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roosterforme · 5 months

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Always Ever Only You Part 21 | Rooster x Reader

Summary: You keep yourself as busy as you can with your friends while your husband is away. Bradley starts to learn that this top secret special mission comes with a very specific set of risks and very few details. But the details he does have make it clear that he's never faced anything like this before.

Warnings: Swearing, angst, masturbation, fluff, mentions of hostages

Length: 6000 words

Pairing: Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw x Female Reader

This was written to accompany my series Is It Working For You? along with a bunch of my one-shots and other series, but it can be read on its own! Check my masterlist for the reading order. Always Ever Only You masterlist. Gorgeous banner by @mak-32

You sat in the driver's seat of the Bronco until Bradley's transport was completely out of sight, and you were just squinting into the brightening sky. It was getting late, and you needed to head to work, but the weird mix of emotions inside you was making it hard to even reach for the keys in the ignition and start the engine.

Bradley was excited about his mission; you knew that for a fact. He couldn't hide it from you when he talked about it, and you wouldn't even want him to. If this is what it was going to take for him to get back into a confident groove at work, then you were happy to send him off into the sky. But it was still impossible not to worry about him.

You made the trip back home and got yourself dressed in your uniform after you took Tylenol for your cramps. You kissed Tramp and said, "When I get home later, we can watch a movie." Then you took your little red car to work and walked up to your office.

While Bradley was away, you planned on using this time to catch up with your friends a little bit more. Maria and Cam were the best kinds of friends who could just tell when you needed to focus on your marriage instead of them, but you were really missing those lazy brunches and avocado toast. But Jake was the one you really wanted to have lunch with.

"Sorry, Cat," you murmured to yourself as you walked to the lab. You were ready to force Jake to sit down with you and you alone one day this week, even if that meant asking her nicely to sit at a different table. You still had in the back of your mind the fact that he had other women texting his phone, and you wanted to know what that was all about.

Cat was the first person you saw when you entered your lab, and while you wanted to talk to her, she was wearing the expensive headphones with her eyes glued to her computer screen, and you knew better than to interrupt. So you waited and texted Jake to see if he was going to be on the ground at lunchtime today. But as soon as Cat removed her headphones, you were there.

"Hey," you said, and she jumped a bit in her seat.

"Hi," she replied, eyeing you a little suspiciously. "It's pretty early on a Monday morning to be scaring people."

You took a deep breath. "Sorry. Bradley left a few hours ago, and I'm still riding the adrenaline rush."

Her face softened. "That's right. Any idea how long he'll be gone?"

"No clue. But I can already tell he's going to miss his birthday, which is now my favorite day of the year."

She laughed. "That's sweet. Jeremiah's birthday is my favorite day."

You paused and studied her face. "And Jake's birthday? You like that day, too?"

She rolled her eyes, but she was smiling. "Seeing as that's not until October, I haven't had a chance to experience that with him yet."

You wrung your hands together. "Do you think you and he will be experiencing it? Together?"

Cat stood and shook her head at you. "If you're trying to ask me what's going on with Jake, then just ask me what's going on with Jake. You and I can't cut the bullshit with each other now."

You felt your cheeks grow warm as you asked, "Did you ask him about the text messages?"

"Yes," she replied immediately. "At first he pretended not to know what I was talking about, and I promptly grabbed my bag and walked out his front door."

"No," you gasped, your hands curling into angry fists. "He didn't."

"He did," she said calmly, nodding. "I made it all the way out to Uncle Bernie's SUV before he chased me down. I told him to remember that I'm not some twenty one year old he met at the bar, and he told me he's an idiot. So I left."

"When was this?" you asked, completely shocked by Jake.

"Saturday night." Cat was as calm as anything, and you kind of envied her for it.

"What are you going to do?"

She shrugged, and you saw the facade crack the tiniest bit. "Jer is already attached to him. So... that sucks, I guess. I haven't answered Jake's calls, and I haven't decided if I will or not. I needed time to think. I'm honestly a little surprised and annoyed that he isn't in here right now looking for me." Her expression just seemed sad now, and you really wanted to hug her. But Bickel walked in looking for Macy so you decided to just accost Jake yourself when you saw him.

The opportunity arose at lunchtime. "Seresin!" you called out once you had your burrito bowl and hot sauce in your hands. He turned around cautiously as you stormed in his direction. "What the fuck is wrong with you?"

He smirked. "You'll need to be more specific, Angel."

You glared. "Cut the shit and give me your phone." You set your lunch on an empty table before taking his sandwich container out of his hand. You held out your palm expectantly, and a few seconds later, he handed it to you. When you unlocked his phone and opened his messaging app, you were appalled. Most of the texts were from random numbers, and at least he hadn't responded to any of them, but you were still annoyed. "Why didn't you delete any of these messages?"

Now he was kind of in your face as he hissed, "What's the fucking point? It's not going to make them stop. It'll just make me feel worse when I get more."

You held up his phone. "One girl texted asking if you could come over at three in the morning. Three in the morning, Jake!"

"I know," he said, wrenching his phone back out of your hand. "It was when I was asleep in bed with Cat at Hondo's place. I snuck in the window around midnight just so I could see her, and I read the message when I woke up. It made me want to vomit."

"Well how do you think Cat feels?!" you replied in an outraged whisper.

"Probably like an idiot," he said with a shrug. "But I'm not doing anything behind her back."

You sighed deeply. "I think she knows that, but you need to make it stop."

"I literally emailed your husband on Sunday night for advice," Jake said, plopping down into a seat at the table and running his fingers through his hair. "He managed to pull you, so he's got to know what he's doing and how I can fix this."

You rolled your eyes and took the seat across from him. "Well if he writes back, take it with a grain of salt. Bradley hardly gives his phone number out to anyone."

"He did write back. He told me after you and he traded numbers, he blocked and deleted everyone else's."

A soft smile found its way to your lips as you thought about Bradley holding his phone the night after you and he first kissed. The idea of him deleting other numbers while he was texting you made butterflies erupt inside you. "Well, you could try doing that," you told Jake. "Either that or get a new phone number. I think that would send the right signal to Cat. If you're still serious."

Jake poked at his sandwich for a few seconds with a scowl on his face, and then he stood, sending the chair screeching a few feet behind him. You watched him walk out of the cafeteria, and when he didn't return, you ate his sandwich and saved your burrito bowl for your dinner instead. You'd eat it at home while you emailed the photographer in Oceanside.

---------------------------

Bradley was usually able to get some sleep on the comanche transports, but this time it was too loud and uncomfortable, even with his earplugs. Exhaustion was finally overtaking him as they started to near the US base in South Korea. A nervous energy was thrumming through him. But he did feel more confident knowing that Cyclone and Warlock were running the mission this time, and while he didn't know many of the other aviators personally, he'd heard of all of them. The fact that several of them had been called in from the Atlantic fleet was a little bit alarming and also intriguing to him.

He quickly learned that the woman sitting across from him was Daphne 'Bluebird' Blue from Lemoore, the pilot he'd filled in for once previously when she'd been injured in a training exercise. Of course that was the same mission Bradley had been lucky to return home from outside of a body bag. Countless stitches, broken bones and lacerations later, you'd nursed him back to health. He wondered briefly if something similar would have happened to Bluebird if she'd flown instead of him. Maybe they were both alive today simply because Bradley had gone in her place.

The current mission felt like a way for him to bring his confidence fully back. As he walked out of the comanche and then right into a smaller helicopter that was waiting to take them to the aircraft carrier, Bradley ended up sitting next to Bluebird this time. He knew there would be time to meet everyone aboard the carrier, but she had a friendly demeanor. He really wasn't here to make friends though, so he closed his eyes, and luckily this time he was able to fall asleep.

"Rooster." He woke up to Bluebird shaking his arm. "Wake up."

He'd been having the most incredible dream about you, one where you were standing in the backyard singing really badly. Tramp was running around in excited circles and the sun was shining, and when he called out your name, you turned to face him. And you had an adorable baby in your arms. When he looked up at Bluebird with her hand on his arm, he was almost confused.

"We're on the carrier," she informed him, patting his shoulder before walking out the back of the helicopter. He was alone now, and it was almost quiet, so he took a minute to let his head rest on the nylon netting behind him. The dream felt real to the point that being on the carrier felt foreign now. He rubbed his hands across his face and stood, looking around for his duffle before he walked outside.

Cyclone was handing out bunk assignments, and thanks to Bluebird, there was an uneven number of males. Bradley got his own bunk. "Get some food, and get some rest," Warlock told the group. "We'll meet tomorrow morning at 0900 to start talking about some mission options."

Bradley's brow scrunched as he followed the labyrinth of hallways in search of his bunk. That was such an odd way to phrase it: start talking about some mission options. It struck him that perhaps he was finally, officially sitting at the proverbial big kids' table. But now he was also a little afraid of exactly what was going to unfold here.

He quickly unpacked his bag and reached for his new notebook, deciding to forego dinner in favor of some quiet and a bigger breakfast in the morning. His thoughts were swirling. He scribbled down a paragraph about Admiral Dean and Slayer, trying to empty his brain of everything negative. He wrote down his feelings about the current mission, and then he paused.

As he glanced over the page, he realized this notebook wasn't going to be quite like the last one. While he wouldn't hide it from you, it just felt a little different. Then he wrote down the dream he had. This was his notebook, and he wasn't going to change his tactics now. He wrote down everything in as much detail as he could remember. He wrote down the way the sliding glass door felt against his hand and exactly which song the dream version of you had been singing.

And then he dropped the notebook and pen onto the floor and fell asleep without getting changed. When he woke up, he felt better. The jetlag had confused his body, but luckily he had plenty of time to get himself ready for the day. He ate breakfast alone after a long shower, and then he headed for the classroom. Everyone else seemed a little tense, and Bradley tried to chalk it up to the fact that only the admirals knew what was going on. But frankly they seemed tense as well.

"Good morning," Warlock greeted everyone with a stern face and a deep voice. The room was absolutely silent for him. "Welcome aboard the USS Nimitz. I'm Admiral Bates, and this is Admiral Simpson. The seven of you have been selected to be here today, simply because you've consistently shown three qualities in your career: you can make good decisions under pressure, you treat your teammates with respect, and you come highly recommended by your superiors. You'll need to employ every bit of your knowledge and skill to make this mission successful. And it is of the utmost importance that we are successful." He paused, and when he spoke again, he was looking directly at Bradley. "Welcome to Operation Loophole."

----------------------------

You hadn't heard another word from Jake after lunch on Monday. You'd gone home to Tramp and eaten your burrito bowl before falling asleep on the couch while you tried to watch a movie. Your cramps were so bad, you could barely function, and Bradley wasn't even home to run around and get everything for you.

"Come on," you said to Tramp as you stood and stretched around midnight. You let him outside and then took your phone to your bedroom while he trotted along behind you. Then you got yourself ready for bed and emailed the photographer who had helped you make Bradley's birthday present last year. She promised she would fit you in again, and you hoped she could take some photos of you this weekend when your period was over and you weren't so bloated.

You curled up in bed after turning the lamp off, and you thought about Bradley. You didn't even know where he was right now. The base in South Korea could be a jumping off point for pretty much anything, and all you could do now was wait and hope for a facetime call.

After turning your ringer up louder, you eventually fell asleep with Tramp. When you woke up for work, you took your phone everywhere with you. It joined you on the bath mat when you took a shower, and you had it in your pocket as you ate breakfast. You weren't going to miss a call from Bradley this time.

When you strolled into your lab right on time, Cat was already working, and she had the headphones on again. You tried to settle in to check some code so you could get your submissions out before your deadlines when Jake walked in.

"Angel," he said quietly, and he looked a lot calmer today. His gaze shifted to Cat, and you noticed he had a piece of paper in his hand. He hesitated, but then she carefully slid the headphones off and set them down next to her keyboard. Jake took a deep breath, and you tried to be discreet as you watched him walk over to her.

She was looking up at him from her seat, and her expression gave nothing away. Jake said a few words and then handed her the paper before turning and walking away. Now he looked a little apprehensive as Cat read the note over a few times. She jumped up from her seat, and the paper sailed to the floor, landing close to your boot. You picked it up and read it as Cat called out to him and reached for his hand to stop him.

I don't want you to give up on me.

It was followed by a phone number. Jake's new phone number. You smiled as you watched the two of them kissing out in the hallway. When Cat eventually walked back in, trying her best to contain her smile, she looked around a bit frantically for the note.

"Here you go," you told her, holding it out. She snatched it from you with a grin and then sat down without a word.

But a few minutes later, your phone vibrated in your pocket with a text from that new number. Angel, come have lunch with Bob, Nat and I today.

You couldn't turn down the invitation. At 12:30, you found yourself holding a lunch tray and sliding into the seat next to Jake as the three of them continued with their discussion as if you'd always been there.

"I don't want to move to Poway," Bob said as he poked at his salad with his fork. "It will take me forever to get to work, and there's nothing up there anyway. Then you guys will forget about me and stop inviting me to things."

"I never invite any of you to anything," Nat interjected before biting into her cheeseburger. "You all just show up regardless."

"Well, what do you think, Angel?" Jake asked, eating a duplicate of the sandwich you enjoyed yesterday.

"I'm sorry, but what are we talking about here?" you asked, turning your attention back to Bob when he sighed.

"My landlord is raising my rent," Bob replied. "I'm seriously considering a new place instead of renewing my lease, but nothing I've found seems suitable. And Nat and Jake are very little help."

Nat nodded in agreement, and Jake rolled his eyes. His phone was sitting on his tray, and you saw it light up with a text from Cat. When you met his eyes, he was smiling.

"Well, Bob," you said, returning your attention to the man across from you, "I will definitely ask around and let you know if I hear of anything that might work out for you. And we could never forget to invite you to things. You're too sweet for that to happen."

"Thank you," he murmured, blushing a bit as he ate a bite of salad. You felt like you owed him a little bit since he'd kept Bradley so calm during that last, painful deployment. He'd given your husband a blank notebook and had taken the time to meditate with him. "How's Rooster's special detachment?"

You shrugged. "No idea. He just left yesterday. I'll be lucky to hear from him at all."

---------------------------

The training routine every day for the first week was rigorous, but the really crazy thing was the fact that the admirals still hadn't provided any real details about Operation Loophole. Bradley and the others were in the air working through exercises all morning every morning, and then they were all in the small classroom below deck until late. Oftentimes Admiral Simpson had food delivered to the room as he went over scenarios that didn't quite make sense without all of the information.

They just kept going over three different scenarios: Alpha, Beta and Gamma. Bradley knew them by heart, and he was sure the others did as well. But they weren't being told which one they would be flying for the mission. They were only being told they needed to be able to perform any of the three flawlessly.

On Friday morning at breakfast, Bradley decided to sit with Bluebird. It hadn't escaped him that the seven pilots all gave each other a bit of a wide berth during any sort of free time. He was left to assume that none of them had ever worked together before. He knew he hadn't worked with any of them. Bluebird was from Lemoore, but none of the others were stationed in California at all. Havoc was from Whidbey Island. Jackal was from Key West. Richmond was from Great Lakes. Wilbur was from Norfolk. Dugout was from Pensacola.

"Are you starting to get the feeling they're withholding information from us?" Bradley asked as he took a seat.

Bluebird looked up from her book and laughed. "Are you starting to get the feeling we might never know what's really going on?"

"Shit," Bradley muttered, dousing his eggs in hot sauce just like you would. "If they don't say something soon, I'm going to start begging for information. At first it was exciting to be part of this whole thing, but now, I'm not so sure."

"I completely agree," she said, her voice laced with frustration. "Maybe the seven of us can pull together and riot."

She and Bradley walked side by side down the long corridor to the classroom without speaking, but it wasn't unpleasant. He didn't mind being alone with his thoughts right now, but it was especially nice to know he wasn't the only one who was frustrated here.

"Close the door behind you," Cyclone barked at Bradley. Everyone else was already seated as the door clicked shut, and Bradley found a seat as well. "Since you've proven you can fly the Alpha, Beta and Gamma scenarios to the highest level of perfection, let's talk a little more about Operation Loophole."

Bradley leaned forward a bit in his seat as Warlock turned off the lights, and the projector at the back of the room lit up the front wall.

"While giving you the barest amount of information possible," Cyclone started, "I'd like you to memorize what you see here."

Bradley looked at the aerial view of a city and the suburbs beyond. Then the image zoomed in on a small cluster of buildings before zooming further to one building with a dark green roof. He tried to take in every detail of where it looked like the front door opened up directly onto the sidewalk and the fact that there didn't appear to be any other buildings connected to it. The more he examined things, an uneasy feeling started to fill him up. And then he realized that he was looking at a live satellite feed as a motorbike rode past the building.

"This structure is currently housing five hostages. One is American. The other four are from allied countries. As far as our intelligence shows, they've been inside for fifty eight days."

Bradley had to fight the desire to look around the room as dread settled into his stomach. They were going to aid in a hostage extraction. He already knew what this meant. How dangerous it was going to be.

"Six of you will be chosen. One of you will remain on standby. There is no margin for error. You will be flying unmarked jets. You will be wearing unmarked flight suits. Communication with the carrier will be at short range only. Communication with each other will be through code only. Nobody can know who we are or where we came from or what our country of origin is. You will not fire a single weapon. You will not take a single hit. You will be perfect."

-------------------------

Early on Saturday morning, you left your house with your hair and makeup looking flawless. There was literally a suitcase full of your clothing and lingerie in the back of the Bronco as you drove it along the coastal highway, and you were singing along loudly to one of Bradley's playlists. His birthday was next weekend, but you hadn't heard a word from him since he left. You couldn't hold out too much hope that he'd be back in time, because you didn't want to be disappointed later. At least his birthday present would be ready for him whenever he got home.

This year you decided to incorporate Bradley's beloved Bronco into his birthday calendar. Yesterday after work, you spent hours washing and cleaning it up so the blue paint absolutely shined. The idea of becoming a pinup model for the second year in a row was making you antsy to get the photo shoot over with, but he'd told you explicitly how much he wanted another calendar. And you often caught him flipping through the one you made last year when he was supposed to be working out in the garage.

You were smiling by the time you arrived at the rocky overlook a few miles outside of Oceanside, and Flora, the photographer you met last year, was already there. "You look like you're ready for the spotlight," she said as she shook your hand.

"I'm nervous," you told her with a shrug.

"You were nervous last year, and the calendar turned out perfectly. And this time, we've got gorgeous weather and a natural backdrop. It'll be great."

You took a deep breath and got to work. She had you pose all around and inside the Bronco, and she had you move it a few times so it was facing different directions. Once again you brought Bradley's aviators, and they made it into a few photos. Flora helped you discreetly get changed into different outfits even though there was nobody around to see. She took photos of you in your honeymoon bikini leaning back against the hood as well as some in your denim shorts and red bra while you sat on the tailgate. So many poses, you couldn't keep track.

As she scrolled through the photos, examining the screen on her camera in the sunlight, she casually asked, "How do you feel about going topless?"

