#acotar jealousy

[illyrian-dreamer]

Conditions of entry

Eris x Reader

Summary: Eris seeks you out late a night, but you have some conditions to his entry, SMUT! 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️

Possessive, jealous Eris. Look– it’s just filth.

Warnings: Smut (18+, minors DNI)

Word count: 2,286

AN:  I said in a previous post that writing for Eris scared me, but @missaddamsworld encouraged me to give it a crack. This one’s for you lovely, hope I’ve done him justice ;)

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Eris scoffed, his expression pure male arrogance. “You were never anything special, sweetheart.”

Bullshit. You didn’t try to hide your scowl, your arms folding across your chest as a small smirk formed on your face. That was complete and utter bullshit. Your ongoing rendezvous with the to-be High Lord had never been more than feral, heated sex, but you knew just as well as he did that desire had quickly turned to need, and to say it wasn’t special was an ignorant lie.

“Is that so,” you toyed, flashing your teeth without a care of how Eris might respond. You wanted him heated, wanted him angry. “Perhaps I’ll seek one of the many suitors lining up at my door then, I’m sure they would be honoured for even a taste of me, and would consider themselves lucky to share my bed.”

And that was exactly what you were fighting over. Eris had once again sought you after an evening at the opera. You had allowed him in on one condition – to stay until morning.

Eris’s expression was cold, but his eyes burned an autumn flame. “Go ahead. May they indulge on my scent on you, may they enjoy the taste of my cum in your cunt.”

You face dropped at the filth of his words, and you had to swallow to recover from your shock. “Fuck you,” you spat.

“Only in your dreams, sweetheart.”

You glowered at the male before you, his eyebrow arching in triumphant defeat. You had shown your cards before him, folded them the moment you showed just how much he hurt you.

“You’re a selfish, arrogant bastard,” you sneered before turning your heel to storm off. But a quick hand caught your wrists – both of them. Before you knew it, Eris was snarling down at you, his ginger strands falling in front of his face as he fumed down at you with a feral expression.

“Say. that. Again,” he dared.

You looked back at him in disgust. “I said–“

Hot lips crashed over yours before you could get another word out. Eris was dominant, angry and anxious – all of which you could tell through the force of the kiss, his tongue demanding entry. You let out a sound of surprise, his tongue taking the opportunity to slip over yours as he walked you over, pressing you up against the wall, your hands still caged in his.

Eris pulled away, his eyes swirling with flecks of ambers as they danced between yours. “I won’t be told what to do” he spat, his eyebrow quirking as he licked his lips, eyeing your own.

Your chest heaved in frustration and flush. “I am not for your disposal,” you fought back, pushing against the hold on your wrists, still pinned above you. Eris was unmoved.

“But you’re so delicious” he teased, leaning into the part where your jaw meets your neck and kissing – sucking.

You blinked away the stars, the haze that came with your arousal as he worked you in that spot he knew so well. You had to focus.

“If only I felt an inch for what you feel for me,” you lied.

A small yelp left your lips as Eris sunk his teeth to the nape of your neck, the spot he was kissing now replaced with a sensual, animalistic bite. You couldn't help the throb of your insides at the instinct that was quickly taking over.

Eris now chuckled into your skin, removing his teeth as he levelled a look at you, his face inches from your own.

“Hmm,” he hummed, moving so fast then you didn't have a chance to stop him. Both hands were now held in one of his pinned above you, the other hand making its way up the side of your thigh, slinking up at a sultry rate while stopping to pinch the flesh of your love handles.

“So if I were to run my fingers along your slit, I wouldn’t find you soaked to your core?”

You huffed at the male as he smirked back, his hand inching ever so closely to your middle, the fabric of your skirts bunched at his arm. You were sure he could feel the heat radiating from you.

“You’re insufferably arrogant,” you bit back, a whimper then escaping you and Eris’s hand found your core. Long fingers rubbed up and down your slit, cupping you from beneath at jolts of electricity fired through you. It took all the strength you had to not throw your head back and moan.

Eris wore a grin of male arrogance, chuckling to himself as he knew he had struck home. “My my, Y/N. Your body makes a liar out of you.”

You cursed at him in return, your eyebrows pulling in a longing, feral need. One of Eris’s fingers teased your entrance, your body aching for him to stretch you by any means. You were desperate, undone already – and he knew it.

Eris pressed his lips over yours again, your head pushed against the wall as he slipped two fingers inside you, You moaned into his mouth, tongues darting and dancing as you both fought for control. He began to move his fingers, curling them inwards and using his thumb to stimulate your clit. You were ashamed to know how soon you would finish.

“Look at your pretty, flushed face,” Eris teased, his expression smug as he drank in your pleasure. His eyes darkened then, like a low ember as his voice came out cold. “I did not like seeing you with that other male tonight,” he practically growled, continuing to work his fingers inside you.

You tried to collect your thoughts, to retort in this state. “And what of you? Who was that pretty blonde wrapped around your arm?”

Eris snarled at your defiance, withdrawing his fingers quickly as you were left staring at each other, neither of you willing to back down.

You cocked an eyebrow. “Is she another one of your play things? Is she also ‘nothing special’?”

Eris’s face was now full of rage, his eyes glowing as he dared you to continue. You took the bait.

“I wonder if she knows you seek me out after you fuck her? What’s wrong Eris, can’t seem to get any satisfaction?”

His lips curled in a heated hatred as another snarl left him, a strong hand was now around your throat, pressing ever so slightly. A warning. “You shut your mouth.”

Now it was your turn to laugh. You knew it was true, Eris had sought you out at all hours of the night, sometimes when traces of his affair with another female were still fresh. You knew you were the only one that could satisfy him, and he you.

So you played the card right into his hand. “Make me,” you said.

Eris ripped your from the wall, pulling you to the bed and bending your over by the waist. He worked quickly to pull of your dress, and after a moment you felt his hardness poking at your entrance, one strong hand holding your in place at your shoulder.

He leaned over you, pulling close to whisper in your ear as he ran his cock over your entrance again and again. “You. Are. Mine,” he growled, shoving the head of him in as you let out a yelp. This is how it had always been between you two, feral, rough lust-filled sex. Tonight was no exception.

“Gods Eris!” you cried out, his cock opening you more as he pushed inside as his hand gripped at the fleshy part of your waist, working your body into him and he started to thrust.

“That’s it, sweetheart,” he gritted, slapping sounds now filling the room as he barely gave you time to acclimate for his size. “Take my fucking cock.”

You moaned at his words, the utter filth that left your mouths during sex was a crime in itself. “Fuck Eris, slow down,” you complained, even though it was an utter lie.

“I’ll fuck you how I please,” he bit back, groaning as his entire length now slid in and out, his hips hitting your rear at every thrust.

A strong hand laced through the roots of your hair, pulling on them to bring you up against his bear chest. The breadth of him swallowed you as he pulled you flush against him, his spare hand now finding your lower stomach and pressing against it, sending new jolts of pleasure.

“See sweetheart, see how well you take it? You were made for me.” The pull on your hair left then, instead Eris forced your chin to dip back, a feral, dominating kiss covering your mouth as he continued to fuck you. You moaned, one hand reaching to lace in his own auburn hair, the other clutching at your breast as they bounced with the movement of sex.

Eris withdrew from you suddenly, and you could have cried from the emptiness. He spun you, roughly, throwing you onto the mattress and pulling you to the edge of the bed by your thighs. He spread your legs wide, using them to guide your body as he entered you as a quickly as he had left, causing you to gasp.

He didn't wait to resume his pace, his cock stretching and filling you over and over as your writhed beneath him. Eris stared at you, his expression serious, possessive, like he could never get enough.

“You feel so good,” you breathed, unable to help the thought that played over and over in your head. Large hands groped at your breasts, kneading your flesh as he pounded away.

“That’s right, doll. and I’m the only male that can make you feel this way.”

You didn't reply, your eyes rolling, lost in your own sensual bliss as the curve to his shaft worked the perfect angle again and again.

A strong hand gripped your face then, forcing you to look at him. “Eyes on me sweetheart.” he growled, beads of sweat rolling down his handsome face as he bared his teeth. “I want to hear you say it. Tell me I’m the only one that can make you feel this good.”

You knew better than to fight him on it. “You’re the only one, Eris,” you practically yelled, earning a roar from him as his pace quickened from thrusts to ruts, your bodies burning together in desperate friction.

“Ugh, oh Eris, I’m close!” you yelled in warning.

“Of course you are. Come for me, and scream my name when you do.”

You didn't care about folding for this male, he had a hold on you that no one else did. Ripples of pleasure exploded from you as you climaxed, your tunnel contracting around his shaft, muscle against muscle as you tightened and he continued to push deep into you. You threw your head back, moaning his name so loud you could have woken the entire corridor.

“That’s it, that’s my girl,” Eris coached, his hands gripping your thighs and breast as he continued to thrust. You twitched and writhed as wave after wave continued to come, your moans turning to soft whimpers as you slowly came down from you high.

You looked at at Eris through heavy lids, the wet sounds of your groins slapping together filling the room. His eyebrows were pulled, his face full of concentration as he stared lustfully down at you. You knew that face – he was close.

He pulled out of you then, his cock glistening with your juices as he pumped his shaft with his hand. You knew what he wanted, and you wanted it too. Sitting up, you moved his hand out of the way as your ran a tongue along him, before close your mouth over the tip and sucked. Eris threw his head back, a grunt escaping him as his hand intertwined with the roots of your hair, guiding your head as he started to fuck your mouth.

You took all of him deep into your throat as his sounds of pleasure made you squirm.

“Ugh, take my fucking cock in your throat, that’s the way.” Strong hands worked you over him again and again, and you felt him swell and stiffen further.

Eris pulled you in deep, freezing on the spot as he exploded straight into your throat with a roar. He rutted against your face, cuming twice, three times, four times as he groaned at each release. You swallowed around him, swirling your tongue as he melted in pleasure.

He began to soften, withdrawing from your mouth as he stared down at you, a look mixed with affection and triumph as he stroked your face. His touch was gentle, and while you weren’t used to it, it felt right. “Such a good girl. My good girl,” he smirked at you, before pulling you under your arms and throwing you further into the bed.

Eris climbed over you, hovering above as he soaked in the sight of your naked body before crashing his lips over yours. You pulled at his neck, desperate to fill his frame against you, and to your surprise, he allowed it.

He tipped to the side, pulling you with him as he pulled you thigh over his waist, holding you to him from your lower back. You stared at each other, hair damp with sweat and sex. He tucked yours behind your ear gently.

“What are you doing?” you asked quietly, the intimacy setting your heart aflame.

“I’m staying the night,” he answered simply, before pulling you into his lips again.

The fire in your heart steadied, a wild blaze dimming into something safe, calm, satisfied – but never dull.

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Comment to join the general ACOTAR tag list ✨

Tag list:@kennedy-brooke @cosmic-whispers @jazmin2211 @psychobookaholic

#eris #eris vanserra #keeping up with the vanserras #eris x reader #eris smut #eris x reader smut #eris x y/n #eris x you #eris jealous #eris possessive #acotarfanfic #acotar fan fic #acotar smut #autumn court #eris vanserra smut #acotar jealousy #acotar pov

[reiincarnatiion]

shadows of destiny | azriel x reader | part two

summary : jealous but confused azriel, yearning shadows and sexy lucien and sexy reader ;)

🧚‍♀️

a/n: 💗 WOW. SO MUCH SUPPORT ON THE FIRST PART BROOO GUYS I JUST OFCOURSE HAD TO WRITE PART TWO and def will have part 3 i guess? ngl i am an angsty writer so im not good at writing happy endings HAHA rip for u all.

this is so addictive ive already written 3 stories in a span of like three days HAHAH 💗

also most azriel stories i read are never from his perspective so im keeping it from his perspective to change things up! he is def a bit out of character because i havent read acotar for a while rip but enjoy! thanks for the support and let me know your thoughts !! also this isnt proof read cuz ya girls lazy >.<

read [ part one ] !!

---💗---

"What are you two doing?"

Lucien and you both looked up, shocked (but not really) , to find Azriel standing in the middle of the dance floor, clad in his black silk shirt and pants, with swirls of tattoos peeking through, his collarbone on full display. Fae moved gracefully around him, dancing and making out, carefully avoiding the famed shadow singer.

He stands in front of you two, just as you two had begun your pathetic attempts to drunkedly dance. Your short dress had ridden up to the top of your thighs, pressed against Lucien's pants, and Azriel knew it was entirely inappropriate. He observed as you raised your eyebrows and looked down at him.

He couldn't fathom how you two had crossed the line from friends, but he knew it was wrong. Over the eons, he had seen you with many men, but they had always been strangers to him and the Inner Circle. They had never been serious.

Were you and Lucien serious? The club fell silent to him,  as he awaited your answer.

His shadows swirled around his feet, urging him to intervene. Some even attempted to caress your legs, but Azriel swiftly reeled them in, refusing to acknowledge how soft and sweet-smelling they might be. He couldn't bear to know how apparently tempting they were.

Azriel clenched his jaw as you gazed back at him with your kohl-lined eyes, their newfound seductive power nearly breaking his stoic demeanor.

He bit the inside of his cheek to quell the sudden effect your look had on him, not wanting to indulge in such thoughts; they could only lead to trouble.

"Uhhh... Dancing?" you drawled back finally, rolling your eyes in a way that he would have only have liked to see in bed with you, behind you, with his hands wrapped in your hair as he-

He blinked, the deafening thumping of the music returning to his consciousness, as the rush from his panicking shadows ebbed away, calming his racing heart.

What was he doing? Why did he even come here? A wave of guilt washed over him as he tore his gaze away from your captivating eyes, only to hear you laugh and giggle as Lucien whispered something in your ear, drawing you closer. A giggle Azriel had never noticed was so adorable and sexy at the same time.

Azriel shook his head, trying to make sense of the overwhelming emotions within him. It didn't make any sense. You were like a little sister to him, an integral part of his family.

Stupidly, he realized that he didn't know why his shadows urged him towards you, nor did he understand the sudden waves of jealousy coursing through him.

"AZ! SO NICE OF YOU TO FINALLY JOIN!" a voice screeched, breaking the tension that had enveloped him and the couple in front of him.

They weren't a couple, but they looked like one, and he couldn't stand it. He didn't know why he was acting this way, but he knew one thing for sure: he didn't like it.

He didn't like how Lucien's slender fingers gripped your waist with such familiarity and intent.

The voice that had called out before now manifested next to him as Cassian stumbled over, dragging Nesta along. Their interlocked hands taunted him once more, but Azriel forced himself to look up at Cassian.

"BROTHER!! LET'S DANCE!!" Cassian howled, reaching them and clumsily starting to move their bodies to the rhythm, grabbing Azriel's shoulders to mimic their motions. Azriel stumbled back, desperate to escape the situation, but Cassian persisted.

"Leave me alone, Cassian," he mumbled, brushing his brother's hands away with his gloved ones.

"Why don't you ever dance with us?" Cassian whined, oblivious to Azriel's attempts to withdraw.

Azriel burned with annoyance, returning his attention to you and Lucien. But then, a tender voice spoke out behind him, and he knew it was Feyre even before turning around to see Rhys drunkenly laughing with Cassian as the other couple joined.

“Az, what are you doing, staring holes into Lucien and Y/N,"

"I--" Azriel faltered, trying to make sense of his emotions and jumbled thoughts. "It's just wrong."

He blinked, wondering why he had even gotten up in the first place.

"They're just drunkenly dancing; Elain is fine with it. You don't have to defend her honor here, Az," Feyre assured him, patting him on the back before returning to her mate.

Azriel stood still, smoothing out his pants and running a hand through his tousled hair. The club's hazy atmosphere seemed to envelop him, and he realized that the fae wine he had consumed tonight had hit him hard. Perhaps he had gone too far this time.

"Yes, yes, of course. I just thought Lucien should respect Elain..." he answered hastily, though he knew Feyre had already left. Shadows informed him that Rhys and Feyre had retreated to their more secluded spot again, and Azriel felt a pang of envy.

A couple of fae rammed into him, slightly spilling their drink and apologising in a haste as they realised who they had just knocked into. He glowered down at them and shook his head, stalking back silently back to the booth.

He walked back to the booth where Elain was still seated, nursing a pink drink.

"What was that all about, Az?" she asked innocently, though her doe eyes betrayed her knowing nature.

"It was nothing."

"You were clearly distraught, Az."

"My shadows sensed something was wrong, that's all, Elain."

"Lucien and Y/N?" Elain asked gently, her hand reaching for his gloved hands.

Azriel looked down at her delicate skin brushing against his black leather glove and he felt a sudden overwhelming contrast between the two. He removed his hand from hers, realizing how mismatched they were.

Cassian and Nesta complemented each other perfectly, a match made from the Cauldron itself. Feyre and Rhys shared a love and trust so profound, it was interwoven within their powers.

But what did he have with Elain, other than a forced interest in gardening and her white and pink flowers?

"They're just dancing, it's fine," he told her, his voice numb. He couldn't help but look back at you and Lucien, still writhing against each other on the dance floor in ways that supposedly platonic friends shouldn't.

Lucien's hands were still firmly on your waist as you both gyrated, laughing and singing along to the music. You'd blame it all on the alcohol the next day, if asked about your actions. Azriel knew that, just as he'd experienced countless nights where Cassian or Rhys had kissed him during similar inebriated moments.

Beside you two, Nesta and Cassian mirrored your movements, seemingly unfazed by the intimate nature of your dance. The club's flashing colors continued to shift and flash all around Azriel, in strikes of pink, blue and green but all he saw was red, and he did not

Know

Why.

