#✎ lost memories

[astheroid]

KNOWLEDGE

- tooru knows almost everything about you, but what’s to stop him from wanting to learn more? (⚠️ SUGGESTIVE please only read if you’re 16+)

a/n - it’s my tooru phase guys it’s back again hoo boy. Also this is my first time writing in a LONG time so I’m very rusty :( sorry if it’s not as good as my other pieces.

Oikawa knows exactly how your lips curve when you smile. He knows how your hands shake when you’re nervous, the pattern you repeat when you draw circles on his chest and exactly how to calm you down when you’re worked up. If he was studying you in school, he would be valedictorian. He’s a watchful guy, he thinks. He notices everything, the little and the big. Mostly about you, of course. It’s his job as your best friend.

He also knows there’s an ache in his heart whenever you complain about your lackluster love life. He’s aware of the dull, throbbing pain that creeps around his neck and chokes back his deepest feelings. He knows it. He wants to know more. He wants to know the curves and edges of your body, imprinting them into his memory like a mantra. He wants to learn how to love you just right. He needs to hear the whispered pet names you call him in the heat of the moment, his real name slipping from your tongue.

He wants to discover the intricacies of life with you, like how you dance in the kitchen at 3:00 AM. Sometimes he thinks this knowledge could only be found in a dream or in the sharp words from another man. He wishes he could just grasp what you are from your mind itself if he’s never destined to experience it.

What he doesn’t know, and what you fear him ever finding out, is that you feel the same way. You would give the world to feel him smile against your lips after a breathtaking kiss. There are so many things you crave knowing about the brunette chick magnet who only seems to have eyes for you.

There’s a sort of irony in the basis of your understanding. There are gaps that can only be filled with a few simple words rolling off of both of your tongues are left unpaved as you dance around your true feelings. You want it, you need it, you yearn for it. You could have everything you’ve ever wanted if you just spoke up.

But you won’t. You’re too scared of losing the enlightenment you’ve gained already. Too scared of facing the consequences if everything goes wrong- so he’ll step up and tell you. It might come slowly or it might be a spur-of-the-moment blurt. Maybe he’ll take years, or maybe he’ll just sit you down and say it tomorrow. You will give him all the time life has to offer.

And maybe, hopefully, definitely, you will give him the bits and pieces of knowledge that he seeks.

Reblogs are greatly appreciated!!

#✎ lost memories #haikyuu!! #haikyu x reader #oikawa x reader #oikawa headcanons #haikyuu oikawa #oikawa #oikawa imagine #hq oikawa #oikawa fic #oikawa tooru #oikawa tōru #oikawa toru x reader #oikawa x gn reader #oikawa x y/n #oikawa x you #haikyuu fanfiction #haikyuu x y/n #haikyuu x reader #haikyuu x you #oikawa drabble

[ohimsummer]

✎ . . .❝ I’LL GIVE YOU ANYTHING YOU WANT. ❞

— minors dni, bully! satoru x afab! reader w/ larger boobs, light degradation, titfucking, mouth/throatfucking, oral [m. receiving], is tittydrunk a thing?, spitting because gojo’s sloppy and gross </3

⭑ ࣪ ˖ sum’z notes.ᐟ is it really my acc if I’m not constantly posting about facefucking…..

“oh, f— fuck…”

the quiet air of the desolate classroom is pierced by your gags and coughs—gojo’s doing as his cock shoves its way between your lips; the head burrows deep into your mouth, allowing his cum an easy path down your throat. his knees rest on either side of your torso, trapping you beneath him with a stiffened dick nestled snug between your spit-coated breasts, fucking himself between the shiny, slick skin illuminated by the moon’s light.

“your tits feel s’fuckin’ good.” he hisses, thrusting again and massaging the large mounds around his dribbling length. “so f-fuckin’ warm, all pretty and perfect around my dick.”

gojo pinches then tugs at your nipples, tweaking them between his fingers and it sends an intense throbbing straight to your neglected pussy. a twitch shoots up your legs behind him, moans bubbling up from your throat and gojo’s head falls back. he groans at the vibrations around his cock, ruts picking up in pace as he squeezes your tits together for a tighter fit around his dick.

his lids are squeezed shut, mind clouded over with lust as gojo gets lost in the feel of your cushiony tits engulfing him. he leans over for a second to drip another large wad of spit on your chest; it mixes with the cum, pre, and saliva already coating your breasts and his cock, in turn loudening the squelch of his stuttered movements. if gojo tried hard enough, he could imagine that this is your pussy he’s fucking, instead. so warm and wet and tight–

“c-cumming again, princess, shit.” satoru’s tip batters the back of your throat, whimpers falling out around his intruding length as he bursts again within your mouth. he only eases up as yet another high dies down, rolling your nipples under his thumbs. “there ya go, fuck. take it, take it all like my good little slut.”

satoru slips his still-hard cock from your mouth so it rests on your cheek, both of you rasping for breath. your chests heave; tears roll down the apples of your cheeks, shaky hands clutching and pulling at his shirt. satoru thumbs away a drop of cum at the corner of your lips—rubbing it over your tongue—before readjusting to straddle you, cupping your other wet cheek in his warm, messy palm.

“don’t you look so pretty right now?” he murmurs against your lips and gives you a short kiss. usually he’d take a picture, but satoru would rather commit this visual to memory than risk anyone else ever seeing you like this, including suguru.

you whine as a nimble hand tugs at your panties, opting to maneuver them down your shivering thighs rather than ripping them off entirely. he chuckles at the needy raise of your hips when a finger presses to your sopping clit, thighs clenching together around his hand.

“just listen at my pretty pussy.” gojo circles the nub and more wet sounds immediately fill the space. “soaking wet like a geyser down there. gonna squirt like one, too?”

your lips quiver. you muster up any leftover energy to cast gojo an unimpressed glare. “you– you’re so dis—ah!, disgusting.”

his cheeky grin only widens. “must like me that way, baby, or this sloppy pussy wouldn’t be leaking everywhere otherwise, hm?”

“sh-shut up and fuck me if you’re gonna do it.” you pause before adding, “satoru.”

what a manipulative little minx you are, saying his name like that knowing it drives him utterly insane. now he has to fuck you. well, not like he wasn’t going to before, but gojo’s definitely more keen on spending the next few hours splitting your pussy open if you’re gonna say his name like that the whole time. branding the shape of his dick into your walls, just like your slutty self deserves.

a few seconds pass. “please.” you whisper it with the assumption that he’s hesitating. in reality gojo’s mind is rampant of all the ways he’s going to bend and fold you over every visible surface, stuff his cunt full enough to have your tummy bulging.

satoru drowns out a vague thought: ‘i’m fucking wrapped around her finger’ before placing a gentle smooch on your lips. he doesn’t care. he likes the taste of himself lingering on your lips. “oh, you never have to beg, baby. i’ll give you anything you want.”

tagz: @anthoosies @astral-hydromancy @lcvelina @lynettess @sbgg @paradiseoflosers @kissesandmore @h-4-bib @starsharkz @sataraxia @apatauaia @savethegoddamturtles @yunymphs

#he’s super in love w/ you in case that wasn’t clear 😜 #bully satosugu #bully satoru #gojo satoru imagine #gojo x reader #satoru x reader #gojo x reader smut #satoru gojo smut #gojo satoru smut #x reader #x reader smut #bully!gojo #gojo smut

[marknee]

bts fanfics i personally think shakespeare would lose his job over in the 1500’s.

chapter i. ✷ chapter ii.

KEYS ON SEVERITY OF SHAKESPEARE’S STATE:

( ✮ ) — poor sod is on the floor. perhaps it’s shock?

( ♬ ) — he’s jealous he didn’t write this himself. well, it sucks to suck, mate.

( ✎ ) — currently handing him a tissue. give him a second.

( ♛ ) — both him and i lost our jobs. her majesty is ruthless.

THE SHAKESPEARE SERIES.

WARNING: keep in mind, some of these authors are very strict on the rule that no minors should read their work if they’re underage, and i will honour that. but, at the end of the day, i am not your parent. so, there’s that. but heed my warning wisely. any smut or 18+ content is highlighted in bold.

NOTE: without further ado, this are the fanfics that i think would cause shakespeare to lose his job: the first of many essays. let’s bring the guy to his knees. metaphorically.

⠀

⠀

( ♛ ) THE BODYGUARD — by @rmnamjoons

!! bodyguard!namjoon x reader | 62.9k !!

bodyguard au, romance, smut, fake dating, slight angst if you squint, lil bit of violence.

firstly, we’re starting off strong. i present to you, the mother of all namjoon fanfics. and she’s a bad bitch. tbh, i feel like this fic needs a moment of silence just to relish in her glory. soak it all up. it’s essential.

this fic genuinely had me gobsmacked at how incredibly written it is. it delves into every detail and no aspect of the story is left dry. you can tell the author put their everything into creating this world you just submerge into. and it shows.

the world building is amazing, the characters are so thought out, and it feels like you’re just on this adventure with them and discovering their story as it plots out.

also, the build up to the smut? out of this world. that’s one thing i love about this fic: it doesn’t feel rushed. everything is very spaced out and takes it’s sweet time, so when you get to the chocolately nut of the ferrero rocher, it’s like gold and well earned. and you can enjoy it.

honestly, it’s been months since i read this and i think about it every day. i did do some research (for my own peace of mind) and this fic is longer than the perks of being a wallflower. and is it better? yes. sorry not sorry.

this work of art deserves to be read and loved. and i rest my case, your honour.

⠀

( ✎ ) UNTIL THE LAST STAR FALLS — by @minniepetals

!! underworld lords!bts x shield!reader | 44.4k !!

reincarnation!au, poly!au, gods!au, unrequited love, minor character death, car accidents.

quick question — for science — how does one happen to lose all their memories without any sustaining any internal or external injuries? because the things i would do to read this again for the first time. and i do not use those words lightly.

this was my first ever ‘longer’ written fic. and if i’m being honest, i never really liked to read them because i have the attention span of a goat. but this fic lures you in from the very start and time slips away like smoke. to say, it definitely left its mark on me.

it’s so brilliantly written and you feel connected to the characters both mind and soul. you want the best for them, you want to save them, you actually want to crawl into the pages (or screen) and fucking help them out. and that sold it to me, i think. just the sheer love for these characters.

i balled when i read the last few sentences. i didn’t want it to end. i think i finished it at three in the morning and sent a voice note of me crying to my friend. tmi? well, now on my christmas list is 7 hot boys in the underworld who would risk their everything for me. and i, them.

worth every single second. trust.

⠀

( ♬ ) WARM THIS WINTER — by @jamaisjoons

!! seokjin x reader ft. ex-boyfriend jungkook | 51.6k !!

christmas!au, vacation!au, angst, fluff, smut (18+).

one thing about solaris, is she never misses. if i could, i think i’d recommend every fanfic she ever put out, but that’s too much effort for me when you could simply click her masterlist. so, i’ll wait here for you to do that. make sure you come back though.

love. sure, there are hundreds- perhaps, thousands of fics on this app about it. so what makes this one different? well, that’s just it. the sorrowful honesty of love. knowing when it’s over, and when it’s blooming in the midst.

i’ve never been in love, but frankly, this fic really spelt it out for me. the pain, the joy, the lingering memories after everything is said and done. it’s all there. and it really settles in your heart as you near the end.

this work pulled on every single heartstring of mine, stamped on them, and then proceeded to sew anew for the future to bring its own miseries. and i enjoyed it more than i can say (or type).

give this a read if you need just that bit of spark in your life. and that bit of sadness, too.

⠀

( ✮ ) STRIKE A CHORD — by @snackhobi

!! yoongi x reader | 15.8k !!

smut (18+), pianist!yoongi.

i don’t know what it is about this fic, but i come back to it whenever it pops up in my mind during my day. i’ll immediately unlock my phone and open this app, knowing i’ll feel better when the last word is read. and i feel content.

the atmosphere in this fic, if i may, feels as though you’re trapped in a warm, safe bubble with hazed music in the distance and soft light spilling through the thin layer of the bubble— not too dark, but enough to make you feel drowsy and peaceful. perhaps that’s why i return to it so often. i like how it makes me feel.

yoongi as an artist is already enough to make a person swoon, but as a pianist? i need a lie down. a cold towel to the head. just the whole characterisation of him in this fic needs a whole separate essay in itself, but you’ll understand my point when you read it.

forever a comfort fic, i think. and forever a comfort person. double whammy. case closed.

⠀

( ✎ ) THE END — by @jimlingss

!! seokjin x reader | 31k !!

fifty percent fluff, fifty percent angst, loosely inspired by to all the boys i’ve loved before.

i say this with my whole chest: i have never underestimated the amount of emotions you can experience during a fanfic, until i read the end— both literally and metaphorically. shock horror.

this fanfic takes you through the adventure of the reader learning of what her future would commence if she were to marry either one of the six members. best part? she’s led through this rollercoaster journey by the ghost of kim seokjin.

first impression to such an offer? sign me the fuck up. i mean, what more could you ask for? however my final impression went a bit more on the lines of what the fuck just happened. very different ends of the spectrum, if you ask me.

i decided to hand both shakespeare and i a tissue after this great piece of art was finished because not only was i sobbing, he was on the floor knowing his romance play of pericles could never live up to such an incredible story.

this fic was a rollercoaster i would be delighted to get onto for another ride.

⠀

( ✎ ) A UNIVERSE TO YOU — by @readyplayerhobi

!! soulmate!hoseok x reader | 41k !!

fluff, angst, smut (18+), soulmates!au.

shakespeare once said (according to google), “it is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves,” and if this fic wasn’t a soulmate!au, i think i would’ve agreed in some sorts. but as it is, in fact, a soulmate!au, i’m obliged to disagree. it was destiny i read this fic, hand on heart.

i was not expecting this fic to hit me in the feels as hard as it did. as you can tell by the other works listed in this essay of recommendations, soulmate!au’s come up a lot. and with a lot of the same plots flying around on this app, it’s hard to make one stand out. but this author definitely has a gift.

everything was so richly created it made you feel full. of wonder, of love, and of want. it made you crave it for yourself. and that’s what i love about this fic. it just makes you feel… good. and with the unfortunates of life currently, it’s one to get your head stuck in for some temporary relief.

dream soulmate? he’s right here, people. just enjoy the story and all the feels that float around your body. go on.

⠀

( ✮ ) BUNNY — by @btssmutgalore

!! jungkook x fem!reader | 46.5k !!

non-idol!au, camboy!jk, friends to lovers, smut, angst.

let’s start here: never judge a book by its cover. a quote by george eliot going all the way back to the 19th century, and one i would use to describe this series as a whole, and my first impressions towards it.

this series, although unfinished (i think), has exceeded my expectations of a good smut outlined by a good plot. the best of both worlds, if you might. i came out of this series deeply in awe of the writing and the clear imagery the author manages to create within your own mind.

additionally, bunny was the beginning for me in learning about the world of camboys and camgirls(?), but i was greatly surprised. often, people are unkind to the new and stick to what they’re accustomed to, afraid of what the unknown might bring — me, included.

but, i’m glad i took the risk because i received three great things in return: a beautiful fanfic, knowledge of something that was foreign to me, and an author whose work i admire and shall be returning to in the future.

perhaps what i’m getting at is this could be a lesson to all. take a risk of something unknown because who knows? maybe something great will come out of it, and you’ll learn something. i did.

⠀

( ♬ ) SEOUL UNDERGROUND — by @hunniejimins (ao3)

!! namjoon x jungkook x f!reader | 300k !!

mafia!au, enemies to lovers, violence, slow burn, love triangles, mob boss!namjoon, smut, heavy angst.

it’s ironic really. i found this work by someone else’s recommendation, and now i’m passing on the favour and recommending it to you, dear reader. it’s funny how the world works.

this work is the perfect balance of fantasy and reality and i love it. you’re hit with the beauty and clouded haze of love before being smacked back into the world at the realisation the very person you’re in love with, is a mafia mob boss and his killer mate. a real fun-sponge, i tell ‘ya.

nevertheless, this book kept me up early morning and late evening reading. it keeps you hooked, wanting, and hungry for more.

it’s nothing less of a masterpiece.

⠀

( ✎ ) CREAM AND SUGA — by @snackhobi

!! yoongi x barista f!reader | 14.8k !!

coffee shop!au, barista!au, fluff, nfsw (18+).

@snackhobi is mentioned twice on this list. though, can you blame me? it’s just a good thing shakespeare and this author don’t exist in the same century. it would be absolute carnage but nobody is ready for that conversation.

this author has a talent of portraying yoongi in the most irresistible way possible. i swear, i fall in love with him all over again reading. i wish you understood.

the whole misunderstanding section made me laugh because haven’t we all been there? the crushing pain and overwhelming guilt of having a crush on someone you can’t have. it’s all too real, seriously. been there, done that (unfortunately).

especially having the holidays just past, this is a perfect fic for a warm evening in, while the coldness of winter storms past outside. such a cute fic. love, love, love!

⠀

( ♛ ) LOST AND FOUND — by @taleasnewastime

!! seokjin x reader | 21.2k !!

strangers to lovers, fluff, angst, sfw.

everyone says they have a fanfic that changed them, whether they’re being hyperbolic or brutally honest. and in my case, it’s a matter of both latter and former.

a couple months ago, i reached what i thought was rock bottom regarding my mental state and i took to my imagination to save me from the daily hell of my own mind. and this book was one i never really forgot about.

everything this author wrote within this fic was honest, heartfelt and very, very real. from the way you don’t just go up after going through something, but fall occasionally and sometimes feel as though you’re back at square one, to the way that there definitely is hope in the dark moments, and a light at the end of the tunnel. albeit a very faint one.

it comforted me in a way and reminded me of what i thought to be lost. fruitless, even. but sometimes, it’s books like these that open our eyes to things we’ve forgotten during times of turmoil: the simple goodness of life. and of people.

“if you’re going through hell, keep going.” winston churchill.

⠀

( ✮ ) CANDYLAND — by @honeymoonjin

!! seokjin x reader ft. elf!jk | 13k !!

thriller, angst, fantasy, husband!jin, some cursing.

my mother is the biggest thriller fan. not that you needed to know that, but she is. and she’s not ashamed of it either. she’ll let you know if she’s reading a really good thriller in the moment. trust me, you’ll know.

me? not so much. i’m more of a sappy, hopeless romance, happy ending kind-of-sod — if you haven’t already guessed from this list. but there’s a reason this fic is on the list, too.

this fic genuinely kept me on the edge of my seat- uh, bed. the secrets of what darkness lingered behind the happy exterior of this adventure trip gripped my eyes to the screen, and lord, was it worth it.

throw a bit of husband!seokjin in there too? what more could you want! and written by @honeymoonjin? what a win.

let’s just say after this fic i added a few other thrillers to my basket. and happily reported to my mum i was a changed woman. okay, i’m exaggerating, but you get my point. it was incredible.

⠀

( ✎ ) LILY LUCK — by @gguksgalaxy

!! yoongi x reader | 10.7k !!

soulmates!au, angst, fluff if u squint, very slight implicit sexual content, anxiety.

although this fic may be the shortest on the list, do not underestimate its power. it is still as mighty as the others— perhaps, even more so.

i think the main emotion i want to hone into concerning this fanfic is compassion. it sinks into your bones and surrounds your entire being like a unwanted hug. and you can’t even stop it.

the author does a good job of making you feel intense compassion for the reader — who so desperately wants to meet her soulmate. which makes the ending that much more satisfying.

this is for those who’re lonely, need a pick up, or those who’re hopeless romantics and believe in love belonging to fate, such as myself.

“expectation is the root of all heartache.” william shakespeare. talking of the devil, he would definitely cry over this fic. either of bubbling emotions, or the fact he didn’t write it himself. sucks really. for him, not for me.

© marknee, 2023. all rights reserved.

#shakespeare series #bts #bts series #bts x reader #bts fic recs #fic rec #kpop #bts smut #bts imagines #bts fanfic #bts angst #bts fic #bts scenarios #jungkook #namjoon au #taehyung #seokjin fic #hoseok #jiminbts #yoongi #namjoon x reader #seokjin x reader #yoongi x reader #hoseok x reader #jimin x reader #taehyung x reader #jungkook x reader

[halcyone-of-the-sea]

Captain John Price Masterlist

➺ All works are F!Reader

➺ 18+ fics will be marked & all works will be sorted from most recent upload to least recent.

➺ Popular fics will be marked with a '✧'

ONE-SHOTS:

✎ CHOKE ON THE SUN - Angst, torture, 7k event fic, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [You'd known John ever since the Academy, and even after losing touch, the love you had for one another was never gone. Like a snake, it had stayed hidden in unseen places. But it was always there.] ❞

✎ ALL, MOST, SOME, NONE - Heavy angst, character(s) death

╰┈➤ ❝ [Snow melts in the heat of blood.] ❞

✎ LIONS AND IBEXES - Canon-typical violence, wife!reader from 'I'll Take the Nightshift'

╰┈➤ ❝ [Impulsive was what John always called you - affectionately, of course. But he sure does worry when you disappear without him.] ❞

✎ GLORY TO THE REAPER - Angst, pining, hurt/comfort, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [He was strange, you admitted to yourself. Always around even when you didn't want him to be. But perhaps the Brit just might surprise you.] ❞

✎ OUR REMAINS - Pregnancy, angst, fluffy ending, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [You disliked hiding things from John. Certainly something as big as this.] ❞

✎ ORIGAMI BOATS - Connected to 'See No Evil', stalking mentions, trauma, protective!Price

╰┈➤ ❝ [Wounds of the mind are harder to heal than wounds of the body. But can John ever stop blaming himself?] ❞

✎ COMFORTS OF HOME - 18+, housewife!reader, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [Good are the days when you wake up and John is already beside you.] ❞

✎ THE FIVE TIMES - Fluff, awkwardness, inner turmoil

╰┈➤ ❝ [You've never been in a relationship before - at least, one that was romantic. And then on the off chance when you're lending an old book to a childhood friend, you meet John.] ❞

✎ I'LL TAKE THE NIGHT SHIFT - Torture, wife!reader, suggestive, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [Before you knew it, John was gone - taken from right under your nose and leaving you no choice but to retreat without him. But you would do anything to get him back, even go into the lion’s den itself.] ❞

✎ CHEATING HEART - 18+, toxic relationship (previous), cheating, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [Your feelings for John were wrong - horribly wrong - but when you see your current boyfriend in bed with another woman, what's to hold you back anymore?] ❞

✎ SEE NO EVIL - Stalking, intense gore, suggestive, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [The flowers came every week - Tuesday, two O’clock, two minutes after your break. The only problem was that you knew they weren’t coming from John.] ❞

✎ LUSTFUL GOLD AND A CRIMSON-STAINED TONGUE - 18+

╰┈➤ ❝ [It was supposed to be simple - an intel Op. in some Russian arms dealer's mansion. Hell, you were actually looking forward to it, especially with the way John was undressing you with his eyes. You hoped that the red silk dress you had gotten made it through the night.] ❞

✎ LET ME LEAN ON YOU - Intense gore, enemies-to-lovers, suggestive, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [You have a bad habit of putting yourself in harm’s way, enraging John to no end. But can you survive a wound like this? Or will everything you hate to love about John Price never see the light of day?] ❞

✎ THE TRACES HE LEFT BEHIND - Angst, grief, mentions of death, ✧

╰┈➤ ❝ [You had never expected the dog tags to be so heavy, but now, as they sit in your hands, they’re just about the heaviest object you’ve ever held. M.I.A doesn’t mean John’s dead...but it might as well.] ❞

✎ BABY BLUES - Angst, gore, abductions

╰┈➤ ❝ [The promise of a normal Sunday is lost when your door is torn open, and, you, kidnapped. All you can do is pray that John finds you in time.] ❞

MULTI-PART WORKS:

➺ DAUGHTER!READER:

✎ MEMORIES OF YOUTH - Angst, fluff, banter

╰┈➤ ❝ [It was hard being away from his little girl, but warm mornings spent in each other's company were blessings - even if they were far and few in between. It didn't matter the form.] ❞

✎ DUCKY SOCKS - Fluff

╰┈➤ ❝ [It's your father's birthday, and what better way to celebrate than to go on a hike before giving him the gift he told you not to buy?] ❞

✎ LATE NIGHT COOKIES - Fluff, school stress

╰┈➤ ❝ [Stressed and still awake, you go to grab food from the kitchen before you get right back into your work. Your father talks some sense into you over a nostalgic recipe.] ❞

➺ LIEUTENIANT!PRICE:

✎ CALLUSUS ON HIS GENTLE HANDS - Human Trafficking, blood, trauma

╰┈➤ ❝ [John Price was the one to help you up from the concrete corner you had pushed yourself into when the gunfire had started; his hand holds yours like delicate glass despite the hard calluses. Sticking by him seemed like a good idea.] ❞

✎ CALLUSUS AND MILKY SCARS - 18+, angst, human trafficking

╰┈➤ ❝ [It's been years since you've seen or heard from John and yet you still can't get him out of your head. But can a chance meeting rekindle old emotions?] ❞

➺ SCRATCHES IN THE SURFACE:

✎ PART ONE - Intense gore, heavy angst, torture

╰┈➤ ❝ [Investigating Shepherd was a mistake, but the betrayal of John Price hurt more than anything Shadow Company could do to you.] ❞

✎ PART TWO - Heavy angst, gore, trauma

╰┈➤ ❝ [Finally free from torture and pain, can you ever bring yourself to forgive John for what he caused? Learning to move on and heal is easier said than done.] ❞

#masterlist #john price

[happy74827]

Making Up For Lost Time

[Steve Rogers x Female!Reader]

Synopsis: After the loss against Thanos, you and Steve realize the value of time {GIF Credits: @captslock}.

WC: 753

Category: Slight Angst, Lime/Spice

I’ve been busy catching up on my inbox, so take this very short blurb about cherishing special moments (+ nomad Steve 🤭)

『••✎••』

Steve was on you in a second. He pushed you against the wall with such force you had no doubt it would leave bruises. His mouth found yours, and he kissed you as if his life depended on it. And technically, it did.

A month ago, Thanos had succeeded in obtaining the infinity stones. Now, the entire world was divided in half, and everyone was scrambling to find their missing half. You and Steve were no exception.

When Steve showed up at your small apartment, he didn’t wait for you to let him in. He just started banging on the door, screaming your name, desperate for you to be okay.

When you didn’t respond because you were still at the store getting groceries, he broke the door down and stormed in, fearing the worst. His consciousness was slightly tamed by the fact there wasn’t any dust around, but it didn't completely stop him from freaking out as you were still nowhere to be found.

It wasn't until he was about to tear the whole house apart that you walked in the door. You were confused and startled when you came upon your broken door and a frantic Steve running through the house, searching for you.

Your heart was beating rapidly in your chest, and it only started to slow down when Steve caught sight of you and rushed to your side. He threw your groceries on the floor and pulled you into his arms. He didn't speak a word, no matter how much you begged and pleaded with him to explain what was happening. He just held you in his strong arms and relaxed as he felt your heart beating against his chest.

Now, you both were clinging to each other, afraid the other half would suddenly disintegrate. You were straddling his hips as he pinned you against the wall. His hands were all over your body, and his mouth was sucking and biting at the sensitive skin of your neck.

The loss made you realize how much time you wasted not being with him. Every moment you’ve spent was figuring out how to keep the Avengers together. Every night you could have spent tangled in each other's limbs, you spent going over old battle plans and making new ones. Every morning you could have spent waking up next to each other, you spent training for a fight you never thought would come.

Every second you wasted not telling him how much he meant to you, every second you could have spent showing him, you wanted back because the harsh reality of it all was you didn’t know how much time you had left.

So you took what little time you had left and put everything you felt for him into a single kiss. The way his mouth felt against yours made you feel alive. You couldn’t stop your hands from running over his body, trying to memorize the curves and the muscles and every line that made up the man before you. The scars that littered his body were like brail under your fingertips, and the memories of the fights that caused them flooded your brain.

Your breathing grew heavy and ragged as his hands slipped under your shirt, his nails scratching lightly against your skin. When his fingers ran along the band of your bra, you let out a sigh. Your head fell back, hitting the wall, and as you looked up at the ceiling, you couldn’t get the appreciation that the two of you were here and whole out of your head.

Others weren’t so lucky, and that fact ate at your heart. But you didn't want to think about that right now. You wanted to focus on Steve. You wanted to focus on the way his hands felt as they traveled over your body or the way his mouth felt as it moved back up to your lips, his tongue pushing against yours.

And so, as Steve took you there against the wall, his lips making you see stars and his hands touching you everywhere, you both silently vowed never to waste a single moment again.

Call it selfish; call it whatever you want, but you were grateful that the universe showed you how important he was and that it gave you a chance to make it right because had it not, he could’ve been the pile of ash, and you would have had to live the rest of your life regretting every single moment you missed with him.

