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moonchildsaurora · 3 years

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Darling, Dance for Me?

✤ sniper!San x female exotic dancer!reader ✤ genre: Mafia AU // 30% fluff, 60% spice, 10% platonic flirting with Woo ✤ t/w: mentions of guns/shooting, mentions of alcohol, mature clubbing themes, highly suggestive in the second half (but not smut), rated M ✤ count: 2k+

a/n - this was suppose to be for Valentine’s Day but, oh well! Enjoy some spice with one pink haired Sannie, coz we all know even though he looks soft. . . .he’s just a devil in disguise. This is probs my most suggestive writing till date as well, it was fun and am looking forward to writing more spice in the future hehet 💙

✛ play these vibes: BOBBY - ‘DeViL’, Sunmi - ‘Black Pearl’, Kai - ‘Mmmh’ ✛

“Mother told me, never to dance with the devil, So I danced for him instead.”

Cherry rouge.

Not your usual go-to, but a special occasion calls for some special exceptions. And damn did you look like fine wine tonight. Giving your styled curls another spritz of hair spray, you took one last inspection in your vanity mirror.

Work was throwing a Valentine’s event and thus you found yourself having to dig through the back of your wardrobe to find a suitable outfit for tonight. Bold burgundy lace hugged tightly around your body replacing the mellower neutral tones you’d wear on any other night. Your roommate had even shoved a pair of thigh highs and heels on you to match the garter.

And cherry lips to bring the whole look together.

“You’ll thank me later! Hell everyone in the club would, for presenting god’s gift to them!”

You had laughed at her supportive enthusiasm, waving her away with embarrassment though you greatly appreciated the pre-shift hype.

When you headed for the kitchen, you could hear the TV in the lounge and glanced to see your roommate watching the evening news. She turned to call out for you but stopped mid-way upon realising you were already out of your room.

“Damn girl…you’ll sure be breaking hearts tonight with that fit!!” she yelled-gasped, brows waggling for a cheeky added effect.

“Well that’s no good. Dancers are supposed to be Cupids of the night, maybe they should’ve given me Aphrodite instead.”

A smile tugged on your lips as you saw your roommate falling back on the sofa snickering. Grabbing the bottle of Ten to One from what you both named ‘The Life Juice’ shelf, you started to fill your rose gold hip flask with the white rum. The debonair bartender at the club would usually be more than happy to concoct you a cup of much-needed poison to get you through the night. However, on such a busy event, you might not even have time to swing by the bar – so plan B was in order.

Also, whoever thought to invent garter pouches was a genius in your eyes. The amount of times you had snuck in a sip or two up on the podium without missing a beat or being noticed had to be one of your greatest feat till date.

Except maybe for the one who bought said pouch and flask for you. Seeing the shadow of their pleased smirk whenever you donned on something from them never failed to coax the goosebumps across your skin. Perhaps that garnet embellished choker would be the icing on the cake then. You made a mental note to put that on before you headed out.

“Hey honey…”

The tone of your roommate turned a little more serious.

“On the news just then, another one of those random sniper attacks happened along Soleil Street. Shit, that’s only two streets away from the club.”

The city has gotten used to such news every now and then. All leads of the serial sniper always went cold, not that they left behind any substantial traces for the authorities to begin with.

The law wasn’t the only ruling force in the area. Everyone knew that.

So long as one didn’t attract the wrong attention, they’d be free to go about their business.

“I’m dropping you off, are you ready to go?”

“Wait! It’s alright, I don’t want to trouble you.”

Your roommate gave you a look before swiping her car keys from the counter. “What would trouble me is not knowing whether you’ve made it to work and back safely. Now c’mon, the night is awaiting that cute booty of yours!”

“Yes mum.”

How lucky were you to have an angel for a roommate?

“Give me a heads up if you intend to bring anyone home tonight yeah? I’ll be sure to vacate the apartment before any sinning begins here.”

Or not.

A euphoric buzz filled every corner of the club tonight. Whether it was due to the special occasion or not, everyone was getting drunk off the atmosphere. The bar was a never-ending fountain of liquid luck and smoke veiled corners of the venue where patrons dealt cards and wits. A sea of bodies dominated the dancefloor, curling around one another in ecstasy as the thumping bass set the rhythm for them.

The centre podium was where the real magic unfurled.

Up on there, you felt powerful. Up on there, was your domain to rule.

Long have you enticed all those who returned back to ‘The Blue Butterfly’. So close, yet so far, for most could only have the visual satisfaction. Of watching you, along with your fellow dancers weave around golden poles and offer hands to those who sat in plush velvet chairs closest to the podium. Only to sashay away the last minute.

How bees are drawn to nectar and moths to light, the people keep coming back.

Tonight the club was decked out in a more sensual feel to fit the Valentine’s vibe. Long drapes of rose silk hung around the podium and you used those to accentuate the flow and movement of your body curves. The silks caressed the bare skin not hidden underneath your outfit and you pretended to take shy peeks around the fabrics at the audience. Sending a lucky wink or flying kiss their way.

In the middle of a mid-air twirl, you saw a familiar figure heading towards your side of the podium. You slowly lowered yourself back down to the floor, using your legs to wrap around the silks as leverage. Not missing the opportunity to be playful – you mimed shooting an arrow towards the club’s top croupier.

Wooyoung instantly clutched his heart with his hand that wasn’t occupied with holding one of Mingi’s own cocktail infusion. Letting out a hearty giggle, you slid over the podium floors to the edge where Wooyoung had propped himself up on.

“Don’t you look simply irresistible?” he crooned at you.

You could’ve said the exact same for him. All fitted to a tee in Givenchy with a classic choker that demanded attention for prominent collarbones.

“Now, how may I be of service to you tonight handsome?” you spoke over the music.

The youthful charmer leaned in towards you, shaking dark wavy strands out of his eyes. Eyeing his cotton candy pink drink, you ducked your head and took a few sips from the straw before Wooyoung drew it away. It tasted vaguely like pink lemonade with hints of vodka and vanilla.

“Ah ah, this isn’t for you poppet. Besides…” he tipped your chin back up with two fingers, “…wouldn’t want to waste your appetite before your main course tonight, would we?”

That made you perk right up.

“V.I.P Room Aurora has kindly requested for you. Drinks have already been sent up and the room’s been booked for the whole night.”

Not that booking was really needed since it was your room. It was just for formality.

Wooyoung helped you off the podium and smoothly guided you through the crowd, placing you in front of him so as to avoid being grabbed by uninvited hands from behind. You both stopped at the foot of the polished glass stairs that led up to the V.I.P guest rooms.

“Off you go now! Oh and try not to make too much of a mess for our cleaners, they really ought to get a pay rise from some of the things they’ve witnessed in those rooms.”

You would’ve kicked Wooyoung for his brazen tongue, but you did well to remind yourself that would be rather impudent on your part. Whilst you have a jovial bond with him, it still doesn’t erase his high-standing status within the inner circle. You knew better than to cross that line of respect.

“Won’t make any promises I can’t keep, Jung!”

You left him with a soft pat on his cheek and ascended towards your utopia that awaited.

Swinging the golden embossed doors open, sultry melodious tune of a saxophone greeted you. Like molten dark chocolate, it was rich and tantalizing. The crystalline blue hue of the room’s lighting was fitting for the slow jazzy blues.

A spacious circular sofa curved around a glass table in the centre, providing a perfect view of the bejewelled podium. The wide one-way windows were especially designed for privacy. You could spectate over almost the whole club below, something you quite enjoyed during your breaks. The countless types of people that you observed stepping into your world; from the timid newcomers to the seasoned hedonists and the stories they brought with them of their journey to ‘The Blue Butterfly’.

But there was no time for that tonight. Not when you see broad sculptured shoulders that your hands have meticulously memorised the planes of – right in front of you.

Still clad in his all-black incognito leather fit, you couldn’t help but stay by the door to appreciate his form. A huge bouquet of ivory and deep red roses sat on the glass table with an open box of what you suspected were chocolates inside. A loud pop of the champagne bottle went off. You bit your lips when you saw his toned arms flex as he gripped the bottle in one hand and tipped a stream of golden bubbles into two flute glasses in the other.

As the music picked up, you decided it was time to make your presence known. Walking with confident steps over the velveteen carpet you went to wrap your arms around his cinched waist. Resting your cheek on the cool leather vest of his back, you took his scent in.

Smoke and city musk lingered around.

You figured he must’ve come straight from his assignment. What better reason to use than to spoil him extra as post-work relaxation? His hand came up to wrap around yours and you felt the dancing of lips leaving petal kisses across your knuckles.

“You stink…” you mumbled lightly against his back.

San let out a low chuckle before setting the champagne bottle down and turning around to snake both arms around you. Calloused hands from the years of gripping guns instead of supple flesh imprinted their warm touch into your skin.

“Oh? Then I’m sure you won’t mind helping me freshen up, right Princess?”

“San!” you squealed when you felt him deliberately rub sweat against your neck before attacking it with more love bites.

“You taste like sweet temptation.”

You arched your neck out of habit when you felt his tongue swipe across it. Teeth bit down lightly around the garnet choker San bought for you for Christmas.

When you felt hands travelling down west towards your garter, you gave San a light shove backwards to the sofa.

“Not so fast, Choi.”

His predatory feline eyes took its time to rake down your body, committing every inch to memory. You made a show of bending over to grab the two champagne flutes off the table, the sharp intake of breath behind you made you preen with pride. You took your seat on your throne, not at all surprised to feel how much pent-up tension San had through the tight leather.

Clink. A toast made for the love of two.

“Happy Valentine’s, darling.”

“Thank you, San. You sure know how to spoil a lady don’t you?”

“Only the one who’s sniped right through my heart.”

Oh the irony.

You smiled when he pulled you close and claimed a proper kiss, whispering a, “You sap,” against his wind-chapped lips. Tasting the fruit acidity from the golden bubbles as you both exchanged kitten licks.

San’s rouge-stained lips chased after yours when you broke off from the kiss to place your champagne flute back down on the table. Hands anchoring your hips in place as you reached to pluck a couverture chocolate-covered strawberry from the box. Turning back round to San, your lips formed a small pout noticing that his freshly dyed hair was still hidden underneath his cap.

He let you discard it behind the sofa and you could’ve sworn he purred with satisfaction when you ran your hands through his cotton candy pink strands. Hands gave your bottom a firm squeeze and San begun to run his fingers along the hem of your lace. The husky vocals from the record player drifted back, interlacing with the saxophone.

That was your cue.

“Eyes on me.”

You held San’s gaze, fire reflecting fire. The strawberry gets slipped past the seams of his lips and all the while San chews intently, his eyes never wavered. He’s got his precious pearl all to himself, just the way he loves it. And you have the city’s most lethal hitman watching your back from dawn to dusk. San was the dangerous game you played, only to win the safest love.

“Darling, won’t you please dance for me?”

“With pleasure, Sir.”

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sugarplumwriter · 3 years

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Confessions {Part 1}

1980s!Johnny Lawrence x Reader

A/N: So I have quite a bit I want to get out of my system. I just really need some writing and innocent fantasies right now. Enjoy.

Summary: You confess your feelings to your high school crush, Johnny Lawrence.

Warnings: unrequited love, L2 (English is only my 2nd language)

{Masterlist}

About several months ago, Johnny and Ali broke up.

Your friend had told you that before everybody at school knew and before everybody started talking about it for the following two weeks afterwards. She told you that just how she had told you two years ago that they started dating. And you could still remember how crushed you were when you found out.

The night you found out, you and two of your friends were having a sleepover at one of their houses, and she had just briefly mentioned what Ali had told her that morning at school. Since they were pretty good friends, your friend always knew what was going on in Ali's life. And despite not being her friend yourself, you were on good terms, and you respected Ali.

Back then no one knew you had feelings for Johnny, not even you had realized that, yet. Your mind had gone numb to this information at first, and it wasn't until you were picked up by your parent the next day and brought back home, that you finally began crying just as you got in the shower and the water started running. You didn't let anyone find out about your feelings and no one ever did.

You cried only that one time, and you were great at handling yourself at school, around your friends and especially around Ali. Also, you weren't angry, of course, you were only hurt.

But now that they weren't together anymore, and it seemed like that wouldn't change any time soon, the feelings you were trying to bury for so long, began to surface again.

Out of respect you had distanced yourself, out of respect you were suppressing your feelings and out of respect you hadn't told anyone, but now, there wasn't a reason for all that anymore so naturally all the chains lifted themselves and your feelings became stronger and more present than ever.

All this, however, had given you new hope. You finally wanted to take action. You wanted to open up about your feelings for him, and you wanted that person to be him.

So, you told yourself, you'd confess to him on his next birthday, which was just a month away.

When his birthday rolled around, you weren't really scared or anything like that per se. You felt good about that decision, and it was something you were really looking forward to.

So, you kept an eye out to catch him when he was alone. Of course, you didn't want an audience for such an intimate moment. But that was way harder than you had anticipated.

When you just got to school that day, he was surrounded by his friends. Then later in the hallways there was always someone he was talking to. You didn't share any classes with him that day, so your last hope was to wait till school ended in hopes of catching him alone then.

But you didn't. And the next day wasn't any better, either. It all kind of felt like you weren't supposed to confess to him at this point which made you almost give up.

The same afternoon of that second day, you were meeting some friends at the beach. All the while you were hanging out with them, it really tempted you to tell them what you were attempting. But you didn't have the courage. How could you have courage to tell Johnny, then? you thought to yourself. It all dawned on you, that it probably wouldn’t change anything between you two anyways. He probably didn’t care, or he would’ve made a move himself.

"Hey." One of your friends waved her hand in front of you.

"Hmh?" you grumbled and looked at her. You were fiddling with your jacket right before she addressed you, so you hadn’t even noticed when she sat next to you.

"Are you alright?" Luckily, the others didn't hear her. They were playing volleyball. You stopped playing because it was becoming very windy and your mood was kind of bad anyways.

"Yeah ...” You paused. “Well uhm actually ..."

You weren’t sure if you wanted to talk about it or if you’d only regret it afterwards.

But you kind of wanted a second opinion. You trusted this friend a lot.

"You can tell me, you know. You've been quite absent the past couple of days," she said and sat closer to you. Her expression was worried and very serious. Not what you wanted at all, but it felt comforting.

And just like that you opened up. You two ended up talking for the rest of the evening. You didn't tell her it was Johnny you were having feelings for, but she supported you in confessing and respected that you wouldn’t tell her unless the confession was successful. Although she expressed some doubts and worries, overall, she wanted you to shoot your shot

It gave you strength and determination and you told yourself that night that you’d confess the next day or you wouldn't confess at all.

The next morning wasn’t much different than the others. You were still keeping an eye out for Johnny and hoped he’d be alone sometime.

He wasn’t alone all throughout the school day, though, but after the last period, in great surprise, he was walking alone right in front of you.

The perfect moment finally came. Building up all your courage and thinking about what you’d say to him in a stream of thoughts, you nervously looked at his back. His blonde hair, nice tan and great smell put you in a kind of trance. Suddenly, you were numb.

“Ah, Joh-“ You stopped in your tracks. Disappointment filled your stomach.

The blonde entered the bathroom and was out of sight.

Now, what? you thought.

Not wanting to remain on the same spot forever, you started walking and eventually left the building.

A lot of things went through your mind but the most prominent one was Wait just for a little longer. You also told yourself that if he happened to pass by you, you’d stop him and tell him right then and there. So, you stood there and waited. You scanned the surroundings for other students you knew but you didn’t recognize anyone except a small group of girls who were laughing and talking to each other and seemed pretty occupied by their own business.

After a minute or two, Johnny appeared behind a corner and made his way walking right past you. Without hesitation, you called his name.

“Johnny!”

He stopped and turned around.

“Wait,” you added and walked up to him.

As you were standing in front of him, looking at him and into his bright eyes, you were lost for words. Your mind was completely blank and the only thing you were able to get out was: “I like you.”

“Oh, uhm …,” Johnny was visibly taken aback. “I haven’t thought about you in such a way,” he muttered out.

It took you a moment to react. “Ah, okay.”

“I mean, we don’t really know each other that well.”

“That’s not really something I can control, though.”

He looked on the ground then back up.

“I guess. I’m not really looking for something like that right now. After what happened with … you know,” he explained.

“So, uhm, well ... I just wanted to tell you that. I hope I didn’t make you feel uncomfortable.”

“As long as it made you feel better.”

“Yeah.”

You two looked at each other.

“Oh and uhm, I would appreciate if you didn’t tell anyone,” you added.

“I won’t, promise.”

He smiled at you which warmed your heart and you smiled back.

You were looking for more words but everything had been said.

“See you around, then.”

“See you, y/n.”

After that you turned around and started heading home. Your body was filled with adrenaline and if felt like your skin was burning.

Many emotions made themselves noticeable but the strongest one was relief. You finally felt like this situation wasn’t in your hands anymore and that felt freeing and refreshing.

Despite his respond, you felt like you did yourself a great favor.

You never regretted that you told him, which didn’t mean it was easy for you, either. Seeing him the next day and all the other days after that was painful. But in a good way.

Now you had an open wound that could start healing instead of a burning pain under your skin.

{Part 2/finale}

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lovelivingmydreams · 4 years

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My nieces are fanders

Summary: When you meet a super cute guy and land a date with him, you definitively want to gush about him with someone. In Nico’s case that someone is his oldest sister. The visit holds a surprise for him though.

This is part of a bigger story which starts here

Nico was humming to himself as he walked up the driveway to his older sister’s house.

“I can’t wait to tell Marcia all about Thomas!” Félix gushed. It’d been a week since they met him and while they had yet to look him up, deciding it was cheating a little to watch his content and maybe accidentally see more than Thomas wanted to share before they even went on their first date. Ràmon, his morally flexible, deceptive facet, still thought they should at least just check his accounts to make sure he didn’t oversell himself. “I’m sort of known on youtube” might just have been an exaggeration to impress him. Léon, his fury, was already working himself up over being misled when the others came to Thomas’ defense. He seemed rather humble about all his accomplishments. He deserved the benefit of the doubt. “She’ll be so excited for us!” Fabio, his heart, gushed. “Hope mom and dad won’t be too upset that they aren’t the first we told…” Alejo worried as he bit his lip. “We will tell them about Thomas if we come to a stage where we are ‘officially’ dating him,” Diego, his logic, reminds him. It was how they did things. His parents were a bit too supportive sometimes. If he mentioned Thomas, mom would start insisting he come over for dinner no matter how Nico insisted they weren’t that serious yet. His father would ask questions he didn’t have answers for and he would feel entirely too pressured… Best to tell them after he and Thomas got a bit farther. And he really hoped he would get to tell them about him soon. He rang the bell and soon the door opened to reveal a beaming Marcia. “You smelled my cooking didn’t you?” she asked. Nico chuckled. “You caught me,” he confessed as he threw his hands up in surrender while letting her embrace him. “It’s good to see you again hermanito,” she sighed before letting him go and leading him inside. “Dinner will be ready in ten minutes. Yi will be home soon and he’ll entertain the kids afterwards so you can tell me what’s got you sparkling like the fourth of July.” Marcia looked back at him and quirked a brow curiously. Nico blushed a little. He was that obvious huh? His sisters eyes lit up and she was grinning like th cat that got the cream. Well he just confirmed her suspicion. “Okay, sounds good,” he muttered casually. Luckily Marcia let it go for now. “Can I get you something to drink?” she asked. “Just a glass of water is fine,” Nico assured her while he leaned against the kitchen counter to watch her work. “Tio Nico!” Nico looked up and saw Marcia’s oldest, his 15 year old niece Carla run up towards him to give him a hug. He embraced his niece with a smile and ruffled her hair. “How are you kids doing?” he asked as the teen girl let go. “Fine. Felicia hasn’t finished her homework yet, but she will be down in a minute.” Nico nodded taking note of cousin’s pronouns for today. It had been an adjustment for everyone when Fabien came out of his room wearing a skirt for the first time and asked to be called Felicia on days she felt more feminine, but they hardly slipped up anymore. “We have something awesome to show you!” Carla continued her eyes sparking with excitement. “Oh?” he asked curiously. “What is it?” “Don’t start without me!” Felicia exclaimed as she rushed through the door and hugged Nico as well. “Now I’m getting nervous,” Nico chuckled as he let his nieces push him into a chair and sit down next to him. Carla was looking something up on her phone while Felicia seemed to be using hers to film him. “Tio Nico. Have you ever been serenaded by a stranger?” Felicia asked. The general confusion in Nico’s head left him with no other response other than cocking his head. “Um… no…?” he replied. His nieces giggled. And then Carla pushed her phone in front of him and they shoved earbuds into his ears. She pressed play and before he knew it he was faced with…. “Thomas!!!!” Félix screeched in his head. It was unfair of him to look so handsome. And then he started singing! “Nico, radiant and pure. Always so, accepting and secure. Never knew anyone so kind. So funny and sharp of mind. All this to say… Have a nice day.” And then he winked! Nico’s nieces were giggling at his flustered face. Alejo inspected the screen and found a description in the corner. “This week’s #shout out Sunday goes to all the nice Nico’s of the world” he read out as he slowly relaxed. Nothing that insinuated Thomas was thinking of a particular Nico. His nieces had probably just thought it was fun to show him the video. Perhaps they thought he’d be enchanted by the handsome stranger with the voice of an angel seemingly singing for him. They weren’t entirely wrong. “That’s Thomas Sanders. He’s our favorite youtuber,” Felicia explained. Nico nodded a little dumbfounded. “He’s a singer?” he guessed, though he knew he was more than that. But he was not ready to tell his nieces he’d met this man and was going on a date with him next week. “And an actor, and the nicest person alive!” Clara explained. “He lives in Florida and he is gay…” Félicia added not too subtle, wiggling her eyebrows suggestively. “Stop teasing your uncle girls. Set the table. We’ll be eating soon.” Nico was relieved. The rest of the evening he struggled to pay attention to the conversations at the dinner table. His mind was absolute chaos “He serenaded us! Actually serenaded us!” Felix gushed dancing around unable to contain his elation. “And it does sound like he is somewhat successful in entertaining his audience. He was telling the truth it seems,” Ràmon allowed. Leon nodded, calming down significantly. Leon had been part of the deeper recesses of Nico’s mind for a long time. Until one day he was called by a panicked Carla who was hiding from bigots with her sister. Nico had hurried over and gotten them out. But he’d been so close to hitting one of those kids. It had been Alejo who, in his worry for the girls’ well-being, had managed to hold Leon back enough to allow Fabio to reason with him. His writings had taken a much angrier tone for a few days after. Ever since that day, Nico was aware that he could get violent when angry and he’d been working on managing Leon without pushing him away. Like Alejo he was mostly overprotective of the others and Nico’s loved ones. He just jumped more on Alejo’s fight aspect than the flight part. “He was so nice!” Fabio gushed. “Does he really think all that about us?” Alejo wondered flustered. “It seems quite likely that he does,” Diego concluded. “Just as we have made some observations about him that may or may not be accurate,” he added, soothing Alejo’s worry a bit. Shifting him more to the excited side of his spectrum. “Well? Spill!” Marcia insisted when they found themselves alone on the patio after dinner. Nico sipped from his glass and didn’t look at his sister while he just spilled the truth. “I met a really cute guy at the mall this week, and we’re going out for lunch in two days.” Marcia barely contained her squealing. “Finally! Tell me everything!” she demanded. And just like that, his excitement at being able to gush about the whole meeting returned. Marcia was a good listener. She knew the story ended well but she acted like she actually thought he might miss his shot with his determination to get some work done and not to bother the mysterious stranger. When he got to Thomas’ confession she was vibrating with excitement. “He sounds so adorable!” Nico flushed. “Yeah… He’s an actor and singer…” “Ooooh, someone to sing your songs!” she exclaimed. “And his name is Thomas Sanders…” Maricia’s eyes widened as understanding dawned on her. “Now that explains the look on your face when you saw that video…Wait that was for you? If mama ever sees it then she’ll insist you marry him you know that right?” she laughed. So not only did she know of Thomas, she had seen the video in question. “Yeah… She probably will. Have you seen anything else of his?” “I try to be aware of what my kids are watching online. He has two channels and about 3,4 million ‘Fanders’ last I checked.” “Oh my god!!!!” Felix gushed. Overwhelmed by both the cute fandom name and the dazzling number of fans. “Definitely not a liar,” Ràmon breathed in relief. He had been reluctant to get his hopes up until now. He was cautious, wary of things that were too good to be true. Just like Alejo. But their anxious look out was, in his eyes at least, compromised on the subject due to his close tie to the butterflies clouding all their feelings and thoughts. Now however, it seemed that his biggest doubts were adressed, he felt free to look forwrad to the date like everyone else. “He is a good guy, going by his content. And he is really cute.” Nico chuckled. “Yeah he is,” he agreed.

When he got home he was actually planning to freak out a bit more and debate over whether or not to watch some video’s. If for no other reason than to just see him do something he loved. Was that stalkerish? Luckily his phone alerted him to a text. Thomas. It was a cute dog picture. Nico smiled. He did that sometimes. Sent him things just to make him smile. N: You are such a dork. TS: I refuse to apologize for that! TS: I can’t wait until our lunch date! Nico hesitated for a moment. But then he went all in. N: Missing my radiant presence that much? God that was cheesy. Was it too cheesy? He is not like this! Not usually. Or maybe he was and Thomas just brought it out of him. TS: OMG you saw!!!!? N: My nieces thought it would be funny to see how I’d react when a ‘stranger’ serenades me. TS: Fanders!? Oh my goodness that is amazing! TS: You weren’t bothered? I get that it might seem a bit weird. “He is so precious!!!!” Fabio squealed. “I know right? This is not healthy for us! It can’t be,” Félix exclaimed clutching his heart and leaning on Alejo for support. Who promptly stepped away and let him fall to the floor with a grin. “Not a couch,” he reminded his friend who was pouting for a bout two seconds before his excitement overpowered his annoyance. N: It was awesome, don’t worry. I was very flattered. Your singing voice is amazing. TS: Thanks. Should he ask? If Thomas says it’s okay then it’s fine right? N: Okay if I watch some more of your singing? There he asked. No backing out. TS: Of course! Fair warning, if you find vines, some are cringy and sometimes I play a straight man. Vines huh? Wow, that felt like ages ago. Thomas had mentioned his misleading complements when they talked. N: Okay. I’ll keep that in mind. Goodnight. TS: Goodnight. “Are we really doing this?” Alejo wondered as Nico typed in ‘Thomas Sanders Vines’ in the search bar of Youtube. One look at the results had Nico in stitches. “He’s such a goofball!” Fabio squealed clapping his hands as he saw Thomas’ smiling face on every thumbnail in various goofy situations. How was he supposed to choose? “Oooh! That one is him reacting!” Félix exclaimed pointing at a three year old video. Nico nodded in agreement and clicked on the video. First this and then see if he could find some more videos of Thomas singing. He didn’t know it. But he was in for a wild ride.

I might write one more chapter, but then it’s over until Thomas posts his next video in three years. I want to stick to the canon as much as possible. You’ll hear from me if that changes though! Enjoy!

@rich-flower-17 @maryann-draws @selenechris @meowthefluffy @chibibunnis @whatishappeningrightnow @floofyconfusednerd @destinyiscallingus @98prilla @catsarebestest @falpiancaraxus @queer-mattress-king @verysharkbakerydeputy @sarenicide @kitcatgirl600 @stariimayplayz @queer-devil @celestialviper @hennehennehennehoo @1americaninapool @firstorderfilms @xxmoonmorquanxx @naturallyunstablegamer @ciannathegiver58 @reeaninenine @pdvzh2 @rubixcubes-and-crowbars @not-a-possum-i-swear @nadja-chamack16 @ayidakira @theclassyghost @such-as-we-are-made-such-we-be @theblackveilinreverse @lucasdrawblog @erinriver5 @theshortgothicpunk @titheinironside @shipsarebeautiful @hoppe-ideas @i-died-50-years-ago @just-a-thing-to-do @the-magicalpotato @ rosethevoid @justfinsworld @supanxietysworld @kay-is-kid @devoteddeceit @friskthefallenmonster @liveonmercury @impalasquiptyseven @frida0043 @meow-face @baguettewoman2020 @sing-it-for-the-gays @perfectly-princely-emo-nightmare @snowcatwhiteangel @to-many-hotpockets @greenlasagagramfel @elliwashere @errors-in-my-heart @xxstill-i-risexx @ontheground15 @stubbornness-and-spite @potatiowatchingyoutube @nina-maee @sablesides @alias290 @s0n-of-a-peach @starlightnyx @idrawdumbstffsometime @shadowqueen88 @stars656 @lets-go-emma-of-the-100-fandoms @avocados26 @hanna10hanna10 @astrozei @thunderboldt1312 @galaxy-girl1999 @toknowaliar @musicobsessed1505 @tired-yeetling @athenashipsthings @firegirl156 @pomegranate-ghost @jerasings @strangest-loser @kittylikesflowers @pollyparrot8 @atdffpetra @altheaudaku @amberpeltsstuff @smallwaffle224 @cdragontogacotar @angelic-cali @fandoms1reality0 @contemplativespectrum @hedgiehoggles @alicethetrueunicorn @disasterlesbon @marguii-14 @emo-nightmare-without-the-emo @onecannotbebrave @confused-bi-and-ready-to-die @aelingalathynius6 @hetacon @booksfoodmusic-minion @maya-custodios-dionach @iwispkid @virgofoxy @simplification @emoghost-boy @hickledickle @crackedcurse @softballobsessed @hi-fellow-demons @mygenderisbees @lavenderchaitea @greekgeekgoddess @kuroyurishion @pauleyester

#ts sides #karrot kings #nico flores

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soramel · 3 years

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Chained to you (Part 2)

genre: angst, romance, unconventional relationship warning: eventual smut A/N: cross-posted from wattpad; updates are uploaded there first

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Part 2 words: 5.7k

The car rolled off to a much narrower street an hour later. The place he's driving into is in the middle of the woods. You wondered if you actually led yourself into his bear trap. "You're not going to kill me here, are you?" you asked in a serious tone although you intended it to sound like a joke.

You became a bit nervous when Taehyung didn't respond.

A decent modern cabin appeared in your line of sight. Its façade is adorned with huge thick glass panes. The car turned to a halt. "We're here," he announced.

Still unsure of the situation, you shook your head then headed out of the car anyway.

An old couple welcomed you to the place. They were wearing warm smiles as they greeted Taehyung and you.

"It's been a long time, Taehyung. You've grown so much." the older woman gushed. Taehyung politely chuckled as he gave them brief hugs, "I missed you and uncle a lot. Sorry for coming in a short notice."

The older man laughed, "It's alright, we regularly clean the cabin so it's not much of a preparation. Let's head inside first. I'll take your luggage, Ma'am."

You shyly gripped your bag, not wanting the old man to carry a light luggage for you. He reminds you so much of your grandfather, "It's not heavy. I can carry it myself, sir."

He waved his hand off and said, "I insist. You're a special guest here, allow me."

But really, you couldn't.

Taehyung held you by your waist and said, "Let uncle take your bag, we still have to show you around the house."

That was just an excuse for you to let go, but there's something in his tone saying that you should follow what he's saying. So, you conceded, giving your bag to the man.

As you walk inside, the lady briefly briefs Taehyung as to how the cabin has been. You saw paintings and some interesting ornaments. The place looks like an ideal vacation house for holidays.

"I cooked your favorite. It's not much because I just brought some stocks from our quarters instead of buying from the market. We'll head out later to shop," the lady told Taehyung. Then he politely said his thanks.

The old couple climbed up the wooden staircase while you and Taehyung followed behind. They led you to a room. He then turned to them and took your bag from the man. "I'll take it from here, auntie, uncle. We'll go to the dining room after."

