#all those rejected outfit designs was months of work feeling out what felt right

[alaraxia]

After a LOT of outfit/pallete trial n error I think I’m finally close to having an actual style down for Ordovic.

Main reason I haven’t wanted to practice drawing him as much was because I didn’t have a solid idea of his outfit and what his whole pallete should be, and so have spent months slowly circling ideas and poking at it.

#‘hey why haven’t you drawn ordovic as much’ because idk this fuckers look!!! #anyway only made progress once I pushed myself out of my comfort zone for colors #all those rejected outfit designs was months of work feeling out what felt right #character designers I respect you so much #anyway still technically not final but this is pretty close #OC Ordovic #OC art #orc #character design #another motivator was I couldn’t get comms of him until I finalized and outfit and colors like I did for ilia #ilia was way easier #her whole shape sorta lived in my head for years and her colors were very in my comfort zone #digital art #love my blorbos from my mind I’m So Normal about them

[themurphyzone]

PatB Oneshot: Crystal Clear

AN: Part of an art trade with @plutonis in honor of her upcoming wedding. She tasked me with writing an introspective piece for a Brinky wedding. The art piece I requested is for the next chapter of Nova, so you’ll see the finished product there. 

Prompt given by Pluto: I was wondering if you could do a little fic in which Brain is walking down the aisle on his wedding day, and we hear the thoughts going on in his head. What is he thinking? How is he feeling?

AO3 Link

If Brain had his way, he would’ve taped himself to the table leg with extra strong industrial strength duct tape and remained there for the rest of his life.

But Romy wouldn’t let him attach himself to said table leg, and Wakko already ate the duct tape to prevent him from getting it. All other binding materials, including the shoe strings and gluesticks, had been placed on a shelf mockingly out of his reach.

And since he was already in his wedding dress, he couldn’t even climb the shelf to retrieve the necessary materials.

“Dad, you’re killing the glarb,” Romy complained as he pried Brain from the table leg.

“Unhand me at once or so help me, Roman Numeral One!” Brain shouted, trying to break free from Romy’s grip, but it seemed their son had inherited Pinky’s unusual strength.

Wakko wasn’t any help either. He just watched the spectacle from his perch on the dresser, chomping on a platter of garlic prawns swiped from the catering company. Thankfully, Brain had the foresight to order plenty of garlic prawns for their celebratory dinner.

As soon as Romy’s grip loosened, Brain broke free and reattached himself to the table leg.

Funny, how he wanted this for so long. Yearned for it. And when the time came, even after all the progress he’d made, he was still afraid for reasons he didn’t understand.

It was illogical, he knew. He trusted Pinky more than anyone else, even himself.

But even that wasn’t enough to get him moving again.

“Guess someone’s gotta tell Ma you’re not coming,” Romy sighed.

Brain’s fingers dug into the wooden grooves.

“He’s definitely gonna cry. Probably gonna curl up on the couch and watch daytime soap operas with buckets of triple fudge ice cream or something,” Romy continued.

Sweet, innocent Pinky being heartbroken at his own wedding. Running off and doing who-knows-what, because he could be very unpredictable when he was truly distraught. His simple mind eroding away because of the unhealthy combination of trashy soap operas and ice cream diet.

Brain’s heart clenched uncomfortably at that mental image. With great reluctance, Brain let go of the table leg and marched over to the mirror to smooth out the wrinkles in his wedding dress to keep his hands occupied as he quelled that troublesome idea.  

“You’re gonna tell him that Brain’s in here, right?” Wakko asked.

“Sure,” Romy replied.

Wait...everyone knew of his intentions to see this wedding through to the end. And he'd never let the hard work and efforts of their wedding plans go to waste.

It was just a ploy.

Brain took a deep breath. To lose his temper before the ceremony would surely spell catastrophe. He wanted to keep this an emotionally satisfying occasion, for Pinky’s sake.

“Romy, I won’t deny that your tactic was effective. But you will refrain from using my fondness for Pinky against me in the future,” Brain said.

Perhaps Roman Numeral One took after him more than he thought. It was impressive and aggravating at the same time.

"Sorry, Dad." Romy's head dropped as he handed the bouquet to Brain.

Like with Pinky, Brain just didn't have it in him to remain angry once an apology was issued. He transferred the bouquet to one hand and lifted Romy's chin from its downcast position.

