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stylesispunk · 4 months

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"The not so invisible string" | part 2

Not outbreak! Joel Miller x f! Reader

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summary: you and Joel were made right for each other at the wrong time. Now, thirteen years later your paths crossed when both of your daughters get in trouble at school. Would be the right time for you now?

chapter summary: You and Joel had a "lunch" together and some things were said, and the past between you both is meeting the present.

word count: 5k.

warnings: angst, implications of cheating (emotional). I probably made some grammar mistakes because I write things fast. Not proofreading, ups. Italics are flashbacks <3

a/n: Chapter two is here!! Thank you so much for your nice comments and appreciation for the previous chapter, I didn't think it would be good enough but thanks for appreciating. This one is less intense than the first one, but we still have a story to develop. I'm on my summer break from work, so I hope to have time to keep writing. Reblogs and comments are always appreciated. Happy reading 💌 p.s if you wann be taglisted, please I'm so shy so I feel asshamed of tagging people if you don't tell me 😳 and if I forgot someone, sorry 😭

dividers by @/saradika

"Are you waiting to see her again?" Sarah asked when Joel was parking outside school before driving to his job.

"Who?" He asked, trying to dismiss the nagging feeling settled in his stomach at the minimum possibility of seeing you again.

"Tara's mom?" She said, leaning toward his dad, "What's the issue with her, by the way? Was she your ex or something?”

"No,” he said immediately.

“So why did you get so nervous?"

"She is the love of my life," he confessed, not turning his face to Sarah in shame of being seen in such a vulnerable state.

When you were a parent, you never showed yourself vulnerable in front of your children; you never allowed them to see that part of you that’s beneath what they knew. But when they grow up, they understand you would never be a hero, but a human living life for the first time too.

Sarah's eyes widened at Joel's unexpected confession. The revelation hung in the air, leaving a palpable tension inside the car.

"The love of your life?" Sarah echoed, her voice a mix of surprise and curiosity. "But you never mentioned her before."

Joel sighed, his eyes fixed on the steering wheel as if it held the answers to a long-buried history. "It's complicated," he finally admitted. "We were each other's first love, but things didn't work out. We went our separate ways, and I thought I had moved on."

"But seeing her again..." he continued, his voice laced with a hint of vulnerability. "I never expected her to be here again."

Sarah studied Joel's profile, recognizing the struggle in his eyes. "And what about Tara's mom? Does she feel the same way?"

"I don't know," Joel confessed, a heaviness settling in his chest. "It's been thirteen years, and a lot has changed. She has a daughter now, and I have my own life."

Sarah reached out, placing a comforting hand on her dad’s shoulder. "Well, life is surprising," she said. "Maybe it's a chance for both of you to find closure, or maybe even something more. Who knows?"

Joel nodded, the weight of the past and the uncertainty of the future swirling around him.

“Perhaps” He said, “Okay, now go to class before you get late.” He hurried Sarah, but before she closed the door, a bolt of thought invaded his mind before he could even think.

“Can I ask you for a favor?”

She nodded.

“Ask Tara for her mother’s number, please.”

Sarah grinned, nodding her head and blowing a kiss to his father.

The days had passed, and life had settled into a new routine for you, unemployed and doing house chores, feeling just as the same twenty-two-year-old you once were.

But that wasn’t your only thought in the back of your mind. Since the day you had seen Joel, you hadn’t been able to take him off your mind, and as if it weren’t already difficult, Tara and Sarah were slowly becoming best friends, just as you and Joel were someday back when you had anything to lose.

For Joel, things weren’t different. There wasn’t a second of the day since he had seen you that he hadn’t thought about you. About how gorgeous you still looked and how much he had missed you for the past years. Despite the investable passing of time, the past seemed to cast a long shadow over the present; he couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that had resurfaced since he saw you.

Late one night, he found himself staring at his phone. Since Sarah got your number from Tara, he has been doing the same, contemplating whether to send a message. The words formed in his mind, but typing them out was a whole different thing for him. Trapped between the enormous desire to know about you or to let go of the best thing that had ever happened to him.

But before he could even formulate the thought, he pressed send.

Unknown number

"Hi, it’s me, Joel"

Your phone vibrated on your side of the bed.

"Honey?" Dwight called out,

“Yes?" you asked from the bathroom.

“Why is a Joel messaging you at this hour?”

You paused, the sensation of cold cream on your fingertips suddenly forgotten. The name "Joel" seemed too foreign on Dwight's lips; you even felt guilty.

"It's probably just something about Tara," you replied, forcing nonchalance into your tone. But the unease crept into your voice, betraying the facade.

Dwight's curiosity lingered in the room as you picked up your phone. The screen illuminated with a new message, and the familiar ache resurfaced in your heart.

Unknown number

Sorry for sending this at this time, but I've been thinking a lot about you since our unexpected meeting, and I was wondering if we could talk. No pressure, just a conversation.

You felt a mix of emotions—surprise, apprehension, and a tinge of curiosity. The late-night timing added an unexpected layer of intensity to the message.

"Honey, is everything okay?" Dwight's voice carried a note of concern.

"Yeah, it's probably about Tara or something. I'll go better call him,” you replied, forcing a smile. But deep down, you knew that hearing his voice through a phone would do enough damage to you.

“Hello sunshine! How it’s my best girl doing?” he exclaimed, his sleepy voice from this time in the morning melted you.

“I’m better now that you called”

“Remember I’m always just a call away from you, doe”

The hallway felt colder as you left the room, and the phone gripped tightly in your hand. Your heart raced against your chest, its rhythm echoing the uncertainty of the moment. As you pressed the button to call Joel, each second felt like an eternity.

The phone rang once, twice, and on the third ring, Joel's voice filled the air. "Hello?"

"How did you get my number?” you asked

"I... "I... uh, well," Joel stammered on the other end of the line, a hint of unease in his voice. "Sarah got it from Tara.”

Your mind raced with a mix of emotions—surprise, frustration, and a touch of understanding due to your daughters’ becoming friends.

"You could have asked," you replied, the tension evident in your voice. "But fine, what did you want to talk about?"

There was a pause, and you could almost hear Joel gathering his thoughts on the other end. "I've been thinking a lot about the past, about us," he admitted. "I never got the chance to properly apologize for how things ended. I just want to talk, to understand, and maybe find closure."

Closure. The word hung in the air, heavy with the weight of the years gone by.

You didn’t want to have closure with him; you didn’t want to forget.

"Joel, it's been thirteen years," you said, a mix of weariness and frustration coloring your words. "We've both moved on. What's the point of digging up the past now?"

"I know, and I respect that," Joel responded, his tone earnest. "But I've carried the weight of what happened between us for a long time. Maybe talking about it will help both of us. Besides Sarah and Tara, we could talk about them."

You sighed, the complexity of the situation settling around you. "Fine, let's meet. But just this once. I have a life, Joel, and I can't afford to let the past disrupt it."

"Thank you," Joel said, a note of gratitude in his voice. "I appreciate this, truly. Let's find a time.

"Tomorrow,” you said, interrupting his rambling.

Tomorrow? It seemed like too soon you were conflicted between the desire to see him again and the guilt of not being able to erase that part of your life.

“Okay, tomorrow at lunch” he spoke after what it seemed like minutes “I’ll send you the address.”

“Okay.” You whispered, “Have a goodnight, Joel”

“Good night, doe” he replied, before realizing how he had called you, he ended the call leaving you with no chance to answer back.

You were speechless, and the hallway felt emptier than before. Nobody had called you “Doe” since you parted ways with Joel, as if the nickname was forbidden from the lips of any person who wasn’t him, carrying a reminder of a time when the two of you shared your own language.

“From now on I’m calling you, Doe”

“Why?” you asked, tilting your head

“Because you looked so innocent with those bright eyes of you and you remind me of Bambi but I don’t want to call you that”

“What’s wrong with Bambi?”

“Nothing” he replied, “We could actually be like Bambi and Thumper”

As you walked back into the bedroom, Dwight looked up from his book, sensing the turmoil in your expression. "Everything okay?"

You nodded, forcing a smile. "Yes, just Joel wants to meet tomorrow to talk."

Dwight raised an eyebrow, concern etched on his face. "Are you sure about this? You don't have to do anything you're not comfortable with. I can go."

"No, I know," you replied, sinking onto the bed. "But it’s nothing bad... I actually know Joel from before. "You confessed without looking at Dwight.”

Dwight's expression softened as he processed your confession. "Before we met?"

You nodded, finally meeting his gaze. "Yeah, Joel and I have history. We were close—really close. We were actually best friends,” you said, omitting the “he is the love of my life” part.

Understanding flickered in Dwight's eyes, and he reached out, gently cupping your face. "You don't have to go through with this if it makes you uncomfortable. I trust you, and I trust whatever decision you make."

A mix of gratitude and guilt welled up within you. "I appreciate that, Dwight.”

He nodded, offering a supportive smile. "I'll be here for you, no matter what."

After that, Dwight closed his book and said goodnight to you, falling asleep a few minutes later. It seemed odd for you, but you couldn’t help but feel weird because of his attitude, as if he didn’t care about you meeting with another guy.

Dwight's seemingly indifferent response to your revelation about Joel left you feeling conflicted. Was it a sign of trust and confidence in your commitment to the present, or was there an undercurrent of something else?

As you drove to the restaurant Joel had suggested, your mind buzzed with memories of your shared past. The streets seemed to echo with the laughter and conversations of your younger selves. Navigating through familiar lanes, you couldn't escape the gravitational pull of nostalgia.

The restaurant's entrance loomed ahead, and you found yourself hesitating. The realization struck—this wasn't just a casual meeting; it was a reunion with someone who had once been the center of your world.

Once you stepped inside the restaurant Joel told you about, you were faced with reality. You were a married woman, going to have lunch not with another man who was your ex-boyfriend but with the love of your life. Your heart was beating so hard against your ribcage that you almost felt how your bones crashed at the impact.

You stopped at the entrance; your face was heating up. You wanted to leave, but before you could even make up your mind, those brown eyes found you, and you couldn't turn away.

Breathe in, breathe out.

One step, then another step.

It seemed like hours, but there you were, in front of the boy with brown eyes who put a bandage on your knee when you fell on the pavement at 5 years old. You were there in front of the teenager who kissed you at seventeen on a random night after doing homework in your bedroom.

You had decided to conquer the world—or at least the little corner of it that belonged to your shared imagination. As you ran through the streets, giggles and laughter echoing, it happened—the inevitable collision with the ground. Your knees met the pavement, and the sting of scraped skin sent tears streaming down your cheeks.

That's when Joel appeared, like a knight in a tiny superhero cape. His mom, hearing the commotion, had rushed him outside to play. In his hand, he held a box of colorful, cartoon-themed band-aids. With the unwavering confidence of a five-year-old, he approached you.

"Don't cry, okay? I've got something to fix you up," Joel declared, his eyes wide with sincerity.

As he carefully placed a band-aid on your scraped knee, something shifted. It was more than just a simple act of putting on a band-aid; it was the beginning of a connection that would thread through the fabric of your lives for years to come.

"See, all is better!" Joel announced, grinning proudly as if he had just mended the universe. “I’m Joel,” he said happily. “What’s your name?”

You were surprised and speechless; you felt enamored by the kid in front of you, but in your brain, the boy was still gross.

Joel's expression mirrored a mix of surprise and recognition. For a moment, the world seemed to pause as you both stood there, caught in the gravity of your intertwined past.

But it seemed to be the night you were back in the house he had bought with the help of his parents, where you were supposed to grow old together. It looked like that night you came back, hoping to begin again.

But it wasn't, and time didn't stop because two lovers couldn't survive in the currents of the sea.

"Hi, doe," he greeted you, standing up from his seat.

Doe.

"Joel," you greeted back, gracing a small smile.

"Lovie" is forbidden now.

"Please, take a seat," he said, signaling at the seat in front of him.

You didn't know how to react, what to do, or what to say, so you sat on the chair, trying to ease your heart's beating.

Joel's gaze never left your form; instead, it traveled down your figure, but the golden band on your finger stopped his curious gaze, and somehow he felt the urge to cry.

He had always pictured the shiny rock he had bought for you back those years ago, wrapped around your finger.

If he had told you he spent those late nights doing extra work only to buy that piece of jewelry for you, perhaps you would be the one wearing it now, and in this situation, it would be one of those moments you share lunch between your work schedules.

But that shiny ring wrapped echoes of missed opportunities, and the haunting what-ifs painted a poignant portrait of a love that had slipped through his fingers.

You had been waiting, the anticipation mingling with worry as the hands of the clock inched forward. The scent of a hastily prepared dinner lingered in the air, growing colder with each passing minute. Joel's absence, became a palpable presence in the room.

As the door finally creaked open, revealing Joel's figure in the dim light, a wave of emotions crashed over you. The relief of his arrival was quickly overshadowed by the frustration that had been building within.

"Joel, do you have any idea what time it is?" you snapped, the words escaping before you could temper the edge in your voice.

Joel's expression shifted, caught off guard by the sudden confrontation. "I lost track of time at work. I'm sorry," he offered, attempting to diffuse the tension.

The apology, however, fell on ears numbed by the repetition of similar excuses. The words that followed, laden with accusations and frustrations, transformed the night into a battleground of emotions. The promises made in the glow of love were replaced by the harsh reality of unmet expectations.

"I can't do this, Joel. I can't keep waiting for you every night," you uttered your voice a mix of exhaustion and hurt.

He sighed, running a hand through his hair in a gesture of frustration. "I'm doing all of this for us. I'm working hard to provide for our future."

He had never sold the ring; he couldn't do it, thinking you would have come back to your home and built your story from the cracked fragments.

But he had made a mistake; however, that mistake that made you slip through his fingers brought his daughter to him, and he couldn’t find the strength to blame that night anymore.

And he thought that for you, it may have been the same; you have had a daughter too, and he knows that you love her more than life itself.

It was almost poetic; the mistakes that had separated you had, in a strange twist of fate, become the catalyst for a reunion. The bond between Joel and his daughter, the same bond you had with Tara, seemed to mirror the intricate threads that wove your lives together once again.

“So, how have you been?” he began asking.

“I thought you wanted to talk about our daughters,” you replied, deflecting the conversation to the common ground that had brought you back together.

Joel's eyes held a glimmer of nostalgia. "Come on, Doe, you know I care about you."

“Please don’t call me that,” you pleaded in almost a whisper.

Joel's expression shifted, a mix of realization and regret flickering across his features. "I'm sorry," he apologized, the sincerity in his voice evident. "I didn't mean to.”

“But I’ve been fine.” You finally said that, looking at him.

“I’m glad,” he said. “I can’t help but be surprised about you being Tara’s mother."

“Why? Is it too hard to believe I’m a mother?”

Joel's eyes softened, and he shook his head. "No, it's not that. It's just... it's surreal, you know? Seeing you as a mother, I mean, Tara is the same age as Sarah.”

“I got pregnant a few months after we..."

“We broke up,” he said, ending the sentence for you.

“Yes. I met Dwight one night, and I got pregnant.”

“You got over things soon, then,” he added in an undertone.

“What does that mean?” You asked in a defensive tone.

Joel sighed, a mixture of emotions playing across his face. "I didn't mean it like that. It's just... seeing you move on so quickly, it's

"No, tell me!” you exclaimed. “Do you think it was going to be easy for me to stay with you while you take care of another woman who was carrying your baby? 2

“Yet, you still had a daughter with another man.”

“So what? It was forbidden for me to hook up with a guy because I was fucking broke. Yes, I ended up pregnant, but...

“But what?” he inquired.

“It should have been you!" You cried, not knowing why you were acting so childish. "It was always supposed to be you." You repeated, calmer, "Since we were seventeen, I picture you being the father of my child."

Joel's gaze held a mix of surprise and remorse, realizing the depth of your emotions. "Doe, I never meant to hurt you. I had my own struggles, and I made mistakes."

"It's not about the mistakes, Joel," you said, wiping away a tear. "It's about the dreams we had and how they shattered. I loved you, and I imagined a future with you.

The silence that followed was suffocating, filled with the weight of unsaid words and the echoes of a shared past. The restaurant seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of you in a bubble of unresolved emotions.

“You know this is repeating again,” you chuckled between tears. “I’m here with you while I’m crying all over again. I had to leave my job and move back to the city that throws the past in my face, and I can’t find a job."You covered your face with your hands.

Joel's eyes held a mixture of empathy and regret as he listened to your words. The ache of the past lingered in the air, a haunting reminder of the dreams that had slipped through your fingers.

"I wish I could change it all," Joel confessed, his voice heavy with the weight of shared regrets. "I never wanted you to leave, and seeing you hurt now... it hurts me too."

"But we can't go back," you replied with a resigned tone in your voice. "We're both different people now, living different lives. Maybe it's time to accept that some wounds don't fully heal."

“But we can be civil to each other, at least for our daughter’s sake,” he said, his voice soft.

You looked at him, your tear-streaked face reflecting a mixture of pain and acceptance. For a moment, you considered his words, acknowledging the shared responsibility of raising daughters who were connected by a blossoming friendship.

"Yeah," you agreed, a weary smile on your face. "We owe it to them to be civil, to show them that even when things don't work out, people can still be respectful and caring."

Joel nodded, a somber understanding passing between you. At that moment, you both recognized the importance of setting aside personal grievances for the sake of your daughters.

“You know? About the job, Tommy and I need an assistant.”