The lady replied, "Ah, we'll be leaving now for the market. We'll leave you by yourselves."

You bowed at them as they turned on their way.

He then closed the door and headed to the office table and set your bag there. "They're our caretakers here. If you need something, you can ask them."

You nodded as you looked around the room. It's minimally decorated that you guessed it's a guestroom. It has its own little walk-in closet and bathroom. You walked back and saw Taehyung sitting by the couch at the foot of the bed, watching you. "Is there wifi here?" you asked. He nodded, "You can ask auntie later for the password."

You sat on the bed, deep in your thoughts. Now what? you wondered. Maybe you can book a flight to somewhere. Doesn't matter where that is. Running away from all of this is still the most appealing thing to your mind right now. But what about your responsibilities?

You were pulled out of your reverie when Taehyung spoke.

"What are you thinking?" he asked.

Raising a brow at him you retorted, "You're still here?"

"You intrigue me, princess."

You scoffed at that. "A lot of people are interested in my life. You're welcome for having the front seat."

"Hmm... I don't think I'm a mere audience. Am I not your knight?" he asked with that teasing smile on his face that you badly want to wipe off.

"I'll be downstairs. I'm sure you're hungry. Don't take too long," he said before heading towards the door, leaving you alone.

"You can stay here as long as you want, Y/n. It's safer," he told you after the meal. He was watching you the whole time as if you're a puzzle that he's trying to figure out. You're used to being watched but having this kind of attention from him is bothersome.

You sighed, torn between freeing yourself from this and your responsibilities to your employees. Back in the room, that was the only time when you think about the post you left today. A one day off won't hurt, but how long can you go on like this? It's such a waste that your professional life is too tied with your personal one. Running away from all of this will also give your opponents a reason to kick you out. Not everyone is in favor of having a young single woman in a high position.

"That night..." you started. He then waited for you to continue. He had a hint on what you wanna talk about. "Did you know that it was me?" you finally asked. It felt like you just dropped a bomb in the silent dining hall. He didn't reply right away, weighing your expression. So you told him, "Tell me the truth."

Without hesitation he then admitted, "Yes, I knew it was you."

You were dumbfounded at his revelation. You were suspicious but it feels different coming straight from him. He then said, "But I wasn't planning on sleeping with you that night," for a second, uneasiness flashed his eyes, different from his usual calculated yet playful persona. "But I guess, I'm just a man with needs. You were smoking hot in that skimpy dress," he added further, throwing you a smirk. Then he's back again to the man you knew.

That afternoon, you opened your phone and started making calls. Instructing your secretary to send you urgent matters through email.

"But ma'am, what about your scheduled meetings?" he asked after noting down your instructions.

Sighing, "Who are the ones for this week?" you asked. He cited a long list in a timeline order, telling you that he already had the meetings for this day on hold until further notice. Most of them were for internal purposes and some were proposals from other companies.

"Meeting with finance and marketing will be done online. Same time. For the others, have them send their written reports. I'll expect those in my inbox on the day of the scheduled meeting. For the proposals, send me their pitch but if they insist on meeting me personally, have it on hold."

You felt sorry for him, the work sounded a lot but you needed to prioritize. "I'm sorry, Jae. I have personal matters to settle and I'll come back as soon as I can. Just give me a week."

"It's okay, Ms. Y/n. You've been working hard for the past months. Don't worry too much. I hope everything will be fine soon," he said though he's wondering what kind of problem you're having to not go to work given that news about your engagement just got released. He assumed you're spending more time with your fiancé now that he just got back from America.

"That's all, I'll be waiting for your emails by the end of the day," you told him before ending the call.

Now all you have to do is wait. You sighed, slumping yourself back on the bed. However, peace didn't last that long as your phone rang again. Your friend Sunmi's calling.

Annoyed, you still picked up the call to make her stop, "Sunmi," you greeted, your voice cold. "The news of your engagement was like wildfire online. They're saying it's the same man that you were with that night. How can that happen?" she asked frantically. Then followed up, "Are you okay? I'm worried."

"I had no idea they're the same. I don't remember his face, that's why. And I'm okay. Don't worry."

Still, that didn't send her comfort. "Where are you? I'll visit you," she said, her voice laced with concern.

You shook your head, "Don't. I'm with Taehyung. We went outside town," you told her wishing that this would make her stop.

"Look, Sunmi, I'm really busy and I'm still working remotely. Again, I'm doing fine and don't worry too much. It's burdening. I'm an adult," you added. You sounded harsh over the line and it made you feel a bit sorry, but you didn't take back what you said.

She then said, "Okay. Just take care of yourself," before the line went off.

So, for the next few days, you sulked inside the room, working. Taehyung did the same. He stayed true to his words when he told you that evening that he'll be keeping his eyes on you. You just bump into each other when you go to the dining room for lunch or dinner. Neither of your parents disturbed you knowing that you guys are together. Taehyung assured them that you're doing fine.

Feeling stuffy for burrowing in your own hole for the past two days, you went out to work in the living room. You were on the sofa when the door to your right opened, revealing Taehyung. He's wearing black shirt and shorts. That room was his office, you took a glimpse of it yesterday when you were taking a coffee break. His brow raised up when he saw you dressed up.

"I have an online meeting at 10," you simply said even though he didn't ask. Today's meeting is with the marketing department.

He simply nodded, then said, "I thought you'll be thinking over things, Y/n. But you only drowned yourself with work."

"Just keep on being a good boy, alright? I might reconsider being married to you," you retorted. That earned a smirk from him then followed by an incredulous chuckle. You didn't mean what you said though. You still wanted out of the arrangement. You were thinking of alternatives that you can present to your parents and the Kims. Those thoughts have been keeping you up at night.

Taehyung finally left you alone, heading towards the kitchen. You set up your things on the table and waited for the call.

When he came back to your area, you were already discussing with the marketing team, asking them questions about the powerpoint they sent you. He sat on the single-seater couch, watching you while sipping his coffee. You couldn't help but raise a brow at him.

He did nothing to disturb you, but his stares made you uncomfortable for some reason. Then after a few minutes, his phone rang. This halted your discussion with the team. You threw him a warning glance. Taehyung stood up and went to his office to answer the call. When the door fell shut, you turned to the camera. "I'm sorry, you may continue," you muttered.

After a minute, Taehyung stormed out of his room and called you, "Y/n"

You looked at him with irritation, "I'm in a meeting, Taehyung. Can you please go away?"

He just ignored you and went upstairs. You sighed at his attitude. Then your phone rang. Seeing that it's your father, you declined the call.

Irritated with the interruptions, you then turned to the marketing team, "Have this project approved by the finance department as soon as possible. Then prompt the booking department so we won't get overwhelmed once the promo's been released."

At that, the marketing manager wrapped things up by giving synthesis and informing you that the minutes would be forwarded to your secretary.

You were skimming through your emails when Taehyung rushed down the stairs. He's now dressed up with shirt and trousers, looking troubled. His keys were in his hands as he told you, "Your mom's in the hospital."

Your heart dropped at the news. "What? What happened to her?" you asked him, frantic. Your mother has a healthier lifestyle. She had these planned meals prepared by her dietician, she wouldn't sleep later than 10 pm, she regularly goes to her yoga sessions, she's more careful than you.

Tears sprang up in your eyes as you asked, "Is she fine?"

Taehyung sighed, "She was being rushed to the hospital when I talked to the security team."

"It was a car crash. The driver's dead, her head of security too."

The information made your knees wobble. Taehyung had to assist you to go in his car while you couldn't stop the tears from falling, blurring your vision. Questions flooded through you but you were too shocked to sort out your thoughts to speak them out.

The whole car ride was silent contrary to the beating of your heart. You're nervous, afraid, shocked, you were feeling all things at once for your mom that you failed to notice when Taehyung's phone kept ringing.

He declined every call that showed up on the dashboard. He just focused on bringing you there safely. Broken out of your own thoughts, you texted your father with shaking hands. Telling him that you heard the news and that you're on your way now.

When Taehyung's phone rang again, you disconnected it from the dashboard and answered his phone yourself.

It's Mrs. Kim calling.

"Yes, Mrs. Kim. We've heard of the news. Taehyung is driving me to the hospital," you told her in the calmest manner you can muster but a hiccup escaped your mouth. You've been crying the whole time, devastated by all the bad things that could happen to your mom.

"Darling, stay strong. We're also on our way. Tell my son not to rush, okay?" she sweetly said, her voice laced with worry.

When you ended the call, Taehyung told you to turn his phone off. You didn't protest and followed his command.

By the time you arrived in the hospital, press people were already there, all of them are held up outside, being guarded. When they saw Taehyung opening the door for you, they immediately ambushed you with questions. It angered you when you heard them asking about your upcoming wedding and whether your mom's accident would affect the plans.

You gritted your teeth in anger as you did your best to ignore them. It's insulting how those people would take every opportunity they could to butt in at such private matter. Your mother's in the hospital, fighting for her life, for god's sake.

The guards cleared a path for both of you while Taehyung protectively held you by his side as you walked in.

You found your father standing outside the operating room, he was pacing back and forth. Upon seeing you, he went up and gave you a pat as if saying everything will be alright. It was a weak convincing on his part when he himself didn't even look collected.

The waiting was excruciating. You didn't notice that you've been holding Taehyung's hand tightly. You let go immediately upon realizing this.

"I'm sorry," you muttered, gulping.

"It's okay," he simply replied.

The doctors ran more tests on your mother when she failed to wake up after 24 hours. The accident caused her a brain injury and she was diagnosed with hypoxia. She's now in a coma and it could take a few days or few weeks for her to recover. The doctor told you to prepare for the worse, but you couldn't fathom a worse scenario than this.

Your feud with your father was put on hold as you almost spend every night with your mom. You would go to the office in the morning then to the hospital late in the afternoon, continuing your work in her room. The time you'll only go home is when you're reminded by your bodyguard which was assigned by Taehyung himself.

It may be deemed unnecessary but as investigation is being conducted, the Kims cannot compromise your safety. Their security company, among of their others, was the one in charge with your family ever since, including your businesses. The accident happened under their watch, but as of now, no one is to blame. Yet.

For your peace of mind, you even hired a private investigator on your own, meeting him discreetly as much as possible.

It was already six in the evening when Mr. and Mrs. Kim knocked on your mom's suite. You gathered your energy to come up with a smile, but it only crossed your face halfway.

"Darling, are you taking care of yourself?" she greeted worriedly, pulling you into a hug. You were surprised when you saw Taehyung.

After the operation, his parents left first but he stayed. Feeling burdened about it, you thanked him and told him to go ahead.

Sitting at the receiving area, 2 meters away from your mother's bed, you gathered the unkempt papers laying on the coffee table.

"Sorry for the mess," you uttered.

Then opening the topic, you asked, "Is there any update on the investigation?" turning to Mr. Kim.

The latter exchanged a look with his son before saying, "The truck was hi-jacked and we couldn't trace the driver yet. We looked into CCTVs but the team couldn't find anything."

You let out a sigh. It was the same report you got from your hired investigator this morning.

"There has to be someone behind this," you muttered, looking over your mother. The tubes attached to her body pains you. Sorrow crossed your eyes as you wished you could take her place.

Clearing his throat, Mr. Kim added, "I talked to your father about this. It could take a lot of time before we figure things out because, if ever, he himself has a number of opponents up his sleeve."

This is the first time someone actually attacked your family. Threats were a common thing, but no one dared to lay a finger on you, your mom, and your dad. Though your security is always prepared for this kind of scenario.

Chuckling bitterly at the thought, it looked like they weren't.

The question that's been bugging your mind is why now?

Is it because he's running for the next presidential election?

If that is so, why was your mom the target?

Aside from the situation at hand, the vacancy in the board left by your mom as the chairwoman is stirring ruckus. You haven't issued any announcement yet, but others are asking about her condition.

The stocks surprisingly didn't take a hit at the news of the accident. If there is something that bothers you more that you think will be harder to handle, that would be the board of directors of your holding company.

Simply put, they're still doubtful of you.

You glanced at Taehyung, who is sitting to your right across his mother. The second he met your eyes, you immediately averted his gaze, clearing your throat.

"Thank you for taking care of my mom's case personally. It makes me feel more at ease," you told them in a nonchalant manner.

"Don't mention it," Mr. Kim said.

With fidgeting fingers, you started the question you've been meaning to know about, "I would want to visit the family of her driver and head security-"

"You can't," Taehyung interrupted, making you snap your head back to him.

"It's not safe," he added when he saw your furrowing brows.

"There's no need, Y/n. Your father sent something for them. They understand the situation," Mr. Kim followed.

You didn't utter a reply, if they wouldn't want to divulge that information, you can have your secretary look for it. You could go there yourself, it's not as if they need to give permission.

Besides, who would think of attacking you in a simple funeral? They won't think you would have the heart to pay attention to those who worked for your family.

Still, you feel bad about the loved ones they left. They could have a daughter like you.

They protected your mom, they've done their duty, and you're sure if your mother is only conscious and well right now, she would've done the same or maybe more.

Taehyung let out a loud sigh, "I'll come with you,"

The man quite knows your stubbornness. He witnessed it first-hand and your loaded gaze somewhere which signals that you're deep in your thoughts made him agree to have it your way, but under his watch.

You glanced at your car through Taehyung's side mirror. Turning back your attention to the man beside you, you wonder why you're letting him have his way. Based on your interactions, it's as if you embraced the idea of him being your husband. So far, he's been reliable and respectful of your own space. That's what you thought of him. And the night you spent together.

You cleared your throat at the inappropriate images that flashed your mind. Digging your nails to your palm, you reprimanded yourself.

The silence was cut off when a phone call went through his dashboard.

Lana calling...

Taehyung declined the call right away only for it to pop up again. He seemed irritated this time.

"It might be important," you muttered. He didn't reply and just dropped it, giving you a cold shoulder.

The phone dinged. You unintentionally gazed on his phone between the two of you because of the noise.

Call me. I miss you.

You then immediately turned your attention to the passing streetlights. You felt guilty that you've seen something you shouldn't have. At the same time, there's an underlying feeling that started to simmer within you.

The whole car ride was spent in silence until you reached your family's mansion.

Taehyung waited downstairs as you changed into something more appropriate for a funeral. Frankly, he could have just met you at the memorial but he insisted on going with you all the way back to your house. That's why you offered to ride with him while your driver and bodyguard followed behind. It was out of courtesy, which he didn't decline.

After changing your clothes, you went down right away, not bothering to check your appearance. However, as you trailed down the stairs, Taehyung was nowhere to be seen.

When a staff member passed by, you asked about the man you came home with. She then led you to your father's study.

The doors were closed and only faint mutters of two men in conversation can only be heard. It piqued your curiosity so instead of barging in like you did before, you slowly walked close to the door.

"... so I'm not marrying her," you heard him say, his voice dark and cold. The pain that wretched your heart upon hearing those words shocked you. Your eyes welled up inevitably despite willing yourself to control your dam of emotions.

A dead silence followed his statement.

You should have been thankful of him giving up on you. And by him talking to your father directly like this, the old man might even consider cancelling the marriage you dreaded. You should be grateful, but all the more, Taehyung's sudden change of mind on the matter confused you.

You wondered if there's something wrong with you. Did you do anything that turned him off during the time you spent together in his family's cabin?

Does he have someone else?

That thought fired up jealousy you did not think you could harbor.

"I can make her change her mind, Taehyung. Just let her warm up to you more. That would help," your father sternly told him. Your brows knitted in further confusion.

"She thinks she will be marrying me for the wrong reason. Y/n's not ready."

Your tongue tastes vile in his reasoning. He even had the guts to use you as an excuse. If you only know, it might have been because of your family losing control of your company due to your mom's condition. He might think that being married to you will only be an unnecessary responsibility when he can take over by himself. Maybe he's using this opportunity to run off and be with his lover.

Lana

The name flashed in your memory.

You felt bitter. No one dared to reject you in your years of existence. If not, you were the one who used to run away from men who expressed their interest in you.

How dare he?

Before you knew it, pride took over your being as you carefully opened the door.

With a smirk on your face, you asked Taehyung, "Who says I'm not ready?"

"Tae?" you said in a sweet voice. You feigned your innocence and soft demeanor, but only vile venom coursed through your system. No one rejects you. No one will take over the empire your mother built alongside with your father. You will secure your power. You will make sure everything will fall into its place.

Two nights after, he fetched you from your house to have your first public date. He booked a table in a grand hotel downtown for the whole thing and told you beforehand to dress casually. So for this night, you opted for a white broderie long sleeve minidress.

"We just have to put up a show, right?" Taehyung asked, his tone bored, while cruising down the road. You nodded, then you realized his eyes are on the winding road, he can't see you. "Yeah," you muttered.

The white outfit is ironically in contrast with his. He's in a black suit, looking elegantly casual. Thanks to the turtleneck sweater. This guy has some good fashion sense, you noted. With his perfectly parted hair, he looked exquisite.

You didn't dare to ask him why he thought of backing out from your marriage. He didn't care to ask for a reason on your sudden change of mind.

"We can continue with the prior arrangement. Let's get married," you followed through after sweetly calling his name that night. The statement sounded like a challenge as it rolled off your tongue.

Taehyung just gazed deep into your eyes. His face was void of any emotion. In a flicker, you saw his jaw tensed in irritation. He glanced down the floor before a faint smirk appeared on his face.

"If that's what you want then."

You were taken aback at his acceptance. You expected him to protest, but he surprisingly went on. Taehyung turned to you father then gave the man a curt bow.

"It's getting late. Y/n and I should go so we can come back as soon as possible," he said to your dad. "Have a good night, sir."

The old man slowly nodded, "Take care of her."

"I will."

You never dreamed of being a slave to this powerplay. You thought you have enough guts to not go down that path, but here you are.

Going back to the present, you threw Taehyung a glance, observing his side profile. The passing lights casted shadows on his face, illuminating his eyes, highlighting the point of his cheekbones down to his nose. Your eyes traced the line of his jaw when he turned away as he navigated the car to a left turn.

You wondered whether you'll learn to love this man. Yet again, you're afraid of him not reciprocating if that happens.

Taehyung handed you a jewelry box when you reached the foot of the hill.

"Wear it," he simply said when you opened the box.

It's a tiffany ring adorned with a diamond stone. The halo setting framed the center diamond, making it look bigger. It's beautiful, but too 'in-your-face' for your liking.

With a sigh, you wore it unceremoniously on your left ring finger. You glanced at his hand that was on the steering wheel, looking for a ring. It was hard to see in the dark but you quite glimpsed a glint of a metal.

You swallowed the bile you felt in your throat. The whole ride was silent after that. Only the smooth running of his car's engine can be heard.

Arriving at the hotel's driveway, you didn't wait for him to open the door. The action earned an irritated look from him. Taehyung gave his car key to the valet attendant before holding your waist, startling you.

He leaned towards your ear and whispered, "This better not look like our first date,"

"Alright?" he asked through his teeth.

From an outsider's perspective the picture looks sweet, but if they can only hear the threat in his voice...

You noticed few people were staring, recognizing the both of you. Feigning a smile, you touched his arm. Despite the high heels you're wearing, he still stood taller that you needed to look up.

"Of course, Tae," you said to him, your voice dripping like honey. He replied with a half-smile before leading you inside.

The two of you graced the foyer like a power couple. Curious glances were thrown and few whispers flew around. All the while, Taehyung didn't care and just walked straight.

You smirked to yourself when the receptionist led you to the middle table in the restaurant. The stage for tonight. However, the table is set for four.

Taehyung pulled you a chair then sat beside you.

"Are we expecting somebody else?" you asked him.

"My friends will join us. I haven't seen them since I arrived home and they're insisting to meet you. I didn't notice your dress is too short," he said all the while scrutinizing you. You glanced down but you were fine with it. So, you shrugged him off. You're more bothered that he invited his friends over on your date. Not that you want to be left alone with him.

Taehyung turned to the waiter who stood by your side. Putting an arm at the small of your back and casually placing one hand over your lap, he ordered the waiter to come back later once the others had arrived.

His closeness made it hard for you to breathe. You muttered silently, "Don't you think you're touching too much?"

He smirked at your question. "I touched more than this, princess. Want a reminder?"

The boldness in his voice made you blush.

"Don't look. A board director of yours is here," he said in a low voice before fakely fixing a strand of your hair.

His ring band gleamed under the chandelier lights. A simple intricate design carved into the metal.

He looked you in the eyes and said, "I guess that's a good audience, right? One credible person to confirm the news around."

You can't help but chuckle, "You and my mom would make a good publicist," you silently uttered as you placed your left hand on his shoulder, smoothing down the fabric.

"That's fair. I admire your mother for handling your family's image. Works so much in favor of your father, don't you think?"

You smiled bitterly at that. He's right. Your mom's a good homemaker too while maintaining a respectable figure in the business world.

"You should've told me your friends will be coming," you muttered, changing the topic. You're more nervous now that others will witness this whole fiasco at a much closer distance. Then you asked, "Do they know that this is all pretend?"

His jaw tensed as he answered a firm no. "So, you better act whipped for me," he added. Scoffing at his command, you retorted, "I can't be easily whipped, Taehyung."

A low chuckle escaped his mouth. "Right. But you're my wife, so..."

You glared him down. You're not yet his wife.

He just raised a brow at you before staring back. His eyes piercing through. He's too close like this. You're already blushing at the distance, but you didn't want to back down.

"Kim Taehyung!"

Turning to the sound of the voice, two men were making their way to your table. One of them is familiar. You didn't know Taehyung is friends with Park Jimin, a famous celebrity. After side-hugging Taehyung, he offered you his hand.

"Y/n, nice to see you again," his voice teasing. You reciprocated him with a friendly chuckle and acknowledged him, "Park Jimin, it's been a long time."

"I hope your mother gets well soon," he told you with a gentle smile. It tugged warmth in your heart, the guy is charming as always. "Thank you," you replied.

Taehyung watched the friendly exchange with a careful gaze. You turned to him lovingly, starting your act for the night, "We see each other in some function events. You haven't told me you're friends with him, Tae."

His other friend then stepped forward. He has an ebony hair, his doe eyes crinkled as he smiled at you, "I'm Jeon Jungkook, it's nice to meet you, Ms. Y/n."

You shook his hand and repeated his name for you to remember, "Pleasure's mine."

The dinner looks pleasant. Although you were uncomfortable with the lies that have been spewing out of your mouth. You let Taehyung take care of you though you can very much well slice your own steak. It was a challenge not to roll your eyes out of absurdity.

"When's your wedding, Y/n?" Jimin asked in the middle of the meal.

You were caught in surprise. You haven't talked about it yet, you just handed the task to your secretary yesterday.

"The soonest," Taehyung chirped in.

Jungkook's eyes widened a fraction while Jimin just grinned at Taehyung's answer. The younger then asked, "Before the elections?"

That subject was an open secret that no one talks about. Instead, you replied, "Soon as we settle things, we'll send out invitations."

"So, you started preparations already. It's sad that you'll go through this alone, given your mother's condition," Jimin stated. You sent him a reassuring smile.

"It will be fine. I have people to do stuff for me," you told them.

"As long as we'll get married. I'm pretty chill with the details," you added. For it is true. If you could skip the wedding ceremony, you would. Those moments are reserved for a true special someone, but the situation is different for a woman like you.

You thought you should give your secretary a raise. The morning you asked him to contact a wedding planner, he gladly accepted the task. He knows your taste so you let him fix most of the things.

You did not even ask Taehyung for opinion since he left the details to your care. He only had one condition: the soonest, the better. You remember him telling you when he was driving back to your house that night. That night when you started this million dollar show.

#yandere x y/n #kim taehyung #btsv #btsfanfic

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socialwriter · 4 years

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Ch.1- Welcome to the Moulin Rouge

Listen alongside: This and this

Pairing: JJ Maybank x Female Reader

1.5 K words

TW: Prostitution, cursing, insinuations of criminal activity

A/n: This is chapter one of my Moulin Rouge series, I hope you enjoy! This is mainly to set up the coming chapters, so it will get better!

Our story begins in Paris, at the turn of the 20th century…

It's a crisp night, and all the patrons rush into the Moulin Rouge to escape the weather, the anticipation of what the night may hold causing a jump in their step. They would get a show complete with singing, dancing, and the fulfillment of their wildest, lust-filled fantasies. Liquor flows freely from bottle to cup, the intoxication of the guests no doubt a ploy so that all frugality may be forgotten while in the establishment. They were destined to see the performances of many, but it was unspoken common knowledge that they all came for one person. Her…

As the lights dimmed and latecomers scrambled to their seats, Topper Thorton, the owner and MC of the establishment, made his way onstage. He had built the business from the ground up, a way to provide housing and an income for many girls with no other option, living on the streets. He had begged, borrowed, and stolen, and was willing to do anything to keep the establishment open. It may not seem like it on a surface level, but Topper deeply cared for the girls, and in fact, what he did to keep the business running, he was really doing for them. Without the Moulin Rouge, most of his performers would be left homeless and hungry, a fate that Thorton would not accept, no matter what it cost him. He was hopeful that with the plan he had enacted involving his right-hand woman and best performer, he might save the place from going under.

"Hello, chickens!Yes! It's me your own beloved Topper Thornton in the flesh! Welcome...To the Moulin Rouge!" He exclaimed, earning polite applause from the night's audience.

"Now, are you ready for our dazzling opening duo… Sarah and Kiara!"

The curtains were pulled back, revealing the two girls clad in red corsets and black fishnets. Thornton had learned his tricks throughout the years. Put your top performers first to initially pull the audience in, and leave the best for last so that the audience stays engaged throughout the show. Sarah and Kiara were some of his best, ruthless in their pursuit of position as the best performer of all the girls of the Moulin Rouge. They used all the tricks in the book. Their voices. Their dance moves. Their bodies. Never had they had a dissatisfied customer. They made Topper proud, never doing any wrong. Yet they could never be at the top of the pecking order. That spot was reserved for one person and one person only.

The Moulin Rouge was a prime example of the economic divide, with both the rich and the poor flocking there to spend whatever money they could on a fun night. The rich aristocrats with their pristine suits and crisp white shirts sat in booths, sheltered off from who they deemed the lowlife Bohemians. These lowlife Bohemians, while clad in their best attire, looked unkempt compared to the rich. Their pants donned holes and stains, while their jackets frayed at the edges. And as Topper's top priority for his business was money, he made sure that the aristocrats received the best services, copious drinks, and the best seats for entertainment, while the Bohemians were left with the scraps.

The wealthiest and most pompous of all the aristocrats had to be Rafe Cameron, the Duke of Monroth, sat in the centermost booth. All the performers were instructed to visit him and his posse most often, as he always paid with the biggest bills. Rafe Cameron was to be used as a cash cow, milked for every penny he would give, all in an effort to save the Moulin Rouge. He was, at best, an asshole to those he disliked and at worst..well at worst, he wasn't able to be called a name at all.

The two Bohemians that had been a thorn in Thornton's side the entirety of his time at the Moulin Rouge were no doubt John B Routledge and Pope Heyward. The two of them always snuck in, never paying, distracting from the performances, and mooching off the wealthy for free booze. They were bad for business, but like cockroaches, they never could be exterminated, and they now had added a third member to their band of misfits: JJ Maybank.

----

JJ ventured through the streets of Paris that afternoon, absorbing all the new city's sights. The blond was fresh off a boat from America, and he had moved to France, hoping to share his music with the world. However, his quiet walk around the city was interrupted by the bickering of two men a little ways away. They were loudly arguing and flailing their arms, but the second JJ heard them aggressively singing tunes at each other, his interest was piqued, and he approached the two men. "I'm sorry, but what exactly is going on?"

The dark-skinned man stood up, placing his hand on JJ's shoulder, much to JJ's surprise. He had just met the men, but he had been told that the people in France were often more affectionate than those in America. "We can't decide what sounds better for our show. I think that the line should go 'the hills are alive, with the sound of clanging.'" The man with his hand on JJ's shoulder explained, to which the brown-haired man stood up, shaking his head.

"No, it should go 'the hills are alive, with the bells and chimes."

"See, that just sounds wrong."

"If I'm wrong, then you're really wrong."

JJ furrowed his brow, glancing between the two bickering men. He didn't need his musical abilities to tell you that neither option sounded good. "Um, actually, what if you went with 'the hills are alive, with the sound of music'?" He sang out, looking at the two men who both had a look of shock on their faces, mouths slightly ajar.

"That's...genius!" The brown-haired man exclaimed, looking at his friend, both grinning. "You must work with us on our show, it's going to be the big-ticket item that gets us out of this hell hole. So, what's your name, friend?"

He hadn't really noticed it before, but it appeared that JJ had stepped into the poorer part of the city, which was presumably where the two men lived. The paint on the walls was chipped and faded and the only bench on the entire street were the two crates that the men were sitting on earlier. It seemed like these two men just wanted to make it big and create a better life for themselves, something JJ had always hoped for. And if he got to share his music with the world while he did it..well he was sold. "JJ. My name's JJ Maybank." He said, shaking the hands of both men.

The more affectionate man grinned, patting JJ on the back. "Well I'm Pope Heyward, and he's John B. And Mr.Maybank, we may need to use you for more than your musical talents." Pope uttered seriously, looking JJ directly in the eye. "I,um-what?"

"You see, the Moulin Rouge is the most well known theatre in all of Paris. You get your show in there, and you're guaranteed success." John B explained to the blue eyed boy. "The problem is, our reputation," he gestured to himself and Pope, "precedes us at that place. We need a new face like yours to get our show even considered by the big dogs. We're gonna need you to talk to the it girl of the club. Thornton will do anything she wants, so you convince her, we're in. Can you do that for us JJ?"

Both Pope and John B looked at JJ hopefully, and JJ didn't have the heart to tell them no. Despite only knowing them for a short time, JJ had the feeling that he would grow very close to them, forging a bond of brothers. "Okay, I'll do it."

---

The trio of Bohemians had snuck into the Moulin Rouge after the show had begun, the dark lights making it difficult to see exactly who was sneaking into the building. "All right, one of the middle booths is open." Pope whispered to the other two boys, to which John B excitedly quickened his pace to snag the seats. JJ didn't see the big deal, it was just a set for crying out loud.

When the three were situated, John B leaned over to JJ, filling him in on the ways of the Moulin Rouge. "You don't know it, but we just snagged the best seats in the house. This is where all the girls give their attention to, making your 'mission' that much easier." John B clarified, causing JJ to form an 'o' with his mouth.

"She'll be on any minute, JJ, get ready," Pope murmured, the energy at the booth going from joking and fun to serious. These boys had a mission, and JJ didn't want to let his new friends down. But nothing could have prepared him for what he was in store for.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present to you our "Sparkling Diamond" The unique, the indomitable, the one and only! Y/n."

The curtain rose, and JJ's mouth instantly went dry when the most beautiful woman he had ever seen walked onstage. Immediately, butterflies erupted in his chest. He realized that this mission of his was going to be much harder than he had initially anticipated.

Tags-

@normatural @thelonewolfdies @bricksatanakinswindow @ssjiara

ppl who expressed interest (I’m only tagging u for this chap dw)- @heliopvth @girlsru1eboysdroo1 @spilledtee @obxmxybxnk @denimandcurls @pogue-writings @adoreyoudrews @stargazingstarkey @queenk00k @tomfreakinghollandneedsaoscar @downbytheouterbanks @summerintheobx @shawnssongs @lefthandwritings

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i-write-sometimes-blog · 4 years

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Cold Eyes (Dark Rey x Reader) [Part 13]

Summary: After spending your first night together, you have to face a new and dangerous threat.

