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calif0rnia-lovers · 3 years

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Lover of Mine #5.5 | Angel Reyes.

Series Masterlist | join my gc for updates since tags are acting weird

title: For Better, or For Worse.

rating: 💙 💔

As long as you're feeling the same, I'll follow you into the flames

sum: angel fears once it's out, his secret will be the final push you need to leave. instead of confessing, he sticks out the couple's retreat to give himself a few more days with you. he makes himself a promise: he'll tell you once you two return to santo padre. but a ghost from his past pushes angel's agenda forward a few days.

words: the standard for this series....long af (that's why I break it into sections so you know where to come back to when you take a break...but seriously, please take breaks on these long ass chapters)

Ez Reyes is a smart man. There is no denying it. However, Ez never thought he would struggle to tie a tie.

He is currently outside of his father’s truck. Kneeling before his nephew, Ez concentrates as he works through the instructions he Youtube’d earlier. A usually chatty Jeyson has been silent. He slept the entire hour's drive to school. When his Uncle woke him, Jeyson shot Ez a glare that reminded him of you.

Jeyson was fine the entire weekend that you were gone, but the moment he woke up this Monday to find you had not returned his entire mood changed. He has fought Ez tooth and nail the entire morning.

Ez glances up from the tie to Jeyson. “Hey, you sure you wanna go to school today?”

“I have to go to school” Jeyson mumbles.

“Yeah, but sometimes it doesn’t hurt to take a break.” Ez offers Jeyson a smile. “If you’re not having a good day, it’s okay to stay home.”

“I don’t want to stay home with you.”

“That’s okay,” Ez chuckles. “What about Izzy?”

“I don’t want to stay home with her either.” Jeyson releases a huff before glancing down at his now fixed tie. He bends down to pick up his backpack. Slipping it onto his shoulder, Jeyson steps around his Uncle. “I want my mom to come home.”

Tommy’s gaze remains on the sleeve of his blue Stockton uniform. His fingers tug at the loose string resting against his wrist. He ignores the smirk on his older brother’s face. The passing of time has muddled the bruises on Tommy’s skin. The mixture of black and yellow stood out on the parts of him he's allowed to remain visible. No matter how he sits, the pain in his ribs is inescapable. Sleep has fallen to the way-side, the inability to get comfortable meaning he only gets it once he’s passed out from exhaustion.

“You didn’t tell me she was hot. Now I know why you were sticking up for her the other day--”

“I didn’t notice. I’m more worried about her getting me out of here.”

“Uh-huh.” Leo’s eyes roll as he watches his brother’s eyes pass over the crowded visiting center. “I’m just saying—”

“What’d you find?” Tommy’s fingers massage his temple, the irritation in his voice amplified by his brother’s antics. Lack of sleep and around-the-clock oversight and antics from Rogers has cut his fuse short. “If you didn’t find anything, you could've saved yourself a trip up here—and I could be asleep.”

“She’s not married—unless she has a habit of leaving her rings at home.”

“What? On the table?”

Leo shakes his head. “No. A jewelry box in the bedroom.”

“What about the kid?” “He has to be about eight, or nine? Name’s Jeyson. You were right, he’s definitely Angel’s. Wish I could show you the picture. He couldn’t deny that kid if he tried.”

“Yeah.” Tommy nods impatiently, motioning for him to continue. “What else?”

“Kid goes to some boujee ass prep school up north. Gilman something? Embroidered blazers, ties, the whole nine. His mom’s paying a pretty penny too, apparently, it's the best in the state. He’s into the typical shit kids are into. Star Wars, Spider-Man. Plays the piano, apparently, he’s actually really fucking good. Awards and all. His mom’s got him pretty busy. A lot of after-school activities. Looks like she and Angel rotate transportation...She must not be around right now tho.”

“Why do you say that?”

“Apart from the fact you’re still not transported to a new unit?” Leo scoffs. “The kid was with someone else when I was scouting. A girl and a kid with a prospect patch.”

“Mayans?”

“Yeah.”

“Maybe his little brother...last I heard he was hemmed up here. Haven’t seen him around tho.”

“Maybe he got out?”

Tommy dismisses Leo’s suggestion. “Most cop killers don’t walk free. What else?”

“He’s not doing a good job of keeping his nephew safe. I talked to the kid.”

Tommy’s eyes open. “You did what?”

“He walked right off with me.” Leo quietly explains. He mistakes his brother’s silence as a cue to move forward with his story. “His uncle was so into his date he didn’t even notice the kid walk off with me--”

The sight of Tommy’s hand running down his face tapers the rest of Leo’s statement.

His voice comes out low, through his clenched teeth. “I didn’t tell you to touch the kid.”

“I didn’t touch the kid,” Leo’s eyes rolled. “I got him a funnel cake—” “I don’t give a fuck—” the slamming of Tommy’s fist against the table brings the room to a brief silence. The eyes that he has attracted linger on Tommy as his glare nearly burns a hole through his brother. Rogers shrugs off the wall nearby. He takes a step of warning in Tommy’s direction. “—what you did, Leo—it was stupid.”

“How else was I supposed to get him to talk to me?”

Tommy’s response comes out slowly. Each passing word increases his irritation.

“You didn’t need him to talk to you because I didn’t ask you to talk to him. Buying him a funnel cake, or whatever the fuck your grand plan was allowed the kid to see your face. He can open up his mouth and ID you—”

“ID me,” Leo snorts, dismissing Tommy’s claim. “Relax, Tommy. He’s not a state witness, he’s a kid—“

“Yeah, and according to you and his 'boujee ass prep school,' he’s a smart ass fucking kid, Leo.” Tommy lets out a long sigh. “The last thing I need is the kid opening his mouth to his mom about some random guy approaching him.”

“Don’t worry, I played it cool. Told him I was a friend of his dad. Maybe, if you had told me exactly why I went there I wouldn’t—”

It was something Tommy had explained to his brother during their last visit. The less you know, the better.

“I already told you,” Tommy rubs at his temple, the sudden throbbing causing his jaw to clench. “I needed to double-check something.”

“And that’s what I did.” Leo sighs. “What I want to know is, why the fuck you called me all the way down here to check pictures in some house.”

Tommy studies his brother for a moment. He shifts forward, his elbows settling against the table.

“You wanna know why I didn’t tell you? You don’t think, Leo. I ask you to do one thing—one fucking thing—and you almost fuck it up. If I wanted you to think I wouldn’t have told you exactly what to do.” Leo’s jaw tightens as his brother continues. “You trying to think leads to you doing dumb shit like kidnapping her fucking son—”

“I didn’t kidnap him,” Leo mumbles.

Tommy’s fingers massage his clenched fist. “You’re lucky I can’t reach across this fucking table right now.”

Leo’s gaze drops from his brothers. The look that lies in Tommy’s eyes is one he’s seen before—at least not directed at him. It’s the look that accompanied the acts that earned Tommy his nickname. Leo’s gaze nervously shifts towards Rogers who is still watching Tommy from his post.

“What do you want with her? Thinking she’s gonna give you a shot? Criminal is her type, and she’s definitely yours.”

“It’s not her I need. It’s Angel.” Tommy starts, his jaw tightening as his gaze remains on Leo. “And if you want Angel, you need her.”

“If she’s as good as you say, what do you need Angel for? You’ve been talking about her like she might actually get you off.”

Leo steals a brave glance at his brother. He watches as Tommy looks up from his tattooed knuckles.

“No matter how hard you pray, people like me and you don't come out on the right side of the law. No matter how fucking good she is, she can't get me out of this. This shit is stacked too high against me." Tommy’s gaze shifts to the clock overhead. “Did you find the necklace?”

Leo nods as Tommy stands.

“Good, go ahead and do what I asked.” Tommy pauses, his voice lowering as his gaze meets his brothers. “Nothing else, Leonardo. The time I'm looking at right now, I’ll fucking kill you right here if you pull some shit like that again.”

At some point Monday night, Angel abandoned his spot on the sofa to crawl into bed with you. His intention may have been to take one side of the bed, but to no surprise, he has failed.

You came to this revelation at two o’clock in the morning when you tried to roll over but found it to be impossible. You have been stuck on your back ever since. You attempted to fall back asleep but have not been able to.

Cheek pressed against your chest, arm wrapped around your waist, Angel hasn’t moved. He doesn’t move when your alarm goes off at 7:30 or when the knock comes on the door at 8:00.

The sleep Angel lost, the past two days over Tommy seems to have piled onto him. He only wakes when your fingers brush through his hair, the warmth of your touch lingering against his cheek.

“You have to get up and eat something.”

“I’m not hungry.” Angel mumbles. The sunlight peeking through the curtains prompts him to burrow his face against your neck. “I’m tired.”

“Yeah, I can tell,” you smile softly. “But, I’m hungry, and I can’t get our food with you laying on top of me.”

Your words are met with a huff before Angel rolls over. Resting on his back, he watches the fan spin as you get out of bed.

His first instinct is to check his phone. He pushes himself up, his body protesting with the sudden movement, once he realizes his cellphone is not where he left it.

“Where’s my phone?”

His palms pressed against his eyes as he pushes away the enticing thought of laying back down for a few more hours of sleep.

“It kept going off,” you look up from the plate in your hand. “Ezekiel kept texting you.”

“What did he want?”

Angel watches you shrug. “I don’t know. I put it in the drawer. I tried to wake you up, but you were literally dead.”

Angel releases a sigh of relief before reaching over to open the bedside drawer. Facedown, his phone has several notifications. He ignores the rest, focusing on those from his younger brother.

2:30 a.m. 📲 : You still up?

2:35 a.m. 📲 : Talked to Bishop. Found out what the shipment was

3:00 a.m. 📲 : Pretty sure I found something else

3:02 a.m. 📲 : Don’t know if this is the guy. If it is we might have a problem

3:03 a.m. 📲: Found this in the paper

3:04 a.m. 📲 : Check it out and call me back.

The last incoming message was a photo, the front page of the Daily Imperial Gazette. Angel scans the article as you climb back into bed. A few phrases stick as he reads, “Man charged in Santo Padre murder…” “Thomas Flores, 30, has been charged…” “...obtained representation from Lorente & Rothman…” “...Friday, Flores was denied bond…”

“I have to tell you something.”

Angel instinctively hits the power button on his phone. Glancing up, he realizes you haven’t even bothered to look up at him. Your focus is on the half-eaten croissant in your hand.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong,” you explain as you take another bite of your croissant. “The case Samuel gave me—the one Aiden is helping me with—it’s for this guy. His name’s Tommy Flores. He has some pretty...intense charges, so you’re probably going to hear people talking about it soon. We had court Friday, and the judge...he’s pretty tough. He denied any form of a bond, he didn’t even bother trying to set a ridiculously high one.”

You glance up to find Angel’s eyes on you. His unreadable expression causes your brow to furrow. You mistake the look in his eyes as uncertainty.

“I honestly don’t think it’s anything you have to worry about.” Offering him a smile, you lightly roll your eyes. “But I’m going to have to start working late when we get back, so I need to know that what happened Friday won’t happen again.”

You wait for Angel’s response, but it doesn’t come.

“If I take over morning drop-offs, can I count on you to pick Jeyson up after school?” You continue. “Or, do I have to ask Isabela to do it...Angel?”

Angel blinks as your fingers snap.

“Are you listening to me?” The irritation he finds as his focus shifts to you causes him to nod.

Angel nods a second time as he takes in the look of skepticism on your face.

“Yeah, I’m listening.”

“So, you’re good with picking Jeyson up from school?” You clarify. “Every day of the week?”

Angel unlocks his phone, nodding for the third time. “Yeah. I’ll pick him up.”

“And if you can’t,” you reach forward. You catch Angel's chin forcing him to look at you. “You call and let me know the moment you find out?”

Nodding, Angel drops his eyes the second your gaze meets his. “I gotta call Ez.”

Despite his admission, your hand doesn’t drop preventing him from getting up. For a moment, Angel thinks you’ll let it go. For once, you will ignore the feeling you get each time you notice a change in him. It is something no one else in his life can seem to do. It is something you’ve been able to do your entire life. It is something Angel wishes you couldn’t do.

“What’s wrong?”

Angel shakes his head as you release him. He keeps his eyes trained on the plate in your lap avoiding your gaze as your touch brushes through his hair. It's a habit. Angel knows the moment he meets your gaze he’ll tell you whatever is on his mind. It’s impossible not to do when he knows you can read him best that way. He picks up what’s left of your croissant and takes a bite.

You sit your plate aside before closing the distance between the two of you. Angel’s eyes lift to meet yours as you settle on his lap. The warmth of your palms finds his cheeks as you take his face in your hands.

“I’ve known you nearly my entire life, Angel. I know you don’t believe it, but I can tell when you’re lying to me. Just like I can tell when you’re upset and anxious. And when you’re going to annoy me.” The soft smile on your lips brings a weak one to his. “There’s no point in trying to act like I don’t. What’s wrong?”

“You were right about Friday night. I wasn’t with Samuel. I wasn’t even in Santo Padre.” Angel lets out a deep breath. His voice low as your fingers toys with the hair at the nape of his neck. “Ez and I were in Mexico. I left when you were in court. I knew we weren’t going to make it back in time, but I didn’t want to have to tell you because I knew you’d be pissed.”

“What happened to your hand?”

He watches you lift it. Your finger traces the bandage.

“Cut it on a shovel.”

Your gaze lifts to find his focus on the path your finger traces.

“...okay.”

Angel shook his head. “It’s not okay—I fucked up. Forreal this time—“

"What? On Friday?” You let out a deep breath. “Angel, I know I freaked out. Missing the recital—yeah, it was fucked up—but it is not the worse thing you’ve done.”

“I don’t know what I’ve done to deserve that.” Your eyes watch him release a tired laugh, his gaze down. "You defend me, even when you shouldn’t.”

It is true. Defending Angel has been second nature your entire life. Often you do it in response to others. But also in response to him. When you were teenagers, you learned a valuable lesson about him. Angel is his worst critic. He’ll talk himself down harsher than anyone, even those who hate him.

“It’s because I love you.” Your arms wrap around his neck pulling him into a hug. “Just because we fight and say stupid things to each other doesn’t mean that I don’t love you, Angel. If I haven’t been able to stop doing that our entire time together, I don’t know why you think a fight in a therapy session is going to be the final straw. Me not talking to you is just the easiest way for me not to say something I’ll regret later.”

Angel’s grip tightens around you as your lips press against his skin.

“At this point, there isn’t anything you can do or say that’s going to make me stop loving you.” The reassurance in your voice lifts his gaze to yours. “Okay?”

Your lips press against his in a soft kiss. You leave a second against his forehead before getting up.

“I have to take a shower,” you announce as Angel’s arm wraps around your waist guiding your body back towards his. Your fingers drift into his hair as his head rests against you. “There’s more food you should eat before we go out.”

The two of you stay that way for nearly a minute. Angel releases you as the sound of your ringing phone fills the air.

Silence from Angel Reyes is a bad sign. Such a rarity, it wrings your stomach into knots. It has been hours since you woke to find him sleeping against you. Angel has said just as little as he did in the morning. When you stepped out of the shower, you found him fully dressed and brushing his teeth.

You glance over your shoulder to find he’s standing where you last left him. Arms crossed over his chest Angel rests against the wall as far from the line as possible. With his sunglasses on, you can’t tell where he’s looking. The corner of his lips turns up into a small smile as you come to a stop before him.

“Who knew smoothies took forever to make,” he sighs as your arms wrap around his waist.

Resting your cheek against Angel's chest, you tighten your grip. You listen to the steady rhythm of his heart as his lips press against your hair.

“I want you to come somewhere with me tonight.”

“No,” Angel chuckles. You tip your head back, pouting as his gaze drops to yours.

He shakes his head as your weight shifts to your toes.

“Please,” you ask, your lips pressing a kiss against his.

“Last time I did that, you ripped me to shreds,” he laughs. “I haven’t even had time to recover from that.”

“It’ll be fun,” you promise. The second kiss you leave morphs Angel's smile into a grin. You leave a third, this one against his cheek. “I promise.”

Angel releases a long breath as you take a step back, a grin on your face.

“It better be,” he shakes his head as you quickly press a final kiss against his lips before turning to retrieve your order.

As you reach the corner, your cell phone vibrates in your back pocket. You don’t bother checking who it is. Aiden has called you three times. You had sent him a text message in response to his first three calls. Telling him to ask Isabela for help on whatever he needed.

The moment the call goes to voicemail, the vibration picks back up.

You force yourself to take a breath as Angel leads you outside.

“Hi, Aiden--”

“I know this week is supposed to be for you and Angel,” Aiden's voice comes out in a rushed whisper. “But, I need your help.”

“Where are you?” You ask as you take a sip of your smoothie. “And, why are you whispering?”

“I’m at the courthouse,” Aiden sighs. “I’ve been here all morning, and they’re giving me the run-around.”

“About what?”

“The Warden called the office this morning. You weren’t there, so I answered your desk phone. He didn’t give me many details, just that Flores was detained last night. They couldn't get him to say anything—to no surprise—but one of the guards said he was involved in an altercation with another inmate. Apparently, Tommy messed him up pretty bad—like...transported to the local hospital bad.”

Angel glances over at you as you slip out of his grip. You take a seat at the table he stops alongside.

In the short time, you’ve worked with Aiden, you’ve learned one thing. The moment he thinks there is something to panic about, Aiden will panic. So, if you sound stressed it kicks off his panicking.

Resting your face in your hand, you speak quietly. “So, he wasn't transferred on Friday as I'd requested? If he was he couldn't have gotten in a fight.”

“I know. Apparently this isn't the first one he's been in. The Warden said he looks like he’s been roughed up in the past few days. I’ve been here since first thing this morning—”

“Let me guess.” You rest back against your seat. “They told you there’s nothing they can do, with the prison being at full capacity they don’t have a cell for him?”

A brief silence falls over the receiver. Aiden’s brow furrows.

“Yeah—how'd you know?”

“That’s because it’s bullshit,” you pinch the bridge of your nose. “Judge Miller was hoping you’d leave and not press the issue.”

“Shit,” Aiden mumbles. “Shit, should I call Samuel—”

“God no. Aiden, I’ll tell you what to do, and say, just relax.”

“I lied to you.”

Angel glances down at you as your lips press against his knuckles. “About what?”

“About wanting to wait to get married.”

Your admission leaves Angel quiet. He opens his mouth to speak, but it closes as you place a second kiss against his skin.

You tilt your head back to find his eyes focused on the water.

“I was talking to Izzy the other day—not about getting married—but about you and...I mean...we’re trying to have another kid.” You backtrack as his gaze drifts to you. “That’s not the only reason, but I don’t want to spend another seven years playing house with you, Angel. I have tried so hard to find reasons why we should just leave each other in the past, but it’s impossible. I can’t help thinking that we’ve wasted so much time trying to fight it we should just get married.”

If he is excited by your words, Angel doesn’t show it. If he’s anxious by your words Angel doesn’t show it. The only response he gives is the furrowing of his brow as his pace slows before coming to a complete stop.

“I thought you’d be...a little happier,” you admit. The butterflies in your stomach seem to double in size as Angel's gaze focuses on your interlaced fingers.

“Right now?” Angel gently squeezes your hand, the smile slowly spreading across his lips causing you to shake your head. “A fancy place like this I’m pretty sure we could find someone to do it tonight.”

“Preferably with your son there,” you giggle as his lips press against your forehead.

“Just so you know,” Angel mumbles as he leaves a kiss against your lips. “You can’t take it back.”

“It’d be pointless,” you admit, your eyes focused on the incoming tide. “Regardless of what I say, you’re impossible to escape.”

“Like you said, it must be fate,” he teases as you step back towards the security of the shore.

“I didn’t say fate. I said I was tired of trying to outrun you.”

Angel’s eyes roll. “Okay.”

Pushing against his chest, you cause him to stumble backward making it impossible for him to avoid the incoming tide.

“Fuck—”

Angel’s scream is drowned out by the sound of your laughter. He tries to escape the chilled water but realizes it’s pointless as a second wave rolls through.

“Is it cold?” You ask the grin on your face prompting him to take a step in your direction. “Because it looked like it was cold.” The look on his face causes your laughter to return.

“You’re about to find out how cold it is.” The promise in his voice causes you to take a step back.

You catch sight of Angel’s smile before you take off running.

Between the giggles that leave you breathless and the sand between your feet, you don’t get very far before Angel’s arms wrap around you.

“I’m sorry, okay. Let me go, please?” Angel’s grip loosens as you turn to face him. “I really am sorry.”

A gasp escapes your lips as your feet leave the ground. Blood rushes to your head as Angel tosses you over your shoulder. It only takes a second for you to realize he’s turned and is carrying you back towards the water.

“Angel Ignacio Reyes put me down now!”

“Be careful what you wish for, baby girl,” Angel chuckles as he carries you into the water.

It doesn’t matter that you’re both fully clothed Angel carries you out until the water is waist-deep. He comes to a stop. Shifting you in his arms, he grins as your arms instantly wrap around his neck.

“You think this is far enough?” He asks as you take in your surroundings.

“I hate you,” you giggle as you meet his playful gaze.

“I could go further out,” he takes a step forward.

“Just do it.”

Judging by the mischievous grin on his lips, you expect him to drop you in. For whatever reason, Angel spares you a dunking. Instead, he carefully lowers you to your feet.

The chill of the water causes your grip to tighten around him. He waits until you’re standing to let go of you.

You can’t suppress the smile that finds your lips as he kisses you.

“You’re lucky you buttered me up beforehand,” he chuckles as you step around him.

He follows you back to shore watching as you glance down the beach, back towards the lights of the hotel. Your pace slows as you start in the direction of the hotel.

“You okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Despite the nod of reassurance, you force yourself to take another breath. You shake your head slightly, a tiny smile finding your lips. It takes a third breath for the feeling to pass. “I just—got lightheaded for a second.”

“Uh-huh. Funny how you get ‘lightheaded’ the second I take my shirt off. I don’t know why you still try and play this game at this point.”

Your eyes open in time to allow you the moment you need to react. Catching the shirt tossed your way, you watch Angel unzip his jeans.

"Angel put your shirt back on–I’m serious.” The warning in your voice stretches the smile on Angel’s lips. Your eyes leave him, long enough to drift back to the glow of the hotel’s lanterns still visible. The laughter and music cause you to step in his direction. “You are not getting naked on the beach! Are you trying to get us kicked out of here—”

“I wasn’t planning on going in naked,” Angel laughs. It is an admission of truth, but the sight of your panicked gaze causes a mischievous grin to take over his features. “But, I’m down to if you are—“

“No—"

“You know what?” Angel nods as he tugs his foot out of his jeans. “Your plan is better.”

“Angel—“

There’s no point throwing in a protest. Angel has fully stripped down to his briefs.

You step forward as he moves to push them down.

“I am serious, Angel. Do not do it.”

He rolls his neck before letting out a loud, and exaggerated, “fine.”

“But the only way that’s coming back on,” he nods towards the shirt in your hands before taking a step back. “You gotta join me.”

“I’m not doing this.”

Angel shoots you a look of skepticism as he takes another step towards the water.

“You’re already wet,” he chuckles. “Might as well get in.”

You remain where you are as Angel turns and makes his way into the water.

He waits until he’s waist-deep to start swimming out. He disappears out of sight as you drop his shirt to the ground. Stepping out of your flip-flops, you roll your eyes as you watch him resurface under the moonlight.

“Hurry up!” Even with the distance between the two of you, you can see Angel’s grin in your mind perfectly.

Despite your initial protest, you stay in the water for nearly an hour. Angel stands alongside you. His right-hand rests against your spine, his left interlaced with yours as your float. He watches you, his eyes admiring the moonlight against your skin as you focus on the stars above.

“I can’t remember the last time I looked at these,” you admit.

He smiles as your eyes drift shut. “Mom used to freak every time she caught us sneaking onto the roof to look at them.”

“That’s because you fell off one time. Nearly gave her a heart attack.”

“Wouldn’t have been the first time.”

You bite back a smile as Angel’s lips lightly brush against yours. They drift to the bridge of your nose as you release a soft giggle.

“Speaking of mom’s, yours came by last week.” Angel watches as the smile on your face slowly fades. “You were at work. I was taking Jeyson to school. She said she’s been calling you.”

“I wouldn’t know,” you admit. “She’s blocked.”

“I was thinking...since we’re heading back a day early, we should stop by your mom’s on the way back–”

“No.”

Angel releases a deep breath. He wasn’t naive to think you would jump at the idea. But, since seeing her, Angel couldn’t get the thought out of his mind.

“I know ya’ll don’t get along, but my mom’s not here to see Jeyson grow up. I think he should be able to know the grandparents he has left.”

“I get that, but I’m not doing it.”

Your eyes remain closed as you concentrate on the waves gently pushing against your skin.

Angel doesn’t say anything else on the subject. He knows your response will stay the same. It has for the past nine years. He also doesn’t say anything else because he knows he’s the reason you won’t budge.

The hatred your mother has for Angel may be misplaced, but she is too stubborn to admit it. She has always blamed Angel for many of your actions, starting when you were kids. Anytime you didn’t go through with what she had planned for you, Angel was to blame. You missed curfew in high school Angel was to blame. You skipped school on your birthday Angel was to blame. You didn’t attend the college she spent her entire life preparing you for Angel was to blame. You got pregnant out of wedlock Angel was to blame.

It had all came to a head at your baby shower. Angel wasn’t there, but it was the first time he’d ever seen his mother truly angry. Sure, Marisol had gotten mad at Angel countless times. But seeing how mad Marisol was as she recounted the fight she had witnessed between you and your mother, Angel was shocked.

He never asked what words were exchanged, and he didn’t have to. All he knew was that from that moment forward, everyone avoided the subject of your mother.

“I get what you’re saying, Angel,” you sigh. “But, if my mom truly wanted to get to know Jeyson she would apologize. I can’t bring our son around someone that has said the things she’s said about you. If she can say them about you, she can say them about him because Jeyson is your son.”

“Shit, I really look as bad as I feel?”

The smile on Tommy’s face grows as you look up. The heat covering your skin seems to rise as you start to speak.

“No—” You wince. “I’m sorry for staring—it’s rude.”

“It’s all good,” Tommy chuckles as he watches your eyes leave his.

He watches as you bite your lip. Whatever is on your mind, you don’t share it. Instead, your eyes linger on the bruise beneath his right eye. You’ve seen enough damage on Angel to know how bad it must have looked a few days prior.

“Hey, relax.” Tommy shifts forward in his seat, the sound of his shackles dragging across the table causing your attention to refocus. He meets your gaze. “The Doc cleared me—gave me my two Advil and sent me back to my cell. I think it’s safe to say I’m not gonna die.”

Despite the smile on his face, your head still shakes.

“Yeah, but I still feel bad that it happened. I was supposed to double-check the clearance of your paperwork.”

“Trust me, it’s not your fault,” Tommy chuckles. He watches your eyes drop to his freshly bruised knuckles. “It’s mine. The funny thing about this place is, you always run into people from your past. My mom used to said I never knew when to stop talking. I might have said the wrong thing at the wrong time.”

You watch as Tommy’s eyes briefly drift over your shoulder to where Rogers sits in the corner. His smile returns as his gaze drifts back to you.

“So, I take it you had fun.” He notes your raised brow before backtracking. “The Warden said he called your office and your boyfriend answered, said you were out of town.”

Your eyes roll. “Hey, go easy on my boyfriend. He’s the one who went to the courthouse. From what I hear, he slammed Judge Miller hard because your paperwork has been approved.”

You take in Tommy’s skepticism. You slide the signed form across the table, allowing him a better view.

“Signed by the Warden as well,” you point out. “Thanks to Aiden as soon as we’re done here, you’re being moved out of the unit.”