Your eyes widened at Joel's unexpected offer; the surprise was evident on your face. The mention of a job opportunity brought a glimmer of hope amid the emotional turbulence. It was as if a door, long thought closed, cracked open with the possibility of a new beginning.

"An assistant?" you repeated, the idea taking a moment to sink in. "Are you serious?"

Joel nodded, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, I am. We're expanding, and having you would be nice.”

"I appreciate the offer," you finally said, your voice cautious. "But-

“Just think about it; if you want the job, you can call me tomorrow or go to our office," Joel added, his tone sincere.

“You know what? He asked after your silence, leaning into the table, "You are still looking at me with the same eyes you did before.”

You blinked, caught off guard by his observation. There was a moment of vulnerability in his eyes—a flicker of the past that hadn't entirely dissipated. The connection between you, despite the years and the changes, lingered in the unspoken words that floated in the air.

"I don't know what you mean," you replied, attempting to mask the emotions that swirled within.

Joel chuckled softly, a nostalgic warmth in his gaze. "Doe, you always had this way of seeing through me. Even now, those eyes of yours... they haven't changed."

"I'm married."

“So what? Can’t you have friends? He asked.

“What about Sarah’s mother? Wouldn’t she get mad at you for being with your ex-girlfriend?"

“That’s funny because we’re not together,” he confessed with a weird smile on his face. “We never were together. After Sarah was born, she left us.”

The revelation hung in the air, a mix of surprise and confusion settling between you. The complexity of his past mirrored your own, and in that shared vulnerability, there was an unspoken understanding.

"I'm sorry to hear that," you offered, genuine sympathy in your voice.

"It's okay," Joel replied, a shrug accompanying his words. "She is married to another man, and she had a son, but I won because I had Sarah.”

“It’s fun how our daughters brought us together,” you said calmly.

"It's true," Joel acknowledged, a wistful smile playing on his lips. Our daughters seem to be the common thread weaving through our lives now."

You smiled, feeling butterflies dancing inside your stomach. The closeness to Joel felt foreign yet so familiar, and all the sentiments making your way through your heart were there again, suffocating you.

“I should get going,” you said, out of the blue.

“But you haven't eaten yet.”

“I know, but it’s getting late, and I have to go back to my house.”

"Okay,” he said, knowing you were making a lie to run away again, yet he didn’t pressure you.

"I appreciate you taking the time to talk," Joel said, breaking the silence. "And about the job, just think it over. No pressure. Whatever you decide, I'm here for you, even if it's just as a friend."

“Thank you, Joel,” you smiled.

And when you walked away to leave the restaurant, you stopped by the door just to have a second look at him, and when you turned, he was looking at you just as you knew he would.

You smiled at him, and he smiled back at you, mouthing a quiet "take care" in a language only your interlocked gazes understood.

And once you stepped outside, he was left in the restaurant, following you with his eyes.

You weren't the mother of his friend's daughter, but the girl in two ponytails was crying because of a scratch on her knee.

You were once his best friend,

You were once his lover, but that word was a small portion of what you were to him. No, you weren't his lover, but his twin flame that painted every single day of his life blue—the flame that never allowed him to dream about anybody else but you.

And you were the love of his life.

But Joel would do anything to get back on the first step, just to keep you close. He would rather have you back as his best friend than not have you anymore, even if his heart hurts in the process.

You were never his, but he felt the string pulling you together, just like the unbreakable chain you had hanging around your neck since he had memories of you, and he was going to do things right this time because he wasn't able to play pretend knowing there was no gap between you anymore.

You drove around the city for an hour straight, navigating through the streets. Joel used to drive you around when trying to ease your mood after fights with your parents.

You had taken your love and packed it in a tiny little box to protect your heart from breaking.

And when you stopped outside your house, you cried. You sobbed like a little girl waking up from a nightmare. Joel still echoed in your mind, and you accepted that you would never be able to let that part of your life go, so you sobbed, and in that moment of vulnerability, you allowed yourself to grieve for what was lost.

“Pretty girls shouldn’t cry,” Joel said when you didn’t say your name after his introduction.

As the tears subsided, you took a deep breath, the weight in your chest easing slightly, and you stepped out of your car and walked to your house.

The key turned in the lock, the door creaked open, and you stepped into the coldness of your home. You thought about the offer Joel talked to you about, but accepting would be a suicide, and as tempting as the invitation seemed at the edge of your consciousness. However, spending more hours of the day seeing him seemed like being unfaithful to your husband.

As you walked into the living room, Tara glanced up from her phone, and you noticed the concern in her eyes.

"Hi, mom," Tara said, greeting you with a smile on her face.

"Hey, sweets," you said, smiling back at her.

"How was it with Joel?" she asked, setting aside her phone.

"It was... complicated," you admitted, sinking onto the couch beside her.

Tara placed a supportive hand on your shoulder. "Complicated how?"

"He offered me a job," you explained, "and it's not an easy decision to make."

"A job? Why?" Tara asked, her curiosity piqued.

"He thought it could be a good opportunity for us," you replied, choosing your words carefully.

Tara's eyes widened in realization.

“To rekindle our friendship,” you said, before she thought badly of you.

"Are you considering it?"

You sighed, grateful for your daughter's understanding. "I don't know, sweetheart. It's a lot to think about. It's not just a job; it's a connection to our past, to him."

Tara nodded thoughtfully. "Well, whatever you decide, I'm here for you. Just make sure it's what you want.”

“And what about your dad?” you asked

“He is not your boss."

Tara's straightforward response made you chuckle. "No, he's not. But he's my husband, and I should consider his feelings too."

Tara rolled her eyes. "Mom, you're allowed to have a life outside of being a wife.”

You admired Tara's maturity, appreciating the clarity in her perspective. "You've grown into a wise young woman, you know that?"

A hint of a smile touched Tara's lips. "Well, I've had a good teacher." She leaned in for a hug, and you embraced her, thankful for the bond you shared.

You found yourself alone with your thoughts. The house was quiet, and the decision about Joel's job offer lingered in the air like a delicate whisper. You knew it wasn't just about work; it was about revisiting a past that had shaped you in ways you couldn't deny.

Later, after Tara had gone to do her homework, you found yourself alone with your thoughts. The house was quiet, still not in sight of Dwight coming home, and the decision about Joel's job offer lingered in the air like a delicate whisper. You knew it wasn't just about work; it was about revisiting a past that had shaped you in ways you couldn't deny.

Taking a deep breath, you picked up your phone and dialed Joel's number. The call rang for a few moments, and then his voice filled the silence. "Hello?"

"Hi, Joel. It's me," you said, the hesitation evident in your voice.

"Doe?" he responded, surprised.

"What did I say about calling me that?" you asked, with a tiny smile on your face.

“Right. I’m sorry”

"I've been thinking about your job offer. Can we meet tomorrow at your workplace to talk about it?"

A brief pause followed, and then Joel replied, "Of course, I'll text you the address.”

"Okay,” you said. “See you tomorrow, then.”

“See you tomorrow,” he replied. “Take care.”

The call ended, leaving you with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty about what was coming into your life again.

Towards the end of the conversation, Tommy glanced at Joel with a skeptical smile on his face. "Do we really need an assistant?" he inquired, unaware of his brother's hidden intentions.

"No," Joel replied, a smile playing on his lips. "But we're going to have one."

tags 💌: @joeldjarin @missladym1981

400 notes · View notes

cocteaucherry · 3 months

Note

this idea just popped into my head

but what if the reader was a first year, and they liked to call nanami their best friend (like gojo, but less menacing and more understanding and soft ig?) because they enjoyed nanami's reaction and reader was basically a happy little furball until they see a second year, gojo, declare that nanami is his best friend and it basically ends up in small little competitions between gojo and reader on who is nanami's best and better friend, and during those mini competitions and months, they start to realise something about each other and in the end, it ends up turning into gojo tyring to secretly impress reader and reader secretly trying to impress gojo, and nanami is just stuck being in the middle of all that.

this is the cutest concept so here’s what I have! For now I’ll probably make a pt.2

“Come on Kentoo! Why can’t we check out the new crepe shop?” A frown appeared on your face crossing your arms, “I already told you I have a long mission tomorrow.. and knowing you we’ll be out until morning.” He sat against the stone step, his head resting in his hands.

“Uhm.. nu uh..” you said in a teasing tone, you sat on the step next to him poking his cheek with your finger, you had met nanami on your first day attending Jujutsu High. You sat miserably outside having forgotten your lunch in your dorm, this didn't go unnoticed by Nananmi and he very kindly offered to share his. Ever since that day you and Nanami are usually always together.

“Please please please? Just do it for your best friend!” You pleaded clasping your hands together to give him a feigned pitiful look, Nanami knew what kind of game you were playing but his body betrayed him. Anytime you called him your best friend butterflies would erupt in his stomach and his skin would burn causing a blush to spread across his body.

He rolled his eyes trying his best to contain his composure, “F-fine-“ he was interrupted by you hugging him tightly, “Yayyy! Well let’s get inside, it’s chilly,” you exclaimed standing up, Nanami sighed standing up, he walked a bit up the steps opening the door as you stepped through. “So what flavor do you think-“ Your question was interrupted as you were bumped out of the way by a tall figure, “Nanamii! What’s happening?”

A lanky arm was wrapped around his shoulder as Nanami stared annoyingly at the figure, “Seriously Gojo?” He groaned out a very apparent vein popping above his right brow, ah Gojo you’ve heard of him around campus but you didn’t see him.

All of a sudden you felt a glare hit you and it caused chills to radiate down your spine, “Nanamii! Don’t tell me you’re cheating on me?” He pushed his shades down to stare at you, his bright blue eyes glaring marks into you. “Oh no no! He’s just my best friend.” This statement wouldn’t help your argument as a strange grin appeared on his face.

“Ohh? Well I’m sure Nanami could attest when I say I’m his best friend.” The senior snickered as Nanami peeled himself away from Gojo’s grasp, “I can assure you’re not-“ a finger was placed on his lips as the snow white haired boy kept his gaze on you, “As much as I’d like to entertain me and Suguru are going to that new crepe spot,” he bought his finger away to play with the bridge of his glasses. “I’ll see ya later nanamiii and y/n '' he said, opening the door and walking out into ending summer breeze.

He knew your name? But more importantly was the competition bestowed in front of you, nanami saw your face and offered a weak smile. “Don’t mind Gojo.. he’s a little too cocky for his own good.” You turned out his voice, already debating your next move, little did Nanami know a bounty was placed on his head

“Anything he could do I can do better”

Challenge one- Gift Giving

A week later the challenge had begun, you weren’t sure if Gojo had reciprocated the glares you exchanged with him in the halls but you sure had. You decided you needed to go all out, on Nanami’s desk that very morning a bento box wrapped nicely along with some little candies. Coincidentally Gojo had been walking with Nanami to his class, when both their eyes locked on the cutely wrapped lunch various reactions appeared, Kento had confusion and Gojo had confused anger.

“It’s very nice of her don’t you think?” Kento smirked to himself holding up one of the candies, Satoru’s jaw ticked a delayed nod following after. “Yup.. well I gotta get going.” The white haired boy said walking with quickness to get out of that classroom, he stood outside the door pondering his move as he sensed a specific energy pass through the halls.

A pep in your step and a sick smile on your face as you passed by, you glanced up at Satoru giving him a shit eating grin as you turned the corner. A vein popped in his neck as a grin passed on his face, “So that’s how it is..”

“Anything she can do I can do better”

Satoru passed around his dorm In a fitted rage, his anger being experienced by his tired eyed best friend sitting on his bed. “Can you believe she did that? I mean! I didn’t even get to make the first move!” He was upset he didn’t make the first impression. “Satoru.. is it that serious?” Suguru stretched his hands staring at the mini pieces of paper Satoru had him cut and write on, ‘100 reasons why you’re my best friend’. “How many years have we been friends, I’ve never even gotten a hundred reasons.”

“Anytime I try to express any emotion to you I get shunned.” Satoru rolled his eyes, staring at the gift basket he had arranged for Nanami, “I need more ideas.” He groaned, rubbing his eyes. “Can’t believe you’re letting a first year work you up like this, I mean.. shouldn’t you be trying to impress some of our superiors?” Suguru smirked, tapping his fingers on his upper thigh, “well, personally I don’t give two shits about them.. they’re weak.” Gojo mumbled kicking at the wood floor.

“Oh? Is the Satoru Gojo sweating over two first grade sorcerers, never thought I’d see it.” Suguru huffed with a grin.

Satoru’s jaw dropped as he quickly tried to correct himself, “No! No! I’m not!” he exclaimed, sliding his glasses off to thump his head with his own finger. Then a metaphorically lightbulb appeared above his head, “What time does the bakery open tomorrow morning?”

Oh you were pissed, that afternoon you walked with Nanami to the training field carrying his large gifts from this morning, you weren’t able to see the set up but apparently. A blue gift basket was there stuffed with scraps of paper, flowers, candy and about seven different varieties of bread. Kento walked, taking small bites of bread as he walked, the expensive blue name tag hung from the basket and mocked you. “Y/N, I’m telling you it’s not that serious”

But now it was serious Satoru check matted you on the first round, you’ll have to bring your A game to the next challenge Acts Of Service

#jujutsu kaisen #jujutsu x reader #x reader #jjk x reader #jjk imagines #jjk fluff #fluff #gojo x you #gojo x y/n #jjk gojo #gojo x reader #suguru geto #nanami x reader #jjk nanami #nanami kento #jujutsu nanami

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bbodiless · 12 days

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CABIN ARENA | Geto x Reader

content. +18 mdni, NOT PROOF READ!!!!college au, enemies with benefits, oral sex, piv, body worship, camping, series, drinking, overprotectiveness, non-sorcerer au, petite reader, size difference, jealousy, obsession, unlikely situations, slow paced, etc.

wc: 2.0k

part 1/?

Geto and you have been enemies since the 8th grade, when you met. You hated him because he was oh, so arrogant. He hated you because you were so loved when you came to the school, and because you were so smart, which mean't it was constant competition because he was also one of the grades smartest people. You took pride in being so smart but it was a pain in the ass having to constantly work your ass off to compete with a boy in your grade. When you first met him, he was a nerdy boy with braces who didn't catch the eye of girls around you. But in high school? He was eye candy. Every girl was obsessing over his looks while you were obsessed with who was getting a higher grade between the two of you.

But to your unlucky luck, you ended up both getting into a good college; the same college. Luckily, you didn't share a dorm since girls and guys weren't allowed to be in the same dorm (probably because they didn't want any unexpected 'surprises'). But that rule didn't count on this cabin trip.

. . .

the morning of the trip...

You packed a bag the night before since you were always determined to prepare in advance. Your hands were tied with getting ready and making sure everything was completely packed before it was time to go. There was lots to make sure you had since it'd be a week-long trip; toothbrush? Check. Weeks-long worth of clothes? Cheeeeck...? Books? Check. Phone? (Even though there won't be any service) Check, duh. Everything else was checked off and now all you had to do was change. Since it was summer, and hot, you wore a pair of army-green shorts with a white, form-fitting tank-top, including all the other necessities for an outfit. But the one thing you were dreading was seeing him; your rival.

There always happened to be some underlying, unreadable tension—that you could never understand—when you were around him. It was always simmering just underneath the surface. Just as you went deeper in thought about it, your phone made a pinging noise, pulling you out of thought. Tending to the notification, you read it and it was a message from a friend, telling you the van was leaving in fifteen minutes, making you hurry and grab your bag and head downstairs.

Down at the van, you spotted a few acquaintances, then your eyes landed on him, Geto Suguru. Your breath hitched at the sight of him and some popular-looking, tall blonde. She was model-like, beautiful eyes with long lashes. You didn't understand this odd, steaming feeling in your body that simmered just underneath the surface of your skin; but it made your blood boil with hot fury. But, god! You weren't supposed to feel like this; you hate him, right? You were just... taken aback by the fact that he could even attract women... mhm... Oh, what were you kidding? He's gorgeously charming! Of course he can attract women! Especially women like her. You sigh once your breath returns and walk over to the van, his eyes not even glancing away from her to give you a teasing look. But that doesn't matter to you, right?

You put your bag into the back of the van, securing it with the black strap. Getting in the van seems smooth, until you realize that you aren't just sitting on a seat, but there isn't enough room; you'll be sitting on his lap. Your mind races with thoughts until you're again interrupted by a sudden familiar voice. "Oh, isn't this a pesky coincidence?" His voice sends shivers down your spine. The bass of it is deep, the huskiness is just the right amount, same with the raspiness. You spin around to which your eyes meet his arrogance-filled orbs. He's leaning against the door of the van, arms crossed over his broad chest. Your lips part slightly, and your cheeks flush a shade of rosy pink. "W-What do you mean?" you stammer, the fact that you're flustered and slightly distraught from what you saw just a few moments ago catches up with you.

"I'm just saying that it's a coincidence that we hate each other yet there's not enough room so you'll have to sit on my lap. Isn't it great?" he teases. His tone is so smooth. You roll your eyes, not even wanting to bother with him right now. Turning back around, you feel a heavy palm on your shoulder, causing you to stop in your tracks. "I don't even get a response?" his husky voice utters, so close to your ear that you pray in your mind that someone else's eyes are witnessing this. Your body betrays you and goosebumps form on your arms. "What do you want from me, Suguru?" you grit out. In response, you get a low chuckle before he lifts his hand from your shoulder and suddenly the heat emitting from his body is replaced with the cool breeze of mother nature herself. He's gone, getting into the van. The blonde from earlier sits up front while you both get into the back, watching the others load in while you attempt to adjust on his lap.