"Look alive, Romy. This is a celebration," Brain ordered as he turned back to the mirror. "And Wakko, you're not touching our wedding rings with prawn-stained hands."

Wakko pulled out a kitchen sink from his hammerspace and started washing his hands without removing his gloves. With the soft hum of Happy Birthday in the background, Brain turned back to the mirror and examined himself one more time. They didn’t have long before the ceremony began.

His dress towed the line between simple and extravagant. Ruffles in the right places, but not so many that it would hinder movement. A small hole had been cut to fit his tail, carefully sized so that it was easy to thread the stiff appendage through. His sleeves cut off at the elbow, white fabric giving way to a delicate flower pattern, lending an elegant and dignified quality to the outfit.

It hadn’t been easy obtaining this dress. He’d lost track of how many toy aisles Pinky had dragged him down, and he didn’t want his outfit to come from the toy section of Walmart. Pinky had eventually called Dot for help, and with her connections, she arranged for a fashion designer who specialized in making clothes for dolls to help them out.

And while they eventually put the issue of clothes behind them, they had a fair number of arguments when Brain found a reason to reject all the dresses Pinky suggested. Especially with that gaudy puffed sleeve dress Pinky loved but Brain hated.

“I realize we must’ve been insufferable for the past few months,” Brain said. Planning for a wedding wasn’t anything like planning for world domination, as he learned the hard way. But it was Pinky’s wedding as much as it was his, and after one vehement disagreement, Brain had realized he was pushing out Pinky’s contributions to impose his own.

It wasn’t easy, but he did try to turn over some aspects to Pinky, just to see how he did with them. And Brain didn’t regret that choice, because the results were absolutely wonderful.

“Yeah, you and Ma were ruining my vibes,” Romy gave a lazy smile as Brain nudged him in retaliation.

Romy had said something similar when he’d first run away from home, but mischief had long replaced the anger. Though Brain still didn’t think ventriloquism was a lucrative career, he’d made his peace with Romy’s lifestyle while repairing their relationship. And Romy wasn’t the only one who derived happiness from working with dummies.

“Regardless, we’re grateful that you came,” Brain said.

“Wouldn’t miss it,” Romy shrugged. “Better save your sap for the ceremony though.”

“I’m not being sappy,” Brain muttered out of principle rather than true irritation.

It was 2:55 pm. Five minutes until the ceremony began. He was running out of time.

He quickly fixed his leaf crown and attached veil so that it was less crooked. In years past, he never would’ve been satisfied until a golden crown with embedded jewels rested atop his head. But now he found the leaf crown was worth so much more than gold.

Then he made sure the transparent veil covered his face. The thin fabric didn’t hinder his vision, but he felt like he was looking through a lens.

Everyone would be watching him. He wanted that thin wall of privacy between himself and the onlookers. Seeing outside, but concealing his feelings within.

He didn’t have to. He knew he didn’t. But old habits die hard, it seemed.

The clock chimed three. It was time.  

What could go wrong?

“Don’t worry!” Wakko exclaimed as he picked up the purple velvet cushion with their wedding rings. “I didn’t mistake these for tiny Ring Pops this time!”

Brain was a fool. A sentimental, lovestruck, starcrossed, and twitterpated fool.

Wakko brought up the lead as they marched through the twisting hallways of the enormous property they’d rented for their Hawaiian wedding. Surprisingly, coming up with a location for their wedding hadn’t been difficult. After a stressful day of making other arrangements, they’d chosen a scenic, relaxing travel documentary to unwind.

As soon as the documentary showed a beautiful Hawaiian beach at sunset, they both agreed on making Hawaii the destination of choice for both wedding and honeymoon. Brain gripped the flower bouquet tightly, careful not to crush the petals between his fingers. Romy’s hand was on his elbow, light enough to not be intrusive but quick to react so Brain didn’t run into a wall.

He’d assigned Pinky to the task of flower selection, and Pinky had researched the meaning of flowers extensively with an unusual amount of focus. If Pinky had his way, he would’ve gathered one specimen of every flower in the world and brought them to the wedding, though Brain eventually convinced him to narrow his list down to a single digit range.

