Tumgik
#WOW we are so excited for you & grateful that you made us a part of your journey !!!! <3<3<3
carpecaelo · 8 months
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peace iv. || neteyam
synopsis: neteyam learns more about you and himself tonight.
tags: fluff, slow-burn, neteyam and reader being simps, slight angst, neteyam x fem!metkayina!reader, slight ao'nung x reader, reader lore, straight up ignorance.
a/n: fun fact the story part is the first thing I've ever written for this series. also thank you so much to that sweet anon whose kind words pushed me to finish this, ilysm.
5.6k words (damn).
chapter iii || series masterlist || ao3 link
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I'm a mirrorball, I'll show you every version of yourself tonight.
"You guys are going to love this place," you beamed to the siblings as you led them through the beach.
It didn't take a lot of convincing for Neteyam's parents to allow you to take him and his siblings for a little picnic by the beach. Of course his father was reluctant at first since his two boys did just get into a fight. But after seeing Tuk jump up and down in excitement and his mate's glare, he relented.
There was also the added fact that this picnic meant that they could avoid the clan's communal dinner. After what happened they definitely didn't want the extra tension. Your mother shared this sentiment after you had gone back to the healing huts and gave her a rundown of what happened.
So she helped you pack a picnic basket and set you on your way with the Sully siblings. After she scolded you on how you could've gotten hurt running into the middle of that scuffle that is.  
But was it really scolding if she had a smile on her face the entire time?
You all were now on your way to one of your favourite picnic spots.
Neteyam had taken the duty of carrying the basket because Tuk insisted that she hold your hand. And who were you to say no?
"Are we almost there?" Tuk asked, drawing out the syllable of her last words making you chuckle.
"Yes almost, just a few more minutes," you smiled down at her, swinging her hand in yours as you all looped through the people who were also walking along the beach. It was shockingly easy to do so. Especially considering that this time the beach would usually be bustling in preparation for dinner.
The crowd seemed to part instantly as you walked, and although it made things easier, the reasoning behind it brought a foul taste to your mouth. But you tried to spit the taste away, right now was supposed to be a happy time.
"You know you didn't need to do this for us," Kiri's voice rang before your thoughts could get too muddled, and you turned to her with a grateful smile.
"But I wanted to," you repeated the same words you said to Neteyam.
"It's the least I can do after how my friends have treated you."
"You don't have to feel bad," Lo'ak spoke this time. You turned to him and your eyes immediately found his wounds that you had tended to right when Neteyam had found him.
He noticed this as he continued to speak.
"I already made peace with Ao'nung."
Now this makes your eyes go wide. You had known him all your life and it took at least a week for him to forgive you that one time you accidentally got fish blood in his hair.
Like it was your fault he was tickling you when you were tasked to throw the fish guts away.
"We're actually going to meet tomorrow," Lo'ak added, making your shock grow tenfold. You were about to voice your concern before Neteyam popped in.
"Look at you, making friends," he chuckled, bringing his free hand to pinch the back of his brother's neck. 
The sight brought warmth to your chest, but you were still a bit cautious.
"That's nice to hear," you said, giving him a tight smile as you matched Tuk's movements when she continued to swing your hands.
"As much as I love him, Ao'nung isn't very forgiving, hopefully he doesn't act up again. I swear that boy," you began, about to go on a full on tangent before Tuk's voice stopped you.
"Wow, is this it?" She exclaimed, tugging your hand in the direction of the sight.
You turned your head and were met with the sight of your favourite picnic spot. 
The greenery surrounding it had become more lush this time of year. More stray vines had begun to climb up the lantern poles that were now glowing in soft hues of orange as eclipse was now upon you.
You smiled as you glanced down at the sandy ground that had little tufts of grass growing in random spots. 
"Yes, it is," you smiled down at her, pulling her towards the middle of the area.
"Come on everyone!" You hollered from over your shoulder, and the three other siblings followed.
"It almost looks like the forest," Neteyam said as he stood in one of the tufts of grass, wiggling his toes in it as he did. 
He met your eyes with a smile, and you returned it knowingly.
"This area is far enough from the beach to allow some of these to grow," you explained, gesturing to the tufts of grass, the small patches of flowers, and of course the vines.
"But it is close enough to the village that it was still deemed safe. Many prefer the beaches however, so my family and I tend to get this spot all to ourselves," you smiled as you remembered your grandfather as you stepped into a tuft of grass.
He had found and maintained this spot long before you were born all the way up to his death. You and your remaining family members take care of it now.
"You all are welcome to come here whenever you like," you told them as they continued to look over the greenery. 
"Now," you clapped your hands together since Tuk had pulled away from you in favor of poking at the fauna on the ground with fluttering petals.
"Let's begin shall we."
You took the picnic basket from Neteyam and pulled out a large rattan mat and laid it on one of the clearer parts of the ground. Everyone chipped in from there, helping arrange the seemingly never ending amounts of food.
Once everything was out and you were all sat the Sullies looked like they didn't know where to start. So you of course suggested your favourites of the bunch
"You should try this first, it is starberry jam that my friend Kyuna made, and this is a kelp biscuit," you grinned, picking up a wooden spoon so you could spread the jam on the biscuit before handing it to Kiri.
"Don't be afraid, it's very good," you tell her, taking in her hesitant gaze.
"The jam even has medicinal properties," you added, and that seemed to convince her as she took a bite.
Her eyes widened upon tasting the jam, and she covered her mouth as she spoke between chews.
"Wow, this has medicinal properties?" She exclaimed, making you chuckle as she took another big bite.
"I know the sweetness may try to tell you different, but we use it as a remedy for headaches and sea sickness," you explained, picking up another kelp biscuit and spreading jam on it as well.
"And of course, sweet tooths," you chuckled, opening the pouch of sea salt you got earlier.
You sprinkled some atop the jam covered biscuit and handed it to Lo'ak this time. 
"Here try some too, the sea salt helps bring out its flavor," you said about working on another biscuit for Tuk. Before you did you gestured to all the food that laid on the mat with a smile.
"Don't be shy everybody, dig in."
A comfortable cacophony of chewing, clinking, and chatter filled the air as eclipse finally settled in. It didn't take long for everyone to take a bite from all the dishes and treats before them. 
Lo'ak in particular seemed to favor the fish fries, and you made a mental note to tell your mother about it. 
Your heart felt so full as you watched everyone interact with each other and the food. The events from earlier today now seemed to weigh less on you as you took it all in. 
*****
Neteyam watched with fond eyes as you offered Lo'ak your remaining fish fries after he huffed in disappointment when Tuk snatched up the last ones. He liked how patient you were with his siblings, he knew first hand of course how difficult they could be.
His siblings seemed to mirror his sentiment as well. Especially Tuk who was currently looking up at you with stars in her eyes as she munched on another kelp biscuit you prepared for her. 
He felt so at peace in that moment that he decided to turn his brain off just for a while. He shed his warrior skin just a bit as he got lost in the plants, in the air, in the chatter, in you as you spoke silently with Kiri about one of your other dishes with medicinal value.
Neteyam only snapped back into his usual role when Tuk's voice cut through the air.
"Why are your eyes the same as ours?" The little girl asked, batting her eyelashes innocently at you, not noticing how her older siblings stiffened at the question.
It wasn't that it was bad, they just didn't know how you would react to such a question on your appearance.
"Tuk," Neteyam scolded gently, and Tuk's face crumpled in confusion.
"What, I just want to know?" She defended, looking at you again, and Neteyam did the same to gauge your current expression.
He was met with a smile and the wave of your hand.
"It's quite alright, it is an honest question," you told him before placing a hand to your chest and addressing Tuk.
"I am Omatikaya by blood," you said, and the family let out little gasps, including Neteyam.
So is this why you felt so familiar? 
"My grandfather was a part of your clan."
"You are Omatikaya?" Lo'ak asked with so much disbelief that Kiri slapped him in the back of the head.
"Yes," you chuckled.
"That's why my eyes are the way they are. And that's why my mother's skin is the way it is."
Neteyam then added to the conversation, all the while sounding more gentle than Lo'ak.
"Why didn't you two tell us you were Omatikaya when we first met?" He asked with genuine curiosity.
"My mother does not like to speak on matters she deems obvious, and she taught me to do the same," you answered truthfully.
"She wears her skin proudly on her back and does not need to talk about it. She lets her actions speak for herself, she takes care of her own," you smiled gently, looking over them all with kindness. 
Kindness you had given them ever since you met.
Neteyam hummed in response, returning your smile. It all made sense to him.
"Wow," Tuk exclaimed before asking.
"But if your grandfather is Omatikaya why hasn't he come to say hello too?" 
Your smile faltered slightly.
"My grandfather is in the arms of Eywa now," your voice peeped.
This earned another bounce of silence as the little girl looked down sadly.
"Oh, I'm so sorry."
"Don't be," you waved her apology away, stroking her hair gently.
"You didn't know."
Silence came once more, only to be broken when Lo'ak cleared his throat.
"Um, I have another question, if you don't mind," he said, rubbing the back of his head that was still recovering from Kiri's hand.
"Oh please, ask away," you grinned.
"Nothing brings me more joy than curing curiosity."
At that moment Neteyam prayed that his brother wouldn't ask anything stupid.
"How did your grandfather make his way here?" Lo'ak finally asked after taking a breath.
"Our clan is far from here, and probably even farther than before the war caused the people to move," he explained his curiosity and his older brother realised that his prayers weren't in vain.
That was actually a good question, and Neteyam found himself leaning in as you answered.
"Well," you sighed.
"My grandfather's story is a grand one. It is  quite long, it may bore you."
"Please tell us the story, please," Tuk begged.
"Yes, I want to hear it too," Kiri added.
"I'm a bit curious myself," Neteyam agreed, inching closer from where he sat across from you.
You locked eyes with him and chuckled, he felt his chest tighten at the sound.
"If you insist," you relented with the clear of your throat.
You straightened your posture and that just had everyone huddling closer if that was even possible. You then began speaking with a grander tone, a tone that just drew Neteyam more to you.
"It was long ago, before the sky people set foot on Eywa's land. My grandfather, Maratu, came from a renowned hunting family of the Omatikaya and was the third of five sons," you spoke, gesturing as you did so. 
You reminded Neteyam of the many storytellers in his clan at that moment.
"His father was a fierce man, one of the warleaders of the clan. He treated his sons like warriors rather than children ever since they took their first steps."
Your words had Neteyam stomach churning.
"But for reasons my grandfather never knew, even till his death, he was given the brunt of his father's anger," you went on.
"Day in and day out he was ridiculed for the way he held a bow, for the way he ran, and for the way he fought against other Na'vi. He was broken down till he felt like he was an outcast."
Neteyam frowned at your words, especially when he noticed Lo'ak hang his head low as you continued.
"His brothers were no help, only concerned with pleasing their father. And his mother had died giving birth to his youngest brother. So with no one on his side, my grandfather decided to flee from the clan and search for a new life, his own purpose."
As you spoke there was a sad sheen in your eyes, and Neteyam felt the urge to comfort you. But he was too far from you to do it the way he wanted, so he gave you an encouraging smile that you nodded at.
"With a bag packed with food, water, and his most trusted weapons my grandfather set out on his ikran in the dead of night," you told them, gesturing to the night sky as you went on.
"He did not know where he was going, only that he wanted to leave so he decided to follow the brightest stars that Eywa would shine every night. He travelled for a total of seven nights, only stopping to eat and sleep."
Your tone then became solemn.
"Soon his supplies started to dwindle to the point that on the seventh night of his travels he lost control of his ikran and fell into the water below and that water was the same that surrounds us now."
Neteyam watched as Tuk let out a gasp at your words, clutching her hands as she looked at you with wide eyes.
"What happened to him next he did not remember," you shook your head before smiling.
"The gaps were only filled in by my grandmother, Syanan. She saw him fall into the water that night and called for the Metkayina warriors to rescue him. She was tsakarem at the time so she took it upon herself to heal him," your smile only seemed to grow as you spoke.
"She watched over him that entire night, even when she was sure the water in his lungs had left and she had treated every scratch on him."
"In her words," you placed your hand on your chest.
"She felt drawn to him, like the waves to the shore." 
Neteyam felt his heart grip at that, he didn't know why, but it did.
"The next morning my grandfather remembered very clearly. He awoke to the tsakarem wiping the sweat from his brow. She was looking down on him with what he described was the most beautiful blue eyes he had ever seen."
Neteyam watched as Tuk swooned at your grandfather's story.
"They fell in love?" Her little voice asked.
"Yes," you grinned, playing with her braids.
"They did, Tuk."
"Wait a minute," Kiri joined in this time, confusion etched into her soft features.
"Your grandmother was tsakarem, does that mean-,."
It seemed that you knew exactly what she was going to ask.
"Yes, she was already promised to another. The future olo'eyktan at the time. The great Tonowari's own father."
This revelation had another round of gasps echoing in the small group, even Neteyam was on the edge of his seat.
"But she did not love him," you shook your head.
"Their union was arranged since birth as their families were close friends," you paused for a moment to lick your lips. 
"This is where it gets interesting."
Neteyam saw a small glint in your eyes.
"When my grandfather was finally well enough, he told his story to the elders and despite being wary, they pitied him. He had basically nothing after all. So my grandmother was tasked to teach him the ways of the water. And with all the time they spent together, they fell deeper in love."
The siblings couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity with your words. The romance was not so different from their parents' story.
"They fell to the point that it was obvious to everyone in the clan."
Your voice then grew solemn again and a frown crept onto your lips and your eyes narrowed.
"Tonowari's father, although he did not love my grandmother, only accepting the union to please his parents. He felt like his authority was being threatened."
Neteyam watched your frown turn into a scowl.
"Because of this it was planned that my grandfather be exiled from the island, to keep the peace. My grandmother was not happy, but she kept silent, not wanting to bring shame to her family."
Your features softened ever so slightly at your next words 
"She herself was already being shamed for falling for an outsider when she was already promised. And my grandfather loved her so much that he did not fight his punishment."
Sadness was evident in your tone which had the siblings frowning along with you. But your voice suddenly burst with energy, you were now at the story's climax.
"But on the day he was supposed to leave, a great tragedy struck. He was already mounted on his ikran when an akula had snuck into the reef and was attacking a group of children who were swimming."
Neteyam's eyes widened at this. He remembered being warned by Tsireya about akulas. They were some of the terrors found outside of the reef.
If it was possible, you had earned more of his interest. Towards your story, that is.
"My grandfather was the first to see the commotion and flew his ikran towards them and jumped into the water."
You had gone from sitting down to kneeling high on your knees. Your gestures had also become more dramatic at this point, perfectly matching your words.
"He reached the children before any other warrior could. There were a total of three, two were panicking while one had his arm trapped in the jaw of the rogue akula."
You gripped your wrist with your other hand as you spoke, and the sudden slapping of your skin had the family jolting back a bit.
"He surveyed the situation and quickly took both sides of the akula's jaw in his bare hands."
Neteyam watched with his full attention as both of your hands came up gripping at nothing as you pretended to push a strong force apart.
"He showed strength that no Metkayina has seen before as he pried the animal's jaw open."
Your hands dropped dramatically at your sides, signalling the stop of the force.
"Thankfully, the child's arm was mostly alright. Only a few puncture wounds. But it's been said if my grandfather had come a second later his arm would have been chomped clean off."
There was a wild look in your eyes as you went on that had everyone almost shivering. Even Neteyam felt on edge.
"Once free, my grandfather instructed the three children to swim back to shore together. And as they were leaving my grandfather dove into the water and began wrestling with the akula from beneath it."
Both of your hands were now clenched into fists as you spoke.
"He knew that he had to take the animal's life before anything else was to happen. So he looked for just the right spot on the akula's stomach and stabbed it."
Your hand jolted up and back down as you mimicked a stabbing motion. A quick silence filled the air, adding to the tension.
"It all happened so fast that he did not need the help of the other warriors. My grandfather emerged victorious," you said, and the group let out a collective breath of relief.
"People say that the water around him had turned purple with blood. None of which was his own."
Your voice had calmed at this point as you sat back down.
"Everyone in the clan saw this, and knew that it was not worth it to exile him. No Na'vi blessed with such strength and bravery from Eywa herself should ever be exiled, the clan leaders had said of him."
Pride was practically dripping from your voice at this point.
"So they decided to reward him, and the clan leaders asked him what he wanted from them. They stated that no ask was too large, especially with his feet."
Neteyam suddenly found himself speaking.
"He asked for your grandmother's hand?" He asked, hands clenched as he held on to your every word.
"No," you shook your head, a smile now creeping back onto your face.
"He asked that she be given a choice of her own, and that no matter what she chose she would not be shamed nor be treated differently."
The older boy felt his heart sigh at this, and he could see that even Lo'ak was trying to hide an audible reaction. 
His two sisters didn't bother hiding anything. Tuk was clapping, and Kiri who was usually so reserved had her hands clasped together and resting against her cheek.
"My grandmother of course chose him in the end," you finally tell them, and Neteyam smiled as your eyes briefly glimpsed at the stars.
"They lived together on this very island and had five children. None more loved than the other. My mother is the youngest of those children, and I am her only child."
You let out a fond sigh, looking at the ground before speaking once more.
"That is how my grandfather came to be here," you rested your hand on your heart.
"Thus why my eyes are the way they are."
"Woah," Lo'ak let out with wide eyes, he didn't know that his question would lead to this.
His family shared his reaction as they all let out their own sounds of amazement.
"I told you it is quite the story," you chuckled at their awed expressions before picking up a piece of fruit.
As if you hadn't just told them one of the best stories they ever heard.
*****
You relaxed your posture and took a bite out of the slice of seabutan you picked up. You only spoke again after finishing the tangy treat.
"This story is a big part of why I do not agree with how my friends treat you, how the other clan members look at you" you added, taking them out of their shock with the reminder of the day's prior horrid events.
You observed as Neteyam's tongue jutted out to lick the still healing cut on his lip. Even when scarred, his lips still held a supple irresistible quality to them.
You quickly looked away once those thoughts invaded your mind, cheeks slightly heated as you continued to speak to him and his siblings.
"It is already wrong to be so cruel, but their reasoning disgusts me even more," your nose scrunches at the thought.
"There is no such thing as a freak, as an outsider. Even with the blood your body holds. At the end of the day we are all made by Eywa, we are all Na'vi, we must all protect our own," you said, voice raising in a way that was different from earlier at the beach.
Your voice held more passion than anger.
"Like what my grandmother did for my grandfather. Like what my grandfather did for her and those children."
"That is why I see you," you smiled at them, locking eyes with Neteyam momentarily who seemed to be giving you the biggest smile back.
"I see all of you," your smile grew as you brought your free hand to your forehead before gesturing to them.
"We see you too," Tuk giggled, mirroring your gesture as her siblings echoed her sentiment while doing the same gesture.
Your smile only grew from there. Especially when you locked eyes with Neteyam for what felt like the millionth time that night.
He mimicked your expression, making your heart skip a beat as he said the very same words you did. The very same words his siblings did, but somehow, it held more weight.
The smile on his lips only made your muddling thoughts worse.
"I see you," he whispered, in a way that seemed to be only for you.
*****
The night ended just when Tuk began to yawn and Kiri had started rubbing at her eyes. You had stood up and suggested that they go ahead and get home while you cleaned up.
Neteyam protested this, saying that he could help you. 
You argued and one thing led to another and Lo'ak was now carrying Tuk, yelling a goodbye from over his shoulder as he led a tired Kiri home. You couldn't help but roll your eyes as he gave you a look that said 'I told you so.'
You both watched them leave until they were all but blurs in the distance. Going straight into cleaning right after.
As you placed empty plates into your basket you realized that in one way or another, you and Neteyam would always be left alone. Not that you were complaining, the serendipity of it all just intrigued you. 
Yeah, that was it.
With the dishes put away, Neteyam brought it upon himself to roll up the rattan mat and place it in the basket. 
Now ready to leave, there was another argument about who was going to carry the basket. An argument that was settled by Neteyam suggesting you both each take hold of one of the baskets handles.
You agreed and began your trek homeward.
Comfortable quiet filled the air as you and Neteyam walked along the beach. The only sounds that were heard were the ocean and the wind. 
Halfway through your walk you began seeing his gaze flick toward you in your peripherals. It happened a few times before you called him out.
"You seem like you are not saying what you want to," you tell him, turning to head towards him.
He seemed to look down in shame from getting caught, his ears twitching as he did so.
"What is it, Neteyam?" You tried to push him a bit.
"I can't imagine any words coming from you being bad, so you might as well spit it out."
"Thank you," he responds, finally looking back at you.
"You think too highly of me."
"No, I think correctly of you," you smiled, swinging the basket that hung between you playfully.
"Now just speak away."
He returned your smile and took a breath before speaking.
"It's just that, your grandfather's story has touched me in a way I cannot begin to comprehend," he expressed, and you feel your heart grip at the slight sadness in his tone.
Your eyes urged him to continue.
"He sounded like such a great man, thank you for sharing his legacy with me," he smiled.
"With us."
"I don't need to be thanked," you shook your head, looking up at the stars that reminded you that your grandfather and grandmother were still watching over you.
"His story is one I enjoy telling, it makes me feel closer to him now that he's gone."
You lock eyes with him.
"You know, he would've liked you."
"Really?" He asked, brow bone shooting upward.
"Yes," your eyes softened at his humble tone.
"You're strong, kind, and you take care of your own. All things he tried to be, all things he was," you said, truthfully so.
He looks down momentarily with a smile.
"Thank you."
"Don't thank me," you hummed.
"Thank yourself."
For a moment, you both just stood. It was as if nothing else was around you but soft smiles and understanding. 
Till a voice cut through the air.
"Ma'ite, what are you doing?" The voice yelled, and your and Neteyam's head snapped in its direction.
It was your father, his towering figure was standing with his hands on his hips in front of your marui. You and Neteyam had stopped just before the bridges that connected your homes.
"Who's that?" Neteyam asked, looking between you and the figure in the distance.
"That's my father," you answered simply.
"Your father?" He asked again.
"Yes," you sighed, yanking the basket handle he was holding out of his hand and running forward.
"Come on before he loses his head."
Neteyam followed after you and soon you were both now standing before your father. You didn't notice how stiff Neteyam had gotten beside you.
"There you are," your father greeted you, bringing a hand to rest on top of our head.
"I was beginning to worry about you, paskalin," he said before directing his gaze towards Neteyam.
Your brow crumpled as you noticed the glare behind your father's eyes.