---

read part three here dearies !!

taglist for shadows of destiny : @allyjoe755 @impossibelle @t0uch-starved-h0e @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @marina468 @cassan1306

#acotar #enemies to lovers #angst acotar #azriel x reader #rhysand x reader #cassian x reader #eris vanserra x reader #lucien vanserra x reader #feyre archeron #high lady feyre #feyre cursebreaker #rhysand acotar #rhysand #elain x lucien #elain archeron #elain x azriel #azriel shadowsinger #nesta x cassian #cassian acotar #a court of wings and ruin #a court of mist and fury #a court of silver flames #a court of thorns and roses #crying rn #jealousy #jealous!azriel

[gwyns]

i've discussed it before but i really need gwyn to befriend balthazar and have a jealousy trope with gwynriel

like maybe at first az doesn't mind, he's happy for gwyn and proud of her for continuing to make new friends! but slowly, over the weeks, he notices how close they are, how engaged she is in their conversations, how easily he makes her laugh...

he'll come over and clap balthazar on the shoulder and laugh too, having caught the tail end of his joke. they stay like this for a few minutes, chatting and enjoying each other's company before gwyn excuses herself. once she's out of earshot az takes on his more cold demeanor, making his own jokes and not exactly being cruel to balthazar but there's always some underlying threat there. bal laughs it off but basically azriel is like this:

#im a simple woman... giving me pining and jealousy trope and ill get on my knees for you #acotar #gwyneth berdara #azriel #gwynriel #balthazar #tp

[azrielsdove]

Jealousy, Jealousy: Lucien x Reader

Warnings: Smut, 18+

***

He had no claim to you, no reason to be so jealous as he watched you with the Shadowsinger. The way you threw your head back in laughter, holding onto his arm. The way he looked at you, like you were the brightest star in the universe. Which, to be fair, you were. Lucien couldn’t deny it.

He wanted you. He’d been obsessing over you for a century now, since the first time you visited the Spring Court. Rhysand had sent you, his emissary, to meet with Lucien. He took one look at you and knew it was over for him.

And now he was mated to someone else. Told by the cauldron that Elain was the one made for him, the one he was made for. Lucien felt that had to be wrong. How could it be true, when he still only had eyes for you? He tried with Elain, he was kind, cordial. It didn’t help that she wanted nothing to do with him.

He watched as Azriel pulled you onto his lap, his fingers trailing up and down your thigh. He watched as you whispered something in his ear, ending it with a kiss to his skin. His hand tightened on his glass, the whiskey burning wonderfully as he sipped it. He felt the fire under his skin, knowing he was ready to burst into flames. It should be his lap you were sitting on, his fingers running up your exposed leg.

Lucien was aware that he was staring, that it was obvious to anyone who looked at him what was wrong. He was past the point of caring. He had wanted you for so long, so long, and was now forced to watch you choose another.

Of course, he had his chance with you many moons ago. Before Amarantha, before the war, before Elain. Her name ran around his head like a curse. He took another drink, becoming lost in his memories.

“Lucien!” You gasped, splashing the water back at him. On your latest visit to the Spring Court he had decided to take you to the pool of starlight. He knew you would appreciate its beauty, especially being from the Night Court. Your eyes had lit up in a most delightful way, Lucien’s heart beating fast at the sight. You wasted no time stripping down to your underclothes, dipping into the stars.

Lucien followed quickly after, pulling his shirt and trousers off. He laughed as you watched the liquid drip through your fingers, a joy he’d never seen shining on your face. If he wasn’t in love with you before, he certainly was now.

He swam up behind you, splashing the water onto you. He melted at your laughter when you turned, splashing back at him. He couldn’t help himself, swimming closer to you. His arms hesitantly wrapped around your waist, his fingers tingling at the feel of you under them.

“Is this okay?” He whispered, nose brushing your cheek. You sucked in a sharp breath, a quiet “Yes,” coming in response. His hands had cautiously traveled up and down your skin, pulling you ever closer. Your hands had trailed down his chest, memorizing the feel of him.

Lucien couldn’t stop himself when he pressed a kiss to your neck, arms tensing at your answering moan. He had waited so long for this, so long to touch you. He pulled back enough to look into your eyes, wanting to see you. You looked back with flushed cheeks, mouth slightly parted. “Lu,” you said, gaze flicking down to his lips, “Are you going to kiss me?”

He was. He cupped the back of your neck, angling your head up to his. He leaned down, lips millimeters from yours when a sharp laugh pulled the two of you out of the moment. Lucien looked towards the sound, ready to murder whoever it was.

Tamlin.

“Is this what you do, emissary’s? Use your positions to whore about?” You pulled away from Lucien as though he had burned you, your face pale. He was going to kill Tam, and the look he shot him conveyed that. Lucien swam to the edge, pulling himself out of the pool to stand in front of his High Lord.

“What bother is it to you, Tamlin?” He asked, voice cold. He watched as his friend rolled his eyes, looking back over to you.

“How can you trust that she’s not just using you to find private information? You know how the Night Court is, she’s probably Rhysands own fuck piece sent here to seduce you.” Tamlins words struck Lucien exactly how he intended, anger coursing through him.

“We haven’t spoken about you or this Court. Not everything revolves around you.” Lucien shot back, fists clenching.

Tamlin laughed. “It does when your job is to report about my court to her. I want her gone, and I don’t want her coming back.” He turned to address you. “Tell your High Lord to send someone else next time.”

Then he was gone.

Lucien spun back to face you, apology all over his face. You were already out of the pool, hastily pulling your clothes on. “I should go.” you said, refusing to look at him. Lucien called your name, but you had already winnowed away. He was left standing there by the edge of the pool, feeling the way you slipped through his fingers.

The memory burned in his mind, fresh anger coming to the surface. His gaze flitted back to you and the Shadowsinger, feeling painfully hot as you leaned down to kiss him. He watched his hand thread up into your hair, the other grip onto your thigh. He heard the breathy moans you were giving him, so similar to that day in the pool of starlight.

Lucien couldn’t take this anymore. He stood abruptly, not caring to speak to anyone. He turned and left the room, heading to the kitchen to find something stronger to drink.

***

READER POV

You reached your tipping point when you watched Elain spend another holiday ignoring her mate. You had wanted Lucien since the first time you met him, knowing he was the most handsome male you would ever see. Unfortunately you were there to do a job, not jump his bones.

You enjoyed the way the two of you created a friendship overtime, toeing the line between friends and more. That day in the starlight pool you thought all your dreams were coming true, you finally were going to taste him.

Until Tamlin had ruined everything.

You left before Lucien could say anything, mortified beyond belief. Rhys started sending Azriel after that, since you were basically banned from the Spring Court. Lucien came to the Hewn City from time to time, and you always made sure to be there. Not that the two of you ever got a chance to talk, but it was nice to just see he was okay.

You remembered the pain in your heart at seeing the fresh scar on his face when he came to warn Rhys about Amarantha. You could still feel the anger the coursed through you, the rage that made you want to go Under the Mountain and kill her yourself.

It was shortly after that Rhysand was trapped down there with her. The 49 years after were some of the worst you and your friends had ever experienced. You knew you were lucky, stuck protecting Velaris. Though it didn’t dull the ache in your heart, the worry for Rhys and Lucien. You knew Amarantha wanted Tamlin, and that he had declined her. You had already seen what she did to Lucien once, not wanting to know what else she was willing to do.

You wanted to ask Rhys about him when he came back, but it wasn’t the right time. It never was. You kept your concerns for the Autumn Court son hidden, too much going on to voice them. When you found out he and Tamlin had cursed Feyre and her sisters, you felt like you were being split in two.

No, you had thought, locked away in your room. Lucien would never do that. You were crushed when Rhys showed you his memories of the night, showed you Lucien standing next to Tamlin. You felt your heart shatter into a million pieces when he fell to his knees, gasping that Elain was his mate. You cried yourself to sleep that night, and many nights after.

Now it had been some years since those events, and Elain still acted like Lucien was dirt on the ground. You could tell she desired Azriel, your closest friend. This hatched your plan for the coming Solstice.

You had approached Azriel some days before the party, giving him your idea. You were thrilled when he instantly agreed, eyes flickering with the same wicked excitement as yours. If Lucien and Elain wouldn’t admit their feelings for the two of you, you would simply make them so jealous they had to.

That’s what lead you here, sliding yourself on Azriels lap. You loved your friend, but you had never seen him in this way. That’s what made this plan so good, so perfect. You knew you could fuck Azriel and still be in love with Lucien. Not that this would go that far, you didn’t think.

You allowed Azriels fingers to trail up and down your thigh, not hiding the warmth inside you at his touch. You leaned down to whisper in his ear; “Do you see the way he’s looking at us?”, kissing the spot when you were done. Azriel smiled up to you, knowing Elain was looking much the same.

You began to kiss up and down his neck, his hand gripping the top of your thigh. You couldn’t deny that his little groans filled you with heat, but you so desperately wished they were Lucien’s. You made your way up to his lips, allowing his hand to come up into your hair and deepen the kiss. You couldn’t help the initial moan that escaped as his tongue skillfully massaged yours, it having been so long since you were touched like this. Azriel raked his nails across your thigh, a silent Do that again. You allowed more moans to fall from you, realizing it must be driving Lucien insane.

You stopped when you heard the unmistakable sound of someone storming out of the room. You pulled from Azriel, pleased when you saw Lucien was missing. “Mission success, it seems.” You murmured to him, glancing over to an extremely uncomfortable Elain. “You better go help your girl.” You teased, sliding off his lap. He caught your hand, pressing a ‘thank you’ to your knuckles. You smiled, turning to chase after an undoubtedly heated Lucien.

***

You found him in the kitchen, shooting back whatever hard liquor he had found. “Something wrong, Lucien?”, you asked coyly. He whipped around to look at you, shock on his face. You moved closer to him, gaze heavy. “Jealous, perhaps?”, you said, placing a hand on his chest. You could feel his rapid heartbeat under your fingers.

“What are you doing?” He asked gruffly, setting the shot glass down behind him. “You know I can’t be with you, Elain-“.

You cut him off. “Enough with her. Has she even looked at you in the last year?” You couldn’t help the upset tone of your voice. “You need someone who wants you.” You dropped your hand to his belt, pulling his hips flush to yours. “Someone who has always wanted you.”

You watch the internal battle he is having, ever too good of a man. You know he doesn’t want to betray Elain, but is it truly betraying her if she acts like he doesn’t exist? You had waited for him for so many years, cared for him. You would give him a happy life, a life full of love and light. What does Elain have to offer?

Your other hand comes up to trace his arms, traveling up to his neck. You stand on your toes, pressing a barely there kiss to his skin. “Lu,” you cooed, kissing his neck again. “You are too beautiful to be lonely any longer.” You bit down at the end of the words, tongue soothing the mark.

That caused him to lose the war in his mind.

He grabbed your waist, spinning you around to set you on the counter behind him. He knocked your knees apart, stepping between your legs as his hands dropped to pull you tight against him. The heat in your belly tightened when you felt his hard length against you.

“I have waited too long to do this.” He muttered before finally pressing his lips to yours. You opened your mouth to him immediately, years of desire pouring out of you. He brought a hand up to cup your face, taking his time as he kissed you. You tangled one hand in those perfect red strands, wrapping them around your fingers. This felt right, you felt whole.

Lucien increased the heat of the kiss, the hand on your thigh rubbing circles on the skin. You needed him, needed him like you needed air to live. You ground your hips against his, relishing in the soft groan he released. “Do that again,” he spoke against your lips, “and I will fuck you right here, where anyone can see.”

You moaned at his words, not wasting a second as you pushed your hips against him again. The hand on your face moved to your throat, pressing hard enough to cut off oxygen. Lightning shot through you at the heat of it all, at the dominant look in his eyes. “You asked for it.” He growled, the hand on your thigh sliding under your skirt and tracing you over the delicate underwear you had one. You arched into his touch, a soft moan falling from you.

Lucien grinned, pushing his fingers under the lace covering you. He slid them through the wetness pooled there, the evidence of your desire. “Dirty girl,” he purred, dipping his fingertips inside of you. “How many times have you dreamt of me touching you like this?” You whined at his touch and his words, trying to push your hips down onto his fingers. He pulled away at that, tutting at you. “Oh, pretty girl. I have waited decades to have my hands on you. Let me play.”

You snapped at the pure seduction coming from his mouth, fisting his shirt as you dragged his lips back to yours. You kissed him hard, begging for his touch back. He wasted no time in sliding his fingers back to you, bringing them up to circle your clit. You cried out into this kiss, the heat in you building. You felt him smile against your lips as one finger slid inside you. You moaned at the feeling of him, his finger exploring you. “More, Lucien.” You gasped out, other hand coming up to grab onto his back. He obeyed, pushing a second finger into you and curling them deliciously. Moan after moan fell from your lips as he worked you, his thumb coming up to rub you. His tongue was punishing on yours, the years of longing speeding your orgasm up. “Oh, Lu, I’m gonna-“ You mumbled against him, clenching as the pleasure washed over you. Cries fell from you while he pushed you through it, prolonging the feeling as much as possible. You dug your nails into his skin, struggling to remember how to breathe.

He slowed his movements, pulling his fingers from you. He dragged them up to your mouth, tapping your lips. “Suck.” He commanded, pupils blown wide as you obediently pulled his fingers into your mouth. You sucked the taste of you off of them, keeping eye contact the whole time. You licked up his fingers, showing him what you could do to another body part of his. He groaned, throwing his head back as he took his fingers from your mouth. He leaned down to place a kiss to your perfect lips, whispering “Next time” against them.

Lucien dragged you off the counter, flipping you to face it. He put your hands flat on the marble in front of you, kissing behind your ear. “Hands stay here while I fuck you.”

You could have came again at those words alone.

You heard the sound of his belt unbuckling, trying to turn to see him. He grabbed the back of your head, turning you back to the counter. “Patience.” He said, the pain of his hand gripping your hair turning to pleasure. You pushed your ass against him, desperate for him. He chuckled before sliding the tip of him through your wetness. Gods, he felt huge. “Are you ready, my perfect girl?” He asked, waiting for your permission. You nodded quickly, a strained “Yes, please” coming out.

You gasped as he pushed the first few inches in, scratching your nails against the polished marble in front of you. He stretched you in a most delicious way, leaving you begging for more. “Lu, please. More.” you whined out, moaning as he pushed in farther. You thought he must be in by now, back arching when he went even deeper. He was going to destroy you.

Lucien bottomed out, staying still for a moment. You cried out, “Move, Lucien. Please.” He pulled you up by your hair, the other hand coming to push on your stomach to keep you close. He pulled out all the way, thrusting his full length back in in one move. You gave a scream, hand falling to hold onto the arm in front of you. Lucien growled in your ear, lost in the pleasure of being inside you.

He fucked into you hard, eating up the moans and cries you let out. His hand slid down to circle your clit again, brining your orgasm closer. “I want you to come with me, my love.” He whispered into your hair, kissing any part of you he could reach. You gave a moan of agreement, feeling seconds away from finishing again. “Wait until I say.” He commanded, quickening his movements on you. You felt ready to snap, fighting hard to keep your orgasm at bay. You whimpered at the effort, body clenching tight around Lucien. His groan in your ear let you know he was close, his thrusts beginning to become sloppy. “Now, love.” He whispered, the fingers on you unrelenting. You came with a scream of his name, feeling him spill into you moments later. His fingers rode you through your high, stopping once you were shaking with overstimulation.

You stood there for a moment, the two of you breathing heavy. Lucien slowly pulled out, you already feeling empty now that he was gone. He moved your underwear back to cover you, straightening your skirts. You turned to face him, fixing his pants back. He looked down at you, eyes connecting with yours. You had a million things to say, forgetting all of them as you stared at him.

He leaned down, kissing you softly. “I’ve loved you for a hundred years.” He whispered, your heart soaring. You smiled up at him, bringing him close. “As have I.” You confessed, happy to not have to hide anymore after so long.

A quiet cough sounded from the entry to the kitchen, catching you attention. You peered over Lucien’s shoulder to see Azriel, a cheeky smirk on his face. He definitely heard all of it. “So I take it our plan worked, then?”

Lucien turned to you, a question in his eyes. You twirled a piece of his hair between his fingers, explaining that you were messing with Azriel to make him jealous. His hands tightened on your waist, the ghost of a smile visible on his lips. He nodded when you were done, turning back to the male in the doorway.

“Thanks for making me realize what a fool I have been,” Lucien began, “but if you touch her like that again, I will snap your arm in half.”

***

i loveeeee some good jealousy !!! please keep leaving feedback and sending requests. i hope you guys enjoyed this one <3

#acotar #acotar x reader #lucien vanserra #lucien x reader #lucien x you #lucien x y/n #jealousy jealousy #lucien vanserra smut

[exinewine]

I'm convinced that the mating bond makes Elain FERAL. Now hear me out... the only person she treats completely different is Lucien. All the night court members were there when she was turned Fae, including Azriel, so the whole "Lucien was there during her most traumatic moment" doesn't make sense to me. I think Elain is used to being prim and proper and totally in control, and the mating bond, as we've seen with Nesta and Feyre, makes them feel the total opposite of that. It was clear to me that this was the case when Elain was pleading with Graysen ("love of her life") to take her back but still managed to say "his name is Lucien" when Graysen said he was "some Fae male". Like you better put some respect on his name 😄

#idk just my theory #you better put some respeck on his name #feral elain ready to throw hands out of jealousy when someone looks at her man is my personal fantasy lol #lucien is baby #lucien vanserra #lucien #acotar #pro lucien vanserra #elain archeron #elucien #acotar theories

[ellievickstar]

Looking At Me 😎 (Eris x Reader)

A/N: I wanted to do something more fun after two days of sadness. This is Day 4 of my 300 follower series. I forgot to post yesterday cause I fell asleep T^T, it’s okay, at least i finally have a healthy sleep schedule. :D (that’s a lie)

Summary: When you and Eris are arguing about who is more attractive, you show off your looks at the party and he gets jealous. 

Pair: Eris Vanserra x Reader

Request: N/A

Inspiration: Looking at me by Sabrina Carpenter 

Warning:  If you find trying to flirt around annoying do not read this. If you don’t like trying to show off one’s looks don’t read. If you don’t like arguing don’t read. If your don’t like jealousy or possessiveness, DO NOT READ. 