Words: 1,910

A/N: Have I told you how much I enjoy writing this series? Well I do and a lot! Just wanted to thank you for all your love to this little thing. That was all, happy reading!

It was still dark outside when your eyes fluttered slowly open, the strange yet soft orange light slided through the big window turning the room into a warm, comfortable golden tone.

“Hi” you murmured with sleepy voice, a smile forming on your lips as you saw Rey’s hazel eyes darting at you, the warm light of the dawn letting them look warmer than usual.

“Hi” she smiled back at you propping herself on her elbow. She looked beyond beautiful under the golden light, her dark hair was tousled, some strands hanging into her face while a soft content smile adorned her delicate face. She observed you for a moment before she leaned down to capture your lips.

A content hum left your lips when she moved from your lips to your neck pressing light kissed onto your skin there and along your jaw, your mind still trying to realize what had happened last night, you smiled with the memories of her hands dancing over your body, what an incredible night.

“Did you sleep well?” she murmured and you could feel her smiling on your skin.

“Better than ever” you giggled. You felt so peaceful, so free without the nightmares and you felt safe with Rey’s arm wrapped around your body.

Rey took a new look at you, caressing your face softly and pushing some strands of hair away from your face. Her eyes filled with longing and adoration, she couldn’t help but smile at you, it was hard for her to believe you were really there with her.

“I have to go now” she told you reluctantly. “I have a few meetings today”

“Can’t cancel them?” you joked around “I mean, you’re the Supreme Leader after all, you can do whatever you want.” you saw her laugh before she leaned to kiss you again.

“It’s not that simple, Y/N” she murmured inches away from your lips before she finally got out of the big bed. You watched her delicate naked body walking across the room as you stayed in the bed comfort. She caught your gaze when she was sliding into a new black dress that hugged her curves just enough but still perfect for a battle, noticing your gaze she looked at you for an instant, the confident grin was back on her lips.

“You can stay here a bit longer” she told you “Maybe sleep a little more, I’ll send someone for you later” she said fixing the last touches of her clothing, then she came closer to you pressing a short but sweet kiss on your lips.

“See ya” you said before she was gone.

You did take her offer, a good sleep sounded great so you curled up in the big bed alone but knowing there will be no more nightmares, you were sure Rey had somehow make them stop. However you sleep wasn’t as pleasant as you expected.

There was a voice, a very distant voice but it was there, echoing in the back of your head. It called your name one, two, many times. It was different from a nightmare, this voice was familiar and didn’t seemed to want to harm you.

Then you finally recognized it when it grew louder.

“Finn” you murmured snapping your eyes open.

“Y/N!” his voice said entuciastictly. You looked around the big empty room searching and scanning for any sign of your friend but he was nowhere to find, it was impossible, he couldn’t be there. “Y/N, can you hear me? I need you to concentrate, okay?”

“Finn, yes I hear you” you said out loud “Can you… see me?” you asked as you covered yourself with the dark sheets.

“No” he said “It’s just your voice for now, why?”

“No reason” you chuckled searching for your clothes. “Where are you? How’s the Resistance? I- I’m glad to hear your voice”

“We’re hiding, Y/N. We’re weak but I least I found you.” he said “I’ve been trying to contact you somehow with the Force but Leia said I wasn’t ready but we really need your help, the Resistance is smaller every day and the First Order conquered so many planets.” he explained.

“I know” you sighed, you had seen the maps, the holograms, you had been in some of those planets now controlled by the First Order.

You sat on the edge of the bed for a moment. He did it, he had learn how to reach out, a thing you were supposed to do a long time ago to help them but instead you were lying in bed with the enemy.

“Y/N?”

“I’m here” you told him.

“We lost communication after Endor, there was a mission to rescue you, we thought you were there but never found you.” he continued then he paused for a moment. “Where are you, Y/N?” he said in a serious tone, you looked at the ground before answering.

“Mustafar” you said adjusting the last pieces of fabric over your body and already knowing what his next question would be.

“Mustafar!?” he said surprised “But that’s the First Order’s headquarters, how…”

“It’s a long story, Finn” you cut him off, “I’ll tell you later, the only thing that matters now is that I’m still in your side and I’ll find a way to help.”

Just then the heavy metal door opened and you glanced at the man in the doorway.

“Y/N, you’re still there?” Finn asked in the back of your head. “Y/N!”

“General Hux” you greeted the intruder. “She send you to pick me up, right?” you told him serios.

“Exactly” he limited to said before he turned around, an unspoken command for you to follow him. You felt the Finn’s voice fading away as you walked in silence behind the General.

"You're not special" he said without looking at you once you were in a completely desert hallway.

"Excuse me?" You asked confused.

"To her, to Rey" he said, this was the first time he didn't called her Supreme Leader and it seems weird, though you weren't surprised he was a double face man doing whatever to stay alive. "Do you really think she cares about you? No, you're just a toy" he scoffed.

"You're wrong" you told him. "You don't know her like I do, Hux"

Then he stopped his feet and turned to look at you.

"Don't play the fool, girl" he said with satisfied grin on his lips, keeping his posture as he held his hands behind his back. "She's using you. She just wants your connection with the force" he looked you up and down. "And perhaps as a stress reliever" he said, of course he figured out you two were sleeping together when he found you in her quarters.

"It's different with me" you huffed.

"Oh, darling. I thought you were smarter than this" He said smiling "Enjoy your privileges while you can, Y/N. But for your own good I suggest you not to get use to it" he walked closer to you leaning close to you "Because once you're not longer useful to her she's going to get rid of you in an instant, just like she did with Kylo Ren"

You stared at him with fury, you wanted to punch him in the face but you're doubt stopped you.

"You don't know what happened to him, do you?" He said "She didn't tell you everything"

"She killed him, I know that" you said "he probably deserved it, he turned her into a monster"

"No, darling" he told you "He tried to stop her. After he killed Snoke he was free to see the destruction he made him do" Hux explained "Ren tried to convince your precious Rey to go to the light again but it was too late" he added "Becoming the monster was her choice"

He looked at you satisfied to see your face going from anger to horror.

"Now come on, dear" he said already making his way down the hall "They're waiting for us."

Minutes later you found yourself lost in your thoughts sitting in the long table full of commanders and generals, Hux staring across the table to you.

Then an hologram popped out of the holo table revealing a small blue figure with the form of Rey.

"Supreme Leader" Hux greeted the little image.

"Apologies for keeping you waiting" she rushed to speak in a serious way "I'm afraid I won't be able to attend the meeting, I have to take care of other kind of… business" the rest of the people stayed quiet as she spoke "My apprentice Y/N will take my place on the meeting and will report everything to me when it's over"

"Me?"

"Her?" Hux said surprised "Supreme Leader I assure you I can inform you of everything we discuss here."

"I want the report from her and only from her, General Hux" she said strict. You looked across the table and smirked at Hux who seemed to be very offended.

"As you wish, Supreme Leader" he said and moments later the blue figure was gone. Then it was replaced with the same hologram of the system you had seen before that marked the advance of the First Order.

"Commander Benndra, you have the floor" Hux said looking at a woman sitting next to him. She immediately stood up and started to speak with confidence.

"This hologram shows the occupied by the First Order, most of them surrendered and those that didn't were defeated by the Supreme Leader herself" she explained, you felt the fear running in your body again, you could imagined her killing innocent people and it scared you. "Supreme Leader is right now attacking this planet and once we have it under our control Phase One would be finished. We can proceed to Phase Two"

"Thank you Commander Benndra" Hux said and the woman sat back on her seat.

"Phase Two" the man said as he pushed some buttons in the side of the table, zooming to a small planet marked with the First Order's colors. "With this phase we will guarantee the order and peace in our colonies" he explained as he zoomed even more, to the surface of the planet where a big structure was visible. "This is how we bring order to the galaxy"

The audience applauded him for a moment and then get back to silence again.

"Cannons with technology from our ships are being installed in this precise moment" He continued "Cannons that destroyed planets like Jakku in a matter of second. We will have more options if our fleets gets damaged" he looked at you "Or if the civilians rebel against us. I just have to press a button and the planet would be gone."

You listened his words carefully, the fear growing bigger with every new sentence. How could they do a thing like that? It was monstrous, terrifying, really really bad. You felt sick when the hologram showed again the conquer of the First Order, there were lots of planets forced to live now in fear.

And then you felt pain, how could Rey allow this? how could she be possibly okay with this? Maybe Hux was right, maybe it was her choice to become the monster after all.

You had to find a way out, a way to stop this now more than ever, before it was too late for all the galaxy.

Tagging: @cpt-bolter , @elvencantation , @jay-birf03 , @x-a-gay-disaster-x , @redleysjazz , @hstoria , @iamafangirl-fightme , @leilei-draws , @hayley-the-comet , @snoot-snoot-toot , @1-800-depressedlesbian , @empresspalpatinee , @xgaygremlinx , @the-great-imagines-of-1812

(In case you want to be tagged for specific things or everything I write, just let me know)

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zankivich · 5 years

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The Arrangement: CEO’s Son/Dom!Shawn x Black Sub Reader Chapter 4

a/n: hi I'm back! Please don’t hate me tbh. The semester is off to a crazy start for me already, I don't think Senior year is gonna go down without a fight. I’m really excited for these babies tbh. Shit’s about to get real so strap yourself in tight!!!!!

WARNINGS: deep throating, oral (female receiving), oral (male receiving), restraints, general Dom-ness?

*y/n’s point of view*

The only good thing about bougie ass dinners with industry people is playing dress up. Nothing else good could come out of a bunch of rich people throwing themselves a dinner to network and do a raffle for charity so that no one notices how pointless the dinner was. New York was notorious for them. More so than even LA maybe. But, however much you hated them wasn’t going to stop you from attending. It was important for the company that you go. You figured a little pampering session was the least that you deserved.

Somewhere along the line you stopped having to visit beauty shops with black plastic bags that contained your hair for the event. At some point a hair stylist started showing up at your apartment. You stopped paying in cash and started having Tiana pay the bill. Things had changed a lot actually. But the quality of your hair? Sis, that was a standard that must be improved upon and maintained.

One cannot imagine the power of a lacefront until it has adorned your head. Think Beyonce on stage with the jet of a thousand fans whooshing through her hair. Only without the networth or discography. Tonight you were going for something a little unorthodox, a little outside of your comfort zone. Purple to be exact. But not just any purple. It was this rich, vibrant shade of purple. The roots started out black which made it a little more natural looking and this beautiful wig was sitting at twenty-six inches long meaning you were finna be looking GWOOD. Yes with the ‘w’, too.

“Ooooooo child! Would you look at me?! Where did she come from looking so pretty? Sheesh!” You cackled at the mirror.

Tiana laughed right along with you as your stylist did some finishing touches to make sure your wig was glued for the rest of the night.

“If you’re done loving on yourself we gotta get you into your dress and make up in less than thirty minutes.”

“Oh shit, girl why didn’t you say somethin’?”

Tiana just rolled her eyes. She had said something. At least three times. Woops.

Your dress for the evening was one of those dresses that one didn’t get to eat meals in because any added weight might make the zipper burst. Usually you were a flowly type of gal, a fuck the patriarchy type of gal. But the dress was silk and free so like...just this once.

In the car to the event, you work on emails for your artists, while Tiana works on emails for you. You were probably moving in the direction of needing to hire more bodies, hell you knew your clients were pulling in enough work on their own, but it was hard to give up the duo, the dream team. You craved the intimacy of having your best friend with you always, and you weren’t ready to let anyone else invade that space yet.

“Can we leave this thing early and go get burger king or somethin’?” You whined leaning on her shoulder.

Tiana, never one to be out done, was in her own outfit for the night. It was a sparkly beaded dress with extremely intricate detailing on the bodice. She was thicker than even you were, boobs and ass and thighs galore with a tummy to match that she was just as proud of. All of this exquisite body was draped for the gods that night, the way that she deserved. Her hair remained natural for the night but tied up into these beautiful knots in a row of three on her head. She was beautiful and perfect. You loved her infinitely.

She snorted softly. “We have to stay until at least dessert has been served. But I see no reason not to hit up some food afterwards.”

“How tipsy can I be and still get away with it tonight?”

“Hmm...I think if you do more than four vodka-crans you might start asking people if their families owned slaves.”

You purse your lips in annoyance. “But that’s my favorite question! I never get to have fun. Shit.”

Post the whole hitting number one on Forbes 30 under 30 list, you had to start doing the whole red carpet thing. Cameras weren’t your favorite, and you liked the flash of them even less. However, Black Women didn’t exactly get to the position you were in very often, and so you’d smile and pose a little if it meant some little black girl from queens sitting at home might see it and create the thought in her head that she could get there to. Cause she needed to. There needed to be more. It wasn’t even an option.

It’s on that red carpet that you see him. Why it had never occurred to you that he would be there you weren’t quite sure. But it didn’t. And you were left floundering in the middle of a million cameras as you witnessed your fuck buddy walk out in a deep maroon, red suit like the goddamn devil he was. You bit your lip as he ran his fingers through his hair and slid his hand into the pocket of his perfectly tight pants while he smoldered for the camera. Jesus.

“Bitch you are making dick sucking eyes in the middle of this red carpet! Get. It. Together.” Tianan hissed in your ear.

“I--I am so sorry. I’m together. Together. I promise.” You whispered.

You cleared your face, teeth resetting into your famous smile. Your fingers rested on your thigh and hip for that perfect pose. Maybe you settled your hair a little more over your shoulder. The photographers were impressed, as they should be, and called for a little more action. There’s no way you let your eyes roam over to see if he was staring. There was no need. You could feel the heat in which he stared, nearly felt the zipper on the back of your dress come undone with it. Hmmm. Sounds about right. Men, so obvious.

Eventually you turned to let Tiana lead you to the next section of carpet. Unfortunately there was nowhere else to turn. He was there. Hair perfectly nestled into a curly disarray. You didn’t miss the way he licked his lips as you walked closer. There’s no way the cameras missed it either.

“Y/n!” He called, the cocky asshole. “Let’s get a picture.”

Your eyes widened and you turned to Tiana for assistance, only for her to shrug.

“There’s technically no reason to say no.”

And that is how you found yourself in the middle of a red carpet, his fingers burning against your hip as you both smiled for the cameras.

“We are in public.” You hissed through clenched, but smiling, teeth. “Please act like it.”

“I wouldn’t dream of acting differently.” He grinned, fingers digging a little more firmer against your skin. “But uh, you taking this dress off in my apartment later or is that my job?”

You went to throw your hair over your shoulder again and took the time to subtly and smoothly ram your elbow into his side.

“Ouch. Dammit, y/n.”

You smiled. “I must be moving on. Have a lovely time, sweetheart.”

His eyes travel over your back and down to your ass as you walk away. Again, you don’t need to look to know it. You were a fucking dream.

The inside is just as schmoozy and annoying as ever. There’s some violin, harp type shit. There’s a cocktail hour. Half of the audience looks ready to keel over. And yet here your black ass was having to deal with it all. Rude. But like always you and Tiana made the most of it.

She led you through the throngs of people stopping you when it was necessary to shake hands and kiss cheeks. Tiana understood just as you did, that as annoying as it was, these nights were extremely necessary. The better you fit into the crowd here, the more leverage you had to buck the system in your daily job. And you loved bucking the system.

By the time the cocktail hour had ended you had all but forgotten about Shawn and that godforsaken suit. It isn’t until Tiana and you head for your table for the dinner that you catch sight of a head of hair that didn't look nearly as good as when your fingers were tugging at it. He’s leaning on the chair of some other woman, blonder and thinner and so your opposite that it must give the man whiplash. But that’s fine. It’s not like you’re exclusive, not like you’re dating at all. You don’t care at all.

There’s a glass of champagne in your hand and you keep your body turned entirely the opposite way of his, so as to not intrude on his conversation. Tiana gives you a little helpless smile as if she isn’t sure whether this means anything to your or not. But, it doesn’t.

“I’m fine.” You assure her hand reaching to touch her arm. “Now don’t let me drink more than six of these.”

“Four. We said four sis.” She snorted.

You shrugged your shoulder. “Ti, we gotta let loose every now and again. We deserve it.”

“It’s my job to make sure you don’t regret it in the morning.” She noted.

“Nah, fuck that. You work practically twenty-four, seven for me, Ti. I know we’re best friends but like...take the night off. Drink. Eat. Relax. Find someone to go home with. You deserve it, okay? I’m serious.”

Her playful grin dipped into a genuine smile. You were ride or dies for a reason.

She leaned closer and settled your hair more perfectly along your shoulder as a guise to whisper in your ear.

“It’s okay if it bothers you, ya know? Like you’re entitled to your emotions.” She breathed.

Your eyes widened over her shoulder as the only person in the world with the ability to catch you slipping caught your ass like a fish out of water.

“I--It doesn’t.” You mumbled. “I’m not bothered at all.”

“Okay. That’s okay too. I just want you to know that if there’s anyone in the world you could maybe share that with if you were feeling it, that that would be me okay?”

You smiled softly. “I know. I do. Thank you. I’ll be fine okay? Don’t worry about me.”

“So what...I’m just supposed to go to the bar? Get a drink?” She giggled.

“Yes, bitch. Get several, okay? Put it on my tab. Stop worrying about me. You worry more than my mama does and she worries enough for all of us.”

You pulled her easily into your arms for a hug and a kiss before swatting her on her ass to get her to leave. Behind every successful Black Woman is always another Black Woman itching to see her succeed. Well sometimes success needs to come with some time off. What better night to give her some?

The problem arose that once you sent Tiana off to live her best life, you were still stuck at a table with a whole bunch of people you didn’t know. Except for Shawn. Who you could definitely feel staring at you as you took a sip of champagne. You flicked your hair like an elegant curtain over your shoulder, still facing away from him. Perhaps you had forgotten the kind of guy that he was, that taking no’s or subtleties weren’t exactly in his wheelhouse. It was hot in the bedroom, and annoyingly inconvenient everywhere else.

“So are we just pretending we don’t know each other?” He asked throwing his arm around the back of your chair. “Just wanna know how I’m meant to play it.”

You rolled your eyes in the opposite of his direction.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m just sitting here waiting for this unseasoned ass meal to begin.”

He chuckled. “You are about as subtle as a bus to the forehead. You realize that, right?”

Unable to ignore the emotion that fluttered in your stomach, something that was unnamable to you even then, you turned to face him. His chair was directly next to yours, his arm draped casually against the back of your chair with ease. His hair was still just as perfect, if not a little more tugged into submission from the last time you saw him. He was grinning at you and eyeing your lips even now. As if it was a game that you’d lost before you’d even knew you were playing.

“What exactly is that supposed to mean?” You asked.

“I just couldn’t help but notice the glare you sent my way when I was talking to Natasha earlier.”

“Natasha.” You snorted. “Who the hell is Natasha?”

“Funny...She’s just an associate alright? Works for my dad.” He hummed, lips practically at your ear.

You barely sniffed in his direction. “Is that so?”

“It is.”

“Mhm. And why do you feel so inclined to assure me of that huh? Or is that you being subtle?”

He rolled his eyes at you, a playful little smirk upon his lips. You didn’t like him. You didn’t like him one bit. He drove you crazy.

The chatter of the room dimmed slightly as the food finally began to arrive to the tables. Shawn didn’t move his arm from around your chair. In fact as the waiter began to doll out plates to your table, he leaned in even more, let his lips rest against your ear like there was no one in the room but the two of you.

“Doesn’t quite matter who I talk to does it? No one’s my good little girl like you.” He whispered.

Your eyes fluttered over to him before looking aimlessly anywhere else. Your champagne glass. The silverware. The old man across from you who looked like he was wearing a toupee from the 70’s. The party moved seamlessly around the two of you, but you couldn’t help but look for eyes that might be on you. Shawn didn’t seem the least bit interested in doing anything besides driving you mad. He never seemed to be worried about much of anything. You both envied it and were annoyed by it. It didn’t stop your legs from crossing tighter, or your spine from straightening now did it?

“Not tonight.” You sighed. “Not here.”

He released a hum that you’d only ever heard in the bedroom. It was one of disapproval, one of challenge. He hated when he didn’t get his way, and this was you denying him on the thing he wanted most in that very moment. You.

“After. My place isn’t far.”

The waiter finally got to the two of you placing your dishes before you. Something that resembled a dry ass piece of chicken lay stagnant on your plate, with some weird dots of something that looked like baby food. It was enough to get your mind back on track and enough to get you more centered and less dick crazy.

“I--I can’t. Tiana and I are going to Burger King.” You shrugged.

You could see his eyes widen from your periphery giving you the time to ask the waiter for another drink. You might need it.

“Burger King...Well fuck it let’s go to Burger King then.”

It was your turn to look at him, wide eyed and confused.

“I’m sorry? What part of what I just said made you think your pasty ass was invited to my Burger King expedition?”

“I just figured we should take some time to build up our strength for some late night activities is all.”

Genuinely, how did you end up here? Where was the camera? When was the joke going to reveal itself?

“Honestly you must have a script writer or something. There is no way that shit actually comes out of your brain and through your mouth.”

The table around you was having a conversation, but it just didn’t seem to matter. Nothing really cut through when the two of you were together. Whether he was annoying you or turning you on, Shawn seemed to take up all your senses. He did it with ease and with swagger. Sometimes you didn’t even hate him for it. Sometimes you wished you hated him more.

“Have you ever thought about how much easier both of your lives would be if you argued with me less and just let me make you happy more often?” He asked.

You peered at him looking for a sign of him joking, waiting for him to say something smart, something that would make you want to slap him. But he didn’t. He just stared as if he genuinely wanted an answer. And when the time came you were helpless but to give it to him.

“Is that...is that what you’re concerned with? Making me happy?” You asked.

He stared at you for a second, eyes wide and sincere, before his shoulders dropped and he shrugged away whatever moment there might have been.

“‘Course I am darlin’. I’m concerned with keeping us both happy if you know what I mean.”

You rolled your eyes and tried to focus on cutting through the food on your plate. It was barely edible. God you hated these dinners.

“There’s nothing wrong with talking to each other when we’re not naked, yn.” He mumbled between his own bites of dry chicken.

You shrugged your shoulders. “I know that.”

“Yea? So can I come to Burger King then?” He asked.

His jawline points to you and it is as infuriating as it is comforting. You’re not quite sure how he manages that. You just know that you don't quite hate each other. Never have. You actually had periods where you got along quite well. And perhaps that’s what made you the most nervous. This potential for the two of you to get along muddied up the waters slightly. What did that mean if you were two people who fucked and got along? What did it mean if you became friendly, became friends even? You weren’t sure, and it seemed like everything that the two of you might want to avoid. So definitely don’t invite him, right?

“W--Well… Fuck. I guess you can come. But if you at any point start fucking up the atmosphere, I will promptly drop your ass off at the subway.” You warned.

“Fine. It wouldn’t be the weirdest foreplay we’ve gotten up to anyway and you know it.”

“God, kill me now.”

***

When you told Tiana to go live her best life you weren’t quite sure what that meant. But, you knew it had not entailed bringing some random ass man on your friendship Burger King run! Granted he was sexy as hell, but like...not the point. And the fact that you showed up with Shawn tagging along was not to be mentioned, no matter how many eye rolls she sent in your direction. Rude.

“Can we go to your place tonight?” Shawn hummed moving your curtain of hair to tuck gently behind your ear.

You bit your lip, warm and fuzzy from your fifth glass of champagne, and stared at him.

“Mhm. How come though?”

“You sleep better when you’re not in new places. Not that my place is really new anymore, but you still sleep better at home.”

“H--How… How could you possibly know that?”

He shrugged. “You’re not invisible to the world just cause you think you are. I can see you.”

Your heart rate picked up in your chest. You stared at him harder trying to understand how it was possible for this man to do that. He seemed so young, so inexperienced (not in the bedroom of course). You had pegged him as man child, as someone completely out of touch with reality. How dare he see you for more than you had been ready to share. How dare he look deeper.

“I don’t even understand.” You mumbled. “What?”

“At my place you wake up before your alarm. Without fail, every morning. You’re an early bird as it is, but it’s literally like your body enters fight or flight mode or something. We don’t have to talk about it if it’s not what you want. Don’t get mad at me for noticing you though. I think we’re around each other a little bit too much for that now.”

His eyes are warm and gentle and his hand somehow ended up holding your wrist. Even his grasp in gentle. He’s not teasing you, or trying to make a joke. It’s just genuine. Simple. A moment between the two of you that might complicate things if you think hard enough. So, you don’t.

“Fine.” You huffed sliding down in your seat to lean your head on his shoulder. “You don’t like the lights off when you sleep though.”

He peers down at you from above this time, and you get a little stuck on the rosiness of his cheeks.

“Excuse me?” He raised an eyebrow. “We sleep with the lights off every time.”

You shake your head playfully. “At your place you always keep the bathroom light on. At mine? You always change your clothes in my closet and then you leave the light on and the door cracked.”

He goes silent for a while.

You thought maybe you’d touched on a nerve that you weren’t meant to. But, you weren’t sure how to backtrack or talk to him about it. He had touched a nerve for you after all. One that you weren’t quite ready to share. Even with him.

His eyes stayed on his fingers as he played with his rings. You felt calm resting there against his shoulder, watching him. You thought you could fall asleep that way.

“How come you never shut it off?”

You opened your eyes, cheek resting on his shoulder. “Hmm?”

“The light. You never shut it off. You let me keep it on. How come?”

“Cause it seemed like you wanted it, seemed like it made you comfortable. Why wouldn’t I let you do something that makes you happy. It wasn’t affecting me none.”

Another stretch of silence fills the back seat of the car. Tianna and her man giggle to each other. He’s cute. You wonder how long they’ll last. Tianna was the queen of random ass long lasting relationships. She could date someone for two years after meeting them at a bar. She was kind of infectious that way. You thought that maybe keeping her working for you was stopping her from settling down, from moving on to a new phase in her life...She’d never admit it even if you asked.

“It’s just a thing with my mum.”

“What is?” You asked curiously popping back into the conversation.

“When I was a kid, she used to keep the light on at night so that I wouldn’t get scared. And when we moved out to California, away from Canada, our house was too big. My room was super far away from hers and so she would always keep it on so that I could come find her if I needed to. It’s silly but she’s back in Canada now, and when I go home to visit she still leaves it on. Guess I just got used to it.”

You felt warm against his side. Like maybe if he wrapped his arm around you you wouldn’t mind. Like maybe his lips could touch yours and it would be okay. And when he speaks you feel yourself relax and ease completely against his side. It’s not just the vulnerability. Part of it is the sound of his voice, soft and smooth against your ear. And part of it is his nerves, the way he twitches his fingers as if you might judge him. But you won’t. Couldn’t imagine it.

“That’s not silly.” You whispered against his neck. “That’s sweet. That’s what you deserve. We keep the light on, okay?”

He looked at you like he did at the dinner. Eyes soft and gentle and searching. It’s a loaded glance, but this time you don’t look away.

“Okay. thank you. And we can stay at yours whenever you know? I--I don’t mind.”

“Okay. Thank you.”

Burger King is not prepared for the four of you to walk in at eleven o’clock at night, dressed to the tee and looking for food. But the second a chicken sandwich and an onion ring enter your hand nothing else matters. You are zen. You are in pleasure. You are in heaven. You are...horny?

“What in the hell is you lickin’ your lips at?” Tianna snorted as you two sat in a whole ass booth at burger king in five thousand dollar dresses. What a world.

Shawn was ordering you another chicken sandwhich after the first had not satisfied your hunger. But watching him stand at the register with his hands in his pockets, talking to the person ringing up their order was doing something for you that even you couldn’t explain.

“Ti’ I wanna suck his dick.” You admitted softly. “I wanna suck his dick so bad I can’t stand it.”

“Oh sweet jesus.”

You bit your lip as he turned to throw a smirk at you over his shoulder. That was all she wrote.

“I have to fuck him. Like now.” You shrugged. “ I don’t make the rules.”

“Bitch the hold that man’s dick has on you I will never understand. You cannot go fucking that boy in a Burger King bathroom. That is a level of ratchet-edy that I cannot allow as your best friend.”

You turned to your best friend in your time of need. Tianna had been there your whole life. From braces to training bras to stretch marks to breaks ups. She had seen you at your worst and at your best. And most certainly she had seen you at your horniest.

“Ti, here’s the thing. Sometimes I just need someone to rail me.” You offered in your loosened state. “Sometimes? I need to be bent over and taken for everything that I’ve got. Now I’m not picky about who does it as long as they do it well. The problem...and it is a very big problem, sis...is that no one has ever had the audacity to fuck me like that firm, chiseled little beanpole can.”

“Not beanpole, bitch.” She cackled.

You licked your lips in his direction and sighed the sigh of a woman who was in desperate need of dick. What a life.

“I’m serious. I think it’s the greatest, throw my back out and leave me crying , dick I’ve ever had.” You hummed. “I want him.”

“Well let’s get some more food in your drunk ass and then he can throw your back out a little later.”

It would never make sense to Tianna. It wasn’t that you were drunk at all. In fact, with some food in your system you felt pretty fine. It was just that you really liked the way that he made you feel. And he really liked the way that he made you feel. Shawn should’ve been selfish, should’ve been cocky and underwhelming and sucky in bed. But he wasn’t. He was just...good. He was good and whatever it was that the two of you had, you kind of liked it. What was wrong with that?

Tiana got up to go meet her mans, and when Shawn got back to the table, he set your food in front of you politely. Instead of focusing on the sandwich you looked up at him. And he looked back. His fingers gripped the back of your seat and you leaned forward until you were in each other’s space, until your chin butted softly against his stomach.

“What?” He chuckled fingers grazing your jaw.

Too soft. God he was so soft.

“Mmm. Want you to kiss me.”

His eyes widened slightly and his fingers stilled.

“You do? Right now?”

You nodded. “Please?”

He looked into your eyes and his teeth sunk gently into his bottom lip. Your lips parted and you leaned forward, your heart thumping unevenly in your chest. When he kissed you, you weren’t quite sure what to expect. You thought you’d grown used to his kiss, to the feel of his teeth and his tongue. But, nerves nestled deep in your gut as you weren’t sure what kind of kiss he might give you. When his fingers trailed along the back of your neck softly before gripping it tightly. Breath wooshed past your lips as he yanked you forward to kiss you hard, fast, and deep…in a Burger King.

You gasped lifting slightly out of your chair as his tongue snaked in. Your fingers found his hair and squeezed tight, squeezed desperately at everything that he was. Suddenly your whole body was on fire with want, with need. His hands burned at your hips and you fell into him. He knew exactly what the fuck he was doing. What he always did to you. God you hated him.

“Eat your chicken and let’s go.” He huffed barely pulling back to lick his lips.

Your eyes fluttered wantonly up at him. “W--What are we doing?”

“I’m gonna fuck this pretty little mouth of yours. And then I’m gonna eat your pussy until you sob.”

He tapped lightly on your cheek before turning on his heel and heading straight for the door. If there was a chicken sandwich or a meteor, or God herself in that damn restaurant you was not finna notice.

“Bitch where is you going?!” Tiana called after you.

But there was no use. You were practically floating on air after that man like the dirty little whore you were. Thank you.

“Gotta go.” You called over your shoulder not wanting to miss the way his ass looked in those pants.

Outside the cool fall air felt like ice against your heated skin. The city was still alive and bustling, cars weaving in and out of traffic, horns honking, people booking it to their next location. Shawn stood at the edge of the sidewalk near the car that had driven you from the event, but made no move to get into the vehicle. As you stepped closer, your thighs still practically quivering, he turned to you and smiled before licking his lips with dark and clouded eyes. Fuck.

“Why aren’t you getting in the car?” You whined.

