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settingmyheartablaze · 4 months

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RODEO STATION, 1 — MEGUMI FUSHIGURO

A collection of you and Megumi, through the years, through Gojo’s eyes.

content, warnings: friends to lovers, fluff, sort of canon-adjacent, satoru adopts megumi and tsumiki, reader has a cursed technique but it’s not mentioned in depth here, really just you and megumi falling in love and gojo watching

word count: 1.1k

part i: first years, jujutsu tech. fits in the timeline around when nobara first joins the class

When Satoru first finds him, Megumi has two conditions. First, that Tsumiki would be kept safe and happy, and far away from the Zenin clan if they weren’t going to be good to her—safe and far away from all jujutsu society if Gojo could help it; and that she would never have to worry about feeding herself or Megumi ever again. Satoru agreed right away, he would have done that without the request.

For his second condition, an eight year old Megumi looked Satoru straight in the eye and told him that he would absolutely not be separated from you. Satoru thought it was cute, sweet, in the bratty, and naive but determined kind of way that seemed to be everything that kid stood for, and Satoru couldn’t fault him for it. Megumi’s evident childlike adoration of you aside, Satoru saw potential in you, too, so he accepted Megumi’s conditions, happy to welcome the two of you to the world of sorcery.

It’s not until a week before you both start at Jujutsu Tech, that Satoru really asks Megumi why he wants you here (never mind the fact that you had already also made up your mind about being a sorcerer, and if there is anything that Satoru has learned about you in the past decade, it’s that: one, you have the magical ability to make Megumi do anything you say; and two, you’re incredible persuasive and very stubborn). Megumi doesn’t look him in the eye when he answers, fidgeting with his melting ice cream instead when he says, “Well, she saved my life.”

Satoru doesn’t tease when he hears this, only digging his spoon in for a scoop of Megumi’s toffee butter, smiling to himself when the cold hits his tongue, because he’d heard the message loud and clear: Megumi believes he owes you his life, and to keep yours protected, he wants you by his side.

Satoru quickly learns that Megumi truly has his work cut out for him as he watches you burst through a top-floor window of a high-rise building, falling carelessly with the object of your mission—a special-grade cursed object—clutched in your grasp. Second later, there’s a loud explosion, as the ugly head of a large cursed falls limp in the hole in the broken glass that you’d left behind. Satoru chuckles when he sees you smile, and the faint cheer of weeeeeeeee as you fall. He knew you were wild and stubborn by the way you bossed Megumi around without a care, but seeing you in action proved that you were also in your own league of crazy, a fantastic sorceress in the making.

To his left, Yuuji gapes wildly as he looks up, shielding his eyes with his hand, and then flinching back when Nobara bursts through the ground floor door, not without a nail going flying into the curse that had been chasing her. She looks angry, then wide eyed, then up to where Yuuji and Megumi were also staring and starts squealing alongside him.

“Gojo-sensei, what are you standing there smiling about—do something!” Nobara shouts, pointing an accusatory finger up in the air at your flying body.

Yuuji gasps again, like he’d just figured out the consequence of you falling from a building, spewing on his own cries, “Hey, seriously, what the hell are we doing—she can’t fly,” he shouts, turning to shake his sensei, then pausing, “Wait, Fushiguro, can she fly? You know her.”

“Idiot,” Nobara spits, “If she could fly then she’d be flying, not falling.”

“Then why aren’t we doing any—you know what, I think I can catch her,” Yuuji boasts, rolling up his sleeves, prepared to position himself underneath your descending body, and that’s when Satoru steps in, extending an arm in front of his students.

“You all worry too much,” he smiles, lifting his blindfold just enough to look the pair in the eye, and tilt his head up slightly, “Besides, Megumi’s handled it.”

Three heads turn back up to the sky, where you’re no longer in freefall, instead have had your shoulders snatched by Nue’s talons. You’ve still got that wild smile on your face, wider now as you descend much more elegantly via Megumi’s shikigami. Nobara and Yuuji wince as Nue’s wings flap widely when you’re set on the ground. You shift the box with the cursed object to one hand, reaching your free one around to pet the bird’s feathers. It crows happily, and Satoru snickers, much to Megumi’s dismay. You always did treat his shikigami like pets.

“Hey, you’re okay!” Yuuji cheers, eyes sparkling, “What’s in the box? A sword—actually, I don’t want to know. If it’s another finger, keep it away from me.”

“Hand it here,” Nobara demands. You’re happy to hand over the box and have another hand available for petting Nue.

Satoru watches fondly as Yuuji and Nobara fuss over the box. They should probably exercise more caution, but he’s there, so the worst can’t happen. Meanwhile, you step closer to Megumi with Nue fluttering behind you.

“You’re the one who told me there would be no need to get involved,” Megumi says, voice soft, hands falling comfortably at his side.

“I said that you wouldn’t have to get involved with the curses,” you correct, standing on your tiptoes to nuzzles your head into the bird’s feathers, “I said nothing about not getting involved with me.”

Satoru does his best not to choke out a loud laugh as Megumi’s face becomes increasingly pink when you reach forward to pinch his cheeks, his grumbling drowned in the sound of Yuuji and Nobara’s bickering. Satory sighs, content. He cares for all his students, but there’s a certain weight lifted on his shoulders knowing that when it came to you, there was truly nothing to worry about—Megumi would always be there for you. Honestly, he thinks Megumi might fight him to protect you if it came down to it.

That thought does bring an audible chuckle to his lips, Megumi’s pinched expression calling to him, “What are you laughing about?”

To which Satoru only hums, sticking his hands in his pockets. Megumi’s eyebrows furrow deeper, but it’s quickly dissolved when you catch his attention again, saying your farewells to Nue before giving Megumi the okay to let him recede into his shadows.

“Oh, nothing,” Satoru chirps, turning to lead the group back to Ichiji’s car, “Come on, who’s still up for revolving sushi!”

Cheers follow him as the veil dispels. You question Yuuji about whether or not you think the restaurant will have grilled eel, and Nobara pretends to throw up, arguing that eel is the worst, that you all should stick to hand rolls instead. Megumi stays quiet, walking on your outside, and humming along with all of your suggestions, and Satoru can’t help but wonder whether or not you knew that Nue had been out from the moment you’d stepped in the building.

Honestly, he thinks Megumi might win that fight—might win any fight if it meant being with you.

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settingmyheartablaze · 4 months

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strong

sanemi x reader

content warning: mentions of violence

word count: 4.5k

You were no slayer.

It was the reason your husband, Sanemi, watched over you like a hawk each time you went out. Whether it be to the market, your friend’s home, or even just a stroll for some fresh air — if you walked out the doors of his estate, he was right beside you — no exceptions. He had always fussed over you like that, insisting that there was no such thing as too careful. It was almost comical, seeing how it was such a stark contrast to his exterior demeanor of cold-hearted ruthlessness. His worrisome disposition had taken countless hours of sleep from him, and you weren’t sure he’d ever be able to leave your side to attend his missions if not for his younger brother, Genya.

Not long after you had married Sanemi, Genya had quickly become quite fond of you. Anytime Sanemi was out on a mission, the young boy found himself regularly checking in on you. It was the only time Sanemi reluctantly acknowledged his younger brother’s status as a slayer — he’d never admit it (mostly out of frustration at his own limits), but he was secretly grateful that the young boy was there for you when he couldn’t be. It had become an unspoken agreement between the two of them, a silent neutrality: If Sanemi was away on mission, Genya would visit to see if you needed anything at all, even if just company to escort you around. The brothers adored you far more than you knew, and it seemed that devotion was strong enough for them to put aside their differences, but only when it came to you.

It hurt you that they weren’t on speaking terms, but you were incredibly grateful that Genya still came to see you from time to time, even if it was only when his brother was away — it gave you some way of checking up on him. The young boy viewed you almost like a mother, bashfully coming by to tell you of his accomplishments and help you around the home. Despite Sanemi’s insistence that he wanted nothing to do with him, you knew he was glad for it too from the way he’d leave just a bit too much ohagi for one person prepared at the table when he left for a mission. It was endearing, they way the two of them practically hid behind you to show their care for each other.

This strange little routine had become your norm, and today was no exception. Sanemi had been away on a mission for the last two weeks, making Genya your faithful companion. The two of you were now heading back from the market, warmly chatting away as the young boy carried each of your groceries in tow.

“Genya, really, let me help carry them!” You insisted.

“Not a chance! I’m super strong, so it’s not trouble. Besides, we needed a lot more than usual today, since I’ll be leaving too…” The boy’s voice faltered, a look of worry taking over his expression.

It wasn’t often, but every now and then, typically when your husband had been assigned a longer mission, there would be a brief window where the both of them were out. When this would happen, the both of them insisted on stockpiling the home with everything you could possibly need in hopes of minimizing your trips outside the estate. It made you sad the way you could see the boys sick with worry each time they had to leave you alone, so you always made sure to adhere to Sanemi’s only request he had ever made of you:

Never leave the estate when you’re alone.

While it may have seemed overnparanoid, the spike in recent demon activity had left him in a constant state of stress when leaving you. The man, while somewhat callous to others, had never been anything but kind, gentle, and adoring to you. You had him practically wrapped around your finger, and it was no secret. He spoiled you rotten at each chance he got, so the least you could do to ease his mind was comply with the one thing he asked of you. After all, it was only because he couldn’t bear the thought of you being harmed. His mind could only run rampant with the imagined horrors of what could happen to you if nobody was there to protect you.

Looking back at the boy next to you, it seems the same dark thoughts plagued his own mind. How could they not, after the things they had been through — the things they had lost.

You placed a hand gently on Genya’s arm, giving him a bright smile.

“Don’t worry. I have everything I need thanks to you, and I’ll be right in the house. I’m just lucky I have such a sweet little brother who makes sure I’m safe and sound — and is strong enough to carry all my groceries!”

The boy flushed, a happy smile relaxing his face at hearing such kind words. With the constant rejection he faced from his brother, you never denied him the chance to receive even an ounce of affection from you, showering him with your praise. Then, the boy’s eyes lit up with an idea.

“I know! Why don’t I buy you that fabric you liked from the store down the road? That way you can have something fun to do while we’re away!”

The boy surged ahead of you, excited by the opportunity to do something for you.

“You’ve got to get going soon, and don’t be spending your money on me! Get yourself a treat instead.”

“But Y/N-san, you’ve been needing a new kimono! And now that I defeated an upper rank, I got promoted so I’m making lots of money!” He declared with a cheeky grin. “Come on, we’ll be quick!”

After a defeated argument with the young slayer, you had arrived at home right at dusk with a harvest of groceries, fabrics, and anything else you could have possibly needed. He had quickly helped you put away your things and was now standing at the gates as you were seeing him off.

“It gets cold at night up the mountains, so keep this tight.” Your voice was firm but full of love as you fussed over the the boy’s clothes. He had a loving smile on his face, seemingly touched by your mother-henning.

“I’ll be alright, Y/N-san. You take care too okay?”

“I will. For all we know Sanemi could be back any day now, so I’m sure I won’t be alone for too long.”

“I know…but if anything happens, just send us a crow. I’ll come right away, and Aniki will too!”

“I know you would, but don’t worry about me. You should worry about coming home without a scratch. I’ll make your favorite dinner when you return.”

After a few more affectionate words of encouragement, you saw Genya’s figure trail off into the distance as you said your goodbyes. You were incredibly proud of how far he had come, but couldn’t help but worry a bit yourself each time he was off. You scoffed to yourself, rolling your eyes.

Those boys — they sit there worried sick about me while they’re off fighting man-eating monsters.

Despite their ridiculous double standard, you adored them with your whole heart, praying for a safe return each time they headed out into the unknown.

Now settled into the evening, you made quick work of preparing dinner, cleaning the home, and taking care of any other miscellaneous chores that you had been wanting to get done. Because of Sanemi’s nocturnal working hours, he oftentimes slept throughout most of the day which had inevitably caused you to turn to a nocturnal schedule yourself, despite his many protests. He wanted you to have a healthy sleep schedule and enjoy the light of day, but you insisted you were much happier staying up with him to enjoy his company. You had always been a night-owl anyway, at least you also got to spend the evenings with your beloved when he was home that way, too.

Satisfied with your work, you excitedly pattered over to the bag of fabrics that Genya had purchased for you. Your heart swelled at the boy’s kindness, touched he had always been so eager to do such nice things for you.

I’ll need to use some of this to make him a winter coat. He can’t just keep wearing that slayer uniform alone. Sanemi, too.

Satisfied with the idea, you took your supplies and sat by the fire, basking in its warmth and contentedly humming as you began your project, the flickering light pouring over your cozy makeshift workspace.

You weren’t sure how long you had been sitting there threading away, lost in the intent focus of your crafting. You had always enjoyed making clothes, especially for the boys. It was a way you could give something back to them, as they were constantly out there risking their lives for ordinary people like you. Even further, you knew those two desperately needed someone to take care of them every once in awhile. You stretched, letting out a satisfied groan as you glanced at the now smoldering embers of the once blazing fire.

Goodness, it must be an ungodly hour.

You rose, striding over to the door to peek outside at the moon’s location in attempt to see the time. It was a nifty trick that Sanemi had taught you one night as the two of you sat huddled together, your body nestled against him and curled in between his legs on the roof as you looked at the stars. You supposed it was an incredibly useful skill to have a slayer, where you were constantly counting down the hours to dawn. The memory brought a smile to your face, suddenly feeling that familiar longing for your husband to come home so you could be right back in his warm and comforting embrace.

It was just after three in the morning. You really had been working for awhile. You heard a crow squeak behind you from in the house, causing you to jump in your own skin.

You turned with a laugh, walking over to the bird on his post and scratched under his chin.

“I’m sorry. I’ve kept you up too, haven’t I?”

You weren’t sure where Sanemi had gotten his hands on one of the crows meant for slayers, let alone trained it to follow your every move, but you supposed it was just another of the many things your husband worked for tirelessly in order to keep you safe.

The bird boomed a loud squawk again, almost as if he was alarmed.

“What’s wrong?” You cocked your head in confusion, as the behavior was incredibly unusual for your typically relaxed companion. You turned to the door that was still slid wide open to the outside, carrying a cold draft that swayed the forest outside right into your home.

“Oh, right. The door.”

You turned, heading over to slide it closed. The bird began a furious barrage of cries once more.

“I know, I know, It’s cold! I’m going, don’t worry!”

You had just begun to slide the door shut when you heard it — the faintest snap of a branch. Your hearing had always been good. You used to sit by that very entrance and crane for the sound of Sanemi’s footsteps trudging home. However, this sound was much different. It was a sound that was trying to stay hidden.

Every part of you stilled.

Now, the only things you could hear were the wind rustling through the trees, and your own heartbeat thundering in your ears.

The wave of dread that coursed through your body on instinct confirmed to you exactly what situation you were in.

Sure enough, you saw them. Those eyes.

Glowing a horrid red, they stared right at you as their figure crept closer. You met their gaze, unmoving in shock. Then, the monster let out a horrifying laugh that nearly made you black out.

I need to stay calm. A single second could be the difference between me surviving and —

The idea of even finishing the thought made your heart stop. This was real, which meant you needed to think fast.

When looking back on this moment, you would remember it all in slow motion. It felt like time itself had frozen, giving you the milliseconds you needed to act. In an instant, your hand reached for the sachet hanging just by the doorway while you simultaneously cried out to the bird behind you.

“Go!” You shrieked, thrashing the sachet down below you. The second it hit the floor, an explosion of lilac smoke burst into the room. Despite the dense smog that had erupted all around you, the crow flew out the window immediately on your command, faster than a bolt of lightning.

Please, God. Let him make it to them.

The terror coursing through your body felt toxic; Your breaths were erratic and your whole body was trembling as you spun on your heels to make a bolt for your room. You couldn’t see a thing, but you were hoping your that meant your predator couldn’t either. You had the advantage of knowing the layout of the house like the back of your hand — you could only hope the smoke screen would work long enough to get you the head start. Just when you had made it past the kitchen, you ripped the tablecloth off, scattering it and its contents to the floor in an attempt to distract the demon. Just when you made it to the hallway, the monster flung in through the doorway, crashing straight towards the kitchen and smashing into the cabinets, falling for the decoy. You heard the demon cry out in a rage as the shattered furniture and dishes flew everywhere, but you didn’t falter.

You flew into your bedroom, practically leaping over the bed to Sanemi’s cabinet. It was a slim chance, but every now and then, Sanemi would have a spare sword in there that was needing to be polished or repaired. It was far from ideal, but it seemed like your only option.

Please.

Flinging the door open, you practically sobbed in relief to see one resting there. Reaching for it without a moments notice, you unsheathed it, the pure adrenaline taking over.

You can do this. You’ve watched him, all this time.

You had watched him, all those years, training day in and day out. It had always amazed you, seeing his God-given strength and ability. You couldn’t count the amount of times you sat on the engawa, enraptured by his every move in wonder.

That’s right. You’ve seen it a hundred times. All you need is one good hit.

His movements flashed in your mind - without even realizing it, your love for him had committed each of them to memory. Now, you just had to give it all you were worth and hope that you had even a fraction of his strength. You took a deep breath, tears welling in your eyes.

Be with me, love. Please, lend me your strength, even if it’s only for a moment.

You could hear the demon’s blind rampage getting closer. It was crying out, as if it was in pain.

The wisteria smoke — it’s working. This it it. The only window I’ll get.

Gripping the hilt of Sanemi’s katana, you charged out into the hallway, finding the demon writhing on the floor. With every ounce of strength you had, you ran forward, raising the sword high.

Right in the very moment you were going to swing down, the demon met your eyes in alarm.

No!

