔰 ⸩⁺☀︎⭒๋

[btsqualityy]

Im here for the mess Shay. Can I please request a drabble of Yuna pushing up on Mason. I love the mess. Or Kinsley talking to Mama Min and her Godmother about her cause I feel like that would be comedy.

Anonymous also said: Hi Shay! I need some drama! Can we see a teenage argument between Kins and Mason over Yuna being too chatty with Mason. It causes Kins to have a off day and it’s bothering her more than normal. Mason being so over it and he tells her that “you been my whole world from the moment you agreed to go out with me…Please don’t start doubting me princess….” Please and thank you!

Another anon also said: We all dislike Yuna so let’s see the home wrecker in training try to push up on mason!

"Come on Mase," Yuna cooed as the two of them stood in one of the aisles of the library together. "Just one date?"

"Yuna, I'm literally dating Kinsley," Mason deadpanned.

"So? She doesn't have to know," she whispered, moving forward and placing her hand on Mason's chest. "Besides, if you gave me a chance, you'd see that I'm a lot more fun than she is anyways."

"That's not the point," he huffed. "I love her. And stop touching me."

"We're 17," she laughed. "What do you know about love?" Just as Mason went to reply, he heard a gasp and when he looked to his right, he saw Kinsley standing there in shock.

"Kins," he called and Kinsley just hook her head before turning around and rushing out of the library. After throwing a glare at Yuna, Mason chased after his girlfriend, catching up to her just as she left the library.

"Kins, that wasn't what it looked like," he said as he grabbed her hand.

"Don't fucking touch me," Kinsley snapped and Mason instantly released her. "You know, if you wanted to be with Yuna, you could've just told me instead of making me look stupid."

"That wasn't it at all," he insisted. "I don't care about Yuna."

"And now you're lying to my face," she chuckled. "You know what, fuck you."

"Kins," Mason said as she turned around and walked away from him without another word. "Kins! Kinsley!"

.......................................................

"I don't believe it," you shook your head. "Kim Mason, cheating on you?"

"I saw them with my own two eyes Mama," Kinsley replied.

"What exactly did you see?" Her god mother asked. "Because maybe it really wasn't what you thought."

"I went into the library to get a book and as I was walking to the section, I just so happened to see Mase and Yuna huddled into one of the aisles. They were super close and Yuna had her hand on Mase's chest. The whore."

"You act like she was sucking him off Kins," her god mother laughed.

"If I had waited an extra five minutes, she would've been."

"I think you should hear him out more," you suggested. "Mason has loved you for literally forever and I doubt he'd throw that away for some random girl."

"Regardless, he's still wrong for letting her get that close to him," Kinsley grumbled.

"And I agree with you 100% on that, which is something you'll have to communicate to him," you explained. "But don't let some hoe take your man baby. You're a Min and we don't take disrespect lying down."

"You're right," Kinsley agreed. "But I just....need a few days."

.......................................................

A few days later, Kinsley found Mason sitting in the science lab so she walked inside and sat down next to him causing him to look up in surprise.

"Kins, I-" he tried to say but Kinsley stopped him.

"Let me talk," she said. "I love you and I trust you so I'm going to ask you some questions and I'm going to hope that you give me truthful answers, ok?"

"Ok," he nodded.

"Were you doing anything with Yuna before I walked up?"

"No."

"Do you want to do anything with Yuna?"

"Of course not."

"Do you realize how insecure it makes me feel when you can't tell these girls to fuck off?"

"No," Mason admitted. "But I love you and I promise, I'll never purposely make you feel insecure again."

"Ok," Kinsley nodded. "You're forgiven."

"Thank you," he said and when he leaned in to kiss her, Kinsley mushed his face with her hand. "What's wrong?"

"I need you to be a witness to something first," she said. "Come with me." After quickly gathering his books, Mason followed behind his girlfriend as they walked out of the lab and into the hallway. As if it were fate, they saw Yuna and a few of her friends lingering by some lockers.

"Oh, look who it is!" Yuna grinned when she saw Mason striding towards her. "Hi Mason."

"I'm standing right here too, you know?" Kinsley spoke up and Yuna instantly frowned.

"Unfortunately."

"You know what Yuna, I'm going to say this one time and one time only so I hope you're listening to me," Kinsley smiled. "Stay the fuck away from my man."

"What?"

"You heard me," Kinsley said. "Stay away from him."

"Or what?" Yuna chuckled. "You gonna threaten me again?"

"Oh no. See, right now is the only warning you're going to get from me for the rest of your life," Kinsley replied. "Next time, I'm going to beat your ass and the only person who's going to be able to get me off of you is Mason and not because he cares about you, but because he doesn't want to see me go to jail for assault. So, are we clear?"

"Crystal," Yuna muttered.

"Thought so. Nice talking to you," Kinsley grinned before grabbing Mason's hand and leading him down the hallway away from them.

"God, I love you," Mason whispered, making Kinsley chuckle as she intertwined her fingers with his.