You suddenly feel a warm breath against your ear, then a voice that grits out "Stop". His hands come down on your hips, holding you in place. "Lean back against me unless you wanna fly out the windshield," he says, pulling your torso back against his chest with his forearm. Your body goes rigid at the proximity. Being so close to him isn't for the weak. The ride goes on for a little with you trying to ignore the pulsating sensations between your thigh—which you pray he can't feel. Sadly, you sat like this for a few hours—two to be exact—without any bathroom breaks or anything.

. . .

At the campground, where the cabins lie, the view was beautiful: clear skies, beautiful hues of purple, orange, and pink filling the sky, mountains with the greenest grass; it was perfect, save for the one person making this trip slightly worse, but you wouldn't let him ruin your fun. As you gazed at the breath/taking view, you suddenly felt a nudge on your side, causing your instincts to kick in and making you turn around as quickly as lightning. Surprisingly, it wasn't your arch nemesis. It was a professor, one of the chaperones. "You okay there, y/n?" they asked, mildly concerned. You nodded and smiled weakly, slipping past them with your bag on your shoulder, heading to the cabin; cabin 9. You walked the trail that branched out into other little walkways to the cabins and other spots on the campground until you found yours, or the one you'd be sharing. They were hard to differentiate because of the fact that they're all identical, save for the small, rusted numbers above the head of the frame.

One of the professors said that the keys would be handed out sooner or later by another chaperone, most likely later tonight. There was only a select few students—around 20—going on the trip, since it was only for a club that you had joined. You stepped up the porch steps and headed into the cabin. To your shock, Geto hadn't been inside there yet. Or maybe he had and he just already left, more than likely the first since his bag wasn't there. It was a small cabin with a naked bulb attached to the ceiling, along with another room that you assumed was the bathroom. It was like your dorm but more woodsy. But thank god for it having two beds. There were two nightstands in the middle of the twin beds on either side of the room, one for you, one for him. You began unpacking as you heard the knob of the front door twisting, making that small screeching sound as the door pushed open. It wad obviously Geto, so you didn't pay any mind until you saw him out of your peripheral vision.

Your lips pressed into a thin line as you pulled your neatly folded clothes out of the bag. The proximity became increasingly bothersome as he crossed the room, setting his bag on his bed. You hated being alone with him, especially in silence.

. . .

There happened to be a some-what party tonight by the bonfire. It'd have music, beer, and weed; all the things a party has. You dressed in something similar to what you wore earlier but a bit more fitting for a party. Dressed in some basic, light jean shorts with a white tank top, you headed out of the cabin. Geto had already left as the blonde girl from earlier came knocking at the door. She seemed just his type: sweet, submissive, tall. You weren't any of those things, sort of, but that isn't the point. You spotted a few friends and caught up with them, drinking a little beer, just enough to get a small buzz going, you were never a heavy drinker. You eventually spotted a guy—tall, dark, and handsome—that caught your eye. Your friends encouraged you to talk to him. And to your utter surprise, you did. You headed over there, bracing yourself for rejection, just in case it happened. He seemed a bit surprised when you came up to him, smiling and laughing with you as you flirted back in forth. But something was wrong.

You felt someone's—you couldn't lay a finger on whose—eyes on you. You ultimately ignored it though, allowing for the mood to settle in. But just as you were about to be swept away by this charming man, you felt the strong grasp of another on your upper-arm. You whipped your head to the side and it was Geto. "I need to borrow her for a minute," he said. And before you or this man—you never caught his name—could protest, he swept you away and pulled you through the crowd with a tight jaw and an even tighter grasp on your arm. You were dragged back to the cabin, he slammed the door behind you as you both rushed inside. "What the fuck is your problem?" you exclaim. He runs a hand through his hair as he paces the room, leaving you dumbfounded. "You wanna know my problem? You. You are my problem, y/n."

Your lips parted with confusion and utter shock. "What the- What do you mean?" you ask. He stops pacing and looks at you. "Oh god, y/n. Do you have any idea what you're doing to me? Every touch, every word, it's driving me insane," he says, his words like a desperate plea. Your eyebrows pinch together in disbelief. "You're joking, right? This is some dumb plan to make me a fool, to make me look dumb. Ha-ha, well played," you say with mock-amusement. His eyes narrow. "This isn't a fucking joke. Are you kidding me? You don't understand the absolute torture it put me through to see you all giggly and bubbly with that guy. The amount of restraint I put on myself to not tear him to shreds when he touched you," he growls. What the fuck, you think. You swallow harshly as his form nears yours, the heat emitting from his body warming the atmosphere. "This need—this obsession with having you—" He pauses, "it consumes me entirely." You seriously don't think you've ever been more confused yet turned on in your life. "But... you hate me. You tell me it all the time and make it so obvious," you say softly.

"You know it's just for show. It's all a faux act." His lips are mere inches away from yours. "Earlier? When you were on my lap, sitting that perfect little ass on me? The fucking restraint I had to put on myself when I felt you throbbing on me. God, y/n. You don't even know the half of it," he scoffed with a snort.

part two coming soon :)

#jjk x reader #jjk #jjk smut #jjk x you #jjk geto #geto suguru #getou suguru x reader #geto headcanons #suguru geto smut #jujutsu geto #geto x you #geto smut #geto x reader #geto x y/n #jjk fanfic

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3rachasdomesticbanana · 2 months

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Together Again

It had been a month since you'd last been with your boyfriend. You missed him like crazy but you understood that he'd be home soon after the tour. Han on the other hand was getting restless and it was starting to drive the other members crazy. If he wasn't sulking and staring at pictures of the two of you, he was wondering out loud what it was that you were doing. 9 times out of 10 you were asleep due to the time differences and he knew that but it didn't stop him from wondering about you.

Their plane had just landed safely in London around lunchtime and he took the opportunity to text you as soon as he was in the van headed to the hotel. It was a little after 5pm for you so the two of you were able to talk a lot longer than usual. He was ecstatic to hear your voice when you called him and he instantly started to tell you about everything going on, but he felt bad. He knew how much you've always wanted to visit London. When the two of you ended the call, the need to see you and be with you just grew even stronger. It got to the point that Minho suggested he'd stuff him into the hotel's air fryer instead of Hyunjin. Yet Han paid his best friend no mind. He had an idea. One that he absolutely needed to see through, even if it meant he'd probably get scolded by his managers.

Nervousness and excitement coursed throughout your entire body when you stepped out of the hotel elevator and walked to your room. Without anyone knowing, Han paid for your plane ticket and hotel room for the whole duration of his stay. He even managed to get you a ticket to the concert that was in two days, which meant you two not only had plenty of time together but could also enjoy the city some before the show. Eventually he'd tell Chan first and then the others but right now the only thing on his mind was seeing you. It took him no time to find you after you told him you were there. He was practicing out of breath when you opened the door and he swept you off your feet in a hug, spinning you around the room and showering you with kisses.

A few hours passed by in a blur and the sun was slowly beginning to set while you both laid in bed wrapped up in each other's arms watching Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix - a favorite to the both of you-. Yet as much as he would love to stay like this, he really wanted you to see the city that you longed to see. After getting dressed and ultimately getting caught by Chan in the lobby, who simply told you two to be careful, you both put on your black face masks and left, walking out into the warm, breezy summer night air.

You got to see everything you ever wanted to see and it was all thanks to your boyfriend. You got to see King's Cross station and take the nerdiest couple pictures before breaking out into tears from laughing at the photos in his phone. He then takes you to a cute coffee shop, where you feed him bites of your white chocolate and strawberry cheesecake and your cheeks hurt from constantly smiling at how adorable he is. It's the best night that you could've ever asked for. From there you take a taxi over to the London Eye. Despite you both being afraid of heights, it's something that the both of you had always wanted to experience.

The view is beyond breathtaking and the city lights sparkle below so beautifully that the height doesn't bother either of you. He's pointing out various places that he can see and even points in the direction of where the concert will be held, although you know that neither of you can see it even from where you are. It's all so romantic with the lights changing colors around you and the moon's reflection off the waters below. Once at the very top and shrouded in the night he removes his mask and then yours, kissing you sweetly, creating a moment straight out of a romantic drama that you'd both enjoy.

With the night coming to an end he takes you to one last place. One you've never seen or even heard of. He himself hadn't known this place existed until the eight of them were on the plane and he overheard Jeongin and Seungmin talking about it. He knew it would be a memorable place to share with you, a first to share together. The Ever After Garden. Not just beautiful in sight with all the thousands of glowing white roses but also beautiful because of its purpose. The both of you make donations for the cause and walk hand in hand in awe, feeling touched but also happy that you both could do something special like this and donate together. He was right, the Ever After Garden was truly a memorable moment and you fell more in love with him than ever before. You felt so incredibly lucky to be able to be his and experience love in many different ways because of him. This man at your side is truly so full of love.♡

#han jisung #han jisung imagines #han jisung x reader #han jisung fluff #han jisung fanfiction #skz drabbles #han jisung fanfic #han jisung x you #han jisung oneshot #han x reader #han jisung drabbles #stray kids han #skz han #stray kids #han #stray kids han jisung

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blueseachelle · 8 months

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Hate

Sebastian Sallow X MC! Slytherin! Reader

WARNINGS:

Angst

Tears will fall

Depression mentioned

Summary: After Y/n defeated Ranrok, she chose to take the power for herself before Sebastian dived into the darkness. She sacrificed so much just to be cast aside. Will Sebastian realize what he has done to her or will it be to late? Will his dream of his trio being back together blind him from the truth?

I wanted to write angst. So, I decided to write this while playing angst music at 2 am. In this scenario, Solomon never died. MC beat Ranrok before Sebastian dove too far into the dark arts. For the sake of this piece, that's how it's gonna be. Please enjoy.

The fifth year has ended.

Lots have happened since Y/n started at Hogwarts. Ancient Magic, the Defeat of Ranrok, the death of her beloved Professor Fig, etc.

The magic Y/n now held in her body was simmering. She would sit in class, staring into space. The magic just buzzed in the back of her head like static. It never let up.

Of course, Sebastian Sallow was more than ecstatic at her recent development. He knew she could cure Anne. All he had to do was take Y/n to Anne and that's that. Easy, right?

Y/n watched as her roommates pack their items in preparation to leave for their families. She just sat there. She had nowhere to go. Professor Fig was her only family. He was like a father figure to her.

She thought about the past. Why did she decide to put herself into this mental hell? Oh yeah. To cure Anne. For Sebastian. She didn't want to do this for herself. Hell, she would have trapped that magic in that goblin silver container for the rest of eternity. But, of course, she has to help others. Not herself.

Y/n sighed. Her roommates bid each other and her goodbye as they rushed to their awaiting families. She just nodded in acknowledgment.

Just then, an owl flew into the window to her. In its talons held a letter. She watched the paper fall into her hands. It was from Sebastian.

The urge to just Confringo the damned letter rushed over her, instead, she opened it.

Dear Y/n,

I don't know what you were planning to do this summer break but, I would like to discuss some options with you. Ominis and I will be waiting for you in the Undercroft. Please don't tarry long. Ominis has to leave for his family soon. So, do I.

Sebastian

Y/n felt her eyes water. She held the letter away from her and burnt it in her hand with a wandless Confringo. She learned how to do this after she gained this horrid power. She blinked back her tears and stood up and put her green and black robe on. She left for the undercroft.

_-_-_-_-_-_

The magic in the back of her head seemed to buzz louder and louder as she made her way. She couldn't think anymore.

She finally made it to the clock. She waved her hand at it and entered after it opened.

"I don't know, Sebastian. She hasn't been answering all that much. She probably won't show."

"Oh shove it, Ominis. She will. Trust me."

Just then, Y/n walked into the open space. Sebastian turned to her. He smiled at her. She just looked at him with a blank stare.

"See, Ominis. She made it. Told you so."

Ominis ignored the brunette and "looked" the Slytherin girl,

"How are you, Y/n? Doing good I hope. No one's heard from you since... Ya know."

Y/n just stared blankly for a second before replying,

"I've been fine."

Ominis nodded and crossed his arms. He felt something off in her aura. Something sinister radiated off of her. What happened to her after she saved the school? Did Ranrok do something to her in the final battle?

Ominis worried for her. He cares for her and wanted to... to be okay.

Sebastian stepped a little closer. Looking carefully into her eyes. He could sense what Ominis was feeling as well. Her eyes would reveal all, he knew it.

Now, this is where things get slightly frazzled in Y/n's mind. Her eyes stared into his. All the memories that she shared with him surfaced. All the little touches. Sebastian and her escapades in the Forbidden Forest. The first kiss they shared after finding out that she could help Anne by using Isidora's magic that stems from Ancient Magic.

Y/n knows that he doesn't care what she had to sacrifice to help him cure Anne. Her sanity is gone. Peace is but a dream now. Nothing can help the buzzing in her head. After the passing of Professor Fig, she has been reevaluating all her relationships. Her connection to Sebastian revealed itself to her. She knew the only reason he wants her so close is to cure Anne. That's it. To make the past come back. The trio to be together again.

Y/n moved her eyes from Sebastian's to look to Ominis,

"What did you want to discuss?"

Sebastian came out of his trance by clearing his throat,

"I wanted to ask you if you wanted to spend the summer with me in Fieldcroft? Just hang out all summer with Anne and me. Ominis will visit often, of course. And, I don't know, you could heal Anne while you're there?"

The buzz became deafening. Y/n's anger built up. Her eyes darkened more than they already were. Her eyes were now a dull ice-blue color, emotionless. She breathed out a slight sigh.

"Fine. I'll visit in a few days."

Sebastian looked at her, crossing his arms,

"Why don't we go now? Everyone else is leaving today as well. We'll be there super fast since we have a floo fire there. It shouldn't be that long to pack either-"

Y/n swiftly turned and glared at him,

"I SAID, I will be there in a few days. Safe travels."

With that, she walked out of the Undercroft.

Sebastian looked to Ominis, in shock at the outburst. Ominis sighed,

"Something happened in her fight against Ranrok. Other than the death of a loved one, of course. I'll be there to check on you three very often. Mostly to check on Y/n."

Sebastian crossed his arms,

"Don't you want to visit more to check on Anne at all? Or this little crush caught ahold of you?"

Ominis felt Sebastian's defensiveness. Ominis shook his head at him,

"I understand now. Anyway, I'll visit soon. I'll write at least."

With that, Ominis apparated away. Leaving Sebastian to his thoughts. What did Ominis mean? Why is Y/n acting weird? So many questions yet, none can be answered.

-_-_-_-_-_-_-

It's been a couple days since Sebastian went home to Fieldcroft. He awaited Y/n's arrival. He was getting more and more impatient. He knew she was the only way to heal Anne. He needed to prove his uncle wrong. He needs to give Anne a second chance. He needed his trio back. Even if it kills him.

Sebastian wrote Y/n a number of times yet, no response. He then would write to Ominis, complaining about the situation with the blonde Slytherin girl. Ominis always responded because well, it kept him away from his family.

After another day, Y/n arrived. She didn't bring anything with her. No point. She was just planning to heal Anne and disappear. Let Sebastian have the trio he wished for. How it's supposed to be.

Y/n slowly walked to the little house Sebastian resided in. She made it to the door and took a deep breath before knocking.

Not even in a second's time, Sebastian opened the door. He smiled his normal dimpled smile. He stepped to side,

"Hello, Y/n! We've been expecting you. Come in."

So, now, she was treated like a stranger. Great. She stepped into the house and was instantly greeted with a hug from Anne. She hugged the girl back. The brunette girl looked at her,

"It's been a while! How have you been, Y/n? Feeling better?"

Y/n just nodded. Anne released her and gestured to the chair at the table,

"Please sit. Make yourself fell at home!"

Y/n sat down at the table. Sebastian sat in the chair next to her as Anne sat across from them. Solomon peaked his head from the doorway of the kitchen to the small dining room,

"Hello, Y/n! Dinner is almost finished."

Y/n looked to him.

"Hello. Thank you for letting me visit."

Solomon smiled slightly before disappearing from sight.

Sebastian cleared his throat,

"So, how have your last few days been in isolation?"

Y/n just glanced at him slightly,

"Fine. Did some reading."

Anne nodded,

"I heard you are more than special, Y/n. Sebastian told me all about your abilities."

Here we go. Y/n just nodded. Just then, Solomon came in with bowls,

"I made some soup. Eat up."

He set them in front of everyone. He sat down as well to eat the dinner he prepared.

As everyone else chatted at the table, Y/n stared into her bowl. She took a couple bites here and there. The buzzing seemed to be a little more prominent than normal.

"-You see, Anne. I saw something that I think I found a cure, possibly."

Solomon sighed,

"Not this again. You know nothing works."

Sebastian locked eyes with the older man,

"I KNOW this will work. I have no doubts. Y/n is the cure."

Anne gasped and looked at the blonde girl. Y/n just kept her eyes down.

Solomon slammed his hand on the table,

"See! Look at what you've done. You gave Anne hope in something that isn't going to work! Stop this at once!"

Sebastian stood with his hands on the table,

"This is something to have hope in! I know this will work! I saw it myself! Now,"

Sebastian's gaze switched to Y/n,

"Do it! Heal Anne! Prove Uncle wrong!"

Y/n looked at Anne,

"Do you consent for me to try?"

Anne looked between Sebastian and Solomon. She didn't know what to do. She took a breath,

"Do it."

Solomon's eyes widened as Sebastian gained a smirk.