You pressed your lips together. If you did, Bradley was going to have to make sure nobody else saw it. But you already knew he would lose his shit. In a good way. "Okay, but you'll have to make next June the topless month."

"Sure," she replied as you looked around in every direction before unclasping your bra.

A few hours later, you were dressed in a simple sundress and walking into the usual restaurant for a late brunch. You slid into the booth next to Cam and across from Maria, and you were thankful there was already a mimosa waiting for you. Flora insisted the photos looked perfect, but you were still a little antsy over the state of the calendar.

"I'm starving," Cam whined, signaling for the waitress to come back. "Do you know what you want?"

"I literally just got here," you told him as you sipped your drink.

"You always get the same thing anyway," he murmured. "Both of you do." You could tell he was getting hangry by the way he ordered for all three of you when the waitress came back. "One French toast with berries. One avocado toast with bacon. One western omelette with extra hashbrowns." Then he aggressively bit into a piece of the cinnamon toast that the waitress left on the table.

"You're in a snippy mood," you told him, and then you realized that Maria was staring at her phone. "What's your problem?"

Cam sighed and chewed up the rest of the toast. "I'm starving, first of all. Second, I think my boss is going to promote me next cycle, which is great, but I also feel like a dick, because I kind of want to switch labs. And third, Maria won't stop whining."

"I'm not whining!" she whined, rolling her eyes.

Great. You had to be the parent today. "Well, congratulations?" you said to Cam and he just ate more toast in response. Then you looked at Maria and asked, "What's got you so upset?"

She set her phone down, and you could tell she was apartment hunting. "Rochelle is moving out. Her boyfriend got a bigger place, and she's moving in with him. She pulled a you."

You grimaced and muttered, "Sorry."

She waved you off. "It's fine. She wasn't that great anyway. But I can't afford two bedrooms alone when everyone else around me is getting married and getting promotions and raises except me," she said blandly, rubbing her hands over her face. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean that."

Cam downed his mimosa in one go, but you were still looking at Maria. "Hey... you remember Bob Floyd? Phoenix's backseater?"

"Lieutenant Commander Mustache and his parade of hot friends," Cam mumbled, and you elbowed him to be quiet.

Maria had a faraway look in her eyes now. "Bob Floyd. He always smells nice."

Cam nodded in agreement. And you nodded in agreement as well. "He does always smell nice," you whispered, thinking about the last time you hugged Bob.

"Anyway, what about Bob?" Maria asked, still fidgeting with her phone.

You smiled. "He's looking for a new place."

--------------------------------

Bradley was in his bunk, getting undressed after dinner when there was a knock on the door. "Yeah?" he asked, opening it up to reveal a petty officer.

"Lieutenant Commander Bradshaw?"

"Yeah?" Bradley repeated, buttoning his shirt up again.

"If you want to make a call, there are some free iPads in the communication room. I saw your name on the list."

"Oh," he murmured, quickly tucking in his shirt again and following him out the door. "Thanks."

Bradley's heart was pounding erratically. After you missed his call last deployment, he had gotten so frustrated, and you'd gone to talk to Dr. Genevieve. He was trying to do some quick math to determine what time it was back home, but he was already in the room. He felt flustered as he was given a tablet and a private spot to sit. As quickly as he could, he entered your number, hoping to have as much time to talk to you as he could.

Just a few seconds later, you answered with a loud, "Roo!" Bradley saw your face for a few seconds before you dropped your phone. Then there was a string of curse words before you picked it up again. "Bradley?!" you asked in a panicked voice.

"I'm here, Baby Girl."

You squealed with delight, and Bradley realized you were standing halfway in and halfway out of the shower. You were completely naked, and you looked like perfection as you asked, "Are you okay?"

"Yes," he replied, knowing there was no way he could share any classified details about his mission with you. He was going to have to keep you talking about yourself as much as possible. "I miss you so much. How are you? How's Tramp?"

"Good!" you gushed, moving under the shower spray and holding your phone out away from you as you rinsed off. Bradley was completely distracted by your wet tits as you said, "I had brunch with Cam and Maria on Saturday, and Nat and I got our nails done. But I miss you. Did you fly yet?"

"Not yet," he rasped as you stood in the far corner of the steamy shower and smiled at your phone. "God, you look good."

Your smile grew as you leaned against the tile wall, bringing your free hand up to touch your breasts, and he could see his wedding ring on your necklace chain. "Do you know when you'll be home? Can you tell me about your mission?" you asked softly as the sound of the shower somehow calmed Bradley's nerves as you wound him up a little bit.

He just grunted. "I'd rather watch you, Sweetheart."

And you fucking let him. Your fingers with your pretty manicured nails brushed along your nipples as you sighed his name. He had no idea how he's gotten this lucky in life, as you treated him to those pretty fingers on your clit and slipping inside your pussy just for him. He watched you masturbate, and he turned the volume down when you got loud. His hand was resting on his cock as he grew harder for you, the sounds you made echoing through the shower enclosure.

"Baby Girl," he groaned softly as he watched your face on the screen as you came. Perfect. You looked perfect. His mind flashed back to the dream he had as he looked at your face, relaxed and sated.

"Tell me how much you miss me, Roo," you whispered breathlessly. So Bradley waxed poetic about your body and your voice and how he couldn't get comfortable in bed without you. He made you laugh, and his cock stayed hard as you licked your lips.

And then he was told he had a minute left. "Hey, listen," he told you softly. "Time's almost up. I don't know when I'll be flying or when I'll be home, but I think this is going to be a crazy one, okay?"

"Okay," you said, apprehension creeping into your voice.

"But I'm doing great here. I'm ready for anything. So there's no need to worry. I'll be home soon."

"I love you, Bradley."

"I love you so much, Sweetheart."

Bradley felt like he was still in a bit of a daze as he returned to his bunk. He thought about jerking off to the videos you and he made on his phone, but he barely had his shirt off when there was another sharp knock on his door. He answered in just his uniform pants. It was Bluebird, and the sight of her wearing her unmarked, black flight suit added to the adrenaline already coursing through his body.

"Get changed into your black suit. It's time to go."

She moved down the hallway, knocking on another door, and it took Bradley a few seconds to pull his thoughts together. It was mission time. It must be dark out on deck now. He would be flying at night. He took a minute to breathe deeply the way Bob taught him, and then he got changed.

He was the last one to walk into the classroom, and it felt so strange to have no identifying clothing or patches on his person at all, especially when the admirals were dressed for a normal day. "Have a seat," Warlock announced, and then he turned the lights out, leaving the room in pitch darkness. "You'll be flying tonight in these conditions. Your eyesight will do little to help you beyond seeing what's on your radar readouts. Rely on your teammates and your instincts instead."

Then the projector clicked on while Bradley's heart pounded. Cyclone was at the front of the room, signaling for the satellite image to be zoomed in further and further. "Our sources on the ground relayed useful intelligence in the last hour. The hostages are most likely being transported around midnight, potentially to an execution site. SEAL Team 7 is ready just off the coast aboard the USS Charleston. You will provide a distraction for the SEAL team, enabling them to penetrate the building and perform an extraction before the hostages can be moved. Two of you will protect a comanche helicopter crew providing imaging for the SEAL team. Four of you will lure enemy aircrafts out over the water and away from the military base located here."

The image on the wall zoomed out and back in on an airstrip located not too far away from the hostages. Bradley listened as Cyclone told them their current coordinates, the coordinates of the base, and the coordinates of the hostages. "You need to keep the enemy aircrafts away from the Charleston and keep the comanche crew out of danger. Bluebird, you're the team leader for the comanche protection. Wilbur, you fly with Bluebird." Cyclone turned to look at Bradley as he said, "And Rooster, you'll lead the team composed of Havoc, Richmond and Dugout to lure the enemy jets out over the water. Any questions?"

Cyclone nodded at Richmond when he raised his hand, "Sir, are we following flight plan Alpha, Beta or Gamma?"

Cyclone shook his head. "None of the above. You'll be flying flight plan Omega, and we're going to make it up right now."

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Bradley is out there on the mission of a lifetime. More action coming soon. Thank you @mak-32 and @beyondthesefourwalls

PART 22

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chelseypprimrose · 10 months

Text

I Dare You / Negan X Reader / pre apocalypse

Summary: A game of drunken truth or dare turns into the best sex of your life.

Warnings ⚠️: daddy kink, unprotected sex/rough sex, choking, oral, spitting, slight voyerism, slight dumbification and use of degrading terms (slut ect) bfd!negan, age gap

As always, all respective parties are over age of consent ect. 🤍 *Not proof read yet*

A/N: whelp here we are again, i started rewatching the walking dead from season 7 and tell me why I had totally forgot that Negan cleans out Alexandria’s houses just to burn their mattresses right down the road from them, the more I watch the more I remember how evil he really was and it makes me giggle and kick my feet i can’t lie lol. Enjoy this little depraved story, I’m just loving writing stories where the reader is very fully aware of someone watching/walking in bc it’s just so dirty I can’t freaking cope 😂love ya’s and my requests are open as always 🤍🎀🧟‍♂️

Straightening out your dress, you walked through the wooden gate at the side of your friends house, the loud thumping beats of music and chatter blaring through your eardrums. You held a bottle of Smirnoff in your other hand, remembering the teaching from your mother about never showing up to a party empty handed, that was considered rude and insulting.

You’d left the party girl lifestyle behind, having your fun in your early twenties but mellowing out in the last year or so, finding more enjoyment in a cup of tea and a good book. Not to the extent of being anti-social, just cutting off bad habits and rethinking where you wanted to take your life. Coming fresh out college filled you with a sense of doubt and confusion, you studied heavy, dedicating your time to educating yourself but hadn’t yet found what you wanted to be in the world. No matter how much you were freaking out about your next step, you couldn’t miss your friend’s birthday party, so you’d decided to have some fun and let loose, deal with reality tomorrow instead.

Pushing those dreaded thoughts underneath the surface, plastering a smile on your face as you entered the already crowded back garden of your best friend, Natalie. You’d known Natalie for years now, exact number you couldn’t remember but through high school and many ups and downs, you’d always stayed close, spending nearly every weekend at her house. That was with her mother though, she’d recently moved in with her dad, due to domestic arguments with her mother getting too toxic. You’d only ever seen her dad twice in your life, normally when he’d pick her up after the various extra curricular activities you two enrolled in together. Negan.

Such a unique name, you’d thought when you first laid your eyes on him. How anyone could give him up would be a mystery to you, from your limited interactions he’d always been sweet to you. Offering to drop you home as well but always denying, not wanting him to drive out of his route just for you. Those polished, pearly teeth gleaming at you when he asked, practically making you melt right there on the spot. You’d cursed yourself for manifesting a little crush on the man, who was your best friends dad, the forbidden attraction. The way he’d sit lazily in the driver side, his large hands gripping the steering wheel, your mind wandering to thoughts of what they would be like gripped around your dainty neck. The black bikers jacket he’d always wear even in scorching temperatures, fitting his frame just right.

“Hey hey girl, how are you?” She wrapped you into a affectionate hug, her candy sweet scent hitting your nostrils, her birthday tiara shining in the sun’s beam. You reciprocated, giving a small squeeze as you released her, holding the bottle out to her. “Happy birthday, Nat. It’s been too long!” You replied as she took the bottle out of your hands, thanking you for the gift. “Come on let me get you a drink and we can catch up!” She lead you through the crowd of people, a mixed bag, some young and some old. You recognised some familiar faces from growing up, giving a small nod at those who recognised you, commenting small hellos.

Natalie motioned for you to take a seat at the rattan sofa lounger, near the side of the backyard porch, a small fire pit in the middle, keeping you toasty as your dress was a little shorter than you were used to. Negan entered through the same gate you’d come through minutes ago, returning with a crate of beer from the garage. He fought his way through the crowd, handing out the liquor to those he’d promised it too. Small ‘thank you’s in acceptance, placing the remaining bottles into a cooler with ice. Wiping his hands off with a small towel, fingers slightly numb from handling the ice, his eyes moved around the yard, silently cursing his daughter for inviting so many people to this place. His annoyance came to a halt when his eyes locked onto you, recognising your face in the sea of people. Watching you laugh with Natalie over old pictures she was showcasing to you, he’d know your laugh from a mile away.

He couldn’t help the heat that ran through his body, his jeans getting tighter as he watched your chest rising, your arms placed in front of you, making your breasts press together firmly, slight cleavage coming into show for him to memorise. You’d definitely grown up since the last time he’d seen you, taking a beer out for himself, he started sauntering over to you, discreetly adjusting himself on the way.

“Well if that isn’t who I think it is? It’s been ages doll!” He exclaimed, your head whipping around to meet his gaze. He looked similar to how he did when you’d last seen him, the only major difference being his beard being thicker and slight whiteness now peaking out of it. “Hey! Mr Smith, it’s nice to see you after all this time!” You almost purred, he loved the way that name sounded rolling off your pretty lips, that familiar heat rising to his cheeks slightly. While it sounded completely innocent to everyone around, he could tell the difference. “Oh why so formal? Call me Negan, we’re all friends here.” He grinned, those familiar pearly whites coming into view as he swiped his tongue along his lower lip lightly. “Are you ladies okay for drinks?” Natalie waved her dad off, claiming they were fine, he took his leave but not before taking one last gaze over your body, your curves almost putting him under some witchcraft spell.

It was later in the evening, the sun setting over the horizon, you’d been roped into playing a game of ‘Truth or Dare’ under the suggestion of Natalie, it being the game you played at all those sleepovers you’d had with her back in the day. You were sat with a few other girls, ones you’d recognised from high school. You weren’t best friends with any of them, not knowing them well like you did Natalie, just more so the fact they were the only girls left at the party.

You’d played it safe up to this point, only choosing truth, you decided to throw caution to the wind when your next turn came, proclaiming dare to the group.

Natalie’s eyes found yours, you could practically see the cogs turning inside her head, it got you wondering what her depraved mind was going to come up with. “I dare you to… seduce my dad.” You almost spat your drink out, eyes widening at the request, palms hot with embarrassment. “What? You actually want me to do that? Are you insane?!” You asked, a confused look sat on your face. “Not to be rude but… you aren’t his type at all, so it’s a guaranteed point for me! I’m just being strategic!” She claimed, her eyes meeting yours, goading you to back down. Your heart sank at the confession, you couldn’t understand why it stung so much, it was just a little silly crush but you’d be lying to yourself if you didn’t admit this new information made you feel a bit low. Your hurt feeling started slowly turning to slight rage, still watching Natalie as she challenged you with her eyes.

“Okay, how about we make this interesting though? $100 suit you?” You smirked, pulling a hundred dollar bill out of your purse, waving it in her face, mocking her. She returned your smirk, that goddamn egotistical smirk she got from her father, her manicured hand coming out in front of her to offer a handshake to seal the deal. “You are on, sister. You have to bring something back to the table that’s his, it’s the only way I’ll believe you.” You raised from the couch, slamming your empty cup down on the small table, taking your hair clip out, hair falling to the top of your back in loose, bouncy pin up curls. The girls watched you walk through the patio doors, sliding it to let you in before continuing on with the game.

You got into the kitchen, a few people standing around in conversations, you politely asked one of them if they had seen the man you were seeking out, answering that he’d gone up to his bedroom to change shirts, alcohol being split on him about five minutes ago. Making your way to the top floor of the house, you started trying doors, having absolutely no clue which one was his as you’d never been in the house before. You came to the last one at the end of the landing, being met with the very man you wanted to see.

There he was, shirtless in front of you, his room rather large. A four poster bed in the centre of it, black and red silk sheets with matching puffy pillows, a small door which lead into a en-suite, two bookshelves at the sides of the bed, small circle led lights above the headboard. He threw the wet t-shirt he’d taken off into the wicker laundry basket, not yet noticing that you’d entered the room. “Mr Smith? Sorry for not knocking, I need to speak to you about something.” You mumbled, the anxiety of what you were about to ask him gaining on you. He slightly jumped, a flirty grin on his face when he realised it was you who was there. You took a seat in the leather loveseat, matching the bed sheets, red and black were obviously his favourites. Your hands nervously played with the hem of your dress, his eyes wandering to your delicate fingers. “I’m all ears doll, ask away!” He says, turning his back to you as he found another t-shirt to change into, you opened your mouth to talk, nervousness managing to stop you in your tracks.

He turned back around, his face contorting into a confused look, wondering what you be needing to ask that would get you so worked up like this. “So Natalie dared me to… seduce you in our game of truth or dare. I had every intention to give it my best shot but she told me I’m not your type. W-which is fine, but I kind of bet $100 on it. Is there any chance you could give me something out of this room that I can take down to prove I did it, without actually doing it?” You awkwardly explained, your eyes not being able to meet his, if they had you would have seen the shimmer in his eyes as you cutely fumbled over your words out of embarrassment. He let out a large laugh, your face squirming, if his daughters confession made you feel bad, this was ten times worse. You felt a small tear gathering at the bottom of your eye, wanting the earth to swallow you in this moment.

It was the touch on your knee that made you look up, meeting his gaze as he knelt down to come to face level with you, Negan hadn’t bothered to put another shirt on, the low light of the room landing on his body just right, your core feeling slightly slick as his muscles tensed deep. You thought he was about to make fun of you for such a childish request, when he grabbed your chin firmly, making your head stay in position it was, looking into his eyes, not having the nerve to look away.

“Now doll, please tell me why you’d ever listen to such a fucking stupid thing like that?” He questioned, his thumb tracing your jawline slightly, still holding your chin in place. Your ears perked up, the total opposite of what you thought he was going to say coming out. “Uh, I’m not sure?” You replied, your voice not coming out as confident as you would have liked, that smirk still on his face. He was enjoying watching you squirm underneath him, his hand let go of your chin, hooking either hand around the underside of your thighs, pulling you slightly forward so your ass was half on the chair and half off. “How about I do you one better? Why don’t we actually complete the dare, huh doll? I don’t know why she’d say some crazy shit like that, probably hasn’t been paying attention to how I haven’t taken my goddamn eyes off you all night. You’ve really grown into a fine ass woman, you know that right?” You let out a slight moan, the feeling of his large hands keeping your legs spread open for him to see making your whole body electric. A vision of white panties peaking out under your dress, your new position on the seat making it rise up to your waist. “Thanks for the compliment Negan, but if… if you don’t touch me right now, I’m going to lose my mind.” You managed to make out, in broken breaths, your chest rising heavily up and down as you did, eyes wandering to his abdomen.

“Your wish is my command, pretty girl. Just relax and let daddy take care of you.” He whispered lustfully as his fingertips moved your panties to the side, showing your ever wetting slick pussy to him. He had to take a sharp breath in, nothing he’d seen was a prettier sight that this, hadn’t even imagined you looking this good, exceeding his wet dreams. He gathered saliva in his mouth, a powerful spit right on the centre of you, you whimpering in response at the degrading and dirty action. “Well, look at that! Someone likes a bit of domination doesn’t she?” He proclaimed to you, he couldn’t believe his fucking luck. You gasped as he finally took your clit into his mouth, sucking on it softly, teasing you with his devilish tongue.