Brain was only familiar with the rose as a symbol of love, and he recalled the meaning of only two other flowers within their wedding. The rest were completely lost on him. The first was the magnolia, which represented perseverance. As such, a white magnolia stood proudly in his bouquet, nestled among the red roses of passionate love. Pinky had chosen the magnolia for Brain, and insisted Brain choose at least one flower too.

Though Brain didn’t place much stock in what the websites claimed, he just went along with it to humor Pinky. But he’d settled on the colorful freesia, just to thank Pinky for his friendship, faith, and trust for all the years they’d known each other.

Their miniature procession stopped at a glass sliding door that separated them from the rest of the proceedings.

Brain gulped and clutched the bouquet to his chest.

Beyond those doors, the wedding guests mingled with each other on the grass. A gorgeous, azure beach formed the perfect backdrop to the ceremony. White, fluffy clouds dotted the sunny skies, and the beauty was rather foreign to him. He’d spent far too much of his life hiding away in the darkness of a sterile lab.

It seemed the entirety of their Animaniacs coworkers had shown up for the wedding. He was surprised by the turnout, but it seemed that everyone had been clamoring for him and Pinky to tie the knot for years.

And while the usual toon antics were prevalent among the guests, Brain’s attention was drawn to the very front, where Pinky was arranging flowers on Pharfignewton, who’d jumped at the offer of being Pinky’s best mare.

Back then, the sight would’ve incited a feeling he’d come to realize was jealousy. Now he was just grateful that Pinky received some physical affection from someone when Brain couldn’t give it to him.

Wakko opened the screen door, causing a stir among the guests in the back, which caused a ripple effect that spread to the front and prompted everyone to take their seats. Pinky slid off Pharfignewton’s back, bouncing on his toes and craning his neck to see Brain.

Even from this far away, Brain saw Pinky’s bright, goofy smile. It made him regret keeping the veil over his face, cloaking his happiness even from his partner.

“Testing, testing!” Yakko said into the microphone. When he’d been ordained to officiate a wedding, nobody knew for sure. He shuffled through the cards for his opening speech. “Alright, everyone. We’ve all been very impatient for this moment, so no more delays, capiche? Dot, start the music!”

A hush fell across the audience, and even the most rambunctious members of the Animaniacs crew fell silent as a soft piano arrangement of A Whole New World began to play.

Wakko proudly held the cushion with the wedding rings over his head and marched to the front. From the aisle, Mindy reached into her basket and threw pink flower petals into the air, and Buttons held onto her so she didn’t fall out of her seat.  

Romy released Brain and followed Wakko. Pinky greeted their son with an enthusiastic hug, and Bunny flashed them a thumbs-up from her seat.  

All the attention was on Brain now.

He wasn’t sure if he wanted it.

He wanted to flee inside the house. Tell everyone to go home and they’ll get refunded the costs at a later date. Take Pinky to city hall and sign a document to make their marriage official instead.

The audience whispered.

He saw the worry in Pinky’s eyes, a stunning shade of blue that popped out from the beautiful Hawaiian beach. They were too far from each other to speak normally, but Pinky laid his hand on top of the colorful freesia pinned to his white dress shirt, just over his heart.

Trust me, he was saying.

And Pinky had proven himself worthy of his trust long ago.

Slowly, Brain laid his hand on the magnolia, the centerpiece of his bouquet.

I won’t give up.

Pinky smiled that soft, knowing smile of his. Emboldened by his encouragement, Brain stepped out of the house and onto the white, silky path that had been laid out for him.

He took slow, methodical steps to steel his nerves. This was his reward, and he was allowed to have it.

No more electricity, no more fear of rejection.

The happiness of having someone by his side. The sorrow when they were separated either by force or by choice. The surprise of receiving gifts from Pinky when he’d done nothing to deserve them. The guilt that came from upsetting Pinky with morally questionable schemes.

Emotions he’d once derided as frivolous were now precious and dear to him.

All the good, all the bad, and everything in between. And this occasion marked a brand new beginning, a new chapter of their lives that would bring new happiness and surprises. Though they’d be sad, angry, or terrified sometimes, they’d always be together.

That’s what counted most.

The melody of A Whole New World floated gently through the air. An airy tune filled with wonder at a world previously unknown to them.

He and Pinky dueted this song so many times that the lyrics and background instrumentals were permanently etched into his mind.