The blow came so fast, you weren’t even sure you felt the initial impact. Its leg came flying up and hitting you square in the chest, sending you flying into the wall. The force was so abrupt you flew right threw it, crashing back into the demolished area that was once your kitchen. Gasping for air, the sword fell from your hand as blood spurted out of your mouth.

Get up. You have to get up.

Turning over quickly, you crawled to your feet, desperately trying to run away. Not a second later, you felt the kick again, launching you into the air. Then, a claw gripped your shoulder, slamming you back down into the ground.

You shrieked at the searing pain of your chest being practically ripped open, your blood spraying everywhere. The floorboards beneath you split open from the pressure of your landing.

“You damn bitch! I’m going to rip you apart!” The demon roared furiously.

You could barely breathe. Blood was everywhere, pooling around your body like a lake.

I can’t do this.

You heaved, rendered completely immobile. With a cry of pain, you realized that it was over. You were going to die. For a split second, you contemplated giving up — letting the demon end it quickly. Then, they flashed into your mind.

The two boys you loved most in the world, returning to their home torn apart and your remains splattered along the walls.

No. I have to do this. I have to live.

You weren’t sure what overtook you in that moment. Maybe it was adrenaline. Maybe it was the years of watching Sanemi’s breathing techniques, maybe it was sheer desperation. Wherever that miraculous source of strength came from, it had you on your feet, reaching for the demon’s neck. With a cry of pure rage, you ripped the demon down to the floor, pinning it down beneath you. Your hands flew to its arms that thrashed beneath you. The scream in your face was so loud you were sure it had ruptured your ear drums. And yet, you didn’t let go.

I can’t leave them.

A racked sob left your body as you fought to keep the monster beneath you, your muscles screaming at the unbearable pain, tears fueling your desperation.

I won’t leave them.

You were running out of strength. You were sure the only reason you were even remotely capable of holding it down was due to the smoke that was now slowly fading away. You could feel the demon’s force getting stronger beneath you, your own stamina quickly fading. The panic overtook you once more. Pressing down, you let out a horrid scream as you used the last of your energy to slam it back down beneath you.

At the sound of your scream, you heard a thundered rattle in the distance. The force was so intense that you could feel the ground shake beneath you. Your head lurched up in shock, trying to see what could have possibly made such a sound.

Please, God, don’t tell me there’s another!

Before you could even finish looking up, a white flash streaked across your vision — a pair of arms barreled into you so fast you thought you had hallucinated.

In an instant, you were flying across the room, locked in Sanemi’s grasp. He had moved so quickly that the two of you went flying through one of the only remaining walls to the house. He turned his body towards it to brace the impact, completely shielding you from the wreckage as the two of you crashed to the dirt outside.

In all your life, you hadn’t seen anything move that fast. You weren’t even sure it really happened until you felt the pressure of his arms locking you into his shuddering chest in the night air. At the register of his presence, you let out a choked gasp.

“Sanemi?”

You were gulping for air at this point, barely able to make out his name between your desperate and now gurgled heaves. Ripping his body back to meet your gaze, he was practically screaming at you..

“Where are you hurt?!” There were tears streaming down his face, and his whole body was violently shaking as he his hands roughly ran along your body, desperately searching for the source of the blood. You weren’t even able to respond before he had spotted it himself, ripping off his haori to try and cover the wound. You weren’t sure if the awful sound escaping his lips was hyperventilating or sobbing, but seeing him so shaken up stunned you. Not once in your life had you seen him so manic. You desperately wanted to console him, but your mind was still fixated on the threat in the house.

“The demon—” You rasped, but not before the sound of gunfire rattled from the house. Your eyes strained over Sanemi’s shoulder to see Genya blowing the demon’s head off in a blind rage. In that moment, your emotions overwhelmed you, and you began to sob.

They came.

Sanemi was fighting his own cries as he desperately tried to calm you.

“I’m right here, don’t cry! I’m so sorry but try to breathe, I need you to calm down, okay? You need to relax your body so I can stop the bleeding! I’m gonna fix this!” He was holding you so tightly, pressing down on your shoulder to staunch the bleeding.

“Y/N!” Genya came barreling towards the two of you, but froze at seeing the shape you were in. He gasped in horror, tears pooling in his eyes. He only broke his terrorized trance at the sound of Sanemi’s shout.

“Genya! Get Shinobu now!” Before Sanemi had even finished the words, the boy had turned and taken off towards the mansion.

You knew it must have been bad, otherwise Sanemi would have carried you there himself. He looked borderline rabid, scanning your body over and over for something else he could do. He leaned down, pressing dozens of fevered kisses to your face between desperate murmurs of assurance.

“I’m gonna fix this okay? Genya’s getting Shinobu and you’re gonna be just fine. Just stay with me okay? I need you to stay with me.” His former screaming had become soft whimpers, and now his voice was hoarse and broken.

You took a shuddered breath, willing yourself to speak.

“I-I’m so sorry— I tried my best, but the house, everything is gone —”

He wouldn’t even let you finish the sentence, interrupting you with a furious cry.

“Don’t you dare apologize to me! I don’t give a damn about the house! I—” He stopped, too choked up to finish the sentence. Pulling you even closer, his voice trembled as he continued. In a strange way, you almost found his hot-headed temper a comfort after seeing him so afraid.

“I’m so sorry I wasn’t here sooner.” He sounded furious with himself, and you you gently shook your head.

“You came just in time. I was getting quite tired.” You tried to make light of the situation, which only caused your husband to let out a strange sound somewhere between a laugh and a sob.

His hands were wiping the tears from your cheeks, although you weren’t even sure if they were yours or his.

In the distance, you heard shouting. The muffled voices became more clear, and before you knew it, you had been surrounded by frantic kakushi as Shinobu flew to your side. The hashira looked appalled as she took in your condition, the bewilderment evident on her face. She gave Sanemi a worried look, and the man froze in fear.

“She’ll live. She has to. She put up too much of a fight to die now! Please!” You knew you really must have been about to die, because not once in your life had you ever heard your husband say the word ‘please’ to one of his fellow slayers.

Crouching down, the woman listened to your breathing. Snapping up, she began barking orders.

“Her lungs are pierced! We need to move quickly, she won’t even be conscious much longer. Get me…”

You couldn’t make out much else, your vision going blurred and the world suddenly becoming rather quiet. The last thing you remembered was your husbands trembling lips on your forehead murmuring sobbed prayers.

***

It was the feeling of the sun on your face that finally woke you. Letting your eyes adjust to the light, you blearily blinked, bringing you hands up to rub them. However, one if your hands was locked in place. Looking down, you saw your husband passed out in a chair beside your bed, clinging to you.

I must be at the mansion.

You sighed softly, taking a moment to bask in the utter peace you felt.

I’m alive.

You heard a soft snore from the other side of the room, causing you to look over in surprise. Genya was sprawled awkwardly between two chairs the had seemingly made into a makeshift bed, his body contorted in an attempt to curl into them.

Beside him on the floor was a bouquet of your favorite flowers — ones that the boys knew only grew in a particular valley by your home.

You froze, taking in the scene before you. Before you knew it, tears trickled down your face, completely overwhelmed once again by the swell in your chest.

I made it back to them.

Footsteps rounded the corner past your room, and Shinobu entered swiftly, carrying a tray of what looked to be different medicines. As she looked over at you, her face went slack. The tray she was holding collapsed to the floor, her own eyes filling with tears. The sound jolted Sanemi and Genya awake, their head snapping up in unison.

You weren’t sure who spoke first, the three of them immediately up and fussing over you in snorted sobs of relief. Shinobu checked your vitals as Sanemi’s head hit the mattress with a relieved sob. Genya was at your side in an instant.

“Are you all right?” He sniffed, and all you wanted was to take the sweet boy into your arms for a hug.

“Yes—” Your voice wobbled, the tears unable to stop. Seeing them made the boy’s eyes flash with worry.

“Why are you crying? Are you in pain?”

You shook your head, rubbing your eyes.

“No, I’m just so happy I woke up.” You wept. Sanemi took your hand, kissing it over and over.

You turned to shinobu who was feverishly checking over you.

“Thank you so much,” You whispered. “I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for all of you.”

The woman shook her head firmly, placing a hand on your shoulder.

“No. You’re here because you’re strong. We only made it to you because you kept fighting. Never forget that.”

You were stunned by her words. The people you were luckily enough to call your family were your heroes — they fought tirelessly to protect the world from such evil, and never in your life did you ever imagine that one day, someone would see you the way you saw them — strong.

You were no slayer, but that day, you learned you never needed to be. You had everything you needed to be strong long before you ever gripped that sword.

#sanemi shinazugawa #kny sanemi #sanemi x reader #genya shinazugawa #demon slayer #kny headcanons #demon slayer fanfic #demon slayer genya #demon slayer sanemi #sanemi x y/n #sanemi angst #sanemi fluff

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settingmyheartablaze · 5 months

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I'm so sorry that I love you.

gojo satoru x civilian!reader

authors note: this was a little something silly I cooked up that I imagined a potential part two for, but let me know what you think >:)

taglist: @milkm4nz @caelestismoondust @hunbuncinnabun @taeoxox @tachibannaa

content warnings: mentions of death, angst, shibuya arc, contains s2 spoilers

***

Satoru Gojo was the strongest.

It was the only identity he knew for himself — no, the only one he was allowed. Since he took his first breath of the world’s cursed air, from the very moment his eyes hit the light, it was decided. He would be the world’s savior. Not because they knew it was even possible, or that he could ever bear that kind of burden, but because they needed one - desperately.

And maybe he had nurtured himself on that foolish title because if he had accepted a reality for even a brief moment where he could at the mercy of this cruel world, he was sure it would break him. He had been running from that feeling ever since he saw his best friend’s back turn and disappear into the shadows. He thought he knew what it was to feel helpless that day — to be afraid.

And then, amidst all the screams of utter panic, he heard yours.

No, he didn’t even need to hear it. He could feel you, he always could. It had been one of the only parts of his eyes he considered to be a gift. Ever since he had met you, sensing your soul nearby was one of his only comforts. He thought he would never see the day when he didn’t want you right where his eyes could reach you.

No.

You weren’t supposed to be here. The panic exploding in his chest nearly caused his heart to stop.

For what felt like the first time in his life, he understood was it was to be truly, utterly, and completely terrified.

He had seen you just hours ago. You were fidgeting around in that costume that took his breath away by the mirror, giggling as you tried to pry yourself from his arms.

“Satoru, I have to go!” You flushed, the smile on your face giving away how little you actually minded his resistance. He squeezed you even tighter, pulling you into him from behind as he pressed a trail of kisses down your neck.

“Now how am I supposed to let you go when you look this good?” He practically purred in your ear.

“You could always come with me.” You mused, turning around in his grasp to thread your fingers through his hair. It always made his knees go weak. He sighed, placing a kiss to your forehead before pressing his own against it.

“You go ahead, it’s supposed to be a girl’s night. Besides, I told the kids I would take them around for a bit — Itadori’s hellbent on going to a haunted house.” He chuckled.

You smiled at the mention of them, nodding in understanding.

“I won’t be out long, maybe I can meet up with you all after. I’d kill to see how Megumi would react,” You giggled, finally pulling back from his arms that reluctantly loosened.

He had grabbed your purse off the counter, sliding it onto your shoulder. It never failed to give him butterflies how even the smallest touch from him made your cheeks bloom like roses. His hand trailed back down your arm until it reached your own, grasping it. He met your eyes, his voice now a bit softer. *

It did that when he was feeling vulnerable. You never failed to notice it.

“Be safe, okay?”

It was no more than a whisper, but you smiled warmly in reply, squeezing the hand that held your own a bit tighter than usual.

“I always am.”

He knew you meant it. It was one of the things he appreciated most about you. With you being a civilian, it felt like a part of him was always on edge when you were away. He wasn’t even sure when it happened, but somewhere along the lines he noticed the breath he would hold until he heard your keys rattling the doorknob. You had become well aware of your importance in his life over the years, and always tried to do what you could to ease his mind. You couldn’t imagine what his job put him through, so you had always tried your best to be someone he felt he didn’t have to carry. (No matter how many times he insisted you were the only one he felt was worth the burden.)

“Now go on, get out before I change my mind.” He joked, ushering you to the door. “I really am the world’s greatest boyfriend, letting my girl go out looking this good.” He grumbled, as if he had been suddenly questioning his decision.

You turned back to face him one last time, flashing him that damn smile that always made his heart stop.

“I love you too.” You said, rolling your eyes in amusement.

Despite his antics, you knew him better than anyone — more particularly, how he had always used jokes to stifle his feelings. He had never been the best at verbalizing what he was really feeling, especially after everything he had lost. It felt like a curse to utter words of devotion — like the second he had marked someone as precious to him, they would be ripped from him before he could blink. Because of this, you never pressured him to say the words he so desperately meant but always hid behind his lips. You didn’t need to hear him to say it, and he didn’t think there was a single thing he had done in his life to deserve that - to deserve you.

Now, watching you come crashing though the ceiling of that train station, he had never been more disgusted with himself.

I should have said it. I should have said it a thousand more times. It felt like the only words he knew anymore when he saw your terrified face plummeting towards the pile of cursed corpses.

I love you.

How may times must you have called him once you realized the situation you were in? You were smart, too smart for your own good. He knew you must have put things together quickly — you always did. How long had you been trapped in this hell, terrified, left with nothing to do but pray he would show up?

No, you wouldn’t have even wished for that, and he cursed himself for it. You would have wanted him as far away as possible when you heard the people demanding his arrival. You must have known it was a trap.

He had never been more furious with himself. He should have gone with you. No, he never should have let you walk out that door. You should have been at home, with him, curled around his frame and littered with shitty candy wrappers as the even shittier halloween specials cast a glow on your sleeping face.

To be the honored one is a blessing. To be loved by them, is a curse.

This is the price of the six eyes, but why did you have to pay it?

I’m so sorry that I love you.

#jjk x reader #jjk #gojo angst #gojo fluff #gojo x reader #gojo satoru #satoru gojo #gojo satoru x reader #jujutsu kaisen #gojo

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settingmyheartablaze · 6 months

Text

Promises. (Levi x reader)

"Hey."

Fingers wrapped around your arm, stopping you from mounting your horse.

"Will you be okay?"

Levi was staring at you, though his efforts of hiding his concern clear, his eyes were wide with a sort of urgency.

You turned to meet his gaze. His eyes softened when you smiled.

"Yeah." You nodded, hesitant but firm. "Yeah, I hope so."

First expedition without Levi by your side. It'd be an understatement to say you weren't scared because you were fucking terrified. But you can tell from his pursed lips and the way he was looking at you, he felt guilty. He just had to get such a shitty injury.

You didn't want to worry him more. It was probably hard enough for him to let you go out like that.

When his grip tightened, you raised your own hand to wrap it around his. More to comfort yourself than him to be honest.

"I'll be fine." You tried your best to sound confident and reassuring. "I can take care of myself, Levi."

"I didn't say you couldn't." He muttered. "I'm just—"

The sound of a whistle cut him off. That's the first signal. His grip loosened as you hastened to climb up your horse.

And though his face would appear as expressionless as usual to most, but never to you. It was easy for you to notice the growing anxiety in his eyes.

"Wait." He stopped before you could say anything. "Not yet. Just..a few more minutes."

"Levi. That's the first whistle–"

"There's two more left." His hand went over the clasps in your thighs, eyes narrowing in concentration as he tightened them. He patted it, gesturing you to let him see the other leg.

You grumbled, but swung your leg over. He was pissy when he was worried, and he'd sulk all day if you didn't let him fuss and confirm with his own hands that all will be well.

"Don't take unnecessary risks." He muttered quietly as his fingers worked. "Don't go after titans on your own. Avoid being in the rear of the group. Don't waste gas. Don't—"

"I know." You whispered, gently pulling his hand away. It was trembling, but whether that was because of your tremors or his, you didn't know. "I know."

He swallowed. "I won't be there."

"I know."

"So, don't die."

You smiled, earning a scowl from him. "No, don't just laugh." He frowned. "I'm serious. Don't die."

"Levi."

"Come back. With all your fucking limbs. You have to."

"Levi."

"I'm rambling, aren't I?" He rubbed his temple. "Why can't you just listen to me and stay here?"

"Levi." You said, voice firmer this time. He looked up. Both of you flinched when the second whistle cut through the air.

Time was running out.

Without thinking, you stretched your arm towards him, hand rolled into a fist and your little finger raised.

He stared for a second, eyes flicking from you to your hand. Then realization dawned on him and he let out a huff.

"No fucking way." He grumbled, glaring at you.

"Yes way. Or I'll be sad."

"No way."

"Why not?" You pouted. "It'll make me feel better."

"What are you? Five?" He scowled.

You wiggled your finger. "It's sacred." You said, grinning. "Don't underestimate the power of pinky promises. That's a life-worthy oath."

"Fuck no."

"Levi—"

The final whistle rang out.

He stared at you as the other soldiers started shuffling, noises filling up the space in moments.

You looked at Levi, eyes wide in alarm.

"Come on." You pleaded.

Finally, Levi caved. With his cheeks flushing, he reached out, his little finger wrapping around your own. You held on to it.

"I'll come back." You promised.

Levi only nodded quietly, looking away.

"No good luck kiss?"

"Fuck off." He said, pulling his hand away. "Don't push it, you little shit."

"That's a nice goodbye."

"It's not a goodbye. You'll come back."

He said determinedly, gaze searing through you as if seeking confirmation.

You nodded your head. "Yes." You smiled. "Promise."

He exhaled, letting out the breath in relief. His face relaxed. But he stared at you as you adjusted in your seat.

"Tch." He clicked his tongue. "Your hair's a fucking mess."

"Shame. No charming titans with my beauty then." You shrugged, taking the reins.

There was the smallest hint of a smile on Levi's mouth.