He moves back to your pussy where he runs his tongue over your wet lips. You let out a deep guttural groan, as you grab large pieces of his slicked back hair, tugging him slightly, guiding him to all the places, you needed attention on. Negan continued to lick long strips down from your sensitive bud to your opening, listening to your moans and whimpers as he did. “Fu-fuck Negan! Yes, your making me feel so good.” He took his tongue of you, whining at the loss of contact. A darker look shifted on his face, more pressure as his hand dug further into your thighs. “Listen here, dollface. Tonight I’m not Negan, tonight I am daddy, you get that? Or has my tongue already made that pretty little head of yours blank?” He growled out, his tone completely like nothing you’d ever heard him sound like before, you’d truly woken the beast inside this man and you couldn’t wait for the journey. “Yes, yes, I’m sorry daddy, please put your tongue back on me, it makes me feel so fucking good!” He sinisterly grinned at you, parting your folds again and letting your juices flow down onto his tongue. He finds himself vigorously tongue fucking you as you begin gyrating on the chair, trying to push your hips into his face more, nothing mattering to you more than the pleasure he was providing, while pulling his hair with your fingers.

As he begins sucking your clit, he works a couple of fingers deep into your pussy, finding how tight you clamped around him, trying to intensify your pleasure. Negan begins to alternate between licking and sucking your clit, as you became more and more impassioned. It isn't long before you thrusted your pussy hard against his face, his beard scratching against you as your first climax washed over you, your hips bucking even more, back arched, your arms that were holding you up shaking.

“Fuck, daddy, I need you inside me now, please!” You whined, Negan hoisting you up off the now wet chair, the slick shining sun in the light of the room. He slammed your body on the bed, your head hanging off the edge of the bed, the blood rushing to your ears. “Goddamn doll, this pretty little pussy is going to be the death of me, pull that top down, I want to see those tits bounce as I fuck you dumb.” You obeyed, pulling your breasts out of your dress, the style of dress restricting you from wearing a bra, cupping them and rubbing your nipples as well. He could have bust right there and then, the image of you below him, looking like something out of a damn Playboy magazine.

He trails kisses up your body, tasting the thin layer of sweat on your skin until he reaches your mouth where he kisses your lips deeply, snaking his tongue into your mouth as he lined up at your entrance, rubbing his dick up and down your folds, setting your whole body on fire, nerves standing on edge. He releases your mouth, moving to your neck, nipping and biting at it as he finally stretched you out, filling you up nicely.

“That’s it doll, fuck. You feel goddamn heavenly, such a good slut for my dick right?” He grunts out, leaning away from your neck to hover over you as he put his hands around your throat, his pace getting more erratic, unable to control himself from his hard thrusts as your skin slapped together. Your head was starting to go dizzy, between being upside down and your oxygen being slowly cut by Negan’s large hand, it intensified your impending orgasm. Negan pulled out quickly, turning you over from your back to your stomach, forcing your back to arch as much as you could, slipping back into you. The new angle sent you nearly cock drunk, Negan too mesmerised watching his dick going in and out of you, not noticing the door slowly opening slightly.

You looked over to see Natalie looking on at you and her father, like time had stopped in place. You couldn’t see her whole face, just her eyes. Frozen, she made no move to say anything or close the door. You smirked at her, your eyes not breaking eye contact. “Oh daddy! You fuck me so good, my pussy belongs to you!” You moaned, a narcissistic grin sitting happily on your mouth. “Shit yeah doll, this pussy is all fucking mine you dumb whore.” His hand coming down in your hair, his other placed around your neck again. Hips snapping repeatedly against you at a now familiar pace, a moan leaving you every time he snapped. You raised yourself up on your elbows, repeatedly rubbing your thumb over the tips of your index finger and middle finger, the universal sign for Pay Me. Her eyes squinted in anger, closing the door again, not wanting to see anything else and now pissed she owed you money.

You quietly laughed to yourself as quietly as you could, feeling your walls clamp on Negan’s dick as you were ready to orgasm. “Fuck daddy, I’m going to cum again!” You whimpered, gripping the silk sheets below you both, Negan shallowly grunting above you. “Shit doll, me too. Let go for me baby, milk daddy’s dick doll.” You squeezed the bed sheet again, your whole body shaking as you closed your eyes, breathing irregular as you flopped forward on the bed, panting heavy. Negan pulled out at just the right moment, hot spurts of his cum hitting your lower back, cooling off after a couple seconds sat there. He carefully placed himself next to you, pulling you towards him so you rested in his arm. “I’ve been waiting for that for years, you know?” You told him, your fingers slowly drawing small circles on his forearm. “Could have told me sooner doll, that was fucking sen-sat-ional! You are perfect.” You laughed, kissing the side of his face, leaving a small nip at his ear lobe.

Two orgasms and $100 richer, it was worth leaving the house after all.

839 notes · View notes

ohtobeleah · 18 days

Text

Secret Sacrifices // Jake Seresin

Chapter Two: [Like A Brick]

Summary: With the weight of the world sitting on your shoulders, you confide in the gentle soul that is Bob Floyd. Also known as, your first kiss.

Warnings: Jake Seresin x F!reader. Witness Protection F!reader. Platonic Bob Floyd x F!reader. Mentions of death. Mentions of drowning.

Word Count: 2.8k

Author Note: I'm Back! To get back into the swing of things I thought this little chapter would do us good. although this chapter is mainly focused on Bob and Brewer, we, being @a-reader-and-a-writer and myself, thought it deserved its own moment to really capture the significance of the shared secrets.

Series Masterlist | Main Masterlist

Being caught deep in swirling memories wasn’t something out of the ordinary for you. Being swept along with the tide, the waves of which push and pull your mind between present times and your past. The very idea of being caught between realities, a paradoxical space between now and then always seemed to be better than the alternative. Live through hell.

“My mum says I’m too young to kiss girls.”

Thoughts of who you could have been and thoughts of who you became push together to create a constant state of flight. Nostalgia is like a whirlpool that you drown in deep inside your mind. You’re unable to tread water as you feel the waves breaking against your skin, forcing you under as you gasp for air. What good were those swimming lessons you were forced to partake in as a child?

“Do you tell your mum everything, Bobby?”

Your mind becomes an unblended mix of memories you’d like to replay on repeat, and those you’d like to hide. Nothing ever seemed simple anymore. Not even the memory of your first kiss. The memory that you’d once considered colourful was now shrouded in forced denial. It couldn’t have happened, for you weren’t Y/n Y/l/n anymore.

“What’re you still doing here?” It has been a long night, so long the sun had just started to kiss the horizon as you made your final lap around the front and back decks of the Hard Deck. Bob sat patiently waiting on one of the picnic tables, typing away something on his phone.

Your voice must have startled him, but you’d never make fun of the way the Back Seater jumped enough to knock the chair his boot-clad feet were resting on into the small outdoor pot plant that sat beside the table. You watched it rock back and forth before steadying itself once again, like a boi floating in the current. That same current that had on many occasions, tried to drag you under.

“I thought for sure you would have been the first one out the door?” You followed up on your initial question as you collected an empty glass you’d missed. Bob pocketed his phone with a tired smile as he looked your way.

“Fanboy’s still in the bathroom with Payback–” Bob explained softly as he looked your way. “Big night, someone had to be the deso though.” You could see it in Bob’s eyes, the colour of a clear blue sky through a broken prison wall. He wanted to ask, wanted to bring it up. He knew you were lying, but why was the biggest question.

“I was gonna call them and the other stragglers a taxi—“ Only a handful of patrons remained inside the Hard Deck as you went about your closing duties. Usually, you would have kicked them out by now. You weren’t necessarily one to want to hang about with people possibly lurking in the shadows. But two-thirds of the stragglers left behind were none other than two-sevenths of the Hard Decks top contributors. “If I had known you were coming back for them I would have told you not to worry,” The chuckle that left Bob’s voice at your statement was undeniably genuine. “I would have sent them home with vomit bags tucked into their back pockets too.”

“That’s why they pay you top dollar I guess?” Ever since Bob first saw you behind the bar that very first night, he knew he knew you. It wasn’t some distant memory of a forgotten past for Robert Floyd. The memory of his first kiss was an easy one to recall from the rolodex inside his mind. It just so happened to be a core memory that unlocked a whole other category of life’s simplest pleasures. But the more you denied its existence, or more specifically denied you were the one who ultimately shared in that childhood memory, Bob wasn’t sure if he’d dreamt the whole thing or not.

Perhaps his first kiss came a hell of a lot later in life than he always thought.

“Top dollar?” You had to stifle your laugh as you joined Bob on the picnic table. As you sat with a small huff, you knocked your knee against his playfully. “Please, but the tips are good.”

There was a heavy silence so deafening that washed over the two of you not too long after you finished speaking. Its gravity felt like an intense pressure forcing itself down against your chest. The longer you and Bob sat there in pure silence, the more time slipped unwillingly through your fingertips, the more your heart beat faster inside your chest.

The silence magnified the pressure mounting, and the scale of your anxiety all felt like it was about to come to a boiling point. As you sat there next to Bob in shared silence, it felt as if the world had turned once again on its axis, and you were just a few short seconds away from falling off the face of the earth.

“I have a small confession to make,” It wasn’t ever supposed to be aired in the open, but the guilt that sat heavily on your conscience was making it harder and harder to keep lying. For three years you had told not a single soul, but Bob Floyd had created a paradox of inner turmoil you weren’t prepared to harbour. “To be perfectly honest it isn’t all that small of a confession.”

“Brewer,” Bob sighed almost reluctantly. The last thing he ever wanted to do was force someone into sharing intimate details of their life. “If there’s a reason why you keep denying it, I’m sure it’s a good one,” Bob had thought about this long and hard, there surely had to be a reason why. He was adamant that you were the girl who kissed him all those years ago. That yellow pigment in your eye was the dead giveaway. He couldn’t ever forget looking into the eyes of the girl who had pressed her cotton candy-flavoured lips against his for three point-five seconds. “And you don’t have to tell me that reason, but, at least tell me, I’m not crazy.”

Again, the silence was deafening as you sat with your secrets for the last few moments. Only a handful of people knew, all of whom were involved in keeping you safe and working your witness protection case. If news got out that you had told someone intimate, key details of your current situation, you’d be forced to restart a whole new life once again. But Bob was different. He was worth the risk for an ounce of normality.

“You aren’t crazy,” It was all the confirmation Bob needed, but that didn’t stop you from wanting to share your personal hell. “I uh, I remember.” You hadn’t told a single soul in three years. You’d been through a thousand things in your life that people didn’t know about. You had experienced things that would shock them if you mentioned the horrors. Those things changed you. Hell—they broke you.

“Bob, I haven’t been Y/n Y/l/n in a little over three years now,” You hung your head low as you spoke, almost like you were afraid that if you looked anywhere but between your feet, you’d see the bloodied and bruised ghost of your dead husband. “I, uh,—saw some things that I shouldn’t have,” The shake in your voice was hard to mask, the sting in your eyes burned like ice against your skin. “I thought that maybe I should tell someone about what I saw, and when I did that I—“

“Brewer,” Bob's voice was soft enough to be barely audible, but you heard him. “You’re in witness protection, aren’t you?” Bob took your immediate silence and broken sob as a definitive yes. He couldn’t even say the idea hadn’t crossed his mind after all the shutdowns and denial.

“I lost my family,” You had a taste of what true love felt like. To experience such an emotion was the greatest gift of all. You loved your son, Charlie, to the moon and back. So much so that you wished every night you let your head fall against your pillow, that you’d be reunited. “I was set to testify against the company I worked for in some whistleblower trial, but the day before I was set to take the stand, we were run off the road.”

Bob sat silently beside you just taking everything you were saying in. He couldn’t imagine what it was like to be in your shoes. To some degree, he almost felt guilty for all the times he couldn’t let the kiss memory go. Every time he brought it up in hopes you’d finally cave and give him the validation he was looking for, it probably felt like an old wound being ripped open.

“You have to understand that I don’t get a choice very often over who I let in,” You finally had to look up, and when you did? Bob was already looking at you. You could see the sympathy plastered across his face in your peripheral. “You can’t tell anyone, and I know it’s a burden to bear, believe me,” The tears had begun to fall long ago and seemed to never stop, but when you finally worked up enough courage to look toward the backseater who sat beside you, your tears were mirrored. “And I know it’s unfair to burden you with such a thing,” The very idea that Bob was now one of the very few people who knew about your situation didn’t taste all that great, but you couldn’t take it back now. You couldn’t shove your secrets back into the can you’d just released them from in a moment of vulnerability. “But please, you can’t tell anyone.”

Bob Floyd was, if anything, a wallflower. He didn’t like being the centre of attention. If he could, Bob would happily spend any time he had off work in the comfort of his own home. He’d spend his free time working on the world map puzzle that had been sitting half-finished on his coffee table for months. But Bob never got to spend those free moments working on his hobbies, no. His found family more often than not would drag him to the Hard Deck. Most of the time Bob would settle into the background and try his best not to draw attention to himself, he couldn’t begin to imagine what it was like to stand in the middle of a crowded room and not be seen for who you really were.

“Nothin’ to tell Brewer,” Bob shrugged his shoulders. “And even if there was? I’m not the gossip type.”

That very fact gentled your soul. All you could do as the overwhelming sense of loneliness overtook you was sob. Bob let you lean your head on his shoulder. His arm soon found itself wrapped around you as your sobs grew stronger and more pained. Tears stained your cheeks as the trails they made collected the makeup you wore, leaving clear indications of distress behind.

“You know there was this girl,” Bob wondered if now was an appropriate time to share his own darkest secret. The idea of maybe holding onto something so important to one another may have softened the blow of knowing Bob held your greatest secrets in the palm of his hand. Perhaps if he shared his own with you, that feeling, that heaviness he knew you felt, would be a little easier to live with. “Her name was Bieanna, everyone back home called her Brick though.”

You had to collect yourself enough to get your breath back before you could speak. Bob understood that. He sat in the silence broken with gentle sobs that softened as more time passed. He wanted until you were ready to speak.

“What did everyone call her Brick?” The question came out easily enough, but the way Bob stiffened at the question as you raised your head from his shoulder made you question if it was harder to hear than to ask.

“She never learnt how to swim–” Bob mumbled as he looked out into the empty car park of the Hard Deck. “If she tried she’d sink–” He waited for you to finish the sentence, and you did.

“Like a Brick.” The realisation wasn’t hard to notice in your saddened eyes. If anything, Bob wondered if he had to continue his story of tragedy or not. You were a smart girl, he knew you could put two and two together. But he wanted to share, he wanted to let you know you could trust him wholeheartedly with your secrets. And you with his.

“Bingo,” Bob smiled softly as you whipped your tears from your heated cheeks. “She ended up drowning a few months after we started dating.”

“Oh, Bob.” Your heart ached for the Back Seater who sat beside you. “I’m so sorry.”

“The worst part is I could have done more to save her,” Bob pressed his lips into a fine line of guilt. “She’d been going great guns for a few weeks while I was teaching her how to swing on her family’s property just outside of town,” Bob could very clearly still remember the taste of the dirt-laced water he’d ingested trying to save her. He could still see the panic in her eyes. “She got her foot stuck in some weeds at the bottom of the damn, panicked, and despite everything I did, I couldn’t save her,”

“It wasn’t your fault, Bob–”

“It was my idea to teach her own to swim though,” Bob admitted as he let his elbows rest on top of his knees. “I don’t ask people to swim anymore, and I’ve never told anyone about the fact she sometimes visits me in my dreams,” Bob explained as he let out a sigh that he wasn’t aware he’d been holding in. “But now you know, and now the secrets we keep don’t seem so heavy.”

The very idea of knowing one of Bob’s longest-kept secrets made you feel a little better about him knowing yours. You trusted Bob, there was no doubt about it. But that gesture of solidarity made you feel safe, trusted.

“No one can know, Bob,” You finished the conversation at that, faking a small smile as Fanboy and Payback came barreling out through the front doors of the Hard Deck. You were instantly on your feet, back in work mode as you wiped away the remaining tears that stained your cheeks.

Bob watched on from his perch on top of the picnic table as you attempted to wrangle the two drunk and disorderly men who could barely tell which way was up and what way was down. He let a few moments pass as he watched on, allowing your life-altering, world-shattering secrets to plague his mind with what-ifs and worst-case scenarios. The very idea that there were people in this world after you didn’t sit well with him. The fact you’d been living a stranger’s life for three years made him want to hug his mother a little tighter the next time he got the chance to see her. He couldn’t begin to imagine to heartache of losing a child, but he knew enough of grief to know what losing a significant other could do to a person.

And for someone who had experienced the worst of what life had to offer, you still saw the very best in people.

“Alright you two drunks, let’s get you two home in one piece,” You chuckled as you walked the aviators over towards where Bob sat. “Taxi’s waiting and the meters running.”

“You’ve given us alcohol poisoning, Brewer,” Payback mumbled as he stumbled with you over to where Bob was. Bob stood with a groan to collect Fanboy from beside you.

“Oh piss off, will ya Reuben–your liver will thank me for cutting you off when you did,” you teased as you handed the men over to Bob with ease. “Get these two home safe Floyd.”

“Will do Brewer.” Bob's soft smile and kind-natured nod was all you needed in response to know he meant his words. “Have a good night, or morning I guess.”

You watched on from the veranda as the three men walked across the sandy car park and over to Bob’s Suzuki, knowing that the next time you saw Bob amongst his Squadron—there would be no mention of that first kiss.

***~***~***~***~***~**

Tags: 🏷️ @a-reader-and-a-writer @xoxabs88xox @hiireadstuff @buckysteveloki-me @athenabarnes @els-marvelvsp @blindedbythelightt @tayl0rhuynh @na-ta-sh-aa @kmc1989 @sunlightmurdock @mamachasesmayhem @jaxfart @lauenderhaze @sugarcoated-lame @maisie-rebloging-blog @captainmoonknight @seitmai @shanimallina87 @kajjaka @imnotcreativeenoughforthisblog @imladrisofabookdragon @buckysteveloki-me @mrsevans90 @allepaula @els-marvelvsp @djs8891 @paperbag33

#secret sacrifices // jake seresin #jake seresin #jake seresin x reader #jake seresin x you #bob floyd #top gun fandom #top gun fanfiction #top gun fanfic #jake seresin fanfiction #jake hangman fic

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genderqueerdykes · 10 months

Note

I'll preface this with saying that if you don't feel like dealing with this topic then feel free to delete the ask.

So I have a question regarding the "kink at Pride" debate. Isn't the most viable solution just having two events; i.e. one venue hosts an "all-ages" type and another separate one where everything is allowed?

I ask this because I recognize the contributions that people with kinks have made and I don't agree with the exclusionist mindset, but I'm one of those people who does have trauma surrounding kink. I hate feeling excluded because of that (after all, I'm queer and I've struggled just as much as the next queer person) and I want people like me to be able to participate just as much as those who helped make history. There are those who are able to reconcile their trauma, but many of us can't.