"And you," he nodded his head at the Omatikayan boy next to you 
"You are Jake's eldest son, am I correct?"
"Yes I am," Neteyam nodded stiffly, showing your father's scare tactics were actually working.
"It is nice to meet you sir, I see you," he said with a respectful bow of his head and the accompanying gesture.
Your father seemed pleased with this as he copied the gesture.
"I see you too," he nods, before his tone suddenly goes deep.
"But you keeping my daughter out late better not become a common occurrence."
"Papa," you groaned, seeing Neteyam's eyes widen and his ears pin to the sides of his head.
"He only helped me clean up," you explained.
"He didn't need to, but he wanted to."
"As he should," your father nodded, seeming to let down his facade.
"Thank you for helping her," he grinned before gesturing behind you two.
"But you better get going now, your family is waiting."
You and Neteyam turned to see his mother waiting patiently at their door for him.
"Of course," Neteyam agreed, giving your father another respectful bow of his head.
"It was nice meeting you again sir," he said, before turning back to you.
"Thank you for tonight," he said gently, with a smile that reflected his tone.
You beamed at him, giving him a nod before he turned around and began his short walk home.
When he was a good distance away you turned back to your father with a glare.
"Papa," you huffed.
"Why must you scare him like that?"
"I only joke paskalin," he chuckled, looking down at you with a teasing smile.
"It is Eywa's great balance," he explained.
"Your uncles made my life horrible when I was courting your mother."
"We aren't courting though," you argued, making him throw his head back in a laugh.
"I know that, but you know me. I like getting a head start on things," he gave another teasing smile that had your eyes narrowing.
First your mother and now him. This was a strange occurrence indeed, they had never teased you about such things before.
"Papa," you warned.
"Hey don't give me that look," he stroked your hair before his features suddenly became serious.
"I need to talk to you actually, I heard there was a fight on the beach."
Your eyes widened and your body stiffened at his tone, so you jumped quickly to defend yourself.
"I wasn't involved in that fight I swear," you exclaimed.
"I only broke it up,"
At your panic, a smile broke on his face. A smile that had your eyes narrowing again.
"I know," he chuckled at your fast changing expression.
"It's just that I heard those boys were practically shaking when you got to the scene." 
His features seemed to soften with pride.
"Is that true?"
You mirrored the smile he gave you, maybe a little more smug, but a smile nonetheless.
"Maybe they were shaking a little."
He threw his head back in a hearty laugh before placing a hand on your shoulder.
"That's my girl."
*****
Neteyam watched your father throw his arm around your shoulder and lead you into your marui. He only turned away when you were out of his sight.
He set his eyes back on his own marui that was now only a few steps away. His mother was still standing by the door waiting for him. Her expression was unreadable and fierce, like it always was.
Behind her he could see the figure of his father who seemed to be leading his siblings to bed.
When he got to his mother's side her hand went straight to his head to play with his braids. A gesture that fought with her expression.
"Did you enjoy yourself tonight ma'itan?" She asked, her features finally softening as he was met with a smile from her eldest son.
"Yes, I did sa'nok." He answered truthfully, his head turning towards your home for just a second.
"I did very much."
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chapter v.
let me know what you think!
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570 notes · View notes
muzicgenerator · 7 months
Note
Hey, can I request an angst story with Bill and reader (the reader is female) abt crazy fans please? Like them (Bill and the reader) admitting somewhere (idk maybe in an interview for a magazine) that they almost broke up because of that (maybe reader's fanbase is known for being "too much" sometimes like following the reader everywhere, being so in love with her etc)
(Also could the story take place in the 2000s please?)
Goodbye 👋
i like this one im actually excited abt writing this one shot
btw im so sorry for late reply AHSJHFKDHDK please expect ill take like AT LEAST a week to answer yalls request bc im busy as hell w school 😭😭 love u guys pls understand
and again this aint entirely proof read
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Too Much?
Pairing: Bill Kaulitz x Fem Reader
Genre: Angst, Mostly fluff
Warnings: Stalking, mention of nonconsensual touching, very embarrassing storytime from bill
Request Status: closed :(
✩°。⋆⸜ 🎧✮ I'm Not Okay (I Promise) : My Chemical Romance
(Time set back in late November of 2007)
Being a famous actress since as a child was unbelievably tough.
You had worked so hard and expertly; you didn't even have time to spend your childhood properly.
Just at the age of 19 and you've finished numerous movies and series. A true self-made millionaire, really.
You and your ravenette boyfriend are currently doing an interview for a night show.
"So ____, wow! After a long pause from doing films you're finally gonna have one showing soon! How is it like? Being back and all; being the talk of the country."
In the past one and a half year you hadn't done any projects since you've decided to take a break for yourself. And now you're once again busy taping with film staff and directors for your new and upcoming Teenage Romance movie.
Rest assured it's not your typical boy-meets-girl or vice versa and they do sappy sweet stuff and get together kind of film; it has its own uniqueness that will surely be called as "One of 2000s greatest Teen Romance movies of all time."
"Oh, I feel great Hanna. I had a deserving break and I'm back to doing one of the things I love most. I'm even happier because I got my lover and his band to sing the theme song for the movie." You truthfully answered and chuckled by the end of your statement.
"How about you Bill? How are things with your band?" Hanna included Bill to the conversation.
At that, he smiled politely. "Everything's great with us y'know, we're still together and all. Which I'm grateful for."
After a few more minutes for pep talk; the blonde interviewer finally decided to get onto the exciting part of the show.
"And now, for the moment we've all been waiting for! Dunk Tank!" Hanna smiled widely at the selected crowd.
"Where in this game; you will pick someone from the crowd who will accompany you with this game.
Your selected teammate will ask any question they want; to which you will answer, and if you don't want to then they'll get a chance to throw a ball on the target. Where if they hit it, you'll fall down the tank."
Hanna excitedly announced despite having done this for the nth time.
"____ and Bill, play Rock, Paper, Scissors to see who goes first."
You knew you'd beat Bill since every single time you played it - he'd miserably lose.
"Oh, I'm confident in winning this one!" you proudly say.
"Just because you've beat me all the other times we played this, doesn't mean I'll lose now!" Bill accepted your challenge and laughed.
He was right. He won for the very first time.
"Oh my God! Did I seriously win?!" your black clothed boyfriend exclaimed.
"I only let you win this time because I felt sorry." you playfully rolled your eyes with a smirk.
"Whatever, I'm gonna choose now." he giggled and stepped closer to the crowd.
His fan girls were screaming at the top of their lings, begging to be chosen by him.
No, you weren't jealous. Not one bit. Sometimes Bill would even complain about you not being possessive of him from time to time and would think you're not as in love as he thought.
It's cute, really. Then you'll show him how much you love him through actions rather than words.
Bill chose a girl who seemingly looked two or three years younger.
The joyous girl screamed in surprise; "Oh my god! What?! Me??! SERIOUSLY??"
It made Bill giggle, "Yes, you! Now get down here!"
A body guard helped the girl down; and when she was no longer at the stairs she rushed Bill to hug him but abruptly stopped. "Hi oh my god you're more beautiful up close! Can I hug you?!" she says excitingly.
It made your heart flutter just how kinder your boyfriend's fans are compared to yours.
To say your fan base is crazy is an understatement. Many would harass you through nasty words or touching you with no consent; it didn't matter if they did that out of how much they "love" you, it was still disgusting.
"Um, yeah. Sure!" he hesitantly looked at you; his eyes asking for permission. To which you subtly nodded.
Again, your heart melted by how he's making sure you're okay with it. Honestly, you very much understood that being famous would mean people wanting to hug you or any form of physical contact. Plus, it's not like you can say no to Bill from hugging a fan; you'd be a scandal. And you knew Bill wouldn't have any other choice as well.
He wrapped an arm over her shoulders while she fully embraced him. Okay, you're a teensy bit jealous especially by the way she's holding him like he's her man.
But that was soon washed away when she turns to you.
"Hi! What's your name sweetie?" Hanna asked and put a mic on her mouth.
"My name is Pauline!"
Before Hanna could say anything further, Pauline beat her to it.
"____!! I'm such a big fan of you too! I've been watching your movies since forever." saying she's over the moon is definitely an understatement! This will definitely be a core memory.
Almost immediately you wrapped your arms around her back and squeezed her. This girl is definitely one of the most respectable and sweetest fan you've ever met.
Was it really low? Yes.
The audience cheered by how sweet you and Bill had been to the girl and by how jealous they were.
As Bill and Hanna chattered about God knows what; the girl leaned closer to you in order to ask a favour which no one can hear.
"Can I ask you to shout out my brother? He has a huge crush on you!"
"Sorry darling but we're in the middle of a show right now. How about later I ask the staff to send you to the backstage? Then I'll give him my magazine with an autograph, and if you have a camera with you - you can video me saying hi to him!" you came up with a resolution.
Was it over the top? You didn't know and you didn't care. You're just fleeting with joy by how this girl isn't like any other of your fans.
"Seriously? You'd do that for me and my brother?" she gasped.
"Well, yeah. I mean it's not always that I have such nice interactions with people who are a fan."
"Okay lovebirds what are you two talking about there?" Hanna teased with a smirk and Bill playfully pouted.
"Nothing, nothing" you laughed and held Bill's arm as the crowd laughed and cheered.
"If you say sooo." she replied. "Alright, your turn to pick!"
You carefully looked around the crowd and walked five steps of the stairs to get a better view of the people on the back. A fifteen year old boy was holding a banner stating "Bill's No.1 Boy", it was cute, really. So you planned to steal your boyfriend's fan! (this a joke dont hate reader pls)
"The ginger at the back with the banner please." you said to the mic.
The boy squeeled in delight and threw his banner somewhere before running down to you. Your arms opened for an embrace which he immediately jumped into.
"What's your name?" you put the mic to his mouth as you both carefully went down the stairs and back to the stage.
"Sam, I'm Sam! My name is Sam!" his rather high pitched voice said.
"Okay, Sam. I know you're Bill's fan so I'm gonna have to steal you, that okay?"
"Hey, no fair!" Bill patted the boy's head and shot a smile at him.
This moment for him is definitely a core memory and will brag about it to every living human he sees.
"Now, who wants to go first in the tank?" Hanna asked.
"I'll do it" Bill says excitingly.
They agreed and the staff helped him get up. Once he were seated and adjusted in the circular surface; he challenge you.
"Ask a good one!"
"Ohohoo, we definitely will!" you smirked.
You turn to Sam and ask him without the mics near your faces; "What're you gonna ask your idol?"
"Oh uhmm, I don't really know." he says bashfully.
"Maybe his most embarrassing moment?"
"That'll work, definitely." you smile supportively and fist bumped him.
"Bill, you read?!" Hanna exclaimed.
"Born ready!!"
"Alright Sam, ask away!"
"What's the most embarrassing thing that's happened to you?" Sam asked with twinkles in his eyes.
"Oh, definitely when me and ____ weren't dating yet; she threw a sleepover party and she invited me and my mates, and there were three bathrooms, right? The three were being used and in one of those bathrooms it was Tom using it, and I had to rush him because I really needed to take a shit, like I couldn't hold it any farther!
So he went out really pissed and I pushed him off the door and quickly shut it and went right into business."
Bill paused and tried to compose himself as the crowd started to get louder.
"And when I washed and pushed the flush button - It wouldn't flush! So I got really scared because I just shit in my crush's toilet and I can't let anyone know that I'm the one who did it. So i looked around and saw a pack of pads so I took one of them; and forced myself to dip my hand down to grab it and I almost puked!
I look around and see there's no trash bin. So I panic again, and eventually decided I'll just rush down to throw it in the garbage in her garage. I quickly make a run for it and almost bumped into ___"
He now covered his hands in shame and embarrassment. "And she saw the pad in my hand! So she asked me like, 'Is that a pad?' and I'm like yes and so she asks whose it is...... and I said it's mine....."
You know of this story long ago; and it just gets better and better whenever you think or hear of it.
The audience and interviewer roared with laughter; as well as the staff behind and securities who tried to contain their smiles.
"I wish I never asked!" Sam wiped his tears from laughing too hard.
"Get down here Bill! That was too much!" Hanna's cheeks started to hurt, "Sorry to the viewers who are eating."
Bill went down immediately and squeezed the living life out of you. He does this whenever he's feeling embarrassed or nervous, and calls it his "Physical Support" from you.
"You should've let yourself get thrown in the water!" you giggled and hugged him back before he pulled away with a red face.
"Next goes ____!"
Once you were seated and made yourself comfortable on the seat; you tell them you're ready.
It was Pauline's turn to question whatever she wishes. "____, what do you think of your fans?"
She asks sincerely; she must've noticed something by the way you're like to your fan base and to Bill's. A part of you wished she hadn't asked but you've been dying to let the creepers out there know that whatever they'd been doing to you for a long long time - greatly affects you, especially as a young stat growing up in this sort of industry.
You rarely held any meet and greet, rarely had photos with fans where you look actually comfortable and where they weren't touching your waist or hips or near your ass - and ones where you do look comfortable it was mostly with girls or kids, which was not as often as when you do with the rest; who are pedophiles and creepy boys.
Of course you've always been nice when interacting with them; you didn't want to be rude and only wanted to be kind.
Definitely, there were times when you couldn't take it and couldn't do anything about it - other than cry and complain in your lover's arms.
You're forever thankful to have someone like him; he'd always listen to whatever you say and support everything you do.
Not realising; you zoned out quite a bit and snapped out of it when Bill called out your name with worry that he's trying to mask from everyone.
"Oh-, well, obviously I love them so much, if it weren't for them I wouldn't have succeed this much - of course the people who helped me get up in this industry as well.
I truly do appreciate their love and support, seriously. But quite the number of them are uh, how do I say this." you nervously chuckled as everyone listened intently to the tea you're telling.
"Crossing my boundaries? Yes, uh- that." you say not quite satisfied with the word you chose. It was evident that it's worse than just that but the safest.
"We all know people would cross it by taking unsolicited pictures of you, that's given because you're a celebrity, but are there some other ways they would? If you don't mind me asking of course." Hanna carefully asked.
You smiled softly, "Well a few have stalked me to my house - which I dunno how the hell they did so and took pictures of me and they'd send it to me and tell me how they thought of me. Some leave love letters, flowers, food in front of my gate, sent death threats to my exes when I was dating them and even now to my Bill." you left the worse parts out since you didn't want half of the world to be talking about your most private part of life. What you're even telling them now is a whole lot.
"Wow.. we all knew your fan base could get a bit crazy judging from all the videos we see and the news, but not by this much!" Hanna says empathetically.
"It happens, I guess." you try to laugh it off. However, Bill looked at your hues with his that sent the message of "Are you okay?"
In which yours replied with "I'm not okay."
✮✮✮
The game went on a for it was Pauline's turn to the dunk tank, then Sam's.
You continued your cheery self through the whole taping and told yourself you'll regret what you said later in your dressing room. Bill kept his distance close to you and would caress your hand or shoulder as a sign of support - as well as slipping a "How're you holding up?" every now and then.
If there were billions of ways to show gratitude to this man; you'd do every single one of it to him.
After the agonizing show was over; you and Bill kissed Hanna's cheeks as a goodbye and thank you. To which she said back to you both as well and wished to see you soon.
As you made your way to the dressing room in silence with your fingers intertwined with Bill's; you abruptly stop in your tracks.
"I almost forgot I have to sign a magazine for Pauline!"
Your lover looked confused for a second "What? Why?"
"I kinda promised Pauline I'll just sign a magazine for her brother because she asked me to shout him out while taping." you let a small huff and loosened your grip on your boyfriend's slender hand. "How about I'll see you later in the van? You can wait for me there instead if I haven't been back by five minutes."
Bill smiled, "Of course sweetheart, I'll see you later. Love you." he pecked your lips and lovingly looked into your eyes for a moment before heading to his dressing room.
Quickly; you asked a staff to bring Pauline to your dressing room to give her an autograph - to which they agreed to. Thankfully.
While they did that, you strided to your room and grabbed your magazine and marker - which immediately after doing so, a knock was heard on your door.
You hand held the paper as the other gripped the violet ink marker. When you did, you were greeted by a Pauline smiling widely with a camera on her right hand.
"Hi!" she says excitingly.
You greet back and quickly hugged her, "I see you have a camera with you."
"Oh, yes, uhm.. I was wondering if i can take a video of you signing an autograph? So my brother would believe me that it really is from you." she nervously giggled. "I might or might now have pranked him once by giving him a fake autograph."
"Yeah, sure. What's your brother's name?" you say softly.
"It's Percy." she answers as she readies her camera.
"Alright, is it rolling?" you ask with a smile on your face. Pauline says yes with a grateful smile; grateful for being how considerate and kind you are.
"Hi Paul! So I heard from your sister that you're a fan? Too bad you didn't come with her." you looked behind the camera to Pauline.
"And I heard she gave you a fake autograph of mine? Well now, you're getting a real one, and this is the proof." you say still giggling as you signed the magazine.
"There, and keep the pen. I gotta go now, bye and love you!" you say as you waved goodbye and gave your iconic kiss blow alongside a wink.
Once Pauline returned the camera back to her bag; she immediately thanked you.
"I'm serious - thank you thank you sooo much! And uh.. I'm really sorry if what I asked earlier was too personal. I really am. I was just curious and didn't thoroughly before it slipped my mouth." she noticed the change of the atmosphere long ago. Even if she's just fifteen, she knew how to read the room well.
"Aw, sweetie.. it's nothing." you pat her shoulder, "It's fine I tell ya, also I better get going - you should too, it'll get dark in just two hours. Bye bye and stay safe!" you wave goodbye as she still exclaimed thank you's as she walked backwards towards the exit.
(that footage is definitely gonna go viral after many years)
In a light speed; you gathered your essential belongings and had your personal assistant help you carry your other belongings to the van; to which Bill noticed through the windows that you're carrying back pack and a purse and immediately helped you despite having it under perfect control.
He opened the door for you and let you in first before him and closed the door. Your personal assistant sat in the passenger seat next to the driver, while you and your beloved were at the very back despite the space up front.
You rested your head on his shoulder and he put his above yours while he held your hand with both of his; tracing every outline, massaging it, and kissing it once in a while.
"R'you okay now?" Bill mumbled and kissed your head.
"Yes, hon. I'm great actually.. thanks so much for being there, I love you so much." you turn your head to face his and pecked his lips.
"I love you more than you'll ever know, I'm glad you're okay." he smiled genuinely and kissed you deep and passionate.
You returned to your head's original position and fell to sleep; not caring if tomorrow, you'll be the town's talk.
205 notes · View notes
pandoraslxna · 5 months
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It’s almost November 1st and that means #LunasKinktober2023 is nearing it’s end and wow, it was a wild ride!
I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your incredible participation and support during my first ever fandom event, and I also wanted to use this opportunity and pour my heart out over how much this community means to me. 🥹
Everyones enthusiasm and willingness to engage in this creative journey have truly made it a memorable and rewarding experience for me. It warms my heart to see the amazing responses and interactions that took place throughout the event. Your thoughtful comments, reblogs, encouraging messages, and the shared excitement have been a constant source of inspiration and happiness throughout these past few weeks and I can’t thank you guys enough for it.
I’m immensely grateful for the trust you placed in me by sharing your ideas, prompts, and personal stories! Your contributions have enriched the event and made it a space for growth, understanding, and celebration of our unique desires and fantasies.
I would also like to extend my appreciation to my readers and those who took the time to provide constructive feedback and suggestions. Your input has been invaluable in helping me refine my writing style and approach. I consider myself fortunate to have such an engaged and discerning audience who constantly pushes me to improve.
Lastly, I want to acknowledge the incredible sense of community that has emerged, and not just from this event alone. The connections and friendships that have formed among you have been truly heartwarming to witness. It’s a testament to the power of shared passions and the beauty of finding like-minded individuals who embrace and celebrate our differences. I still can’t believe I’m part of this fandom, part of this community where I can even call some of you my friends, pour my heart out to you and share my feelings, thoughts and secrets. You guys just make me feel so safe and seen and most importantly, you make me feel loved.
Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your active participation, unwavering support, and the trust you have placed in me. It’s because of you that this event has been a resounding success. I‘m already looking forward to the next event we can participate together!
I love you all so so much 🫂🩵
-Luna 🌙
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its-all-or-nothing94 · 7 months
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Racing Hearts - Part 5 // Charles Leclerc x Reader
Summary: The relationship between you and Charles is getting more serious, but you still have some doubts. Especially with a new encounter with his ex, but then you get help from an unexpected side.
Masterlist Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4
Warnings: Nakedness, Fluff
Pairing: Charles Leclerc x Reader
A/N: So here we go... I'm so excited for MONZA! Forza tifosi!
Disclaimer: This story is purely fictional, and any character portrayals are just how I wrote them - hence fictional! I don't know them, except my OCs.
Tagging: @liebgotts-lovergirl, @softly-writes, @bellewintersroe, @faithm120601, @needtokeepfeelingsincheck, @bbygrllllllll
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The next day, after Charles had left for some meetings in the paddock, you headed to Sofia's home. You were both still buzzing from your movie night and made plans to meet up later in the day. As you entered Sofia's apartment, you heard some commotion and laughter coming from the kitchen.
"Sof, are you here... OH MY GOD!" you exclaimed, turning around quickly and covering your eyes.
You had walked in on a surprising scene – Carlos Sainz and Sofia, completely naked, entangled with each other on the floor.
"What... What the hell are you doing?" you asked, trying to keep a straight face but couldn't help chuckling a little.
Sofia laughed mischievously. "What does it look like?"
"I know what it looks like, but... what?" you inquired, still trying to avert your gaze, but then realizing they were both still on the floor in their birthday suits. "Could you please just... cover yourselves?"
"Y/N?" Sofia asked.
"What?"
"The blankets?" Sofia pointed to the blankets on the nearby couch. You quickly pulled down two blankets and tossed them to Sofia and Carlos. You heard them rustling to cover themselves.
"Okay, you can look now," Sofia announced.
You sighed, turned around, and peeked at the almost-covered duo. Then you started laughing at the absurdity of the situation.
"Wow... I... Okay, you know what, never mind. You two are old enough," you said, trying to suppress your giggles, and walked past them toward your room. Before entering, you turned around to Carlos again, his face now as red as a tomato.
"Oh, and Carlos, shouldn't you be somewhere?" you quipped.
The Spaniard looked at his watch, realizing he was late. "Oh, fuck!" He rushed into Sofia's room, leaving you two alone.