“No shit?” Tommy chuckles. He nods in approval as he scans the form. “I’ll be sure to thank Aiden when I see him. Guess you were right. He’s got some balls after all...Look, I know I’m not the easiest client….so um….Thanks for pushing for this. Making sure everything was straight. Most people would’ve just left me where I was.”

“Yeah, well I can’t have you die before I get fully paid.”

The laugh Tommy releases brings a smile to your lips. He settles back against his chair as you pick up your pen.

"I need you to understand that this new assignment may not be your favorite," you explain. "You're being moved to a new unit, but I can't get you moved again. That means, you can't do anything else, Tommy. Do you understand me?"

Tommy nods. He looks up as your hand finds his.

"This," your lift his hand forcing him to take in his swollen knuckles. "The shit you pulled. You're lucky they didn't throw you in AdSeg. That's 23 hours in your cell. No phone calls, no visits. Nothing. The only reason they didn't throw you in there is because they messed up, and didn't want Aiden to draw a motion against the judge. I don't care what you have to do, but you better learn to walk away from a fight. Now."

"I know." Tommy sighs as you let him go.

“Then do it. My job is already hard enough as it is. I can't have you trying to kill someone while you're already here for murder. Plus, the judge is pissed because of the paperwork Aiden had to file. That's not good for either of us. So, that means I need your help.”

His brow raises, the corners of his lips turning up into a smirk. “I thought I was supposed to be the one asking for help.”

“True, but help is a two-way street.”

Tommy hesitates for a moment. His eyes drop to his knuckles as he lets off a light shrug.

“What do you need?”

“For you to tell me why you were meeting with Alexander Maddox the night you were arrested.”

Tommy’s smile fades quicker than it came. His jaw tightens as he shakes his head.

You sit forward resting your elbows on the table.

“Tommy, if it’s about the MC.” Tommy’s eyes lift for a brief second. Long enough for you to catch a glimpse of the shock in his eyes. You lower your voice. “I know you’re with the Horsemen—”

Tommy shakes his head. “Look—I get you got a job to do, but—there’s just shit with the MC I can’t talk about—”

“I know how this stuff works—”

“Got a lot of personal experience with an MC?” Tommy asks.

His question causes you to release a deep breath.

“If you don’t want to tell me anything, fine. But when it comes down to it, Tommy. People will cut you off to save themselves.” The irritation in your voice lifts his gaze. “That shipment you were carrying, was not a dime bag. Your brothers will let you go down for this. Hard. They will let you rot in here for the rest of your fucking life if it means avoiding a R.I.C.O. case.”

Tommy’s brow furrows. “What’s a R.I.C.O.?”

His question throws you off. The pure confusion on his face causes you to backtrack.

“You seriously don’t know what that is?”

“I mean—I’ve heard of it...how do you know what it is?”

“It’s what you pay me for,” you remind him.

“Then I guess I’m paying you to explain it to me.”

The moment you step outside of the elevator, you come face to face with a wide-eyed Isabela.

“Is your phone dead?” She asks the irritation in her voice causing your brow to arch.

“Off—I had a client meeting with Tommy. I thought I told you—”

Isabela ignores your response, her eyes focused in the direction of your office. “Yeah, whatever. I’ve been calling you for the last freaking hour—”

“Sorry—ow.” You wince as Isabela catches your arm. She pulls you to a stop. “What?”

She releases her grip, but she sidesteps. Blocking your path, Isabela places both hands on your shoulders. She ignores the look of confusion on your face, her gaze studying yours.

“How are you?”

Her question causes you to hesitate. “...Fine...why?”

Isabela takes another moment to study your eyes as if she doesn’t fully believe you before nodding.

“Just so you know,” she sighs as she takes a step back. “I did not let her in. Aiden did. He didn’t know any better—bless his heart—”

“What are you talking about?”

“Your mother.” Isabela winces at the look on your face. “She’s in your office. Promise me you won’t make a scene.”

“It’s never me you have to worry about,” you mumble.

When you enter your office, you find your mother is not where Aiden asked her to sit and wait for you.

She is standing behind your desk studying a photo that she holds in her hands.

“Put it back.”

She jumps at the sound of your voice, her body turning so that she faces you.

“Put it back, please.”

Her eyes return to the photo of Angel seated on his bike. A grinning Jeyson is seated in front of him, clinging to the handlebars.

“He looks so much like his father.”

You cross the room. Taking the photo, you place it back in its original resting place before dropping your purse onto your desk.

“What do you want?” You ask as you watch step around your desk.

“Is that a way to greet your mother?”

“According to the last time we spoke, I don’t have one.” You recollect as you take a seat. “It’s been...nearly nine years, so my memory might be a little hazy, but I’m pretty sure that’s what you told me.” Your brow furrows as she moves to take the seat across from you. “There’s no need for you to sit. This conversation won’t last long. I have a meeting in a few minutes. What do you want?”

Your mother’s jaw tightens as she remains standing. Her eyes roll as she speaks. “I take it he didn’t pass along my message.”

“He did pass along your message, actually,” you admit. “Believe it or not, Angel said I should call you and listen to what you had to say. I just chose to do what I’ve done for the past nine years—ignore it. If you’re not going to answer my question, mom, then you can leave.”

“Your father and I want to see our grandson—”

“No.”

She expects more, but your attention has already moved on to the papers you’ve dropped onto your desk.

“See, I told you the conversation wouldn’t last long.”

“Y/N,” your mother objects. “It’s been nearly nine years.”

Your fingers interlaced as you force yourself to take a deep breath. You surprise even yourself as your voice comes out quiet and calm.

“I told you before. I do not want you near my son, and I meant it. I don’t care what excuse you’ve come here to give today. I’m not changing my mind. Your only hope is to speak with his father, and hope he’s more forgiving than I am.”

Aiden stops in the doorway, his eyes widening as he reads the room. He takes a step back but pauses as you give him a warm smile.

“Hi, Aiden! Please tell me you haven’t eaten lunch yet.”

“No,” Aiden clears his throat. His eyes briefly pass to your mother whose gaze remains on you. “I haven’t.”

“Good. Can you order two of whatever you’re having? I’ll pay. We have to go ahead and look over this case.”

Aiden nods as you add, “great. Can you also escort my mother downstairs? She’s ready to leave.”

“I’m sorry for ruining your retreat.”

Aiden’s apology breaks your concentration.

Seated on the floor of your office, Aiden has his back pressed against your desk. His usually polished appearance is disheveled. His sleeves are rolled up to his elbows, the top buttons of his shirt undone. His tie and jacket are discarded on the back of your chair.

His apology is one he has been working himself up to share for the last three hours. Each time he thought of sharing it, he’s backed out. At this point, he’s run out of pointless conversation and has reached the bottom of your takeout container that he took over.

“What are you talking about?”

Aiden’s eyes remain on the chopsticks in his hand.

“Isabela told me not to call you about Tommy,” he clears his throat. He steals a glance in your direction. “She said it should wait until you got back—but as usual—I panicked and called you. Now you’re back early--”

“Aiden, you didn’t ruin my retreat,” you sigh. Your palms rub against your tired eyes. “It was rocky was to begin with.”

The admission silences the office. Aiden nods before opening his mouth.

“So,” you smile as you lightly bump his shoulder with yours. “Please, don’t worry about it. Angel was probably happy you called so he could leave.”

Your gaze returns to the slow-paced printer. Upon learning you were coming home early, Aiden had sent you a text message.

📲: I have some stuff to show you about Tommy.

And by “some stuff” Aiden meant a board. He had stolen one of Samuel’s whiteboards from the conference room. The entire surface is covered in your notes and information from Tommy’s files.

“I can’t believe you did all this while I was gone,” you stare at the board. “Your girlfriend might think you’re spending too much time on me.”

Aiden’s smile is sheepish. “If I had one, I wouldn’t have had time to do this.”

“Well, remind me to find you one because this is amazing.” The tease causes Aiden’s smile to grow. “I’m serious, Aiden. I can’t believe you thought you couldn’t be any help.”

“I didn’t really do anything,” he shrugs, his gaze focused on the paper in his hand. “They’re all your notes, I just organized them.”

His eyes widen, a grin finding his lips as your arms wrap around his neck.

“Call it whatever you want,” you smile. “But I still get to say thank you.”

“It’s not a big deal,” he rubs the back of his neck before glancing over at you. “We’re a team….speaking of...I found this.”

The picture he lifts is not new. It is one you’ve seen before. Your brow furrows as you take in the pregnant woman on display.

“I already know who that is,” you admit. “It’s the girlfriend of—”

“Alexander Maddox.” Aiden nods. “Right. I kept going back to your notes. You had one question. Why was Tommy meeting with Maddox in the first place?”

Your head shakes the confusion on your face prompting the rolling of Aiden’s eyes.

“How is this the answer?”

“You were asking the wrong question.” A mischievous grin slides onto his face as Aiden realizes you’re still not following his train of thought. “I can’t believe I figured something out before you—”

“Oh my goodness, Aiden—”

“When he was arrested, Tommy was carrying a shipment--”

“Yeah, something he shouldn’t have been doing by himself.”

Aiden’s brow arches. “You got a history of drug trafficking I don’t know about?”

“You’d be surprised what you pick up on this job.”

Aiden shakes his head as you motion for him to continue.

“While I was working, I kept thinking back to our conversation at the courthouse,” Aiden continues. “You said Tommy’s smart—"

“He uses people to get what he wants.”

“Exactly,” Aiden grins. He lifts the picture in his hand. “Why would Maddox meet up with someone from a rival club, in the middle of the night, with his pregnant girlfriend in tow if he was threatened by them?”

Aiden doesn’t bother answering the question. Instead, he waits for you to make the connection. The smile on his face remains as your eyes widen.

“Because he was there to make a deal.”

“Exactly!” Despite the smile on your face, Aiden’s face dampens. “...but that’s as far as I got. I don’t really know what made Tommy kill him—”

“Of course you do, Aiden.” Despite your reassurance and the confidence in your voice, Aiden’s expression hasn’t changed. “Your brain just needs a second to catch up. Maddox didn’t keep up his end of the deal. He probably tried to screw Tommy over. Not realizing that Tommy would kill him, girlfriend in tow.”

"Well, now we know why Tommy's been tight-lipped about that night. Probably doesn't want it to get out that he was skimming from the club's business."

The hug you give him brings the same response as before.

“I should help you out more often.” Aiden chuckles as you give him a squeeze.

“Careful,” you tease. “Angel’s not too fond of sharing.”

“Speaking of Angel…” Aiden’s gaze meets yours. “I know you asked me not to say anything to him about Samuel—”

“It’s okay.”

Aiden nods, but he continues. His rambling brings a soft smile to your lips.

“Yeah, but I just...I didn’t want you to think I was okay with what Samuel did.” His words come out quietly as he shakes his head. “The way he talked to you...it wasn’t right. You work harder than anyone here—including him—and for Samuel to do that was fucked up. I didn’t say anything in the meeting, and I should have. So, I just...I told Angel when he asked about it.”

“He would have found out eventually,” you laugh softly. “Besides, now Angel likes you.”

“For real?” The smile on Aiden’s face stretches into a grin as you nod.

A silence falls over the office as Aiden’s head rests against the desk. His brow furrows as your eyes fall to your hands. There is a final question on his mind. One he’s tried to find a way to raise since he started flipping through your notes on Saturday morning.

“Are you pregnant?”

The question lifts your gaze.

Aiden reaches into the pocket of his shirt. Your eyes widen as you take in the white card he produces. It is a card you spent the entire morning trying to find. The scheduled appointment one you have yet to share with Angel.

“It was in the notebook you turned over for me and Samuel to review,” Aiden explains as he passes the card over. “Don’t worry. I saw it before he did...I figured he was the last person you wanted to know.”

Your eyes focus on the date. A week and a half away. The initial scheduling may have been premature, but you couldn’t shake the feeling Angel was right.

“Uh...no—I mean, it’s too early to tell.” You turn the card over before looking up. “I should know by this date, so can you not tell anyone about this? I haven’t even told Izzy...or Angel for that matter. I don’t want to say anything until I’m a hundred percent sure.”

Aiden nods, a soft smile on his lips. “Of course.”

“Thanks.” You allow your head to rest back against the desk. “I don’t want to get Angel’s hopes up too early.”

It was the only thought you’ve had from the moment you woke up alongside Angel that moment. But as you glance back at the card in your hand, you know the truth has nothing to do with Angel. It’s not his hopes that you’re afraid of letting down.

You place the card aside, pulling your knees to your chest. Your gaze drifts to the board before you. The two of you sit in silence, eyes focused on your work. Silently willing your brains to come up with one more revelation before packing it up for the night.

"Alright," Aiden huffs. "I think we've gotten as far as we can get tonight."

HIs brow furrows, a chuckle filling the air as he fingers brush against your arm.

"Didn't take you for a tattoo person."

You glance over at him, following his gaze to the ink on your arm.

"Yeah, well, you've never been dragged to a tattoo parlor with Angel," you laugh. "Now, I try to avoid them at all cost."

"It's pretty cool," he grins, his eyes lingering on the design. "He has one too? Matching?"

"Yep," your eyes roll lightly. "Please don't tease me about teenage decisions."

"I won't," he chuckles. Aiden sits forward, lightly patting your leg before moving to collect the trash.

“Aiden?”

“Huh?” He glances up from the takeout containers in his hands.

“How long was he in Chino?”

“Tommy...uh, hold on.” Balancing the containers in his left, Aiden quickly rifles through the stacks of papers spread across the floor before him. “Says here...he was in Chino for....30 months.”

“Any way we can figure out where he was housed?”

“I don’t know,” Aiden admits as his eyes scan the wrap sheet. “His charges were nothing compared to now. Petty crime, so he wasn’t housed at maximum. Why?”

Once his question is met with silence, Aiden glances over his shoulder at you.

“What’s wrong?” The concern in his eyes slowly morphs to fear as he takes in your expression. “Did I miss something?”

“No, I did.”

“What do you mean?”

Before he can pose the question, you’re already pushing yourself to your feet.

“Go home, okay? It’s getting late—don’t worry about the mess. I’ll clean it up in the morning.”

Although you’ve managed to mask your expression, the trembling of your hands causes Aiden’s brow to furrow.

“You sure?” He objects. He quickly stands, stopping you from grabbing your keys from your desk. “I can send an email about his placement in Chino—”

“No.” Your response comes out more panicked than you want. You quickly backtrack. The reassuring smile you give Aiden not holding the weight it’s meant to. “I’ll do it in the morning. I have to go see Angel.”

“Okay.” Aiden nods. He passes over the sheet watching as you excuse yourself.

Jeyson Reyes sits at the table in the center of the clubhouse, his math homework abandoned. His attention is devoted to the bowl of skittles in front of him. He has spent that past minute carefully picking out his least favorite skittles—the yellow.

“Word on the street is you got a birthday coming up,” Angel accepts another yellow skittle before popping it in his mouth. Jeyson’s eyes widen as he briefly pauses the task at hand. Angel’s brow furrows as his eyes study his son’s face. “How old are you turning again? Five—”

“Nine!”

“Nine? Nah--that can’t be right.” Angel shakes his head as he takes in Jeyson’s broad grin. “I don’t believe you—”

“Uh-huh,” Jeyson nods, dropping another skittle into his father’s palm. “I turn nine in seventeen days.”

“Shit—”

“That’s another dollar in the swear jar,” Jeyson reminds him as he passes Angel another skittle.

“I know,” Angel chuckles. He rests back against his seat, his eyes lingering on your son as he quietly admits. “I can’t believe you’re that old.”

Jeyson’s nose scrunches. “I’m not old.”

“Yeah, you are,” Angel laughs, his hand brushing against Jeyson’s hair. “You’re almost an adult.”

“I’m still a kid,” Jeyson giggles as his eyes lift to meet his father’s. “You’re old—”

“Hey—I am not old,” Angel retorts, the feigned look of offense causing your son’s giggles to increase.

Jeyson reaches over pointing towards the beard Angel’s hand passes over. “You have gray hair—lots of it.”

His father’s gaze narrows as Jeyson’s grin stretches as far as his cheeks will allow. As if to soften the blow, Jeyson drops two more skittles into Angel’s palm before eating one of his own.

Angel’s smile remains as he watches Jeyson redirect his attention back to the bowl of skittles on the table.

“Have you thought about what you want for your birthday?"

Jeyson shrugs. “Not really.”

“Not really?” Angel’s brow raises. “You’re counting down to your birthday, but you don’t know what you want?”

Jeyson lets off a second shrug, his concentration on the skittles causing Angel’s brow to furrow.

“You know we’re gonna end up getting whatever it is you want,” Angel smiles as he ruffles Jeyson’s hair. “You’ve been doing everything you’re supposed to in school.”

Despite Angel’s words, Jeyson’s gaze remains down. He chews on the inside of his cheek. The action causes his father to slide the bowl of skittles aside.

“What’s up? You don't think you can get what you want?”

Nearly a minute passes before Jeyson answers Angel’s question. His voice comes out quietly.

“I want you to stay at home.”

Angel’s brow furrows. The response is not what he’s anticipating. “I am staying at home.”

“My home, not yours.” Jeyson clarifies. “Where mom and I live.”

“That is where I’m staying.”

“You didn’t Friday. Is it because you don’t like living with us?” He asks quietly

Angel’s eyes drift shut, the tightening of his throat causing him to shake his head.

“Your mom and I—” Angel’s voice trails off as Jeyson looks up from the table to meet his gaze.

It is a conversation neither of them has breached before. One Jeyson has found himself thinking about more and more. One Angel knew he would eventually have with his son, but he hadn’t anticipated it to be now. He had also hoped you would be around to help him.

“You having two homes has nothing to do with me not wanting to live with you—or your mom. You don’t remember it, you were too little, but your mom and I...we used to fight a lot.” Angel continues. “I wasn’t nice to her, and I made her cry a lot. So I had to leave. I didn’t want to leave you or her, but I also didn’t want to hurt you or your mom. It took me a while to learn how not to do that. Friday...I couldn’t come home because I didn’t want to fight with your mom.”

“You still made her cry.”

“I know, and I’m sorry.” Leaning over, Angel brushes his hand against Jeyson’s hair. His touch forces Jeyson’s eyes to meet his. “You know how you and your friends get mad at each other? Sometimes we get mad at the people we love because we don’t see things the same way. But your mom being mad at me has nothing to do with you. Okay? Just because your mom and I might fight, it doesn’t mean I’m leaving.”

The soft smile Angel offers him prompts Jeyson to give him one in return.

“It doesn’t matter if I’m staying with you and your mom or at my house. I love you. That’s not ever gonna change. Never has, never will. Got it?”

Jeyson nods, his smile growing as Angel places a kiss against his skin.

As Jeyson's attention returns to the bowl of skittles, Angel reaches into his kutte. He pulls out the white envelope that he found in the mailbox upon your return home.

He studies the unfamiliar handwriting. Printed in block letters are his name and your address. His gaze passes over the generic American Flag stamp and date pressed into the right corner. The lack of a return address causes him to flip the envelope over.

Angel waits until he comes to a stop outside of the clubhouse to give the envelope a second glance. Tearing the side, he reaches inside pulling out a single index card. The handwriting matches that printed on the envelope.

An anniversary gift for the Old Lady.

Angel tips the envelope. His stomach tightens as the chill of a silver chain hits his palm. The buzzing of his phone in his kutte pocket goes ignored. He doesn’t need to unravel the chain to know who the necklace belongs to. He has looked at the necklace nearly every day since he was eighteen.

The continued vibration of his phone forces an irritated “fuck” from Angel’s lip before he pulls his phone out of his pocket.

“What?”

“This is a prepaid call from Thomas Flores, an inmate at the state correctional facility. All phone calls are subject to recording and monitoring. To decline the call, please press nine. To accept the call and all charges that will be incurred, please press one.”

Angel doesn’t remember committing the act of acceptance. A moment later, Tommy’s voice echoes through his receiver. For a man locked inside the walls of Stockton, his voice is calm and lighthearted.

“Damn, it’s been a minute since I’ve heard your voice, Reyes. Can you believe I missed it?”

“The feeling isn’t mutual,” Angel growls, his grip tightening around his phone. “How’d you get this number?”

“Come on, Reyes--give me some credit. I got it the same way I got your address,” Tommy chuckles. “I had to make sure to wish you a happy anniversary. It just passed, right? What is it six—no—seven years? Hopefully, the two of you are doing better these days—”

“Why are you calling?”

“That’s the funny thing,” Tommy sighs, the smile on his face stretches into a grin. “See, I was in my cell a few weeks back, thinking to myself—got a lot of time for that nowadays—and naturally, that led to me thinking of you. And how I missed my old cellmate. Then I remembered...you owe me a favor.”

“A favor? I don’t owe you shit--”

“That’s not how this shit works. I think the person who’s owed a debt gets to decide when it’s paid in full.” Tommy pauses, the silence from Angel’s end allowing him to continue. “Funny thing, I wouldn’t have even thought to call on you for this, but you made a simple mistake all those years ago, Angel. You talked too much...If you don’t want someone to use your Achilles, you don’t share it.” Angel’s brow furrows as Tommy’s words slowly begin to sink in. “Now, you know I’m not a religious man, but I bet you can imagine how good I felt when I realized that God, himself, dropped Y/N into my lap. What are the odds that she and I got brought together? Huh? It’d be a shame to let this God-given opportunity go to waste, don’t you think?”

“What the fuck do you want, Tommy?”

“A lot of things,” Tommy admits. “A turn with your pretty wife for starters. The way you put it, she’d do just about anything for you--”

“She’s not doing anything for you--”

“That’s okay,” Tommy chuckles. “You’ve always had my back when it came down to the wire.”

Angel’s head shakes. “No—Fuck this—I’m hanging up. I told you that night. One and done—”

“I take it you got my gift,” Tommy ignores Angel’s declaration. “And...judging by the unnecessary hostility I’m sensing in your voice, you took a trip down South recently.”

“I want what you took—”

“And you can get it back—scout’s honor.” The sincerity in Tommy’s voice would fool a stranger, but not Angel. “After you help me out one last time. For old times sake.”

“I’m not helping you do shit.”

“Damn,” Tommy sighs. “I was really hoping you wouldn’t say that.”

“And you’re gonna leave her alone. Come up with an excuse, I don’t care. You’re finding a new attorney—”

“No can do, Reyes. See, I don’t benefit by losing her.” Tommy explains. “Unless you wanna consider my proposal. Last time I’m offering. I think you’ll find my way is the easiest—for everybody involved.”

A silence falls over the line. The trembling of his hands tightening Angel’s grip on his cellphone.

“Alright, well, my time is almost up,” Tommy yawns. His eyes pass to the clock overhead. “Plus, I know it was a lot to dump on you, so I'll give you the night to mull it over. Tell your lady I said thanks for visiting me today.”

Angel’s continued silence brings a grin to Tommy’s face. His chuckle fills this receiver.

“You haven’t told her yet….Tell me, what do you think she’s gonna say when your secret gets out? Do you think she’s gonna stick around this time? If that shit gets out, you’ll be facing more than some 18-month stint in Chino, Reyes. You’ll be facing some real-time. Ask your baby brother how that shit sits with you. All it’ll take is some rumors about the location of a missing state’s witness to start swirling...evidence anonymously getting dropped into the hands of the right people...then you and I just might be sharing a cell again.”

“Trust me, you don’t want that shit to happen.”

“Maybe...maybe not...only time will tell.” Tommy sighs. The calmness of his voice is the opposite of the feeling causing Angel to force out an unsteady breath. “Do me a favor, check with your old lady on how to get on my visitation list. I think you owe me a visit, make the shit quick, Reyes. Maybe she can get them to expedite the paperwork. You got a job to do, and your clock is ticking, homie.”

There is no need for additional words to be exchanged. Tommy hangs up, leaving Angel standing at the end of the driveway. No matter how hard Angel tried to resist—or tried to appear that he was—Tommy knew the hook was set the moment the call began.

When you pull into the clubhouse lot, you find Angel standing at the base of the clubhouse steps.

His eyes meet yours as you park, but he makes no move to meet you. The question is out before you can step around the front of your car.

“Do you know Tommy Flores?”

Angel’s eyes may be on you, but his mind is somewhere else.

“What?”

“Thomas Flores. He was serving time in Chino. Longer than you—thirty months—but you were there the exact same time. Did you hear about him while you were there?” Your question is met with silence. Angel blinks. His brow furrows as he watches you cross the lot. “I know it’s a random question, but Angel it’s really important. Okay?”

It’s common for people to cross paths. Chino is not a prison. It’s smaller than Stockton. Inmates flood in and out like clockwork. That's what your mind can produce in the time it takes you to come to a stop before him.

But it’s the look in Angel’s eyes that tightens your stomach.

It’s a look you’ve only seen once in your life.

Nearly two years ago. A night you hadn't revisited in quite some time.

When Angel had shown up unannounced at your house. This was nothing new.

Only this time, the pounding on your front door had woken you, Jeyson, and nearly half the neighborhood.

Your initial assumption was that he was drunk—it wouldn’t have been the first time Angel had shown up after a few beers and a shitty hookup only to find his way back to you. Begging you to let him stay the night, swearing to plead his drunken case, only to pass out against you the moment you were seated on the sofa.

Only this time—the moment you’d gotten the door open you were crushed by his weight. Angel's grip had been tight. The pressure caused you to wince as his face burrowed against your skin.

For once, you couldn't detect alcohol--just sweat and dirt. His grip had tightened as you tried to move back and take a better look at him.

You didn't get much out of him that night. The most you could get him to do was shower. Which was for the best because, by the time you'd helped him dry off, Angel's adrenaline crashed. He’d passed out in your bed a minute later.

In the morning, he didn’t produce much of an explanation.

"Sorry if I scared you last night," he'd mumbled as he headed to the door. "I know you asked me not to show up—unannounced like that but—I just wanted to see you."

“Yeah,” Angel nods. “I knew him.”

You wait for elaboration, but it doesn’t come. Instead, Angel takes a step back. He finds a seat on the steps, his left hand reaching up to rub his eyes.

“Yeah, I knew him? What the hell does that mean? You knew of him, or you kn—”

“No, I knew—I know him.” Angel releases a sigh, his fist crumpling the envelope he holds. “He was my cellmate.”

“No, he wasn't.” The response is automatic. The laugh you release echoes across the parking lot. The meaning behind Angel’s silence doesn’t fully register. Your brain is still reeling, trying to find a rational explanation to deny his statement and what it means. You shake your head. “No, he wasn’t. That is not fucking possible—“

“Cellblock D. That’s where they house all gang-affiliated inmates. They don’t give a shit if you’re an MC or not. It’s all the same.” Angel quietly explains, his eyes watching the realization begin to sink into your features. “They put you together with guys from other places, knowing you might not have a brother to watch your back if you need protection. Tommy’s cellmate had recently been discharged. So, after intake, I took the open space—“

“Angel, stop. I can’t have you telling me this,” you cut him off. The sight of your widened eyes not deferring Angel’s train of thought. “Do you know what this means for my case? Why couldn’t you just lie to me—”

“Because what I need to tell you is worse.”

series taglist: @angelreyesgirl89 @holl2712 @relaxing-najee @thedeviltohisangel @awkwardtayler @siempremamita @amorestevens @witching-hour @seize-the-droid @rosieposie0624 @sesamepancakes @est1887 @queenbeered @ticosas @blessedboo @helli4nthus @katjusja @melanicia @blackcoffeeandgreenteaforme @moneteguiza

mayans taglist: @lilacyennefer @pedropcl @holl2712 @rae-gar-targaryen @omg-mymelaninisbeautiful @henrycavill19 @silverstarsandsuns @chellybear98 @blackcoffeeandgreenteaforme @tomhardydallasstarsgirl @noz4a2 @wiccanmetallicrose @crxssourbones @kimljn @starrynite7114 @richonne4life @themarkblues @mariaxliliana @thelovelyleo23 @hail-horror-queen @gemini0410 @binooo98 @the-jer-bear @abbiesthings @losolvidad0s @helli4nthus @babaohhhriley @futureleo1678 @whatupitshuff @trhett21 @trulysuccubus @minnicelli @sillygoose6969 @capnsaveahoe @leahnicole1219 @crashbarbie @cyka1312 @zoovent @lakamaa12 @keithseabrook27 @vir-tually @awkwardtayler @rawrlittlepanda-95 @irenne-stans @pearlkitten33 @ezs-baby-angels-whore @sesamepancakes @toni9 @vannabanana1995 @queenbeered @shawty-fenty @kaystacks17 @thesandbeneathmytoes @anactualcaseofthetruth @star017 @cant-decide-at-this-moment @cocotheclown @watsonwise @ilovebey2018 @oscars-wifeyyy @rosieposie0624 @jennisdirtyimagines @ughdontbeboring @jjwriter23 @briskywalker @peoniarose @behindmyeyes-insidemyhead @partypoison00 @making-starsdance @claytoncardenasbabymama @myakai13

#lost one of tommy's scenes and retyped it off memory #so hopefully it's good lol #but let me know what you think?#angel reyes imagine #angel reyes x black!reader #angel reyes x reader #lover of mine

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gwentoryfics · 4 years

Text

Hot for Teacher, Part 8.