#steve rogers #steve rogers x reader #steve rogers x female!reader #steve rogers x yn #x reader #reader #fanfic #fanfiction #captain america x female!reader #captain america x reader #captain america x yn #captain america #chris evans x reader #chris evans #marvelfic #marvel x reader #marvel fanfic #mcu steve rogers #mcu #infinity war #nomad steve rogers #marvel mcu #mcu fanfiction #marvel cinematic universe #marvel #marvel fandom #bucky barnes x reader #avengers x reader #the avengers x reader #andy barber x reader

[thenatashamaximoff]

Heart Of Stone; Ch. 3

Summary: After decades of being HYDRA’s most prized possession, you’re finally free and find yourself under the protective eye of the Avengers. But with a piece of one of the Infinity Stones embedded into your heart, you’re never truly safe…

Pairing: Wanda x Reader

Warnings: mentions of death, mind control, panic/anxiety attacks

Words: 22,897

✎ | დ

a/n: The add-ons are not necessary to be read to understand what's going on, but they are very subtly mentioned (the "what if" ones are not canon). You're not missing anything if you don't read them, I promise you. However, the events of the main storyline will be mentioned and will connect with this chapter. It's been a long time since we've been here. If y'all need a refresher, I recommend rereading them. Also, don't be afraid to comment! Your thoughts and opinions always motivate me to write more. ┌─────────────ᗢ─────────────┐ @diaryoflife @women-am-i-right @creatively-analytical @obsessed-with-wandamaximoff @beforeoursecrets @iliketozoneout @olsensnpm @hoefnagel521 @chasingmaximoff @unrealskye └─────────────ᗢ─────────────┘ ┌─────────────∞─────────────┐ @myfavoriteficss @pinkytoecrust @cyncity32 @peachbear88 @magicallymaximoff @therealmeari @peggycarter-steverogers @ba-romanoff @natashabelovas @morbid-gaymer @reminiscingtonight @when-wolves-howl @idontknownemore @natashasilverfox @sayah13 @fuxk182 @scarletwitchofthewilds @natashamaximoff69 @wuwu96 @jsonebraincell @whendarknessturns @marvel4liferz @red1culous @cd-4848 @theperfectlovestory └─────────────∞─────────────┘

2023 You took it with you when you left. And, for the longest time, it wandered lost and wounded; the heart that she misplaced. But it didn’t give up. It kept beating, albeit with a dull ache, as it searched for a place where it could belong once again. It encountered moments of despair and moments of hope, but it never stopped yearning for the one who had taken it away. Through trials and tribulations, the heart carried on, fueled by the memories of a love that had once been so strong yet so… incomplete. A love that had never gotten the chance to blossom into its full potential. The scars left by the absence of that love were etched deep within, a constant reminder of what could have been.

And, just when it had almost given up hope, destiny intervened, leading the heart on a path of an unexpected reunion, where it would finally find solace and healing in the most astonishing way.

“Do you know what a… a supernova is?” She couldn’t help but smile at your soft-spoken question, and it was extremely easy for her to turn her gaze away from the night sky to look at the side of your face. How untroubled you were in this moment, relaxed in a state of bliss that was nearly contagious. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of calm wash over her as she gazed at you, her healing heart beating steadily in her chest. “When a star… A star can run out of fuel, and that triggers a series of- of explosive events.” She could feel her stomach flip when your cheeks stretched against your lips as a smile formed. “It can briefly outshine an… entire galaxy.”

“Tell me more.” Her voice was lower than yours, a mere breath in the scant space between you and her, but she knew you heard her when your grin only grew wider.

“It marks the end of a- a star’s life,” you continued, “but it also creates new… elements that can be used to form new stars and… and planets.” Finally, you turned your head to meet her gaze, and she had to fight every fiber in her being to not close the little distance. “The end of something old, but… the beginning of something new. Like a… a rewritten story.”

No need for her to utter a sound, no need to fill the new quiet with meaningless words. Instead, she preferred to simply enjoy the view, to bask in the beauty of you. Your face, illuminated by the moonlight, gave you an ethereal aura. The soft light of the stars embraced you as if they were shining solely for you, creating an image of a heavenly being in her mind.

“You could be an angel.” The whispered words slipped past her lips before she even realized it, and she saw your expression change. Your features, once warm and relaxed, now creased with wrinkles of confusion. Your eyebrows knitted together, and your head tilted slightly, but a faint smile still lingered on your lips. However, the uncertainty in your eyes was unmistakable.

“But I… I don’t want to die, Wanda…” you said softly, your voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and concern.

Her throat constricted almost as tight as her heart did when she gasped lightly at your words, a thin yet obvious layer of tears glossing over her eyes. She found herself inching toward you on the blanket, desperate to get close enough for your nose to brush across hers. “You won’t,” she declared, the bewilderment riddling your features washing away at the determination in her voice. “Nothing will happen to you. Nothing will ever hurt you.” She shook her head, swallowing a mouthful of saliva thickly. “I won’t let it, dove.” 

She leaned forward, but her movements were interrupted by the appearance of your hand in front of her face. Her eyebrows furrowed tightly together, confusion washing over her like water, yet it was all dried out when she noticed all of your fingers tucked into a fist, with your pinky standing tall and proud. “Do you… promise?”

A soft smile lifted the corners of her lips as she wrapped her pinky around yours tightly. “I promise I’ll keep you safe.” As you nodded, her eyes fluttered closed long before she pressed her lips against yours in a deep kiss that ignited a fire in her soul. She broke the hold your pinky had on hers to move her hand toward you, the tips of her fingers gently caressing your jawline in a delicate touch. The tenderness of her gesture sent a shiver down your spine as if her fingertips carried a soothing warmth that spread throughout your body. 

In that moment, it felt as if time stood still. The world faded away around her, replaced by a sense of peace and security. It was just the two of you, connected by the gentle touch of her hand and the soft, passionate pressure of your lips. And, even when you parted to catch your breath, her fingers remained, eyes locked in a hypnotic trance.

Her touch spoke volumes in the silence, conveying a depth of love and affection that words couldn’t fully capture. It was a dialect only the two of you understood, a silent conversation that transcended the boundaries of spoken language.

“I… I want to stay here. With… you. My Wanda.” Your eyes somehow sparkled brighter in the darkness, making the stars above envy your shine. The vulnerability in your voice tugged at her heart, and a gentle smile graced her mouth. She brushed the pad of her thumb across your bottom lip, featherlight yet warm all the same. “I like… the stars.” Your movement was reluctant, not wanting to turn from her touch, yet you ultimately returned your gaze to the night sky above. Wanda’s heart swelled with a mixture of adoration and longing.

She shifted closer, her body pressing against yours as if to bridge the gap between the stars and your souls. Her voice was barely a whisper, filled with an unwavering determination and tenderness, “Then let’s stay.” She wanted to feel you, to relish in the warmth a single touch brings. She brought her hand back up, tracing gentle circles on your cheek. The chills that overtook your body caused you to shiver underneath her fingertip, and she smiled softly at you when you pulled your attention away from the stars to meet her gaze. “Right here.”

Your lips pursed together, your eyes unmoving as your mind raced through words. “Aren’t you… tired?”

“No, my dove,” she answered warmly, her voice filled with affection. “I want to hear more about the stars.” As her words danced through the air, she couldn’t help but feel her stomach twist with joy. The way your eyes lit up, a radiant smile spreading across your face, was a sight that made her heart skip a beat. 

You extended your arm, a silent invitation for Wanda to move closer, and instinctively she leaned into you. But instead of resting her head against your shoulder, she nestled her ear over your chest, finding solace in the rhythmic thumping that reverberated through her being. It was as if she sought refuge in the steady cadence, the comforting song that echoed within your body. When you spoke, your voice was low and husky, “Some stars are so far away that… that their light takes thousands of years to… reach us.” The steady beat in her ear, your lulling voice in the other, she felt a profound sense of calm and tranquility. Every word that slipped from your lips was like a gentle caress to her soul, painting vivid pictures of serenity and peace. “We’re actually gazing into the past… Seeing the remnants of… the stars long gone.”

Wanda’s fingers gently intertwined with yours, deepening the connection between you and her. “Show me some constellations.”

Gently, you guided Wanda’s hand, pointing to the night sky speckled with stars. Your fingers traced invisible lines, connecting the celestial dots to form constellations. “There…” you said softly, your voice filled with a mix of enthusiasm and admiration. “That cluster is… Orion. The hunter. Do you see how the three stars in the… middle form his belt?”

Wanda’s eyes followed your guidance, her gaze fixed on the starry canvas above. She leaned in closer as if trying to capture every detail of the constellations you were unveiling. “And what about that one?” she asked, her voice filled with curiosity, as her fingers traced the outline of a different group of stars.

“That’s… Ursa Major,” you replied, your voice holding a touch of wonder, “the Great Bear. The seven stars that form the… the Big Dipper- They’re part of it.”

Gradually, the tranquility of the night and the lilting beat of the drumming in your chest began to soothe Wanda into a peaceful slumber. Exhaustion weighed heavy on her, but in your embrace, she found solace and safety. With a gentle sigh, her eyes slid closed, her head nestling further against you. Your heartbeat, the steady rhythm that had provided her comfort through the night, now served as a lullaby, lulling her deeper into sleep.

Your ancient tales of the stars faded to a pause when you looked down at her, a soft smile tugging your lips as you watched the rise and fall of her chest with each tranquil breath. The sky above continued to twinkle as if keeping watch over the two of you, the celestial light casting a gentle glow upon your peaceful tableau.

Carefully, you adjusted your position, ensuring Wanda was comfortable against you, as you leaned your head against the warm blanket beneath you. You gazed up at the stars that had become witnesses to your love story, and, as the night embraced you both, you surrendered to its tender embrace, knowing that tomorrow would bring new adventures, new constellations to discover, and a love that would continue to shine brightly… just like the stars above.

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Wanda’s eyes fluttered open, greeted by the gentle caress of sunlight on her face. As her surroundings came into focus, she found herself sitting on the blanket, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the fabric beneath her. A sense of disorientation washed over her as she realized the space beside her was empty.

Brows furrowed with confusion, she searched the immediate vicinity, hoping to catch a glimpse of your familiar presence. But all she found were the remnants of the night’s stargazing adventures, the memories still fresh in her mind.

A soft sigh escaped her lips as she recalled the warmth of your embrace, the comforting thump of your heartbeat, and the whispered words that had filled the air. Had it all been a dream? The doubt lingered, tugging at her heartstrings. Questions swirled in her mind as she tried to make sense of the situation. Had you left while she was lost in slumber? Was it all just a figment of her imagination, a manifestation of her longing and desire?

As she rose to her feet, determination mingled with trepidation in Wanda’s gaze. She turned her attention towards the front of the house behind her, her eyes scanning the windows in search of a glimpse of you. Her stomach twisted with anticipation, knowing that the next few moments held the answer to her unspoken question.

Leaving the blanket behind, a testament to the fleeting moments shared, Wanda made her way toward the quaint home. Each step felt like an eternity, yet she couldn’t help but feel drawn to the possibility that awaited her inside. Reaching the front door, her trembling hand grasped the doorknob. With a deep breath, she turned it and pushed it open, allowing the familiar creaking sound to fill the air. The weight of her anticipation was palpable as she stepped across the threshold, her eyes daring around the still room.

“Y/N?” Her voice was barely a whisper, catching in her throat as she called out your name. The silence that followed was deafening, echoing the emptiness that mirrored her heart. It threatened to swallow her whole, fueling the fear that she was too late, that you had slipped away. 

But then, a sound reached her ears. A clanging noise emanated from the kitchen, a hint of life amidst the stillness. Her pulse quickened, and a glimmer of hope sparkled within her. With renewed determination, she followed the sound, her steps becoming more assured with each passing moment.

Rounding the corner, her eyes fell upon you. And there you stood, amidst the chaos of bubbling pots and sizzling pans, a concentrated expression on your face - seen underneath the smudges of flour coloring your complexion - as you were oblivious to her arrival. Smoke wafted through the air from the burnt bacon that sat on the hot stove, and it was then that Wanda noticed the broken fire alarm sitting next to the sink, silent and useless.

Amusement washed over her as she took in the scene, crossing her arms over her chest and leaning against the doorway. A playful smile danced on her lips as she watched you navigate the confusion of the kitchen,  your movements an uneven blend of purpose and panic. Pots and pans clanged, ingredients were scattered haphazardly, the nose-burning smell of charred meat… There was a certain charm in the disarray.

She observed your furrowed brow and the occasional look of perplexity that flickered across your face. It was evident that this culinary endeavor was challenging, but your enthusiasm remained unwavering. She couldn’t help but be captivated by your perseverance to tackle something new, even if it resulted in a temporary state of chaos.

As you reached for a spice jar, knocking over a measuring cup in the process, Wanda couldn’t contain her laughter. The sound echoed through the kitchen, filling the room with contagious joy. The sound brought a momentary pause to your frantic activity, causing you to look up and meet her gaze. And though your eyebrows shot up in shock, it seemed as if her presence brought a sense of calm amidst the culinary storm.

An embarrassed smile tugged your lips as your arms fell to your side, looking down while she walked further into the room. “I- I wanted to… surprise you.” You rested your hands on the counter, digging your thumb nervously into your palm. Wanda’s laughter subsided, replaced by a tender expression.  “You… You cook for me all the time. I wanted to…” You huffed, shaking your head and, though she couldn’t see it, she could see the signs that your bottom lip jutted out in a pout. “I’m… I’m not very good at it. Maybe I should just… stick to peanut butter sandwiches.”

She rounded the island, placing a delicate hand over your nervous ones upon reaching you as she swiftly flicked the stove top off. “It’s not about the perfect meal, my dove. It’s about the effort and intention behind it.” You looked up at her through your lashes, and seeing the warm smile on her face caused you to relax further. “And, in my eyes… you’re already succeeding.”

Your posture straightened with newfound determination. The embarrassment that had made a home on your face washed away as a bright smile turned that frown upside down. “Will you… teach me?” The words slipped from your lips, laced with eagerness and vulnerability. Wanda’s eyes softened as she looked at the culinary disaster spread out on the counter - from the charred strips of bacon to the watery pancakes sitting on a plate - and she nodded her head in agreement.

“After we clean up,” she offered with a soft laugh, her voice gentle and reassuring. Her hand moved from yours to rest against your cheek, her touch both comforting and electrifying. The warmth of her palm against your skin sent a shiver down your spine, and you couldn’t help but lean into her touch, reveling in the affectionate connection between you. Her thumb moved in soft circles, wiping away some of the flour painting your features.

With a shared understanding, you both set aside the wreckage of your cooking attempt and began the task of cleaning up. It became a shared endeavor, a dance of laughter and gentle touches as you worked side by side, turning a chaotic kitchen into a space of order and cleanliness.

As the last dish was placed in its rightful spot, Wanda turned towards you, a playful glimmer in her eyes. “Now, let the real culinary adventure begin,” she claimed, your face lighting up with excitement.

You watched carefully as she turned the stove back on, the flame flickering to life beneath the burner. She grabbed the pan and placed it on the now-heated surface, the metal hissing with anticipation. With a graceful motion, she picked up a few strips of bacon and expertly placed them onto the skillet, the sound of the sizzle filling the kitchen.

Your eyes were fixed on her hands, marveling at the precision and confidence with which she handled the task. Each movement was deliberate as if she had done this a hundred times before. It was a simple act, cooking bacon, but the way she did it made it seem like a work of art.

As the aroma of crackling bacon filled the air, you couldn’t help but feel a sense of admiration for Wanda’s skills. She had effortlessly transformed a chaotic kitchen into a space of culinary magic, and you were grateful to be a witness to her expertise. A smile tugged at the corners of your lips as you leaned against the countertop, content to watch her work her magic. The clattering of pots and pans, the occasional laughter, and the tantalizing scent of cooking filled the air, creating a symphony of domestic bliss.

In that moment, it didn’t matter that the pancakes had been watery or that the fire alarm had been broken. What mattered was the connection between you, the shared experience of learning and growing together. And as you watched Wanda cook, you knew that every adventure would be an opportunity to strengthen your bond and create beautiful memories. Together, you would navigate the world, supporting each other, laughing at the mishaps, and savoring the delicious results. It was a journey you were excited to embark on, hand in hand, knowing that with Wanda by your side, every day would be a celebration of love, passion, and shared experiences.

As Wanda turned off the stove and stacked the dirty dishes into the sink (once again), a realization struck you. Lost in the mesmerizing sight of her, you hadn’t paid attention to the details or learned anything from her culinary expertise. The awareness brought a sheepish smile to your face.

With an amused smirk, Wanda met your gaze, her eyes twinkling with mirth. It was as if she were reading your thoughts this very moment, knowing that you had been too captivated by her presence to absorb any practical knowledge. She took a step closer, her hands gently cradling your face. She couldn’t help it, thriving on the way your touch warms her insides.

“Why don’t you go freshen up while the food cools down?” she proposed, her voice filled with affection and a hint of playfulness. Her suggestion was accompanied by a tender gesture, her thumbs moving in delicate circles against your skin. The intimacy of the moment made your heart skip a beat, and you found yourself getting lost in the deep emeralds of her eyes, feeling a connection that went beyond words.

You nodded in agreement, appreciating her for just a moment longer before taking the opportunity to collect yourself after the whirlwind of emotions and sensations. As you turned your head towards the kitchen door, you couldn’t resist stealing a quick glance at Wanda, admiring her in that moment. The way her eyes crinkled at the corners, the soft curves of her lips, and the gentle touch of her hands on your face - they were all reminders of the affection and tenderness you shared.

A light laugh parted her mouth after you stole a sneaky kiss before making your way out of the room.

With a couple of fixed plates in her hands and a hint of intrigue in her eyes, Wanda set aside the task of arranging the meal and walked toward the front of the house. The knock grew slightly louder, slightly more impatient, as she approached the door, filling her with curiosity. When she opened it, a soft smile formed on the Sokovian’s lips, yet the unfamiliar face didn’t sate her confusion.

“Hello, dear.” The woman beamed widely, a potted plant held carelessly in her hands. “I’m Agnes, your neighbor to the right.” Wanda’s soft smile strengthened at the friendly greeting. “Forgive me for not stopping by sooner to welcome you to the block! My mother-in-law was in town, so I wasn’t.” She walked further into the house, plopping the housewarming gift into Wanda’s arms. “What’s your name? Where are you from? And, most importantly, what is that fantastic smell?”

“Well, I’m Wanda.”

“Wanda. Charmed.” Agnes chuckled softly as she looked around. “Golly, you settled in fast! Did you use a moving company?”

“I sure did,” Wanda claimed, quickly nodding as she placed the plant on the table. “Those boxes certainly didn’t move themselves.” She wiped her hands across the front of her shirt, watching Agnes lean forward slightly, her eyes sparkling with interest.

“So, what’s a single gal like you doing rattling around this big house?”

Wanda’s cheeks flushed ever so slightly, her mind briefly wandering to you just upstairs. “Oh, no. I’m not single,” she replied, her voice a touch softer.

Agnes raised an eyebrow playfully, her gaze shifting to Wanda’s left hand as she sat down on the couch. “I don’t see a ring,” the neighbor pointed out.

The Sokovian cleared her throat, her cheeks growing warmer. “Well, I- I assure you I’m happily married.” She placed her hands on her hips in hopes of hiding her fingers, though she knew there was no use now. “As a matter of fact, she’s just upstairs.”

“Wands, I-” The two women turned their heads at the sound of your approach, and you froze in the middle of the stairs upon making eye contact with Agnes. Wanda was quick to move toward you, catching one of your hands before you could bother the scar marking your palm to gently tug you down the rest of the way as the unknown woman stood up respectfully. Your lips seemed to glue shut the moment you processed the guest, your hand squeezing Wanda’s fingers.

“The woman of the hour!” Agnes announced, stepping up to you. “Always in the know, that’s me. How are you, dear?” She laughed heartily, and you glanced at Wanda uneasily, who was looking at you with care and concern. Agnes’s eyes sparkled with amusement as she beamed at you with the widest smile you had ever seen on a stranger. “Aren’t you a precious little thing,” she claimed, tapping the tip of your nose in a quick and unexpected move that caught you off guard. “I could just eat you up!”

You took a small step to the side, instinctively trying to protect your nose from further attacks, and peeked over Wanda’s shoulder, hoping to find some sort of shield from Agnes’s playful teasing. “Please don’t…” you whispered, and her robust chuckle told you she heard you.

“Oh, don’t worry, dear. I don’t eat people.” A smirk played at the side of her lips, leaning forward slightly as she added in a low voice, “At least, not anymore.”

Feeling a surge of apprehension, your hand squeezed Wanda’s gently once more, seeking comfort and support. Sensing your need, she cleared her throat, redirecting Agnes’s attention back to her. “Y/N and I were just about to sit down for breakfast,” the Sokovian clarified, her voice steady and composed.

The neighbor’s eyes lit up with curiosity, and she nodded in understanding. “Ah, breakfast! Well, I wouldn’t want to interrupt such a delicious affair! I’ll leave you two lovebirds to enjoy your meal.” She winked mischievously, her playful demeanor evident. “But remember, if you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to knock on my door. I’m just to the right.” You stayed behind Wanda as your eyes followed the retreating woman, watching her pull open the door as she turned to face the two of you. “My right, not yours!” She chuckled softly this time as she stepped out, leaving you and Wanda alone.

The witch turned to you, a gentle expression on her face. “Are you okay?” Her fingers intertwined with yours as you nodded, chewing the inside of your cheek. “Did you want to do something today?” Wanda used her hold on you to tug you to the table, leaving you to take your own seat for a brief moment before she returned with the two plates piled with the food she had cooked moments before the interruption. 

“Can… Nat come over?” Your hopeful eyes met her bright green ones almost instantly as you picked up a fork. “I… I want her to see our… home.”

Wanda could feel her posture weaken as her shoulders sagged at your question, her bottom lip finding its way in between her teeth as you turned your attention to the food in front of you. “Oh, sweetheart…” She eyed you carefully. “She’s not in the country, you know that.” The prongs of your fork poked at the slices of toast on your plate, and she could feel the sharp tug of her heart at the sight of your frown. She reached toward you, placing her hand gently over yours to offer comfort. “I know how much you miss her,” she said, her voice filled with empathy. “I miss her, too, but she’s on a mission. We have to respect that.” Her thumb traced soothing circles on the back of your hand, trying to ease the disappointment you felt. “How about we take a walk this afternoon?” she continued, her tone growing more cheerful.

Your eyes brightened a little, and a small smile tugged at the corners of your lips. “That… sounds nice,” you replied, your voice carrying a glimmer of enthusiasm. “Just the… two of us, right?”

Wanda’s grin matched yours as she squeezed your hand gently. “Of course,” she stated. “We can even go to that little place we went to the other day. What was it called again?” Her heart skipped a beat when your small smile grew wide, a comfortable knot forming in her stomach when you flipped your hand over to intertwine your fingers through hers. It was the source of the warmth radiating throughout her entire body.

“For… For Art’s Sake?” She couldn’t help but chuckle softly at your enthusiasm, wondering how it was possible for a human to hold more light than the sun. “I… We can go?”

“Anything for you, my dove.” She moved her hand to rest her palm against your cheek in a delicate touch, feeling just how quickly she relaxed when you leaned against her.

With renewed optimism, you picked up your fork and resumed eating, savoring each bite of the delicious meal. As you enjoyed the breakfast together, the anticipation of exploring the neighborhood filled the air, creating a sense of excitement and possibility. In that moment, you knew that no matter what the day had in store, being with Wanda was all you needed to make it special.

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As the afternoon sun painted the neighborhood in golden hues, you and Wanda embarked on a leisurely stroll down the charming streets, reveling in the beauty of your new surroundings. Towering trees line the sidewalks, their branches swaying softly in the breeze. The houses, adorned with charming facades and well-tended gardens, exuded a sense of warmth and tranquility.

A symphony of colors greets your eyes as vibrant flowers bloom in every yard, splashing the landscape with nature’s artwork. Roses in various shades whispered sweet scents, while daisies and tulips danced in the morning light. The air was alive with the melodic chirping of birds, their songs interweaving harmoniously to create a serene soundtrack.

But Wanda’s attention wasn’t captured by the picturesque scenery alone. Her gaze was fixed on you, captivated by the way you eagerly absorbed every detail around you. She didn’t fight the feeling, becoming enchanted by the way your eyes darted from one beautiful sight to another, like a child in a candy store. She smiled warmly, filled with affection as she observed the way your features sparkled with excitement. The gentle breeze tousled your hair, and she couldn’t help but be drawn to the way your face lit up with joy. It was in these simple moments that she found herself falling in love with you all over again.

“Witnessing the world through your eyes is a gift,” Wanda murmured, her voice filled with admiration. “You have an incredible ability to find wonder in the smallest things.”

You turned to her, a bright grin gracing your lips. “It’s… It’s hard not to be amazed when everything around us is so… beautiful.” Your arms swayed by your sides as you walked, and there was no mistaking the intentional brush of your knuckles against hers. “But… it’s even more special because I… I get to share it with you.” Her heart fluttered at your words, warmth swallowing her insides as she looked away to hide the dark red coloring her cheeks. “It’s… surreal.”

Her gaze returned to you, eyebrows pinched together tightly with confusion. You noticed the change, the sign of her perplexity, and it made you pause for a moment as you realized your words might have come across as ambiguous. Your lips pursed together, your eyes bouncing back and forth between hers as you worked your mind to come up with a better explanation.

“I- I mean… being here with you. It’s like a… a dream come true.” You breathed out as you slowly reached out for her hand, looking down to watch your fingers intertwine through hers, and the way her heart skipped a beat was serene. “I never imagined I’d be able to… touch you like this.”

Her brows unfurrowed slightly, the confusion giving way to a glimmer of understanding. Wanda’s lips curved into a tender smile, a mixture of relief and affection shining in her eyes. She hooked a finger under your chin, delicately guiding your head up to meet her gaze once more. “Being here with you feels like a dream for me too,” she murmured lowly, feeling a surge of warmth flow through her arm when you gave her hand a subconscious squeeze. “To hold your hand, to feel your touch… I never thought we’d see the day when I’d be able to do that.” The gentle breeze continued to brush against her skin, almost as if nature itself was encouraging her to bridge the gap between you. And she did.

Using her finger under your chin, she gently steered you closer, closing the distance between your lips. As they met in a soft kiss, the warmth that lingered in her arm expanded, spreading like wildfire through her entire body. Time seemed to stand still, and the world around you faded away. With each lingering touch of your lips, the warmth only intensified, enveloping them in a cocoon of bliss and contentment.

When you finally parted, a shared breathless smile danced on your lips, and Wanda’s eyes sparkled with a newfound certainty. “I never want to let go of this feeling,” she whispered. “Being with you, touching you… It’s everything I’ve ever longed for. And I won’t take it for granted.”

With a nod of her head, you continued your stroll, hand in hand. “I-” You looked down, watching your feet move you forward. “I don’t want to… take it for granted either.” You picked your head up, turning toward her to catch her small smile and twinkling eyes. “Wands… I l-”

“Hey there, Wanda.” Her smile tightened as she turned her head at the sound of her name. The mailman, with a cheerful expression, approached you with his cart in tow. He reached into the cart and retrieved a single card, instantly recognizable by its appearance. Wanda’s heart skipped a beat, and a sense of anticipation filled the air. “Just this today,” he confirmed, extending the card towards you. However, after a moment of hesitation, Wanda reached out and took it instead.

“Wh- Where?” you asked, your eyes fixed on her as the man walked away. She laughed lightly when you eagerly accepted the card from her outstretched hand, your fingers grazing hers. Your gaze shifted to the picture on the postcard, revealing a serene beach lined with people and what appeared to be a castle hidden behind trees dancing on the space between sand and grass. As you studied the image, Wanda’s gaze was glued to you, observing the emotions flickering across your face. “Spain… She’s in Spain.” Your voice was laced with excitement, yet there was a tinge of longing minced in your words. Handing the postcard back to Wanda, you watched as she delicately flipped it over with another soft chuckle, tracing the curves of the handwritten message with her eyes. “Wh- What did… she say?”

“‘Thinking of you from the shores of Spain. Wish you were here to explore the enchantment together. Until then, let this postcard be a glimpse into the magic we’ll experience when we reunite. Sending love across the distance. Nat.’”

“She’s… She’s…” Your eyes shimmered with a mixture of joy and wistfulness. Excitement overwhelmed your entire being, leaving you rendered incapable of speaking. 

“She’s thinking of you,” Wanda finished your thought with a soft smile, her eyes filled with fondness. “Nat always had a way of making every place magical, whether she’s on assignment or not.” You let out a contented sigh, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort wash over you. The weight on your shoulders seemed to lighten, and watching them relax helped Wanda do just the same.

She extended her hand, a silent invitation to continue exploring the city together. You gladly accepted, intertwining your fingers with hers. The postcard, now safely tucked away in your pocket, held a cherished place in both your hearts as you walked hand in hand.

“What’s… that?” Wanda hadn’t realized she had been lost in your smile once again until you spoke, pulling her out of her reverie. She followed your gesture and looked in the direction you were pointing. In the distance, a lively scene unfolded before them. Tents were pitched, colorful balloons adorned tables, and the sound of music gradually grew louder as they approached.

It was a block party.

A mix of excitement and curiosity bubbled within Wanda as she observed the gathering. Laughter filled the air, and the aroma of delicious food wafted through the streets. Adults of all ages mingled, dancing to the upbeat rhythm and indulging in the festive atmosphere. As you slowed to a stop, her hand tightened around yours, a silent expression of her anticipation and willingness to join in the celebration, before the connection between you fell away. You looked at her, captivated by the longing in her eyes, and took a deep breath before walking forward.

“Y/N?” Wanda tailed after you, her face pinched up in confusion. “We don’t have to-”

“I’m…” You pursed your lips together, contemplating the next few seconds, before saying, “I see your new… friend.” Wanda, momentarily taken aback by your sudden determination, followed your gaze and spotted Agnes among the partygoers. A flicker of recognition crossed her face, and she couldn’t help but have her curiosity overwhelmed with intrigue. With a small nod, she understood your intentions and followed you to the festivities.