Y/n held her hand out and closed her eyes. She channeled her buzzing throughout her body. Slowly, from Anne's chest, A mixture of green and red magic formed in a ball. The ball slowly moved its way across the table into the blonde Slytherin's hand.

After a couple seconds, green faded from Anne's chest. The ball now was completely only with Y/n. It suddenly forced itself into her palm and she felt everything cycle through her body. The emotions caused by this curse filled Y/n's body. She kept an unfazed physic as Anne confirmed that the curse was lifted.

Sebastian was the first to hug Anne with tears running down his face. Solomon hugged the two into a bear hug. As they cried and talked excitedly, Y/n got up without being noticed and walked out. The pain of the curse racked through her body. She walked down the trail towards Hogwarts as she processed her thoughts and feelings.

Anne looked around for the blonde girl yet, she wasn’t there.

“Where did Y/n go?”

Sebastian wiped his face and looked at the slightly cracked door,

“It’s okay. You can thank her later. She probably already knows you are grateful for her healing. Anyway, we have so many spells and information to catch up on so you can attend Hogwarts again!”

-_-_-_-_-

Y/n laid in her dorm room. The pain clamored through her body. Yes, she could remove it but, she welcomed the pain. It helped keep the buzzing in her head at bay. She stared at the roof. She still couldn’t think for some reason. All that ran through her head was the pain and the memories of Sebastian. He used her. For his benefit. She cared for him still even though he caused her to go down this path. She wished he could be blameless but, he knew what he was doing by playing puppeteer. She felt as if she was hung by strings and danced to the music Sebastian decided. What they say is true, Love is blind.

The rest of summer consisted of really nothing. Y/n didn’t receive any letters from Sebastian. Ominis wrote to her and asked if she was okay. She replied to his letters but, of course, she lied and told him everything was okay. Ominis, on the other hand, knew these were lies. Yet, he can only write because of his parents strict eyes. He can barely go to Sebastian’s. He was grateful that Anne was healed but, it wasn’t the same. He knew it even though Sebastian wanted his little fantasy. Ominis is nice to Anne but, not as close as he once was. He longed for Y/n’s presence more. He grew to admire Y/n and thought of her as a close friend. He hated to see Y/n so… different. Yet, he can only wait until school started once again before he can do anything.

Y/n learned a lot from being alone. She learned to embrace this strange feeling. Don’t reject it. She read books and talked to this darkness. It taught her things. She enter the Scriptorium as Sebastian wanted to but didn’t. It let her through instead of insisting on Crucio being used. She found the relics and read the book. The darkness thrived inside her. She became a parselmouth. She learned the forbidden spells. She learned Legilimency. She can take the form of animals. Now, when she stares at herself in the mirror, the darkness turned her eyes into a bright green color. She looked calm and calculated now. She didn’t let what Sebastian did to her hurt her any longer. She let it turn into anger. That fueled her change.

-_-_-_-_-_

School has started. Y/n watched the hustle in the common room. She mostly watched for Ominis, Sebastian, and Anne. She wanted tabs on them to avoid them. She will speak when needed. She finally spotted them. She smoothly retreated back to her dorm room. She requested to not have roommates this year. It was granted because she was the Hero of Hogwarts. Black couldn’t not accept it.

—

Sebastian hurried to the common room with his sister. They excitedly chatted as they made there way. After spotting Ominis, they three walked back to the common room. Once there, Anne, Sebastian, and Ominis searched for the certain blonde girl. Once they couldn’t find her, they decided to check the Undercroft.

Once they opened the door, Ominis could sense the dark magic that reeked in the air. Anne gasped,

“What happened here?”

Sebastian carefully walked to the pile of scattered pages in the corner. He looked down at them and picked on up,

“It’s not in English. I think it’s Latin. They are circular as they were wrote. Some type of spell.”

Ominis walked over, his wand blinking,

"No. I know Latin. From what my wand can make out, it's the same thing over and over."

Anne cautiously approached them,

"What does is say, Ominis?"

Ominis took a breath,

"Nothing normal."

Sebastian huffed,

"Just spit it out already, Ominis!"

Ominis took a breath before reading the papers with his wand hovering over them,

"He did this. He made me do this. He knows what he did. He will pay for his transgressions."

The room fell eerily silent. Sebastian felt his breath catch in his throat. He felt as if the air around him was against him. Anne gazed at the paper,

"Who caused this person so much pain?"

Sebastian let out a choked cough,

"I-I don't know but, this person needs to go to the looney bin, I say. Let me just pick these up and get rid of them properly."

He could feel Ominis's glare on his back. Bile rose in his throat as he burned the papers. As he turned around, the gate to The Undercroft opened.

The creaking caught the group's attention instantly. Y/n walked through them. Her usual long hair was cut short in a bob. She kept a stoic face. Her eyes were dull and empty.

Anne was the first to say anything.

"Y/n! It's nice to see you! I meant to thank you for well... giving me my life back. You have no clue how much I owe you."

Y/n's locked with Anne's. Anne felt a shiver rack through her body as Y/n spoke,

"You owe nothing. You are but a pawn in a game as we all are."

Her voice was as cold as ice. Ominis put the dots together quickly. Y/n spiraled because of Sebastian. He used her. Anger built inside himself. How could he let him do this to her?

Sebastian slowly spoke,

"Y/n. It's been a while. You cut your hair? Your eyes changed as well? How did you do that?"

Y/n stared at him. He felt her eyes pierced his soul. She then spoke after a minute,

"I decided to take all of the things I loved and get rid of it. I had many revelations over the break."

She shifted the book under her arm. Sebastian glanced at it. His eyes widened,

"Is... Is that Salazar Slytherin's Journal? Where did you get that?"

Ominis felt his body shiver. A coldness filled the room. Y/n glared at Sebastian as she hissed out,

"I owe you no explanation, Sallow."

Her eyes grew into a bright green from the dull forest green they were. Something filled her eyes as she locked eyes with the male. Sebastian recognized that look. It was hate. She hated him. Finally, the sky fell in on him it seemed. His eyes widened as the girl turned and walked away out of the Undercroft.

What has he done to his sweet Y/n?

Comment if you want a part 2 or if you think this is awesome! Thank you!

Part 2 of this work is Vile! You can find in in my pinned post under the Hogwarts Legacy Masterlist!

#x reader #hogwarts legacy #ominis gaunt #sebastian sallow x reader #sebastian swallow #hogwarts legacy imagine #sebastian x mc #slytherin

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cloudofbutterflies92 · 5 months

Text

Your lips on my lips, apocalypse

I finally managed to finish writing the One shot, I thank everyone who was waiting for their infinite patience, I hope you enjoy it. Likes and reblongs are always appreciated💕(and as always sorry for my poor English).

Tags:@chloekistune @graveyard-party666 @alypink @savlina @onehornedbeast @starryylies

"What am I wearing young lady?" Eden showed Chloe two outfits, a suit jacket, turtleneck pullover and all-black pants and a long red dress with a sweetheart neckline.

The idea of having to go on a date after more than two years had not even crossed the brunette's mind, quite the contrary. Had she listened to her mind she surely would have chosen to become a nun and lock herself in a convent.

"I suffer from the cold so I'm going for the former but knowing you you would choose the latter."

Chloe was right, Eden despite the cold would definitely choose that 'red dress.She had taken this characteristic from her great-grandmother Elizabeth according to the stories of her grandmother Helen, she loved to dress well and please.

"However, he has to explain to me your beau how he got your number" Chloe's statement gave Eden pause, indeed one of the questions she would have asked Simon would have been this.

"How do I look? Do I look like a salami?" Eden spun around in an almost robotic manner, perhaps in that case the dress for that evening would not have been an option.

Puffing, the young woman took off her red dress and decided to wear option one, much to the delight of a victorious Chloe.

"I love being right.”

"Just this once "Eden shouted reaching the bathroom, it was going to be a very long evening but she easily took little time to put on her makeup, nothing elaborate in the end. And just in time to hear the cell phone notification.

"I'd like to tell you I'm in front of the front gate but I'd turn out to be an 'idiot, nice tulips anyway" Eden read the message laughing, one of those laughs she probably hadn't had in a long time. Spontaneous and sunny.

"Read" Chloe peeked bringing her head to her forehead.

"He's an 'idiot but it was cute" sighed the brunette, feeling a strange sensation.She couldn't explain it but was she happy? Serene? And that was what she needed at that moment.

She walked out of her house afterwards as if she had to pass a test, she was shaking with nervousness and it was lucky she had brought her stress ball with her. That object had often saved her life.

Waiting for her by the small gate was him, and in the shoes of 'another person she would have burst out laughing thinking about the fact that anyway he was literally dressed the same as her, she would have found him even cringing.Except for the mask that covered him from his nose toward the lower part of his face.

"You stole my clothes?" he chuckled infecting her and then clearing his throat "how are you anyway?"

"I'm not used to having quiet moments anymore but all in all it's fine" she followed him to the 'car parked nearby, having the door opened in a very gallant manner.A whispered thank you and the two were in the car.

Simon looked very nervous, Eden could tell by the small drops of sweat that were brushing the blond's forehead.

"Here, this often helps me when I'm under stress" the brunette handed him her stress ball, brushing his hand for a 'moment he felt a rush. In his heart he was thinking exactly that, but he didn't want to rush. He wanted to enjoy the moments of that evening.

"Thank you, honestly I haven't been on a date in a long time and I'm fucking nervous about it," he started the car, in the background the radio with the 'weather announcement for the next few days framed those silent, understanding glances, ready to reach

their destination.

"Here is your carbonara miss, have a nice evening" the waiter served Eden the first course, being thanked very warmly by her. Simon's chosen restaurant made her a little nostalgic about her time in Italy, summer evenings together with Chloe and their group of friends on Saturday nights eating typical Italian pizza.

"I think you have the power of mind-reading, otherwise it can't be explained" she took a forkful of spaghetti, wrapping the pasta around the 'object's teeth.

"Do you think so? I'm not very good at reading people's minds.Actually I'm an impatient, pain-in-the-ass guy."

"Pain in the ass? Well in Russia you were" she chuckled, which seemed to leave him dumbfounded.

"I had fun though, with several stitches in my nose but collaborating with you wasn't too bad," she then added as she sipped her wine, making the SAS lieutenant smile.

"Judging from the beating you had taken it seems to have healed nicely, anyway I'm glad you are enjoying the carbonara" his gaze became very intense, almost studying every gesture of the woman in front of him.It was the first time Eden did not feel disgust towards a person of the male gender, although her head still screamed not to trust.

"And how do you know I'm enjoying it?" She brought both backs of her hands under her chin, blinking with amusement.

"I don't know, I noticed that in Russia when you seem to like something you make, like, noises like 'mhm' or something like that."

Eden burst out laughing, she had never seen a man so attentive and perceptive about details that no one had ever noticed about her.

"You must really like me to have noticed details like that."

"It could be you know?" He got straight to the point, not taking his eyes off her for a second as she found herself blushing like a stupid middle school girl.

Stupid, stupid, stupid. Did she really want to open her heart again after David had broken it and stomped on it?

"Are you blushing?Can you see it?"

"It's the wine" trembling she continued to drink, nothing was true. The wine was just a stupid lie. The reality was that she was beginning to find him cute, the balaclava and his manner was just a facade.The reality that Simon Riley was a human being, Ghost was just a mask to conceal his identity.He was showing himself to her as he was.

"Are you always like this? I mean so sweet" at the 'arrival of dessert, tiramisu in full Italian style Eden decided to play her card.

"It depends, I've lost faith in people but anyone who knows me knows that this is really just balaclava" Simon pointed to the piece of cloth, at that moment covering his neck.

"You know you should wear it less, it will sound silly but you have a handsome face."

Silence fell at that moment, Eden realized that she had crossed the line, the rule had always been in case of a date was not to open up with the person in front of her. But with him? With him it all seemed futile, he could penetrate every fiber of her body, for the first time Eden found herself in trouble.

"A handsome face? And then you claim you didn't blush luv?" Simon's crooked smile caused her to turn away, to find a way to change the subject.

"Well paying compliments I don't think there's anything wrong with that, however it made me homesick for Italy. I should go back there and"

"And? Change the subject Eden?" He brushed her right hand gently, drawing some imaginary circles with his own finger. With a deep breath Eden decided it was time to address the situation.

"Can we get out of here? I feel the air a little heavy" with that statement Simon without waiting a few seconds got up from his seat, with a disarming he went to pay the bill for both of them.

"Simon?"

"Let's not waste time."

"Yes but my bill?"

"I would never you pay the bill, come on let's go" he invited her to get up, helping her put on her jacket. In the end she was the one who had wanted this no?

With each step Eden's heart grew heavier and heavier, noting the discomfort Simon opted for a walk along the Thames.He had chosen just such a nice area to stay a little quiet and not be disturbed.

"For a Manchester man you have good taste, usually you Mancunians have a reputation for being rough" found the perfect spot Eden sat on the edge of the concrete wall that separated the land to the water of the river, a low laugh hung from Simon's lips, who remained fixed looking at Big Ben, which majestically towered over the city's night sky.

"I try my best Brummie girl, or would you rather be called a London girl?"

"I think citizen of the world sounds better, I don't have a definition of home" from the breast pocket of her jacket she took her faithful lighter, whose memories of her father were ever present.

"It must have a special value that lighter citizen of the world " he emphasized the last sentence.

A cloud of smoke escaped Eden's lips; that lighter evoked good memories for her, of her father and his kindness and desire to explore the world. But also bad memories, like that cursed night when she had failed to save him. That object served as a reminder to her of her roots and in a way for the guilt she had always carried inside.

"It belongs to my old man, it reminds me how special person he was”

"Kind of like this for me" from his neck he removed a necklace with a key pendant

"These are the keys to the family home, evoking memories of my mother. And how fucking proud I want to make her."

"I'm sure she is" those simple words from Eden were by the look on the Mancunian's face of great impact, silencing him.

"Did the tough Simon Riley remain silent? I'm just telling the truth, you finally worked your ass off to be here. You made lieutenant and a mom would be really proud to see a son accomplish a 'goal like that."

"Always said you're not bad " he sighed, causing silence to fall between them again. This time, however, their gazes were turned toward each other, Eden's head was full of thoughts. Kissing him and letting go or still trying to keep herself closed in, not letting her weak side show.

It all happened in a split second, a brushing of fingers, shoulders automatically coming together. And then lips colliding. A slow kiss, savored in every inch. Simon's hands moving a few unruly locks from that face so angelic and relaxed in that moment.

Eden felt literally suspended in a world where in that moment only they existed. Just her and Simon.

"I" she stammered with him gently stroking that cheek flushed from the March cold, fuck it and now? Now how was she screwed.

"No need to rush okay Edie?But I like you and so much."

Edie, that nickname sounded so sweet between her lips, the façade with which he had presented himself at that moment had fallen for good. Ghost no longer existed, there was only Simon. A man with feelings.

Back at Eden's house neither of them said a word; what had happened had left them silent. Eden especially, who was usually the much more talkative one had shut up, but glances were worth a thousand words.Running or not they both felt something that had been missing for too long.

"I hope to see you again soon, you have to hope some asshole doesn't decide to take me out" before she went back into the house they exchanged greetings, she looked at him amused even though a tumult of feelings swirled constantly mind within her.

"You are thick-skinned Simon Riley after all" she giggled and opened the small gate, however stopped by him before re-entering.

"Eden listen if"

"I need time Simon, nothing more"

"I know but know that I will wait for you. Be it a month, a year or 30 years. I will always be there waiting."

Such a statement Eden had not expected, however, from the way he was looking at her he seemed sincere. Eden merely sketched a smile, receiving as much from him before returning to her home.

"How did it go?" That was the first thing Chloe asked as soon as she saw Eden lying dead weight on the couch, and what came out of her mouth for her was a summary of the whole evening.

"We kissed and I'm an idiot."

"You look like you've been on a roller coaster" Chloe had already prepared an herbal tea, perfect for relaxation.

"Why do I always have to ruin everything? I could have said "yes I like you since we were together in Russia" but no, I had to tell him I needed time."

"That's not your style Miss Park" Chloe cheered with her, with both of them then letting out a sigh. Hope, one of Chloe's cats present at that moment left a meow that made the two of them burst out laughing, which was needed at that moment.

Especially thinking about the fact that her lips still tasted of him. And she would probably never forget that kiss.

Two days later

"I'm going to miss not seeing you hanging around the office anymore" Eden sitting on one of the chairs in her grandmother Helen's office looked around, that would be her last day inside MI6. Helen Park, the legendary agent had given so much but she was tired. She wanted to enjoy her last years of old age in peace, the latest tests had pointed out a further deterioration of her health due to Alzheimer's and an environment like that was not ideal.

"I'm sure you'll do fine without me honey, you've improved a lot and gained the trust of many here" Helen with much effort put the final signatures on her resignation as department head for human resources.As a last task it would fall to her to introduce her niece to a CIA colleague she was so close friends with.

"But it's not the same without you" seeing her grandmother left alone in that wolf pack made her realize the importance of that resignation. That place was teeming with rot; she herself had done things in the past for which she might as well have gone to jail. But she had always had her grandmother on her side, and now that she would no longer be there an emptiness within her began to arise.

Helen with all her maternal gentleness approached her granddaughter, sitting down beside her and taking her by both of her hands.

"Look into my eyes honey, you are a strong woman and I trust you. And most of all you are my pride" the knock on the door interrupted the two, with a whispered "please come in" Helen gave Reggie permission to accompany CIA Station Chief, Kate Laswell.