Genre | College Student x College Professor Smut AU (honestly tho is this even the right category anymore idk)

Pairing | Reader x Hongseok x Hyunggu (Kino) x Wooseok

Words | 14.2k (oops)

Summary | You never realized how much one drunken night could color the rest of your college experience until you discover that the handsome stranger from your cousin’s wedding is also the new professor at your university.

Warnings | Thigh riding. Fingering. Swearing. Underage drinking. Oral/face fucking (both giving and receiving). MMF threesome. Touches of exhibitionism and voyeurism. Choking. Spanking. Orgasm denial.

Parts | 1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 5.5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • More Coming Soon

Note | So apparently I really enjoy writing threesomes and I should maybe do that more often? Anyway, thank you as always for your never-ending patience while I take forever to update 🤗

You’re startled awake by a hand pinching your nose shut, your airflow temporarily halted by the interruption. It only takes a second for you to knock Wooseok’s hand away, and you frown. “What are you doing?”

“Your snoring woke me up,” he pinches your cheek endearingly.

“Shut up, I don’t snore.”

“Hate to break it to you, short stuff, but you do. Like a little pig.” Wooseok lifts the tip of his nose with his finger and starts snorting loudly, putting on his best pig impression.

You playfully smack his bare chest, laughing. “Stop! I don’t sound like that!”

He props himself up on an elbow as he teases you. “Is it too late for me to get you some of those nose strips for your birthday? I’m sure your roommate would appreciate it.”

In an exaggerated gesture, you roll your eyes. “I’ll hate you forever if you show up at the party tonight with a box of those things.”

“Hate me? Unlikely.” Wooseok curls his finger under the edge of the sheet that lays across your chest, and he slowly pulls it down until the fabric slips over your nipples. “I think I make you feel too good for you to ever hate me.”

You arch your back a little as his broad hand roams over your breasts. Neither of you had bothered getting dressed after your little romp in the sheets last night, and you were too tired to go home. You hadn’t really thought much about the implications of spending the night, but you don’t think either one of you minds waking up like this.

It was pretty unintentional that you even ended up over here last night, anyway. You were fully planning on just having a good night with the girls. It’s your birthday weekend, after all, and of course Nailah insisted on celebrating - never mind the fact that she’s throwing you an actual party tonight.

What you hadn’t expected was crossing paths with a certain dickhead professor. Sure, you had run into him the last time you went to Andy’s, but for some reason it didn’t occur to you that he might be there again. Maybe he’s a regular. You don’t know.

All you know is that by the time you strolled in, he was out there in the middle of the dance floor sucking face with some woman. It shouldn’t have bothered you because you’re basically over him, but it was enough to make yourself invisible for the rest of the night, even after you watched him leave by himself.

You’re basically doing the exact same thing as him, anyway, what with the way you showed up at Wooseok’s apartment last night looking for a good time. And now here you are, still naked in his bed, completely ready to get busy with him again.

You and Professor Yang have both moved on. That’s a good thing. You’re just not sure why you feel such a knot in your stomach.

Pushing all of those thoughts aside, you throw on a smile and return your focus to Wooseok. “You do make me feel good. And I want to feel good again.”

With a grin, he leans in, pinching your nipple roughly just to make you gasp. “Well then, allow me.”

Wooseok envelops you in his body heat as he pulls you in close, sliding one of his legs between yours to give you something to grind on. You don’t hesitate to kiss him hard, thrilled by the feeling of his already hardening cock resting on your stomach.

Your hips rock smoothly against his thigh as you get yourself all worked up. You’re already incredibly turned on, and you know his thigh is going to be drenched in your wetness in a matter of minutes. He seems to love how messy you get, though, so you don’t let yourself worry about it.

“I just wanna feel good,” you coo.

“Oh you’ll feel good, alright.” Wooseok’s hand travels up from your breast to your throat, pressing with his thumb and forefinger.

Your brows knit together blissfully as you keep grinding against him, almost immediately feeling lightheaded from his hand. You love that he's getting more adventurous with you, and you're more than willing to let him dominate you.

He releases his grip on your neck, careful not to constrict you for too long. He presses his thumb along your throat, and you dig your nails into his back as you keep rocking your hips.

His hand slips down your back, his full palm sliding over your round ass, his fingers gliding easily over your wet slit. He groans when he touches you, and you know he's amazed by just how wet you are.

"Touch me," you whisper, already desperate for his touch. "Please, touch me."

"Fuck," he moans, easily plunging two fingers into your starved pussy. "Is that what you want?"

"Mm," you hum, nodding your head. You tilt your hips to give him better access, but you keep grinding. You feel the familiar tight coil in your belly, each thrust of your hips inching you closer to the edge.

"Squeeze my fingers, baby," he murmurs. "Squeeze 'em tight, I know you can."

You bear down on his fingers with all of your might, a pleasured groan leaving you at the effort. And then you do it a second time.

"Perfect, baby, that's it." He pushes his fingers deeper into you in rhythm with your grinding.

You keep pulsing your pussy around his fingers, your hip movements becoming more and more sloppy as you continue. It's insane how quickly he gets you to the edge, but you're desperate for it.

You lean forward, biting his shoulder gently. Your moans get higher, and he knows exactly what that means.

"Come on my fingers, _____. Keep going until you come. Let me see it."

"Ah!" You moan sharply, a bolt of pleasure striking your core. You're so, so close…

Wooseok's voice gets gruffer, lower. "Fucking come for me, _____."

You squeeze his fingers again and again until your body takes over, your walls convulsing on their own as you're swept into an orgasm at full force. You're completely filled with sparkling electricity as you unravel in his arms, messily thrusting against Wooseok's thigh.

You can’t say anything for a minute, just panting as he holds you, his fingers still tucked inside of you. It's so peaceful and warm, and you just indulge in your pleasure for a moment until he presses a kiss to your hair.

"How was that?" Wooseok asks, chuckling.

"GREAT, it was great," you throw your head back, smiling widely. "I loved it."

"Me too. You're so hot."

You finally gain a little clarity, and you reach between your bodies and run your hand over the length of his cock. “You, too,” you whisper.

He lets out a groan as you make contact, and you wrap your fingers tightly around him, indulging in the way he fills up your hand. You need to return the favor.

“Let me suck your cock,” you sigh, suddenly desperate to feel him in your mouth.

He pulls back slightly to get a better look at you. “Fuck, like hell I would say no to that.”

You shoot him a sly smile. "Do you want to fuck my face?"

"I want to fuck every part of you, what kind of a question is that? Of course." He sits up a little. "Do you want me to?"

You just nod, grinning.

"Okay. Yeah, okay." He nods to himself. "Alright, yeah, let's do it."

"Are you nervous?" You ask, picking up on the subtle signs.

"Just excited." He grins.

"Good." You lay on your back, propping your head up with the pillow. "Let's do it, then."

"You are so fucking perfect, like some little sex goddess or some shit, oh my God." He sings your praises as he kneels over your chest, stroking his cock as he gets into position. "I'll go easy, but tap my leg if it's too much."

"Okay," you agree, thankful that he wants to be careful with you. You pick your head up a little. "Give me your cock."

"Fuck," he chuckles before tipping his cock down so the head meets your tongue. He groans as you lick him, swirling your tongue over the tip.

You cover his cock with kisses, sucking gently on the outside before opening your mouth and sticking out your tongue, waiting for him to enter.

Wooseok eagerly takes advantage of his commanding position, pressing his cock along your tongue as he enters your mouth. You can taste his sweet precum, and you don't know why it's taken you so long to blow him.

You close your lips around him and suck, absolutely loving Wooseok’s shaky breath. He pulls out and then slides back in, getting a feel for your mouth.

“Oh my God,” he murmurs as he thrusts shallowly.

You keep sucking, eyes flicking upward to meet his. He seems to have no trouble looking down at you, admiring the pure sin that you are beneath him. The direct eye contact is intimidating, but you keep it up as long as you can because you know how much he likes it.

You hold onto his thighs and he grabs a fistful of your hair, keeping your head still as his hips move. Wooseok’s cock completely fills your mouth, and honestly you just feel so happy to be able to take care of him this way.

“Fuck,” he groans. You can tell he’s trying his hardest to keep his movements controlled, and you’re thankful for it. You’re not sure you can handle deep-throating. It’s already hard enough to breathe with his cock nearing the back of your throat with each thrust.

It’s fun to see how he reacts to your limited actions - you experiment with moving your tongue around, or sucking incredibly hard for just a second, and then completely relaxing your mouth. The slew of curses he lets loose tells you that he’s enjoying every second of it.

As he keeps thrusting into your mouth, you feel him get incredibly hard, and he hisses. “I’m so close, shit.” Then he suddenly pulls himself out, breathing heavily.

“What’s wrong?” You catch your breath and blink up at him owlishly.

“Iwannacomeinyourmouth,” Wooseok blurts out comically fast. “Can I? Please?”

You laugh. “Yeah, I want you to.”

“You’re fucking perfect.” He caresses your cheek for just a second before you open your mouth wide again, inviting him back in.

He fills your mouth again, and you cup his balls, massaging them gently. You know he’s close to the edge, and you want to help him as much as you can.

It’s not long before he’s rock solid and spilling into you, spurts of his cum coating your mouth and dripping down your throat. You swallow every last drop, sucking gently as he finishes.

Eventually he climbs off of you and collapses onto the bed next to you. “Was that okay? Did you like it?”

“I did!” You reassure him. “Seems like you did, too.”

He holds up a fist. “Fuckin’ solid, dude.”

With a laugh, you fist bump. “Fucking solid.”

You climb out of the taxi at Nailah’s friend’s apartment building and somehow manage to wrangle the heavy box of who-knows-what that Nailah asked you to bring. It’s something for your birthday party, but you’re not sure what would be so goddamn heavy. It just got delivered an hour ago and Nailah insisted that the party could not go on if she didn’t have the contents of box, so here you are hand delivering the package.

You approach the front door and place the box on the ground as you try to figure out how to use the call box. You manage to pull up the directory, but you realize quite quickly that you don’t know the name of the person whose apartment you’re trying to get to. Unfortunately, the directory just cycles through names in alphabetical order and you’re unable to search by room number.

Right as you’re about to pull out your cell phone to call Nailah, someone walks up next to you with a key in hand. You look over at him, thankful that now you can just slip inside, and realize that it’s the bassist from jazz band.

Shinwon recognizes you in that moment, too. “Oh hey, _____. What are you doing here?” He laughs quietly.

“Hey,” you chuckle. “Just making a special delivery. Do you live here?”

“I do. Come on in.” Shinwon holds the door open for you, and you pick up the box to head inside. You thank him, and you both head in towards the stairs. “Are you okay to carry that? It looks heavy.”

“Yeah, I’m totally fine.” You try to hide your struggle, not wanting to inconvenience him. “Thanks.”

“Watch your step,” he warns you as you start your climb. “What floor are you headed to? I can get the door for you.”

“Just the second, not too far.”

“Oh, that’s my floor. Who’s the package for?”

“Well it’s for my roommate, but her friend lives here. They’re throwing me a birthday party here tonight and I’m in charge of delivering the decorations.”

“It’s your birthday? Happy birthday!”

“Thank you,” you respond, not bothering to correct him. “Yeah, I told her I just wanted a small thing, but I have a feeling she’s just going to do it her way.”

“Friends are like that sometimes.” He chuckles, pulling open the door to the second floor.

As you emerge onto the second floor, the weight of the package is starting to make your arms incredibly tired. You ask, “Could you actually knock on the door for me? I’m going to two-oh-four.”

He quirks an eyebrow. “And the plot thickens. That’s my girlfriend’s room, actually.”

“Really? I don’t actually know her. Like I said, she’s my roommate’s friend. We just thought it would be better to throw a party somewhere else since we live on campus.”

“Yeah, definitely a good idea. What a small world.” Shinwon leads you to the room you’re looking for and knocks.

Nailah answers, stepping out into the hall and swiftly closing the door behind her so as not to spoil the surprise. “_____, you’re a godsend. And you found Shinwon!” She laughs as she recognizes the tall boy next to you.

“You know Shinwon?”

“Yeah, he’s dating Meka.”

Shinwon just looks at you and raises his eyebrows as if to say told you so.

“Cool, can you take this please?” Your arms are nearly shaking and you’re desperate to get the box out of your hands. Nailah grabs it from you, unfazed by its weight since she’s a muscled goddess who actually hits the gym regularly.

Shinwon takes this opportunity to back up and head down the hall. “Alright, ladies, have fun at the party, but don’t be too loud. Our neighbors get some kind of wicked pleasure from filing noise complaints.”

“Thanks for the heads-up!” Nailah calls after him.

“No problem. See you around. And happy birthday, _____!” He waves and reaches his own door, heading inside.

Nailah props the box on her hip. “Do you know Shinwon?”

“Yeah, he’s in the jazz band. He’s one of those ‘senior boys’ I went out to the jazz club with.”

“Hold, please.” Nailah cracks the door open and shouts inside, “Yo, Meka! Don’t Shinwon’s roommates play in the jazz band, too?”

A second later, Meka appears in the doorway. You recognize her as being the girl drummer that played with Shinwon, Yanan, and Changgu the night you went out with them. “Yeah, they’re all musicians. I play with them.”

“Yanan and Changgu?” You ask.

“Yeah,” she smiles at you. “And you’re that pianist!”

“I am!” You laugh. “Hi, I’m _____. Nice to officially meet you.”

“Meka. You, too.” She nods.

Nailah claps her hands together, ready to move on. “Well we have a lot to do. Head home and start getting yourself cute. I know you take forever to get ready so you may as well start now.”

“That’s fair,” you concede, and then you have an idea. “Hey, do we have room for a few more invites?”

“Sure, who are you thinking?”

You look down the hall. “I mean, Shinwon’s cool, and so are his roommates. They could be fun to have around.”

“Look at you inviting the big boys to your party,” Nailah teases you. “Yeah, go right ahead. Lord knows the cake is big enough to feed an army.”

You roll your eyes. “This is so unnecessary.”

“But I love you, so I’m doing it anyway.” She leans in and presses a kiss to your forehead. “See you tonight when this masterpiece is finally ready!”

Meka chimes in with a sing-song “Byeeee!”

Nailah pushes the box inside and they both disappear as you hop down the hall. You knock on the door, expecting Shinwon to answer, but instead Changgu appears.

“_____,” he seems bewildered. “What are you doing here?”

“Ah, so funny story, actually,” you chuckle, awkwardly stuffing your hands in your jacket pockets. “I’m having a birthday party down the hall at Meka’s place tonight, and I just ran into Shinwon, and then I found out you guys live here, and so… basically, if you’re not doing anything tonight, you guys are all welcome to come to my party. There’ll be food and music and booze…”

He cracks a smile. “Does this mean you’re old enough to legally drink now?”

You bite your lip before cracking a sheepish smile. For a moment you’re worried that he might actually be disappointed in you for disobeying the law or whatever, but it seems so arbitrary to you that you don’t care if it’s against the rules for you to drink. It’s just a little alcohol. “Well, no… that’s why we’re not having the party on campus.”

“We’ve all been there.” Changgu says, and it makes you feel better to know that he’s not weird about you being underage. “Yeah, I don’t think we had any concrete plans for tonight, so I’ll let the guys know. Probably ninety percent chance we’ll be there. I mean, I’ll be there, for sure.”

“Cool,” you giggle a little. “So I’ll see you tonight, then.”

“Yeah. See you tonight.” He smiles and closes the door.

“Shinhye!” You squeal when you see your best friend in the lobby of your dorm. She’s got a fistful of balloons and a sign that reads BIRTHDAY GIRL, like she’s a cute little chauffeur or something. “What are you doing?”

“I’m picking you up.” She smiles broadly as you approach her. “Well, technically I’m getting us a taxi, but I wanted to make sure you weren’t going to your own party by yourself.”

“Don’t you think the balloons are a little much?”

She shrugs. “I thought it was a nice touch.”

You throw your arms around her, hugging her tightly. “You’re too sweet.”

She giggles and squeezes you back. “Only for you.”

When you pull away, you realize what she’s wearing. Her black top, pleated skirt, and fishnets are surprisingly edgy but super cute… and then she tops it all off with Nailah’s bomber jacket. “That’s Nailah’s jacket, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, she let me borrow it.” Shinhye nudges her round glasses further up her nose. “She said it would look good with my outfit. Don’t you think so?”

“I do.” You try not to frown as you compliment her. You’ve been noticing how overbearing Nailah can be around her, but you’ve held your tongue so you don’t stir up any issues. But now you feel like you need to say something. As the two of you head out to hail a taxi, you say, “I know she can be a little much sometimes. And she seems to… I think she’s pretty fond of you. And I just want you to know that you can say no if she’s making you uncomfortable.”

“Uncomfortable? What do you mean?” She looks a little bewildered, sticking her arm out to call a taxi over.

“Well… I mean, I know that she’s gay and you’re not, and she’s been really flirty with you lately.”

“Oh.” Shinhye’s face starts to redden, but she brushes you off with a small wave and a laugh. “No, she’s totally fine. It doesn’t bother me.”

The taxi stops in front of you, and you get in first, scooting all the way to the other side of the back seat. Shinhye climbs in with all of her balloons and gives the driver Meka’s address before you continue the conversation.

“Just don’t let her bother you. I know it can be awkward to feel like you’re being pursued by someone you’re not into.” You try to give her some advice. “And at the same time, just try to be honest with her. Don’t lead her-”

“I said it’s fine,” Shinhye cuts you off. She doesn’t raise her voice, but you can tell her demeanor has changed into one that’s more serious. “You don’t have to worry about it.”

“Okay.” You soften, thinking you might have overstepped your boundaries. “I just don’t want either of you to get hurt.”

Shinhye quietly looks down for a moment, and then she fishes something out of her jacket pocket, ready to change the subject. “I brought this for you and you can’t say no this time.”

She hands you the Birthday Girl sash she tried to get you to wear on Tuesday, and you laugh. “Yeah, I guess I don’t have an excuse anymore.”

“Nope. Professor Yang can’t save you this time.” She giggles.

With a smile, you throw the sash on and blurt, “Yeah, thank God he won’t be around tonight.”

She squints at you skeptically. “Don’t tell me you’re still pissed about last night…”

Shinhye was out with you at Andy’s last night when you crossed paths with Professor Yang. Even though you didn’t interact with him, she had definitely noticed you watching him seduce that other woman.

“What’s that look for?” She had asked, noting the way you vigorously chewed your lower lip.

You hadn’t realized how obvious you were being. “It’s nothing.”

Too late. “Is that Professor Yang?” Snicker. “Man, he looks like a good kisser.”

Your blood boiled and your stomach twisted as you watched him kiss her. It’s absolutely insane that you would get so jealous, especially considering the fact that you had been hooking up with Wooseok. You had no grounds for jealousy.

Shinhye couldn’t ignore the way you stared. “You actually have a thing for him, don’t you?”

“What? No, of course not.”

“Then why do you look like you want to strangle him?”

You didn’t answer her and just downed the rest of your drink before excusing yourself. “I’m going to the bathroom.”

“Come on,” she frowned. “Talk to me.”

“I’ll be right back, okay?” You threw on a fake smile before speeding off to the bathroom. And when you returned, he and the woman were both gone, and Shinhye didn’t bring it up again.

So now that you’ve slipped up and brought the conversation back to last night’s events, you know you can’t avoid it. There’s no bathroom for you to run off to this time. Luckily you’re able to think up an excuse somewhat quickly. “I was just a little on edge last night because last time I ran into him at Andy’s he kicked me out.” Not technically the truth, but also not a total lie.

“What? When did that happen?”

“I don’t know, it was a little while ago. He knows I’m underage and he thought it was his duty to send me home.”

“Rude,” she scoffs. “I’m sure he had a fake ID at one time, too.”

“Right? So I just didn’t want him to see us again, because he would have tried to ruin our night.”

She nods. “I get that. You should have just said so.”

“I know.” You sigh, not even attempting to create an excuse for yourself. “But whatever, it’s just going to be us tonight, so we’ll have plenty of fun.”

“You’ve got that right!”

Eventually you pull up at Meka’s place, and Shinhye buzzes up to the apartment, announcing that “the package has arrived.” And when you get upstairs, you’re completely blown away.

The sound of live jazz music drifts from the living room and Wooseok greets you at the door, scooping you into a giant hug and carrying you into the room. “Birthday girl is here!”

“Put me down!” You gently hit him in the back with your fists, laughing, and then he sets you down.

He pinches your cheeks hard. “Happy Birthday, short stuff.”

“Thank you,” you chuckle, swatting away his hands.

Yuto just offers you a smile and a nod, and then Kino is next, greeting you with a much calmer hug. But before he can say anything, Nailah swoops in, draping an arm over your shoulder and gesturing to her handiwork.

“So what do you think?”

That’s when you allow yourself a moment to look around and, as expected, Nailah has truly outdone herself.

You’re amazed by the magical atmosphere she’s created. Pastel pink and yellow streamers hang in loops along the edges of countertops, and twinkle lights hang from the exposed beams running along the ceiling. Shinwon, Meka, Changgu, and Yanan are all set up in the corner with their instruments, playing some soft jazz to set the mood. There’s a tripod set up in one corner of the living room with a gold, sparkly backdrop hanging in front of an exposed-brick wall, and a table with props for funny pictures. Balloons are everywhere - floating in the air, filling up the floor, tied to chairs and tables.

There’s a huge Happy Birthday! banner, a gigantic ‘20’-shaped balloon, an insane amount of booze…

And then there is an absolutely massive birthday cake sitting on the kitchen counter, painted with pretty yellow icing.

“Nailah!” You nearly tear up. “This is insane! Why’d you do all of this?”

“Because I love you!” She pulls you into a hug. “Happy Birthday, _____.”

When Nailah lets you go, she introduces you to Meka’s roommates, Tess and Avery, who are also in attendance since this is their home. They’re both very warm and welcoming, and you thank them for letting you use their space.

“Don’t even worry about it,” Avery dismisses your thanks. “We don’t mind at all. We’re always happy to host.”

“Especially since you’ve brought some cute friends along,” Tess adds quietly, her cheeks turning pink.

Nailah laughs. “Tess, you fall too easily. Who’s caught your eye this time?”

“The tall one. The one that carried her in.” Tess covers her mouth with her hand. It’s adorable how she seems so eager to talk about him, yet so embarrassed.

“Wooseok?” You offer a name, and she nods. Even though you’ve got a thing going on with him, you know that you don’t have any sort of claim over him. It makes you feel a little uneasy for some reason, but you encourage her. “You should go talk to him. He’s super easy to get along with and he’ll probably just chat your ear off.”

She makes some kind of noise that can only be described as hnnnngggg, and then says. “I don��t think I can do that.”

Avery chimes in, “Drink a little more and then maybe you can.”

“Speaking of drinks…” Kino slips into the conversation with a full glass in each hand. He holds one out to you. “A beverage for the birthday girl.”

“Thank you!” You take it from him. “What is it?”

“Just some Soju and Sprite, nothing fancy.” He explains as you take a sip, and then he turns to Nailah and the others. “Mind if I steal her?”

“Nope, go have fun.” Nailah shoos you away, and Kino loops his arm in yours to pull you into the living room.

“_____, you didn’t tell me that half of the jazz band was going to be here.” He laughs. “How did that happen?”

“So as it turns out, I sort of know them? And also they live down the hall, apparently.”

“Really?”

You nod. “Remember the time I spent the night at your place? How I had been out drinking? I was with them.”

Kino thinks for a moment. “I thought you were with Wooseok?”

Shoot, you must not have given him the full story. Your cheeks heat up a little as you explain. “I was, but that was after I got home from hanging out with the jazz band boys.”

“Got it,” he confirms. “I just can’t keep up with your whirlwind of a life sometimes.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” You grin and take a big sip of your drink. Kino just laughs.

You look over at the boys (and Meka) as they perform, and Changgu meets your gaze. He lowers his head as if to tip his hat at you - even though he’s not wearing a hat - with a soft, warm smile on his lips. You return the smile, fully aware of the way the subtle exchange affects your pulse.

This night is for you. You’ve accepted that you’ve entered a bit of a hoe phase, and you really just want to flirt with anything that breathes. You’re embracing your freedom as a single woman. It doesn’t matter what has happened between you and Professor Yang, or what’s currently happening between you and Wooseok. Nothing is tying you down and you just want to enjoy yourself.

Besides, you and Wooseok agreed that there would be no feelings involved. So you just have to trust that he’s not going to be jealous. And even if he is jealous, that’s not really your problem. The two of you aren’t exclusive in any sense of the word.

Though things have gotten pretty flirty between you and Kino recently, ever since the dance showcase you attended. And yeah, you have to actively suppress the desire to hold his hand right now. He’s the one person that you think should be off-limits to your hoeing. It’s just more complicated with him because he’s one of your best friends, and you’re positive that things would get weird between the two of you if you allow any kind of sexual tension to build.

Especially because you, like, really want to hold his hand right now and you have no idea where that feeling is coming from.

The band wraps up their song, and you clap for them. “Kino, do you want to say hi?”

“Stop, you’re making it sound like they’re celebrities or something,” he chuckles. “But yes, I do.”

The two of you walk over to the seniors, and you pop on your flirtatious smile. “You know you guys are supposed to be guests, right? I didn’t invite you just to be the entertainment for the night.”

“Oh, we know,” Changgu responds. “We just thought we’d surprise you with a little music, but we won’t spend the whole night behind our instruments.”

“Good,” you giggle. “By the way - Changgu, Yanan, Shinwon, Meka - this is my friend, Kino. He’s in the R&B Ensemble with me and he also has a deep appreciation for the jazz band.”

“Hey,” Kino greets them with a wave. “You all sound really good.”

“Thanks,” Changgu smiles. “We were actually thinking about going to the R&B Ensemble showcase. The week after Thanksgiving, right?”

You glance over to see that Yanan’s been looking at you, and he raises an eyebrow, smirking darkly. You grin.

Kino nods. “Yeah, you should come! You’ll see Wooseok and Yuto there, too.” He points to the two boys sitting on the couch, chatting with Shinhye. “They’re in the rhythm section with _____.”

Shinwon rests his upright bass on the floor. “Well if you’ve got half the group here, why don’t you play a little something for us?”

That pulls your attention from Yanan. “That could be fun, actually.” You murmur. “What do you think, Kino?”

“Yeah, I’d be down.”