As you entered the lively atmosphere of the party, Wanda couldn’t help but notice the subtle glances you would steal in her direction. It reminded her of the way you used to look towards Natasha, seeking her support and comfort in public settings. The memory stirred a bittersweet feeling within her, as she understood the significance of those stolen glances. Realizing that you now sought solace and reassurance in her presence warmed Wanda’s heart. It was a testament to the bond you had developed and the trust that had grown between you. She felt a deep sense of gratitude and a renewed determination to be there for you, just as Natasha had been.

“Wanda!” Agnes, leaving her little group behind, made her way toward you with her signature grin. “And Y/N, a pleasure.”

Wanda’s gaze shifted towards Agnes as she approached, her curiosity piqued by the woman’s loud but friendly demeanor. She quickly glanced toward you, but your eyes were drawn to the neighbor’s nearing figure. She couldn’t see what you were thinking if you wouldn’t look at her.

“You two look absolutely fetching,” she claimed, crossing her arms over her chest with a touch of enthusiasm. “I’m thrilled you joined us! A block party just isn’t complete without the whole block, am I right?” Her laughter boomed, causing a faint twitch in your expression, a subtle reaction that Wanda’s observant gaze didn’t miss. Agnes’s piercing blue eyes seemed to fixate on you, making you instinctively tense up beside the Sokovian.

“We actually weren’t aware that a party was planned today,” Wanda confessed, luring Agnes’s attention away from you and onto her, “but it’s a pleasant way to get to know the neighbors!” Her chuckle was soothing and melodic - a stark difference to Agnes’s - and the sound of it melted away the tension that had gripped your muscles. “How about we explore the food options together? I’m sure they’ll have your favorite…” Her words trailed off as she realized you were suddenly no longer by her side, an instant knot of worry forming in the pit of her stomach. Swiftly, her eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for your familiar presence amidst the crowd.

“You’ve got quite the crafty spouse, huh?” Agnes teased, her laughter carrying a light, playful tone. But she could see panic slowly overtaking the color of Wanda’s eyes and she gestured towards her with a reassuring wave. “No need to fret, dear. I’ll help you find her.”

Wanda gently moved past Agnes, her brain not quite registering the words the neighbor had just spoken. A heavy sensation settled in her chest, constricting her breathing and causing her heart to beat in slow, heavy thumps. The party’s atmosphere was warm and inviting, filled with friendly faces, but she hardly noticed them as she pushed deeper into the gathering. Her thoughts spun in a whirlwind, waves of worries and scenarios flooding her mind. How had you managed to step away from her without her noticing? Where could you have possibly gone in this small space? And, more importantly, what’s going to happen when you bump into a stranger who is overly friendly?

She let out a heavy sigh, shaking her head gently. The party scene wasn’t exactly your forte, and that was one of the aspects she cherished about you. Your preference for cozy nights indoors, where you’d spend time doodling in your notebook or sitting together, engrossed in her favorite sitcoms, had its own kind of charm she absolutely loved. The sight of the lively party, though, had stirred a fleeting thought in her - a desire to proudly present you to the neighborhood, to walk in together with her arm intertwined with yours, showing off the treasure she had found. However, it was a fleeting thought, gone almost as soon as it had surfaced. A brief moment, a flicker in her eyes, which you had perhaps misconstrued for something else.

“Oh! I’m so sorry.” Wanda snapped out of her daze to focus on the woman in front of her, her hands resting on the witch’s shoulders as if she were keeping her up. “I should’ve been focusing on where I was walking!” The woman laughed generously, awkwardly, releasing the gentle hold she held on Wanda. The stranger sighed, shaking her head lightly as she fanned herself with her hand. “I actually don’t know what I’m doing here.”

“I’m starting to feel that way myself. I’m Wanda.” She held out a hand, smiling politely, yet the expression felt forced as the panic that had formed in her stomach only seemed to grow tighter the longer she went without seeing you.

“I’m, uh… Geraldine.” Geraldine accepted Wanda’s hand, giving her a gentle squeeze before letting go. “Say, I’m pretty new to town and I-” She interrupted herself when she noticed the lack of attention she was receiving from Wanda, an eyebrow raised slightly with curiosity as she watched the Sokovian’s eyes dart around the party behind her. “Are you-” She maneuvered her way to get in front of her, cutting off her line of sight to gain her attention. “Are you looking for somebody?”

“What?” Wanda blinked, focusing her gaze to meet Geraldine’s. “Oh, yes. My wife.”

“Your wife?”

“Yes,” she nodded. “I lost track of her a few minutes ago and I’m just worried she might be…” Wanda’s voice faded as her gaze landed on you. You were seated at a picnic table with Agnes beside you, positioned at your preferred distance. The sight of you began to untangle the knot in Wanda’s gut. Her yearning to be closer to you was palpable as she watched you dig your thumb into your palm while Agnes chatted with you. However, she wondered if the neighbor’s words were even registering with you.

Agnes picked up a fry between her fingers delicately from the plate in front of her. “So, what made you and your wife move to our charming little town?” You blinked, muscles freezing as if you hadn't expected her to break the silence. Your eyebrows knitted together as you processed her sudden question, a hint of uncertainty playing on your features. Your mind worked quickly, trying to recall the answer to this seemingly straightforward icebreaker. A slight unease settled in as you searched for the words. You pushed your thumb into the scar riddling your palm slowly, breathing out deeply through your nose as you focused intently on the empty space before you. Agnes watched you for a moment longer, chewing thoughtfully. It didn’t seem like you had any intentions of answering the question. Hell, it didn’t seem like you had any intentions of talking at all. There had to be something Agnes could do to make you more comfortable around her. She leaned back, her wide grin shrinking to a softer, warmer smile. “No pressure, dear,” she assured, sliding the plate closer to you. “Are you hungry?”

For a fleeting moment, your gaze moved towards the food before you raised your head to lock eyes with her, a spark of curiosity coloring your irises. As her nod of encouragement came, your fingers moved, and by some accident, they brushed against Agnes’s. The connection was brief, but it sent a puzzling warmth flowing through you as your muscles locked. She moved her hand as she cleared her throat, and that managed to pull you out of your panic state. You grabbed a fry, bringing it to your mouth to let the salty flavor dance across your tongue. A sensation of ease embraced you at the taste, your shoulders falling as you relaxed. However, as you reached for another, the plate seemed to move away from you, as if you had unintentionally pushed it. Confusion knitted your brows together as you looked up at Agnes, only for a tightness to return to your muscles at the sight of her crooked smile.

“How about we indulge in a little game?” she proposed, keeping the plate - complete with a hotdog, though your attention was riveted on the fries - closer to herself. “I’ll happily provide you with more of these,” she gestured toward the food, “in exchange for an answer.” You found yourself chewing on the inside of your cheek, your gaze darting quickly across the party as you searched for Wanda in a moment of unease. Unable to locate her, you relented, nodding in agreement with Agnes’s offer, a subtle grin of satisfaction gracing her features.

“I-” You cleared your throat, a bit of discomfort lingering as you gathered your thoughts. “We… We were looking for a… change. A quieter place to… to settle down.” Your eyes flickered toward Agnes before your hands found their way onto the table, tracing an idle pattern with your nail across your palm.

Agnes nodded appreciatively as if you had just shared a fascinating tidbit. “Ah, the quest for a peaceful haven. It’s something we can all relate to. Westview is the perfect place for that.” Her lips curled into a knowing smile as she noted your subtle interest in the plate, the way you’d look at it from the corner of your eyes. “A deal’s a deal.” She inched the food closer to you, her chuckle soft as she observed the way you eagerly reached for another fry. Leaning in slightly, she added, “Have the two of you explored the town a bit? Discovered any hidden gems I ought to be aware of?”

Your enthusiasm surged, and a radiant smile painted your face as you eagerly nodded. “We found a little… art museum,” you began, your gaze lifting to meet Agnes’s, where you found her typically piercing blue eyes now soft and gentle. “It’s… uh, a l- local place.” You glanced around the party once more, your gaze seemingly searching for your other half, but this time it wasn’t in need of comfort. It held an air of secrecy, as if you were about to share a juicy secret with your nosy neighbor. You turned back towards Agnes, your voice lowering an octave to keep your next sentence out of the ears of any bystanders. “I’m trying to… get my art displayed so… so I can surprise Wanda.”

“For Art’s Sake?” Agnes wore a sly smile when you cautiously nodded, her voice suddenly tinged with excitement. “Can you believe it, my husband, Ralph, is the one who runs that place. Isn’t that a marvelous coincidence?” She playfully wagged her finger, adding, “In fact, there’s an empty spot in the gallery he’s been itching to fill.”

“R- Really?” you responded, perking up.

“Absolutely!” She beamed, sliding the plate of fries closer to you. “It’s a charmingly small town, darling, just teeming with delightful surprises.” She leaned in even closer, her tone conspiratorial. “How about we make a little reverse art heist? You and I can swing by your place to grab that painting. Meanwhile, I’ll discreetly pop over to the museum and set it up. By the time you return with Wanda, it’ll be a wonderful surprise waiting for her.”

You scanned the lively gathering, but amidst the bustling crowd, you were still incapable of locating Wanda. A nagging thought in the back of your mind urged you to seek her out, to share the scheme you were hatching. After all, she was your confidant, your partner in navigating life’s twists and turns. Yet, here you stood at a crossroads, torn between the instinctual desire to include her in your plans and the wish to keep the surprise intact.

Agnes had a fleeting concern that you might change your mind as moments stretched in silence, so imagine her surprise when you finally nodded, returning your gaze to her with newfound determination. “Okay…” As you began to rise from your seat, it became clear that there was no room for her to do or say anything else; you had made up your mind, and you fully expected her to follow your lead.

To her credit, she did indeed follow. And, soon, she found herself standing in front of a map of the world hanging up in your living room. A few postcards were pinned to it, marking the locations from which they were presumably sent, although the pictures on the front held no names of the states. Agnes, being the nosy neighbor she is, couldn’t help but sneak a peek at what was written on the other side, but the sound of you descending the stairs quickly made her abandon her attempts.

“I… I’ve got it.” You presented a canvas as you looked toward her, your eyes landing on the map she was standing in front of. You made your way over to it, reaching into your pocket and leaning the artwork against the wall. She watched with curious eyes as you pinned a new postcard over Spain, now totaling four in all. “We can… We can go now.” You picked up the painting as you turned to leave, but her curiosity got the better of her.

“Who are they from?”

“Nat.” You looked at the map, your expression briefly clouded by sorrow. “She’s… on an assign- mission. But she’s going to take me and Wanda to… see the world when she’s done!” A grin spread across your face, eyes lighting up with excitement as you pointed at the postcard you had just pinned. “She’s in… Spain right now. She’s tracking down a… a rogue agent.”

Agnes tilted her head to the side as she looked at you. “Who’s Nat?”

“Natasha,” you expressed, meeting her gaze, “Romanoff. She’s…” Your smile turned rueful. “She’s my mom. I- I miss her… all the time, but… she’s doing her job. And her job… It’s important.” She watched as your gaze quickly shifted back to the card on the wall, your lips caught between your teeth. There was a sense of innocence about you that Agnes almost found endearing, a childlike wonder that time hadn’t managed to erase.

“Well, this painting isn’t going to hang itself, dear!” she declared, extending her hand. “May I?” 

You hesitated, chewing the inside of your cheek as you stared at her opened palm. It was as if you had momentarily forgotten the plan altogether, pulling the painted canvas against you to prevent Agnes from reaching it. She released an impatient sigh but maintained a small, warm smile as her hands fell away. “Do you… Be- Be careful with it,” you quietly pleaded, passing the artwork to her. You felt a momentary tension in your muscles as her fingers brushed lightly across your knuckles. Yet when she pulled away, a perplexing warmth flowed through your veins, leaving you somewhat bewildered and frozen.

She rewarded you with a radiant grin. “I’ll be extremely delicate with it,” she assured you. “Give me an hour.” She passed you to make her way toward the door, pulling it open before glancing back over her shoulder. “It’ll be perfectly set up by then.” With a wink, she vanished behind the closing door, leaving you frozen with deep breaths to steady your racing heart…

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“There you are!” Wanda’s voice resonated with relief the moment you joined her. If that wasn’t enough to convey her emotions, her arms wrapping around you in one of the tightest hugs you’d ever experienced certainly did the trick. “Where did you wander off to?” She pulled back slightly so she could look into your eyes, yet her wrists still lingered on your shoulders with the tips of her fingers dancing across the bottom of your jaw.

“I, uh… I- I was with-” You attempted to explain, but your words were interrupted.

“Sorry, Wanda, but I can’t seem to find her anywhere.” A newcomer approached, and you turned to regard her, eyebrows knitting and head tilting slightly with curiosity.

“Geraldine, meet Y/N.” Wanda introduced you with evident pride, her posture radiating confidence. “Y/N, this is Geraldine. She’s new to Westview, too.” Geraldine extended her hand, but you only glanced toward Wanda, eyes pleading for assistance. She chuckled softly, intertwining her arm with yours and pulling you closer. “Thank you for your help, Geraldine, but I think we should be heading home,” Wanda remarked, steering you away before any further conversation could ensue. You felt a mixture of relief and lingering uncertainty.

“You… We should’ve stayed,” you ventured, clearing your throat as Wanda continued to walk down the sidewalk, her arm still linked with yours. “They- You were making… friends. Why not stay… hang out?”

She looked at you for a brief second before saying, “I’m quite tired. You know someone can only withstand so much social time before getting burned out.” She smirked, bumping her shoulder against yours. “Besides, I’d much rather cuddle on the couch with you and get some TV in.”

“Are you… really tired?” you questioned, looking down at the way her arm wrapped through yours. “Are we really going… home?” You picked your head up to meet her gaze, and you had trouble fighting the smirk teasing your lips when you saw the way one of her eyebrows was quirked.

“Why?” Her voice held a hint of playful skepticism. 

“Can… Can we still go to the art gallery?” You straightened your form just slightly, yet it gave you the confidence to continue,  “I- I heard that there’s a… a new piece there!” You flashed her a wide smile, one she always had a hard time saying no to, and she chuckled softly, knowing exactly why you were giving her that grin.

“Of course, Y/N,” she expressed, “but let’s take the long way there, shall we?”

The charming art museum came into view not long after, filling you with overwhelming excitement. As the sun dipped below the horizon, you courteously held the door open, allowing Wanda to step inside before you.

Once again, the museum appeared just as it had before, but that didn’t diminish the sense of awe that washed over you, reminiscent of the very first time you’d set foot in this place. And, as before, Wanda paid no attention to the art on display. After all, why would she when the most beautiful artwork she’d ever bear witness to was holding her hand?

Then she saw it. And, when she did, she couldn’t seem to look away.

The painting presented an enthralling tapestry of colors and forms, orchestrating an enchanting ballet where lines and edges converged and blurred, weaving an almost dreamlike quality into the portrait. At the heart of the canvas stood a solitary figure, radiating an air of enigma and power. Her hair cascaded around her like a fiery halo, and her expressive eyes held a deep emerald hue that seemed to move, capturing the endless ebb and flow of emotions.

The indistinct strokes that shaped her features conveyed an evasive allure, as if she were in an everlasting state of metamorphosis, perpetually shifting between an array of sentiments. Behind her, a blend of hues swirled into existence, employing a rich combination of reds and blacks. This vivid palette created an illusion of chaos and magic, as though the very essence of reality was bending and undulating in response to the figure’s presence.

It was clear that she had momentarily lost her ability to use her lungs, her breath having been caught in her throat the moment she laid eyes on the painting. However, when you gently squeezed her hand - as if you were reminding her that she was actually awake - it brought her back to reality. She quickly glanced at the plate beneath the artwork…

“The Scarlet Sorceress” Y/N Maximoff

…and in an instant, her gaze locked onto yours. “Y/N,” she gasped, her eyes wide with astonishment. “H- How?”

You cleared your throat, feeling a sudden wave of nervousness under her intense gaze. “I- I can’t cook… for you, Wanda,” you stammered as her focus returned to the painting, “but I can… I can paint for you.” Your eyes stayed fixed on the side of her face, noting the subtle part of her lips and the sparkling of her eyes as they remained locked on the artwork as if it were the only thing in the room. “I just- I wanted to… surprise you,” you added quietly, but as she continued to remain silent, your anxiety grew. “Is it… too much?”

“Absolutely not,” she quickly declared, turning her head to focus her gaze on you. “It’s… beautiful, Y/N.” Bringing your intertwined hands up, she pressed a gentle kiss to your knuckles, causing the anxious knot in your gut to begin to untie. “It’s the best thing anyone has ever done for me.” Her smile illuminated the green hues in her irises, making them even more vibrant. “I love it.”

“I… didn’t name it,” you whispered, and she followed your gaze back to the painting as she pulled you closer to her. “But it… fits.” Your smile nearly matched Wanda’s brightness as the two of you stood there for a while longer, because at that moment, nothing else seemed to matter…

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“I’ve made us some hot chocolate,” Wanda announced as she entered the living room later that night, carefully carrying two steaming mugs topped with overflowing whipped cream. A soft smile played on her lips as she recalled the first time you had tasted the drink, the look on your face when your entire body had relaxed the moment the rich, chocolaty liquid touched your tongue. “Remember when-” Her voice caught in her throat when she spotted you on the couch. Your legs were drawn up to your chest, your arms tightly wrapped around your knees, and your thumb pressing harshly into your scarred palm. She pursed her lips, then placed the cups onto the end table, crossing her arms over her chest. “What’s wrong, my dove?”

“A- Agnes.” A tightness formed in her gut as the name left your lips, and she took a step closer to you, her jaw clenched tightly, feeling as if it were nearly impossible to pry it open again. You had filled her in on your little “art heist” with the nosy neighbor on the walk home, yet it only left her mind to race through all the possible scenarios of what might have transpired during the time between. Did Agnes make you feel uncomfortable? Nervous? Did she make you feel scared, or even unsafe? The possibilities seemed endless to Wanda, and she was already planning a warpath to the house to the right- “She… She called you my… wife,” you continued, and a small smile tugged at the corner of Wanda’s lips. Her tension eased, and she continued listening as you spoke about the nameplate at the museum, realizing that Agnes had merely echoed Wanda’s own words toward you. “Is… Is that what… we are?” You looked up at her, seemingly melting into her brilliant green eyes as you softly asked, “Married?”

Wanda felt a sudden wave of nerves wash over her as if she had popped the life-altering question right then and there and was waiting for you to give her an answer. She shifted closer, taking a seat on the coffee table in front of you. Her voice, low and warm, broke the silence. “Is that what you want to be?” she asked gently.

Your response was equally soft, tinged with doubt. “We… don’t have rings… And I- I never… proposed.”

“What if I propose?” Wanda suggested, leaning forward, her elbows resting on her knees, and her chin cradled in her palms. She smiled at you kindly.

“Is… Is that what you… want?” you replied, your voice barely above a whisper, heavy with hesitation.

She bit her lower lip, her warm gaze locked onto yours, momentarily lost in their depths. Then, she blinked herself back to the present, moving closer until she was perched at the edge of the table. Wanda gently took hold of your wrists, coaxing you out of your curled-up posture. “Y/N Romanoff,” she began, her voice filled with emotion as she enveloped your hands within her own, “will you marry me?” Now she had popped the life-altering question, and she was waiting for you to give her an answer… which felt like forever. It seemed as if you could only manage to stare into her eyes as if you had lost your voice and didn’t know how else to give her a response. She could feel her heart picking up speed in her chest, beginning to thump against her ribcage as it gradually picked up the urgency to escape this tense silence. She was going to be sick, her stomach twisting angrily. She just needed to hear your voice. She didn’t care what the answer was, she just needed you to break the silence…

“I- I do,” you finally said, granting her reprieve as she visibly relaxed.

And then she chuckled softly as she interlaced her fingers with yours. “You’re not supposed to say that yet,” she teased, leaning closer to you, a mischievous smirk playing at her lips. “You’re supposed to wait for the wedding.”

A glint of excitement filled your eyes as you perked up. “Can… Can Nat come? I want her to… walk me down the aisle.” It was impossible to fight at this point, she lost the smile that had stretched her lips, yet you didn’t see it as you were already on your feet, making your way to the map on the wall. She was slow to follow you, watching as you tapped your finger against the new postcard. “She’s… here now,” you claimed, “so… it should take…” Your finger drew away from Spain, tracing a line towards America, but she was quick to catch your hand with hers, clearing her throat with a newfound nervousness.

“Y/N…” She sighed out, rubbing the top of your hand with her thumb. “We should talk about Nat…” She was hesitant to meet your gaze, watching her fingers twirl seamlessly around yours, her stomach twisting as her nerves caught fire. She needed to address the issue, to face it head-on. There was no point in dragging it out any longer. “Dove-”

“I… I know,” you assured in a hushed tone, prompting her to slowly raise her head, meeting your eyes. They held a kindness, a softness, an aura of forgiveness that unraveled the knot in her gut. And your smile, so innocent and just as forgiving, further eased her. “I… She came here and we… we talked.” Wanda’s brows furrowed with curiosity. She tilted her head slightly but remained silent as you went on, “I’m not… sure how she appeared, but… she told me not to… worry about her. That death is just a… a one-way ticket to a distant star.” Your face reflected intense concentration, momentarily distant, before reconnecting with her as you asked, “Is… she right?

Lost in the depths of your eyes for the millionth time, Wanda found solace in the gentle squeeze of your hand. You looked at her with a hopeful expression, waiting for an answer. “She is,” she whispered, nodding solemnly. Using your grip, she tugged you closer, savoring the warmth as your arms instinctively wrapped around her waist. “She got taken away, but it doesn’t mean she’s gone forever.”

Your lips pressed together in contemplation, your narrowed pupils seeming to gaze through her, despite the mere inches that separated your faces. She resisted the temptation to delve into your thoughts, instead patiently waiting for you to express your feelings aloud.

However, the warmth that had been steadily enveloping her began to dissipate when you stepped back, leaving an icy void. It was evident that you struggled to find the right words to express your feelings, and you chewed the inside of your cheek as your thoughts raced without capturing the depths of your emotions. She trailed after you as you slowly moved past her, making your way to the front door and then stepping out into the yard.

“Y/N….” Her words trailed off as you stopped and gazed up at the night sky, your shoulders slumping. She stood beside you, and despite the countless twinkling stars decorating the dark canvas above, she couldn’t tear her eyes away from you. “Are you okay?”

You nodded, your fingers wrapping around hers when you felt their presence at your side, seeking solace in her touch. “I- I wanted… to see her.” You exhaled a heavy, soft breath as Wanda tilted her head toward the sky with you. “Just… Just one more time.”

She gently squeezed your hand, sharing the moment of silence with you as you both stared up at the vast expanse of the night sky. The stars above seemed to twinkle with a knowing grace as if they held secrets of the universe. “I understand,” she whispered gently, her voice carrying a soothing tone. She turned her gaze toward you, her eyes reflecting the starlight. “Would you like to stay out here for a while, just the two of us?”

A faint smile tugged at the corner of your lips, and you spared another second to gaze up at the starry canvas above. When your eyes returned to meet hers, they shimmered brightly. However, the smile that slowly graced your face contradicted the sadness she had expected. “No,” you spoke softly, gently shaking your head. “We… We have hot chocolate waiting for us. I don’t… want it to get cold.”

Wanda began to speak, her voice laced with concern, but you interrupted her.

“It’s…” Your smile held a touch of melancholy, yet your shoulders relaxed as you turned your head back to the bright dots coloring the night sky. “It’s okay, Wands. This… This was my goodbye.” You punctuated your words with a firm, confident nod, signaling a sense of closure and acceptance that enveloped the both of you like a comforting embrace. You flashed her a smile before being the first one to step away, gently releasing Wanda’s hand as you made your way back into the house.

However, Wanda lingered for a moment longer, releasing a long, low breath as her eyes locked onto the brightest star above her. With a soft smile directed at the beacon, she mouthed the words, “Thank you,” while pressing her palms together in a silent expression of gratitude.

“Wands!” Her name rang out, causing her to turn with a soft, amused laugh as she walked through the door, closing it gently behind her. You were back on the couch, your legs folded comfortably beneath you, cradling one of the mugs of hot chocolate in your hands. “I… Thank you for the… the hot chocolate,” you said, tilting your head back against the couch to look at her from an upside-down perspective. You shot her a small smile, your eyes sparkling vividly.

Observing you closely, she noticed the way you watched her, and her expression became pensive. There was something wrong, a question lingering in her mind. Were you truly okay? She knew the profound significance of Natasha in your life, which was why she had initially chosen not to reveal the truth. Yet, in less than five minutes of stargazing, you appeared to have accepted her death with an unexpected ease. Shouldn’t you be more emotionally affected by the passing of someone you regarded as a mother? How could you seemingly be so composed? Furthermore, you continued to carry on the illusion of her being alive even after discovering the truth. If Wanda hadn’t mustered the courage to reveal the reality, how long would you have maintained that pretense?

She cleared her throat, and your eyes attentively followed her graceful movements until she settled beside you. Sitting up, you reached for the second mug, offering it to her. “We should talk, Y/N,” she asserted, her voice firm yet gentle, as her hands enveloped the cup.

“Am… Am I in trouble?” you asked in a faint tone, your arms lowering to rest your drink in your lap.

“No, my dove,” she assured with a soft laugh, removing a hand from her cup to press her warm palm gently against your cheek. Her heart fluttered with warmth as you leaned into her touch. “I just think we need to talk about Nat.” She sighed, her thumb tracing gentle circles on your skin. “It’s going to be a very long time before you see her again, sweetheart.”

Your lips formed a thin line, and she felt her heart tighten when she noticed the hint of tears glistening in your eyes. Your next words were barely a whisper, and she had to strain her ears to hear you, “What if I… forget her, Wanda?”

Her heart swelled with empathy, finally seeing the pain and vulnerability in your face. “You once told me that looking at the stars is gazing into the past,” she reminded you, and you nodded in agreement. “So, whenever you gaze upon the night sky and see her star shining with all its might… it will be as if you’re experiencing those cherished memories with her once more.” Her hand tenderly ascended, her fingertips softly caressing your forehead. “You will never forget her, baby. Not as long as she’s up there.”

She managed to wipe away the tear that had escaped its confinement with her thumb, and your subtle but unmistakable smile warmed her heart. Leaning against her, you allowed her to wrap her arm around you, drawing you closer in a comforting embrace. You rested your head on her shoulder, your gaze fixed on your untouched drink. “I’m… I’m going to miss her… forever,” you confessed softly.

“I know, love,” Wanda whispered. “I’m going to miss her, too.”

“Wands,” you murmured. She responded with a low hum, gently rubbing your arm as you took slow breaths. “I… I want to keep… her name.” A smile tugged at her lips as she leaned her cheek against the top of your head. “Is… Is that okay?”

“Of course, my dove,” she assured quietly. 

“Can you… Can you fix another problem?” A mischievous glint sparkled in your eyes as you tilted your chin up to meet her gaze. “You’re my wife” - Wanda’s heart skipped a beat at the word, excitement fluttering in her stomach as she eagerly awaited your next words - “but… but we don’t… We need… rings, Wands.”

She laughed softly, a proud grin dancing on her lips as you picked up your left arm to showcase your bare finger. In response, she positioned her hand next to yours. “I can certainly fix that,” she declared. With a wave of her wrist and a shimmer of scarlet light, your once-bare finger was now adorned with a magnificent band. “A beautiful ring for my beautiful wife.” Your chuckle filled her body with warmth as you looked up to meet her gaze once more, but instead of saying something, you inched forward to bring your lips against hers.

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Each night, darkness and silence enveloped the room as bedtime approached. You and Wanda would assume your familiar sleeping positions - she always insists on resting her head on your chest - and she would gradually succumb to slumber, guided by the rhythmic thump of your heart. Meanwhile, you counted the seconds, matching them with her gentle breaths, until you, too, surrendered to the world of unconsciousness. However, it wasn’t the restful slumber most experienced; instead, it was a void of dreams, a peaceful yet empty serenity…

But tonight was different. Your descent into that bottomless abyss was extremely short-lived, interrupted by an unfamiliar yet unmistakable sound, jolting you awake. Your eyes darted around the room, quickly detecting the absence of Wanda on her side of the bed. Panic gripped you for a moment before you threw off the blankets, eager to find the source of the distress. Peeking around the door of the bathroom, your brows furrowed deeply with concern, you found your wife on the floor, clutching the toilet bowl as if it were her lifeline.

“Wands?” You cautiously moved to stand in the doorway, but she quickly raised her hand, signaling you to stay put. You paused, nervously pressing your thumb against your palm as you watched her heave into the toilet. “Are… Are you okay?”

She drew in a deep breath, resting her cheek against her arm for a moment before slowly regaining her composure enough to rise to her feet. Stepping over to the sink, she turned on the faucet, and you remained silent as she washed her hands. “I’ll be fine, dove,” she reassured you in a soft voice, barely audible over the rushing water. “I think it’s just a stomach bug.” 

She stood up straight, freezing when she noticed you were no longer in the doorway. Frowning with confusion, she took a step toward the hallway and gasped when she almost collided with you when you turned the corner back into the bathroom. Her laughter was soft, and she placed a hand over her heart while the other gently rested on your shoulder. “I- I’m sorry,” you whispered, your face briefly showing guilt before a smile lit it up. “I… I got you a ginger ale.” With a cup in hand filled with fizzy soda, you extended it toward her. “It almost always helped when… I get an upset tummy.”

“Thank you, my love,” she expressed, her fingers curling around the cool glass. “You should go back to bed. I’ll be okay, I promise.” She placed her free hand gently against your cheek in case her words weren’t enough, but the frown on your face made her tilt her head in curiosity. “What’s wrong?”