I'm sorry if this is a stupid question. People on both sides tend to be very hostile regarding this subject... and that said I genuinely do understand the anger felt on the side of people with kinks since the talking point "kink doesn't belong at Pride at all" is an ahistorical and TERF based mindset. I just wished that the discussion around this topic was less toxic because I don't want to be exclusive to others nor be excluded myself, and unless I'm missing something it seems like the solution that would be beneficial for everyone is having those two spaces that accommodate both camps (if it is a common thing then that's good, but I've been to several areas and every event was only ever the mixed bag for lack of a better term).

hello there, i think my best answer for this question is this

it's totally okay to want to have all ages events and sections and aspects to pride parades and pride events- in my city pride lasts for an entire week and there are events specifically for kids, and elderly queer folks as well. often times during pride month there will be all kinds of celebrations and i think it's a good idea to have multiple kinds of celebrations

however, you really cannot remove the adult aspects from pride parades and other big main event pride festivals- there is free AIDS testing at a lot of pride fests, free condoms and dental dams, sexual education, other sex harm reduction education and resources, sex toy shops, info on safe gay/trans sex, information on safe kink practices, etc. removing those aspects of pride could be downright dangerous for some who rely on this type of harm reduction

i understand that you have trauma and that you want to express boundaries, that is good- if witnessing kink upsets or triggers you, it's okay to want to avoid it, but pride is going to have displays like that because it is in fact a protest. it is not family friendly, it never has been and it never will be- it spawned in response to police brutality that was happening within queer bars. it is designed to shock you and make you think.

pride is an event that has historically been kinky and included a lot of people proudly displaying that they live alternative lifestyles because they are heavily important to a lot of queers. the san fransisco pride parade is lead by the lesbian leather motorcycle club, Dykes on Bikes, and has been since the late 1970's.

i think it's very odd to focus on kink in specific when there are other traumatizing things that come up at pride- people discuss abortion, abuse, being arrested, beaten by the police, being denied rights adoptive rights and healthcare, and so much more. pride will always have something that will make people uncomfortable, because it is a protest in the street to talk about the brutal reality of our lives

again, as i stated, i am fine with children's, all ages, etc. pride themed events being held but main pride parades, festivals, etc. are in fact designed to be protests, meaning provocative and brutally real. they're not just for waving rainbow flags and saying "yay we love being gay!" it's okay to know your own limits and boundaries but i think that if you know that that's upsetting to you, you may just not be suited for an inherently political event, and that's okay. hope that helps, take care, stay safe

#asks #answers #pride month #pride

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starlostseungmin · 1 year

Text

— MIDNIGHT RAIN IN PARIS, HHJ.

pairing: idol!hyunjin x gn!reader

genre: angst with happy ending, fluff & exes to lovers trope

warnings: profanity, mentions of alcohol, kissing and break-ups, lmk if i missed something, not proofread.

word count: 6.4k +

notes: i happen to change the title, i had it fit on taylor swift's midnight rain. lmao, hope you guys love it! please don’t send in requests because i’m not taking any right now and if you wish to see more of this posts please reblog, leave your feedbacks and put tags alright? thank you very much love ♡

Him.

Certain words could describe what he’s like.

A fresh clean white canvas that was slowly enamored with paint. A combination of red and black, sometimes they’re just two different colors but when they’re mixed, it’s going to be dark red. Can be burgundies, like the color of the wine and that lipstick some people use. An attractive color for a lot. It screams passion and love, just the way how his views reflect on them.

He can be that one book from the bookstore which belongs to the new arrivals and romance as its genre. His pages are neat as the words used by the author are aesthetically pleasing and good to read. The smell of it is addicting which makes a bookworm satisfied. A scent that could bring joy and temptation to claim it as theirs.

Maybe that one pair of suits from that one famous shop in Paris that was neatly designed and tailored, exclusively to be used on a special occasion.

Or that one song you hear from a famous singer that describes how loving him feels like.

You just look at him that way. A lot of things remind you of him, but he never knew you. He is famous in his career and you were just another writer who wanted to claim their dream to reality. Here you are in Paris, looking for inspiration, and might as well take it as your holiday from work. You know it doesn’t happen every day, but you were hoping to see just a glimpse of him when you knew he’ll be there too.

Love and a short history would let fate decide what will happen. You rarely believed that luck is on your side, that, it always gives you good things to look forward to when something significant has been painted on your pathway. The things you wanted to happen don’t always happen. Probably had yourself considered as unlucky but things might turn upside down when it comes to certain points in life.

Definitions, descriptions, comparisons, personifications, metaphors, and similes, a few more figures of speech to make it longer. Or is it just him who can make you write words that are simply out of this world? When in love, probably yes, he is your favorite person after all.

The city lights illuminated the place as the sounds of people from everywhere bustled around the area. His camera clicks whenever he spots something beautiful in his eyes. It was another merry night in Paris, lots of tourists were hanging out beneath the Eiffel tower at night. Others tend to eat inside the restaurants and the rest just go, enjoying the view while taking pictures. The usual sight with couples everywhere, a marriage proposal perhaps, or just those who came alone, hoping to find their significant other in a such romantic place. But Hyunjin begs to differ.

His camera falls gently to his stomach with its strap supporting it around his neck. It was getting late and still, there were a lot of people who wanted to stay. Felix left him for baguettes down the street with only his camera and a small bag, hanging on his shoulder. He started to walk away, he thought he had captured enough to fill his new film rolls. The amount of excitement that was painted on his smile is pure, but he is sure something is missing.

Clicking a button, Hyujin fixated his gaze on the imagines being plastered on the small screen. The scenery, the subtle imagines of the crowd, the tower itself, and the city lights were all beautiful. He tried to take a picture again and had the focus on a certain object when you accidentally walked past by. A beige coat, black trousers, and a white turtleneck are a trend. It’s not hard to recognize you, that sparkle in your eyes and perfectly crafted smile, how could he forget? Hyunjin had to put his camera down again, he wanted to make sure… it is you. There you stood upon noticing and recognizing him, the famous idol you once loved. And the person you broke up with a year ago.

He was stunned seeing you for the first time after a while. Memories flooding back, the things you did together, the pain and heartbreak, the happiness and joy, they were all worth it when you were still together. Yet, everything doesn’t last forever. There’s nothing in this world that doesn’t have a due date, unless you wanted more, you could always get a new one. But it won’t replace the thing you had for the very first time.

“Y/n…” He called as his voice sounded like a whisper.

He caught your attention the moment you saw that familiar camera he always brings. The one he used to take pictures of sceneries and other things he find beautiful. He could have clicked the snap button when he realized you were standing a few meters away, but to his shock, he couldn’t. Hyunjin didn’t know how to act. You didn’t say anything and smiled, it made his heartbeat go at a faster pace. He didn’t know what to do, he could hate Felix for leaving him behind for some freaking baguettes but he is also thankful he won’t be able to ruin a reminiscing moment he is having right now.

“Yo! They’re having a sale at the bakery!” Felix exclaimed out of nowhere, checking everything he got in his paper bag, not bothering to pay attention to the tension you and Hyunjin have. “I got you baguettes and一oh,” He said, stopping in his tracks. “Hi, Y/n!”

“Hey,” You smiled timidly.

“It is unexpected to see you around here! How have you been?” Felix said, eyes full of smile as he came towards you for a hug.

“I’m doing good,” You chuckled, hugging him back. “How are you guys? I heard you were preparing for a comeback?”

“Yeah,” Felix grinned, pulling away. “We’re just here for a break and a few activities, Hyunjin loves Paris, you know?” He smirked as you smiled at him.

“Felix,” Hyunjin called as he remained standing there, Felix had stolen the spotlight but that was his fault for being frozen on his spot.

“What? Can’t I speak to your ex about you?” But Hyunjin rolled his eyes and walked away. A sigh escaped from your lips when Felix gave you an apologetic smile, bowed a little out of respect, and went to fetch his friend. “Bro, why did you leave? That was your chance to have a closure with Y/n!”

“Not today,” He shrugged, as he continued to walk.

You stared at a blank document on your laptop for a few hours now. Hyunjin can’t seem to get out of your head after what happened earlier this evening. It was past midnight, and the view from your window of the city is still beautiful, but some lights were already turned off. You were supposed to stay in Paris for a couple of weeks as per business matters. Being a writer in a famous book publishing company isn’t a joke and you wanted to impress your boss with your writing. Still, Hyunjin has been a distraction.

The cursor just kept on blinking, waiting for you to write something that should be the start of another chapter of your novel. You were unsure what to write though the storyline has already started. Maybe because of the back pain you’ve been suffering every time you sit for hours, writing romance or it was just Hyunjin who ignored you after a short while of a meeting? The pajamas were comfortable and the headband kept your hair from falling on your face. The anti-radiation glasses help too yet you keep focusing on the random details you have in your hotel room. Not the story.

“Hyunjin,” You said. “Hwang Hyunjin,”

A harsh sigh escaped your lips, groaning at the fact you have seen him again a year after your breakup. You wanted to talk to him, really, but how he acted after Felix came hurt you. It felt like you were pierced through the heart and were left without aid. But it was so much more than that when you two broke up. He is an idol, and you were just you, a person who wanted to live their dream like him. You wanted him to be part of your dream. A writer who wanted to be known like him as he was making his name in the industry along with his member. But things grew apart, love became a heartbreak. You were the stars that shine bright in the night and he was the raindrops that caused the cold, soaking the papers wet making the ink smudges on them and words unable to be read.

You were hurt, but his dream is more important than your relationship. All the good things you wanted for him, happened. You wanted him to be happy and so, you let him go.

After a year of not seeing him, you thought everything is good, with no feelings or sadness. You might have heard his name on several news and read articles about how famous they are, but you ignored it. Not even expecting him and Hyunjin to be in the same place as you are. Maybe fate did it on purpose.

Coughing on the thoughts of it, they were followed by hiccups. How dare he showed up and Felix acted as if there was nothing to talk about?

You shake your head, it doesn’t matter anyway.

You closed your laptop gently and stared out the window, admiring the view of the city after midnight. No words were being produced by your brain and you have to take a while to process them into paragraphs. And maybe an evening stroll a few hours ago wasn’t enough to take the motivation to write something. But there’s only one messing with your head, Hwang Hyunjin.

That was the first night.

The next morning, Hyunjin was busy looking at the photos he captured last night. Felix was busy munching his waffles but still took a few glances at his distracted friend, unable to take a bite of his breakfast. His mouth was full as he watch him with a serious face and brows knitted together. Felix could only sigh and continued to eat but still, Hyunjin didn’t even bother to shift his attention to anything.

“If you’re not eating, I’ll take your food,” Felix said.

“I’m not hungry, go ahead,” Hyunjin replied as Felix looked at him in disbelief, taking his plate onto his mat.

“What’s wrong with you though? Can’t take her out of your mind?” He asked. “You didn’t talk to me ever since we came back to the hotel,” Hyunjin sighed, taking away his gaze from the small screen of his camera.

“Look, I was too occupied with the pictures I’ve taken,” Hyunjin reasoned.

“Yeah but it’s not a bad thing to touch your food for a bit and go back to your hobby yeah?” Felix argued. “Don’t tell me you suddenly took a picture of Y/n last night that’s why you’re not paying attention to me,”

“I didn’t,” Hyunjin said.

“The truth?” Felix retorted, raising a brow at him.

“I swear, you were on the way,” Hyunjin replied, rolling his eyes.

“Gosh, I can’t believe you,” Felix muttered.

Hyunjin sighed heavily as he watch Felix devour his food. It lead him to order another one and waited. His manager planned to eat breakfast in the restaurant down by the street which was a block away from their hotel. It wasn’t crowded first thing in the morning but the joy he felt was when he could see a few people enjoying their coffee and some were walking their dogs. A lovely morning for him to consume. But it was only him and Felix again. The two has been never separated when they first got into the city and by that, he already has plans to spend a week’s vacation.

“Don’t forget we’re invited to attend YSL’s event later alright?” Felix said, finishing his meal.

“Yeah, we’ll get back to the hotel by lunch,” Hyunjin answered.

“Where are you off to?”

“Sightseeing I g一” He shrugged and was about to say something in addition to his answer when he saw you walk into the restaurant, going straight to the counter. Felix noticed him frozen onto his seat after wiping his lips and followed his gaze. It was you, alright.

“Should I call her?” Felix smirked.

“I’m going to kill you, I swear,” Hyunjin growled and Felix just shakes his head in disbelief. But Hyunjin watched you.

Beige trousers, a purple crop top, and a white cardigan, you always look good. Never in a day, Hyunjin would say how beautiful you are. Compliments he missed on telling you every day. He admits, he wasn’t the best version of himself when you broke up. There is always the facade he keeps to the public but behind closed doors, he knew he was miserable. It wasn’t easy to get over you, it wasn’t easy to forget, it was the same as how you felt, and nothing was easy during the post-breakup. None of his friends talked to you, even his parents. Nobody reached out, just straight broke up conversations and the rest were already ghosts.

The lady from the counter handed you a paper bag with your breakfast in it, thanked her, and left, without even checking who was there, sitting on the tables. Felix shakes his head again and Hyunjin licked his lips, sighing in defeat. But that wasn’t Felix’s problem to think about, it was Hyunjin’s anyway. His eyes never left your figure until you disappeared from the block, taking the alley to the left while Felix looks at him, being done and dumbfounded.

“We’ll have to schedule your arrival at the event first. It will be at exactly 4 pm, so I’ll expect you’ll be done with your hair, make-up, and suits,” Their manager spoke, later that day. Felix was having his hair done in their spacious hotel room as Hyunjin had his gaze down the street while sitting by the window seat, watching the city get soaked in the rain, and hands halted from his half-done sketch of a landscape. “Hyunjin are you even listening?”

“I was,” Hyunjin sighed in response. “Shall we leave at 4 pm?” He added, standing up from his spot一tossing his sketchbook on his bed.

“No,” His manager argued making him roll his eyes.

“Don’t be tough on him, he saw his ex today,” Felix smirked as their manager gasped.

“Really?”

“Yeah,” Felix said. “Don’t worry, they never talked,”

“Ya, Yongbok-ah,” Hyunjin said, feeling like a threat as Felix shrugged, admiring his new hairstyle.

“Anyway, Y/n’s not important right now, I need you to get ready,” His manager said. Hyunjin sighed in disbelief and went to his stylist. “By the way, Felix will be the first one to leave,”

“Yeah? Why though, I thought the head organizer wants to see us both?” Felix asked.

“Hyunjin has another agenda before attending the event, right?” His manager said, looking at Hyunjin.

“I’m getting flowers,” He bluntly replied.

“Flowers for what? Are you suddenly seeing someone?” Felix asked, shocked.

“No, I just don’t want to go early,” Hyunjin said, getting his make-up done.

“Suit yourself,” His manager said while Felix whined about being unfair.

Hyunjin didn’t say anything after Felix’s complaints, but he is sure his best buddy was just joking around and letting him do whatever the hell he wants as long as he’ll be mindful of his time. Night fell, and his hands held the steering wheel, glancing at the cars passing by the highway. The lights ran from the average speed to high, some kept it to their speed limit. It was fresh from the afternoon rain, the water puddle by the sidewalk have the reflection of the streetlights being lit up and the people who just happened to walk by. His convertible made its way through the wet bricks, enjoying the mist of the cold evening air.

A smile formed on his face when he saw the lights illuminating the Eiffel tower一 a part of Paris he always wanted to visit though he already did a few times ever since he became a famous member of his group. It always feels like where he belongs for some reason, the food, the fashion, flowers, and other stuff, everything is aesthetic in his eyes. And most importantly, the art museums and exhibits French and foreign artists execute around the area. There is always a reason to come back.

The flowers he brought, sat on the passenger’s seat, enjoying the evening air as well as they travel back to the hotel. He fell in love with the bouquet that consists of pink tulips, red roses, and white baby’s breath. The muse of his new painting perhaps? It is calming and beautiful to paint live flowers一one that makes his painting realistic and unique. But it wasn’t for him to keep一maybe it can be someone at the event he is going to or just going to keep it himself and put it on their vase back into their hotel room to paint.

Flowers are supposed to be given to someone that a person loves, maybe for congratulatory and some other reasons. But mostly because of love, he used to bring you flowers back then. He was so in love, like a puppy that wanted to be with his owner for the rest of its time. Not everyone believes in love, but by the time someone falls into the pits of attachment and intimacy, it can be avoidable and hard to let go. There are different perceptions of it, they’re like genres that a person views and carry feelings about different people. His love is similar, but unfortunately, it ended with you a year ago.

He walked by the lobby, earning gazes of astonishment and amusement from the people hovering around the area. Slicked back hair with a few strands of side bangs on his forehead, a whole black suit and rings adorning his long fingers, a bouquet in one hand, and his gentle smile, plastered on his face as he smells the flowers he just bought. Walking through the crowds of people doesn’t bother him, not one of them caught his attention. Murmurs and silent voices say he is a handsome young man which makes everyone drawn to him. His tall figure and dashing fashion add up to being one center of attention.

“There you are,” Felix said, the moment he saw him. “Wow, are these for me?”

“No,” Hyunjin said as his smile faded and made his friend pout in disbelief.

“Tch,” Felix said, rolling his eyes.

“Good evening! I’m here to take you to your respective seats, this way please,” The lady attendant said as he and Felix happily obliged. Their manager went to talk to some people around and waited for the instructions for the next set of events. They were given perfume samples to try but Hyunjin got occupied the moment he sat down, hands in his pockets and eyes fixated on the person who just entered the premises.

It was you again.

Black dress and heels, styled hair, and light make-up, how could she stand there and look beautiful? He thought, mesmerized again. And why is she here? I thought she was on a vacation. Several thoughts flooded his mind after he saw you. He couldn’t put himself to calm down, why does my heart beat faster than earlier?

You smiled at someone as they went to have a conversation. The lady from earlier had to cut it off and assist you at the same table where Felix and Hyunjin were. It is a lovely evening after all, and you were thankful that your boss had to drag you with her when she knew you weren’t doing anything for the day.

“You’re staying here in a couple of weeks, instead of sitting in front of your desk to produce ideas, why not come with me to the event?” She said the moment she arrived at the airport as you welcomed her after knowing you were spending some time in Paris. You couldn’t refuse, you were bored after all and had too much of your writer’s block ever since last night. The first evening you saw Hyunjin, and, this will be the second evening when you realized where the attendant is leading you to.

“Please enjoy the evening,” The lady said and left.

“Good evening Y/n!” Felix greeted and Hyunjin remained silent.

“Good evening Felix, and,” You paused as you looked at him. “Hyunjin.” Felix had to nudge his friend on the side to wake him up to reality instead of staring at you, saying nothing. Hyunjin winced in pain, nudging him back to his arm, Felix chuckled in response but was already glaring at him. You didn’t get a response after that, instead, you just placed your attention on anyone else.