"Be safe." He muttered quietly. With one last look at him, you set off, your horse's hooves kicking up dust, leaving Levi there as he watched you leave.

Levi looked down at his hands, the feel of your touch still tingling his skin.

"She'll come back." He muttered to himself quietly.

You didn't come back.

And Levi doesn't think he'll ever believe in promises again.

Liar. Liar. Liar. He thinks. That's what you were.

Fucking liar.

@sad-darksoul @anxious-chick @raginginferno267

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settingmyheartablaze · 7 months

Text

“i like you.”

you pause, smiling to yourself. “I know, love, we are dating.”

“but i've never liked anyone this much," Rengoku says, pressing his lips onto the back of your hand. a kiss for each knuckle. he says that every inch of you deserves love, so often times you find him kissing your hands, your temples, your wrists.

it wasn’t like the two of you were doing something big to deserve this declaration of "love". you both were sitting crossed-kneed across each other and drinking warm tea. well, you were— he was staring at you, seeming to hang off every word you said.

but of course, he just got back from his week-long mission, he was always so doting the day after. it was cute seeing how affectionate he can be. he wanted to know exactly what you did the days he was away. he didn't want to miss anything important involving you.

when you set the tea down, he gently pulls you over to him, wrapping his body around yours and presses light kisses along your neck. “we should be wed.”

you softly smile as you always do. he has said this so many times, so you don’t even falter at it. “you know I would love to kyo.”

he sighs and presses his forehead to your shoulders. you can feel his body droop, the disappointed unhidden. “but I won’t risk you being a widow. it’s harder for a widow to find a husband”

his arms tighten around you, as if the mere idea makes him uncomfortable. he has come to terms to the fact that he could die any mission, but with you around everything feels so different. the thought of you being left alone haunts him.

“if something did happen to you, I wouldn’t take another,” you mumble leaning into his chest. it was true, you don't think you would recover if he ever did pass.

“i would want you to!”

you turn toward him with a raised eyebrow, before dragging your finger up his arm. "yeah? want me to lay in another mans arms?" you murmur, and press a kiss to his jaw, causing him to shiver. "kiss another man like this?", and begin to run your fingers down his body, "touch another man so sensually?"

he grips onto your hand before they reach their destination. his eyes peer into yours, and he has a soft pinkness to his cheeks. "marry me."

you slightly tilt your head to the side, a lazy smirk on your face. "and if i become a widow?"

he uses one hand to rub the back of your hand, and the other to lightly hold onto your neck. "nothing sounds worst than the thought of you with another. that alone will drive me to stay alive."

you grin at him. "mhmm, I do like the idea."

he brings his face closer toward yours, his forehead almost touching yours. "marry me."

"i am forever yours, Kyojuro."

he presses his lips to yours for a moment, and pulls away, the tips of his ears now burning. "I really like you."

"yeah? funny, because I really like you too."

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settingmyheartablaze · 7 months

Text

*takes long drag of my cigar, leaning back into the plush leather seat of my dimly lit parlor*

alright, who’s going to write the civillian!reader falling through the ceiling as a victim of the shibuya train station, for gojo to realize in horror that his lover is among those trapped

#gojo satoru #gojo fluff #gojo angst #jjk spoilers #jjk x you #jjk x reader #gojo x reader #jujutsu kaisen #jujustsu kaisen x reader

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settingmyheartablaze · 7 months

Note

hi rylie!! thank you sm for the recs! and since you said your inbox is open …

could i maybe request a fic where nanami proposes to you? like a spur of the moment thing where it’s not really the “right time” but he just springs out the question bc he wants you forever 🥹😮‍💨

thank you a bajillion! <3

my everything

FEATURING: nanami kento x f!reader — wc: 3.1k

SUMMARY: after nanami remembers how short life can be, he realizes he wants to spend the rest of his with you.

CONTENTS: takes place during jjk 0, slight angst per usual, marriage proposals, sorcerer!reader, nanami's pov, happy ending

note: thank you for this sweet request!! i kind of took it and ran w it, but this was so much fun to write :) i hope you enjoy lovely!! <;33

Kento couldn’t remember the last time he’d been so afraid.

The gnawing feeling of dread was as heavy as the ring in his pocket, the one that he now regretted hanging onto for so long. Shinjuku streets were drenched in the blood of so many curses, humans, and sorcerers and it sickened him, reminded him that life could be cut short at any moment. There was a reason that he’d quit Jujutsu so many years ago, and he started to wonder if he’d made the right decision in coming back.

Kento sorted through the bodies, scanned the mangled corpses for any sign of your familiar face. He never spotted you, but he wasn’t certain if it was a relief that you were nowhere to be found.

Satoru stood at the edge of the street, his forehead lined with sweat, the pale bandages falling away from his icy eyes. Briefly, he dropped the façade that always lingered, and it was obvious how tired he was. How much everything had beaten him down in the last decade and refused to let up.

In that moment, Kento felt sorry for him. Then, Satoru resumed his usual air of arrogance, straightened his back, and the natural balance fell between them once more.

In just a few strides, Kento was upon him, his hair unruly, shirt wrinkled as the tie remained still crumpled around his hand. His muscles ached and he longed for a shower—though any of those trivial thoughts were outweighed by his incessant need to find you.

“Where is she?” The words hung in the air before Kento realized they’d left his lips at all.

Satoru hesitated, almost unwilling to hand over his confession so easily. “I sent her back to the school.”

Kento clenched his fists, but Satoru was defending himself before any irrational actions could be taken.

“She insisted, Nanami.”

Still, he couldn’t help but wish that Satoru had ignored your pleas, even if Kento was unsurprised that you’d volunteered to stand by the students’ side. You weren’t the type of person to let a few first and second years go up against a special grade on their own, no matter how strong they were.

Satoru was squeezing Kento’s shoulder before he had even noticed the movement. Something in his expression had darkened, and though Kento normally would’ve shoved him off, put some distance between the two of them, he wasn’t sure he could remember a time when Satoru Gojo looked so somber. “I wouldn’t have sent them there if I wasn’t certain they’d be alright. I’m not as cruel as you might think.”

Kento knew that he had never behaved warmly towards his ex-classmate, but his opinion of the man was not as low as Satoru believed. For better or worse, Satoru loved his students, and though he pushed them, Kento knew he would never put them into an undefeatable danger.

He sighed, dropping his chin to his chest as Satoru’s hand fell away from his shoulder. “Just take me to her, Gojo.”

Satoru nodded, his lips curling down into a frown before he was teleporting them both back to the high school. There, the sight was even more dismal than Kento had expected. Many of the buildings had been destroyed and there were clear residuals from many sorcerers and curses. It was chaos, a grim sight to behold, and they weren’t even past the gate.

The anxiety twisted up in his chest, and inwardly, he prayed, hopeful that you were as fine as Satoru believed. That Geto, in every inch of his darkened heart, would hesitate when it came to killing an old friend.

“Hey,” Satoru said, tying up the blindfold once more, tightening it across his snowy hair. “She’s fine. This, I’m certain of.”

Kento’s lips were too dry to even offer a thank you, even though Satoru probably deserved it, for all the sacrifices he made, all the time. Instead, he nodded, and turned away from the tall man, haunted by a memory of him once as young as the students that had been left behind to protect humanity.

The leaves and gravel crunched under Kento’s feet as he ran up to the school, taking in the sheer destruction that had befallen the place he’d once called home. It made him ache with a longing for a simpler time, even though he could never go back, and the boy he’d been was long gone.

It was a brisk night—the kind of night that you normally would’ve spent bundled up inside, a bowl of hot soup between you, a movie running while you rested your head against Kento’s shoulder, dozing off before the credits rolled.

That’s how his night should’ve gone. Instead, he was searching every crushed piece of building, every pile of rubble in case your body had been caught between it.

Kento knew that the life of a sorcerer was a miserable one, that it was easy to lose the people you cared about, but he wasn’t certain he’d be able to go on for much longer if he lost you.

The ring was even heavier in his pocket, weighing him down, making it near impossible to move. If you hadn’t survived, Kento would never forgive himself for waiting so long to propose.

He called your name, ripping off his glasses in any attempt to see you better, wondering where you could’ve disappeared to, hoping that you hadn’t died alone.

The grounds, it seemed, had been hollowed out completely, and for the first time, Kento wondered if Gojo was wrong about his old friend.

Panic clawed up his chest, scratching at his throat, sending him into an illogical spiral before a small, shaky voice from behind him brought him back to reality, a light that parted through the black night, so sweet and heavenly to his ears.

“Kento?”

He turned, blinked as you swayed on your feet, making your way slowly down the steps of the main building. You walked awkwardly on your ankle, though you pushed on, heading towards him despite the pain.

For a moment, he watched, and then he was upon you without even acknowledging his movements, two long strides that brought him back to his salvation.

Kento pulled you into his arms, burying his face in your hair, breathing in the undeniable truth that you were still alive, even as you winced from his stronghold, your arms limp at your sides.

“Fuck,” Kento said, kissing you on the top of the head, your hairline, forehead. His eyes were glossy with tears that had been held back by his remaining shreds of hope. “You scared me there for a second, sweetheart.”

Your hands were on his chest, tracing his bicep before you curled your fingers around his jaw, bringing his gaze to your own. The touch was light, searching for any wounds that hid under his stained button-up. “I’m okay,” you said, softly, even though your face was bruised, your ankle twisted, and you were bleeding from more places than one. “Are you?”

Kento nearly laughed, wondering how you could even think to ask that question when he was untouched compared to you. Though, the amusement died immediately when you looked at him with so much concern that he melted, and he squeezed your hand in reassurance. “I’m okay.”

You nodded, expression serious as you attempted to ingrain the words into your mind, convince yourself that everything would be alright, even though things hadn’t been that way in nearly a decade. You kept your hands on him, as if waiting for some wounds to appear, for him to start bleeding into your palm, even though his injuries went no further than some sore muscles.

“And everyone else?”

Kento pulled you into his chest, running a hand up and down your back, wishing that he could heal you as easily as Shoko could, that a gentle touch could fix everything that had ever soiled your life. “Everyone’s fine,” he said, and as far as he knew, that was true. “A little beat up, but they’re alive.”

You exhaled, nodding into his chest as you rested your weight on him.

Kento would gladly bear it, would carry you all the way home if need be.

Briefly, you were silent, before you squeezed your eyes shut painfully and grimaced. “I got the students to Shoko, but they were all so hurt, so badly,” you swallowed, digging your fingers into his shirt, and Kento suddenly hated that Satoru hadn’t sent him with you, even if he was needed in the city. “Geto—”

You stopped yourself, and said nothing more, heartbroken by a boy you had too many fond memories of to ever see in a malicious light. It was difficult for everyone who’d ever known him back then, even if he hadn’t been that way in a decade.

Kento swallowed and you pushed away your tears, buried whatever conversation had transpired earlier between you and the dark-haired sorcerer.

Though, you’d resolved to be everything that Geto was not. That, at least, had been one positive outcome of his betrayal. “It’s not your fault, love.”

“I should’ve been more prepared to kill him, Kento. I’m not as strong as him, but I should’ve been able to hold him off until Gojo—” You choked back a cry before standing straight, shaking your head. “I tried too hard to reason with him. I left it to a student, and—”

“Hey,” Kento held your cheeks tight in his palms, forcing you to gain a better perspective of the situation. You looked up at him with soft, lost eyes, and Kento was filled with a swell of adoration for you, for the strength that came with the vastness of your heart.

Despite all you’d suffered, you’d managed a smile, been the light in Kento’s life, even when he’d wanted to do nothing but wallow in his own misery. If not for you, he wasn’t sure he ever would’ve come back to being a sorcerer at all. If not for you, Kento would’ve been lost, without an ounce of meaning in his life.

You were so foolish for thinking you hadn’t done enough, when you’d done more for him than he could put into words. Kento’s love for you was enormous, and in that moment, he would’ve let the rest of the world collapse in on itself if it meant you’d be safe and happy.

“Any of us would’ve done the same. Do you really believe that Gojo would’ve so easily killed Geto without speaking to him first? Would I have?”

The look didn’t dissipate from your irises, but you didn’t disagree with him, and that was enough. Kento kissed you, deeply, putting every ounce of affection into that single touch. Everyone had made it out of the night alive, and you’d been there for the students when it mattered the most. That was more than he could say, at least.

“I don’t want to lose anyone else, Kento,” you said, blinking at him once more with those sad eyes, ones that he never wanted to see on your normally bright expression. “I can’t keep pretending it doesn’t tear me apart.”

“You won’t lose me,” he promised, even though he knew that there was no way he could keep it, an oath that was almost destined to be broken. “I’m not going anywhere.”

“You and I both know that you can’t be sure of that,” you said, backing out of his embrace to wrap a protective arm around yourself. The smile that graced your lips was sad, defeated. “Our world is not merciful enough.”

Kento knew that better than anyone, and he’d been reminded of it that evening. Reminded of the loss that befell those who wanted to fight for a better world, and even those who didn’t. Death didn’t give any warning, didn’t choose based off anything more than a random draw. “Then I’ll promise to love you until the day I die. That, at least, is a vow I won’t ever break.”

The ring in his pocket was practically vibrating now, reminding him how little the non-necessities of life mattered to him. All this time, he been waiting for the perfect moment, to plan everything down to the very last detail.

It seemed meaningless now.

You squeezed his hand, your face brightening despite your sorrow, lips tugging up sideways. “I can promise the same.” Kento’s heart swelled, and you kissed his cheek before dragging him a few steps forward so the two of you were walking in time together. “We should go check on the students. I want Shoko to check my ankle too. I’ve suffered worse, but it’s starting to swell pretty badly.”

Kento nodded, though his mind was too busy whirling with fears of a wedding that might never happen, that you might never know he was going to propose if he didn’t do it soon. You could be snatched away from him at any moment, or perhaps, he could leave this world with the ring still in his pocket, and you’d only know once you found it on his corpse.

Kento wouldn’t forgive himself, even in death, if he didn’t do what he’d been wanting to do for months.

With one arm around your shoulder, he reached the other into his pocket, twirling the box. He wasn’t even sure why he carried it with him that night when he could’ve so easily lost it in the middle of battle.

Yet, there it was, lingering, the constant weight in his pocket that rested against his hip. He swallowed, and you looked up at him, your lips falling back once more into a frown.

“Hey,” you said, slowing your pace, concern evident in your expression. “Is something wrong? Did something happen in Shinjuku, Kento? I didn’t mean to just brush off—”

Kento shook his head, shushing you quickly. It didn’t take him long to make up his mind, and he wrapped the tiny box up in his hand. “Nothing’s wrong, sweetheart.” He kissed the top of your head again before holding the box out, presenting it to you calmly, without any spike in his normal tone. “I just was thinking about how I was going to ask you to marry me.”

You stopped completely, your pupils blown wide as you took the box from him with shaky hands, blinking back down at it before meeting his tender brown eyes. “Kento?” you said again, calmly, as if waiting for him to explain.

A beat of silence passed between you. Kento, suddenly, felt nervous around you for the first time in a long while.

“Truthfully, I was going to prepare a long-winded speech and buy you some flowers and take you out for dinner. But,” he cleared his throat, regaining his composure as he flipped the lid of the velvety box, revealing the sparkling ring he’d spend hours searching for. “I love you too much to waste any more time. Somehow, until tonight, I’d forgotten how short life can be. I just want to spend every moment I can as your husband.”

Your eyes became glossy as you stared down at the beautiful gem, lifting the ring out of the box to slide onto your finger. As expected, it fit you perfectly, shimmering in the pale light, the perfect complement to your skin. Kento gently took your hand, kissing the knuckle right below the jewelry.

“I’ll propose again to you properly,” he said, laughing quietly, though if it was because of your silence or the joy lodged within him, he couldn’t be certain. “Without all the blood and the—"

“Kento.” Your lips were on his before he could finish his sentence, harsh and passionate despite your injuries. Fingers curled around his chin, holding him into place, making him forget all the horrors that had occurred that evening. “Don’t be silly. I don’t need a grandiose display to know I want to be with you forever. I love you too much.”

Kento’s chest warmed, that bundle of affection within him bursting, making its way through every ounce of his being. There, you seemed to glow brighter, every day making you more beautiful than before, and he wondered how it could be possible that he could feel so much for one person.

He relaxed, unknowingly tense, and kissed you again on the forehead, his arms around your shoulder once more. “I should’ve done it sooner.”

You smiled and caressed the harsh bones of his cheeks, shaking your head. “It wouldn’t have changed anything.” You laughed, pulling him down by the tie, pressing a kiss between his brows to ease the wrinkle there. “Besides, now you’ve turned this awful night into something special. I don’t have to remember this day with a bitter taste in my mouth.”

Kento returned your smile, but it was still weak, even with all of the adoration he felt for you.

Though, when you beamed at the ring, your eyes soft, all of the previous despair gone, he knew that everything would be alright. Perhaps his timing had been less than ideal, but he would do it over and over again if only to ease away the misery from your face.

“So, then you will marry me?” he said again, wanting to hear the words from your lips, even though there was no doubt in his mind.

You rolled your eyes playfully, noticing his teasing smile and indulged him. “Yes, Kento.” You kissed his cheek, letting out a sharp exhale. “I’ll marry you. I would’ve always said yes, even back when we were silly, lovesick teenagers.” You sighed theatrically, adjusting his tie. “Who knows why. You had such a ridiculous haircut back then.”

Kento’s cheeks grew warm, splitting with the force of his smile, one that only seemed to appear with you at his side. Despite all of the horrible things that had happened in all of your lives, he was grateful that there were good moments too.

“Well, I still managed to win over the prettiest girl in the world, didn’t I?” he said, ghosting the words as he laced his fingers with your own, squeezing tight. “Now I get to call her my fiancée.”