“Do you mind us using your instruments?” You ask the boys, and they say they don’t care. So you call over Wooseok and Yuto. You introduce everyone to each other, and then you discuss what to play. “Do you guys all have ‘Treasure’ memorized, since that’s Kino’s solo? Otherwise we could improvise something.”

“‘Treasure’ works for me,” Wooseok confirms. “Might be kind of weird with this thing, though,” he says, gesturing to the cajon. Meka doesn’t have a full drum set in her apartment, just a single box drum that’s much more suited for acoustic music.

“Yeah, and the acoustic bass would give it a different sound, too.” Yuto agrees.

Kino offers a suggestion. “What about ‘If I Ain’t Got You?’ I know it’s not my solo, but I know it well and it would suit the instruments we have better.”

The other boys nod, and you agree that that’s a good idea. “Is the original key okay for you?”

He shrugs. “I’ll make it work.”

“Perfect.” With that, you take your seat, and the others get situated at their instruments. You peek back at Wooseok, and he counts you off just like he does in rehearsal.

You begin with your soft descending arpeggios, trying to balance the volume of the electric keyboard with Wooseok’s gentle drumming and Yuto’s quiet plucking.

And then Kino comes in with his warm, mellow voice.

“Some people live for the fortune, Some people live just for the fame. Some people live for the power, yeah… Some people live just to play the game.”

You hadn’t realized how beautifully the low notes would resonate in his chest. Usually he sings in a higher register for the ensemble, but now you’re thinking he was truly robbed of the opportunity to show off his gorgeous range.

“Some people think that the physical things define what’s within. And I’ve been there before, but that life’s a bore, So full of the superficial.”

His vocals climb, but he keeps it smooth and gentle. You can tell he’s also aware of the different atmosphere this set of instruments creates, and he’s tailoring his performance to this specific sound.

“Some people want it all, But I don’t want nothin’ at all If it ain’t you baby, If I ain’t got you baby.”

Kino’s sweet falsetto comes out as he goes for the highest part of the chorus, and it stirs something in you. Christ, you’ve somehow forgotten how beautiful his voice is.

He looks over at you as he continues the chorus.

“Some people want diamond rings, Some just want everything. But everything means nothing If I ain’t got you, yeah.”

...did he mean to direct that at you? Or is he just performing?

You turn your gaze to your hands and try to focus on the chords you’re playing. Maybe you’re not ready to know the answer to that.

As the night goes on and everyone continues to drink, you eventually break away from the real instruments and hook up the karaoke machine Nailah had bought just for tonight (which, coincidentally, was in the heavy-ass box she made you drop off earlier).

You get the first round of karaoke since you’re the birthday girl, and you apologize to everyone for your poor vocals before gracing them with the sound of your out-of-tune voice. But you’ve had just enough to drink that you’re now sitting blissfully in that zone where all you want to do is sing, no matter how bad you sound.

After your song, you plop down onto the couch next to Wooseok and let Nailah take the mic. He easily throws his arm over your shoulders.

“Heyyyy, cutie,” he drawls.

You giggle, but squirm out from under his arm. You don’t mind being a little flirty in front of everyone, but he seems pretty drunk and you’re worried he’ll take it too far. “Hey, Woo.”

“Good job up there.”

“Did I do okay?”

“Nah, it was pretty terrible, but you stuck it out like a champ.” Wooseok just looks at you solemnly, and you burst out laughing.

“Sounds about right.”

“Have I ever told you that I like making music with you?” He leans in. “It’s fun to play together.”

“I like it, too.” You pat his leg but otherwise keep your hands to yourself. “I always have fun with you.”

“Yeah you do,” Wooseok smirks.

“Shush,” you quietly scold him.

Just then, Yanan takes the empty cushion next to you. “Mind if I join?”

“Go ahead,” you murmur, noticing his intense eye contact again.

“I made you a drink.” He hands you a glass. “Old Fashioned, just as you like.”

“You remembered.” You raise your eyebrows in surprise. The last time you saw him was at Andy’s, where you ordered an Old Fashioned. “I’m impressed.”

“It’s easy to remember when a lady leaves a good impression,” he murmurs. You hold his eye contact for a beat longer than you should, trying to decipher what it is he’s trying to achieve. Yanan winks at you before focusing on Nailah’s performance, and you feel wholly flustered.

Your friends all take turns performing, and you’re absolutely positive that you’re the worst singer in the room. You don’t mind it, though.

After a while you make a rule that all of the songs need to be danceable - no ballads allowed because you just need to get on your feet and dance. You feel too good to be sitting and listening to music.

You dance to your heart’s content, bouncing around to various partners with each song. Shinhye, Nailah, and Wooseok each get a turn, and you’re not sure if you’re extra clingy with Wooseok because of your relationship with him, or because you’re getting more tipsy as the night goes on.

It doesn’t take long for you to overheat with all of the dancing you’re doing, so you step out onto the balcony to get a breath of fresh air. It’s mid-November so it’s definitely pretty chilly outside, but it’s exactly what you need to dry up some of the sweat that’s gathered on your back from dancing.

You can still hear the music from the karaoke machine, and you can’t help but bop your head to the music as you lean on the balcony’s railing, looking down at the alley that separates the apartment building from the small backyards of the houses across the way. It’s really too bad there’s not a nice view out here, but since it’s a second floor apartment on the far west side of town, you don’t really have much chance of being able to see any skyscrapers from here.

The balcony door opens, and Kino steps out to join you. “Partied out already?” He asks, a cute smile on his face.

“Not even close,” you smile back. “Just need to cool off for a sec.”

He stands next to you, also leaning on the railing as he sips his drink. “Sounds like you’re having fun, then?”

“Yeah.” You prop your chin on your hand. “I’m having a ton of fun. I’m really lucky to have such great friends.”

It nearly starts to make you emotional when you think about how much you really appreciate your friends. Even if you haven’t been completely honest about everything going on in your life, you’ve always felt loved and supported by your friends. What did you do to deserve so many amazing people in your life?

Before you get too choked up, you’re distracted by a change in song as someone else takes up the microphone. You immediately recognize the new song, ‘P.Y.T.’ by Michael Jackson, and you start humming along.

“This is a good one,” you muse, bopping your head to the beat.

“It is,” Kino agrees. He quietly starts to sing along, and eventually neither one of you can resist the urge to dance. The beat is too infectious. He holds out a hand, which you take, and he sings softly as he spins you and dips you.

It’s been a while since you’ve partner-danced with someone, but he takes the lead, pulling you close and rocking to the beat. You just let him guide your movements, and you giggle as you sing the song together.

He looks at you sweetly as he sings, “I want to love you…”

“P.Y.T!”

“Pretty young thing…”

“P.Y.T!”

Kino laughs with you every time you insert your little P.Y.T., and it’s so much fun just goofing off with him.

And then too soon the song is over and a new one begins, but you stand there frozen hand-in-hand. He squeezes your hand as his eyes scour your face, and your heart pounds deep in your chest. You absolutely adore this boy, and you’re overwhelmed by the urge to tell him.

“You’re so wonderful,” you start. “You’re one of my best friends and you’ve kept me sane this whole semester, and I love hanging out with you, and I just feel like I need you to know that I’m always gonna love you no matter what, and you’re just one of my favorite people. I’m just so happy that I got to know you and I hope that nothing ever happens to us because that would make me so sad.” You ramble, and before you know it, your vision is blurry with tears. He’s just been such a great friend and you know you don’t tell him that enough.

Kino cups your face, eyes wide as he wipes away a stray tear that falls down your cheek. “No, don’t cry! Nothing’s going to happen to us. Don’t worry about that. Don’t be sad.”

“I’m not sad,” you sniff. “I’m happy that you’re in my life.”

“I am, too.” With a warm smile, he pulls you into a hug. You listen to his heartbeat, the heat from his chest radiating onto your cheek. You almost don’t notice the cold air beginning to sink into your bones from standing outside without a jacket for so long. As he holds you, he quietly asks, “Do you really love me?”

“Of course I do.” You love all of your friends. What kind of a question is that?

You feel him press a kiss into your hair, and he takes a deep breath.

He lets you go, and you notice the way he tilts your face upwards. You close your eyes and give him a sweet smile to show him how happy you are. And when you open your eyes again, you see the pink in his cheeks and the warmth in his eyes.

Maybe he’s drunk. You know you’re well on your way. Or maybe it’s because of something else that you can’t quite fathom at the moment.

Whatever the reason, Kino kisses you.

You’re wholly unprepared for the softness of his lips as they press against yours, for the gentleness of his hand as it supports the back of your neck. You’re startled by the butterflies in your stomach, the racing of your heart.

This is not what you expected… but it is pretty nice.

Without thinking about the implications - you’re too inebriated to process all of that right now - you kiss him back. You let your hands tug on his sweater, let your tongue slide across his lips. You’re acting purely on instinct, just letting your body do whatever it wants. And damn, you love a good makeout.

You kiss him until you hear the door to the balcony open, the sound startling you both enough to make you jump away from each other. Nailah pokes her head out, clearly looking for you.

“Oh,” she says, immediately realizing what was just happening. “Sorry, my bad. Um, we’re going to cut the cake soon, so just come back in whenever you’re ready and we’ll get started.” With a sheepish grin, she slips back into the apartment.

Kino’s cheeks are bright red, but he looks over to you anyway, no matter how embarrassed he might be. He offers up another sweet smile.

And then it hits you - you were just kissing Kino.

But he’s your best friend, you don’t like him that way… do you?

Now you’re not so sure.

“I… think we should get back inside,” you mumble, and you don’t look up at him or wait for a response before heading in.

Dear God, you just can’t get anything right. You probably shouldn’t have done that, and all you can think is that you just need another drink. If you can pretend that didn’t just happen, then maybe you can still have fun tonight. You don’t want to worry about consequences.

Nailah sees you enter and decides it’s time to make a speech. She pauses the karaoke machine and takes the microphone from Yuto. “_____, my sweetheart of a roommate, tonight is a celebration of you. You’re talented, kind, hot as hell-”

Wooseok hollers in agreement from across the room, and you force out a laugh, still generally confused about what happened on the balcony.

Nailah continues, “And we’re all lucky to be your friends. Love you, boo.”

“I love youuu!” You run up and hug her tightly, suddenly feeling teary again. Then, in a tipsy attempt at damage control, you take the microphone to share your own piece. “I’m so grateful to have you all in my life, and I love each and every one of you. I love my friends, all of you. I’m just overflowing with love, specifically for my friends. I love you all the same.”

You try not to look at Kino as Nailah takes the microphone back, saying, “Oooh, someone gets a bit emotional after she’s gotten a few drinks in her. We all love you too, sweetie. Now let’s have cake!”

Shinhye brings you the first slice, a single candle standing on top. You’re serenaded with ‘Happy Birthday,’ you blow out your candle, and you take the first bite before everyone else gets their own slice. And damn it’s some good cake.

But all of that still isn’t enough to distract you from Kino’s kiss.

You just keep thinking about his lips, his hands, his soothing voice. The weirdest thing about it is that it didn’t feel wrong. You’ve always expected that if you got close with someone the way you’re close with Kino, that they’d feel like a sibling to you and any kind of intimacy would feel weird.

But it wasn’t like kissing a sibling. It was just Kino.

The party picks back up after people finish their cake, and you’re looking for the next distraction when Kino comes up to you.

“It’s getting pretty late, so I think I’m gonna head out,” he says simply. “Don’t want to be stuck on the train with all the crazies, you know.”

It’s a valid excuse. It’s just after midnight, and the train can get a little dangerous at night if you’re not careful. But it just doesn’t sit right with you. “Are you sure?”

Kino nods. “How are you getting home tonight?”

“I’ll probably get a taxi with Nailah.”

“That’s a good idea. Just be careful, okay? I’ll see you Monday.”

You just nod, and then he’s gone.

God, why does everything feel so terrible?

You look elsewhere in the room and see Wooseok on the couch again with Tessa sitting very closely beside him. She must have finally worked up the courage to talk to him, and just as you expected he seems really open to chatting with her.

It’s not a big deal. You even told her that she should do it. So why does it make your stomach turn?

You’re sobering up, and you don’t like it. You want to go back to having fun like you were half an hour ago! This is your party, after all. It’s your night.

Time for another drink.

You hurry into the kitchen, where you find Shinwon, Meka, Changgu, and Yanan all converging.

“There she is,” Yanan coos when he sees you step in.

“Heyy,” you throw on a smile. “Anyone wanna do shots with me?”

“If that’s what the birthday girl wants,” Yanan nods.

“I’m down,” Changgu agrees.

Meka brushes off the invitation. “Shinwon and I aren’t drinking tonight. Someone has to keep this party under control.”

Shinwon doesn’t let his sobriety stop him from encouraging bad behavior, though. He starts quietly chanting, “Body shots! Body shots!”

Changgu laughs at him and then looks at you. “You want to?”

You look between him and Yanan. You’ve never done a body shot before, but you’re fully aware of how sexual in nature they are.

This is your night. You’re allowed to have fun. After everything with Kino, you feel better about being a little risque with these boys than you do with one of your closest friends. You have less to lose in this situation.

Okay, yep - you really need a drink. You’re thinking about this far too rationally.

“Yeah,” you smile slyly. “Let’s do body shots!”

Changgu rifles through the booze on the counter to get the necessary supplies - salt, tequila, and a lime. As he searches for a knife to cut the lime, you turn to Yanan.

“I’ve never done this before,” you confess, hoping you don’t seem too nervous.

“It’s simple, sweetheart. I’ll go first.” He grabs the salt from Changgu. “I’m going to put the salt on your neck, so tilt your head to the side.”

You do as you’re told, and Yanan cradles your head as you tip. He leans in and licks a stripe along the side of your neck, making your blood boil in the best way. He tells you to stay there and he sprinkles the salt along the wet spot.

“Then this goes in your mouth.” He grabs a freshly-cut lime wedge and places it between your teeth. Changgu hands him a plastic shot glass filled with tequila. “And this goes… right here.” Yanan tucks the shot between your breasts. “It goes salt, shot, lime. Ready?”

You nod carefully, not wanting to lose the shot down the front of your shirt.

“Okay.” Yanan raises an eyebrow seductively as he holds his hands behind his back. He leans in, licking up the salt in a luxurious way, then he lowers his face to your chest to grab the shot from between your tits. He drops the plastic cup to the ground, a serious look on his face as he goes in for the lime. His lips brush yours as he takes it from you, biting down and sucking on the wedge to cut the burn of the tequila.

Shinwon and Meka cheer, clearly enjoying the show.

Changgu laughs at them, and then focuses on you. “My turn. Unless you want to go next.”

“No, you go ahead.” You encourage him.

He puts his salt on the other side of your neck, nestles another shot between your breasts, another lime wedge between your lips. Your pulse picks up as he goes through the motions to take his shot.

Changgu doesn’t just lick up his salt - he sucks lightly on your neck. He tosses back the shot with ease, and his gaze locks firmly on your mouth as he leans in for the lime. You feel his tongue glide over your lower lip before he grabs the lime and pulls away, a surprisingly confident smirk forming on his face.

When Changgu is finished, Yanan continues directing. “Why don’t you do your shot with Changgu? I think he’d enjoy that an awful lot.”

You see Changgu roll his eyes as Yanan teases him. “Like you wouldn’t,” he bites back.

You turn to Changgu. You figure that his neck is probably a safe bet since that’s what he did for you, but you’d be lying if you said your eyes weren’t immediately drawn to his collar bone. You pull open the collar of his button-down, running your finger along the dip above his collar bone. “How about I put the salt here?”

“That’s perfect.” Changgu unbuttons another button to pull his shirt open wider, and he holds it open for you. “Go ahead, then.”

You shake some salt into your palm and then lean in to lick his collar bone. It feels incredibly intimate, but you love the thrill of it. Then you pinch the salt in your palm and sprinkle it onto the wet spot, just like he did. “And the shot? You don’t have boobs,” you laugh.

“In the waistband of my pants.” His ears are noticeably red, and you think it’s cute that he’s seemed so confident this whole time even though he’s a little flustered.

“Makes sense.” You pour the shot and tuck it into his pants, and then you pull Yanan over, too, placing the lime in his mouth. “No reason why you can’t both be involved. Ready?”

They both nod just as you did, and you start the ritual. You hold onto Changgu’s arm as you lick up the salt sensually, and your hands clasp his hips as you try for the shot, tossing it back sloppily. Then you pull Yanan’s face down to yours so you can reach the lime, your cheeks burning when your lips touch.

When you pull away, Yanan’s eyes firmly lock onto yours for the millionth time tonight. Something about his gaze makes it seem like he just wants to devour you, and you honestly think you might let him if he makes the right moves.

Meka breaks the tension, commenting, “You’re not supposed to use your hands, but that was still hot.”

“Oh shit, you’re right,” you laugh, realizing that you meant to hold your hands behind your back. You look away from Yanan and glance at Changgu, whose gaze is much more encouraging.

“That was fun, right?” Changgu smiles warmly. You nod, cheeks growing warm from the alcohol - and possibly also because of the attractive boys standing in front of you.

Yanan turns back to the couple. “Shinwon, are you staying over here with Meka tonight?”

Shinwon nods curtly. “Yeah, I probably will.”

Meka chimes in, “You better. Let’s go make sure everyone else is doing alright.” She pulls him out of the kitchen to return to the party, and you’re left alone with Yanan and Changgu.

“So, _____,” Yanan gets your attention. “Changgu’s been wondering if you’re seeing someone and if that’s why you haven’t called him.”

Changgu immediately smacks him in the chest. “Come on, it’s not like that. You’re the one who won’t shut up about her.”

Yanan confidently smiles at you. “Guilty. So what’s the deal, sweetheart?”

For a moment, Wooseok pops into your head, but you remind yourself for the zillionth time that you’re not in a relationship. Your tongue is loose from the liquor and you openly respond, “I’m not really interested in dating anyone right now but I apparently have some pretty loose morals when it comes to other things.”

“Is that so…” Yanan murmurs as he eyes you, not a shy bone in his body. “I have to admit, though, I’m disappointed that you never called.” He turns back to Changgu. “You gave her my number, right?”

“Of course I did.”

You do remember getting his number from Changgu, but you’re not actually sure that it ever made it to your phone. “Sorry, I think I might have misplaced it.”

“Well that’s an easy fix.” Yanan holds his hand out. “Phone.”

You hand it over without question, unlocking it so he can enter his phone number. Once he’s saved the contact, he calls himself so that he has your number, too. Then he hands it back.

“There. All better.”

You feel your cheeks heat up. He’s so confident and forward in his flirting, and it has been a long time since someone so comfortably spoke to you that way. It makes you feel nervous, but in an exciting way.

Then Yanan whispers something to Changgu, and Changgu looks at you before responding under his breath.

You might be a little drunk, but you’re not stupid. You can tell that they’re up to something, and it’s very possible that you’re willing to play along. “Clearly you have something in mind, so just say it.”

Yanan accepts your challenge and takes a step closer to you, asserting his dominance. “We want to bring you back to our place and get you out of those clothes.”

“We?” You quietly ask, pulse buzzing at the thought. “Both of you?”

“We like to share from time to time. Isn’t that right, Changgu?” He looks back at the dark-haired boy who nods.

Changgu adds, “It’s all just for fun. We wouldn’t do anything you don’t want to do.”

A grin spreads across your lips. A threesome with Yanan and Changgu? Are you really allowed to have such a delicacy? Your insides bubble with anticipation as you nod your head. “One more round of shots and then let’s fucking do it.”

“That’s the spirit,” Changgu chuckles, and the three of you down one more shot of tequila.

After you toss your plastic cup in the trash, Yanan grabs your hand to lead you out. You stop him, though, suddenly remembering why you’re all here. “Wait, it’s my birthday party. Can I just leave like this?”

“It’s your party. You can do whatever you want,” Yanan reassures you.

“You’re right,” you giggle. You have enough presence of mind to give someone a heads-up before you disappear, though. “Just a sec.”

You take your hand back and strut over to Nailah and Shinhye, who are closely chatting with each other. “LADIES,” you announce yourself. “I’m gonna go get laid down the hall.”

Nailah immediately raises her eyebrows. “One of Shinwon’s roommates?”

“Both of ‘em,” you grin wildly.

“What?!” Shinhye blurts disbelievingly. “Who? Where are they?”

“The tall blonde and brunette over there,” you point towards the hallway that leads to the front door, where your two boys stand. Shinhye’s jaw drops.

“Oh my God, you’re crazy,” Nailah laughs. “Go have fun. Take your phone with you just in case you need anything.”

“Yes, mom.” You kiss her on the cheek, and then give Shinhye a peck, too. “Love you guys.”

With that, you depart, grabbing both Yanan and Changgu by the hand on your way out.

Their apartment is exactly what you expected it to be - clean and well-decorated with masculine features. It’s totally a wealthy-bachelor style room, and you’re not sure if they’re actually made of money or if they just like to give that appearance.

Changgu stops in the kitchen to get you a glass of water and Yanan brings you to the couch, sitting you down. When Changgu joins you, it all feels like a bit of an interrogation.

“What are your boundaries?” Changgu asks. “What do you want to do and what’s off limits?”

You’ve never been asked so bluntly before and it catches you a little off guard. “Oh. Um…” Your eyes bounce between the two boys, and you realize that this is your chance to speak out loud everything you imagine doing with them - although, admittedly, this is definitely your first time fantasizing about either one of them. “I want to blow both of you, and I want you to go down on me. And then I want each of you to fuck me senseless.”

They both smile at your boldness. Yanan encourages you to continue. “What else, sweetheart?”

Your pulse shoots up. “I like that pet name. A lot. I like making out, too. And gentle biting is good. Don’t make me bleed. Um, and I don’t deep throat and anal is a no-go.”

Changgu nods. “What are your thoughts on being choked? Spanked?”

“Both are good,” you respond, smiling, even though you don’t have too much experience with either. “If that’s what you’re into.”

“It depends on the mood.” He quirks an eyebrow. “But you said you wanted to be fucked senseless, so it seems like getting rough might be fun for you.”

You giggle quietly. “Just don’t beat me up or call me names.”

“Never.” Changgu coos gently, and he moves to join you on the couch, picking up your water glass and lifting it to your lips. “Here, drink some.”

You let him feed you the water, the simple gesture warming you to your core. You get the distinct feeling that these boys really are going to look after you tonight, and that’s incredibly comforting. It makes you feel even more relaxed and ready.

“And a safe word, sweetheart?” Yanan speaks up. “Just so you know you can freely change your mind at any point and we’ll respect your decision.”

You think for a moment. You’ve never had to choose a safe word before, so you don’t already have one in mind.

“If you don’t have a go-to, we frequently use ‘red.’ Like a stoplight.” Changgu offers.

Nodding, you agree to that word choice. “That works for me.”

Yanan sits back in his arm chair. “Changgu, why don’t you get her warmed up, if we’re all ready?”

“Are you ready?” Changgu asks you.

“Yes, I’m so ready.”

“Remember, you’re our priority tonight.” Changgu murmurs lowly, returning the glass of water to the coffee table. “We’re going to take care of you.”

His fingertips, chilled from the glass, brush over your neck and he cups your face, sweetly pulling you toward him until your lips meet. He doesn’t hide his passion, eagerly kissing you over and over.

You grip his thigh, kind of in awe at the fact that you’re even here about to have a threesome with Changgu and Yanan. It just seems so unreal.

You’re more than ready to get down to business, so your hands work quickly at the buttons of his shirt. He lets you pull the fabric down over his arms before he goes for your shirt, lifting the flimsy fabric up over your head to expose your bra.

“Let’s show Yanan,” he murmurs as he takes your hand, guiding you to stand up. He pulls you in front of him so your back faces him and you’re looking directly at Yanan, who’s still seated in the arm chair with a pleased expression.

Changgu unhooks your bra and pulls it off of you so your chest is on full display. Yanan’s eyes immediately drop to your tits, and it feels delicious to be looked at this way. Changgu’s hands trace over your arms and breasts, and you feel his lips at your ear as he caresses you. He bites down on your earlobe and tugs, sending a deep shiver down your spine. “Do you like that?”

“Mhm,” you hum, and you reach a hand behind you in search of the hardening length that’s pressing against you through layers of jeans. When you find his bulge, you press your palm against it. “Do you like that?”

His breaths flutter across your neck. “Yes, sweetheart, that’s good.”

“Yanan,” you address the blonde. “Do you like what you see?”

He smiles. “You look good, sweetheart.”

“That’s right,” Changgu murmurs in your ear, one of his hands coming up to your throat. He squeezes gently, just barely giving you a lightheaded rush as his other hand reaches for the button of your jeans. He unfastens it and then says to you, “Take them off.”

You grin and shimmy out of your pants, intentionally leaving your thong on so that Changgu might give you another order. Once you kick your jeans off to the side, your hand returns to his bulge, which has grown even harder.

“You are gorgeous,” Yanan shakes his head in disbelief, and you can see that he’s getting hard, too.

“Why don’t you touch yourself?” You ask, encouraging him to find some pleasure. Meanwhile, Changgu’s hands cup your breasts, his thumb and forefinger pinching your nipples softly. Your breath catches in your throat as you’re filled with pleasure. “I love that, pinch harder.”

Changgu does as you ask, rolling your nipples roughly between his fingers, and Yanan takes your suggestion, too, palming himself over his jeans as he watches. Changgu’s mouth explores your neck, sucking and biting the sensitive skin and drawing soft moans from you.

You squeeze Changgu’s length, fully hard and straining against his jeans, and he growls. One of his hands abandons your breast to cup your sex as he rolls his hips against you, and you moan a little louder at the pressure of his palm against your clit. You rock small circles into his hand, desperate for pleasure.

“Changgu, give her more. She’s working too hard for it.” Yanan encourages Changgu.

The hand that cups you now comes up to your mouth. “Wet my fingers,” Changgu orders.

You eagerly comply, taking two of his fingers into your mouth and running your tongue over them, sucking to earn yourself some shaky breathing from Changgu. He indulges for a moment before pulling his fingers out and diving his hand down into your thong.

His wet fingers graze gently over your folds, careful not to target your clit too soon. And when they finally land on your most sensitive spot, you let out a pleasured gasp.

“Yes, that’s perfect! Oh my God…”

Your eyes flutter shut as you take in everything he’s doing to you with his mouth and hands, and you open your eyes just in time to see Yanan unfastening his belt. You’re filled with anticipation as he starts to undress, pulling his pants and boxer briefs off to reveal his dick. It springs upwards, completely hard and beautiful in his hand as he strokes it.

You absolutely love that he’s getting off on watching you get off. You hadn’t realized until now, but it’s possible that you’ve got a bit of an exhibitionist streak in you.

As Changgu rubs sweet circles into your clit, you reach behind you with both hands to set him free from his pants, too. He pauses his ministrations to help pull off his skinny jeans, and then next thing you know you’ve got his naked cock in your hands.

At this point, Yanan finally leaves his seat to come join you. He tilts your head up to kiss you as you wrap one hand around his cock, jacking off both boys simultaneously. His hands cup your breasts, pinching your nipples just as Changgu had done.

It’s absolutely, positively blissful to have so many hands on your body. You’re incredibly stimulated by all of the touch and it’s all so perfect.

Then Yanan drops to his knees in front of you, peppering your stomach and thighs with kisses. He wets just one finger in his mouth, and then pulls your thong off to the side to discover your slit. Changgu’s still working on your clit as Yanan gently presses a finger inside of you.

It’s only one finger, but you feel damn near ready to explode.

“Feel good?” Yanan asks you as Changgu returns a hand to your throat.

“Yes I feel amazing,” you confirm. “Please don’t stop.”

Yanan bites your thigh and then looks up at you. “Do you want me to eat you out now?”

“Yes, yes, yes.” That sounds like an amazing change of plans. “Yes, please.”