#btsqualityy drabbles #teenage kinsley #teenage mason #drabble day 2

[trollcafe]

Heavy

Word Count: 1720 Brief: Leonra finds the one person he returned to the Fleet for. Obsidian is @/cherrytrolls.  Google Docs || Part 1

Your name is Leo Monark, and you hate being touched by strangers. 

When you heard a knock at the door, panic instantly rushed your system again. You shouted a weak one moment! and scrambled to throw on a clean shirt. You left your cane by the bedside for the moment, though you instantly regretted that when you opened the door. No words were said. Just arms thrown around you, pulling you close. But, the panic subsided, and relief came next. 

Archai Monark, slightly smaller than you remembered him, had patiently awaited your arrival. Chai might not have remembered your dislike for being touched, but then again, Chai wasn’t a stranger, was he? No, he was Deepbite’s better half. The force of Chai’s weight was enough to make you stumble backwards, though he managed to catch you both. 

“Oh goodness, are you alright?” He looked up at you with concern in his eye, helping you steady yourself. A small nod is all you can respond with for the time being. You hold onto his arm quietly as you pull him into the room. Bless Chai’s poor heart, you weren’t quite there enough yet to talk much. After all, you were about to have another panic attack over being in space again! That alone was too much to process. You didn’t have the words to tell him you were using him as a balance to grab the cane. 

Your cane in your hand brought relief. It was grounding. Maybe it was the rather abused sword it hid, maybe it was the subtle reminder of your kismesis who helped you design it. Regardless, it brought comfort and clarity. 

“My apologies,” you finally say, voice gritty from sleep, “I wasn’t expecting anyone, yet. I would’ve dressed…nicer.” You motion towards the sweatpants you slept in. You realized you had thrown on a graphic tee your kismesis got you as a joke, and felt incredibly stupid. You looked like a rat. No, you looked like Bruuno. 

“Nicer?” Chai laughs, though his concern is still present. He doesn’t mention the cane but you notice he continues to glance at it, “Do you need a minute?” 

You nod. It doesn’t take you long to throw on cleaner clothes, from there Chai insisted on taking you around. You let him hold your hand as he guided you through the ship. He was mostly quiet, as if expecting you to speak. Even with your moirail you were never the chatty type. You only really rambled when Shiloh was around. You missed her. She loved hearing you talk about statistical impossibilities. 

Chai’s hand in your own was comforting. With one simple action, you felt infinitely less alone. Your brightest memory of Chai was when he lost his eye. You were young, barely a teenager, and had been sent on your first “mission” alone. You returned terrified, though you couldn’t remember why, mostly likely from a failure. You only remembered Deepbite’s glare boring holes into your soul, and the sound of Archai’s hand as he slapped your ancestor. Most would’ve died from even considering such a thing. It was one of the few times you remembered anyone standing up for you. But oh, if only you knew. All of the days of bickering spent over your wellbeing. Your thoughts are scattered as Chai squeezes your hand with a smile. You think he asked if you wanted coffee, so you simply nod. He guides you towards a larger clearing. The two of you walk slow, still feeling spaced out and gazing into the distance. A voice rings out above the ambient sounds of the ship, and forces your attention to it.

Your name is Obsidian, and your ship is being repaired. 

So, in the meantime, you were stationed on the ship of your matesprit. A good opportunity for a break, if anyone asked you. Sure, you could’ve gone anywhere, or even taken a real break, but where would you go? Besides, there was, supposedly, a very important visitor. 

When you had mentioned it to Juleus, he dismissed it. Just Archai, if you count him as important. Maybe you did, but as passionate as Chai was, you had a slight feeling that wasn’t the important visitor you caught wind of. 

What you were doing beforehand wasn’t important. You had been walking somewhere, of course, but the importance of whatever you had been doing instantly disappeared as you entered into one of the larger walking spaces. You froze in your tracks. 

“...Leo-?” 

Something lights up in your chest as he snaps his head to look at you. You don’t see a grown man, with weathered eyes and scarred face. You see the wriggler you had helped raise. You see the wriggler who looked up at you like you created the stars. The wriggler who was inspired by you, who inspired you. Who, for a brief period, made you feel like you had a purpose. You waste no time closing the space between you and him, barely registering just how tall he had gotten. 

The cane clatters to the floor. You lift the fuchsia off his feet, as you had done when he was younger. Had he been smaller, you might’ve swung him around. But instead, you set him back on his feet. The silence is almost as heavy as your hold on him. You can feel his heart racing as he sinks further into your arms. 

Leonra held onto you as if his life depended on it. And, to be honest, you did the same. You were relieved, and overjoyed, and so concerned. There was so much to say, so much to ask. But first, the hug had to end. What a scary thought. You had to let him go. You felt as if letting him free from your grasp would be a mistake, as if he’d never come back. You’d done it once and you didn’t want to go it again. 

Your name is Leonra Monark, and you are not a machine. 

You heard your name in a familiar voice, and immediately sobered up. For a moment, you were worried you were just hearing things. Machines don’t hear things. Your eyes dart around the clearing before freezing on him. 