You looked away, focusing on your thumb tracing your scar. In a hushed tone, you confessed, “I don’t… I don’t like going to sleep.” She sighed, her eyes softening with sympathy as she placed her drink on the sink.

“Why not, baby?” She added her second hand to your other cheek when it was clear you were hesitating, gently guiding your head up until your eyes met hers. “You know you can tell me anything, right?” You nodded in response. “Why don’t you like sleeping?”

You chewed your bottom lip, taking a moment to gather yourself while the greens in her eyes offered you comfort. The warmth radiating from her fingertips encouraged you to share your feelings. “I… When I… close my eyes now,” you began, your voice barely more than a breath in the quiet room, “I don’t see you… anymore. It’s just… darkness.” Your hands moved to cover hers. “I… miss dreaming.” Wanda regarded you with a soft, understanding gaze. “It feels more like I’m sitting in a… in a dark room instead of sleeping. I… I'm always tired.”

“How long has this been going on, Y/N?” she inquired, her tone tender and empathetic. Her thumbs glided smoothly across your cheeks, and you found yourself melting further into her touch. “You know I could have helped you.”

“I- I know,” you replied, taking in a deep breath and exhaling slowly. You offered her a soft yet melancholic smile. “I just… I’ve been enjoying sleeping with… you.” Then your eyes widened, and Wanda burst into laughter, her amusement contagious as you stammered to clarify, “Not- Not like that. I- I mean… I do en- enjoy sleeping with you… in that way, b- but in this case, I…” Your expression shifted to a frown, your bottom lip jutting out, a telltale sign that you felt like you’d messed something up.

“It’s alright, my love,” she comforted, her hands sliding down to grip the nape of your neck, a smile growing on her face, unstoppable and unhidden. Leaning closer, her lips brushed across your earlobe, sending a wave of shivers down your spine as she whispered, “I enjoy sleeping with you as well.” Pulling away, she left a ghost of a kiss against your cheek. But her mischievous grin was cut short as waves of nausea hit her, sending her rushing back to the toilet.

You snapped out of your stupor, moving to her side, a hand on her back as you gently held her hair out of the way. “Did you eat… something?” you asked quietly when her convulses paused. “I… I noticed that the milk… went bad.”

She sat up a bit, looking over her shoulder with a raised eyebrow. “And when did you notice that?” she returned, but you only managed to send her a sheepish smile in response before she returned to the retching.

You had lost track of the time the two of you spent in the bathroom, but the sun was high in the sky by the time Wanda’s sickness seemed to ease a bit, allowing you to finally persuade her to lie down. Your nerves were palpable; taking care of someone when they were sick was uncharted territory for you. Natasha had always been the one to care for you when you fell ill, and she consistently downplayed her own illnesses, refusing your attempts to return the favor. In an attempt to distract your anxious mind and keep busy while sleep remained elusive, you found yourself rummaging through the refrigerator, searching for expired foods to dispose of.

The milk was the first to go.

Your distraction with reading expiration labels had been so effective that you hadn’t noticed the back door open, let alone any knocks, if they had occurred at all. You turned around, attempting to place an expired bottle of salad dressing onto the kitchen island when you suddenly spotted Agnes standing right behind you. Your heart jumped in your throat at the unexpected sight of your neighbor.

“Sorry, dear,” Agnes chuckled. “I’ve been told I can be awfully quiet on my feet!” She shifted to the side, allowing you to place the bottle down, and cast a curious eye over the assortment of perishables on the counter as you returned to the fridge. “Am I interrupting some spring cleaning?”

Your brows furrowed, and you turned to face her again. “It’s… It’s not spring.” Then, shaking your head, you stepped closer to her, closing the fridge door behind you. “Wanda. She’s not… feeling well.” Your lips pressed together as you glanced at the food, uncertain about what to do now that you’d isolated it. “I… I don’t know how to help.” Meeting Agnes’s gaze, you asked, “Y- Have you ever… taken care of someone with a… a bug?”

She laughed lightly, waving her hand as if the question was absurd. And, to be honest, it kind of was. “Of course,” she replied. “Ralph always manages to catch the latest stomach bug going around.” She cupped her hand around the side of her mouth and added with a wink, “Sometimes I’m pretty sure he’s even patient zero, if you catch my drift.”

You perked up, eyes widening with hope. “Wh- What can I do… to help Wanda?”

“Well,” Agnes mused, “I know chicken noodle soup does wonders.” She offered a reassuring smile, but her expression turned quizzical when she noticed you seemed a bit hesitant.

“I… I’m not exactly a… skilled cook,” you confessed, your gaze drifting to the battered smoke detector that had been moved to the table, a reminder of your last culinary adventure. She followed your gaze and let out a sympathetic sigh, placing her hands on her hips as she turned her attention back to you. “Is… Is there something else I can… do? Maybe I… I can run to the store a- and buy it-”

“I can teach you,” she offered with a broad grin. “Trust me, dear, it’s going to make her feel so much better knowing it came from you and not some store.” Her gaze shifted back to the array of food on your counter. “We can use some ingredients from my house. Let me go get them, and I’ll be right back.” She playfully winked at you before turning on her heels and heading out.

She wasn’t sure how long she had drifted into sleep, but the sun still painted a glow through the sliver in the curtains when Wanda opened her eyes. Inhaling deeply, one hand resting on her upset stomach, she stretched the other across the bed. Turning her head, she noted your absence, prompting her to sit up and strain her ears. Muffled voices reached her, guiding her to rise and follow the source of the commotion.

“Exactly like that, dear!” Agnes’s voice, unusually enthusiastic, was more animated than Wanda had ever heard it. Apparently, the neighbor could be even more energetic. “Now, let’s get that chicken into the broth.”

Turning the corner into the kitchen, Wanda wrapped her arms around herself, a soft and slightly confused smile gracing her features as she observed you with curiosity. You were handling a bowl of chicken with deliberate caution, slowly pouring the contents into a pot of bubbling broth. “What’s going on here?” Wanda’s voice broke through your focus, and your eyes snapped to meet hers. It was as if you’d been caught in the act of doing something you’re not supposed to be doing, and the bowl you were holding slipped through your fingers, making a metallic sound as it hit the counter before spinning to the ground. A flush of red spread across your cheeks, and you cleared your throat.

“Y- You…” You huffed. “I- I was making you chicken noodle soup be- because you’re sick and Agnes… She said that it… helps.” Your voice wavered, and the confused smile on Wanda’s face transformed into a bright grin. The tension in your muscles visibly eased when she laughed softly.

“We did lose most of the chicken, dear,” Agnes claimed with a downward glance towards the mess at her feet, “so now it’s just noodle soup.” Your hand reached for a towel resting on the counter, seemingly coinciding with Agnes’s attempt. The tension in the room seemed to swallow you when your fingers brushed against hers, causing a noticeable stiffness in your muscles. That familiar perplexing warmth flowed through you, and it was only when Wanda’s voice reached your ears that you managed to release yourself from the unintentional discomfort once again.

“Thank you, baby,” she said, moving further into the room. “It smells delicious.” You had to look away to hide the blush that burned your face.

Turning to Wanda, Agnes sized her up with an assessing look. “How’re you feeling, Wanda? Y/N told me all about your morning adventures!”

As the two women chatted, you knelt down to address the spill. Their conversation formed a comforting backdrop as you efficiently scooped the chicken back into the bowl and stood up, placing it aside. Gazing into the simmering pot, you pondered if this simple remedy would suffice. It wasn’t a permanent solution, you knew that, but you hoped it might provide Wanda some relief, easing her nausea. Catching a bug was unpleasant, and it frustrated you that you couldn’t do more for her.

The ladies’ talk returned more prominently to your awareness, Agnes’s next words snapping your attention to them. “Oh, honey. You’re not sick.” Frozen, confusion etched across your face like a painting, you locked eyes with Wanda. There was no doubt she was! You held her hair back while she was- “You’re expecting! Congratulations.” Applause echoed through the room, but your mind struggled to process the revelation while your gaze dropped to your fingers as if they were magic, eyebrows knitted together tightly. Could that even be possible?

“Surely I’m not pregnant, Agnes!” Wanda scoffed, shaking her head. “It’s-” The abrupt pause in her sentence drew your attention back, and as you looked at your wife, you noticed her staring at her stomach. Following her gaze, you realized Agnes was right. The small bump that had formed under Wanda’s shirt attested to that. Your heart started to burn. Was this what a heart attack felt like? “Could that even be possible?” Wanda echoed your previous thought in a faint tone.

Whatever Agnes said to Wanda only became more background noise as your mind raced. You hadn’t received the most ideal education when you were younger, but you weren’t ignorant about the basics of human reproduction. You and Wanda? Well, that’s definitely not how that works. However, the evidence was undeniable. The sudden morning sickness, now coupled with the noticeable bump you had somehow overlooked until now, painted a vivid clear picture. Wanda was pregnant - a little bundle of joy was on the way, a child that would be part of both her and you. A newborn. Panic set in. How were you going to take care of a baby when you struggled to care for Wanda, an adult? A child would need much more, unable to do things for themselves. This wasn’t something you had ever thought of before. Children? You and Wanda had just decided to get married a few days ago. Children? You’re not ready. Would you ever be ready? What’s going to happen when the baby arrives? You struggled to talk confidently, would your child pick up on that? Would your child pick up on your other traits? You became uncomfortable with physical contact. Would you be able to pick up your child? You had gotten accustomed to Wanda’s touch, would you do the same for your child? You sure are thinking your child a lot. Because that’s what this was going to be. Your child. Your child. Your-

“Dove.” Wanda’s voice was a soft murmur, and the feel of her breath caressing the side of your neck caused you to snap out of the whirlwind of your thoughts. You turned, finding her unexpectedly close. Her green eyes shimmered with concern, a faint shine highlighting the contours of her face. It was a familiar glow, one you hadn’t seen in what felt like ages. You dropped your gaze to see the yellow hue matching the brilliance of the sun coloring your veins, enveloping your arms. It wasn’t a heart attack. “It’s going to be okay,” she whispered, her fingers leaving goosebumps as they gently traced your cheeks. “Take deep breaths.”

Your heart pounded in your chest, seeking release. As you looked back into her eyes, your nose tingled, the yellow glow only intensifying. “Wands…” you choked, shaking your head subtly, unable to tear your gaze away from her. “I- I can’t… I-” Your eyelids squeezed close tightly.

“Listen to me,” she urged, her palms tenderly cradling your face. Her touch worked like a tranquilizing agent, pacifying the chaotic thoughts in your mind. “We’re going to get through this together, you hear me? Just the two of us.” She rested her forehead against yours, your noses lightly grazing. “You don’t have to go through this by yourself. You never have to face anything alone, my dove. Not as long as I’m here. And I’m here to stay.” Your eyes fluttered open, locking with hers as she teased with a playful smirk, “You’re stuck with me.”

You nodded, finally feeling the grip of panic loosening as her hands moved down to your shoulders. Her fingers intertwined behind your neck, and the yellow glow in your veins gradually faded. Your racing heart slowed, and you sniffed harshly. “T- Three.”

“What?” She furrowed her brows slightly, a hint of confusion in her expression as she pulled back slightly to look into your eyes, trying to decipher the meaning of the singular word before you voiced the explanation out loud.

You rested a hand against her stomach, inhaling deeply. “Just… Just the… three of us.”

In that moment, an overwhelming wave of emotions engulfed Wanda - joy, pride, excitement, and, at its core, love, all flooded her entire being. Leaning in, she captured your lips with hers in a tender, passionate kiss. It felt as if this kiss was imprinting the moment, sealing your future. She realized now she needed you as much as you needed her, and the two of you were going to embark on the journey of raising this child. Together. And she wouldn’t change that for the world.

“The doctor’s here.” Agnes’s voice cut through the air before she strolled into the room. You instinctively distanced yourself from Wanda, a flush of red coloring your cheeks. Agnes eyed the two of you, folding her arms with a knowing smirk. “Didn’t realize I was interrupting a celebration, dears.”

“Doctor…?” You furrowed your brows, sharing a glance with Wanda, who took your fingers into her hand to give them a gentle squeeze.

“It’s just a precaution, dove,” she reassured softly. “We need to make sure the baby’s okay.” Your lips pursed, nodding in understanding. Wanda guided you into the living room, and a glance at the doctor left your heart racing. If she weren’t tugging you, you would’ve been frozen at the doorway.

“I’ll give you three some privacy,” Agnes declared, lingering in the kitchen. “Just holler if you need anything!”

Wanda settled onto the couch, drawing you down beside her as the doctor delved into his bag, retrieving his stethoscope. Her grasp on your hand remained steadfast, sensing both your unease and the unconscious desire to fidget.

As the doctor pressed the instrument against Wanda’s belly, your breath caught, and a surge of nervous questions flooded your mind. Why were you so anxious? What was the source of this nervous energy? Were you more afraid of the possibility of a baby or the absence of one? The idea of a mistake crossed your mind. If Wanda wasn’t pregnant, she would be devastated. Her excitement at the notion was unmistakable. But how about you? Just five minutes ago, the news didn’t excite you. No, they made you panic. Had your feelings changed so swiftly? Were you… excited now? A baby - Wanda’s and yours.

A small smile tugged at your lips at the thought.

“Yep, definitely pregnant,” the doctor confirmed, and you felt a surge of… relief. Your smile grew as you gazed down at your intertwined hands.

“We pretty much guessed that,” Wanda commented. “It’s just taken us by surprise. It’s sudden. Overnight, practically.” You glanced at her, a slight furrow in your brows at her unexpected nervousness. Was she not ecstatic earlier? “How… How does this even happen?”

The doctor looked between the two of you as if contemplating the complexity of the situation himself. He then broke into a wide smile, attempting a light-hearted approach. “You see, when two people love each other very much-” He halted his joke mid-sentence, knowing how impossible it was, and straightened his form to place his hands on his hips. “You’re about four months along, right?” Wanda nodded, though you absentmindedly shook your head dubiously… until she sent you a look, causing you to switch your doubt to agreement. “I thought so. At this time, the fetus is about the size of a pear.”

You cleared your throat, leaning forward. You had to ignore the doctor’s stare, focusing on the feeling of Wanda’s fingers still interlocked with yours to say, “Wh- What… size would it be at, uh… twelve hours?”

“Pardon?” He smiled, hesitating. “Twelve hours?”

Wanda laughed lightly, giving your hand a gentle squeeze before releasing it to pat your knee. You looked at her with curiosity as she said, “She’s just concerned.”

“Every new mother-to-be gets nervous,” the doctor claimed happily. “Don’t worry; that feeling will go away when you look your newborn in the eye!” He picked up his bag.

“Sweetheart, why don’t you see the doctor out?” Wanda’s eyes met yours, and it took you a moment to process her words before you blinked yourself out of her hypnotizing gaze, standing up. As you walked away with the doctor, Wanda’s face lit up with a smile, and she rose from the couch, her hands gently caressing her belly as she made her way toward the kitchen.

“It’s a stroke of luck you caught me in time,” he claimed as the two of you stepped out onto the porch. You looked away from him as he stopped to turn to you, eyes landing on the neighbor trimming his edges with curiosity. “I’m taking the wife on vacation this afternoon.” You watched him - you were pretty sure his name was Herb - as he ran his trimmers across the hedges. “Oh! This should be of great use for you.” You looked back at the doctor in time to see him reach into his bag, pulling out a book with an animated picture of a stork on it. You slowly accepted the gift. “It has all the answers to everything you need to know about being a parent. Maybe even help you with those nerves a bit.” He waved his fingers at you as he started to walk away, yet your eyes were too focused on the book to notice. “I’m off to Bermuda!”

Your attention returned to the neighbor, his wide smile contrasting the odd scene of him driving the hedge trimmers through the wall. Stepping backward, the book clutched in your hands, you closed the door before turning around. “Hey… Wands? Our… neigh-” Wanda pivoted to face you, your voice catching in your throat as you noticed her expanded belly. “You… You got… bigger?”

“Did I?” She looked down as you approached slowly. “It’s kind of hard to tell from this angle.” Her hands cradled her stomach as she picked her head up to meet your gaze, her eyes sparkling brightly as you stopped in front of her. “I have a surprise for you!”

You couldn’t help but chuckle, raising an eyebrow. “Was… Was the pregnancy not the… surprise?” She rolled her eyes with a playful smirk, bringing your wrist in a gentle grip, and guided you to the room off to the side.

The room off the living room was a familiar mystery, a door you’d seen countless times but never put much thought into it. It seemed like just another storage space or perhaps unused territory. Until now. The assortment of wood, varied in shapes and colors, drew your attention immediately. A lone rocking chair sat to the side, and the walls were adorned in cheerful, childlike paint. It begged the question - how did this room come into existence? The pregnancy revelation had been mere moments ago, so how had Wanda managed to set up this nursery so quick?

“Sit down.” Wanda’s directive wasn’t optional, and you found yourself complying. Seeking comfort in the rocking chair, you observed as Wanda worked her magic, fingers wiggling to deftly assemble the pieces of wood into a crib. Your thoughts shifted from questioning the room’s origin to wondering where all this baby furniture had come from. It’s not like you had a dismantled crib lying around… did you?

Your gaze dropped to the book in your hands, lips pressed together in contemplation as you opened it.

“What does the book say?” Wanda’s soothing voice cut through your thoughts, prompting you to lift your head and meet her warm eyes. Her smile was soft, giving no hint of concern. She seemed genuinely happy about this whole parenting journey, and it left you grappling with the enormity of it all.

“You’re, um…” Your eyes flickered back to the book, scanning the page you’d opened to. “Morning… sickness.”

“We’ve already dealt with that stage,” Wanda breathed out, a soft laugh woven into her voice. With a casual wave of her hand, decorations levitated about the crib. “What else?”

“Uh, m- mood swings,” you mentioned, raising an eyebrow. “Aching back and… and feet.” Glancing back up at her, you swiftly rose from your seat. “Do… Do you hurt?” You gestured toward the rocking chair, then placed a firm hand on its back to halt any inadvertent rocking. “You shou- Sit down.”

Wanda dismissed your concern - and your attempt at being assertive - with a shake of her head. “Don’t be silly, dove. All I feel is excitement!” Her wide grin soon dimmed, forming an ‘O’ of shock as her gaze dropped to her belly.

“Wh- What? What’s wrong?” You took a tentative step toward her, then redirected your attention to the book, rapidly flipping through the pages. The doctor had claimed all the answers, but how were you supposed to find them if you didn’t even know the right questions?

“Y/N, sweetheart…” Wanda’s fingers delicately wrapped around your wrist, halting your quest through the book. Your body melted at her touch as she drew you closer and closer, until your palm pressed against her belly. A gasp caught in your throat as you felt the baby’s kick against your hand, your eyes wide… and smile even wider.

You leaned in closer to her, the tip of your nose gently brushing against the fabric concealing the bump of her stomach. “D- Do it again,” you whispered, laughing excitedly when you felt the push against you once more.

“He’s certainly a mama’s boy,” Wanda murmured softly, her eyes filled with a radiant warmth as you sank to your knees. The book lay forgotten on the floor as you pressed your other hand against her, and Wanda sensed a soothing calmness wash over her, seeing the joy she felt mirrored on your face. No more traces of concern or anxiety hiding in the lines around your eyes; just pure, unadulterated happiness.

“What… What does it… feel like to you?” You lifted your gaze to meet hers over the bump.

“It’s a… strange sensation,” she admitted, gently moving her hands to cover yours. “It’s kind of fluttery.” She chuckled, and as her laughter filled the room, the butterfly mobile hanging above the crib came to life, wings flapping in a graceful dance to the melodic sound emanating from Wanda. “Oh, did I do that?” With a sense of wonder, you eased one of your hands from beneath Wanda’s to hold a finger up, marveling at the beautiful insect as it perched lightly on you. Moving with delicate care, you placed the butterfly on top of Wanda’s belly, a proud and tender smile gracing your face.

“She’s… She’s going to be… gentle,” you murmured, meeting her gaze once more, “like you, Wands. A… butterfly.”

“She?” Wanda watched as you rose to your feet, briskly rubbing your hands together.

“I… I’m hoping for a… a girl,” you confessed sheepishly. “We can… name her after Nat. Is… that okay?”

Wanda reached up, the tips of her fingers delicately tracing the contours of your forehead and down your cheek. “We can definitely do that,” she assured with a tender smile, “but what if we get a boy?”

Your lips pursed together briefly before saying, “Wh- What would you… name him?”

She pondered for a moment, then leaned forward. “Tommy,” she answered. “A nice, classic, all-American name.”

“T- Tommy.” She felt her heart flutter as the name rolled off of your tongue. And she could’ve sworn she had flat-lined when you smiled after taking a moment to process it. “I… I like it.”

“But you’re still hoping for a girl,” Wanda pointed out, and you nodded unashamed, a broad grin of pride on your face as you walked out of the room with your head held high, causing Wanda to chuckle happily.

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“Wands.” She lifted her head at the sound of your voice, noticing you standing in the doorway of the kitchen, your nose buried in that book in your hands. A small smile played on her lips as she wiped her hands onto a towel, humming a response. “A- Are you going to the… bakery?” you inquired, picking your head up to meet her gaze as you stepped further into the room.

She furrowed her eyebrows slightly, tilting her head with a hint of confusion. “No?” A light chuckle accompanied her answer. “Why would I go to the bakery?”

You grinned, “Because you… you have a bun in the… oven.” Her soft laughter filled the air, a sound that brought a flutter to your gut as you moved closer. Placing the book onto the counter, you leaned against it. “Do you need… help? Are you… hungry? The book says that pregnant women get… weird cravings.”

“I’m okay, dove,” she assured lightly, smiling warmly as she reached over to stroke a thumb across your cheek. “I’ll tell you what, though. How about I make us some popcorn, and we can catch up on some-” Suddenly, she grasped her belly, a gasp escaping her lips. You straightened up, eyebrows furrowing with concern as you reached out to support her.

“Wands?”

“Does your book say anything about this?” she asked, gripping the edge of the counter. “It’s not painful, but it’s odd.” Panic flickered in her eyes, her worry evident.

Before you can say anything, the lights in the room began to flicker. The microwave behind you beeped rapidly, and the smell of popcorn filled the air. The kitchen faucet started to run, water building up in the sink and pouring over the edge onto the floor. Despite everything happening around you, your focus remained on your wife. You took in a deep breath and exhaled slowly. She watched you closely and followed your lead, grabbing your hand as the two of you took a moment to breathe.

The easing of contractions was evident as the vice-like grip she had on you gradually loosened. Simultaneously, the appliances around you ceased their malfunctioning, returning to their off state as she let out a deep exhale. A moment of relief passed, and her eyebrows twitched, a wide smile gracing her lips as she cleared her throat.

“How’d you do that?” she questioned.

“B- Braxton Hicks. Fake… False labor. I read it- The book says it can help with your… breathing exercises.”

But she shook her head, and your gaze turned into confusion. “How’d you manage to stay so calm,” she chuckled lightly. “That was… pretty impressive.”

You shrugged sheepishly, feeling you lose yourself in her shining emerald eyes. “I just… I saw you panicking and… and I wanted to help.” You placed another hand over hers, relishing in the comfort her touch brings to your palms. “We’re in this together… you and me. So… at least one of us has to stay… calm and think straight.” You released her, sending her a tender smile as you brought her face between your hands. “It was… It was my turn.” She blew out a soft sigh, and your small grin grew as you felt her breath caress your chin like a delicate breeze. The way your eyes lit up, emitting a cozy warmth no fire could replicate, she knew what needed to be said…

“Y/N-” Her voice caught, noticing the small yawn you tried to conceal. Your exhaustion was now unmistakable, reflected in the weariness coloring your eyes. She pressed her lips together, exhaling softly before a small smile graced her face. “You need sleep.” Bewilderment took over your expression, evident in the deep furrow of your eyebrows. She laughed, placing her hands over yours to gently pull them away.

“Wands-”

“Come on.” With her fingers wrapped around yours, she led you out of the kitchen and into the living room. With each step, the stress that had built up over the day seemed to gradually evaporate into a sense of relaxation.

Sitting on the couch, she gently led you to lie down, guiding you effortlessly. Your head found a comfortable spot on her lap, and as you breathed deeply, content, you looked up into her soft, warm eyes. Her fingernails traced soothing patterns across your forehead, lulling you into a deeper tranquility. “There’s…” You chewed the inside of your cheek, your thoughts momentarily scattered as if erased by the magic of her gaze. “There’s no… point,” you whispered.

“Trust me, baby,” her tone as gentle as her gaze. “Just try.” You sighed softly, adjusting your position before allowing your eyes to flutter closed. Oblivious to the crimson wisps of smoke disappearing into your skin, and with Wanda’s soft hums reaching your ears, you felt yourself drift away into the void of dreams… only, it wasn’t quite so empty anymore.

Wanda always found solace in watching your peaceful slumber, even if it did sound a bit creepy. In sleep, you weren’t burdened by the conscious efforts you made while awake. The realm of dreams she had opened for you offered a sanctuary where you could be entirely yourself, free from the shadows of anxiety that haunted your waking moments. It was a place where the exhausting overthinking ceased, and you could simply let go.

She cherished this moment, yearning for it to stretch into eternity. The gentle caresses of her nails against your forehead, the soothing hums that filled the air - she didn’t want to stop any of it. Above all, she dreaded the mere thought of you waking up, shattering this serene intermission. So delightful. So calming. So… soothing…

An elusive shift unfolded, as she shut her eyes for what she thought was a brief moment, only to open them to a radiant light. It appeared she had slept through the night and into the early morning, with the rays of sunshine illuminating the room. The weight on her lap almost tempted her back into slumber. As her hand, nestled in the crook of your collarbone, meandered downward, she jolted awake when her fingers met an unexpected searing heat.

Wait… heat?

Her eyes shifted downward, and her heart surged into her throat. The luminous glow she had mistaken for daylight was emanating from you. The warm, yellow light gently bathed the room, casting a surreal ambiance that mimicked the morning sun perfectly. Wanda’s concern deepened as she focused on your sleeping form, realizing that something potentially worrying was unfolding right beneath her.

Your face contorted with subtle twitches, and your eyes moved restlessly beneath your closed lids. It hadn’t occurred to Wanda until now that her ability to unlock the dream realm didn’t necessarily shield you from unsettling nightmares. After all, nightmares were dreams as well. Her protective instincts surged, and she gently rested a hand against your cheek, whispering your name with a mix of worry and care.

“Y/N.” Her voice was a hushed murmur.

Your eyes fluttered open, and the soft glow surrounding you seemed to dim as you blinked, evidently disoriented. Confusion etched your expression as you gazed up at Wanda, furrowing your brows in bewilderment. Scanning the room as if trying to piece together where you were, your thoughts ran rampant, quietly grappling to make sense of the situation.

“Y/N?” Wanda’s hands instinctively retreated as you sat up, confusion lingering on your features as you rose to your feet. She mirrored your movements, tension tightly wrapping around her heart as she observed the careful way your eyes traced the protective placement of her hands around her belly. “Dove.”

In an instant, your grin surfaced. The uncertainty that had clouded your face vanished as if it had never existed. Your eyes sparkled with a newfound light, your smile radiated warmth, and your shoulders relaxed. Nevertheless, Wanda’s unease lingered, and she couldn’t divert her curious gaze from you.

“Are you… Are you hungry?” You perked up, but she wasn’t oblivious to the glimmer of concern in your eyes. “I… I can make you a sandwich.” Without waiting for her response, you swiftly made your way to the kitchen. But just as you reached the doorway, you heard her gasp from behind. “Wands?” You turned, your hands nervously rubbing together. “Wh- What is it?”

“This is a real one,” she expressed.

“A- Already?” 

“Y/N.”

“Wands, I… I thought there was more… more time.” Panic started to seize your eyes, your arms once again taking on that vibrant yellow glow. She slowly guided you into doing some calming breathing exercises, moving closer to take your hands in hers.

You followed her lead, taking deep breaths until the glowing subsided. “Better,” she whispered.

“What- Should I get the… doctor?”

Before she could answer, thunder violently shook the house, and the room was suddenly drenched in rain. She met your wide-eyed gaze and offered you the softest smile you’d ever seen in such an intense moment. “I’m pretty sure my water just broke, dove, so I do believe it’s time to get the doctor.”

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You found yourself rooted at the front door, almost paralyzed by the sudden realism. It had all happened so quickly. Everything. It was like blinking and finding yourself here. How could you have seen this one coming? Confined within the walls of a HYDRA lab, never daring to dream of a life beyond. And then, out of nowhere, fate had found you. Like a lost child at a local flea market, you were scooped up by a patient woman and a suspicious man. It felt like just yesterday. As if you had only just tasted your first French fry. As if you had witnessed the sunset for the first time. And now… here you were, listening to the cries of a newborn and watching your wife cradle the other one. Yes, the other one.

Twins. Could you believe it?

“Dove.” You snapped out of your daze at the sound of Wanda’s voice, her soft smile a balm to your racing thoughts. “Come meet your boys.” It shouldn’t have caught you off guard with how many times you had thought it, but it did. Your boys. Hearing it out loud from someone else made it different. It made everything more real, more tangible, in a way that your own thoughts hadn’t.