You mumbled something less than kind under your breath, but Kento could feel the warmth on your cheeks, the flush the began from your neck.

He laughed, continuing his path back to the infirmary, where the students were likely waiting for you to return safe and sound. “Come on, I’m taking you to see Shoko. I wouldn’t want my future wife’s injuries to get any worse, would I?”

And though the both of you knew your injuries were minimal, your eyes brightened as the skin around them wrinkled, and Kento knew that whatever happened after this, he would live and die a happy man.

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settingmyheartablaze · 8 months

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somewhere along the lines, learning to love Kyojuro meant learning to love yourself.

It made your chest tight to think that some of his warmest smiles and the root of his deepest peace came from the product of your own well being.

It started with small things - you couldn’t help but notice the subtle swell of his chest when you slowly learned to take his complements to heart, instead of bashfully brushing them off. Seeing the pride he took in you made you carry yourself a bit taller, and you could sense his satisfaction.

Even in the more physical sense, he wasn’t able to complete his day without knowing that you were fed, bathed, and without a care in the world. On the days where you got carried away in the day to day tasks of the estate (that you had thrust upon yourself despite his many encouragements to rest) and maybe skipped a meal or two, he fussed like a hen (much to your dismay) until he saw with his own eyes that you had properly eaten. You always tried to dissuade Kyojuro, telling him it was silly to worry about you while he was off risking his life to the night. It wasn’t until you came down with a severe sickness, likely due to your own exhaustion, that you finally understood his fretful doting on you.

You had never seen him so anxious. You, not a stranger to falling ill due to your somewhat weaker disposition, had never imagined it would send your beloved into such a spiral. By your side every spare minute he had, he diligently assessed your condition, changed your rags, fed you homemade meals by hand, and touched you like you were made of glass. You knew him well enough to notice the shakes he hid behind the hand rested on your forehead as he checked your temperature. Even with the rapidly declining energy you had, you gave your all into giving him the warmest smiles and a mountain of murmured reassurances, seeing the dark thoughts he never dared to voice clouding over his eyes. You had known what happened to his mother, but you felt so foolish, selfish, and cruel to realize it took your bedridden state to understand why your well-being was his utmost priority. You weren’t sure he could handle another loss like that. You made a promise to yourself that day - a promise that from that moment forward, you would view yourself as precisely what you were to him - something precious and irreplaceable.

As you eventually recovered, largely due to kyojuro’s desperate and devoted care, you made sure to make good on the promise you made to yourself. You rested when you needed it, never missed a meal, and stopped teasing him for his coddling nature. Seeing the way his shoulders began to relax and the warm, peaceful aura radiating from your husband made you feel like a monster for ever depriving him of it in the first place. You could hear the sound, gentle rhythm of his heartbeat through his now uninterrupted sleep, and saw the tension ease a bit more each time he left for a mission, knowing you would be well taken care of in his absence.

Seeing the drastic improvement in his health and anxieties, you knew you would do anything to keep him that way. You laughed to yourself, thinking about how out of all the things you imagined when you thought of what you would do for love, the mirror was the last place you would have decided to look. It was then that you realized kyojuro was pure, unadulterated love.

A love that was so selfless it made you want to cry the moment you met his warm, adoring gaze.

you were his happiness, just as he was every bit of yours.

#demon slayer #kyojuro x reader #kny kyojuro #kny #kny headcanons #rengoku kyojuro #rengoku x reader #kyojuro fluff #rengoku fluff #angst with a happy ending

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settingmyheartablaze · 10 months

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Dark Red - Rengoku x Reader

What if, on that fateful day nearly a hundred years ago, the demon slayer core had lost?

What if the king of demons had conquered the sun, achieving immortality?

Thrilled to gain an inside eye into the mysterious world of the Blue Spider Corp., Y/N has begun her dream job at the country’s leading pharmaceutical company, owned and operated by none other than the infamous and elusive CEO, Muzan Kibutsuji. In her attempts to establish a place for herself in this peculiar and oftentimes ominous workplace, Y/N catches the attention of dangerous eyes and ghosts of the past. As she begins to uncover the truth behind the veil of secrecy surrounding Mr. Kibutsuji and his empire, she encounters a whole new world of friendship, love, and betrayal.

Fandom: Demon Slayer

Pairings: Rengoku x Y/N, Muzan x Y/N

Content warnings: mentions of violence

It was your first day of work.

Already late despite having sprinted nearly halfway across the city upon realizing you overslept, you finally arrived at the massive, breathtaking glass doors to the largest building in the entire skyline. Frantically huffing as you tried to smooth your hair, your heartbeat thundered in your ears as the adrenaline continued to course through your entire body. All you could think of was how you were about to walk into your own firing on day one.

How could I have blown this? You whined to yourself, horrified that despite setting ten alarms, you had still managed to oversleep due to something as humiliatingly childish as a nightmare. You hardly ever had them, but something about this one had kept you tossing and turning through the night in fits of uneasiness. You blamed the news you had watched the night before.

While the city used to be one of the safest in the world, during the past year it had been plagued by a dark shadow. What started as a freak homicide case quickly became an onslaught of violent murders, leading citizens to believe there was a serial killer, if not an entire group of them, running rampant. There seemed to be no correlation between the victims - just that they were alone and vulnerable. The remains, if anything more than dried blood on the ground, were horrific. You would have sooner thought it was some kind of animal mauling them until it became far too frequent and eerily calculated to be explained so simply. Just last night, they found another young woman - or what was left of her, splattered on the wall of an alley.

Still able to picture the man that had been hunting you through your dreams with his wicked, glowing eyes of blood, a shiver went down your spine. You tried to shove the image out of your mind, well aware that you had far worse real fears to face as soon as you walked through those doors.

You had fought tooth and nail to earn a position at the largest and most elusive pharmaceutical company in the country, Blue Spider Corp. While you had only earned an entry-level position in administrative work, it was notoriously impossible to work your way in, so you had spent years crafting the perfect resume. You were nearly on the verge of tears at the thought that you might have thrown it all away.

No point in throwing a pity party, I just have to walk in there and take it. Holding your head up high, you stepped towards the doors that flew right open, trying to waltz in there like it was your everyday routine. Making your way over to the front desk, you approached a small young woman who appeared around your age typing away at her keyboard. Upon noticing your presence, she glanced up, meeting your eyes with her own which were a dazzling purple. You were taken aback, having never seen eyes such a unique color. Looking closer, you noticed that the ends of her ebony hair faded to a matching shade of violet.

Huh. I honestly imagined a company like this would have a stricter policy on appearances, you thought to yourself before addressing the woman.

“Hi, my name is Y/N, and it’s my first day. I’m running a few minutes behind, but I was supposed to meet with my supervisor, Mrs. Sato?” Your voice shook as you spoke. Damn your nerves.

The woman took in your frazzled disposition, clearly aware of the anxiety surging through you due to your tardiness. After a moment of what seemed to be brief contemplation, she smiled in reply, and for some reason, it gave you a sense of comfort.

“I see. It’s nice to meet you, Y/N. My name is Kocho. Let me tell her you’ve arrived”. She reached for the phone, dialing your supervisor. Your leg bounced as she relayed your arrival, fighting the urge to bite your fingernails. Following her confirmation, Kocho set the phone down and turned to face you.

“I’ve let her know, and she’s headed here now. Congratulations on your first day. Tell me, are you new to the city?”

“No. Surprisingly enough, I’ve lived here my whole life, so you think I’d know my way around enough to be on time.” You laughed nervously.

“Oh, I wouldn’t worry about that. You’ve worked hard to prove yourself and earn a position here, I doubt a few minutes would be enough to send you packing. I only asked since we get people from all over the world coming to work here, so I naturally get curious.”

A wave of relief washed over you. Maybe this place wasn’t as cutthroat as you thought it was from its reputation. You thanked God that the first person you encountered had been so welcoming.

Prompt as ever, your new supervisor popped out of the elevator, striding over. She had a scowl on her face, her menacing gaze locking in on you. Your heart sunk to the floor, any hope of recovering from your mistake buried six feet under.

Kocho smiled and began to speak before you had a chance to introduce yourself and grovel for being late.

“Ah, Mrs. Sato! Please forgive Ms. Y/L/N for her tardiness. She actually arrived a few minutes early, but I held her captive with my chattering! ” Kocho giggled, causing Mrs. Sato to glare daggers her way. Your head whipped to Kocho, eyes blown wide with shock.

“A rather incessant habit of yours, Ms. Kocho. I do hope you remember your place, and how particularly replaceable it is.” She spoke coldly.

Mrs. Sato turned back to address you, the wrath in her eyes smoldered to a mere annoyance at Kocho’s carefree antics. Apparently, this wasn’t Kocho’s first time pushing a few buttons.

“I apologize for Ms. Kocho’s lack of professionalism, pay her no mind in the future. Please follow me, and I will get you settled in.”

Following her brief scolding, she abruptly turned, heading back to the elevator. You gave Kocho a look of pure confusion and bewilderment, so grateful you could have cried, to which she simply winked and went back to her computer. After whispering a heartfelt ‘thank you’, you scurried after Mrs. Sato and headed into the elevator.

“Now, to formally introduce myself, I am Mrs. Sato. As you already know, I’ll be your supervisor, which means I will be overseeing you in your training alongside your team members. It’s a relatively small team you’ll be working with, but they’ve been here quite some time, so don’t be afraid to ask them questions.”

“I see. It’s nice to meet you Mrs. Sato, and thank you for taking the time to show me what’s expected. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity, and look forward to working with you all.”

A brief smirk of satisfaction shadowed her face, seemingly pleased with your manners.

“Likewise. It can be a tough job, as we move at a fast pace and expect high output. Work hard, and you’ll be able to keep up.”

You nodded earnestly, taking in her every word. You wanted to do your best to impress your team, hoping to settle in the ranks quickly. The company itself may be shrouded in mystery, but you had heard whispers of how it's a survival-of-the-fittest world behind those glass doors.

“While a majority of what you need to know regarding the role will be covered later today, I’d like to mention a few overall company policies. Firstly, as I’m sure you’re aware, there is to be no photography, videography, or social media posting of any sort within the building, and you’ll be asked to sign an NDA that you will not share any inside information with anyone. We have a rather strict security and privacy policy to ensure our internal affairs are kept confidential.

“Second, the top floor is limited to authorized personnel only. You are never to go there under any circumstance unless directed so by a superior who has an entry permit. Given your position, this should never be asked of you, so I want to ensure you understand that it is essentially off-limits. Any violation of these policies will result in immediate termination.”

“Of course, I understand.” You said, eyes wide. You were well aware of the iron wall between the public/media and the inner world of the company, but you had no idea how extreme the precautions were taken internally as well. There must be some seriously confidential information on that floor. You found this mildly questionable, considering the company produced pharmaceuticals given to the public, but luckily concerns like that were above your pay grade.

“While I know these rules may seem extreme, Mr. Kibutsuji takes these measures to ensure the protection of himself as well as the company.” She hesitated for a moment before continuing.

“Lastly, this is not policy, but merely a word of advice. Should you ever by some chance encounter Mr. Kibutsuji himself, you are not to meet his eye. He is an incredibly private man and prefers a more…traditional form of respect. If he asks anything of you, no matter the request, do it without any questions asked or a moment of hesitation.”

You swallowed thickly, hoping you would never cross paths with the man.

Of all the rumors circulating the company, its largest mystery was shrouded in the CEO, Mr. Kibutsuji himself. No one had ever seen the man’s face, so his notoriety only became sensationalized. Due to his immense fortune and success, he demanded to be completely removed from the public eye. You could only imagine what kind of enemies that level of wealth could incur. You’d be lying if you said you weren’t excited at the opportunity of potentially seeing the mystery man for yourself when you got the offer, but now it wasn’t exactly a thrilling prospect. It seemed there was a reason he was so notorious, if not feared.

Before you got the chance to even begin to come up with a response to that weirdly ominous warning, the elevator doors pried open with Mrs. Sato promptly exiting to your floor. You took a deep breath, straightened your shoulders, and followed her through the entrance to your new territory.

Taking a moment to admire the breathtakingly modern architectural atmosphere surrounding you that could hardly be described as an office, your eyes greedily took in the seemingly infinite space of desks, seating areas, and floor-to-ceiling windows that allowed light to pour into the floor. And this is only one of them. The workers flew about in an almost comically cinematic manner, with mumbles of ‘Here’s those reports’, and ‘Fifteen until the meeting!’. You fought the urge to break out into a giddy grin, ecstatic to have your first big-city job. Hearing the buzz throughout the room made you process that you’d made it. Walking through a room of what was likely some of the most innovative, hardest-working people in the country, you were able to hold your head just a little bit higher, knowing that your shoes hitting the floor meant you just might be one of them - someone who belonged there.

Snapping you out of your daze, Mrs. Sato rounded a corner and came to a stop, gesturing to an open desk set nestled right along the flow of traffic. Not the window seat you’d secretly hoped for, but maybe it would be a chance to meet some coworkers, at least.

“This desk will be yours, and I’ve already arranged for the necessary paperwork to be delivered to you momentarily. Kanjori from HR should be here any minute, as well as-”

“Is this Y/N!?” A woman’s cheerful squeal cut off Mrs. Sato rather abruptly, much to her distaste.

The culprit sprang around the corner, holding a stack of papers taller than her head. Before you could process how heavy they must have been, the woman practically slammed the stack onto the desk, the obnoxious boom that thundered throughout the room confirming your suspicion (and amazement).

“Kanjori, please keep your voice down,” Mrs. Sato scowled, straightening her glasses.

“Oh yes! Right. My bad.” Kanjori sheepishly laughed. Just as quickly, she whipped her head towards you, taking your hands in hers as her smile glowed.

“It’s so nice to finally meet you! I’m Kanjori, but I’m sure you gathered that already! I hope we can become great friends! Tell me, do you have any plans for lunch? Why don’t we go together!? If you like ramen there’s this amazing place just down the street, and...”

You could hardly get a word in, but even if you could, you might have been rendered speechless. She was, by every definition of the word, beautiful. She had curves in all the right places that would put models to shame, and to match it a smile brighter than the sun itself. You found yourself flushed with an embarrassing level of envy at the pure sensuality radiating from her. Gauging from the looks of the men at the surrounding desks suddenly sitting straighter to preen themselves with rosy cheeks, you knew you weren’t the only one who thought so.

Another figure rounded the corner in a flash, seemingly instantly flashing into the conversation.

“Kanjori, I love the enthusiasm! However, after the last incident, we were told to take a more subtle-”

The voice trailed off, coming to a faltered stop as your eyes met those of the man it belonged to.

Towering over you was suddenly one of the most handsome men you had ever seen. If you thought Kocho’s eyes had been a shock, meeting your inspection were eyes of pure ruby and gold, more mesmerizing than a summer sunset. Amazingly enough, his golden hair had warm tips of crimson that appeared shockingly natural. His gaze was frozen, taking you in with a sense of curiosity that made heat rush to your face.

It was almost as if the very essence of his being was ablaze.

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settingmyheartablaze · 10 months

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ROMANTIC IMAGINE: Miguel O'hara visits you when you call in sick

i know how to write things other then headcannons i swear. theyre just so EASY. you can request actual fics lmao. promise! This was intended as romantic btw, but you can interperate this however you want!

Miguel lands on your balcony with a heavy thump, his landing was a little awkward from trying to swing with only one hand, but he managed well enough. The Tupperware in his hand looked a little worse for wear, though.

Almost every fibre of him wanted to turn around and forget about this, but he knew he couldn’t bring himself to, he needed to know you were ok.

You had called off sick from work yesterday, and you didn't show up today either. In all the time you were working at Alchemex you’ve never done that before. The secretary had told him you sounded like you were in a lot of pain over the phone, so it was obvious you were unwell in some way or another. He’s been worried ever since.

This felt stupid. Over dramatic, even. But he’d gone to his brother for advice, and this is what he had given him: Their moms classic Pozole recipe, The same recipe him and his brother ate while growing up. Obviously Miguel protested, adamantly. he hadn’t cooked for anyone in a very long time. He wasn’t even sure if he’d still be able to… His brothers response?

“Do you want my help or not?”

So Miguel scrounged around the kitchen for what he needed. He squinted to read his mothers old chicken scratch from all those years ago. He put in the work, as uncomfortable as he felt, And He packaged it and come all the way here.

And now he didn’t know how to go forward.

He had never felt more out of his element in his life. As he Stood outside your window with the soup in his freakish claws he realised he didn’t know where to go from there. He hadn’t thought further than this point. What would he say when he gave it to you? What would he even do after that?

He had to awkwardly shimmy through the window with the Tupperware in one hand, almost stepping on a cable stretching across the floor. “Fuck—“

the hinges creaking offensively as he pushed down your open window and he cursed, shutting it as delicately as possible. When he heard your voice ring out from behind him he tensed.

“Uh, Hey Miguel!” You call from the bathroom. He breathed out the puff of air he was holding in. No turning back now.

“…Hey,” he called, not knowing where to begin. “…I brought you a little something.”

He makes his way to where he heard your voice coming from, and pauses briefly by your kitchen counter. He looks down at the soup in his hands.

…He could just leave it here, that would be less humiliating for everyone, wouldn’t it? He knew you were ok, now. He heard your voice, so you were alive. He did what he came here to do. He could turn around right now and escape while you were still in the bathroom.

But something stops him. A little smell wafted by his nose briefly. It was brief. It was faint. But it was there and it made him pause.

So he sits the soup on the counter quietly, but he doesn’t turn around. He walks further down the hall and takes a deep breathe. The smell is clearer now. Miguel gets a bad feeling.

He picks up the pace and pulls off his mask to get a better whiff, and suddenly he’s hit with the all too familiar stifling stench of blood.