He looked as if he hadn’t aged a day. He was just a bright, just as tired. Even his smile was the same. A sight for sour eyes. You didn’t say anything in response. The second your eyes locked, he closed the spaces between you. Your cane fell to the ground, forgotten, as Obsidian threw his arms around you. 

In that instant, the ship was no longer your enemy. You weren’t as afraid anymore. At its root, the only reason you even agreed to work with your ancestor again was to see Obsidian. You didn’t realize that until you achieved just that. Archai picked your cane up from the ground as Obsidian lifted you off your feet. Quite the feat for someone shorter than you, though you’d never complain. You were quiet as you held onto him. Your words were gone again, but you were overwhelmed with relief and happiness. 

You held onto Obsidian as if he would disappear in an instant. He smelled the same, somehow. His hug felt the same too. It brought forth an overwhelming nostalgia, almost enough to get you choked up. You’d be alright if the universe caved in that instant, because you felt right again. You weren’t alone out here. You had Archai and Obsidian. You wouldn’t get stuck on this damn ship. This was a mission you would survive, because you weren’t fighting on your own now. The reassuring thoughts flood your mind as you press your face further into his shoulder. You never wanted to let him go. You couldn’t let him go. Why did your damn leg have to hurt? Why couldn’t you stay here forever? Why did the moment have to end? 

After what felt like meer seconds and an eternity all at once, you finally let Obsidian go. Or, you tried to for a second, but he didn’t seem quite done yet. The hug lasted a few heartbeats longer before you were able to stand upright and retrieve your cane back from Chai. Obsidian moved his hands to your arms, as if he too feared you were just a figment of his imagination, as if you’d vanish the second he let go. 

“Back in the Fleet so soon?” Obsidian’s face showed his concern as he spoke. He never stopped smiling. Sweeps later, and the man still couldn’t stop smiling. 

“...I never said goodbye.” Your words were catching in your throat again, barely able to choke out that much. That obviously wasn’t a very clear answer. 

There was so much you wanted to say. Look, Obi, my hair’s longer than yours. I’m not a machine, Obi, I can love now. I have a matesprit. I have a moirail, and a kismesis. They love me, and I love them. My brother is alive, Obi, he’s nothing like Deepbite Alternia is home now, and I don’t hate it. I build prosthetics for a living.  Look at my matesprit, look at my moirail, look at my kismesis. Look at the life I’ve built off this ship. I’m happy now. I’m not a machine, Obi. I like puzzles, and swordfighting, and reading about physics. I helped raise a wriggler named Shiloh. Are you proud of me, Obi? 

But that was far too much to say right then. 

“....we were about to grab coffee,” you start, smiling slightly, “..can you come?” 

“Absolutely.” 

As you follow the other seadwellers, you feel at ease. You weren’t alone. Just knowing they were on the ship with you was reassuring enough. You would get through this. You would make it out of this alive. You would walk down the docks and return to your moirail’s side, and you would be alive. More than that, you would be fine. You could do this. You will do this. 

Of course, this newfound confidence does little to convince you to let go of Obsidian’s sleeve. It was a silly habit you picked up in your youth, though the violet didn’t mind. If anything, one could say he found it just as reassuring as you did. 

#drabbles #leonra monark #ghost.art #oogh. #okay ill admit i like dis a little. #ive never written sm #someone else's oc? so! #be nice!

[miks-fantrolls]

do brusli?

B A S I C S

full name: BRUSLI SKREON

gender: female for now

sexuality: homosexual

pronouns: she/her for now

O T H E R S

family:

PENDIC SKREON (podtwin) - canon

THESUN & NEMESI SKREON (dancestors) - extracanon(?) THE HARLEQUIN (ancestor(s)) - extracanon(?)

-> unfinished concept art of THE HARLEQUIN

birthplace: brooding caverns like usual

job: wannabe detective taking personal cases of her own

phobias: i would say she's afraid of losing her loved ones and being isolated, but she's ultimately accepted what she believes will be the end of her life very soon. in less deep terms, she has a mixed relationship with thunderstorms. the lightning and thunder are really cool for dramatic detective effects, but they're also loud and sudden and scary. shes also generally socially anxious.

guilty pleasures: anything she enjoys wearing her detective outfit and playing as an investigator are especially her guilty pleasures

M O R A L S

morality alignment?: neutral good

sins - LUST/greed/gluttony/sloth/pride/ENVY/wrath

virtues - chastity/charity/DILIGENCE/HUMILITY/KINDNESS/patience/JUSTICE

T H I S - O R - T H A T

introvert/extrovert: introvert, although that's not to say that she isn't chatty with people she's close with

organized/disorganized: this bitch has a system for her systems

close minded/open-minded: mostly open-minded. a good sleuth must welcome all possibilities regardless of probability in order to fully assess a situation!

calm/anxious: anxious. very anxious.