Only now did he understand what the song was truly about. Leaving behind their defined roles, into a freedom-filled sky. Just the two of them, exploring a huge world together. The burdens of the past and worries of the future left on the ground, and all that mattered was the present.

Being themselves, and experiencing things they’ve never experienced before.

It was terrifying and exhilarating all at once.

He could hardly wait.

Pinky waited for him, taking Brain’s hand in his own. He was absolutely breathtaking up close.

“Narf,” Pinky whispered, and Brain would never tire of that endearingly stupid word. “You did it, Brain.”

“All thanks to you, Pinky,” Brain replied, and Pinky’s tail wagged at the praise.  

Together, they walked to that beautiful wedding arch with intertwining pink and blue flowers, stopping in front of Yakko’s podium. Brain gave his bouquet to Romy so he could properly hold Pinky’s hands. Romy gave them a lazy grin, and Pharfignewton lowered her head so Romy could have a good perch. Wakko proudly balanced the cushion on his head, and Dot stood beside her brother, giving him a friendly shove without knocking the wedding rings off.

And Brain realized he was still seeing the world through veiled eyes. Though his vision was unimpeded, he’d barely noticed there was a filter among all his doubts and fears.

He’d kept the veil for a transparent amount of privacy when he walked down the aisle, but now that he was with Pinky…

Well, it just wasn’t necessary anymore.

He brought Pinky’s hands to the veil. Their eyes met, and a silent understanding passed between them.

Then Pinky threw back the veil, and the filter he’d been looking through was completely gone. And Brain saw the...no, he saw his world through fresh eyes.

A bright, happy, silly mouse stood before him, a colorful burst of freesia on his chest, and beautiful sky-blue eyes filled with endless love, promising hope and warmth and companionship forever more.

“You’re so pretty, Brain,” Pinky giggled.

It was the most wonderful sound for his compass, his heart, and his world.  

No more tolerating. He fully accepted the undeniable fact of how much he loved Pinky, and Pinky loving him back from this point forward.

Never before had he felt so much happiness, and he was ready for everyone to see it.

Unable to contain himself, Brain leapt into Pinky’s arms and kissed him. Though he heard their audience reacting with shock, it was all just background noise to him. And he’d never been a patient mouse.

Pinky was surprised at first, but his strong arms wrapped around Brain to support him, and he kissed back wonderfully.

Fireworks exploded in Brain’s mind, or maybe the Warners set some off, he didn’t know. But he had to come up for air, and he released the kiss, though it seemed Pinky could keep going for quite some time.

“Technically, you’re supposed to wait until I say ‘you may now kiss the Brain’, but who am I to stop true love?” Yakko grinned.

“Sorry,” the mice chorused, though neither of them regretted the little break in protocol.

The audience burst into cheers, and Yakko led them in a standing ovation for a good five minutes before they all settled down enough for him to start his opening speech.

“Love you, Brain,” Pinky whispered as he put Brain down and took his hands again.

“Love you too, Pinky,” Brain replied, and he couldn’t wipe the smile off his face.

Everything was laid out before them, clear as crystal and bright as day.

End AN: This is cheesy but I don’t care I love it and they’re married now. 

The Hawaiian setting is not a reference to the PatB fic Trouble in Paradise, it’s just that the last wedding I went to was in Hawaii and it was so romantic.

3rd time I’ve referenced A Whole New World in these fics. This song is just too perfect for them. 

#pinky and the brain #brinky #patb fanfiction #cheesy in a good fluffy way

[cheshiremadd]

Uprooting Bindweed

Ao3

I'd had the idea of Rena and Chat talking about Marinette and Adrien in my WIP folder, and then @galahadwilder posted the perfect prompt on discord to go with it: what if Chat Noir fired Rena Rouge.

Thank you SO much to @alexseanchai and @sweetmeatdale for your feedback! 💜

Speaking of Alex, they came up with the title, because they're amazing like that. Bindweeds are used as "food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species, including the convolvulus hawk moth". With that information and the Bindweed tarot card, I knew a more perfect title would not be found.

-

The Akuma of the Week was searching for Marinette. The fourth time this month, and he was really hoping there was nothing to that. So many targeting the same person not Chloé or Lila seemed strange to him. But that was a worry for another time.