Eden's mind went only to one person at that moment:Simon. It had been since the night of the date they had together that they had not heard from each other, seeing one of the people related to him made her hope somehow to hear from him.

"Eden, you already know Kate" Helen introduced the woman to her niece who shook her hand.

"More or less yes, I know someone who is related to her" Eden said unspokenly that the two of them knew each other in some way, which led Kate to smile at her.

"We won't fail this time, I'm sure. I think you will like the mission I am about to propose" the blond woman handed her a file.Eden very carefully took it in her hands: the mission in question would be in Verdansk, capital of Kastovia, a nation located in the Caucasian region between Georgia and Russia. The main objective would be to intercept an attack on the city's well-known stadium, figure out the exact day and, most importantly, the instigator.

"When do I have to leave?"

"Tomorrow, my man is already there. You already know who I am talking about, he was the one who recommended you for this mission."

She knew who she was talking about, and she was not surprised that he was the one who recommended her as his mission partner.A lovely idiot.

Having settled the terms Eden accompanied her grandmother to greet her former colleagues, many of whom had words of appreciation for Helen, including Laswell who had also come there on purpose.

"You will miss Mrs. Park here so much," a familiar voice made Eden turn away, a voice that just hearing it irritated her.

David, her ex-boyfriend.

The bastard was a well-known United Nations lawyer, the son of Jack Wong and Pauline Kensington. Both well-known lawyers, and in the case of his mother related to the English nobility so a man with his back covered.

"What are you doing here?I thought you were busy kissing some diplomat's ass" Eden didn't go easy on the words, having the nerve to show up at her grandmother's goodbye was a bold move.

"Well I care about your grandmother, she is an important pillar of MI6 "he reciprocated the provocation piqued.

"Hmm, so much so that you betrayed her granddaughter? I'm sorry but your sentimental narcissist words don't stick" in all that bickering Helen reached out to her granddaughter. She didn't like David either but tried to keep a composed attitude.

"Come on honey, I just feel like making you a nice potato roast. David."

"Mrs. Park" very quietly the man greeted the woman who walked toward the exit, leaving Eden and David alone for a moment.

"Learn from your grandmother, I forgot. You are too much of a hothead to be one."

"I may be hotheaded but at least I don't cheat. I hope I never see you again dear David" with that goodbye Eden left behind that painful past and embraced a new beginning. Which had the face of Simon Riley.

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valeriefauxnom · 15 days

Text

Dev's (C)Leo Biases,

Or,

A Comprehensive History of How Leonidas Became Nearly Everyone's Object of Thirst

So, among the Dragalia Lost team, it was rather well known that they admitted to a strong Cleo bias.

It's pretty easy to see, in anything from Cleo's early spate of alts, like Dragonyule and Summer in quick succession, to the utterly random unique outfits they flaunted in ch.9 that you can just tell they drew for funsies but really liked them and wanted to put them in the game despite it serving no real purpose...

The dev team just really, really loved Cleo and drawing her. But after they apparently used up their Cleo allowance to make Gala Cleo probably the single strongest character in the game at the time, they cooled it down a bit.

However, as much as they were apparently thirsting over Cleo, I would joke that somewhere along the way, some part of the dev team, feeling desperate now that the yearly Cleo Allowance was running dry as they prepared to release Gala Cleo, decided to find a new fixation to quench their addiction.

And since Cleo was off-limits, they turned to the next best thing: crossing out the C in Cleo to find their newest substitute Dev Thirst character.

That's right, we're talking about the one and only Leonidas.

Leonidas had kinda just melded into the background with the rest of the siblings at this point to my observations. Sure, he was a campaign antagonist. People weren't particularly clamoring for him in particular over the other siblings, though. Honestly, I'd wager Emile was more popular at this stage, even in a 'love to hate' sense, just because we'd already seen him so much.

But then, it started. Whether it was art like this being posted on their twitter just a few scant months before G!Cleo's debut...

...They just seemed to have a certain edge in artworks featuring Mr. Curry in a way to make one squint and tilt your head sideways.

For instance:

It's one of those cases where you just kinda get a feeling the artist(s) found x attractive in a way that simultaneously still can give you a moment of self-doubt if that's not just you projecting because there's no blatantly obvious signs, you know? Whether it's something about the posing, or angles, whatever it is, I got this air increasingly whenever they put out any Leonidas art.

Thankfully, they decided to put me out of my misery and just flat out make what's likely the single most suggestive wyrmprint (or honestly art piece in general since Dragalia was thankfully very very very tame) starring none other than, you guessed it, Leonidas.

(Secret Cygames/Nintendo conversation, probably: "As you can see, it's vitally important that we draw this character in a speedo with sparkles around him." Nintendo: "...I'll allow it. This time.")

Even if he puts on some more clothes in the refined version, we're still back to that air I mentioned, as the shot focuses almost entirely on him instead of the wildly popular Chelle or his pet panther (which, yes, seemed to be an actual pet of his):

Even the Ilia-damned funny chibi comics got in on this thirst train as it went on and made quite possibly the raunchiest joke in the entire 400+ comic run featuring Leonidas, even if the exact same joke didn't make the translation overseas, however they tried. You can see a brief breakdown of that in THIS post.

Not content to restrict it to art and comics, Leonidas also dropped this line that is permanently engraved into my mind with just how shocking it was to see anything of this caliber in Dragalia, in his baby brother's story to boot!

At this point, I could no longer deny it: the devs and artists had collectively acquired a new fixation to satiate their once insatiable Cleo appetite in the form of Mr. Currymeister. (Don't worry about Emile there, he's just drowning, he does that all the time in waist-high water)

And this attitude even extends to in-universe, too! People increasingly fawned over the first prince, who very much was filling in the role of 'this prince you know vs. his hotter and more competent elder brother', as virtually represented by my expert skills in Microsoft Paint artistry as such:

Naturally, there was only so much time before the people IRL could succumb to Leonidas Fever (and no, this time we're not talking about all the people who were so devoted to this dude to effectively set themselves into a fatal, firey, steroid-filled death!) at this unrelenting onslaught.

It was hard not to see comments such as these that started pouring in (and yes, all of these were just about Leonidas exclusively):

(I'll attribute the misspelling to being overcome with Leonidas Fever, a grave illness indeed!)

(Another serious symptom: the decline of any self-preservation instinct around Leonidas, who is indeed Very Dangerous and Will Kill You!)

Ahem. You get the picture. Thus concludes the slow, insidious buildup from just another sibling for Euden to probably commit a whoopsie-daisy fratricide in the future to one of the fandom's favorite menaces, all carefully plotted-out by the collective efforts of devs who were the first to succumb to the sickness...Right?

This concludes my professional historical report on this very serious issue that I suspect lingers to this day. The Fever has but been put into remission; it has not faded yet.

Extra:

So a long time ago I commented that some of the royal family seemed to have pointier teeth than normal, which I speculated because they deliberated giving a bit more 'draconic' traits to define dragonblood, and I didn't realize how pervasive this was until I saw Emile's model there. Look at his fang!

...

...How did I forget the weapon skin of Leo's gun is additionally named "Royal Dominator"?

#The royal family truly robbed the bank with their genetics. Magic powers. Sharp-looking as a whole...and they have been for 300 years+!#dragalia lost #dragalia #leonidas #He's strong. He's handsome. He's a fantastic chef. He's had cat ears put on him in a comic.#the People were to put it bluntly Screwed or so I would reckon in my comprehensive study of #'why the heck are you guys thirsting over xyz character NOW?'#...Also a very formal scientific field.#I'm additionally glad in the end that Leo bore the brunt of this #Since at least he's likely 25+. A disappointingly high amount of media can't even manage that!

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lowkeycasanova · 1 year

Text

Waiting on you

based off "When you're ready" by Shawn Mendes

"I was selfish for being with him. I was in a really bad place and it started to affect my, our, relationship. So I took a step back. Vinnie waited for me, as he always promised. We came back when we were both ready."

He probably had one too many drinks, but fuck it. It was what he needed right now.

Everyone sat around the fire pit, talking, laughing, playing the guitar a little bit. A way to celebrate the purchase of the new house, it was like a small house warming party with all of them together. Jett found out that you were going to be in the area for the first time in forever, so he invited you last second. Vinnie didn’t even know you were going to be here until he saw Jett greeting you at the front door a few hours prior.

When your eyes met and he saw the gentle glow from the fire illuminate your face, it was a solid reminder that you were in fact sitting across from him.

You were able to see Jack and Jett again, along with his girlfriend, and you got to meet their new friends Adam, Max, Max’s girlfriend Maykayla and her friend Taylor.

The night continued into early morning as you caught up with the people you knew and got to know the ones you didn’t. Even finding yourself looking at Vinnie from time to time.

Jack then announced that he was tired and would he going inside. One by one, everyone else went after him. You lagged behind picking up the drink glasses and other items. Although you really didn’t need to since you were the guest, but you didn’t mind.

After picking them up and setting them down in the kitchen, you wiped your hands on your pants.

“I wish I’d known you were gonna be here.”

Your body went stiff and you looked over and saw Vinnie standing in the doorway, seemingly hesitant like he didn’t want to walk in, until he did, taking a deep breath.

“I assumed Jett was going to tell you.” You replied.

Vinnie nodded understandingly and walked up to the kitchen island where he stood across from you. You two stared at each other for a moment. It’s really something how much people can change in Beale two years.

“How have you been?” He finally asked.

“Good. School’s been school. What about you. I heard about you joining one hundred thieves a while ago.”

“It’s pretty fun. We’re actually filming something in a couple days.”

You nodded and crossed your arms over your chest, like that was gonna stop your heart from beating fast. “I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you too.” He whispered. “Sorry for the way it ended.”

“You don’t have to apologize.” You told him and he ran a hand through his hair nervously.

—

The last time you saw Vinnie was over a year and a half ago. You had met Vinnie through mutual friends, and you two were closest out of everyone.

It was more than a summer time fling. With you and Vinnie in close proximity all day and doing nearly everything together, it's like it solidified the interest you felt in one another.

Strange, because you both had told yourselves previously that you didn't want a relationship at the moment. Although you never told each other that.

It was when you went back home to Brooklyn when things started to fall apart.

How naïve of you two to think that the long distance thing would work.

Not only the distance and time zone difference, but you were both becoming busier with your respective schedules: you with school and him with social media, gaming and modeling.

Texting and facetiming everyday made it more bearable. You couldn't visit LA that much because of how demanding your school schedule was, so Vinnie came to New York as often as he could. But it wasn't the same. Mentally and emotionally, you didn't think you could do it, and that killed you. You couldn't be a good girlfriend to him right now.

"I wanna be with you, but I don't wanna hurt you." you had told him the last time he came to see you.

The tears in his eyes broke the surface and they ran down his face silently. He sniffed and looked up in an attempt to keep the tears at bay.

"You know I love you." he whispered. "I flew to New York to get you back and I'd do it again."

He thought about that day often. He was confused, and sometimes angry. That maybe you were lying to him. That you were just trying to not hurt his feelings, but you'd get with someone else soon after.

But deep down, he knew you better than that.

In the following time after you officially parted ways, you saw so much of Vinnie's success online. How much he's done. He was even in New York just a couple weeks ago. Yes, you were a little disappointed at first that he didn't reach out, but you understood why he didn't. It wouldn't have been fair to either of you. And now you were right in front of him, but you didn't want to throw yourself at him in any way.

Your whole body seemed to be vibrating with energy.

"So..." he started. "You in a relationship or anything?"

You shook your head no and looked down. "You?"

"No," he mumbled and looked out to the darkness through the kitchen window. You don't know how you would feel if Vinnie were to have feelings strong enough to be with someone else. But you weren't in a place to judge.

You cleared your throat. "Well, what about Taylor?" you suggested, referring to Makayla's friend. "She seems interested in you."

By the look on his face, you knew it was a ridiculous proposition.

"Not at all." he said quickly. "I mean, she comes over a lot. And, we didn't sleep together or anything...but we made out heavily once."

Your eyes widened. "Why would you mess with her?”

Vinnie scoffed. "I told her from the jump I wasn't into her like that. But she's actually good at getting us drunk."

He came closer next to you, close enough to where your arms touched and he crossed his arms over his chest.

You tsked and turned from him, fiddling with the glasses. He took one and dried it off for you.

“I got it.”

He shrugged. “It’s my house. It’s the least I could do.”

"Maybe you could work it out with her." You said, going back to the previous subject. "Have you ever thought about-"

"No." he cut you off.

"But I mean-"

"What?" he asked as his eyes burned into yours. "You think I wanna settle? Just be in a relationship since it's better than nothing?"

"Well in general, if you like someone, don't let our past hold you back."

"Hold me back? That's exactly what I wanted. You told me that you couldn't be with me because of where we were at the time. So I waited. I figured one day we would both be ready to come back together. I didn't wanna be with someone else because it was 'good enough' at the time."

The kitchen lights then turned on rather suddenly, you and Vinnie both blinking to adjust to the harsh light.

Jett stood at the entryway, staring back at you both.

"It's late." Jett simply stated, but his facial features let you know that he was about to ask more questions.

"Yeah it is." you agreed before he could say anything else. You glanced at Vinnie briefly before walking away, and you heard his footsteps behind you.

And knowing Vinnie, he'd be knocking on your door to finish this conversation.

#vinniehacker #vhackerr #vinnie x reader #vinnie hacker imagine #vinnie x y/n #vinnie fluff

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backup-baby-backup · 6 months

Text

Cruel Summer: the hit that was meant to be?

Pictured: dramatic reenactment of us waiting for Cruel Summer to be a single for 4 years.

Background

This summer is the apocalypse.

-- Lover Journal entry, dated 29 August 2016

We all know about the cruel summer in question, right? To be fair, technically the cruelty of the summer stemmed from "a desperate summer love that might be doomed from the start" and "some element of desperation and pain in it, where you’re yearning for something that you don’t quite have yet", and not whatever Kim Kardashian was doing on Twitter, but given how those two events occured basically simultaneously, it's not outrageous to claim both experiences informed each other.

In 2018, Taylor went on the Reputation Stadium Tour. Between shows, Taylor started working on Lover, getting into the studio with Joel Little, Frank Dukes and our favourite producer Jack Antonoff. For Cruel Summer, however, there was something special: Annie Clark, better known as St. Vincent, was a credited writer on the track.

St. Vincent had worked with Jack for her 2017 album Masseduction, so much like how Lana ended up in the studio with Taylor, we can safely assume that Jack brought the two together. On 6 June 2018, St. Vincent mentioned that she had reworked one of her songs from Masseduction, Slow Disco, into a poppier production with Taylor's support. With this in mind, we can probably assume that she had cross passed with Taylor around this time. Taylor was papped recording at Electric Lady (Jack's stomping grounds) on 18 July 2018, which lines up with this theory. [1]

The failed single push

I’m not trying to blame the global pandemic that we had, but that is something that happened that stopped Cruel Summer from ever being a single.

-- Taylor Swift after performing Cruel Summer on tour in Pittsburgh, 17 June 2023

Cruel Summer had been a fan favourite from the get-go. When Taylor held listening parties for a select group of fans, it was the song that most people had positive feelings about. When Lover (the album) dropped in August 2019, it was the third most streamed track from the album, leapfrogging I Forgot That You Existed despite it being the second track. People started to lament the... poorly-received lead singles the album had. (I have nothing kind to say about those two tracks so I won't say anything.)

Then for a while, nothing happened. Taylor released Lover and The Man as singles to various degrees of success. The Man's disappointing (by her standards) chart run probably reignited discussion about how Cruel Summer would have smashed if it were only given a proper push and the GP had understood its talent. Then COVID came along, Lover Fest was delayed indefinitely, and it seemed that the Lover era was over, replaced by Taylor locking herself in with Joe Alwyn and drinking wine.

Then June 2020 came around, and...

Now how do we know that this is true? Apparently, Cruel Summer was added to AllAccess, a website where radio programmers download singles serviced to radio. While I can't verify this myself, I have seen numerous independent sources claim that Cruel Summer was uploaded to the site specifically on 17 June 2020. [2] Some radio website also ran with the story in early June, so I am inclined to believe this.

And it's not like there weren't any official hints...

Top to bottom: Spotify "enhanced album" promo mural, You Need To Calm Down music video, Amazon Music commercial, Lover music video [3]

The catch, however, is the Cruel Summer never got an official add date. An add date is "supposed to tell [radio] stations when to add a record to its playlist". Without an official add date, stations usually won't play your new song unless it's really hotly requested.

So the song didn't get a full label push and quickly died off, despite getting some radio play in 2020 (from anecdotal evidence), not appearing on the charts. And then in July folklore came out of the blue, and with it ended the Lover era, and seemingly all hopes for Cruel Summer world domination.

A music video?

While Taylor HQ is normally as hard to infiltrate as Fort Knox, over the years bits and pieces of information have leaked about her intentions for the rest of the Lover era. Chief among them was, apparently, to officially release Cruel Summer as a single to accompany her live shows in the summer of 2020. A music video was even filmed, before being scrapped when Taylor moved into the mythical forest of folklore.

-- Official Singles Chart (UK), 27 June 2023

Well, would Official Singles Chart lie? They do say "apparently" though, maybe to hedge their bets a little.