He reached for your hand to pull you closer. One second you were standing beside him and the next he had lifted you just slightly off of the ground until the soles of your shoes were nestled on top of his. His hands settled just below the curve of your ass and tugged your thighs so that your bodies were pressed together. It was some Cinderella, prince charming shit that you had never in your natural born life expected. Suddenly you were feeling far more intoxicated than the drinks had ever caused.

“I didn’t wanna leave Tianna stranded, so I called my driver. He never left the banquet; he’ll be here in fifteen.”

You nodded softly fingers resting on his shoulders at he held you against him.

“Should we...like wait inside then?”

He shook his head with a smirk that made your toes clench.

“No. I’d rather tell you all the things I’m gonna do to you the second I get you alone. We don’t need to go inside for that.”

You gulped. Bitch, honest to god gulped. You didn’t know anyone but Shaggy and Scooby was walking around gulping, but alas. What a fucking night.

“What are you gonna do to me?” You whispered.

He sighed softly letting his thumb run over your cheek in soothing motions again. Then he wrapped his arms around your back and held you so close that may have felt like more than what it was had he not began to speak lowly into your ear.

“I’m gonna keep you in your panties all night.” He hummed. “I’m gonna eat you so good you’ll be aching for me to rip them off, but I won’t. I’m gonna lick you through them. I’m gonna make you cum against my face with them on. I’m gonna lick you clean with them on. I’m gonna drive you absolutely fucking wild if I can help it.”

You swore your knees gave out. But it didn’t matter because his fingers were digging deep into your hips to keep you upright. It wasn’t a sexual embrace. It was barely even romantic. This of course only made it hotter that he was talking to you in the manner that he was, that anyone might walk by at any moment and would have no idea the things he was saying it. You got wet just thinking about it.

“Are you gonna be a good girl for me?” He asked. “Gonna let me make you feel good?”

“Y--Yes. Yes, sir. I promise I’ll be so good for you. Only wanna be good for you.”

“Yea? Gonna let me slip my cock between this pretty lips?”

His thumb tugged at your bottom lip and you moaned embarrassingly loud.

“Shit.”

He leaned forward to kiss your forehead another juxtaposition of emotions and actions that really were sending your body through the ringer. How was he real?

“I’m gonna fuck your throat until you beg me to stop.” He said calmly.

The car pulled up at that exact moment but you were frozen to your spot. Shawn was completely unbothered by the existential crisis that he’d left you in, and simply lifted your feet off of his to open the door. As if it was just a tuesday night or some shit. The audacity.

“Sweetheart let’s not keep Jake waiting, aye? It’s rude.” He murmured in regards to his driver.

Surely there had to be a level where this stopped. Surely, it was all getting to be too much. This man seemed to have you wrapped around his larged, perfectly skilled finger. Yes. Too much. Needs to stop. Like yesterday.

“Okay.” You sighed and shuffled your fine ass into the car.

Welp. Maybe another day.

***

“Are the ropes too tight?” He breathed against your neck, lips trailing delicately over the skin.

You hummed. “No. Feels good.”

“Color?”

“Green.”

“Good girl.”

He steps in front of you, his body long and lithe and taking up all of your senses. His thighs flex with ease and that’s before you even get to the sharp jut of hip that leads to a perfectly pointed V towards his dick. He’s already hard and already ready for you to make him feel good. Because that’s what it’s about. Mutual pleasure. You from giving and him from receiving, and within that giving you everything that you could ever ask for. Your thong is soaked just thinking about it.

“You’re not gonna be able to speak obviously, so I need you to tap me three times really quick if you want me to stop okay?” He asked eyes wide and sincere.

You nodded. “Okay.”

“No I’m serious. If it starts to hurt, I need you to stop me. If it start feels less than good at any point you tell me to back the fuck off. Do you understand?”

“Yes. Shawn, I understand.” You assured him.

He makes you practice it through the ropes around your wrist. Only once you’re comfortable and he’s comfortable does he step closer. Your wig now gone and in its place is your hair pulled tightly into a bun at the back of your head, there’s not much for him to grab onto. That doesn’t seem to bother Shawn in the slightest.. His fingers reach for your cheeks and jaw instead, gentle and playful at first and he tilts your head to the right angle for him. When his cock slips into his hand, and he lets the head rest between your lips, the sound that comes out of him is so tantalizing you nearly cum right there.

“So pretty for me, sweetheart.” He groaned. “Go ahead and get it wet.”

Your tongue laves at the thick fleshiness of his head. He won’t let you move closer to get more, won’t push forward at all yet, so all you can use is your tongue. Surprisingly you love the power that it gives you. The power of being in control of his pleasure from beneath him. It’s an intricate play at the power dynamics that the two of you constantly played with. But, you like it. You like it a lot. You let the tip of your tongue trace lazily at his slit and notice the way his eyes flutter close at the feeling.

“Fuck. Y/n, yes. That’s it.”

He steps a little closer and finally lets his dick slip between your lips. Your tongue continues running beneath the underside, fingers wrapping instinctively around one of his ankles to anchor you more to this moment, this pleasure. The second he gives you the leeway, you wrap your lips tightly around him and suck. You weren’t kidding back at Burger King, you were more than prepared.

“Goddamn, your fucking mouth. You’ll be the death of me you know that?”

You slurped a little nosily at the amount of his length that he had given you, wanting to show your enthusiasm as an answer to his question. He steps a little closer now, and fills you more.

His hands come to rest on your head, one directly on top, and the other at the bottom of your jaw. Your eyes finally lock and his lips fall open in lust as he lets his cock slap against your tongue.

“I’m gonna start to move now. I’m gonna give you more and more until my whole dick is in your mouth. You know our safety signal right?”

You nod eagerly. Desperately. He makes you practice the signal again just in case. Three taps for STOP. Two for slow down a little. One for I’m so happy with this.

The first time he puts his whole dick in your mouth it isn’t even the feel of him that makes your entire body pur. Instead it’s the sound of him whining, His legs tremble and his eyes flutter shut. It’s the hottest thing you’ve ever seen in your life. And you want more of it. Crave it even. So you let him fill you. You let your throat relax and your tongue flatten. You breathe through your nose and you don’t dare move as he slowly begins to move his hips. It has its intended effect on him, but even more than that is the effect it has on you. Your pussy throbs indecently as his balls tap your chin. The rops tighten as you stretch to lean closer, to be closer. His mouth parts and he moans for you. It’s euphoria.

“Jesus. Your mouth feel so damn good.” He grunted.

His thrusts got tighter, more pointed until the sound of your dick between your lips was lewdy and filthy. You welcome the spit that dripped from your mouth, yearned for the way it made him gasp and plead for you. Was he in control? Maybe. But who was really steering the pleasure? You were. And you fucking loved every second of it.

When he pulls from your throat you gasp and cough for breath, but not without seeing the way the tip of his cock was red and angry and leaking. It flapped against your lips and glistened in the light of his bedroom. Even when you were still fighting to breathe, you couldn’t help but want to suck it again.

“I--I’m not gonna fucking last.” He huffed squeezing at the base to stave off his orgasm.

You couldn’t help but pout at the way he got to touch himself while your fingers were tied. Couldn’t stand that your lips weren’t on him anymore.

“Don’t need to. Don’t want you to.” You whined. “Come back to me.”

The look that he gives you is one of heat and lust and something that’s maybe a bit tender. He cups your jaw again and bites his lip like he’s conflicted. About what you haven’t got a clue. Before you can think too much he’s thrusting himself into you again, but this time with more power, more recklessness. It burns slightly at your throat. The sounds get louder, more dirty, and so does the way he cries out for you. It’s desperate and needy and so fucked out and GOD why won’t he touch your pussy yet?!

“‘M gonna cum. Gonna cum down your throat.”

Your fingers gripped desperately at his calf, mouth stretch wide beyond your limits and he gagged you repeatedly with his cock. The fight for air was long and hard, but the way he trembled on his fucking toes for you was everything. It was power and it was beauty and it just made you want to be good for him. You just needed to please him. Simply because you could. Better than anyone fucking else could.

He cums with his fingers wrapped tightly around the back of your skull holding you against his crotch as he emptied himself into your throat. When he pulls out his head taps your lip a final time and each of you groan for different reasons. You for the air that fills your lungs, and him for the orgasm that seems to rock him to his very core.

“Shit. Shit y/n. That was amazing.” He whined.

You smile softly with wet eyes and a wet lips and a bit of a sore throat.

“I know.” You hum.

He rolled his eyes playfully at you and moves to his bedside table for the bottle of water he left for you there. Shawn quickly dropped to his knees along side you and lifted the water bottle to your lips to let the cool water trickle down your throat.

“Are you okay?” He checked. “Did I hurt you?”

You shook your head. “No. Feel good. A little sore. But good.”

“Yea? Well you were amazing. You’re always amazing.”

It fills you with a lightbeam of happiness that is too much to deal with it. You felt like you were on cloud nine. It was one thing for you to know you were good, and another entirely for him to agree. Another thing entirely for him to praise you so endlessly and feverently. It made you feel so damn good.

He untied your wrists and rubbed his thumbs soothingly into your skin. His lips track down yours and it’s just as good as it was at Burger King, just as hunger filled and desperate.

“‘M gonna get you on the bed okay?” He mumbled against your mouth, still pressing heated kisses to your skin. “Your hands aren’t tied anymore so you can do whatever you want with them while I’m eating you out. You can tug on my hair. You can grab at me in whatever way you need. There’s just one thing you can’t do.”

“What’s that?”

“You can’t push me away. I’m gonna make you cum. You’re gonna want me to stop. But I won’t. And I need you to be good for me. I need you to take it. Okay?”

“O--Okay.” You sighed, thighs squeezing together again. “Okay. I’ll be good.”

He smiled and gripped your chin. “My good girl. Come.”

There is nothing like the feeling of him between your legs. His body is warm and hard and heavy. He roots you to the bed and makes you feel more present than ever. His lips and tongue are hot against your already flushed skin as he kisses and nibbles his way along your thighs and stomach. With your hands now free to roam as they please you can’t seem to get enough of him. The softness of his curls between your fingers. The bulge of muscle at his shoulder blades. The dip in the back of his spine. And the entire time he’s doing just what he promised. His tongue soaked at the fabric of your thong, pushing it against your clit with languid little strokes. If you thought that your underwear being in the way would make it less intense, you couldn't have been more wrong. The fabric was silk and it added another texture against your skin as he sucked and prodded at you. Not even fifteen minutes later and your legs had found their way around his back, toes nudging that divet in the small of it again.

“S--Shawn.” you whined pitifully. “Please. More.”

He peered up from between your thighs with the grin of the devil. His lips were already red and swollen. You simply needed more contact.

“I’ll give you more when I’m ready honey. Be good for me.” He cooed.

He sucks a mark into the jut of your lip and runs his tongue there to soothe the flesh before he dives back in.

It’s absolutely torturous. From the foreplay of his dick down your throat, to the absolute hell of his teeth on your thighs, you were buzzing. The need that seem to build and throb from your core was unlike anything you’d ever felt before. You’d never craved being touched, had never needed it this badly. But, here Shawn was constantly pulling emotions and feelings that no one had ever been capable of getting out of you.

He slurped loudly at your pussy through your thong, constantly flicking the fabric to tap anxiously at your clit. When your orgasm started to build, your fingers fisted into his hair, thighs clenched. You pushed closer to his mouth and cried out widely for him, for his tongue, for anything that meant he might take you over the edge. And over the edge you went.

“Fuck. Ohmygod--fuck yea!”

He let you grind your pussy against his face. Let you ride that high like you rode his mouth. And when the orgasm began to ebb and your clit throbbed again, he leaned onto his elbows and grabbed at your ass to pull you even closer against his face. He wasn’t done. He’d barely even fucking started.

“SHAWN!”

He tugged the thong out of the way and licked you clean, ran his tongue along every crevice and nerve ending. When he traces the very tip of your clit with the tip of his tongue your legs close like venice fly trap around his head. Your fingers thrust into his hair and you let out a moan that you would be embarrassed of in broad daylight. There’s just no way in hell he’s got you cumming again this fast.

He got up onto his knees, fingers digging deep into your thighs and wrestled you down onto his expensive ass bed. By the time he comes up for air, your legs were literally trembling and you heart soared so fast in your ears that it was all you could hear.

“This pussy was fucking made for me.” He grunted licking his lips. “Come here.”

“W--wait, I’m so sensitive.”

He paused, fingers still gripping you just tightly enough.

“Color?”

You bit your lip. “Green.”

“You’re sure?”

You nodded softly and leaned back onto your elbows as he made his way between your thighs once again. He tugged your thigh over his shoulder and settled onto his side to make himself more comfortable. Your eyes met from between your legs as he pressed a kiss to one of your pussy lips.

“You make me wait again and I’ll slap your ass so hard you won’t be able to sit tomorrow okay?” He murmured.

Your fingers reached instinctively for his hair now, tightening into the curls as you threw your head back in pleasure.

“Fuck. Okay. Okay, sir. I’m sorry.”

“Mmmm. Good girl.” He hummed against your core.

He starts to lick and suckle at you again ignoring the ways that your legs shake at this point. His hands are dancing on your thighs and gripping at the flesh so good it makes you squirm all the more. It really does just feel too good to be true. His tongue is like a sinful miracle and you’ve been fooling around long enough for him to know your body inside and out. From the way he bumps your clit with his nose, to the way his tongue traces around the skin in tight little circles. Every part of it feels infinitely special. When his fingers slip inside of you and curve towards the darkest part of your being, your hips start to flail again. He only smiles up at you in satisfaction.

“So sensitive for me. Wanna make you cum again. Can you cum for me sweetheart?”

Your back arched hips pushing closer and closer towards him as he filled you up and rubbed roughly at your gspot.

“Oh. Oh my god. Oh my god, Shawn! Please. Please make me cum.”

He pushed at the thigh that was over your shoulder and spread you further so that his fingers could do their magic. He rubbed deeper and deeper into you, fingers curving so that your body lost all control. This orgasm starts in your belly, warm and firey before it spread through every nerve ending. When you cum it’s like an eruption. Your screams reach new octaves. The squelching sound of Shawn’s plunging fingers meeting the thick, sticky liquid from your heat. It’s all too much. Too too much.

“HOLY FUCK!”

He pulled his fingers from within you and let your body drop back down to the bed spread. Your heart raced in your chest and your legs felt like jello. You could barely breathe and Shawn thought it was the funniest shit in the world. He peered down at you with hungry eyes and the cockiest fucking grin in the world and your pussy had the audacity to twitch again. What a whore.

He climbed onto your body, thighs bracketing either side of your torso. His dick was red and leaking again, your body literally shivering as he thrust lazily against your stomach.

“‘M gonna cum on your tits.” He whimpered fisting himself in his palm again. “Is that okay?”

He pumped at his shaft, curls flopping beautifully along his forehead with every thrust of his hips. Shawn was a dream. A sweaty, trembling dream that made your heart race and your toes curl. In the moment with his thighs tenses on either side of you, and his lips parted and swollen, denial was not an option. You ached for his pleasure, for his reward. You craved it.

“Yes. Yes!”

Your hands grasped at the flesh of your boobs lifting them to be pressed together. Your nipples stood erect and rock hard, and this only seemed to spur him on even more. The best part of Shawn’s position above you was the ability to watch him fall apart. Your dom, for all of his charisma and perfected authority, crumbled when he was near orgasm. It was in those few seconds that you got to see him in his most vulnerable state. Whiny and red faced and just as overwhelmed as you. And god did you love every second of it.

He shoved up on his knees and groaned so low that you felt it in your own chest. The head of his cock barely poked out from his fist as he fell over the finish line, cum spurting out in thick long ropes along your body. He gasped and heaved in elation hunching in on himself too. You reached without thinking to take his cock into your mouth, cleaning the last remnants of his orgasm with your tongue. When you pulled back with a nice plop for added measure, he collapsed beside you on the bed. Both of you were absolutely done for after a total of five orgasms split between the two of you. There was simply nothing else for you to give.

“F--Five minutes.” He gasped from beside you. “Five minutes and I’ll go get the washcloth.”

It seemed like a fair trade off. You couldn’t even feel your pussy to let him clean you up after all. What was another five minutes?

Permanent taglist

@simpledomain @liliane106 @thecurlsofgod @kamahriii @sinplisticshawn @lifeoftheparty74 @xeuphorically-moonstruck @euphoric05 @daijanicole @bruhh-whateven @learning-howto-be-myselfx3 @decewill @goldiean @bitchacho25 @bruhh-whateven @justbeingoceana @loveylangdon @iloveshawnieboi @lifeoftheparty74

Arrangement Taglist:

@moonlightmendes22 @cottoncandyshawn @iloveshawnieboi @iloveshawnieboi @shawnsblue @justbeingoceana

@claredolphinbear24 @peterbrokenparker @shawnase @blackharry @shawnwyr @speakingofmari @cottoncandyshawn

#shawn mendes #Shawn mendes fic #Shawn mendes fanfic #Shawn mendes fanfiction #shawn mendes smut #Shawn mendes series #Shawn mendes angst #Shawn mendes one shot #Shawn mendes x you #Shawn mendes x y/n #Shawn mendes x reader #Shawn mendes x black reader #Shawn mendes x black woman #Shawn mendes x black oc #dom Shawn #dom!shawn #sub reader #sub!reader

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sea-side-scribbles · 4 years

Text

Fanfiction: Sympathy For A Downer

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22737214/chapters/60936430

Chapter 22:

The following days Norbert played dumb on purpose, simply to spend more time with Mortimer, even though that meant that the other boy regarded him as a musical neanderthal.

„You should’ve figured it out by now“, Mortimer said in another one of their improvised lessons. They sat at the piano again, next to each other and Norbert still didn’t want this to end.

„How did you learn all this so fast“, he sighed, giving Mortimer an admiring look. „I’ll never be as good as you!“

Mortimer shook his head.

„This isn’t what makes you good. It’s just how you start.“

Norbert palpated the keys in silence, wishing he could touch Mortimer’s hands instead, which where only a few inches away from him and yet unreachable. He was long over simply marveling at how they skimmed over the keys, he rather dreamed about what they could do on him.

„Do you always play from sheet music?“, he finally asked and made an effort to sound casual.

„Mostly“, Mortimer answered in his taciturn manner. „I guess you don’t“, he added and smiled a little, giving Norbert a sign that he had achieved something. There was no hint of mockery in his pure smile and Norbert admired it.

„No.“ He chuckled. Then he looked around the room.

„I also couldn’t play in here,“ he stated and made Mortimer look around as well.

„No? What’s wrong with the room?“

Norbert glanced at the window. A thought was flowering in his head.

„It’s hard to describe with words“, he answered. „You better see it yourself.“

Mortimer furrowed his brows, turned to the window and then back to Norbert.

„See what?“

„The park,“ Norbert almost whispered in awe. „Would you like to meet up with me after school? We could go there together, so you can see what I mean.“

He looked at Mortimer with wide eyes.

The other boy only shrugged and said plainly: „Can’t hurt to try.“

Norbert was about to punch him into the side but stopped himself.

„C’mon, Morrie! Show a little affection!“, he teased him anyway, using the nickname he had made up. Mortimer hadn’t said much about it when he had heard it for the first time.

But then again he never said much about anything.

Since he was mostly serious and hard-headed, Norbert was really glad to see the corners of his mouth now twitch a little.

„I have no clue where you’re taking me,“ he replied and started to collect the music sheets because the break was almost over.

„You’ll like it,“ Norbert said while his mind was spinning.

The following lessons he couldn’t think about anything else than the moment he could finally spend time with Mortimer outside the school building.

After school he waited at the entrance gate, unable to stand still and nearly bursting with excitement. While he was standing there losing patience, he wondered if Mortimer would turn him down, find an excuse so he didn’t have to go. Or simply wouldn’t arrive at all.

He paced about the sidewalk for what felt like an eternity until someone approached him.

„Norbert, are you looking for me?“

It was a girl’s voice, a familiar one. Norbert turned around.

„Candice!“, he shouted with surprise, asking himself why she had to come just now, of all possible moments.

„I’m waiting for…our new band member. He joined us a few days ago and he needs uhm…instructions,“ he explained and nervously scratched the back of his head.

„Really? I was hoping we could spend some time together, now that I found you,“ she said, made that beautiful pout and laid her arms around his shoulders. When her lips almost touched his and he barely dared to breathe, she whispered: „Call him off, darling“.

Usually Norbert couldn’t say no to her, but her vibes were nothing against Mortimer’s.

„I’m sorry, dear, but I can’t,“ he whispered back, „We’ll catch up on this another time, okay?“ He gently touched her arms to free himself, and she understood.

When she let go of him she cocked her head, sending her curly hair bouncing around her shoulders.

„Don’t let me wait too long, dear“, she said and gave him a charming smile before gracefully walking away.

Norbert watched her go, relieved that he got off so cheaply.

Seconds later, the sound of more footsteps made him turn his head again.

„There you are! I thought you turned me down!,“ he blurted out, sounding more taunting then he wanted to.

„Sorry…I had to take care of a few things. But now I’m ready,“ Mortimer explained and came to a halt next to Norbert, who decided not to ask.

„Follow me,“ he said instead and was soon comforted by the way they walked side by side along the street. Because the sidewalk was rather narrow they almost touched shoulder to shoulder. Norbert asked himself how the other boy could not hear his heartbeat that was pounding heavily in his throat.

„It’s not very far,“ he said just to break the silence.

„I’m wondering…Is it that secret hideout where you pick up your pretty birds?“, Mortimer asked. Although he didn’t sound too serious about it Norbert felt a pang in his chest.

„It’s not about pick ups,“ he defended himself. „It’s about the music!“

„Yes, that and the birds,“ Mortimer insisted. „Come on, it’s not really a secret you know.“

Norbert almost slapped his forehead again.

„It’s not my fault that they like my music so much“, he said in his most innocent voice.

„And you“, Mortimer added without looking at him.

Norbert needed a second to process that.

„Exactly,“ he then said proudly, cocked his head, similar to the way Candice had done it before and began to walk just as gracefully.

He’d make Morrie forget about all the girls, he’ll see.

When they finally reached the front gate of the park he noticed with disappointment that the other boy increased the distance between them again.

Well, just because Mortimer liked him didn’t mean he had to hold hands right away, Norbert comforted himself. Wouldn’t it look weird anyway?

„So…what do you say to this?“, he asked Mortimer instead and widened his arms to present the beauty of nature in all it’s glory. Looking around himself, he had the impression that even the park was giving it it’s best.

„Not bad“, Mortimer answered. „Looks like we’re alone here too.“

At that, Norbert’s cheeks began to feel very warm. He slightly touched his skin and inwardly begged it to stop.

Then Mortimer waved him off again.

„At least until you start singing. Then the place will be crowded with girls.“

Norbert made a face and decided to find the most remote corner where they would be alone by all means.

„You make it sound like a bad thing,“ he couldn’t bite back.

„I didn’t mean to, it was only a statement,“ Mortimer seemed to be a bit sorry. „But I’m not wrong, or am I?“, he added shrugging.

„We’ll see about that“, Norbert muttered, sounding slightly disgruntled.

Louder he said: „Whatever, we’re not there yet. Follow me, it’s this way.“

Hiding in the back of the park brought the advantage that he could lead Mortimer over the bridge that crossed a little stream. It looked very scenic, if not romantic, and would’ve definitely caused a positive reaction by a female companion. Mortimer however glanced over it, didn’t flinch and remained quiet, as if he didn’t care at all. Norbert was suddenly very tired. He didn’t expect this to be easy but he had wished that Mortimer was a little more emotional about everything.

When he found a nice looking spot under a tree he led the other boy there before he slumped down on the ground, feeling exhausted as if he had been walking a thousand miles.

„This is good enough I guess,“ he sighed, grabbed his guitar, plucked the strings and listened to their sound that echoed through the air around him. Once again he was sure that this was the most beautiful place in the world. Mortimer must be blind.

„Does it really leave you cold?“, he asked the other boy, who was still standing and looking around.

„No, it’s pretty, you’re right,“ he answered, avoiding Norbert’s gaze and searching for something with his eyes. When he found it he sat down under a different tree, further away from Norbert than he had planned.

„A bit too much side noise perhaps,“ he stated right after.

Norbert stared at him for a second before he caught himself again.

„But can’t you hear that?“, he asked and played a few chords. His guitar had to save him now.

Mortimer crossed his arms. „Sure…it’s…it’s good.“

He sounded nervous all of a sudden and Norbert gathered new courage.

It was now or never.

He ran his fingers over the strings, as if he was searching for the right words. The random chords he played slowly formed a melody of the first song that came into his mind. It soothed him and helped him to escape the tension.

He needed comfort now.

Usually he didn’t mind to have an audience, since people just walked by, stopped sometimes, listened for a while and then went on.

Now he had a special listener and even though he had tried to fight it down he felt his hands shake.

He had to forget that Mortimer was there, so he closed his eyes for a moment and concentrated on nothing but his own voice.

In time, he started to feel comfortable. His voice became firmer and his body calmed down.

When he opened his eyes again he simply enjoyed the moment.

He didn’t look at Mortimer until the end of the song.

Finally, their eyes met and Mortimer’s face was stone-still, with widened eyes.

„Do you see it now?“, Norbert asked, he was rather whispering.

„Well…I…“. Mortimer had to clear his throat in order to recover his voice.

„It’s good, really good,“ he continued to stutter. „I couldn’t play here, but you…“ he ran his fingers through his hair, ruffling his well groomed parting.

„I’m used to it,“ Norbert said while he watched in awe how the other boy’s whole manner changed, how he struggled for words.

„Yeah right,“ Mortimer managed to answer and a shy smile flickered over his face.

Norbert couldn’t help but smile happily.

In his head he was already planning to come closer to Morrie. But before he could do anything, the other boy suddenly got up and went a few steps backwards. His body was tensed and he quickly stuttered: „You know, I really have to go…my mom freaks out when I’m late, so…“ Norbert could barely hear him, but he guessed it was something about how he had to leave, so he sighed: „I see,“ and shrugged. „Can’t do anything about that…“

„No…sorry,“ Mortimer said and avoided Norbert’s gaze.

„See you tomorrow then.“

Norbert would make sure they’ll meet again.

„See you,“ Mortimer replied and then left in a hurry, with Norbert watching him, still smiling, and when the other boy was out of hearing he began to chuckle. He had to lean on the tree and wrap his arms around it because he was shaking so much he couldn’t keep himself upright. When the fit was over he gave a deep and yearning sigh. It had been obvious. Mortimer was acting just like he himself had done it a few days ago. The boy was his now.

#whf #wehappyfew #we happy few #whf nick #nick lightbearer #whfnick #fanfiction

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grinferbv · 4 years

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Top Mistakes Online Instructors Make (And How To Avoid Them)

What can be better for a student than after waking up in the morning to pour a nice cup of coffee, turn on a computer, and see what’s new and exciting in the world of e-learning. No more missed classes because “the alarm didn’t go off”. No need to spend money on gas while driving to the campus. No more hassle with carrying lots of heavy books to class with taking classes on online teaching platforms. No surprise, e-learning steadily gains popularity. Since the world of online education expands, it allures more recruits to online learning videos. Having the option of taking courses online is probably one of the most useful things the Internet has ever offered. How is teaching online different from face to face? No entry tests for enrollment to become a student, no eligibility requirements for entering a digital class and taking a course. You’ll always get your chance to pick through the online course just to make sure it is something you need or can handle.

But what about those instructors who create online courses? Every online course has somebody who stands behind the curtain and creates content. Online instructors are those who navigate you through the information with teaching techniques they developed for learning process improvement. However, if a student is under the impression that he is experiencing a lack of information or not learning enough, this is something that will become a problem for course creators. Let’s go over some common mistakes that online instructors make while creating and teaching online courses. Get some tips on teaching online classes and tips for online classes.

Don’t teach online without a business plan once you’ve gone free float

If you are not a part of a brick-and-mortar school or college, most likely you decided to go free float and work independently to become an online teacher. Moving online to teach is a great idea, but keep in mind all the challenges that come with teaching colleges online. How to be an online teacher? Before gaining vast benefits from your self-employment, realize that it won’t be even tied to any location whatsoever anymore. So, think about creating an essential analysis of expenses and marketing efforts you are going to invest in your new reality. Online teaching is like any business – it needs the right approach and a business plan for teaching online courses successfully. And then, after you succeed in implementing your business outlines, you’ll get a level of freedom that you only dreamt of during your summer vacation at the regular job. Online teaching is like any business – it needs the right approach and a business plan for teaching online courses successfully. Check out some online business podcasts or websites before you start teaching courses online. If you need help with creating a business plan, you can check an online course on how to write one, so it might be a great place for you to get all pros and cons first, and then start building your business plan for the year. Here are more reasons why lacking a business plan would not contribute to your online teaching business: Reveals and evaluates any weaknesses of your business;Discovers new business opportunities you haven’t thought about before started teaching online course;Strengthens your business idea through the market analysis and analysis of competitors;Develops strategies on resolutions that deal with any potential challenges teachers experience, which can derail a startup you launched;Designates your target audience and shows ways of reaching them as a creative teacher;Encourages you to go through some calculations to determine how much money you need to gain profit and provides online advice for your startup capital;Makes you look good and professional in the eyes of potential partners. Also, keep in mind marketing tools that are needed for a promotion, collecting and billing methods, website building, and SEO practices for boosting social media presence in case you want your unique online school. All of these factors and elements should be incorporated into your business plan too unless you’re willing to use online marketplaces like Grinfer.

Use best practices acquired at brick-and-mortar schools for teaching a class online

Online education demands new approaches to teaching online courses and learning techniques. Yet, omitting or forgetting the best practices you used in the classroom is a mistake. Don’t skip traditional methods like portfolios, team-based learning, small-group discussions, etc. Another thing that you should maintain as an online instructor - your positive attitude. Be friendly and care for your students. Working from home can be tricky and can set you in the mood of being isolated. Try to build positive relationships with your students and your colleagues through online forums and social media groups. Realize that trying to create a one-path-fits-all approach may not be too beneficial to your online teaching experience and the way how to teach a class. Be friendly and care for your students. Here are more tips for you in finding ways to succeed in teaching online: Convey individual goals expressed by students into your own teaching approach. This strategy is useful for those who provide 1-on-1 consultations and lessons. Trial lessons would be most handy since this will help you to understand what level students are at and get the feel for their learning pace.Make sure that your teaching speaks to modern realities. If you haven’t been changing your teaching methods and techniques since the 90s, odds are students will not come to you for learning. Stay up to date with the current world and update your syllables.Stay up to date with tech tools. Keep an eye on new technologies and developments used for online teaching. You derive information about most current events in the world of technologies by following podcasts, picking through blogs, and publications posted regarding this industry. Don’t overwhelm your students with too many tech tools though. Most people just simply don’t have enough time tinkering around all the innovations.