···

disagreeable/agreeable: somewhere in the middle. she doesn't contradict others just for the sake of it, but she is passionate about her personal morals and beliefs.

cautious/reckless: depends on what quality you're assessing. in things regarding others, she's totally cautious because she doesnt want to bring harm to anyone else. with herself, she's more willing to be reckless and take risks.

patient/impatient: impatient. say what you have to say or gtfo

outspoken/reserved: again depends on the situation. regular everyday troll society, mostly reserved, given that she doesnt leave her hive very often. when she does it's just when she's going to her & growen's treehouse to isolate herself there. during actual gameplay, she's a bit more outspoken because she's more familiar with the people she's interacting with.

leader/follower: maybe not a typical leader, but she isnt afraid to stray from the beaten path

empathetic/unemphatic: a mixture. she can logically understand why somebody may be upset over something (inciting incident -> action -> consequence), she may not understand the emotional reaction itself or how it drives someone to react the way they do.

optimistic/pessimistic: pessimistic. as far as she knows, she's going to be dead soon.

traditional/modern: her personality and behavior are obviously heavily influenced by growing up in a troll society. she doesnt have a preference for tradition nor modernity, and she doesnt do anything just for the sake of following/rejecting traditions. she follows her own intuition.

hard-working/lazy: very hardworking. emotionally and mentally. more than she thinks.

R E L A T I O N S H I P S

otp: Brusli and Sarlla <3333333333 (<- my brain is infected)

i so many brusli and sarlla drawings but. ALMOST ALL OF IT IS. super nsfw. and not artistically amazing since they were just for my eyes. also lots of human aus. so.

TUMBLR IS STUPID AND ONLY LETS YOU DO 10 IMAGES PER POST BUT

SARLLA AND BRUSLI

SARLLA AND BRUSLI!! they both used to have worse fashion sense (thats lobran in the background)

SARLLA AND BRUSLI!!!!!!! this ones an au where the Game didnt happen also kind of ugly ive only ever sent it to my boyfriend

ot3: sarlla <3 brusli <3 growen of FUCKING course. canonly (eventually) sarlla <3 conrad, conrad <> brusli, brusli <3 growen, growen and conrad are... essentially siblings, and sarlla <3< brusli & growen (vacillation galore) :Dc

also mostly porn BUT

BRUSLI AND GROWEN jesus the height difference i actually had to scale growen down

BRUSLI AND GROWEN as tweens/teens

brotp:

CONRAD AND BRUSLI <><><><><><>

(2nd one by BOYFRIEND @invader-bean

notp:

*shrugging* anything romantic having to do with any of the men cus, yknow, she gay. notp to her & pendic for obvious reasons. uhhh SHRUGS

#YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW MUCH FUCKING LOVE I HAVE POURED INTO THIS GIRL FOR THE PAST 10 YEARS #SHE IS THE BLORBOEST OF ALL #i love brusli SOSOSOSOSOSOSOSOSOSOSOSOSOSO FUCKING MUCH #i have so much writing of them god special interest adhd autism moments #youve activated my autism card #brusli skreon #sarlla #conrad #lobran #i guess. hes there. in the background. all 6 pixels. #moment of silence for all the people who have post shortening turned off #oh should tag as art #mikart

[onmywaytofanfic]

Reina Aburame: General info

Wordd count : 1809 Bio only 1662

So, I have been lately feeling down when it comes to my writing and what comes out of it. I feel that everything that I have written so far regarding my OCs and the story seems low quality. I have tried to solve this by rumbling and trying to create headcannons and a better structure to what I do. The solution that I have foound is this, a little bit of Reina. I need to keep writing progressing. But, I do see this platform as my vent place where I post this nonsense that I call fic.

Hope that this brings a little bit of light into who Reina is and his going to be. I will write that with all my OCs, just to bring some context, or trying to, into my fic since I have got the feeling that I am doing a huge mess.

Reina Aburame

Age: (Promises) 18 (Untold) 21

Height: 1,60cm

Weight: (Promises) below 50 (Untold) 75 kg.

Sexual orientation: ¿?

Gender: ¿?

Bio and relationships: She seems quite shy, however that is the effect of the Yamanaka seal upon her for so many years. Once she was freed from the “Outburst seal” from the Yamanaka’s her real self could appeared and be as chatty and lovely as she wished for. That seal sent strong electric shock to her spine every time that she had an outburst of emotion, regardless fi the emotion was considered positive or negative. She does introduce herself as female, but she does not care which pronouns people use with her. Her sibling has tried to explain to her if she feels non-binary like them, she just shrugs and says “I just want to let the worries of living another day faint. I am just comfortable being myself, if you think that makes me non-binary then I am non-binary. If you think it does not, then I am not”. She has never questioned her gender identity. She is really carefree about her sexuality and gender.

More things about her. As an Aburame, she does have a hive, however, when she was infused with the seals the hive started to fade and disappear. Up to the point that during the events in Promises, she had a hive that was less than 100 insects. When she had her hive back, she started to blend her Aburame and Uzumaki side in terms of her jutsus. She achieved that some of her bugs, after a rigorous training and breeding, are a little bit bigger than the average kikaichu, just 2 mm bigger, and they have the possibility to store in them jutsus and seal such as the Uzumaki’s. It requires big quantities of chackra and the sacrifice of some insects form her hive. She sends her insects in special formations that represent the seal, consequently, she can make long distance seals without been caught in the middle of the battle. Those kikaichu that are bigger, can resist the release of the seal better than others. Therefore, those are saved for big seals or special jutsus.