No.

NO!

“Y/n!” He runs up to your bathroom door and starts rattling the handle, but the door is locked. He pauses when he hears your voice on the other side, clearer and more effective at preventing him from tearing the door off its hinges—.

“D-Don’t come in!” You yell. “I’m... ngh- I’m a bit busy in here!”

“Y/n, what do I smell?!” He doesn’t need you to tell him, He already knows the answer. It’s pungency rings clear from his side of the door. The tanginess was so prominent that even someone with normal senses could pick up on it.

“N-nothing!” You stutter. You always stutter when you’re nervous. And when you're lying.

“Are you bleeding? Where’s it coming from? Open up!” He starts banging on the door again, his fist unintentionally rattling the frame.

“You don’t smell anything- stop that!” You snapped, annoyance ringing clear. But there was a certain strain to your voice, a painful whine that made his heart drop. “I-I’m just, uh- changing! will you give me a minute? Please, Miguel.”

“Don’t lie to me! What’s wrong, can you not get to the door?” He starts backing up to gauge the frame of the door and… Yeah, he could kick that in, easily.

sensing what he was getting ready to do, you spring up from your spot hunched over on the side of the bath tub and amble to the bathroom door. “No no no!” You lean against the door, heaving. “Don’t do anything drastic, I’m right here!”

He paused and waited for you to open it, but your hesitation makes him start losing his patience. “Y/n-“

“I’m ok, Miguel. S-seriously. I just took a little tumble on the way home.” You swallow back a painful grunt as you lean on the door frame for more support. “Look…” you started. “Now’s really not a good time—“

“Y/n.”

You shut your mouth. ‘Oh, shit.’

the tone of his voice hid a warning. Miguel knew what you were going to suggest even before you said it, and he refused to let you finish. The fact that you were bleeding as much as you were for him to smell you across the house, And you were trying to hide it from him? It must be bad, there was no doubt about that. His brain began racing for answers, for explanations, for names. He didn’t know where you were hurt, god what if it was somewhere vital? Who did this to you and where? Why were you trying to hide it? Did they threaten you? Something must of happened. there was no way he would leave you here, No. There was no getting rid of him now.

“Open this door.” He says one final time. And you can tell it’s the final time from the tone of his words. His voice quaked with fury at even the mere insinuation that he’d ever leave you when you were wounded. That you were even wounded In the first place.

“Now.”

...

There’s a beat of silence where neither of you say anything. And for a second he thinks he’s going to have to break the door open inwards just to avoid plowing over you to get it open. But then he hears you apprehensively turn the lock and he almost breaks the handle from how fast he rips it open.

You stumble a bit, reeling at his strength. and then youre taking a tumble from being thrown off balance, but before you can even yelp out a cry he swoops in to catch you in his arms before your body can even comes close to hitting the floor. “Lo si—! Sorry! Y/N, I’m so sorry.”

from being so close he could tell immedietely that you were running warm, did you really have a fever too? He perches you on to the toilet seat and you wince at the ache washing through your body. God, your back was killing you... and Miguel's hands were all over you. you tried pulling your arms out of his grip, but he wasn't budging. he scoured your front for bruises, cuts, anything.

"what happened, where does it hurt, Y/N, please." he lifted your arms, checking your sides. nothing there... You couldn't bring yourself to answer, all the jostling around was making you go really dizzy... so much so that his words seemed to bounce off your ears. you squint at him. were there two of him before?

"Oi, mami/papi. focus for me. tell me where your hurt." he pats your cheek, snapping you a little out of your stupor. you blinked. his faced was pulled taught with worry, lines creased his skin in places that looked almost painful. and his eyes...

"Miguel... hhhave... your eyessschanged?" you weren't sure if it was the delirium from the pain finally setting in, or if your bathroom light just highlighted the underlying hues, but his tired brown eyes had shifted to a shade of... dare you say red.

they flicked back to your face, they had this wild look in them, like he was angry. but his voice wobbled like he was scared. "tell me where the pain is."

"... M' back.." you mumbled. he tugs on your shoulder to twist you around, making you whine. he apologizes quietly, before turning back to the red stains that were crawling up the back of your shirt.

you both descended into a tense silence. Miguel looked cramped, hovering over you in your tiny bathroom. he had to draw in his arms to not knock into your shower. not the most ideal place to play nurse... but he would manage. Miguel unshealthes his talons and cuts open the fabric like its warm butter. all you feel is a cold draft hit your back, and you shudder.

when he gets a good look at the state of your back his heart drops, what he finds isn't what he was expecting. your lower back is marred with an explosion like mass of burned skin. the center of the wound is deeper and more bloody then the rest, like something fast, blunt and burning hot struck you there.

God.

"Y/N, what the hell happened?" he glances at your bathroom bin and spots your old, scorched shirt lying inside. so you really were changing... that explained why the shirt you were wearing didn't have a massive gaping hole in it.

"Lyla. whats the aetiology for this." she flickers into view next to him, screening your back, and she winces.

"the lascerations have been caused by 1st and 2nd degree burns, the wound has become infected and needs to be treated immediately. the depth of the wound is telling me that the collision was hard and fast, likely a projectile."

"they were shot?."

"most likely. not by any normal weapon though, obviously." she confirmed, "it... doesn't look like the infection has interfered with the spinal collum." she optimistically added.

"will it scar?" he tilted his head towards her, but didn't take his eyes off the wound.

the Ai assistant didn't respond, calculating the most nerve settling response to his question. her silence told him everything he needed to know. "yeah, don't answer that." a snarl was building in his throat, fighting its way to the top.

he spots the first aid bag and its contents sprawled across your counter. most of it was over the counter painkillers, light ointments and bandaids. nothing in there that would help you.

"ok." he drags his hand down his face looking around the room. "Hijo de puta-!" his fist banged against the wall in a burst of anger, the pathetic thin walls rattled underneath the force. "Y/N, what the hell were you thinking?!"

you were stuck in this apartment by yourself, barely able to move or, jesus, even think. the fact that he could have never come… No, that he had come but couldve left here without knowing you were going through this on your own... the thought made him sick. why did you let it get this bad? what had happened?

you don't answer his question, your breathing has started to grow heavier, fevered. the sheen of sweat on the back of your neck had grown thicker as well. miguel reaches out to hold you steady. his mind racing. you can't stay here.

he knows he has to make a call. literally. he lifts his watch to his face.

"Jess, get someone on the medical team to prepare for my arrival." he picks you up carefully and fights to keep his voice from rising, he wasn't thinking clearly. all he could think about was getting you somewhere safe.

it wasn't common for miguel to ask for medical assistance, even at times when he probably should. he didn't like calling for help, he prefered to do things on his own, even to his own detriment. the idea that something could shake miguel up like this, making him ask for assistance, was new. Jessica could hear the tension in his throat as clear as day.

"whats your condition." she responded, concern shining through in her voice.

"no, no. i'm fine." he answered. "i've got an injured with me, they've been shot and need first aid immedietely. its a second degree burn that been left for over 24 hours, its infected."

"...done." she answers. "are they a new recruit?"

"they're a friend."

Pozole: a traditional soup or stew that is made from hominy with meat, you can put in things like shredded lettuce/cabbage, chilli peppers, onions, garlic, radishes, avocado, salsa or limes. (this sounds scrummy ngl i'm so hungry bro)

"Lo siento": i'm sorry (this is when he goes "Lo si-" but cuts himself off)

"Oi, mami": hey, Mama (i learned that mami or mamita can be used in a lot of different ways. native spanish speakers can use it to adress parentel figures, friends that give motherly energy, or it can even be used as a funny nickname for kids. i've seen a lot of people use it sexually in fics, but apparently thats not always the case!)

aetiology: kind of like a diagnosis, but different. its the cause of a desease or condition. idk if it's applicable to wounds, though.

"Hijo de puta-!": son of a bitch-!

I put these here so if anyone has any corrections i could make to the terms I’ve used to be more accurate then I can change them accordingly. I used online translators and articles… if anyone has any good websites for translating languages let me know! i'd be really interested.

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settingmyheartablaze · 10 months

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to a heart's content — 「 single father!miguel o'hara x reader 」

content warnings ; fem!reader, use of she/her pronouns, "mother"/"daughter"/"wife" used, parental death, mentions of child abandonment, not too much mention of him being spider-man

contains ; single father!miguel o'hara, boss!miguel o'hara, assistant!reader, hints of pining, just some good ol' fluff for everyone's current favorite dilf, angst w/ comfort, heavy need of editing prob, not beta read

notes ; purely self-indulgent to fuel my love of found family trope apologies

Single Father!Miguel O'Hara whose life revolves essentially around one person—his daughter—but to be one of the heads of America’s largest corporation and bearing the responsibility of keeping Nueva York safe and sound whilst simultaneously being a single father was not exactly something that Miguel O’Hara could juggle so easily. Hell, he’s even surprised that he’s made it so far without losing his absolute sanity considering he couldn’t even recall the last time he was able to rest properly without his attention being wavered to something or someone else.

Single Father!Miguel whose hands always filled to the brim with tasks and obligations. Miguel wished he was able to clone himself twice in order to have three Miguel O’Haras attending to each of his duties soundly, but alas, Alchemax and the matter of his mind can only do so much.

Single Father!Miguel whose ever so lucky to have you as his assistant to at least help with two out of three of them. You entered the picture around three years ago, when he had caught the eye of his superiors and had used his intelligence to their own advantage, disguising it as a promotion of sorts. You were given as some sort of gift to them as a way to help ease his workload and he truly couldn’t be more thankful for your existence—if he doesn’t necessarily show it most of the time from his stoic countenance he masks on 24/7. While not exactly a carbon copy of him, you, by far, come rather close, and Miguel will take whatever comes to him in this day and age.

Single Father!Miguel who notices that you're obedient and demure, though rather soft spoken and a little too apprehensive for his liking at times (he had noticed, before you became his assistant, that your coworkers would shovel their workload onto you and you’d accept with little complaint but evident hesitation; he wonders if it was the given similarities between you and him that made him choose you as his assistant). You dressed well, hung onto every word he said, and spoke out when properly needed. You were a good aid to have around—great, even.

Single Father!Miguel who trusts you as both his assistant and a human being enough to leave his precious daughter in your care knowing full well she would be in good hands. Sometimes Alchemax would work him overtime, sometimes his duties as Spider-Man would interfere. No matter what it was, it delayed him from seeing and attending to his daughter’s needs, and thus, he had asked you once in a while to pick up and babysit his daughter after your usual 9-5.

Single Father!Miguel who, at the beginning, once in a while asked you to pick his daughter up from school. Once in a while turned into occasionally. Occasionally turned into sometimes. Sometimes turned into constantly, and next thing Miguel knew, you were the one that his daughter and teachers would look out for during school pick up time. He didn’t expect that you would become his assistant even outside of work, but you did, and Miguel can’t exactly turn back time now. He’s labeled you as his child’s unofficial secondary caretaker—you’re even listed as an emergency contact.

Single Father!Miguel who thinks you’re too polite for your own good. Miguel had asked you once if this was a burden, being his assistant both in and out of Alchemax, and if it became too much that you were more than free to quit at any sudden time without consequence. You had merely replied that you understood the struggles of being a single parent and that he shouldn’t be ashamed of asking for help when it was needed.

Single Father!Miguel who notices that Gabriella views you more than just her occasional babysitter. When he'd come home late at night, he was usually greeted by you two doing something together, whether it be doing math homework together, baking cookies, you reading aloud to her, or just simply talking, he'd always catch you and her almost... bonding.

Single Father!Miguel who often dwells on the memory of young Gabriella asking innocently why she doesn't have two parents like the rest of her classmates, why she only had one parent compared to everyone else after witnessing she was the odd one out during Family Day. Miguel didn't, and still doesn't, have the courage to tell her that her real mother had abandoned her to him, leaving Miguel in the dust. Miguel used her naivety to his advantage. He disguised it as her being unique compared to others, that some moms just came later in life; she just happened to be a late bloomer.

Single Father!Miguel who always thanks you for staying late tucking Gabriella into bed when he couldn't. You constantly tell him that it's truly no problem, but he insists on thanking you every time and ever so subtly increasing your paycheck. How could he not? Especially considering the fact you always, always whip him up extra dinner that was tucked away for him to eat during the late hours of night.

Single Father!Miguel who feels uneasy as he opens up a fridge to find the said pasta left by you one night in a glass tupperware container, staring at how neatly it’s been plated despite its standard container. He juts it into the microwave as he attempts to ignore how quiet and desolate the kitchen and the apartment is, how the humming of the microwave and the humdrum of the ceiling fan are the only noise that floats through. And when he quietly eats the pasta serving meant for one, he can’t help but gaze longingly at the empty seat across the dining table, where someone else should be seated with him sharing the same meal.

Single Father!Miguel who finally has the time to pick up his daughter after school for once in the school year, but forgot to tell you that you were able to take the rest of the day off. So you, him, Gabriella, and essentially everyone are surprised when both you and Miguel show up to pick Gabriella up after school. One of the teachers goes to gush about how she's excited to meet Gabriella's dad and what a beautiful family you all are, to which you and Miguel, evidently flustered, explain loosely your relationship to each other and how it's merely professional (to one curly-headed third grader, though, it's not—but she'd never tell you and her father that. At least not now.).

Single Father!Miguel who tags along to Gabriella's after school soccer practice for once and despite your protests about you not wanting to interfere "family time", Miguel and his daughter convince you to come watch her like you usually did on Wednesdays. He says he doesn't mind at all and if anything, could use your presence there to ease his nerves since he'd be a newcomer to the soccer parent group.

Single Father!Miguel who watches attentively to how you support Gabriella on the field from the sidelines. He wonders tenaciously if you've fallen into routine of this—from helping her get ready into her uniform to offering small suggestions that help her on the soccer field. He doesn't miss the way her eyes go towards you whenever she did something right and he especially catches onto the fact that she would gush in pure happiness from your approval when you would throw a thumbs up or a delighted nod.

Single Father!Miguel who merely blinks at the compliments given by the two friendly soccer mom next to him.

"Gabi does certainly look a lot like you, but she still has (Y/N)'s beauty and kindness, doesn't she?"

"Oh yes, I agree. Your wife is nothing less of lovely, you know, you're a very lucky man, Mr. O'Hara!"

He's so caught up in trying to process both their words and Gabriella's action on the field, that it doesn't register to him until a few moments later. Miguel attempts to butt in, saying that you're just his subordinate, but when a loud cheer from the other team erupts through, his words fail him.

Single Father!Miguel whose mind is still so stuck on what the soccer moms had said about you that he didn't even realize Gabriella had made the winning goal for today's practice match. Lying through his teeth when asked about if he saw it from her, he realizes that perhaps he should start viewing you in a different light rather than just his daughter's babysitter because the way that Gabriella looks at you with such elation when you congratulate her on her win pulls at his heartstrings ever so slightly.

Single Father!Miguel who contemplates over and over again if he should be doing this—inviting you to Gabriella's first game of the season—the two purchased tickets he held in his fist. You've entered his home a dozen of times, but this would be the first time in three years that he was outside of your own residence. He thinks he's too dressed up for the occasion, cladded in a white button up and black dress pants. A voice asks him if he's his daughter's boyfriend, and Miguel whips around to face an elderly man with a questioned look on his face.

Single Father!Miguel who realizes that it's your father standing in front of him, spare key in hand. He's quick to say no (to your father's disappointment), and introduces himself as your superior. Your father invites Miguel inside your apartment, telling him that you were out fetching groceries and jokingly mentions he uses this opportunity to sneakily fill your cabinets and fridge of food. Your father complains you're too independent for your own good, but he can't exactly blame you—you grew up that way.

Single Father!Miguel who learns that once in your life you were just like his daughter and that in one point in your father's life, he was just like Miguel. All details shared from him, he learns that your mother passed away early in your life due to cancer and ultimately left you and your father to fend for yourselves. Your father tells Miguel that you often had helped out even when you didn't need to—and it doesn't take long for Miguel to piece the pieces together. Why you barely complain about the extra workload, why your father said you're too autonomous, and why all those years ago you not only sympathized with Miguel, but understood his situation as you came from the same exact upbringing.

Single Father!Miguel who listens intently when your father quietly tells him that all he wants for you is to find a good man that would be able to take care of you properly because he believes he wasn't able to. Miguel is quick to reassure him, however, that he did a fantastic job raising a selfless, humble woman that grew to be compassionate and considerate of others' needs, that you were the hardest worker he had ever seen and that he shouldn't discredit himself. Your father goes to examine Miguel for a moment before letting out a loud, haughty laugh in your apartment and jokingly (not really) tells Miguel he hopes that you'll marry him one day, or at least someone like him.

Single Father!Miguel whose resolve dissipates when you walk into your apartment to find your boss and your father talking amongst each other. He sits silently and awkwardly as you complain to your father about dropping by without any warning before you ask him what was he doing here in the first place. Your father takes his leave, winking at Miguel with a glint in his eye, leaving you two in your apartment alone.

Single Father!Miguel who finally gathers up the courage to ask you if you'd like to attend Gabriella's soccer game with him. You interject with visible hesitation, telling him that it was implied that it was a family-only event and you'd hate to intrude onto something so intimate, but he's quick to reassure you that his daughter would love to have you there considering all the help you had given her during her practices—if anything, she would need you there for your support.

Single Father!Miguel who tells you that Gabriella had shown visible distress last night when Miguel told her that you might not be able to come due to your non-familial relationship with them. He almost begged you to come with them, as Gabriella had even threatened to quit soccer altogether if you weren't there to witness her first game. When you give in after moments of contemplation, Miguel truly couldn't believe his luck.