Sofia looked at you with an amused raised eyebrow. "Oh, and so it goes," she said with a playful grin.
You shook your head but couldn't stop grinning at your best friend. Carlos hurried back into the living room, now fully dressed.
"I'm so sorry, Hermosa, but I need to go," he said, his words rushed as he took Sofia's hands in his. "He pasado una noche preciosa, hermosa. Espero verte más tarde." (*T: I had a wonderful night, darling. Hope to see you later.) He gave her a quick kiss and then left the apartment in a hurry.
Sofia turned around to you, her cheeks flushed, and simply stated, "OMG," before shaking her hands and jumping around the living room. You chuckled at your best friend's reaction.
"Jesus Christ, Y/N. I... It was... Carlos is..." Sofia struggled to find the right words to describe the whirlwind of emotions she was feeling.
"Okay, why don't you take a shower and get dressed, and then you can tell me everything, okay?" you suggested with a smile, trying to give her friend some time to compose herself. "Charles is expecting us at 1 pm at the paddock."
Sofia nodded enthusiastically and rushed into her room, still buzzing with excitement from her unexpected morning encounter. As you watched your friend bounce around, you couldn't help but feel grateful for the joy Sofia brought into your life. Your day was off to an amusing start.
As Sofia emerged from her room, freshly showered and dressed, she found you flipping through the contents of your suitcase to choose an outfit for the day.
"OMG, Y/N. I just need to tell you this. Carlos and I got so drunk yesterday, and then... well, you saw. That was actually the 5th time... Jeez, that man has his game on," Sofia said with a mixture of excitement, realization, and nervousness.
You grinned, looking over at your friend. "I'm glad you had a good time. It sounds like you two hit it off pretty well."
Sofia blushed a little, a playful smile dancing on her lips. "It was amazing, Y/N. I mean, I didn't expect it at all, but the chemistry was undeniable. And the sex, I mean... Wow!"
"I'm happy for you, Sof," you said sincerely but still amused. "You deserve to have some fun and enjoy yourself."
Sofia sat down on the edge of the bed. "So, what about you and Charles? How was last night?" she asked, eagerly wanting to hear every detail.
You blushed slightly, recalling the beautiful night you spent with Charles. "It was wonderful, Sofia. We had a movie night, cuddled on the couch, and then... well, things got a bit... heated?" you said, and Sofia lifted an eyebrow. "But I stopped it because, you know, I'm not like that," you said, looking at your best friend with a smirk.
"Hey! What is that supposed to mean?" Sofia asked playfully, knowing what you tried to say.
You shook your head and chuckled. "You know what I mean, Sof."
Sofia rolled her eyes and nodded. "Suuure. But Y/N, you guys are so good together. I can see how much he cares about you. Don't let your past experiences hold you back," she encouraged.
"I know, I know. It's just... his career and the public attention, it's a lot to handle," you replied, your brows furrowing with worry. "I'm not sure if I'm ready for that. I mean, I really, really like him!"
Sofia put a reassuring hand on your shoulder. "Look, I get that it's overwhelming, but you can't let fear stop you from being happy. Take it one step at a time. Talk to Charles about your concerns and see how he feels. You won't know unless you try."
You nodded, appreciating Sofia's supportive words. "You're right, as always. I just need to open up to him and see where it leads."
"Exactly! And remember, I'm here for you every step of the way," Sofia said with a warm smile.
You hugged her friend. "Thank you, Sofia. I don't know what I'd do without you."
The two of you finished getting ready, discussing race strategy, and joking around, just like they always did.
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As you headed to the paddock to join Charles and the rest of the team, you felt a sense of excitement and comfort, knowing that you had your best friend by your side and that you could face whatever the future held, with Charles or not.
You spotted Charles immediately as you walked over to the Ferrari motorhome. He saw you as well and greeted you with a kiss on the cheek.
"You made it", he said and you smiled.
"Of course."
"Where's Sofia?", he asked, and you looked over your shoulder. Sofia was just there a second ago.
"Uh, she was just here..."
Charles smiled warmly at you. "How was your morning?"
You chuckled as you thought about it. "Oh, it was quite eventful", you grinned, and Charles looked at her, amused.
Just as he wanted to ask what it was about, a blonde woman in a Ferrari outfit came running up to you. "Charles! Riunione d'emergenza. Fred vuole vedervi subito", she said in Italian.
You didn't understand it, but you knew that it was important. Charles looked briefly at you and then at the woman.
"Arrivo subito. Gianna, puoi farmi un favore?", he asked and the woman nodded. "This is Y/N. Y/N, this is Gianna, my assistant. Gianna, could you show Y/N up to the lounge and explain everything?"
Gianna nodded again. "Sure," she answered with a thick Italian accent.
You looked at Charles, confused. You were supposed to spend some time together.
Charles looked at you apologetic. "I'm so sorry, they have an emergency meeting I need to attend. I will see you later, okay?" He pressed a quick kiss to your cheek and then left in the direction of the offices. You looked after him, nodding.
Gianna led you into the motorhome and then upstairs into a lounge. There were already a lot of people talking. You cursed and were asking yourself where Sofia is.
"Okay, this is the Ferrari lounge for family and friends. Charles has some meetings now, but he will be back soon", Gianna said, and you looked at her again before you nodded.
You stood alone on the balcony, gazing down at the bustling paddock and the picturesque views of Monaco. You hung your black blazer over the railing and took a deep breath. However, your solitude was quickly interrupted by a familiar and unwelcome voice behind you, making you roll your eyes in annoyance.
"Would you look at that? Charles brought his new pet," Isabella's sharp voice remarked, and you turned around to face her, trying your best to keep her composure.
Isabella glanced you up and down with a condescending sneer. "And look at you... You do know that this is Monaco and not some stray auction, right?" Isabella pointed at your simple blue baggy jeans, with the white crop top and the white high Converse your were wearing.
You took a deep breath, not wanting to stoop to Isabella's level. However, before you could respond, another voice interjected, coming to your defense.
"That's enough, Isabella."
Both you and Isabella turned around, and there stood a blonde-haired woman with a sense of authority that reminded you of your own mother. The woman had friendly eyes that you recognized from somewhere.
Isabella glared at the woman before tossing her hair over her shoulder and strutting away. "Whatever."
You watched Isabella leave and then turned your attention back to the blonde woman. "Thank you," you  said with genuine gratitude and a warm smile.
The woman smiled back, extending her hand to you. "Nothing to thank for, chérie. You must be Y/N. I'm Pascale Leclerc, Charles's mother."
Your heart skipped a beat as you shook Pascale's hand. This was Charles's mother – a significant figure in his life. "Uh, yes, that's me," you replied nervously.
"Charles told me a lot about you, Y/N. You've made quite the impression on my son," Pascale said, looking you over with a keen eye.
Feeling slightly self-conscious under Pascale's gaze, you knew that mothers would always be protective of their sons, especially when they were famous and wealthy. The concern of a potential gold digger was not unwarranted.
"I really care about Charles, Mrs. Leclerc," you said sincerely, wanting to reassure her that your feelings for Charles were genuine.
Pascale smiled warmly, seeming to appreciate your sincerity. "I can see that, chérie. I just want to make sure my son is happy and cared for. His career brings enough challenges, and I worry about the added pressure it might put on a relationship."
"I understand, and I assure you that my feelings for Charles are real," you replied earnestly. "I don't want anything from him other than to be there for him and support him in whatever way I can."
"I believe you, Y/N," Pascale said, her smile softening. "Charles is a wonderful young man, and I can see how much he cares about you too. Just take good care of each other, okay?"
You nodded, feeling relieved and grateful for Pascale's understanding. "I will, Mrs. Leclerc. I promise."
"I trust you, chérie," Pascale said warmly, placing a reassuring hand on your shoulder.
"I can see you two have met", another voice popped up behind them, and walking through the crowd is Lorenzo. He smiled at his mother and gave her a kiss on each cheek before he repeated it with you. "Did you already scare the hell out of her, Maman?" Lorenzo chuckled.
Pascale looked at you and then back at her oldest son. "I don't think this one is scared easily if she is willing to take on the wrath of one Isabella Rossi. I'm impressed", Pascale said, and you chuckled.
Lorenzo put a proud arm around your shoulder. "It really is impressive, right, Maman? Every other girl would run for the hills. But I guess my brother enchanted her too much."
You laughed at Lorenzo's teasing of Charles and put a strand of your hair behind your ear. You talked to Pascale and Lorenzo for a while when suddenly an arm wrapped around your waist.
"I can see you met my Mom." It was Charles who crept up to you. He whispered in your ear and then put a quick kiss on your cheek before greeting his mother.
You smiled sheepishly at Charles. "I did. She saved me from you-know-who." You winked at Charles, and he knew exactly who you were talking about.
"I should've known that she would be here. I'm sorry", Charles apologized, but you just put a hand on his arm.
"No need to apologize. I need to learn to live with her."
You smiled and Charles was happy that you didn't take it to heart. Then he looked around. "Where is Sofia?" you averted your gaze quickly, and Charles knew that something was up immediately. "Y/N?"
Now you looked back at him. "Well..." you said innocently. "I guess she might be with Carlos..."
"With Carlos? Why would she be with... oh..." Charles raised an eyebrow, connecting the dots. "Oh, I see. Well, I hope they're having a good time," he said with a smirk, trying not to show any hint of concern.
You chuckled softly, knowing that Charles was probably feeling a mix of amusement and protective brotherly instincts. "They seemed to hit it off pretty well," you replied, nudging him playfully.
Lorenzo joined in on the teasing. "Looks like love is in the air, eh, little brother?" he said, giving Charles a friendly pat on the back.
You chuckled. "I'm not so sure about that, Lorenzo. I know Sofia, and it could be just a little fling as easily."
Charles rolled his eyes but couldn't help but smile at the playful banter. "All right, enough about Sofia and Carlos," he said, taking your hand in his. "I wanted to show you the garage and my car before FP1."
He dragged you along, and you turned around to wave at his brother and mother. "Goodbye, Mrs. Leclerc. It was really nice to meet you."
Pascale waved at you, too, and Charles and you disappeared downstairs. He led you through the paddock and then into the pitlane, where all the garages were. When they arrived at the Ferrari garage, you already saw Carlos' and Charles' garages.
People were busy working all around, updating the car and making some more adjustments, as Charles led you through the people and into a small room.
"This is my locker room in the garage. It's for preparing for the race in the last minutes and doing some last-minute workout, etc."
Just at that moment, it knocked, and a man in his thirties with black hair and dark eyes entered. "Ah, Charles. Eccoti qui! Ti stavo cercando. Oh, chi è?", the man said in Italian, and you looked at Charles.
"Andrea, this is Y/N. Y/N, this is Andrea, my athletic trainer, and a good friend. He has been with me for a long time."
Andrea smiled and extended his hand for you to shake, which you did. "Nice to meet you, Y/N. Is this your first time at a Formula 1 race?"
You nodded. "Yes, it is. And it's really... overwhelming."
"I can imagine that", Andrea chuckled and turned to Charles again. "Listen, I want you to be changed and ready for the workout in 10 minutes. Gianna can take her upstairs so she can watch. FP1 starts in 45 minutes." Then he left the room, closing the door behind him.
Charles nodded and looked at you. "I hope that's okay for you?"
"Sure..." you replied and looked around. You were alone in Charles's small locker room, so you looked at him mischievously. Then you took a step closer to him, and he looked down at you with a grin on his face since he realized what you were up to.
He put his hand on your cheek and then pressed his lips lightly to yours, giving you a short but passionate kiss.
"I am so fucking happy that you are here", he whispers to your lips, and a wide smile grew on your lips before you kissed him again.
The moment between Charles and you was interrupted by Andrea clearing his throat, and you both pulled away, chuckling softly.
"Sorry to interrupt, lovebirds," Andrea said with a playful grin, "but we've got a schedule to keep."
You blushed slightly, feeling a mixture of excitement and shyness at the affectionate display in front of Charles's trainer. "Of course, I don't want to keep you from your preparations," you said with a small smile.
Charles squeezed your hand reassuringly. "Don't worry, it's all part of the experience," he replied, gazing fondly at you.
As you followed Gianna to the observation area, you felt a surge of emotions. Watching Charles and the team in action was awe-inspiring, and you couldn't help but feel proud and grateful to be a part of this unique world.
From the observation area, you watched Charles effortlessly navigate the track during FP1, pushing his car to its limits. The precision, speed, and skill displayed by the drivers were incredible. As the session came to an end, you noticed Charles exchanging nods and gestures with his teammates, communicating silently about the car's performance.
After FP1, you joined Charles and Andrea in the garage. They were busy discussing the car's setup and performance, and Charles looked focused and determined.
"You did great out there," you said, smiling warmly at him.
Charles grinned back at her. "Thanks, Y/N. It's always a thrill being on the track," he replied, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes.
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A New Mystery Woman on the F1 Grid? Charles Leclerc's Intriguing Companion Sparks Curiosity
Monaco – The Formula 1 paddock is abuzz with speculation as Charles Leclerc, the talented Ferrari driver, was seen in the company of a mysterious beauty during the Monaco Grand Prix festivities. Leclerc, known for his skill on the track and his enigmatic persona off it, was spotted sharing intimate moments with the unidentified woman, igniting a wave of curiosity among fans and media alike.
The duo's first public appearance together took place on Leclerc's luxurious yacht, where they were photographed sharing a passionate kiss. The sighting sparked a flurry of rumors, leaving many to wonder about the identity of the captivating newcomer in the F1 scene.
Adding fuel to the intrigue, the mystery woman was once again seen by Leclerc's side in the bustling paddock of the Monaco GP. While Leclerc appeared unfazed by the attention, the enigmatic beauty was photographed attempting to shield her face from the prying lenses of eager photographers.
Her discreet demeanor and attempts to avoid the spotlight have only heightened curiosity surrounding her identity. Fans and media outlets are left speculating about her background, interests, and connection to the talented Monegasque driver.
As the Monaco Grand Prix unfolds on the iconic street circuit, all eyes are on Leclerc's on-track performance, as well as the unfolding narrative of this newfound companionship. Will the identity of this captivating mystery woman be unveiled, or will she continue to remain shrouded in secrecy, leaving fans to piece together the puzzle of her connection to Charles Leclerc?
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al-andrice · 1 year
Text
Future Days
Spoilers for TLOU PART I & II
Series: Hymn for the Weekend
Joel Miller x Female Reader
(Edited on 12/06/23)
Abstract: Joel and Ellie settle into Jackson with the help from you - a great shot, smart and reliable (according to Maria).
Contents: Reader has she/her pronouns, former counsellor, second person, Ellie's got jokes, maybe a little teeny bit of pining but we like a friends to lovers in this household, Joel smiles!
Rating: Teen
WC: 1.6K
Listen to Future Days by Joel Miller
Author's notes: Here I am, back with the writing bug. It's been a long time since I've wanted to write something. As TLOU has dominated my whole life with the games that I've loved for years and the HBO series, it's no surprise that I have a whole fantasy in my head that I needed to write fanfiction about.
Hope you guys enjoy reading this! Please do comment and reblog, anything that helps to get this around.
Troy singing Future Days always gets me in the feels. If Pedro ends up singing...I am DONE (unless he sings La Bamba LMAO). Or if Bella sings Take On Me...TEARS. I love listening to the Part II covers.
not to be thirsty on here, but praise naughty dog for making joel miller so...mmmm yeah. i wanna marry this man. even pedro says he's hot
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GIF by vera-kozhemiakina
Everything I've found here, I've not found by myself.
Winter was coming which meant heavy snow and slower starts to days with the later sunrise and the numbing morning air. Jackson had started preparations for it - checking that its residents had everything to keep warm in their homes, protecting the allotments and making any repairs to maintain buildings.
Sweeping through the long patrol routes was the biggest task. Maria had to be sure that the people assigned to them could handle potential Infected and any people they may meet on the way. Past encounters have mostly gone smoothly, with trading links made between communities, like Jackson, and also helping any travellers who just needed a good night of sleep and food in their system, setting off the next morning. This was something that the residents of Jackson were incredibly grateful for - to be able to say that they were safe and had warm beds to greet every night, as well as being able to provide aid and supplies to people who come through was a privilege.
The few not-so-pleasant meetings with bandits ended with minor injuries and increased security at the power plant as a precaution.
Joel and Ellie settled in as well as they could after the hell of a journey they completed. You lived a road away from their new home, so you had seen them integrate into the community and get used to living instead of surviving.
Maria was the one responsible for your first interaction with Joel, who was getting to know the different patrol routes on the map. "She's one of our best. A great shot, smart, reliable. Expect to be on patrol with her if Tommy isn't around. She's a busy woman in this town."
"Wow." You leaned forward onto the desk of her office with your hands. "A great shot, smart and reliable? You flatter me, Maria," you joked with a smirk on your face.
That was the first time you had seen Joel Miller smile. Even if it may have been a small one.
In the few months since the older Miller brother and the 14 year-old had arrived, you've had the opportunity to introduce (and re-introduce to the man) the different parts of the town to them.
"Woah, you have art classes? FEDRA school was never like this." Ellie wandered around the empty classroom that was decorated with paintings and drawings made by the young Jackson residents. Her fingers trailed along the row of paintbrushes and stained palettes.
"If you want, we can enrol you in some of the classes? I know you said that you wanted to take up patrols, but you're still young. We've even got Spanish. Try bilingualism to stimulate that brain of yours," you suggested.
You would never forget the way she looked up to you with widened eyes and an excited smile. "Really?" You nodded. "Didn't you say you teach a class, too? Maybe I could join yours as well?"
You sat on a desk with a warmed heart for the kid who wanted to go to school and learn. "I teach some psychology. Not that it means anything now, but there was blood, sweat and tears working for my PhD and training, so I might as well put it to good use to fill in the time and help anyone who wants it."
"What's a PhD?" Ellie asked in confusion.
You chuckled to yourself and started to explain. "It's basically a way to get people to call you Doctor."
Then, Ellie took her chance.
"Why is a doctor always calm?" She asked with her legs swinging back and forth under the table she was sitting on. 
You shrugged.
A smirk found its way to her lips. "Because they have a lot of patients."
Joel was standing a few feet away from the door, taking in the sounds of laughter before calling out for the jokester.
-
Your house was one of the smaller ones on your road; just enough for one person. I'm just lucky to even have a home. Only a short walk away from Joel and Ellie's, you hugged a small pile of books to your chest and with a bag hung from your shoulder, dressed in a well-worn pair of jeans and a thick jumper.
The house came into view at the end of the street. It was not unusual to find yourself walking up the steps to their front door to bring Ellie some things that you thought she might like.
Taking a deep breath, you knocked. Footsteps thumped through the door, the locks were undone and the man of the house greeted you. "Hey." He widened the opening as an invite into the home. "Lookin' for Ellie, Santa Claus?" He eyed the the books and the bag you were holding.
"I am, yes." You stepped inside and pushed the door closed with your shoulder. "As you can see, she's made it onto the nice list and is owed a lot of presents." He started to lead you through the hallway and the kitchen where the backdoor led to the garden where Ellie lived in her converted garage.
"Know anything 'bout me being on that list?" He sent a teasing grin over his shoulder and stepped out into the grassy area.
(That was a loaded question.)
"Oh, Joel Miller, wouldn't you like to know? Too impatient to wait for December, are we?" An eyebrow raised at him.
"No, I'm patient." Just as he was about to call Ellie's name, he faced you. "When I need to be."
-
"Woah!" Ellie inspected the orange glowing lamp in her hands. "It looks kind of like a rocket."
"Yeah, that's why I brought it over. Thought you'd like it," you said while she made rocket launching sounds and waved it around. "And to go with your journey to the stars," you placed the books on her coffee table, "these are photos from the NASA Archive."
Her eyes widened and she instantly started to flick through the pages without another word except 'look' when she tilted the pages towards you, completely mesmerised by what had been discovered.
Joel, who was sitting on the couch beside you, hadn't said anything since you showed her the lava lamp. Looking over your shoulder, you glanced at him. Shoulders and eyebrows relaxed, no tension shown.
He looked...content, as if he just had a day off work and stayed at home.
Then, his eyes met yours. A small smile of gratitude was sent to you before you both went back to watching Ellie get excited at all her new gifts.
This is what I saved her for.
-
When you and Joel finally left Ellie's garage, the sun was setting which left a warm filter on everything within its reach. She was left marvelling over her newly acquired 'space hub' as she called it - a new poster of Neil Armstrong on her wall, a collection of books that were not in the FEDRA school library and an 'alien spaceship' as a lamp.
"Thank you for doing this for her." His hands were stuffed in his pockets while the two of you stood by the gate that you would eventually walk out of to go home. "You didn't have to. Here, she gets to be a kid an’-"
"I know, and I wanted to." Letting out an exhale, you decided to just lay everything out. "Look, Ellie's so young and has been through so much shit. Definitely more than what we experienced her age. Death and survivor's guilt come by so easily now, and I do what I can to help people cope with it whenever they ask." Joel dipped his head down and leaned his elbow on the wooden fence. "But the children here don't have to face those things because we keep them safe and we have a responsibility to teach them how to be. I like her happy and I also like seeing you happy for her, Joel."
The next thing he knew, he felt your hand's light squeeze on his forearm. "It's a good look on you." Just before you pulled back, he patted and laid his hand on yours (maybe for a second longer than he intended), squeezing back.
"Thank you."
"You say that a lot. Might have to start collecting money from you." He laughed and shook his head.
"Tell me how much and I'll pay it. 'M feeling generous today," he went on. A few seconds of silence fell. "I don't want to keep you out for too long. I'm sure you want to get home soon." He stood up, preparing to unlock the gate for you.
"Yeah." Bringing down the bag from your shoulder, you reached to the bottom and extended the package to him. "I actually did get you something, though." He took it, unwrapping the paper. Guitar strings. "My attic had a load of junk when I moved in and there was some music stuff there, too. I remember Tommy telling me stories of him and his big brother going to see live music-"
"And we'd mess around on the guitars at the end of the shows," he finished. "I haven't touched one since then." His eyes stayed locked on the bag of strings between his fingers.
"I'm pretty sure they have a few in the old music shop." Taking small steps to the gate, Joel followed. "I put all the treasure from my attic in the back room. Go raid it sometime."
"I will," he replied. You both stopped and you turned to him, with a soft grin. "Again, thank you."
You sighed at that. "You're welcome." A few steps out, you faced him. "Again."
Quick shots of his breath lightly hit your face and you looked up at him. "Sun’s setting now, Joel, so I think that’s my cue to get home.”  