Don’t teach online without providing timely feedback to students

How do online college classes work? Since online students mostly learn through self-study, structuring a day, and staying on track with assignments can be challenging for some. That’s why providing timely feedback, online class tips, and evaluations is really important. That way learners will know that they are all on the same page and going in the right direction. Timely feedback shows either there was obvious progress in studies or whether a student needs to identify areas they are struggling with, so interact while teaching. It is also a good way of suggesting or recommending more useful methods and exercises used for improvements of learning. Teaching feedback can be provided in the following ways: videos, responses in written format, audio recordings, teacher comments. Written feedback is given directly in the Learning Management systems or (LMS). In some LMSs (such as Canvas) there are already built-in voice and video recorders. Here are some software used for free in case the LMS you’ve been using does not allow either video or audio feedback: Vocaroo - uses audio podcasts for providing verbal feedback. The instructor's comments regarding students’ submissions are recorded and provided with links available for playback.Jing - combines screen capturing with verbal feedback, which then delivers video responses to learners. Screen captures can also go along with verbal feedback, which later elaborates on written comments. A link with video feedback is usually delivered to learners along with their assigned grades.Zoom - can be used as a video conferencing software for hosting virtual sessions and offers vast applications for providing feedback.Knovio - a platform used for creating video presentations. On this platform, learners get a chance to view the online edition of their work being corrected while they can watch their teacher talking about it at the same time. It is a useful tool utilized in flipped classes. It can also be utilized for providing video files that contain feedback responses. How to get teaching experience and manage teaching time with the online approaches for learning? Master your organizing methods by creating a Teaching Toolbox for collecting and providing feedback to students. Teaching Toolbox is a repository of responses produced and accumulated over a certain period of teaching. The main purpose of such a toolbox is to save time while searching for a particular response, as well as for adding new content for later use. You can either create a text document with a table of content where everything will be sorted by headings, or use MS Word Quick Parts. Its function allows saving blocks of text and then later access signature blocks which can be used as shortcuts with repeated comments provided to students.

Don’t teach online with focusing too much on creating lengthy videos

Once starting to make videos for online courses, many educators get caught up in chasing after creativity and entertaining content. Your course content should not shout very loud: “Take my online class!” The final result might be very surprising – long videos with fewer ideas. That's where the idea that less is actually more becomes obvious. In most cases, creating shorter content feels like putting serious constraints on the process. How to overcome this challenge and yet create substantial videos for your great online course? Tips for online instructors for the effective video-making process: Know your target audience and examine their pain points – with a general topic in mind which you are about to cover, determine what possible gaps or downfalls in the knowledge your target audience has. Focus on these parts to make your video more instructional.Make a clear objective for the learning process – try to set a clear learning goal and stick to it while making videos.Choose the right format for videos that best suits your topic. You can choose either animation or live-action videos (or both). It depends whether you speak about abstract concepts or want to show complex actions such as doing makeup, cooking a dish, or making a craft. If you’re creating an instructional video, then try a screencast for showing how to use some software or application. Try a useful software called Asana, which is a project management program that mixes live actions with screencast videos.

While creating instructional videos with different scenario branches, it is better to write separate scripts for each scenario just for avoiding confusion.

Don’t teach online without being fun for your students

The final question is - who is an online instructor really? The answer is - a person with a positive attitude and somebody who likes to have fun. So, give some room for a good laugh with some subtle jokes. You don’t have to look serious in order to provide learners with useful information. Make your students smile and move on with your learning process with a positive attitude!

Read the full article

#becomeanonlineteacher #howisteachingonlinedifferentfromfacetoface #howtogetteachingexperience #learningonline #MistakesOnlineInstructorsMake #onlineeducation #onlineinstructor #onlineinstructorsjobs #onlinelearning #onlineteachingplatforms #teacheronline #teachingonline

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miraculoussage · 4 years

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like siblings - audimatrix (but not really)

Rating: G Pairings: Marinette & Adrien, Ladybug & Chat Noir (No romance) Length: ~ 3,560 words Type: Episode rewrite (Takes place before Volpina)

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

Tikki was worried about the interview. Sure, she trusted Marinette, but she’d seen TV interviews before and knew just how ruthless interviewers could be. They wanted to drag out information, to push the buttons of the people they’re interviewing to discover their darkest secrets. The more defensive people got, the more it seemed like they were trying to hide something or lying, even if they were telling the entire truth. And Ladybug and Chat Noir couldn’t tell the whole truth, for the safety of the entire city, the entire world.

“Marinette,” she was saying, her charge half paying attention as she was sewing for her latest design, “I trust you, but you have to remember you’re a superhero, not a star! When a celebrity secret gets out it might ruin their life, or someone else’s life. But for you, and Chat Noir, if any of your secrets get out it could put the safety of the entire world at risk!”

“I don’t want to say you’re overreacting,” Marinette said, and Tikki waited for the ‘but’. “Buuut, I think you’re overreacting. Just a bit. I know how important keeping these secrets is, and if I were someone that couldn’t keep secrets I would entirely agree with you. But I can keep secrets, I’ve kept this secret for a long time already.”

“Just... Be careful, Marinette, and don’t let Nadja get to you. I know she’s a kind person, but TV hosts can be completely different once they’re on screen. She’ll try to any shred of something interesting! And for most of Paris right now, that’s finding out your identity. Remember to think before speaking, as if you were thinking of how to word your advice for Adrien.”

Marinette nodded, determination written all over her face. An alarm went off, and she jumped up with a shout. “I’m babysitting today?? I thought that was tomorrow! I have to be at the interview!”

“Marinette, you’re babysitting Manon. Her mom is running the interview. That’s why she needed you to babysit.” Tikki knew Marinette tried hard to keep times and dates and events straight in her mind, and on her phone calendar and wall calendar. However, Marinette had had to be careful about writing down the date for the interview, so she hid it out of sight. Unfortunately, it was probably too out of sight that she forgot about it, and when she checked her calendar for babysitting availability she thought she was free.

“That... Makes sense.” She sighed, and started to put away her sewing, and Tikki flitted into Marinette’s jacket. Just in time, too, as the rapid tapping of tiny feet was coming up the stairs to her room. “Hi Manon!” Marinette greeted as the girl burst through the trap door, “Isn’t it so cool your mom is going to be interviewing Ladybug and Chat Noir?”

“Yes yes yes!” Oh no, Manon was probably too excited. While it warmed Tikki’s heart knowing how much Manon loved the heroes, her enthusiasm could be an obstacle to sneaking away for the interview. Marinette couldn’t leave Manon alone, or take her to the interview, and she already knew she couldn’t be in two places at once without causing more problems than necessary...

After wishing Nadja luck and saying goodbye, Marinette called in a favour. Thankfully for her, Alya was more than happy to come over to watch the interview, even with the added excitement of Manon. She’d always insisted that Manon was nothing compared to the twins, even on a good day.

“Marinette,” she whispered from where she was now tucked into the jacket’s collar, “you should start thinking of an excuse for when Alya gets here about why you won’t be up here with them while you’re in the studio.” Her holder could always use reminders. She felt Marinette nod slightly in acknowledgement, and she let out a sigh. This would be a long night, Tikki could feel it.

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

Chat Noir, always one to make a grand entrance, committed to crawling through ventilation shafts and climbing some walls so he could drop down into the set from above. He even managed to land directly on the couch, and posed comfortably in a split second. “Hi there,” he waved charmingly when Nadja looked up from her tablet.

The startled host fumbled her tablet, but caught it at the last moment before it could hit the table between them. “Which way did you come in??” Chat Noir opened a bottle of juice from the table, taking a casual sip, letting Nadja sit in an uncomfortable silence with direct eye contact. She may be asking the questions, tonight, but Chat Noir and Ladybug were in charge.

“Secret celebrity door,” he joked, giving Nadja a flashy but merciless grin; he relished in the hesitance settling on her face. He got enough harassment from reporters and paparazzi as Adrien Agreste, the most famous teen model in France, if not the whole fashion world. He wouldn’t let that slide as Chat Noir, where he didn’t have to uphold an innocent and agreeable facade. “I see Ladybug is running behind, huh?”

“I thought you’d be arriving together...” Nadja admitted, unnerved by his assertiveness.

“Wanna hear a secret?” he said slyly, leaning over the table. “I love chouquettes,” he teased, holding up one of the treats from the table, and sitting back down to enjoy the free food. Not as good as Dupain-Cheng pastries, but he hadn’t had a chance to stop by there today, so this would have to do.

“Is that the sizzling hot information I’ve been promised?” His leather ears flicked at the voice from the earpiece. He assumed he wasn’t meant to hear that, and when Nadja looked up at the booth to assure the producer she’d get better material than that, Chat followed her gaze and shot a hard smile at the producer through the glass.

He felt a little bit bad for Nadja; Her show would be moved from the best time slot if the ratings weren’t good enough. Still, he wouldn’t give her any false information, Miraculous secrets, something she could manipulate to suggest something else, or anything that could link to his identity. His sympathy led him to dial Ladybug’s yo-yo, though, but she didn’t pick up. He could apologize for this, at least.

“Sorry, I can’t get a hold of Ladybug.” He popped another chouquette in his mouth; might as well, while they waited. He made small talk about the weather with Nadja, though she kept checking her watch, nervous and distracted. Even Chat started to get a bit nervous; He had a flashback to Ladybug missing Theo’s statue unveiling, and the whole mess that stemmed from that. Not that he could blame her.

“We’re going live in 10, 9...” Ladybug still hadn’t arrived. Chat was preparing to carry the interview himself. “5, 4, 3...” With two seconds to spare, Ladybug made her grand entrance, yo-yoing and even doing a flip to make it to the couch before they went live.

“I thought you decided to ditch me, LB!” His teasing tone assured that he upset she was almost late.

“And let the audience down? Not a chance.” She winked with the pun, and Chat grinned. Maybe this would turn out more fun than he thought.

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

Ladybug hid her pounding heart well. Both the hurried trip over and the nerves of trying to get there on had her stomach in knots. Chat Noir’s grin, though, helped her calm down. She smiled back, and then apologized to Nadja for being late. She looked both relieved and nervous, but the relieved smile dropped as a faint sound came from her earpiece and she checked her wrist. She seemed to shake off the nerves, fortunately, and a look of determination lit up her face.

Once they were live, Nadja wasted no time introducing her show and her guests. The pair of heroes addressed the camera and the audience, Ladybug thanking Nadja and them genuinely and Chat Noir playfully flirty as he gave a shoutout to his fans. She rolled her eyes fondly, and took part in the light banter that started out the show.

“The citizens of Paris know what you do, but they want to know who you are.”

“We’ll answer as well as we can,” Ladybug gave her a more serious look, “but there are questions we can’t and won’t answer, for the safety of ourselves and the citizens of Paris, like our secret identities of course.” Chat Noir gave a nod beside her, both of them wearing pleasant smiles once again.

Nadja gave a positive answer, and led them into video calls from fans. The first was Chloe, and she and Chat both sighed lightly when it turned out she was in Rich and Famous mode, haughty and completely off topic. Nadja hurried to thank her for calling and switch to the next viewer when it turned out she actually had nothing to ask.

Ladybug stiffened at the next caller, but kept her composure. Alya, rather rudely Ladybug had to admit, asked if she could get an interview for the Ladyblog. “I wouldn’t say no,” she said, “but you’ll have to schedule it later.” She hoped her kind smile satisfied Alya enough, and hoped that she would hang up. Ah. Too late.

“Am I on TV??” Manon’s excited face popped up in the bottom of the frame.

“Manon? But where’s Marinette?” Marinette, sitting across from Nadja, hoped the cameras weren’t on her as she flushed from nerves.

“She had to go get ingredients for dinner!”

“Uh, yeah! Sometimes it can take a while for her to get what she needs,” Alya assured.

The earpiece faintly buzzed again, and Nadja ended the call quickly, turning to address the heroes again. “So! Ladybug, Chat Noir. A lot of fans think of you as a couple of superheroes, but also, and I quote unquote, ‘a couple, period’.”

Ladybug looked at Chat Noir. Chat Noir looked at Ladybug. After a few moments, the blank look crumbled as they both burst out laughing, deep belly laughs, Chat Noir even shedding some tears. It took a bit of time for them to stop laughing and calm down enough to answer. “We’re superheroes and protectors of Paris. We aren’t here to answer personal questions like that.” She was still giggling, and Nadja’s look of complete befuddlement made it harder to stop.

“So- so you’re not a couple? Then how do you explain this??” She pulled up a picture of Ladybug giving Chat Noir a soft kiss on the forehead, though Chat Noir’s lips were black in the picture. He looked shocked, and the living and present Chat Noir looked more confused than anything. He likely didn’t remember anything from being brainwashed like that.

“What, you don’t kiss your friends from time to time?” Chat Noir says with a raised eyebrow, “You have a daughter, don’t you? You must know that not all kisses are romantic.”

Ladybug smiled at Chat Noir’s answer, and turned back to the shocked and confused Nadja to give some context. “That happened on Valentine’s day, when le Dislocœur was changing people’s positive feelings for others into hatred. One of my friends was hit, and insulted me and said mean things, and she’s already in a happy relationship, so it obviously wasn’t restricted to romantic love. As you can see from Chat Noir’s black lips in that photo, he was under le Dislocœur’s influence.”

Chat Noir nodded at the explanation, confusion melting into understanding. “The way to break the ‘spell’ so to speak, was true love’s kiss, like in fairy tales. Ladybug and I don’t love each other romantically, but we do truly love each other, like best friends or siblings.” He smiled, sharing a fist bump with Ladybug. “Though I will also say, on behalf of both of us, that we don’t appreciate accusations like this. I assume you have more pictures of Ladybug and I that could possibly be misconstrued as romantic. Real fans will know that they can’t believe everything they hear from the media.”

Nadja withered under the scrutiny of the heroes, her earpiece buzzing noisily. It must be the producer or director, unhappy with Nadja’s rumour being shut down so firmly. “I-I see, well, thank you for the clear answer,” the host said, trying to gain control of the questions once again. The device on her wrist was dipping from green into orange, and the lower it went the more nervous she seemed.

For the rest of the half-hour show, (Ladybug and Chat Noir could only commit to so much time), Nadja tried her best to drag out secrets about their powers, embarrassing moments, personal stories or thoughts that could very easily give away who they were. Time after time, Ladybug and Chat Noir had to refuse to answer, or give such vague answers that Nadja didn’t seem satisfied.

The sounds from the earpiece got more frequent and much louder. All of Nadja’s body language showed more and more stress, the smile she tried to hold straining to stay on her face. Ladybug could see she was almost crying. In an act of mercy, Ladybug pulled out her yo-yo and looked at a random app. “It looks like we have to go,” she said, resting her hand on Chat’s forearm and tapped her finger twice- an agreed upon signal to get each other out of an uncomfortable situation.

They both stood, thanking Nadja for the chance to show all of Paris their devotion to keeping the city safe. And then they left, Nadja signing off behind them. Once they were out of the building, Ladybug took Chat Noir’s hand and swung them to the top of the studio. “What’s up, LB?”

“I really do have somewhere to be, but unfortunately that’ll have to wait. Nadja was really distressed, and we have an akuma to find before it reaches her.”

“I’ll look out here, you go back in and make sure it doesn’t reach her. Her producer was saying such nasty things to her through the whole show- insults, threats to have her show moved to another time, more insults...” He trailed off, realizing there wasn’t really much more than that, but the insults and threats were bad enough. “I’ll call you if I catch sight of it.”

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

It was a good thing they stayed. When Ladybug got back into the studio, most of the crew was already gone, only a few still putting away sound equipment. Nadja sat in her chair, head in her hands. It was dark, the spotlights all turned off and only a few lights making it just bright enough for people to move around safely. “Nadja,” she said, walking closer.

The host lifted her head, eyes red and widened in surprise. “Ladybug? I thought you had to go.”

“I did. I had someone to save.”

“It didn’t take very long, who was it?”

“You.” Ladybug smiled, then scanned the room for any evil bugs. “I’m sorry your interview didn’t go as planned, and I’ll take partial fault in that. But Chat and I shared every answer as truthfully as we could.” She crouched down, one hand on Nadja’s shoulder. “There are a lot of things that if we share them, we’ll be put in danger. Anything that can be linked to our secret identities, our families, our schedules, it makes it easier for Papillon to target us. I’m sure you would feel the same, if it were something you had to do to protect your daughter.”

Nadja nodded, face resting back in her hands, and she sniffled. Ladybug handed her tissues from a box on the table, standing up to sit on said table. “I’m also sorry about the terrible things your producer was saying to you, and the video calls from Chloe and Alya. It wasn’t behaviour that either Chat or I approve of.”

Starting to calm down, Nadja wiped her face with the tissues. “Thank you for saying that, Ladybug, and thank you for coming back.” She wasn’t looking at Ladybug’s face, and Ladybug was glad she didn’t see the glare she gave to the dark coloured butterfly that had approached from behind Nadja.

“If you’d like, Chat and I would love to give you another interview, one that’s filmed, more directed, and less... gossipy, so to speak. We believe it’s important for us to be able to reach all of Paris with our words, to let every single person know that we’re here to protect them. We also want to share some information and opinions on bullying, harassment, the importance of personal space... Things that some people,” she said, giving Nadja a shared look of annoyance, “need to have a lesson about.”

She was smiling now, and the akuma had paused. “Excuse me one second,” she said, taking out her yo-yo and walking to the butterfly, purifying it without fanfare. “Papillon is a cruel man. The people of Paris need to be kinder to one another.”

“I agree,” Nadja said, laughing sadly. “Whenever I hear about children in Manon’s class bullying each other, I feel so exasperated. We need to teach our children better, not just individually but as a society. I think our next interview will be a good place to start.” They smiled warmly at each other, and Chat Noir called into the studio to see if they were in there.

“Over here, Chat. Nadja agreed to film another interview with us to talk about the seriousness of bullying, harassment, personal space, -”

“- Meditation, supporting friends and family, talking about your worries, -”

“- All of that too, yes.”

“Thank you, Ladybug. For giving me a second chance, and some things to consider with regards to my career choices. I’m going to finish getting my stuff together and go pick up my daughter early.” She stood up out of her chair, and offered a handshake to Ladybug and Chat Noir, glad when they offered her hugs instead.

“I’ll get in contact to schedule the interview.” With a few farewells, they parted ways, the heroes leaving together again. Ladybug checked the time, and gasped. She’d been gone longer than she’d thought. “I have to go!” After a quick hug, Ladybug was swinging away.

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

Marinette slipped into the house as quietly as possible, took ingredients out to start dinner, and then let her footsteps make more sound as she walked up the stairs into her room. She smiled, taking out her phone to snap a picture of Alya asleep on the floor, with Manon sleeping across her back. She gently woke Alya and turned off the TV, picking up Manon and putting her on the chaise with a blanket.

She and Alya moved to the kitchen, Marinette starting to cook her late dinner. “I’m sorry it took me so long, I saw the interview on one of the outdoor TVs and lost my focus. You know how I get,” she laughed, embarrassed. It wasn’t an unbelievable excuse- she often did get distracted watching something and losing track of time.

“It’s okay, girl, I’m glad you got to watch it, even if it wasn’t with me. And don’t worry about Manon, she watched the whole interview happily and when it ended early she fell asleep. I guess I did, too, huh?” Alya grinned, helping Marinette chop peppers for the stir fry she was making. “That interview was kind of a train wreck to be honest. Did you see Ladybug agreed to an interview for the Ladyblog?? Well, she sort of did, I still have to catch her to schedule it.”

“That’s awesome, Alya! Did the train wreck give you some ideas on what to ask?” She smiled at Alya as she rambled about questions and topics she was already brainstorming; Marinette was glad to get some insider info to prepare Ladybug’s answers. They were interrupted by Nadja knocking on the door. Alya let her in, and Marinette waved from the stove. “Manon is asleep on the chaise upstairs.”

“She loved your interview,” Alya said. “Er, sorry for interrupting your interview to ask for my own interview, I realized right afterward that it was probably super rude of me.” Nadja accepted the apology, vaguely offering Alya the opportunity to do a joint interview sometime.

After she left with a sleepy Manon, who woke up just enough to say goodbye to the girls before falling back asleep, Alya and Marinette finished the veggie stir fry and sat down to eat.

“I’m surprised she wasn’t akumatized. She looked like she was about to lose her cool during the interview, but she seemed so much happier when she got here.” Alya put her hand on her chin. “Do you think she did get akumatized, and Ladybug and Chat Noir dealt with it in the twenty five minutes it took her to get here?”

“That would probably be a new record,” Marinette said idly, not actually answering Alya’s question. “Hey, it’s already pretty late. Do you want to sleep over and practice your interview questions? I can’t promise I’ll make a good Ladybug or Chat Noir, though,” she laughed.

“Absolutely, girl! As long as you promise not to steal my questions and interview Ladybug yourself.” They shared a good laugh over that, for different reasons, and started a long night of a faux interview.

♪~ ᕕ(ᐛ)ᕗ

#like siblings AU #miraculous ladybug #more like sage is too lazy to write actual serious akuma battles AU #the way I see it Ladybug and Chat Noir could do a much better job if they were good at communication and werent distracted by the love squar #not that they arent already doing a good job for two stressed out teenagers #if theres one thing Im the worst at writing its endings #if it really came down to it I could probably write a battle. but endings are hard #someone give nadja a break tbh she goes into so many akuma battles to report

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muses-darling · 5 years

Text

A Seduction of the Darkside - A Star Wars AU - CH.3 Light in Darkness

"I’m told you’ve not been eating,” The voice of Darth Ignis was heard as light shined into the dark cell. “A pretty thing like you should not be allowed to waste away in the darkness, but should learn to grow strong in it.”

“I am a Jedi I gain no strength from the darkness. I serve the light.” His voice cracked dryly from the lack of water. He was dehydrated, weak from a lack of nutrition. Yet Kit despite this shone as brightly as the day he had arrived, no less determined.

“Perhaps an audience with the Emperor will reinvigorate your appetite?” Darth Ignis suggested.

“Oh he finally remembered?” Kit asked. “Forgive me the hour is well whatever it is it feels rather long and my wit is all I have left.”

“Wit or none I think it goes without saying that you should watch your tongue when speaking to the Emperor.” Darth Ignis walked in bringing Kit to his feet with the force. “Come.”

“Or what you’ll leave me here in this cell? Not much of an improvement or punishment.” Kit added.

Ignis wheeled on Kit forcing the man back to the wall of the cell till their faces were close to each other’s. “I can make you beg for mercy.”

“Mercy or release?” Kit asked his face daring Ignis with those placid green eyes. He could feel the fear starting to form in Kit, the fear that started in all of them before they learned to harness it for the power that it was.

“And here I thought Jedi were prone celibacy?” Ignis let his eyes drift over the pretty face of the Jedi.

“We are,” Kit blinked innocently. “Would one not beg to be set free from all of this?”

Darth Ignis felt his face fall to a disappointed frown. “Of course. We shouldn’t keep the Emperor waiting.” With a step back he let Kit move from the wall.

“Your Emperor, not mine.” Kit added with some venom feeling the manacles shift closed on his wrist.

Were there time Ignis would have remarked on it further, however he knew the Emperor was not a patient man. Besides he had requested that the Jedi not be completely broken.

________________________________________________________________

Korriban’s main temple was where the Emperor sat his silvered hair adorned with a precious metal adding to his stately appearance. Armor and robes of white and red with golden markings of the Sith in important places. He sat arms upon the chair palms pressed together a thin cruel smile. “Welcome, welcome Emerald Jedi Knight. I thought I’d give you some time to recover from your battle.”

Kit watched Darth Ignis bow and felt them try to make him do the same. Kit moved causing the guard to fall grabbing the polearm racing at the emperor only to freeze in place holding the blade just barely under the man’s chin. Kit couldn’t help the frustration he felt, the hopelessness.

The Emperor gave an amused expression, “Even without your access to the force you are impressive indeed, Lord Ignis was right about you. Thank you for a demonstration. Interesting that I feel not a single bit of anger from you in your decision to try to end me. You had hope,” His face twisted into a grin. “Hope that is terribly misguided. If you kill me I will merely chose a new host to inhabit. Perhaps I will even chose you.”

Kit saw the guard remove the weapon from his hands. He was dropped by the Emperor landing hard.

“Lord Ignis, I give you the task of converting him into a most worthy ally. Convert him or kill him.” The Emperor waved dismissively before using the force to push back Kit. “Or perhaps I will let Darth Vesania do the honors? Seeing as you denied him. Do not fail me.”

“I will not my Emperor.” Ignis rose to his feet hatred growing, he would never state it out loud but Kit had been rather inspirational with his attack on the Emperor. While Ignis knew that Kit wouldn’t succeed, he had perhaps hoped that he would. He despised the Emperor, while the Emperor had guided them, he had also grown lax with power and victories. It was in the way of the Sith to strike down those who would Lord over you. It was only natural to wish to do the same to the Emperor.

________________________________________________________________

Ignis’ quarters were of stone and metal that gleamed in the light of the flames that burned, indeed some things of the past were worth using. He always had preferred the element over all others, it best exemplified the rage, the passion, and all consuming nature of the darkside. Kit was brought into the quarters behind him. The light of the flames suited him, making the hair on his head shine like the corona’s of a sun.

Dark markings etched into the stone, of the sith, the darkside, all manner of evil filled this room and yet the man before him kept a sources of light spread through the room. Warmth radiated from them and Kit neared them reaching out a hand letting the flame’s warmth caress his skin. Time in the dark, cold, and rank dungeon had left him starved for such things. The sun, he missed feeling a Sun’s glow on him. This source of light though was good enough in the cold and cruel Sith Temple.

Ignis watched him with the flames curious what the Jedi would do. “You were in that dungeon for a few days, according to those that brought you food, you were meditating. On what I can only guess. I suppose whatever morals and such the Jedi teach.” He crossed his arms. “You should bathe.”

“Oh Prisoner’s get baths now?” Kit asked.

“You are more than a prisoner,” Ignis informed him.

“A slave then, a prisoner with a job how kind.”

Ignis rolled his eyes. “Not a slave, you are worth more than that.”

“Slaves are people too, they should be treated as such and given freedom.”

Ignis chuckled. “What do you a Jedi know about being free? You cling to that ridiculous code.” He held up his hand. “Don’t say it I know it, you’ve said it quite enough. Has it given you enough hope?”

“We are all bound by something, for me it is hope.” Kit leveled him with a gaze. “More hope than a cruel bastard like yourself has ever felt in a lifetime.”

“Can’t say that you aren’t right about that, I’ve lived many lifetimes. Then again I don’t put myself in situations where I have needed hope.”

Kit frowned turning his attention back to the flames. “So where might I refresh myself?”

Ignis gestured to the room adjoined to his, “You may take refreshment in my personal room.”

Kit looked to the room beyond entering it, and was surprised at the beauty of it. Black stone pillars around the room with carvings inlaid with golden sith motifs. A bath made of the same stone sat in the middle deep enough to stand and the water would come to one’s chest in the middle but on the outer parts one could sit in the water and have it come up to one’s belly. The bath had an outer rim of stone that one could lean on and the stone and whole of the bath was heated through. Attendants came to him to undress him. “Oh no that’s alright I can remove my own clothes thank you!” They ignored him removing the old green robes he had worn often.

Ignis gave in to take a peek only able to see the body from the waist up, if only to be certain that he wasn’t giving the attendants a hard time. A flash of the man’s shirtless gave him all the ideas he needed. Maybe he should try the passion element of the darkside first?

The water was warm very warm almost searingly hot, it felt glorious after the dungeon and the battle before. He was still getting used to feeling other hands on him with various tools of cleaning him. Kit let out a soft sigh as muscles that had tensed up loosened. Oils and other means of luxury were applied till he was presented with not his Jedi robes but a black set of clothes.

Kit looked up shock on his face his lower half just barely covered below the navel. “You cannot be serious?” He called out to Ignis

“What we can’t have you running around in those filthy rags you Jedi call robes.”

“Those robes I will have you know were custom!”

“And now they have been fed to the fire, they were musty, moldy, and ruined after battle, the dungeon and whatever you have put them through.” Ignis smirked at the thought of him. “Now you can wear what you have been offered, or you can show off to the whole of Korriban what a human Jedi looks like beneath their robes. I don’t think we will mind the view, might get a bit cold in the temples, and scorching in the desert above.”

Kit swallowed and took the clothes offered changing into them. Coming out to the bedroom he stood his wrists still had the force dampening cuffs. “So what becomes of me now?”

“Now?” Ignis asked. “Now I begin the task ordered to me by the Emperor. Or at least I should but I’d like to get to know you first, what would you say to dinner? You haven’t eaten since you got here, I assure you while spicy the food here is quite delicious.”

Kit wanted to tell him that he wasn’t hungry but his stomach betrayed him. “Dinner would be appreciated, as are the clothes thank you.” Kit let his eyes go to Ignis.

Ignis looked to one of the attendants and they went to get food. “I think conversation would be an excellent use of our time Jedi Knight Kit.”

“I think Kit works better than Jedi. I think I’ve heard that word hissed more times than I care to count.” Kit added.

“Then you may call me by my birth name Hades.”

“This life or?”

“I’ve always been Hades.”

“Hades,” Kit tried the name.

Ignis felt his ears prick at the sound of the name none dared call him anymore. Persephone so long ago had, and to hear another speak his name well, it was intimate. He certainly looked forward to Kit speaking it again.

Kit swallowed, “So you have lived many lives, how many?”

“More than a few millennia if not more.” Ignis said. “And you do you believe this is your first life?”

“Who knows, I don’t think I have lived before, I would think I would remember.”

Ignis poured him a glass of an Alderaanian vintage, sending it to him with the force as he poured himself a glass.

Kit took it sipping it grateful for the soothing liquid. “What of you do you remember it all?”

“If I focused hard enough I might, but the past is the past, and one should only ever look to the present and the future and use the past as a reminder.”

“You almost sounded like Jedi Master Gabriel.” Kit told him.

“That old man?” Ignis asked. “I certainly hope not, he is foolish.”

“As are all Jedi in your eyes?” Kit asked swirling the dark liquid in the glass.

Ignis looked to him. “Yes, and with good reason Kit. They let themselves be blinded by a Code that keeps them from truly attaining that which they think they can.” He sipped his wine letting there be a pointed pause. “Peace.”

“What do you have against peace?” Kit asked.

“Peace is a lie,” Hades neared Kit. A lie that had cost him Persephone. A lie that had caused his never ending darkness. A lie that had given him to the fires and hatred of the Darkside, leaving him steeped in it forever. He had known the lie of it all once, back then he had been a woman by the name of Plutonia. In that life Ignis had loved a woman named Persephone, a Jedi much like Kit one of the first of her kind and at that time his too. Hell he had helped found the bloody order to begin with, they had been fighting a terrible scourge of the Darkside a Sith Lord the first of his kind by the name of Andeddu. In the end Persephone had not survived. How could there be peace without Persephone? The Force no longer felt so calm without her, in her death had died all the goodness that Plutonia had held. Her death had forged the path, hardening Ignis to the horror that was his life now. Seeing Kit though made him feel that something, something in her death he had forgot. What it was he wasn’t certain he wanted now.

Kit had noticed the silence and was thankful when the attendees came in bearing plates of food for them to eat. A stew made of spices, meat, and vegetables, a flat bread, and crisp, cool sweet fruit for dessert. Kit felt his mouth salivating at the smells that came to him sitting down at the low table he looked to Ignis “I believe you were the one to invite me to dinner, I don’t think I should start without you as you are my host.”

“A Jedi and a gentleman.” Ignis smiled sitting down opposite of Kit, not that they were far indeed the table was longer than it was wide.

Kit smiled. “You aren’t the only one capable of surprises darling.” Kit gave a wink.

Ignis chose to ignore what that wink suggested, Kit had already made it quite obvious that he had an idea of what he was doing but not on how to follow through with it. “The stew is eaten with the bread less dishes to do tastier too.” He ripped the soft chewy bread forming a piece dipping it into the stew grabbing a chunk of bantha meat. He held out the morsel for Kit to eat.

Leaning forward Kit took the bite from Ignis’ hand, eyes closed his movement’s gentle. Kit was surprised at the flavor of the stew, it wasn’t what he had expected as the day had already shown him. He assumed it was daytime or nearing the end of it. Given that Ignis had mentioned dinner. “It is good.” Kit smiled. “Better than rations.”

“Anything is better then rations.” Ignis made a face his fingers tingled from where Kit’s lips had touched and his mind certainly went to far more imaginative places. “Everything here is made from scratch, Acolyte Ashe-sorry Darth Ashe runs the kitchens with an iron fist among other ventures.”