Single Father!Miguel who roots alongside you for Gabriella and her team, watching oh so closely just in case someone from the other team did a dirty trick on his precious daughter. He'd sometimes occasionally glance at you, only to see you completely zoned in and focused on Gabriella's playing like the rest of the parents, offering your support through compliments and encouragements that his daughter always caught and would visibly improve from. When she finally scores the winning goal per usual, she's quick to ignore the cheers coming from her teammates and parents to run off the field and not look for Miguel first, but for you.

"Did you see me?!" Gabriella exclaims excitedly as she flings her arms around your waist. "Did you see what I did?!"

"I did, yes," you laugh, attempting not to stumble over from the impact with visible glee and crouch down to her height. Pride written all over your face, you grin. "And I'm so incredibly proud of you."

"It's 'cause I did what you taught me," she declares. "I pointed first and then I shooted!" She uses hand gestures to reanimate her play on the field.

"Shot, Gabi," you correctly gently, your fingers going to automatically comb out the tangles out of her hair like you usually did after practices. "It does come handy, doesn't it?"

"Yeah!" Her eyes go to see Miguel, who doesn't stalk too far behind with open arms and the same proud look painted on his face. "Dad! Didja see me?! Didja see that I scored?!"

Miguel lets out a once-in-a-blue-moon chuckle and lifts his daughter into his arms, her arms wrapping around his neck in an affirming hug. "I saw very clearly, mi cariño, and I can't wait to brag about how my daughter scored the winning shot for her team," he compliments warmly.

Gabriella goes to point gleefully in your direction. "It was all because of Miss. (Y/N)," she declares, not knowing that her statement would make a rush of heat bloom onto your face.

"O-oh no... I only... w-well," you stammer out meekly, trying to find the right words. "I'm actually not too knowledgeable on soccer... I only repeated what I found online and—"

"Thank you," Miguel starts off fondly. "(Y/N), truly. Thank you."

You stare at him. "Mr. O'Hara..."

He sets Gabriella down for her to join her rejoicing teammate and pats the small of your back with a grateful look plastered on his face. You were so used to seeing the rather stoic and often tired side of Miguel O'Hara that you forgot he, too, was capable of smiling at times, so when you spotted the small of a grin on his lips that was for you specifically, you felt something in your chest jerk a little bit.

"If it weren't for you being here," he starts off quietly so only you can hear. "Gabi wouldn't have participated at all. She wanted you to come so she'd have enough courage to play because she was so used to you supporting her," Miguel glances at his daughter giggling about on the field. "So it was understandable that if her biggest supporter wasn't here to cheer her on, she wouldn't exactly do her best."

You blink slowly at him, digesting his words in order to truly savor them for all that they were. "I was just—"

"—doing your job?" Miguel finishes for you. He shakes his head. "Last time I remember, 'attending your boss's daughter's soccer games' wasn't on your job description," he says, earning a soft chuckle out of you despite his rather flat tone.

"I suppose so," you murmur with an evident warmth in your eyes, one that Miguel is sure Gabriella has seen numerous times and will continue to welcome as long as you're around.

So when after a dinner celebration at her favorite restaurant, after the star player is tucked into bed after a long day's work, Miguel takes it upon himself to do the what he thought was the impossible for him but possible for Gabriella.

"Stay safe out there," Miguel directs quietly as he helps you put on your coat again. "And again, thank you for today."

"It was my pleasure, Mr. O'Hara," you reply, "And I actually had fun today, so I can thank you for that."

He escorts you down the apartment complex to the lobby and begins to watch you leave, the words on his tongue tipping ever so slowly before they spill the moment you're about to exit through the doors.

"(Y/N)."

At the sound of your voice, you turn to him with a questioning look on your face. "... yes?"

Miguel opens and closes his mouth like a fish for a couple of seconds before blurting out, "Are you free tomorrow evening?"

He scans your face for a reaction before surprise paints itself on your moonlit features. "I-I suppose I am," you nod slowly. "May I ask why?"

"Gabi is having a sleepover at one of her teammate's house," Miguel coughs out and shoves his hands into his pockets to hide their fidgeting.

"Do you need me to drop her off...?" you ask, clearly puzzled.

"No, um," he clears his throat again. "I was... I was actually wondering if you'd... if you'd like to check out that new restaurant that opened up on Clark..."

Regret pools in his mouth the second it falls from his lips and he begins to internally conjure some sort of half-assed lie, perhaps saying something along the lines of the company wanted him to review it for a potential cater in the future or that a friend of his worked there, but when he sights your eyes softening with the same warmth from earlier, he lets you take the reigns on fate.

"I'd quite like that," you murmur, a modest smile on your lips.

a/n ; i told you i was going to give into temptation. wrote this on a plane with no wifi on the way here (thank god for offline editing!)

anyways, i'm trying to squeeze this bit out before my plane ride tmrw since i've been travelling for the past week and a half! i'll be returning home soon where i can finally write to my heart's content, phew! i just reallyyyyy wanted to write something for miguel adjdjfkfalwf but fear not! we shall be back to our regularly scheduled program soon!

as always, thank you for reading and likes+comments+reblogs are always appreciated and never unnoticed（╹◡╹）♡!

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settingmyheartablaze · 10 months

Text

Multiverse Parenting

Summary: One day when you’re swinging around New York a little girl falls from a portal from the sky. She asks you to help her find her dad, but how are you supposed to do that when he’s the Spider-Man of a different universe?

Word Count: 6k

A/N: This was based off an idea a few weeks ago by @twentysomethingwereyote ! Thank you for the amazing idea!

Original request: “Gabriella gets teleported to Earth-1218 or one similar to it and it’s up to the reader to somehow access the multiverse to get her home.”

It had been a fairly normal day until everything flipped on its head in Manhattan. You’d been Spider-Woman for three years now and everyday came with its challenges. Managing bills piling up and dealing with the bizarre villains that popped up.

That’s New York for you.

You’d been swinging around casually on your day off from work. You swung around the corner of the Empire State Building when suddenly you noticed a flash of bright colors in the middle of the sky. Your eyes widened, what the hell?

The sky was literally glitching out. Well, this was new.

Then a sharp scream rang out and all of your senses lit up. A little girl flew through the mess of glitching colors and straight toward the ground.

You dove off the side of the building without hesitation and shot towards her. You quickly grabbed her into your arms and held her tightly to you. You shot a web out quickly to the closest building and swung towards the roof. The girl clung to you tightly and sobbed. Your heart clenched at the sight, “Don’t worry, I’ve got you kid.”

You landed on top of the building and looked back at the sky to find the glitch that the girl had fallen out of was gone now. You set the little girl down as she continued to cry. She looked to be around ten and had brown hair pulled into a ponytail.

You bent down to her level and placed a comforting hand on her back and rubbed it to soothe her, “Hey, what’s your name?”

She sniffed and took a shuddering breath, “Gabriella.”

You realized the mask wasn’t helping you to calm her down since she literally just dropped from a hole in the sky. You took a moment to nervously ponder whether taking it off was worth it.

“Are-Are you like Spider-Man? My dad is Spider-Man in my ho-home,” She said, wiping her tears away.

You felt relief flood you as you resigned to take your mask off. You pulled it from your head and smiled at her, “Yeah, my name is Y/N. They call me Spider-Woman here.”

She nodded and you could tell the similarity between you and her dad helped her relax. You sighed at the realization that you had no clue how to get her home.

“What’s your dad’s name?” You asked her and she shuffled back and forth on her feet.

“Miguel O’Hara,” She said softly.

You’d definitely never heard that name before. You had no clue how to get to another dimension and it was going to take a lot of brain power to get this girl home.

You smiled gently at her and squeezed her shoulder. Her scared eyes looked up at you, “I know this is all scary and confusing. I’m sorry you ended up here, but just know that your dad is doing everything he can to get back to you.”

“My dad calls me ‘todo su mundo’ it means ‘his whole world’. I miss him a lot,” She said and her eyes filled with tears again.

“Gabriella, I’m going to do everything I can to get you back to your dad, okay?” You said, trying to comfort her as much as you could.

You held your hand up with your pinky out and you caught the smallest smile on her face as she nodded and looped her pinky around yours. You stood up and sighed, “I think you should stay with me until I can find a way to get you to your dad. I live with my Aunt May and let me tell you, she makes the best cookies ever.”

Gabriella smiled as she looked up at you, “Really?”

You beamed at her and ruffled her hair, “Oh totally. She’s the best cook in Queens. She’ll make whatever you want I swear.”

You pulled the mask over your head and picked her up on your hip. She wrapped her arms around your neck and tucked her head into it. You held her tightly to you and shot a web before jumping off and heading towards Queens.

You hoped to god Miguel O’Hara was out there looking for his daughter too.

Three years had passed since you’d had any experience of the multiverse. Gabriella was now fourteen and a sophomore in high school. She was an extremely bright girl and excelled in school and sports. She was the star soccer player and you and Aunt May always attended her games to cheer her on, well when you could with Spider-Woman business.

Your search for how to get Gabi back to her universe had never come up with any leads. She had literally just dropped from the sky, like goddamn Chicken Little. There was no Miguel O’Hara in your universe either for you to try to rely on.

You wanted her to get back to her dad as you could tell it still ate her alive not knowing what happened to him. But, she had also become like a daughter to you.

The superhero life didn’t leave much time for relationships. How many people on earth would ever be able to understand how much sacrifice and hardship it took to protect the city each day? But, that girl did.

She understood how much her dad, and now you, had to sacrifice to keep the city safe. She was a great kid and you were happy for her to be in your life.

You were in the midst of having a movie night with her. You lounged next to her on the couch as she leaned against your shoulder.

“So, they just decided to make dinosaurs ‘cause they could? Isn’t that a stupid idea?” She questioned and you laughed.

“That’s kinda the whole point. Humanity is bound to destroy itself if given the chance,” You said with a shrug.

“The dinosaurs are a genetic disaster. It’s wrong to bring them back,” She said with a smirk and you threw a hand over your heart dramatically.

“Woah! From a genetic disaster themselves that is rude,” You teased her as your watch lit up.

You had crafted a watch to track crimes and keep you updated on the going ons of the city. Much better than a walkie talkie. You pulled your arm out from behind her shoulders and checked the notification, “Santa mierda.”

Gabi pointed at you and grinned, “Aunt May would have your head for that mom.”

You stood up from the couch and swore to yourself as you rushed to change into your suit.

“What’s wrong? Mom?” Gabi questioned as you sped back into the room in your full suit.

“Goblins out. He’s supposed to still be stuck in a maximum security cell in the Raft. I’ve gotta go before he tears up Manhattan,” You said as you moved over to her and grabbed her shoulders gently.

You smiled at her and pressed a kiss to her forehead, “I love you mi ángel. I’ll be home when it’s done, but you need to stay here with May. It’s not gonna be safe in the city tonight.”

She nodded and pulled you into a tight hug. You sighed and rubbed her back to comfort her. You pulled away and smiled before pulling on your mask and rushing out the window.

You swung as fast as you could across the city. There’d been no reports of a break out from the Raft, so how the hell had he got free? You swung towards the Brooklyn Bridge as you saw bombs coming from the sight. You swore to yourself as you zipped towards the bridge and Green Goblin came into view.

What the hell? That was not the Green Goblin you knew.

He looked so weird. Almost like a devil or a guy in a strange Halloween costume. Either way that was not the guy locked up in the Raft.

“I don’t know who you are, but I already put one or your asses in the Raft,” You said as you swung towards him and landed a kick to his jaw.

He went flying and crashed into the wall behind him. He looked up and growled at you, “You’re not Peter Parker.”

You scoffed as you began to web him up, “No shit. Now can we hurry this up. I've got a movie night to get back to.”

You continued to fight this Goblin and you had him pinned down until you noticed a flash of bright lights above you. Your eyes widened as you noticed a portal opening up, just like the one that day.

“What the hell?” You said before Goblin shot a bomb at you and you flew backwards.

You smacked your head hard against the concrete and groaned, “It can never be easy.”

You pushed yourself up into a sitting position and watched three people come out of the portal. Your senses lit up and your head felt fuzzy until you realized that these people were Spider people as well. One woman rode in on a motorcycle, another came in with a guitar, and the last one was just an imposing man. They were quick to take down Goblin and contain him as you dusted yourself off and walked over. “So, are you guys Spider-Man too? I’m Y/N L/N.”

Goblin banged against his brightly colored cell as they turned to you. The woman smiled and folded her arms over her chest, “Yeah, I’m Jessica Drew. Spider-Woman too.”

She was very obviously pregnant and so much cooler than you. You grinned under the mask, “God it’s good to have another woman around. Y’Know basically all of my villains are guys. We gotta mix it up around here.”

She laughed at you and your eyes moved to the one with the guitar. He cocked his hip and chuckled, “Hobie Brown. Power to the people.”

You nodded and laughed, “I like it. Very anti-establishment of you.”

He nodded and folded his arms across his chest as your attention turned to the last one. He was a very tall and broad man in a futuristic blue suit. He stayed silent and you raised your brow, “What’s your name? Michael Myers?”

Jessica snorted and Hobie didn’t even bother to hide his laughter. The man grunted and folded his arms across his chest, “Miguel.”

Your heart dropped to your stomach. Miguel was a common enough name, but a Spider-Man named Miguel? You stepped closer to him, your heart pounding in your chest, “Last name?”

He obviously rolled his eyes even if you couldn’t see it with the mask, “What is this? An interrogation?”

You had hope that maybe he could be the dad your daughter had been searching for. You stepped closer and narrowed your eyes, “Last name.”

He stepped chest to chest with you and glared down, “O’Hara.”

You felt your heart stop and you stumbled back a few steps, “Holy fuck.”

You put your hands on your knees and closed your eyes as you tried to take calming breaths. This was your daughter's father. Gabi would have her dad again. You looked back up at him and rushed over and grabbed his arm, “Did you have a daughter?”

He physically recoiled at the question and stepped back, “What?”

No one had ever asked about his little girl. Few even knew that he had a daughter and now some random woman from a different universe was asking about her. Miguel glared down at you as his heart pounded against his chest.

You could practically see his defenses go up at your questioning, but you swallowed your fears and stepped towards him again, “Was your daughter named Gabriella? You called her ‘todo su mundo’.”

Miguel felt physically shaken by your words. His heart dropped to his stomach. There was no way. He’d seen her disappear from his arms. So, how did you know the nickname he had for his daughter?

Miguel rushed towards you and tightly grasped your arms,“How do you know that?”

You smiled under the mask and tears welled in your eyes at the knowledge that you had finally found her father. You grabbed his hands and squeezed them, “Because Gabi fell through a portal just like that three years ago. Your daughter is alive, Miguel.”

Miguel fell to his knees and began to cry. His daughter was alive and safe? He bent his head to the ground and clenched his fists as he tried to calm himself down.

You dropped to your knees next to him and placed a hand on his back and rubbed it, much like you’d always done for Gabi, “I’ve been taking care of her as my own for the last few years. You’d be so proud of the girl she’s grown up to be.”

Miguel sat up as he took deep breaths and he lifted his head to meet your eyes, “Thank you, for taking care of her.”

You smiled at his words. Gabi had been the best to ever happen to you. You sniffled as you did your best to hold your own tears back, “I’m grateful for her everyday.”

Miguel let out a shaky breath before he pushed himself to his feet. You quickly stood up and had to crane your neck to look up at him as he asked, “Can I see her?”

Your heart broke at the sight of him. This was a man who had clearly never stopped looking for his kid and he wanted her back. You looked around at the disaster around you and sighed before you met his eyes again, “I think it’s best to do this tomorrow. I need to talk to her and give her time to process this.”

Miguel looked ready to put up a fight at your words. You quickly grabbed his hands and gave them a reassuring squeeze, “I know you want to see her now, but she needs time and so do you. There’s no need to rush this.”

Miguel bit his lip to hold in his frustration at your words. He wanted everything to go great when he saw his daughter again and as upset as the thought made him- you knew her better now than he did. Miguel nodded and let go of your hands,“I understand.”

You smiled and let out a shaky breath, “I can take her to you tomorrow. Is there a way I can meet you?”

Miguel looked back and held his hand out. Jessica tossed a watch similar to your own and he caught it before offering it to you. You took the watch from him and slipped it onto your free wrist. He took your hand in his and pressed a button, “Hit this and scroll until you see Earth-928, that’s headquarters.”

You shook your head and laughed at his words, “Headquarters? This feels like S.H.I.E.L.D., like a super secret superhero club.”

Miguel shook his head at you, but secretly smiled to himself. If his daughter could have ended up with anyone, a witty Spider-Woman from another universe wasn’t the worst possibility.

“Open the portal and come there at eleven,” He said, quickly showing you how to do it yourself.

“It’s a date,” You said without thinking and your cheeks lit up.

Miguel watched you in amusement as you became clearly very embarrassed at your own words. You folded your arms across your chest defensively and cursed, “No! Not like that. Ah, mierda you know what I meant.”

Miguel laughed at you and felt a pull towards your demeanor. Like all of the other Spider-Men, aside from himself, you had a good sense of humor and for once it didn’t completely annoy him. Miguel softly smiled at you before he surprised even himself by pulling you into a tight hug.

Your cheeks lit up again because from everything you had picked up about him hugs were definitely not in his repertoire. His grumpy demeanor did not scream that he was a hug guy, so you were going to take this as a success. Miguel stepped back, remembering himself as he cleared his throat and looked down at you, “Thank you for taking care of my little girl.”

You smiled at him and nodded, “I love her as my own. I’ll talk to her tonight and get her ready, okay?”

Miguel nodded and you backed away as you checked to make sure Goblin was all taken care of. You smiled at the group and saluted them, “Thanks for taking care of that weirdo! Can’t have more Green Goblins running around.”