Almost immediately, Changgu retracts his hand to reclaim your nipple, and Yanan tugs your thong off once and for all. And then, in a matter of seconds, Yanan’s warm tongue presses against your clit.

You moan loudly at the sensation, especially once he starts circling and flicking. His finger still gently buries itself inside of you, and you’re once again shocked by the powerful sensations that can be caused by four hands and two mouths.

The rush of blood and adrenaline from Yanan’s mouth causes your knees to grow weak, and you start to find that you have a difficult time holding yourself up while he works on you.

Changgu notices your struggle. “Let’s move to a bedroom to get more comfortable.”

With a kiss to your clit, Yanan releases you and stands, pulling off his shirt in the process. “How’s that sound, sweetheart?”

“Great,” you chime, feeling a little drowsy from the alcohol but definitely still horny as hell.

Changgu leads you by the hand into what you presume must be his bedroom, due to the stack of piano books piled on the floor where his keyboard usually sits - you can see indents in the carpet from the weight of the keyboard on its stand. Other than that, his room looks like any other boy’s room.

Changgu closes the blinds and turns on a bedside lamp, letting the gentle light fill the room instead of turning on the bright overhead light. Yanan follows you in with your glass of water, placing it on Changgu’s dresser.

“Lie down on your back,” Yanan instructs you. “I’m not finished with you yet.”

You do as he asks, letting your head hang off the edge of the bed as he settles between your legs. You reach out to Changgu as Yanan starts licking and fingering you, and you breathily tell him, “I wanna suck your cock.”

Changgu seems more than willing to give you his cock, and you’re soon pulling it into your mouth, sucking hard and encouraging him to fuck your face. You have to admit that it’s probably one of the sloppier blow jobs you’ve given, but only because you’re so fucking distracted by all of the amazing things Yanan is doing to your pussy. It’s so hard not to focus on the way he’s gently sucking your clit and fucking you with two fingers.

But you give it your best shot, swirling your tongue and sucking Changgu’s cock like you mean it, moaning with nearly every move Yanan makes. One of your hands cards through Yanan’s hair and the other interlocks fingers with Changgu.

You feel yourself getting close, and you grip Yanan’s hair to let him know. Small pulses of ecstasy pump through you as you near an orgasm, and right when you think you’re about to break, he stops.

At first you think maybe he just didn’t pick up on your signals, but as you pull Changgu’s cock out of your mouth, Yanan bites your thigh and says, “Not yet, sweetheart.”

He knew. He fucking knew you were close. He’s just playing with you, teasing you with the hope of an orgasm and then tearing it away.

“Yanan! I was so close!” You lecture him, furrowing your brow as you prop yourself up on your elbows.

“I know. And I said, not yet. You’ll get your orgasm. Don’t worry.” He climbs off of the bed and walks to the nightstand, pulling out a condom and a bottle of lube, and tossing them both to Changgu. “Do you want Changgu’s cock?”

You nod eagerly, basically over the whole orgasm denial the second you realize you’re about to be fucked. You tilt your head back to look up at Changgu and throw on your most innocent smile. “Will you fuck me, Changgu? Please?”

“Fuck, yes.” Changgu tears open the condom packet and rolls the rubber over his length before coating it in lube. “Get on your hands and knees for me.”

You do as he says, sticking your ass up in the air for him.

“You look so good,” he coos, his hands running over your round ass. And then he spanks you - it’s gentle, but still stings slightly, and you feel the way your ass jiggles from the impact.

“Do it again,” you murmur without thinking.

So he does. He spanks you twice more, each one a little firmer than the last. And you absolutely love it.

It makes sense that you’d be into spanking, given how much you love having your nipples pinched. Just a little bit of pain seems to really work for you.

You feel the tip of his length drag along your slit, your pulse racing as he finally presses into you, his full length disappearing into your pussy. Your eyes squeeze shut as he starts to roll his hips, sliding luxuriously in and out of you. Christ, he feels amazing.

When you look up again, you see Yanan handling himself as he watches. And as hot as it is, you would prefer to have him involved at the moment.

“Get over here,” you motion for him to get onto the bed. “Let me blow you.”

“You’re not gonna bite me after that stunt I pulled?” He grins mischievously.

“Of course not.”

He seems to trust you, lying down on the bed perpendicular to you so he can still have a good view. Plus, as you soon find out, he’s able to easily reach your most sensitive spots from this angle.

Yanan’s cock is a little bit thicker than Changgu’s, but you’re able to adjust your mouth to his size quickly. Yanan lovingly drags his nails across your back as you suck on him, his silent way of appreciating your work.

Changgu, on the other hand, groans as he thrusts, his grip on your hips tightening as he snaps into you. You didn’t expect him to be the more vocal of the two, but it’s hot as hell.

Yanan’s hand eventually ventures towards your clit, and you moan deeply around his cock when he makes contact. The pleasure of his fingers paired with the pleasure from Changgu’s thrusting drives you absolutely wild.

You have to give up on the blowjob because you’re panting so hard. You stroke him with one hand while you slowly fall apart, and you manage to get out one plea: “Please let me come this time. I want to come.”

“Of course, sweetheart.” With just a few words, Yanan eases your concerns.

Changgu moans as your pussy squeezes him, gearing up for an orgasm. “God, you feel so good.”

"Keep going, please keep going…" You nearly squeak as you beg both of them to continue exactly what they're doing. You press back into Changgu, and then your whole body tenses up before you suddenly break.

The most stunningly intense orgasm washes over you, and you cry out at the sheer power of it. Your toes curl and your eyebrows pinch together and your mouth hangs open. Both boys slow their movements as you finish, giving you just enough to go all the way without painfully overstimulating you.

Changgu pulls out and you collapse to the bed with a giggle. That felt fucking amazing.

"How are you feeling, sweetheart?" Changgu asks, leaning onto the bed to hover over you as you lie on your back.

"So fucking good," you coo, and you grab his face, pulling him down for a kiss.

His lips are warm and soft, and he enthusiastically returns each kiss. You remind yourself that the night isn't over, and honestly it's not hard to convince yourself to keep going. You want to give yourself the fullest experience with these boys.

You reach down and pull off the condom Changgu wears so that you can stroke him better. Your pussy needs a break, but you've still got two hands and a mouth.

When he breaks the kiss, Yanan gives you some more of your water, and then the three of you rearrange yourselves on the bed so that you're all sitting against the headboard with you in the middle. You help yourself to a cock in each hand, and Changgu and Yanan stroke your thighs, stomach, and breasts while you get ready for more.

It's like something out of a dream, getting to look to your right and see Changgu biting his lip, or to look to your left and see Yanan's deep gaze. Changgu is just dripping sex and Yanan is so passionately engaged. With how much charm and confidence he normally oozes, you're pleasantly surprised by how connected you feel to him.

In a matter of minutes you feel ready to go, and you know exactly what you want. "Yanan, I think it's your turn to put on a condom. And Changgu, why don't you help me with the lube?"

They both do as you suggest. As Yanan opens another condom, Changgu's long fingers spread lube over your folds. Once you're all ready to go, you climb onto Yanan's lap.

With very little effort, you slide down onto his cock. You lean back to give him the best view of your pussy surrounding his cock. "Just sit back and watch."

As you ride him, you motion for Changgu to come closer. You give Yanan a long look before making out with Changgu, all the while riding his thick cock.

The two of you exchange sloppy kisses, your fingers pinching your nipples as he reaches down to rub your clit. It's a lot of different sensations and you have to think a little hard to keep up with everything, but it's worth it. You love knowing you can give Yanan such a show. You're confident he'll be dreaming of this for a while.

Changgu's lips start to travel down your neck, to your collarbone, to your breast. He bites the soft skin, pinching you deliciously, and then he takes your nipple into his mouth, biting it and holding it in place as you bounce. The tugging and pinching drives you mad, and suddenly you're completely aware of the way Yanan's cock has been subtly stroking your g-spot this whole time.

You feel the build up of an incredibly wet orgasm, and you slow your movements. "I… I might squirt."

"Don't be shy," Yanan coos. "Let me see it, then."

Changgu just sucks harshly on your nipple, and you take that to be his enthusiastic approval.

With Yanan's hands gripping your hips, you start moving again, and you focus just on the feeling of his cock. You think of nothing else except squeezing him, feeling every inch of him sliding in and out of you, pressing into you and filling your pussy.

And then you explode.

For the second time tonight you're overcome with ecstasy, but this time is way messier. You pull off of Yanan as you squirt on his cock and thighs. And dear Lord, the look on Yanan's face…

He looks like he wants to devour you. Like he could swallow you whole.

“Do you like it?” You murmur.

“I do, sweetheart.” Yanan practically growls. “I like it very much.”

You lift yourself up, sliding back down onto his cock after quickly recovering from your orgasm. As you start to ride him again, you lean over him so your tits brush against his chest, your lips hovering just above his as you whisper, “I do, too.”

Yanan grabs your face, crashing his lips into yours as you both rock your hips. Your tongues play with each kiss, your bodies moving perfectly in sync with each other.

Changgu’s hand massages your ass cheek, and you’re elated at the thought that another spank is coming. You pull away from Yanan just enough to say, “Do it, Changgu.” You need to feel that delicious sting again.

And then he spanks you.

It’s hard this time, nothing held back. You cry out, your walls tightly clenching around Yanan’s cock at the impact. That finally draws a moan from Yanan and sends a rush of adrenaline straight to your core.

That was fucking perfect.

“Again,” you command, and you bite down on your lip when Changgu delivers another smack.

Yanan’s fingers dig hard into your hips, and you can tell he’s getting close. “Let me see you,” he groans, urging you to sit up.

You straighten up and give it all you’ve got. Yeah, your thighs are starting to get tired from lifting and dropping, but you’ve got a cock to ride and you’re not going to stop until he comes.

His eyes skim over your body, eventually fixing on the way your pussy swallows his cock with every movement. You watch as his abdominal muscles contract, and you know he’s only moments away from coming.

“Fill up my pussy, Yanan.” The lewd words spill from you in the heat of the moment, even though you’re aware that the condom he wears will stop him from actually filling you with his cum. It’s just fun to imagine.

Yanan doesn’t respond, he just flicks his eyes upward to meet yours. You’re both breathing heavy and he uses his grip on your hips to help you move faster. His mouth opens slightly, his brow furrows, and then he finally breaks eye contact as his eyes squeeze shut and he spills into the condom with a series of quiet moans.

He smiles warmly as he settles, his long fingers dragging up and down your back. “You did well, sweetheart.”

“Thank you,” you giggle, giving yourself a second to rest before climbing off of him.

Changgu has been sitting patiently near you, stroking himself as he waits for his turn. “Still feeling alright?” He asks as you turn your attention to him.

You nod with a wide smile. “I’m feeling great. And I’ll feel even better once you’re fucking me again.”

He smirks, and Yanan haphazardly tosses him another condom. As he rolls it on and slathers lube on his cock, you lie down on your back next to Yanan. Your legs are so tired and you just need a break from holding yourself up for a little bit.

You reach out to him with grabby hands, your legs spread wide and your eyelashes fluttering. “Come fuck me.”

“I will,” he laughs at your impatience. Changgu grabs a pillow from the top of the bed and folds it in half before sliding it under your ass, lifting your lower half to give himself a better angle. You feel him start to line up his cock with your entrance, and you look over to Yanan, wanting to feel his gaze on you again.

Of course, Yanan is already watching you. He holds your gaze as Changgu presses into you, lowering himself over you and burying his face in the crook of your neck as he starts to thrust. Changgu’s teeth dig into your neck as he bites you, and Yanan’s fingers interlace with your own.

You are so wonderfully fulfilled by the two of them, with the passion of Changgu’s movements and the sweetness of Yanan’s touch. You’re simultaneously grounded and lighter than air, overflowing with all kinds of endorphins to keep you feeling good.

You let your eyes flutter shut as you focus on everything your body feels. Changgu’s cock brushes all of the right places, his chest rubs against your nipples, and his mouth is relentless on your neck and earlobes. The strands of his hair are soft between your fingers. You squeeze Yanan’s hand with your own, his thumb gently rubbing the back of your hand.

Instead of trying to push yourself into another orgasm, which you might be able to do if you put in the effort, you decide to just enjoy the feeling of being attended to, of sharing this experience with Changgu and Yanan and letting yourself fully indulge in your freedom.

Changgu breathes heavily as he picks up his pace, pounding into you with everything he’s got. You tug on his hair and he groans, nipping at the skin of your shoulder.

“I’m going to come soon,” he pants, and you press a kiss to his cheek.

“I want it,” you coo. “I want you to come.”

And then he looks at you - really looks at you - and he smiles. And he’s kind of beautiful, actually.

Then without any warning, he aggressively starts snapping into you with a speed that nearly makes your eyes roll back into your head. Changgu fucks you senseless, just like you had asked him to.

You struggle to keep it together, but it’s not long until Changgu breaks, sweet moans coming from him as he orgasms with a few long thrusts.

He takes a moment to come down, pressing sweet kisses along your jaw and throat, and you ruffle his dark hair. Eventually he pulls away from you, pulling off the full condom with a satisfied smile.

“Still good?” He asks.

“I feel perfect.” You smile.

Changgu then glances over at Yanan, peeking at his crotch before laughing. “Why am I not surprised?”

You look at Yanan too and find that he’s completely hard again. Yanan comfortably responds, “It’s hot watching you two.”

The boys’ attention returns to you. Changgu’s hand comes to rest on your thigh as he says, “If you’re up for any more, we certainly don’t need to stop now.”

“How late is it?” You ask, having totally lost track of time since coming over. “Do we need to get back to the party?”

“Not necessarily,” Yanan responds. “Like we said, tonight is your night. You can do whatever you want, sweetheart.”

Changgu adds, “And if you want to stay with us a bit longer, you’re also welcome to spend the night. We have room for you, and frankly it might be better for you to sleep here. I’m positive we’ll make it so that you’re too worn out to leave.” He ends with a devilish smile.

“It wouldn’t be weird for me to stay the night?”

“Not at all. Our guests crash here all the time.” Changgu caresses your thighs. “This isn’t a typical one-night-stand. Like I said, we’re going to take care of you while you’re here.”

You weigh your options - you could stay here and possibly crank out another orgasm or two while having sex with not one but two gorgeous seniors, or you could go back to your party and pretend like you wouldn’t rather be over here.

The answer is simple.

“Let me text my friend not to wait up.” You grin. “And then I’m yours for the rest of the night.”

NOTICE: Part 9 coming Saturday, July 11th

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gretehart · 3 years

Text

IM ALIVE (NEW UPDATES AND MORE!!)

HI GUYS! So I know I disappeared for... a couple months.. now.. KGJHS

Things have- as you might have guessed- been really crazy and I just hadn't had the energy to draw or interact outside of my immediate circles n all @_@

BUT New month! New plans! New and Better me!!

I wont get into details of it all, but after such mental exhaustion and general craziness/stress of life, I'm finally gaining my energy back and even seeing a therapist and psychiatrist, and feeling more like myself again ♥

And with that, there are New Announcements as well! Regarding things like art, freebies, artfight, and more!So let's get right into it!!

Firstly; Yes I am drawing again! Starting this Monday, July 5th, I will be back to streaming just about daily! I plan to do a Monday-Friday schedule streaming.

Mondays will be for warm-ups and doodles (maybe throw in some quick freebies in there >:3c wink wonk) Tuesdays through Thursdays will switch up between Patreon Rewards, Commissions, Trades/Artfight, etc. And Fridays will either be for more Personal works or just fun stuff! Whether freebies or other things! A sort-of winding down thing!!

NOW GRANTED: I may not instantly follow through this schedule, as I dont wanna overwhelm myself, but I figured having a sort of routine should at the least help! That way I can give myself breaks throughout the week and have the weekends for relaxing (when Im not doing the freebie streams!)

Which brings me to my next thing-

Freebie streams are coming back!

I do plan on doing the weekend freebie streams as before- they just may not be until later this month! That way I have time to get back into the rhythm of drawing and not immediately throw myself into the midst of everything (that wont turn out well JGHJHSD)

So although i dont have set dates I will keep you guys updated! <3

Patreon Rewards!

I know Im extremely behind on rewards, but I do plan on getting those done! Slowly but surely!

I will be working on the earlier ones through this upcoming week, and (hopefully) get in July's rewards in before the month ends! So if you Patrons want to, you can send me your requests for this month! (Please wait until after the 5th tho!! When the payments are processed/deposited!) I will make an announcement for rewards as per usual.

For those of you not already, You can be a supporter on my Patreon here, and depending on your tier, have access to my Discord server where you get access to posts and things before anywhere else!! (And even other things >:3c )

Commissions!

I dont know if I will be re-opening my commissions this month, but if so it probably wont be for a couple weeks at least- Until I can get my bearings again.

For those that have commissioned me already, I will be eventually reaching out to you to either work out a refund or some sort of compromise! I know a LOT of you who commissioned me have been waiting months if not a whole year for your commission, so I completely understand if you want your money back! If you absolutely do not mind the wait then we will figure out the deets on getting your commission done within the next couple of months!

Thank you guys so much for those who have been patient with me on that ;3; i owe you my life Artfight!! WOOO

Since July already started, Artfight 2021 has been an absolute hit already, and Im already so happy and proud of everyone doing so well in those! And I DO plan to participate this year as well, but i just may be a bit late to the party as I still have to catch up on my profile (and of course actually drawing so-) I will (eventually) update my page for that, but you guys are welcome to check my page out regardless!!

(ALSO: My girlfriend Noxxi-a has joined the site as well!! Go check her page out >:3c)

I think??? That about covers everything, but if there's anything else I need to bring up, I will let you guys know!!

Thank you guys- again, numerous times- SO SO MUCH for being so incredibly patient with me and for understanding!!

You guys are the best and idk where I would be without you all <3

#greteh #gretehart #update #announcement #important

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loveau · 4 years

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college!au seulgi

request: elli!! can u please do a college gf au with seulgi? i think we could all use that cute fluffiness right now 🤧 p.s. thank u for sharing ur wonderful writing ilu 💕

major: business w/ a concentration in human resources management

minor: dance

club: prob vp of the school’s women in business club!!! she joined in the middle of her sophomore year and became vp in junior!

she’s most likely been an RA in her sophomore or junior for the upperclassmen

she was in it for the door decs before realizing she actually liked it lOL

originally was a bio major and was stressed about it, but switched to business after being an RA because she thought it was her calling???

it just fit a lot better and she didn’t have to stand there hunched over her lab work and worry about accidentally breathing in pathogens

she had declared a bio major because the plan was to go to med school if all else fails and she didn’t really know what else to do, so that was a safe option right?

never before had she been so relieved to find out that she actually really liked spending time in her business and management classes and leading her volunteer group and being an RA

she also now has an excuse to dress up super nicely for interviews and such because she had so many outfits in her closet but never got a chance to wear them out

she became so much more at ease and bubbly about it too

no more sitting in lecture halls having to recite the functions of B-cells or whatnot

it also helped to have sat down with her ARD irene who told her she might like business

it was a long process of convincing because most of it was spent trying not to keep gossiping about the other RAs on campus alfsdlknfmsdlgkn

afterwards she quits reslife so she can focus on other stuff and lives in an apartment near campus her senior year

she becomes pretty popular around campus for her happy personality and her calm energy to match, making it so easy to start a conversation with her or just hang out

seulgi will be studying somewhere in a common student area and previous residents or club mates or classmates will wave to her or stop by for a quick chat

she’s also normally p busy tho being the vp of the wib club and also making sure she’s updating her resume and leaving time on the weekends to volunteer at the animal shelter like she loves

and also making sure she isn’t spending too much on online shopping for clothes and oOPS HER FINGER SLIPPED AND NOW SHE HAS LIKE TWO TOPS AND A PAIR OF OVERALLS ON THE WAY

but she often doesn’t have a lot of time to spend with her friends unless they plan it like a MONTH beforehand since she’s been applying and interviewing for countless internships

she was just so excited to find something that she’s super passionate about instead of biology and she kind of overloads herself on that energy akfsldgnskjgn

so of course when her friends invite her to parties or kickbacks she has to decline because she has to make the next powerpoint presentation for the club meeting and also make sure the club’s end of semester dinner is being all squared away

seulgi’s a busybody and enjoys what she does, so much that she doesn’t realize that she keeps overloading her schedule and not giving a lot of time for just herself

which usually means she also spends a lot of time cramming everything at once and might end up passing out at a friend’s place during a study session, in the middle of club meetings, or even in the library late at night

that’s just how she spent her thursday night

she had been setting up a speech for her recruitment and selection class and had been so tired from her club meeting a couple hours before that she ended up falling asleep in the library

it was kind of cute since she had hairs slipping from her bun, some coffee stains on her sweater, ink all over her hand from notes, candy wrappers spread around her area, and her head was tipped back and her mouth wide open as she slept

okay............ not that cute

she was a mess

but it was enough for her to get startled awake by a longboard rolling across the room and hitting her chair leg quite hard

she didn’t know what happened at first and checked around only to find a somewhat empty library save the couple of students also diligently working

her laptop she left open was dead and she cursed because she didn’t save her speech and her phone was below 10%, but it was enough to tell her that it was like 3am in the morning

seulgi only noticed the skateboard because she was going to go to the bathroom to freshen up and almost slipped on it when her foot landed on the top

she caught herself and saw that there was a bottle of water and a granola bar and a note on it

‘hey, you look like you need a little refresher. i also had a spare charger in case you needed it, your laptop has been open the past hour’

sure enough there was a charger but it had been knocked to the floor after she slipped on the longboard

silently, seulgi placed the items on the table with the rest of her stuff and looked around for anyone who would have given her the stuff

except nobody was popping their head up and were all busy

plus they all had chargers with them so she didn’t know who would have given her the treats

nonetheless she opened the water bottle and felt replenished when the water hit her throat

she was so confused????? still?????

she decided to take her trip to the bathroom like she wanted to and maybe she could scope out whoever decided to give her the food and drink while she was at it

subtlety wasn’t exactly her forte either since she was craning her neck around every table and making the other students confused

eventually seulgi makes it to the bathroom and cleans herself up and when she comes back the longboard is gone and her laptop was charged for her and a new note lays on top of it?????

who???????

‘i had to go for the night, sorry about that! don’t worry about the charger, i have another one and i’ll just collect this one when i bump into you again :)’

and just like that seulgi was completely and utterly confused

she stays like that for the next two weeks or so, seeing no sign of anyone with the same longboard and she tries not to pounce at every person she sees riding one to class

it gets so bad that the prez asked if she was okay and getting enough sleep since she was so distracted during her meetings and if she called the caterer for the dinner yet asgGNSGDN

her friends sooyoung and yerim were also trying to use this as an advantage for her to get invited out to “clear her mind” as they say since she’s been so out of it lately

and they’re absolutely elated when seulgi agrees and decides to go because why not?? she’s been so stressed about finding this mystery person because she wanted to properly thank them... but also to get the laptop charger with hello kitty stickers all over it back to its owner

and also did they see she had drool running down her chin bc that was really embarrassing and she just wants to make sure if anyone saw that before she promptly packs her bags a moves to another country

she’s blushing at that don’t point it out or else it’ll get worse amsdlknsg

once they’re actually inside, she can’t help but look for any longboards by the door even though most of the people at the party came by on foot or by someone’s car since the house was relatively close to campus

sooyoung and yerim are basically pushing her further into the house as they chatter excitedly and they’re happy it isn’t a byob type of party

seulgi is basically saying she won’t drink that much because she’ll look after the two and let them go ham... for a bit..

but they’re basically like

“seulgi it’s fridaaaaay it’s fine”

“yeah! besides we know the house owner and can call joohyun if we anything”

and they’re both going “pleeeeeeeeaaaaase” and doing their best to yell it over the loud music

and before seulgi can deny any longer she’s turned to the kitchen that’s been blocked by a foldable table and there’s cup lining it and drinks all over on the counters

but she’s not distracted by the abundance of drinks and people surrounding it.........

she finds you smiling cheekily at her

“what can i get you?”

and seulgi starts sputtering over her words and she REALLY cannot get a single word out because oh my gosh who are you and are you single because UHHHHHHH her brain is going overload

and both sooyoung and yerim are already cackling at seulgi’s stunned silence and giving each other mischievous looks behind seulgi while she malfunctions

meanwhile you’re just drinking it all up with an amused smile and gleam in your eyes and oh god do you HAVE to lean against the counter like that?

seulgi can barely get a word out before you’re laughing a little and turning around to prepare three red solo cups

you pass the cups to sooyoung and yerim and they basically BOLT away to leave seulgi all alone and more importantly alone wITH YOU SOMEONE SAVE HER

you laugh at her red cheeks that shine from the kitchen lights behind you and seulgi is absolutely enamored by you at this moment

“don’t worry, i gave them more fruit juice than i did alcohol. they’ll be fine”

seulgi barely registers this and gapes like a fish to where her friends are dancing and drinking from whatever you prepared them

had she been paying proper attention like she normally does, she’s notice that yes you basically watered down the alcohol with some lemonade

“i know how crazy those two can get after a couple parties with them, so i’m making sure they don’t go overboard”

seulgi only watches as you take her cup and put it under the sink to give her water

she takes it an tries not to get giddy when your fingers brush

inner seulgi facepalms because she’s acting like she has a crush in high school

but she’s never felt this way since she switched majors???

and omg that feeling was so addicting exhibit a when seulgi overloads her schedule and now??? she just met you and can’t get enough already

“thank you” she practically inwardly screams when she realizes how meek she is but you only give her a friendly smile

“yeah! thought you could use a little refresher. i didn’t know if you wanted anything so i didn’t want to give you anything you wouldn’t feel pressured to drink. let me know if you need anything else!”

all seulgi does for the rest of the night is basically hang around the room and watch everyone get kind of crazy and make sure sooyoung and yerim are staying on their feet, but with a second set of eyes she actually feels like she has more freedom

especially since you stopped giving them alcohol and basically have been serving them just juice after they started getting past the bit of tipsiness

eventually seulgi has enough of just standing around and has had enough cups of water (she had maybe 3) to finally talk to you

before she’d been working up the courage to talk to you and had come back with a refilled cup of water but noW???

NOW???

she’s ready

at least she hopes

seulgi’s marching up to you and then sooyoung is at her arm whining and sort of falling over

seulgi manages to catch her and is p disoriented by everything like what is happening is she okay??

and sooyoung is just like

“seulgiiiiiiiii i wanna go hoooome, can we get burgers?”

and before she can ask where yerim went, she suddenly pops up and joins in

“burgers? i heard burgers can we go, i was foooood”

before she knows it she’s dragged out of the house by the two and basically walking them home a couple blocks away

and now seulgi’s bummed that she didn’t get to finally talk to you like she wanted

she doesn’t even know when she’ll be able to see you again since she didn’t get your name at all and she’d be mortified by all the teasing the younger two would give her since they knew how choked up she was if she asks them who you were

she’s even kind of sulking about it and she’s so caught up in it she gets a notification from her phone that she needs to finalize things with the caterer and reserve one of the areas on campus for the club’s dinner and that reminds her she needs to shop

but as she’s on her phone she nearly swerves into somebody and it shocks her enough to bring her back to reality and she moves to apologize to the person and all of a sudden

“oh hey! you again, fancy seeing you!”

and she’s now forgotten everything since she sees you smiling at her

this time she forces herself to find her voice and not embarrass herself and it’s like her interview persona comes in and she’s got that natural confidence oozing in and she beams that pretty smile of hers right back at you

“and you too! i never thought i’d run into you again”

you laugh and all of a sudden you’re like an inch shorter and seulgi looks down and spots that you’d been riding a longboard before almost crashing into her

and she recognizes that longboard with all of the sanrio stickers on it and is that a sicker of your face with some filter on the corner of it???

but she recognizes the longboard since it’s been engraved in her mind and it just clicks for her and suddenly seulgi is scrambling to pull her backpack from behind and you just watch on like

uh r u okay? are you good? pls don’t take out some random textbook and smack me over the head with it

the hello kitty covered charger she’s been saving in her backpack is suddenly thrust into her hands and you think she’s about to stumble her words again like in those anime love confession scenes but she’s almost aggressive with it????