Your steps were hesitant, slow, as if you were walking into a moment you’d long been preparing for (which, in reality, was only two days). The moment to meet one of your children face to face, to let the panic subside, just as the doctor had assured you…

But as you reached the bassinet, as you looked into the eyes of your baby, that panic which had become your unwanted companion seemed to intensify. His tiny hands appeared to reach out for you, and you found yourself frozen once more. Your fists clenched, your jaw locked. What if holding your own child triggered an uncontrollable overload? The idea of putting your children in danger was unthinkable. How could you protect them when you were the weapon?

Wanda was suddenly next to you, the other baby still cradled in her arms, her focus fixed on the one lying in wait in the bassinet before you. “Y/N-”

“I- I- I- I… can’t.” Disappointment, shame, and guilt, all flooded through you as you shook your head adamantly, tears pricking your eyes, tugged at your nose, and painted your cheeks a deep shade of red. Wanda’s gaze snapped onto you, her irises soft with understanding, but you were walking away long before she could speak a word.

You retreated to the bathroom, closing the door behind you with a resounding click, then leaned against the sink and stared down at the faucet. What were you doing? You were allowing your fear of potential overloads to keep you from even attempting to hold your newborn child. You had mastered your control over your powers, hadn’t you? …hadn’t you? Were you willing to test that?

A soft knock echoed through the room, and you lifted your gaze to meet your reflection in the mirror. Your complexion appeared pale, bearing a bluish hue. A chilling sensation seemed to wrap around your body. It suddenly felt as if you couldn’t breathe as you slowly lowered your gaze, an eerie emptiness occupied the hole in your chest where your heart should be.

A hand gently landed on your shoulder, pulling you out of whatever nightmare you had fallen into. In the mirror, your image reverted to your usual self with your heart intact. “Y/N?” You met her reflection’s eyes for a fleeting second before you pivoted to face her. You cleared your throat, mustered a half-smile, and focused. “Did you hear what I said?” She regarded you with a hint of skepticism as you shook your head. “I know physical contact makes you uncomfortable, but there are other ways to express your love for them.”

“Like… what?”

“Well,” she hummed, gently taking your hand and directing you out of the bathroom, leading you on a leisurely stroll back to the living room, “what did you do with the boys at the compound?”

Furrowing your brows, you concentrated on her question, and she chuckled softly as she noticed your struggle to give her a response.

“You spent time with Tony in his lab.” You always sensed a hint of loneliness in Tony. You even picked up a thing or two from him since he did all of the talking. “You listened to Clint gush about his family all the time.” Learning more about Clint’s family and the gleam in his eyes when he spoke about them always brought a smile to your face. “You lightened Steve’s load by going through all the mission reports.” Not being on the team gave you a glimpse of the tremendous responsibility Steve carried as the captain. You thought helping him by taking on some of the mission reports would make his life a bit easier. “You’d bring Bruce a coffee whenever he worked late.” Bruce often got lost in his work, and though you only ever had one-way conversations with him - much like the others - you recognized that he couldn’t be pulled away from it. Bringing him coffee was your way of offering support. “You even made everybody your delicious peanut butter sandwiches when they returned from a mission.” They were always too exhausted to make something themselves, and you’d noticed just how hungry Natasha was after an assignment. You presumed the rest of the team felt the same.

With a hint of confusion, you looked at her. “What does… that have to do with anything?”

“Those are all ways to express affection without physical touch, Y/N, because you showed you cared enough to go out of your way to be there.” She guided you to stand in front of the bassinets, where the boys slept peacefully. “You don’t need to hold them… You just need to be there for them.”

“I… I can do that,” you expressed firmly, nodding confidently. Wanda smiled softly, entwining her arm with yours and drawing you close. “I’m sorry I… missed the birth. I was trying to find the… doctor, but he was already…”

“It’s okay, my dove. You didn’t miss anything exciting,” she assured with a soft chuckle, stepping back to sit on the couch, pulling you down next to her. “Just a lot of screaming and crying. Mostly from me.” You grinned, laughing lightly as she rested her head on your shoulder.

“How did you… do it by yourself?” You nestled your cheek against the top of her head, and she inhaled deeply. 

“Geraldine helped me.” It was said automatically, and you felt her hold on your arm tense very briefly before she added, “It’s a shame she had somewhere to be, though. You would think you’d want to spend a bit more time with the babies you helped deliver.”

You stared at the two bassinets sitting in front of you, holding your twin boys. “I didn’t… expect two.”

“We still need to name the other one,” she pointed out, picking her head up to look at you, but you couldn’t seem to tear your eyes off of the cradles. “I know you were hoping for a girl, but-”

“W… William.” You sniffled as you finally turned to meet her gaze, showing her the way your eyes glistened with fresh tears. You smiled at her, but she wasn’t oblivious to the sorrow you were trying to hide in that grin. “After my first… friend.” Her lips pursed together tightly as memories resurfaced.

“Tommy and Billy.” She settled back on the couch, leaning her head against the cushion. “I don’t think there’s a better pair of names than that.”

Your smile broadened, the earlier sadness she had noticed now replaced by genuine happiness. “Wanda and… Y/N.” She tilted her chin to look at you to see a teasing glint in your eyes. “A… A close second… right?”

She chuckled lightly, the melodious sound warming the room. “You’re adorable,” she whispered. Leaning closer, your noses brushed, and your lips hover tantalizingly close. But the sudden cries of the babies broke the moment. Wanda let out a sigh, still smiling, and rose to attend to their needs.

You followed her, standing by her side as she scooped one of the babies in her arms, swaying gently as she held him against her chest. You cleared your throat, looking away from Wanda to lean over the bassinet in an effort to soothe the other little one, but your attempt at rocking the cradle just seemed to make it worse as his wails only grew louder in unison with his brother.

Wanda tried everything in her repertoire to calm down Tommy. She hummed soft lullabies, swayed gently, rubbed his back, and even attempted some bouncing, but nothing seemed to ease his crying. She felt a growing sense of helplessness as her boys’ sobs echoed through the room.

Then, a hushed relief passed her lips as Tommy’s cries began to wane. However, as she shifted her attention from the baby in her arms to the one she had left with you, it was then that she realized it wasn’t Tommy that had settled down, but Billy, and her heart skipped a beat when her eyes landed on you.

You were standing beside the bassinet, your arm extended, eyes squeezed shut incredibly tight, and a soft, yellow glow emanated from within the cradle. Panic initially surged within Wanda, but it swiftly receded as she took a step forward to take in the full scene.

Billy was eagerly reaching out one of his tiny hands, aiming to touch the bright, glowing object before him. His wide eyes radiated a contagious joy, and an adorable smile painted his little face. Wanda couldn’t help but exhale softly, a smirk playing on her lips as she observed you just being there for your son.

“Y/N,” she began gently, her hand resting on your shoulder.

“I… panicked. I’m so… I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay, dove. Just take a look.” You hesitantly obeyed her, opening one eye, then the other, a sigh of relief escaping as you realized that your child was unharmed. You stood up, your grin returning, but as you pulled your arm away, Billy’s cries resumed, matching Tommy’s once more.

“Well, it was nice while it lasted,” Wanda mused, gently laying the baby back into his own bassinet. She smiled, glancing over at you. “Do you think you’re willing to do that all day?”

You met her gaze. “We… We’re new at this, Wands. I… I think we just need more time.”

“We just need some help.”

The front door swung open, and both of you turned to see Agnes confidently striding into the room. “Hello, kiddos,” she chimed, casting a broad smile toward the sobbing babies. She nonchalantly dropped a duffel bag onto the couch before approaching the two of you, resting her hands on her hips. “I was just on my way to yoga when I heard your new little bundles of joy were on a sleep strike.”

A perplexed frown creased your forehead. “Who… told you that?” 

“Uh… my ears,” she retorted matter-of-factly, causing you and Wanda to exchange a bemused glance. Agnes leaned over the cribs. “Anyway, Auntie Agnes has arrived, and I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to settle fussy newborns.”

“A- Auntie…?” you began, your curiosity piqued.

“You’re a lifesaver, Agnes!” Wanda interjected.

You watched as your nosy neighbor eagerly rubbed her hands together, ready to work her magic in soothing the bawling babies. Clearing your throat, you cautiously stepped forward to gain her attention. “Okay, but just… Don’t forget to… support their heads.” You gave Agnes a pointed look as you took another step closer. “And… When was the last time you… washed your ha- Wait, Wands, I… I don’t think we should let her…” You moved yourself in between her and the cribs, shielding your children from the woman.

The once wide smile on Agnes’s face faded, replaced by a hint of uncertainty. In the meantime, the incessant crying that had been dominating the house for hours began to gradually subside. “Um…” Agnes hesitated, then turned to Wanda, and the room fell into complete and utter silence. “Do you want me to take that again?”

“Sorry?” Wanda’s expression bunched together with confusion as you looked at her, exchanging perplexed glances with you and Agnes.

Agnes tilted her head, scoffing out an awkward laugh. “You want me to hold the babies. Should we just take it from the top?” She casually picked up her gym bag, her gaze shifting between you and Wanda.

“Wh- What?” Your own confusion mirrored Wanda’s.

Wanda couldn’t help but let out a dry chuckle, waving her hand dismissively as she approached you. “Don’t be silly, Y/N,” she encouraged you with a smile. “Let’s let Agnes give it a try.” The babies’ cries grew once more, and Wanda guided you aside, her hand gently resting on your shoulder. You observed Agnes behind her, rocking the cribs, mixing her baby-handling duties with lunges.

“Wands-” you began, your concern still evident.

“I’m pretty sure we’re both going insane from the crying, Y/N,” Wanda remarked.

“They… just started,” you pointed out, studying her emerald eyes. “Did you… really not see that?”

Wanda’s brows furrowed subtly, her lips forming a tight line. She laid a delicate hand against your cheek, rubbing soothing circles with her thumb. “Dove, the boys haven’t slept in days,” she reasoned. “We’re all tired and we all need a break.”

“It’s… It’s been less than a… day…?” You shook your head, gently removing her hand from your face. “Wands, I- Do you… hear that?”

“I don’t hear anything,” Wanda said, walking towards the cribs, perplexed by your sudden shift in focus. However, movement on the stairs pulled your eyes in a different direction.

You turned to find two young boys, side by side, standing on the bottom step, gazing at you and Wanda with wide, expectant eyes.

“Mommy?”

“Mama?”

“Kids,” Agnes chuckled, her tone filled with amusement as she sat on the counter, a glass of dark amber liquid in her hand, which she raised in a toast. “You can’t control ‘em! No matter how hard you try…” She took a long sip of her drink, and you furrowed your brows as you turned your attention back to your sons.

“Do they… usually grow this fast?” you whispered as both boys rushed towards Wanda, eagerly wrapping their arms around her legs in a tight hug. You watched, running a thumb across the scar marking your palm.

“At least they’re not crying anymore, sweetheart,” Wanda pointed out with a smirk. She met your gaze, and a sense of unease settled in the pit of your stomach as she added, “We can finally get the sleep we all desperately need.”

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Wanda descended the stairs with a gentle, measured stride. Her eyes found you almost instantly, curled up on the couch with your sketch journal resting against your knees. A pencil danced graceful across the pages, creating professional, elegant strokes. She tried to sneak a peek at your latest artwork, but the creak of a floorboard under her weight dragged you from your creative trance. You swiftly pulled the journal out of her view, and she regarded you with curiosity but chose not to press further.

“Where are the boys?” she inquired.

“They’re in… the kitchen,” you responded, using the eraser-end of your pencil to indicate the other room. “I heard the… sink running. It seems like they’re doing the… the dishes.”

She chuckled softly, shaking her head. “Just so you know, kids never willingly do chores, dove.”

“Oh… Well, I…” You dropped your journal on the vacant cushion beside you and quickly rose, setting the pencil atop it. “I can go… check on them.” You flashed her an innocent smile, your eyes bright and enthusiastic. Wanda crossed her arms, giving you a skeptical look. “I… I got this.”

“Alright,” she agreed, nodding. “I’ll give you five minutes, but you better be bad cop this time, Y/N. The last time I let you try to discipline them, you gave them ice cream before dinner.”

“They… They have your eyes, Wands,” you confessed quietly, causing her to laugh lightly as you made your way into the kitchen. The boys stood at the sink, turning at the sound of your approach to block whatever was happening behind them. 

Wanda watched you cross your arms over your chest, and she smiled softly as she watched you attempt to be assertive. She knew she was going to have to walk in before the five minutes were up otherwise you’d end up giving the boys a unicorn, but curiosity nagged at her as she turned to look at your art book. Chewing the inside of her cheek, she reached over the cushions to grab onto the journal, flipping to the last page you were drawing… and she felt her stomach tighten at the nearly-finished, monochromatic image on the paper.

Your eyes remained closed, the hushed sadness in your face accentuated by the delicate graphite strokes. A lone tear meandered down your cheek, a poignant contrast against the muted backdrop. But the most striking element was the chasm in your chest, a vividly rendered void that laid bare your absent heart with a stark yet haunting elegance.

A gasp caught in her through, and a rush of emotion welled up, stinging her nose with the threat of tears. Her body froze, as if turned to stone, her feet anchored to the ground. But then, a single, unexpected bark pierced through the wall of fear that had started to build, shattering it and snapping her out of her daze. With a quick, decisive motion, she tore the paper from the journal and tucked it safely into her pocket.

She steeled herself, cleared her throat to dispel the lingering remnants of fear, and ventured into the kitchen. Her movements halted abruptly as her eyes fell upon the small dog cradled in your arms.

“And who’s this?” She stepped up beside you, resting her hands on her hips as she assessed the dog and then her sons.

“We haven’t named him yet,” Billy explained.

“Name him?”

“Mama said we can keep him,” Tommy chimed in, his excitement evident. This news prompted Wanda to slowly turn toward you, her brow arching impressively, her arms crossing over her chest. Your eyes widened, and you cleared your throat as you faced the boys.

“I-” The back door swung open, and once again, Agnes entered the room, brandishing a dog collar in her hand.

“Hey, kiddos. I noticed you two got a new pooch! I’ve got just the thing you need.” She extended her arm, offering the collar to you, and you began to reach for it. But Wanda swiftly intervened, snatching the collar from Agnes.

“If we put a collar on him, then it’s official,” she pointed out, giving you another meaningful look.

“Uh, boys… Your mother and I… We don’t think you’re ready to… care for an animal until you’re at least…”

“Ten,” Wanda coughed under her breath.

“Ten… years old,” you confirmed with a firm nod.

As the twins exchanged a sly glance, Wanda made an effort to halt their rapid aging, but your attention flickered toward Agnes as they persisted. She remained unphased when Tommy and Billy transformed from innocent five-year-olds into mischievous ten-year-olds. Her response was far from astonished; she simply chuckled, folded her arms, and remarked, “Let’s hope that dog stays the same size.”

While the boys engaged in a spirited debate over a name, you peered down at the little creature cradled in your arms, completely oblivious to Wanda’s keen observation. When you gently set the dog onto the floor, she grasped your elbow before you could leave. Leaning closer, her voice was a hushed murmur in your ear, “What’s going on?”

“I… don’t…” Your head swiveled to meet her inquisitive gaze. “I just… I need some… air.” You exhaled softly, your arm slipped from her grasp as you continued toward the door, just as Tommy called for her attention.

Wanda’s search for you was swift, but her escape from the house proved more challenging. Every time she made a move toward the door, the boys required her assistance with something. By the time she finally set foot in For Art’s Sake, the moon had already claimed the night sky.

A soft sigh escaped her lips, and she felt relief flood over her like a gentle stream as she spotted you seated on the bench across from your painting. Her eyes flickered to the plaque underneath it.

“The Scarlet Sorceress” Y/N Romanoff

It was nice of Ralph to change the nameplate. Your gaze wasn’t fixed on the artwork, though; instead, you were gently rubbing your palm, as if the scar was a mere pencil mark and your thumb, the eraser. You didn’t look up when she took a seat beside you, nor did you react as she cleared her throat to make her presence known. Her eyes met her own in the painting, and she chewed the inside of her cheek.

“Where are… Are the boys okay?”

“They’re sleeping, but Agnes is still at the house.”

Nothing. Your refusal to meet her gaze hung heavily in the air, creating a tension that could suffocate her if it were able to. She disliked the sudden distance that had grown between you.

“Care to talk to me?” She broke the second wave of silence this time, her tone gentle but concerned. It was evident that you were making no effort to provide any response. The longer you stayed quiet, the tighter the knot twisted in her stomach. She needed to do something, say something to encourage you to open up. It was unfamiliar territory; usually, you were more than willing to share your thoughts with her. But this time, things had shifted. You were closing yourself off, and she could see the protective walls you were constructing.

She needed to destroy them before you finished.

Releasing a short breath, she dipped her hand into her pocket, producing a folded piece of paper. She leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees and began to unfold it, her peripheral vision catching the slight turn of your head. “Is it this?” She unveiled your self-portrait, turning her attention to you, observing that you were now fixated on the artwork in her hands. “Y/N-”

“I… died… didn’t I?” You returned your gaze to your hands. “I… I remember. Nat. She showed me. In my… dreams.”

Wanda furrowed her eyebrows. “Nat seems to be showing you a lot of stuff,” she commented.

“T- Thanos. He… got the stone, didn’t he?” You sniffled, your brows knitting together in thought. “I… I died. And… Nat died…” You cleared your throat. “You… brought me back?”

She let out a deep sigh, relief washing over her once more. But why was she feeling relieved?

“You left a hole where my heart should be, Y/N, and I just… wanted to fill it up.” Your eyes shifted back to the drawing in her hands, and you emitted a dry chuckle. She exhaled in frustration, reaching out to grasp your hands to prevent you from fidgeting with your scar. But you swiftly withdrew from her, standing up and pacing forward. “Are you angry with me for bringing you back to life?”

“I- I don’t know.” You inhaled shallowly, exhaling rapidly. “I just… I… I need to… breathe, Wands… Please.” She leaned against the wall, her shoulders slumping, as you headed for the exit. She glanced back at the drawing in her hands once more, then shook her head, clenched her jaw, and began to chase after you.

“Y/N.” She caught up to you outside as you stepped onto the street. You paused, her voice holding you back, and she disregarded the single, cool raindrop landing on her cheek as she crossed the distance to reach you. “Please just talk to me, baby.”

“Why… me?” You turned to face her, your eyes shimmering with unshed tears. More raindrops fell from the sky. “You c- could’ve brought anybody back. Like… V- Vision. But you… you chose me- Why didn’t you change me? Make me more… more confident. M- More… better? Why am I still… me?” you asked, your voice tinged with insecurity and self-doubt. Wanda moved closer, her eyes radiating warmth, her expression gentle. “I… I can’t be who you want me to be, Wands.” You huffed. “I’m… I’m not a people person. I can’t even… hug our own children.” You shook your head as if trying to shake the tears away from your eyes, but they continued to well up. “We tried- I tried. You… You deserve somebody who can… be with you, inside the house… and out.” Rain now poured down, a storm enveloping you both. Thunder rumbled overhead, lightning briefly illuminating the area. You sighed, your gaze drifting away from her to your hands. “You could’ve… made me that kind of- of person.”

Her head tilted to the side as she watched you intently. She gently clasped your wrist, ignoring your surprised look, and brought your hand close to her mouth. “I didn’t change you because I didn’t want you to change. You are exactly the person I want, just the way you are,” she declared, her voice ringing above the rain but her words a soft breath against your skin. “The Y/N I met all those years ago was already better than anyone I’ve ever known. And you’ve only become more perfect with time.” She placed a tender, affectionate kiss on the permanent mark on your palm, a smile gracing her lips as she added, “Scars and all.”

She couldn’t tell whether you’d finally let those tears escape, not with the raindrops tracing down your cheeks. Yet, the way you exhaled and gazed at her indicated that perhaps you had. She sensed those emotional barriers you’d been constructing beginning to crumble as you moved closer, your lips meeting hers in a kiss that felt like a blaze amidst the cool rain shower drenching both of you.

Amidst the brief symphony of thunder overhead, she knew that the sensible choice would be to break the kiss. To seek shelter from the rain. But instead, she defied this logic, her arms winding around your neck, pulling you closer to her, deepening the embrace as raindrops continued to fall and lightning continued to streak the sky.

Soon, she found herself chasing your lips as you pulled back slightly, and you ultimately rested your forehead against hers to quell the temptation. “We should… go home,” you whispered, and she nodded, your breaths mingling as you locked eyes. “Wands, I-” Just then, a louder clap of thunder seemed to shake the ground, forcing you apart. She beamed at your laughter, reaching for your hand as you looked up at the sky. She tugged you down the street, hand in hand, heading home. Together.

The door closed just as lightning illuminated the sky behind her, casting playful shadows on the wall. The rain had left you both drenched, but you paid little attention to it as you tugged her close, caught up in the embrace. The world outside faded away, and the fact that you were dripping wet ceased to matter, all except for a pair of eyes that observed you from the kitchen.

“Looks like you’ve figured things out in paradise,” Agnes chimed in, her voice breaking the intimate moment. Your muscles tensed, and Wanda let out an embarrassed laugh. “Don’t worry about me, dears. I’m just glad to see you both okay.” She grinned knowingly before adding, “I should get home. Thunderstorms don’t only affect the two of you, you know.” With a wink, she slipped out through the back door into the kitchen, leaving you with a sense of curiosity. You turned to Wanda, confusion written across your face.

“You don’t want to know,” she reassured you before you could question further. 

You pursed your lips together, hesitant, conflicted. She watched you with patience as you worked the situation out in your mind. And then you finally spoke, “Do you think that we can… There’s something else I- I need to tell you.”

“Okay, dove,” she said, pulling you back to her. “But let’s dry off before we turn our home into a puddle.”

“I’ll grab… some towels,” you replied and placed a quick kiss on her cheek. Then, you dashed upstairs, leaving her with a contented smile as she took a step forward.

However, the moment was interrupted by a knock at the front door. Wanda turned to open it, and her gasp matched the rain’s now-gentle patter outside. Before her stood a man, his presence triggering a mix of emotions. She couldn’t find her voice, and her heart raced as she watched the man throw his arms up in the air.

“Long lost bro get to squeeze his stinkin’ sister to death or what?”

“Pietro?” Her voice quivered as her brother stepped forward, enveloping her in a tight hug. “Oh.”

While they embraced, the floorboards behind them creaked, and you emerged on the scene, towels in hand. Uncertainty was etched across your features. As the siblings broke apart, Pietro sent you a quizzical look, raising an eyebrow. “Who’s the maid?”

Chapter 4

#wanda maximoff #scarlet witch #mcu #marvel #marvel cinematic universe #wanda maximoff x reader #wanda x reader #maximoff x reader #scarlet witch x reader #natasha romanoff #black widow #heart of stone #reader insert #wanda #maximoff #agnes #agatha harkness

[myseungsunglove]

A Beautiful Distraction | Ksm

Pairing: Seungmin x Reader

Word Count: 800

Warnings: fluff, mildly suggestive, language

✎A/N✎: Just some more 2 am musings because Kim Seungmin really is so pretty it’s distracting. I can’t be the only one.

◠ ◡ ◠᭚ιαᵕ̈

「© December 19, 2023 by myseungsungheart」

Seungmin pursed his beautiful pink lips into a thin line, blinking slowly, and you were a goner. The next sentences he spoke to Han were lost on you.

You watched the two men talk animatedly in front of the computer in the small studio, and you were one thousand percent distracted. Kim Seungmin was a beautiful distraction.

His soft, plump lips were the best distraction in the world, or worst, depending on the situation. As you watched his mouth move fluently, you could feel the memory of your last kiss lingering sweetly on your lips. You couldn't help but reach up and brush your bottom lip softly as it tingled pleasantly from the thought that you could kiss him any time you wanted.

He’d loved you from the moment he met you all those years ago during your training days. It didn’t matter what was happening, he never failed to put a smile on your face and he couldn’t take his big boba eyes off you. He didn’t always tell you in words that he loved you, but he always showed you.

Your gaze drifted to his cute little nose that he liked to scrunch up when he was slightly embarrassed or just acting cute. You were reminded of the way it felt when he kissed you tenderly, his nose nudging against yours sweetly especially when he deepened a kiss and pressed closer to you.

You watched as his big brown boba eyes flitted back and forth excitedly, his hands waving around wildly, practically stopping your heart, as he brain stormed with Han about the song they were working on. You were pretty sure it was called respirator, but frankly you were the one who was gonna need a respirator because fuck if Kim Seungmin didn’t take your breath away. Seeing him in this creative space with Han who really pushed him to do his best work was nothing short of beautiful. It really was breathtaking.

Then those beautiful eyes of his were on you. His eyebrows lifting gently as he assessed you with a smile, a small chuckle escaping him as his eyes settled on your dazed look.

“That’s a good line, yeah?” Seungmin asked with a mischievous smirk, fully aware of where your mind had been wondering.

You blinked rapidly as the rest of him came into focus, his words pulling you from the haze his face had dragged you into.

“Yeah,” you cleared your throat. “Best line you’ve written so far,” you smiled confidently.

Both boys burst into a chorus of laughter. Seungmin scooted back in his chair and leaned over to where you were seated on the couch and pressed his soft lips against yours.

“Yeah, we weren’t even talking about the lyrics you little liar,” he laughed against your mouth, his eyes locking with yours.

You kissed him again, his taste intoxicating. Each curve of his mouth against yours made you wish you could do nothing but kiss him for the rest of time.

“You’re pretty. It’s distracting,” you said with a shrug.

“I don’t know how you manage,” Seungmin teased, a confident smirk spreading across his face.

You shoved him away with a small huff and a laugh.

“Moment over,” you chuckled, attempting to move away from him.

He dove after you, pinning you against the couch with his hips, pressing himself into you before dipping down and peppering your face with kisses over and over again.

“Beautiful,” he mumbled between kisses, completely lost in you.

Finally his lips found yours and your hands stretched out for him, the pads of your fingers dancing along the nap of his neck, fiddling with the long blonde hair that now lay there, as you sighed into him.

“Thought the moment was over,” he whispered as he moved his assault to your neck, trailing hot, wet kisses along the tender expanse of skin behind your ear and down to your collarbone.

“You win,” you conceded with a low moan, arching into his touch. The way his lips felt against your skin was enough to make your head spin.

Seungmin’s hands danced under your shirt, the gentle ghosting touch from his long, slender fingers setting your skin on fire.

“Wait!” you breathed, catching his thin wrist in your small hand, stopping his hand from moving up further. “Han,” you reminded him as you sat up and looked around the now empty studio. Han was nowhere to be found.

“Good man,” Seungmin chuckled, kissing you deeply once more, his tongue finding yours as a small moan escaped him. “He knows when he’s not needed,” he growled reaching over and clicking the lock before pushing your shirt over your head, a low rumble of appreciation escaping his throat as his eyes fell on your bare chest. The sound vibrated through your body, leaving you hot and needy.

“Mmmhmm,” you agreed as Seungmin grabbed the neck of his white cotton t-shirt and pulled it easily over his head. You reached out to run your fingers over his chest, heat pooling low in your gut as your fingers danced up to his shoulders and pulled him down so that his hot skin was pressed against yours . “You’re all I’ll ever need, Seungie,” you sighed, bringing his lips to yours once more.

Kim Seungmin was the best damn distraction you’d ever encountered and god if you didn’t love him for it.

#seungmin imagine #seungmin drabble #seungmin x reader #seungmin fanfic #seungmin fluff #seungmin one shot

[improbable-outset]

𝐈𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧-𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐈𝐈

(Part 1 here)

Miguel O’Hara x fem!Reader

𝐀𝐎3 ★ | 𝐌𝐲 𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐭𝐬 ✎ | 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 2.7k

𝐓𝐖 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐖: Food (?), Brief hospital settings, memory loss, medical examining, head trauma, post injury, Wife!Reader. Reader is just so lost in all this :(

𝐓𝐚𝐠𝐬: @thel0velykey190 @oharaludes @deputy-videogamer

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: You’re finally given a diagnosis from the hospital on why you’re experiencing memory loss. After being discharged, Miguel leads you through the city of Nueva York and shows you memories of your shared life. However one question still nags your mind: what was the cause of the accident?

𝐀/𝐍: I’m not the sentimental type but I know Miguel will be, especially with reader’s cooking 🥹🫠

It’s been several days since you woke up from your comatose state. Everything was far out of your reach, even your memory of your husband. During those days while you were staying in the hospital, the nurse had been taking different tests to identify the cause of your memory loss. You had to move from different departments in the hospital including the Emergency Department and Neurophysiology Department. You were assessed with various aspects of your brain function including your reflexes and brain coordination. Though the most daunting part was imaging studies where they had to scan around the head area to identify anything unusual in your brain functioning or blood flow. You were uncomfortable with the thought of lying down and sliding into the tunnel, which seemed to swallow you whole. It didn’t help that they had to strap you to the bed to ensure you stayed still while the scan was on but Miguel was there with you throughout the procedure, constantly reassuring you and reminding you that it was important to do these tests so you could have a better understanding on what’s going on with your mental state.

But even with his constant presence, you still couldn’t shake off the drowning feeling of being lost. It was suffocating at times and you knew Miguel was trying his best to make you feel comfortable and safe as a husband should but no matter how hard you tried, Miguel just couldn’t feel like home to you; even if you didn’t really know what home was.

After the CT scan, you were given a diagnosis and the doctors had told you that you have a Traumatic Brain Injury and the memory loss was caused by Post-Traumatic Anemia. Your initial reaction was pure confusion - it all sounded like mere words to you until they explained that some regions in your brain were damaged after the accident. The thought made you feel uneasy. You realised that these damaged regions held the key to your core memories that you’ll never recover from. You couldn’t even remember what led up to the accident but whatever it was must’ve been something disastrous. After finalising everything, you were prescribed pain killers for the headaches and were discharged from the hospital, now sitting on the passenger side of Miguel’s car and on your way home. The car ride was quiet but comfortable. However, there was the queasy feeling of anticipation that settled at the pit of your gut not only because of the diagnosis but also with whatever lies ahead in the future, making you fidget in your seat; your clothes brushing against the leather seat was the only noise in the car that filled the silence. Miguel seemed to notice and tried to distract you from your thoughts.