You looked at Miguel one last time before you shot a web and swung away. The whole trip home felt like a blur as you fretted about how she would respond. You were glad you had found her dad, but did this mean she’d never come back? Would she visit you still? Would Miguel be okay with you still being her mom? You were the only person she’d ever called mom.

You landed in an alley near your apartment and quickly changed out of the suit before heading home. You took the elevator up in your building and let out a sigh to calm yourself before you unlocked the door.

Gabi was sitting at the kitchen table working on a painting, but her head snapped to the door as she noticed you come in. You let out a sigh as you kicked your shoes off, “You didn’t have to wait up for me.”

She dropped her brush and rushed to your side and tackled you in a hug. You let out a sigh and smiled as you hugged her back, “Hey kiddo.”

She pulled away from you and you brushed her dark hair from her tired eyes, “Why’re you still up? It’s way past your bedtime.”

She rolled her eyes at your teasing, “Can’t I just be worried about my mom?”

You nodded and sighed, suddenly feeling the weight of having to tell her the news. You wrapped your arm around her shoulder and led her to the couch, “We need to talk hun.”

Gabi tensed at your words as you sat on the couch. You wrapped your arms around her shoulders as she asked, “Am I in trouble?”

You shook your head and squeezed her shoulder, “You know, I am grateful everyday that I get to be your mom and that you came into my life. I wouldn’t change anything for the world.”

Gabi leaned into your hold as her cheeks lit up and she smiled. You bit your lip to hold back the wave of emotion threatening to crash over you, “But I can’t imagine how hard it was for your dad to lose his daughter and for you to be away from him.”

Gabi quickly scrubbed at her eyes and nodded. You pulled away from her and put your hand on the side of her face as you tried to smile as comfortingly as possible, “Gabi, I found your dad.”

Her face paled and she grabbed onto you, “Mom- I don’t understand- what?”

You smiled comfortingly and you scooted closer to her, “I met your dad tonight. He came from your universe with a few other Spider-Men.”

She then broke down into tears and clutched onto you like a lifeline. You held her tightly to you as she sobbed. After a few minutes she looked up at you with puffy eyes, “Where is he? Why isn’t he here?”

You pushed her hair out of her eyes and squeezed her shoulder in support, “He wanted to angel, but I think you both needed time to process this. You’re getting your dad back and he’s getting his daughter.”

She nodded in understanding and you sent her a small smile, “Besides he was still in his suit and could probably use a shower before you had to give him tons of hugs. By the way, was he always a grump?”

Gabi laughed and nodded, “Yeah, he was always really grumpy with other people. But, it’s all a lie. He’s a softie.”

You smiled at her words, that made more sense rather than the stoic demeanor he put on. She looked at you hopefully, “When can I see him?”

“We’ll meet him in some Spider-Man HQ tomorrow at eleven. But if that’s too soon I can go and tell him you need time, just say the word,” You said as you tightened your hold around her shoulders.

“It’s not that. It’s just, when I go back to him will I still be able to see you? Of course I want to be with my dad, but you’re my mom too. I don’t wanna leave you,” she said as she tucked herself further into your side.

It was your biggest fear too. She was your kid now and you didn’t want to let her go either. You smiled wistfully and kissed her forehead, “Don’t worry about it tonight. We’ll figure everything out tomorrow, I swear.”

The next morning you and Gabi both nervously stood in the living room as it neared eleven. She fretted over herself as she fixed her hair again for the thousandth time. You smiled as you squeezed her shoulders and then pressed a kiss to the side of her head, “Don’t worry, he still loves you. You’re still todo su mundo, I promise love.”

She nodded and squeezed your hand on her shoulder, “Thanks, I love you mom.”

You took her hand into your own and smiled at her before pulling your mask over your face, “I love you too. Ready to go?”

She nodded and you held up your watch and pressed the button. You then scrolled to Earth-928 and hit the button to open a portal. A burst of colors appeared in front of you and you both looked at each other in awe. You squeezed her hand in yours before you both stepped into the portal.

You gripped your hand in yours as you tumbled through an inter dimensional tube. Then suddenly you both landed in a different universe. Your eyes quickly moved to Gabi and gave her a quick once over to make sure she was alright before turning your attention to the world around you.

Holy shit.

There were flying cars, buildings going into the clouds, and there were only spider people here. This place was filled to the brim with every kind of Spider Person you could possibly think of. Gabi had a look of wonder in her eyes as she looked around at the world in front of her.

“Y/N?”

You turned to see Jessica standing there with a bright smile on her face. Jessica walked up to you and you smiled in relief, “Jessica. It’s good to see at least someone here that I know.”

She nudged your shoulder and laughed, “You can call me Jess. I think we’ll be seeing enough of each other that we’ll be friends.”

You nodded with a smile before her attention turned to Gabi and her eyes softened. She met your eyes again and you could see the sympathy in her eyes for what you were feeling, from one mom to another.

“Come on, I’ll take you to his place. He’s waiting for you two,” She said and then began walking further into HQ.

You both followed behind her as she led you through a maze of hundreds of different Spider People. You could tell Gabi was in awe of the sights around her, but her nerves were eating her alive. You held her hand tightly in your own to keep her grounded as you finally began to move away from the crowds.

You reached what looked like a residential wing of sorts as Jess led you into the elevator and hit the button for the top floor. The ride to the top gave you a great view of this world, but you were nervous for Gabi to meet her dad. She was still a kid when he last saw her and now she was growing into an amazing young woman.

The elevator reached the top and you came face to face with the door to his apartment. Jess stayed in the elevator, but gave you both a comforting smile, “Good luck.”

You nodded in thanks before you both walked up to the door. You squeezed Gabi’s hand and she looked up at you, “I’ve got you. No matter what happens next.”

She nodded and you dropped her hand to let her do this on her own. You pulled your mask from your head and shoved it in your pocket as she raised her hand and knocked on the door. The door swung open and Miguel stood in front of you now with no suit and in casual clothes.

He looked so much like his daughter.

Gabi’s eyes watered as she reached out for him, “Dad? Is it really you?”

Miguel nodded, clearly choked up, “Gabi, my little girl, look at you.”

Gabi burst into tears and jumped into her dads awaiting arms. Miguel pulled her into his arms and held his daughter to him.

This made everything worth it. Gabi finally had her dad back. You’d done it.

They continued to hug for a while until Miguel let out a half laugh and sob as he looked at his daughter, “God, look at you. You’re a beautiful young woman now.”

Gabi smiled at her dad as she wiped away her tears, “And now you’re old and grumpy.”

Miguel laughed at his daughter and clearly this was the happiest he’d been in years. Miguel finally moved his eyes to you and you felt a little out of place being here. Gabi reached towards you and grabbed your hand and pulled you forward, “Dad, this is my mom, Y/N. She’s been there for me ever since I landed in her universe.”

You met Miguel’s eyes and you both seemed to stop.

Wow, he was really good looking.

The intimidating demeanor he had previously only added to your attraction. He had dark tousled hair and a jawline that looked like it was cut by the gods.

Miguel was taken aback by you. Out of all of the thousands of Spider People he’d recruited, none of them held a candle to you. You were beautiful. You were a kind person and a good one. Oh he was in for it.

“Hey Miguel. Nice to see you without the mask and everything,” You said, trying to keep your embarrassment to a minimum.

Miguel nodded and you swore his own cheeks looked a little pink, “Thanks again, for everything.”

Gabi looked between the two of you with a mischievous look written all over her face. You narrowed your eyes at her, oh god what was she up to. Miguel opened the door to his apartment and you followed Gabi in and she looked around in wonder at all the futuristic technology.

His apartment didn’t seem homey. It was huge, but it was lonely. It was missing his daughter.

You looked around as Gabi and Miguel sat down to talk when you noticed a picture of Miguel and a little girl. You walked over to the frame and picked it up. The picture was of Gabi as a little girl shoving an ice cream cone into Miguel’s face as he smiled lovingly at your daughter.

“Do you have any pictures of her as a baby?” You blurted out without thinking.

You turned to face them and Miguel had an eyebrow raised at you. You flushed, slightly embarrassed for just speaking without thinking as Miguel sat next to Gabi with his arm around her shoulders.

“I’ve always wondered what she looked like as a baby. Y’know since I’ve never seen her that young,” You said and Gabi rolled her eyes.

“Mom, you’re just gonna use those to embarrass me,” Gabi teased you with a smile.

You set the frame down and went over to her and pressed a kiss to her, “I’m pretty sure that’s in the job description.”

“Yeah, I’ve got them back here,” Miguel said as he stood and began walking down the hallway.

You quickly followed after him then he suddenly stopped in front of a closet. You stumbled into him and he grabbed your arm to stabilize you. You met his eyes and bit your lip and shyly stepped away, “Sorry.”

Miguel opened the closet and reached into the back and pulled out two large scrapbooks. He placed the old large scrapbooks in your hands and you smiled up at him, “Can’t say I would’ve chalked you up as the scrapbooker type. I’m very impressed.”

Miguel shut the door and leaned against it, “Well, I’m a single dad what can I say. There’s plenty you don’t know about me.”

“Well at least one of her parents has to be good at it. I can hardly do anything creative that isn’t tech related. Worst soccer mom ever,” You said as you pulled the books to your chest.

Miguel smiled at you.

What? It was a smile just for you, but kind of in a teasing way? He was way too hot to be doing things like this. You were starting to get mixed signals from him. First he was stoic and grumpy and now he was charming and making scrapbooks.

He was also your daughter's father. That made everything far more complicated.

“Thanks Miguel,” You said before you headed back to the living room and sat down next to Gabi.

She leaned into your shoulder and whispered, “He’s totally into you.”

Your eyes widened and you checked to make sure Miguel was still in the hallway. You pressed a finger to her mouth and shook your head, “Nope. Nada. Zip. Don’t even start on this.”

Miguel sat down on her other side and the two began talking as you tried to keep your heated cheeks from view. You opened the book in front of you and began to look through it. There were so many photos of her as a baby and you couldn’t help but to feel devastated at the possible loss of your daughter.

Why would Miguel let her stay with you? How was she supposed to manage traveling through different universes and maintain a normal teenage life?

You flipped through the pages, holding your bottom lip firmly between your teeth in fear of losing the best thing you’d ever had. You wanted her to have a relationship with her dad, but that didn’t mean you wanted her gone forever.

You gently set the books on the table after flipping past a picture of Gabi as a little girl with a replica of her dad’s mask pulled over her head. You stood from your spot on the couch and mustered up your best smile, but not meeting either of their eyes, “Sorry, I just need some air.”

“Mom? You okay?” Gabi asked with a worried voice.

You knew if you met her eyes you’d lose all of your self control and burst into tears. You nodded and headed towards the balcony door, “Yeah, I just need a minute.”

You opened the door, shot a web, and pulled yourself to the roof. You let out a shaky breath as you plopped onto the roof and looked out at the city. Pulling your knees to your chest, you rested your chin on your knees and looked out at Nueva York. This universe was beautiful.

The city always calmed you, but now it was a reminder of everything you could lose.

Some time had passed when you heard a thwip similar to your own and there was a thud on the roof behind you. You closed your eyes in anticipation of the bad news Miguel was about to bring you. He quietly sat next to you at the edge of the roof and hung his feet over the ledge.

“She’s worried about you,” Miguel said, looking over at your tense form.

You bit your lip and shook your head, “I’m okay.”

“Tell me about her,” He asked, looking out at the sun setting over the city.

You tried to keep your sniffles at bay as you spoke, “She’s incredibly smart and way too intuitive for her own good.”

Miguel chuckled at your words and you moved your eyes to him as he said, “She always got into trouble when she was little because she was like that.”

You smiled softly at his words and let your knees hang over the edge, “She gets in trouble in some of her classes because she outsmarts her teachers. Can’t be mad at that.”

Miguel watched as you began to open up and relax as you talked about Gabi. You were too good for anything he deserved, but maybe you were meant to be here with him. Maybe Gabi was meant to bring you together.

Maybe the rules of the multiverse were a little more lenient than he thought.

“She’s a super talented soccer player. She still young, but some college scouts have been watching her play and showed interest. She’s just a great kid. You raised an amazing daughter,” You said, looking at him with a smile.

He bumped your shoulder with his own as his lips slightly curled up, “You did too y’know.”

Your eyes slightly widened at his words and your voice caught in your throat, “I-I’m glad you can be together again. I really am.”

“But?” He asked, his dark eyes seeing through your walls.

Tears welled up, but you blinked quickly to get them to go away, “But I don’t want to lose her either. She’s my daughter now too.”

He stayed quiet as you began to ramble, “I know being outside of your universe can mess things up, but she’s been fine. She never glitched or had any issues in my universe. Don’t you think that’s a sign-“

“That she could be a part of both of our universes,” Miguel finished for you and you nodded.

Miguel swallowed down his own nerves and placed his hand on yours and gently squeezed it, “I just want her to be happy. I don’t think taking her away from her mom would do that.”

Your heart leapt at his words as you gripped his hand, “Seriously? You’d be okay with splitting time with me?”

Miguel chuckled and smiled at you, “I don’t think splitting is the right word. I’m thinking more along the lines of figuring this out together.”

Your cheeks lit up and you smiled at him, “I’d like that. We can finally be the PTA parents she alway deserved.”

You and Miguel shared a moment where you just looked at one another and things began to change. You were going to figure out this parenting thing together.

“Are you guys done being sappy up there! I’m getting bored down here,” Gabi shouted from Miguel’s apartment.

The two of you shared a look and laughed at your daughter. Miguel shook his head as he called out, “You’re in the clear.”

You heard metal clinging as Gabi climbed to the top of the fire escape and hopped onto the roof. She smiled at you and Miguel sitting next to each other as she walked over and plopped herself between you two. She grabbed both of your hands into her own and looked at you both, “We’re a team, right? The whole solo superhero thing is such a bad idea. We work better together.”

You both shared a look before laughing at her. You brushed some hair behind her ear, “We’re a team. But that still doesn’t mean you get to be the guy in the chair for either of us.”

Gabi rolled her eyes and looked to her dad, “You gonna defend me here?”

Miguel smiled at his daughter, “Listen to your mom mija.”

838 notes · View notes

settingmyheartablaze · 10 months

Text

мιgυel o'нara х F!reader

◥︎ 『 coғғee ︎pт.1 』︎ ◣

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ѕυммary ➞︎ yoυ вrιng мιgυel coғғee тo нelp нιм тнroυgн a long worĸ nιgнт

warnιngѕ ➞︎ none

noтeѕ ➞︎ part 2 is up ❤︎

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The evening air was so dry in the summer, and the silence that invited itself into the coffee room buried deep in your skin. The tiles felt cold under your slippers, the setting sun stealing the heat and light from every inch of the room.

You let out a harsh breath, pouring the deep brown liquid into the two cups, staining the white glass with caffeine and steam.

You, Jess, and Peter B had made an agreement since your involvement in the Spider Society had started.

Miguel’s workaholism caused long periods of time, sometimes days, where he wouldn’t even leave his lair, chest deep in his own mind and perfectionism. You all initially believed that his inhumane attributes gave him the stamina to last weeks without rest, but after catching him in deep sleep on his own computer, you realized the goliath wasn’t, in fact, invincible.

So, like any good friends (although Miguel never really used those terms), you took shifts bringing him coffee. With the mugs, Peter and Mayday brought him laughter (all of which was their own, but there wasn’t an indication he didn’t appreciate it), Jess brought him a tough love and a listening ear that fueled his work and you…

Well you weren’t sure what you offered.

You never left without a conversation- and maybe a little coffee yourself. Sometimes he would explain whatever anomaly had taken his attention for the hour, or he would stay silent, listening to you talk about your own day, slightly less exhausting but much more exciting.

Most times, however, you’d give him his coffee, and without saying much, he would look at you.

You are convinced more and more each time that, years ago, his eyes were more brown than they were red. Deep bronze like the color of the coffee in his cup. Younger than they are now. Maybe it was his exhaustion seeping through his irises, but something in the way he looked at you…it felt softer.

Kinder.

You shook off the image as your slippers padded against the hallway marble, the once lively hub now hushed to an empty whisper.

Jess had gone to her universe, undoubtedly resting her weary body, and Peter B eagerly ran home to his beloved red-heads. Homes filled, endlessly, with reunions, warm meals and kisses doused in exhaustion and a love unique to them.

You were happy for them, but you would be lying if you told yourself that you weren’t envious.

Quietly, secretly, you much preferred the hub over your own home, it’s thrum of life filling the emptiness of your crammed apartment. It was depressing to go home to silence after a day of action, which meant many nights you slept in your office, feigning the stress of work and battles to avoid questions from your peers.

You stepped over stray wires and scraps of metal, amongst other abandoned equipment you were sure meant something, once. The dark room was illuminated in neon, flashing lights pulsing across the floor and ceiling.

His gigantic platform came into view, hovering over the pitch floor. The familiar sight of him, surrounded by yellow holograms, greeted your eyes with a brightness that made you squint, vision adjusting to the light.

You caught the butt-end of a conversation, Lyla glitching around his head with attitude. You kept your mouth shut, a little curious to hear their idle chat.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Miguel said, flatly.

“Don’t play stupid, I’m an incredibly intelligent A.I. I know fondness when I see it.”

“She brings me coffee- that’s all.”

You paused, muscles tense and the suggestion that they were talking about you.

“I don’t know Miguel~. Peter B and Jess do the same and you aren’t as soft with them.”

“I am not soft!”

“Sure, sure.”

Lyla’s hologram stuttered, and she suddenly focused you. Even from far below, you recognized her mischievous grin.

“Well, I’m feeling awfully tiered. It’s very late y’know! I’ll just let you do your thing!”

“But you don’t-“ Miguel followed her line of sight. He looked down at you with surprise, and you sent him an awkward wave through the cup handle.