~*~*~*~*~

You scoffed as what Eris said finally soaked in. Don’t worry their all looking at me. If he thinks anyone is looking at him, that was about to change. You let your hair down as it slipped out of it’s braids. You ran a finger through your hair as you laughed as one of your friends spun you around, catching the attention of some males. 

Smiling, you danced to the beat of the music as it turned more wild as the night continued. You laughed and danced with friends and…others as you became the light of the party. What you failed to notice however, was how Eris glowered as you approached him. 

“I told you, they’re looking at me!” You shouted over the music and laughed as you were once again pulled into the crowd, leaving Eris to deepen his frown. Fine…you wanted to play, he’d play. 

He strut onto the crowded dance floor as he allowed himself to let loose a bit. Of course, he had his guard up, but he allowed himself to…enjoy. Though, he couldn’t quite dance with anyone without thinking about you, a few spontaneous lines thrown around here and there, and females were practically throwing themselves at him.

You had noticed this and frowned as he came behind you and whispered, “I think I could teach you a thing or two,” You glared at him as he chuckled and strolled towards to the group of females that were practically tripping over themselves at the sight of him. You huffed before a plan popped into your mind, making you smile deviously. 

You circled the room and looked around as you saw a group of males eying you. You rolled your eyes, approaching them. 

“Come on, don’t just stand there and stare, try to move your feet,” You nudged as you spun around, tugging on one of their arms, they laughed and followed you, keeping their eyes on you as more males began to pay attention, and females. You smiled as you thanked your younger self for snaking out so often for modern dance classes. 

“Did I catch your attention? You look like you lost your breath…” You giggled as you walked past Eris, his eyes narrowing. He didn’t budge until someone tried to grab your waist for what was the hundredth time, storming towards you as he grabbed your arm and yanked you away, bringing you to an alleyway. 

You pushed him off as you glared at him. 

“What the hell Eris! I was having fun,” You tried to push against him but he had you pinned against the wall behind you. He growled as you pushed you, his hand around your throat as he growled into your ear, “They might be looking at you, but remember, you are mine.” 

~*~*~*~*~ A/N: Damn. Did I just…seduce myself? Wow. 

Taglist:  @moonfawnx @bankerfrog @younxii @starlit-terror @flightlesslittlebirdie @menagerofmischief @famousbasementpainter@owllover123 @aroseinvelaris @gigisssz 

#eris acotar #eris vanserra #eris x reader #reader #looking at me #acotar #autumn court #jealousy trope #fae reader #eris #eris fluff

[lgnite-me]

Ookay. Well. I did it. I wrote my idea out instead of doing my homework. Oops. Oh well no regrets.

Summary: Right after their mating, Elain unknowingly brings an old frined to the House of Wind and Cassian goes feral. A little smutty at the beginning, cute nessian, a little bit of post-acosf plot, and jealous/possesive Cassian! (since we were robbed in acosf)

Word count: ~2500

Author’s note: this is barely edited and i have never written smut before so pls be kind :) also i am still working on other prompts this one was just screaming at me. Also pls note i am not an elriel stan nor am i an elucien and gwynriel stan. I am a stan for whatever makes the characters happiest and was literally just following the post plot of acosf so pls dont come after me. Ok enjoy!

————————————————————————

Lying next to her, more like on top of her, Nesta stared at her mate in wonder. She never knew the kind of peace and joy she currently felt, lying there with him. Just last night she and Cassian had been mated, and their night together had been thorough. She had whispered to him how she loved him over and over and he had reverently worshiped her body in return. He had returned the sentiment to her in words, but the way he knew to express his love was through physical touch, and she more than felt it last night.

“I can feel you staring,” Cassian murmured, with his eyes still closed.

“I was just admiring,” she replied. Cassian’s eyes opened at that, and in them she saw the love and lust shining through. She kissed his lips softly, then his jaw, slowly moving her way down his body showing him how much she admired it. Cassian groaned when she reached his cock and took him in her mouth.

“Nesta”, he groaned. He gently gathered up the loose hair with his hand as she continued to suck until he came with a groan, yelling her name. She looked up at him with a gleam in her eye as she wiped her mouth, and licked her fingers. He pulled her up to him, kissing her thoroughly, as he began to return the favor. Nesta moaned at his thoroughness as he went down on her, licking her clean. When she began to temple from her incoming climax, she shouted his name to the ceiling, praying that they were alone in the house. She expected they were, as no one was foolish enough to get in between mates during a frenzy. Afterwards, they both lay there as they held each other closely and once more drifted off to sleep.

**

Elain knew they thought her weak. That all she did was garden, but gardens made her happy and who was to deny themselves the pleasure of doing something they enjoyed. Lifting a flower out of one of her pots, she gently turned it around to admire the pink petals and bright green leaves before carefully putting it into the soil next to the other plants.

“There”, she thought. The row was perfect now, and she was satisfied with taking a short break now. Honestly, she was starving, having forgotten to stop and eat since she’d gotten so consumed in making the perfect row of flowers.

“Excuse me,” a voice behind her coughed.

Elain whipped around, startled to find a tall, dark haired Illyrian standing there. This wasn’t an Illyrian she knew, but rather one who looked quite cleaned up, except for the slightly crooked nose. Truthfully, he has a bit of a baby face besides the nose, Elain mused to herself. He was wearing the traditional Illyrian leathers, but donned only one, maybe two siphons. Considerably less than Cassian and Azriel.

“Can I help you with something?” Elain asked as she shielded her eyes from the sun to stare up at him. She was wary of this stranger, but he seemed friendly enough that Elaine would first find out what he was looking for.

“Sorry to bother you, but I was looking for High Lord Rhysand’s house?” He nervously shuffled his feet, and Elain couldn’t help but smile to herself at how skittish he looked. He didn’t even really look at her while he was speaking. Elain couldn’t help but like him.

“I’m sorry, what did you say your name was?”

“Sorry. Balthazar.” he reached out his hand to her, and Elain took it with faint amusement.

“I’m looking for the High Lord, as he asked me here to do something for him.”

He still had the nervous look about him, but the name registered in Elain’s mind. Balthazar…

Suddenly, it came to Elain, and she gasped before exclaiming, “You're the one who was in the rite with Nesta weren’t you?”

“Nesta Archeron? Erm, yes, that was me.”

Elain smiled brightly, glad to have remembered. She couldn’t wait to tell Nesta, as a matter of fact, she would surprise her by bringing him to her.

“You know, I bet she would love to see you,” Elain grinned to herself. Nesta would be so excited to see the male who had helped her during the rite again.

“Oh. Well, I-I suppose if she was available. I wondered how she fared after I left her. Sure, I’d like that.”

“Great!” Elain clapped her hands excitedly. “Come on, they’re just that way.” She pointed up at the House of Wind and Balthazar followed her finger, eyeing it as though sizing it up. He held out a hand for her.

“I assume we need to fly,” he stated as she took a hold of his hand.

“Yes, but it's fairly easy for a person with wings.”

Balthazar cracked a small smile at that as he picked her up off the ground and shot into the sky.

**

Landing on the balcony of the House of Wind, it was eerily quiet. Balthazar had never seen such a building, built into the side of a mountain the way it was. He had just received the summons from his High Lord, and had eagerly flown down to Velaris for a meeting. Having run into the small girl who smelled and looked like sunshine had been an odd but welcome surprise. He had been curious to know how the two females he had helped in the rite had fared, and now he was about to find out.

“Hello?” Elain called out as they stepped further into the house. “Is anybody there?”

Elain turned back to him. “They just had their mating ceremony last night, so they have to be here.”

“They just had their…” Balthazar couldn’t believe what he was hearing. She had brought him here right after a mating?!

“Nesta and Cassian,” she replied matter of factly. “You know him as the General Commander.”

Balthazar's eyes widened in recognition, body tensing to flee, but before he could react there was a large force slamming him against the wall.

**

Cassian woke to the sound of a voice calling out. He carefully looked around the room to make sure there was no immediate threat to his mate, and once assured there was no pressing threat, he listened more intently outside the room. Voice, two of them, one male and one female. His instincts coiled at that, at the potential threat to his mate. He looked over at her still carefully sleeping and sighed. If they had woken her…

Watching her sleep so thoroughly soothed his male instincts, and he slowly got up off the bed, careful not to wake her. Pulling on a pair of loose pants, he grabbed two of his sharpest daggers, and exited the room, throwing up a sound shield so that whatever he was about to do wouldn’t disrupt her peaceful slumber. As Cassian prowled along the corridor, careful not to make any noise, the smell of the two intruders grew stronger and stronger. The male.. well he was dead now. All Cassian could see was red, at the thought of the male so close to Nesta’s vicinity and for the fact that he could have woken her. Finally making it to the two, he slammed the male into the wall. The female with him started screaming. What she was screaming he had no idea. Maybe his name. He was too lost in his bloodlust to care.

**

Rhys was staring down a pair of hazel green eyes for who knew how many fucking times it had been. He was starting to get really pissed off. Actually, he was already pissed off and this conversation had just made him angrier. Azriel refused to back down and stared right back at him, the two locked in a battle of silent, stubborn wills.

“I told you, she needs to be left alone,” Rhys grit out.

“And I told you, I don’t fucking care what you said. She came to me and wanted to talk. I wasn’t going to fucking refuse.”

“Well next time -” Rhys was cut off by a voice calling to him in his mind.

Rhys! Help! Please, the female was almost sobbing at him, clawing at his mind shields.

Elain, he recognized and lowered them so their communication line was open.

What’s going on? He asked with alarm.

Cassian is going to KILL HIM, she screamed back.

Kill who? Now Rhys was even more alarmed. Show me what you’re seeing.

Suddenly an image popped into his mind. It was what Elain was seeing, and it wasn’t pretty. They were in the House of Wind and there were broken pieces of glass and furniture littered across the room. Elain was huddled underneath one of the few remaining pieces of furniture while Cassian and a male Rhys faintly recognized were destroying the room left and right as Cassian chased the shorter one with his daggers. There was a bloodthirsty look in his eyes, a predatory one, and Rhy realized that with everything happening with Azriel, he had forgotten about the situation his other brother was in. One in which he would try and beat up any male who got in the way of his mating. That was supposed to be Rhy’s job, payback from his own mating frenzy.

Please help, Elain whimpered.

I’ll be right there, Rhys soothed before quickly showing Azriel, whose eyes widened in recognition of what was happening. Rhys quickly shut the link right before Feyre walked into his office.

“Elain just asked me to go help her stop Cassian from killing someone, what is going on.” she pressed with a not so amused look. She raised her eyebrows in the most adorable way, but Rhys didn’t have time to stop and admire.

Come on, we have to go to the House of Wind.

Well, what happened then?

You’ll see when we get there, tell Amren to come watch Nyx and then we can go.

Feyre’s eyes widened before quickly sending a message to Amren. Rhys picked her up, with Azriel following suit as they shot off to the House of Wind.

**

When they got there, it looked like every piece of the house had been thoroughly destroyed. Except, of course, for the one Elain was hiding under. Before Rhys could react Azriel hurried over to her side with Feyre in tow to help calm her down. Rhys looked around, but before he could start to go look for them, a body was slammed into the wall next to him. Jerking towards the commotion, he saw Cassian in full battle-mode, ready to kill. Honestly, he would be surprised if the male wasn’t already dead. Then he realized that the male was Balthazar, the Illyrian he had summoned to do some business with, due to his involvement with Nesta’s rite.

“Shit”, he mumbled before grabbing Cassian and hauling him off the Illyrian.

Cassian struggled against him, landing a few punches before he was able to get a good grasp on him.

“CASSIAN,” he shouted “CASSIAN STOP”

Cassian did not stop. He kept fighting like a male possessed, and before Rhys knew it he was on his back with an angry Cassian glaring down at him.

“Fuck”, Rhys mumbled. His head had been thoroughly bashed in. He had forgotten the fact that in hand-to-hand Cassian used to and still could wipe the floor with him. It was part of why he had made him General, and how they had started their relationship.

Fitting, he thought amusingly. Then his head was slammed into the floor and he wasn’t so amused anymore.

Before he had time to regroup another body was slamming into Cassian’s. Rhys tumbled to the side to sit up and saw Azriel grappling with Cassian on the floor.

“Mating bond chafing, Cass?” he asked with a smirk. Under Azriel, Cassian growled at his remark, but really, Rhys thought, he had to do it. Looking over to Feyre, he saw her still trying to sooth Elain, while in the corner the male, who was definitely still alive thank the Gods, was grumbling in pain and clutching his stomach.

Why isn’t she out here? he shot to Feyre.

He has a sound shield around their room. Probably didn’t want to disturb her.

Rhys rolled his eyes. How kind of him. Break it, please, and get her out here.

All he got in return was a slight nod and the bond closed off. Before he knew it he was back in the heat of the fight, as Cassian seemed to need both of them to keep him down and get his energy out.

**

Nesta awoke to a prodding in her head. Groggily, she opened her eyes before realizing it was inside her head and gently lowered her shields, wary of who she was potentially lettering in.

Nesta, you need to get out here. Now.

Suddenly, there was the loudest crash she had ever heard in her life, shouting, crying and a lot of groaning from what seemed like pain. She shot up in bed and mind linked back to Feyre.

What the hell is going on?

Elain thought you might like to see your old friend Balthazar, but didn’t realize how… adversely Cassian would react. He put up a sound shield around your room, that’s why you didn’t hear anything. Don’t blame her though, she meant well.

Nesta was already out of bed, pulling on Cassian’s shirt.

How long has this been going on? she frantically shot back.

A few hours, I think.

A few HOURS?

Nesta quickly hurried out of their room and down the corridor until she reached the room everyone was currently occupying. It was absolute carnage. The furniture was broken, Elain was hiding under a table crying, with Feyre trying to comfort her, Balthazar was slumped against the wall, and in the corner Rhys and Azriel were trying to wrangle Cassian away from breaking anything, or anyone else. As soon as she entered the room, Cassian stilled and looked at her. She saw the gleam in his eyes, that predatory instinct that had taken over during his fight. They softened when he looked at her, then shot around the room taking in the damage. Slowly, his eyes drifted back to hers with a guilty look, but Nesta simply walked towards him carefully, eyes only on him.

“Cass,” she whispered gently as she held out her hand. Carefully, she placed it on his cheek, Rhys and Azriel having stepped back. As soon as her hand made contact, his eyes fluttered closed and he nuzzled against her palm. Nesta placed her forehead against his as he pulled her in closer, wrapping her up in his wings. Behind them, damage control was being done, but Nesta didn’t care about any of them. All she cared about was the male right in front of her.

Easily, he scooped her up and brought them back to their room. Laying her on the bed, she let him take her while he whispered “mine” roughly in her ear.

“I’m yours Cass,” she reassured, and she felt him shudder with relief. “And you’re mine,” she whispered. At that, he shouted her name and spilled within her, Nesta following right behind. They continued to make love until the sun rose the next morning and they finally drifted of to sleep, content in each other’s embrace.

**

#acotar #acotar fanfiction #acotar headcanon #nessian #cassian #feysand #nesta acotar #fluff #nesta archeron #nesta x cassian #smut #nessian smut #jealousy #jealous cassian #possesiveness #mating bond #post acosf #elain archeron #azriel #mating

[elliemarchetti]

Like Perfume You Wear, I Linger

Drabble inspired by Olivia Rodrigo’s songs obsessed (stream it because it’s good and the MV is funny) and lacy.

Part 2 of Rotten Petals, Rotten Feelings but you don't really need to read it to understand this. Gwyn's POV because in the end, it’s always the girls that suffers when a man is emotionally unavailable.

Words: 656

Gwyn was aware her obsession was unhealthy. She was ashamed to admit how much she thought about that girl she never even met, and she felt guilty in knowing so many personal and useless things concerning her person. She couldn’t stop though, every new, futile detail like a drug. By now, she had found out her star sign and her blood type, she had seen every movie she had starred in, staring at her impeccable and smart characters like she wanted to get hurt, and visited a couple places she had been to.

If she told anyone without providing context, they would think she was enamoured. She even read the books she cited in her captions on Instagram, but she never dared to hit follow, because she was her boyfriend’s ex something. They had never been together, they had only kissed once, but they had slept in the same bed, so she was sure he was, at some point, in love. If she had been a man, or if she had been into girls, she probably would have too: Elain Archeron was a talented, dazzling starlet, with eyes as pretty as the daisies she cultivated, lips plump like ripe cherries, and hips as sexy as Brigitte Bardot’s. Gwyn had tried to rationalize, to tell herself she was just a person and not a goddess made of angel dust that descended on the Hell they called Earth just to get on her nerves, but she failed, and her rotten mind loathed her because she seemed the greatest thing to ever exist.

She despised her jealous eyes and how hard they fell for her, but she had come up with a code name to talk about her with her best friend nonetheless, in case Azriel accidentally stumbled into one of their chats. Lacy, or as Emerie liked to say, Lacy skin-like-puff-pastry. The poor girl didn’t deserve all this bitterness – she even spoke kindly of her, her compliments like bullets on Gwyn’s skin. She knew she was butthurt only because she didn’t deserve her sweetness, and it was all her unresolved issues’ fault, but she could swear she still felt the ghost of her body when she was sleeping in Azriel’s bed, and every time he called her name in the morning, she held her breath, fearing to hear the one of his previous lover.

Truth be told, everyone described her boyfriend as uncharacteristically besotted, and knowing they had both moved on and they surprisingly didn’t talk anymore, she should’ve stopped worrying, but they also kept repeating how Elain was the life of every fucking party, and they kept remarking how easy-going and never controlling she was, and it was inevitable that she was still friend with his friends – two of them were with her sisters – but their chatter unknowingly made her upset and unable to get over it.