Chat Noir and Rena Rouge had been sent ahead to the bakery (he was very glad that he’d stashed Marinette somewhere else). Rena was to Mirage herself into the designer and play bait, but they had to wait until Ladybug could lure the akuma closer. Five minute timer, and all.

Rena reached her balcony first, and went to the trapdoor without hesitation. Chat figured he’d have to be the one to open it, and had been planning how to go about it without giving away how familiar he was, but Rena had no qualms. His stomach soured at the thought that he wasn’t the only superhero to visit Marinette.

She’d redecorated some since he last was in her room. He wasn’t able to come as often as he wanted, and they typically preferred the open air and view of her balcony when the weather was warm.

Adrien’s modeling photos were still present, but they’d been updated to more recent shoots. On another wall were more candid pictures. Their friends and classmates. People he assumed were Marinette’s family (only some of whom he’d met). Several of Kitty Section. Her and Jagged Stone and Penny Rolling (it still blew his mind that she’s on a first name basis with them). Lots of her and Alya and Nino. Fewer of Adrien.

He knew she had more of Chat than of Adrien. But she kept those on her phone, locked away in a secret folder. Too much chance that someone would see her walls.

One caught his eye, placed directly in the center, the spot of honor. A high res of Chat-him and Ladybug. They’d thrown their arms over each other’s shoulders and snapped half a dozen selfies. It’d been Ladybug’s idea to submit the best of them to the Ladyblog, giving civilian them plausible deniability.

The last wall, above her sewing supplies, held her inspiration boards. One for general inspiration, holding her favorite pieces from her favorite lines (only one of which was a Gabriel piece, he noted with some interest), some fabric squares of different colors and patterns, and scenic pictures from around Paris. The other, he knew, was more specific to whatever she was currently working on. Pinned to it was a handful of dried flowers, a fabric swatch to match each flower, and several sketches.

Chat glanced at Rena, realizing she’d been quiet this whole time. She was staring at Adrien’s modeling photos, the look on her face unreadable. He looked with her. He wondered if there was a specific shoot Marinette favored.

“This must look so strange to you.”

Chat looked back at her, but said nothing. He wasn’t sure what he could say that wouldn’t give away exactly how close he was to Marinette.

“I promise she’s not some weird stalker in love with a celebrity. Well. He is a celebrity and she does have the biggest crush on him.” Um. What? “But they’re actually friends. She didn’t even like him when she first met him. The—the Wall actually started because he wasn’t allowed to hang out very often, and no one could get any candids of him.”

What?!

His shock must have shown on his face. He turned back to ‘the Wall’ in an effort to hide at least some of it.

“You seriously didn’t know?” Rena said. “You’ve got to be, like, one of two people in Paris that doesn’t. I keep flopping on whether Adrien knows or not. One minute it’s like he’s encouraging her feelings, the next he’s going on about how glad he is to have such a good friend.”

Chat tried not to sputter. “How—how does ‘no candids’ turn into—” He gestured at the collage of Adriens.

“None of them were perfect.” Rena said it like she’d heard it a million times. “This photo shows his sincere eyes, but the rest of the face is photoshopped too much to be his real smile. ‘That advertisement had most of his real smile!’ ” She pitched her voice higher in mimicry. “ ‘But they shaved several centimeters off of his waist! Several! He’s skinny but he’s not that skinny can you believe they felt like they needed to change that, Rena?’ Well, she didn’t say Rena, she said my civilian name. I mean—you get it. And, oh, that outfit looks really good on him, it looks like something he’d choose to wear himself, but he looks so tired in that one. I bet that was at the end of that all-day shoot.”

(They didn’t actually shave inches off his waist. They did shave a little, but that wasn’t the point because—) He never realized that Marinette paid so much attention to him. He wanted to deny it. She’d specifically told him that she didn’t have a crush on him. And Marinette hates liars.

But. But she’d been embarrassed, that day. And she was embarrassed around him a lot. Especially when Alya was involved. It’d taken him a long time to notice that, but once he had, he saw it everywhere. And with this new piece of information…it shone a whole different light on many of their interactions.

Chat swallowed. He wasn’t sure what to do with this knowledge. He’d been in love with Ladybug for…for a long time. And Marinette. Marinette was special. Rejecting her was hard enough the first time, but at least he’d known that it’d never work between a superhero and a civilian.