The host has been taking their time to introduce, and recite the speech and explanations about the event while you take a sip of their prepared wine. The food is a luxury, Hyunjin was paying no attention but you. Felix listened to them and clapped his hands when everyone else did. Don’t mind about the people, just the food. Hyunjin tried to take his small sketchbook out of his pocket when your boss head back to your table and stole you for a conversation. He was about to protest when he was dragged with Felix for the photo opportunity at the event. Had to smell the scents of their perfume, and take pictures with other big names in the industry, Hyunjin had to endure them for a while. Felix didn’t seem to mind, unlike the older one who seems to be distracted all the time.

He wanted to not let you out of his sight, but the pictures are taking a while, and conversations had to be precise and shared. You were just there, being a chaperone of your boss as she introduced you to some people she knew or tried to give you a date for tonight. You weren’t convinced and tried to decline, as you hated social events like this when you were supposed to be in your hotel room or at a restaurant, enjoying dinner alone. Meanwhile, Hyunjin was already growing impatient with all the interactions he got. Forget about Felix, he wanted to get away for a while.

Someone was about to approach him but Hyunjin politely excused himself and rushed through the crowd. The people passing by keep on delaying his purpose of direction but it didn’t stop him from getting to you. He wanted closure, he wanted to talk, and forget about the hurtful things he did during your relationship, he just wanted to give himself a chance to be forgiven by you. But you didn’t want that anymore, you knew Hyunjin has been happy even though it wasn’t easy to overcome the heartbreak both of you felt. He reached miles away with his dreams, while you stood there, watching him. I don’t deserve someone as perfect as him anyway, that was what you always think about. But maybe you did deserve him after all.

“Y/n,” He said as he stood behind you.

“Hyunjin,” You called, turning around to face him. “Is everything alright?” You asked.

“Can we talk?” He said. They said to never trust that sentence, but you wanted to risk it. It might help you wake up to the reality you’ve been longing for.

“Sure, about what?” You asked when he suddenly took your hand.

“I’ll tell you later, come with me, please?” He said as you took a glance at your boss but she was too occupied to even bother. Felix and his manager were just watching from afar, with nothing to object to.

“Where are we going?” You asked but he didn’t answer, instead, he just grabbed your hand and went to where he parked his car.

The outside scenery is still fresh from the afternoon rain, but there were no stars above the dark sky, a sign that it will rain again anytime soon. You sat quietly on the passenger’s seat as Hyunjin jogged around to enter the car, driving away into the night. You remained quiet the whole ride, not bothering to ask any questions, you didn’t even know what to say to him after the whole year. The flowers he bought sat in front of you, good thing he dragged it with himself on the way out. Was it for another person?

“Those are for you,” He said, taking them into his right hand and handing it to you. It was an impromptu move. Those flowers were supposed to be his muse for his painting when he gets back to the hotel later but he found you instead.

“Thanks,” You smiled gently, smelling the before placing it on your lap. “Where are we going?”

“I have nothing in mind actually, but away from the crowd, I just wanted to talk to you, it’s been a year, ever since…” He said, pausing mid-sentence.

“The break-up?” You asked.

“Yeah,” He answered, parking in front of the Louvre Pyramid. Hyunjin walked out and jogged around to open the door for you. The flowers lie on your seat as you followed him a few meters away from the car. He looked restless all of a sudden, his composed look disappeared and shifted into something that was bothering him. Hyunjin stood away with his back against you, he was staring at the pyramid, confused and uncomfortable. You tapped his shoulder to see what was going on, and when he turned around, it was the soft Hyunjin you once admired.

“I don’t know where to start,” He said. “I’m sorry about the breakup, I was a jerk and ghosted you after that,” He added, as he started to have tears visible in his eyes.

“Hyunjin, no, we’re alright, okay? It’s already behind us, don’t apologize, none of those was your fault. I didn’t blame you for it,” You said, cupping his cheeks to wipe his tears away. He just looked at you, wanting to go on a breakdown, but there you are, in front of him, still sweet as ever.

“No,” He said pulling away from you.

“Hyunjin, I just thought it would make things easier for you, I understand how hard it was for you. I didn’t want to be a nuisance in your career, I don’t want to cause trouble,” You sighed. “If breaking up with you was the answer, then I have no choice,”

“But I didn’t want to!” He said.

“I didn’t want to either!” You retorted. “I was trouble, I was the problem okay? You said it yourself back then, you don’t want to cause drama and be hunted down by the media that you’re in a relationship! Did you think I wanted this for the both of us? I was hurt when you decided to cut it off, I was hurt when you didn’t even show up the next day, and now we’re here, talking about this bullshit that I thought it’s already done.”

It made Hyunjin feel bad, as he had always been.

“Y/n, I don’t care about those anymore,” He said. “I don’t care about the media, I don’t care about the risks anymore. This bullshit you’re talking about is our relationship,”

“That you broke off,” You said.

“I didn’t want to hurt you,”

“Now that’s bullshit,” You chuckled in response. “Yeah let’s say it was fine because I chose your career to be saved instead of hanging out with me. Let’s just stop this okay? You’re good on your way, I’m already doing good by myself, I don’t need this drama anymore Hyunjin. Do you still want me?”

Hyunjin didn’t say anything for a few seconds, there was dead air, but his eyes were into yours while you wait for his answer.

“I do,” He said. “I always have and will always do,”

“You don’t know what you’re doing, are you? Can’t you hear yourself?” You asked which made him take his steps forward.

“I do, just please,” He said, as he held your cheeks. “Let’s start over,” Closing your eyes, you felt the warmth of his hands on your bare cheeks, one of his touches that you missed the most. “We were young, and I was too quick to jump into the pit, not thinking thoroughly about it. Please give me another chance, I won’t mess it up again,”

You pulled him into a hug, Hyunjin was caught off guard at first but he gave in immediately and melted inside your arms. He buried his face in the crook of your neck, hugging you tighter. The scent of your perfume is still the same, the one the kept on missing for the whole year, he always seeks it but the scent would never be the same if someone else wears it. He came to think how miserable he was when you were gone.

It was those nights when he sits down and think about the things he should’ve done instead of risking your relationship over his career or maybe those days when he would just space out during a group meeting or the lives he did with his group. He keeps on staring at his phone waiting for your texts or browse on his photos trying to find your couple's pictures and reminisce. It was also how he kept the things you gave him during your anniversary and his birthdays. But during the past year, it feels empty, and he had to fake everything until it was convincing.

His fans don’t know how he feels, they just assume them. They didn’t know how hurt he was, and they will never know everything about him. Even the boys who are living with him, he probably is showy sometimes but it’s hard to share something so deep. Just like how it went on your side. For them, it wasn’t a big deal, but to you, it was. You treasure Hyunjin so much that it pierced your heart that he had to break up with you. The things you did for each other just disappeared in one night. And had to wait a year to fix it.

You don’t know exactly. Now that Hyunjin has gotten the fame, the overwhelming fame, you don’t want to risk it again.

“Please,” He said.

“I’m sorry Hyunjin,” You smiled, pulling away from the hug. “It won’t be worth it,”

“What?” He asked, shocked, as his vision started to blur.

“I don’t think this will work anymore,” You sniffed, wiping your tears. “You will forget me, eventually,”

“What? No!” He protested. “Let’s make it work this time, please?” He begged. “Don’t think that our relationship was up for nothing, I loved you. I still love you!”

“And I love you too! I did love you, but with all those things happening around you and me, there’s already a barrier, Hyunjin. I don’t want you to get hurt just because you are pursuing me. I don’t want you to convert your attention to me when you have something big ahead of you. I’m not worth it anymore,” You said, tears falling down your cheeks. Hyunjin stood there, looking at you in disbelief, the words struck him like lightning. It was so painful to hear it from you.

“Are you afraid to try again?” He asked, voice shaking in the middle of his sentence.

“I’m just scared that we will have to be separated again, I don’t want to try again and end up being away from you. For one year, I tried not to care about your bullshit for being famous, you’ve been happy, you always get what you want, you don’t need—”

“It was so hard for me to get over you Y/n! It was so hard to be inside my room, getting all exhausted from work with no one around to hug me and give me a shoulder to cry on. I’m sick of it, I got used to you being around me whenever I needed you or not, I was alone. No one to hug, no one to kiss, no one to laugh with, no one to cuddle with. You don’t understand!” He argued.

“You just want me because you need me right?” You cried.

“No,” Hyunjin sighed harshly. “I want you because I love you! But you know what, forget about it, I’m sorry I just dragged you out here. Let me get you back to your hotel,”

“Hyunjin, I—” You halted when he shake his head, running his fingers through his hair.

“No, please, forget about it, I won’t beg, I understand,” He smiled despite being hurt. “Let’s go,”

Hyunjin opened the door of the car for you but you hesitated to step in. Disappointment and sorrow are still painted on his face. The pain and the ruined confidence drove him to be this way. He admit he was at fault, being a famous idol wasn’t easy for him to reach and you didn’t want to be a nuisance to someone as big as him.

The ride from the Lourve Pyramid to your designated hotel fell into complete silence. No one dared to talk, except when he asked for the location and set it up on his GPS and you fell into your deep train of thoughts. A quick reminiscing about how the break up went; It was one of those nights where Hyunjin would get home late, exhausted from practice but he never fails to show you how happy he is the moment you welcome him home. It always gives him the excitement and blood rush, the comfort of home and love. But that night was twisted, he wanted to break up, he said his name is on the line, and he didn’t want distractions. Though it has already been said a million times, you just couldn’t let go of it.

To be honest, you still love him, it never faded. You didn’t understand why it has to be you out of all to be put at risk, maybe the company forced him to or it was just him who thought about cutting things off. He is hopelessly romantic, you knew that and so you were.

“Why don’t you come in for a minute?” You asked as you stood by the porch.

“I’m in a hurry, it’s almost midnight,” He smiled quietly.

“It looks like it’s going to rain,” You said, looking up to the sky. “Here,” You added, handing him a folded umbrella you used to carry around.

“Should you keep it?” He smiled, taking the tiny thing off your hand.

“It might rain,” You insisted.

“Isn’t it funny if I’m driving a convertible with an umbrella?” He chuckled. “No, I’ll take it, good night Y/n—oh shit, there’s the rain alright.” He said, looking at the street. “My car!”

It was funny indeed, his panicked face had drawn a picture that was sincere—ignoring the pain and all. Midnights should be a change of day, but it is still connected to what happened earlier this evening. You watched him run towards his car across the street. There were no people around, just the two of you and the rain which is pouring heavily at first fall. He was in the rush, pushing a button to have the roof back but was too slow that his frustrated face made it funnier. You weren’t supposed to laugh but that one Hyunjin you knew.

Taking your steps forward, you didn’t bother about the rain anymore as the umbrella was ignored as well. One reason you fell in love with him was because of what you were seeing now, it may be different from the first time when you saw him fall onto his face in front of you during high school, the boy who apologized consistently while blushing out of embarrassment. Sounds weird but falling in love with weird is not weird. You knew you shouldn’t be getting back with him, the words you’ve said to him and everything, but the feelings never lie. You do love him, and you couldn’t understand why you are walking towards a panicking Hyunjin, calling his name, and when he converted his attention to you, your lips suddenly meet.

Hyunjin then again, was caught off guard, it was a gentle kiss but he pulled you by the waist to be closer to him. Clothes were getting soaked from the midnight rain, and his hair was damped causing a few drops of water tracing down on your cheeks. It tasted like wine, and that chocolate fondue Hyunjin, the intoxicating smell of his perfume that made your knees weak, and the cinematic moment of you being shared in the empty streets of Paris at midnight, sharing a kiss. His hand lays on your cheek while the other one remained on your waist as your arms were wrapped around his neck. The usual scene you see in romantic movies. People would say it’s overrated, but who cares anyway, it’s Hyunjin. The Hwang Hyunjin.

“I’m sorry,” You said whispering to him, after drifting away, but he never let you go and kissed your forehead. “I don’t want to feel the same pain when we broke up, trust me it wasn’t good,” You added, burying your face into his chest.

“I know, baby, I know,” He said, hugging you tightly as he rubs your shoulder with his thumb. “I’m sorry I hurt you,”

“It wasn’t your fault,” You smiled, shaking your head.

“Still, I lost you,” He responded, taking your cheeks in his palms, and looking directly into your eyes. “Fuck the fame, Y/n, you know how much I love you. And I always will,”

“I know, Hyunjin,” You said, still not taking that smile being painted on your face. Hyunjin painted a smile on his face as well as he caressed your bare skin, leaning down again for a kiss. Your eyes started to close down一the heat that was felt at each other’s lips caused the warmth that could endure from the cold weather. His lips molded with yours perfectly, and the intimacy remained the same, even if it took a whole year to have it again. You were definitely his sunshine, one that will take away the darkness of the sky and the clouds to open up. He was like midnight who changed and evolved, but never his feelings.

“Does this mean you’re taking me back?” He asked, pulling away as he kissed the tip of your nose.

“Yeah, but let’s keep it lowkey this time,” You smiled as he chuckled in response, kissing you again but swiftly before taking you into another hug.

taglist : @wolfchanchan @inseonqt @soobin-chois @1-800-lixie @luvhyun3 @hanjiesgf @lix-ables @zoe8stay @gwynsapphire @cherryhanji @hwangsify @lixesque @seungly @sleepyleeji @comet-falls @kim-seung-mo @ppiri-bahng @myjisung @snow-pegasus @milkybonya @l3visbby @wilczachannn @asters-abditory @tangylemonade @hwan-g @awkwardnesshabitat @chrispychans @therealhyunjingf @jeonginwrld @starseungs

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electricate · 24 days

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i recently got back into tf2 after 12 years of not touching it. after 1 week of playing mvm (while maining medic), i began to notice that every type of player has similarities in the way they act, and what i've found for each class is:

scout - can be pretty obnoxious with voice commands or just batting random people/shit. otherwise they're pretty fun to be around. some scouts are also kind of clingy with the medic, but in an endearing way.

soldier - a lot of them like to bully/troll medic players or be possessive of the medic. some of them are pretty funny, others are no-nonsense types. once in a while, you get a surprisingly chivalrous soldier if you're using the quick-fix.

pyro - probably the most chill players. if you do partner/group taunts, they'll eagerly participate (usually). they also thank the medic quite a bit. i like them.

demo - definitely make up a lot of the funniest players. lots of voice command splicing for humourous effect, professionals of slapstick/killbinding. most demo players have been a treat to be around.

heavy - heavymedic propaganda is real half of the time with these guys. some are very protective/possessive of the medic and even leave a sandwich/other food item for you in case you get hurt. the other half, they don't really care that much. they just want to mow down the bots.

engie - many tend to keep to themselves, others are right there in the fray with you (much of the time to my dismay). frequent users of the lounge chair taunt. often victims of players going "sentry--HAHAHAHA". some have troll vibes.

medic - haven't played with many other medics, being a main myself. most of the time, we look out for each other where we can. other times, they're control freaks. they also enjoy participating in group taunts. not many have been trolls. i'm probably the trolliest medic i've met so far, though i don't doubt there are greater ones than i.

sniper - either huge trolls, unhinged, or keep to themselves. or any combination of the three. a good number do have a sense of humour, others can be pretty rude though.

spy - these ones scare me sometimes. either they never die, or they die all the time. there's no in between. personality-wise, they're kind of a mixed bag. there are some who like to have fun, some who keep to themselves, and some who do a bit of trolling.

those are my findings. feel free to reply with your own thoughts or observations, i'm sure i've probably missed the mark in some places but ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

#cate says things #tf2 #team fortress 2 #tf2 medic #tf2 scout #tf2 heavy #tf2 engineer #tf2 spy #tf2 sniper #tf2 demoman #tf2 pyro #tf2 soldier

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teaberrii · 2 years

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Teach Me, Please

Who knew volunteering at your local swimming pool would get you closer to your neighbour?

Alhaitham/You

Notes: When you're supposed to be working on your WIPs, you write a one-shot instead. 눈_눈 But, somehow, this man has taken over my mind. Cross posted on Ao3.

Part two

Those triceps… those biceps… those abs…

It isn’t until one of the older volunteers starts snapping her fingers in front of you that you finally turn to her. She’s giving you a deadpan look as she says, “You’re starin’ for far too long, missy!” Then, quietly with a wink, “I see why, though. He’s total eye candy! It’s not every day you see someone like that.”

But, in your case, you see him almost every day. Why? Because Alhaitham is your neighbour.

You were running to catch the elevator. Whoever was inside must've heard your hurried footsteps as the doors opened again. You gave the man inside a smile... only to almost forget to say thanks, as you were shocked at how handsome he was. You were about to scan your key card when you saw that the floor you wanted was already selected. On the way up, you subtly looked at him. You'd never seen him before. Did he just move in? Suddenly, his eyes met yours, and you quickly turned away in embarrassment.

When the doors opened, he gestured for you to go first. You gave him a nod of thanks and stepped out. Soon, you noticed that both of you were walking in the same direction. When you stopped in front of your unit and reached for your keys, you heard someone do the same. You turned around and saw the handsome man opening his door… across from yours. He stepped inside, turned around, and slightly smiled before closing it.

You feel your ears turn red. Gosh, you hope he didn’t catch you staring. You’ve been volunteering as a swimming assistant at your local swimming pool on the weekends, and you mostly see the same people every time. But Alhaitham?

With your hands full, you used your body to push open the doors, exhausted from a long day at work. But then, you saw your neighbour standing in front of the elevator… and suddenly, you didn’t feel so tired anymore. He greeted you with a slight smile, to which you returned. Once you stood next to him, you put your groceries down. After a short while, as you waited for the elevator, you asked, "...Did you just move here?"

"I did. If I'm not wrong... we live across from each other."

So, he remembered you. "Yeah, we do."

So, you remembered him, too. Once the elevator arrived, he once again gestured for you to go first. You were about to pick up your groceries again when he asked, "Do you need some help?"

"Oh, no, I'm okay."

You grabbed the bags again, but a small box fell onto the floor. Before you could reach for it, he had already grabbed it for you. "At least let me help with this."

Did your heart just beat a little faster? Once both of you were inside, he swiped his card key and pressed for his floor. Then, he glanced at the box in his hands. "You bake?"

"I wouldn't call it real baking..."

He chuckled. "Well, it's a start." Was it bad that you couldn't look away? But, his man had the most enchanting eyes you had ever seen. Your mind went blank. It wasn't until the doors opened that he said, “Sorry, I haven’t introduced myself yet. I’m Alhaitham." He held the door open for you as you stepped out.

You were walking beside him when you introduced yourself. Then, just before you parted ways, he placed the cookie mix into your bag. You both stopped at your respective doors and opened them simultaneously. Then, you walked in and turned around. You happened to face each other, so you took the opportunity and said, "...Have a good night."

Suddenly, you feel someone grab your hand. You look down and see your cheeky student smiling at you.

“Did you miss me last week?”

“I sure did. Did you have fun on your vacation?”