Kit’s lips felt numb and it wasn’t the spices, where they had touched Ignis, the numbness became warm. He did as Ignis had shown and began eating the food was without a doubt better than anything at the temple, while there was good food and Aziraphale had certainly improved it over his time there, this was something else!

Ignis’ eyes lingered on various features of the Jedi before him. Golden rings of hair wreathed his face catching the flames, brilliant green eyes that held him in their lush gaze, and those lips still left a ghostly tingle on where they had touched. His appetite shifted from food to something far more needing, a greed to possess the man before him if only for a night. Passion was of the darkside and it would be a shame if he were to let this man never know a taste of it.

Kit felt the lingering glance and looked up at the Sith, his dark hair had strands of starlight silver threaded through it and in a most becoming way. He was oddly meticulous in appearance, rather reserved for a Sith who up until this one Kit had only seen caught up in the savagery of battle. Darkness radiated from him in the force but even those yellow and red eyes were captivating. His lips still felt the ghost of pressure of the man’s fingers brushing against them. Kit was rather touch starved, Jedi weren’t exactly known for intimacy, while some did marry it wasn’t a common practice and most certainly was frowned upon. Exceptions did exist, the late Revan and his wife Bastilla Shan. Both were of the force both served as Jedi. They both stared at each other caught in something, neither could explain.

Ignis stood the movement making Kit stand as well out of habit likely, he approached the younger man and reaching out took hold of Kit pulling him into his arms and pressing a kiss to Kit’s lips claiming his mouth with his.

Kit eagerly accepted the kiss, it wasn’t his first kiss, there had been that moment with Senator Shakespeare of Naboo. They had kissed and kissed it had been a body guard mission however nothing could come out of it Kit was with the Order and Will had his duties to the people of Naboo. This kiss was different, there was something else behind it as Kit’s hand reached up to Ignis’ hair, caught up in the moment.

Ignis force pushed him against the wall gently, pressing kiss after kiss to Kit trailing down the Jedi’s neck and to his collar bone, only to be interrupted as Kit pushed him back.

“Hades,” the name had come out as a desiring whisper before eyes widened. “We cannot,” Kit said cheeks flushing. “I-I am a Jedi.you-me-we. Can’t.”

Ignis sighed, staying back. “Yes, you make it very clear.” He took a step back letting Kit move from where they were.

Kit went to the balcony of the quarters trying to calm his breathing. What had been all of that? Where had all of this come from? His emotions were mixed as he leaned back against the wall breathing heavily. A Hand going over his face and through the dense curls.

Ignis left for the night instructing the Attendants to keep their eyes on Kit and to keep him from leaving.

Kit slid down the wall and attempted to meditate but found no peace, at least not the kind he could meditate as sleep filled his mind he went in finding Ignis’ bed and sleeping upon it.

#CH.3 A Seduction of the Darkside #SeaCoastCity SWAU #SW:ASD

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monkey-li · 5 years

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This story is set after the Don Rosa Comic of the same name. Of Ducks, Dimes and Destinies. It's easier if you know the story but everything important is explained in the story.

Warning: Scrooge and Magica make love. Not too explicit and I deepen as always more on the feelings than on the act. So it should be save for all audience. Rating just to be safe.

You can read it right here aswell under the cut! ^^

Scrooge stretched out full and content on the soft armchair. "Thank you Daisy-lass, it was sweet of you to invite me over for dinner. You've outdone yourself as always." Daisy smiled cheerfully. "Gladly Uncle Scrooge, if you're not lured with free food, you've hardly been seen lately. You're always just working." Gentle blame swung in her voice.

"I must have missed that this is something bad..." Donald marbled quietly, but basically he didn't mean it badly. He liked his uncle... mostly... when he didn't get one of his moods or had to work for him...

Daisy gave him a scolding look and Donald sunk fearfully back into his chair. "Will you tell us another story, Uncle Scrooge?" Now the triplets asked in chorus. Donald was tempted to roll his eyes until he caught Daisy's gaze and suppressed the urge.

Scrooge laughed good-naturedly. "If you want lads, do you have a special wish?" While the three were still thinking, Daisy suddenly intervened. "Was your first love really Goldie, or was there someone else?"

Now not only Donald but also his three nephews moaned, but Scrooge suddenly turned red. "Well... I don't know if that counts, but as a child I met a woman for a short time whom... had fascinated me. Although the meeting was nothing special..." He fell silent embarrassed as he thought back to the time…

Far away in her hut on Vesuvius, Magica watched the conversation through her crystal ball. For some reason, she was angry when she heard his words. "Another one?" Escaped her and she crossed her arms in front of her chest. "For someone who should only be interested in money he gets around quite a bit..." Ratface looked at his mistress shaking his head.

"But... there are only two, and he said he was just a kid..." He tried to calm her down carefully. The problem was that she didn't even want to admit why she reacted so indecisively. But Ratface had known his mistress for so long now, he had already understood a long time ago...

"Two is more than enough!" She answered angrily. "He should not have eyes for anyone else than..."

She fell silent when she realized what she was about to say.

Ratface landed on her shoulder and rubbed his little head lovingly on her cheek "...I know..." he only meant understanding, without forcing her to state it. Gratefully Magica stroked his head. Together they observed the conversation of the Ducks further.

Daisy got all excited. "What kind of woman? Keep telling Uncle Scrooge!" She sat down with him on the armrest of the chair. Her cheeks glowed with anticipation. She liked nothing more than love stories. Scrooge laughed embarrassedly. "No reason to be so excited lassie. It was really nothing special. It happened strangely the same day I earned my first dime. She had caught my eye because, unlike the other ladies, she did not walk along the sidewalk in a distinguished and reserved manner. She was especially happy about something. She laughed and danced on the street and wasn't interested in the other people's looks at all".

As he told, a gentle smile spread across his face. "It was really fun seeing her carefree cheer." Daisy couldn't resist a delighted squeak. The story was already simply sweet. Even Donald and the triplets had to laugh as they imagined a distinguished Scottish lady dancing in the street.

Fortunately not as cheesy as they feared. Apparently the lady had been much older than Scrooge.

"I couldn't help but watch her. "Scrooge continued. "Then I suddenly saw something fall out of her hand. A coin, it rolled the walkway long in my direction and directly towards a gutter. The lady ran after it as if her life depended on it. What impressed me as a McDuck heavily. Dad had always told me: "Pence make shillings and shilling make pounds."

He raised his index finger as he spoke and the rest of his family rolled their eyes. The lyre was really not new to them. "Of course I wanted to help her and managed to catch the coin before it disappeared forever in the sewer."

His cheeks turned a little red as he thought back to the time. "I tried awkwardly to start a conversation, but she seemed pretty distracted and sent me away. I hadn't expected anything else, what did an adult woman want from a ten-year-old boy? But then she called me back and even addressed me by name as if it had suddenly occurred to her."

His cheeks turned even redder and Daisy lovingly nudged him with her finger. Her cheeks were also glowing, she was thrilled by the story. "You can imagine that I was very excited that she knew me but I still couldn't talk to her. She said a few things that were incomprehensible to me and when I asked if I could clean her shoes for the coin, she politely refused." Embarrassed, he scratched the back of his head.

"I had no choice but to continue with my work, after all I had to earn money for my family. I saw however that the lady took place in a Cafe where I could observe her further. Of course I was very keen to show myself from my best side. Loudly I praised my services. By which I finally attracted the customer to whom I owe this dime."

Smiling contentedly, he held the dime in his hands and looked at it, indulging in beautiful memories. Daisy had put her hands in front of her mouth and looked at him, gushing. "What happened then? Have you ever seen her again?"

She asked eagerly. But Scrooge just shook his head sadly, "No, as you know the work had exhausted me so much that I had lost consciousness for a moment. When I regained it, she was gone. For many days I looked out for her on the streets and asked everyone if they knew her. But I never saw her again... well, what good would it have done? She had well and gladly the age which I have now. Maybe a little younger. But she was as beautiful as no other..."

Excited Daisy gasped for air. "Even more beautiful than Goldie? What did she look like?" Scrooge laughed good-natured and put his arm around his niece. "It's been a long time but yes, for me she was. I remember mainly that her eyes were as black as bare onyx and her hair resembled the silky feathers of a raven..."

Suddenly he stopped.

Since that day there had been only one woman in his life who had triggered the same fascination in him…

Sure, when he met Goldie he could have imagined that they could become something. Which quickly became superfluous, for which he was grateful. Because from this encounter an everlasting friendship had developed which he did not want to miss. Goldie had also been beautiful, truly the star of the north but...

Years later another woman appeared in his life. Suddenly she stood in his office...

His face now turned really red when he thought of her. Onyx black eyes and raven black, lustrous hair... apparently he had a type.

Suddenly Donald laughed out loud, "Sounds to me like you're describing Magica de Spell." It was clear that he wanted to tease his uncle with it and he looked at him with a mischievous grin. But Scrooge only sat there with his eyes wide open and his cheeks deep red. Now everyone stared at him.

"Uncle Scrooge...?" Daisy asked quietly. "You're not serious..." Donald added admonishingly. "You're not really in love with that witch!"

Scrooge jumped from his chair so he almost threw Daisy off. "Hold your tongue nephew!" Even Huey, Dewey and Louie stared at him in disbelief. Daisy timidly stretched out her hand to him. "That... that doesn't matter. I mean, you can't choose who you fall in lo..."

But Donald interrupted her. "Of course that matters! Is that the reason why you let her run again and again instead of locking her up or punishing her? The reason you're so eager to measure yourself against her even though she might be a danger for your family?"

Uncle and nephew stood opposite each other like two squabbling cocks. But suddenly the anger disappeared from Scrooge's face and tears gathered in his eyes.

"Just leave me alone...". Without another word he turned around and left Daisy's house to flee to his mansion. He just wanted to be alone. Nobody understood him anyway.

Donald made an embarrassed face. He had not wanted to be so harsh, his temperament had gone through with him as usual. "I'm sorry!" He called after his uncle, but he was long out of earshot. Daisy embraced him from behind and nestled her head on his shoulder. "I feel sorry for him... this love will never come true." Donald felt really bad.

Honest tears in the eyes of his uncle were rare. He himself knew how hopeless his feelings for this... this... woman were and Donald had just sprinkled salt on the wound…

On the Vesuvius in her hut Magica had become very quiet. Unbelievingly she stared at the crystal ball which didn't show anything anymore, she had cut the connection to Duckburg to be able to think.

Ratface pushed her impatiently with his beak " What are you waiting for, boss lady? Didn't you hear what they just said? Scrooge is in love with you! Go to him!" But Magica didn't react to him at all. Her face was crimson red and she was trembling. Her mind was simply not used to such surprisingly positive messages.

Moreover, it went much further than Ratface could have guessed. Then, very slowly, she turned her face to the raven. "This is not all Ratface... I... I was the woman from his childhood..." Now it was the raven's turn to look bewildered.

"Is that really still bothering you? You don't have to talk yourself into something like that, because we both know it's impossible. It doesn't matter who he was once in love with. Now he is in love with you!" Why was the story with the elder woman from his childhood more important to her than the fact that her most secret wish could come true?

Suddenly Magica grabbed her friend. "I don't make this up! It's true! Do you remember how I travelled to the past with the time candle? I never told you exactly what happened, because as always it was a slaying defeat. But the woman he told about, that was me!" Meanwhile her eyes were shining and her face was even a bit reder. "I... I am his first love. But he doesn't know it any more than that I gave him his dime..."

Ratface's eyes widened in amazement and joy. Nothing he loved more than to see his mistress so happy. "Then I repeat my question: What are you waiting for? Tell him! Tell him everything!"

Now Magica made an insecure face "What if he doesn't want that at all? Scrooge puts his family above everything, and they were clearly against his feelings... what if he wants to forget me? Maybe he don’t even wanna see me anymore…" She sank into a chair, very meekly.

Ratface looked at her with a dry face, if he had the ability to slap her in the face, he would now use it that it rang. "Are you telling me that you want to give up now, that you have a real chance of success for the first time? Did you blow a fuse when you heard about his feelings? Force him to his luck damn it! Magica de Spell won't let something like that stop her!" Ratface landed on her shoulder and nestled his little head to her cheek.

"For so many years I have watched you falling in love with this old charismatic miser every day a little more..."

Lovingly, he nudged her. "I think it's time you talk about it. You belong together. That will be as clear to him as it is to you. Be brave!"

Magica looked at him and smiled gratefully. "Ok." She answered plainly.

Hours had passed since he left Daisy's house. Hours in which he sat in the library on an armchair near the chimney and stared into the fire. He didn't know what to do, didn't even know what he wanted to do. Actually his family should never have known that he had feelings for this woman. No one should have known.

Because it was pronounced, it had become. He was no longer able to suppress the longing in his heart. He took the dime out of his pocket and looked at it. Everything had begun with this coin. The day Magica decided she needed it. Was he grateful or did he curse the day she entered his office?

"I love you, Magica..."

He whispered quietly. It was the first time he really admitted this out loud. Old fool, he scolded himself and laughed grimly.

"There is something about your first dime that you don't know..." Suddenly a calm, and very familiar voice sounded behind him. Startled, he turned around. There in front of the window, framed by moonlight, she stood: Magica de Spell.

As always, her timing was unbeatable…

Did she hear him? Quickly he let the dime disappear in his pocket and stood up to face her. Maybe a fight could distract him from his feelings for her. But she didn't seem to be in a fighting mood. She seemed unusually shy as she slowly stepped towards him.

Only then he noticed that she had said something. "What do you mean, there is something I don't know?“ Why did his heart have to beat so fast now? He wished for nothing more than to finally be able to tell her how he felt, was so tired of pretending to hate her.

Magica was so nervous. Although she knew about his feelings, she imagined the worst things. What if everything was planned by him? He knew she was watching him most of the time. Did she play into his hands to make fun of her endlessly? She closed her eyes for a moment and thought of Ratfaces words: Be brave!

She was now standing right in front of him. So close that she could feel his pleasant warmth. Her hands twitched a little as if she wanted to touch him, but she held back. He would only suspect an attack anyway and fend her off.

"By an intricate entanglement of circumstances I was the one who gave you your first dime..." She explained without further ado.

"What?" Scrooge just brought out confused. How did she come up with that now? Magica sighed and continued. "Once I had travelled to your childhood with the help of a spell to steal your dime before you gained the ability to defeat me..."

She looked up and straight into his eyes. A pleasant tingling sensation spread in her stomach as she sank into them. She just wanted to be close to him. Wished he would hug and kiss her. With these thoughts her cheeks turned red. Quickly she continued to talk to distract herself.

"... But I travelled too far and arrived in the past before you earned the dime. What I only realized in the last moment and so I have given you the coin when you were unconscious of exhaustion. Then I was catapulted back to the present...“

She continued to look at him unmoved. Scrooge was smart, one of the personalities she loved so much about him, his brilliant mind. Would he be able to draw the conclusion?

He was…

A surrendered smile on his lips, he let his head hang. "Of course... you overheard us tonight...“

But suddenly he looked up and in his eyes it flashed dangerously. Quick as a cat of prey he grabbed Magica by the arms. "So what are you waiting for? Didn't you come here to laugh in my face? To humiliate me because I was so stupid to..." He had to swallow a moment.

"...to fall in love with you..?" Beaten he pushed her away and turned around. "Come on, everything you will do makes it easier for me to forget these pointless feelings. Be as cruel as you want. I exceptionally have earned it for my stupidity..."

It hurt her to see him turn away from her. Look at me! She screamed inside. "I was the woman you met back then..."

She couldn't take it anymore. She had to touch him. Gently she laid her hands on his back and nestled her head to him.

"Please Scrooge..." Her voice was just a whisper. "...I didn't come here to hurt you..." Tears began to gather in her eyes and she sobbed quietly. She was so afraid of what would happen if she kept talking. Would he even believe her? When he expected nothing but betrayal?

Confused, Scrooge turned back to her. What was she trying to do with her behavior? Surprised, he found that she had real tears in her eyes and trembled with nervousness all over her body.

Very carefully he raised his hand and touched her face to get her to look him in the eyes. "Why are you here, Magica?"

That she let him touch her even though she knew what was going on in him.

She looked at him with big eyes. "Because I wanted you to finally know the truth. Because I'm tired of fooling myself..." She timidly raised her hands and stroked her fingers through the soft feathers of his sideburns. Scrooge closed his eyes for a moment to enjoy the feeling. "...I know your family is against it and maybe you just want to forget what was said today but..." She sobbed again

"...For me it was the most wonderful moment of my life. To hear that you... that you have feelings for me. That I was the first woman who ever interested you..." Courageously she put her arms around his neck and nestled her head to his chest. She was exhausted. Please hold me tight, she kept thinking like a mantra. "You are the only one for me, Scrooge. There never was another and there never will be..."

She overcame herself and looked back into his eyes which were still dilated in amazement.

"I love you..."

Scrooge couldn't say anything at first. He continued to look at the woman before him in disbelief, waiting inwardly for everything to turn out to be a hoax and a nasty plan from her.

Meanwhile, his arms lay themselves around her slender figure as if by themselves. She said nothing but looked at him with hopeful eyes. When Scrooge still didn't react after a long moment except that his cheeks turned red, she smiled mildly. Gently she pulled his head towards her and caught his lips in a brief, tender kiss.

Insecure, she looked at him, "Say something, Scrooge... at least tell me to disappear if you don't want this..."

Sadly she looked down as no further answer came "I understand..." She whispered and wanted to turn away from him.

But his arms just closed tighter around her, wandered up her back and pressed her firmly to his chest. He was still afraid that all this could be a trick from her. That he made a fool of himself but... it felt so right to feel her lips on his, could that really be wrong?

Still bare of all words he lifted her chin and placed his lips back on hers. At first only very briefly and he pulled back a moment as if he wanted to wait. But Magicas face was adorned with such a happy smile that he couldn't help himself. Stormily he kissed her and his heart jumped with joy as he felt her eagerly return his tenderness.

For minutes they held each other in their arms and kissed as if there was no tomorrow.

Donald and Daisy's concern had grown as their uncle really made no effort to come back. Together they went after him to his estate. "There's light in the library!" Daisy noticed. They entered the building and tentatively opend the door to the library, they knew how angry Scrooge could be when he was sad but wouldn't admit it. But to their great astonishment, he was not alone.

"Oh no, the witch, of all days!" Scolded Donald and wanted to attack her, but Daisy held him back. "Wait!" She whispered, they hadn't been noticed yet. "Don't you think the mood is strange between the two? They don't fight at all. If only one could understand what they say..."

There suddenly Magica pulled Scrooge into a kiss. Daisys mouth remained open in the middle of the word and Donald made a choking sound. Unable to turn their eyes away, they watched as the two kissed again and again and the touch became more intense each time.

As Scrooge finally lowered his lips to Magica's neck and she put her head aside with pleasure and groaned ecstatically, Daisy hastily pulled her fiancé through the door back into the hallway. "Ok, I think whatever's going on right now. It gets too private for spectators..."

Donald just stared at the floor in front of him. "These are also things I never really wanted to see..." But then he looked anxiously at his fiancée. "Do you think we can leave Uncle Scrooge alone with her? What if she overheard us and everything is just a trick?"

The thought had already come to Daisy but finally she shook her head. "No, I don't think we need to worry about that. Maybe she overheard us, she's watching Uncle Scrooge all the time like he watches her, but did you just see the look on her face? She seemed so infinitely happy! Besides, why would she go so far as to kiss him? She was already close enough to him that she could have stolen the dime. No, I rather think she's here because she heard Uncle Scrooge's words and finally dared to admit her own feelings..."

Donald smiled at his fiancée, he liked how she could empathize with others. Nevertheless he was still worried. "What if Uncle Scrooge really wants to be with her? Even if she loves him, she's still a witch. His environment will not like that... I'm not even sure if I do..."

But Daisy only looked at him lovingly. "You know the answer, love. You are only unsure because you care about your uncle. Otherwise there is only one thing for us to do: To be happy for him and to support him wherever we can."

Now Donald also had to admit defeat. Laughing quietly, he led her back to her own home. Uncle Scrooge was certainly fully satisfied with the company he already had...

Every kiss between them felt like the first. An electrifying feeling of crackling tension. Her lips so warm and soft on his felt so good, so right. He wanted more of it. Hesitantly his lips wandered to her neck and ruffled the velvet feathers at this spot. He could perceive her pleasant scent of incense that almost fogged him. A pleasant shiver ran down his back as Magica crooked her head and moaned softly. This sound let his blood shoot straight into his loins and his cheeks turned red with shame.

He wasn't an animal and Magica wasn't his prey. Ashamed he wanted to retreat but Magica pulled him back with light pressure. She also began to cover his neck with kisses and bit lightly into the tender skin. Scrooge flinched a little at the slight pain, but it felt strangely good.

When Magica looked him in the eyes again, hers were all dark. He wondered if his gaze was just as lustful. She said only one word, but it was enough to make his heart beat with joyful expectation.

"More..." She breathed.

Scrooge was torn back and forth. On the one hand, it felt like he was doing something terribly forbidden. On the other hand, nothing had ever felt so good. Yes, she was a witch, yes, they had always been rivals. But did that mean that it always had to stay that way? Was it really important to him what the rest of the world thought about him? When Magica was lying in his arms looking for his closeness? No!

For a moment, he just pulled her into his arms and held her tight. Buried his beak in her silky hair. "Magica..." He began hesitantly. "... I want to be with you, to be close to you but..." He paused and closed his eyes, tried to calm his wildly beating heart. "... but I am also scared. Everything will change..." He fell silent. Scrooge McDuck was never afraid, that was so unusual for him that he could not handle the feeling at all.

But Magica just gently stroked through his feathers and looked into his eyes. "I am also scared Scrooge... very much... I don't even know how the council of elders will react..." She also had to pause. She cuddled closer to him in search of protection.

"But... if you promise to stay with me, I have the feeling we can overcome everything. I... I want to try..." Her gaze showed so much inner strength that Scrooge's heart beat proudly at this strong woman. Again her lips lay down on his, more intimate, deeper.

"And right now I want nothing more than to be close to you. As close as two persons can be..."

Where did she get that courage from? This unshakeable self-confidence in spite of fear and doubt to seek direct confrontation again and again? Even if he himself was not exactly a coward, her direct nature always surprised him. Perhaps she was simply superior to him on this subject, where he lacked any experience. But didn't she say he was the only one for her?

He was embarrassed and confused, but he knew one thing for sure: "I want to try it too! Whether witches coven or snobbied society, I am convinced we can overcome everything as long as we are together..."

Without warning he lifted her suddenly on his arms and gave her a long kiss. "I want to experience everything together with you, Magica and I desire you for so long... you have no idea."

Magica laughed in surprise as she suddenly found herself in his strong arms. She clearly felt his muscles stretching in his chest and arms as he held her.

„If you desire me even half as much as I desire you, I have a pretty accurate idea...“

He had to smile at her words, this openness felt so good. "Naughty witch..." He meant in a soft voice. Without further ado he carried her out of the library and brought her into his bedroom. "If it's all right with the lady here?" He purred playfully.

Magica felt light and a happy giggle bubbled out of her. "It seems to me that the gentleman himself is quite indecent..." Pure satisfaction sounded in her voice and she pulled his head towards her to kiss him. "What are you waiting for?" She whispered seductively.

"Undress me, darling... "

Scrooge's eyes were quite dark as he set her down on the floor and gazed hungrily at her.

He leaned forward and kissed her neck again. His hand wandered up her back and slowly pulled down the zipper of her dress. He devoutly grazed the fabric from her shoulders until it slipped completely from her body. He swallowed hard. A little hesitantly his hands also found the closure of her bra. He looked into her eyes to make sure he could really go on. But Magica just smiled and grazed the straps off her shoulders.

"Don't be afraid, Scrooge. If you really do something I don't want, I'll tell you. Otherwise..." Her gaze was deep and penetrating. All the desires of the past years were reflected in her eyes. "...do not hold back..." With these words also the last piece of clothing slipped from her body and Scrooge pulled in the air sharply. She was so beautiful that her sight made him pause for a moment.

Magica took the opportunity and stroked his chest with her hands. She loved the feeling of his strong muscles under her fingers and was eager to get more of it. Resolutely she began to open the buttons of his jacket. "I want to see more of you too!" She declared as she removed the disturbing garment. He only wore a thin shirt underneath in which his muscles were clearly visible. Unconsciously she licked her lips.

Scrooge could not suppress a smug smile. He liked the way Magica looked at him and he wasn't stupid, he knew he was attractive and well built. But her hungry looks made his heart beat faster. That she of all people wanted him, he would never have dreamed. With a quick movement he took off his shirt, he wanted to see her reaction.

Now it was Magica's turn to pause. Devoutly she stroked her fingers across his now naked chest. Leaned forward and began to cover the hard muscles with kisses. Then she looked up at him again, her gaze covered with lust.

"You have no idea... how many times I've pleasured myself at the thought of you..."

Without turning her eyes away from him, she retreated to the bed and stretched out on her back. Come here to me, her gaze said unmistakably as she lolled herself on the comfortable mattress.

Wordlessly Scrooge went up on her, crawled on the bed and lay down gently on her.

Her body was so wonderfully soft and warm. He kissed her intimately. His mind was still having trouble grasping that this was all really happening. He looked deep into her eyes as he broke the kiss "Almost every night..." he finally whispered.

Her eyes widened in surprise but then she pulled his head back towards her with a soft smile. "We were so stupid..." she regretted.

"Please touch me more, Scrooge. Kiss me... all over my body. I want to feel your lips everywhere..."

Scrooge didn't take long to ask. Hesitantly, then with growing confidence he began to cover her body with kisses. He devoted himself pleasurably to her soft breasts and the tender nipples that reared up under his tongue. He could hardly get enough of the warm softness of her flesh and feathers.

Magicas body stretched towards him and she lifted her hip slightly as he slid down her body with his caresses. Invitingly she spread her legs a little to give him better access to her most sensitive spot. Scrooge's cheeks turned red with embarrassment and uncertainty, but the temptation was more luring than the fear.

Not knowing what to do to give her pleasure, he followed his instincts. Just tried what he had imagined hundreds of times alone in his bed. He timidly kissed the previously untouched spot and finally penetrated gently with his tongue. His efforts were rewarded as Magica groaned lustfully and her body began to tremble. Her hands cramped next to her in the blanket.

She breathed heavily, she had never imagined this feeling so intensely. Even though he had hardly touched her so far.

But everything about Scrooge aroused her. Each of his movements, his sight, his scent. Never had she been interested in men and dismissed physical desires as unimportant. Until this man had appeared in her life and changed everything. The cunning businessman had crept fully into her heart until her life was filled with almost nothing but thoughts of him.

All the more her body now reacted to finally being allowed to be close to him. It was overwhelming. Although Scrooge was apparently as inexperienced as she was, he showed a true skill as for almost everything he started. This talented old penny pincher. It was almost unfair how easy it was for him to put her in ecstasy.

Finally, she had to put a hold on him, "Please, Scrooge stop..."

Alarmed, he let go of her immediately and looked worriedly into her eyes. "I' m sorry, have I done something wrong?"

Quickly she shook her head to calm him down and smiled tenderly at him. Her hands stroked his face soothingly. "No darling, on the contrary...“

Embarrassed, her cheeks turned red. "I just don't want to... well..."

She took a deep breath once before she shyly continued. "I... I want to feel you in me when...when I…" She faltered embarrassed. Even to her, who was normally so harsh and open, it was difficult to pronounce these words. While everything was so new to her.

For a moment he looked at her without understanding but then it dawned on him what she meant and his face glowed with embarrassment but also expectation.

"Are you really sure you want to go this far? We are not prepared at all so... what if..." Now it was his turn to stumble. He really could not have guessed that suddenly the love of his life would show up and wanted to sleep with him.

Magica laughed tenderly at his embarrassed stammer and pulled him into her arms. He immediately returned the gesture. She loved the sense of security and comfort he gave her when they were so intimate. She wanted to be so much closer to him.

"Don't worry, don't forget that I am a witch. I am protected, always. Unless I want it different."

She caught his lips again in a tender kiss and opened her mouth slightly. Scrooge followed the invitation straightaway and let his tongue play with hers.

Every touch between them felt so right. He could not deny that he also wanted more of it. Wanted to be closer to her.

He deepened the kiss before letting go, to look her in the eye. Tenderly he stroked her cheek. "Is it ok for you if we stay in this position? At least this time? I don't want to give you the feeling of being inferior to me..." His voice sounded embarrassed. "I only fear I am a little old-fashioned..."

Magica stretched out her hand to touch his cheek as well. "Scrooge, you have never given me the feeling of being less than your equal. You have always fought with all your might against me because you consider me worthy.

We both know it is like that, and I don't have a problem giving myself up to you. I like it when you bend over me and look at me with those soft eyes. I love your tenderness but you don't have to hold back either". She wrapped her well shaped legs around his hip to guide him to herself. "Take me Scrooge. I want you just like that, right now!"

With each word from her, he became more aware of why he had fallen in love with her. This determination, this trust in herself and in him. He willingly let her lead him. The feeling of entering her for the first time almost robbed him of his senses. He was the first and only person who could be so close to her, it was intoxicating.

Magica hissed and sucked in the air as she felt him so deep inside. Of course it didn't escape him that it hurt her despite all the beautiful words. Carefully he remained still and tenderly kissed her lips. Stroke through her silky hair until her facial expression showed that she had got used to the feeling. Gratefully she looked into his eyes. With a mischievous smile she then began to move her hips slightly towards him.

"Move inside me Scrooge, it's okay. Of course it hurts, but..." She pulled him closer with her legs to underline her words. "... I've dreamed about this for so long, it's exactly what I want." Tears stood in her eyes. But not with pain, but because she was so infinitely happy.

"I love you, Scrooge. It feels so good to be with you." As an answer he kissed her tenderly. She took the words out of his mouth. "To be in you is the most beautiful feeling I have ever felt, Magica."

Another deep kiss as he carefully began to move faster in her. "I love you..." He repeated contentedly and Magica put her arms around his neck so that they could be completely close to each other.

Quickly they found a common rhythm. It felt so natural to be so perfectly united.

None of them was accustomed to indulging in pleasure like that, their feelings quickly became overwhelming and their voices carelessly loud. But in this perfect moment nothing played a role except the person in their arms.

They tried to kiss each other despite the fast movement and laughed in harmony when it was only modestly possible. Even more beautiful than the feeling of pleasure was this perfect contentment and unity. Especially for Magica these feelings of happiness were completely new. Her body reacted more and more violently to the fulfilment of her desires.

"Faster Scrooge, I want to feel you even more!" She gasped, although the heat in her body was hardly bearable now, she wanted more.

Scrooge pursued a slight fear of perhaps hurting her, but he could not possibly resist this request. "My God, Magica..." He moaned loudly. The room was filled with sounds that had never echoed in these walls before.

Finally they reached their limits almost simultaneously, the name of the other on their lips.

Breathing quickly, they looked into each other's eyes, snuggled their heads together and smiled peacefully. For a moment they still enjoyed the feeling of being connected until Scrooge carefully released himself from her.

At that moment there was a sudden knock on the door.

"Mr McDuck, sir? Are you all right? I thought I heard a scream." Sounded the concerned voice of Butler Quackmore. For a moment Scrooge and Magica looked at each other in amazement. Then both began to giggle heartily and suddenly seemed much younger than they actually were.

Scrooge cleared his throat. "No, everything's fine Babtist! I..." He looked Magica gently in the eyes and gave her a tender little kiss on the lips. "... I have a lady visitor ..." His tone of voice made clear what he meant by that exactly.