Oh, Kwamis. She had a crush on Chat, too! Adding that event with this new understanding, he realized she never meant to confess to him. She’d probably been about to backtrack, but then her parents interrupted, and it was out of control from there.

What better evidence that someone truly liked you for who you were than falling for you twice and not realizing it?

Rena shuffled a bit, finding other things to poke her nose in, and Chat realized that he’d never responded.

“So, you don’t think it’s creepy that this girl has like twenty pictures of her crush on her walls?” He didn’t think it was creepy. He thought it was endearing. But he was curious what she would say. She’d been interestingly defensive of Marinette.

She snorted. “Hey, if it’s crazy, Adrien’s her same kind of crazy. He’s got more photos of Ladybug on his phone than I do, and that’s saying something.”

His brain came to a complete stop. And then worked overdrive. How the fuck did Rena Rouge know that.

She sighed, picked at her flute, and continued. “I’ve been wondering if she shouldn’t give him up, though. It’s starting to get unhealthy. Ruining her friendships in class.”

His chest tightened and it became hard to breath. Loving him was bad for her. The thought rattled around, but what she said next wiped it all away.

“There’s this girl in class, Lila. She’s an amazing person, done all these things, and has a real chance with Adrien. Marinette can’t let it go. She swore that Lila was lying, then dropped it and now just gives her the cold shoulder. Won’t go to group outings if Lila’s involved. Keeps flaking out. Avoids her completely. Lila’s trying, so hard, to keep the peace, mend bridges, and Marinette just refuses to listen.”

Rena dropped her hands, hitting her thighs, and paced. Agitated.

“It’s jealousy, pure and simple. And if she’s going to be like that, then I just don’t know if I can approve her being in a relationship. Especially with him.”

Chat felt something inside him harden. Gritted his teeth. Considered biting his tongue. He knew who this was. It’s plain as day now, and he’s mildly surprised he didn’t see it before. She’s supposed to be Marinette’s best. friend. And this was how she thought of her?

To be fair, Rena looked torn over this. Chat could see the hurt in her eyes, the worry in her bitten lower lip. The frustration in the creases of her brow. And she was telling all this to Chat, whom she only passingly knew.

But he couldn’t keep the distaste from his face. “Marinette’s right. Lila Rossi is a fucking liar. You think she’s got a real chance with Adrien Agreste? He wouldn’t touch her with my extendable baton. He only does photoshoots with her because clearly no one at Françoise Dupont knows what proper procedures for expulsion are, and that stunt Rossi pulled almost turned into Heroes Day 2.0.” He tugged down one of Adrien’s glamour shots. Marinette’s handwritten and detailed critiques ran along the edges. “From what it sounds like, Agreste would be lucky to date a girl like Marinette.”

Rena stared at Chat, stunned. “What do you know about Lila?”

He let out a short and hard laugh. “Enough. That little interview on the Ladyblog? I doubt there’s a true word in it. I mean, Ladybug’s best friend? I’m Ladybug’s best friend!”

Some of the tension released from her shoulders and she rolled her eyes. “Right. I forgot how jealous you can be, too.”

Chat growled at her. His ears flicked back, low on his head, and his tail whipped through the air agitatedly. “If you’re going to sit here and defend that manipulative bitch then you might as well take that miraculous off right now.”

Rena stepped back into a defensive stance. She was a decent fighter, but he was better. If she refused to give it over peaceably—

Something thumped on the roof. Ladybug. There was still an akuma, and that took priority. They needed to be where Ladybug expected them.

“Mirage, now.” His words were short and clipped. He pounced past her and opened up the window opposite of where the akuma would be coming from. “Follow the plan. We can talk about this later.”

The plan worked out like most of Ladybug’s plans do: perfectly. Chat’d tied the villain up in Marinette’s tarp-roof, presented with a string-of-lights bow and a flourished bow to his Lady to his Lady. She did her thing, tossed the spotted paperclip into the air, and Marinette’s balcony and room put themselves back together. The glamour shot even taped itself back on the wall.

Chat sent Ladybug a look. She gestured in a direction and he nodded. He was pretty sure he knew the roof she meant.