He starts dragging you toward the pool. “I did! We went swimming by the lake. I practiced hard! Want me to show you?”

“Very diligent of you! I can’t wait to see.”

The young boy suddenly stops just before he gets into the water. “Oh, but there’s someone I’d you to meet first. He’s my uncle!” Then, he lets go of your hand and runs to the charming, green-eyed male. Well, what are the odds? When Alhaitham walks over and smiles at you, your heart unexpectedly races. “This is my uncle! He just moved here.”

Althaitham affectionately ruffles his nephew's hair. "Ah, this is the pretty instructor you told me about?" But, then, he looks at you, and you feel the heat rush to your cheeks. "You're right. She is pretty."

It's been a while since you last got dolled up. You and a couple of girlfriends were going out for drinks, so you took this opportunity to dress up. However, as soon as you opened your door, the first person you saw was Alhaitham… sweaty and in a gym tank. He turned, and you saw his eyes widen for a moment.

"Going out?” he asked.

“Ah, yeah, I’m going out for drinks with a couple of friends.”

He opened his door. “Have fun.” Then, he slightly smiled. “You look amazing.”

Without thinking and your emotions on a bit of a high, you said, “You too.”

You wanted to kick yourself. Your face turned red as Alhaitham laughed. “Maybe under less sweaty circumstances.”

Alhaitham looks at his nephew and puts his hand on his shoulder. “Do you mind if I chat with her for a bit?”

His nephew suspiciously looks from his uncle to you. “...Fine. But only for a bit.”

Once his nephew is swimming alone in the shallow water, Alhaitham asks, "How long have you been volunteering here?"

You hope he doesn't know that you're fighting the urge to look at his sculpted torso. “Not too long. Just a couple of months ago, actually. Are you here because of your nephew?”

Yes and no. But before Alhaitham tells you the real reason, he says, “He keeps gushing about his instructor on vacation, so I was curious.”

“It sounds like you like her a lot,” Alhaitham said as he prepared dinner.

“I do! I think you’ll like her, too.”

“Well, a friend of yours is a friend of mine.” Alhaitham turned off the stove. “So, what’s her name?” Your name wasn’t the one he was expecting.

“Well… surprise! It’s just me.”

Alhaitham chuckles. “It’s a pleasant surprise.”

You look away and use the back of your hand to touch your face. You aren’t blushing, are you? “Um, well, your nephew learns fast. He’s diligent, too.”

"Glad to hear. But, I want to ask... Do you have room for one more student?" At your silence, Alhaitham looks away awkwardly. "You don't have to. I just thought I'd ask." Hold up. Is he turning red?

"Of course I do." But then you smile a little mischievously, "But... do I get something in return?"

Did his gaze just darken? Or is that your imagination? Just before he can reply, his nephew runs up to you. “Are you done talking yet?”

You lean down. “Looks like your uncle will be joining you.”

To your surprise, the young boy frowns. Then, he gives his uncle a deadpan look. “Are you hitting on her?”

You almost laugh at Alhaitham’s flustered expression. “Okay, okay. Should we start our first lesson?”

“What about meee?”

Alhaitham ruffles his nephew’s hair. “Looks like you’re sharing today.”

Tag List: @suoshiii @lordbugs I tagged y'all because you wanted to get updates for all of my stories. But, I'm not sure if that includes new stuff, too. XD. Just let me know otherwise.

#genshin alhaitham #alhaitham x reader #al haitham #alhaitham x you #alhaitham fluff #al haitham x reader #al haitham fluff #genshin x reader #genshin impact fanfic #genshin fanfiction #genshin impact #al haitham genshin #one shot

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prettylittlels · 4 months

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He (Tom Blyth part 1)

summary: you meet a beautiful stranger on the train, what a shame you'll never see him again

He. He, who looks like a Lana del Rey song. He, who dresses old money style and wears tweed suits. He, who looks like the leading man in a book written by a woman. He is an Alex Turner mixed with Tommy Shelby. Just him. That's what occupies my view at the moment. One Wednesday afternoon on the subway, he appears in front of me. So elegant, so delicate, yet so masculine and impetuous at the same time. He is the only thing in this world that is a pleasure to see, what a sight for sore eyes! I don't know how long I've been looking at him, mesmerized by the way he is. If it were up to me, I would stare and stare at him all my life with pleasure. But not everything turns out the way you want it to, does it? In this trance-like state, I don't pay much attention to a woman to my left screaming fiercely. Nor had I realized she was talking to me, still focused on this divine being; only really hearing as she waves her wrinkled hand wildly up and down my face.

- ... stupid ? Are you deaf? -

- Excuse me, madam,- I reply, -I'm...

-No! - she yells at me again - didn't you notice that I've been trying to tell you something for five minutes?-

-I'm sorry, really - I say trying to keep calm. Is anyone witnessing this? - I didn't mean to... - Turning my head, my gaze meets his.

No. No, no, no, no, no, no, no! At that very moment I begin to question all my decisions made during the day. What is he going to think of me now? Surely I must look like an idiot who doesn't listen well. I look awful today, is he looking at my hair? Why didn't I put some makeup on today?

But all those doubts vanished the second he started smiling. I used that millisecond to burn that image into my brain. It was as if God himself sculpted that smile.

Before the insufferable old woman could continue screeching, the subway arrived at my stop and I took that opportunity to run out through the automated doors. Independence station wasn't the most well-kept station in the city, so as I escaped I collided with the rest of the people trying to get into the subway to avoid stepping on any garbage bags. Approaching the stairs to go up to the streets again, I accepted the fact that I will never again meet that man who looked out of a Vogue magazine, and that I will only meet with him again when creating romantic fantasies, where I live in a double apartment in Edim....

-Miss! Miss! - echoes a man's voice along the corridor - Wait a second! -

I stop. I sigh. I turn around.

Who could it be now?

It was him. Him! He's walking towards me! No, running towards me. With a purse very similar to mine. Wait, what?

-You forgot your bag on the subway - he breathlessly informs me. She laughs as she laughed before - I almost didn't notice -

He holds the purse out to me.

-Th-Thank you - I manage to say. Fucking hell, the first time I talk to her and I already look bad - Sir.-

- Ha! - That smile again - You're welcome -

I grab my purse, and hold it against my chest. What do I say to him? Oh, God; my nerves are eating me alive. Brain, where's an excuse when you need it?

I smile politely to show my gratitude and turn around to climb the tall stairs. I need. To get. Home. Now.

The man looks at me confused and wishes me goodnight. He's walking the opposite way from me, and I couldn't be more relieved.

#bookworm #fanfiction #tom blyth x reader #tom blyth #tom blyth x you #x reader #writing

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minigirl87 · 1 year

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We love you, and as such, we take care of you with the moon boys

First, I want to apologise for not posting anything in a little while. I've got plenty to come. But I've had a bad couple of weeks with a mixture of chronic pain and mental health. Brain fog was not helping me write anything or have any good ideas.

This is pure self-indulgence and is dedicated to any suffering at the moment. Know that I'm thinking of you, and I hope you get some comfort in this fic.

Steven Grant is my comfort character. I love that man I can say ❤️

Please feel free to leave feedback and to reblog.

Summary:

The boys, but mainly, this focuses on Steven comfort you and look after. Established relationships between the reader and the boys.

Warnings:

Mention of mental health and chronic pain and illness. Medication is mentioned. Reader is feeling really down and a burden to the boys. But it ends fluffy.

Word count: 1446

Steven rushed around the supermarket after finishing his shift at the museum. Apologising as he clumsy picked up things he dropped, headphones popped in so he then could talk to Marc and Jake without people noticing he’s talking to himself. He didn't want to be away from you any longer than he had, too.

“Did you get Y/Ns prescription and some ibuprofen gel, paracetamol, and the heat pads?” Marc asks with concern.

“Yes and I also got some migraine roll on and vitamins” Steven says he spies a lavender relaxation set, and he put in his basket.

“Some new pyjamas and socks, some snakes would be good” says Jake with hope that this may cheer you up.

“That’s a good idea. I’ve got her favourite snacks and some different teas and honey, Steven says. Looking through the clothing section, he picks up a pair of soft cosy pjs in your favourite colour and matching socks.

Before he checks out, he picks a bunch of flowers and a card that all three agree on. The friendly cashier who’s chatting away notice how Stevens anxiously bagging his shopping passes him the flowers

“those flowers are lovely I’m sure your wife will love them” she says with a comforting smile.

“I hope so. my wife’s not been very well lately, this is to help her feel better.” Steven tries his best to smile back at her.

“Oh sorry to hear that, I thought she hadn’t been in for a while” she said thoughtfully.

After a few more moments talking to her, Steven pays for his shopping and rushes out for his bus. He catches the bus just in time. He then sits agitatedly, tapping his foot. The drone of the engine and chattering passengers mixing into a hum that around a thoughtful Steven.

Everything is going in slow motion for them. The journey never seems to get to their stop. When it does, the apartment building seems further away than normal, and the lift doesn’t seem to move. But their minds are going over time, and Steven stomach is aching with anxiety about you.

When He enters, he drops his keys in the bowl with a clang, and the noise vibrates around the flat. The flat is dull as dusk is settling in, the only light coming from the tv as it plays your favourite comfort show as it mixes with the gentle humming of the air purifier.

Steven face fell as he looked at you. You were still in the same position when he left this morning. You didn’t look even look towards him. Steven wasn’t sure if you were watching the tv or staring in space. He places the bags down and paces toward you.

“Hello my love, how are you feeling?” Steven says, gently kissing the top of your head.

“Hi sweetheart, better now, you're back” You try not to sound exhausted.

Steven kissed you again “I’m glad to be back love”

He headed toward the kitchen, putting the bags down, putting the kettle on. You padded up to him and wrapped your arms around his waist, resting your head on his broad back. He smells of coffee, lavender, and old books. Steven jumps slightly at your touch but soon relaxes on hearing you.

“I missed you” you almost whispered to him.

“I missed you to love” he says, turning to face you, wrapping his arms around, resting his warm hands on your lower back. You nuzzle into him as you grip onto his jacket to ground you. You were enjoying his comforting presence when the kettle whistles. Your body starts to shake as Steven grips onto you.

“go sit down, love, and I'll bring tea through for us” he kisses you lovingly as he brushes his thumb over your cheek.

Reaching up, you squeeze his hand and smile at him, turning away you return to your spot on the sofa. Before you get get comfortable, you wrap yourself in a soft blanket and rearrange the cushions. Just as you sit down, you hear a Stevens humming as he comes through with a tray covered in stuff.

“Here you are, my love. Put it in your favourite mug” he chuckles, handing you it. You can smell your favourite infusion through the swirling steam.

Your hand brushes against his. You can feel the through skin around his nails. As you take your mug. You now look at the tray, and your heart swells seeing how much they care about you with everything Steven has got in front of you.

Steven sits down next to you, mug in his right hand. You rest your right hand on his left thigh and gently squeeze it. He looks at you chocolate curls falling freely on his forehead. You know he’s been running his hand through them. He entwining his fingers with yours, raising your hand to his plump, soft lips, and kissing you.

“I’m sorry, love. You shouldn’t have to deal with this” you gesture to yourself continuing “you all deserve better, I’m so sorry” you repeat as the dam bursts and hot tears stream freely sown your face.

Steven pulls you onto his lap, wrapping his strong arms around you protectively. He instinctively rubs your back and kisses your hairline repeatedly. Comforting you with sweet nothing till you finally calm down. Steven helps you with this by doing breathing exercises with you and rubbing your shoulders, so a panic attack is avoided.

“I want you to look at me and listen very carefully to me, my love” Steven says directly but gently.

You look at him and nod as you fiddle with his fingers.

“Love do not apologise for being you, yes you have health problems but they do not refine you. You are not a burden. You are loving, caring, unique, wonderful, and most importantly, you are ours. We love you, and as such, we take care of you, like you take care of us, love.” Steven says lovingly caressing your cheek.

You nod nuzzling into his hand as a tear escapes you, which Steven catches with his thumb. You lean in and catch his lips tenderly kissing him to not only express your love but your gratefulness for him, Marc and Jake. Resting your foreheads together, you play with his soft curls as Steven holds you close to him.

“I love you all and appreciate everything you do. You are my sunshine on my dark days” you say with a big smile.

“How about I run you a warm bath, I got you some lavender soak, then apply a heat pad on relax with some tv. Hmmm, love ?”

“Sounds wonderful, my love” As you move off Stevens' lap, your back twinges.

After your soak, heat pad, Jakes cosy pjs and medication taken. You're wrapped in a cosy blanket that Marc had got delivered that as well. Steven comes from the kitchen with a big vase of your three favourite flowers.

“Almost forgot, we got you these love.” His voice muffled with the flowers.

He puts them down carefully on a little table next to you, with a cute lopsided smile, which you know he makes when he’s concentrating. You love it when he does this.

“You all spoil me too much, thank you” you smile, smelling the beautiful floral aroma around you

Steven sits next to you, handing you an envelope to our darling wife written on it. You open to reveal a card filled with love, comfort, and affection, each wrote their own messages. You smile as you snuggle up against him. You’re feeling better, thanks to your boys . Putting his arm around, you relish in his love and warmth. You swear this was like a portable heater.

“I love you all more than words can express, best husbands ever” You lean up, kissing him, a curl tickles your nose, and Steven’s eyes crinkle as he smiles into your kiss. Breaking away, he grabs your hand, giving it a squeeze as he reaches for the tv remote.

“Would you read to me, my darling? I love listening to you. It’s so relaxing.” You watch as his face lights up at your words

“of course, my love” he shifts slightly, getting the book you had been reading, and taking his glasses, you gently place them on him. Steven gives you a small kiss, muttering his thanks shyly. You snuggle back into his side as he rubs your side as he begins to read aloud, his voice like honey making you feel loved, wanted, and at peace.

This won’t be the last time feeling like this but with the boys by your side. You know that you’ll survive the storm.

@melodygatesauthor @my-secret-shame-but-fanfiction @my-secret-shame @missscarlettangel @missdictatorme @jake-g-lockley @steven-grants-world @romanarose @campingwiththecharmings @writingforcurrentobsessions2 @welcometostayingawake @novanitee @micheleamidalajedi @annautumnsoul

I love you all

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voraciousvore · 6 months

Text

Big Corp Inc. (1/43)

Basic Plot: Candy Caramello is desperate to get a job. So desperate, in fact, that she accepts a job at Big Corp Inc. working with Giants who are hundreds of feet tall. She'll have to contend with a licentious boss, an office bully, being eaten alive, and all sorts of other hazards inherent to being a tiny human in a Giant world.

Total Word Count: 96,645

Content Warning: This story is intended for mature audiences. It contains several vore scenes and explicit sexual content (both sweet romantic intimacy and non-consensual). Warnings will be posted at the beginning of chapters as needed.

(As an aside, I welcome any comments/ feedback/ criticism you may have, so don't be shy if you have something to say! :))

Chapter 1: Call to Adventure

Candy Caramello urgently needed a job. She was getting desperate. One more missing rent payment, and she’d probably be evicted and living out on the street. Her landlord was an understanding guy, but she hadn’t paid any rent in months, and she was running out of money.

Unfortunately, Candy didn’t have any marketable skills. She wasn’t the sharpest tool in the shed either. She had dropped out of high school and toiled in low-wage retail jobs for most of her working life. Candy was cute and sweet, as her name suggested, but also incompetent and clumsy. Somehow, she managed to get herself fired from every job she worked at. Her last job was at a restaurant. In the few months she worked there, she managed to mix together the bags of salt and sugar, spilled drinks and food on several customers, and broke enough plates and glasses to make a full dining set. The manager liked her for her bubbly personality, but eventually got fed up with her costly mistakes and had to let her go.

The story was similar at her other jobs too. For a short time, she had worked at a warehouse where she had to pick orders, pack them up in boxes, and sort them. She could never get the orders right. She’d always forget an item, or put an extra item in, or count the wrong number, or confuse the invoices. She’d make a mess out of the packing materials, tear up the boxes, and get her long blonde hair caught in the packing tape. A plethora of customer complaints regarding incorrect orders and hair everywhere led to termination of her employment.

Needless to say, the more jobs she got fired from, the less anyone wanted to hire her. The situation had deteriorated to the point where she was notorious, blackballed from several industries in her city. Her references all warned against hiring her to new potential employers. Candy was in trouble.

She did have one option left, but she was very hesitant to pursue it. See, Candy lived on the small side of the city, with all the other humans like her. Her city was split into two sections, the small side and the large side, which were kept strictly separate for safety reasons. The large side of the city housed the Giants, a race of people who were just like humans except hundreds of feet tall. Like most humans, Candy was scared of Giants. She had never met one personally, since she avoided crossing the barrier to the large side of the city, but in the instances where she was close by she had felt the tremors of their tremendous footsteps in the ground and seen their towering silhouettes from afar.

Of course, the TV programs and the government propaganda flyers posted all over town proclaimed that Giants were perfectly safe to humans, and the two species could effortlessly live together in harmony. The human and Giant governments had been slowly working towards integration for years, despite the resistance of the majority of the human constituents involved. The Giant parliament had appropriated millions upon millions of Big Bucks (BB), the Giant currency, to building infrastructure suitable for humans in the large sector. Despite the sizable investment, few if any humans were brave or stupid enough to venture forth to the large side. Oftentimes, those who left were never seen or heard from again.

This incontrovertible fact was a great embarrassment to the Giant government that had invested so much money into a failed project. Therefore, they decided to pass an affirmative action plan to encourage Giant businesses to hire human workers, in order to lure humans over to the large side of the city. This program was relatively new, and would grant substantial subsidies to private businesses to upgrade their offices to accommodate and employ humans. While businesses were more than happy to receive easy money from the government and spare the bare minimum expense to “upgrade,” finding humans willing to work with Giants was harder.

In their glossy advertisement campaigns, painting rosy pictures of humans and Giants happily working together, these businesses targeted naïve, impressionable humans that were desperate for work—humans like Candy. Despite her reservations, Candy was easy prey. The idea of working with Giants made her exceedingly nervous, but after filling out hundreds of job applications with no response, she decided to shoot her shot and apply—after all, she had nothing to lose. She wasn’t familiar with too many Giant businesses, but she saw a promotional campaign from an establishment called Big Corp Inc. and decided to send in her resume.

To her surprise, her phone rang within minutes. She jumped on it and answered, “H-hello?”

“Is this Candy Caramello?” a deep, rich voice on the other end of the line asked.

Candy’s breath hitched in her throat. She could tell that huge, full voice belonged to a Giant, and it was very intimidating. “Y-yes, sir.”

“Hello there, my name is Richard Hardon. I’m a manager over at Big Corp Inc. and I see you’re a human that just applied to work here. I have a few preliminary screening questions for you,” the Giant stated in a professional tone.

“O-okay,” Candy stammered.

“First question: How old are you?”

“Um... 23.”

“Okay, that’s acceptable. Second question: What’s your height and weight?”