Astonished Magica opened her eyes, but said nothing.

In front of the door it remained silent for a long moment. Then the flustered voice of Quackmore sounded again. "Oh... I... forgive me sir, I had no idea..." One could literally hear how his face must have turned red and then hasty footsteps moving away from the room.

Scrooge laughed further into himself. But Magica's gaze seemed worried.

"Hey... what's the matter, beloved?" Asked Scrooge gently as he noticed that her gloomy expression. He gently stroked her face and hair as he sank deep into her eyes. "Do you regret what we have done...?" His voice was calm but still the fear was clear to hear from it.

But Magica stormily slung her arms around him and together they rolled to the side so that she could cuddle close into his arms. "No, never Scrooge! I just wonder..." She unconsciously stroked gentle lines on his chest as she spoke. "...if it wouldn't be better if I disappeared before morning. So that you can prepare your staff and family with whom... with whom you have shared the bed... or can keep it secret in case of need..."

It was clear to hear that just the idea of disappearing from his bed displeased her greatly, but also that she was willing to make this sacrifice if it helped him. Scrooge shook his head with a light scolding. He leaned forward and kissed her tenderly. Immediately she greedily drew his head closer to her and deepened the kiss. She knew that she was addicted to him, obsessed, only she didn't care. Because Scrooge was as devoted to her as she was to him!

"What are you talking about?" Scrooge finally asked when they separated. "I have no intention of denying my feelings for you. We decided to go through everything together. Of course there will be people who won't understand it, maybe even from my family. But I don't live for others. I love you, Magica. And now that it has been said between us, I want to show it too".

He pulled her a little tighter into his arms, a promise to always be there for her, to protect her if necessary. "It's not that I'm not afraid of what awaits us, but you proved to me that it's worth standing courageously by his feelings! Be brave!“

Magica laughed quietly and smiled blissfully at him. Satisfied, she snuggled into his strong arms. "Why do you trust me? How do you know that all this is not just a scheme to get your dime?" While she spoke, she distributed gentle kisses on his chest and neck.

Scrooge gently stroked her back and grinned mischievously. "Well, for one, you literally tore the jacket the dime is in off my body and threw it carelessly on the floor..." His grin became even wider as he looked at her and her face ran red with embarrassment.

"On the other hand, I always knew when to rely on you. We've known each other too long and I've decided to trust you." He lifted her chin to catch her lips in a deep kiss. "Besides, you trust me just as much. I too could only be interested in your body, but yet you have given yourself to me without hesitation."

She looked into his eyes. "You are right... but I also know from experience when I can trust you. I have also decided to do it... Seach gu bheil mi gad ghràdhachadh..."

Scrooge's eyes widened in surprise at her last words. "You speak Gaelic?" He couldn't banish the joy from his voice and his face glowed with excitement. Magica smiled contentedly. "I learned it because I knew that you spoke it and that the old language meant a lot to you... because I love you..." She repeated this time in English.

A few tears of joy stood in Scrooge's eyes as he closed his arms tightly around her. He buried his beak in her soft hair and could barely speak of happiness. "I don't even know what to say... Thank you. Thank you so much for that..."

He could feel that she too chuckled happily as her arms closed tightly around him. Ready never to let him go again.

For years he had been sure but this gesture from her only confirmed him in his knowledge. She was the woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with.

Only for the moment he kept this thought to himself. The day had already been overwhelming.

Slowly they both slipped into a peaceful slumber. With his last thought Scrooge thanked Dime and Destiny for this wonderful gift he was allowed to hold in his arms…

#dimeshipping #scroogexmagica #magicaxscrooge #scrooge/magica #magica/scrooge #magica de spell #scrooge mcduck #duckverse #disney duck universe #donald duck #daisy duck #Huey Dewey and Louie #quackmore cameo

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blankdblank · 5 years

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My Pearl Pt 5

Pt 1 - Pt 2 - Pt 3 - Pt 4 -

Tags –

@himoverflowers, @theincaprincess, @aspiringtranslator, @sweeticedtea, @ggbbhehe4455, @thegreyberet, @patanghill17, @jesgisborne, @curvestrology, @alishlieb, @jogregor, @armitageadoration, @fizzyxcustard, @here2have-fun, @lilith15000, @marvels-ghost, @catthefearless, @imjusthereforthereads, @abiwim, @jotink78, @c-s-stars, @evyiione, @deepestfirefun, @queenoferebor, @here2have-fun, @onewithleaf

…

All around you in the kitchen after you washed your hands you stepped to the bare station feeling all the free Durins peering at what you were doing. The apples Fili had prepeeled for you were claimed in your hands as a caramel sauce was started. Easily you diced and added the apples into the mixture while Thorin followed your instructions on the dough you guided him through how to kneed and stretch it properly before you spooned some of the mixture into the center before you tucked it into a ball and added them into muffin tins you added into the oven. The remaining bit was hastily tasted and passed around by the cooks around you all wondering how the strange mixture of ingredients could taste.

Growls sounded from the stomachs of the chefs around you when your dessert was taken out of the oven and carefully plated in a small bowl you coated with barely a sprinkle of sugar then handed over. The simple appearance of the dough puff made you roll your eyes at the questioning glance before you mumbled to Thorin, “Is everything I prepare going to get that look?”

With a smirking glance at you he caught Dis’ eye saying, “It’s finished.”

With another glance at it she turned and carried it out to the table as Frerin claimed an extra fork and stole a bite of one of the extra puffs and let out a pleased hum after adding the sugar himself. Each of the Dwarves around you sectioned it off and enjoyed the remaining puffs, leaving the last for Dis who smirked at you and said, “You should have a list of desserts we add in through the week.”

Your lips parted as she turned to share the thought with her Mother who was watching the customer through the window in the doorway and signing back their response with a growing grin. In a glance up at your right Thorin caught your eye smirking as he told you, “A well deserved chance to keep your practice up.”

After a nod you turned and helped Thorin put out the next set as more of the tables had caught a whiff of the desserts. By the hours end you had made four more helpings and passed the recipe on to Diaa before you joined Thorin to head back home again when she reminded him of your need for rest. In the car again Thorin stole another smirk at you asking, “So, lunch and a movie still?”

You nodded, “Sounds good.”

He smirked and started the drive back again then asked, “Amad reminded me of your saying you couldn’t work tomorrow?”

You nodded again, “I have an appointment.”

He glanced at you, “Something serious?”

You shook your head, “Just a usual yearly check up.”

He nodded, “Did you want me to get Frerin to take my shift again so I can take you?”

You shook your head, “I don’t think the stirrups and paper gown will be more enjoyable with an audience.”

“Oh, your women’s check up.”

You nodded, “Plus the extra enjoyable mammogram.” He glanced at you, “They take the breasts and squeeze them between two plastic plates to get the image.”

“I can make sure they are more gentle if you wish.”

“Gentle doesn’t get the images they need.” Making him sigh, “Thank you though.”

He smiled at you when your hand and head rested against his arm.

Back at the house you both eyed the now washed clothes that were resting across the island in your closet beside the stack of shoe boxes you walked to and eyed the empty closet. Reaching out you grabbed the first shirt and added them to the rack above your worn shirts as Thorin added your jeans to the cubbies to the left of them you asked him to add them to. After, you hung the dresses to the rack on the left of those without anything under it allowing them to hang freely. With a smirk Thorin turned and opened the first box of shoes and passed you the pair you set up on the racks before he grinned larger at the lingerie carefully placed in a basket on the island you moved to at Thorin’s not so subtle smirk eyeing his choices.

Each of which you tried on for him with the final pair being stripped off you on his path to your bed where he spent hours seeing to your pleasure and comfort. With yet another meal in bed from him in the middle, he scrolled on his phone through a few ideas for the fur wrap he wanted for you, asking for your opinion on them. With his choice selected and ordered it was now a waiting game leaving his phone on the night table to roll you over for another round at your teasing nips at his ear, ending with him wrapping you in his arms when you dozed off again.

Morning came with a shared shower and your pulling on your clothes with Thorin wrapped in a towel for the walk to his closet to get ready himself as you pulled on a pair of your new jeans and a t shirt. Finally you added your sneakers and pulled your hair back into a high ponytail on your path to join Thorin in prepping the breakfast Fili and Kili arrived for once again seeking another ride. A gentle peck later you split up for the morning with Thorin hoping you could make it to the Stone for lunch at least, should it go quickly for you.

Lunch came and went and as Frerin arrived for his shift Thorin drew his phone from his pocket dialing your number. Under furrowed brows he listened through Dwalin and his Nephews gathering around him curiously to the sound of cars whizzing by as you managed to fumble your phone open and shouldered it as you tightened the bolt you were working on, “Hey Thorin.”

“Where are you?”

“Um, over by Atlan square. Had to stop in at a car shop, damn brakes gave out.”

His lips parted as his stomach dropped before his blurted out inquiry making the entire kitchen freeze for a moment, “Are you alright?!”

“Ya.” A thunk was heard and you mumbled, “Damnit.”

“What is that sound?”

“Hm? Oh I’m putting my tire back on, just have one more to go.”

“You’re fixing your brakes?!” Without giving you a chance to answer he asked for your location precisely and headed to his car with Dwalin and the boys in tow and Fili now chatting with you assuring you were safe until they arrived.

The empty parking lot came into view with you parked across from the car shop that the mechanics were watching with arms crossed commenting on your ease at the task and especially the car pulling up beside you making them flinch back inside pretending to have not been aware of your place there at Thorin’s tensed rush to your side. On a jack your Jeep was resting as you finished adding the final pad and turned to reach for your tire after setting down your tool into the well used tool box beside you. Curiously he eyed the spread of tools and the oil coated rag you’d used to wipe off your hands beside a bottle of water and a blue bottle of soap for scrubbing off oils and grease while he asked, “Please explain this to me. You’re not even a hundred feet from the mechanic’s shop!”

Wetting your lips you stood and said, “Ok, I know there’s rules but I’m not going to have anyone just look at me and assume I’m a clueless wallet on legs. I spent fifty years working in body shops through my training courses and internships. I pulled in and those assholes wanted to charge me $3000 for a simple brake pad and rotor swap!”

Kili rubbed his neck, as Fili simply looked at your jeep trying to imagine what it actually cost as Thorin replied, “You have the card I gave you?”

You met his eyes, “Thorin, the parts are only $400-500 at the most for an hours job. I might not seem like much but they eyed the car spotted my earrings and smirked hiking the price that high! Just because I’m supposed to be taken care of doesn’t mean I’m going to allow anyone to abuse that or your generosity by assuming I’m an idiot. It’s a simple job, all I have to do now is put the tire back on and pump the brakes and I’m good to go. If it was something more serious I would have argued with them but it’s just a simple swap I can do in my sleep. Besides, I know a couple guys that’ll take the old scraps for a couple hundred.”

Unable to help it he smiled at you proudly as Dwalin glared at the men peeking out from the shop at the group through Thorin’s rolling the tire closer to you as he rumbled, “Next time please call at least before you start taking apart your car so we can keep watch.”

With a soft victorious giggle you knelt grabbing the tire and raising it, revealing the formerly relaxed muscles in your arms flexing, revealing the dips between the easily missed layer of protection you had making the task look as strenuous as lifting a pen from a table. Easily the lug nuts were added and tightened by hand before you lowered the jeep and finished it with the tire iron asking “Who wants to pump the brakes for me?”

Fili hastily raced around climbing inside grinning at his brother, who was just a bit too slow to miss out on helping. A few presses later you closed your tool box and carried it back to your trunk, with Dwalin adding the soap and water bottles. On your left however Thorin raised your sleeve checking what he hoped he hadn’t seen. The large thumb sized bruise drew a growling question from him, “Did they do this?!”

You peered at your arm then looked up at him shaking your head, “I had to get a shot.”

He raised a brow and Fili stated, “But it’s huge!”

You nodded, “It was a big needle.”

Thorin lowered his voice to a comforting tone, “What sort of shot would leave a bruise this big?”

After a glance at the boys you met his eye with a sigh, “It’s for my birth control.”

Kili’s brows furrowed as he asked, “Don’t they have pills for that?”

You nodded again slowly, “They made me really sick, I tried a couple.” You looked up at Thorin again, “It’s only four times a year.”

Looking you over he took in the irritation of the simple fact the process left such a mark on you but relented, understanding that it was what you and your Doctor had chosen as the best option for you. “How did it all go?”

“As well as it can, I suppose. Should get the call about the scans tomorrow.”

Kili peeked around the jeep as you closed the trunk, “Scans?”

“Just a mammogram.” Making his lips part, “It’s an annual thing, just, the full check up.”

He nodded and Thorin smiled passing him your keys as he gently nudged you to his car, saying, “Let’s get you home.”

The boys followed Thorin’s car while Dwalin shared about their shift from the back seat, only to ask after a glance at you, “Are you sore?” You turned your head to meet his eye, “Dis’ mentioned it before, being sore after.”

You nodded, “Bath usually helps.”

After a stop at Dwalin’s you were parked in the driveway of Thorin’s and accepted your keys and hugs from the boys before they took the short walk home again leaving you to be curled under Thorin’s arm for the walk inside. Through the doors Thorin watched you remove your shoes and walk to your house as he followed after, physically hurting at your seemingly sunken mood. “Is there anything I can do?”

In a glance back at him you replied with a tired smile, “I think just a bath, and, could we watch a movie after?”

Thorin nodded, “There is a tv in my bathroom if you wanted to use mine.”

“I’ll grab some clothes.”

Turning from you he went to his bath starting to fill the tub and switch on one of your favorite films just as you entered the room spotting his towel and film he’d set up for you with a soft smile. Wetting his lips he said, “I’m going to make us something to eat.”

“You don’t have to.”

He smiled at you, moving to be closer to you and brushed your bangs behind your ear, “You don’t have to eat, but still, I’m going to make us something.” You nodded and watched him leave the room. Turning around you stripped and lowered into the hot water easing your sore body adjusting to the pokes and prods and uncomfortable spreader you tried to forget by focusing on the opening credits.

With a plate of snacks in hand Thorin entered again and sat beside the tub leaning against the edge resting his arm on it and faced the film. Through it he kept glancing over you eyeing your sinking demeanor, “Was it the plastic thing?” You looked at him, “Dis said the plastic thing is the worst part.”

“It’s tolerable. I’m really ok.” His eyes scanned over your face, “I just get, I feel like I’m sinking after I get the shot. It goes away by morning, just all the hormones at once. I didn’t know if I should say it in front of the others, cause an uproar, and bring all the clan over at once.”

Gently he brushed a stray wet strand of curls back around your high bun with an adoring smile, “Anything else I can do?”

Wetting your lips you asked, “Could I sleep with you tonight?”

His hand moved to stroke your cheek sweetly, “Of course My Dearest Pearl, any time you wish.” Focusing on the film again after a weak smile you shared the snacks then climbed out dried off and pulled on your tank top and shorts over one of the more comfortable pair of lingerie Thorin had bought you. As Thorin tossed the wet towel into his hamper he drained the tub and shut off the tv and led you into his bedroom. Your former spot on his right was swapped for his right due to your bruised arm. Snuggly he curled you against his side planting a kiss on your forehead as you mumbled, “Just a warning I might fall asleep.” As he switched the film on in this room making his smile grow back.

“When you do I’ll hold you tighter. Get as much sleep as you wish My Dearest.” Planting another kiss on your forehead.

Slowly as the film played on you wrapped around him tighter making him hold you tighter in return, forcing back his tears at his inability to help you through this in any other way until he was on his side tangled with you completely and finally fell asleep himself after a long slew of Khuzdul sentiments muffled in your hair between his gentle pecks.

Pt 6

#Thorin x Reader OC #Hobbit #lotr

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amyure · 5 years

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The QUEEN of PURPLE novel Chapter 3 / 4 summary

Chapter 3. Feel Her Rock

After what happened in the game center, Matsuri had Ferb’s offer at the back of her mind as she walked around a game store. Although she was thinking how the request was so unfair, with Ferb’s straightforward and honest eyes, it was hard to say no. But Matsuri understood very well that there was a huge difference between just a drum gamer and a real drummer, and how there was a gap of skill which she could not measure at the time; it was more than just hitting the right beat in the game. Yet, Matsuri knew how Ferb was someone who did not fool around when it came to music. As a musician with that much passion, Ferb would be the first person to understand how music and games differ, and she was always serious when it comes to music, yet it was her who had asked Matsuri. In that moment, Matsuri remembered fondly the first time she had talked to Ferb properly.

It was in Nanastar’s lounge, when Matsuri was waiting for Coney and Shihainin; Ferb was there first. Ferb offered Matsuri drinks and (just like most people) thought she was not as old as she was (lol. Ferb offered juice instead of coffee or something and Matsuri was like, “how ruuuude” lol). Matsuri noted that, although her aloofness made her seem a lot more mature than her age, Ferb was actually just a regular 17 years old teenager who answered with disinterested phrases like ‘aah~’, ‘I see’, ‘I don’t exactly know’ when it came to things other than bass guitar and music (for those, she was suddenly full of life and turned chirpy). In Matsuri’s eyes, such a childish personality was endearing. When it came to things that she loved, Ferb properly perceived things that she needed or did not, such as when she asked Murasaki, since Murasaki was indispensable to the vision she had in mind.

About that decision of making the band, Matsuri also remembered Murasaki and considered her approach. Like Ferb, who knew exactly what she wanted in things she loved, Murasaki saw things in black and white and properly assessed which were and were not important to her, especially when it came to singing. Murasaki did not talk much, and Matsuri’s interactions with her revolved around meeting during lessons (and that was also not going beyond the realm of songs). During vocal lessons Murasaki shone like no other and was in full zeal, but in dance lessons Matsuri did not remember much of her. With Murasaki’s straightforward and stoic attitude, which was admirable for her age, Matsuri felt it took a long time to get to know her (despite Matsuri typically quickly getting along well with any type of person). Murasaki did not seem to mind company, or the lack thereof. That part also, where one did not need to pay much mind to her, is what made Murasaki easy company to be with.

Apart from that, Matsuri thought if there was anything with her upbringing. Murasaki’s mother did not exactly seem like she was a strict person, considering she gave someone, whose part time job application was rejected, some free curry just because she felt bad. It did not seem like Murasaki had been told to help, and instead had volunteered to help. In the end, Matsuri concluded she did not understand Murasaki that much.

Browsing the game section, Matsuri found the yuri [girl love] game that Yumeno had recommended to her in a super serious fashion. Matsuri then thought of Yumeno, too, understanding that although she was a bit (actually super) weird, Yumeno was the most sociable among the three. Even then, her rather ridiculous conduct might be a way to light up the atmosphere. Matsuri remembered how, the first time she had met Yumeno, without even a greeting the girl had just started taking pictures of her (while drooling), told her to do skinship and held her (like wtf man lol). When they learned each other’s ages, even if Yumeno turned a lot politer, with her conduct it was questionable if she respected Matsuri like her age deserved.

Matsuri wondered if the three girls would be okay alone, and whether there was anyone to look after them. As she was thinking, a new rhythm game notification came up in her Holocom which was about a ‘make your own rhythm game!’ kind of thing. Matsuri also felt that it couldn’t be helped; she should tell Ferb her decision. Just as she was thinking that, a mail came from Ferb: “Matsuri-san, do you have time?”

In a cafe (I think), Murasaki, Ferb, and Yumeno were gathered around to talk about the band; Yumeno was like, “I smell Matsuri-san!” and Ferb was like, “eh, is there even such thing?” “Oh, you’re so pure, Ferb-chaaaaaan!!” or something and, true enough, Matsuri came (lol).

Ferb had called the meeting to give each of the girls music sheets for their respective parts—and she said that even if Matsuri had not given her decision yet, it was only for her to look at in case she was interested (though Matsuri cannot read music sheets lol). Murasaki commented that even Ferb’s light music clubmates might have difficulty doing the drum score however (lol), and Ferb is like, “I understand, but to be able to follow a song’s beat, the natural instinct to play drums is what I think Matsuri has.” And Ferb finally showed her song to both Murasaki and Matsuri.

Both were impressed, agreeing that it was a good song (Yumeno: “I feel like I will have a nosebleed” lol), and Matsuri asked just how long they had until the registration closed. Ferb was like, not so long (ehe) and Matsuri went “Feeeerb-saaaaan??” As it turned out, it was the end of the coming week. Matsuri asked if they had any reserve plan if Matsuri declined. Their options were: finding a live house [live music club] drummer acquaintance (which did not seem likely), one of Ferb’s light music club members (which also was not likely), Murasaki’s old man oji-san acquaintance (very unlikely), and lastly was what Ferb described as “let’s just think about it when the time comes.”

At that moment, Matsuri felt the responsibility of being the oldest between them, to give security (despite the fact that she did not really show herself as a mature person in her words, or her hobbies and outer personality, and there did exist more mature person in Nanastar apart from her), but seeing them in such a bind, made her felt like it was her duty as the onee-chan amongst them. Eventually, she said, “Yes.”

Ferb was like, “Yes to what?” None of them had believed she would do it. Ferb looked deep into Matsuri’s eyes and said, “Thank you, Matsuri-san.”

However, then there was the problem of how they would practice. Yumeno said things like, “Ahhh~ if only it’s a game, then Matsuri-san can definitely hit all the perfect score! And I will be in the ‘land of beautiful girl’ harem!” or something along those lines, which reminded Matsuri that there was a game which allowed one to import songs. She could learn the rhythm from that software—adding that she would take Yumeno to help her since Yumeno, of the other three, understood games the most. Matsuri asked for a week’s time for her to do focused training, and borrowed a drum set from Nanastar’s studio. Murasaki asked what she could do for everyone, to which Matsuri answered steadfastly, “The song.” And so, it was decided that they would do it.

The week after, in Nanastar, the four of them performed the song for the first time. On Matsuri’s drumming, Ferb commented inwardly how Matsuri was lacking volume control but was properly keeping the beat—just like what she had thought, and Ferb felt that she was not wrong at all in her decision. Yumeno said that, if only Matsuri-san knew how to hit a drum properly, just how to hit it the right way, then she would already be a good drummer. And when Murasaki’s voice finally hit, Ferb was blown away at how she did it just right—really belying the fact that she had only sang jazz in the past. At that moment, for the first time, Ferb felt like she could finally bring a song, that totally fits her image, her self, into reality. That passion was perhaps something that she had never even felt even when she played with her light music club friends. That feeling of excitement filled her, even long after the song ended.

When it ended, Matsuri asked if she had passed: Ferb commented that despite the lack of volume control (e.g. how she hit too hard, or lacked speed control in her hit), Matsuri had passed—though just 1 song had taken so much of Matsuri’s stamina already. Everyone was very positive in how it turned out and, after 10 minutes, they would proceed to record it. But there was another problem: the band had no name. None of them had thought of a name, and Ferb did not really bothered about it; in the end they went with ‘Seto Ferb Band (temporary)’ as their name (at which Matsuri went like, “are you serious?!”—well no one was taking Yumeno’s suggestion of ‘Ferb-chan’s Harem Kingdom’ as a good name either).

After the session, Ferb went to a live house, wondering about her light music club friends. There, another high school band was playing, covering 4U songs. After joining Nanastar, Ferb had come to know just how exhilarating it was to perform one’s own song instead of someone else’s; however, she couldn’t help but wonder why it was that, even if it was not the band’s own song, even if the ones performing were not 4U’s members and were even far from their level, the audience still had so much fun? That question and unease lingered in her heart.

~End of Chapter 3~

Chapter 4. Forked Road of Her Dreams

Passing the first qualifying audition for the rock festival, two months later our girls had moved on to the second audition, where they would have to perform in front of judges. Ferb, almost late, arrived at their rendezvous point and found only Murasaki. Since Yumeno and Matsuri were going to be late thanks to trouble with their train, Ferb and Murasaki decided to wait for them while drinking hot canned coffee drinks from a nearby vending machine. Ferb asked the yawning Murasaki if she had not gotten much sleep last night, and Murasaki explained that she was not good with waking up early (something that Ferb had kind of figured about Murasaki, especially with her mother running a bar).

It was around this time that Ferb realized that, without Yumeno and Matsuri being around, she had never talked much with Murasaki other than about Mito. Somehow, now the fact of both Yumeno and Matsuri being beside them felt like ‘a usual day’ for Ferb. Murasaki asked if Ferb was nervous because her shoulder looked stiff. Ferb answered that it was because of the cold, even though what Murasaki said had some amount of truth. Ferb had never felt nervous before, not even when she had her first live in Nanastar, or when she had her lives with her light music club. She lamented over feeling nervous now, of all times. The two girls did not talk much (you must see the gorgeous illustration that came with this chapter) and ten minutes later, Yumeno and Matsuri came.

Both apologized for being late, Matsuri even bought them some hot canned coffee—to which Murasaki said that they had already finished drinking the same thing already, while patting Matsuri’s shoulder. Yumeno was even more silent, saying she was afraid that both of were mad, since they had not replied to her message, and Ferb was like, “Oh sorry I forgot, and don’t worry we’re not mad.” Yumeno clasped Ferb’s hand which, to her surprise, was extremely cold. She panicked immediately and went, “You’ll play the bass after this, cold fingers are bad! Matsuri! Murasaki! Hurry up, warm her hand!” and Murasaki was like, “well I don’t mind, but why must it be us?” Yumeno was like “well duh, of course because I will be the one taking a photo!!” Anyway, with such a scene, Ferb felt like it had turned into one of their usual days, that now felt like they were something that had always been there.

The building the audition was taking place in was super stylish, and they were awed for a while. Ferb went to register, and before them were two people who looked like they were professional musicians. Ferb said, “To think they are our rivals…” but Murasaki was like, “So what? we’ll just do it our way as usual anyway, whether they are the rivals or not.”

The festival was supposed to be for rookie bands, but somehow the people around them did not look as if they were rookies. As they registered, the staff told them the various relevant rooms, among them the changing room. Ferb asked the rest if anyone wanted to change; though, there was no such thing as a ‘costume’ between them, and Murasaki had went like, “didn’t we agree to just use clothes we are comfortable with and are easy to move in?” It seemed other bands came in properly prepared, some even with costumes.

Finally, the time of the audition arrived, with their band being the first one in. When Ferb and the rest entered, two judges were waiting; one of them was a very successful producer who had made numerous hit tracks (even Ferb knew him by face), and the other one was another (seemingly) famous someone. However, after they began playing, in the middle of the song Ferb realized that Murasaki seemed uneasy, then she realized they were all off sync, with the instruments playing at a tempo faster than they should. Finally, by concentrating on her own playing, that agonizing moment passed.

The first judge (I forget his name… uuh. Let’s call him ‘Famous One’ lol) went on to ask them, one by one, if they had prior band experience; Ferb only had her light music club, and Yumeno had only performed once, for a school festival. He asked if Murasaki sang in other styles (she only sang Jazz) and commented that Matsuri was obviously still new. And just like that, Famous One simply said, “Pass.”

The second judge was like, “Wait a minute, it’s not like I am against your decision, but you have to tell me why you let them pass!” Yumeno also said, “Please, we want to hear the reason as well.”

And so, Famous One explained that, even with all the band’s minuses, every member showed an individual color and they all covered their weakest part, Matsuri, very well. On top of it all, it was because they were, in every sense of the phrase, a rookie band. Other bands that came in to the audition which were mostly freshly made, still were not formed by newcomers to the industry. This band that has just been formed for two months, was exactly what the Rock Festival was all about, a rookie band. They congratulated themselves, with Murasaki saying, “We did it, Ferb, with your song.”

Before they left, however, Famous One had something to say. He said he was just giving them a suggestion for them to consider. He said, considering how they were all coming from Nanastar, which is an idol agency, and specialize in something that is basically pop, why don’t they make a song that is more palatable to wider niche; their current song pretty much had a very specific taste and may not attract a wider audience. He said that they should consider this especially since they were still a rookie band, so they had a lot of potential and a chance to garner fans. With songs like 4U’s, for example.

After they left the building, the bandmates were chatting happily and planning to have dinner together to celebrate getting into the festival. However, Ferb seemed like she was not quite there. She was thinking about what Famous One had said. The fact that her song had now came into being made her extremely happy, that was true; and, it was basically something that she had been waiting for and wanting to do. Yet, how about the others? Were they enjoying it as much as her?

Being kind as the rest were, even if Ferb were to ask, she was sure that they would never admit not enjoying themselves, nor say that her song was bad. Yumeno was there because she had followed Ferb. Murasaki even sacrificed helping her mother for Ferb, and Matsuri, being the oldest, had stuck with them because she felt some kind of responsibility. However, were they happy? Or were they just doing this for her?

If, by chance, the others did not enjoy her song, Ferb knew she would be sad; she would even hate it if, because of her own selfishness of making her song, she had pushed her friends into something they did not enjoy. It was true that with her light music clubmates and their audience, when they were doing 4U covers, they were having so much fun and being so happy, but what about her song? Over all other things, more than ‘having that song come into being’, she would rather have her friends be happy.