He nodded. “See you tomorrow, then.”
“See you tomorrow, Joel.” 
Unknown to you and the man, who stayed by the gate until you turned the corner, there was a curious set of eyes peeking through the curtains of their little converted garage. 
-
A/N: what did you guys think of this?? tell me if there are any mistakes like spelling, grammar, switching tenses bc i didn't read it properly, etc.
this is the lava lamp that was gifted to Ellie if you just zoom in...
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and he got guitar strings from santa!!!! since joel will eventually make his own gee-tars, he can have some strings that may hold sentimental value later.
i am planning to write more on this timeline, but work is piling. it'll be a while before i can really build on hymn for the weekend
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alotofpockets · 2 years
Text
Back in her arms | Elizabeth Olsen
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Pairing: Elizabeth Olsen x Reader
Request: May I request a fic with Elizabeth Olsen where reader reunites with her after Lizzie’s been away filming and it’s just lots of fluff?
masterlist | requests: open | taglist | words: 955
It's been nearly two months since you've last seen Lizzie and you have been missing her like crazy. She has been filming the upcoming Dr. Strange movie. They filmed in many countries, starting with the US and Canada, you stayed with her in her rental apartment for those months. Then they had to film the rest of the movie is England. Iceland, Norway and Italy. Because of their busy schedule and the amount of travel, you weren't able to join her on those.
Since you were able to work from home, usually you'd have the opportunity to go everywhere with Elizabeth, something you are very grateful for. Since you've always traveled and stayed with her, you hadn't been away from her for this long since the early stages of your relationship.
You had made it your goal to try and call at least once a day, even if it was just a short five minutes to check in. For most days you were able to, but there were some days that it didn't work out. Those were the days that you missed her the most.
Today the wait was finally over, you were currently on your way to pick her up from the airport. You parked the car, grabbed your bag, the flowers and donuts you bought for Lizzie and headed inside. Once you got inside and walked to the right gate, you found a place to sit down. It would be a while before Lizzie would land so you took out your laptop to get some work done.
You kept hearing whispers and felt like someone was looking at you. When you looked around to see what was going on you noticed two girls looking at you, once you looked up they seemed confident enough to come over. "Hi, you're y/n, Lizzie's wife right?"
You smile "Yes, that's me." You don't remember ever being noticed in public before without Lizzie by your side. "Wow that's so cool" one of the girls says, "are you picking her up? I heard they were done filming the new Dr. Strange movie."
You were always so fascinated by the knowledge of Marvel fans, sometimes it was a little bit creepy, but it was nice how much they cared. "Yeah I am, she should be landing any second now. What brings you guys to the airport?" They tell you they're also picking up someone, their friend should be landing in an hour.
"Can we take a picture with you maybe?" They ask. "Yeah, of course!" After you take the picture you say, "You know if you're waiting in this hall anyways, I'm sure Lizzie would love to meet you guys."
You see their eyes widen with excitement and the smiles on their faces growing. "That would be so cool! But we know you haven't seen her in a while, so I think you should definitely reunite with her first. We can hang back a bit." The other girl adds, "Yeah, we can even take some pictures of you reuniting, I bet it will be super cute!" You thank the girls for their thoughtfulness and part ways.
They sit a couple of chairs away and talk among themselves while you pack up your bag again, ready to welcome Lizzie home. As the first people start coming through with their bags, you move closer to the doors. The girls move with you, staying a couple steps behind you. Their camera's ready to capture the moment. One was filming and the other was taking pictures.
The moment you saw Lizzie go through the doors your heart started beating extra fast. You've been married for two years now, and she still was able to give you butterflies by just looking at you. Her green eyes met yours and a big smile appeared on her face.
Once she finally reached you she dropped her bags and ran the last couple steps into your arms. You shared a long hug, while whispering I missed you's and I love you's to each other. When you broke away from the hug you kissed her lips softly, both smiling into the kiss.
"I met some very nice fans, that would love to meet you. Do you think you're up for that? I know you must be tired." You ask Lizzie. "If they were nice to you, I will definitely meet up with them for a bit." She says with a smile. You pick up her bags and motion her over to the girls.
The four of you talk for a bit and take some pictures. A few with all four of you and a few with just them and Liz. When it was time to go you said, “Could you sent me those pictures on Instagram? I'll be sure to show them to Lizzie and post them. If you tell me your accounts too, I'll be sure to give you your well-deserved credit for them."  They promise to send them. With that you give both of them a hug, take Lizzie's hand and move to the car.
Once you've put all the bags in the car you hug Lizzie again, "I'm so glad to have you back in my arms." She hums in agreement and kisses your forehead. "Let's go home and catch up on some cuddles."
When you arrive home, you tell Lizzie to take her after travel shower while you bring in the bags and order some food. Meeting in your bedroom you crawl into bed with her. Your legs intertwined while you enjoy your dinner. After dinner you cuddle up to each other more. You've missed her touch so much. Her arms felt like home, and you were so happy to be back in them.
~
Main taglist: @yellowvxbes // @xxromanoffxx // @xxxtwilightaxelxxx // @wandanatvoid // @wandaswifeyforlifey // @marvelwomen-simp // @snooy245 // @peggycarter-steverogers // @wandas-slut-heart // @nats-dreamland // @annephobic // @laaurrel // @catasha // @t00manyfand0ms // @multifandomlesbianic // @bandit2029 // @avengerswriter4eva // @gigistylestomlinson // @snowdrop1026 // @sylvies4ever // @youreatotalposer // @mellowladyangel // @milfloverslut // @natasha-danvers // @lyak12 // @smallestavenger // @when-wolves-howl // @svftpetker // @la-reine-des-enfers // @official-chaotic-wandamaximoff // @b0r3d-s1mp1ng-b1tch // @bubblensqueak002 // @imabee-oralizard // @rafecameronswhore // @be-missed // @romaaa28 // @youresuchamom // @youralphawolf72 // @maia-lightwoood // @rootbeerfaygo // @elliesayshello869 // @vllowe // @princessprudy // @nightingalexx // @hallecarey1
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freedomfireflies · 1 year
Note
Is there going to be more of Mrs. hey soul sister? 👀
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“I’m sorry…you’re what now?”
Your hands collect in front of your stomach as you meet your friend’s eye. “Uh…well, okay, technically…we’re married, yeah, but—”
Her gaze flicks to Harry who sits beside you on the sofa, arm strewn across the cushions as he leans back. He’s far too relaxed for your liking and you could just about slap him if you didn’t know how much he liked it.
“You married her?” she asks him, and his brow raises.
“I did,” he confirms, nodding once. 
She turns to you. “You married him?”
You swallow. “Technically…yes. Romantically? Ew, no.”
She blinks, looking between you both again. “I’m…wait, hold the fuck up. You…wait. We were at the bar, and you told me you were going home.”
“I was,” you’re quick to agree, nodding. “I really was, I promise, but then…I mean, he stalked me out to the car—"
“I did not stalk you. I was going to get a cab for myself,” Harry is quick to interject but you don’t pay him any mind. “You just happened to be there.”
“He stalked me,” you repeat with a flat look, and your friend smirks. “Anyway, he said something about how I was the world’s best singer with an ass that went for miles—”
Harry scoffs but doesn’t bother correcting your obvious lie, and part of you is grateful that he seems to be amused.
“—and then he said he 'knew a place,'” you finish, looking over your shoulder at him. “Next thing I knew, I was screaming at him to get out of my bed, and…well, I’ve been screaming at him ever since.”
The story now complete, your friend leans back, arms crossing over her chest as she looks between you. “Wow.”
Curious and a tad nervous, you meet her eye. “Yeah.”
A beat.
“So…you’re not getting it annulled?” she asks, and your head shakes.
“No, we tried. We’d have to get an actual divorce and as of right now…we don’t…plan to.”
Her eyebrows fly up her forehead. “Oh?”
You can actually hear Harry smirk from behind you, yet you merely square your shoulders. “We made a deal that we’d give it a few months, try to keep the press happy, and then do it quietly before anybody finds out.”
Her eyes move to Harry. “Is that so?”
“It is,” he replies, and you glance back over. He’s oddly smug, given the circumstances, and your eyes narrow suspiciously.
Then, your friend stands from her seat and makes her way to where he sits on the sofa.
She leans down, pointer finger aimed right at his nose as her expression fills with determination. “All right, let’s you and I get something straight. I might be so far up your ass I can see the sunshine, but if you hurt my friend…I will castrate you in your sleep and feed your balls to the sharks.”
His eyes widen as you swallow a laugh. 
“Got it?” she asks, and he nods quickly.
“Yes ma’am.”
Her nose scrunches at the name before she straightens up and nods her chin at him. “Good. Go away now, the girls are gonna talk.”
He chuckles under his breath before standing to his feet and disappearing from the room, looking back to throw you a wink just before he vanishes from sight.
She waits a moment, eyeing the door he walked through, a hardened look in her eye.
Then, after a minute or two, she spins toward you and gasps, “What the fuck!”
You lean back, a little intimidated by her excitement, although you’re rather amused. “What?”
“You married Harry fucking Styles?” She’s like a dog, eyes full of wonder and glee as she grabs your shoulders to shake you. “I can’t—oh my fucking God. This is insane, this is actually…holy shit. Wait, okay, be honest with me. Is he as good as I think he is? Like, is he Wattpad Harry or did everyone majorly overestimate him?”
Doing your best not to laugh, you shake your head and swat at her arm. “Stop!” 
She blinks. “So…yes?”
You can feel the flush finding your face as you look away, slightly embarrassed to admit he’s a lot better than you had anticipated. “He’s…yeah. He’s good.”
“How many boxes?”
You pull your lip between your teeth, recognizing the question from the game you both used to play where you made a checklist of each BSDM kink you had and figured out how many boxes a specific person checked.
You run through your list, mentally tallying each one before sucking in a sharp breath and meeting her eye. “Shit.”
Her eyes widen. “More than half?”
You nod.
“What about…you know…that one?”
Fuck. You look away and she gasps.
“Are you fucking kidding me?” She’s nearly screeching, and you’re surprised the glass doesn’t crack from the rather high pitch. She nearly collapses into her seat as she shakes her head. “Holy shit, I just…this is crazy. Wow, look at that. Abba, still bringing people together. And me. I totally did this, uh huh. You're welcome, by the way.”
Now you do laugh.
The room quiets as you both process this odd turn of events before her head tilts. “So…I take it you like him, then?”
You begin to pick at your nails, working hard to avoid her eye as you mull the real truth over in your mind. “Uh…I don’t know. I mean, he’s a fine roommate, I guess. I don’t know about a husband.”
She studies you for a moment, and you begin to wish you could disappear into the couch cushions. “Oh my god, you’re in love with him, aren’t you?”
Your jaw drops. “What? Ew, no.”
“You are. You’re totally in love with him.” She begins to laugh, leaning back in her seat as she watches you grimace. “I mean, you’re only…ten years late to the party? But welcome.”
“I am not. I just…look, he’s not as pretentious as I thought he was, and I—”
“And you’re in love with him, yeah. I got that—”
“Stop. I’m not in love with him, I just…it’s nice.”
Her smirk widens. “What’s nice?”
You inhale a deep breath, willing your confidence to remain steady. “I don’t know. Being here. With him. Our routine. It’s…it’s safe, I guess. I like it.”
She leans forward, elbows finding her knees as she places her chin in the palm of her hand. “Would it be the worst thing if you just…stayed married to him?”
You scoff. “Obviously.”
“Why?”
“Because…it’s not—” You begin to stammer, choking on the excuses that taste just as lame as you imagine they sound. “It’s not like that. We don’t like each other.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, I’m sure. We’re…you know, we’re friends if anything. But we’re not lovers. We’re not in love.”
Another moment of quiet reflection. She lets your admission settle within your mind as you slowly begin to realize what she realized about five minutes ago.
“Shit,” you murmur, the picture now clear in your mind. “I’m in love with him.”
She smiles. “Yeah. You are.”
You flop back against the sofa, hand on your forehead as you feel your stomach drop. “Oh, fuck. What do I do?”
She bobs one shoulder up. “You tell him.”
You scoff, rather incredulously as your head begins to shake. “Uh…no.”
“Why?”
“Because he doesn’t feel the same and he’ll be unbearable if he knows,” you inform her, scoffing a bit as you imagine that arrogant grin he always seems to wear. You shudder at the thought.
“Well, I don’t think you have a choice,” she says now, and your brow raises in confusion.
“And why is that?”
Her amusement returns as she glances toward the hallway. “Harry, you got all that, right?”
You swear you’ve never felt more faint as you slowly turn to see Harry slipping into the room, eyes on yours as you swallow.
Shit.
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Next Part:
~ Mr. & Mrs. Hey Soul Sister pt. 8
Previous Part:
~ Mr. & Mrs. Hey Soul Sister pt. 6*
~ Other Harry Blurbs
~ Full Masterlist
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jerzwriter · 3 months
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I'm sorry it's two days late, but it's been a crazy week! :) I posted some shoutouts on Thursday, but there are many other talented artists in our fandom that deserve appreciation, and y'all know I wasn't following that "4" rule anyway. 😊
I'm really happy that CFWC added art to our blog this year because it exposed me to many other artists who are in Choices fandoms that I'm not as involved in, and I'm really grateful for that.
@oh-so-youre-a-nerd - WOW! That's all I can say... WOW! You have been such a force in the fandom - between the in-fucking-credible art you create (your TALENT!) and the positivity you bring - you've blown me away this year! I'm so glad you're a part of our crazy corner.
Fantasy isn't usually my genre, but some of the artists here have convinced me to read Blades. That's how powerful and beautiful their art is. To @erixafleur (who has one of the most beautiful MCs I've ever seen!), @artbyalz (I love your work and the advent calendar! That was amazing!) @baldwinboy5ive (your talent and creativity boggle my mind! I'm in awe) and @cashweasel (the most recent Tyril... holy crap! I stared at that for longer than I care to admit. Wow!) All of you make this a far more beautiful place. Thank you!
This year, I had such a great time reading Crimes of Passion 2, and we were lucky enough to have artists that made the experience even better. Among them, @cassie-thorne (Cassie is just badass, and your Trystan! This piece blew me away, and from that point on, every time I saw your post, I was giddy!) @nukritus I simply loved your renditions of Trystan, you had such a creative style that just brought something new to him. Thank you for sharing with us! @fairymatchmaker the way you can see the love for your creations in your work! Seriously, it just shines through each and every time. I'm always excited to see something new!
One more shout-out, and I'm sure they will probably say they don't deserve it because they're just starting out, but this is about what brought us joy in 2023, so I have to mention @inlocusmads. I know how much you love Nora through your words, and now I get to see your vision through your art, and I can't tell you how cool this is! I love what you've created so far, and I'm so proud of you for doing this!
I know my ADHD brain likely forgot someone, so I truly want to thank all the artists who create for our little fandom. You bring so much joy to this little corner of the world!
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ONLY HAVE EYES FOR YOU PT. 2 || C.S ||
hiiiii, here’s part 2! i’m really excited for this part and hope you all enjoy! There will be probably one more part to this coming up soonish :) big thanks to my friend Lily for helping me out so much with this!! I’m so grateful for all the comments and notes on the first part, thank you to everyone who read and interacted with that!! 4.3k
part 1
warnings: SMUT (w pierre?) more angst, minors dni
It was close to time for movie night when you spot Luisa & Lando walking up to Carlos’ building. You hopped out of your car and quickly made your way over, ignoring the way they jumped when you got to the two of them. Both of them immediately noted your red eyes and running mascara, not giving them time to question it before you asked Lando if you could borrow Luisa. Taking her hand you pull her to the car while Lando heads upstairs.
Sitting in the car you stayed silent for a moment, Luisa letting you gather your thoughts by staying quiet as well. “Carlos has a girl over. Um, I came by earlier and they were together in his kitchen.” You admit with a shaky breath, unsure how there are even more tears welling up in your eyes. You feel Luisa take your hand, pulling you into a hug and apologizing as she let you cry into her shoulder. Upstairs, Lando stepped into Carlos’ apartment and made his way to the kitchen. He set the bags of snacks on the counter before looking up to see Carlos making his way inside. “Hey, Luisa will be up in a second. We ran into y/n on the way up and it seemed like something was wrong so they’re talking.” He explains, eyebrow raising as a girl follows Carlos into the room. It all made sense then, you looking like you had been crying and the fact that you weren’t upstairs helping Carlos get ready when you were always the first one there.
Carlos went to respond, immediately feeling worse hearing that you were downstairs and upset. He didn’t know the extent though and quickly pushed that thought away when he felt a hand on his lower back. “Lando, this is Melissa. She’s joining us for movie night tonight.” He glances up when he hears the door open and shut. Luisa had helped you touch up your makeup so you didn’t look like you had been crying nonstop. You could still tell but it was nowhere near how it was before. She had given you a pep talk in the car, promising that if it became too much she would leave early with you.
Taking a deep breath, you follow Luisa to the kitchen where the others were. Carlos immediately noticed your swollen eyes, wanting desperately to pull you aside and take care of you. You avoided his gaze, going up to the girl with him. “Hi, I’m so sorry about earlier! I’m y/n, you are?” You ask, a very convincing fake smile on your face to someone who doesn’t know you. “Hi, I’m Melissa. Carlos and I have gone out on a few dates.” She smiles, your eyes darting back and forth between the two of them. “A few? Wow, I mean, that’s so exciting. We’re really glad you’re here.” You smile, taking Luisa’s hand in yours and giving it a small squeeze. Luisa speaks up “Yes, it’s lovely to meet you. I’m Lando’s girlfriend, Luisa.” She says sweetly. You could feel Carlos’ eyes on you, trying to get your attention but you knew that in the state you were in, one look in his eyes would leave you in tears.
You managed to avoid him while all of your friends showed up, getting introduced to Melissa. You watched them look between you and them with confusion in their eyes. all the while trying to stay polite. Avoiding him didn’t last long though, feeling his hand take yours and pull you into one of the spare rooms. “Look y/n. I’m sorry I didn’t tell you, uh, I wasn’t going to introduce you guys so soon..” He trails off, scratching the back of his neck. You nod slowly, sighing a bit to yourself. “Oh, don’t even worry about it. I guess it was just a surprise, but she seems really sweet.” You smile, rubbing your hands on your legs in a calming motion. “I’m really happy for you, Carlos. Truly.” You whispered, a sad smile on your face. “I hope she treats you really well, you guys are super cute together.”
Carlos could see the sadness in your eyes, unsure of what brought it on. He was debating bringing it up, asking you what was making you so sad. You didn’t give him the chance to even say anything though, leaving the room with that same fake smile on your face as you went to join everyone. You grabbed a drink, feeling the need for some sort of distraction. Looking around, you realized Pierre had arrived while you were in the other room. You thought back to the way he used to always flirt with you, assuming it stopped when the group started conspiring to get you and Carlos together.
An idea popped into your mind just then, not even pausing to think about the repercussions before waltzing over to Pierre. You placed a hand on his arm, grabbing his attention away from whoever he had been talking to. “Oh, y/n I wasn’t sure you were here.” He smiles, “Finally come to see me, yeah?” He smirks, french accent thick. You notice him look you over and that’s when you make your move, pulling him to the couch for the first movie. You sit down and pull him close to you, grabbing a blanket. “I might get scared in this movie, I hope you can keep me safe.” You pout, eyes staying on him. The tension in the room rises as Pierre puts an arm around you, pulling you closer. Your friends watch you with surprise apparent on their faces, watching you giggle with your face inches from his. Carlos had stepped into the living room as well, unable to hide the shock on his face seeing you cuddled so close to Pierre.
Had he missed something? Did you have feelings for Pierre? His stomach turned at the thought, unsure he would be able to sit through the night with someone else’s hands on you. That was until he realized he had started dating Melissa for a reason, to get over his crush on you. Taking a deep breath he leads her over to the chair, sitting close with her nearly in his lap. This whole interaction left everyone scratching their heads, feeling the awkwardness around you and Carlos sitting on separate couches and avoiding eye contact with each other.
_______
Things with Carlos had been weird since that night. Normally you’d have multiple nights a month where you usually stayed over, seeing him as much as both of your schedules allowed Now though you felt like you barely had energy to text him. You weren’t going to be the one to bring anything up either. In your mind, he had made his choice with Monica, or was it Melissa? You were sure she was sweet but you also had no desire to get to know her. Maybe in a little while, when the shock and pain from the situation wore off but right now it was all too fresh.
Luisa was there to help you distract yourself from the situation, but was also there to talk if needed. You couldn’t put into words how grateful you were for her as you processed everything. One thing that was somewhat new in your life was a newfound close friendship with Pierre. Despite being in the same group it never seemed to go beyond acquaintances with the two of you. Of course before that he was a flirt and maybe you had used him to make Carlos feel bad, but it was different now. You found yourself wanting to spend time with the man, texting him when you were specifically sad or lonely.
Luisa had warned you, told you not to try to replace Carlos with him but if he was the only one who was making you feel better, why not go with it? That’s how you found yourself in your apartment, nestled into Pierre’s side as a scary movie played on the tv. You tried to ignore the little voice in your head that reminded you who had originally shown you this movie, who had given you his sweatshirt and stayed up all night with you after you were too scared to go to sleep. No, you pushed those thoughts down deep inside until they were just mere glimpses of a memory.
Pierre’s arm wrapped around your shoulders, tangling in your hair while his other hand laid over his lap and yours, getting dangerously close to the inside of your thigh. You didn’t mind though, each touch from him only helped get Carlos’ touch out of your brain. Your fingers scratched over the scruff of his beard, only somewhat paying attention to the movie that was on the screen. Along with the general hard time you’ve been having lately, your sleep schedule was all fucked. You felt like when you slept all you seemed to dream about was Carlos with another girl. You had longed for that with him for so long that the idea of someone else being by his side haunted your nights. The idea brought on tossing and turning most nights until you finally gave up on getting some sleep.
You knew you could reach out to Carlos, that simply hearing his voice would put you at ease but you just couldn’t bring yourself to press send or go through with the call. You hadn’t counted but you’re sure you had spent hours just staring at his contact. To help you
get some sleep, you’d invite a friend over. Luisa, Pierre, Lily, sometimes even Mick would come stay in your extra bedroom every so often. You’d play it off as just a wanting some close time with your friends even though without fail, each of them would ask when the last time you talked with Carlos was. You avoided the subject like the plague, changing the topic every time. You wanted to say he hadn’t reached out to you, but you hadn’t reached out either.