“i’ve been keeping this in my backpack for a few weeks! i didn’t even know what you looked like so i had no clue how to find you, do you know how stressed out you made me? you’ve been on my mind for almost a month!”

she doesn’t even realize how her words sound until you’re responding back in kind with another one of those easy smiles of yours

“sorry, i’ve been meaning to catch you sooner but i’ve so many labs back to back” you look at your phone and bite your lip nervously, something seulgi is a little too focused on “i actually have one in like five minutes, that’s why i almost crashed into you...”

seulgi finally realizes you’re wearing a white lab coat, something you’d worn in preparation since you were already rushing to be on time

your phone is thrust into her hands with the empty contact already loaded up

seulgi quickly types in her number and even snaps a cute profile photo of her and it’s your turn to be stunned by her because wow that was an impromptu photo and hOW DID SHE MAKE IT SO GOOD????

and then seulgi is ushering you off because you have like thREE MINUTES BEFORE LAB and you’re like OH YEAH UH BYE!!!! I’LL CALL YOU????

and she shouts back with a “YOU BETTER!!”

and suddenly seulgi gets a phone call and when she picks up she can hear the wind rushing past the speaker and you’re kind of breathy since you’re reaLLY using those leg muscles to PUSH to that lab

“yEaH so UH i wanted to tell you but i didn’t get the chance since i don’t want to have to do a makeup lab??? bUT UH, i saw one of your dance performances last year and thought you were really cute!!”

seulgi vaguely remembers that because she had done a solo dance for a showcase in the performing arts department and it was basically for the students to show off what they were working on and to her it was just a homework assignment on top of like four labs and a research paper

“oh yeah! i remember that... well not really, i’d been so busy that it all just flew by”

“yeah! that was around the time you were a bio major, right? i’d been meaning to talk to you then, but i wasn’t able to since you switch majors afterwards!”

“ah, bio as well?”

she hears your voice echo and she knows you’ve entered the building by now

relief floods her system that she didn’t keep you too long

“nah, i’m a chem major. it translates pretty well to mixing drinks, huh?”

instead of getting embarrassed and recounting that previous experience at the party, seulgi’s business confidence is suRGING and i mean IT IS LARGO and she’s like

“i can’t really say. you’ve only made me water, so i’ll have to see another time?”

at this point you’re absolutely vibrating with excitement at the proposal of a date and you quickly accept

and that’S WHAT HAPPENED BUT YOU SPENT IT OVER A HOMEMADE DINNER WITH WINE AND SEULGI COULD NOT HAVE BEEN MORE IMPRESSED?!?!?!?!?

you’d cooked it all and brought it to her apartment since you said your housemates were hosting some study session so you just offered to bring it all over

she’s also shocked you managed to find time to do all of this given the busy stem major life and how she was struggling before

but she’s also mentioning that giving her one cup of wine doesn’t mean that’s mixing up a drink so you’ll have to do this again

and it happens aGAIN when you’re at a restaurant this time and it’s a pretty nice one near campus and y’all are just chatting away about seulgi’s women in business club dinner and she invites you to be her plus one aSDFKNSLF sHE MAY HAVE BEEN TOO SHY TO SAY DATE BUT YOU GOT THE MESSAGE

bUT AT THE SAME TIME the restaurant is the one making the drinks, so you’ll have to have her over again and mix something up

and sooyoung and yerim and just so distraught lIKE GO OUT ALREADY

and seulgi’s like we are?????? WE ARE????? WE ARE GOING ON DATES AND STUFF

but they just groan out and are about to storm up to in the middle of a lab and just hand seulgi over like

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE JUST CALL HER YOUR GIRLFRIEND ALREADY

when you finally do it’s funny because it’s at another party that sooyoung and yerim invite her to and you’re there mixing it up again but she didn’t realize that the first party where she met you was your house????

she’s hanging out with you in the kitchen and you’ve made her a cup of something sweet and seulgi has to admit that it is pretty good

and you just wink at her saying that your chemistry skills are actually pretty good

BUT THE CHEMISTRY BETWEEN THE TWO OF YOU IS EVEN BETTER HEHEHE

and you’re totally not just hanging out in the kitchen away from the sweaty dancing crowd and sticky floor you’re having your housemates clean up since you’re the drink master

and yOU ARE ABSOLUTELY NOT STEALING KISSES FROM EACH OTHER WHILE SEULGI’S SITTING ON THE COUNTER AND YOU’RE PRETENDING TO REACH AROUND HER FOR A BOTTLE BUT NO INSTEAD YOU’RE REACHING FOR HER WAIST AND HOLDING HER CLOSE AS YOU KISS HER AND NOW YOU’RE SMILING AGAINST EACH OTHER’S LIPS

you spend late nights in the library together now and you’re also most of seulgi’s impulse control when it comes to making plans and doing stuff

mainly because you’re telling her that no-no do not force yourself to go to that resume workshop you’ve been to them enough times to LEAD those

and then she gets all excited like REALLY DO YOU THINK THEY’D LET ME?!?!?!

and you’re like no stOP WE’RE STAYING IN FOR A MOVIE NIGHT AND WATCHING CARS 2

but it’s also funny to see seulgi falling asleep against your shoulder and her mouth is hanging wide open and you’ve set so many pictures of her like that as your homescreen and been yelled at too many times to change it

and when you do change it, it’s just a different picture of her in that position from a different day

she likes to run through her speeches and presentations with you and you find it so cool that she’s so poised when doing that BUt she gets so shy when she wants a kiss but doesn’t want to say so and SHE KNOWS you know she wants a kiss

you’re constantly doing her buns for her since you’ve had some practice keeping your own hair out of your face for labs but also getting tips from other girls in your labs and lectures and when they find out the reason why they’re just like pLS YOU TWO GET MARRIED

but the closest they can see the two of you dress up together is when seulgi decides to wear her business clothes out on a date and you’ve gotten stuff to match her and now you’re basically a ceo power couple walking around campus to go return some books to the library

you sitting in on her meetings and watching with lovestruck eyes as she basically spends the good half of it also staring right back at you and when they’re in discussion or activities she just clings to your side and cuddles you

you teach her how to longboard and she’s still a little wobbly but it’s SO CUTE when she’s fearfully holding onto your hands and staring down at her feet and shouting at you to NOT LET GO AT ANY COST

eventually she gives up on that and buys a pair of rollerblades instead so you can just pull her around while she hangs onto your backpack strings while you move on the longboard

BUT WHAT MAKES EVERYONE JEALOUS???

you hold her hand instead :)

she’s just laughing and giggling and being all around smiley when your hands are linked and you’re rolling around campus with her in tow

you even go to all of her dance events as well!!!

she’s been able to put a lot more effort into them since switching majors, but especially since you manage to keep her rooted and not going off doing so many things at once

she also wants to make sure she looks good for you

when does she not though??

y’all are literally tooth rotting sweet for each other

it’s the absolute cutest thing and you totally didn’t put a sticker of her sleeping face with her mouth open on your longboard........ and on your charger...... and the laptop........ and hers.... -q- zzZZZ

#elli writes #red velvet #seulgi #red velvet scenarios #red velvet imagines #red velvet fluff #seulgi scenarios #seulgi imagines #seulgi fluff #seulgi x reader #fluff #neutral pronouns #college au #faves

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flintstill · 4 years

Text

bench boy update no one asked for

Last Friday was a friend’s birthday, and we had a picnic lunch and then in the evening hosted a get together at our place, and my lab bench girl friend asked me and my roommate if she could add this other classmate of ours and bench boy to the list that evening (they had both gone to Japan with the birthday girl last summer). I was very excited about this and was actually hoping before the day began that bench boy might have been on the invite list. In the end bench boy couldn’t come though, which really bummed me out, but whatever.

I texted him later that night tho that I hope he’ll be able to make it to a get together at our place the next Saturday tho (yesterday) for my birthday, so it would be enough notice that he wouldn’t miss it. (The text that didn’t need a response but I wanted one so was then low key annoyed at him for the rest of the weekend. My issue.)

In open lab time on Monday(6/1) he came in not long after me. After getting settled in he told me re my text on Friday and seemed very sorry to say that he was going to be gone, then was like “I got your text and I was like ‘shoot... did she ask me about that before..”” (which made me feel better about his not responding, because I could see that he got the text and knew he couldn’t go and was trying to figure out if i had first asked him earlier, and wanted to figure that out before responding). And I was really surprised, and really sad about it. Like I texted him a week beforehand thinking with that notice there’s obviously he’ll be able to make it, so I was pretty upset to hear that, and there was a lot of dismayed “oh no..!” and other dismayed and somewhat pouting exclamations about it, and he was apologetic, and I told him honestly, “I’m really disappointed!” he wouldn’t be able to be there, and he seemed sorry and bummed too. Then for a second I perked up and hopefully asked if he was going to be around Sunday, and he apologetically goes “I’m gonna be gone until like Tuesday” I asked him where he was going out of town for that time and he said he was going to this lake in the middle of the state with his aunt and uncle. I told him that sounded like fun and was starting to think to myself hopefully there will be other weekends and he says that the weekend after that he’s going to go again with his aunt and uncle until Tuesday.

Then he asks me to check, “You didn’t ask me before you texted that, did you?” So that explains why he didn’t respond--he was trying to to remember if I had invited him earlier and he had accidentally forgotten and made conflicting plans and thus feeling bad about it. it was sweet (had he actually forgotten and made plans after i had invited him to something i’m sure i’d feel differently lol). And I said “No, I asked you Friday when you couldn’t make it that night because I wanted to make sure you’d be able to come the next Saturday!” kind of poutily and sad. And he seemed really bummed and disappointed too, and started thinking out loud to himself about how he was going to make it up to me, like maybe “I’m gonna make..” and I thought he was gonna say he was gonna make me a tiktok (like he got asked to make for our old benchmate’s bday)--and I was about to ask him to make me one but then he kept pondering to himself out loud “I’m gonna see what I can find to bring back” like he was gonna bring me back something from the lake ;;;___;;; which made my heart wanna burst tbh

We had some companionable silence while we worked on stuff but not much later he asked “What did you guys do Friday?” I said we had a little potluck and cake, and played games--that we played this one game for 2 hours that was an absolute riot and that he missed out on a good time--that we’re going to play it again on Saturday and he looks up at me with this indignant :O ‘without me?’/ok rub it in look, and in response I pout/whine/exclaim/defend: “I thought you’d be able to make it Saturday!” letting him know that I wanted him to be there and included in the game, and he was like damn and bummed he had conflicting plans too. I somewhat daringly (for me) said “You’re almost never able to make it when I invite you to things--I don’t know if I should be reading into that or what”. And I wasn’t looking at him when I said it cause I was working on something at my bench, and he didn’t verbally address that statement but I saw him out of my peripheral vision kind of pause and his body language in response indicated that no, he isn’t deliberately dodging invites, which was reassuring and nice. And then after a beat, probably of processing that, he says regarding Friday, in his defense but also with regret and disappointment that he missed it “[benchmate] invited me the day of..” which is why he couldn’t make it. I said I know and tried to convey understanding, but the mood seemed, for both of us, to be bummed and sad about it all, and that was definitely a thread that ran through the rest of the day there.

A bit later after my friend B who sits behind me got there, I forget what the segue was, maybe after B asked me what the actual date of my birthday was, but bench boy was kind of listening as he worked and got up from his chair to get gloves, and when he comes back to his bench spot he says to me, “I was thinking about maybe not going...” (to the lake with his fam), and I flick my eyes up at him from where I was looking down at my bench top and tell him sincerely/apologetically “don’t do that”--don’t mess up your vacation time with your aunt and uncle and your plans just for one little party for me-- and he goes “I know...” in a bummed/no-win tone. I was so fucking touched though. I did not expect him to say or offer that and he seemed to genuinely consider it for a moment, that he was genuinely conflicted and saddened by the situation. My fucking heart you guys. I was like tearing up that night thinking about how sweet he was being and his offer to bring something back I was so moved.

(Thursday he was sweet and really playful the whole day, and when he was heading out I told him to have a good weekend and in the middle of saying thanks and walking out the door he freezes and looks and me and says “Oh.” thinking I was being jokingly passive aggressive I was like "What?! I mean it, I hope you have a good time.” which I did mean.) ((I also finally had the courage wear by hair down and thus reveal my significant haircut and he noticed and said it looked good, and that he couldn’t believe he didn’t notice before and that he liked it))

That all being said the day came and went and the actual date of my birth came and went and I’m bummed to say that there was no text, no snap, nor Facebook message from him thus far, and that kind of hurts. I hope he brings something back for me, not because I need anything, but just to know that I was thought of by him. And if not and there’s nothing, well, that will definitely hurt and be difficult and confusing in light of how genuinely sweet and lovely he was being Monday.

My roommate and friends that were there did show me a really good time and made me feel really special though :) <3 And his absence did take some of the pressure off my birthday and party, which have been disappointing and lame for the past decade at least, but I think you guys know how gone on him I am and how important he is to me

#not really an update because i'm not actually filling in since last #but a posting at least #sighhh #mah life #bench boy

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avpdpunpun · 5 years

Text

i disappeared for 3/4ths a year here’s an update?

its been 4 months since my queue ran out and way longer since i wrote an actual post. 8 months about? i think i last posted when i impulse quit a job that was bad for my mental health and just kept getting worse.

sometimes i wonder when ppl who blog about mental illness disappear if they’ve died. there was a big user i used to follow who did, and i still occasionally think about it sometimes, so i figure its nice to post updates sometimes. and being able to look back on posts ive written and reflect on them/what state of mind i was in can be helpful even if it can be embarrassing/dangerous because its so easy to fall back into those thinking habits

after quitting my job i did basically nothing for 6 months haha. at some point i managed to clean out my room which i had done the bare minimum on for years because of depression, took out more built up trash than i thought was possible to fit into my small space. its disgusting but the only thing i struggle to keep up with now at least is vacuuming and putting clothes away so my space is a lot cleaner and it makes me happier. your living space can really have an effect on your mood bless you marie kondo

after my post about having an anxiety attack taking my test i got my drivers license in march. i saw the same lady again after going somewhere else and i think she just let me pass because she felt bad haha. i never finished drivers ed and i still get anxiety about driving unfamiliar routes but my skills and confidence have improved a lot. i managed to drive 2 hours to a big city to visit a friend! i literally didnt have a choice in getting my license, but its still something i can be proud of. like, when i have to explain it to people, it feels extremely shitty that i didnt get it until i was 20, and only about 5 months ago too but... for someone who struggles as much as me, i have to be proud of it my small accomplishments or i’ll have nothing.

at some point something in my brain just snapped and i literally havent been able to cry? for a long time in those 6 months i felt like i was right on the edge of breaking down mentally but never actually crossing that line and it was honestly one of the weirdest things ive experienced. i almost wanted to have a breakdown again just to get rid of the feeling and reach a catharsis like... i used to be a fucking crybaby almost but i. cant. anymore. but i think ive mostly moved away from this point... still feel kinda weird tho.

i didnt end up signing up to a local school fo gen eds. its still on my mind for the vague future because there’s topics i want to learn about (psychology, natural resources, languages...) and maybe try to pursue for a career but really i just wanted a way to get out of my toxic house, even if it meant going into debt to live in a shitty dorm.

in the last 30 days though life has been moving extremely quickly for me. i dont think i couldve lived with myself much longer being a useless adult basically living in my basement bedroom of my parents house, especially with my younger siblings getting nearer to adult milestones, plus my savings were starting to run out.

so literally next weekend, i’m moving out! and i make enough money right now that with the rough budget i have established, if its accurate, i’ll have a decent amount of wiggle room and hopefully wont be ruining my mental health just trying to make ends meet.

it took a long time of searching but i managed to find a job that hasnt made me suicidal and has slightly more than the MIT living wage for my area lol. im a janitor now! we’ll see how long it lasts but a lot of the factors from my last two jobs that contributed to my failing mental health are gone. i rarely have to interact with other people, and if i do its my coworkers, of who i tend to only see for minutes per day, or the other people working in the building i clean who at most i have to say hi and have a nice night to lol. i get to listen to music and podcasts for 8 hours and its very routine heavy. i have to clock out after the 8 hours is up so i literally cant be forced into overtime. a lot of people dont respect cleaning jobs like this but honestly who gives a fuck, its something i can handle mentally and support myself with. its still hard adjusting to 40 hours. i know its the standard, but the standard is rly tough for me, but i think i can do it long term.

all of this has been achieved through sheer self hatred and impulse alone, and im very nervous about moving in with 3 other people even if 1 of them ive known for 8 years, and i dont think its even properly hit me yet. literally cant register that i have to fend 100% for myself but also ill be away from my toxic family! i can bring my cat with me, who before this i got to see at MOST once a week!

a dude ive known online for two or more years is moving to my area too for college and he’s so sweet and kind, i feel better talking to him than i have 99% of people in my life and im so lucky to know him. ive been forced to talk about personal things i was kind of dreading (not his fault, just a result of our relationship going to go from online -> irl and things id have to address beforehand) and honestly i didnt even mind it that much when i just got it over with and talked about it to him! vulnerability is literally the thing i struggle with the most in interpersonal relationships and is a huge block for me in every way and in even the most mundane life situations but like... he’s honestly the best and im getting emotional writing this and its weird af because i straight up dont GET emotional about other people. ive absolutely developed a stupid fucking crush on him recently and i THINK hes been receptive to flirting and i cant tell if he flirts back because we already say i love you and are wholesome af but honestly no clue if he’s into (trans) dudes but honestly? even if it doesnt work out im so happy to be friends with him and im so excited to finally meet him!! i really think knowing him has helped me improve myself

i’ve always thought that if i could literally just achieve the bare minimum in life that things would naturally get better. like i’m still mentally ill and get paranoid about peoples intentions and i think if my boss yelled at me id have an anxiety attack on the spot. im still depressed and hate that i have low energy and that it’s still rly hard doing basic chores.

but like a huge part of my problem was that i felt like i literally couldn’t TRY to connect with people if i couldn’t face having to tell them bare info about myself, like “oh i cant drive” or “i dont have a job” or that i was living with my parents but not even making PROGRESS on getting out. like how could i make friends or go on dates if i literally couldnt contribute shit or admit these things i was so ashamed of? a lot of my self image was shaped by this because my entire life i havent been mentally well enough to do as well as i should have.

but like. i feel like im finally doing these basic things!! i dont have to hate myself so much anymore! i dont look badly on other mentally ill ppl who are less lucky than i/havent been able to do those things yet/might not ever and are still in the same situation i was 2 months ago but the self hatred is strong pls understand.

i dont know yet if i could afford twice yearly drs visits for meds or anything and probably not therapy. i dont even know what my insurance is yet haha. but i’ll see

i need to figure out at what point in my life im going to be able to never contact a single person in my family ever again, considering i’ll be a 20 min drive away and they will know the precise location of where i live, and if i’ll ever feel safe enough in society to start hrt but :^) you know :^) i can at least present more masculinely in the meantime!

i dont rly know how to conclude this... i’m not trying to brag either im just very nervous and excited about where my life might be going for the first time ever? maybe? in my entire life? i have no clue what to pursue after moving out, but i can figure it out. and just... that there’s hope even if youre as fucked up and mentally ill as i am lmao!

#text #update #mostly tagging this for myself to read later if i ever start blogging frequently again

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riskeith · 3 years

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hi <3

tbh best hp is fic hp fuck jkr <3 if you do check it out just be prepared that it’s super filthy sjdkdhdk. i’m gonna check out running on air and to hurt and to heal, absolutely! both sound super angsty which is yummy imo.

you don’t read fics of the parings/fandoms you like? may i ask why not? also yeah i’d love some kagehina/iwaoi fics, whatever you have is fine <3

omg where should we take razor.... i feel like he’s enjoy mountain views and all the animals in liyue so maybe jueyun karst 🥺 that area is so pretty..

i do know some couples hehe, some didn’t stick but my friend started dating her husband when she was twelve and they’re married now. i think it’s super adorable i’m a sucker for the childhood friends to lovers trope. do you like it? also what’s your favorite “to friends” trope if you had to rank them?

omg... yeah thankfully they’re still updating the game i mean we only have two of the seven worlds unlocked right? the anemo and geo worlds? i imagine the updates will keep on coming for a long, long time. also i’ve been meaning to ask you: have you finished the main story yet? i’ve been curious about when it finishes and if it ever does.

more than 8... so you’re telling me there’s so much cluna content out there that i’m not experiencing? feeling distraught. feeling like an unfinished puzzle piece.

fairy floss sounds so adorable.... 🥺 why is aus the best place ever? and it’s a bit too sweet but i can’t get over the nostalgia so i do kind of like it? it makes me feel like a child eating it hehe. omg bleaching it? do you plan on going blonde? 😳

iwaoi has ^ those childhood friends to lovers except it’s angsty vibes that just hit different. i’m just a sucker for mutual angsty pining dude it’s crazy. have you heard the song driver’s license? i really wanna write something iwaoi based on that song bc i feel like it fits them so well.... with a happy ending ofc i can’t leave my babies feeling sad. thank you, i hope you find the motivation to start working on something soon too!! you never know when motivation strikes babe.. in the meanwhile i’m just gonna be https://archiveofourown.org/users/czqy shsjshsjdj. dude it’s because it’s oikawa and he wants the best for himself. it was probably him that possessed you if we’re being honest. 👑

YOU DO? i can’t come up with anything so it’s gonna be a surprise for me. and tbh i don’t wanna figure it out either so it can be a cute surprise. now this will definitely motivate me to rise up the ranks asap. also i need to spin for the boy as well... hopefully i’ll get him haha. thinking about me before falling asleep, are you? 😏

hope your weekend has been going great for far, you deserve the world babe. ♥️

hi hi!!

FUCK JKR!!!!!!!!!! 🗣🗣🗣 fhsksd note taken! omggg pls lmk what you think when you do!! they’re my top 2 fave drarry fics <33333

honestly i wish i could tell you 😭😭😭😭😭😭 i think it’s bc im so involved in it that i just.... don’t have any desire to read anything? like “i could just write x pairing/fandom, why should i go seek out content” but idkkkkk my friend has a theory that it’s bc i have a clear cut idea of who these characters are and what they’re like so it’s weird to read someone else’s interpretation? it’s something im trynna work on tho... lmao

okieee kagehina: where the night goes // well, maybe i’m a crook // room to grow (not really angst but the vibes are so mellow and nice) // hum (not a lot of angst but this is one of my faves. also esselle is the kagehina/hq queen!!! all her stuff is so so so good.)

iwaoi: things that change, things that stay the same // In April // the yellow room

also if i could offer your this oikage fic.... the more things change (i cry reading this every time....)

i don’t bookmark fics so it’s hard for me to find stuff again fhskdjfshd but hopefully those are alright!!

yesss let’s take him to liyue <3333 omg do you think he would like to play in the water 😩😩

omgggggggg they started dating when they were TWELVE?? that’s so cute 😭😭 i wish them all the happiness!! im only in touch with like 1 person i’ve known since i was 12 AHAHAH. i love childhood friends to lovers!! there’s just so much history there you know? such like a strong iron-clad bond... and to you mean “to lovers” trope? either way, hm. i think i might like enemies to lovers the most? (are we surprised) like that tension... coming together when no one expects it, not even them.... but yet their love is so strong.. .FSDJFHKSDF is childhood friends to lovers your fave?

yep!! only 2 ikr like how long am i gonna have to continue playing this game how many new characters will we get FHDKFSHDFS. people think inazuma (electro) is next!! it’s based on japan which is exciting.. omg wait what if it’s kinda like cyberpunk futuristic vibes.. ahaha. and i have finished all the main story quests that are out rn! i think the last one happens ~AR 35?

fhsdkfhsdfs HAHAHA nah dw all my blogs are now inactive so you’re not missing anything 🤪 you got all my focus and attention here bb

oooo yes the nostalgia... wow now that we’re talking about it i haven’t had fairy floss in so long jfhsdjksd. and yes i want to go blonde so bad 😭😭😭😭 i wanted to do kenma hair but i shaved my head last year and i want to shave it again and dye it blonde........ 😩

yeah actually i feel like so many people interpret iwaoi childhood friends to lovers angsty for some reason? like i’ve never really seen any that was just them happily and naturally going into a relationship there’s always like miscommunication and pain fhdskfskjfsd. not that i’m complaining! lol. and i actually heard driver’s licence for the first time a few days ago!! i remember it clearly bc i thought the title was funny FHDSKJFHSKDFSD. but omg the angst....... whose POV would you have it be from? oikawa’s? i feel like people make him Hurt a lot... which is big mood hfsdfkjs. (semi related... do you have your licence? LMAO) also do you know memo by years & years? i have an iwaoi wip based on that song!!

wait what does “in the meanwhile i’m just gonna be https://archiveofourown.org/users/czqy shsjshsjdj.” mean sorry i dont get it ��😭 (also it took me a moment to register that url went to me AHHAHA i was like 😳)

I FREAKING HOPE OIKAWA POSSESSED ME!!! FEEL FREE TO COME BACK ANYTIME SIR 🙇‍♀️🙏

hehhe trust me it’s like THE best possible spot <33333 im extremely excited to take you there 😉😏 xingqiu come home for m.a. again!!! and what can i say, i’m looking forward to the date ;p

thank u! it’s made better by you 😍💘 hope your day is going well!! xx

#marriage anon #wowclunaanswers #long post

0 notes

junker-town · 4 years

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I re-graded all 86 perfect score dunks in NBA Dunk Contest history

Getty Images; Photo illustration by Karyim Carreia

Not all 50s were created equal, and it’s about time we re-examined the best of the best. Now including those from the 2020 event.

Editor’s Note: This is now updated to include the three 50 dunks from the 2019 Slam Dunk Contest.

The NBA Slam Dunk Contest is usually the best part of All-Star Weekend. Since Larry Nance won the inaugural NBA dunk contest in 1984, the competition has been a staple of the event, where fans could watch their favorite NBA players try out dunks that couldn’t be performed in games. And it appeared to have a formula that could never get old: The best NBA players in the world trying to push the art of the dunk to new heights.

But nope, it got old.

Now this is my opinion, but the dunk contest hasn’t really been the same since Dwight Howard stopped competing. The lone exceptions to this are when JaVale McGee and Blake Griffin battled it out in 2011, and when Aaron Gordon and Zach LaVine gave us one of the best dunk contests of all time in 2016. But when you exclude those anomalies, it’s easier to see that the contest, system, and formula are starting to age poorly.

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Since the the dunk contest came back in 2000 (David Stern “gave it a rest” in 1998 and 1999), the league has tried to switch and tinker with the contest to keep us interested.

Fan voting.

2. The dunk wheel.

3. That weird freestyle round where everyone was dunking at the same time.

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Through all of this, one thing hasn’t changed: The highest possible score in the dunk contest is a 50. The 50 is how we immortalize some of the best dunks of all time, and these select dunks stand in a club high above the rest.

However, think of this “50s club” as the baseball hall of fame: When you see all of these dunks, you’ll realize that some are missing for random reasons and others somehow squeaked their way in. But, no one has ever gone back and investigated which 50s are better than others.

Until now.

Ladies and gentlemen, I have looked at every NBA dunk contest perfect score with the sole purpose of rescoring and ranking them. Not all 50s were created equal and it’s about time we rescale the best of the best.

Before we begin, I’m going to explain the criteria that I used to score this contest. Remember: This is my opinion and I’m happy to be wrong on these. I just really wanted to spend two weeks charting dunks.