“Do you ever think about her?” she had asked one night, on the way home, to her unassuming boyfriend. Azriel had taken a fraction of a second too long to answer, and Gwyn, stomach all in knots, had quickly told him that it was fine if that was the case, that she didn’t care, but the reality was she wanted to know everything, if he regretted never having pushed the relationship further, if he ever imagined a future with her, whether he had idealized what they had and if she would ever be enough. It was taking over her life, and she started to see her beautiful enemy wherever she went, the sweetest torture she could bear. “You’re losing it,” her sister had told her one day, when she had found her stalking her TikTok page for the umpteenth time. Maybe it was true, but she once had the only thing she wanted, and even if it was Gwyn and not Elain who was Azriel’s girlfriend now, something told her he had left her a piece of his heart forever.

#gwynriel #past elriel #gwyn has issues and she's not working on them #she should just drop azriel and befriend elain really #but she's not ready for this take #i hope i did a good job portraying envy and jealousy because i'm like the least jealous person on earth #and not in a pick me way #it genuinely destroyed a couple relationships and friendships i had in the past because people thought i didn't care about them #i do care #maybe too much #i'm just not possessive and i don't want what other people have #not seriously #anyway #azriel shadowsinger #gwyneth berdara #elain archeron #acotar drabbles

[obsessedwithallthingsbookrelated]

This is set in the ‘Change is good’ universe. Basically a one shot- where Nestas still living her best independent life and then Cassian catches her out on a date with another male.

This is at request of @bittermuire Thank you for the prompt! (I’ve changed it a little so its a bit more relaxed and flirty because all I do is write angst now haha)

https://href.li/?https://archiveofourown.org/works/40911090

She knew he was watching.

He always was.

But this wasn’t like the other times, when she would pick a male at random and drag them back to her apartment with her. It was always a blur of sweat and hands and whiskey tainted breath.

She had hated it. But it kept her mind off of other things.

The male standing in front of her now was not like the others.

Jarek was handsome, he was sweet but a little soft and she supposed he was funny. She hadn’t slept with him yet, she wanted to take things slow, build a connection. She wanted it to be different this time.

They had been out to dinner three times already and Nesta was enjoying his company. It was nice, to be wanted. To be liked.

So she let him walk her home, they had paused outside of the apartment buildings main door and he was looking at her. She knew that look, he was going to kiss her.

He leaned slowly towards her, his eyes closed.

Not exactly the most passionate move but what the hell, she hadn’t been touched in over a year.

Then she saw it, a shadow out of the corner of her eye. It was getting bigger, almost like it was coming towards them.

Dammit.

She couldn’t stop the galloping of her heart at the sight of him. She knew he had been watching.

Because he always was.

A tiny still bitter part of her had wanted him to witness this. Her moving on. But then she saw his stupid face.

His mouth was pulled down in a tight frown, his eyes were dark and they promised nothing but violence when they looked at Jarek, who had flinched and ducked behind Nesta for protection.

Cassian smirked.

Anger bubbled inside of here. What the hell did he think he was doing.

‘’What the hell are you doing here Cassian?’’ she snapped.

He shrugged, casually, but those dark eyes remained focused on Jarek. Whose hands had went to Nestas waist.

She saw his jaw clench. His hands were fists at his side.

‘’I was just out for a stroll,’’ he replied.

‘’A stroll?’’ she snorted. Crossing her arms over chest she raised one perfectly plucked eyebrow at him. ‘’Shouldn’t you be hanging upside down in a tree somewhere? It’s night time,’’ she taunted. Jarek would probably burst into tears if she teased him like that.

Cassians eyes narrowed but his lips twitched, hiding that grin she had missed.

‘’Your right sweetheart, it is quite late isn’t it?’’ he looked at Jarek then, who had paled slightly as the general stretched out his ridiculously enormous wings. ‘’Shouldn’t you be fucking off now?’’ he snarled at the cowering male.

Jarek fled at the sound.

Cassian glared after him, like he was thinking of chasing him down.

‘’How dare you! You have no right interfering in my love life Cassian,’’ she hissed. She turned on her heel and walked towards the main door. She was seething.

‘’Love life,’’ Cassian laughed but it was hollow. ‘’That male was pathetic, he wasn’t worthy of standing that close to you, never mind anything else.’’

She paused, turned her head to look at him. She wanted to slap him. She wanted to kiss him. She needed to go inside.

‘’That’s not up to you Cas,’’ she murmured.

His face softened at the nickname. His hands clenched and unclenched. Like he was trying to distract himself. Form what she didn’t know.

She was still staring at him.

He tilted his head at her and grinned. She hated that grin. She loved that grin. She was going to do something stupid.

She spun quickly and darted inside.

She heard him chuckling as she sprinted up the stairs to her apartment.

#nessian #nessian fanfiction #nesta and cassian #nesta archeron #acosf #acotar #pro nesta #jealousy

[sapaul]

I’ll be honest - I really don’t care to read about gwyn or Lucien because all I care about at this point is azriel and Elain but I do love me some jealousy troupe sooo…

#the struggle is real #jealousy troupe #azriel and elain #elriel #azriel #azriel shadowsinger #azriel supremacy #elain archeron: general #elain archeron #azlain #elain x az #acotar #pro elain archeron #acotar 5 #elain #pro elriel #elain archeron stan account #pro azriel #pro elain

[safetypinxtales]

Lonely with you | Azriel

summary: it seems like everyone's found their mates, except you. On a sleepless night you turn to your friend, in hopes that being alone, together, will feel slightly less lonely.

words: 1.5k

warnings: fluff, feelings of loneliness, thirsting over our boy az and his thighs, kind of just a drawn out drabble, some angst, generally just softness, Azriel with a book needs a warning in and of itself, very slight jealousy, neutrally described reader/no reader description, no use of y/n, PINING

notes: haven't written in years, and never befor for Azriel, or anyone from acotar, so bare with me. Not sure what I think of this, nor what the future might hold, but I had some time off uni and this idea that I just couldn't seem to get out of my head. Hope you enjoy it nonetheless!

part 2

You knew what picture was waiting for you in the living room of the House before you even rounded that corner. The distinct sound of pages turning, the hint of whiskey in the air, and him. 

That scent that was just so distinctly Azriel it almost made you forget that echoing emptiness in your chest. 

The sight that greeted you as you entered the room belonged in a museum, or at the very least at the front of some Day Court scribe’s lecture hall, being studied by the brightest minds in Prythian. You wanted to commission Feyre to paint it from your memories so it could be immortalized, even if just for your eyes. Because by the Gods, it was mesmerizing. 

Azriel sat – no, sprawled across one of the couches, those thick, muscled, sweatpant-clad thighs so deliciously, invitingly, teasingly spread apart. The book in his hand was not one you recognized, but then his taste in literature was slightly more… sophisticated than yours. But that just made it all so much more enticing didn’t it? The thought of this gorgeously dark, winged male consuming deep, meaningful art? It would make any sane person fall to their knees. 

The hazel of his eyes didn’t show any sign of surprise as his gaze met yours. He knew you were coming, most likely courtesy of the shadows leisurely curling around his shoulders. Cauldron, was he a sight…

… And your friend. Unfortunately.

“Are you just going to stand there all night or will you eventually move?” Right, right. How long had your feet been rooted to the floor? Judging by the humorous tone of his voice and that boyish sparkle in his eyes, probably a tad too long. 

Forcing your body to take a step, and another, you tried to think of something – anything to say. 

“Sorry, I–... I just didn’t expect you to be here is all,” liar, “I guess you caught me by surprise”. It wasn’t the best excuse in the world, but with the situation at hand it could have been a lot worse. Like, a lot. Besides, it’s not like you could have told him the truth.

Sorry Azriel, it’s just that I have been desperately yearning for you for the last couple of years and seeing you like this, looking all boyfriend-y, has me nearly swallowing my own tongue because of how perfect you look. I am just humiliatingly obsessed with every single little thing you do, as well as horrifyingly lonely to a default. In a non creepy way, of course. 

… You would rather free-dive off the dining room balcony before ever admitting that to him. 

His brows furrowed as he observed you, like he could see the lie written across your face, before humming lightly, almost as to himself. He reached a hand out to the glass resting on the coffee table and brought it to his lips, taking a sip of the amber liquid inside. Your eyes were trained on his mouth as he lowered the glass. Trained on the candlelight reflected in the alcohol wetting his lips. Those shiny, pouty, full–

His tongue slipped out and delicately swiped across his lower lip, licking off the remnants of the whiskey from the glass in his hand, and it took everything in you to not whimper at the sight. 

Cauldron boil you.

Needing something to ground yourself, you made your way over to pour yourself a glass of whatever Azriel was drinking and collapsed beside him on the couch, trying to roll that stubborn stiffness out of your shoulders.

”Can’t sleep either?” He asked you on a slight chuckle. 

“No, not with them going at it like bunnies,” you sighed, “how is it even possible for Cassian to… you know? I mean, not only is it day after day, but all night, non-stop? You need– I mean not you specifically, I don’t know anything about your sexual habits, just– just males in general,” oh Gods, “you– you need to rest, at some point – right?”

Azriel took in your flustered state, and pursed his lips as if to keep from laughing. His amusement did not help your case at all, only making the heat crawl further up your neck, your ears positively aflame. 

“I guess the mating bond has its perks,” he surmised, and you couldn’t escape the huff that exited your nose. 

That damned mating bond. The very one the Mother seemed to be handing out left to right lately, to everyone except you. And Azriel. But unlike you, he was a damn catch and could have anyone he’d like. 

“Am I an absolute wench for being jealous of Nesta? And Elain? And Feyre?” You whined as you threw your head back on the couch.

“Not at all,” Azriel’s raspy voice comforted you, easing the tightness in your stomach. You still felt like one though; Nesta was your best friend and you were happy for her, but still–

“It’s just so unfair! They were born like, yesterday! I have been suffering through a mostly miserable existence for over five centuries now and I have never even come close to a connection like they have,” you rolled your neck, “I am over the moon for them, don’t get me wrong, and I hate to make their happiness about me–“

“But being alone around people who… aren’t, can be very lonely,” Azriel finished and your heart clenched as you looked at him. Beautiful, kind, caring Azriel. One of your best friends, and the male you were hopelessly, devastatingly in love with. 

Knowing he, too, was hurting was painful in itself, but also slightly comforting. Knowing you weren’t alone in your loneliness. 

“You’re in pain,” he mumbled, and you opened your mouth to answer, but you couldn’t. Because it wasn’t really a question was it? “Your shoulders,” he noted, “they’re tense.”

“Oh, it’s fine, really. Nothing to worry about, just a small kink,” you tried to brush it off, but he looked at you with such intensity it made your whole body tingle.

“No it’s not,” it was like he could see right through you, “No, you have been worrying your neck ever since you sat down.” He pondered a moment before he sat up a little straighter beckoning for you to move closer. “Come on, let me help you with that.”

Your mouth fell open. 

Was he insinuating he wanted to rub your back? Your half naked, barely-nightgown-clad back. With his hands. Those magical, beautiful hands. Oh Gods.

Your attempt of a protest died in your throat at the slight raise of his eyebrows. He was not to argue with.

He marked the page he was on and placed his book down on the table in front of you, his eyes not straying from you once. Like he was afraid you would bolt if he looked away, even just for a second. 

In his defense, you very well might have.

A shaky breath released from your lungs as you put your glass down and readjusted your position on the couch until you were situated between his legs. With your back facing him, you carefully pulled your hair over one shoulder to give him better access, trying to block out the thoughts of how incredibly warm those bite-able thighs of his were.

The warm calluses of his hands on your skin set you ablaze, and as he carefully started to massage out the knots in your upper back you swore you could have melted, then and there. 

You couldn’t help leaning in to his skillful touch. You also couldn’t help the breathy groan that escaped you as he started to work on a particularly tense area. 

Or how your heart rate picked up as you heard what you swore was Azriel’s breath hitching in response. 

You basked in the intimacy of the moment, fully enjoying all of his undivided attention. 

The gesture, the moment, it all felt so domestic and comforting that the constant emptiness in your chest started to close over. Even if just for now. Even if it was all borrowed; a lovely, elusive fantasy – you let yourself feel whole. 

You barely registered his hands slowing to a stop, or the new found looseness in your shoulders. Barely registered as his hands slid down your arms and slowly tugged you back towards his chest. 

Not until you were engulfed in his warmth, his arms wrapped around you did you realize how well you fit together.

Like two pieces of a puzzle.

“Be lonely with me tonight,” his breath tickled your ear, “please.”

You knew it probably wasn’t wise. That tomorrow, when all of this would be gone, the hurt would resurface. The loneliness even heavier than before. But you couldn’t get yourself to care. To tell him no. Tell yourself no.

Instead you burrowed deeper in his embrace, closed your eyes, and even if just for tonight, you let his warmth fill the void in your chest. 

Until that void had been replaced by a vibrating, golden, glow.

#acotar #azriel x reader #azriel x you #azriel fluff #azriel acotar #azriel shadowsinger #a court of thorns and roses #azriel fanfic #azriel imagine #lonely with you

[illyrian-dreamer]

Changing Shadows (Part 5)

Azriel x Reader

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

The Inner Circle are reunited as everyone returns from their missions to Velaris.

You celebrate with a night of drinking at Rita’s, and drunkenly dare to do what it takes to make the Shadowsinger jealous.

Jealous and protective Azriel, semi-smut, Morrigan fluff

Image by koike9023

Warnings: Alcohol, semi-smut, mild violence

ACOSF spoilers ahead!

Word count: 1,253

Part 5:

∇

Feyre had sent word on behalf on her and Nesta that rehabilitation in the human lands were progressing well, and they should be home come Friday. 

She had also scolded Rhys to not be so ‘overbearing and mother-hen like’ towards me, as she heard of what happened through their bond. She always took your side, even when you didn’t deserve it.  

Mor and Amren had returned from their trip at Dawn Court, the later grumpier than usual as she sought out the privacy of her own apartment, and Mor waltzed in with a new gown and jewels coloured a dusty dawn pink, courtesy of a little shopping spree she told you.

“We missed you,” you said, swaying in her hug.

“Rita’s, Friday night,” she announced to everyone, pointing around the room as if she would punish you if you didn’t attend.

“Are you sure you’ll be done riding Varian by then, Amren?” Cassian teased before she could escape.

“Watch it boy,” she snarled. “We’ll be there,” she nodded to Mor, leaving without a goodbye.

“Excellent!” Mor clapped. She pulled your hands to her room, babbling about her recent trip. “I’m thinking I will wear my newest gown from Dawn. Oh, and you must see what I bought you, I’m hoping we can tailor it to fit your wings?”

You laughed, she spoiled you like a true Aunt.

Your eyes met Azriel’s as Mor pulled you along, your gaze locked as he stood still, shadows swirling as if hiding something. You hadn’t spoken much outside of pleasantries since the conversation on the terrace, but his eyes blazed in a way you couldn’t understand.

Mor shut her bedroom door, casting a quick sound glamour. She spun around immediately, eyes narrowing on you.

“What. Was. That?”

“Hmm?” you questioned, unaware she noticed anything.

“That stare! That look! Did something happen between you and Azriel?”

You blinked. “No? I mean yes-” Mor gasped. “No, not like that, it’s been weird, I-”

You couldn’t even finish your sentence before she squealed in delight. “Ugh, finally!”

“Finally?”

“Yes, finally, Y/N,” Mor tapped her foot, as if fed up with your naivety. “We all know Azriel is... particularly fond of you. And maybe you are of him?” she guessed bravely, moving your dark long hair off your shoulders.

“I... I’m not sure what he feels,” you admitted. “He’s mostly just...protective.”

“I have a theory,” she replied, fussing over her blond locks in her vanity mirror before turning to you again. “That is the only way Azriel feels safe to love someone.”

You chewed your cheek. It was a bold claim, but Mor knew Azriel in a different way to you.

“Ok,” she strode to her tall closet. “What pretty little thing will we dress you in on Friday?” she asked more to herself, dramatically flinging open the closet doors.

——

Friday came quickly, and spirits were high as the Inner Circle were united again.

Feyre had chosen a midnight blue gown, flowing with femininity around her baby bump. Mor wore her trademark red, while you wore a gown of pure pearl that gently glittered as it plunged down your to your midriff, the back of the dress practically non-existent. Revealing but exciting, and a gorgeous contrast for your dark hair, Mor explained. You looked in the mirror, she wasn’t wrong.

Rita’s was always a hoot, and before long each and every one of you were considerably drunk. 

You looked around at your family, Rhys and Feyre had retired early so she could rest. Cassian teased Nesta in the corner of the booth, her spirits lifted by the music. Amren was sitting on Varian’s lap, arms draped across his neck with a glass of wine as she smiled in her feline way while he muttered something in her ear.

Azriel and you were engaged in a conversation, he let you go on and on about a book you had read on the history of Illiryian weaponry. Drunken words flowed from you as you spoke with passion, Azriel watching with a relaxed smile.

You cut off your long winded sentence, catching him. “What are you smiling at?” you pestered, nudging his knee with yours.

He pressed his lips and shook his head, but the smile remained.

“Shots!” Mor shouted, carrying a tray of deep green liquid to your booth. Someone groaned, someone clapped.

“They say this is stuff will make you spill all your secrets,” Mor said, holding her shot high and inspecting the liquid.

“Just like Truth Teller,” you winked towards Azriel, your family laughing.

The liquid warmed your blood, and Mor pulled you by the hands to come dance with her.

You reached back to Az, begging him to join you. He crossed his arms and shook his head, waving a sarcastic goodbye as Mor pulled on you.

Prick.

Laughing and spinning to the music, you fell into the rhythm with the other party-goers at Rita’s.

Particularly, a handsome blonde male.

He grabbed your hand and spun you round and round, you laughed in delight, intoxicated and free.

You could have sworn you felt the cold jealousy of Azriel’s shadows as he stared from the booth. Too bad, you thought, he should have joined you in the first place. A dark part of you enjoyed the fact that he was watching. You drunkenly decided to see how far you could go.

The male was quite charming, and continued to dance and flirt with you throughout the night. You whispered jokes in his ear, and flirted back with no shame. The male was in awe of you.