You tried to focus on Pierre’s touch, finding the good feeling and chasing it. Soon you felt his face nuzzle into your neck, kissing ever so softly. You tilted your head to let him have access, no thoughts in your head besides the way his beard felt against your skin. All focus on the movie was gone as his hands reached to your waist to pull you onto his lap. Thoughts of Carlos tried to pry their way into your brain but each time you feel Pierre press your hips against his, almost like he knew who was sneaking into your brain.
The nights he was over usually ended here, when your brain overloaded with thoughts of Carlos and you ended things. Something changed tonight though and you didn’t want to stop. With only the light from the tv illuminating the two of you, you pulled away to admire Pierre. You had always thought he was handsome and only recently discovered what a good kisser he was. You played with the bottom of his shirt, slipping your hands underneath it and helping him pull his t-shirt off. Even in the lowlight he looked good and you were looking forward to where the night took you.
Your hands rested on his chest and his own wrapped around your wrists, raising an eyebrow up at you. “Are you sure, mon chère?” You appreciated his concern, knowing he was probably waiting for you to put an end to this like every other night. With only a nod, you leaned in and pressed your lips together. You gasped when you were quickly flipped and your back was against his chest. Curious to where this was going you felt Pierre’s lips back on your neck and his fingers play with the waistband of the sweats you were wearing.
“Tonight’s all about you, Je te voulais depuis si longtemps.” He mumbles against your skin, chuckling as your hips moved a bit so the sweatpants could be removed. The way he flipped back and forth from French to English drove you crazy and you needed something, any sort of relief from him. You gasped when you felt his fingers brush against your thighs, letting them fall open. Your head fell back onto his shoulder as he took his time with you.
Your hands settled on your thighs, fingertips no doubt leaving marks as you prepared for what was to come. When his long fingers finally slipped below the fabric you had already been so pent up just imagining how it felt. A loud moan left your mouth, drowning out whatever was playing on the tv and keeping his focus on you and you alone. “Barely even touched you, doll. Combien de temps s'est-il écoulé depuis que quelqu'un vous a touché comme ça ?”
His words went straight between your legs, sending a shiver up your spine. Your grasp on french wasn’t the best but he could be reciting the dictionary to you right now and you didn’t care. Tilting your head up you adjusted yourself so your lips pressed together, moaning into his mouth as he finally touched you where you needed him most. Shockwaves moved through your body as he played with your clit, fingers working you better than you could have imagined. “Oh my God, Pierre…Yes fuck.” You moan against his lips, pulling one hand up to tangle in the back of his hair. You felt a finger slip into you and with a gasp, your hips rolling down to feel him deeper. Pierre stopped his movements, shaking his head. “No, no. Stay still, mon ange.”
The whine that left your throat was pitiful and you felt Pierre’s chest shake with a laugh. “That needy for me?” He teases, continuing his movements. You nod slowly, looking up at Pierre with wide eyes. “It feels so good, Pierre. Feels…so fucking good.” You moan, focusing on keeping your hips still. Your hands tug at the hair on the back of his head trying to keep yourself from completely letting go from just his fingers. You weren’t sure when the last time you were with someone was, a certain person keeping your attention away from other men for quite some time. You shook the thought away, squeezing Pierre’s arm. “Let’s go to the bedroom.”
Reluctantly, you leave Pierre’s lap, turning around to pull him up too. The second he’s on his feet, his lips are on yours and his hands roam down your body to settle on your ass. His mouth traces along your jaw, kissing and nibbling his way along your neck. His lips brush against your ear as he whispers “Jump”. Shivers run down your spine and your body obeys before you even have time to process what was happening. He carries you easily towards your bedroom, hands tightly gripping your thighs. You take a moment to admire his body, fingers brushing along his collarbone and up to his hair. Your fingers tangle in it and tug, earning a soft grunt from his lips. As he sets your down, you immediately sink to your knees, your hands tracing down his chest before reaching his waistband. Were you really going to do this? It ‘s not like you had anyone waiting for you, and the person you really wanted was with someone else. The frustration and hurt from the movie night spurring your next move. Staring up at him through your lashes, you helped him remove his sweatpants, licking your lips when you saw the outline of his cock through his boxers. Pulling them down his legs you wrapped your hand around his length and put the tip in your mouth, hollowing out your cheeks as you press further down.
You feel his hands tangle in your hair and you let your hands fall down to grip his thighs. You relaxed your jaw, gazing expectantly up at him before Pierre started thrusting into your mouth, bringing tears to your eyes. You let him use your throat, tapping his thigh once it got to be too much. You knew you weren’t ready to have sex with Pierre but you were desperate to get off and help the man in front of you get off with you.
He helps you up, pressing your lips together as you pushed him back against the bed. You straddled his thigh, hovering over it before you sat yourself down. The pressure of his thigh against your bare core was overwhelming, nearly causing your eyes to roll back in pleasure already. Letting yourself settle, you slowly start to rut your hips, one hand gripping his shoulder. Your free hand moves to wrap around his cock, slowly starting to pump along with the movement of your hips. “Using me to get off, darling?” He asks, hands gripping your waist tight as he watches you closely. His eyes didn’t leave your body as you let your head fall against his, the pleasure overwhelming you. As you reached your high, you feel Pierre’s cum coat your stomach, chests rising and falling in time with each other. You stay quiet for a bit, trying to gain your composure and catch your breath.
Pierre helps you off his thigh, setting you down on the bed as he left to get a washcloth to clean up the two of you. In your post orgasm haze you let yourself imagine the night as if it had been with Carlos. You knew it wasn’t fair to Pierre but you couldn’t help but think about how Carlos would take care of you after you got off. You were brought back to the present when you felt the cold compress on your thighs. You look up and see Pierre watching you with a smirk, smiling back at him. “What?” You chuckle and he just shakes his head. “You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do that with you, y/n.” Is all he says, leaving your cheeks tinted pink as the image of what you just did.
CARLOS POV
Carlos knew he had fucked up, royally. All he could see in his head for days was the look on your face when you saw Melissa with him in the kitchen. The pain in your eyes read more than just that of a hurt best friend, more so of pure heartbreak. He hadn’t planned on introducing the two of you to each other, ever. He had met Melissa at a press event and they had gone on a couple dates. There were no feelings past physical attraction to each other, at least on Carlos’ end. He never intended on it to go further than just a few dates, but one night he had too much to drink and had invited her over for movie night. That was his first mistake, his second was not immediately cancelling with her when he realized what he had done.
In finding a way to distract him from the feelings he had for you, he ended up losing you. He was too embarrassed, maybe too disappointed in himself to call, waiting for you to make the first move. He knew you wouldn’t, that it would need to be him who did but every time he went to call he worried things would end for good. He also knew the longer he waited to reach out would only hurt his cause. Especially now since Lando told him the nights the girls weren’t with you, you were having Pierre over. If he thought about it too much it made him sick to his stomach, even if he knew he had no right to feel that way. He kept imagining you and Pierre doing the things the two of you used to do together.
He couldn’t help but picture Pierre being there to see the little faces you made when you were watching a movie, or the way you’d make little comments over and over until he’d give you his hoodie. He imagined you telling him about your skincare the same way you had taught Carlos one night. He had to stop his anger from boiling over at the image of you in Pierre’s clothes and not his, Pierre making you laugh when he wasn’t there to. He was brought back down to Earth when a pair of fingers snapped in front of his face, bringing his attention to the people in front of him. He was on a double date with Lando & Luisa, after Lando kindly but stupidly invited Carlos & Melissa out before you had a chance to break it off with her.
At certain times he felt bad, Melissa was a nice girl but he found himself zoning out whenever he was around her. Even before things had took a turn for the worse with y/n, she wasn’t the distraction that Carlos had been looking for. It didn’t take long to come to the realization that you weren’t someone he’d be able to forget. Grateful that Lando was able to keep any sort of conversation going, Carlos didn’t need to focus too hard on what was happening around him. He thought about asking Luisa how you were, wanting to know so badly. He knew what Luisa would say too, that he could easily message you and ask you himself.
He knew she was right but how could he possibly admit that without admitting how embarrassed he was that he hadn’t yet? It was so easy to just send a text, or make a call but he was unable to do either. He had seen your name light up her screen a few times but didn’t get a good look. He tried to get a peek at the screen but Luisa caught on pretty quick, turning her phone over and giving him a stern look. “Did you hear that, Carlos? I was thinking I could come to your next race! Maybe I’ll be a good luck charm.” Melissa giggled, but Carlos could barely muster up a fake laugh. There was no one else besides you that he wanted to support him.
Nodding slowly, Carlos shrugs “Yeah, yeah maybe. I think our next race is pretty far away so..” Any excuse he could get, even if everyone else at the table knew that the next race was a short drive away from where they were currently. Entrees were brought to the table, glasses of wine being filled up as well. Thankful for the distraction from any sort of conversation, Carlos focused on his dinner. It brought him back to a specific memory from a couple months prior.
The group had a make your own pizza night at Charles’ apartment. Of course everyone chose to make their own pizza, but you and Carlos had opted to combine yours. George took one glance at it and called it ‘Mega-pizza.’ Normally a little comment like that wouldn’t have such an impact but Carlos remembers the way your face lit up when he had said it and the first of giggles you had broken into afterwards. All he could think of was how beautiful you were and if he could only make you laugh like that all the time he would be content.
It wasn’t until he heard Lando’s sorry attempt at being quiet that he noticed the lag in conversation that resulted from his daydreaming. “How did y/n’s date go with Pierre?” He had asked Luisa, as quiet as he was able to manage. Carlos looked away before the two of them glanced at him. “I was just going to text her and ask.” She whispers back, hoping Carlos hadn’t heard a thing but his interest was peaked. His mind was running a million miles a minute, trying to process the information that he had just heard. He hoped he misheard but when he glanced over he was able to read your name on Luisa’s phone he knew he hadn’t.
From his spot he was able to see that Luisa did in fact ask how your date with Pierre went and you were now typing back. Of course he knew you and Pierre had been spending time together but a date? The jealousy was causing a pit to form in his stomach and Carlos was ready to bail on the date right then and there. Running through a list of excuses, he saw a text come in on Luisa’s phone and he knew he couldn’t leave.
‘Luisa it’s been so good! We had dinner, watched this random scary movie…’
‘Along with some other things…’
Carlos hoped his face didn’t show how uncomfortable he felt. Other things? He racked his brain trying to come up with ideas of things that she could have meant. Other things didn’t necessarily have to mean the first thing he thought of. It was naive to think, he knew that. If he could just avoid peeking over at Luisa’s phone for the rest of the night he could keep his mind from wandering to somewhere he did not want it to go. He didn’t bother to read Luisa’s reply but after a few moments when the table vibrated he couldn’t help but glance at the screen and read your reply before he was able to stop himself.
‘TELL. ME. EVERYTHING!!!!’
‘Can I call you later? We’re going to finish our movie but once he’s asleep I’ll tell you! Basically, my dry spell finally ended? And it was SO good.’
Carlos had picked the wrong time to take a drink, reading those words and immediately coughing up his water. Everyone at the table looked over at him, Melissa’s hand moving to his back to pat it gently. “You okay?” No, he was far from it but he puts a fake smile on and nods “Yeah, no I’m good. Just pretty tired.” He lied, excusing himself from the table to head outside. He leans against a wall, letting the cold air rush around him as the image of you and Pierre filled his vision and brought an ache to his chest.
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mickimagnum · 4 months
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Devin's Dude Ranch: Episode Two (Part One)
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Venessa: "Welcome all to Echo Valley Ranch. As you know, this will be your home for the duration of the challenge, or if Devin doesn't feel the connection, until you're eliminated. This is Devin's home, so we ask that you be respectful."
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Venessa (continues): "The challenge will take place over 6 weeks and will include challenges that award solo dates with Devin. There will also be group dates and some short one-on-one time each week during cocktail parties prior to eliminations, so use your time wisely to try to get to know our Bachelorette and make that connection. Lastly, input from our audience can influence the outcome of the challenge through weekly polls, so it's important to make a good impression on them as well."
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Venessa (continues): "But for tonight, you'll each get some special one-on-one time with Devin so you can get to know each other a little better. You've already made your first impressions. Now it's time to go a little deeper. You don't have a lot of time here, so make every moment together count. Devin?"
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Devin: "I just want to thank each of you for being here. I know this is an unusual situation we've all put ourselves in, in the name of love, but I'm grateful to all of you for giving this, and me, a chance."
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Devin (continues): "So, tonight, and really throughout this experience, just be yourselves. Don't hold back. Let's really get to know each other and see if we have that special connection we're all here looking for."
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Devin (continues): "I'm excited to get to know all of you. Let's make this a fun, unforgettable experience, alright?"
*the guys cheer in response*
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*as Venessa leaves Stan is the first on his feet and approaches Devin*
Stan: "You know, Ms. Delaney, we're the ones who should be grateful that you're giving us all a shot."
Devin: "Please, just call me Devin, Stan."
Stan: "Yes, ma'am...Devin," *grins to himself following his slip-up* "I was hoping to have a moment of your time. Maybe you could introduce me to your horse if it's not too much trouble?"
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*A wide smile breaks out across Devin's face*
Devin: "I would love to. Follow me, she's right outside in the pasture."
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*the camera cuts to Devin and Stan outside. Devin is affectionately cradling her horse's muzzle while Stan looks on, grinning.*
Devin: "This is Gale. And I don't want you to be jealous, but she's my original soulmate."
Stan: "Ah, that's alright. I wouldn't dream of coming between a woman and her horse. It's a sacred bond."
*At that, Gale plods toward James, lowers her head and nudges his shoulder*
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Stan: "Well, howdy there, girl," *he begins scratching her neck, which Gale accepts readily*, "Oh, you like that, do ya?"
*Devin takes a step back and watches the two bond, clearly pleased by how quickly the two are taking to each other*
Devin: "You're good with her. You've spent some time around horses, haven't you?"
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Stan: "Yessum. I have a ranch, too. I share it with my own girl. Her name's Nutmeg."
*Devin can't help but smile hearing his horse's name*
Devin: "Nutmeg? That is really cute."
*Stan chuckles*
Stan: "She is cute if I do say so myself. And a damn fine horse. Wanna see a picture of her?"
Devin: "Yeah! Of course I do!"
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*Stan pulls his phone from his pocket, queues up a photo of Nutmeg, and shows it to Devin*
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Devin: "Wow, she is impressive. She's a Nez Perce, right?"
Stan (impressed): "Good eye. She is."
Devin: "Do you compete or use her for ranch work?"
Stan: "Ah, just pleasure ridin' and ranch work, really. She does good helping me keep the goats in line...as much as anyone can."
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*Devin looks up and smiles at Stan*
Devin: "Oh, you have goats?"
Stan: "Yeah. Dairy goats. Mischievous little things. But, I love 'em."
Devin: "My grandmother had goats when I was growing up. There was never a dull moment with them around. I don't know how many screen doors she had to replace over the years...anytime she was late feeding them, they'd start headbutting the heck out of that door because they knew it'd motivate her to do the right thing, as they saw it, anyway."
*Devin shakes her head and smiles in recollection*
*Stan chuckles*
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*There is a moment of silence between them*
Stan: "Alright. You said you don't like boring and our time together here is, unfortunately, limited. So, let's cut to the chase. Tell me something weird about yourself."
*Devin looks bewildered for a moment before regaining her composure*
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Devin: "Umm...okay," *pauses for a moment to think* "I saw a Bigfoot when I was fourteen."
*Stan looks stunned and staggers backwards for dramatic effect*
Stan: "What?! Alright, you can't just drop a bomb like that on someone and not tell them the full story!"
*Devin laughs and hides her face behind her hand*
Devin: "I can't believe I'm about to admit this on national TV."
*Stan moves closer to her and then waves the camera away*
Stan: "No, no. Just pretend like they're not there. I need to hear this. I've always been fascinated with the Sasquatch."
Devin: "Seriously?"
*Stan nods*
Stan: "Seriously."
*Devin draws in a deep breath and looks into his pleading eyes*
Devin: "Fine. Like I said. I was fourteen. My Dad, uncle, and I were riding through the mountains on horseback because we were going camping and it's the best way to get around up there. They were ahead me, by maybe a quarter of a mile. And then I saw it, as I was crossing a low river. It was just sitting on a rock, squatting next to the water, maybe 50 feet away from me. It looked like it was breaking apart clams or something. I stopped my horse in our tracks and just stared. And when it noticed me, it stood up, we made eye contact, and then it turned and walked off, disappearing behind some rocks. I'd never been so scared in my life. It was freaking HUGE. And it wasn't a person in a suit. And it wasn't a bear or a monkey or any of the common write-offs you hear about. It was Yeti Di Kluii."
Stan: "Yeti Di Kluii?"
Devin: "It's what my people call Bigfoot."
*Stan nods*
Stan: "Well, that, is an incredible story. I wish I'd seen it."
Devin: "It was life changing, but I don't tell people because most of them wouldn't believe me," *she pauses and smiles at Stan* "Alright, it's your turn."
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Stan: "Well, I'm afraid you'll be disappointed after your weird fact, but...," *now he pauses to think* "I have a paralyzing fear of cowplants."
*Devin's mouth open, closes slightly, and she smiles*
Devin: "Oh, no! That's....so endearing. But also, understandable. I mean, they're aliens....that will eat you!"
Stan: "Exactly! They're not cute cuddly friends..."
Devin: "...Unlike goats."
Stan: "Well. I don't know you can exactly contrast the two."
*Both laugh in unison*
*as the laughter dies down, Devin sighs and glances back toward the house*
Devin: "Well, I suppose I should make my way back in there. Give these other fellows a chance to chat me up."
Stan: "I mean, you don't have to, do you?"
Devin: "It's probably in my contract in something."
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Stan: "Well, if that's the case, I guess I'll let you get back to it. As always, it was a pleasure, Devin."
*he then leans forward and plants a kiss on her cheek*
Devin: "Until next time, cowboy."
*Devin turns and makes her way back into the house*
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Stan (to Gale): "There she goes, girl. The woman of my dreams."
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Stan (in diary room): *takes off his hat, runs his fingers through his hair, then shimmies it back onto his head* "I don't know what to say. Devin is a special girl. I've enjoyed every minute I've gotten to spend with her so far. I've never met a woman this easy to talk to. And I definitely feel a connection. Boy howdy, I hope she feels it too."
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Devin (in diary room): "I like Stan. He's got this down-to-earth quality mixed with eccentricity that I find fascinating. And I do feel like we have a good connection; it feels easy. I'm just not sure yet if it's romantic or more on a friendship level. It worries me that we don't have a lot of time to figure it out. I guess we'll have to see what happens next, won't we?"
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James "Stan" and Nutmeg by @natolesims
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againstacecilia · 1 year
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A Path Changed
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Pairing: Din Djarin x Fem!Reader
Word Count: 1.9k
Rating: M, series is E so minors DNI
Warnings: Canon-typical violence, angst, this one gets emotional, gun use.
A/N: Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for getting to 300 followers! I know I've said this before, but I'm so thankful and grateful for all of you being here. I'm so excited to share this chapter with you! All I'll say is: enjoy the ride. 😉 @creatively-analytical is forever and always the best beta reader, thank you love. 💖 Asks are always open!!
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You woke up as the shuddering of the ship knocked you from your seated position. Cursing the crick in your neck and sore back, you stood up and stretched. Suddenly, you realized you were taking off and you shot up the ladder to the cockpit. 
You clumsily scaled the ladder, sleep still ebbing from your veins, and found the door already open. “Where are we going?” you say as soon as you straighten up on the landing, “I thought we were staying here?”
“I got a tip from Tonis early this morning, the bounty your fiance is tracking was seen on Batuu last night. The planet isn’t too far from here.”
“And you were going to tell me this, when?” You snapped, strapping into your chair behind him. 
“Now,” he said, flipping a couple of switches.
“Anything else I should know?”
He answered with silence. A common occurrence, you’d found. You were left to simmer in your anger at being left out of the loop as the ship sped away from Jakku, leaving the oceans of sand behind you. 
After a night of poor sleep, the hum of the engines quickly lulled you into a doze and you let yourself drift. Vague dreams of Arlon floated through your mind, filling you with joy and sadness all at once. Even in your dreams, you missed him. 
Before you knew it, a light touch on your shoulder was waking you. 
“Hey,” Mando’s voice was soft, “We’re here.”
You dragged your eyes open, blinking the sleep away as soft light filtered in through the windows and reflected off Mando’s armor. “I didn’t realize I had fallen asleep, sorry.”
“Nothing to apologize for,” he responded, straightening up and heading toward the ladder. 
You unbuckled and stood to follow. Climbing down, you noticed Mando strapping various weapons to his belt from a closet against the wall. Guns you’d never seen before slipped into holsters, while knives of all sizes were slipped into pockets and hiding places all over his body. 
“Wow. That’s a lot of weaponry…” You commented, uneasy about what his personal arsenal would mean for the day’s events. 
“You can never be too careful,” he said, strapping a rifle across his back.
“Why do you have so many?” You asked, crossing the small room to look in the cabinet, “How do you know what they all do?”
Mando reached into the cabinet over your shoulder before he answered, “Weapons are part of my religion. I’ve trained with them for most of my life.” He picked up a blaster and handed it to you.
“What are you doing?” you asked, staring at the weapon.
“You need something to protect yourself. This should work.”
“But,” you stuttered, still not taking the blaster from him, “I’ve never used one of these.” 
“I’ll give you a quick lesson before we head to the quarry’s last location. It won’t take long.”
You closed his fingers over the weapon and pushed his hand back towards him, shaking your head. “I’m more likely to hurt myself or someone innocent than actually use it to protect myself.”
His other hand reached up and gently nudged your chin up to look at him. “You’ll be fine.”
Something in his promise made you believe him, so you sucked in a breath and took the small blaster from him. Bright silver metal with beautiful filigree along the barrel shined in your hand. You went to put it in your waistband when Mando interrupted.
“Ah ah ah, let’s not do that,” he chuckled, handing you a leather strap with a holster. “This goes around your thigh and the blaster fits inside.”
He showed you how to clasp the holder around your hip and thigh, keeping a respectful distance and guiding you verbally. Once he was sure it was on correctly, you slipped the blaster into its place and you both headed down the ramp into the forests of Batuu. 
- - - - - - - -
“Alright, time for the basics,” Mando said once he had set up some empty ration containers to use as targets. You had found a clearing not far from the ship and Mando announced this was where you’d get your lesson. Mando ran through the parts of the gun; the grips and barrel, the sight and trigger. “Most importantly, always treat a blaster as if the safety is off. It’s better to assume the weapon is live than to make a mistake that could be costly.”