Also remember: These new scores are relative to the other dunks on this list and NOT the other dunks from the contest from which they came. Imagine if all these dunks on the list were in the same contest. Like a musical festival but with dunking.

Here’s my scale for scoring:

Originality

This originality score compares the dunk in review to the other dunks up until its time frame. Some dunks on this list are creative as hell, while others are paying homage or taking inspiration from earlier dunks and more specifically earlier 50s. This way the dunks from older eras won’t get penalized for not holding up. For example, a windmill in the 1980s was way more original than a windmill from 2005 and this category will keep me from unfairly criticizing old dunks.

Degree of Difficulty

While some dunks might be similar or identical, not all dunkers are the same; this criteria is designed to offset this factor. For example, a dunk for Spud Webb may be way more difficult to accomplish than a dunk from Dominque Wilkins because of their respective heights. The degree of difficulty isn’t only relative to the dunk, but to the dunker as well.

Excitement

Now the dunk is only half of the battle. There are so many other things that factor into the overall excitement of a dunk. Does the crowd go crazy? Does Kenny Smith make up phrases? Do the NBA players jump onto the court? Does the dunker do some cool shit after? Questions like these factor into the overall dunk score. If you don’t have the in-person crowd feeling some type of way, then how exciting was it really?

Timelessness

When you bring up a specific year, does this dunk get mentioned? Or was it forgotten or lost in the shuffle with the other dunks from that same night? Will we ever see this again? How did this dunk age over time? Would it still get a high score today? Was this entire dunk contest forgettable? That’s what this category is for.

Kofie Points

I needed this to add up to 50. It’s my list, leave me alone. Say what you what about my methods, but I think you’ll be satisfied with the general results. This is my opinion and I want you to challenge me on some of these dunks. My opinion isn’t the be all end all. Not even close. I just wanted to make an immersive, enjoyable list.

The NBA Youtube channel made a video with every dunk, so you can use this as a guide:

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Now that you know all of the dunks, let’s begin. We’re starting from the bottom.

Scores in the 20s

Off Bounce One-handed Finish Dunker: Fred Jones Year: 2004

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Originality: 5 Degree of Difficulty: 5 Excitement: 6 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 0 TOTAL SCORE: 21

*Looks at year* ... was this a mistake?! Kenny saying, “Spud Webb did that dunk and he was 5’7.” I’ve been watching this shit over and over, thinking that I missed something, but no. I’m not. This is the most rim grazer package ass dunk, and the sad part is that it’s in 2004. This is not even the most exciting dunk of THAT ROUND, but it got a 50. This is a dunk that a lot of people do in high school basketball warmups. I have no idea what the judges were thinking here. Fred Jones had not one, but two better dunks in this competition alone, and that’s what makes this so sad.

Scores in the 30s

Statue of Liberty 360 Dunker: Terence Stansbury Year: 1985

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 6 Excitement: 6 Timelessness: 4 Kofie Points: 6 TOTAL SCORE: 30

This dunk didn’t age as well as some of the other dunks of its era. I know it was during the 80s, but the fact that it didn’t age well and can be replicated easily by other dunkers nowadays makes it pale in comparison to the other 50s on this list. I hope this seemingly harsh judgment makes it clear that this list has some tough competition.

He did make this look groovy as hell, tho.

Toss Under Arm Dunk Dunker: Terence Stansbury Year: 1987

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 7 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 6 TOTAL SCORE: 30

He does another dunk eerily similar to this in the same. exact. contest. You’ll see what I’m talking about soon.

Jumping Over a Crouching Kevin Hart Dunker: Donovan Mitchell Year: 2018

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 7 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 4 TOTAL SCORE: 31

This was at a point in time where we, as a society, couldn’t seem to escape DJ Khaled and Kevin Hart no matter what we did. Like I said last year, this wasn’t the best dunk of the contest or Mitchell’s best dunk of the night. But then again, maybe Dikembe Mutombo was in a good mood.

Looks again... Oh yeah that’s right, Mutombo wasn’t a judge that year. This is the year where the NBA thought it was a good idea to have CELEBRITY JUDGES for the dunk contest.

Again, I have no problem with Mitchell winning overall, but this judging just killed the vibe. I’m done talking about this dunk.

A 360 Dunker: Dominque Wilkins Year: 1986

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 5 Excitement: 6 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 31

Spud Webb also does a 360 dunk in this contest, but Dominique has a foot on Webb so it looks less impressive by comparison. Wilkins is more known for his windmills anyway. No hard feelings.

A Carolina kid dunking over J. Cole in North Carolina Dunker: Dennis Smith Jr. Year: 2019

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 7 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 4 Kofie Points: 6 TOTAL SCORE: 31

I’m from North Carolina, so I felt proud of the kid being about to dunk over J. Cole. However, if I judged the Mitchell-Kevin Hart dunk the way I did, I have to be fair.

Carolina, stand up!

Over Dwyane Wade, lob from Steph Curry to a windmill Dunker: Dennis Smith Jr. Year: 2019

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 5 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 4 TOTAL SCORE: 31

This would be way higher on the list if he didn’t take so many attempts that it made Raymond Felton do this.

Now, some people feel very strongly against vaulting, but I do love the fact that he actually vaulted over Wade and then caught the ball. That’s impressive in my book. Dennis, please come back and do the dunk contest again.

Sideways Windmill Dunker: Michael Jordan Year: 1987

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Originality: 5 Degree of Difficulty: 7 Excitement: 7 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 7 TOTAL SCORE: 32

At first glance, you might think that I’m tripping with this dunk. The Michael Jordan sideways windmill is one of the most iconic slams in dunk contest history. You’re absolutely right, but you’re forgetting one thing: He pretty much did the same version of this dunk twice, in the same contest. The one you’re looking at is the less impressive version and that’s why it’s so low on this list.

Windmill Dunker: Josh Smith Year: 2005

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Originality: 3 Degree of Difficulty: 7 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 32

Damn, Josh Smith really did three windmill variations in the same contest. Wild. It feels like he only got a 50 because he was in the Wilkins jersey. Now, for starters, I don’t like how judges inflate these scores just because you went to nba.com and bought a jersey in advance — it has to stop. So, since it is the least impressive of his windmills, it is the lowest scored of them on this list.

Off the Backboard Dunker: Dominique Wilkins Year: 1988

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 6 Excitement: 7 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 33

I watched this 30 times to make sure I wasn’t missing something. This dunk did not age gracefully as it now looks like something a 5-star recruit does in warmups to impress the cameras. This is a good dunk for that time, but it’s not even the best dunk he did in the contest. It feels like this was kind of a make-up score.

The judging is all over the place in this contest and this dunk was proof of that. I will say that he got very high up for this dunk, but this list is the best of the best.

Off the Backboard Tomahawk Dunker: Donovan Mitchell Year: 2018

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 7 TOTAL SCORE: 34

The thing I’ll give Donovan Mitchell on this one is that he punches and gets this off way cleaner than his imitation Vince Carter dunk he did to close out the contest. I like Mitchell’s first dunk in the contest better — the one where he bounced the ball off a SECOND basketball hoop.

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That should have been a 50.

The wrong Mitchell dunks got 50s that night, which is a shame because the right dunks would have been pretty high on this list.

Under-his-arm Side Pump Dunk Dunker: Terence Stansbury Year: 1987

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 6 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 35

I’m sorry. I can’t get into this dunk for the life of me. The toss honestly doesn’t look like it makes a difference. To extend an olive branch, this helped influence some under-the-arm tosses that we’d see in later contests. Stansbury was trying his best to think outside the box, but this dunk has not aged that well over time.

Behind the Backboard Off Bounce Windmill Dunker: Dwight Howard Year: 2009

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 6 TOTAL SCORE: 35

This seems pedestrian when compared to all the other stuff Dwight Howard has done over the years. Not his best work, but I get it. Shoutout to Howard being the only player from 2008 and 2009 to get 50s in the dunk contest (Nate Robinson would have had some in my opinion, but fan voting got in the way.) That’s not a high 50 when you compare it to his other dunks, but it’s a 50 on the regular NBA dunk contest scale.

Oh hey, that’s what this article is for.

Off Side of the Backboard Windmill Dunker: Demar Derozan Year: 2010

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 7 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 7 TOTAL SCORE: 35

This was a first-round dunk to avoid elimination. He ain’t have to go hard, but he did and I respect it.

This dunk isn’t pedestrian by any means, it just didn’t give me as much excitement as most of the dunks on the list. The dunk contest reached peak lull after Dwight Howard. It was like there wasn’t going to be a show truly better than that for a time and everyone knew it.

This dunk contest will be known as the one after Dwight Howard. Middle of the road. Forgettable. This was the year that we petitioned and demanded that Shannon Brown be in the dunk contest and he let us down.

360 Windmill (Vince Carter style) Dunker: Josh Smith Year: 2005

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 6 TOTAL SCORE: 37

Shout out for attempting to replicate Vince Carter’s dunk, but it doesn’t get the same hype as 2000. This goes for anyone who tries to do it, except Paul George, who is the blueprint. Vince got it off the cleanest. We’re at a point with this dunk that every thing has to be cleaner than a Shamwow commercial for it to make an impact in dunk history.

Between the Legs Dunk Dunker: Desmond Mason Year: 2003

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 6 TOTAL SCORE: 37

When you look at the extension Mason has from right hand to left, we realize why this dunk got a 50. Mason is also right-handed, which makes throwing down with his left all the more impressive. It’s also a dunk that he attempted in 2001 and couldn’t stick, so props to him for the perseverance.

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I like this dunk, I really do. However, this is a stacked list, so we have to grade accordingly.

Off Bounce One-handed Catch and Under Dunker: Demar Derozan Year: 2011

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 37

A regular up-and-under dunk wasn’t nothing new to write home about when you look at this point in dunk history lore, but doing it off the bounce was a nice way to liven it up. Derozan is one of the best dunkers in the league, and it’s a shame he was involved in the dunk contest lull that Dwight Howard created. He had solid dunks and did his best.

Over Chance 180 Dunker: Aaron Gordon Year: 2020

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 38

What hurts this dunk is that the crowd doesn’t get lit and that the announcers were debating on if this is even a 50 or not. When we look back on Aaron Gordon’s dunk contest dunks, we’re not going to bring this one up. I don’t feel like we’re holding him to a higher standard but when you’re in three dunk contests and two dunk-offs you’re bound to become numb to certain displays of athleticism. It’s sad but I’m right.

Also he apparently brought famous Tik Tok people out. Petty Kofie would have given that a zero in Kofie points but the dunk was solid so I’m going to be nice.

Off Bounce Dunk Dunker: Steve Francis Year: 2000

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 9 (That was a pretty high-ass lob. It looks like he had to adjust to the pass, but still managed to slam it home. Props.) TOTAL SCORE: 38

In a dunk contest with Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, Francis had good dunks and it sucks these get lost in the shuffle. This isn’t his best dunk in the contest in my opinion, but his last dunk got a 48 because Vince Carter was jamming out of his mind. The 2000 dunk contest was all about Vince Carter, and it always will be.

Sorry, Steve.

Off-backboard 360 windmill dunk with Larry Johnson jersey Dunker: Miles Bridges Year: 2019

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 8

TOTAL SCORE: 38

I’m not the biggest fan of classic jersey dunks, but I do love this fake out by Bridges. It’s cool that we got numerous North Carolina tributes in the 2019 event in Charlotte.

360 Dunk Dunker: Spud Webb Year: 1986

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 10 (He’s 5’7.) TOTAL SCORE: 39

This dunk is awesome, but the fact that the crowd doesn’t know how to wild out yet is disappointing. It sounds like a crowd for “The Newlywed Game” or something. It feels like they don’t truly appreciate how hard it is to dunk when you’re 5’7. While it sounds like I’m ripping on the crowd, they do get lively for his other dunks on the list.

Over a Folding Chair Dunker: Gerald Wilkins Year: 1986

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 7 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 9 (Measures height of a folding chair ... yeah, makes sense for the 80s. I approve.) TOTAL SCORE: 39

This dunk helped pave the way for the jumping-over-shit dunk genre. Dunks like this showed future contestants that props raise the stakes and danger level of dunks that would otherwise look pedestrian. These prop dunks help the audience and crowd calculate the athletic ability and difficulty of each dunk.

It’s easier to imagine.

Scores in the 40s

Off Backboard Reverse Pump Dunker: Jerome Kersey Year: 1987

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 40

This is a great dunk for the 80s. Props to you, Jerome. Throwing the ball from one side and catching it backward on the other side in that era gets some credit from me.

Side-to-side Windmill Dunker: Dominique Wilkins Year: 1985

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 7 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 (Back in the day, that’s a fire ass dunk, don’t lie.) TOTAL SCORE: 40

Dominique is known for the windmill, so dunks like these will always be remembered throughout the history of the contest. While the windmill has evolved into so many different and better dunks, the fact that it’s one of the originals make this important.

Oh shit, I basically said this earlier.

Over Chance between the legs Dunker: Aaron Gordon Year: 2020

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 40

There were 10 50s in this contest. After awhile, they all just started to blend together and that’s no one’s fault but the broken scoring system.

Reverse Double Pump Dunker: Michael Jordan Year: 1988

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 7 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 40

We hadn’t seen a double pump reverse with that much extension and air in the contest before. This was very good execution by Air Jordan himself.

Blindfolded Dunker: Cedric Ceballos Year: 1992

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 4 TOTAL SCORE: 40 (if he couldn’t see, but 20 if he could)

I refuse to believe that he did all this running up to the basketball without being able to SEE at least a little bit. The dunk was TOO clean for me to believe that he was. Also HE MAKES A SLIGHT TURN AT THE END OF HIS RUN LIKE, WHAT?! I’m sorry y’all, but you can’t convince me that something isn’t up. This is probably the hardest dunk I’ve had to score because 1) if he really did it blindfolded, and 2) this dunk was also during the scoring era that involved decimals, so getting a 50 in this time period was extra impressive. In fact, from 1989-1997, this was the only 50 given.

Props for playing the crowd and building up the hype, but I can’t buy this.

Off Side of the backboard between the legs (again) Dunker: Derrick Jones Jr. Year: 2020

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 40

He did the same dunk in 2017. Fortunately for him, 2017 is a dunk contest that everyone seems to forget so I guess recycling wasn’t a bad move.

One-handed Windmill Dunker: Dominique Wilkins Year: 1988

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 41

Dominique Wilkins was one of the original windmill specialists. The evolution of the windmill emphasizes just how important these earlier performances were for the future of dunking.

We will see a lot of windmill variations on this list and this one is instrumental to dunk history, but this is the highest I’ll give it. Again, nothing against him, that’s just what happens.

“MR. 360” Dunker: Victor Oladipo Year: 2015

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 5 Kofie Points: 10 (This is incredibly tough TOTAL SCORE: 41

This is one of the best dunks that he did, and also the one with the least amount of props. Yes, I remember the singing and the Black Panther mask more than his actual dunks, but in terms of dunks, this was really good. Unfortunately for him, this was the dunk contest where Zach LaVine stole the show and virtually nothing else mattered.

High-air Windmill Dunker: Jason Richardson Year: 2002

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 7 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 (He had to use the dumb ass dunk wheel and follow those rules.) TOTAL SCORE: 41

Windmills are commonplace by the year 2002, but good god he PUNCHES this. He also has the benefit of NBA players in early 2000s fashion losing their collective shit in the background for some extra excitement points.

Off Bounce 360 Pump Dunker: Jason Richardson Year: 2003

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 8 (He didn’t even need to do this dunk. Coulda played it safe, but he’s a real one.) TOTAL SCORE: 41

This is a dunk similar to McGrady’s in 2000, but he does finish with one hand, so it separates itself just enough. He also didn’t need to go this hard on this dunk since he only needed 29 to pass, but he decided to put on a show. I like it.

Off Bounce Windmill Dunker: Jason Richardson Year: 2003

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 8 (The elevation, the way he punches this dunk in. The reaction.) TOTAL SCORE: 41

He used this dunk to finish the round with a perfect 100 total. It’s still wild that Fred Jones somehow won in 2004.

Reverse Tornado Through the legs Dunker: Derrick Jones Jr. Year: 2020

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 41

This only has a lower score because Dennis Smith Jr. did the same dunk in 2018 and also got a 50. For the bonus points, Derrick Jones Jr. has a longer wingspan, so while it might be a little “easier” for him. However, he did get this off cleaner than Smith Jr. did.

Off Bounce Twist Dunk Dunker: Fred Jones Year: 2004

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 41

Speaking of Fred Jones. I didn’t understand how good this dunk was until I saw the EXTENSION this man makes. This is a tough dunk. Now, I’m still mad at the judges for that other dunk that somehow got a 50, but hey, this one is the superior dunk and deserves its score.

Off Bounce 360 Twist Dunker: Zach Lavine Year: 2016

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 41

This dunk only gets docked as much as it does because it’s very similar to the dunk Aaron Gordon did with the mascot hoverboard, which we will see later on in this list.

Over 3 People Reverse Dunk Dunker: Glenn Robinson Year: 2017

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 41

Glenn Robinson did his best to make an underwhelming dunk contest good. 2017 was the year after Gordon-LaVine so the general population was going to think this contest was underwhelming.

Sideways Windmill Dunker: Michael Jordan Year: 1987

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 (LOOK AT THE VERT, COME ON.) TOTAL SCORE: 42

If he was in another era where dunk creativity was more advanced, I’m sure he’d have some way cooler dunks and that’s scary. The bounce would’ve been put to good use in later dunk contests.

Free Throw Line Dunker: Michael Jordan Year: 1985

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Originality: 4 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 42

The only possible deduction I have for this dunk is that Dr. J did this dunk in 1984 (and 1976 in the ABA dunk contest).

Reverse between the legs

Dunker: Aaron Gordon Year: 2020

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 7 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 42

This is a first round get-the-party-started dunk that we’ve seen before in the contest. HOWEVER. That doesn’t mean that this dunk isn’t impressive. It is, but the fact that it’s done by Aaron Gordon means that we’re not going to remember it as well as his other ones in his arsenal.

Over Kenyon Martin Windmill Dunker: Josh Smith Year: 2005

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 42

I’ll Give Josh Smith this, having the person sitting down throw you the lob was pretty good. And completing a windmill off of that? That’s dope. I think people briefly forget about him winning this dunk contest, but it’s not like, “Ayo, you remember when FRED JONES won the dunk contest?”

I might be off base. It might be the angry Pistons fan in me that masks all the good memories Josh Smith had in the league. Either way, good dunk.

“Twisterydo dah Twisteriday” — Shaq Dunker: Eric Bledsoe Year: 2013

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 42

We have to remember that he is 6’1, and he did this in a very forgettable dunk contest.

Off Bounce Between the Legs Dunker: Derrick Jones Jr. Year: 2017

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 42

LOOK HOW HIGH THIS MAN GETS OFF THE GROUND, GOOD LORD!

Reverse 360 Between the Legs Switching Hands Dunker: Dennis Smith Jr. Year: 2018

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 42

This dunk is so good that we forget that DeAndre Jordan did an identical version of this dunk the year before. The difference here is in the height and the fact that he got it off cleanly.

This was the best dunk in a contest marred by bad celebrity judging and Kevin Hart being in the area. I’m glad Smith Jr.’s grandmother convinced him to participate again because I wouldn’t have done it again.

Off Bounce Behind the Back Dunker: Zach LaVine Year: 2015

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 43

So this dunk is a disciple of the Andre Igoudala dunk. I personally think that he does it better than Iggy, but that’s why the originality is a little on the lower side. This is the year where it was Zach LaVine and basically no one else, so the timeless part will have to take a slight, especially when you compare the contest to 2016. It’s truly not fair.

Over two people between the legs Dunker: Derrick Jones Jr. Year: 2020

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 6 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 43

For some reason, the 2020 contest had a lot of jumping over people. Derrick Jones’ best dunk variants are the between the legs, and he stuck with that for a LOT of the contest. The great thing about Jones is that he punches them with so much force it always makes you go “okay damn.”

Free Throw Line (Yes, again.) Dunker: Michael Jordan Year: 1988

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 43

When I first watched the NBA Youtube video montage, I thought that Jordan’s 1988 free throw line dunk showed up on the video twice on accident. Nope. He did the same dunk, in the same contest, and got the same score. The final round dunk is better, but they’re so identical that you can only tell them apart via instant replay.

Bounce Off Backboard One-handed Finish Dunker: Spud Webb Year: 1986

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 43

Again. He’s 5’7.

Something of note is that he got the crowd out of their feet with this one. Spud Webb is my favorite dunker and honestly I’d let my bias show and give all his dunks 50 if I wasn’t trying my best to be fair.

Off Bounce Behind the Back Dunker: Andre Iguodala Year: 2006

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 43

Props to him doing this dunk a full decade before LaVine did, but LaVine’s was way cleaner. This goes to show that even though Iggy wasn’t as much of an entertainer as Robinson was, he still excited us with his dunks. Now, you can say he got robbed, but I just think that Nate Robinson took better advantage of the system that was in place. Which was infinite time to dunk and more time to try out even crazier shit. I’m not saying I’m for that format, but I’m not going to sit here and pretend that watching Nate Robinson try to lob the ball between his legs from HALF COURT wasn’t fun.

Off Backboard Between the Legs Dunker: Kenneth Faried Year: 2013

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Originality: 7 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 43

This dunk came out of nowhere and the lack up of run up caught us all by surprise. It’s similar to Richardson’s dunk, but the lack of run up and fact that he’s a big man more than make up for it.

Off Backboard Double Tap Dunk Dunker: Larry Nance Jr. Year: 2018

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 43

As far as memory serves, this dunk will probably take a backseat to him wearing his dad’s jersey, and that’s a shame.

This reminds me of the Dwight Howard volleyball style dunk that isn’t on this list because of fan voting.

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Off Bounce 360 Double Pump Dunker: Tracy McGrady Year: 2000

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 44

McGrady and Vince Carter were cousins and teammates in the same dunk contest, so that’s fucking cool. McGrady had a strong overall performance in 2000 as well — people forget that. He would have won in 95 percent of the other years, in my opinion.

Off Backboard Between the Legs Dunker: Jason Richardson Year: 2004

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 8 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 9 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 44

J-Rich is probably the best two-foot, between-the-legs dunker in NBA history. This man was in his third contest and still brought the heat to the contest. He also did this in low socks.

360 Behind the Back Dunker: Terrence Ross Year: 2013

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 44

Because of the lack of big names in this dunk contest, it’s easy to overlook great dunks like this. Ross did his best, but holy crap this dunk contest was mediocre.

Off Backboard Between the Legs Dunker: Derrick Jones Jr. Year: 2017

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 9 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 44

Anyone that’s followed Jones Jr. through Ballislife and Hoopmixtape knew what he was capable of coming into the contest. He did not disappoint.

Off Bounce Off Backboard Double Pump Reverse Dunker: Dominique Wilkins Year: 1985

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 8 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 45

He was wearing them 80s-ass knee pads. You know the ones that look super painful now. Anyway, Wilkins was able to recover from his not-good timing and was still able to turn this into an explosive dunk. Props.

Off Back of Backboard Up and Under Dunker: Andre Iguodala Year: 2006

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 9 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 45

The toss wasn’t perfect, but Iggy made an amazing catch and finish. Again, he would have won the dunk contest that year if there was a true time limit. This also helped pave the way for some other behind-the-backboard dunks that we’ll see later in time. Some we’ve already seen on this list. There’s always something exciting about a dunker clearing space behind the backboard, because you know that some shit is about to go down.

Bounce Dunk Jumping Over Spud Webb Dunker: Nate Robinson Year: 2006

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 45

If that’s not Spud Webb, there would be a bonus point deduction because that’s really the only good choice. The NBA Dunk Contest is a competition where nostalgia wins and it doesn’t get more nostalgic than that. Iggy may have better dunks, but Nate had crowd control and creativity. That’s why he won.

Don’t just wear the jersey of the dunker that inspires you. Bring that man OUT. Don’t wear the purple Vince Carter jersey — bring out Vince Carter. Doing a poor man’s version of a classic dunk with that dunker’s jersey on is just disrespect in my eyes.

Partner Off Backboard Reverse Double Pump Dunker: Gerald Green Year: 2013

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 45

Gerald Green got UP on this and reacted so nonchalantly. I think the cupcake dunk was amazing and more creative, but this is TOUGH to do. Green is one of the best leapers this league has ever seen and that’s what stands out no matter what dunk he does. Incredible.

Off Backboard Swing Reverse Dunker: Aaron Gordon Year: 2016

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 45

It’s in the 2016 dunk contest, so the timelessness bar is set pretty high.

Jumping over Giannis then hitting the backboard.

Dunker: Pat Connaughton Year: 2020

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 45

I don’t think Pat gets this 50 without his motion after the dunk because I don’t trust those judges to have realized it in realtime. With that being said, I really liked this dunk and I hope Pat does another dunk contest in the future.

Two People on Top of Each Other Reverse Dunker: Glenn Robinson Year: 2017

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 9 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 9

TOTAL SCORE: 45

Glenn Robinson wasn’t expected to win this dunk contest, but he came with the heat and silently won the thing. This is the same dunk contest where Aaron Gordon brought out a DRONE, but couldn’t finish the dunk (he was also coming off of an injury.) So we’ll live with this.

The Subtle Superman Dunker: Hamidou Diallo Year: 2019

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 45 (for now)

This dunk is awesome because Diallo is posing as Superman dunking over Shaq, who goes by Superman as well. We need to let this dunk simmer for a year before we give it the full timelessness score, but there is potential for this one to be an all-timer. He didn’t go full Superman uniform like Dwight did, yet he made this dunk his own. Respect.

Off Bounce Between the Legs Up and Under Dunker: Zach LaVine Year: 2015

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 46

The thing about Zach LaVine’s dunks is that they’re all variations of each other, but those variations would all get 50s in the traditional dunk contest as it stands. You can look at all of them and say, “They’re just good dunks.” They aren’t over the top and laced with props, but rather just about the dunks themselves. That’s what has separated him from most other competitors. It’s not his need to go over the top and try to do the most that makes him great, it’s the fact that he really doesn’t have to do that.

Scorpion variant featuring Chance

Dunker: Aaron Gordon Year: 2020

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 46

This is a variant of the Scorpion Dunk popularized by Jordan Kilganon, who did it in 2016. The difference between the two is that Kilganon didn’t look at the rim and also was wearing JEANS. Kilganon’s dunk would get a 50 on this list, as it’s one of the best dunks in basketball history. I’m sure AG could have avoided looking at the rim if he had wanted to, but I understand why he did it this way. It was going to get a 50 regardless, so why not go with the safer option?

Free Throw Line Dunker: Julius Erving Year: 1984

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 9 Kofie Points: 8 (Man did it in high socks and short shorts.) TOTAL SCORE: 46

(Dr. J did this in the ABA dunk contest in 1976, but I’m not talking about that. That’s why there’s a 10 for originality.)

Looking back, the monotone announcers and the flatline crowd really take some of the air out of it. It sounds like he’s narrating a super old cartoon that’s on at the same bat time and same bat channel. This sucks because this is a very impressive dunk, the crowd was just too whack to realize it.

Free Throw Line (Yes, again) Dunker: Michael Jordan Year: 1988

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Originality: 6 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 46

Michael Jordan basically repeated a dunk in the 1988 NBA dunk contest, but it’s a super hard dunk and he did it well both times. I guess I’ll allow it. This is what went on bedroom posters. This is what made everyone be Like Mike, so I’m sorry that I say this is the more iconic dunk, but for the longest time I thought Jordan did it first. You know why? Because this is more iconic than Dr. J’s free throw line dunk.

Fight me. I scored them both the same anyway.