He suggested you get some fresh air, and you happily agreed, holding his hand as you snuck outside.

Leaning against the the wall of the building, you could feel the thump of the music from inside as you giggled at the male’s joke.

He rested his forearm above your head, leaning down and looking at you.

“Can I kiss you?” he asked.

You blinked up at him flirtatiously. “I don’t even know your name.”

“My name is Merino,” he replied, leaning in further and kissing your neck gently. “Can I kiss you now?”

“Yes,” you breathed, his own breath sending tingles throughout your body.

He grabbed your face, mouths colliding as you hooked your arms around his neck. Between all the comments and teasing with Az, you had built up a lot of tension.

A small moan escaped your lips as the blonde ground his body against yours, his hands trailing your back to your backside, pulling your cheeks to him.

The next thing you felt was a cold rush of air, and a surprised yell sounded from Merino as he was ripped off of you.

Azriel stood between you, his hands trembling.

“Azriel!” You exclaimed in shock, your fingers on your lips where Merino was seconds ago, his kiss lingering.

“Leave,” Azriel growled at the male, his back to you. You could barely see past his shadows which swarmed around him, his stance almost feral, ready to attack. Merino stared for a few seconds, then turned and fled, unprepared to fight the Shadowsinger. A wise choice.

“What in Mother’s name do you think you’re doing?” you fumed, words a bit slurred from the alcohol.

He turned and grabbed you arm without even looking at you. “It’s time to go.”

Sure enough, the group were readying to leave out the front of the bar.

You sulkily agreed, winnowing yourself back to the House of Wind, preparing for the fight you were about to have with Azriel.

--------

Part 6 >>>

AN: Thanks for the support so far <3 If you’d like to join the tag list, just comment or message me :)

#acotar #azriel x reader #azriel acotar #azriel spymaster #azriel shadowsinger #shadowsinger x reader #jealous azriel #acotar jealousy #protective azriel #rhysand sister #acotarfanfic #mating bond #a court of thorns and roses #azriel fluff #azriel angst #acotar fandom #acotar series #shadowsinger #spymaster #azriel fic #azriel fanfic #sarah j maas #acotar headcanon #acotar smut #acotar writing #acotar fluff #acotar x reader #reader insert #acotar angst #acotar pov

[prythianpages]

Lay All Your Love On Me | Cassian x Reader

summary: Cassian is your best friend and best friend’s don’t thirst after one another. Best friends don’t get jealous. Best friends also don’t fall in love with one another. But you did.

warnings: mild angst; smut at the end; basically, mutual jealousy

a/n: this was inspired by ABBA's song. I'm working on a series where I dedicate a song to each of the ACOTAR men and you can find the masterlist here. I feel like this is borderline crack at some points tbh and probably the longest one shot I've ever written. Also, the amount of times I've rewritten this is insane so I hope you like this final version ❤

Adrenaline courses through your veins. The wind becomes your companion, offering a resistance that you always find yourself craving. It caresses your skin, leaving a bittersweet ache. Running is the closest feeling to flying. Though your wings, tucked behind you, remain, they are rendered useless and forever will be. Those sick Illyrian males, paid off by your own brother, made sure of that.

Sometimes, you wish they would’ve just sloughed them off. An Illyrian with no wings is a tragedy but an Illyrian with useless wings is a devastating tragedy. A fate that, unfortunately, all Illyrian females have to endure.

Heated frustration surges within you, spurred on by the luminous blue hues radiating from the siphons encircling your wrists. You shake your head and take deep breaths because you can not let those triggering thoughts win. You can’t let them win. The primal thud of your heart urges you to push forward and–

“Fuck, marry, kill.”

“Cassian,” you nearly hiss, though the flutter in your chest betrays you. 

“Come on,” he says, a grin playing on his lips as he matches your pace. “Me, Az, and Rhys. Go!”

You slow down your pace to shoot him a sidelong glance and pivot, turning to run the opposite direction. Heat rises to your cheeks. You blame it on your exercise. 

“We played this last night.”

Undeterred, Cassian picks up his pace to stay ahead of you, running backwards with ease. “And you didn’t answer me.”

As you both rounded a corner, someone bumped into you. Your steps faltered slightly before you caught your own balance. 

“Oops. Sorry, didn’t–”

The Illyrian male who collided with you didn’t even have time to finish his apology, as insincere as it was. Cassian shoved him, sending the male plummeting to the ground with a growl. You swear you hear him choke on dirt.

“Watch it, asshole.”

When Cassian turns back to you, you arch a brow at him and he gives you a nonchalant shrug. You both know that male intentionally bumped into you. As one of the few Illyrian females who has defied tradition and trained extensively, the disrespect constantly thrown at you is no surprise. Though you’re no longer fazed by it, you can’t say the same for Cassian.

His gaze softens and grin returns, the wind tousling his dark hair as he maintains his backward stride. “Now, where were we?”

“Fine,” you say with a huff.

It’s not in Cassian’s nature to give up. You’ve played this game multiple times, introduced by Mor, with the inner circle on drunken nights. You were always quick with your answers but not this time. Not when your options were three of your close friends and among them, there was one you secretly or maybe not so secretly harbored feelings for.  That and the lack of liquid courage you usually have at your side when playing.

“Fuck Azriel.”

Cassian’s steps come to a stop and so do yours, albeit reluctantly. There’s a glint in his hazel eyes as he looks at you. “I’m going to tell him.”

“Go ahead,” you reply because you don’t care if the Shadowsingers knows. He’s the safest choice of them all and he wouldn’t let this stupid game get to his head unlike Cassian. “You know that’d be your answer too.”

Both you and Cassian share a look because you’re not wrong.

Then, you both are turning your heads to find the Shadowsinger. Azriel stands at the far end of the training grounds, engaged in the rhythmic lifting of weights. Shirtless. The distance between you two and him is vast, rendering any audible communication impossible. However, the subtle play of shadows around his ears catches your attention, and as if sensing your gazes, he turns, narrowing his eyes at both you and Cassian with an uncanny perceptiveness.

Caught red-handed, both you and Cassian turn your heads away. He looks at you again. “So,” he starts once more and you bite back the urge to groan. At this moment, you’re almost inclined to reveal that you’d like to do all three to the Illyrian male in front of you.

 “Who will you be marrying? Me or Rhys?”

It’s as if he heard his name being called. Rhysand prods gently at the shields of your mind and when you allow him in, you know he relayed the same message to Cassian and Azriel. You both head over to the sparring grounds, where Azriel is already waiting for you. He throws a sword to you and then to Cassian.

Cassian wiggles his eyebrows at you suggestively and you slap his arm. He pinches your side in retaliation, a reminder that you’re not going to live this one down. He moves into position and you mirror him.

He lifts his sword, feigning a lunge that you counter with a swift parry. Your movements are both graceful and calculated, a testament to the years of training under his guidance. Meanwhile, Azriel circles around you both, a silent spectator.

Cassian’s strikes intensify, growing more precise every time. Your swords clash, ringing in the air. But despite your skill, Cassian is stronger, more experienced. Seizing an opportune moment, he lunges with a force that sends you stumbling backward. Your sword clatters to the ground as you find yourself seated on the training grounds.

"Did I serve?" Cassian smirks, offering a mock salute, his muscles flexing in a playful display. "Or did I serve?"

He twirls his sword with a flourish, unaware of the glare you shoot his way. With a determined huff, you gather yourself, reaching for your fallen weapon and swiftly rising to your feet. In a strategic move, you deliver a swift kick, sweeping Cassian off his feet and onto his back.

With a triumphant grin, you step forward, placing a boot on his chest to keep him on the ground. You press your weight on him teasingly, knowing that Azriel is not the only one watching you two anymore. Hazel eyes sparkle back at you with a mixture of pride and a subtle undertone, a hint of something more lingering beneath the surface, as your sword hovers just above his neck. It brings forth an unspoken tension between you both and if you hadn’t blinked, you wouldn’t have missed the way Cassian licks his lips as he looks up at you.

"You got served."

Cassian laughs as you drop your sword and lift your boot. You don’t bother to offer him a hand, wanting to bask in your victory as much as possible but much to your dismay, Azriel helps him up.

Thank you for humbling him.

You turn around to see Rhysand. His lips purse, suppressing his amusement. His eyes become unreadable as he dons his High Lord mask. A palpable aura of immense power radiates from him. 

Beside him, stands another male, whose presence commands just as much attention as Rhysand. His skin is a rich brown and hair white. You’ve never met him before but you know who he is as Rhysand had informed you of his visit. It’s why you were conveniently training in Windhaven, despite your preference for the training grounds atop the House of Wind.

The three of you greet Rhysand first before bowing your heads in respect to the High Lord of the Summer Court.

“This is Cassian, general commander of my armies. This is y/n, one of our great Illyrian warriors and this is Azriel, my spymaster. They are all well equipped and are looking forward to working with your soldiers for the next two weeks.”

**

You’ve rarely traveled outside of the Night Court. You weren't a high fae like Mor or Rhysand so you couldn’t winnow and after the clipping of your wings, you couldn’t fly like Cassian or Azriel. So your friends were your main means of transportation and you were looking forward to working with High Lord Nostrus’s soldiers as it was a means for you to get to explore another one of Prythian’s lovely courts.

But now that you’re here, in their training grounds, you’re no longer looking forward to being here for the next two weeks.

Not when one particularly strikingly beautiful female soldier has set her eyes on Cassian and certainly not when there’s an unfamiliar burning resentment in your chest too strong to ignore. It flares every time her gaze or touch lingers too long. By the Cauldron, since when did every woman you see become a potential threat with Cassian? He is your friend.

A reminder that stings as much as the intensity of the burning feeling coursing through you. Though, you’ve never felt this way before, you realize that you’ve been more sensitive in anything Cassian these past couple of months–since starfall. It’s as if he casted a spell on you, one where you can only think about him. He’s your every waking thought and lingers as your final thought before sleep.

The feeling in your chest flares to a blazing fire when you overhear him praise the female soldier and the wooden sword splinters in your grasp, falling to the ground. 

This is going to be a long two weeks.

“Are you jealous?” Azriel muses beside you.

“Me?” You say with a huff, kicking the evidence of the broken sword away. Of course it doesn’t go unnoticed by Azriel, the skilled spymaster. The corner of his lips quirk up but you insist. “Jealous? Never.”

You send an amused Azriel a glare before picking up another practice sword. Determined to not let your jealousy get in the way, you engage yourself in training the small group assigned to you. You were here for a reason and you’d give the soldiers under your command your all.

**

After a full afternoon of training, you were eager to clean the dirt and sweat off your skin. You were also eager to distance yourself as much from Cassian and that female before you did something you’d regret. Your bath worked wonders to ease every tense muscle. If you hadn’t been invited by High Lord Nostrus to dinner, you would’ve basked in the warmth of the water a little longer. The sound of waves crashing soothes you as you make your way to your bed, ruffling your damp hair with a towel.

Nestled adjacent to Cassian's and Azriel's quarters, your room stands vast and breathtaking. It’s also missing an entire wall. In its place, vines adorned with blooming dahlias weave along the room's edges, seamlessly bridging the gap between the interior and the great sea outdoors. 

Your attention gravitates towards the bed, adorned in the softest silks, a sanctuary you can’t wait to sink into. Atop it rests a box, concealing an invitation to dinner and an outfit that differs greatly from your Illyrian leathers.

You find a dress. A pale blue masterpiece with a daring plunging neckline and high slits. You’ve never worn anything like it. The fabric is soft and weightless, its wispy texture feels like a gentle sea breeze caressing your skin with every step. You appreciate that it was backless to accommodate your wings.

Sitting down at the vanity, the jewelry that was in the box sparkles back up at you. You're touched by the High Lord’s gesture but you’re also wary of all his gifts. You settle on the most simplest of jewelry–diamond earrings and a sapphire necklace that reminds you of the siphons you wear. You have three in total but the one wrapped around your wrist is the only one you keep with you at all times. You save the other two for when you’re training or fighting to help you control your power.

As you step out of your room, Cassian and Azriel's eyes are drawn to you. You smile at them in greeting. Cassian's gaze lingers, a silent appreciation etched in every curve and contour he not so discreetly takes in. Warmth prickles at your skin, and an inexplicable spark ignites within your chest in response.

Azriel clears his throat, amused eyes dancing between you two. “Shall we?”

Cassian, as if emerging from a trance, regains his composure and grins at you. He extends his arm and you gratefully hook yours through his as he leads the way down the hall. You notice that he also switched his leathers into something more befitting the Summer court’s warmth. He wears dark navy linen pants that match Azriel’s but unlike the dark shirt the Shadowsinger wears, he chose a lighter colored one. The fabric is nearly see through, offering a teasing peek at the tattoos embellishing his chest and the defined muscles that lie beneath.

You feel his gaze on you as you walk beside him that prompts you to look up at him in question. He takes a moment to respond and finally with a sheepish smile says, “you smell nice.”

“Oh, thanks. I used coconut soap that was left in my bathroom,” you respond, a tinge of confusion and subtle disappointment coloring your words. At least it was an actual compliment unlike last starfall when all he said was “you look different.” Yet, it embarrassingly still had the same effect, leaving you blushing. 

Azriel, walking behind you, can't help but let out a snort. Idiots, he thinks to himself. His shadows agree.

**

There’s a wide assortment of delicious food laid out for you all. Your lips quirk up when you catch the way Cassian’s eyes light up at the sight. You take the seat next to him and Azriel the seat across from you. High Lord Nostrus sits at the head of the table, gesturing for you all to dive in. With a snap of his fingers, the golden chalices in front of you fill with a sweet wine.

“I appreciate you all for your efforts in helping strengthen my armies.”

Cassian’s mouth was full of food and Azriel brought his drink to his lips, not keen on the idea of making small talk with the High Lord. Resisting the urge to roll your eyes at your male companions, you muster a smile and turn to Nostrus instead.

“I believe we should be the ones thanking you for being such a gracious host. As emissaries of our esteemed High Lord, it is our sincere desire that our efforts not only strengthen your armies but also fortify the bonds of alliance between the courts of Summer and Night.”

“Of course.” Nostrus's turquoise eyes study you, and you can feel the weight of his gaze settling on your wings. The instinct to protectively tuck them in tighter behind you flares, a vulnerable self-consciousness settling in. "From my understanding, it is not common for an Illyrian female to train and fight. Am I right?"

“Yes, you are correct. But I am working closely with my High Lord to rectify that.”

Cassian, sensing your unease, swallows his food, and a reassuring hand finds its place on your thigh, offering a comforting squeeze. You're familiar with Cassian's expressive and caring nature through touch. However, his simple and sweet gestures, such as the way he’s touching your thigh right now, sends your heart racing instead.

"I watched you from afar this afternoon. You took down some of my best soldiers with ease," Nostrus remarks, and a gentle breeze from the nearby sea courses through the open dining room, sending a shudder through your wings. His perceptive eyes catch the movement. "Your wings are different."

The hand on your thigh tightens, mirroring the constriction in your throat.

"High Lord–" Cassian begins, a subtle warning threaded through his otherwise light tone.

Nostrus raises his hand. "I mean no harm. Truly." 

His gaze remains fixed on you as he continues, "As you see, we pride ourselves on every soldier, regardless of gender. Anyone who swears loyalty to this court is held in great esteem. I protect them as much as they would protect my court. While I do not know your story, I now know your worth, and if the Night Court is not able to appreciate you, then–"

"The Night Court appreciates her just fine," Cassian interrupts, a protective edge slicing through his words. He hates Nostrus’s accusatory tone and ignores the warning look Azriel sends his way.

You place a hand over Cassian’s but keep your eyes on Nostrus. “You flatter me, High Lord,” you manage to say with a smile. “Though my scars may say otherwise, I can assure you that my High Lord treats me well. In fact, High Lord Rhysand is working on banning the practice of clipping wings so our future generations will not know the horrors enacted under previous rulers…”

**

Your wings, draped behind you, bear the burden of your trauma–the betrayal of your brother. You hate how sensitive you are at the mere mention of them. You wipe hastily at your eyes. Cassian, who refused to part ways with you at your door, stands silently beside you. Your haunting memories store themselves back into the depths of your mind as his movements catch your attention. It’s strange but comforting, the way he always knows when you don’t want to talk and are in need of a distraction instead.

But your cheeks heat up because you’re unsure if this distraction is a good idea. “What are you doing?”

“What does it look like I’m doing?” Cassian grins at you as he continues stripping himself of his clothes. “I’m going for a swim.”

He winks at you as he kicks his pants off, leaving him in only his boxer briefs that are clinging to him in a way that makes your mouth nearly water. You pull your gaze away, hating the way your mind wants to drift to devious thoughts because you know what lies underneath. You’ve seen him in his full glory far too many times than you’d like to admit–each one of them on accident.

Your heart flutters madly against the fragile cage of your chest and you press a hand against it as if that would do anything to ease your racing heart. Because Cassian is your best friend and best friend’s don’t thirst after one another. Best friends also don’t fall in love with one another. 

But you did.

He was your mentor before he became your friend and each passing year since then seemed to usher in a quiet surrender. Almost as if every step was an unspoken agreement with your heart, blurring in between the fine line of friendship and something else. You navigated the staircase of emotions, unaware, until you stood near the bottom. Instead of gracefully reaching the last step, the sudden realization of your feelings felt like a forceful tumble, leaving you to hit the ground and boy did you hit it hard.

The sound of a joyful splash resonates through the air, harmonizing with the playful melody of droplets that dance against your bare legs. You shoot a glare Cassian’s way, even though you didn’t mind, and you can’t bring yourself to care when he flicks a middle finger at you in response. You’re far too used to them to be bothered. Realizing that the water felt nice and warm, you nestle yourself on the edge of the floor. You hike your dress up and then dip your legs into the soothing waters.