“Mi amor, do you recognise these streets? Are you familiar with where we are?” Miguel looked at you briefly as he spoke before his eyes were on the road again. Every street looked the same to you especially now when it was dark out and all you could catch were streetlights and headlights.

“Barely…” You replied dryly. You scanned your surroundings and tried to jog your memory again. The bustling metropolis with its constant car honking, swarming pedestrians and the distant whine of sirens was a significant contrast to the still hospital room being engulfed by pale walls and the sickly sweet smell of disinfectant. Sure, the hospital was chaotic sometimes but it was still organised and everyone had their own roles and knew what to do. Here in the streets, everyone was unpredictable with where they were going to go. Some formed crowds like a moth surrounding a light bulb and some were walking alone. Even though it was well past rush hour and it was late, the streets were still packed.

“Barely? So you do recognise it a little?” Miguel said, his voice had some optimism to it. He glanced back at you again and tried to read your expression.

“Yeah…. I remember being surrounded by buildings and lights like this before but I don’t know exactly where we are.” You knew that you lived in Nueva York which was a busy city and was always surrounded by tall buildings but you couldn’t distinguish any of them or any of the landmarks.

“That’s alright mi amor… it’ll take some time getting used to. We’re almost home now.” Miguel was now driving to a quieter neighbourhood with less people and more residential areas. The streets were now filled with houses and garages. Miguel parked up the car in front of one of the houses and killed the engine.

“We’re here…home sweet home.” He announced. He got out of the car first before going to the passenger side and opening the door for you. You stepped out of the car and observed the exterior of the house. Miguel opened the front door and gestured for you to follow him. You were first introduced to the hallway that led you to the living room.

“This is our place?” You asked, taking in the interior. The living room was pretty spacious only because there wasn’t too much furniture around. The decor was pretty simple with a few paintings on the wall which made the room feel more cozy. The room was illuminated with a warm gentle glow of the wall sconces that were strategically lined on the walls and casted comforting shadows around the room.

“Sí mi amor. We’ve made this a home together.” He then took you to the kitchen which was half the size of the living room but it was still just as welcoming, with a small dining table and two chairs. You imagined how unbearable it must’ve been for Miguel to sit there alone for so long with an empty chair in front of him, the chair where you were supposed to be. “How about I make you some dinner…I’m sure you’re bored of eating the hospital's bland food.” He chuckled before gathering the ingredients in the pantry.

“You don’t have to go through extra trouble for me.”

“Trouble? Cooking for my beautiful wife is never trouble, mi vida.” He smirked almost as if what you said was plain nonsense. Your heart soared regardless. A change of food choices was needed. Even though you couldn’t remember what Miguel’s food was like, you still looked forward to whatever he had planned and food made by his own hands made it even more special. The kitchen was now full of the aroma of spices and oil with the sound of sizzling from the pan. A few moments later, Miguel returned to you with two plates full of food and put one in front of you with the steam hitting your nostrils.

“Thank you. It looks lovely.” You took a bite with your fork and were blown away with new flavours and spices. The texture was just right, now that it was easier to swallow solid food.

“How does it taste, hermosa?” Miguel asked, a hint of apprehension reflected in his eyes.

“It’s delicious! Definitely better than the hospital food.” You beamed, taking another mouth full. Miguel watched you in amusement.

“Thank you, but it will never be as good as your cooking.”

“I could cook better than this?” The statement sounded hard to believe.

“Sí…you know the night before the incident you made an amazing dinner and there were a lot of leftovers.” He paused, a smile tugged on his lips as he recalled the memory of that night - it must’ve been really special to him. “I decided to freeze it so I could preserve it as long as I could. I was hoping I could have a piece of you with me whenever I was having dinner while you were still in a coma. It was like you were there with me.”

“Really? Miguel, I’m flattered.” Everything Miguel had told you so far would always bring a shock to you but this carried a lot more weight to it. You tried to imagine yourself in this kitchen, cooking a meal for the two of you. You were probably very passionate about everything you made and Miguel would come home to you with a freshly cooked meal. Or maybe you only cooked just to survive and made whatever was available and Miguel would appreciate it anyways. Regardless, the fact that Miguel preserved your cooking must’ve meant that your food was decent enough at least. It clearly held a special place in his heart. After dinner, Miguel led you out of the kitchen.

“Come on, mi vida. Let me show you our bedroom.” He held your hands as he spoke and took you up the stairs.

The bedroom was just as simple yet cozy as the rest of the house. The first thing you noticed was the bed that was placed in the middle against the far wall. A testament of your shared space. The bed itself looked inviting with its crisp white linen and plumped pillows layer out nicely. On each side were two nightstands with a collection of objects on each. One side had a collection of old books and the opposite had a vase with a bouquet of dried roses.

“I want to show you something.” Miguel said as he opened a drawer from one of the cabinets and took out a thick book.

“What is it?” You asked. He took a seat on the bed and gestured for you to sit with him, patting the empty space besides him. You followed suit and sat on the bed, your arm pressed against his strong ones making your cheeks heat up a little. You were still not used to being in close proximity to his muscles yet.

“Our wedding photo album.” He said as he opened the book to show you the first few pictures. There were some photos of you taken separately and some standing together. You ran your fingers over the pages, studying each picture, more specifically the dress you were wearing. You had to admit to yourself that you looked magical in your wedding dress. It was flattering on your body type and your hair was styled beautifully with some floral decorations etched in your locks.

“This is ... incredible. Is that the wedding dress I chose? It’s beautiful.” You said in awe, still marveling at the pictures.

“Yes, you chose this dress, mi amor. It took you almost a week to finally pick the perfect one. You were radiant that day. Though, I think you would’ve looked good in anything.” Miguel commented. You turned the page to a picture of you and Miguel at the altar. You were hand in hand and facing each other, the picture captured the both of you laughing at something. This must’ve been when you were exchanging your vows.

“Tell me about this moment.” You pointed at the photo.

“That was when you tried to steal a kiss before I could say ‘I do.’” He chuckled at the memory. It was frustrating that you couldn't recall any of this, especially the fact that your relationship with Miguel must’ve been full of banter like this. But flipping through the album gave you a glimpse of your marriage dynamics. You hoped that things will be carefree between the two of you like that again.

“Thank you for showing me this, Miguel…” you smiled, your heart felt a little fuller now after seeing those pictures but you noticed Miguel’s expression dropped as he closed the book and placed it on one of the nightstands. He turned to face you again, his eyes flicking with something you couldn’t read.

“Mi amor,” he held onto your fingers again and caressed the knuckles with his thumbs, just like how he did in the hospital, the moment you woke up from your comatose state for the first time. “I know this will sound sudden but I have to know…do you love me?” His voice trembled. The question took you by surprise, you didn’t expect to be asked about this. You thought for a moment and tried to come up with an answer without sounding dismissive. Miguel looked deep into your eyes, desperately trying to read your expression.

“It’s not that I don’t want to, Miguel.” You began, your voice was laced with uncertainty. The room became hushed, recognising the gravity of the situation. “…but everything is so distant and out of my reach. It’s hard to love someone that you barely remember.” Miguel’s expression revealed his pain as he listened intently to your answer. The air seemed to be amplified by the fragility of the situation as he continued.

“What about attraction? Are you drawn to me, even a little?” There was pain evident in his voice now as he spoke. You hesitated as you tried to find the words and navigated through your complex thoughts.

“I feel something…but it’s like trying to catch smoke with my bare hands.”

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have asked. But the thought of losing that connection we had, the thought of losing us…it’s tearing me apart.” He released his grip from your fingers and fell limply on his lap. You desperately wanted to comfort him but you couldn’t find the words to and you couldn’t lie about your feelings either. All you could do was watch and you felt a little useless not knowing what to do.

“Miguel, can I get a little closer to you? Can we lay down and cuddle on the bed…on our bed?” You asked, hoping you could lift his somber mood. He looked back up at you and smiled after hearing you ask that.

“Sí. There’s nothing I would want more than to be close to you right now.” You both settled into the bed, facing each other with one of Miguel’s big arms wrapped around your waist and you nuzzled into the crook of his neck. “I missed having you in my arms like this, mi esposa.” He whispered, his breath fanning against your ear. You were engulfed by the soft comforter, almost like the bed recognised your presence and missed you laying on it. You imagined Miguel felt the same just like the two-seated dining table in the kitchen.

“It must've been torture having to sleep here alone for that long.” You commented.

“You have no idea…” He held you closer, afraid to let you slip away with his touch leaving an essence trail of musk and cinnamon. The two of you stayed in this position for a while in silence, until you remembered about Miguel’s work, breaking the stillness of the moment.

“Miguel, will you have to go back to work tomorrow?” You asked reluctantly.

“I’m afraid so, mi esposa.”

“But I don’t want you to leave me alone. Please…” your voice trembled.

“I know I know. I promise I’ll be back as soon as I can. But duty calls and I have to go.” His voice softened, trying to get you to understand. He hated leaving you alone especially in the current circumstances you were in but there are some things he just can’t ignore.

“You sound like a superhero saying that.” You joked, attempting to bring some light into the situation. But you didn’t expect to feel Miguel’s muscles clench around you, almost like what you said triggered something in his mind. The air thickened with a palpable tension that was almost suffocating. The change in mood made you retreat from his neck to see his face. His eyes looked like they were lost in thought while his body had stiffened, the sight made you slightly uncomfortable.

“Miguel… did I say something wrong?” You watched him blink rapidly out of his trance and relax his muscles. He looked back at you and his gaze softened again.

“You said nothing wrong mi amor…I promise I’ll explain everything about my job in due time okay? Do you think you could use tomorrow to familiarise yourself around the house while I’m gone? There’s more photo albums you could look at.” You were still hesitant about all of this but you didn’t want to get in the way of whatever was important to Miguel and his job so you nodded slowly, unable to voice your agreement. Miguel reached for your face, caressing your cheek and brushing his thumb lightly over your lower lip. He leaned in and planted a kiss on your forehead.

“Thank you for understanding,” He murmured, voice filled with relief. As the night progressed, you couldn’t help but wonder what was so important about Miguel’s job that you had to wait to find out and why nobody had told you about what caused the accident.

No because now I’m getting more ideas on how to expand this. I was thinking of posting another chapter, explain the cause of the accident (yes it does involve Miguel being Spider-Man). Should I do it or just leave it to your interpretation??🤔

Maybe have Miguel’s POV this time?? I didn’t think I’d get this far?? Also first post-coma kiss??? I was gonna add that in this chapter but I think readers already been though so much and I want to wait for that perfect pivotal moment.

#Miguel o’hara #miguel o’hara spiderverse #miguel o’hara across the spider verse #miguel o’hara x reader #miguel o’hara x fem!reader #miguel o’hara x you #miguel o’hara x y/n #spider man: across the spider verse #across the spiderverse #atsv #atsv miguel #spiderman 2099 x reader #spiderman 2099 #miguel spiderman #miguel spiderverse #miguel ohara x reader #miguel ohara #miguel x reader #★— ayrus writes

[23victoria]

𝙴𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝙿𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎, 𝚂𝚎𝚊 𝚘𝚏 𝙽𝚎𝚠 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎

❥ 𝚙𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜: 𝚓𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚜𝚞𝚕𝚕𝚢 𝚡 𝚏𝚎𝚖!𝚖𝚎𝚝𝚔𝚊𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚊!𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎��

⚖︎ 𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝: 𝟷,𝟺𝟶𝟶

✎ 𝚜𝚞𝚖𝚖𝚊𝚛𝚢: 𝙹𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚗𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚐𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚜 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚔𝚒𝚍𝚜 𝚊𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝙽𝚎𝚢𝚝𝚒𝚛𝚒'𝚜 𝚍𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑.

☠︎ 𝚠𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜: 𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚜𝚝, 𝚍𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚘𝚏 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛, 𝚗𝚎𝚠 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎, 𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚕𝚘𝚊𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚔, 𝚜𝚎𝚖𝚒-𝚏𝚕𝚞𝚏𝚏

✍︎ 𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛'𝚜 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚎: 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚠𝚊𝚜 𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚗 𝚖𝚢 𝚍𝚛𝚊𝚏𝚝𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚜𝚘, 𝚒 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚍𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚍𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚞𝚙𝚕𝚘𝚊𝚍 𝚒𝚝.

♪ 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚌:

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As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the vast expanse of the sea, Jake Sully stood on the shore, his heart heavy with grief and longing. It had been months since he had lost Neytiri, his beloved mate, during the fierce battle against the RDA and Qudaritch soldiers who had kidnapped their children. The pain of her absence still cut deep, leaving him feeling lost and broken.

After her death, Jake had made the difficult decision to relinquish his title as the leader of the Omaticaya clan. He felt a profound sense of guilt, blaming himself for not being able to protect Neytiri and their children. Consumed by sorrow, he had sought solace by escaping to the coastal region of Metyakina, seeking the embrace of the vast sea and the comfort of solitude.

As he arrived in the Metkayina area, Jake sought out Ronal and Tonowari, sharing with them the tragic events that had unfolded. He implored them for uturu, a place of safety and respite, and after hearing his story, the Metkayina leaders granted his request. While he stood there, still absorbing the weight of his loss, his eyes caught sight of you— a captivating presence, exuding an ethereal aura that seemed to envelop the air around you. You observed Jake and his children with a gentle expression, offering them a sense of warmth and understanding.

Weeks turned into months, and the Sully family struggled to adapt to their new surroundings. Jake was drawn to you, your presence a comforting beacon in his world of pain and uncertainty. His children, having developed a fondness for you, sought solace and guidance in your nurturing nature. You helped them navigate the unfamiliar Metkayina ways, easing their transition and healing their wounded hearts. The wounds of Neytiri's passing slowly began to heal, aided by their connection to Eywa and the spirit tree. The children found solace in speaking to their mother through the sacred bond, finding comfort in her words and guidance.

You were always there, an ever-present figure in their lives, his children adored you and Jake couldn't help but notice the way you effortlessly fit into their family dynamic. Yet, amidst the healing, Jake couldn't help but feel a magnetic pull towards you. You had become an integral part of their lives, nurturing their growth and aiding them in their transition to the Metyakina way. But Jake held back, haunted by the guilt of potentially betraying Neytiri's memory by moving on.

The children, keen observers of their father's inner turmoil, could sense his affection for you. They had slowly begun to heal from their mother's passing, finding solace in the connection they shared with her through Eywa and the spirit tree. They had spoken to her, pouring out their grief and confusion, finding solace in her ethereal presence. However, Jake couldn't bring himself to visit the spirit tree, his guilt holding him back.

One day, a situation arose that necessitated Jake and your involvement. As you worked together to resolve the issue, a connection sparked between you, a shared understanding that transcended words. Once the situation was resolved, you took a deep breath and turned to him, your eyes filled with compassion.

"Jake," you said softly, your voice carrying a hint of vulnerability, "can we take a walk? There's something I'd like to discuss with you."

He hesitated for a moment, his heart pounding in his chest. But the trust that had been built between you urged him forward. With a nod, he followed you, and together you embarked on another moonlit journey along the shore.

As the waves crashed against the sandy shoreline, you began to gently broach the topic that had been weighing on both of your hearts. You spoke of grief, loss, and the complex journey of healing. With every step, Jake found himself unraveling, opening up about his fears, his guilt, and his unspoken feelings for you.

From that point on, Jake and you began taking nightly walks together, venturing into the depths of the Metkayina territory. The moonlight bathed you in a soft glow as Jake opened up, bit by bit, revealing the raw emotions that had consumed him since Neytiri's death. You listened with empathy, offering guidance and solace as he grappled with the immense loss of his mate, the constant threat of the RDA, and the challenge of finding his place in this new world.

In the nights that followed, your walks continued, but the dynamic between you shifted subtly. There was a newfound tenderness, an undercurrent of unspoken longing that hung in the air. The connection between you deepened, fueled by shared vulnerability and a profound understanding of each other's pain. But still, he hesitated, haunted by the guilt that lingered from Neytiri's passing.

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One evening, as the moon hung high in the Metkayina sky, you both found yourselves standing by the shore, the rhythmic waves echoing the quiet intensity of your unspoken emotions. It was a moment charged with vulnerability, the air thick with the unspoken truth that hung between you.

Jake turned to you, his gaze intense yet vulnerable, and took a deep breath.

"Y/N," he began, his voice trembling with a mix of fear and hope, "I need to be honest with you. My heart... it's been yearning for you for a long time now. But I've held back, afraid of betraying Neytiri's memory. I've carried the weight of guilt, blaming myself for her death."

Taking a deep breath, you turned to Jake, your eyes filled with a mix of compassion and a growing realization. "Jake," you began, your voice filled with tenderness, "you have carried the weight of the world on your shoulders for far too long. Neytiri would want you to find happiness, to embrace the love that still beats within your heart."

He looked at you, his eyes reflecting the tumult of emotions within. "I can't betray Neytiri's memory," he confessed, the weight of his guilt palpable.

You stepped closer, your hand reaching for his. "Jake, love is not a betrayal. Neytiri wouldn't want you to suffer. She would want you to live, to find joy again."

His eyes glistened with unshed tears as he grappled with the conflicting emotions. "I just... I don't want to forget her."

You nodded, understanding the depth of his pain. "You won't forget her. Neytiri will always be a part of you, but you deserve to be happy. To love and be loved again."

His breath hitched as he gazed into your eyes, searching for any signs of hesitation or doubt. But all he found was unwavering love and acceptance. And in that moment, with the crashing waves as witnesses, Jake surrendered to the overwhelming emotions that had consumed him for so long.

With that, he pulled you into a tender embrace, the moonlight casting a gentle glow on the two of you as the waves whispered secrets of healing and renewal. He leaned forward, his trembling lips gently brushing against yours, igniting a fire within both of your souls. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with love, longing, and a tinge of sadness for the love that had been lost. But it was also a promise, a commitment to honor the past while embracing the future.

In that moment, Jake felt a sense of release, a gradual acceptance that he could honor Neytiri's memory without sacrificing his own chance at happiness. He found the strength to visit her. With you by his side, he floated before the sacred tree, tears streaming down his face, blending into the sea, as he spoke to her spirit. He asked for forgiveness, for understanding, and felt a warm light embrace his body, a feeling of reassurance that Neytiri's love would always be with him.

From that night forward, Jake and you embarked on a new chapter of your lives together. His children, sensing the depth of his love for you, welcomed you with open arms, finding solace in the joy that blossomed within their father's heart. Jake knew that he had found not only a new love but a soulmate—a partner who would walk beside him through every triumph and tribulation, as they navigated the challenges of a world torn between harmony and destruction. Together, you would forge a new destiny, carrying Neytiri's spirit in your hearts, honoring her memory with every beat of your love.

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✿ taglist ☪︎ : @dreamingofpandora @stargirlrchive @shadowmoonlight0604

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© 23victoria 2023-2024 | all rights reserved. do not republsh, steal, repost, modify, translate or claim my work as your own.

#vicki ♛ recs ⇢✍︎♥︎ #avatar the way of water #avatar x reader #jake sully x reader #avatar 2022 #vicki࿎writings!✍︎ꨄ #avatar film #jake sully avatar #avatar jake sully #jake sully #avatar jake #james cameron avatar #avatar x you #the way of water #james cameron's avatar #jake sully x y/n #jake sully x you

[dmitriene]

𝗜𝗧'𝗦 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗠𝗘 𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗.

❝𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗧❞ 𝘣𝘰𝘺𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢 𝘭𝘦𝘰𝘯 𝘬𝘦𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘥𝘺 𝘹 𝘨𝘧 𝘧𝘦𝘮 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳

❝𝗦𝗨𝗠𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗬❞ 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘦𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦, 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘦𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘰𝘯 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩𝘺

❝𝗧𝗔𝗚𝗦❞ 𝘈𝘕𝘎𝘚𝘛, 𝘏𝘜𝘙𝘛 𝘕𝘖 𝘏𝘈𝘗𝘗𝘠 𝘌𝘕𝘋, 𝘕𝘚𝘍𝘞, 𝘚𝘔𝘜𝘛, 𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘩𝘶𝘳𝘵, 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘮, 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘴 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘶𝘯𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘩𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱, 𝘤𝘰𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱, 𝘳𝘶𝘥𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰𝘹𝘪𝘤 𝘣𝘦𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘰𝘳, 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘴, 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘶𝘱, 𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘶𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘺𝘣𝘦, 𝘮𝘢𝘺𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘺 𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵, 𝘶𝘯𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘱 𝘪𝘯 𝘷, 𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘬𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘴, 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘪𝘦, 𝘮𝘢��𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴, 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘢𝘴𝘮𝘴

❝𝗔𝗨𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗥'𝗦 𝗡𝗢𝗧𝗘❞ 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘴, 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯, 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘢𝘴 𝘪 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘵 𝘣𝘦, 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘷𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘥, 𝘪 𝘢𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘮𝘶𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘤 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘵𝘴 𝘯𝘶𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 16 𝘢𝘯𝘥 10, 𝘪 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘵, 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨

 ✎ 𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵. 𝘳𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘴. 𝘢𝘰3. ˑ༄

The night air was filled with the scent of distant rain while your apartment was bathed in a dim amber glow, the only source of light being the cityscape peeking through the window.

The clink of ice cubes in the glass filled the room as you poured yourself a drink, the amber liquid swirling in the glass, inviting yet burning, like the memories that haunted your relationship with Leon.

People have often said that love is a journey, an exploration and a shared path of two souls finding solace in each other, but your love for Leon was more of a storm, a noisy whirlwind, a tornado that threatened to tear you apart even as it bound you together, you ran your fingertips along the rim of the glass, getting lost in the reflections dancing in the amber abyss.

𝗟𝗘𝗢𝗡 𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗗𝗬.

The name alone carried weight, weight of scars and battles fought in the name of justice, when you first met him, it was like a scene from a typical crime drama — rain soaked streets, neon lights reflecting in puddles, and there he was, silhouetted in night, with a pistol in his hand and determination etched in his stern face.

Little did you know that this meeting would reveal a story of both passion and pain, a story that refuses to follow any script, far from real drama.

People came and went like mismatched puzzle pieces, but you and Leon were shackled by invisible metal handcuffs that teetered on the brink of codependency.

The allure of his presence was intoxicating, a drug that made you both addicted to the chaos you found in each other's arms, but every high was followed by crushing lows, and the demons that tormented him seeped into your shared reality like there were multiple cracks everywhere.

The first cracks in the fragile shell of your love appeared when you realized that it was not pure affection that was keeping you together, but toxic satisfaction.

It was the satisfaction of feeling needed, of having to be indispensable in your life, the dark truth was that you clung to each other not out of genuine love, but out of a shared brokenness that, for a while, seemed , made you whole next to each other.

The nights were the hardest.

When he stumbled through the door, his breath was laced with the sharp taste of alcohol, and his eyes carried the weight of the world, the weight of what he had experienced.

You were always the one to pull him away from the bottle, witness to his breakdowns that made you feel like you were tiptoeing along the edge of a collapsing abyss, along a thin rope stretched between half collapsed houses.

— «It's none of your business» he growled, his voice hoarse due to the screams that had found a permanent home in your shared space, and you, unable to tear yourself away, always screamed back, a storm of emotions seething inside you.

You couldn’t control your voice as the lump in your throat grew with every insult that sounded like a request to «fuck off» thrown at you, and you endured it all, swallowing tears, because blaming him for the storms raging inside him was the same as blaming the sky for its thunder.

The apologies came quickly, viscously, desperately and hoarsely, each «i am so sorry» was a plea for forgiveness that inadvertently tugged at the strings of your sympathy, tearing it raw.

How can you blame him if he was not the cause of the traumas that turned him into this broken creature? It was hard to tell him it was okay, to convince him that he didn't need forgiveness, but either way, any words you spoke were muffled by the press of his lips against yours.

Sweet and sticky, his kisses were like forbidden fruit, the taste of something you craved but knew was laced with poison.

With each apology, his lips wandered down from your mouth to your neck, exploring the geography of your collarbone and beyond, below, as silent pleas for forgiveness were fervently whispered, words hanging in the air and never fulfilled.

The dance of forgiveness is played out in the spaces of your common sanctuary, once absolutely rotting from the inside, a choreography of passion and pain, and in it — you, caught in the whirlwind of his emotions, have become the involuntary protagonist of the scene that unfolded in the dim light of your apartment.

Familiar hands grip your hips tightly as he thrusts into you with a force that leaves you breathless and your eyes stinging as tears well up, not from pain, but from seething emotions, the sound of flesh slapping flesh fills the room, drowning out any other noise, filling thoughts with their naked vulgarity.

His thrusts are deliberate and controlled, an attempt to drive something, his affection, maybe, because each thrust hits you deep and hard, declaring his rights, the signs of sex and sweat hang heavily in the air, mixing with the pathetic whines escaping from your lips.

Pink lips find your collarbone, teeth sinking into the tender flesh with a mixture of desire and possessiveness, sudden and sharp, and bruises bloom on your skin, marking you as his as his pace quickens and his cock slides in and out of your wet cunt , stretching you to the limit.

Your legs, bent at the knees and stretched to the limit, tremble as pleasure flows through your body, threatening to drive you over the edge with just a couple of minutes in this position.

Calloused fingers dig into your flesh, leaving red marks as he holds you steady, relentless in his pursuit of pleasure, huffing and growling at you but not leaning in to kiss you.

As his rhythm becomes more chaotic, his cock seems to become larger, stretching you even more, forcing your wet walls to suck him deeper and feel every vein and how his tip bumps against the cervix, making you sigh every time, as if everything had been knocked out of your lungs.

In response, his hot hands grip your hips tightly, forcing your legs to spread wider, eager to penetrate even deeper as he slowly expresses and stretches your hole with just the tip before, with a wild grunt, he thrusts forward, his swollen cock passing through your trembling walls and bumping again your cervix again and again.

A harsh mixture of pleasure and pain overwhelms your senses, making you whimper and scream in a symphony of raw need, your nails digging into the bulging muscles of his arms, desperate as you cling to him for dear life, your body arching in response to the overwhelming sensations like a lost note.

He continues his relentless thrusts, the harshness of them pushing you closer to the all consuming abyss, each collision between your bodies sending shockwaves of pleasure through you as the pain in your core grows stronger and deeper.

Leon’s breath comes out in burning gasps, a primal quality unfamiliar to you takes the lead as the room fills with the sounds of your desperate cries and the wet slaps of his hips on your ass, painting the sensitive skin scarlet.

The pressure builds, coiling tightly inside you and your stomach as his cock mercilessly slams into you in an animalistic rhythm, each new thrust making you roll your eyes back and never bring them back, moaning mindlessly, to which he responds with a growl or a sigh each time.

His thrusts become more powerful, each one driving deeper and faster into your throbbing core, and each movement of his throbbing shaft inside you propels your body forward, making your breasts bounce to the rhythm of his powerful thrusts.

His weight presses against you and his muscular body bends you in half as he leans towards you, looming over you in a two faced image of either a shield or just a shadow, and his controlling stance traps you in your own mind following a wave of whines and moans.

Your legs begin to shake uncontrollably, a clear sign of the impending release within you, a powerful orgasm ripping through your body, shattering your control as you mumble incoherently, lost in a sea of ecstasy, legs practically straightening out at the knees.

— «Jus' like that, good darling, i'll show how sorry i am» Leon chuckles, his deep baritone filling the room as he watches you unravel beneath him, sweat decorating his skin and strands of damp dark hair sticking to his forehead, which he pushes back with a casual movement of his hand, revealing his achingly beautiful, chiseled face.

His thrusts do not weaken, his own need pushes him to the edge, the sounds of your moans and his grunts fill the air, merging into one single and so strangely dirty in the darkness of the room, while you whine, chewing your lips and sighing with each thrust — «T-Too mu-much, angh!»

As your orgasm subsides, the pace of Leon's thrusts quickens, his movements become more insistent but uncontrollable, he feels a burning ball growing inside him, threatening to swallow him completely.

Leon squeezes your trembling knees, spreading your legs wider, causing a mixture of pleasure and sensitivity in your overstimulated body, causing your moans of both delight and discomfort to fill the air as he continues to thrust into you with an unrelenting force, causing your toes to curl and another familiar feeling of heat bloom in the stomach.

He relishes the feeling of your smoothness, your walls stretched to their limit, accommodating his every thrust, and his growl echoes through the room, a sound that leaves his lips as he gives in to his impending release, all the while managing to coo at you as he looks at your blissful face — «Look at you, not even angry anymore, hm~»

His climax hits him like a tidal wave, and his body tenses as he fills you to the brim with his warm, pulsating cum, causing your body to shudder and arch in response, gushing clear liquid onto his cock, achieving another orgasm in a row, the sight of the white ring at the base of his cock, glistening with the mixture of his cum and your fluids, only heightens his satisfaction, making him grin as he watches you tremble beneath him.

He holds himself deep inside you for a moment, ensuring every drop of his seed is released before slowly slipping out, allowing his cum to pour out of your hole little by little as your body shakes in small convulsions.

The blue gaze is fixed on the sight of his sperm flowing out of your stretched and filled hole, and a grin spreads on his face, he quietly coos in a low rumbling voice, as if comforting and slowly returning you from the snow white noise, forcing you to turn into a putty under him, to listen to his words — «That's it, everything is going to be okay, come to me, sweetheart»

You want to cry from the rush of tenderness and sudden emotional leap as he watches with satisfaction as your body trembles and shudders, overcome by shocks of pleasure, and finally the sound of your sobs reaches his ears, a jarring mixture of pleasure, relief and perhaps even a hint of shock from the intensity of what happened.