The problem with this claim, however, is the timeline. On 27 January 2020, Taylor released The Man as a single. She dropped the music video on Feburary 28th. Assuming a similar rollout for Cruel Summer, the music video would've come out in July. Given how the pandemic had basically put all possible filming activity to a standstill in March, it seems implausible that a music video would be filmed that early in advance, especially without knowing that the pandemic was on the horizon. Or maybe it was fully CGI and filmed in the luxury of her LA house, I don't know.

But I think there's a different catch here. Note how the above source claims that Cruel Summer would have been a single to "accompany her live shows in the summer of 2020", namely Lover Fest. According to the planned Lover Fest schedule, by the summer of 2020 she would be performing in Europe, including headlining Glastonbury.

Now consider Taylor's usual single rollout. Fearless, Sparks Fly, Red and New Romantics were all the last or second-last singles pushed from their respective albums, all of which got tour videos. [4] It seems that given how Cruel Summer would be the fifth single pushed according to the original plans, it most likely would've gotten the tour video treatment as well. Which makes sense: imagine a music video with her performing under broad daylight to huge crowds at festivals!

Cruel Summer 2: The Return of the Hit

With the advent of the pandemic something interesting happened: people started re-discovering old songs and making them into hits again. Catalogue streaming amounted to a whopping 70% of all streams in 2022. Running Up That Hill, a song from the 1980s, went viral again thanks to Stranger Things and this new ability that

Maybe it was because people wanted something familiar to go back to in a world where nothing was familiar anymore. Who knows. Many other music critics have written better articles about this phenomenon. What does matter, however, is that releasing singles from an album from years ago was now commercially viable. Sia, Lady Gaga and The Weeknd all did it to various degrees of success.

So when Cruel Summer, a song which had been among Taylor's most streamed songs for a while, acted as the tour opener on the Eras Tour [5], it would only further gain in popularity from then onwards, even re-entering the Billboard Hot 100 before it was even officially promoted to radio. And so her label moved to capitalize on this trend, and finally released Cruel Summer as a single on 20 June 2023, almost 3 years to the day after its original planned release date.

The million dollar question: would Cruel Summer have smashed if it was released as originally planned?

I'd say no. The general public had already moved on from Lover as the lacklustre The Man performance demonstrates. Besides, without the accumulation of popularity that Taylor had with folklore, evermore, the re-recordings, Midnights and the Eras Tour, who know where her career would've been?

(By the way, even if Cruel Summer had been the lead single there is absolutely no way it passes Old Town Road for #1.)

Timeline

Summer 2018: Cruel Summer is likely written around this time.

23 August 2019: Lover is released.

27 January 2020: The Man is released as a single.

27 February 2020: The Man music video is released.

5-12 March 2020: According to Steve from the IC, band rehearsals for Lover Fest took place during these days, with a whopping 32 songs.

19 March 2020: California enters lockdown due to COVID-19. Taylor was living in Los Angeles at this time.

17 April 2020: Lover Fest is officially delayed.

27 April 2020: Taylor writes cardigan, her first collaboration with Aaron Dessner and the beginning of the concept of folklore.

6 June 2020: Steve posts that cryptic message about folklore, signifying that the album was mostly complete by this time.

17 June 2020: Cruel Summer is uploaded to AllAccess, incidentally the same day as Steve teases cardigan.

20 June 2020: The European leg of Lover Fest would have begun on this day.

20 June 2023: Cruel Summer is officially released as a single.

23 October 2023: Cruel Summer hits #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Conclusion

Stream Cruel Summer.

[1] Cruel Summer is also the only Lover song to be registered on the US Copyright Office with a creation year of 2018, rather than 2019, suggesting that it was an early cut. (credit: @taylor-on-your-dash)

[2] Surprisingly, people have also claimed that I Did Something Bad was added to AllAccess in a similar fashion.

[3] That being said, if we take that hint in the Lover music video as hinting towards a Cruel Summer single push, this also means Afterglow was also meant to be a single...

[4] Do not quote me on this, Taylor herself didn't acknowledge that chorus of Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince either.

[5] Getaway Car should've been here...

#taylor swift #cruel summer #lover

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dangandisiacs · 6 months

Text

“parting gift.” rantaro amami + reader

cw: teacher/student [afab reader w/ gender neutral pronouns]

- mod phenomena

Another day after school. It was pretty normal for you to stick around campus. Today you were meeting with your math tutor, Rantaro Amami. (he always corrected you when you called him by his first name.) He was your tutor after all. That was it. You met on certain days, but he had asked for you to come to see him that afternoon. Usually, you'd meet in the campus library, but that day had a change of scenery. It's not that you minded or anything. You always looked forward to seeing him. (even if math was never your strong suit.) You paused right by the classroom door, gripping your cross bag.

"There you are," Rantaro acknowledged your presence but hadn't looked up from the teacher's desk yet. "I was starting to think you were flaking out on me." He softly laughed to himself, finally lifting his head up to see you. "You wouldn't do that to your big brother .. would you?" He asked. You couldn't tell if he was teasing you or not. "No way." You shook your head, giving in the contagious smile on his face. "Cmon , Cmon - I was just thinking about you." He waved you over, pushing himself out from the teacher's desk. (casually borrowing the computer chair.) "Yeah? Is that why you wanted to meet today?" You asked, making your way over to him. "You're a smart one, you know that? Taking the words right out my mouth."

You made yourself comfortable in an empty desk, pulling your math book out of your bag. You weren't sure that you had much left to do, being close to summer break and all. "Would you look at that?" Rantaro pushed your workbook towards you, "You've finished your assignments .."

"You did a good job too! I'm impressed." He definitely sounded that way, such a carefree face staring back at you. "I shouldn't be though." He flipped to the first page, only to close it. "I always knew you had it in you! You did so good!" He continued, getting you a bit flustered with the compliments. "That's why you're my favourite." He added, sincere with those words. You glanced down at your book, knowing how hard it was for him to teach you long division. (he enjoyed it though.) "Do you really mean that?" You questioned, glancing back up at him. "I wouldn't say that stuff if I didn't mean it." He assured you, "I really care about you-" He paused, leaning over the desk. "If you weren't my student, I'd probably be crushing on you." He confessed, watching your cheeks smother a blotchy red. Before you could think of something to say, he was already grinning.

"I'm just joking! You do mean something to me though. After all this time of being your tutor .. I think you've grown on me." He spoke with confidence, no hesitation in those words. While also sounding so condescending. "It's rough but.." He sighed, looking away from you. (was it hard to say it to your face?) "This is my last day here." He glanced back at you, struggling to meet your eyes. "Your last day? What do you mean? So-You .. You're leaving?!" You could've jumped right out of your seat when hearing that. "Woah there! It's-It's alright." He reached out to take one of your hands. "This is kinda embarrassing." He scoffed, placing his fingers over your knuckles. "It isn't like I want to. It's selfish of me. I just .. I can't stay here any longer." He sighed, rubbing his thumb past the top of your hand. (self-soothing?) "I don't want to hurt you, I want to protect you, but I know I can't do that."

"Of course you can, Rantaro! You've gotten me this far! And-And I'll miss you so much!" You pouted, the fingers beneath his grew shaky. "Oh .. C'mon .." His free hand moved to your cheek, "Don't start crying over me." He tried consoling you, sweeping those stray tears off your face. Surely, the metal of his rings were cool against your warm skin. "I'll miss my star student too." He let out a breath, tilting his head towards you. "Listen," He pressed those fingers against your face, half-holding you there. "You mean so much to me. From the first day we met I saw something in you. Something everyone else here lacks. Mhm." He nodded.

"I still do, you know?" He began, "You mean a lot to me. More than I'd like to admit." He paused. "I shouldn't be saying this out loud. It's kinda embarrassing to talk about this with you." He said, losing you there. (not to mention, his favourite student.) He sounded nervous. You always saw Rantaro to be straightforward and confident in his words. You sniffled, "What is it?" You asked, noticing his demeanor. There was something he wasn't letting out. Maybe if you stared hard enough at him you'd understand. Everyone else around you knew it. Your own tutor was into you. Hard. (a like? a love?)

It felt weird. Maybe that's why he never told you. It's now or never. "You're probably wondering why I wanted to see you today, aren't you?" Rantaro stood up, staring down at your seated position. You nodded, flustered at this endeavor. He was attractive for a tutor .. and his voice always made you feel weird. "I wanted to give you something to remember me by." He straightened his figure up with a smile. "You are my favourite after all. Always doing so well with me." He placed a hand on your head, rustling your hair. "Now that I think about it, It'll help me remember you too." He slid that hand down the side of your face, moving it up to look at him. "Don't worry! It isn't like I'd ever forget my favourite student." He smiled, patting your cheek. You couldn't help but smile through your bittersweet emotions! He was so kind to you. Was it more than that? Oh fuck. Now you were thinking about it. You weren't like those tumblr girls who crushed on their teachers. Were you? "Did you get me something?" You eagerly asked, hoping he had gotten you a farewell present.

He brushed his fingers off your cheek, staring down at you with a look you hadn't really seen before. "...Something like that."

"Could you stand up for me? You trust your big brother, don't you?" He asked, taking a step or two back. "Uhmn .." You sounded nervous. Was it a surprise? You didn't particularly like those. "Hey, It's alright. I totally understand if you're nervous." His gaze followed your movements from the desk, stopping right in front of him. (you'd have to look up at him, surely he was a few inches taller than you.)

"This is kinda silly, Rantaro." You hesitantly listened, getting down on your knees. "I didn't exactly have the chance to .. Spring this on you." He spoke, lifting his shirt up enough to show the skin of his belly. "This is something people do to feel close. I .. I won't forget you after that." He stared down at you, brushing those fingers down to his waistband. "You don't have to worry." He paused, "It's your call." He said, awaiting your response. Such hard-to-read eyes staring down at you! (normally he wouldn't do this out of the blue -!! but now or later?) You aimlessly watched as he tugged his pants and bottoms down, just enough to free his restless cock. (for you.) You paused, seemingly nervous to have his sex just before you. (you didn't know what to do!) You weren't sure what to do with your hands. Thankfully, he guided you to place them on his hips.

"There you go .." He hummed in satisfaction, letting his fingers linger over yours. He glanced down at your anxious face. (you had never done this before! should you tell him that? no. he would figure it out on his own.) "Don't look so nervous .. It's just me." Rantaro lowered his tone at the end of his sentence, but it still felt welcoming. "Uh huh.." You stifled out, barely moving your mouth towards the tip of his cock. You weren't exactly sure where to start though. (he noticed that,) "Here," You felt his hand gently tussle the back of your head. "Do you need help?" You'd hear his voice from above you. "Nmnm-" You hummed out, allowing him to nudge your head in further towards him. "Cmon. Can you say 'aah' for me?" He asked. You nodded, following that lead.

You'd feel the tip of his dick push past your lips, such an unfamiliar sensation. The pressure on the back of your head was gentle, with fingers carefully intertwining into your hair. (his rings indefinitely pressing against your head. much cooler than his warm cock prodding down your throat.) "Mhm. There you go .." He encouraged, carefully guiding your mouth further down his length. It was slow at first, just barely sliding inch by inch into your tight throat. "Ah?-It's not so bad, is it?" Rantaro asked, staring down at you. Such a nonchalant question! You couldn't speak, only getting out an 'Nnmnm' At that movement, you'd cautiously find a grasp around his hips, doing your best with him. Doing your best with his cock filling your throat inch by inch, hitting that thick saliva that resided at the back.

Rantaro slowly began drawing your mouth from his dick, followed by a passive scrunch of his nose. "Careful there! .. Aha-Ahmn .. " He cleared his throat, caught between the smooth feeling of your mouth on his dick, and: "Ah-Watch your teeth, sweetheart," He advised, though a little amused by your inexperience. If you were able to you'd apologize. "That's fine! You're doing good!" He smiled, slowly guiding that sweet mouth of yours back down his cock.

He didn't necessarily enjoy seeing your discomfort, but the squeezes around him each time he prodded at the back of your throat felt so good. "Well .. Look at that .." His breath seemed to quiver at the end of his sentence, tugging your hair back. "You're doing amazing," He laughed, ducking his head down further, partially jerking his hips against your mouth.

At this point, you somewhat had the hang of it. Drawing your mouth up and down his shaft, taking sharp breaths in your nose each time he'd jut his hips a little; little twitches and throbs prodded in your throat. "You're taking this so well," He praised, letting you take more control. (your noises were muffled by your full throat, and you'd be taunted by the pulses of him.) Each time he spoke, you'd blink hard. Glancing up at his craned-down head. Stray locks close to the colour of green tea had fallen past his face, with low (yet audible.) groans. He felt so burning hot and full in your throat!

Each careful grind against your face felt harder with each lathered pulse inside your throat. Rantaro wasn't too vocal, but the tugs of your hair and throbs were more than enough to know how close he was. The jingling of his bracelets were almost as loud as he was. He gasped, a particularly whiny groan emitted from his throat, and one last staggering pump against your face, just as his twitching hips and swollen cock released into your throat.

Rantaro's breathy pants filled the empty classroom, heaving hitched breaths when coming down from his high. "Would you look at that .." He guffawed, slowly pulling your mouth from his cock.

You weren't really sure what to do. Excess jizz and saliva dribbled down your chin when popping your mouth off. What a sight to see. "You did so well for me, sweetheart." He smiled, wiping your lips off against the back of his hand. "Oh!-Does it hurt?" He asked, crouching down to your level. You swallowed hard, shaking your head. "Good." He sounded satisfied, patting your precious head. "Let's try something else, alright?" He asked, carefully helping you up from the tile. (the only thing sore would be your knees the next day.) You nodded, letting him guide you back to the desk this had all started. You let him hoist you up onto the desk.

Rantaro (carefully.) pressed your belly down, leaving your back to lay against scattered papers. "There we go, Just like that .." He pushed your thighs apart, sliding his fingers up your hips. "Hmn. You're tense," He paused, flickering his eyes up to your face. "It's just me, you know. There's nobody here but us." He lowered his tone, rubbing those fingers up to the waistband of your bottoms. "Mmkay." You nodded, only nervous from inexperience! Especially with your teacher? You never really expected this. You had to remind yourself it was just him. You'd known Rantaro for a while. But never like this. Had he always liked you this way?

Your breaths were short and quick, focusing on steady fingers tugging your bottoms down. "Hey .. It's alright." He sounded pretty calm, which eased your nerves. You were full of anticipation and excitement, but your core was drooling with debauched optimism. (as he would soon notice.) Those fingers slid them down your legs, allowing your bare cunt to be exposed to him. A quiet breath from him, and he was pushing the fabric of your skirt up your naval, exposing your cunt just enough as he needed it to be. "You don't mind a warm-up, do you?" He asked, pressing his fingers against your warm cunt. "I'm not one for exercise - But I don't see a problem with this," He leaned over you, slowly beginning to work his fingers on you. It felt .. weird at first. It didn't take long for your hips to begin squirming under the friction. "See? It's not too bad.." He uttered, gliding his fingers against your entrance.

"-Just can't wait, can you?" He teased, glancing up at you. Alluring green eyes burned into yours, with two digits pushing right inside of you. "Ah-!" You gasped out, twitching at the feeling. "Huh .. I didn't know I'd be the one. Plain old Amami?" He entertained himself with his own words, carefully pumping those two digits into your cunt. "Has anyone touched you here? Or am I the first?" He asked, each pump pushing deeper into you. "Jus-Just you.." You confessed, cheeks burning in embarrassment. Surely this would bring you two closer! "That's really something, you know that?" He cocked his head to the side, sliding those arousal-drenched fingers out. (enough friction to leave little throbs within you.) "Uh-Uh huh.." You got out those words, leaning your head back against ungraded assignments.

You hadn't even thought of the whole public area thing. What if someone comes in? "Wait-Rantaro!-" You sat up, glancing at his palms on your pelvic bones. "What if .. What if someone comes in?" You whispered, suddenly fearful of that possibility. He sighed, brushing his fingers past your inner thighs. "It sure is risky." He agreed with you there. (though didn't pause any movements.) "Alright, Alright.." He lifted his hands off of you in defeat. "Don't worry about it." He whispered back. "You're safe with me. I won't go around telling anyone." He placed his hands back against your hips, nudging them to line up with his own.

What kind of scene would that be? Someone knowing you got fucked by your math tutor?! Oh, Jesus. Why did the thought kinda turn you on? He said your name, which caught your attention. "Hey," He leaned over you, fingers gliding up your belly. "Relax for me-" He calmly asked you, glancing back down to your pelvis. You hummed in response, anticipating what you knew was coming next. You'd feel the head of his cock tease your entrance, feeling how his pre-cum was cool from the air exposure. Though his skin was nowhere near cold.

Rantaro slowly sheathed himself into your entrance with a careful movement, gaining a sharp breath from you. "Deep breaths, alright?" He glanced at you, taking your red cheeks and slightly contorted expression. You nodded, thighs trembling beneath one of his hands. "Nice and slow .." He eased himself in inch by careful inch. "You're doing good," He let out a breath, looking back down to himself smoothly filling you up. "Hnm. You okay?"

You hummed out an "Nnmnm." - Focusing on the grasps of his fingers and the careful friction that was starting to feel - good! "Thahts -Perfect." He grunted, pulling your hips against his. With his next slick draw of his hips, his fingers held one of your thighs open, keeping the other glued to your hip. (grasping for dear life.) "You're so .. Warm-" He praised you, leaning over you.