Bathed in the ethereal glow of moonlight, Cassian floats on his back, allowing his wings to carry him through the soft waves. Your gaze lingers on him, tracing the moonlit contours of his muscles. Another splash pulls you out of your trance and this time, the droplets reach the thin fabric of your dress.

“Come on, bibble!” Cassian exclaims.

Your glare returns, irritation flickering in your eyes. “I told you to stop calling me that!”

His grin widens, undeterred. “Won’t you join me?”

You respond with a swift kick, creating a splash that dances towards him. Regret settles in immediately as his eyes light up in the moonlight, holding mischief, as he swims toward you.

“Bibble’,” he nearly purrs, somehow making the stupid nickname sound downright sinful. He braces his hands on either side of you, the muscles of his arms flexing. His chest brushes against your legs and all you can think about is how nice he feels so close to you. “Why won’t you join me?”

You’re looking anywhere but him. “I don’t feel like it.”

Cassian hums, his thoughtful gaze lingering for a moment longer than you'd expect. You release a breath you didn't realize you were holding when he turns his head. It’s a short lived moment of relief because in a heartbeat, he pulls your legs from underneath you and drags you into the water with him. You’re splashing and writhing and like an idiot, your mouth opens in panic.

Cassian's strong arms swiftly encircle you, pulling you up from the water's depths. As you resurface, you're coughing and sputtering, water droplets cascading down your face. He chuckles while you hit his chest. 

"I can't swim, you idiot!" 

"Relax," Cassian laughs, his hands holding your hips firmly to keep you afloat with him. His expression, though soft, morphs into something more serious. "I’ve got you. I always will.”

His words unrattle something deep within you and you can’t move, can’t think properly. You can only feel. Your mind goes blank and eyes grow distant as you’re brought back to the night he first said those words. Right after he found you laying in a pool of your own blood. It was the night your wings were clipped. A hand reaches out to caress your face and his fingers rest on your chin, directing your focus to him. 

Tears threaten the corners of your eyes. The desire to avert your gaze is strong, but he doesn't permit it. He needs you to answer him. "You know that, right?"

A breath catches in your throat before you finally manage to whisper, "Yeah."

Cassian's lips form a rare, softer smile. He draws you closer until you can feel his breath, sense his warmth. He kisses your forehead, his lips lingering there for a moment longer and when he pulls away, he rests his forehead against yours. A thumb brushes gently against your cheek. His gaze dips to your lips and absentmindedly, his thumb slowly traces along your bottom lip. There’s a faraway look in his eyes as he’s lost in contemplation.

Your heart is roaring in your ears and there’s something singing madly in your chest because he’s never touched you like this before. Tell him. Your breath is shaky when you speak. "Cas?"

He holds his gaze to your lips, allowing the soft rocking of a wave to push him closer to you. "Yes?"

Suddenly, the night sky bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors. The unexpected spectacle and the resonating boom startles you, and on instinct, you find refuge in the safety of Cassian's embrace. If he weren’t caught up in the heat of the moment, he would’ve teased you for the way you are clinging madly onto him, legs and arms wrapped tightly around him.

"Wow," you exhale, the initial shock giving way to a relaxed sense of awe.

The fireworks continue to bloom overhead, their vibrant hues reflecting in your wonderstruck eyes. You gradually unwrap your legs from around Cassian, and your arms loosen their hold around his neck. Yet, he maintains a firm grip on your hips.

“Beautiful.”

You hum in agreement, and when you turn back to Cassian, you realize his gaze has never wavered from you throughout the entire display. "What were you going to say?"

"What?"

"What were you going to say earlier…"

"Oh, that," you stammer, panic subtly seeping in, eyebrows furrowing slightly. The courage you once possessed to voice your feelings has dissipated in the wake of the unexpected interruption. “Um, can you teach me how to swim?”

His gaze lingers on you. It’s as if he knows those were not the words you were going to say but he doesn’t push you on it. “Sure,” he says instead and clears his throat, looking away. “But maybe another night?”

“Why?”

You regret your question as soon as you ask it, eyes widening when you feel why. There’s something hard poking at your stomach. You freeze up, not knowing what to do, inadvertently making matters worse. Though the night is dark, the moon glows bright enough for you both to notice your peaked nipples as the thin light fabric of your dress is completely see through in the water.

“Stop staring!” You cry out, using one of your hands to splash water onto him. If he weren’t your lifeline, the only thing keeping you afloat in these deep waters, you would’ve shoved him under water.

Cassian snaps out of it with a flinch, blinking away the salty droplets of water that splashed into his eyes. “I was looking respectfully!”

“Respectfully my ass!”

“I mean, I could look at that too.”

You shoot him a glare, hating the way his words have your insides in a frenzy. He doesn’t seem to care about his obvious arousal poking at you and you don’t have it in you to tease him as you’re desperately trying to hide yours, praying that the vast sea surrounding you is enough to mask your scent. Your hands are grasping out for the vines that run along the edge of the tiles as soon as you can reach them, using them to guide you back into the safety of your room.

You pause before you hoist yourself back up, turning to look at a clearly amused Cassian. 

“Turn around.”

“Oh, come on,” he chuckles but saves you further embarrassment by doing as you asked. You wait until his back is fully turned to you, wings flaring out behind him and spraying you with sea water on purpose, to hoist yourself up into your room. Once you’re on your feet, you pull at one of the many sheets on your bed, wrapping it snug around your exposed body.

“You can turn back around now.” 

“You can look as much as you want, bibble.” He tells you though your gaze remains fixed on the seashell painting on one of your walls. Your mind is racing and if he asked you what colors were on the painting, you would fail miserably in answering him.  “Disrespectfully too.”

You can hear his agonizingly slow footsteps as he makes his way to the door, not bothering to pick up the clothes he left sprawled all over your floor.  “Get out,” you nearly growl at him, not caring anymore, as you turn around and shove at his back. Because if he doesn’t leave soon, you’re sure you’ll lose your self control.

“Mother’s tits, y/n! I’m going!” He exclaims in protest with a grin evident in his tone.

“Well, go faster!” You huff at him, hands still pressing against his back. “I’m.Tired.”

Tired of holding back your emotions, more like it. As soon as he steps out your door, you’re slamming it shut before he can catch a glimpse of your flustered face.

“Sweet dreams, bibble.”

Leaning against the door, you take a moment to catch your breath as Cassian's deep laughter echoes through the halls. You close your eyes, attempting to rein in the whirlwind of emotions surging within you. It’s not the first time Cassian’s teased you and it won’t be the last and you’re certainly not the only one he flirts with. The female soldier from earlier being a prime example of that.

You know he means no harm by it. Yet, his teasing stings. Because you want it to be real, for him to mean every flirtatious gesture and word. You want him to like you and only you.

**

Nostrus's attempts to entice you into staying in his court become increasingly overt with each passing day. Every evening unveils a new gown adorned with matching jewelry and shoes. Precisely at the stroke of ten, the night sky ignites in a display of vibrant fireworks dedicated to the three of you but when you commented the red ones were your favorite, you note more shades of reds lighting up the night skies. Each morning, a charming arrangement of summer flowers graces your presence. Even the soldiers in your training group can't help but notice the High Lord's watchful gaze whenever he deigns to join them.

Azriel finds the spectacle amusing, always the silent observer to any unfolding drama. However, Cassian is less entertained. During your nightly debriefs with Rhysand, he consistently raises the issue and you’ve noticed that during training, he sticks closer to you. 

None of you bring up the heated moment you shared on your first night in Summer. It’s almost as if it didn’t happen at all and you’re not surprised. While it meant something to you, you know it meant nothing to him.

The female soldier, Olianna, you reluctantly learned her name, is as persistent with him as Nostrus is to you. You’re nearing the end of your first week when the female soldier and a couple of others join your nightly dinner with Nostrus and tonight, in her ruby red dress, she looks devastatingly beautiful. She takes the seat beside Cassian. Your unassigned but assigned spot. You begrudgingly sit beside Azriel instead, who is quick to raise a brow at you.

“Shut up.”

“I didn’t say anything,” he replies and when you kick his leg under the table, there’s the faintest of a coy smile on his lips.

You barely even touch your plate. There’s a bitter taste in your mouth and it’s not from the food. Cassian has barely even looked at you, engrossed in what appears to be a hilarious conversation with Olianna. You’re thankful when Nostrus excuses you all from dinner, quick to rise from your seat.

“Y/N, may I have a word?” Nostrus calls to you with a smile and when Cassian’s head perks up, finally sparing you a second of his attention, he adds: “In private.”

**

As you make your way back to your room, after a pointless conversation with Nostrus, your steps come abruptly to a halt. Your heart quickens and stomach tightens as you spot Cassian and Olianna down the hall.

Olianna’s hands rest on Cassian’s arms as she looks up at him. Her back is pressed against the wall. He leans down to whisper something that you can’t discern from your distance. It has her giggling and the sound is like a painful stab to your heart. They’re so, so close. That familiar ache settles in your chest, pushing down on you so harshly you can barely breathe. 

How desperately you wish to trade places with her and maybe that could’ve been you, if you had given in to his teasing the other night. While he’d give his body to you, you know his heart would not fall so easily such as the way yours did. Cassian is a true heartthrob, a man who effortlessly captivates the hearts of many but never the one to give his. Why would you be an exception?

You try to push away your unease but fail miserably when they walk further down the hall and disappear around a corner. Doubt begins to creep in, seeping into your bones with a terrifying chilling fear. Maybe, just maybe, there is something more between them and you had lost a battle only you were aware of fighting.

Tears burn at your eyes and as you hear the door shut behind him, you feel your heart shatter at the images that flood your mind. Of him kissing her, touching her and–Stop! 

You’re running blindly to your room, too caught up in your emotions to realize your mistake. Azriel blinks at your sudden entrance, seated on his bed. However, the distress etched across your face propels him to throw his book aside and jump to his feet. Shadows flit towards you, brushing against your exposed skin and he lets out a small exhale in relief when they report no injuries.

"Should I get Cas?" Azriel offers, eyes widening slightly as concern etches its way onto his features.

Your hand reaches out, stopping him before he can leave the room. "No."

He looks at you helplessly. He’s seen you cry before but Cassian was always there in those moments. Yes, Azriel regards you as a good friend–you’ve trained with him for many years alongside Cassian. He’d happily tend to your physical injuries because it was something he was capable of but the depth of your current pain is something he is unsure how to navigate. Something only Cassian uniquely understands.

"Okay," Azriel says slowly, shifting his weight from one foot to another. "What do you need?"

Frustration colors your attempt to wipe away the tears, and a sniffle escapes you. You’ve never felt so small, so fragile and as Azriel watches you break in front of him, realization dawns on him. Something must’ve happened between you and Cassian and his mouth parts to ask but you beat him to it.

"I need you to teach me how to swim." 

**

The next morning you can’t bring yourself to meet Cassian’s gaze. Images of him with Oliana flood your mind every time you cast a glance in his direction and the ache in your chest resurfaces. It’s irrational, you know. He’s not at fault for your feelings. After all, you’re just a friend to him. You have no claim to his affection, even though every fiber of your being yearns for it.

You are the problem.

When he reaches out, his hand lightly grasping your arm, you muster only a feeble greeting. You hear the concern in his voice as he asks what's wrong.

"Nothing," you reply, forcing a smile. "I'm just tired."

You feel the weight of his gaze burning into you as you head over to your group. He casts a glance toward Azriel in silent questioning but the Shadowsinger simply shakes his head. 

**

The sun bathes Summer’s training grounds in a warm glow and sweat clings to your skin as you show one of your soldiers a delicate maneuver with your sword that Illyrians favor during battle.

As your gaze lifts with your sword, you catch a glimpse of Cassian and Oliana sparring. Your chest tightens when you can’t help but notice their proximity to one another. The sweet sound of her laughter follows shortly after and the tightening in your chest is replaced with a burning fire.

“I don’t think I’m doing it right. Can you teach me again?”

“Of course.”

Cassian's gaze briefly meets yours, and a sudden rush of emotion courses through you. You’re quickly averting your eyes, attempting to feign disinterest. You tell yourself you're no longer watching them, but deep down, your mind is painting vivid pictures, imprinting scenes of Cassian with her. 

However, this time, it's not sadness that simmers within. It’s a burning anger and your siphons flare. Cassian is free to do whatever he pleases in his spare time but during training? When you’re working and glaringly right in front of you?

Olianna’s laughter rings out again, the sound mingling with the clash of steel. Another pang of envy stabs through your chest, sharper than the blade in your hand. 

“Like this?”

“Yeah, you got it, sweetheart.”

Your blood runs cold, sending shivers down your spine yet, there’s an undeniable blaze burning fiercely within your chest. It’s a possessive fire, a primal instinct screaming “mine” in the depths of your very being. Why does she get a sweet nickname and you a stupid one? Why is he so gentle in training her when he was harsh with you?

“That’s it,” you hiss under your breath, looking back at your group. “I’m going to show you how a fight is won.”

Tightening your grip on your sword, you nearly stomp your way to Cassian. Azriel’s head perks up from where he stands, eyes widening for a fleeting moment as he catches the glow of your siphons. “Y/n, what are–”

“Stay out of it!” You exclaim, pointing your sword at him. The sharp blade teases at his throat and he falters. His shadows whisper to him in warning and he holds his hands up in surrender, catching something flickering in your eyes.

Cassian and Oliana turn their heads at the commotion. She instinctively takes a step behind Cassian and your jaw clenches at the sight. He doesn’t seem to notice it though, attention solely focused on you.

 “What’s the matter, bibble?”

 You point your sword at him. “You.”

“Me?” He responds, a bewildered expression crossing his face. However, he remains unfazed as your sword points directly at his chest. 

“You’ve gone soft, General.” you tell him, inclining your head towards Oliana and you can’t bring yourself to care if your emotions seep out. The envy is coursing through you like an unrelenting fire. “How is she to hone in her skills when she spends most of her training laughing and batting her pretty eyelashes at you?”

Cassian lets out a chuckle. It’s been years since you’ve referred to him by his title. His hazel eyes take you in, sparkling at you with something you can’t discern. He can read the challenge in your eyes and when he finally spares a glance to the female behind him, he turns back to you. His fingers grasp at your blade carefully, lowering your sword so he can take a step forward. 

“She’s not ready to be challenged.”

You smirk at him, standing your ground. “A soldier is never fully prepared for battle.”

Cassian takes another step forward and though your sword lowers further, your grip on the hilt tightens. “And a General knows when it’s best for their soldiers to refrain from entering the battlefield.”

You take pleasure in the way Oliana huffs out indignantly from behind him.

You arch an eyebrow at him in challenge. Deep down, you’re aware nothing good is going to come from this but your Illyrian blood craves an outlet for the pent-up emotions that have been brewing for many years. 

“You fight me then,” you demand and you can feel the simmering fire between you intensifying. You welcome it, almost seeking the chaos it promises. "And don't you dare go soft on me."

His pupils flare and a sly smirk curls upon his lips. “I don’t think you can handle me.”

“Lay it all on me.”

**

Two blood rubies, sinister in their crimson glow, glisten back at you, creating a dance of hues that pulse and flicker with an inner fire. One for Cassian. One for you. Your heart sinks to your stomach and you want to cry.

This is all your doing. Your fault. 

Cassian, however, does not regard the rubies sent from the Summer Court with the same gravity. "Might as well put these beauties to use. I’m sure it would look stunning on a necklace. Maybe, even a ring,” he quips as he picks his up, hazel eyes sparkling with mirth.

You immediately sense that nothing good is going to come from this–the same way you did before the two of you accidentally destroyed a building. He turns to you and gets down on one knee. There’s a mischievous grin playing on his lips as he looks up at you.

“Marry me?" 

A rush of heat floods your face, and your eyes instinctively seek out Rhysand, finding him far from amused. He's fuming with a quiet rage, his gaze icy and piercing. You quickly avert your eyes, shifting your attention back to the Illyrian male now kneeling before you. You nudge his knee with your leg, ignoring the twinge of hurt at the expense of his joke.

"Get up, Cas.”

"Say yes.”

"Get up.”

“You think this is funny??”

You flinch at the sharpness of Rhysand’s tone and Cassian stands with a sigh. His hand brushes against yours but you don’t dare take it. You don’t deserve it. It’s only been hours since your abrupt return from Summer–since your heated fight sent an entire building crumbling into rubble. If Azriel hadn’t used his shadows to return you home immediately after, you’re not sure you’d be alive right now.

“I’m so sorry, Rhys,” you say,  lowering your head and Rhysand’s gaze softens at the nervous fidgeting of your hands. “It’s all my fault.” 

“No, it’s mine.” Cassian steps forward, hand resting on your waist to gently push you back behind him as he takes full responsibility. “I got caught up in the heat of the moment.”

“Cas, I’m the one who challenged you.”

He ignores you. “It was my blast that sent that building, as weak as it already was, to crumble down.”

Rhysand lets out a deep sigh. He leans back into his seat, fingers rubbing at his forehead at the images Azriel provides. He finds that you both are equally at fault. They’re complete wreck less idiots,  Rhysand groans into the Shadowsinger’s mind.

I know.  There’s a hint of amusement in Azriel’s response.

Running a hand down his face in exhaustion, Rhysand looks at both you and Cassian. 

You stand there, still behind Cassian, anxious as you await your impending punishment and he can literally hear your mind racing without having to intrude. Meanwhile, Cassian, seemingly unfazed, hums a carefree tune to himself, earning an incredulous glance from you. 

“Well I can kiss my alliance with the Summer Court goodbye but I will not have a High Lord from another court seeking vengeance on two of my closest friends. You each are going to write your most heartfelt apologies to Nostrus, beg if you must, and let us all pray to the Cauldron that he finds it in his heart to forgive you.”

Parchment, ink and quills appear at the desk before you. With a flick of his wrist, Rhysand uses his magic to bring forth two chairs, gesturing for you and Cassian to sit. “You two are not allowed to leave this room until those letters are finished.”

Rhysand then turns to Azriel. “I need you to watch them. Make sure they don’t destroy any of my buildings.”