“Bye!” Lyla’s drawn out y’s echoed even as she disappeared, Miguel’s hand swiping at the air before she vanished.

He let out a harsh sigh, and you slung up to his platform, handing him a cup. He looked at you again, that faint brown sparkling clearer tonight.

Strange.

“Thank you.”

You nodded, leaning against his table.

“Long night again?” You asked, thumb tracing the smooth glass of the handle.

Miguel nodded, letting another exhausted sigh escape his chest. “Yes.”

You waited for more, but it never came, Miguel shifting near awkwardly as he clicked on the screens with his free hand.

You nodded slowly, taking a sip of your cup. You shuddered, unfamiliar with the pure caffeine. You looked down at your cup, dark brown looking back.

Oh shit.

You watched in short-lived anticipation as he took a sip of your cup. He’s face scrunched in surprise, as if the sweetness of sugar and cream was completely foreign to him.

He looked at you, the red in his eyes more prominent now. Your cheeks strained, but soon the ballon of laughter burst from your chest.

It bounced off the dark walls, echoing around the both of you. You closed your eyes, squeezing out tears as you gripped his desk, laughter shaking your core.

When you regained yourself, you slowly sat up, wiping your wet cheeks and grinning ear to ear. You sighed, small laughs residing with your quickened breath.

“Oh, Miguel you should’ve see your-“

You stopped.

Miguel was smiling.

Well, in the generous sense of the word. Although it wasn’t bright like Peter B’s or gentle like Jess, it was genuine. His eyes crinkled, his lips drawn into a gentle upturn, highlighting his dimples.

Your shocked face must have startled it, because it quickly disappeared, now taught in a hardened, neutral line.

You smiled at him empathetically, slightly guilty you had embarrassed him. You reached out your hand, beckoning your drink.

“Here…let’s switch.”

You fingers brushed at the exchange, and you blushed, the warmth of his skin penetrating your own. If he noticed, he didn’t let it show, taking a quiet sip of his flavorless, bitter coffee.

An awkward silence fell over the two of you, agonizingly different from the laughter just seconds before.

You were beginning to think that he really only was fond of you because you brought him coffee. Sure, you had polite conversation but it never really passed surface level. Not to mention you always initiated it. Maybe Miguel was just playing along, desperately waiting for you to leave him to his work and study.

You sighed, your tone possibly letting on to more than you would’ve liked. You stood, flexing your legs and taking a sip from your cooling coffee, ready to breathe air that wasn’t so endlessly stiff.

“Why- why do you drink coffee with so much sweetness in it?”

You paused, looking at Miguel with surprise. He’d never asked you a question like that. A question about you.

“I uh- well,” you laughed a little bit, still a little startled at the sudden interjection, “black coffee is too bitter for me. The sugar and cream lets me enjoy it.”

“But coffee is meant to energize you, you aren’t supposed to enjoy it.”

You lifted a skeptical brow. “That’s a pretty serious take, don’t you think?”

Miguel paused, lips pressed together in thought before he replied, “I’m a serious guy.”

You laughed, a little quieter now, leaning back onto the table. But this time, closer to him. If you were paying attention, the way his eyes looked at your new position might of told you he noticed.

“I gathered.”

Silence fell over the two of you like a weighted blanket. But now, you had hope that he might want this conversation to continue. That he liked it- you.

“How about this Mr. Serious,” you leaned in, “I’ll give your black coffee another shot if you do the same for my sugar and cream.”

He scoffed, but when the corners of his mouth quirked up you knew the proposition interested him- if only a little bit.

“Absolutely not. I already did try it.”

“First impressions aren’t always accurate, y’know.” You shook your mug, the light brown liquid creating a small whirlpool.

“Try it? For me?”

He glanced at you, and although you thought yourself educated on his eyes and their looks, you were stumped by this one. It was entirely alien to you- there was something in it that you couldn’t place.

You liked it.

He let out a sigh, and held his hand out. You grinned, taking his mug and swapping it for your own.

You both took a sip, and you forced yourself not to wrinkle your nose.

His coffee was extremely bitter- as close as coffee could get to the bean. If his scowl and general demeanor was grown and grind into a beverage, his drink of choice is what it would taste like.

However, it was extremely warm. Somehow it hadn’t cooled off in the fifteen minutes since you had poured it. It’s bitter bliss seeped down your throat and made home in your chest. It was almost calming.

You opened your eyes, surprised to be as content as you were with the drink.

You glanced at Miguel, whose lips were pulled into a tight line. His brows were drawn in thought, eyes glimmering in the hologram light.

“Well?” You asked, rocking on your heels.

“You first.”

You paused, running your tongue over you teeth to remember. “It was a bit gross. But honestly? No bad.”

He nodded, and sighed. “Yours wasn’t��.bad either.”

You gasped, a wide smile spreading across your face in stunned victory. “So you liked it.”

“I never said that.” He said, narrowing his brows.

You raised yours. “Didn’t have too.”

He shook his head, handing you the coffee mug. You looked at him as if to ask are you sure? To which he rolled his eyes and pushed it closer to your chest.

You sighed, taking his cup and swapping mugs for the last time. When you looked up at him, sending him a gentle smile, you noticed a thin line of cream that lined his dark lips. You stifled your laughter, stepping forward to a clueless and confused Miguel.

“What are you-“

“Stay put, you have a little-“

You brought your hand up to his face, cradling is course skin under your palm. Your movement stuttered, just for a moment, savoring the feeling of his rough jaw.

You lifted a gentle thumb, your touch but a whisper on his skin as wiped the sweetness from his upper lip. Contrary to his jaw, his lips were soft under your print, molding to your movement with ease.

You imagine they’d taste like coffee.

You paused, your eyes drifting from his lips to his eyes. When they met yours, they were the softest brown you’d ever remember seeing them. It could be how close you were, feeling his slow breath on your nose. It could be how small, short the moment was, catching his facade in a moment of weakness.

But you think, hopefully, foolishly, that it might be how good it felt- to be this close.

You drew your hand away, still staring at the warmth. You settled yourself on the floor, holding your cup with both hands, the once steaming glass now a cold comparison to his face.

“You…you had some cream left on your face.” You laughed weakly, your gaze looking to the side. “I didn’t want Lyla to make fun of you.”

You paused, uncomfortable with the silence your created.

“Sorry.”

Miguel stared at you for a moment, with that same glimmer you couldn’t quite place. He cleared is throat, eyes flitting between your eyes and your lips.

“It’s- okay…I-“ He paused, eyes finding your again, “thank you.”

He had whispered, speaking as though if he has said it any louder he would’ve scared you away. It was so- gentle compared to the gruffness of his voice. Warm.

The silence that followed was completely novel from the past dips in conversation. It was full of tension, thick and suffocating. It felt as if you had swallowed cement, every breath trapped in your collarbone and buried in your throat.

You stepped back, your vision so deep in his own- their intensity making it feel as though there wasn’t anything else to look at. Even in their softer colors, they were so deeply overwhelming it felt like they had woken something visceral in you. It wasn’t fear, or terror-

It was fondness.

“Well- I think I need to get my own rest,” you tore your gaze from his, setting your coffee down on the table next to him, “I won’t be needing this- I don’t want caffeine dreams. You’re welcome to finish it- now that you like it. A little.”

You smiled up at him, the thrum of your heart and the heat of your breath tickling your skin.

“Goodnight, Miguel.”

His chest rumbled, preparing to speak, before he sighed quietly and quickly, another genuine smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

“Goodnight.”

You took one last look at the brown- intimate and tailored to yours. One look at the coffee cups, different in every sense but comforting none the less.

One look at the man who may have just given you the home you’d been envious of.

As you slung off into the the void, you smiled at it all, welcoming the shudders of warmth that pooled in your stomach at the revelation.

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The next morning, you woke up in your office yet again, the early morning chill crawling up your spine and beckoning you to wake.

The first thing your eyes were met with was your mug, matte in the morning light.

It was empty, a yellow note rested under it.

I didn’t want it to go to waste.

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Part 2

2K notes · View notes

settingmyheartablaze · 10 months

Text

Araneus (Miguel O’Hara x Fem!Reader)

Synopsis: Being recruited into the Spider Society was a big deal. You were already popular among the other members, especially a certain group of teenagers. They already claimed you as an older sister figure so you just had to be recruited… Right? But something wasn’t right with Miguel.

Note: Reader insert uses she/her pronouns. I’ll only continue this story if I feel like it and depending on reception.

Word Count: 2k

“Wow, I love your suit design.” Miles smiled and studied the little details on your suit.

Your spider suit was purple and white with elegant fabric in the shape of webs on your wrists like cuffs. The web pattern covering your suit had a slight shimmer to it. Gwen and Miles loved the design and were currently gushing over it. You were known as Araneus on your home world.

“I’m honestly a little jealous,” Gwen held your mask in her hands. “Did you make it yourself?”

You blushed at the attention you were receiving.

“I did!” You pointed at the shimmery thread on your suit, “This is actually bioluminescent silk!”

“I wish I could do that.” Pvatir sighed.

“How about you guys leave her alone?” Jess interrupted.

Jess had actually discovered you on a mission to Earth-529. You saved her ass in a near death situation. She loved how sweet and strong you were and took you to HQ to be officially recruited. However, the moment Miguel saw you, he almost seemed to be ignoring you.

“So, Miguel. What do you say?” Jess asked Miguel as he stood in front of Jess and the small group of teenagers bombarding you with millions of questions and compliments.

Miguel furrowed his brows. “No.”

Everyone except Jess and Hobie gasped dramatically.

“What?” Miles asked after the collective gasps.

“Just because you saved Jess doesn’t mean you’re Spider Society material.”

“Guys, I think Miguel just hates women.” Peter joked.

Jess turns to you and everyone else. “Could you guys give us a moment?” She turns to Peter as he hold May in his arms, “Not you though. You stay.”

You and everyone else left the room.

“Do you guys think I’m not good enough?” You asked, twiddling your thumbs.

Gwen put her hands on your shoulder and looked at you. “He would be stupid to not let you join.”

“Yeah! You’re like a cool older sister!” Pvatir said.

You were older than the four teenagers that stood besides you. You had years of experience under your belt and was undeniably skilled.

“I say we riot if he doesn’t let her join.” Hobie says as he stretches.

The doors opened to the giant room and Jess and Peter stepped out.

“Miguel says he wants to talk to you in private to make his final decision.” Jess explained.

“Just me?” You asked.

“Yup. So… Good luck in there.” Peter said as Mayday crawled onto his head.

You took a few steps forward into the room and looked back before the doors shut, watching as the teenagers waved with big smiles. You walked up to the intimidating platform as Miguel stared you down. It felt like a predator waiting for a perfect moment to strike.

“You wanted to see me?” Your voice was a little shaky and you sounded obviously nervous.

“Why do you think I should let you join?” Miguel steps down from the platform and stands in front of you only a few steps away.

“Oh! Um…” You think for a moment. “I’ve been Araneus for a long time and know my abilities like the back of-“

“No, no, no. I mean what do you think makes you special enough to join?” Miguel interrupts, taking a step forward, intimidating you a little.

“Um, well…” You look down and rock on your heels a bit. “Nothing, I guess.” You look back at Miguel, “What makes you special?”

“Excuse me?”

“Well… You asked about me so I want to know about you.”

Miguel furrowed his brows and took another step forward. His eyes had been darting away and looking anywhere in the room but your eyes. As his eyes met yours, you noticed some puffiness under his eyes. His eyes were glazed with tears as if he were holding back a waterfall of cries.

“Are… you okay?” Your seemingly innocent question broke something in Miguel.

Miguel embraced you in a tight hug. His breathe became shaky and you felt the side of your head become damp. The room was silent for what seemed an eternity.

Miguel let go and took a few steps back.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that.” He turned away and brought his palm to his eyes to wipe away tears.

Miguel had a scary aura so to see him suddenly break and weep was strange to you.

You reached out to touch his arm and he looked at you. “Did I do something wrong?”

God you were clueless…

“No… Just…” Miguel pulled away from your touch. “If I let you join, you have to promise you’ll stay away from me as much as possible.”

“What?”

“Take it or leave the offer.” Miguel clenched his jaw.

You looked down and thought about it.

“I’ll take up the offer.” You weren’t even sure whether to smile or not.

“Great.” Miguel said, “Now please leave.”

You didn’t think twice and scurried out of the room.

“Y/N! What did he say?” Gwen squeezed your hands.

You blinked. “Uh… Well… He said I could join.”

“Yay!” The group cheered.

Peter and Jess weren’t there anymore. Could they have known what that was about?

“Do you guys know where Jess and Peter went?”

Gwen pointed towards her right. “They went to the cafeteria, I think.”

“Thanks!” You replied and made your way down the surprisingly long hallway.

You enter the cafeteria and spot the two sitting near a window as Peter fed his baby some snacks. You made your way over and greeted them.

“Hey, guys.”

“Oh hey!” Peter smiled and used Mayday’s hand to wave at you.

“What did he say?” Jess asked.

“Well, actually… He said I could join.”

“Wow! Good for you!” Peter smiled.

“However!” You said, “He said I have to avoid him.”

Jess let out a groan. “I told him not to give you a hard time about it. I’ll talk to him again later.”

You pulled out a chair from the table they were at and sat down.

“Do you guys know why he doesn’t want me to interact with him?” You asked, concern washing over your face.

Peter and Jess looked at each other.

“Well…” Peter dragged the word in a manner that gave away that he definitely knew.

Jess reached out and held your hand. “I’m going to tell you but please don’t tell Miguel I told you.” Jess glanced over to Peter and then back to you as she took a deep breath.

“You… are a variant of his deceased wife.”

It suddenly felt like the world crashed.

“What?” You felt lightheaded.

“He lost his wife and child from an alternate universe due to his carelessness. I thought he would understand that you weren’t her but…” She glances over to a somber Peter. “It seems like Miguel isn’t able to separate the concept of both of you.”

Peter fixed Mayday’s knitted hat. “The concept of a multiverse is probably crazy enough for you, so I imagine being told a variant of you died is worse. Trust me, I know.”

“Did he say or do anything else to you?” Jess placed her other hand onto yours.

You weren’t sure whether or not to comment about Miguel nearly breaking down.

“We won’t tell him.” Peter assured.

You swallowed thickly and didn’t say the full truth. “He just asked me what I thought made me so special.”

“Not that weird. He asked me that and I told him I have a kid.” Peter froze for a second, “Probably not the best choice of words for me to say to him at the time.”

“The point is, Miguel just needs time to adjust to… you are not the version he knows.” Jess explained.

Being told you were the wrong version of yourself fucked with you for the rest of the evening. Early on, you had bumped into Miguel in the hallway as he scolded Spider-Cat for peeing on the floor. The poor feline held its head down in shame. Miguel and you crossed gazes and you immediately turned to head the other direction.

The next few months was hell. You avoided Miguel and Miguel avoided you as best as the both of you could. It was as if the two of you would meet eyes and the universe could explode. It was quite literally exhausting having to hide and sneak around.

“Gwen, you’re with Y/N. You two are in charge of taking care of an anomaly on Earth-33599.” Miguel informed the blonde girl through her watch.

“You got it, Miguel.” She responded and opened up a portal. “You ready, Y/N?” She asked you as she put on her mask.

You put on your mask, “Yup.”

Earth-33599 wasn’t anything unique compared to other universes.

“The file Miguel sent says it’s a Lizard variant that somehow got into this universe. It was last seen near the downtown area yesterday.”

You and Gwen made your way to the top of a building and both of you sat to wait until there was a sign of the anomaly.

“So…” Gwen says, “I think Miguel likes you.”

“No, really?” You sarcastically replied. “It’s just… Not the way you think it is.”

“What do you mean?”

“I can’t go into much detail into why I know but, let’s just say he has a different idea of me in his head.”

“Well… Do you like him back?” Gwen asks.

You honestly didn’t know. Although he was avoiding you and refused to look you in the eyes, he had a clear soft spot for you. You had complained about there not being any of the snacks you liked at the cafeteria to Jess during a meeting and suddenly the next day, the snacks you loved were on the menu. Jess denied having anything to do with it and you believed her because of how genuine she sounded so she chocked if up to Miguel being nosy.

Another instance was when you mentioned the hallways were too boring to Hobie and Pvatir. The next day, a bunch of greenery and benches appeared in the building. You asked both Hobie and Pvatir about it and both denied having anything to do with the coincidence.

The moment you knew Miguel certainly had a crush on you was when Lyla accidentally let it slip that he had asked her to listen to you on anything. She could have been just messing with you, but she immediately took it back in a manner that you could assume she wasn’t suppose to tell you.

As crazy as it sounded, you enjoyed Miguel giving you extra attention and going out of his way to accommodate to your needs and wants. It was a little endearing and sweet in your opinion. Maybe a little creepy but hey, love can make people do wild things.

“I don’t know if I like him.” You replied, a little embarrassed.

Gwen smiled. “I know he’s kind of an asshole, but that’s actually really cute. Maybe you could do some good for him! I mean, you’re like an angel made of sunshine and Miguel… well, he’s Miguel.”

You chuckled at Gwen’s comment and crossed your arms over your chest.

“Maybe.”

“He avoids you so much. I didn’t know he could be so shy when it came to liking someone. I’m so used to seeing him angry and yelling at everyone.”

She doesn’t even know the half of it…

There was a sudden crash of vehicles down the road at an intersection. The Lizard variant was throwing cars around and nearly crushed a group of people. Without a word, you and Gwen swung into action. Gwen focused on getting everyone to safety and you focused on capturing the ugly reptile. While trying to wrap the monster in webs, it broke free and used the webs against you. As you swung around, the Lizard threw a clump webs at your eyes and you fell while trying to take them off. You hit your head against the hard pavement and the last thing you remember was Gwen calling out for your name.

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