You squeezed around Rantaro wonderfully. "Look at that," He grunted, jerking his hips with a harder maneuver than before. "You're taking it like a pro! Just like the good girl you are!-" He pumped into you further, hard enough that your back would slide up against the desk. "Fuck-! Rantaro-!" You gasped out, fuck! Those movements were hitting you just in the right spot. Right where your fluids would mix and the exposed skin of his hips would rub against yours. "You -You're calling me that?" He panted out, a bit dejected. Surely he wasn't completely used to hearing his first name come out of that pretty mouth of yours. "I-Imnm sorryy-" You choked out between little noises, those hard throbs were fucking you raw! Fucking you in such a messy manner by now. Completely losing the gentle composure before.

Every movement felt better than the last. You'd push your hips against him; allowing him to lift your ass up as much as he could. Any manner in which he could grind into your cunt in the best places. "Look at .. how good you're doing, sweetheart." He groaned out, inevitably leaving red blotches against your hips. You were feeling so blissful, you had completely forgotten the situation. All you knew was how full you felt, how you felt his pulses prod into cunt. Sheathing hard enough you'd feel it in your belly?! Rantaro's quiet sounds grew more breathy and low with each pump - practically in rhythm with every thrust. "Nnhmn-!" You whined out, feeling so weird! Weirder than before. "Auh-Rantaro-o-" You choked out his name, (sweet noises!) He could feel how you were squeezing around his cock, contractions edging you onto a rough release.

You'd feel his fingers glide against your cunt, right where he had touched you before. This confused you - both feelings at once was so much! Your whimpers could've been heard from the hall by now. Poor cunt squeezing and pulsing against his fingers, and around his shaft. "-You like that?" He asked, fingers working against your clit, with sweet pumps inside of you. "Mhmnm!" You responded, so close! So close! "You like it when I touch you, huh?" He asked, quite surprised he could get you off like this. Surely he wasn't anyone special. Whines of his name with a lengthened vowel. "Gonna cumnnn-" You gasped out - fulfilling that announcement, The rough release of your own throbs squeezed around him - such blissful throbs and lewd sounds as his thrusts didn't stop. (Overstimulation?) His fingers kept rubbing against your pulsing clit -

An exhausted groan - and you'd feel Rantaro's own release completely pulse and fill your sore cunt up.

You both stayed there for a moment, sweaty bodies panting and trembling. (oh my!) "You did great-" He laughed, sweeping away stray hairs that had stuck to your flustered face. "I - I should take you with me." His chest heaved over you, having second thoughts after this encounter. "Really-?" You were in no state for a serious conversation. "Mhm. How about that? Huh - We could do this again. Anywhere we want." He pulled himself off of you, carefully sitting you up on the desk. "Partner." He smiled, patting your sweaty face.

#rantaro amami x reader #rantaro x reader #dr3 x reader #danganronpa v3 #danganronpa killing harmony #rantaro amami #nsft #x reader

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kotlc-deleted-scenes · 7 months

Text

Keeper Summer Week #6

Third Deleted Scene from Neverseen

I removed this scene—even though I knew all of my shipping-obsessed readers would love it—because it felt like I was having the characters be aware of the flirting/romantic tension in a way that didn't feel natural to their personalities. I realized that just because I was incredibly familiar with all the crushes between them didn't mean that all of the characters were. Some were a bit more oblivious—and others weren't quite ready to act on that knowledge. So I cut this to stay true to where the characters were emotionally at in that moment. (Those with sharp eyes may notice that Fitz's hair stayed green for a bit longer in this draft—and the rules/process of matchmaking was slightly different.)

—Shannon

They were halfway across the bridge when Fitz shouted, "Wait!"

His green hair made him look like an alien as he ran to catch up with them.

"Can I talk to you for a second?" he asked Sophie, then noticed everyone watching them. "Telepathically?"

What's up? she transmitted as she opened her mind to his thoughts.

I just wanted to say that if you can't sleep tonight—or if you wake up with nightmares or something—call for me. I've heard your transmissions from halfway around the world. I should be able to pick them up from across the river.

But what if I wake you?

Who cares?

"Are you guys done flirting over there?" Keefe shouted. "Is this how it's going to be now that you're Fitzphie?"

"Stop calling us that!" Sophie shouted back.

"That's right," Fitz agreed. "We're Sophitz!"

He grinned at her as her brows shot up. And then…he hugged her.

It wasn't a tight hug or anything. In fact, there was probably enough space to fit another person between them.

But still—FITZ WAS HUGGING HER.

Figured this ought to shut Keefe up, he transmitted, killing the moment.

"Call me if you need me," he said out loud.

Sophie turned and walked away, keeping her eyes on her feet as she crossed the rest of the bridge and ducked inside. Della was kind enough to head straight for her room. Unfortunately, Biana didn't let her off the hook so easy.

"So, what was that about?" she asked.

Sophie went for distraction. "I'm just worried about my family."

"I know," Biana said quietly. "I'm sorry. I hope they're okay."

"Me too."

Sophie was almost to her room when Biana added, "But that's not what I mean, and you know it. Are you and Fitz…?"

Sophie waited.

If Biana wasn't going to say it, she certainly wasn't.

Biana narrowed her eyes. "You're going to make me bring up the hug?"

Sophie cringed.

This was dangerous territory.

Biana had almost not become her friend because she thought Sophie was using her to get to her brother. And Sophie would never do that—but she also wouldn't have minded if Fitz noticed her on his own.

Biana didn't need to know that. Especially since the truth was so much less exciting. "Fitz was just trying to annoy Keefe," Sophie mumbled, attempting not to let her disappointment leak into her voice.

And maybe it worked, because all Biana said was "Hmm."

Then again, when Sophie turned to leave, Biana called after her.

"You know I don't care, right? If you and my brother…I mean, it'd be weird, but…"

"We're friends," Sophie insisted.

"I know. But just in case…”

“Um. Okay."

Sophie wondered if it were possible to have a more awkward conversation. Apparently, it was, because Biana had to go and ask, "What about Dex? And Keefe?"

Now those were dangerous questions. Well, not the Dex part—but Keefe?

“They're also my friends."

Biana arched one brow, clearly not convinced.

"Aren't we all supposed to be waiting to be matched or something?" Sophie asked, trying to steer away from the trickier subjects.

Not that being "matched" was any less weird. It was one of the strangest parts about being an elf. The elves had a complicated matchmaking system, and not following it had huge consequences. They claimed it was to ensure proper genetic diversity in their offspring, but the whole thing felt super unfair, and like a disaster waiting to happen.

"I guess that's true," Biana agreed, looking somewhat mollified. "Can you believe we'll have to register next year? Well, assuming we're not still on the run."

"Next year?" Sophie asked.

"Yeah. We register when we enter Level Four at Foxfire. I mean, we don't get our matches right then or anything. That's not until we finish Level Six. But we register early so the matchmakers have time to prepare our lists."

"That's…really soon."

"I know."

Biana didn't seem nearly as freaked out by this information. She even laughed at Sophie's stunned expression.

"Good night, Sophie."

"Night," Sophie mumbled, stumbling blankly back to her room.

#kotlc deleted scene #kotlc deleted scenes #neverseen

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nyxyooni · 6 months

Text

(3) Honey Ties

Prev/Next

hello! i'm back!!! i know its been a little over a year, trust me. out of all the fics that i have not updated this is the one that haunts my nightmares the most. BUT enough of that, im here! this is here!!!!! not only is this an update, but ive also just made up my mind, literally as im typing this out as to what this whole thing is gonna be. and im thinking of a slice-of-life-esque collection of loosely connected chapters with very little plot scattered about.

and! before you continue, this is also my informal invitation for you, my dear and wonderful readers, to make requests for any future updates! i'll make another update as to what im comfortable with writing for this particular story later! so, without further ado, lets go!

————

In retrospect, the man kept a decent amount of distance between himself and Bruce, one hand was steadily holding out a flute of champagne while the one next to Bruce clutched the opposite lapel of his suit jacket. Really, he was most likely leaning closer to their father simply to speak clearly to him. His eyes, although hard to see through the glare of the glasses covering them were looking at Bruce's face with respectful interest, an easy smile on his moving lips. There was nothing scummy about the man, nothing threatening—well except maybe for the sheer size of him but then again, his shoulders were slumped, rounded despite their broadness.

"Jason!" Hissing as he reached a hand to the bigger man in front of him, so close to being able to grab him, and lamenting when his hands failed short a mere inch. At least Jason wasn't bulldozing people out of the way, small victories he guessed. "Jason!" Near desperate Dick threw himself at the hulking figure of his younger brother stuttering to a stop just as Jason froze, suddenly becoming a brick wall. "Jason for the love of god, get your issues under control you absolute freak—"

And they were right in front of Bruce and the stranger, except that the stranger wasn't a stranger at all.

"Mr. Kent?" Straightening in order to stand next to his brother, Dick suddenly felt a little stupid for being even remotely suspicious of Clark Kent, granted he hadn't known it was him, but still, the man couldn't hurt a fly even if he tried.

"Hm? Oh!" Straightening up with a little jolt Clark Kent patted his free hand against his thigh, letting go of the suit to reveal the fact it didn't quite fit properly but he was smiling gently, dimples sinking into his tan cheeks, "hello, Mr. Grayson, Mr. Todd." Nodding at both of them, voice sure and body steady. "I don't mean to be rude or overstep my boundaries, but it is a wonder to see you at one of these events, Mr. Todd."

Huffing, relaxing at long last Jason popped out one of his hips as he crossed his arms, beside him Dick also deflated, taking a nice, slow deep breath and lifting his head to smile at the reporter. "Mr. Kent, you know how we feel about you addressing us like that," Dick would probably say out loud in his next interview, that Clark Kent was his favorite reporter of all time. Something about the man felt incredibly warm.

Laughing, somehow in a way that felt like walking out onto the porch of a country house on a warm summer morning, Clark Kent's smile grew. It dulled the intricate glass chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. "And if I remember clearly, I said that the only way I would stop was if you would stop calling me as such," peeling away fully from Bruce and the baby, Damian following the movement with a small sway of his body, Clark stood a couple of steps away from their father, "in that regard, I can see the family resemblance..."

It was slow, it was gentle, and somehow, despite being in the middle of a gala, full of old, rich people with money stuffed all the way up their asses, they looked at each other as though they were alone. Dick took a step closer, his body moving on its own.

"I am here to pry. What is a man such as yourself doing here, Mr. Kent?" Jason's voice cut through Dick, it made little baby Damian snap his head over with his mouth open. Only Bruce remained serene, with a gentle smile as he looked at everyone gathered around him, gently bouncing Damian. "Out of all the stuck-up people who just love to talk about themselves, you're here, bothering our father and—"

"Jason..." Bruce's voice wasn't hard, it never was, and never had been, and if Dick were to bet money on it, couldn't be. "Let's not be rude, Mr. Kent and I were just having a nice conversation," in his arms the baby seemed to focus on Clark Kent, body leaning over, to stretch out towards the reporter, hands flailing and mouth moving in words that were not words and could not be heard over all the other noise. "What is it, baby, hm?"

Moving Damian, shifting him so that he held him up in front of his face from somewhere under his shoulders, hands wrapped securely around his body, cradling his ribs. However, Damian leaned over to the side, hands reaching and reaching. Toward Clark Kent.

All four of them stared at the baby, shock clear across their faces, Clark Kent stared blankly until a smile broke out on his face, so very unlike the previous one. Somehow it shined brighter, it made Dick take half a step back and made Jason go rigid. It was obvious, he was whole-heartedly and unabashedly endeared with the little bundle of joy currently trying to claw his way into his arms and out of his father.

Raising a hand, curled weakly, Clark Kent used two of his fingers to pinch the baby's cheeks, he did not take Damian into his arms the way the baby wanted, but he did give him attention. The man stepped closer, hunched down so that he could look into those priceless jewel-green eyes, and smiled. "I don't know, baby, maybe you should stay with your daddy?" It was near deafening, the soft tenor and sway of Clark Kent's voice amidst the maddening constant buzz of the crowd around them. "Who is he gonna hold if I'm the one holding you, hm?" Letting go of the soft supple skin to instead gently rub with the back of his index finger the man smiled again.

Damian whined, high and reedy and short, he wriggled one last time and sighed. As though a wave of sleepiness hit him all at once he settled against Bruce's chest. Blinking slowly and instinctively moving his hand up to his mouth so he could suck on his curled fist.

No one moved, no one made so much as a sound. Even when around them the buzz seemed to be near a delirious height the baby's body relaxed, chest rising and caving slowly and steadily like. Damian had fallen asleep.

Awestruck, Dick reached out to gently poke one of Damian's soft, chubby cheeks as though he couldn't possibly believe what the baby had done. It wasn't that Damian struggled to sleep, at least not when he was comfortable and in a quiet peaceful space, not silent, the baby seemed to love the sound of their father's voice, or the soft chirping of birds, the trickle of water from a stream, the pitter-patter of gentle rain. Never silent, simply calm. The beating of their father's heart as he slipped away into slumber atop his chest.

Damian disliked loud, chaos that held no rhyme not reason, crashes, bangs, or pops, just like any baby. Damian loved the sound of his family, just like any baby.

"Well, would you look at that," gently maneuvering the baby so he was being cradled in his arms, Bruce smiled up at Clark Kent, that utterly wonderful and disarming smile and made his eyes crinkle and his dimples show. "It seems that my baby was all tuckered out, it has been a very exciting day for him," halfway through his sentence, Bruce had instead focused on Damian, speaking down to him in a hushed tone. Leaning down to plant a dry kiss on the baby's forehead. "Does anyone have the time?"

All three of them snapped to attention at finally being addressed, neither Dick nor Jason had their phones on them, Alfred insisting that it was ruining their suits pointlessly so. Still standing beside their father, Clark Kent brought his wrist up in a quick, sharp movement and slid his sleeve down so he could peer down to his watch for about three seconds.

"It seems to be a quarter to eleven," came the man's smooth voice. His glasses had slid down his nose, resting at the very tip. Swiftly he pushed them up with his middle finger in a practiced motion from years that had transformed it to instinct.

"Dad." Jason called out, voice taking that tall-tale brattish tone that had irked Dick to insanity when they were still getting used to being around each other. The shock of having the young man call their father as such settled in right after the irritating bit of nostalgia. "If you still want to hang around and..." trailing off, pointedly looking Clark Kent up and down, he finished with a clear expression of distaste. "Mingle... I'll take Damian up to his room."

Bruce looked from his son to Clark Kent, he wasn't stupid, he knew his children. Knew how to read their moods, how to soothe them, and how to speak to them, Bruce knew when they lied to him and when they kept secrets from him. Like how he knew there was something all of his kids were keeping something from, something big, that no matter how much he wanted to know, no matter how it hurt to not be trusted, would wait for them to tell him. Bruce knew his children, and because he knew his children, he was keenly aware that Jason did not likeClark Kent.

"Oh Jason," stepping forward to his son, not for the first and definitely not for the last time, startled at how the young man was taller than him, "don't worry about that, I'll take him up, get him nice and settled." Cupping the side of his face, Bruce smiled when Jason's shoulder's relaxed, "stay here, make sure nobody tries to steal Dick away, or worse, Tim." Grinning, he dropped his hand, stepping away and towards the way out, "I'm worried that he'll try and bite someone again."

Dick's laughter leaves his chest before he even realized it. Someone had once made the mistake of trying to... cozy up with Tim while the boy was practically falling asleep on his feet, never mind the fact he was still very underage. The outcome had been hilarious. And very satisfying, Bruce had unleashed hell on the degenerate and was banished from any and all future galas that he hosted.

"Mm, I don't know..." Jason rested his chin on the webbing between his index finger and thumb, "it was pretty funny last time... something tells me it'll be pretty funny a second time..."

Huffing fondly, with a roll of his eyes, their father shook his head as he turned around. Maneuvering around people with an amount of tact and ease that made all three men jealous.

"Well... that went great!" Dick turned to Clark Kent with a clap of his hands and a smile on his face. Beside him Jason grumbled, refusing to look at the reporter and instead surveyed the hall, glad that in about an hour or so, everyone would be gone and their home would return to the peaceful atmosphere he had learned to appreciate. "We understand that you and Dad were talking and... we want to apologize for interrupting—"

"I don't."

"—since you two seemed to get along and, while I shouldn't be saying this, Dad doesn't have many friends, so I appreciate that he had you to talk to tonight." Finished Dick, as though he hadn't been interrupted at all.

Clark Kent looked at them both with mirth dancing in his blue eyes, the shade was darker than their father's, it was almost like the blue that inked the ocean, low and mellow, or the rich blue spanning over a field of wheat, reminiscent of serenity. As they gazed at them, however, it matched the blue of kings, the reflection of the lights against his lenses made due for the golden accents. His smirk charming, the curls of his hair that fell just right over his forehead enough to distract from the ill-fitted suit. Flute of champagne half empty in his hands.

"Please! None of that!" He was smiling, dimples deep, he looked younger this way, disarming, Dick narrowed his eyes, careful to safeguard his own smile. "It was entirely my pleasure, not many people can say that they've had the privilege of speaking with Bruce Wayne, to count myself as one of the lucky few, well... it's almost a dream come true." Clark Kent's voice was smooth, almost impossibly so.

Jason felt a sneer pulling at the edges of his mouth, that wasn't what a friend would say. He knew something was up with Kent, if it wasn't to try to wheedle some bullshit to fill half a collum on the front page of The Daily Planet, then, of course, it was to get nice and cozy with their father.