A low, almost melodramatic groan escapes Azriel’s lips. “Why do I always have to babysit them?”

“Azriel.”

“Fine.”

Once Rhysand leaves, you slump into one of the chairs with a small sigh of relief. You pick up a quill, dipping it in ink and stare at the blank parchment. Cassian does the same. Azriel picks up a book from one of the shelves. He then seats himself at Rhysand’s chair, right across from you both.

“Please make this quick,” his voice almost pleads, eyes darting between you both.

“You write it for me then.” Cassian rips a piece of paper, crumbling it into a tiny ball before flicking it at his friend. Azriel rolls his eyes, his loyal shadows catching the piece of paper midair and sending it back to Cassian, hitting his forehead with a tiny “whoosh.”

Your eyebrows furrow in an attempt to focus, all the while trying to ignore the distracting bounce of Cassian's leg. Slowly but surely, you’re scribbling words onto the parchment and before you know it, you’re crafting the most sincere apology to High Lord Nostrus. 

Cassian picks up on your deep concentration. He leans in closer, warm breath tickling your ear. “Whatcha writing there, bibble?”

“An apology,” you respond dryly, shooting him a sideways glance. You take note that his paper is still blank. “Something you should be doing too if you want us to make it to dinner.”

“I am. I’m just brainstorming,” he retorts in a ‘duh’ tone. “Let me see yours!”

You’re sliding your parchment away from his prying eyes. “No. Use your own brain!”

Ever the persistent one, Cassian leans in even closer, his head now practically resting on your shoulder as your hands hover over your paper, careful not to smear the fresh ink. “Come on, just a peek. I promise not to steal your most heartfelt words.”

With an exasperated sigh, you relent, allowing him a quick glimpse. His eyes are skimming through the words with an appreciative tilt of his head. “I like it. But maybe add a bit more details and drama, you know? Tug at his heartstrings a little more, he seemed to like you a lot.”

“We’re not trying to craft a masterpiece to win an award, Cassian,” you hiss at him, snatching your letter away from him.

“But you are trying to free yourself of a death sentence.” Azriel remarks, peering over his book at you as he reminds you that receiving a blood ruby from the Summer Court is not something to be taken lightly.

“See? Az gets it.” Cassian chuckles.

“Shut up and get to writing.” Azriel snaps at the busybody beside you, a stern edge in his tone.

“Yes, sir!”

**

Fortunately, the three of you arrive just in time for dinner. Unfortunately, the predominant topic at the table centers around the destruction of the building in the Summer Court. Rhysand, having taken the time to cool down, is noticeably calmer. While he remains upset that you and Cassian veered off course from your assigned mission, there's also a hint of happiness in having his friends back home and safe.

Cassian casually drapes his arm over the back of your chair, and the room is filled with the melody of his laughter in response to something Mor said. Something you should’ve caught as you’re seated right across from her but it’s the rich scent of sandalwood that captivates all your senses, causing your stomach to flutter. You barely manage to swallow your food without choking–a fact not lost on Azriel. He, however, chooses not to comment, sparing you from further embarrassment and grinning into his glass of wine instead.

 Rhysand glares at Mor and you get a sense of what had been said when he says: “Please don’t encourage these architects of chaos.”

You groan, leaning back into your seat. The regret is instant as the edge of your wing brushes against Cassian’s arm. It sends a slight shiver down your spine and you’re mustering all your strength to keep it from causing your sensitive wings to twitch. You’re down bad.

“Can we please talk about something else?”

“Sure, but before we do…” Amren begins, a devious smile playing on her lips as she glances at you from across the table. “Can I keep the rubies?”

“Yeah and you can even keep the threat that comes with it too.”

The rest of dinner is, for the most part, uneventful. Rhysand excuses himself early to finish on some paperwork and before he leaves, he lets you and Cassian know that High Lord Nostrus should be receiving your written apologies by tomorrow morning. Amren leaves shortly after, eager to return to the quiet peace of her home. Just in time, too, as she manages to avoid a pointless argument between Cassian and Azriel over who has the best technique in training.

Not wanting to be dragged into it, you rise from your seat, grabbing a hold of the two remaining unopened wine bottles that Rhysand forgot to take back with him. You turn to Mor and you laugh when you don’t even have to say anything. She’s already standing from her seat, gesturing for you to lead the way.

The two of you end up in one of the living rooms and you’re touched when you find that the sentient house has a delicious assortment of desserts waiting for you on the coffee table. You sink into the comfort of the couch, feeling like you’re sitting on a cloud. Mor seats herself beside you, doing the honors of pouring you a glass of wine.

It doesn’t take long before the two of you are immersed into the dirtiest of gossip and catch up with one another. You move to pour yourself another glass only to find the second wine bottle empty, so you set your empty glass down on the coffee table. Leaning back into the comfort of the plush couch, you let out a sigh.

“I don’t know what he’s done to me,” you confess quietly, exhaustion taking over your features. “I’ve known him for years and all of sudden, I’m a possessive jealous mess? It doesn’t make sense to me.”

Mor raises a brow, as if it makes perfect sense to her. She then hums in contemplation, swirling the last drops of wine in her glass. “Maybe we should go out, have some fun, find a little distraction for you.”

“Or you can tell Cassian how you feel.”

The deep voice startles you both, causing Mor to gasp. Her glass falls from her grasps as Azriel emerges from the shadows. She regards the small specks of red tainting the white carpet with a frown before lifting her gaze to scowl at the Shadowsinger while you shoot him a mortified look.

“How dare you give her a reasonable option?” Mor chides him, waving her hands dramatically in the air.

“Stop with that nonsense, Az,” you say, a slight slur to your words. A frown settles onto your face, heart aching as your mind forces you to think of Cassian and Olianna. “He doesn’t feel the same for me as I do for him. I’ll only ruin our friendship if I do.”

Azriel’s eyes travel throughout the room. He takes in the empty bottles of wine, your hazy eyes and Mor’s flushed face. He looks like he wants to tell you something, on the verge of sharing a secret. Yet, whatever words linger on the tip of his tongue remain unspoken. He decides it’s best to turn around and leave, the inked wing on his arm burning further into his skin.

“Fine but don’t call me for help when you destroy another building.”

"Oh, fuck you."

He doesn't bother to turn around as he returns the gesture, a small chuckle escaping from him as he disappears into his shadows.

“So,” you turn back to Mor. “How about that distraction?” 

**

“By the Cauldron, you look absolutely ravishing.” Mor whistles, stepping back to appreciate her work and as you look at your reflection in the mirror, you can’t help but agree.

After asking Rhysand to fly you both down, Mor winnowed you both to the townhouse, where she kept most of her going out clothes as it was a shorter distance to Rita’s. Insisting on glamming you up, she took charge of your hair and makeup, even providing you with a choice from her wardrobe. Considering the wings, your options were limited, but your gaze was drawn to a striking red satin dress. It had an alluring lace-up open back and a daring slit hem.

After scouring the dance floor for an hour from your seat at the bar, you finally find someone who catches your interest and as you approach him, you’re happy to find that he isn't intimidated by the sight of your wings. Despite your determination to keep a low profile in Velaris, it becomes challenging to go unnoticed when your friends all possess such great reputations, especially when Cassian is by your side. Mor wishes you good luck, sending you a wink as you depart from her side. 

The male, who is named Felix, slings an arm around your waist, pulling you flush to him as you dance and you find yourself missing the scent of sandalwood immensely. He grins at you, intentions as clear as yours. “You’re so beautiful,” he says, drinking you under the neon lights of Rita’s. He licks his lips and glances over at your wings. “I’ve heard Illyrians can be very sensitive when it comes to their wings. Can I touch?”

Your mind immediately brings an image forward, of your wings being softly caressed, and heat pools down to your stomach. But in your head, it’s not the male in front of you. It’s Cassian’s.  

“Don’t you dare fucking touch her!”

By the Cauldron, your mind is playing tricks on you as you can even hear his voice too.

You feel the loss of warmth from the male and you open your eyes just in time to see Felix sent stumbling to the floor. Your mind wasn’t playing tricks on you. Cassian is standing in front of you, chest heaving. The people who had stopped to stare quickly avert their gazes at his heated stare.

Felix gets up to his feet. He doesn’t even spare you a glance or a word as he disappears into the crowd. You’re immediately leaving the dance floor, not bothering to grab your coat before you exit the club with Cassian hot on your heels.

You pivot and Cassian nearly bumps into you. “What the fuck Cassian?”

“Yeah,” he agrees, returning your glare. “What the fuck?”

“Why are you even here?”

“I don’t know. Something didn't feel right." Cassian confesses, placing a hand over his chest as if to settle a pain.

You turn back around, knowing the towering Illyrian male was already planning to follow you. You begin to make your way to your place–a small apartment that Rhysand had gifted you on your first solstice in Velaris. You seldom used it, preferring to stay at either the house of wind or townhouse, but Rhysand insisted you have a place of your own in case you ever need space.

“And that gave you the right to ruin my night?” you huff over your shoulder.

“Ruin your night? I just saved you!”

“From what?” You laugh with sarcasm, grateful that the walk from your apartment and Rita’s was short. Pulling your key out from your bra, you hastily unlock your door.  “An orgasm? Gee, thanks. Love you for that,” and then under your breath mutter: “I didn’t stop you from yours in Summer.”

As soon as you step through your door, you turn and shut it behind you. A boot stops you from doing so and Cassian pushes against you and the door, allowing himself in. “What are you talking about?”

“You mean to tell me nothing happened between you and Olianna?”

“Yes, because nothing happened! She asked me to help her with a move after dinner so I did and…” His voice trails off, and then a heavy silence descends as realization washes over him. He looks at you, and you instinctively avert your gaze.

Without bothering to slip off your heels, you dart straight to your room, desperate to put as much distance between the two of you. You’re not ready to have this conversation. Relief mingles with embarrassment, both emotions flooding you and sending blood rushing to your face. But Cassian is determined. He follows after you.

“Were you jealous?”

Arms crossed over your chest, you keep your back to him, wings curled around you. “No.”

Cassian chuckles, and before you know it, he's spinning you around to face him. One hand presses against your lower back, the other at your face. A smirk plays on his lips as he reads the defiant expression on your face. He knows you’re lying.

“You were jealous.”

“So were you,” you manage to say back.

Cassian hums in what can only be agreement. A thumb reaches out to brush your lower lip, the same way he did your first night in Summer, and then he’s replacing his thumb with his lips. The way he wanted to that night. His kiss is anything but gentle. It’s pure heated desire–one that has been simmering for years. You kiss him back, matching his urgency and he groans, allowing both of his hands to cup your face as his lips mold perfectly against yours.

He pulls away, his hands still cradling your face as his gaze burns into yours. “You want to orgasm tonight? I can give it to you.”

A thrill runs down your spine and your wings shudder. You should push him away. Cassian is your friend. A friend… who is offering to give you an orgasm with a very promising look at this very moment. Though your heart tells you not to, that you might end up hurt after this, there’s that singing in your chest again. Give in.

“You sound so confident.”

His eyes darken as his legs push against yours, walking you both to your bed. The back of your knees meet your bed and you give in, allowing yourself to fall onto the soft sheets behind you. You land on your elbows and push yourself even further up on your bed until your back meets your headrest.

“Don’t test me, baby,” he purrs, watching the way your thighs clench in response to the new nickname. It makes his cock harden in his pants. “I can have you screaming all night long.”

“Lay it all on me,” you reply, heart be damned.

Cassian wastes no time in stripping himself of his clothes, lust filled eyes fixated on you. His hard cock springs free and your eyes widen because yes, you’ve seen him before but not like this. Not when he’s hard and leaking and it’s all for you. He pumps himself, licking his lips, as your arousal floods his senses before easing himself onto the bed.

He slips your heels off and discards them. His hands caress their way up your legs and the roughness of his hands, weathered by many battles and challenges, feels heavenly against you. As his hands make their way higher, they begin kneading at the soft flesh of your thighs, dragging your dress up along with his movements. He groans at the thin lace that greets him, pressing his lips against your clothed core.

“You’re so fucking wet.”

“Well, you did catch me in the middle of something promising earlier…”

Cassian growls at your words, a wave of possessiveness taking over him. “Yeah? Well, by the time I’m done with you, it will be my cum dripping out of this pretty pussy.”

He’s tugging at your underwear, hastily dragging it down your legs. With a devious smirk, he grasps your hands and places them over his hair. “Hold on tight, baby.”

It’s the only warning he gives you before diving right in and setting you alight with his mouth. His nose brushes against your clit as he begins to fuck you with his tongue. “Do you know how often I thought of this? Of tasting you.”

You want to tell him you’ve thought of this too but you’re too lost in the pleasure of his mouth. All you can do is moan and it spurs him on, urging him to bring you closer to your release.  “I can only imagine how good I’ll feel inside you.”

His words, a promise of what is to come, is your undoing. You’re squirming beneath him, back arching off the bed as you thread your fingers through his hair. A string of curses leaves your lips when he presses multiple kisses to your clit, overwhelming you in such a delightful way.

Cassian pulls away, mouth glistening with your release as he grins and your heart flutters. He crawls his way up your body, replacing his tongue with his fingers, reveling in the way they easily slide in. His lips slot over yours in a sloppy and heated kiss. When he slips another finger into you, you’re moaning into his mouth. His tongue dances with yours, wrestling for dominance that you ardently submit to.

“Please, Cassian,” you’re begging when his lips leave yours and his cock twitches at the pretty sounds that follow after. Another wave of white hot pleasure crashes over you and he groans, loving the way you're clenching so tightly around his fingers. “I need you.”

Cassian slips his fingers out of you, placing his hands at your hips to flip the both of you over. He adjusts you to straddle his lap, gaze burning into you with need. “Show me.”

“But let’s get rid of this first.” His fingers toy with the slit of your dress. “I need to see all of you.”

You nod, fingers reaching behind to undo the laces of your dress. The sound of fabric ripping reaches your ears before you can undo the first knot and cool air caresses against the newly exposed skin. 

“Cassian!”

“That’s my name, baby,” he grins at you, expertly unclasping your bra and throwing it behind you along with the torn dress.

“That wasn’t my dre–oh.” Your protest dies at your throat, eyes fluttering shut as he takes your breasts in his hands, kneading the soft flesh and pressing them together. The torn dress you borrowed from Mor is long forgotten, stored away in the back of your mind. The same way you stored away all your reservations. The desire that’s been consuming you is too much for you to think through reasonably so you succumb completely into it, knowing there will be consequences to deal with later.

**

It’s almost embarrassing how much Cassian has thought about this, especially after the tease you gave him in Summer. His desires had gone beyond wanting to kiss you that night. He wanted to see, feel and taste every part of you. To hear you moaning and screaming just for him. Now, that you’re completely bare before him, he can look, feel and taste all he wants. And he plans to bask in every second of your warmth.

 “So fucking beautiful,” he breathes, leaning in to take a breast into his mouth, tongue swirling around your hardening nipple with burning hunger. Your hands find purchase in his hair again as you arch yourself further, grinding against him. Lewd moans escape from both of you when the tip of his cock brushes against your sensitive clit. Cassian dives for your neck next, pressing hot open mouthed kisses everywhere he can. 

“Come on, baby girl. Show me how much you need me and ride me.”

Aligning yourself with him, you slowly sink down onto his cock, savoring the burn from the stretch. His fingers run up and down your sides before settling onto your hips. Eyes fluttering shut at the sheer intensity of your warmth, he can’t help but thrust up into you, fully sheathing himself inside you. His head tilts back when you begin to move and he releases a deep groan.

It’s when your thighs start to tremble and wings flare out that he takes over. He hugs you tightly, arm wrapped around your waist while his other hand rubs at your clit. While he pants and groans against your neck, you’re crying and screaming out his name. He plants his feet on the bed and thrusts ruthlessly up into you over and over again until you both reach your high, wings flaring out. 

**

As Cassian stirs in bed, a cool emptiness greets him, replacing the warmth he expected. Blinking his eyes open, he finds the spot beside him empty. You're gone. The lingering trace of your sweet scent is the only evidence of what transpired between you both. Fuck. Apprehension weighs down on his mind in your absence, threatening to sicken his stomach. He needs to talk to you. 

After freshening up and slipping into the spare clothes he keeps at your place, his determination to find you takes hold. It's as if he can sense the storm of emotions within you—guilt, anxiety, and fear. There’s an inkling in his mind as to where you are. He knows you so well. A soft smile graces his lips when he spots you on the training grounds of the house of wind, unleashing powerful strikes on a punching bag.

Your hair is gathered into a carefree bun, and today, you've traded your usual leathers for leggings and a sports bra. You’re a vision of strength and beauty and as loose strands of your hair dance in the breeze, Cassian finds himself lost in the realization of just how deeply in love with you he is. 

He lands softly, fighting the urge to frown when he notices the immediate tension in your body from his presence. He hesitates, his throat bobbing as he looks at you, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. "Can we—"

"No, let me talk first," you interrupt with a deep sigh as you turn to face him.

"But I had something to say first," he insists with a slight shake of his head.

“I have something more important to say."

Cassian crosses his arms, challenging your claim. "My something is more important than your something."

“I love you.”

The words hang in the air and as the weight of your confession sinks in, a wave of fear grips you. You're certain you've just shattered any hopes of a remaining friendship with him. Because after last night, there's no way you can keep going on as a friend when you want to be so much more. The silence becomes maddening, and suddenly, you can't hold it any longer.

“I love you so much it hurts,” you admit with a trembling breath, tears welling in your eyes. “Because I want your every smile, your every laugh, but above all, I want your heart and–and I’m sorry for–”

“Oh, y/n,” Cassian interrupts with a chuckle.

The sound makes you go weak and you’re absolutely mortified. He rarely ever calls you by your name. He’s about to break your heart, the very thing you’ve been fearing since the realization of your feelings. The urge to run away grips you, but your feet remain planted. You lack the strength to escape the moment. Tears flow freely down your face, and your wings sag behind you, unable to bear the weight of vulnerability.