Leon lays down on the sheets with a gentle expression, not caring about their condition, sharply pressing you against his strong, muscular body, and he hugs you, holding you tightly to his chest, the warmth of his embrace provides sharp comfort, and you even forget that brought you to this moment, going limp.

He gently squeezes you, trying to calm the involuntary trembling running through your body, knowing full well that this was led not only by intense sex, but also by what happened before, although he is trying once again to erase it from his head, both his and yours.

When you cry, your tears mix with his skin, the salty taste on your lips when he holds you securely in his arms, comforting you silently, at a loss for words, and even you yourself don’t fully understand what exactly makes you cry, but in his embrace is so good and warm, so tender as before, but will these apologies be enough?

You could feel the pulsating rhythm of his heartbeat against your skin, a constant reminder of the storm that had just passed, while the city outside, now reduced to a distant hum, seemed to mirror the noise in your chest.

𝗕𝗨𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗠𝗘𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗪𝗔𝗦 𝗗𝗜𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗧.

The realization hit you like a sudden gust of cold wind cutting through a broken apartment window, «It can't go on like this» — a desperate voice screamed in your head.

The remnants of pride, buried under layers of melancholy, made their way to the surface, it was a call from the depths of your soul, a request to get out of the abyss of dependence into which your relationship with Leon had turned.

The apartment, which had once been a refuge, now resembled a cage.

The walls whispered stories of broken promises, of an endless cycle of events as you watched him push you away again, that familiar cycle of self destruction unfolding before your eyes.

How many times have you endured this? How many times have you swallowed your pain until your throat and eyes burned with the acrid sensation?

𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘 𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗬𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗪𝗔𝗦 𝗗𝗜𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗧.

The embers of self esteem smoldered inside you and you felt a slow burning fire of determination to break free from the toxic addiction that had consumed both of you.

This realization weighs heavily on your chest — this has to stop.

The invisible cuffs that bound you to him needed to be broken, and the gravity that kept pulling you down needed to be released.

In the dim light of the evening apartment, you moved hastily, frantic energy with a fleeting flash prompted you to collect your things.

The closets willingly gave up their contents while you put clothes, memories and remnants of the history that once took place here, into bags, and the snow white walls now witnessed a hasty exodus, a desperate attempt to escape from the smoldering warmth that turned into suffocating cold.

The sharp jingling of keys and approaching footsteps echoed down the hallway, brutally interrupting your escape plan.

Panic welled up inside you as you realized that things like these never go according to plan, and you were once again paying the price for not realizing sooner, as your heart raced and your hands shook as you zipped up your bags, clouded by the fear of confrontation with him.

The door swung open, hitting the wall with a loud sound, and against the light in the corridor you saw the silhouette of Leon.

His gaze, clouded with a mixture of confusion and fatigue, locked on you, and the bedroom seemed to close around you, and the bags filled with the remains of your life were scattered like chess on a board where every step is the last.

In the midst of this chaotic picture, you froze in the tense silence that hung between you and Leon.

Your intention was to slip away quietly, to disappear without stirring up another storm, and yet you stood there like a deer caught in headlights, looking into his tired blue eyes.

Sudden regret and fear intertwined in the depths of his gaze, reflecting numerous cracks, unnoticed by anyone but you.

This is all nothing more than a battlefield where his and yours, or only your, emotions clashed in a silent war, and you longed for a way out of this cycle, like a bird in a cage, which intertwined your lives, but something kept you in place, a force, demanding recognition deep inside, gnawing into the very bones, whispering sickly.

Blue eyes that once brought comfort now glared at you with a weariness that mirrored your own.

And when his gaze darted to the bags, his eyebrows knitted in silent misunderstanding, and you felt a sense of guilt wash over you, a feeling similar to that of a child caught by surprise.

The blue eyed gaze, once warm and inviting, now sent a chill down your spine.

He looked at you, really looked at you, and the room seemed to tremble under the weight of unspoken tension, the first words that fell from his lips were not gentle, they were a growl, a demand for an explanation — «What does it all mean?»

Your throat tightens as if under your hands, a seething instinct of self defense rising within you.

You swallowed hard, the air in the room thickening as you prepared for the words that needed to be said, which slipped from your lips with noticeable heaviness — «I'm tired, Leon, i'm tired of it all»

He walked away from the door and stepped carefully, closing the distance between you.

The air crackled with tension as he studied you, and you stood your ground, not out of fear, but as if chained.

Deep down, you knew that he would not physically harm you, so you stood firm, not twitching, and in his eyes you could see a different kind of fear — the fear of losing, the fear of things being irrevocably broken and never coming back.

As he approached, the space between you was filled with unresolved emotions.

His eyes searched yours, as if trying to decipher the language written in the depths of your soul in raw form, and in that moment, something changed.

Your gaze, once submissive, met his with an intensity that surprised him, one he had not seen before, telling him that you would no longer be a passenger in what was happening and it was time to move.

His blue ones, momentarily caught off guard, widened in response to the newfound strength in yours.

You spoke without words, there was a determination in your eyes that went beyond the usual silence, patience, and for a moment Leon hesitated, as if realizing the seriousness of the situation.

There was a tense silence, an invisible tension woven between you and Leon like a taut wire.

His chest tightened, pain settling inside him as he peered into you, finding a strange hostility, an unspoken resentment that pierced the air like a dagger.

But intertwined with the hostility was a firm confidence, a confidence that sent a shiver down his spine.

Then he felt it — a coming storm that would completely destroy him.

The flow of his thoughts was abruptly interrupted.

The simple but devastating words slipped from your lips like silk, but the sharpness of their impact was reflected in him — «I'm leaving»

It was as if everything inside him had collapsed.

The air in the room became thick, and he felt like he was falling to his knees in a fog.

The low growl that had colored his voice moments ago was gone, replaced by a muted vulnerability, his brows, once furrowed in a frown of disappointment, now arched in pleading as he looked at you, the hostility in your eyes mirrored by an unfamiliar sadness in his.

He felt like an abandoned dog, left alone in a kennel during a tornado.

His gaze slid along the contours of your face, catching a fleeting image of your eyes wandering over his sloppy stubble, bruises under tired eyes and dark, slightly disheveled hair.

His chest tightened even more, a mixture of longing and despair overwhelmed him, he wanted to reach out, grab you and pull you away from the abyss, but the confidence in your eyes held him back, and the fog in his head seemed to thicken so much that it made it difficult to find the right words.

— «You can't just walk away» he managed to say, the words escaping him like an unintentional plea.

Your gaze lingered on him, a hint of indecision flashed across your face, but your original feelings remained unshaken.

It was a devastating contrast — his vulnerability and your strength.

The urge to call it a prank, to insist that you were wrong, stabbed in your throat, but you swallowed the words and the final weight of the truth fell on him.

The silence stretched on, he finally realized the seriousness of what was happening, this was not a joke at all — this was the unraveling of a narrative that had become so complicated that it was so difficult to maintain it any longer.

The weight of the bags, filled with everything you had managed to hastily collect, seemed strangely heavy on the tips of your fingers.

Every object that had once been a sign of permanence now carried with it the weight of an impending farewell.

And everything around seemed to dim as you picked up your bags.

His eyes met yours in a silent plea for understanding, tension hanging thick like storm clouds on the horizon.

You sighed, tasting the remnants of something that had slipped through your fingers in the air.

— «I'm breaking up with you» the words came out like a scene from a cheap drama, and the weight of their impact echoed throughout the room.

His expression faltered, a shadow of disbelief appearing on his face.

The air around you immediately froze as you looked into his eyes, and the gravity of the moment fell like a lead curtain.

For a moment he stood frozen, as if expecting a joke that never came.

A flash of anger flashed across his face, a defense mechanism activated to protect him from emotional shock — «It's kind of a stupid, bad joke, isn't it?» he spat, a mixture of disappointment and disbelief in his voice.

But as you took a step forward, past his frozen figure, realization seemed to dawn in his eyes.

Denial disappeared, replaced by desperate anguish, he reached out and squeezed your hand in a vice — «No» he whispered, and the word fell from his lips like a prayer.

You felt the warmth of his hand on yours, his grip tightening as if trying to bind you to a reality he refused to accept.

His eyes, now filled with tears, met yours in obvious plea.

— «Why?» he asked, and the word was shrouded in confusion — «What's the matter? Why are you doing this?»

Questions hung in the air, and the silence that came again this time was saturated with emotion, tears flowed down his cheeks, and you bit your lips, unable to free your hand from his desperate grip.

It was a paradox — his confusion mirrored your own, the pain of the breakup mixed with the realization that he didn't even understand why.

A bitter laugh threatened to escape your lips, born from the pain of the situation, from the cruel irony that he was not aware of the reasons for your decision — «You don't even know» you whispered, your voice caught in the coma in your throat.

His grip on your hand tightened even more, as if he was trying to hold on to the slipping reality — «Tell me» he begged, the desperation in his voice tugging at the strings of your resolve.

The warmth left your hand as you pulled it away from Leon's desperate grip.

A sudden cold seemed to penetrate the room, and cold, not at all warm, tears flowed down your cheeks.

Your voice, sounding with resentment and trembling, cut through the silence that hung between you.

— «You've turned my whole life upside down» a muttering that holds weight.

His blue eyes, once filled with unexpected tenderness and childlike affection, shimmered with a vulnerability that reflected the general one, his hand reached out again, desperately trying to find the warmth that had escaped — «No» he whispered again, his voice laced with apology and uncertainty.

— «Then you destroyed it» you added, the words filled with bitterness that cut through the tension.

The light in his eyes flickered, going out like lights, he clung to your hand again, the warmth seeping into your veins again as if trying to gain a foothold.

— «I love you so much» he admitted, his voice shaking with emotion.

You snorted in disbelief, the sound mixing with the unsteady rhythm of sobs echoing through the room.

Tears blurred your vision as you cried not only from the pain of leaving, but also from the realization that he didn't fully understand the reasons for your decision.

— «You like to use me» you muttered in a hoarse voice, the words pierced the air like bitter truth — «You like it when i put up with you, when i depend on you»

His grip tightened, a silent plea for understanding — «I am so sorry» he whispered, apologies tried to crush, secure at the same dead center.

But your resolve only strengthened.

You couldn't stay in this cycle, in this improvisation of dependence and destruction.

Suddenly you pulled away from him, breaking the physical connection that seemed to tie you to a past you could no longer bear.

You rushed towards your bags, the front door beckoning to you and you knew you had to leave before the familiar pull of his presence pulled you back.

Desperately, you threw the door open, the cool night air a stark contrast to the suffocating atmosphere of the room, a breath of fresh air.

He screamed your name, a desperate plea in his voice — «Please don't leave! I can change, i can get better!»

But his words now sounded hollow in your ears.

You walked outside with your bags in your hands, the city outside your door indifferent to the personal storm raging inside as your heart raced.

His voice followed you, a distant echo of apologies and desperate declarations of love, tears now flowing freely and with every step you felt a sense of both relief and grief.

You knew that leaving him behind meant leaving a part of you, a part intertwined with him forever.

The door slammed behind you, the sound echoing down the corridor like the final chord of a melancholy symphony.

The city outside spread out before you, and as you walked away, the mismatched pieces of your life, the same puzzles, seemed to fly away in the wind, and the streetlights cast long shadows, and with every step you carried the weight of an end and the promise of a new beginning.

Meanwhile, Leon remained on the other side of the door, alone in the empty space that was once filled with laughter, love and shared dreams.

He sat on the floor, knees pressed against the cool surface, unable to find the strength to stand up, move, or catch up with the reality that was collapsing around him.

The room suddenly became huge, the walls holding remnants, and silent tears flowed down his cheeks and he didn't say a word, his cries merging with the silence that enveloped him, a mausoleum of memories, every corner of which was inhabited by the ghosts of a now broken relationship.

The new emptiness mirrored the emptiness within him.

The streets are blurry, your vision is blurred by tears that refuse to stop, the rhythm of the city seemed to mock the broken rhythm of your heart, but you moved on, driven by the instinct to escape, to forget, you felt as if you were suffocating with every breath that seemed, stuck in my throat.

While Leon remained on his knees, in the room where the walls closed in around him, and his hands clenched into fists, his fingers dug into the carpet, as if if he didn't hold on to something, he would simply slip away, just like the once fragile bonds built.

Each step along the streets took you further away from the place that once radiated warmth and love, sobs falling endlessly from your lips as with each step you tried your best to put distance between yourself and the apartment, between yourself and the man who, like you once thought it, would be yours forever.

taglist: @roseglazedlens, @scar-crossedlvrs, @daydreamrot, @valsthearecs, @kennedyswhore-old dm me if you want to be tagged in my works or open my taglist

#[ ✒️july writing ] #leon kennedy x fem reader #leon scott kennedy smut #leon kennedy x reader #leon kennedy hurt #leon scott kennedy x reader #leon kennedy smut #leon scott kennedy hurt #leon kennedy hurt/comfort #leon scott kennedy x fem reader #leon scott kennedy x you #leon scott kennedy comfort #leon kennedy x you #leon kennedy hurt no comfort #leon kennedy fic #leon kennedy fanfic #vendetta leon #vendetta leon kennedy

[anantaru]

𝗛𝗢𝗪 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗬 𝗛𝗨𝗚 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗗𝗖𝗔𝗡𝗢𝗡𝗦 !

˖˚˳⊹ how they hug you headcanons feat. itto : ayato : childe : kazuha : gorou : xiao : venti : kaeya x gn! reader

˖˚˳⊹ genre: fluff

bearhugs with itto because he‘s just way too big in comparision with your own body. You‘d fit inside multiple times in his arms if you were being honest. Loves to pick you up in front of everybody and swing you around like a ragdoll because he thinks it‘s cute.

hugging you from behind with ayato because he enjoys the trust and intimacy that goes hand in hand with this particular method. Always achieves surprising you, since he‘s busy most of the time, looping his arms around your body to pull you close, and the warmth from his body combined with the excitement of his proximity left you feeling breathless.

putting his head on your chest while hugging you with childe, so he‘ll be able to listen to your heart pick up on pace whenever he‘s close to you. Hands lazily holding onto your waist while you embrace him into a loving hug, reassuring you‘ll forever be his and only his in this world.

laying in between your thighs with kazuha while you have your arms circled around his body, or lazily brushing away his hair while he’s remiscing about his adventures. He‘ll talk about literally anything in that position, it‘s just so comfortable and cozy to him and the way he fits perfectly in between your thighs is an important bonus for Kazuha. There isn‘t anything he‘ll prefer to do on those kind of days.

being the big spoon for gorou whenever he comes home late at night after a busy day of work. Stroking his unruly hair far away his face while being careful of not touching his sensitive ears, kissing his cheeks and relaxing his muscles down greatly. The warmth of his smile would never go lost on you, and you thought about how lucky you truly were to have someone like gorou by your side.

making sure you're okay with him touching you before xiao moves closer to your body, heart racing and overall nervous. It wasn't easy for him to touch someone and initiate intimacy ever, he'd most likely never do it but wait until you show him that you want to be close to him. Slowly sliding you into his embrace, realizing how his breath got slower and calm, feeling as if he was home now.

hugging you under the large oak tree in windrise with venti, who‘ll have his arms around your neck while pushing you against his chest. His fingertips would prance over your back ever so lightly while humming something underneath his breath, forever cherishing those little memories like no other and also being able to relax himself even though of short while.

hugging you while you straddle his lap with kaeya. He could go crazy whenever the both of you do this. The warmth radiating off your body was beyond belief while his hands were placed on top of your behind, slowly kneading your flesh and whispering into your ear how you‘re his forever and that he'll never let you go.

do not! share, copy or repost my work ✎ ©ANANTARU 2022

#itto x reader #ayato x reader #childe x reader #kazuha x reader #gorou x reader #kaeya x reader #tartaglia x reader #xiao x reader #venti x reader #kamisato ayato x reader #genshin impact xiao #itto x you #kazuha x you #genshin impact venti x reader #genshin x reader #genshin impact x reader

[https-furina]

✎ puppy love.

ft. gorou x fem!reader

w.c. 2.8k words

content: human!reader, some scenes are based from gorou’s hangout event, inazuma archon quest spoilers if you’ve not completed/got that far, gorou being a lovestruck pup and pining, reader does not have a vision, a little hurt/comfort? not proofread + not edited (i will get around to doing this soon)

notes: i started this at 4am with no real plot in mind, just a love for a certain puppy and now it’s 11am and this is probably utter crap but i love gorou so much

you remember him distinctly from when you were kids. pointy ears and a tail just would never stop wagging, you seemed slightly perplexed seeing him again adorning armour and a strict face as he gave out orders to soldiers. you’d come to visit to your older brother stationed at watatsumi island with the resistance but you had never imagined that bright eyed puppy to be his general of all people.

why was you so surprised? you remember the day that gorou told you he was leaving for watatsumi island. you were mumbling about what fabric to choose for your next kimono and you didn’t miss gorou’s vivid excitement as he rambled about a resistance being formed on watatsumi island against the shogunate. at the time, you were still kids so you were harsh in your approach to gorou’s excitement. “are you trying to get yourself killed?” you whispered in a hiss, not missing how his tail’s wagging slowed when he didn’t receive the support from you he thought he would. gorou wouldn’t understand your fears however as you watched him sail off for watatsumi island, hands clasped to your chest as you quietly prayed to the electro archon for his safe return to narukami island.

suddenly you regretted your choices coming to watatsumi to visit your brother. was this really that healthy for you, seeing him again? you could have kept writing letters to him and you’d never have to see those little fangs poke gorou’s lower lip as he smiled at the soldiers, his strict aura lifted as if the ordering was over. you was out of earshot so whatever was said was confidential, most likely for the best. you wondered if you should approach gorou to ask about your brother’s whereabouts but a familiar tap on your shoulder caused you to whip around on your heel, burying your face into your brother’s chest.

“stop gawking at the general,” he laughed, pulling away from you - did he not remember gorou from your childhood? “i’ll have to take you watatsumi sightseeing!”

you pouted, lips pursed as you solemnly followed your brother away from the village. you were confused as to how he seemed to forget all the summer days he had to fetch you from your evenings laying in the long grass with the puppy child, the two of you basking in the warm sun. you were so lost in your thoughts, you didn’t catch gorou’s reaction to seeing your familiar hair colour leaving the village and the gentle waft of your scent in the wind after all these years.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“are you not coming back home now that the raiden shogun has stood down and lifted the decrees?” you mumbled, tucking your knees under your chin as you watched the waves dance up the shoreline, white froth tickling at your bare feet. your brother stood beside you, a sigh leaving his lips loud enough for you to hear.

“my home is with the resistance now, y/n,” he doesn’t seem pleased but you’re old enough to understand the situation now, “i can always visit narukami one day though.”

it wasn’t particularly an answer. with the vision hunt decree and the sakoku decree gone, why was there still a resistance? why was there still the need to be cautious for more bloodshed, for more innocent souls to be lost? you bit your tongue. what if one of those innocent souls was one day your brother who foolishly would not come home?

nodding, you didn’t respond to your brother. you’d be leaving watatsumi island empty handed with only the fleeting moments of seeing your childhood friend clinging to your memories.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

gorou cursed the day he left for the resistance, seeing you on that shoreline with the sunset painting you golden hues as he sailed away. he’d left you with a fractured friendship, torn over morals regarding the shogunate. while you didn’t particularly support the raiden shogun and her ways of governing, you wasn’t happy about a resistance being formed in chances that people would lose their lives. gorou knew that he was one of those people that you were especially scared of losing their life but he had to do what was right.

that’s why when he saw your older brother turn up to enroll in the resistance, he suddenly had a lump in his throat. he was determined to protect him for your sake, so he sent him to watatsumi island away from the fighting. gorou remembers this well as he watched your brother return to the village, your scent clinging to him but you were nowhere to be seen - had you left for narukami island so soon? that’s when gorou noticed that if your brother was a hybrid too, he’d be sporting flattened ears and a tail tucked between his legs to match the deflated aura he carried with him as he wandered aimlessly back to where he’d spent the past few years.

gorou’s own ears flattened at the thought that you’d gone back to narukami island upset once more.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

you were supposed to be waiting for your friend, thoma but he had to hurry off to the komore teahouse, promising you that he’d accompany you another day but something urgent had came up. that left you alone, twirling a sakura decorated parasol over your shoulder as it kept you shaded from inazuma’s summer heat. the air was humid and it left you sticky even in the thinly layered outfit you had chosen. without thoma, you were left to mindlessly wander inazuma city’s streets, bustling as always. the ms. hina fanclub was congregated outside of the yae publishing house and you could only ponder what antics guuji yae was up to this time.

squeezing through the crowd and making your way up the cobble steps, you didn’t quite literally think you’d run into the cunning pink fox and even more so the flustered ginger dog that was gorou. you froze on the spot immediately, wondering if you should shove yourself back into the crowd to escape the situation or continue walking past like you never knew gorou - you knew well enough at yae miko would notice you however. you were a regular at the grand narukami shrine after all, praying for your brother.

her purple irises flickered to you in an instance as if she had read your mind, they creased into half moons as she gave you a sickeningly sweet smile, one that was quite the polar opposite to her personality. your name utters from her lips and you see the way gorou tenses, his ears are perked and you can’t help but wonder if he’s equally as scared of the confrontation as you are.

“i haven’t seen you for a while at the shrine,” miko muses, giggling behind her hand, “how did the visit to your brother go?”

you attempt to fake a smile but you’ve never been fantastic about lying with emotions. your knuckles are white around the parasol handle and your heart is racing thousands of miles per hour - can gorou hear it?

“it was okay - the usual, guuji yae,” you mumbled as you suddenly recalled the events of your watatsumi island visit, “i don’t think i’ll visit for a while. what brings you to the city?”

“i just had to drop off some letters to our general here and then i’ll be heading back to the shrine.” miko emphasised the ‘our’ and you caught onto it, glancing at gorou to see him already looking at you. it was uncomfortable but somehow you still cherished it, to have his attention again after all these years. miko bid her farewell, sauntering past you as she left for the yae publishing house.

“y/n…” gorou started, his voice trailing off as his tail lowered. you pursed your lips, missing the days where it felt as if he could take off with the amount of wagging his tail would do.

“so you’re still alive?” you sounded a little bitter but you didn’t mean to. of course you knew he was still alive, as if you hadn’t watched him at watatsumi island like your long lost lover had returned from war. the thought made you scowl somewhat. if gorou was even somewhat like your brother, there didn’t appear to be a ‘return from the war.’

“you could say that,” gorou laughed awkwardly, a hand reaching up to scratch the back of his neck. you noticed his ears curled downwards and wondered if it was because of your tone a few moments prior, “you haven’t changed at all.”

his words caught you off guard, winding you of air as you suddenly felt out of breath. your eyes darted away from gorou to the views that the heights of inazuma city bestowed upon you, chewing your lower lip with your teeth. gorou cleared his throat, seeming just as flustered with his words as you was.

“i can’t say the same for you,” you mumbled, trying to release the grip you had on your parasol handle but it was the only thing keeping you grounded to the reality of speaking to gorou again, “i didn’t expect you to return to narukami island.”

“i’m mainly here for her excellency, she likes novels from the yae publishing house but…” his voice trailed as he looked at the thin stack of letters in his hand. you swallowed the lump in your throat, standing straighter to fix your posture.

“i better leave you to it then,” you hummed in an attempt at being polite, making your way to the stairs as you realised your time outside of the family estate was coming to an end, “it was nice seeing you gorou.”

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

gorou settled himself underneath the tree, stacks of letters in his hands as he began to sift through them, replying to them with advice he would give them. as was his duty as the anonymous person answering letters in the ‘that’s life’ magazine’s advice column. he would do this monthly since the war ended, every time he finds that inazuma city has changed slightly more; be it more food vendors, or perhaps it’s got busier or the atmosphere has changed.

he thinks back to how he saw you moments prior. he relinquishes in how close he was to you again, your scent suffocating him in a warm hug as if he’d ever forget it. gorou grimaces at the thoughts. he should have spoken to you more or chosen his words better but he couldn’t help feeling scared to see you - even more scared than he was to see yae miko. the general shakes his head, lowering his gaze back down to the letters at hand. one in particular catches his eye.

it’s written by one of his soldiers, someone who he has taken into battle. he can’t pinpoint who as the yae publishing house write all the letters up themselves and erase any indication of a name. the soldier is from narukami island, yet is devoted to her excellency and the resistance. he’s thankful for the resistance for giving him a family and taking care of him but he longs to see narukami island again, to see the sakura and his sister that he writes to often. gorou’s grip on the paper suddenly tightens, dinting the sheet under his fingertips. was this your brother?

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

the tune of a children’s lullaby leaves you in the form of a hum as you twirl your parasol with one hand. the other hand is collecting sakura petals dropped onto the grass, slipping them into a silk pouch every time you crouched down as to not dirty your clothing. with every step, you near the shore that you stood at when gorou left you. the air turns cold as you remember it.

the waves crashed against the rocks, painting them in froth before it disappeared once again into the water. had you been too harsh on him with your tone? a drastic sigh leaves your lips, you don’t even hear footsteps approach you from behind. he debates whether he should say something, you’re clearly thinking.

“fancy seeing you here.” his ears twitch as a gasp comes from you, your body whipping around to see him. he lets out a nervous smile that shows his fangs poking his lower lip, his usual. he doesn’t see the way the gesture makes your eyes prick with tears, the sunset glowing orange on you both.

“gorou i’m-” the male shook his head, cutting your apology short as his tail lowers, almost tucking itself and he looks out at the sea.

“no, i’m sorry y/n, i said some really rash things back then because we didn’t see eye to eye about my decisions,” gorou’s voice was sincere and now the tears were threatening to spill, “but i’ve learnt that it wasn’t entirely my decisions you didn’t agree on, you was scared for me and i didn’t even give it a thought.”

a singular tear rolled down your cheek, the trail it left glittering in the sunset and causing gorou’s ears to perk in alarm. he began apologising profusely, panicking and unsure what to do in this situation as gorou suddenly became the gorou you remembered. the fidgety, easily embarrassed pup who didn’t know what to do when someone was upset or even had a crush on him.

“can we start again?” you whispered. gorou nodded in response, taking in your features again as you stood before him. even though you was crying, he couldn’t deny you were still as beautiful as when he left you on this beach years ago. in fact, perhaps you’d simply matured a little and grown a few inches in height but you were almost a splitting image of the sobbing y/n he left behind stubbornly.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

“why, good morning y/n.” her voice sounds like a melody and you smile as you turned to see kokomi stood at the sangonomiya shrine’s stairs. she’s smiling, her aura as angelic as ever.

“good morning your excellency,” you return politely, thankful that your constant visits to see your brother and gorou on watatsumi island had got you acquainted with the military stategist, “you wouldn’t have perhaps seen the general this morning, have you?”

“he should be at the old archon shrine on the cliffs, he said to send you there if i happen to stumble upon you.” kokomi giggled, taking her leave as you hummed, not budging from your spot. why in teyvat would he be at the old shrine? you don’t think you’ve heard of him going there since you started having contact with him again.

yet you still make your way to the shrine, albeit worn out and low on breath by the time you make it there. kokomi hadn’t lied however as you spot his pair of ears, staring out at the views. you approached, catching how his tail began wagging faster than the speed of light - there really was no surprising this man.

“what brings you all the way up here?” you mused, standing beside gorou as you finally take sight of the views he’d been admiring. the skies were clear and if you squinted hard enough, you could see liyue in the distance. gorou wrapped an arm around your waist, bringing you closer to his side as he rested his head against yours.

you feel the gentle thump of his tail wagging as it barely caught the back of your legs from the close proximity the two of you shared. when gorou didn’t reply straight away, you placed a hand over his and simply enjoyed the warmth the canine emitted. he was almost constantly a temperature you could suffocate yourself in all the time, even when you was kids.

“one day we’ll leave inazuma and travel.” gorou suddenly commented, making you laugh as you looked up at the man. he smiled down at you, slight dimples appearing on his cheeks and you felt a hot flush overcome you suddenly as you realised how close your faces were. no matter how much hand holding and hugging you had done these past few months, the two of you hadn’t kissed.

gorou contemplated for a moment, a rosey pink hue dusting his cheeks and the tip of his nose. his wagging slowed but was still present and for a moment, he thinks screw it as he leaned down and pressed his lips to yours. your lips taste sweet, like the dango milk you’d became obsessed with - he assumed you’d had some on your boat journey to watatsumi. whereas to you, gorou tastes of mint, thanks to his habit of plucking wild mint as a snack since he lives on rations all the time.

your hands slowly graze up gorou’s body, linking behind his neck as your fingertips brush the ginger hair at the back of his neck and suddenly his tail curls around your waist. for a moment, everything feels okay. you feel safe and even better, you know that gorou is safe despite his dumb - in your opinion - childhood decisions.

© https-heizou 2023.

#꒰꒰・♡ soft pillows #genshin impact #genshin #genshin fluff #genshin x reader #genshin headcanons #genshin imagines #genshin gorou #gorou x reader #https-heizou

[some-beans]

Hello Author-nim! If you don't mind could you please do my request about GN!MC as Lapis from Steven Universe?