As an Aburame, the first time that she saw Shino she was really weak, and her hive did not vibrate with his as his did. He thought that it was a bad sign, meaning that his hive and he had found someone with whom he could resonate and being loved, but her hive did not consider his hive worthy. The truth was that she was so feeble that her hive was trying to take care of her before even trying to seek for a partner. In my canon, Aburame’s resonate when they find a mate that they and their hives see as prosperous for them. There are little records of cases in which this resonance has not work, (Reina’s grandfather is one of those, and his great-grandfather never resonate), or that it rumbles again as well as doing it with two mates simultaneously. Once her hive was care for and better, she did rumble for him. Although, at the beginning she could not control the volume nor the buzzing of her insect because she had to re-learnt everything that she did when she had a proper hive. She felt so ashamed and wanted to distance herself form Shino, afraid of shame him. He worked with her in her training and support her greatly. He finds it adorable the way that her hive buzzed. She still does, because sometimes she cannot hold her hive still. What he loves about her is when she gets so nervous that a few insects start to tickle her cheeks or in her chin, making it look as she has multiple dimples.

She works in Muta’s family book-café. Although her brothers, Danuja Uchiha and Goro Hyuga, want her to keep pursuing the shinobi career as they do. They do not want her three members squad to be dismantle or her to be change for somebody that they do not know. They are older than she and quite bossy, especially Danuja. They enjoy their team, and they do make a good team and want to keep it like this. However, Reina has seen in Konoha a place where she can finally rest after been the seed for a whole village for 10 years. As a seed, the village ground took her chakra to not just keep the barrier on but also to produce every type of food in the village. At the beginning her ancestors had it a little bit easier, but the Komado family found how to abuse of this, and the village grew without control, mostly because of how they welcomed rogue ninjas. That was something that the noble clans were against it, but due to the “Incident” they did not have form to express their thoughts. They were regard as “things” that protected the village and that was their only purpose, make the village safe AND happy.

She also has three more siblings, two of them have already appear in “Untold”. Chikako Akimichi is a trans-woman, she has two years more than Reina, they are the closest and they have always been like that. They love each other unconditionally, as a matter-of-fact Chikako renamed herself like that out of Reina’s lovely mumbling when she was a baby. She always knew who she was, but the circumstances led her to hide her identity from the villagers but not from her family. Her dead name is Chikao, she liked because it was given by her mother who she admires deeply. However, tiny Reina could not avoid put a “k” at the end. She ended out loving it and feels that represents herself completely. As a sister and daughter. She loves her name and treasures it, her nickname is Kazu.

Something similar happened to her brother Genkei Yamanaka. He is a trans-man, he was the worst at hidden who he really was to the villagers. Because of that he was the most resentful towards the villagers and hates them the most. He would not flinch if he saw the whole houses burn and Kagenogure erased from existence. He is a very creative mind and was the one that put the band together. In an alternative AU they will have a Industrial Metal band, however right now I do not know how to fit those strong sounds into the Narutoverse, but I want to be a Heavy Metal Band too. He is the singers of it, and after he has started to treat his transition correctly in Konoha he has fall even more in love with his harsh and deep voice.

Finally, “Mother duck”, Shiori Nara. They are the eldest sibling out of the six of them, they have 6 years more than Reina. They identify as non-binary and only lets his parents and sister call them by “she”. They actually, their siblings, do so when they have to congregate “the sisterhood”. Mostly, to talk about things that the other three do not care about or are rude, also they do that when they have gossips. They are calm, collected and a little bit overprotective over all their siblings. They got the feeling off been a “parent-like-figure” to them, and sometimes they behave as such.

Reina’s direct blood family consist in her father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Takeo Aburame is her father, he deeply loves her and will willingly give whatever it may be to make her child happy and protect her. Proof of this is missing right arm, given so he could stay with his daughter until she bleeds. When that time happened Shiori came with a brilliant idea that let him have her until the rescue team arrived. Cold and firm in his manners, but warm and caring when it comes to Reina. He is not afraid to call her “Ladybug” in public or hold her hand when they cross the road although she is a grown-up. She lets him do it, those are his forms of showing how much doe he cares for her.

Takehiko his her great-grandpa, he is the opposite of an Aburame. Old and wrinkled he is not afraid to speak his mind and do “crazy” things such as enjoy himself without caring what other might thing of his insect covering him or been outside his body. He is an old gizzer and a pervert who never found true love. His homosexuality was an issue for a village so close in mind but not for Chio. She is Reina’s great-grandmother, and although she left this earth a couple of years ago, she left it fighting and being grumpy. She was also homosexual and together with Takehiko decided to make a family. They wanted to be parents but there was no form for them to make the family that they wished for, so they help each other to achieve that dream. Out of that dream came Buna, her grandpa. He is stoic, short in word and even colder than her father. However, he has other forms to show his gratitude and love, for example taking off his jacket to cover his granddaughter. His heart is severely hurt after Hana’s mother refusal, Reina’s grandmother on her mother-side; however, he understood it an took her child Hana into care. He never thought that she would fall in love with his child and gave him her lovely granddaughter.