“You’ve had my heart from the start.”

Slowly, you lift your gaze. Hazel eyes bore into yours, the golden flecks glimmering at you. “What?”

He steps closer to you until he's standing right in front of you. His hands cradle your face as he wipes at your tears. “I’ve loved you for years. I thought I made it pretty obvious, especially after last night.”

“Not obvious enough,” you remark with a huff but there’s a playful and affectionate undertone in your voice.

“I could remind you again?”

"Please."

A radiant smile breaks onto Cassian’s face, and the warmth in his eyes washes away any doubt that may have lingered in your heart. Something within you flutters madly against your ribs. All these years…the teasing, the flirting, the lingering touches. They all meant something to him, the same way it did for you. You’ve loved him and he loved you back. So many years wasted, yearning and pining for one another. As you gaze into each other’s eyes, so many unspoken words are said and there’s a shared understanding that you’re not wasting another moment.

**

Rhysand raises his cup of coffee to his lips, the rich aroma swirling around him as he catches a glimpse of Cassian, carrying you over his shoulder, with an eagerness he’s familiar with. He then glances over the rim of his mug at Azriel, seated across from him at the breakfast table.

"Do you think they know?"

Azriel snorts in response. "Doubt it. I think you should tell them."

“No.” Rhysand's lips curve into a smirk. "Let's see how long it takes them to realize that their mating bond has snapped into place."

“We should probably head out.”

“Good idea,” Rhysand replies with a nod of his head.

In the blink of an eye, the sentient house packs the remnants of their breakfast for them to enjoy elsewhere. Without a moment's delay, they make their way to one of the balconies. Their wings gracefully unfurl behind them, catching the morning sunlight that bathes them in a golden glow.

As they soar away, you and Cassian remain blissfully unaware of the invisible thread that has silently bound your souls together for years.

tagging: @historiaxvanserra

a/n: I always wanted to write a fic where a mating bond has snapped but neither of them have a clue because they already loved each other, might be a bit unrealistic but 🤷‍♀️ I came across this bibble meme while writing this and it reminded me of both reader and Cas in some aspects. Since I couldn't think of an embarrassing nickname, I went with Bibble and so now the cute little character is canon in Prythian in this lol.

if you want more background info on reader and cas: click here

Other things that I included in this part:

This scene from Vampire Diaries.

also, this tiktok.

#cassian x reader #cassian x y/n #cassian imagine #cassian x you #cassian fanfiction #acotar x reader #acotar x y/n #acotar x you #acotar fanfiction #acotar cassian #cassian smut #acotar smut

[readychilledwine]

Mister Grumpy Pantseses

Summary - All you wanted was a day in the vegetable garden with your husbands. Your husbands just wanted to spend the day at each other's throats.

Warnings - a bit of a communication issue trope, grumpy sunshine, reader is Tamlin's sister and uses one of his tactics, jealousy, name calling, Fluff, reader is a literal ray of joy

Prompt - Day 5 - Favorite Tropes

A/N - Happy @polyacotarweek day 5! I am running a little behind, so my other fave trope will be up later, but enjoy a little grumpy azris with their sunshine reader with a bit of miscommunication

💕Poly+ACOTAR Week Masterlist💕

 “Fucking asshole.”

“Azriel!”

“Bastard.”

“Eris!” You pouted at your mates, sighing as they glared at each other. "Can we please have a nice breakfast? We have so much work to do in the garden if we want the vegetables ready in time to take to the hungry. We need to have energy."

Azriel grumbled an agreement while Eris rolled his eyes. “I am more than happy to spend time with you, foxling. It is that one I can't stand the sight of right now.”

"Eris!"

“Eris, our mate is asking you to stop being an entitled, self righteous, snake for one day. Surely you can handle that.”

“Azriel!”

“You're the one who set me off this morning, Azriel. Must you always run around brooding?” You felt yourself slowly sinking into your chair. The males you love most were both tired, so very tired. They were stressed from their duties and all you wanted was to love and help them.

They had not spent time with just each other in a few weeks. Eris had been too heavily scented on their last night together. It had been Azriel's way of telling you hello, but it lingered, dancing into the air during breakfast at the Forest House the next day. You had glamored it well enough from everyone but his mother. She seemed to see through you and Eris. Almost like she knew you two were hiding something or someone. Eris had caved, telling her everything about Azriel. Her advice had been simple, protect him. 

And Eris had taken that as, “Avoid him.” 

You looked between your two glaring mates, heartbroken at how their sadness was turning to grumpiness. “I'm going to go to the garden. Maybe you two should talk.” You left before one of them could respond then smiled, warding them in the cabin. If they wouldn't talk willingly, you'd force them to!

Azriel glared at Eris, and the heir returned it fully. “Our mate, our beautiful, selfless, and kind mate is outside by herself. Working in that damned garden. Because you want to be a grumpy asshole.”

Eris looked shocked, eyes wide as his jaw dropped. “I haven't done anything! I tried to greet you last night, and you ignored me in favor of y/n. Then this morning you wouldnt even kiss me good morning!”

“Can you blame me? She at least answers when I write.” Azriel watched the hit land, watched as Eris seemed to deflate. 

“I missed you. Regardless of how you feel, I missed you.” Eris stood to go out the door and jumped back as he was shocked. “Oh you have got to be kidding me.”

Azriel felt his face fall as well, walking to the after he did and jumping back as he was shocked as well. “Took that straight out of her brother's book, didn't she?” 

Eris couldn't help but laugh. “She doesn't even know he did that. I keep her here and away from him and Rhysand lately. It would break her heart all over again."

Azriel then began to laugh too, “She hates when we are mean to each other.”

“Because the world should be sunshine and rainbows.”

“And we are grumpy.” 

The ward seemed to lessen as the two males laughed before moving to the large sliding door that overlooked your garden. You were laughing, the rays of light seeming to want to follow and dance with you. You were such a breath of air. Untouched by the cruelty of the world and sheltered. It had turned you into the happiest female the two of them had ever met. The glass was always half full in your mind if you didn't decide that it was already running over and just a teeny tiny cup. 

Being paired with them, two grumpy and brooding males, seemed unfair to you most days. You were always laughing, always making jokes, and for 300 years, Eris had protected you from it being any other way. When he had taken you to a diplomatic meeting pre-Amarantha though, that had all changed. 

The bond snapping between you and Azriel had been difficult, life changing, and rewarding. He pursued you, regardless of your known status as Eris's wife and mate, and his pursuit paid off. It had kept you safe from Amarantha, and once they all had been freed, the bond between him and Eris snapped. 

That had been a different journey. The two of them were constantly butting heads, constantly arguing, constantly making you cry. It all ended though when Eris had been brave enough to bluntly address the situation. He had pulled Azriel to him, crashing his lips down on his, and the rest became history. Where everyone else saw a fight during the High Lord's meeting, you saw foreplay. 

Azriel sighed, watching you, and then turned back to Eris. “Why did you avoid me? I worried I had hurt you.” 

“You scented me too heavily. She could hardly hide it.”

Azriel nodded, a scarred hand then taking the other male's calloused one. “Did he hurt you?”

“No. She focused on hiding it from him.”

“I am sorry.”

Eris whispered the words back before leaning his head on Azriel's shoulder. “She's so beautiful and happy.”

“You are also beautiful,” Azriel looked him over. “Though, you are as she says, a grumpy pants.”

Eris huffed. “Odd. She says the same of you.” The ward seemed to drop fully. Allowing Azriel to reach his hands out to door and slide it open. “Brat.” He muttered.

“You'll take care of that later.”

“And you will help?”

You smiled as your mates walked out before jumping with glee. “Eris! There's a bunny!”

“Yeah? I'm sure we have many bunnies, my love.”

You glared at him before turning to Azriel. “Azriel!” You paused dramatically. “There's a bunny!”

The shadowsinger looked to the heir, a small smirk on his face as you stuck your tongue out at him. “Show me, starlight.”

General Taglist:

@hnyclover @glitterypirateduck @slytherinindisguise @mischiefmanagers @bloodicka @starsinyourseyes @the-sweet-psycho @mariahoedt @rinalouu @sarawritestories @starryhiraeth @starswholistenanddreamsanswered @cumuluscranium @loneliestluvr @eternallyelvish @azrielsmate3 @daughterofthemoons-stuff @meritxellao @aria-chikage @hungryforbatboys @lilah-asteria

Poly+ACOTAR Week Taglist

@amara-moonlight @toporecall @littlestw01f @prettylittlewrites @anuttellaa @nayaniasworld @123345566

Ps- I had to fix the tags! I apologize!

#acotar #acotar x reader #azriel acotar #azriel #azriel x reader #eris vanserra #eris vanserra x reader #azris x reader #azris x you #azris x y/n #poly!acotar x reader #poly+acotarweek 2024 #poly+acotarweek d5 #poly+acotarweek 2024 d5

[marvelsmylife]

Jealousy, Jealousy

Pairing: Azriel x reader, feysand x reader (just a tiny bit)

Plot: in an attempt to get Azriel to admit to you that you are mates, Rhysand asks you if you would be interested in having a threesome with him and Feyre as a present for her birthday because she’s expressed interest in engaging in a threesome and had a small crush on you since you started working for Madja.

ACOTAR Masterlist

Azriel was absolutely livid at his brother and his high lady. He couldn’t believe that they would bed you, knowing that you were his mate. The worst part of it all was the fact that Rhysand was sending him images of what he and Feyre were doing with you.

The threesome was Rhysand’s gift for Feyre for her birthday. She had let it slip that she was interested in a threesome and had her eye on you ever since you started working for Madja.

It took some convincing from Rhysand part that Feyre wanted this threesome for you to agree. You were almost positive that Rhysand had made that up because you thought he was the one who actually wanted the threesome, but once he showed you that Feyre genuinely wanted it, you agreed.

And you were happy you agreed to it. You spent hours fucking, eating and drinking. By the end of it, you could barely stand on your own.

Once you knew the threesome was over, you quickly started getting dressed: “You know you don’t have to leave right away, right?” Rhysand told you while you slipped on your shoes.

“He’s right y/n,” Feyre added: “You can spend the night here. Come cuddle with us.”

“As much as I would love to, I have a packed schedule tomorrow and need to sleep,” you replied.

You were almost at the door when you heard Rhysand’s voice in your head: leaving without kissing us goodbye? You suppressed the urge to roll your eyes at Rhysand’s comment: “I didn’t think you would want a goodbye kiss.”

“Of course we do. We would be disappointed if you didn’t,” Feyre replied innocently.

Not one to disappoint your high lord and lady, you went over to them and kissed them each before slipping out of their bedroom.

You tried your best to be quiet as you tried to sneak out of Feyre and Rhysands room so no one knew what happened between the three of you. Unfortunately, as you tried to sneak away, the rest of the inner circle stood a few feet away with smirks plastered all over their faces. “Had fun in there?” Amren asked.

You were tempted to lie about what happened but knew they wouldn’t believe you. “Yup,” you beamed: “They really know how to treat a female right.”

The inner circle was ready to bombard you with questions about what happened when suddenly you were surrounded by shadow. The next thing you knew, you were whisked away from the room and appeared in Azriel’s room. “What the-” you whispered.

“You’re mine,” Azriel growled into your ear as he had you cornered: “I can’t believe they actually touched what was mine. Gods, their sent is all over you.”

“Azriel, what are you talking about?” you stammered out.

“You’re my mate,” Azriel explained: “You’re my mate. They knew that, and they still decided to touch you.”

#azriel imagine #azriel x reader #azriel x you #acotar imagine #acotar x reader

[thehighladywrites]

ACOTAR MEN X READER, BEING THEIR SNEAKY LINK

☀︎ — summary: sneaking around with the acotar men👀 How long does this go on?

☀︎ — warnings: 18+, nsfw themes, tw beron🤢 mentioned

☀︎ — amara’s note: had this idea for a while, let’s bring this to life😈oh to be sneaking around with them🙏🏽💔

Rhysand

With him, no one finds out until you tell everyone

He is able to keep the links sneaky for sure, also he masks your scents so that no one can tell

No one really suspects that ur sleeping together because he isn’t paying any suspicios amount of attention to you.

He makes it up later though👀

At first, it was just a way for him to recover from Under the Mountain, so he sought you out for help in order to gain back some controll.

And he got better and began to carefully heal, yet here you both were, still sneaking around years later.

Yeah, years bc that is how good he’s able to keep secrets.

Oh, he gets jealous too and masks it as being a good friend and high lord when asked about it by the rest of the inner circle.

His favorite trick is telling the ic he’s sending you on a mission so they think ur gone, then he suggests them eating out while you’re gone then tells them he can’t make it so he stays at home and then you guys can stay at the house unbothered and alone

Since he gets jealous, he gives you hickies or make your legs so sore you can’t walk

Rhys looooves the attention you get during morning training for the others

“Are you okay, did you trip or something?”

“No, no Az,I’m fine. I was just doing some stretches and I think I overdid it.”

Rhysand just stands there happier than ever as you glare at him

Azriel

Guys, let’s be so real. Azriel ain’t getting caught, ever💀

He teaches you tricks on how to hide better when you’re coming over to his room

And it’s usually his room you hook up in bc he has trained himself to notice anything being off. Like if a book has been moved like a millimeter, he knows so it’s the safest and least risky place for you to be.

Because he is so attentive and sneaky, he is incredibly risky

He loves risky sex. Bro will fuck your brains out knowing people are close bc he knows he’s able to cover it up

Azriel also uses his shadows on you in broad daylight.

You’re out for dinner w the inner circle and his shadows teases and rub your clit under the table. You use your magic to suppress your arousal but it’s kind of hard to not squirm and all that

Az just sits there cocky as fuck knowing that he makes you react like that without even touching you

So so so soooo much jealousy on your side bc Azriel gets hit on all the time, males, females, youngsters, oldies, bro everyone wants him

People don’t hit on you tho because Azriel is always standing behind you, exuding that scary aura and energy that has people running the other way

Even after you two become official, you keep it under wraps. You don’t want anyone or anything ruining it for you so it’s all very hush hush

Only years after, when your friends ask why none of you date people, do you spill. You tell them you and Azriel are together already but it’s a private relationship

They were a little pissed but they let it go when they saw how happy you were and how good your dynamic is

Eris

He is sneaking around with you because of both your parents

You’re the daughter of one of B*ron’s🤢 close advisors so you and Eris spend a lot of time together

Eventually it develops into a secret relationship with a lot of sex

You both know your parents would hung you both if you ever got exposed but you still do it.

You both act like you’re somewhat of enemies or don’t like each other in public so that no one can even rise suspicions againt you.

Behind closes doors he sluts you out like crazyyyyy, i’m talking any type of sex, rough, soft, different positions, different places, new things added, toys, rope, cuffs this man is kinky I KNOW ITTT

like he has no controll over his life bc of b*ron 🤢 so he likes taking controll in the bedroom and dominate, yum👀

It all becomes more interesting and exciting when your parents decide it’s high time to get engaged and married.

Your suitors always wonder why you’re late and messy, what they don’t know is that you were busy getting bent over by eris

anyways when b*ron 🤢 dies and eris takes over, the sneaky link ain’t sneaky anymore. The man fully claims you, even making you his high lady.

Ugh i love him💔💔💔💔

Lucien

You’re Cassian’s sister and you’re hooking up with him on the down low

Lucien caught your eye when he and Feyre came back from Spring.

He seemed uncomfortable around everyone and kept to himself, until you started spending more time with him

Time turned your companionship to a secret relationship

Please, we all know how charming Lucien is, I mean, shit I’d fall for him too🫨🫨

Sorry @thelov3lybookworm but your man is so fuckable💗

Anyways, he is super charming and silver tounged and that makes you jump his bone immediately

This guy is amazing with his tounge, head game goes CRAZYYYYY

At first it’s just sex, but then instead of fucking then leaving, you begin to stay during the nights and talk for hours.

Eventually you realize the depth of your bond and how much you love one another.

You were quite nervous when telling Cassian bc Illyrian’s are super protective and possessive over their family but he is fine with it bc he knows that there aren’t better males than Lucien

Anyways, you keep sneaking around bc you don’t want to outright make out infront of the inner circle so you sneak away at parties, meetings and dinners.

This man is a risktaker just like Azriel. I know he sneaks up from behind, saying crazy and stomach flipping things, waiting for your reaction then fucks you in whatever place you are

Cassian

You’re Lord Devlon’s daughter and you sneak around with him.

No one knows about your magic from your mother’s side that you use to remove any trace of cassian

At first you hated him bc of your father and bc he manipulated you into thinking cassian and his friends were dangerous

There is banter and mean words exchanged between you that only makes the sexual tension between you even stronger

One night you both snap and have hate sex and that one night becomes the start of years of secret meetings and rendezvous.

Whenever he's in Windhaven, you two have a blast. To dodge curious eyes, you've got this genius plan: throw a party whenever Cassian conveniently has a meeting or mission there. With everyone a bit tipsy, it's the perfect cover for linking up

After a while you’re caught by Devlon himself and all hell breaks loose. Rhysand has to come down and solve everything before blood spills

Devlon disowns you and would have killed you had it not been for Cassian protecting you from your father

So he takes you to Velaris where you live with him and eventually become an advisor for Rhysand since he hasn’t lived there for years and would benefit from someone who was so close to Devlon

You have so much fun and yeah, that’s how you went from hate sex, fuck buddies, in love and eventually mates

#talkswithamara #acotar #a court of thorns and roses #acotar x reader #acotar imagine #azriel x reader #rhysand x reader #cassian x reader #eris x reader #eris vanserra x reader #lucien vanserra x reader #eris vanserra #azriel #rhysand #cassian #eris #lucien vanserra #azriel acotar #rhys acotar #cassian acotar #eris acotar #rhys x reader #eris vanserra acotar #rhysand acotar #azriel shadowsinger #cassian imagine #rhysand smut #eris vanserra smut #azriel smut #high lord rhysand