(sorry if i have grammatical mistake)

Have a good day/night Author-nim ♡

ugh i love steven universe

and i'm going to assume this is for twst, so i'll just do the overblot gang

also sorry for the long wait, some personal stuff, yk?? also this lowkey sucks

I'M NOT GONNA INCLUDE MALLUES CUZ OF SPOILERS

✎...pairing: overblot gang x lapis lazuli!reader

✎...themes: trauma, claustrophobia, mentions of past toxic

relationships, panic attacks

✎...notes: reader being a lowkey mood, can you tell

which characters are easier to write, reader is

gn with they/them in mind

✎...enjoy !!

𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐃𝐋𝐄

you had a feeling of what had caused his overblot

and seeing his memories and him crying like a child that only wanted his mother's love hit something deep within you

you comforted riddle ー somewhat awkwardly, mind you ー which prompted him to ask how you knew what this was

a toxic relationship

you simply just said, "i know what it's like. . . to be shackled. . ."

and riddle left it at that

he wouldn't the school to be encased by the water

𝐋𝐄𝐎𝐍𝐀

his roars and aggression made you remember them

just as loud and prideful

it set you off

panic filled your senses and water surrounded everyone

leona grew angry at the fact his unique magic was being washed away

but that anger was swept away like the changing tides

when he awoke from his overblot, he noticed you, back facing him but he could smell both panic and rage coming from you

𝐀𝐙𝐔𝐋

water

both his and your element

yet he still lost

after all, you weren't even human, to begin with, so no underwater breathing potion was needed

you could easily see through his confident facade, quickly breaking him down with your sharp words

this allowed someone to knock him out, allowing you to see his memories

𝐉𝐀𝐌𝐈𝐋

being controlled was something you despised

and you sort to end jamil's overblot quickly as it came

you locked him in water chains, swiftly caging him

he panicked and tried to use his unique magic on you, but you simply closed your eyes and allowed to see through the flow of water

god, why did this also remind you of them??

pushing the memories aside, you quickly made jamil unconscious and brought him back

𝐕𝐈𝐋

seeing him being obsessed with that mirror, made you reject any and all advances he made to converse with you

well, any mirror ー especially, a hand mirror ー brought back so many bad memories

countless wars and loneliness you have seen

claustrophobic and trapped, all alone

which leads you to quickly break any mirrors that vil owned, especially after his overblot

obviously, vil became upset, but seeing the look on your face whenever you looked a mirror made it click

something had happened to you in your past to make you fearful of mirrors

𝐈𝐃𝐈𝐀

seeing his crazy technology made you afraid

who knows what weird shit he could use to trap you once more when he was in his overblot state

this lead to you quickly lashing out and trapping him in water, effectively bringing him back down to earth

the fear was something idia recognise easily ー after all, he was filled with it

he slowly made sure not have anything that you deemed claustrophobic and trappable was nowhere in sight

#💌 some-beans requests !! #twst x reader #twst headcanons #twisted wonderland x reader #twst wonderland x reader #lapis lazuli reader #overblot gang

[happy74827]

Can you do Young Neil x reader ^.^?

Art of the Mixtape

[Neil Nordegraf x Female!Reader]

Synopsis: In true Neil fashion, he gives you the best birthday present he possibly can.

WC: 1942

Category: Fluff

I literally passed out while writing this on the couch last night, so I had to finish it today, but here ya go! Our precious Young Neil 🥰

『••✎••』

In the dim glow of Neil's room, scattered with posters of indie bands and vintage comics, he hunched over his old cassette player. His fingers delicately selected each track, infusing the mixtape with a subtle rhythm that mirrored the beating of his heart.

He knew he was being a little overly sentimental, but your birthday was one of the few times each year he was allowed to be a bit gushy, a rare occasion where he could take his time, choosing his words and actions with deliberate care. It was almost like the world was on pause for a moment as he navigated the relationship.

It was a simple thing, a few notes strung together on tape, but Neil carefully considered every word.

For you, the song's lyrics are more than just lyrics—they are an expression of his emotions, one that would surely be lost on anyone else. But in your hands, he knows you will understand him better than anyone.

"Love is like a fire; the more you try to hold onto it, the faster it burns."

The words are burning into your brain when Neil presses play.

You're still unsure what the song is meant to say, but you've come to realize how much it means to Neil. As the track loops for a third time, you sneak a glance over to him—his eyes are closed, and his lips are slightly parted. You wonder what he sees in this moment—perhaps he is lost in a memory. You try to picture what he might be thinking of, but you're not sure if your imagination could do it justice.

In the past, you were never very good at interpreting what someone was trying to convey, and the times when you tried to express your feelings always left you with a sickly feeling in your stomach—a heavy knot of nerves that would eventually bubble up into bouts of tears. It's not that you were unaware of what Neil wanted to say, but rather, you were too scared even to imagine it.

The cassette player runs through its cycle a fourth time before the song finishes playing, and Neil's eyes slowly open. His gaze meets yours, and you can see the soft glow of his smile reflected in his eyes. You don't need to say anything because his smile is an unspoken promise of an affection that will last far longer than any cassette tape could possibly play.

His smile fades slowly as he leans towards you. As his lips meet yours, you swear that you can hear the song playing once again in a new refrain—one that promises more than a handful of words.

“Happy birthday…” Neil says quietly, and you swear you can see a faint blush rising to his cheeks. You know how difficult it is for him to be so candidly emotional. You know the words he longs to express—he's told you time and again—but he's afraid to say them out loud.

You're grateful for that. You know it's not an easy thing for him.

You kiss him again and smile.

"Thank you... I love it."

"It's nothing, really. Just uh, small gift." He looks at you with his warm, tender gaze, and you know he's worried you might not like it. "I know you like the vintage stuff, and uh, I found this old cassette player, so I just thought—"

You gently place your hand on his.

"Neil... thank you."

He averts his gaze, and you can see that he's bashfully smiling. He tucks his hair behind his ear and shakes his head lightly.

"I, uh, I'm glad you liked it."

He turns to look back at you and gives you another gentle smile. He seems content just to gaze upon your face, but you don't mind it. After a long moment, he glances down and turns his attention to the cassette player in his hands.

"There's uh, there's more. If you want to hear them..."

He holds the cassette player out to you. You take it in your hands. You turn the cassette player over in your fingers and feel its weight. It's an old cassette player—you know he had to have spent some time scouring thrift shops for it. It's one of the few things he owned that had a personal attachment to it. He was the one to first introduce you to mixtapes and indie music, after all.

You glance down at the player and then back at Neil. He's looking at you expectantly. You know he's hoping for a particular reaction. It's only natural that he would expect that sort of response from you. But, as he's well aware, it's not something that comes so easily.

You smile and nod.

"Of course."

You open the cassette player, and another one of the tracks begins to play. You recognize the melody—it's the song Neil played for you the very first day you met him. The song was a lot more incoherent then, but now the melody is clear. Neil put some time and effort into choosing each track. You can see it now in the careful way he arranged the songs on the cassette. He'd gone out of his way to create a playlist that fit your preferences.

"It's beautiful."

Neil seems surprised to hear your voice, but it quickly melts into a soft smile.

"You think so?" He hesitantly reaches out to touch your hand, and you can see his cheeks turn a shade darker. He runs his fingertips along your palm and gently traces the lines of your hand. "I wasn't sure if... I wanted to get you anything since I know you don't really like, uh, receiving gifts. I just wanted to make something for you, I guess..."

He looks at you, and you see a hint of nervousness in his expression. You can't help but chuckle to yourself. You give his hand a gentle squeeze, and his expression softens. You smile, and he smiles back.

"I love it," you tell him.

Neil smiles wider, and you know that he knows you're sincere. The tension in his shoulders visibly relaxes as he looks back at you. He nods in reply.

"Good," he says. He pauses for a moment, and then he continues, "I wanted to make something for you, but, I dunno, I didn't know if it was right for you or... it would have been too weird..."

You raise an eyebrow at him. "Too weird?"

Neil shakes his head and glances away. "Well, I wanted to make something, like, something you might have liked, but I just... I dunno, I kept thinking that you might not be interested and, uh, I thought, I mean, you're so cool, you know, and..."

You laugh as he begins to ramble. You squeeze his hand and gently pull him closer to you. He tries to look away from you, but you reach up to cup his chin, turning his gaze towards you. You kiss his cheek, and he looks away bashfully.

"Thank you," you say softly. "I don't need anything more than this."

He looks at you, and you smile.

"You mean it?"

You nod. "It's perfect."

He glances down and shyly smiles. He hesitantly reaches out to tuck some of your hair behind your ear, his fingertips lightly brushing your skin as they trail down. You lean into his touch, closing your eyes as you feel the warmth of his hand on your cheek. His thumb brushes against your skin, and your smile widens.

The cassette player is still playing softly, but you don't care. The song isn't important, not right now. You have a different song to sing, and the melody you wish to sing is nothing he could ever hope to craft in a tape player.

You wrap your arms around him, pulling him close as you press your lips against his again. His lips are warm and soft, and you swear you can feel the gentle vibrations as the melody plays out. He relaxes in your embrace and places his hand on the small of your back, his fingers tracing the curve of your spine as his fingertips press into your skin.

His breath is warm, and his heartbeat is steady, and the more you hold him, the more you can feel him. His lips are gentle as he returns your kiss, his hands holding you tenderly, and the longer you kiss, the more you long for his touch. The soft sound of his song playing in the background makes you feel like time has stopped, and all that matters is this moment, where your lips are pressed against his.

And even when Stephen barged in, shattering the peaceful silence of the moment, it still wasn't enough to break the spell. Neil looked at you with that same bashful, sweet smile he wore moments ago, and you could feel your heart melting.

Stephen glanced between the two of you, then sighed.

"Neil," he said, "Steph called again. She wants to make sure you’re aware that she’s visiting in two days. Are you?”

“Uh, yeah. I know. I talked to her... earlier.”

“Alright, cool. Hurry up and eat then. We have practice, remember? I can only cover for so long...”

Stephen left the room, leaving you and Neil alone again. Neil smiled sheepishly at you, and you knew that he'd forgotten about the practice session Stephen was talking about. You only halfheartedly remembered the date Stephen had mentioned, but you were more interested in watching Neil's reaction to being scolded.

"He's right," you tell him, "Can’t have Sex Bob-Omb without their bassist."

Neil laughs, and you feel your heart melt at the sound of his voice. “Maybe, uh, you can join us sometime? You could bring your drums or uh... I don't know, like a guitar or something."

You smirk. "Is that an invitation to jam with you guys?"

"Sure, why not? You're a better player than me."

You chuckle and shake your head. "I don't think that's true. Even Scott said you’re better than he was. Even the whole ‘Young Neil’ thing was dropped. I think you should be proud of that. I know I am."

"Yeah?"

You nod. "Of course. I'm very proud of you, Neil."

Neil's cheeks turn a faint pink as he ducks his head slightly. He laughs and shakes his head. "I, uh, I guess that's good to hear, I guess." He glances up at you, and you catch the way he's trying to hide a smile. "Thanks."

You lean close to him, brushing your lips against his cheek. He sighs, and you kiss him again. "You're welcome. I'm glad I get to help Sex Bob-Omb live out its dream."

He laughs softly, his hand cupping your cheek. He kisses you again and pulls you closer. The cassette player is still playing, and you've almost forgotten what song it is. Almost.

"Do you really think I'm good enough?"

You kiss him again and wrap your arms around him.

"You're the best."

His smile grows wider, and he buries his face against your neck. His laugh is soft, and his lips linger on your skin. You squeeze him tighter, and he presses his forehead against you, breathing in your scent.

"Thank you, really," he says, his voice barely above a whisper.

"It’s my birthday wisdom to share."

"Yeah, yeah... Happy birthday, really."

He lifts his head to look at you and smiles, and you're sure there's no place in the world that you would rather be than right here, holding him. Because that’s all you'll ever need—a cassette player, an old song, and your love.

#young neil #young neil x reader #young neil x female!reader #spvtw young neil #x reader #reader #fanfic #fanfiction #neil nordegraf x reader #young neil gifs #neil nordegraf #neil nordegraf x female!reader #neil nordegraf x yn #young neil/reader #neil nordegraf/reader #johnny simmons #johnny simmons x reader #spvtw #spvtw post #spvstw #spto #spto spoilers #scott pilgrim x reader #scott pilgrim fanfiction #scott pilgrim vs the world fanfiction #scott pilgrim vs the world #scott pilgrim vs. the world #scott pilgrim takes off #scott pilgrim #young neil x yn

[alatusxiaoo]

✎ [ 17. ] get away with anything

you stare up at the sprawling sight in front of you with bewilderment.

massive cream-colored pillars towered proudly before the both of your comparably tinier frames, as the welcome banners strung across the museum’s open entrance fluttered delicately in the afternoon breeze — dancing to the background noises of the bustling city and chattering visitors.

truth be told, the unfathomed venue of your spontaneous date leaves you utterly speechless.

“you…”

“you probably don’t recall this yet…but you actually told me back then,” heizou hummed softly in response, staring up at the historical structure with an equal amount of adoration. “during the competition. after we wagered our bets and you said you’ve always wanted to visit a museum because it had free admission.”

he chuckles briefly at the interesting memory of your frugality, thinking to himself with a rather satisfied grin. “i remembered.”

your gaze flickers towards the surprisingly thoughtful boy standing next to you — at his loosely tied auburn hair and the strands framing his pale face, at his white button-up and arm rolled sleeves, at his awe-stricken smile and the enchanted gleam painting his eyes.

“shall we?” heizou beams, politely holding a hand out to you.

seems like feigning interest in him really wasn’t bound to be much of a challenge…

“we shall.” you smile without hesitation, lightly taking your fingers in his.

you leave your jackets by the entrance of the building before proceeding inside. heizou’s hands are cold as you tread through the museum with glittering gazes of curiosity. sad to say — neither of you were particularly knowledgeable when it came to the realm of historical events, so you and your date had spent the first couple of minutes merely wandering around the venue with an air of innocence and wonder, seemingly akin to two lost puppies.

despite the initial and obvious lack of expertise, you found yourself highly amused when heizou suddenly began to put on a play of passionate effort in pretending to be a well-informed tour guide — concocting awfully ridiculous yet humorous facts about each of the displays you happened to pass by.

you occasionally chimed in to make foolish jokes and took turns fabricating all sorts of tales on the history behind the exhibits. much to your dignity, you also successfully managed to return most of his flirty lines. though you tried to limit your voices and conversations to hushed whispers, you could often tell that you were both on the receiving end of disdained stares from other visitors.

in the midst of your conversation, heizou didn’t seem to be giving in too easily into your infrequently woven questions about what transpired at the party. you wanted to be confident in the fact that expressing interest was going to be enough, but he seemed to be able to see through your poor endeavors of forcing yourself to act flirty. his eluding behavior made it seem as though something strange did happen between the both of you that night — and you figured feigning attraction wasn’t simply going to be enough to pry for concrete answers.

“quick question, do you think i’d be able to get away with thieving run-down artifacts?” you randomly blurt in the middle of your journey around the building, suddenly catching sight of an artistic collection of jewelry flaunted behind a glass frame.

heizou pauses in his tracks, stunned by your words as he follows your gaze to the wall. “you want to steal…this?” he squints his eyes at the exhibited ornaments. “i didn’t realize you were into archival jewelry.”

“it’s a hypothetical question.” you snicker, rolling your eyes. “besides, you’re a criminology major, so i was curious.”

“i’m supposed to be a good guy, my darling watson.” he smirks, raising an eyebrow at you as if to prove a point.

“aw, entertain me for a bit here. just tell me if i’d get away with it.”

heizou falls into silence as his eyes flicker in hasty glances from you to the artifacts, legitimately contemplating the theoretical circumstance for a fleeting moment.

“i think you could.” he muses in response.

“seriously?”

“sure. i mean, if it was me at least, i’d let you get away with anything.” he laughs, winking over at you with a sly smile. “but why steal those shabby jewels when you can take my heart anytime?”

you wince at the flirtatious line, yet lift a hand to cover your face after failing to stifle the flush that blossoms across your cheeks. “ugh, that was definitely one of your better ones.”

“i see you blushing through the cracks, watson.”

“moving on, then!”

the true chaos only begins halfway through your museum date — when the both of you stumble perchance across a little kids’ area littered with dress up bins.

one mischievous look exchanged between one another was all it took to scramble towards the filed crates in suppressed laughter.

you managed to try on all the hats with heizou after rifling through them for several minutes, the sound of muffled snickers and hushed snapshots ringing through the half-deserted area. his arm firmly wrapped around your shoulder, your hand gently pressed against his chest, his fingers fumbling with the camera and breathing clumsy whispers, your mouth flowering into a sincere smile as you gaze at him before meeting the black lens.

albeit, your momentary bubble of happiness began to gradually deflate when much of the passerby who stared at you two with peculiar expressions presumed you were both creepy strangers who have been lounging around the kids area for a prolonged while now…

and it wasn’t even a surprise anymore when a pair of security guards eventually came approaching your huddled figures in long strides…almost certainly with the intent to kick suspicious visitors out.

but before you had even fully registered the situation, you were both already running off the opposite direction with gasps of childish laughter — hands instinctively intertwined as you began to make your great escape despite still sporting some of the hats on your heads.

it’s a dashing pursuit that doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon with either side proclaiming defeat, no matter how many turns you take and how many diversion attempts you make.

heizou suddenly backs you into a tiny corner behind one of the colossal statues near the exit, your chests heaving in weighty breaths and sweat dripping down your temples out of exhaustion. his hand is against the wall, trapping your body in between — and you tilt your head slightly to peek over his shoulder to see whether your pursuers had managed to follow suit once more.

“are they there?” heizou asks through smothered pants.

“they’re here, but i don’t think they see us.” you whisper, leaning back to the wall once more to catch your breath.

you close your eyes to calm yourself, feeling the warmth of the bonnet wrapped around your head heat your feverish face even more.

heizou’s breaths tenderly tickle your cheeks more than you’d want them to. eyes softly fluttering open, you know it isn’t much of a revelation to find his head inching dangerously close to yours.

“sorry, just a little longer.” he breathes in reassurance, blinking a tad too rapidly as his eyes anxiously dart anywhere else but at your face. his top hat also starts to slide down his hair due to minor yet excessive movements.

why does it seem like he’s panicking a bit too much?

and then you catch a glimpse of it. through the shadows, a flush crawling from the tips of his ears and roseating the skin of his face.

“oh my god,” you whisper-shout with widened irises, clasping a hand against your mouth in astonishment at your discovery.

“heizou. you’re blushing.”

“what?” he audibly scoffs in disbelief, tilting his head to the side without being able to meet your mystified gaze. “i am not.”

“yes you are!”

“i am not.”

“you’ve never been this close to a girl before.” you piece together in amusement, desperately trying to stifle the laugh that threatens to escape your mouth.

“i—” heizou swallows thickly at your declaration. “…fine. maybe just a little.”

“and yet here you went, shamelessly flirting with every girl you saw.”

“so what if i’m blushing anyway?!” he snorts at your victorious expression, cheeks growing a further shade darker.

“i should use this as leverage.” you smile as you move closer, teeth sinking down on your lip at the devious thought of it.

“leverage..?” heizou barely registers your words, dazedly staring down at your mouth.

“yes! you promised to tell me what happened to me the night at the party.” you nod eagerly, beaming with delight. “and you kept dodging my questions like a fucking weasel. this is the perfect opportunity to get exactly what i want.”

“aha. that’s real cute, my watson.” he strains a proud smile, hardly managing to tear his eyes off your lips. “…fine, you got me. can’t have everyone randomly flustering me tomorrow.”

“it’s a promise.”

“hmm…the party,” heizou ponders, shifting his weight to lean on the arm pressed to the wall. he nudges his top hat to a more stable position on his head. “as far as i remember, we first ran into each other at around early nine. you were getting a drink and i happened to be doing the same as well, but we only shared a brief conversation before you went and left to find your friends.”

“we met later on again at approximately ten thirty, i believe we held our drinking competition by then. you suggested on wagering bets and chose a favor as your prize, and i chose taking you on a date as mine.” he winks triumphantly, and you ignore the slight blush painting your cheeks. “i’m certain that’s all i saw of you that evening.”

“…really?”

“mhm, that’s it.”

you narrow your eyes at him, feeling dubious about his rather brief answer. “are you sure?”

he shrugs with a roguish smile. “like i said. it really is a shame you still haven’t regained your memory from that evening.”

“i don’t trust you.” you frown, distancing yourself from him as you rest deeper into the wall — carefully processing the information previously surrendered.

“i’m a little offended.” he chuckles. “but i suppose it’s only natural that you think things aren’t always as they seem.”

“why do you say that?”

“because,” he gestures to the both of you with his other hand. “you believe i took you out on a date under the premise that i won a drinking competition.”

“well, did you not take me out because of just that?” you furrow your eyebrows, feeling even more confused.

“exactly.”

new questions only formulate at the back of your head. you’re about to open your mouth to push the matter and demand further answers, however you can already see from over his shoulder that the guards have finally disappeared.

“are they gone?”

“yeah. let’s get out of here.” you tap his arm, stepping out from the confined space of shadows. raising an arm to wipe the sweat off your brow, you exhale a sigh of relief knowing that you didn’t have to worry about those guards clamoring your way.

you hear your date shuffle and follow suit from behind, and you turn around to see his hands stuffed within his pockets. you’re ashamed to admit that you were enchanted with how attractive rolled up sleeves made him look.

“we should probably leave before they come back to find us again.” heizou sighs in disappointment. “just when it was getting even more interesting…”

“what about our hats?” you ask, slightly embarrassed by the bonnet still lingering upon your head like a crown.

“well we’re not exactly in a position to make another appearance back at the kids area,” he smiles sheepishly, slowly walking towards the exit of the museum. “we should keep it, i don’t think anyone will notice. think of it as a nice souvenir from our memorable date. besides, you look rather cute in it.”

you feel the corners of your lips raising in a knowing grin as you trail his footsteps. “oh? i thought you said you were supposed to be a good guy.”

“i am.” heizou simpers, stopping in his tracks as he turns back to offer his warm hand towards you for one last time.

“but i told you, didn’t i? as long as it’s me, i don’t mind letting you get away with anything. although i suppose we’ll have to save you whisking away my heart for another time ~ ”

I WISH YOU WERE SOBER — [ previous. masterlist. next ]

synopsis — in which you were never really one for spontaneity or precipitous decisions, until you got yourself drunk at your senior year university party and woke up the next morning with the most dreadful of hangovers…along with a painfully distorted memory of a stolen kiss on that hazy evening.

note — belated christmas everyone! <3 here’s a date with heizou as a gift hehehe

taglist — @tihgnari @ceylestia @eissaaaa @venyan @sohyuki @senjurro @bobaducky @dinoshimaaa @sharoshing @ioverjn @hey-comrade-hold-stil @skaramush @lesboluvs @clovcly @ventuswhat @zephestia @theother-victoria @neptun-es @ihaveahunterlisence @minyoungieee @astolary @wrenhyperfixates @heartonthemoon @goodthingimsam @capybara4lyfers @slvdsjjk @michelindu @kimiesstuff @itssoizzy @kazuzux @hiqhkey @layla240 @justrisahere @one-offmind @diaflower @liquor-kissez @tokanite @pooonyo @sweetstrawberrybabe @yeeden @nejibot @lcvez @rion-s @sakushoujo @koiir @lost-wicked-artist @q1ngx1n @yer1sdi4ry @bleedingwhiteroses222 @starglitterz @xdncrkay @uwak-uwak-uwak-uwak @apyrose @zanashair

#fanfic #fem reader #genshin impact #SMAU — i wish you were sober #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact headcannons #genshin impact imagines #genshin impact drabbles #genshin albedo #albedo x reader #genshin ayato #ayato x reader #genshin childe #childe x reader #genshin diluc #diluc x reader #genshin kazuha #kazuha x reader #genshin heizou #heizou x reader #genshin thoma #thoma x reader #genshin xiao #xiao x reader #genshin scaramouche #scaramouche x reader

[mlmxreader]

War Takes Everything | Johnny Soap MacTavish x m!reader

『••✎••』

↳ ❝ Hi! I was wondering if I could request an angsty M!reader x Soap Mactavish where Soap mourns the reader? Hope you're having a great day. - @magarudyn-e ❞

: ̗̀➛ War will bring nothing but death and destruction, it does not discriminate and nor does it hesitate. War does not care what, or who, it takes.

: ̗̀➛ toxic gas, trench warfare, eaten alive, vomit, swearing, death, war

↳ @mockerycrow @seigwaidau @arthurmorgansballsack

•───────────────★•♛•★──────────────•

Trembling hands were met with something wet and sticky, blurred vision making everything incoherent to steel grey eyes; Soap swallowed thickly, trying to calm his ragged breaths but to no avail.

He told Price, begged him, not to send you; he begged and he pleaded, insisting that it was suicide - but you still followed your orders.

You still went out into those scarred and cursed lands where trees did not grow and grass did not blow.

Nothing had lived there for years, the great gaping wounds caused by harsh shelling had ripped the organs from everything and scattered it all around; tree branches rotted to nothing as the birds wept solemnly before fleeing.

The shells and grenades caused nought but destruction and death. The grey and lifeless hand of death touched everything on those lands with its clawed fingers, strangling it with fingertips digging into soft throats.

It was a horrid, despicable, place. Land was squabbled over, only to be lost within hours. Shrapnel chewed into body parts with jagged and rusted teeth, pulling it apart and refusing to let go.

Not even angels could be heard above the roar of the devil's symphony. Not even all the power in heaven could have stopped it. For everybody involved, trench warfare meant death; infection and disease ran rampant, spreading thickly just like the lice and fleas and ticks and rats.

Decent food was difficult to come by, stale bread with stale biscuits and occasionally lice fried over small fires, hardly even cooked; some resorted to eating the rats and mice that scampered around. Plump and juicy from feeding on dying men who cried out for their mothers as they died during the nights between either side.

At the end of the day, there was never any enemy to fight; Soap understood that, now.

He understood that those on the opposite side were merely doing the exact same, and that the blood on his hands could never be washed off; every life he had taken meant something, was someone. He could not go back and change that.

Yet it was still all so clear in his memory. The cold and damp, slick mud sticking to his trousers and seeping in through to his knees; the feeling of something wet and sticky on his hands as he howled and cried out for your family - yet they did not come.

They never would.

He could remember the cold feel of your skin and the greenish yellow foam upon your lips that you had choked on; the ultimate weapon of cruelty. Toxic gas. Used by both sides.

He could still remember sobbing loudly as he shooed rats away from you, screaming at them until his voice was hoarse and raw; he could still remember the soft kiss he had planted to your skin with his warm lips, and how he did not feel your chest rise and fall beneath his hand.

He swallowed thickly as he stared at the photo; you and Soap celebrating Saint David's day together. You had dragged him along as payment for him making you go to every single match that the Spartans played.

You had a daffodil and a leek on your hat, proudly wearing the flag as a cape; kissing his cheek right as he took the photo and grinned. It used to be his favourite picture, and now it only made his stomach churn.

Your things had all been packed by Gaz and Price, who had honestly been a massive help although he could not admit it; Ghost was indifferent.

Then again, Ghost always preferred you over Soap, and it wouldn't have been a shock if he blamed him for what happened. They got along, sure, but Soap never called him a friend; Ghost always called you his friend, though.

"Now why couldn't you have told Price to shove it?" Soap whimpered, his bottom lip trembling as he fell to the floor with his hands on the sides of his head. "Why couldn't you disobey one bloody order?!"

He knew you wouldn't answer. Of course he did.

You were meant to be his husband one day, you were meant to get married and to settle down and retire together; but you always knew that you would die in the battlefield. You always seemed to act like every day was the last, because in the life of a soldier, even just a single year meant a miracle.

Gripping his mohawk with one hand, Soap could feel the hairs ripping as he howled loudly; enough to make the neighbour bang on the wall to tell him to shut up. He hung his head, weeping.

He couldn't remember much of the funeral, except being dragged away from you by a weeping and sobbing Gaz, and he couldn't remember the weeks that passed, either.

Everything seemed like it wasn't real.

Licking his lips, Soap ignored his phone when it began to ring, and shook his head as he frowned and sunk down lower; lying on his side with his knees pulled to his chest as he snivelled and sniffled. He shrunk in on himself, especially when the door opened.

"Oi!" Gaz's voice. It wobbled and shook like he was seconds away from tears. "Johnny! I, erm... look. I thought... I thought you might... bollocks. Fuck it. I thought you might want to come with me to Price's - Ghost ain't gonna be there, and we're... we're gonna talk about him... about your husband..."

Soap could only sob louder, Gaz's footsteps getting closer; he heard Gaz sit beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"Cry all you want," Gaz managed to say. "I'm gonna cry with you..."

Gaz had been your best friend, your reason for joining the army and the SAS, and although Soap knew that it was selfish to think so, he didn't want him there; he wanted to grieve and to weep in peace until he fell asleep on that cold floor surrounded by nothing and no one once more.

You had died too young, just as every soldier who fought in wars did, and you died for nothing; there was no enemy, no glory, no honour. There was nothing that war could have given, it could only ever take.

#mlem writes #john soap mactavish x reader #johnny soap mactavish x reader #soap mactavish x reader #soap mactavish x you #soap mactavish imagine #soap mactavish fanfiction #soap mactavish fanfic #soap mactavish #soap x reader #soap x you #soap x y/n #soap imagine #soap fanfic #soap mw2 #soap cod #john soap mactavish #john mactavish fanfiction #johnny mactavish #john mactavish x reader #mactavish #cod x reader #cod x you #cod x y/n #cod imagine #cod fanfiction #cod fic #cod fanfic #cod #call of duty x reader