“I’m 5’5” and 130 pounds.” Candy had never heard of anyone asking for this information on a job questionnaire, but she figured there must be a reason. Maybe Giants had different workplace practices.

“Ah, so you’re a cute little thing! Excellent! Third question: What’s your bra size?”

Candy was baffled by this question, but not wanting to jeopardize her chances obediently answered, “I’m a D cup, but why do you need to know?”

“Oh! Just for the work uniform, of course,” the Giant explained smoothly. “You sound like a good fit for our work culture. When can you come in for an interview?”

Candy found his questions off-putting, to say the least, but she reminded herself that she needed this job badly. “I can come in today, if you’d like!”

“Perfect! How does 3 pm sound?”

“I’ll be there,” Candy confirmed with a gulp.

“Okay then. You can find me on the third floor, in my private office. I look forward to meeting you, sweetheart,” the Giant affirmed, then hung up. Candy stared at the phone in her sweaty hand. She had some serious misgivings, but she felt cornered. She looked at the clock and realized she had no idea where this place was located, how long it would take for her to get there, or really even how to navigate the land beyond the barrier. She was overwhelmed and unprepared.

She made the choice to leave as soon as possible, so she could feasibly arrive early and without incident. She had some used clothes she bought from a thrift store that she hoped would be appropriate for an interview for an office job. She put on dark slacks and a crisp gray button-down shirt with a collar. The clothes were a little baggy and wrinkly, but she figured they were acceptable. She couldn’t find a pair of nice shoes in her size that was within her budget, so she was forced to wear her ratty old tennis shoes instead. She prayed nobody would notice.

She left her apartment, paper resume in hand, and stepped out into the early afternoon sun. The day was pleasantly warm, with a slight breeze and not a single cloud marring the pure blue of the sky. Candy was feeling optimistic. Maybe her luck was finally starting to change. She lived within walking distance of the barrier, since few people wanted to live within the vicinity of the Giants and housing was cheaper. Soon enough, she made it to the railway station. She had a bus card that was accepted for the high-speed rails as well, so she didn’t have to pay a fare. After looking up the location of Big Corp Inc.’s office building, and determining the correct route, she waited for the railcar.

Nervous energy started to creep over her. The station, despite being new and modern, was devoid of other passengers. She was the only one waiting on the platform. The automated car pulled up and the doors slid open with a soft whoosh. After hesitating, Candy stepped inside. She was feeling too anxious to sit so she stood up and grabbed the built-in handrail for support. The inside of the car was suspiciously shiny and immaculate, as if nobody had ever ridden in it before. The car had large windows in the sides and ceilings that were spotless, free of any fingerprints or scratches.

The doors whooshed closed and the car sped off with shocking speed. Candy hung on tight as the railcar shot underground, beneath the barrier, before reemerging on the opposite side, the side of the Giants. Candy’s palms were slick with moisture as she glued herself to the window with astonishment. The railcar was rocketing through a tunnel of clear glass, which protected the rails from being stepped on by Giants, since the railcars traveled alongside the sidewalk at ground level. The rail moved slightly underground when it crossed the roads, the glass becoming flat on top so cars could pass over.

Candy couldn’t believe the staggering scale of the buildings, roads, streetlights, cars—all the expected trappings of civilization, really, except the foliage, which was normal-sized. Tall trees looked like tiny shrubs next to monumental concrete walls. And the Giants themselves! Candy had never seen a Giant up close, and even though she was safely tucked away inside a fast-moving railcar, she was terrified. The car moved too fast for her to get a good look, but she could see their shoes alone were larger than the entire car she was traveling in. She felt like she was going to faint. She must have made a terrible mistake, coming here—but it was too late. She couldn’t get away now.

Far ahead, Candy spotted the Big Corp Inc. building looming on the horizon. It was a massive, gloomy, gray structure that stretched into the sky, truly one of the great wonders of the corporate world. The company’s name and logo were emblazoned on the building with immense steel letters that glistened in the sun. Her little railcar barreled towards it all too quickly. She was scared. She didn’t know how she would be able to work on this side of the city, or even get around, with everything being so gigantic.

Her stop was fairly close to the Big Corp building, so at least by Giant standards she wouldn’t have far to go. However, the distance was still quite vast for a human. The railcar slowed to a stop, and the doors quietly opened. Candy hesitantly stepped out onto the platform, which had a cover over it to protect from the elements. The awning at least made her feel somewhat hidden from the Giants clomping around outside. She just wanted to curl up and hide as the pavement vibrated beneath her feet with the great weight of every Giant step. She imagined being crushed underfoot and shuddered.

There were some marked human pathways with fencing on both sides to protect pedestrians from being smashed. Giants could easily step over the human-sized gates, so they didn’t block the enormous sidewalks at all. Even so, Candy was frightened to emerge from her shelter. The Giants themselves were larger than she ever imagined in her wildest dreams. Even if she craned her neck all the way back, she could barely see their faces so high up in the sky.

Candy couldn’t bring herself to move. She was frozen in place. She instinctively wanted to run, but there was nowhere to go. The railcar had vanished; she would have to wait for the next one if she desired to go back. While she was tempted to flee, she was again reminded that she had no more options. This was her last chance to get a job. If she failed here, she’d become homeless. She exhaled slowly. Her whole body was shaking in terror. She checked her watch. She didn’t have much time left before her interview, especially considering the distance she would have to walk to get there. It was now or never. She took a deep breath and stepped forward into the sun.

Next chapter

Table of Contents:

Ch. 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 36 | 37 | 38 | 39 | 40 | 41 | 42 | 43

Writing Masterpost

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pourcap · 2 years

Text

thoughts: kr chapter 11

hi! i’m alive. hope you’re all doing well :)

‘Strip her and send her to Vere as a slave?’ Damen didn’t move from the sill. Nikandros said, ‘You don’t really want that.’ ‘No,’ he said. ‘I want it to be worse.’ i get it. imagine the person you love betraying you like this. damen really had everything he held dear taken away from him within just a few hours. i can’t imagine how it must feel for him to see jokaste again after all he’s been through

‘Put your best soldiers on her door, your most loyal, and choose them from among those who have no taste for women.' lol. smart

He knew what Veretian eyes saw when they looked at him: a barbarian in savage splendour. He did nothing to lessen the impression. He sat on the throne in armour, his thighs and arms heavy with bared muscle. i haven’t mentioned how hot i think damen is in a while, so: he’s so hot

He let him see Laurent too, let him see the picture they presented, royalty united. can’t they just rule both akielos and vere by each other’s sides???

(...) Damen liked it. He liked having Laurent beside him, liked letting the Regent’s herald see that Laurent had Akielos alongside him—had Damianos of Akielos, now in his favoured arena of war. i love them so much, and i love them working together just being a huge fuck you to the regent, and i love that all of this is the regent’s own fault for underestimating laurent and being prejudiced against damen

‘We accept the Regent’s surrender at Charcy,’ said Damen. so snarky. i love him so much.

‘No head in a bag?’ said Laurent. also very snarky. my heart hurts, though. nicaise has only really been in book 1 and i still miss him a lot :( (fuck the regent)

Laurent’s voice was mild. Relaxed on the throne, one leg extended out in front of himself, a wrist draped elegantly on the wooden arm, the shift in power was evident. He was no longer the rogue nephew, fighting alone on the border. He was a significant, newly established power, with lands and an army of his own. god i love him sooo much !!! i can’t believe one of the most cunning, insufferable and cruel protagonists i’ve ever encountered makes me so feel so soft for him. not that laurent isn’t also very sweet and caring and kind, or that his behavior isn’t understandable. he is this weird mix of really vicious and really cute.

‘Your uncle is a good man. The Council has called for your death, but your uncle will not hear them. He will not accept the rumours that you have turned on your own people. He wants to give you the chance to prove yourself.' i haaaaaate the regent so much. soooo much.

Laurent only regarded Estienne for a moment, before he turned his attention back to the herald. ‘‘All that is mine will be returned to me”? Were those his words? Tell me his exact words.' ??? i'm not following. what am i missing...?

well. there is no way the regent would let laurent live, even if he showed up for the trial.

‘Ride back to the Regent,’ said Damen, ‘and tell him this. All that is rightfully Laurent’s will return to him when he is King. (...) He faces Vere and Akielos united. And he will fall to our might.' soooo sexy. just. so sexy.

‘You are a patricide. You killed your own father, King Theomedes of Akielos.' honestly, kastor just annoys me. he never really does anything; never even showed up when damen was shipped off to vere, damen said he saw jokaste’s hand in every attempt to frame damen, not kastor’s, and now everything that goes on in akielos is being reported to damen by the regent’s men. even if the regent won at the end of all this, it’d be so easy for him to get rid of kastor.

With sudden double vision, Damen saw Laurent as he was, his true isolation. The Regent had done this to Laurent, had whittled away his support, had turned his people against him. He remembered trying to convince Laurent of the Regent’s benevolence in Arles, as naive as Estienne. Laurent had had a lifetime of this. sometimes i wonder how laurent managed to live through all this. his perseverance and strength are admirable, honestly. i’m pretty sure he was to nicaise what auguste was to him.

‘I’d get a trial,’ said Laurent. ‘It’s what he wants. He wants me proven unfit. He wants the Council to ratify him as King so that he can rule with his claim wholly legitimised.' too bad that won’t ever happen <3

ugh. so jokaste is another one of the regent’s pawns.

He knew that he was not in control of himself. (...) He looked over at Laurent and said, flatly, ‘Deal with it.' i know i’ve said it before but damen and laurent as a duo are so sexy, and by now i am one-hundred percent convinced they could do anything as long as they have each other. there is so much respect and trust there, now, i can’t believe how far they’ve come.

The extent to which she and Laurent resembled each other, in colouring, in their cool, intellectual lack of emotion, in the detachment with which they regarded one another, was both unnerving and extraordinary. they’re like ethereally beautiful horror twins

(...) ‘Damianos has sent me his bed boy. Blond, blue-eyed, and all laced up like a virgo intacta. You’re just his type.' obviously jokaste has very intimate knowledge of damen’s tastes, but i wonder if everyone in akielos just knows that their crown prince is a slut (affectionate) for gorgeous blondes. imagine everyone who has a pretty son or daughter with blonde hair showing up at the palace in hopes that damen might want to marry them.

‘I think we both know you weren’t the one fucking him. You were on your back with your legs in the air. He hasn’t changed that much.' now i want damen to bottom for laurent, just out of spite.

‘Confined?’ said Laurent. god, i love him.

‘(...) But you and I both know that Damen does not make love like that. He took you slowly. He kissed you until you started to want it.' i mean... she’s not wrong.

‘It’s heady, isn’t it?’ said Jokaste. ‘He was born to be a king. He’s not a stand-in, or a second choice, like you are. He rules men just by breathing. When he walks into a room, he commands it. People love him. Like they loved your brother.' i know she’s trying to provoke laurent but that’s pretty rich coming from someone who’s not even royal

‘My dead brother,’ said Laurent helpfully. ‘Shall we now do the part where I spread for my brother’s killer? You can describe it again.' it’s so painful to think about how and why laurent can just switch his emotions off at once, to avoid being hurt. i love him so much and he makes me so sad

Laurent said, ‘Now we are both telling the truth.' i know laurent is just looking to get a rise out of her, but it is sweet that he admitted to feeling that way about damen <3

‘You haven’t asked me about my son.' no way.

‘You have sent Damianos’s son to my uncle.' ugh. i think i really do hate jokaste.

#capri #captive prince #captiveprince #laurent #damen #damianos #damianos of akielos #damen of akielos #laurent of vere #lamen

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sl-newsie · 3 months

Text

Query: Q x 00 Agent- Ch. 15: Proceed

“Good morning, Eleanor,” a calm voice stirs me awake.

“Eleanor? Who’s-? Oh, never mind.” I open my eyes and find Q’s head upside-down above from me.

“You look pretty in the morning. Most people don’t.”

I roll my eyes. “Very funny. This face has enough scars and marks on it to be mistaken for a cement brick.”

Q takes my head in his hands. “That pretty face is one that I don’t want to share with anyone.”

I arch a brow. “Who are you, some sort of romantic all of a sudden?”

“I can be now since we’ve established mutual feelings of attachment. Would you like to freshen up before we head to work?”

“Suppose I should. Do you mind?” This is the first time I’ve asked to take a shower in someone else’s home.

“Not at all. It’s up the stairs, first door on the-” Q pauses. “Actually, would you like a tour?”

It’s sweet that Q’s already opened to the idea of showing me his apartment. He almost seems excited about it.

“I’d love a tour, Q,” I say with a soft smile.

The geek takes my hand and leads me up the stairs. The upper floor contains a small hallway with 3 doors. We head right and Q opens the first door to reveal a bedroom.

“This is me,” Q says almost shyly. “Just in case you need to come get me.”

Does this mean Q wants me over more often?

“This here’s the bathroom.” Q opens the 2nd door. “And down here-” We walk to the end of the hall and he opens the last door. “-is my home office.”

‘Office’ isn’t the term I would use. It’s more like a miniature version of his lab, only it has a few personal additions such as some science posters and scattered figurines. One might describe it as if it were a nerd’s hideout.

“This is definitely you, Q. Is this where you come up with all your brilliant ideas?”

“Sometimes, yes. Other times I’ll think of something at a random time of day and scribble it down. You can’t predict eureka moments like those.” Q walks back to the stairs. “I’ll leave you to freshen up. There’s some fresh clothes in the cabinet. We leave in 20 minutes.”

I’m finished in 10. It’s odd using someone else’s shower and even stranger when my options of soap smell like Q. A mix of mint, laundry soap, and something that almost smells like gunpowder. After pulling on one of his gray sweaters (I keep my own leggings on because his trousers are far too big) I go back downstairs to find Q being bombarded by all 3 cats.

“A little help?” He asks with a sheepish smile.

I smirk. “I petted them last night. Now it’s your turn, genius. Ready to go?”

He reluctantly pulls the cats off of him and grabs his messenger bag. “All set. I’m assuming you’re disappointed about being out of a mission?”

He’s right. Now that SPECTRE’s been taken care of there’s no new assignment. I should be gloomy about it.

“Maybe M will have some paperwork for me to do.” I shrug. “Or do a coffee run.”

Q goes through the careful process of resetting the alarm system and we walk out into a sunny morning. It’s a shame we have to spend today indoors and miss out on this gorgeous weather. Today would be a perfect day for a drive.

The CNS tower comes into sight. Now that C is- well, taken care of, I wonder what’s to become of the building. No doubt M already has a new MI6 location already being set up. Q and I walk through the office doors and give each other a subtle look of goodbye before we go separate ways. We both know that confusing a workplace relationship with a romantic one is bonkers.

“Morning, Levie,” Moneypenny greets me as she approaches with a file. “I’ve got some paperwork for you.” She gets a gleam in her eye. “Did you and Q have a nice evening?”

She’s suspicious, I’m sure of it. It’s like she wanted Q and I to get together. Cheeky. But I will not compromise my new relationship to give her the satisfaction.

“Quite tame, actually. Enjoyed some good food, played a few cards. I’m just glad to have gotten a good night’s rest.”

Moneypenny eyes me leerily but lets the subject go and hands me the file. “Bond checked in about an hour ago so he might come visit. Right now you just need to fill this out.” She gives me a wink. “There’s a rumor that M might have a new assignment for you.”

My heart quickens. “Really? No joke?”

“I wouldn’t tease about something like that,” Moneypenny laughs as she walks back to the office.

Finally! I can have my own assignment instead of chasing after Bond. I’ll admit his adventures are exciting but it’s nice to be in control of my own missions. The only downfall is that it means I’ll have to go another month without seeing Q; although we both know this is bound to happen.

It’s 4:00 now. That’s given a big window of time for Q to get some space from me. Being in a secret relationship is strange as it is and I don’t want to overstress it by complicating our workplace relationship. So instead of heading to Q’s lab to annoy him I go for a walk in the courtyard. It’s always fun to act as a civilian and watch the naive pedestrians go about their everyday lives. If they knew how much chaos there is in the world they would panic into anarchy. Though it is disturbing that we keep them in the dark. What’s best is for them to enjoy the peace rather than dwell on violence.

“Enjoying the peace and quiet?” Someone approaches from behind.

I don’t turn to face Bond and gesture to our surroundings. “It’s too quiet. After the mess we’ve had this feels unnatural. Do you think people could ever handle the truth about what we do?”

My old mentor sighs deeply and shakes his head. “Could you?”

“Couldn’t say. How am I supposed to forget what I’ve seen? I don’t think I could dispose of that much knowledge of bloodshed on someone. ‘Sometimes it’s more noble to tell a small lie than to deliver a painful truth.’”

Bond gives me a funny look. “Did you just quote Night At The Museum?”

“Yes.”

“I didn’t take you for a movie person.”

“It’s a very nice trilogy," I smirk. "We should have a movie night and I can show it to you.”

“Do you even have an apartment yet?” Bond asks.

I shake my head. “It’s on the list.”

Now Bond looks at his watch. “Better keep the list handy because you won’t have time to look for one. I’m here to tell you that you’re scheduled to meet with M in 20 minutes. He says it’s important so that most likely means you have a new mission, 0011.”

I get a giddy smile. “Yeah, Moneypenny mentioned it. What’s in store for you?”

“I’ve got a few ideas.” Bond gives me a sneaky smile.

There’s no use attempting to get more from that. For all I know he’s planning on blowing up another building. As we walk back I can’t help but feel happy that he can take a break. Not saying Bond’s due for retirement but I can step in to help carry the load if need be. After we say a quick goodbye Bond heads off towards the garage. Now to head to the elevator… or not. One little pop-in with Q wouldn’t hurt, right? No, I should focus on work.

I head upstairs to meet with M, who seems much more laid back.

“Ah, good afternoon, 0011. I trust you know why I’ve summoned you here?”

“Yes, sir. You have a mission for me?”

“Affirmative.” M gestures to a screen across the room. “A few Siberian spies broke into a facility in northern Scotland. I need you to detain them and bring them here for questioning. Can I trust you to keep it simple and not make a mess?”

I stand to attention and nod. “Affirmative, sir. I will leave right away.”

The leader seems pleased and hands me a flashdrive. “Here’s the information you’ll need. I suggest you review any needed weaponry with Q before you depart.”

“Of course, sir.” For business and pleasure.

With a new wave of excitement I quickly exit M’s office and hurry to the basement. It’s much more busy now that C’s not prying into everyone’s business. Maybe Q can actually get some assistance instead of being stuck down here by himself. I find the shaggy-haired geek scribbling some notes down at his back desk.

“You won’t believe what Bond just took,” he says without looking up.

I literally just saw Bond and he’s already causing trouble?

“Another new car?” I guess dryly.

Q lifts his gaze and points to the garage door. “Nope. His car.”

Sure enough, the classic Aston Martin DB5 is nowhere to be seen.

“He always loved that bloody car.” I walk over to where my bike is leaning against the wall. “I’m afraid I have to use my vehicle now as well though I promise I will bring it back. Would you mind if I borrowed this afterwards to do some, ah, house-hunting?”