Buna and Takeo are really protective over Reina, something that Takehiko blames them and reprehends them constantly. Takeo does not want Reina to be gone from his side by mating with Shino. If Takeo could, he would kill Shino or force his hive to be infatuated for another person. However, he knows hat sooner or later she would leave the nest and make her own…that does not mean that he would try to delay that event as much as he can. He has his father support after all.

#aburame oc #reina aburame: oc #oc naruto #oc stuff #oc biography #reina aburame #takeo aburame #takehiko aburame #buna aburame #chio aburame #shiori nara #chikako akimichi #genkei yamanaka #danuja uchiha #goro hyuga #naruto oc #naruto fanfiction #fanfiction #fanfic #oc headcannon #onmywaytofanfic #aburame clan #akimichi clan #yamanaka clan #uchiha clan #hyuga clan #nara clan

[k1nky-fool]

HELLO THERE

How are you doing, dearie? I hope you've had a great week!

OC asks 2, 5, 6, 12, 13, 25, 44 and 49 for, obviously, Vander and Mita.

You know I'm in love with that fic, and my obsession with Minute isn't going away soon, that's on you.

Anyways, love ya! Sending you a big virtual hug.

2 .What was their first date like? If they haven’t been on a date yet, how would it go?

Well, considering neither of them get out very often and they both know a few people that would either recognize them and make it awkward, or someone that wants to kill one or both of them, Mita and Vander would most definitely have a slow night in.

However, I know Mita and Vander desperately need a break, and to let loose a bit. The first night they manage to get a whole night where they're together and the kids are Benzo's responsibility for the night, let's face it, they're getting fucking plastered.

It starts out with Vander telling funny stories of his old revolution days, Mita saying she remembers the odd thing here and there, while Mita might bring up some of the dumbest people she's collected for bounty.

But Mita gets a little louder with every drink, and oddly giggly while Vander is likely trying to get her to dance with him while the jukebox is at full volume. Neither of them are good at dancing, and it really just looks like he's swaying her around while both of them can't really keep their balance at the same time, but neither of them have been happier.

5. What’s their love language like? Are they compatible with one another?

Not in the traditional sense at least. Mita's receiving love language is words of affirmation. I've mentioned she likes when people get to their point, and she likes being told that she is appreciated in a way she won't have to decipher the meaning of. That's the most direct way to give her affection. Very convenient that Vander isn't a fan of being very subtle when it comes to giving affection. It's not that he can't give gifts, he's just not a good judge of what kinds of things someone else likes beyond practical tools, but sometimes those intentions don't always land well. And he's always doing work for other people regardless of how he feels about them, so just saying what he appreciates about Mita specifically is his favorite way to show how much she means to him.

However, we know that Mita ain't exactly chatty, so the love language of affection she gives is going to be more acts of service than anything else. So, it's also very convenient that Vander has a lot on his plate, and she can help knock some of it off for him, so he can take a break. Vander will never be ungrateful that something he thought he had to worry about has been taken care of.

That being said, Mita is touch starved and Vander is cuddly. Physical touch will always be a good middle ground between the two of them, and by extension, quality time as well. Both are anchors for the two of them, and they both rely on each other to unwind, and a while into their relationship, both Mita and Vander will get visibly anxious and annoyed the longer they're apart, should something separate them for a little bit.

6. Do they have any pet names/nicknames for eachother?

Technically, "Mita" is sort of a pet name. Professionally, she'll always say her name is Minute (now that she has a name), and Vander is the only adult that calls her Mita. Everyone else that uses the name "Mita" is a kid, and even then, only Ekko, Sketch (more on that at a later date), Mylo, and Vi call her that. Claggor, Powder, Scar, Eve, and Devo all call her "Minute." Even then, Vander still calls her stuff like Love, Darling, and Dove.

Mita isn't really one for pet names. She's not upset when someone uses them, unless the wrong person calls her "Mita." There was just nobody really using affectionate names in her life, so she never really got an attachment to them. Though, there will be a rare occasion, in private only, when Mita might be exhausted, and she would accidentally echo Vander and call him "Love."

12. What would they say each other’s worst quality is?

Not that Mita doesn't understand it, or that she doesn't approve of it. She'll always be supportive no matter how Vander chooses to live his life. However, she fully believes that a lot of his problems would be solved if he was only a little more open to a healthy amount of violence. Vander tends to joke "That's what you're for, love," but really, he just can't get past causing that sort of harm anymore.

He knows what it's done to him in the past, and everyone else had to live with the consequences. Vander can't justify violence anymore, and Mita believes that no amount of words will ever be equal to action.