Finally, the rest realized Ferb had been deep in thought, and it was at that time that she said, “Let’s change songs.”

~~~End of Chapter 4~~~

Link to Chapter 5: She’s Not Okay Back to summaries

#Novel translation #The queen of purple #QoP #echizen murasaki #Sakaiya Yumeno #Seto Ferb #Mimori Matsuri #nanastar #t7s #translation blog #eshtarwind #Tokyo 7th シスターズ #tokyo 7th sisters #ナナシス

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swishandflickwit · 5 years

Text

Marichat — shelter 3/3

Summary: Marinette and Chat Noir get caught up—in the rain and in each other.

Chapter summary: Interrupted kisses are so overrated... don’t you think?

Words: 6.9k

Rating: General Audiences

AN: This entire chapter was driven by the song Goodnight and Go, both the original version by Imogen Heap and the remix by Ariana Grande, which—if you know the song—will be pretty obvious here. Sorry for the long wait! Hope everyone had a nice holiday!

Also on ff.net | AO3

Other writing

Part 1 | Part 2 | [Part 3] |

goodnight n go

“Are you sure you have everything?”

He smiled.

“Yes.”

“All your clothes?”

He held up two double-packed doggy bags.

“And my shoes.”

“The macarons?”

“Ube with a yema filling?” He held up his other hand where a pink box with the signature Dupain-Cheng stamp lay, brimming with the sweet, Parisian-Asian fusion treats. “Right here!”

“What about Plagg?”

She got him there but instead of admitting it, he laughed and kissed her dulcetly on the cheek.

“Madame,” Sabine groaned but leaned into the peck. “I've had the loveliest time this evening. You can't know how much.”

“Oh, Chat,” she sighed, returning his kiss with two of her own on either side of his cheeks. “You're free to visit any time, I hope you know.”

She hugged him and on the tips of her toes, she whispered in his ear.

“And feel free to use the front door when you do.”

Adrien’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets and he choked on a breath. It was Sabine's turn to laugh.

“We do have two of those, you know,” she teased.

“Cat got your tongue?” Marinette snickered, meandering to his side in a way that told him she had not been privy to her mother's comments, otherwise she would have been flailing alongside him. “Or have you gotten another furball?”

He whined. “I do not spit furballs!”

“With how much you ate,” Tom jested, partaking in the ribbing. “I wouldn't be surprised if one or two of those popped out.”

“Ha-ha, you two are hiss-terical,” he deadpanned. “Truly.”

She smirked. “I am known to be claw-ver, you know.”

He gaped. “Y-you… you punned!”

She smirked and his heart skipped a beat. “I could kiss you!” he blurted.

“Bon dieu,” Tom sighed, shaking his head. “And you would have too, had I not been such a clumsy oaf.”

“Oh, mamour,” Sabine giggled, patting him on the shoulder in feigned consolation. Tom, as he was wont to do, leaned into her touch wholeheartedly as he buried his face into Sabine's hair and trembled with mock sobs. However, the whimpers emitting from the burly man were undoubtedly the result of crudely suppressed chortles. Somewhere amongst the ceiling beams, a purring cackle was heard.

(Traitors, all of them)

Adrien's (and Marinette's) cheeks stained a lovely red, but then again—what was new?

“Right,” Marinette coughed, determined to ignore her parents if the firm pout she had fixed onto her lips was any indication. With gusto, she grabbed at his shoulder before dragging him to the apartment door. Powerless with his hands otherwise occupied and unwilling to rendez-vous with the floor again so soon, he limped behind her. “It's getting late. We wouldn't want to keep Chat from his own home.”

“I think it might be drizzling too,” Tom commented, setting aside any amusements as he gazed out the windows at the grim skies with concern. Though it wasn't odd for nightfall to descend so quickly at ten in the evening this time of year, the clouds that muffled the blanket of stars over their beloved city of lights was out of the ordinary—an indisputable credit to the unexpected weather. “Would you like to stay the night?”

“‘Would you like to stay forever?’” Sabine quoted.

Marinette groaned even as Adrien barked a surprised laugh.

“They're quoting Mulan now,” Marinette shook her head, her hands on her hips as she appraised her parents in exasperation. “It really is time to leave.”

“I don't know, Marinette,” Tom replied, surveying him with a critical eye, though there was a sparkle to his look. “I could teach you how to make those macarons, eh? We could make a man out of you yet, Chat Noir.” He wiggled his eyebrows. “Or, at the very least, a baking man.”

“Mon dieu, Papa,” Marinette grumbled, but he could tell she was just as tickled. Adrien himself was sorely tempted to accept their offer. It wasn't as if anyone anything was waiting for him in the mansion, and if it was down between the cold and wide yet confining walls of his room or the sparse yet warm and cozy dwelling of the Dupain-Chengs, there was no choice. Still, he had a whole mantle of duties and responsibilities that came with wearing the Agreste name. So though he very much yearned to stay, this was not his home. And as much as he liked to pretend—every minute he was here, it was glaringly obvious that he did not belong.

(Despite the voice in his head that sounded suspiciously like Marinette, telling him how much he did)

“It would be an honor,” he acquiesced briefly, “but with the weather like this… I think I need to head back.”

“We understand,” Sabine said, holding Tom's hand as they walked him and Marinette to the door. “Another time, perhaps? The offer for baking lessons stands, of course.”

“I will definitely hold you to that paw-mise!” He replied with an enthusiasm he could barely contain. Despite his reservations, if this night had taught him anything it was that should any of them offer, he would never pass up an opportunity to spend time with the Dupain-Chengs—the chance to learn a new skill was just an added bonus.

They all shared one more raucous laugh that was sure to get the neighbors talking, but they didn't care. What were a few complaints compared to the endless fun that could be had when you were with people whose company you thoroughly enjoyed?

It was made this closing bittersweet. Because how could one say goodbye to that which—to those who had—filled him with such unfettered merriment it was almost like he had been alight?

(Spoiler alert: you could, but damn if it was easy)

With a final wave to both, the door to the Dupain-Cheng abode closed with a finality that felt like the end of a book—like all loose knots had been tied except the for the one directly to your heart, because you had grown so attached to the characters in the story, it left you satisfied yet strangely empty too, for how can the world keep on turning just the same when you had been forever changed?

He lingered for that very reason. And it was also for that reason that he heard a girlish ‘whoop!’ despite the thickness of the wood that stood between him and Marinette's parents. Tom's booming laughter followed.

“Wait, so does that mean we're team Chat Noir now?”

Well, he mused. He certainly hoped they were.

Sabine giggled. “Oh, Tom.”

“But I thought we were team…”

Before he could hear the end of that sentence, however, and have it finally revealed to him who it was Marinette had fallen for, she called for him.

“Minou?” she asked, her head the only visible part of her between the slats of the balustrade—that and her roguish smile.

“You could stay,” she continued. He swallowed the lump in his throat that had formed itself into a ‘yes’. He shook himself out of his reverie and followed her, trudging miserably down the staircase as if they were a mountain and not an ordinary flight of stairs. He had gone two steps below her when he noticed that he couldn't hear her light gait trailing behind him. He paused and looked up at her, one brow raised in the shape of a question mark.

“You were quiet tonight.”

That wasn't strictly true. He had been perfectly sociable, though he understood what Marinette meant. While he had been playful and courteous, there was a certain distance to his actions that he normally reserved for when he was Adrien and hid away when he was Chat Noir. But his axis had tilted, in a way that made both sides grapple for a chance to surface when really, all he wanted was to find a balance within himself. He didn't know how to explain that to her, didn't know if he could even if he had found the words, so he settled for, “I suppose…” he shook his head before shrugging at her. “I was trying to figure out who to be.”

She gasped, horrified. “You didn't have to be anyone but yourself!”

He gave a bitter laugh. “And who is that?” he sighed. “I don't even know, myself.”

She said nothing and he turned away from her, wishing he could shove his hands in his pockets and further shrink from the severity of her stare.

“I do,” she breathed after more than a couple heartbeats. “I know you.”

Confused, he chanced her gaze to find some sort of clarity in her molten, cerulean eyes. “Yeah?”

“For the legitimate first time, I'm starting to.” Her brow furrowed and he itched to sweep the evidence of her frustration till there was nothing but smooth skin and lines and curves that told only of her happiness. “Really starting to.”

“Would you tell me, then?”

“What fun would that be?” she teased. “You'll figure it out, Chat. You always do.”

God, you're amazing, he thought. In the distance, bells tolled.

Without quite thinking, he asked, “Can I visit you tonight?”

Something flickered along her face.

“I should say no.”

There was no helping the way his shoulders slumped and his face sagged. But with a sigh, he agreed.

“You should.”

“But…”

He held his breath. “...but?”

“But,” she continued. “It's not as if you haven't been before.”

“No,” he repeated slowly.

“And we would just… talk.”

He glared. “Of course.”

“Well,” she pouted. “You did promise more of later,” she reminded pointedly. He smiled albeit a slight one as he caught on.

“Yes.”

“And my parents did say you could stay the night.”

He bit his lip to contain the enormous grin that threatened to break free.

“They did.”

“There is one… tiny… detail, we're forgetting.”

He cocked his head, curious as a cat. “And that is?”

She smiled crookedly. “I'm in love with someone else.”

He raised an eyebrow again just as he raised himself another step. “Are you sure about that?”

She hummed, though a more serious expression seized her otherwise enthralling features.

“And you're in love with someone else.”

He went up another stair, lured by her gravity and more than willing to fall into her orbit.

“Are you sure about that?” he pronounced with equal weight to his intonation.

“Chat,” she whispered, licking her lips. The movement had not gone unnoticed by him, his eyes tracking its lackadaisical journey along the length of her pink and luscious mouth.

“Marinette,” he sighed softly. “Is it later yet?”

“Come here, and we'll find out.”

And because he was used to taking orders, he did not hesitate. He climbed the final stair, and it brought them to level in ways that felt significantly more than height or step. With this last footfall, he was shedding old mindsets and dropping previous beliefs. With this hindmost leap, he would stand before her, marrow and sinew changed and soul forged anew, bones shifting to make more room and heart expanding in the shape of the girl who captured it—captured him.

(But was it really a trap when he was so willing to be ensnared?)

He only hoped all that talk about her continuing to be in love with someone else was just that, talk. It was difficult to take her words seriously, not when every look she sent him was a living flame against his all ready fervent skin, not when the touch of her hands, tight around his waist, anchored him to her and to which he was very grateful for. He was positive he would float otherwise for so buoyant did he seem in that very moment, his happiness threatening to catapult him to the moon.

“Je vois de l'amour dans tes yeux,” he murmured. “Alors dans tes yeux je voudrais rester.”

“Then stay,” she breathed.

His bags and his box fell unceremoniously into a heap at his bare feet but he had no care for them. No, all he was was made of Marinette, as he cupped her face tenderly between his palms, his thumbs caressing lightly at the apple of her cheeks and with her eyes framed by his digits, again—tendrils of familiarity curled along the synapses of his brain, little impulses firing rapidly across his nerves till they were one huge blaze calling out a signal that told him this was Marinette but she was also more, a beacon that wanted to shout, yes, I know you. I know you, I know you, and we are one and the same.

He didn't want to close his eyes, but he was magnetized to Marinette's every move and at her pace, heavy lids fell over hypnotized orbs. As one, he bent his head just as she rolled to the tips of her toes to meet his waiting lips in a dance that bound lovers for all time.

They were but a period away when a heavy thud! sounded behind him.

Adrien chuckled. With his eyes still shut and voice pitched low so as not to be overheard, he asked, “Your parents are watching from behind me, aren’t they?”

She pressed her forehead to his and tightened her hold on his waist. It was all the answer he needed—well, in addition to the heatedly hushed cry of, “Oh my God, Tom, did you fall again?”

He nuzzled the crook of Marinette’s neck while she sighed her frustration. Then, with great pain, he lifted his head from the valley of her doughy shoulder so he could shout, “Bonsoir madame et monsieur Dupain-Cheng!”

There was a pause, as though they thought they might walk away without answering and thereby pretend they had never been caught in the first place, before a grumpy but all together embarrassed chorus of, “Bonsoir, Chat Noir...” followed.

The door clicked shut (again) and with a final sigh, he extricated himself from Marinette's embrace. She gave him a withering look, though he inherently understood it was directed at her parents and her voice rang clearly in his mind as if she had spoken it right in his ear.

My parents have the worst timing!

Hiding a smirk, he bent to pick up his bags, going down three steps once more to retrieve them.

“I should head home.”

When he straightened, Marinette was holding out the box of macarons. A compunctious grin was pasted on her features.

“Let me walk you to the door.”

They reached the bottom of the staircase and through the glass panes of the entrance, he noted the state of the night sky before releasing a hefty groan.

The deluge had returned—full force.

“We all mean it, you know,” Marinette continued, looking amused by his aversion to the weather. “You're welcome to stay here.”

“Careful now,” he replied, tearing his eyes away from the outside so he could focus on Marinette. He made an effort to inject some levity to his voice but there was a sobering undertone to his words as he said, “You give this cat ideas and I'll never leave.”

She laughed, a hand splayed athwart his cheek while she cosseted the edges of his mask, as he found she was fond of doing—a teasing yet careful touch that straddled the line between curiosity and decorum, of do's and don'ts and wills and won'ts, like she was eager to know him, all of him, including the man behind the mask but was waiting for him to let her in.

(Not for long now, he imagined)

“My father did say life was just a dance,” she went on. She placed a feather-light kiss on his cheek and contrary as it was to her actions, he felt the sincerity in her vow even as she stepped away from him.

“You can sway my way any time, Chat Noir.”

He would have kissed her then, but thunder blasted over the skies, jolting him to the reality of his situation. Annoyed beyond belief, it was with agonizing reluctance that he summoned his Kwami who, he found, returned to him in a state of unprecedented bliss that instead of baffling him, only served to further his vexation.

“Where have you been?” he asked him.

“Heaven,” replied the tiny creature in dreamy articulations.

He turned to Marinette for explanation but all she gave him was an enigmatic, if not regretful, smile.

“Will you ever not be a mystery?” he asked aloud, unsure as to whom he was speaking to though he felt it was an appropriate question for both of them either way.

And as he expected, there was no answer. The only reply he was given was Marinette's held out arms, to which he passed his baggage. Plagg was still floating aimlessly above his head, lost in whatever fantasy beheld him, when he snapped with a sulky, “Maybe something waterproof, this time, Plagg? Can you do that?”

“Someone's in a good mood,” he jested, utterly unaffected as usual. “Fantastic,” he muttered, barely refraining a snarl.

“Plagg, claws out!”

He never thought he would reach this day, but it was with all honesty that he wished he could be rid of his suit. It must have shown on his face because then Marinette was there, smoothing the pout from his lips with a gentle brush of her fingers. Just like that, the irritation flowed right out of him.

“Will you be all right?” she asked softly. He nodded, taking his bags from her and holding them in one arm so he could grasp the hand that had been caressing him.

“Be careful,” she warned. He smiled.

“I always am.”

“I know,” she answered, despite the slightly dubious look etched upon her visage. He chuckled. “It doesn't stop the worry.”

His gratitude at her regard was another lingering kiss to her palm, right along the crease of her life line. Without letting him go, she opened the door. Yet it still felt as if a pit opened within him, a chasm to match the distance that would steadily grow between them with every stride, bound and swing he took away from her.

A blast of air hit them followed by a spackle of frigid raindrops despite merely stopping just shy of the threshold. His suit held, Plagg having heard him despite his halved attention. He had little knowledge of cloth despite having essentially grown in the fashion industry, but he assumed the material was a blend of thermal and leather as he seemed impassive to the cold. What little rainfall reached him slid right off the surface of his costume, assuring him that once he succumbed to the cloudburst, he would remain miraculously dry.

Just a little ways behind him, Marinette shivered, gooseflesh making highlands of her skin as they rose in hilly bumps. Still, she had the mind to advise him.

“Stay warm,” she prompted grimly.

With their fingers still entwined, he nudged at her chin with a knuckle before resting the pair of tangled limbs against her chest.

“I’ll try,” he promised with a lopsided grin. “Mon coeur.”

They remained clasped at the hands till only the tips of their fingers held adamantly onto their collision, separating only when they reached the brink of her doorway.

“Mon minou,” was all she replied, and for him, for always—

It was enough.

The trip home had been blessedly uneventful, his homecoming moreso. Yet, ensconced in his room once he had detransformed and checked that Nathalie nor his father found him missing, he announced, “I feel different.”

Behind him, Plagg snorted.

“You certainly don't look it.”

“I don't think I'm supposed to.”

“And you don’t sound like it, that's for sure.”

“I know, that's why I feel it. Wait,” he shook his head. “What is that supposed to mean? And hey,” he pinned him with a glare, “What happened to you? What were you doing in Marinette's room? You better not have made a mess in there!”

Plagg bared his teeth as he seemed to stifle a growl. “I didn't touch anything that wasn't mine.”

Adrien himself muffled the overwhelming urge to pull at his hair. Frustrated, he repeated with surly resonance, “What is that supposed to mean?”

“It means you need to think now, Adrien.”

“About what?”

“Tell me something,” Plagg darted right to his face and he had to take a step back to keep from getting cross-eyed when he looked at the mildly threatening creature before him, taken aback as he was by his expression. He had never seen his Kwami so… feral. And he would have been frightened, if he wasn't so achingly confused. He would bear anything right now if it meant some semblance of clarity.

“You and Marinette were awfully cozy tonight,” he pointed out, voice laden with unnecessary sarcasm. “Could it be her bringing about this change in you?”

“What of it? You don’t approve?”

“What about Ladybug? What about your feelings for her?”

“So that's the issue. You don't approve, then.” Adrien said dryly as he flopped onto his bed. “What does my feelings for Ladybug have to do with Marinette?”

“It has everything to do with Marinette!” Plagg exploded.

“What is up with you tonight, Plagg?” He wondered. He couldn't possibly be hungry all ready? Then again, he should know better than to speak for his Kwami's appetite.

“Two millenniums is a long time to be away from the one you love,” Plagg sighed. “Even for me.”

The sound drew Adrien's gaze, for it was in shades of melancholy he was accustomed to. Plagg was always throwing his seniority around despite every other word out of his mouth relating only to cheese. The idiot he was, he was only now starting to realize that perhaps it was a front, for his Kwami had never appeared so old to him, looking every bit his incomparable age.

“But I thought… I thought Ladybug and Chat Noir were two halves of a whole. I thought that the person behind and in front of the mask were the same. I am Chat Noir and Chat Noir is Adrien.”

“Yes,” Plagg agreed. “And though Ladybug and Chat Noir always found each other,” he said each superhero's name emphatically, “it wasn't always easy for their civilian selves. You have to understand, the world was so different then, Adrien. The strife of today seems miniscule compared to what my charges had to go through, and I'm not diminishing the problems of your generation,” he injected when Adrien opened his mouth to protest. “But people were not as accepting of well, anything, as they are now. Millions were being slaughtered on the daily and for things that were beyond their control—be it religion, race, social class… persecuted for something as simple as who they loved.” He shot him a pointed look. “Just imagine a line between freedom and dogma. And imagine being killed if you so much as dared to toe that line, never mind thinking of doing so. Why do you think we keep the Miraculous a secret? Why it's almost impossible to find traces of them throughout history?” Plagg sagged against the pillow next to his head. “Because that was the way of the world more than a thousand years ago. And so my charges, more often than not, chose not to be with their Ladybugs.”

Shocked, he could only shake his head in denial. He threw an arm over his eyes, as if it were enough to block out Plagg's words.

“How—how could they just… give up like that?” Their actions just didn't compute with what he knew about being a Miraculous holder, and his very foundation rocked at the revelation. “How could they choose not to fight?”

“Oh, they fought,” the Kwami muttered darkly before releasing yet another dejected sigh. “But… the world needed them more, and so the world they chose.”

He didn't say anything for more than a couple beats before he settled on, “Wow.”

Adrien swallowed the lump in his throat, suddenly feeling unworthy of the title, Chat Noir. Mon dieu, compared to what his predecessors had endured, what had he done that was worth noting? What had he ever fought for or believed in? What—

“Hey,” Plagg's voice was hushed and mellow. He wedged himself to his cheek so that Adrien was forced to lift his arm away from his face. “I didn't tell you all that so you could spiral,” he teased, even with his somber aura.

“Then why did you tell me all that?” he asked, voice watery.

“Maybe not everything's changed, but it's a whole new world now, Adrien.” His paw drifted to his forehead in comfort. “The choice doesn't have to be so hard.”

“Well it isn't exactly a walk in the park, Plagg,” he huffed then ran a hand over his weary face. “They're both…” were there even any words in the entire history of languages that would encompass either women? “How can I choose? I've been in love with Ladybug for so long, and with Marinette—it's all so new but it also somehow feels all right.” He craned his head up at Plagg, who hovered serenely over him. “Can you be in love with two people at once?”

“No.”

“Then how—”

“Adrien,” Plagg skimmed his golden tendrils before settling at the nape of his neck.

“You can't be in love with two people at once,” he whispered.

“I can't be in love with two people at once,” Adrien repeated, slowly, and again—his brain lit up as thousands upon thousands of impulses jumped along his synapses, every nerve burning with recognition.

“It's time to think now, Adrien.” Plagg pressed his paw firmly against his skin. “It's time to choose.”

“I can't be in love with two people at once,” he said, louder. And just like that—

“Because I'm not in love with two people at once.”

—everything, clicked.

He always thought this moment would come to him in an explosion; in bursts of colors, a heat of the moment or a grand gesture. He would never have envisioned it could be as simple as this—a piece of the puzzle falling into place.

With a laugh, he sat up.

“We need to go!” he exclaimed.

“We needed to go since yesterday,” Plagg whined. “But better late than never, I suppose.”

“What, no bartering for camembert first?”

He shrugged.

“There are more important things.”

It was one of the most controversial serious statements to ever come from his Kwami's mouth but the surprise was buried beneath his excitement—he could not stop laughing. He jumped off the mattress and didn't bother to put on any shoes, just his Marinette-made hoodie and the black sweatpants he elected to change into when he arrived earlier. He did have the presence of mind to grab his mask and tie it on before transforming. Plagg was only too gleeful to comply.

Anyone who happened to glance out the window would see nothing but a black blur as he passed, Adrien had never moved so quickly and so smoothly, too. He did not feel the rain, largely in part due to Plagg's modifications but he mostly attributed it to the joy that overflowed from him making him feel only good and wonderful things despite the downpour.

(And so the black cat can have good luck, after all)

When he arrived at Marinette's round window, it was to dim lights and no movement, apart from the covered lump on her loft bed. Maybe he should have taken it as a sign not to enter, but he had never been particularly skilled at reading those anyway (or it wouldn't have taken him this long to figure things out).

It was a little concerning, how easy it was to enter her room. Given who was living in it, he needn't have worried of course but, as she said, it didn't make it go away. As it was, it was a conversation for another day—because he had that luxury now, to have more conversations for later, as they were so fond of saying.

Balancing on her windowsill, he whispered, “Marinette?”

“Chat?” she whispered back as she popped up from beneath her covers so only her head was visible. “Allez! Get in before you flood my room!”

With a chuckle, he did so with care so as not to wake her parents, landing on noiseless feet and detransforming as he did so only to almost take back his progress when his bare feet landed on her floor.

Biting back a yelp, he raced to her loft and was grateful that she had tucked herself away once more as it was one less thing for her to hold over him. He was convinced she would have toppled over in laughter if she had witness him then, slinking inelegantly as he was to her side.

“Putain! Why is it so cold?”

“The heating may be down again,” Marinette grumbled. “It's an old building, it happens sometimes. My dad will take care of it in the morning.”

Nevertheless, he found his chuckles returning as he ran his hands over her sheets, albeit more than a little mindful of where they roamed.

“Where are you? I can't see you over this mountain.”

Without warning, a blanket was thrown over his head and beneath the darkness of her comforter, her eyes were the light.

“Hello.”

“Hello,” he echoed, his eyes surely glistening just as bright.

“You came,” she said, sounding almost surprised, as if she were just realizing she was someone worth keeping promises for.

“You said to keep warm,” he shrugged, keeping his tone flippant when he felt anything but, just to keep his nerves at bay because now that he was here, so had a thread of doubt appeared. “It's hard to do that alone, you know.”

What the hell am I talking about?

His agitation multiplied.

She raised an eyebrow. “Where's Plagg?”

“Oh, you know,” he waved a hand vaguely behind him, then dropped it. He was sure she knew what he meant, the Kwami having darted to Marinette's purse the moment they had touched down.

“Is it… is this okay?” Despite his mounting tension, he added—albeit reluctantly, “Should I not have come? Do you… want me to leave?”

“No!” she shrieked and he had to lean back as the sound was so contained within their downy fort. Calmer, she reiterated, “No, no. This is fine. You're fine.” She pitched her head briefly over her fleece. “I just don't want my parents to wake up and freak out,” she said once she returned.

“Oh,” he breathed a sigh of relief before hiding a smirk. “I'm pretty sure they know anyway, so—”

“They what?” she exclaimed in a voice that may have been a decibel higher than she intended it to be, if her goal was to keep his presence hidden from her parents.

(Though the rainfall did a pretty good job of quelling any wayward noises)

“At least, I think your mom does,” he placed a hand at the back of his neck. “You know, I never actually got to clarify, so…”

Marinette looked mortified as she landed face down atop her pillow. She groaned and he rubbed circles onto her back, even as he laughed.

“It's not funny,” she griped. She turned to him with a frown. “How are you not panicking?”

He shrugged. “The way your mom said it, I think she trusts me. I mean, with a face like mine—why wouldn't she?” While he waggled his eyebrows, Marinette's frown further deepened, unimpressed. He laughed some more, recovering his former ebullience in waves of giggles that seized his body. With a little more effort, he infused sobriety into his pronouncement so as to ease her mind.

“But more than anything, Marinette, she trusts you.”

A pensive expression dominated her dainty features as she mulled over his words.

“It doesn't make it any less embarrassing,” she huffed. “But I can live with that.”

With a (hopefully) final chuckle, he settled onto his back beside her. Marinette burrowed onto her side, facing him. She yawned.

“Tired?”

She shook her head contrarily. It was his turn to toss a disbelieving brow her way. She sighed. “It's the cold,” she admitted through gritted teeth, as if she were confessing a weakness. Perhaps it may as well have been, given who she was. “It makes me drowsy. Sometimes.”

“Why am I not surprised?” he muttered. She cocked her head in quiet inquiry. In lieu of an explanation, he mirrored her position then opened his arms.

“Get over here.”

She bit her lip. “Are you sure? I don’t wanna make you uncomfortable…”

Trust me, he wanted to say. We've been in worse tangles than this. But he kept such thoughts to himself as he found that he was rather enjoying his furtiveness—at least for the time being—if only because the more he talked and looked at her, the more he saw the resemblance, and he wondered how he could have missed it for so long—how he could have missed her.

“Get over here,” he repeated in a tone that brooked no argument. Without added objection, she snuggled to his side of the bed. Adrien drew her hands to his back, beneath his hoodie, and though he hissed at the temperature (she was not kidding about being cold!) and there were minor protestations from the lady herself, he ultimately had no trouble wrapping her arms around him. He arranged the blanket just under her chin and right by his shoulder, before winding his own arms at her waist. He purred, a long and satisfied sound.

“What a wonderful place to be,” he sighed, looking down at her as he spoke.

Marinette scrunched her nose. “My room? With the broken heater? Really?”

He laughed. “I was thinking more like, your arms.”

Her infamous blush made an appearance then, her mouth rounding into a soundless oh. Abashed, she didn’t say more after that.

“Marinette?” he began, breaking the pleasant pocket of silence that had overtaken them.

He sensed more than heard her responding hum, tiny reverberations that ran along the length of his body all the way to their entwined feet. Were he not all ready soothed from her warming skin, then the sound of her contentment alone would have banished any remaining frost he might have felt.

“Can I tell you a secret?”

It took a beat for her to answer her affirmation.

“Sure,” she whispered through a stuttered breath.

“I like you,” he murmured into her ear with a Cheshire cat grin. “I really, really do. And I hope,” he pulled away just enough so he could look into her eyes, “you like me too.”

“I thought you were in love with Ladybug,” he swallowed the bubble of laughter that bullied its way to his throat. Was that… was that jealousy he detected? “I thought you were destined to be together.”

“Here’s the thing,” he shifted onto his back, taking her with him so that her upper half was draped along his torso. “Ladybug and I are a team. One could even say that we couldn’t possibly function without one another. We complete each other.”

Confliction wrangled itself onto her visage.

“But,” he grazed the puckered line of her eyebrows. “It’s you.”

She shook her head. “What’s me?”

“Everything,” he asseverated with devout honesty. “A part of me will always love Ladybug. But you? It’s you I want. You, I choose. Every day, I choose you. Every time. Anywhere and anyhow, I don't care what They say.

“I. choose. you. Beyond doubt and beyond reason, I choose you. Without thought, without question, without fail and... without regret."

He cupped her face, affectionate hands catching any obstinate tears from falling any further from her chin.

“I’m not fond of the idea that there are forces out there beyond my control who get to decide who I be with. That is mine to make. That is my choice and no one else’s. And I choose you.

“It’s you, Marinette,” he was babbling, he knew, but he couldn’t stop. “It’s always been you.”

“Chat Noir,” she hiccuped, “I need to tell you something—”

“Kiss me,” he asked desperately. “Please, I need to—”

He didn’t know what the end of that sentence would be but it wouldn’t have mattered anyway. With a sob, Marinette dipped her head, and what little distance remained between them evaporated at the touch of her lips to his.

He expected fire—he expected dynamite and orchestral music and fireworks. But again, the reality far superseded his fantasies because this was so much better than anything he could have conjured.

Fire became the heated flesh of her back as his fingers inched a path up the length of her spine. Dynamite became the caterwaul of thunder while the staccato beat of the torrential raindrops against her window pane became their harmony. Fireworks… fireworks was the way lightning twirled along her skin each time he deigned to open his eyes, illuminating her form so that she shone like a fallen angel above him, come to save him from himself.

For the most part, he let Marinette dictate the kiss—pulling when she pushed, bending as she molded herself to him even more, mouth opening at the slightest prod of her tongue till they were a knotted choreography of intimacy—because now he understood, truly understood, that life was a dance, and his every misstep led to every quiver which led to every spin till he was waltzing to his perfect partner. Choosing Marinette meant the calming of his senses… a tilted world returning to its proper axis.

Somewhere along the way they had swiveled so that he was on top of her, her legs buckled unyieldingly around his hips. He caressed one of her calves while the other followed the line of her arm where he delighted in the goosebumps that rose in his wake. She propped herself on her elbows and so Adrien drew back on his haunches till she was seated on his lap, the blankets pooling below them in a jumbled stack. It gave her added height as she towered over him. She ran the fingers of one hand through his undoubtedly messy hair, nails scratching cautiously at his scalp. Sparks of pleasure tingled down his spine. She kissed his forehead, then, lips moving sleepily over his skin.

“I need to tell you something.”

“I know,” he sighed, buzzing with tranquility.

“I don’t know how you’ll react.”

He smiled. “Something tells me I all ready know.”

A distressed noise escaped her so he eased her grievance with another languid kiss, tiny suckles of her upper lip and bottom lip, till she was chasing after him when he pulled away. She groaned a different sort of unsatiated need.

“In any case,” he dropped his forehead onto her chest before pressing a chaste kiss there. “Nothing you say will ever make me not want you, Marinette.”

Her hands, which had found themselves in his hair, tightened about the golden tendrils at the nape of his neck. He wanted to wax more poetic about how everything ended and everything began with her, but then—she unleashed a jaw-cracking yawn. He mewled a laugh, laying her gently back on her bed, her hair spilling like shimmering ink across the width of her pillow and framing her pale skin so that she looked like the moon in the middle of a starless night.

“Rest now,” he advised, propping himself on an elbow at her side. She whined her protest and so he trailed kisses from her brow to her eyelids, the tip of her nose and her cheek, then to the corner of her mouth. “The moon will set and the sun will rise and I will be here tomorrow.”

She hesitated for a fraction before asking, “Promise you'll still want me in the morning?” a quavering in her voice.

“Promise to want you forever, if you'll let me.”

She gave him a long, surveying look, a light entering her eyes as she reached some sort of conclusion.

“I know you,” she expelled slowly, susurrantly, one hand to his heart, the other edging at the bottom of his mask. He smiled.

“Sleep now,” he bid her. “We have time.”

She extended her arms to him.

“Get over here,” she commanded.

“As my lady wishes,” he replied. He situated himself into the arch of her neck, nosing at her inherent chocolate chip cookie and vanilla scent to lull him to serene slumber.

“You're right,” she mumbled sluggishly.

Above him, a whizz of cold air before the blankets were tucked around him. All the while, Marinette’s arms obstinately remained around him as if they were bound as one, her breaths even and the drum of her heart a steady and reassuring lullaby beneath his ear.

“It’s easier to stay warm when you aren’t alone.”

He smiled.

Was it really this easy? he wondered, as he fought the hypnotic lethargy that blustered to pull him under. Perhaps it wouldn’t always be. Perhaps in the light of day, things will seem different. But for now, he was certain—from the nails of his toes to the roots of his hair, from his nerve endings and his tendons and his cartilage, from his body to his mind to his soul, he believed—he would bear any sacrifice, he would endure any hardship... so long as at the end of the day.

Shelter would be found in Marinette’s arms.

AN: Thank you to @swanandapirate and @feyrearcherons! They don't even go to this fandom lol but they took the time to help me with the French translations I needed here.

Je vois de l'amour dans tes yeux, alors dans tes yeux je voudrais rester = I see love in your eyes, so in your eyes I would like to stay.

So the bit about the flavor of the macarons is all me, ube and yema are local to the Philippines which is where I'm from and they are phenomenal let me tell you right now. I've never had them in the form of macarons but in any other way they taste amazing so if you ever get your hands on them, you will not be disappointed!

So like, this has been the longest thing I have ever written for any fandom and I think I lost some steam for this last chapter but I'm very proud to have finished it anyway because I rarely ever do so when I start multichaps. Still, I had a blast writing it and I hope you guys enjoyed reading it too!

Come say hi to me! :)

#marichat #miraculous ladybug #marichat ff #ml ff #ml fanfiction #adrien agreste #chat noir #marinette dupain-cheng #plagg #sabine cheng #tom dupain #swishandflickwit ff

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