Off Bounce Behind the Back Finish on the Opposite Side of the Rim Dunker: Zach LaVine Year: 2016

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Originality: 8 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 46

God, he’s so damn good. The longer that dunk-off with Aaron Gordon went on, the more likely LaVine was going to win. Because he can just do shit like this.

Behind Backboard Between the Legs Dunker: Zach LaVine Year: 2016

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 7 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 46

See above: It’s the same thing. Zach LaVine has a special style, and that’s Get a 50.

Honey Dip Dunker: Vince Carter Year: 2000

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 9 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 9 Kofie Points: 8 TOTAL SCORE: 46

This dunk has since evolved, but Vince Carter was breaking out the bag of tricks like it was nothing. It’s been expanded upon by dunkers like Blake Griffin in 2011 and now professional dunkers all over the world. Honestly, if you think this one deserves a higher score, I won’t even argue with you. The crowd reaction was more shock than excitement and seemed milder than his other dunks in 2000, but this is still a great dunk overall.

Off Side of the backboard 360 twist

Dunker: Aaron Gordon Year: 2020

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 47

I don’t think that Zach LaVine robbed Aaron Gordon in 2016, but I understand people who do. I think 2020 was an even stronger case. Wow. I know this has the same motion as his hoverboard dunk, but I think this one might be even tougher. The only things the hoverboard dunk has on this is that it looks cooler and the mascot was perfect.

Off Bounce Between the Legs Backward Dunker: Jason Richardson Year: 2003

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 47

Jason Richardson is one of the best two-foot leapers the game has ever seen. The explosiveness paired with NBA players in 2003 fashion losing their shit is as iconic as it gets. You even had AIR JORDAN looking up like, Damn that was dope.

Over Dunk Contest coach off backboard between the legs Dunker: Derrick Jones Jr. Year: 2020

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 8 Kofie Points: 9 TOTAL SCORE: 47

This is my favorite dunk from this year’s contest. Like I said before. Derrick Jones Jr. knows how to PUNCH these between the legs dunks and this is cool. Nowadays when I see someone about to get jumped over near the rim I kind of just check out. However it was a perfect toss by Dunk Contest Coach Chuck Millan followed up with a smooth, powerful finish. Bravo.

Windmill from Damn Near the FT Line Dunker: Zach LaVine Year: 2016

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 9 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 48

This was the dunk-off, so he wasn’t even planning to DO this one. That’s what makes the dunk-off so riveting. LaVine and Gordon weren’t expecting to have to do these, but they were still head-and-shoulders above most of the dunks seen in dunk contest history. That’s why it’s so high.

Off Bounce Reverse Dunker: Spud Webb Year: 1986

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Originality: 9 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 49

The man is 5’7, y’all, and he’s perfectly timing bounces with enough air to do a reverse. That’s incredible. I know we seem lenient to shorter people in the dunk contest, but the stuff he’s doing at that height is so damn impressive. Especially in that era. If you ask me, Spud Webb is the reason why a lot of the big men in the dunk contest strived to step their games up and I think that’s what pushed players like Dwight Howard and JaVale McGee to do dunks that only they can do. Because if a guy a foot shorter can do the same dunk as you, then your dunk just looks less impressive.

12-foot Off Backboard Dunker: Dwight Howard Year: 2009

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 9 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 49

He’s wearing a cape. Now, is this a dunk that another bouncy big man can do? Maybe. However, the show, paired with the spectacle and the hype the built up around it more than make up for that fact. We don’t think about who else can do this dunk, because no one could possibly make it look better than Dwight Howard in a Superman costume.

Off Backboard Behind the Back to a Lefty Windmill Dunker: Dwight Howard Year: 2008

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 9 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 49

This is a dunk only a few people can do. Dwight Howard did a phenomenal job using his physical attributes to do dunks that no one else would dare attempt and he made this look EASY. The fact that he was taller made this a harder dunk, because his HEAD WAS ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BACKBOARD WHEN HE DUNKED IT. Only like 1 percent of the league can do that, and then you add a windmill to it? COME ON.

Honorable Mentions and Personal Favorites.

I just wanted to take the time to honor some of my favorite dunks that didn’t get a 50 because of fan voting and some underrated dunks that just didn’t get a perfect score. Enjoy.

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THE TRUE 50s

360 Windmill Dunker: Vince Carter Year: 2000

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 50

Vince Carter may have not invented the windmill, but dammit he had the cleanest windmills in the history of basketball. This is art. He makes this dunk look so damn easy and the celebration and crowd reaction on top of that, man. I know Paul George did this dunk in game and everyone lost their shit, but it’s not the same. Every time someone tries to do this dunk now it doesn’t compare to Vince.

Even if you try to wear the iconic purple Vince jersey, you’re just making a fool of yourself at that point. There is only one Vinsanity.

Off Backboard, Off Steve Nash Dunker: Amar’e Stoudemire Year: 2005

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 50

This dunk is special for a few reasons. From everyone shouting to Steve Nash just being there, it’s one of the few times where a missed attempt got people even more excited for the dunk, and it’s also one of the few times a partner starts the dunk without the ball. So we had no idea what was happening. This is just a great dunk. Josh Smith may have won the whole contest, but Amar’e won the night. This is the dunk people remember.

Dwight Howard Superman Dunk Dunker: Dwight Howard Year: 2008

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 50

Forget about the tape he put down on the court, the pure showmanship and hype about this dunk is masterclass. The moment he takes off his jersey and puts on that cape, the fans go wild. Dwight had been putting on a show all night long and the fans were ready for more. You can complain about the fact that he threw it in, but just being in a POSITION to throw it in and still make it is incredible. And he got it on the FIRST TRY.

Bounce from T-MAC to Between the Legs Dunker: Vince Carter Year: 2000

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 (IT’S OVER, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN.) TOTAL SCORE: 50

The fact that cousins Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter were both in the dunk contest at the same time as teammates helping each other is incredible. The celebration and swagger afterward also make this one of the best dunk contest moments of all time. EVEN THE JUDGES hop over the table to congratulate him. That’s crazy.

Also in the interview, he says that is THE FIRST TIME HE’S EVER DONE THAT IN HIS LIFE. WHAT.

Two Balls, Two Goals, One Lob Off Backboard Dunker: JaVale McGee Year: 2011

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 50

Say what you want about JaVale McGee, this man showed up with some of the most creative dunks the contest has ever seen. This one is a great showcase of creativity, knowing what you can do, and hype buildup. Kudos JaVale.

Over Mascot, Under Legs Dunker: Aaron Gordon Year: 2016

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 50

The goofiness of the mascot makes the dunk so much better. When Aaron Gordon did this dunk, I had seen it before by a professional dunker, but I’m only comparing the originality to other NBA dunks in the dunk contest. Everyone went crazy after this. The mascot who probably couldn’t see shit even went wild. This was the best dunk in the best dunk contest.

Between the Legs Free Throw Line Dunker: Zach Lavine Year: 2016

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 50

People were still mad at Aaron Gordon’s Non-50 that we really glossed over this dunk. Zach LaVine is the best one-foot dunker to ever touch the contest. He took off from where many NBA players ATTEMPT the free throw line dunk, and went between his legs as well to WALKOFF with the trophy?! The dunk was so good it almost made us forget that Kevin Hart was saying words over it. Almost.

Hoverboard Dunker: Aaron Gordon Year: 2016

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Originality: 10 Degree of Difficulty: 10 Excitement: 10 Timelessness: 10 Kofie Points: 10 TOTAL SCORE: 50

We’ll probably never see this dunk again and that’s because the fad of hoverboards will go away. The timing of this dunk. The tension that came about as Gordon pretended to dunk, but then the mascot started spinning. This is the perfect dunk contest dunk, and there probably won’t be another because those hoverboard things kept catching on fire.

0 notes

darkgreyclouds · 7 years

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Thank you so much for all the support for the past few weeks! You all are super stars with your patience thank you! I hope in the fall when I can breathe a bit I can get better with this orz. You all rock!

Answers below the cut~

I’ve been last year! It was so fun I’d love to go again! Unfortunately it’s up to the con lottery gods as to whether or not I go next year. I never like to promise anything until I can confirm I’m going but I’ll keep my con list updated!

Okay haha I’ll definitely consider it! Thanks for the suggestion Anon ^o^

XANLAS WEEK IS COMING SOON!! MAYBE ;)

Thank you so much sdjaldka;dla;a My day is already better :’)! I hope you have a great day!

Do you mean if I plan on making any more Anon! Maybe! I kind of lost steam after I beat the game haha idk why it always happens but maybe in the future! Thanks so much!

Maryland!

Hi, sorry I’m not sure what you’re asking about but it seems like you’re looking to commission some work. I don’t do requests or commissions. However there’s a lot of great artists on tumblr who do take commissions, you should try contacting them! You should also ask off anon so you can keep the conversation private because anon asks are going to be published no matter what!

omg thank you so much this means a lot ;o; I hope you have a great day!!!

I have! But I guess I deleted that pic :/ Maybe again some day~

xD!! /w\ Thank you so much anon!!! I hope you had a great Otakon, even tho the weather was a little crazy that weekend haha!

Well this blog originally started off as a side blog of my tumblr which was weather themed and about umbrellas so I was just going off the weather theme and moved to clouds. And I believe the way copyright works is that you don’t really need to register for it, you have it when you create something. Unless you want your work in the library of congress you can pay like $35 to get something copyrighted. As for starting, just start and keep drawing until you find something you’re comfortable with. Heck I still don’t really know what I’m doing! Good luck anon!!

Thank you so much!!! That’s totally fine I’d love to see it if you do! :D! Thanks for asking!!

😘

Omg thank you so much!!!! You are so sweet anon!!!!!! sadfadsl;aka I hope you have a good week xox!!! 💕💖

(Omg this question is still very funny. So very ???) I’m here to preach the gospel of Lasinigo love, Anon. 🙌

Catprint!

LOL omg how spicy! I’m not sure actually....the list is very long for ones I’d like to be friends with tho!

Aww thank you Anon. I still ship Xander and Laslow but not as much haha. I might actually! Not a game this time tho I wanna live a little before winter cons pick up x_x

Omg thank you so much?? Tbh anon you’re amazing and I hope you have an amazing day! 💕

Anon, that is the million dollar question because I also ask myself this question occasionally.....I don’t really know and I’m not trying to brush off this question I honestly don’t know! I look at my past work to now and its like...dang thats a weird progression haha I guess I just kept drawing? That’s all I did;;

Oh! No worries You got a sharp eye anon, thanks for catching that! I updated the tag haha What a typo :’)

Aww thanks Anon!! You too!!! hehe <3

With the way the internet is nowadays its kinda hard to feel solidarity when you get spammed like 24/7 so you just feel like you’re alone in your opinions. So I get what you mean, Anon, and you shouldn’t feel bad about having those opinions! Personally its complicated for me because I understand why Intellsys keeps bringing back Awakening and Fates and don’t get me wrong I love those games too and my favorite characters are from those games, but historically speaking, these games come from a long line of stories. Personally I feel that for me to appreciate fire emblem I have to understand its past and the journey it took to get to Fates like I want to know more about the characters we don’t see as much so I can love them too. So like it was funny because I was playing Sacred Stones and met Innes and thought ‘man, he’s kinda the type of character a lot of people would love if they knew about him’ and once he was released in FEH he really had a warm reception. It kinda seems like a lot of people love the newer games because thats their intro and they just need to venture to the past too to see that those games were really great too!

But to answer your question I do think Fates and Awakening get bias which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. If people really love these games, it’s great! And if some people don’t, that’s great too! But just know even if you don’t think they are as great as everyone says there isn’t any reason for you to feel bad about it. It’s your opinion you’re allowed to have them! There are a lot of people who share the same opinion as you too! They probably are being respectful because you know it’s always a bummer when everyones like YEA I LOVE THIS and then the one persons like NO I DON’T IT SUCKS and its like asking for argument and...the nature of the internet etc xD;;

TDLR; you shouldn’t feel bad, you’re opinions are as valid as theirs. Sorry for the essay!

Thank you so much!!! ;o;!!! I go a little bit crazy with the sparkles everytime it just seems like

xD!

Anon, thanks for sending in a note I really do care and appreciate it haha! Have a nice day~

I’m super casual!!! But it’s a cute show very charming! :’)

AHH that’s so cool! That’s totally fine Anon! Thanks for asking I would really love to see it if you do!! ;o; <333

No not at all! You know what, I’ve never thought about them but I’m all for it too! One thing is for sure they both are beautiful girls and they look good together. I feel like their dynamic is a little more quiet but it could be really interesting. ALSO I didn’t know what harmony was so I googled it and I thought it was a photo edit.

Can’t believe it!! THAT’S AZURA AND CORDELIA RIGHT? IT’S NOT AN EDIT RIGHT???? BUT It’s real you’re so right Anon! I kinda want to watch it now to see what its about, looks pretty gay 😏👌A truly harmonious pair indeed!

#anon asks #ask funtimes

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thedexdays · 7 years

Text

Snapchat Scandals

Day One of NurseyDex week! I’m so happy to be participating in this week. Thank you to the lovely people for organizing this. :D

I also took inspiration from this post. I hope I did the prompt justice :)

Day One: Getting Together

---

If it hadn’t been for the new Snapchat update, Will might have never found out.

Tristan had said that he had to go to San Diego for work, some sort of client meeting, which was why it had to be on a weekend. Will had kissed him goodbye Friday morning and watched him drive off, leaning against the doorframe of his house, spatula in hand.

Later that night, Will was half watching one of the Die Hard movies and snap chatting Chris, a work colleague who he had played hockey against during college.

Did u c the new snap update? Chris sent, a pic of the Sharks game in the background.

Will sent back a pic of his feet up on his coffee table. Nope, what is it?

After a moment, Chris sent a screenshot of a map, Bitmoji characters scattered across the screen. His was circled. I c u bro.

Will laughed, taking a quick selfie. Stalker. (How did u do that tho??)

He sent back a demonstration video, with a chirp at the bottom. Damn an engineer couldn’t figure out the newest snap update. #imposter

Will sent back a pic of the laughing/crying emoji over his entire face. Whoops, I’ve been made.

He swiped across the screen like Chris showed him and found Chris’s bitmoji character. He was about to take a screenshot and send it back to him before he saw Tristan’s character. It wasn’t at the airport, or anywhere close to the airport. He zoomed in.

According to the Snapchat map, Tristan was at the Keg Restaurant downtown, which didn’t make any sense. He was supposed to be on a flight to San Diego right now. It left, Will checked his watch, two hours ago. He didn’t have any texts from Tristan saying that his flight was delayed. What was going on?

He closed Snapchat and reopened it, but Tristan’s little Bitmoji icon was still there.

Maybe the update was so new that there were bugs in it?

He narrowed his eyes and grunted, frustrated. No, no way it would be that wrong.

He took a screenshot and texted Chris.

Will: *sent a photo*

Will: any chance snap could get T’s location that wrong??

Chris: Uh where is he supposed to be?

Will: On his way to San Diego

Will watched the little bubble at the bottom of the screen with baited breath. It popped up and disappeared in quick succession a few times. Chris seemed to be having trouble coming up with something to say. Will’s heart sank; he could guess what his friend was thinking.

Chris: No. It wouldn't be that wrong.

Will sighed, slumping forward on the couch so that his elbows were resting on his thighs. His phone buzzed.

Chris: I’m getting in my car now. B at your house in 10. We’re going to find him.

Will’s eyebrows shot up.

Will: Wait C what?

Will: Is that necessary?

Will: What if it’s nothing??

If they went and tried to find him, then it wasn’t nothing. It meant that Chris didn’t think that it was nothing. Will stared at his phone. Did he think it was nothing?

“No. No this isn’t nothing,” he said to his empty house. He looked up and out his living room window at the dark summer night sky. “It’s not nothing…”

He ran a hand through his hair and took a steadying breath, getting up off the couch. He grabbed his keys and wallet before opening, and locking, his front door. He sat down on the stoop to wait for Chris.

He turned his phone over in his hand. He couldn’t come up with a logical excuse as to why Tristan would have lied about the flight, and probably the whole meeting, that didn’t make his heart hurt or spike his anger.

Has he done this before?

Tristan had gone away last month for a five day trip over a weekend as well, and he and Will didn’t see each other every day. They were both busy people. Will bit his lip. Could Tristan be cheating on him regularly?

Will gasped, shoving the traitorous thought away. No . There was no way Tristan would be cheating on him.

He wasn’t that type of guy. Tristan was sweet and kind and had an adorable dog who he adored. He called Will to wish him good night, and when Will had been pulling his hair out with anxiety during the engineering firm’s expansion, he had been a solid rock even though they had only been dating three months. He had met Will’s family and they all seemed to like him… Will paused. His grandmother, who was the best judge of character Will knew, hadn’t liked him though.

Will made a noise of frustration. He leaned his elbows on his knees and put his head in his hands, breathing slowly. There was no need to panic yet. No fucking need.

Headbeems swept over him on the steps and he looked up. Chris waved from the front seat of his truck and Will stood.

“C,” Will started, getting into the passenger seat. “I don’t- I have no idea what to expect. But I’m- I’m starting to expect the worst.”

Chris shot him a sympathetic look, backing out of Will’s driveway. “Look, Will, Tristan’s at a fancy restaurant on a night where he was supposed to be flying out to San Diego.” He hesitated, before continuing. “It could be a misunderstanding, but you… might have to prepare yourself for something- something worse.”

Will clutched the armrests and looked at Chris. “Do you think…” He trailed off, he couldn’t say it. Chris seemed to understand what he was asking though.

He sighed and nodded. “It’ll take us like 20 minutes to get to the restaurant. Why don’t you put some music on, any station you want, and take a minute to breathe. Whatever happens tonight, Will, you’re not alone.”

20 minutes later, they pulled into the Keg’s parking lot. It was a Friday night, so it was pretty packed. By this point, Will was teetering on the edge of fear and anger. Fear, because he thought that he might love Tristan and he wasn’t sure if he could handle seeing him with someone else, and anger that Tristan had the audacity to do this to him, to lie to him and probably be cheating on him, and for the possibility of breaking his heart.

He wasn’t that angry kid that he used to be in high school or college, but he could feel his temper now. Tonight it would probably make an appearance.

Chris killed the engine. “What’s the Snapchat map say?”

Will checked quickly, stomach sinking at what he saw. “He’s still here.”

Chris nodded and opened his door. Will did as well. He felt sort of like he was walking through water as he followed Chris to the Keg’s door. He heard Chris talking to the harried hostess and then saw her give him a pitying look. His stomach rolled, and he looked away.

Chris touched his arm and inclined his head towards the restaurant. “Melissa said that she’ll give us a quick look. She thinks that she saw him, but Will if you don’t want to anymore we can go. Or we can just look and then go back and you can bring it up on Monday. I’ll support you no matter what. I promise.”

His eyes were hard, but his voice was soft, and Will was so so happy to have him here at that moment. He was so thankful for his friend.

He cleared his throat. “No. No, I need to know tonight. I just need to know…”

Chris nodded and then he turned to Melissa. “Lead the way.”

She led them through the bar area and the main dining space, and up the stairs to a second level with fewer tables and more privacy. Will felt the breath leave him; Tristan had taken him here before for one of their first dates. They’d sat by the window right over… His mind stopped thinking. They were sitting at the exact same table that Tristan had taken him to a few months ago. They were holding hands, gazing into each other's eyes. Tristan said something and the other man laughed.

Will saw red.

He felt Chris’s hand on his arm, and he thought that he might be saying something to him, but he didn’t listen. He marched right over to their table and growled out, “You asshole .”

Tristan and the other man looked up at him. Tristan paled, the other man looked confused.

“You absolute fucking asshole. What the fuck? How could you?” Will heard his voice rising, and knew that other tables were looking over at them, but he didn’t care.

Tristan held up a hand, seemingly unsure of what to do. “I- Will- How did you-”

Will cut him off. “You told me that you were going on a business trip to San Diego this weekend. This doesn’t look like any business trip I’ve ever seen,” he hissed, gesturing to the other man.

“I’m not business, I’m his boyfriend. Who the fuck are you?” the other man asked, starting to look angry.

“William Poindexter. I’ve been dating his asshole for five months, but this is officially the end of our relationship.” He picked up Tristan’s wine glass, and the other man’s glass of water and then dumped both on their heads, slamming the glasses down with a bang.

Chris gasped behind him, Tristan spluttered out a few curse words and the other man stared at him in shock.

“Have a good fucking night,” Will growled, and then he turned on his heel and left.

Will saw Chris talking to Melissa, and a small part of him felt that he should apologize for the mess he made but the rest of him wanted to leave quickly. He was so fucking done with this shitfest. Tonight had been awful.

After he thundered down the stairs, Chris fell into step beside him.

Neither of them spoke before they got back to the car. Chris started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot. Will stared out the side window. He felt numb; all the fight had died in him. He felt empty, and like he needed to sleep for a month.

“Do you want to crash at my house tonight?” Chris asked quietly.

Will looked at him. His face was set in a tiny frown, face creased in concern.

“Yeah, please.” And then he started to cry.

---

Some days were harder than others.

Some days Will would throw himself into his work and curse Tristan all he wanted and swear he was better off without him. Those days he actually felt like he meant it. He’d go out with friends and laugh and actually forget about him for a while.

Some days, Will couldn’t do any of that. It was those days where he would watch sad movies and try not to cry and feel so so sad and hurt. He couldn’t understand how Tristan could do this to him. Or why he had done this to him. Those were the days where he would facetime his sisters or Mom and let them comfort him, because he needed it.

Slowly, he started having more good days than bad, and he slowly forgot more and more about Tristan and their relationship. It helped that work kept him busy, and that Chris was more than happy to hang out with him, and the fact that the gym by his house was open at 5:30am everyday and didn’t close until 10pm. He learned to distract himself, and keep himself busy, until suddenly he found that he didn’t need to anymore. He didn’t need the constant distraction. It still hurt, thinking about Tristan, but it was a dull ache, like someone poking at a scar, instead of the searing pain it once used to be.

He didn’t think the dull ache was going away anytime soon, but Will could live with it. He was learning to live with it.

Four months after the Incident, as Will had taken to calling it, he went out to a bar with Chris and a few work friends.

He was having a good day, a really good day. They had just finished a major project at work and his boss was over the moon, and Will thought, thinking about giving everyone bonuses.

And he had joined a community hockey league with Chris, and fallen in love with hockey all over again. It wasn’t as competitive as the NCAA team he had played for during college, but holy shit it felt good to have the ice under his feet again. And Chris was such a good goalie.

So yeah, he was having a really good day, and he sort of wanted to find someone to take home. He was ready to finally move on and close the door on Tristan and their relationship.

He was at a corner table with his bros, everyone laughing at a story that Andy was telling about a missing pool noodle and the hottest girl he had ever seen, but Will wasn’t really paying attention. He was half watching the Habs vs Pens game on the TV above the bar, absentmindedly sipping his beer, lost in thought.

He felt Chris nudge his foot and tilt his chin over to two girls at a tall table in the middle of the bar. They were looking at their table, and when Will met their eyes they blushed and looked away.

He turned back to Chris. “You want to go talk to them?”

He shrugged, smile on his lips. “I mean, I wouldn’t say no? I think that the girl farthest from us is actually wearing a Shark’s t-shirt?”

Will laughed, setting his mostly empty glass down and getting out of the booth. “Come on, C. Get up.”

The other guys closest to them laughed, throwing some suggestions their way, and Chris gave them the middle finger good naturedly, before he and Will crossed the floor to the bar where the girls were.

Sure enough, the girl who Chris thought was sporting Shark merch was, and he grinned at her, offering her his hand.

“Hey, my name’s Chris and you have a very good taste in hockey teams. Can I buy you a drink?”

She grinned, shaking his hand. “I knew it! Oh- um,” she blushed and Chris smiled wider. “Hi, my name’s Caitlin.” She hopped off the stool she was sitting on and nodded towards the bar. “And I’d love a drink.”

Will tried not to smile too wide as the two of them walked off towards the bar.

He turned back to the other girl, who was watching Chris and Cailin with a smile. She was gorgeous, all warm brown skin, shiny dark hair, and bright hazel eyes.

“Hey, I’m Will.”

“Naimah. And I’m sorry, you’re very handsome but,” she held up her left hand and he saw a wedding band on her ring finger. “I’m already taken.”

He laughed. “Congratulations. And well, I prefer men myself anyways.”

Her eyebrows rose ever so slightly, and she grinned. “Well, then I’ll introduce you to my brother, Derek. He went to the bathroom but he should be- oh, there he is. Derek!”

She waved to someone behind Will and he turned.

“Holy shit.”

He couldn’t believe it.

Derek, Will finally had a name for him, lost his smile as he stopped at their table. They stared at each other for a minute. Will was totally speechless.

“William Poindexter. This is a surprise,” Derek said, recovering first.

“I- Well-” Will spluttered, running a hand through his hair.

“Derek, what’s going on?” Naimah asked, eyes flicking between the two men.

“Give us a second Naimah, will you?” he asked, not taking his eyes off of Will.

She didn’t move until Derek looked at her and nodded. She pursed her lips together and got up, heading over to the bar.

“Umm,” Derek hesitated. “I guess- do you want to sit? We probably owe each other a discussion…” He trailed off.

Will nodded, pulling out a chair. He was still shocked, of all the bars in New York they really had to end up at the same one.

Derek laughed quietly, “Yeah, what are the odds right?”

“Oh, did I say that out loud?” Will asked, flushing.

“Yeah bro, you did.”

Neither said anything after that, and an awkward silence formed between them.

“I um- I’m sorry I dumped that drink on you,” Will blurted, ears turning red.

He silently groaned. Jesus Will, pull yourself together!

“Oh, no hard feelings. It um- Well, I understand why you did it.”

“Can I ask,” Will cleared his throat. This was an awkward question, but he wanted to know. “Ah, how long were you and him…” he trailed off.

Derek looked at him silently.

He started to panic. “I mean, you don’t ha-”

Derek interrupted him. “That was our third date. So it was still really new. I uh, didn’t stay long enough to let him explain anything though. I was too angry.”

Will nodded after a minute, he understood that feeling perfectly. His anger was gone now though, as well as most of the sadness. Will was ready to move on and this was good closure.

His eyes drifted down and he spotted the crest of a hockey association on Derek’s t-shirt. He squinted. Yeah, Will was pretty sure that he had played against that team recently.

“You play hockey?” Will heard himself asking.

Derek looked surprised, and glanced down at his t-shirt. “Oh, yeah I play defense for the Venom.”

Will smiled hesitantly. He had no idea what he was doing. “We played you guys like, three weeks ago? I play for Atomic.”

Derek’s eyes lit up with recognition. “Holy shit! I remember you guys! Your goalie was so fucking good bro. You sure he’s never gone pro?”

Will laughed, nodding towards the bar where Chris and Caitlin were talking. “Nope, he works with me. He played NCAA in college though, for Samwell. They won the championship under his captaincy in 2018.”

“I remember you too. D-man. Number 24. You blocked all of my fucking shots that night. And let me guess, you had to have played NCAA at some point too, right?”

“And you blocked all of mine! But yeah, I played for Boston.”

Derek laughed, “Shit, BU wow .”

Will rolled his eyes, grin firmly in place. “Who’d you play for, hmm?”

“Ah, well I played for Michigan.”

Will’s eyes widened, “No way! Your team was full of goons!”

“Well yeah, and enough actual skilled players, like yours truly, to win in 2016 and 2017. How many championships has BU won again?”

“Jesus. Chirp chirp chirp.”

They grinned at each other.

Will sat back. Derek was actually pretty great.

“Why don’t we start over,” Derek said, clearing his throat. He held out his hand. “Derek Nurse, nice to meet you.”

Will smiled, shaking his hand. “William Poindexter. Can I, um, can I buy you a drink?”

Derek smiled. “Yeah, I’d love one.”

---