Vander on the other hand, gets somewhat aggravated with Mita's habit of staying quiet. He thinks a lot of problems they face would be avoided if she could just mention earlier than too late, what exactly she has a problem with. It's something she's working on, simply because she grew up in a way where speaking didn't actually change anything.

If she didn't like something, that was just the way things are, and she'd have to live with it. It's common that Vander doesn't even know he's done something to wrong her until she's already broken under the pressure, and he feels terrible that he couldn't do anything about it sooner, because she didn't say anything.

13. What would they say each other’s best quality is?

As much as his hesitancy to action drives her up the wall, she can't help but admire his patience. She hates to admit it, but Vander's ability to carry negotiations out far past the point where Mita would have just knocked the fucker out, has solved a lot of problems she simply wouldn't be able to solve herself. And it translates very well into his patience with her while she figures out to let her guard down around him.

Vander can't get enough of her intelligence. He sees it all the time, and he never gets an explanation of her thought process. Seeing it from the outside is like watching a lightning bolt, miraculously solving a jigsaw puzzle. His first instinct when he sees her begin to move into action is usually panic, but he trusts her not to directly violate any boundaries or rules he's set. When she does act, it's never what he expects and usually clever enough that whoever her target is, doesn't realize they've been corrected.

25. Pick a physical attribute that they love about each other.

Idk if you know this, but Vander is a very large lad. Mita is very certainly aware of his size, and rather openly appreciates it. Her favorite way to be reminded of it is when they're both behind the bar, and Vander gently pushes her toward the counter so he can get past her.

Vander could name a few physical attributes that he likes about her. But the one that seems to catch him off guard the most is her muscle definition. Mita is also not very small. In fact I write her as being roughly 6'0" and fucking jacked. But Vander specifically can't get enough of the muscles on her back. She moves so fluidly and precisely, and while he knows that training to be able to do that wasn't exactly her choice, he can't help but still be very impressed by it.

44. Who’s the better cook?

Vander, hands down. Mita's regular food before she met Vander was limited to just what she could afford to buy or find. And while Vander certainly isn't any sort of professional chef, he can easily whip some stuff up together to be good enough for some kids to like. Modern AU! Vander is definitely a grilled steak, burgers, and hotdogs kind of dad

49. Do they tease each other? What about?

They do tease each other, but only in subtle ways in public. It's always an innocuous comment on something that only the two of them would know about. An inside joke, or a small gesture. Mita has very specific facial expressions that essentially clue Vander in that something he's said or done was funny to her, or reminds her of another fumble of his. They're usually good with PDA, but when it comes to teasing, it's something they don't like others being privy to.

It's usually something innocuous. Someone asks for a shot of absinthe, and if Mita's close enough to overhear, Vander might say something like "Well, so long as you don't spit it at anyone, you sure can." Nobody but the two of them would get it unless one of the other few people that witnessed the event the first time just happens to also be near enough to hear.

Someone harasses Mita and she might visibly take their drink from them and pour a little bit from a mysterious vial into it. They ask "You drugging me for a good time?"

And she'd reply, placing the thing back in front of them, "No, I poisoned you 20 minutes ago. That's your antidote." Only for both of them to hear Vander laughing at it from a few tables away. He knows she hasn't, and that's definitely a laxative or something.

Love to see you, babes! I'm hoping to finish their fic in the next few months, but once it's done, I sure will have some time to write some oneshots of them and feature Mita in other fics.

#arcane oc #arcane #arcane fanfic #vander x oc #vander x minute

[alyjojo]

Family Ties 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 - May 2022 - Capricorn

Overall energy: The World

You’ve done a lot of the work involved in healing family relationships, possibly old traumas or rifts between you & others (or just others, depends on your family). You’re at an ending, but it’s a beautiful one, usually, something is coming to a close so a new cycle can begin. We’ll see if The Fool pops out somewhere to describe what this new beginning is, or who it involves.

Mother: 8 Wands & Page of Wands

Your mother is probably a very chatty person, there’s a lot of Sagittarius energy here, she loves to talk, and especially to you. She’s probably very excitable, optimistic, happy go lucky, and quick moving. She’s the kind of person to get some kind of idea and then immediately jump on it, not the most practical, like you are, but a lot of fun regardless. She probably keeps you young, being Capricorn, sometimes you’re born old...fashioned. Clarified by Ace of Swords, which we see on your father’s side too, there’s a lot of communication here, they’re both the type of people that wants the whole truth & clarity about your life, they want you to be able to come to them whenever you need to, or just to update them on your life. Frequently! It’s their way of being involved, communicating. Page of Swords shows you both gossip with each other, or your mother is as gossiping as she is chatty (it comes with the territory). There is a lot of worry in her about you getting enough rest and whether you’re getting what you need from your career, she thinks you’re not taking good care of yourself, she’s deeply concerned over your well-being and whether you’re being honest that you’re really okay. She sees you trapped in an unhealthy situation where there’s no progress or movement forward, she’s worried about you saving money, she’s worried you’re not getting what you deserve. Poor mom is a worry wart 24/7, make sure you give her big hugs.