Rena passed by him with wariness, but he paid her no visible attention. She took off with Ladybug in the agreed direction while he turned to the akuma victim. He had a princess to protect.

“Here, let me get you down to street level,” he said. The deakumatized girl seemed hesitant to step into his arms, but relented after seeing no other way down. “Do you remember anything?”

Tears shone in her eyes for a moment, but she swiped at them and tried a smile. It didn’t work. “I—I think I’ll be okay. It’s stupid, I just…let my stress get the better of me.”

He opened his mouth, but she cut him off with a gasp. “Oh, no, Marinette! I didn’t do anything to hurt her, did I?”

“Mlle Dupain-Cheng is fine,” he hurried to reassure her, “but…do you remember why you were after her? Did she do something wrong?”

“No! No. Marinette is lovely; she’s always helping us out in the Garden Club!” The girl paused, ashamed. “I was just feeling overwhelmed and she always seems so put together, she juggles all these responsibilities…I was jealous. Like I said. Stupid.”

“Hey, hey, your feelings are not stupid. Everyone gets stressed and feels like they’re drowning at times. I bet if you asked Marinette about it, she’d say that she always feels like that.”

He remembered himself and what he had to do, and glanced upwards.

“I’m very sorry. I’d usually stay longer and make sure you’re really okay, but I have an urgent something.” He handed her one of the business cards he’d made up. It had information on a number of Akuma support groups. “I can be back in about 30 minutes if you want to wait?”

Her smile turned a little more real. She took a deep, calming breath and let it out slowly. “I think I’ll be okay,” she said again. “I’ll—that’s good advice. Talking to Marinette. Thank you, Chat Noir. For caring.”

He smiled and saluted her, then bounded off. His baton confirmed that Ladybug and Rena were still active a few rooftops over. But then he watched Rena’s signal go out and put on a burst of speed to get there in time. They weren’t on the roof, it turned out, but in the alleyway adjacent to the building.

Ladybug’s eyebrows raised in silent question when she saw him. “Sorry, Bug. This is something that needs to be done.”

Alya looked between the two. Suspicion bloomed and, with it, fear.

Pernicious cat gods, this was going to be awful.

“Alya Césaire.” Chat held his hand out. “The Miraculous. Please.”

She grasped it so hard her knuckles turned white. She took a big gulp of air and said shakily, “This feels final.”

He stared at one of his closest friends, and didn’t let himself waver.

“Your recklessness has put many in danger, including Ladybug and myself. You gave Lila Rossi a platform to speak, to spread her lies. You, who had held a miraculous before, and likely would again. Whom Ladybug had shown a partiality to in interviews and questions. You had every opportunity to check Rossi’s story.”

And, oh, he sounded exactly like his father. That grated.

“In giving her credibility, you opened several of your classmates up to her manipulations. Your best friend warned you about her lies, and you wrote it off as petty jealousy. You tried to write off what I told you as petty jealousy.”

He could kind of see how she’d come to that conclusion, assuming Marinette never told her about that cringe-worthy ice skating date and knowing that she was in love with him. (Alya said ‘crush’. Having this new option to attribute to Mari’s behavior, he knew it was more than that.)

“Furthermore, I can guarantee that at least one terrorist watches your blog. A civilian claimed to be a superhero’s best friend and you broadcast that to the world. What happens when said terrorist decides to use that?”

It was harsh, and damning. But it had to be said. She needed to understand.

Alya looked from him to Ladybug and back, then repeated the motion. “You—you can’t…” Alya’s voice broke. Her eyes settled on Ladybug, who appeared to have turned to stone, she held herself so rigidly. “He can’t do this. Right? You hand out the Miraculous; it’s your decision. Not his!”

Ladybug’s stormy eyes turned to ice. The Ladyblogger realized her mistake and opened her mouth to salvage something, anything, but Ladybug cut her off. “You, of all people, should know that Chat is my equal. He’s right. I should've…but I didn’t…” She shook her head, once. “I stand by his decisions.”

Chat released a breath he hadn’t known he was holding. Alya’s eyes grew bright with tears and she clutched the Fox Miraculous harder. She stared at them, and they stared at her, and she finally dropped it into Chat’s claws.

Ladybug’s hands fluttered in Alya’s direction. She pulled up short, though, unsure if her touch would be welcome.