“Okay, I can do that. Um… Where’s the safety?”
A small sigh slipped through the modulator as Mando closed the distance between the two of you. He pointed at a small switch above the trigger.
“And the safety is on right now? Or, no, I’m supposed to assume it’s off…”
“Right now, it’s on. Let’s switch it off and see how your aim is, we don’t have much time,” Mando stepped away and gestured to the targets set up across the clearing. 
Cheeks burning with embarrassment, you flipped the safety and memorized the difference in the “off” and “on” positions. You lifted the blaster and closed one eye, aiming down the small sight on the top. 
“Stop,” Mando said before coming up to your side once again. He gestured to your hands, “May I?”
You nod and he repositioned your fingers along the grip, as well as shifted your arms and shoulders. “Relax, you’re too tense.”
You snorted, “Sure, I’ll just relax. As if anything about this situation is anything other than tense.”
“You can do it,” Mando said, stepping back. “Now, try and hit the targets.”
You spent the next 20 minutes firing at small tin boxes, hitting some, missing more, and generally learning the basics of the weapon. 
“That’s a good start,” Mando said after a time, “you should be able to at least hold someone off until I can get to you.”
You looked at him with an eyebrow cocked, “Is this a scenario you’re anticipating?”
“You can never be too careful,” he said again, echoing his statement from earlier. 
“Super reassuring,” you mumbled, flipping the safety on and holstering your blaster. “Come on, let’s get moving.” 
It took 20 minutes before the small outpost came into view through the trees. The path widened into a road leading straight into the makeshift town, small wooden buildings patched together lined the road. 
“This outpost was the most recent place the quarry was seen. We need to ask around.”
“Lead the way, Bounty Hunter,” you responded, scanning the buildings for people. “Although, it is really quiet… Do you think…”
Before you could finish the question, a shot rang through the air. Before you could react, Mando had thrown his body over yours. The impact of his body throwing you to the ground made your teeth rattle, but you didn’t have any time to worry about aches and pains as another blaster shot ricocheted off his beskar. 
“Back off, Mandalorian, the quarry is mine!” A voice echoed down the street from the direction of the gunshots. A familiar voice…
“Arlon,” you whispered as the ringing in your ears faded. “Mando, get off, that’s my fiance! Arlon!”
“You need to stay down…” Mando started, but you wiggled out from under him and stood up, already running toward the voice.
“Arlon, it’s me!” You shouted, legs and arms pumping and driving you closer to him. His eyes widened as recognition flitted across his face. He said your name in quiet surprise as you reached him, throwing your arms around his neck and holding him close. 
“I’m so happy you're alive, I’ve been so worried,” you buried your face in his neck and fought back the tears of joy threatening to fall. 
“What are you doing here?” Arlon asked, gently pulling you away from him. He looked hard into your eyes and scanned your face as if not totally believing you were standing in front of him.
“You didn’t come back and I was so worried,” your words started falling from your lips in a rush. “I asked Tonis what happened and he told me you had gone after some big bounty and then asked the Mandalorian to help me find you and we did it! We found you! And now you can work with Mando to get this quarry and come home!” Your breathing was heavy after you finished talking. You studied Arlon’s face for the happiness you were sure he’d feel but, instead, you saw… Anger. 
“Arlon… Say something,” you breathed. A pit formed in your stomach.
Arlon looked away from you, fist clenched at his side.“You weren’t supposed to follow me,” he said after a beat. He looked back at you, anger fully burning in his eyes now. “You were supposed to stay home and assume I died. I was banking on you being too scared to come after me; too weak to follow into the scary galaxy outside your little hole.”
Tears finally began to fall, but these weren’t tears of joy. Pain, searing and brutal, rushed through you as the meaning of his words began to set in. “Arlon… You don’t mean any of this…”
“I do mean it! Every word! You always kept me from being what I was capable of being, and the worst part is, I almost fell for it! And my parents, always so happy I had found such a good girl, always so ecstatic that I was going to be settling down and finally following the right path. Pathetic.” Then he pushed you, hands coming up to shove your shoulders quicker than you could react. 
You felt your body fall, but felt your heart fall faster. You could feel it shatter as it landed at the bottom of a pit deeper than you could fathom. Your world fractured around you as your body moved in slow motion toward the ground. 
Strong hands slipped under your arms and caught you before impact. Through the tears that flooded your eyes, you caught the swimming image of Beskar and a dark visor looking over you toward Arlon. Mando eased you to the ground, pulling you into a seated position against his chest. 
“Do we have a problem here?” Arlon asked, the sneer in his voice scraped through your ears. Mando ignored the question and looked down at you.
“Are you okay?” he asked softly, his voice as gentle as the hands holding you. 
You shook your head, words failing you. You tried, but the tears wouldn’t stop.
Mando squeezed your shoulders before helping you into a standing position. He shifted to stand in front of you and finally addressed Arlon. 
“Apologize.”
“Excuse me?” Arlon responded.
“Apologize to her.”
Arlon scoffed, “I have nothing to apologize for. She ruined my life for too long, and I needed to find my own path so I took my chance.”
In the blink of an eye, Mando had gone from standing in front of you to holding Arlon above his head by his collar. In the next blink, Arlon was on the ground.
“Arlon,” you started, reaching toward him.
“Don’t touch me!” Arlon shouted, scrambling to his feet. “If you didn’t get the hint the first time I’ll spell it out for you now: leave me alone and forget about me. I have no room in my life for boring, unimaginative, dreamless people with no ambition.” Without so much as looking at you or Mando again, he turned and ran down the road, disappearing down a side street. 
You watched him go, the echoes of your heart shattering still reverberating in your ears. The world lurched uncomfortably before tilting, and darkness swallowed you up.
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Two Choices
(I’m gonna change the name I promise. Please send suggestions.)
Chapter 4
Pairing: Eris x reader x Azriel
Summary: The future wife of Eris never cared much for mating bonds, she had spent years in love with Eris and when Beron finally died they could be together. He has full intention to make his love into his High Lady until at a party meant to celebrate Eris’ reign the girl finds herself finding her mate, Azriel.
Warnings: Slight smut, angst, azriel is literally toxic/manipulative and i was going to say kind of abusive but he literally is lol. Depressive behavior
Word Count: 3792
(Theyre playing monopoly, I’ve never played monopoly.)
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After that the only time I’d seen Azriel was right before he left for his little mission when decided to say bye to me before leaving. I hadn’t talked to or even seen him before that.
I tried to seek him out a day after to try to settle this like adults but I couldn’t find him, I even resorted to finally talking to one of the members of the Inner Court to see if they knew. I asked Cassian, who was the first person I saw if he knew. He said he didn’t know and the conversation ended there.
Food was still brought up to me every day, but I only stayed in my room the whole time. By the second day, the isolation really began hitting me. It took me hours to even get out of bed before I ended up just sitting on the floor ignoring the plate of food next to me. 
I mentally beat myself up for not just following Azriel, I wouldn’t be sitting here alone if I had. Around four in the afternoon was when Azriel came to say goodbye.
I hated how excited I’d gotten when I saw him, especially knowing he’d be gone for three days, knowing I'd be left alone. I wanted to cry when I watched him leave after not even being here for a minute.
By the third day, I couldn’t even tell you anything that had happened, I was in bed all day and only moved to use the bathroom. I didn’t eat even a bit of food.
The first half of the fourth day went the same until halfway through my brain decided to work again. I didn’t want to stay in the house any longer.
As I stood up I realized how weak my legs had gotten and had a little trouble walking myself to the bathroom to bathe, which I hadn’t had the energy to do in days. 
I soaked myself in the hot water with different soaks I had found in the room that ended up smelling like grapefruit. I smell I really enjoy. I soaked myself for around thirty minutes before fully washing my body and getting out.
In my room, I picked out a simple grey button-up and skirt that went right above my ankles before bringing myself downstairs.
I noticed quickly that no one was home. Which I was grateful for as part of me was scared they’d try to stop me from leaving.
Just in case, I quickly got myself out the door with my wallet in my hands and immediately went into the crowd of the city. I followed the path Azriel took to the shop we’d gotten to before we fought, wanting to get some books from the Autumn Court section just to have. The thought of having them in my room brought comfort to my mind.
When I’d found my way into the shop I made a bee-line to get to the section, the shop was basically empty like usual so I had no trouble getting there. I got on my knees to look through the big books of different tales and stories I’d loved as a child.
I sat there for maybe 15 minutes before I heard a voice. “Do you need help with anything?” a soft voice asked me, I turned to see our waiter from the last time I was there.
I shook my head, “No thank you.” I told her politely. She knelt down to look at what book I was looking at, and let out a giggle when she saw the book. 
“My mother loves Autumn Court tales so I grew up on them, that one is a really good one.” She told me.
I smiled at the girl, “I grew up and lived there.”
She looked surprised, “Wow really, did you move here or something?” She asked me.
“Mhm, I moved here about.” I counted on my fingers, “about a month now I think.” 
She rested her head on her hands, “Really? Why did you move here?” 
“My mate lives here,” I told her.
“Wait is it Azriel?” She asked and I nodded, “Oh that makes a lot of sense. He used to come here a lot but he stopped for a while and then he took you here. He usually only came for to-go things though, I kind of felt bad we didn’t have a bigger chair for him.”
“He was fine don't worry,” I told her. I wanted to move on from the conversation of him, but I didn’t want to seem annoyed.
“Oh yeah!” She started, “Since you are new here you don't know a lot of people yet.” 
I nodded, “Okay so, tomorrow I and some of my friends have this little game night thing we do here every week, it's always on a Saturday, and it's super fun. We had someone who had to leave so we’re looking for someone else to come, we start at five okay.” She told me
This made me so excited, I was happy to see more people than just Azriel now, “Of course I’ll come.” I said with a smile.
She looked really happy, “Okay amazing! What's your name?” She asked me excitedly.
“(Y/N), yours?” I asked.
“Primrose.”
Primrose ended up giving me the books I’d gotten half off, I got four books, three being folktale books and the last one being one of my favorite fantasy ones I found. I basically skipped out of there with glee.
I realized how hungry I’d gotten which lead me to quickly get food at a random restaurant where I sat at a table alone and skimmed through my books.
After the food had arrived and I was still skimming while eating I heard someone enter the restaurant. I didn’t care to look up until I saw a shadow looming over me, “What are you doing? Azriel said you're not supposed to go out alone.” I looked up to see Cassian, Azriel’s brother of some sort.
I lied without even thinking about it, “Azriel never said that.” I told him.
Luckily Cassian spoke in a hushed voice, “You know damn well that's a lie, if he told the entirety of his family this, then he told you.”
My heart was pounding in my chest, “He didn’t.” I lied again.
Cassian rubbed his temples, “Just finish eating, I’m taking you back home.” 
I put my book away before he could see the very clear Autumn Court-like cover and shoved it into the bag I’d gotten from the shop and finished eating quickly. Scared if I took long he’d grow more irritated. 
I finished and quickly grabbed my bag and walked out with Cassian, I felt like I was taking a walk of shame as we walked to the house.
Once we’d gotten there I refused to talk to anyone, quickly making my way to my room because I was scared they’d question what I’d gotten. I was scared they’d make me get rid of it.
I hid the books under my bed because now I also had to figure out how to get out of the house to go to that game night, I knew if I asked they’d say no.
I doubted now I could just walk out the front door so my thoughts went to my windows. They were push-out windows with a slight balcony that looked out to the garden, as I looked I realized the drop wasn’t that far.
I grew up with only brothers, so this wouldn’t be my first time jumping out of a window. The windows at home were much farther away from the ground and I did it with no problem, I knew I’d be fine.
I smiled as I went over to my wardrobe, I wanted something nice but not too nice to wear. I noticed I really didn’t like my clothes, they were all Night Court clothing which I didn’t enjoy. As I continued digging I found my old Autumn Court dresses, all of which were red or pink with white and brown accents. 
I quickly pulled out one of my favorite red dresses, one that I’d planned to wear to go on a trip with my brothers before I’d get married. Clearly, that wasn’t happening though. 
I folded the dress in the corner of my wardrobe to be worn tomorrow. I hadn’t felt this excited in so long, there were a few times in this past month I’d felt genuinely happy and I was relishing the moment.
I moved myself to my bathroom to really look at what I had, I always had just used the stuff already out to simply bathe myself but today I realized there was a lot more in there.
I saw hair rollers and skincare things like facemasks in there that were just never mentioned to me. I looked more and saw more soaks, some hair straighteners, hair masks, and lotions of different scents. I’d been using the nonscented ones that were laid out on the counter. I decided to have a little self-care night to myself, especially after how I’d felt the past couple of days.
As I looked through the different scented things, in the lotion pile one caught my eye. A brown bottle, as I looked at it I read ‘Apple and Cinnamon’ causing my heart to sink.
Against my better judgment, I opened the bottle and smelled it.
Eris.
Eris.
I sniffed it again, god it smelt so much like Eris. My body relaxed at the scent, my heart rate went down as I sat on the floor. 
I hated how comforted I felt, I hated how I felt at home, I hated the love in my heart and I hated even more that smelling this made me want to cry.
I looked through the perfumes next to it and quickly realized each lotion had a matching perfume and found the matching brown bottle. Before I could do anything with it I heard a knock at the door, I quickly hid the two bottles behind some towels and went to answer it.
When I opened my door I saw Highlord Rhysand standing there, clearly annoyed.
“We’ll have to tell Azriel what you did today, you know that right?” he told me.
I wasn’t stupid, I knew he’d tell them. “I didn’t know I wasn’t supposed to.” I was looking down at the floor. I felt like a child.
“Your lying and we all know it, don’t play games (Y/N).”
“I didn’t even do anything bad,” I whispered.
“I know you didn’t, but this is what Azriel wants you to do so you do it,” Rhysand said which ticked me off.
“I’m not a child,” I said looking up.
“Well, you are clearly acting like one.” 
My chest tightened.
“Your sitting here lying about what Azriel told you and you sneak out, what was the purpose of sneaking out anyway? You could’ve asked any one of us and we would have gone to do whatever.” He said.
“I didn’t sneak out, I literally walked through the door,” I said snarkily.
“Watch your tone,” Rhysand said, “you truly are acting like a child.”
I looked away to shut my door. I was done being yelled at by someone I had no care for. I brought myself back to my bathroom and started running a bath, I really needed this now. I grabbed one of the face masks and put it on before stepping into the bath.
Once I was finished I put in some hair rollers and put on a nice nightgown and lay down to sleep.
As I tried to sleep I couldn't. This wasn’t like previous nights where I fell asleep out of pure exhaustion or in just a need to so I would have a time passer. The thought of that perfume entered my head, and before I could really think about what I was doing, I stood up to go into the bathroom and searched behind the towels to see the two bottles sitting there.
I grabbed the perfume and walked into my room to spray the pillow I planned on cuddling with it. Not overdoing it but not underdoing it. I placed the perfume on my bedside table and fell onto my bed taking in the scent.
The scent relaxed me as it helped me drift off the sleep.
In the morning I’d woken up refreshed and went to the bathroom to take out my hair rollers and was filled with glee when I saw the bouncy, curly hair on my head. I washed my face and put on a face mask.
I spent the day reading, cleaning up my room, and getting my things ready to go to the game night. At around three-thirty, I started to get ready and finished around four-thirty.
I pushed my ear to my door to listen for any sounds, the house sounded almost completely quiet except for the voice of Elain talking to who I assume was Nesta. Based on this, it was only them here.
I quickly opened my window and jumped out, landing safely. I went toward the back of the house in order to get out without anyone noticing me. Once I’d gotten into the crowded city I made sure to keep my head down while staying in the crowded parts to avoid anyone from the Inner Court.
After around 25 minutes I had made it due to moving slowly from the crowds.
I walked into the shop to see several girls sitting at a table. Well, three sat down and one stood setting up a game board, I quickly noticed Primrose was the one who stood. She looked up and saw me, her eyes lightened.
“Aw! (Y/N)!” She walked to me and grabbed my arm, “Come! Sit, sit!” She said excitedly. I sat down in the chair she pulled out for me.
“Okay everyone, this is (Y/N),” Everyone said their hellos with a smile on their face, “And (Y/N) this is Leilani,” Primrose pointed to a dark-skinned girl with curly black hair. She had sharp features but as she smiled her face softened up.
“Arella,” A girl with scales around her arms and pale skin that almost looked blue, her hair was curly like Leilani’s but longer and it was a blonde color that turned red at the bottom.
“And Edith,” A brown-skinned girl with straight black hair raised her hand as a hello, she wore red lipstick that made her features pop.
“We also have Ophelia coming, but she's late which means she’s going to show up drunk,” Primrose said, kind of making me laugh.
The five of us chatted while Primrose finished setting up the board, thankfully Primrose said nothing to them about my mate and I planned to not tell the girls about him.
The four of them explain the game was a real-estate board game for two to eight players. The player's goal is to remain financially solvent while forcing opponents into bankruptcy by buying and developing pieces of property. Bankruptcy results in elimination from the game. The last player remaining on the board is the winner.
I kind of understood it but when we started Primrose had to help me some, thankfully she didn’t mind.
We played for around an hour before we heard someone crashing into the shop, the girls and I turned our heads to see an almond-skinned female with messy brown hair with purple highlights. She fell onto the floor and laughed, there was no way this wasn’t Ophelia.
“Oh my god Ophelia, get the fuck over here.” Edith laughed, I giggled into my hand as Ophelia stumbled over to us.
We quickly realized Ophelia was way too drunk to play with us, leading her to drunkenly chat with us while we played.
I quickly realized how much I adored these girls. Each was of them was so kind and funny I couldn’t help but love them. They also told me about Thea who was in their group but had to stop coming to the game nights due to work. They invited me to a dinner hangout with them on Monday where I’d get to meet Thea and hopefully Ophelia wouldn’t be drunk.
We chatted for hours together, I didn’t keep track of time like I should’ve as I was having too much fun to notice or care.
My wake-up call that not keeping track hit me when I felt Azriel pull on the bond, I ended up looking over to the windows to see him.
I looked back toward the girls, trying not to panic.
“Hey what time is it?” I asked.
Leilani looked at the clock beside her, “Oh shit it's ten.” 
Thankfully that was enough of a reason to excuse me, “I have to go, I’ll see you guys Monday okay?” I hoped I wasn’t lying.
I gave each girl a hug for goodbyes before exiting the building, I wasn’t ready to face Azriel. The second I walked out and the door closed he started speaking.
“Who the fuck are they?”
His tone sent a shiver down my spine, “They’re friends that I made, Azriel.” I spoke softly while looking at the ground in front of me.
“Friends that you snuck out to see?” He spoke sharply.
Part of me didn’t know how to respond, but the over part just didn’t want to respond. I started walking down the alley to head back to the house.
“Don't fucking walk away from me.” Azriel marched toward me, grabbing my wrist to stop me.
He forced me to look toward him but I didn’t have the energy to look up at him.
“I mean seriously, what the fuck are you doing?” He started, “You snuck out two nights in a row, two fucking nights.”
“I didn’t sneak out at night. It was board daylight.�� I responded.
“That's not the point!” He yelled, “I told you that you couldn’t and you still did and then lied that I never told you.”
I bit my lip.
“I mean shit, if you wanted to go out you could’ve told anyone and they would’ve taken you.”
“I don't want to go out with them,” I said.
“Why?” He questioned.
“Because I don't want to go out with people who don't fucking like me.” I barked at him.
“When have they ever said they don't like you?” He asked me.
“They don't have to,” I said, “They treat me like a fucking child and the only time they ever look at me is to give me the most disgusting look I’ve ever seen.”
“You're being over dramatic.”
I felt my fists clench at this, “Fuck you.” I turned to walk away as he called after me.
My cheeks felt cold as I realized I was crying, I quickly whipped them away and continued walking as Azriel followed behind me.
I entered a busy street in hopes that I would lose him for even a little bit but I felt him grab onto my shoulder.
“We are going home and we’re finishing this discussion there.” He whispered into my ear, at this point I didn’t have the energy to protest against him wrapping his arm around me as we made our way to the house.
The living room was thankfully empty as we walked in allowing me to break from Azriel’s grasp and bolt to my room.
Once I’d gotten there it wasn’t long before Azriel entered. I was so tired and I just really didn’t want to fight anymore.
“I am trying so fucking hard to be a good mate for you but I can't if you keep doing this shit.” He told me.
I was beginning to space out at this point, just looking at him while he continued talking, him picking up the perfume on the bedside table was what snapped me out of it.
He smelled the perfume by spraying it onto his arm before moving toward my bed and picking up the pillow I’d sprayed it on.
He dropped the pillow, “You have to be fucking kidding me (Y/N).”
I didn’t even care enough to yell back at him, I was so tired and just wanted this to end.
I swallowed my spit, “I’m sorry I snuck out.” I whispered just loud enough for him to hear. He scoffed.
“I’m sorry about the perfume too.”
“Yea you should be fucking sorry about spraying a perfume that smells like your ex on your fucking pillow.” He increasingly got louder, I was starting to get scared.
I started picking at my cuticles, “I’m sorry.” I muttered.
Azriel ran his finger through his hair, clearly more pissed off now. My cuticles started to bleed.
“Grab a sleeping gown or whatever you fucking use.” He barked at me, “You're a fool if you think I’m letting you sleep in a bed that smells like that.”
I was shaking as I went into my wardrobe to grab a nightgown before following Azriel to his room.
The bed was bigger than mine. Clearly for him to stretch his wings, he basically pushed me into his bathroom to change.
I ended up taking a long time, I really didn’t want to leave the bathroom and have to face him possibly yelling at me again. I honestly felt like he only brought me here to continue to be mad at me.
Eventually, I had to leave, only really doing it so he didn’t have another reason to be mad at me. I walked out with the red dress in my hands.
“Took you long enough,” He walked toward me and put his arms out, I slightly flinched as he did, “Give me the dress.” I obliged.
As he took the dress into his arms he started walking toward the lit fireplace, before I could say anything he threw the dress into the fire.
He said something about Autumn Court but I didn’t hear him fully, too immersed in the fact he’d burnt one of my favorite things from home. He burnt the dress I’d picked out with my brother, that I was going to wear with my brothers.
I let out a sob and tried to stop myself from crying but that only made it worse, causing me to fall to my knees while I sobbed into my hands.
Azriel quickly knelt behind me to hold me as I sobbed, saying he was sorry as he placed several kisses on the top of my head.