Q pauses, then gets up to walk over while avoiding my gaze. “Still looking for an apartment?”

“Yes. I can’t keep living at work even if I’m only here in-between missions. Perhaps I should just find a storage unit for my things and let Moneypenny take care of Cricket.” I shrug. “Aside from you there’s not much that ties me to somewhere.”

Now Q’s fidgeting with his hands. “Actually, if you’re open to it, maybe… You could move in with me?”

He’s serious? I could…? I’m not sure how to feel about this. After I joined the MI6 I’ve always relied on myself to make ends meet, to have a home. Can I allow enough trust to rely on him?

“That’s a big commitment. Are you sure?”

Q gets a lopsided grin. “You’re already staying with me and you haven’t found an apartment. Why not?”

If anything I thought I’d be the one to move our relationship along. It’s admiring to see Q so confident in our new situation.

“If it’s no burden to you-”

“That couldn’t be farther from the truth,” Q interrupts and takes my hand. “You’re anything but a burden, Eleanor.”

His words bring a smile to my face. “Yes, Geoffrey. I’d love to move in with you. On one condition.” I hold up a finger. “You allow me to take up half of the rent.” He goes to argue but I cover his mouth with my hand. “It’s only fair. I will not take no for an answer, Quartermaster.”

Q gives me an annoyed look while I still keep his mouth shut. Then he surprises me by kissing my hand, which I instinctively lower due to the unnatural feeling.

“Fine,” Q stubbornly agrees. “You can pay half the rent, even though your payment in affections is worth enough.” He pecks a kiss on my cheek. “I hope to mirror such emotions.”

I arch a brow. “Are you saying you love me?”

Q’s eyes spark and he leans in to back me against the wall, his face inches from mine. “Would you like a lecture, or a demonstration?”

Oh my. I thought being sent on a new assignment was going to be the highlight of the day; but nothing can compare to this new feeling of anticipation racing through my veins. My curiosity on Q’s idea of a demonstration is a new itch in my brain. I’m almost sad to have to leave.

I take a deep breath and hold up a hand to cress Q’s cheek. “Save it for when I get back, genius. Right now I’ve got to go catch a few rascals in Scotland.”

I see Q shares my disappointment but we both know our jobs must come first. Emotions will only make my task complicated. Right now I have to focus on proceeding to the task at hand. Pushing the struggle aside, I slide past Q to retrieve my motorcycle.

“M said to review weaponry with you before I go. Any suggestions?”

Q snaps back into his workplace demeanor and goes back to retrieve something from his desk. "You still wear the pendant tracker?"

"Of course."

"Good. Then we won't need to worry about losing contact." He hands me a small case. “Here, but be careful with it. These are potassium pellets, which means they react violently with water. Will really come in handy if you need to make a quick explosion, and since it’s Scotland you’re traveling to there should be plenty of water to use.”

I graciously take the invention and pack the case safely in the bike’s compartment. “Thank you, Quartermaster. I look forward to seeing your genius device in action.”

“Excited for another adventure, are we? Hopefully this time I won’t be dragged into it.”

I roll my eyes. “I’m starting to think you’re lucky to be stuck down here. Maybe someday I can be more than just an assassin Mata Hari.”

Q gets a serious expression and puts a hand on my shoulder. “You are far more than that, Eleanor. You’re an incredibly loyal agent with a damn good spirit. That and…” He pauses. “Your feminine qualities are rather fine as well.”

His unique ways of flirting are catching, I’ll give him that.

“That means a lot, Q. I promise I’ll try to get back quickly.” I press a kiss to his cheek and mount the bike, starting the engine before I can delay myself further. Lord only knows how this mission will go but I’m confident in my capability.

“I am the angel of death, the time of purification is at hand,” I mutter as the garage door slides open.

Q gives me the thumbs-up to depart. “Go give ‘em Hell, darling.”

#quartermaster x reader #quartermaster #q x reader #james bond #daniel craig #ben whishaw #skyfall #spectre #no time to die #007 #james bond 007

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sleep-can-wait · 10 months

Text

Flowers For Her - Hirynne ~ College AU Part 5

Another note. Mixed feelings swirled through Brynne as she gazed at the card placed on the table.

It was a pale brown with very faint white clouds blooming here and there. Vintage, probably, she thought to herself.

On one side was a tiny pressed flower. A matte green stem with a white flower gilded with pink on the top. On the other side were tiny, black words written in cursive, forming a small paragraph.

For two weeks Brynne had been getting these anonymous notes, each like this but with a different flower.

She quietly slipped the paper delicately into her backpack and went to serve a different customer.

---

Brynne really tried to focus on work, but she couldn't take her mind off of the anonymous letters. Not for even a second.

Not while doling out cups of coffee. Not while she rode home on her bike. Not even while lying down staring dazedly at the ceiling.

Brynne held the card high over her head so she could reread it while remaining in bed.

Gladiolus. It is mainly used to show the strength of the character. This is a quality I admire in you.

Strength. Something that was of value to Brynne. But it wasn't talking about how large her muscles were, (though they were quite large) it was talking about her personality. Stubbornness was a quality she had as well.

She sucked her breath in sharply as her mind drifted to the one who wrote this.

It was a girl who was a year younger than her, who went to the same college as she did. Brynne had seen her a few times in the hall and would occasionally wave to her. She would wave back.

But that was it. The girl would also frequently visit the cafe and leave the notes with a big tip before rushing off and Brynne never had the time to ask her about it.

As she drifted off to sleep, she decided to finally do something and confront her.

---

Tomorrow she would come again. As soon as Brynne came home she hurled down her bag and made for her laptop, for once not bothering to make a snack first.

She wasted no time, frantically tapping away at the keyboard, finding just the thing she was looking for, before running off again out of the door. This time snagging an apple on the way out. What? all this running was making her hungry.

---

"How may I help you, miss?" Brynne held up a hand to signal that she needed a moment to answer, and inhaled air rapidly to catch her breath.

"I'll have one of those." She said after making sure she wouldn't faint from lack of oxygen.

"Right away, miss."

---

She was back.

"I'll have a cappuccino, please." Brynne jotted it down in her notebook and opened her mouth to say something, but immediately chickened out.

"Here." She handed the drink over and took a deep breath, slapping her cheeks to focus herself.

You are Brynne Tvarika Lakshmi Balamuralikrishna Rao. And you are not weak. You are a master of many things, such as playing the harp. You have wrestled people three times your size to the ground, and you can absolutely ask a girl to-

She was walking away. Shit. Brynne ran after her.

"Wait!" The other turned and looked at her questioningly. Oh wow, she's really pretty. Brynne skidded to a stop before her.

"Um, I just wanted to... give you something. For all the other times." She shoved her hand forward, holding a bundle of bright yellow sunflowers. Her eyes were squeezed shut, too embarrassed to see the other's reaction.

"Thank you." She took them with a grateful smile. Brynne opened her eyes and felt heat rushing to her cheeks and she quickly averted her gaze to the ground.

Otherwise, she might start staring at the other's brown hair that fell prettily in curtain bangs, or her warm hazel eyes, or her-

Stop it, Brynne.

"You know," She gently rubbed the flowers' soft petals. "Sunflowers mean-"

"Friendship. I know. I bought them because I would, you know, like to..." She trailed off nervously. The other beamed, clutched the sunflowers in one hand, and held out her other.

"Hira." She smiled shyly and took it.

"Brynne."

"Hold on, I forgot to give you this." Hira took out another letter and placed it gently on Brynne's palm.

She read it and smiled at the irony of it.

Blue Iris. The symbol of hope. Something I wish we could all have in life. Maybe for us, too.

----------

Huge thanks to @burntchickennugget2468 for this!

(On Ao3 and Wattpad as well)

#aru shah #the pandava quintet #roshani chokshi #tpq #rick riordan presents #brynne rao #brynne tvarika lakshmi balamuralikrishna rao #hirynne #hira #college aru shah

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ciphernull · 9 months

Note

From 25 character asks (I'm going to be so greedy I am. maybe slightly sorry adsfnln I'm in love with a lot of ur beans);; 11, 13, & 22 for Alesko ;; 4, 7, and 11 for Vex ;; and 15 & 24 for Heskan?

[25 Character Questions for the Writer]

Alesko

Who are your character’s most important people?

Presently (aka just post SoR) his two most important people are Lana and Theron. He and Lana have a great deal of mutual respect and shared interest, to the point of him considering her a genuine friend, which is quite rare considering his usual relations to Sith. And for Theron… well, there's been some rough spots between them, but ultimately, they've saved each other's lives more than once. Alesko is slowly coming to trust and open up to him more, though hasn't missed an opportunity to drive the handsome SIS agent up the wall. Or against it, for that matter.

Who had the most positive impact on your character’s life?

This question has had me scratching my head, and I don't really know why, but I want to say Keeper/the Minister? Obviously there's a lot to unpack there, and I don't feel I can do it justice in short form, but most of his core values as an agent of the Empire can be traced back to Keeper's influence. (kinda copped out but i promise i WILL write more on this someday)

What is your character most afraid of?

Alesko's biggest fear is that he hasn't fully overcome his programming. That somewhere in his brain there's still a switch, waiting to be flipped. That he could never truly escape his cage. That no matter how hard he fought, or how far he went, it was always going to end where it began--alone, in the cold and dark.

Vex

What does your character hate the most?

Sith. Jedi. Politicians. Mandalorians. The list goes on. Sanctimonious self-important hypocrites parading their screwed up ideas of justice around under the guise of some greater cause. Really, he's just tired of war. And you know? Maybe he's a part of the problem, too, but at least he's honest about it.

What does your character miss most from their childhood?

Vex grew up on a farm on Dantooine, which was about as quiet and dull as it gets. Back then, they hated it and wanted nothing more than to leave, but now that he's a bit older and the wanderlust has settled, he occasionally finds himself missing the peaceful life. I'm gonna say they miss their family's old kath hound the most.

Who are your character’s most important people?

I feel like I emphasized this enough already in the last post, but their crew means the world to them. Especially Mako, she's practically his sister, and one of the few people he would trust with his life.

Heskan

Who does your character look up to and who do they despise?

This is again very WIP and kinda predictable, but I think Heskan would most look up to his master, a currently unnamed Mirialan woman. As it's traditional for Mirialan Jedi to take on their own kind as padawans when possible, she's been his main source of guidance throughout his early life. I still need to develop more about her, but I know that she's trans and absolutely has those 'older queer mentor figure' vibes.

As for despise… I have no idea. Obviously there's the whole Jedi/Sith business, but the word 'despise' feels more personal than that. No one has really emerged yet in the story that would spark that level of anger or resentment for Heskan, not enough to make the normally steadfast guardian waver. I expect this to change, but for now, I don't really have an answer.

What do they like about their appearance?

Heskan's not heavily concerned with his looks, but he is quite proud of his physique! He enjoys being active and feeling strong, and having that reflect in his appearance, especially his arms and chest (also for transgender reasons). Feature-wise, he would say he has a decent nose, nice lips, and a good smile. His hair is more of a mixed bag, because while he likes the style, he finds it a bit troublesome to maintain the locks on his own, without the expertise and extra hands of his master.

#oc asks #swtor #agent alesko #vex korva #heskan voh #i really got to think for some of these n it was great #tysm for the questions <3

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theimaginatrix27 · 1 year

Text

A blind person talks about Audiobooks for a minute

I grew up on story tapes.

Yes, that's where this essay is going to start. When I was a small child, story tapes were my jam. I loved getting new ones, but I listened to the ones I already had whenever I felt like it. There was a collection of fairy tale tapes my Grandma had, that eventually got given to my dad so I could access them more easily, that I never got tired of listening to.

And this was in part because they were well-produced, and the readers put their all into it, which made them enjoyable.

When I first joined Vision Australia's Library, I got a mixed bag of professionally made audiobooks the library had acquired for its collection, some very good volunteer narrators, and some less good ones.

Then they switched to DAISY, a fancy MP3 format with extra bits of code so you could, theoretically, page through the book and move by phrase as well as by chapter. They were not always formatted well, but that's not what I'm here to discuss.

It was about this time that I started getting books narrated by people who would either sound disinterested when reading (never good ever) or not do the story they were reading justice with their narration because their voices simply weren't that flexible.

One of these series was Sevenwaters. You probably have heard me natter on about how much I love Sevenwaters, and I absolutely do! But the narrator I first heard these books read to me by was ... she put more emotion into her reading than some others, but she was not well-suited to this series. She couldn't, and didn't, do an Irish accent for the Irish characters, she pronounced all the Gaelic names wrong except the ones that were blindingly obvious like Finbar or Conor, all her characters sounded so similar you really had to be paying attention to keep track. She did somewhat better with the fifth Obernewtyn book, but she didn't get the last two (maybe people complained, maybe nobody wanted to read Obernewtyn's last two books because of their length, I don't know). I'll tell you this much about those two books, the narration done by the people who read them was so dispassionate that I was bored. By Obernewtyn. I should not have been fucking bored by Obernewtyn.

Vision Australia also got some books added to the collection from a place in Tasmania who recorded their stuff on tapes which were then digitised, and again, they were hit and miss in quality, but the sound quality was so obviously taped on basic recorders like the ones I used to have that it kept distracting me.

And there were also a few instances in which the Brits, in all their wisdom, had several people, in one case maybe five, in the others (all part of a series) perhaps a dozen, narrate a single book, switching every fifteen-twenty minutes with no rhyme or reason, often in the middle of scenes, always mid-chapter, and the narrations varied wildly in quality! It pissed me off so much! I had a few I liked that I wished had taken the reins and read the whole book because they were genuinely amazing, but noooo, twenty minutes later, I'd get Substandard Narrator No. 4 again for an arduous quarter of an hour!

This lack of care stems, I suspect, from these particular productions being made for the exclusive use of blind people ("No unauthorised copying, broadcasting or public performance of this recording is permitted." was the warning typically given at the beginning of each in-house production), and the justification that blind people would be happy to be able to read the book at all.

Yeah, I'm calling fucking bullshit. If you wouldn't buy an audiobook whose narrator has less enthusiasm than a primary school teacher reading today's chapter of Charlotte's Web, then blind listeners shouldn't have to settle for it.

Besides, I listened to the RPH network growing up as well (Radio for the Print Handicapped, which means blind/visually impaired, though there are probably some other disabilities like dyslexia bundled in there), and they had book readings broken up into episodes, and most of them were done by volunteers for the network specifically, and they were nearly always good enough to stick around for (I can count on one hand the times a book read by someone there was genuinely unlistenable), so Vision Australia has no fucking excuse. The RNIB or whoever approved those haphazard multiple-narrator fiction books has no fucking excuse!

Why have I gone off like this about stuff that only affects a small population of listeners? Oh, honey, I am getting to that.

I have heard AI/synthetic voices read a handful of documents. All of them were fine to have been read by synthetic voices, specifically because they were:

Two separate user's manuals for two Daisy players I was sent by Vision Australia before they went totally digital.

A couple of lists of books added to the Vision Australia Library within the preceding six months (I don't think they make these any more because again, they went fully digital and people go to their website to download library books now).

Newsletters from the library/Vision Australia as a whole.

A very long recipe book.

These are acceptable uses of the technology. I preferred it when people read those, but I could accept the task being passed to a robot for reasons of it being more efficient.

Anything else read by an AI? Fuck no. It would be worse than the dispassionate human people reading books because they felt obligated to do something for the poor deprived blind people, but who didn't care enough to make it good.

As a screen-reader user, I know the limits of synthetic voices. Most of the TTS synths I can use with my screen-reader cannot have their inflection adjusted, and do not inflect to differentiate between sentences ending in periods, question marks or exclamation points. The synth I use, Espeak NG, has this capability, but many of its voices don't inflect as much as I'd like, so for eleven years I've stuck primarily with one voice variant, Linda. Some find her harsh on their ears, and she sounds worse with the English-US accent, but I use the default English Great Britain one (there are more region-specific English accents but I don't use those), so she's plenty tolerable for me. Most synthetic voices purporting to be more humanlike sound more robotic to me because they do not inflect, or if they do inflect, they always sound happy! This is not conducive to a good reading experience! Linda, at max inflection, is a far cry from a human person reading things to me, but she's still a lot better than those human narrators I mentioned above about injecting some level of emotion into what she's reading to me, and I've been using her to read fanfiction for almost as long as I've been using NVDA!

That being said, I wouldn't pay for her to read me a book. Unless I was buying the ebook, but we're talking about audiobooks here.

I am now a member of Audible. Yes, I know it's an Amazon company. I know more about how little it pays authors now than I did when I joined. But I am a member of Audible because it is the best place I currently know of to get good-quality audiobooks. Their collection is extensive, and although the public domain books are prone to the bad narrator problem (probably because they don't have to pay anyone for it because public domain), I've been able to read a lot more books that Vision Australia simply does not have. There are still books Audible doesn't have, like those whose authors kept them off that site for reasons of not wanting to sell their rights to Amazon, or books that simply were not deemed popular enough to get their own audiobooks (still sad about the second half of the Roddaverse being stuck in audiobookless purgatory), but even knowing this, I would never, and I mean never, buy versions of these audiobooks read to me by a fucking robot.

I joined archive.org a few days ago, because I heard they had some books I wanted to read. I couldn't read the borrowed books with my screen-reader because they were one-hour loans, and I couldn't listen to them being read by the TTS voice because it was awful.

I would never fucking pay a company to sell me that as an audiobook.

And yet some places are trying this out. I read in another Tumblr post that a bunch of professional audiobook narrators (angels, saints, precious gems that they are) were protesting because Apple was going to produce some audiobooks with AI so they didn't have to pay them to do it, and synthetic voices cannot intonate. This absolutely boils my blood.

I have ranted about bad narrators and bad productions for the majority of this post, but I have to tell you, when I have come across good narrators, it has in some cases been transcendant. Two of my favourites are sadly no longer with us, but they were both so good that even if they could not finish the series they read which introduced me to their talent, I could never fail to enjoy those books. Frank Muller, Katherine Kellgren, thank you for the work with which you blessed us while you were able.

I also know a lot of audiobook readers are voice-actors, and anyone paying attention would know they've gotten the short end of the stick for a long time, but I love and value them, because they are part of my childhood. They introduced me to characters I would never have known otherwise.

And I would not want their jobs stolen by mindless robots run by heartless companies whose greed and gluttony for wealth overwhelms any sense of morality or good will to their workers or customers.

I don't know what else I can do except write this post and hope someone sees it who can do something. I'm poor and blind and have no connections, and most people online don't know I exist. But I am here, and I value every human audiobook narrator who has ever taken the time to read a book aloud for the benefit of anyone who enjoys listening to a very long, complex, and perhaps soon to be beloved story tape. And I hope the robots lose this battle, and that the capitalists lose their power over this industry that is crushing so many artists right now.

#Audiobooks #Corporate Greed #Trix Goes Off #This is a very long post I'm sorry #But also not sorry

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