Father: Strength, 2 Coins, Ace of Swords

Your father is holding back some kind of truth that he’s been weighing the pros and cons of coming out with for awhile. But he hasn’t, because it would create a very defensive energy in his 10 Cups, his happy family. I tried clarifying further and got The Emperor, 8 Wands rev and 10 Pentacles. He’s not going to tell his family. King of Wands at the bottom, all of the fire signs have shown up here, he’s probably a fire sign too. Hermit underneath, he’s not saying what this is, and he never will, it’s clearly something that could really hurt his family’s stability or happiness. Being Wands with the 2 Pentacles, there may be a passion or infidelity situation here that he keeps very close to his chest, because The Hermit, he realized he fkd up. It doesn’t talk about his relationship with you, so this must be something that plays on his mind frequently. Guilt. Controlling himself. Boundaries. Silence. Or he has conflicting desires that go against what the family wants, doesn’t have to be a 3rd party.

Siblings: 4 Cups & 10 Swords

Well there goes the secret, it’s not actually a secret at all, Dad just doesn’t talk about it. Your siblings are very closed off and guarded due to this 10 Swords, they seem more upset by this situation than anyone. Your mother is healing, she spends more time worried about you. Your siblings see your father as very immature and they’re possibly not speaking to him, they’re definitely holding a grudge for not telling your mother what was going on. There’s no movement forward there, they’re pissed off and feel abandoned, left out in the cold, they don’t have a very positive view of your father. At the bottom, this same King of Wands appears with The Hermit, again, and Queen of Cups. This could be the mistress, this could be your mother, either way he’s closed off from her, maybe he’s left her, maybe he’s left the mistress to try and heal his home life because he has both 10 Cups and 10 Pentacles here. At some point, your father was up to some bs and your siblings haven’t forgiven him.

Grandparents: The Hanged Man & 6 Coins

Your grandparents are pissed off at your father, everyone is, and they’re holding back from being involved at all. They may have said their peace and moved on, but for the most part, they’re staying out of it. They are very angry that this toxic situation existed within what looks like a marriage or a deep commitment, and they’re waiting to see if this can be left behind and worked through successfully, or whether this whole relationship is done and over with. Until then they’ll remain in Hanged Man, biding their time, waiting on results from your parents and whatever comes of this whole mess. Again, no mention of you in this reading about you, that must be annoying. Hopefully your relationship with these people are all positive, because there’s one focus here and it’s your father. There’s a lot of Taurus energy in your grandparent/s, one of them could be Taurus.

Spiritual Ancestors: 10 Wands, The Hermit, 4 Cups

This whole situation has burdened you greatly, it’s out you into Hermit mode, it’s made you question everything about your life as it has been and how it’s changed, and you’re not at all happy with these changes. It could be that one parent has left the other, probably mom. You’re conflicted that there’s no progress or tangible opportunity in regards to your mother. You hope there’s healing from this painful situation and you’re also in Hanged Man until that happens, similarly to your grandparents. This could be saying you live with your mother and you refuse to leave her side, you’re kind of guilting yourself to be her caretaker because of her painful situation. This pressure is what you need to let go of. You can be empathetic, and of course you are, but it is not your job. Not to this extent, you need help, and it looks like that’s what you’re getting. Probably from a sibling, they come up as Page of Cups, could be a water sign, they’re working with you as a team to end this burden on you alone and you’re jumping into a new cycle together with...The Fool. If not a sibling, this can be good news in general that takes some of the pressure on you.

#capricorn tarot reading #family ties #capricorn #tarot #may 2022 #generational healing #family

[findroleplay]

(23, nb, cst looking for other 20+ writers)

hey hey!! my mind has been kind of one track lately, and all i really want to write is a kinda specific steddie (stranger things) plot. looking for someone to write their eddie against my transfem stevie. this would be pretty plot-heavy, either post-canon or canon noncompliant, and very fluffy. i want to explore their dynamic as stevie comes to terms with her gender struggles, especially as someone who has always fronted as the hyper-masculine jock type. i don’t think the central conflict would be stevie worrying that eddie wouldn’t accept her, because it’s eddie, but i do think she would worry more about what transitioning would mean for them romantically. maybe she picks up on the fact that eddie likes her and hasn’t acknowledged it because she thinks he’s a strictly gay man (regardless of headcanons, i’m fine with whatever, she perceives him as gay) and doesn’t want to put herself through that potential heartbreak. or maybe they’re in a pre-established relationship, and she worries eddie wouldn’t want to be with her as stevie because he fell for her as a guy. regardless of the setup, i think their dynamic is the sweetest. i love those good good major themes of unconditional love and those sprinkles of found family. open to writing multiple side characters, and open to plot suggestions within this vague perimeter. love swapping headcanons, mood boards, and playlists. communication is key, and i like being a chatty rp partner. literate (3 to 5-ish paragraphs depending on what’s going on.) discord based. if this is something that you’d be interested in plotting, lmk by liking this post and i’ll reach out as soon as possible. 

_

#roleplay #rp #stranger things rp