He picked me up from the floor and carried me to his bed, he sat up on his headboard before pulling me into his chest to sob myself to sleep.
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signinandgetkinky · 2 years
Text
Leave of Absence
Pairing: Eddie x Fem!Reader
Word count: ~1.9k
Warnings: brief mentions of weed if that counts?? idk
This is my self-indulgent sequel to no shame in running, which Lenny (@tkpuke​) was kind enough to let me do :) go read that one before this if you haven’t already! it’s super cute!! also, big shoutout to @ticklishraspberries​ for being so patient with me and proof reading this <3
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Maybe it was foolish, but a part of you was afraid Eddie had already forgotten all about you. As you loosely scanned your Physics textbook, it became increasingly difficult to hold your focus. I’m sure he brings a lot of people over to play; I mean with those looks there’s no way that he hasn’t pulled this with other people, it’s not a big deal, and so on. You felt plagued by these reflections, tarnishing your view of him in the process. Maybe plagued was an overstatement, as it was only Sunday night, but still- you’d given him your landline, hadn’t you? Maybe he didn’t want to talk. Maybe he’d used that piece of paper to roll. Maybe he was-
“Y/N, it’s for you!” Your mother’s voice broke your train of thought. “Says you tutored him the other night. Has a question about some of the material.”
Trying not to seem too excited, you took the phone from her and breathed a sigh of relief as she walked away. “Hello?”
“Yes, am I speaking to my favorite tutor turned half-elf?” 
You hated yourself for the grin that quickly grew on your face. “This is she.”
“Glad to know she survived that brutal attack the other night. How is she?”
“I’d hardly call it brutal-” you began, pausing at the “hmph” on the other end of the line, “but I’m well. Finishing up some home-”
“It’s the weekend, you nerd!”
“Wow, an 89, really?” Your voice went up an octave as your father passed you with a basket of laundry. “That’s amazing!”
“Let me guess, someone who thinks that people who play the game will end up in the lowest circle of hell just walked past you.” He was smirking, you just knew it. What you didn’t know, however, was why you couldn’t even find it in yourself to be annoyed with him.
“I never thought you’d get there so fast! That’s what I call progress!”
“And that’s what I call shit acting-” your abrupt laugh cut him off but he didn’t seem to mind. 
“So what’d you want? Because I know you didn’t wait the whole weekend just to call and say I’m a bad actress.” 
“Waited the whole weekend, huh? Sounds like someone’s been counting.” 
“Shut up,” you huffed, eternally grateful that he couldn’t see how pink your face had turned. 
“I just wanted to make sure we were still on for this Friday night.”
“We were on in the first place?” You teased, hoping it was his turn to flush.
“Well, an 89 is progress, but I’ll need you for longer than a few short hours if I’ve any hope of passing that final.”
As the week dragged by, you found yourself noticing more and more little things about the curly-headed boy that made him so…him. His leg bounce, the fiddling with rings, the dimples that appeared in his cheeks, and the way he was so intentional with eye contact whenever you spoke were all just things you’re sure you’d notice about anyone else if you’d bothered to look at anyone else long enough.
Yet here you were, distracted in history class, only bothering with looking at him. Had he not turned around to crack his back, you may have gotten away with him never knowing. Looking down as quickly as possible, you frantically began scribbling into your notebook as if you’d been paying attention to the lesson the whole time. You just knew his lips had curled up into a smirk, and had he not passed a note a few seconds later, you would’ve been much more embarrassed. 
If the next quiz is about the back of my head, you’re gonna ace it
Your laugh was only loud enough for him to hear. He sat up a little straighter.   
Just making a note of how many birds could fit in there, Munson 
His laugh was a little louder, drawing the attention of one or two peers. 
We still on for tonight? 
You mean are you still getting your ass handed to you tonight?    
Oh, you’re so on
“Hey, do you mind?” he asked, and it might’ve been the gentlest tone you’d heard him use. You two had just pulled up to his trailer but had yet to unbuckle. He gestured to the joint he was holding, then sensed your hesitance. 
“Or I can totally put it away, I know I can only be a bad influence in so many ways, you can say no- I never wanted to make you uncomfortable or anything, shit-”
“Eddie,” you interrupted with a smile. “It’s fine. Can I, um…” you trailed off. He searched for a sign. 
“Wait outside? If that’s what you were gonna ask, you’re more than welcome-”
“No! No, I mean…can I do some?” You pointed nervously to it, refusing to make eye contact. He threw his head back in surprised laughter and you groaned. “Shut up! Fine, never mind!”
“No, no, no- listen, I’m sorry for laughing. It’s just- you don’t really ‘do’ weed, if you know what I mean.” He sounded as earnest as someone who’d just been laughing could be. You flushed and let yourself laugh a bit. 
“Okay, my bad. May I partake?”
This caused both of you to laugh. He handed you the unlit joint with a dramatic gesture, bowing his head in the process. 
“Doth the lady need a light?”  
Everything was a bit hazy. In a good way, you had decided, but in a way that made focusing more strenuous. Needless to say, neither of you had made it very far into the original plan. You’d been sitting and smiling to yourself while Eddie carefully set up the game. A confused look crossed his face as his eyes darted between sections of the dungeon master screen. “Too high for this shit,” he mumbled, earning a stifled laugh from you. 
“Don’t do that.” 
“Do what?” 
“Cover your laugh. There’s no need to,” he said in a matter-of-fact tone and shrugged. “Not like I haven’t heard it before.” This reply was followed by a grin from him and a groan from you. “Alright, you ready?”
“Kaliope has taken a temporary leave of absence,” you lazily replied. “Plus, I bet her name is never on those cool keychains.”
“Correct me if I’m wrong, but you seem to be feeling it,” he eyed you and laughed. You gave him two thumbs up as he approached the couch and took a seat next to you. 
“Right on the money, Edward.” 
He wrinkled his nose at that. “Edward? Where’d that come from?”
“Your mom,” was your snark reply. “Edward, Edward, Edward-”  
“Alright, someone needs to be taken down a notch,” he teased, leaving you no time to prepare. Fingers flew to your sides and you wasted no energy in covering your laugh as you were suddenly focused on how badly it tickled. 
“Ehhehe-Eddie!” You squealed, never having felt this heightened sensitivity before. Every nerve was alert, every touch was electric, every laugh was cut short by a new one bursting forth. 
“It feehehells funny!” 
“What? It does?! I thought you were just laughing for the hell of it-” his fingers then darted towards your neck and you lunged for the ground. His attack was cut short by his own laughter. Sliding off the couch, he patiently sat next to you.
“Did I hurt you, or are you just being dramatic?”
“Touch feels weird. Never been high before,” you mumbled sheepishly, looking up at him from your position on the ground. He smirked, but there was no real malice to it. “Guess I should’ve mentioned that you’re like, way more sensitive when you’re stoned.” He tried to make eye contact and when he couldn’t, added an “I’m sorry” to his statement. 
“S’okay. You didn’t hurt me or anything, I don’t mind,” you murmured without really thinking about it.    
“Is that so?”
You knew that tone could only mean one thing. Both of you were silent for a moment before you mustered all your energy and pulled yourself to your feet using the couch. 
“Edward, let’s not do anything hasty-”
“See, now it feels like you’re just asking for it-” and before you knew it, he was on his feet as well. You darted around the couch, and the back and forth began. He would go one way, you would go the other, he would start to go that way, you would switch direction, and so on. His wiggling eyebrows made you giggle as you switched directions for the fifth time. 
“Oh shit, is that the time?” You widened your eyes and pointed to the clock behind Eddie. He fell for it and you took off down the hallway, hearing a “hey!” and footsteps coming after you. Not knowing your way around proved to be less of an obstacle than you thought. There was only one door open at the end of the hall, so you naturally ran for that. 
And it was like meeting him for the first time all over again. 
Various band posters lined the walls and complimented the NJ Warlock hanging on his mirror. There were but two bandanas and a black handkerchief strewn around the room that was overall cleaner than what you’d expected. The bed was made in haste and you let out a laugh as you imagined him frantically trying to straighten his sheets before school. Before you knew he was even there, he had successfully grabbed your waist and tossed you onto the bed. Slowly climbing over to you was probably his attempt to look menacing, but all you could find it in yourself to do was laugh.  
“Something funny?”
If you had to go down, you would go down fighting. Confidently, you glared up at him. “Yeah, just laughing about how I threw the oldest trick in the book at you and it actually worked!”    
“Oh, you’ll be laughing alright-” he latched his fingers around your kneecaps and began squeezing. That was all it took to release your unbridled hysterics. You laughed as though you had never laughed before. Eyes widened, muscles twitching, arms flying to protect yourself, and mouth agape with a seemingly unstoppable flow of mirth. The feeling was unbearable and yet you couldn’t find it in you to complain about the undeniable closeness that came with it. He paused as you let out a particularly desperate squeal, brushing his hair away from his face. As unbearable as the moments before had been, this was almost even more so. Deciding you weren’t too fond of the silence- albeit a comfortable kind- you reached up to squeeze his hips a few times. This resulted in him falling next to you as he barked out a laugh and a protest. 
“Fine, fine, truce.”
“Can’t take what you dish out?” You giggled, reaching your hand out to shake his nonetheless. 
“Not there I can’t,” he chuckled sheepishly. “What do you say we do what we came here for?”
You raised your eyebrows and sat up. “Very forward, Munson-”
“I meant the GAME!” He protested, sputtering and flushing ever so slightly as he looked up at you. 
You laughed and subconsciously ran a few fingers through his tangled hair. His eyes fluttered for a moment and you had to remind yourself where you were.
“Yeah, I think Kaliope’s ready to emerge from her shell.”
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Text
The Reaper and the Death Angel Part 64
Thank you to everyone who has made it this far. Is everyone happy that they're getting an extra chapter?
Part 63
Series Masterlist
Contains: All the fluff, so much fluff, happiness, smut.
5.3 K words
Comment if you want to be tagged/removed or follow #the reaper and the death angel.
“Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognise how good things really are.”- Marianne Williamson
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"Audrey, honey, I can't understand screaming. You've been fed and changed and you've had a good nap so why are you yelling at me." You did your best to calm her down but it seemed futile.
"She wants Sam that's why she's crying. I grew her and she only wants her daddy." Ima sounded amused, not angry.
"Well he's at the store little one and he'll be back soon, can you stop screaming please?" You knew it wasn't going to work but you were getting desperate.
"She's three months old y/n, you can't reason with a baby."
"I can try Ima, nothing else will work." Audrey didn't want to listen to reason, she wanted her father.
"Are you ready for the party?" No one had told you or Jax anything and you were worried about what Billy and Opie had planned.
"I have no idea what's going to happen, how can I be ready for that?" You knew it was going to be fun, regardless of the fact that it was happening close to Charming and not some faraway destination like so many bachelor and bachelorette parties.
"It will be fun, Sam and I loved our joint one. I think you two will love what the guys planned." She sounded excited.
"Yeah, I can't wait. I just hope Gemma can handle the kids." It had gotten better between Gemma, Sam and Ima since Audrey's birth but things were still a little cold.
"Nero will be with her, Billy told me he set up stuff for them to do while we have fun. They're getting three days away to wherever we're going, they can't complain." You and Ima both knew that was wishful thinking, Gemma could always find something to complain about.
Ima smiled, "None of that matters, you and Jax are getting married in two weeks and we want all the focus on you."
"You're not going to give me anything?" Everyone had been very tight lipped about what Ope and Billy had planned, you couldn't get anything out of anyone.
"Nope, you'll just have to wait and see."
****
Everyone loaded in cars, splitting off into the bridal party and the groomsmen with Billy driving you, Ima, Abel and Audrey. You knew where you were going an hour in when you recognised the route to one of Anvil's safehouses, "I know where we're going so are you going to let me in on what's going on?"
"Nope, you'll just have to wait." Billy sounded so smug, he had clearly planned something big.
"Will there be cows mummy?" Abel's eyes hadn't left the farmland outside the window since everyone had left Charming.
"I'm not sure little man, the last time I was there, there were cows next door. Maybe Grandma can take you to the dairy up the road." It was a lovely area so at least Billy and Opie picked somewhere quiet.
"Only if Addie can come too." Abel adored her, he followed her around, doing his best to help, it was adorable.
"Of course Addie can go, I'm very grateful you're looking after her for us." Ima and Sam had embraced Abel's curiosity with open arms, he did keep Addie entertained.
You ruffled his hair, "we're almost there sweetie, I'm sure you'll love it."
****
By the grace of God and amazing traffic, everyone arrives at the same time. It was even nicer than you remember, the spring causing the garden to grow lush while the river trickled in the background. The forest at the edge of the sprawling farmhouse was a twitter with birds and there was a gentle breeze in the air. Abel rushed to his father the moment you unbuckled him from his seat.
Jax lifted him into his arms and walked over to you, pressing a kiss to your lips before looking around, "wow, this place is nice."
You smiled, "just wait until you see where we're going for our honeymoon, it leaves this place to shame."
The group followed Billy up the short driveway to the house and Billy stopped before the door, "Welcome to our farmhouse, don't let the looks deceive you, his place is a fortress. The happy couple get the main bedroom and there are four other couple rooms but other than that you are free to pick where you sleep as long as the y/n's side and Jax's side mix, most of you should be able to have your own room. We'll talk about our weekend once everyone's settled."
The door opened and the group headed in, taking in the exposed beams and natural light that was the inside of the huge house. You took Abel's hand and pointed to the left and smiled at Jax, "we're down this way my love."
Ima and Sam followed you with Audrey with Billy hot on your heels, "There are three rooms and a nursery in this wing of the house. Ope and I already set up the nursery. It's right between the main room and one of the bedrooms so looking after the little ones won't be a problem."
You smiled and turned to look at Billy, "wait, does that mean we'll be sharing a wall?"
Billy rolled his eyes, "yes, so please keep it down. I don't need to know about that part of your life."
You chuckled, "I make no promises, you might need earplugs."
Abel paused, "why mummy?"
You looked at Jax, who shook his head, "Uncle Billy doesn't want to hear as jumping on the bed while he trying to sleep is all." Jax sounded as smug as ever.
Abel looked deep in thought, "Ok daddy."
Jax sighed, life was good.
****
Juice sighed and flopped onto one of the couches, "This place is huge, what do you use it for?" Once everyone had settled in, the group moved to the main room on the ground floor so Billy and Ope could explain the events for the weekend, Gemma and Nero went for a walk with Abel and the baby so it was just the main wedding party. 
Billy smiled, "Forest training and target protection. If a team can protect a property this big, they can do anything." 
He and Ope shared a look then Opie spoke, "Bill and I buried various parts to something somewhere. You all have the next twenty four hours to find them. It's going to be the bridal party vs the groomsmen, the winners are the ones that find the most parts, the losing team cleans up after the wedding." 
You turned to Jax with a smile, "my team is going to kick your team's ass, your going down peach butt." 
Jax smirked, "not a chance darlin." 
The groups had already slipped off, ready to run off but Billy stopped them, "There are hints hidden everywhere, to get a clue to the location of the hint, you're going to have to answer a trivia question. First question, why does the bride stand on the left side? Option one, so the groom can fight off other men with his sword arm or option two the right side represents strength and godliness while the left is weakness." 
Juice's hand shot up and Billy smiled, "it's one. I learned it in one of my computers game." 
Billy pulled a slip of paper from his shirt and handed it to Juice, "your hint." 
Juice read it and his face fell, "I have no idea what this means?" 
Billy's smile grew, "then you gotta hand it off to the bridal party." 
Angela flapped her hand and Juice passed it to her, before smiling and whispering in your ear. You stepped closer to Jax and pressed a kiss to his cheek, "you are going to lose so hard Teller." 
Without another word, your group raced off, Ope and Billy following and Jax stood there slacked jawed, "well, follow them." 
You landed in the flower meadow while everyone waited for the next hint. It was Opie's turn to speak, "The bachelor party oriented where? Ancient Rome, Medieval England or Sparta."
Your hand shot up, "It's Sparta." You thought for a minute, "the hint is Sparta?" 
Opie nodded, "yep."
An idea came to you, "The Hyacinths, check them." Your group only had a few seconds head start before everyone started looking. Upon getting level with the flowers, you noticed that they here in carefully hidden pots instead of in the ground and when you lifted the pot, there was a small piece of paper underneath it, "keep looking."
Kozik let out a shout then paused and turned to Billy and Ope, "which way is the river?"
Billy smiled, "behind you." 
The groomsmen rush off, Jax kissing you before he left but you stayed still, "keep looking, there are more pots."
Frank hopped up, "half of us should go, that way we don't get behind." You nodded and the bridal party split off. 
In the distance, Happy paused, "wait, some of us should go back. There might be more clues."
Jax stopped and looked towards the field but it was too late, he could see everyone move to one flower while half your group raced past him. Jax squinted his eyes and saw you pull something from the ground before you jumped up and ran towards him. He still maintained his head start as everyone reached the river but that did stop you from gloating, "we already have one piece and another clue. You're going to lose."
"You haven't won yet darlin." 
****
The river netted two clues for your side and a handful of wooden parts wrapped in soft black velvet for both sides, but before the group could run off back to the house to look for the next part, Billy and Ope called lunch.
"Abel and Addie are back at the house and we've made sandwiches for everyone. We expect you to get along for the next hour or you'll all be in trouble."
"Shut up lieutenant Russo." You didn't mean for it to come out but it did.
Billy's eyes went wide, "Hey, I'm on your side."
"Well it doesn't feel like it Bill." Frank was covered in mud from when he and Hap figured out one of the clues and went digging by the river rocks and he wasn't having it.
Ope laughed and rubbed his face, "come one everyone, I'm sure we can get along for any hour."
You sighed and walked over to Jax, looping your arm around his while smiled down at you as you headed back to the house, "are you having fun darlin?"
You nodded, "I am, a total blast. Are you?"
"Yep, you're still going to lose." He sounded so smug.
The walk back to the house was a leisurely mix of banter and laughter and Jax was wearing a smile from ear to ear, "everyone's getting along great."
That much was true, everyone was so happy, "well marriage was originally meant to join tribal groups so I guess that's what we're doing."
"Yeah, although I'm worried you were right about Juice and he's going to be stolen from us." Jax pointed over to where Derek, Frank, Travis and Juice were walking together, deep in conversation.
"I keep telling you, it's only a matter of time before he jumps ships and comes to hang with us, we are cooler after all."
Jax looped his arm over your shoulder and pulled you close, "Your friends are cooler than mine, those are fighting words darlin."
"Well, you do wear matching vests so that's pretty cool." You knew that would get a rise out of him.
"Oh, you're asking for it now."
You did your best to suppose your smile as you replied, "begging actually."
Your conversation stopped in its track as Abel saw you in the window and came running out before jumping into Jax's arms, "did you have a good morning little man?"
"Yes daddy, we went to see the cows and Grandma got us ice cream." He still had chocolate on his face.
"Is that right? Do you have room for lunch?" Your chest filled with warmth, Jax was a good father.
"Yes daddy." Jax put Abel down as you walked inside and you could hear Addie's telltale babble that she gave every time Sam held her.
"I'll go get us some food before it's all snatched up." Jax shot you a smile and you headed to the kitchen, walking by Sam as he fed his little girl.
"I missed her." He looked so happy with Audrey in his arms.
You shook your head, "You've only been away from her for a few hours."
Sam sighed, "you know Ima and I knew you and Jax knew she was a girl."
Your eyes went wide, "what, no I didn't" That was a bad lie.
"We're not mad, I'm amazed you and Jax kept it a secret." Sam's eyes hadn't left Addie's face the whole time.
"It was the hardest thing I've ever done." You reached out and grabbed her little hand and she let out a happy little shout, "She is such a happy baby."
"I know. Is it bad that I want to bite her little legs, they look like bread buns." You laughed and Addie looked for the sound, her curious brain trying to take everything in.
"No, I still want to bite Abel sometimes. It's totally normal." Audrey pulled back from the bottle and wiggled in Sam's arms.
Sam took her tiny hand and she wrapped it around his finger, "I gotta go feed myself, you wanna hold her?"
Before you could say yes, Juice appeared from nowhere and reached out, "I'll take her, it's my turn and I've already had lunch."
Sam sighed and handed Audrey before walking to the bench and yanking some sandwiches off the plate, "I look forward to kicking your ass."
You shook your head, "nope, I'll be kicking yours little brother."
You got yourself and Jax some food then went back to the couch where Jax was sitting with others, "thank you darlin."
"You know, since the next clues are in the house, I don't think you have a chance." To be fair, the last clue meant it could be anywhere and it was just going to be the luck of the person who found it.
Jax smirked, "You wanna bet?"
"Yeah, I do." You leaned in close and pressed your lips to his cheek, "but remember Jackson, I win no matter what."
****
You were deep in conversation when Billy announced that lunch was over and the game was back on. You split off from Jax with a kiss and headed to the roots seller, the pickle jar on the last clue hinting that the next thing was either there or in the kitchen.
It seems Happy had the same idea because he was hot on your heels, "Shouldn't you be looking in the laundry? You're the one that pulled the clue with the basket on it?"
He huffed, "I sent Kozik, plus, we all know I'm not going to leave a mess of your supplies."
You snorted, "like that's going to matter when I kick your butt."
You raced down the stairs and all but kicked open the door before going over to the shelves to start looking. It was clear there was nothing in the jars but the dust had been disturbed. Almost at the same time, you and Happy bent over to look at the bottom of the shelves and you smiled as you saw the symbols drawn on the wood in chalk.
"What do they mean?" Happy either didn't know or was a good liar.
"That's for me to know and you to be sad about." You gave him a friendly shove to get closer to the shelf he was standing in front of as the pieces fell into place, "you wanna hint?"
He stood there stoically, "what's in it for you?
"You get me the piece that your side has" Happy shook his head, "fine suit yourself."
You walked over to the old bread box in the corner of the room, brushed off the dust and opened it before reaching in and pulling out another wooden piece, "We've only got to find four more pieces, then my side wins. But just to make it a fair fight, there might be another clue by the window."
You ran up the stairs while Happy rushed over to the window, finding a small hay bale drawn in the dust. Just as you reached the stairs, you turned to gloat one last time, "You better pick it up Lowman, have you ever seen how much mess wedding guests make?"
Happy chuckled and yelled up the stairs, "we're all delighted for you y/n, you deserve the good things."
You shook your head, "you can't sweet talk me." Without another word, you shut the door behind you and raced off to the next run down the next clue.