"If you two would excuse me," the man was speaking again, dimples and curls and big blues, "it's been a rather exciting day and an even more exciting night." He was bowing his head, in respect, "and well, I find myself a long way from home. Good night, Mr. Grayson," he held a hand out towards Dick, who took it and shook it, amiably. "Mr. Todd." Then out to Jason, who took the hand, and squeezed a little harder than he should've, in return, the dimples and the man deepened.

Watching the man walking away, lacking the same grace of his father but still impressive in his own manner, a bad feeling began to stir in their stomachs.

#um. look. college is still kicking my ass but now ive learned how to semi deal with that particular demon.#im not gonna bother with tagging the character bc knowing me it'll get very tedious. very fast.#civilian!bruce wayne #civilian bruce #civilian bruce au #baby damian wayne #my dc fic #honey ties #*rattling a metal spoon in a mug* COME GET YOUR FOOD

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baatarthefirst · 7 months

Note

❛ if you take care of everyone, who takes care of you? ❜

[Sunset: Outskirts of Sunfire Camp]

"If you take care of everyone, who takes care of you?" Councilor Nadia asked Janai, who looked confused by the question. Normally if one of her advisors asked such a question, she'd tell them to stay in their area of expertise. Nadia was an exception, being an old friend of her mother's. The woman wasn't quite an honorary aunt, but she was allowed to be a little personal than most.

"I take care of myself?" Janai had no idea where this question was coming from. She was the queen, it was literally her job to take care of everyone. Sure, she was more hands on than her sister was, running around between meetings and helping with any physical labor, but their people hadn't been displaced under Khessa's reign.

"She is the queen," Karim didn't understand the question either. What kind of queen needed someone to take care of them. The monarch was the cornerstone of their mighty empire. What need did they have of other's care, "though she shouldn't be doing all this manual labor."

"If not me, who will?" Someone had to oversee this project, and they were stretched so thin...Janai had to pick up the slack. If Karim had wanted to talk about the upcoming holiday, he could help mend and set up the tents; they could talk and work at the same time. He preferred to tell Janai to go sit on her throne and grumble when she didn't. Karim and his traditional mind. She supposed he served a purpose to their people, but he could be an annoying little brat.

"Of course. It was a foolish question from me." Councilor Nadia barely contained a sigh. The girl would work herself to death, and the boy would not take the hint to either try to stop her or lighten her load. Stubborn, foolish royals.

[Nightfall: Outside Queen's tent]

After an incredibly long, incredibly relaxing bath, Karim went to speak his sister, a list of requirements for the upcoming Summer Solstice. It was the single most important day of the Sunfire Calendar and as much as he loved his sister, he didn't trust her. She had habit of putting function over ceremony, a military tactic he didn't not support. What good was living if they lost themselves?

He crossed the threshold of the tent without announcing his presence, it was late, but Janai always worked well into the night. He paused for a moment, a split second of shock at not seeing the queen where she should be. Not bent over work at the table. Looking right and left, he found her on her bed...with that human friend of hers.

The human in question was sitting propped up on the pillows, looking straight at him like he was intruding. Janai would probably agree, if she hadn't fallen asleep during a head massage. The human didn't stop the massage, but used her free hand to first shush him with a finger against her lips, then to wave him away.

His first impulse was to defend his honor, to berate her for daring to give him orders, but he just couldn't bring himself to do it. Janai looked content, far more than he'd ever seen her. If the human wanted to spend her night making his sister comfortable, well maybe he could let the transgression slide. Just this once. And so he left. He was back in his own tent before he realized that he had an answer to Councilor Nadia's question. Janai would take care of their people, General Amaya would take care of Janai.

#tdp #the dragon prince #pre season 4 #janai #amaya #janaya #Karim #so much wasted potential with Karim

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interstellarlyinlove · 7 months

Text

“Summer is ending,” Remus says– sighs, really, as soon as he notices Sirius. He’s leaning against the Astronomy Tower’s railing, looking soft and incredibly sad, sounding as if what he’s holding up on his shoulders would give Atlas himself a run for his money.

“Summer has already ended, technically. When was September 23rd? A couple of days ago, right?” Sirius says, standing next to Remus and kissing his cheek. Sirius’ idea of comfort is someone sitting next to him, caressing his hair and kissing him softly. He hopes Remus feels a little comfort from those things as well.

“I’m really shitty company today. I’m sorry, I’ll probably calm down by tomorrow, though, so–”

“Oh, stop it,” Sirius says, kissing Remus to shut him up. “You’re my favorite person in all the world, I’m always happy being with you. No matter what.”

“I am sorry, though. This sucks. So bad. I’m whining. I’m sorry about–”

“No more sorry. And no more whining. Think about something else.”

Remus smiles sadly. It doesn’t reach his eyes at all. He’s smiling for Sirius’ sake and it’s breaking his heart. “Like what?”

“Like your hot boyfriend.”

“I’m always thinking about my hot boyfriend. Even during existential crises. Always on my mind.”

“He’s that hot?”

Remus whistles. “Like you wouldn’t believe.”

Sirius grins. He softens his smile and asks, “What’s on your mind, darling?”

“You,” Remus says, and his smile is a little less sad. “Truly, always.”

Sirius realizes suddenly that Remus deserves everything. “You’re always on my mind, too. Like, all the time. Like, even when I’m dreaming, I swear. Last night, I dreamt that we were sitting in the Slytherin common room and there were like seventeen Slytherin cats and–”

“What makes a cat a Slytherin cat?”

“And– all cats are Slytherin cats, Remus, they’re all mean and evil– but it was fine, they were mostly around you, and it was pretty cute, even though they’re tiny death machines with fur.”

Remus actually laughs, then, and his hair is all messy from the end-of-summer wind, and he’s perfect, and kind, and Sirius wishes he had all the power in the world to make sure he’s never ever sad. “I am a cat person. Sounds about right.”

“The biggest heartbreak of my life,” Sirius says. “You liking cats is truly my cross to bear.”

“I love you.”

“I love you, too, darling. I love you enough to not pester you about what’s bothering you and let you change the subject as much as you want.”

Remus laughs. “This is you not pestering?”

“Oh, you don’t want to see me when I’m pestering. This is me gently gently guiding.”

“It truly is nothing.” Sirius must have looked at Remus a certain way because he clarifies, “Or, not nothing, but also not one specific thing, you know? It’s like a thousand tiny little things that are making it a little hard for me to breathe? But also, truly not a big deal.”

“How could anything making you feel like that not be a big deal?” Sirius asks softly, rubbing Remus’ forearm. “Do you know what the normal amount of displeasure you should feel on any given day?”

“Like, a 6.5 out of 10, maybe?”

“Like, none, actually.”

“Yeah?”

Sirius nods. “Yes, my love. It’s supposed to be so much fucking easier than that.”

Remus laughs. “If you say so.”

“If I say so.”

They don’t say anything for a while, just looking ahead and breathing together. It’s so calm and serene and it would’ve been Sirius’ idea of a perfect evening spent if he didn't know how shitty Remus was feeling.

After a few more minutes, Remus rests his head on Sirius’ shoulder and starts talking. “It’s just that sometimes I feel like I have to do so much more to get where everyone already is. Or, doing so much to get so little. Acceptable grades aren’t okay because being a mediocre werewolf is not going to get you anywhere, and I have to always be kind and considerate and never get angry or annoyed or irritated because most days I can’t really believe that I even have friends to begin with, so all those emotions make me feel like an asshole because not being alone is all I’ve ever wanted, really, and when the people I love most and am so grateful for get on my nerves I feel like I’m throwing all that away or spitting in everyone’s face, and– It just sucks so bad. All I want, Sirius, is to feel normal. I’m mostly okay with being a werewolf, truly, and it’s not something that’s constantly on my mind usually but it’s been all I’ve been able to think about for a couple of weeks and– Sirius, it’s actually making it difficult to breathe or enjoy things or just fucking exist.” Remus lets out a shaky breath. “Or maybe It’s just not summer anymore and that’s fucking with me a little bit.”

It takes everything in Sirius not to interrupt Remus 75 different times because he knows how difficult it is to put what you’re feeling into words, and he feels like Remus really really needed to get that off his chest. Remus’ eyes are glassy and a few tears fall down when he blinks and Sirius wishes he could go back in time and be the one that was bitten that stupid night. He wants to rip out Greyback’s heart and throw it in the place designated for all the rotten things of the world. Sirius touches Remus’ face and wipes under his now shut eyes.

“I don’t think you realize how much everyone fucking adores you, my love– and no, stop, you don’t get to interrupt me, okay?” Remus smiles, then sobs, and Siirus keeps talking. “Really, Remus, and I’m not just saying that. Do you know Regulus once told me you were his first crush? Lily, also. Peter never said it aloud but come on. My boyfriend makes everyone blush, how lucky am I?” Sirius rolls his eyes jokingly. “And, Remus, you’re making it sound like you owe people something for being your friends, and I guess we all should hold a certain amount of gratitude in our hearts for our friends but that definitely goes both ways, my love. People aren’t your friends because they feel bad for you or whatever is going on in your pretty brain. They’re your friends because they want to be, and you are so fucking lovely, Remus, you are my favorite person in all of the universe, and losing your temper or being annoyed or not being able to stand me sometimes is so understandable. Our friends, too. Not fighting with someone when you’re close is impossible. Do you remember when James and I didn’t speak to each other for seven weeks in fourth year? I can’t even remember why we were fighting but I remember that I truly believed I hated him with everything I had. But also, even during the heat of it, I knew I could never really hate him even if I wanted nothing else. You’re allowed to be angry, Remus. You’re allowed to lose your temper and fight and– that’s not a werewolf thing. That’s an everybody-on-fucking-earth thing.”

“You think?” Remus asks, and he’s still crying, and Sirius is incredibly sure Remus really doesn’t believe most of what Sirius said but he doesn’t mind. He has the rest of his life to make him change his mind.

“I think,” Sirius says. He snaps his fingers and a bottle of Firewhiskey appears on the Astronomy Tower ridge. “Do you want to drink with me?”

“Where’d you get that?” Remus asks, snatching it and unscrewing the lid.

Sirius kisses the edge of Remus’ mouth. He’s no longer crying. They’ll talk more about this, definitely, and Sirius has so much more to say, but later. “Don’t ask that if you don’t really want to know. Sad looks stupidly good on you.”

Remus laughs mid Firewhiskey gulp. He coughs, and smiles, and he’ll be okay.

#marauders era #wolfstar drabble #wolfstar fic #wolfstar angst #tw alcohol #remus x sirius #an appropriate amount of self-deprecation I think lol #my writing

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mrsfrecklesmarauders · 7 months

Text

TW: Homophobia and Internal Homophobia

Sirius couldn't sleep again. The nightmares were endless. Sirius couldn't stop thinking about everything his parents said, everything Alphard said and everything Regulus said before he left. Sirius thought it would be easy now that he was at The Potters. But he couldn't get away from his wicked family. They didn't leave his mind.

James was next to him, snoring occasionally. Sirius was grateful that after James heard him yell waking up from a nightmare, he had suggested to sleep in the same bed. But Sirius was also embarrassed. He didn't want to be this vulnerable around his friend.

Sirius sighed as he noticed James moving in his sleep. He was facing Sirius now and this position helped him not snore anymore. Sirius stared.

James' hair was a mess. Even wilder than normally. Without his glasses, Sirius could see James' features more clearly.

Sirius noticed his long eyelashes, the marks of the glasses' bridge had left on his nose. His lips were too dry to be true. This boy never moisturize his lips. And in a comical way it seemed like he was smiling.

James wasn't particularly handsome. But there was something about him that made him good looking. His untidy hair made him kind of hot, and even through his pijama t-shirt, Sirius could see his muscles. The white cotton contrasted with the chocolate smooth skin. Sirius stared at James' apple moving as he swallowed.

Almost without thinking, Sirius' hand reached out for James' hair. Sirius’ fingertips barely touched it before he realized what he was doing...

What the fuck was Sirius doing? What was he thinking?

Faggot, faggot, faggot... Was what crossed through Sirius' mind as he pulled away so fast, he ended up falling to the floor, making a horrible noise.

Sirius had been going insane ever since Remus kissed him last term. He couldn't stop thinking about it. Sirius had been sure his whole life that he was straight, into girls. Nothing more. He wasn't like Dumbledore or Edgar, feminine and happy. Typically gay.

Then Remus kissed him, and he enjoyed it for a second before definitely pulling away. Then over the summer, Orion had been accusing Alphard of being gay, so Sirius lost it. He said he was gay too. Only to contradict his father, only to piss him off. He was severely punished for that.

But Sirius had been going mad and paranoic about the subject. What if he was gay? He couldn't be, right? He couldn't. He was just going mad, that was it.

"Padfoot?" James asked with a sleepy voice "Are you okay?"

Sirius swallowed the pain in his back and the knot on his throat, as James popped up his head to look at him. His hair was even messier and his eyes were half opened. He put on his crooked glasses.

Sirius looked away. This was James. Sirius was going mad. Probably because of how James flirted with Sirius as a joke all the time.

"What happened?"

"I fell out of bed" Sirius answered irritated "What does it look like?"

James gave him a sympathetic look.

"Nightmare?"

Sirius stood up. He was too hot and restless.

"Something like that" he started walking "I'll be right back"

"Where are you going?"

"Out! I need some air..." And a cigarette. But Sirius didn't buy them. It was usually Remus who gave them to him. But Sirius didn't want to think about Remus right now. This was all his fault.

"I will come with you..." James said opening the covers and revealing his boxers, his bushy legs and his crotch.

Sirius hated that he stared for a second before mentally slapping himself.

"No!" he practically yelled "I need to be alone"

"But Pads..."

"I said alone, James!"

James didn't insist. When Sirius used his name it meant he was really pissed.

"Okay" James said worriedly. And then he yawned.

"Go back to sleep" Sirius tried to avoid James' presence as he put on his shoes. And then he quickly walked out of the room.

The knot on his throat went bigger and bigger as he walked outside to the Potters' Garden. He let out a loud sob. He wasn't breathing properly well.

Sirius didn't want to be gay. He guessed he had nothing against gay people. Dumbledore, Edgar and Marlene were the ones he knew. But he couldn't be gay himself. He had to be normal.

Sirius would hate that for himself. He didn't want fingers pointing at him, he didn't want people assuming he would go to gay bars and use makeup, he didn't want people calling him what Orion had called Alphard. He didn't want people whispering about him or laughing at him. He didn't want people calling him a faggot and hitting him in the street.

"NO SON OF MINE IS GOING TO BE A FUCKING FAGGOT, DO YOU HEAR ME?" Orion had yelled as he hit Sirius "I RATHER YOU'D BE DEAD... I REALLY RATHER YOU WOULD BE DEAD"

The worst part was that he hadn't sound angry. Orion had been disappointed and hurt. Almost crying. As if Sirius would have failed him.

Sirius had always been a rebel, always making his parents angry. But he never wanted to be a failure to them.

Sirius was just being paranoic and stupid. He fancies girls. He fancied girls. And he fancied only girls.

Sirius realized that he was panting and grabbing his chest when he heard his name.

"Sirius? What are you doing here on your own, love?"

When Sirius saw Effie on the door, he bursted out crying. He really couldn't help it. He really wanted to be normal. But now he was crying like freaking idiot. Sirius hated himself.

"Oh darling..."

Effie hugged him and Sirius broke down into her arms. She was smelling nicely and welcoming, like cotton, fresh flowers and home. She felt Sirius feel safe.

"It is okay, sweetheart" Effie said as he sobbed "I am here for you, okay?... Sh sh sh" she added as she patted his back.

Sirius ended up telling Effie everything that happened at Grimmauld Place over the summer and that night. Remembering every detail hurt.

Euphemia offered Sirius a cigarette which he appreciated, apparently Fleamont and James hated that she did that but she sometimes sneaked to have a fag. Sirius thought she was cool.

"I am not gay, though" Sirius added quickly, trying not to blush or feel stupid "I just said that to defend my Uncle... He is not gay either"

Euphemia gave him a big smile and squeezed his hand.

"Parents should love you for who you are, sweetheart..."

"But I'm not..."

"I know..." Effie interrupted "I was just saying that whatever you are and whoever you love, parents should love you"

Sirius sighed "I don't even know who I am"

Sirius was embarrassed to tell her about his weird feelings and thoughts about Remus, about James, about everyone at the moment. His mind was playing weird tricks.

"You are a special sweet boy who deserves all the love in the world" Effie smiled "Monty and I accept you as who you are"

"A straight boy?" Sirius smiled nervously. Are you sure about that? A voice said inside his mind which he tried to ignore.

Effie chuckled "A boy who defends what he believes"

Sirius smiled at her. But he wasn't hundred percent at ease. Perhaps he was just sad and angry. Once at Hogwarts, he would flirt with girls and perhaps find a cute girlfriend and this would all be forgotten. He wasn't gay.

But he needed to talk to Remus. And he had no clue what he was going to say. He didn't want to lose him.

"Effie..."

"Yeah?"

"Thank you for listening to me" Sirius said. Effie smiled "Do you mind not telling James and Monty about this?"

"Sure"

"I will tell them eventually, just not now"

Euphemia nodded and Sirius was relieved.

"Let's go back to sleep, love"

"Okay"

Perhaps everything would be easy if he had parents like The Potters. But they weren't his parents. Orion and Walburga hated who he was and would hate him even more if he was gay. But Sirius wasn't gay, just confused.

#Sirius is having a proper gay crisis #He is definitely not straight #He just needs some time #marauders #maraudersera #muggleau #sirius black #james potter #euphemia potter #remus lupin

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