****
It had all come down to this, there was only one piece left. In the last few hours, not only had a few more pieces been found but also some strange black bags hidden.
The sun had just started to set as you all gathered in the forest with shovels in hand. Jax's side was up by one but as Opie had informed everyone, the last piece was the largest so it was worth more.
You and Ima had just finished digging around one tree stump when a shout from Derek brought you over, he had found it.
"AH HA, suck it Teller, we win." Something about the way everyone was looking at you made you suspicious.
Jax pecked your cheek with a smile, "That you did darlin."
The group gathered around and sat down and handed you and Jax their finds while Billy smiled at both of you, "now you just have to put it together." With hugs and thank yous exchanged, you and Jax took your sweet time to walk back to the house before heading to the bedroom to put whatever it was together.
"Do you think everyone was in on it?" Jax must have picked up on something.
You shook your head, "no, but I think everyone knows what it is." You took his hand and sat crossed legged on the floor before unwrapping everything. Now that you could have a good look, you could see the detail that went into everything. Someone must have told someone about the flowers featured in the wedding because they were caved all over the deep brown wood in amazing detail.
Jax opened the small bags with a strange look on his face as he pulled something out of each on, a set of instructions, tiny screws, a screwdriver, a paintbrush and a small bottle of glue. He handed you the instructions and you read over them with a growing smile, "It's a keepsake box."
Jax could tell how much love are care went into each piece and as you and Jax put it together, you realised that every person in the wedding party was responsible for something about it. Whether it was Happy's welding style on the hinges, Lyla's brush strokes on the wood stain or Angela's artistic talents in the engravings, everyone had done something.
It didn't take long to put together but it was something once it was finished. There were many drawers and doors of different sizes, little hidden compartments and one last door that sealed the whole thing. Altogether, it was utterly beautiful, "wow, this is amazing."
Jax smiled, "yeah, it is." He leaned across and pressed his lips to yours softly, pouring every ounce of love into the kiss.
You placed your hand on his chest and Jax pulled away, "everything ok darlin?"
You nodded and took the box in your arms, placed it somewhere safe and then returned to the floor and sat in his lap, "yep, I just don't want anything to get damaged."
Jax smiled against your lips then wrapped his hand around your thigh and pulled you closer, "I guess I have to pay up since I lost out bet."
"You do. What do you have in mind?" You could feel his cock hardening against you.
"I have a few things in…."
KNOCK KNOCK
"HEY YOU BETTER BE READY TO HELP WITH DINNER, IF YOU DON'T HELP YOU DON'T EAT." Sam's footsteps were gone before you could respond.
Jax sighed and dropped his forehead to yours, "Come on darlin, we'll pick this up later."
****
"I cannot believe you made me help at my own party, it's very rude." You didn't really help that much, many hands made light work and dinner was on the table in a flash.
"You kinda made the bed darlin, it's not like we didn't have fun." Jax was as smug as ever.
"Mummy, can we Addie have tatoes?" Abel was always asking what he could share with Addie, it was enough to melt anyone's heart.
"No sweetie, she can't because she's too little but thank you for asking." You turned to Kip, "speaking of, can you pass them here please?" Kips passed you the bowl and you gave yourself a spoon before Jax took it from you and gave himself a heaping pile.
"We should do this every year." Jax almost said it to himself, "not like this and it doesn't have to be at the same time but we should all go away together for a few days."
You shook your head, "wow Teller, I never thought you'd be one to suggest that. What's next, you're going to propose we go skiing?"
Jax huffed, "none of us want to end up on a mountain with a bunch of rich people. I mean, I'm sure we can all swing a weekend away."
Billy smiled, "I think that's a great idea. Maybe next year we can head to The Berkshires. Anvil has plenty of houses there and there's a lot for us to do."
"That would be cool, we can all go hiking." You blinked, even Happy was in on it.
You sighed, "alright, it's settled. We'll all go away together once a year. When did we all get so domesticated?"
Jax laughed, a hearty belly laugh and everyone followed, and each time it died down, someone started it up again. It took Addie's cries for attention for everyone to stop and Sam sighed as he lifted her from her chair and brought her into his arms, "sorry little one."
Bobby sighed and slapped his legs like a grandpa, "I'll go get the dessert, that way we can all be in bed by nine like the adults we are."
You shook your head, "I'm not going to respond to that."
Sam screwed up his face, "Eww, we don't need to know that."
You huffed and held up your hands, "Hey, I didn't say anything."
Sam sighed, "sure y/n."
Thankfully, Bobby walked in with his arms loaded and placed the trays on the table, "well, tuck in."
****
"Goodnight sweetie, if Addie cries, someone will come a help her so you don't need to worry." Abel was sitting on the bed in Jax's lap while you read him a story with Addie fast asleep in her crib.
"Ok mummy, but I can still help?" Jax chuckled, you both knew Abel slept like a log, he wouldn't wake up if she cried.
"Sure little man. Mummy and I are going to go to bed now but we're just across the hall ok?"
Abel nodded, "ok daddy. I love you."
Jax kissed his templed and tucked him in as you reached over to turn off the light, "goodnight sweetie, daddy and I love you very much."
Abel gave a yawn and settled in, "goodnight mummy, I love you too."
The moment you were back in your room, Jax was slamming you against the door with his lips on yours, "pick up where we left off?"
You nodded, "yes, please. I think I was collecting my winnings."
Jax's fingers were already buttoning your top, "yeah you were so what can I do for you darlin?"
You pulled him to a kiss and nipped his lower lip, "You can do all the work while I lay there and enjoy myself."
Jax smiled against your skin, "I'm all about the service beautiful."
Jax removed your clothes piece by piece with tenderness, pressing his lips to every new bit of skin he had revealed. As he pulled your jeans down, he dropped to his knees so he could kiss your bare skin then wrapped his hand around the edges on your panties and pulled then slowly. Once you were naked, you pulled him up, held up a finger for him to stay in place, and walked backwards towards the bed before getting comfortable, "strip." Jax smirked and rushed to remove his clothes, "slowly my love."
He huffed, "you're lucky I love you." His pace slowed and his ego only grew as he watched you drink him in, "you like what you see?"
You nodded, "I do, please keep going." Jax's muscles rippled as he took off his pants and you shot him a smile as the boxers followed.
"Can I come and fuck you now?" You were too busy admiring his hard dick to quip.
Jax sighed and took a step towards you with determination, then the door swung open, "y/n, do you want me to…" Billy locked eyes with Jax, then with you, utterly unfazed by the nudity, before looking Jax up and down, then, he turned to you, gave you a solid nod and left.
"What was that?" Jax wasn't the least bit embarrassed.
You were doing your best to hold back the laughter, "I don't know but I think he approves and by the morning everyone is going to know what you've got going on."
Jax closed the distance to the bed and climbed on top of you, "does that mean I get the final seal of approval?"
You nodded, "Oh yeah, but you are never going to live this down, they're going to be talking about your dick until we're old and grey."
Jax shook his head, "I bet you're loving this?"
You leaned in and nipped his neck, "yep, but you better get up and lock the door, just in case someone else wants to rub it in."
Jax's head fell on your chest as he started to laugh before he popped up and flicked the lock, "happy darlin?"
You smiled and stretched your hands out, "yes, now I think you have a debt to pay."
Jax swaggered back over and climbed on top of you again, "I do, so just lie there an be good and I'll make sure you enjoy yourself." Jax took you in a kiss and you threw your leg over his hips as one hand slid down your body while the other held your face. He pulled back from the kiss and tilted his head, "I think everyone is back in their rooms fasts asleep so unless you want them to get an earful too, I'd stay quiet."
You kissed him in response as he pulled open your leg to her access to your centre, Jax moaning when he found you wet. The kiss didn't break as he circled your clit slowly and he nipped your lips when you let out a whimper, "don't make any noise darlin, those sounds are mine."
You nodded aggressively, hoping it would encourage him to continue and Jax fell for it because moving his fingers from your clit to your entrance and swallowing your moan as he slid them inside you. His thumb found your clit as he deepened the kiss and started to rock his hand against you, his fingertips barely brushing your G-spot with each shift of his hand.
You went to match his slow pace but Jax stopped you, "hey, you wanted me to do all the work darlin, there's no need for you to do anything but relax." You sighed and did as he asked, then Jax smiled and kissed you hard. His pace was measured, not too slow, not too fast but just enough to be maddening. He watched your face carefully and picked up speed each time he saw you adjust to the sensations, "remember, don't make a sound."
"I won't, I promise." Jax took you into another kiss, this one much softer and then changed the position of his hand to touch you in a way he knew would make you see stars, after that it wasn't long before you were biting your lip to keep in the noise as you hurdled towards the edge. Jax pulled Jax as close you could, burying your face in his neck to stifle your whimper as you clenched around his fingers.
Jax worked you through the orgasm then removed his fingers and sucked them into his mouth with a moan, "you taste like heaven, sadly I think if I wanted more of that, you'd make too much noise so I'm just going to give you my dick instead, that way you can bite down and keep yourself quiet." You went to say something and Jax shook his head, "what, you wanted me to do all the work."
You sighed and pulled him into a kiss before pulling back just far enough to speak as you threw your legs over his waist, "well then get it to." Jax settled between your legs then grabbed his cock and ran it up and down your slit, "please."
"That's all I needed to hear." He slid home with a soft groan and rocked his hips slowly. He held himself up on his elbow and kissed across your face before landing on your lips, the kiss deepening as his hips picked up speed. Despite your best efforts, you couldn't stop the sound from leaving your chest and it only seemed to spur Jax on. But you weren't alone, Jax was grunting in your ear like an animal as he pushed you closer to your peak.
Your fingers dug more and more into his skin as your legs started to twitch and Jax's lips moved from your lips to your neck to suck bruises into your skin, "come on darlin, I can tell how close you are." Jax's tone was tight, signalling he was just as close as you and he shifted his weight to take your hand in his as he placed it on your clit, "touch yourself for me."
You were powerless to deny him and with a few circles of your fingers, you were aching off the bed while your sunk your teeth into his shoulder to stifle the sound. Whether it was the sting from the bite or the squeezing of your centre was irrelevant as Jax pulsed inside you, his hips still rocking gently as your orgasm slowed.
Jax's head dropped to your chest and kissed your skin before rolling off you and taking you with him, "so is my debt paid?"
You sighed, "oh yes, most definitely." Jax pushed himself up and pecked your cheek firmly before getting up and getting a rag to clean you off. Once that was done, he returned to the bathroom to get you both some water then climbed into bed with a smile.
"Is anything planned for tomorrow?" He sounded satisfied.
You shook your head, "no, just an easy day."
"Well we could always…"
"YOU TWO BETTER BE DONE AND NOT BETWEEN ROUNDS, I GOTTA FUCKING SLEEP."
You slapped your hand over your mouth to stop yourself from laughing as Billy's voice came through the walls, "SORRY RUSSO."
Jax shook his head with a smile, "I guess you couldn't stay quiet enough."
You slapped his shoulder with the back of your hand then settled on his chest, "I'm not going to respond to that," you pressed your lips to his Abel tattoo, "goodnight beloved."
Jax's hand came up to stroke your hair and his chest rumbled with a content groan, "goodnight darlin."
Part 65
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@camelia35 @withmyteeth @watercolorskyy
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deus-ex-mona · 1 year
Text
If You Don’t Give Me Some Treats, I’ll Fanservice You: Epilogue
happy birthday to tojo sara! ...and happy halloween, i guess?
previous part (chapter 7)
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Yujiro: Hey, guys. Check out the online articles.
Minami: Eh? What are they about?
Minami: …Whoa, it’s amazing!
On a later day—
mona found herself co-starring with LIPxLIP and Minami on another music programme, and they had begun to converse about the Halloween live they had performed at.
Aizo: “Fans Rejoice at the Idol mona’s Godly Response”, “The Burning Friendship Among Fellow Idols”... they say.
Aizo: What the heck? They keep going on and on about no one but mona.
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Yujiro: It kinda ticks me off that they call the thing between us “friendship”.
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mona: That’s my line.
mona: (It’d be misleading… to call it “friendship”. But…)
mona: I’m really grateful… for your help that day.
mona: I’d been really stressing out about what I was going to do if I couldn’t make it in time.
Aizo: We didn’t do it for you or anything, stupid.
Yujiro: Exactly. We didn’t do it for you, mona. We did it for the fans. Don’t misunderstand, okay?
mona: …
mona: (They’re saying way too much, just like they always do!)
mona: In any case! I owe you one for this! I’ll pay you back in any way you wish!
mona: I don’t wanna be indebted to you!
Aizo: Hmm, you wanna do something for us? Isn’t it a hundred years too early for that?
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Yujiro: Nah, make it ten thousand years.
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mona: (Geez!)
mona: You too, Minami! I owe you one, so I’ll repay you as soon as possible!
Minami: Aah, me too?
Minami: I had a blast singing a song that wasn’t on my setlist, so all’s good with me.
Minami: But in the end, the outcome of our candy collection showdown was pretty vague! I guess I really don’t like competitions after all.
Aizo: Aah, speaking of that, you’re the one who managed to collect more sweets. Right, Minami?
Minami: It’s only because mona decided to play that trick at the end.
Yujiro: How did the on-site filming go, though? We weren’t able to watch your livestream at all.
Minami: Hmm, the filming, huh…
Minami: I spoke to kids and elderly people way more often than I was expecting—.
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Minami: If, “If you don’t give me some treats, I’ll play a trick on you”!
Old Lady: Well, well, is that so? What should I give you, then?
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Minami: “If you don’t give me some treats, I’ll play a…”
Old Man: Here you go! Freshly made taiyaki, straight from that store over there! It’s really good!
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Minami: “If you…”
Child: Wow! You’re a celeb! Gimme some sweets! Please?!
Minami: Ah… You want some sweets? Sure, go ahead and pick out anything you’d like.
Child: Thanks!
Minami: (It’s just stuff that was given to me, but… the kid’s happy about it, so it’s fine, right…?)
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Minami: Everyone was so warm and friendly to me, even if they didn’t know who I was. It was a really nice experience.
Yujiro: Is that so?
Aizo: Ah, there’s an article about you too, Minami.
Yujiro: …Hmm? You helped an elderly lady carry her stuff? The article says that you helped her to cross the street too.
Minami: Yeah, that happened too.
Minami: But that old lady was really nice to me. She even gave me tons of sweets at the end too, you know?
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Minami: Wow! Is it really okay for me to get so many?!
Old Lady: It’s fine, it’s fine. Take it as my thanks for being so kind to me today.
Old Lady: It reassures me to know that there are still kindhearted youngsters out there, just like you.
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Minami: I think that it was a really great programme that allowed us to get closer to the people around us. Wanna try it next year, LIPxLIP?
Yujiro: Well, I’ll do it if we have to, I guess.
Aizo: I’ll think about it.
Minami: I-I see.
mona: (Somehow… At one point, I’d been a little worried about how things would go. But this Halloween unexpectedly ended up being better than I thought it would be, I guess?)
mona: Ah! Speaking of that, the staff allowed me to bring the sweets I was given home.
mona: I brought some of them with me today. Wanna have some?
Aizo: Oh, sure.
Yujiro: Did you bring any sweet ones?
The four of them had an exciting tea party for just a little while. During that short moment, mona had been able to forget that those guys were her rivals… or something—.
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Gary Carr
Using Peripheral Vision
by Jay S. Jacobs
The new futuristic action drama The Peripheral on Amazon Prime Video either takes place in a futuristic London and North Carolina, or in a virtual reality video game, or perhaps in just a very strange mind trip.
Based on the novel by William Gibson, it tells the story of Flynne Fisher (Chloe Grace Moretz), a young waitress and gamer who is given an experimental VR headset, which brings her into the middle of an extremely realistic (but also surrealistically different) city of London, a place that looks similar but also has many differences. For one thing, the city is dotted with huge, unfinished statues. Also there are very few people at any given space.
Flynne quickly learns that the new headset and “game” is abnormally realistic. She feels pleasure and pain and fatigue and anything else she would if she were really experiencing things. She finds herself dropped into the middle of a political quagmire, which leads to danger not just in the new simulation, but also in her real small town.
Flynne’s guide through this new world is Wilf, played by Gary Carr. Of course, he knows much more than he is telling her, leading her to wonder if he is an ally or an opponent in the intrigue which she finds herself submersed into. Wilf is another interesting role for the London-born actor Carr, who has been making a name in movies like 21 Bridges and Bolden, as well as such TV series as The Deuce, Trigonometry, Death in Paradise and Downton Abbey.
The day before the first season finale of The Peripheral, we caught up with Gary Carr on Zoom to discuss the series.
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What was it about The Peripheral that intrigued you and made you want to be a part of it?
The first thing was the team. I’m a massive fan of [executive producers] John [Nolan], Lisa [Joy], and Athena [Wickham]. All their work, especially John has worked with feature films, not just television. So, before they even pitched the project to me, I had already said yes in my mind. (laughs) Then once they pitched the project and told me about the concept, I thought it was super cool. I then read the novel straight after meeting with the team. I was super excited after reading the novel. I think William Gibson is a brilliant writer. I'd never read a science fiction novel before. I don't know why it took so long, but I'm really grateful that that was my introduction. That's pretty much all the reasons why. Then after reading the scripts, I thought they did a great job of adapting the novel. I was wary about the character Wilf, because in the novel, he's very passive. I wasn't too excited about playing a character that is so passive, but I think in the adaptation in the series, it's deeper than that. There are more layers. I found that there was a human being that I could portray, and I thought that was really cool.
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He is a very fascinating character. To a certain extent, like you said, he is passive. In what ways were you most comfortable playing him? And what parts of Wilf’s character did you find hardest to get a handle on as an actor?
I find the whole thing challenging because I've never played a character that was so still, whose main job in every scene is to not show any emotion. You never know what his thought pattern or process is. You never know what his opinion is unless he says. Even if when he does say, you're not sure if he's being truthful. I thought that was really intriguing, but also very challenging to play. But I like challenges as an actor. I do love the character. I love the way the character fits within the world. Because he’s in this like really crazy… the audience don't really discover what world he's living in until I guess like episode seven, really, when things start to land. Then it clicks on me. I'm like, wow, this is kind of crazy, this reality. Then you do get a bit of his backstory, as well, his history. When you compare that to how he presents, I think that's really interesting. It's like, wow, this guy's so still. He really doesn't give much away. I thought that was really cool and interesting to play.
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Was it interesting playing in so many different London areas with very few people around? Was the desolation a little bit weird in these places that are normally so crowded?
(laughs) It definitely worked for the piece. But London's my home, so I've seen London like that many times. Like going home, after maybe drinking too much. (laughs again) Or early hours of the morning. Even when I was on my grind, and I was working and had to get up super early and work two jobs. I've seen London in all in all these different forms and states. So it wasn't strange to me at all. But one thing I was really happy about was that it did work for the show. The whole point is that the population has decreased hugely. It was great to be in these central parts of London, that are usually generally populated and there was no one there. It was eerie. It really added to the tone of the piece. So, I was happy about that actually. I wasn’t happy that it was during COVID, but I was happy about [the sense of isolation].
What was it like filming during COVID? That obviously must have affected the set.
Yeah, it affected the set, in terms of the dynamic because it becomes quite militant. There are all these protocols that you'd have to follow. You also have to wear masks constantly and so interactions are different. One thing about any project is that you become a family after a few weeks. You're all on this thing together. You mean so much to everyone. Everyone's all in it and committed. One thing that before COVID which is really nice is that you spend a lot of time with crew and cast off the set. You get to know each other. There's all that camaraderie and everything. There was none of that. It was literally like jump in the car, go home. That was strange, but again, in a weird way it helped. It helped the dynamic and it helped the tone and the pitch of the show. It worked in our favor, I think, but it definitely was challenging shooting during COVID.
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Yeah, I think so too. What was Chloe like to work with? She and you had some really interesting scenes together.
Chloe is the biggest sweetheart. She's so cool. She's so chill. So down to earth. We geek out on a lot of the same things. We're both foodies. We both love music. We love film. Even though we're actors, we're big fans of film as well. We spoke a lot about all that stuff all day. She's a geek for most things, actually. She's so well studied and so interested in so many things. So, we’re really wired, and I really enjoyed working with her. We have a lot of chemistry offset, which is really interesting. Because I think our characters, there's chemistry there, but because of Wilf and his character, he's never going to let you know that. That's really interesting. We actually do we like [each other]. We really got on and had a great time shooting. It's been really great getting to know her and work with her and watch her work as well. I think she's awesome. She's so great.
It's a fantastic cast in general, who are some of the other people that really were incredible to work with?
Definitely, like the characters that play Ash (Katie Leung) and Ossian (Julian Moore-Cook) and Lev (JJ Feild). I think they're all great. Julian Moore-Cook, he's fantastic. And Alexandra Billings (who plays Inspector Ainsley Lowbeer). Actually, everyone that I share the screen with I thought was fantastic. Yeah, I love to work with everyone. The cast is so strong. The team did a great job of casting these roles. There are people that I didn't act with, but I've been able to watch their performances and I think they've done a great job. I think everyone's so strong. There isn't, in my opinion, a weak link. Even if there was, I would never say, but I do think this is a great cast. I'm really grateful to be part of it.
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The season finale is coming up. Without giving away any spoilers, what can people expect from that last episode?
The really vague answer, I guess, is they can expect some answers to some of the questions that I imagine they have. They can also expect way more questions (laughs) to arise because new things are presented. Like any good series, I think the last episode should leave you thinking [about] what's yet to happen, what's going to happen, what will develop. Maybe more of the same in terms of cool science fiction stuff and action sequences. Although, I know lots changed since I read the final draft. We did additional shooting and all that stuff. So, actually, I really don't know what happens in the last episode.
Is there any word about whether there might be a second season coming up? Or is that still too early to say?
I promise you; I'm telling you the truth; I have no idea. No one's told me and I've definitely asked. No one's hinted or said anything. I would love if we did another series. Especially for me as an actor, I feel like the first season of anything is really everyone just finding it. Finding their groove and finding the character. Trying to root everything, make it grounded. But sometimes it does take a whole series to do that. Now we can apply everything that we've learned into another series, hopefully. I hope so. It'd be great to do a few more seasons of this. I think it's a really cool show.
Copyright ©2022 PopEntertainment.com. All rights reserved. Posted: December 2, 2022.
Photos by © 2022 by Andrew Timms, Matt Winkelmeyer, Chris Frawley and Sophie Mutevelian. Courtesy of Amazon Prime Video. All rights reserved.
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