“This doesn’t make you a bad person, Alya,” she said gently. “You’ve been lied to and manipulated. That’s not your fault. But, as a reporter, it’s important to consider the consequences of distributing information. Just as it is to produce evidence to back your stories.”

Alya’s hand pressed against her mouth, muffled a sob.

Ladybug hesitated, considering, and then spoke again. “You can still be a hero, Alya. Magic, the miraculous, it doesn’t make you into what you aren’t. You make you a hero. And, like I told Chloé, being a hero starts with your everyday life.”

Silence. The only sounds were the girl’s sniffling and the pounding of Chat’s heart. Even the sounds of the city muted. He had to force himself to stay still. Fidgeting felt disrespectful somehow. It was broken by Alya.

“So—so Lila was never your friend?” she asked thickly.

Ladybug’s voice was so gentle, yet cut through what the Ladyblogger had known like a knife. “No.”

Alya nodded. Wiped her eyes and tried to pull herself together. Her short gasps of breath betrayed how upset she was. “I. I think I’ve—” She swallowed. “Got some thinking to do.”

She turned to face the street, straightened her spine, and walked out. Her walk looked a little robotic to Chat, a little too forced to be her normal. She barely made it ten meters before Chat heard Nino call out to her.

Good, he thought, deflating a little. Nino will protect her.

His priority was his Lady.

“Well, it looks like you finally joined me in getting past the time limitation.” His attempt at lightening the mood fell flat even to him.

Ladybug didn’t respond at all. She took a big, shuddering breath.

“Oh, Bug…” Chat was quick to wrap his arms around her, and gently pull her head to rest on his shoulder. He coaxed her into a shuffle-walk until his back met the dirty alley wall, the heel of the hand that still held the Fox necklace rubbing up and down and across her back. “I’m so sorry.”

She shook her head back and forth; his claws tangled further in her hair. He tried not to listen to her quiet tears. He drowned out the sound of Nino and Alya moving on. The cars on the street. Instead he looked for the delicate and distinct sound of an akuma’s wings. She deserved a moment to mourn without worry.

Ladybug took a deep breath.

“You were right.” Her voice sounded wet. “Her blog affects many, and we were probably the only ones she was going to listen to.

“Actions…actions have to have consequences. Alya wasn’t seeing them, and—and maybe we shouldn’t be judge, jury, and executioner, but—the longer this goes on the worse they’ll become.”

Neither of them moved. He continued to find no evil bugs. Or feathers, but they usually went weeks in between Mayura sightings.

A gentle wind blew. They were having a round of good weather. Sunny days that were just warm enough to make the breeze feel perfect. He was hoping it’d hold through the weekend.

Ladybug pulled away to wipe her eyes. He fumbled a folded black handkerchief with green embroidery into her hands and she shot him a grateful, if watery, smile. “Thank you. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Oh, that just warmed him down to his toes. And emboldened him to push a little more. “Hey, I was wondering, would you mind saying that bit about me being right again? Because I could listen to that all day—”

He internally cheered as his partner huffed out a laugh and rolled her eyes. “Careful, kitty. I can see your head getting bigger by the second.”

She returned fire!

Mission accomplished.

.

That meant it was time to go, he guessed.

.

Chat stood there a moment longer. Contemplative.

“What are you thinking about, minou?”

He turned to her with a small smile, trying to hold it back and mostly failing. She crinkled a smile in return and raised an eyebrow.

“I’m going to get me a girlfriend.”

He said it so resolutely, so surely, so smugly, that she couldn’t help but laugh. “You are, are you?”

He nodded. His smile spread to full blown glee. “If she’ll have me. Rena said something while we waited, and it just made me think. There’s this girl, LB, and fuck is she amazing. She’s been waiting for me for the better part of two years, and I just realized that I’m crushing on her. Hard. I don’t even know when it started.”

He sighed, happy. “I’m going to ask her out. Tomorrow. And pray to the kwamis that she gives me one last chance.”

(Adrien didn’t ask Marinette out the next day, because Alya looked awful and he figured she needed the support. He’d count himself lucky if she didn’t get akumatized over this, and would attribute the entirety of that luck to his princess. He did invite her to lunch the day after that—he’d thought it’d be more difficult than it was, but Alya was already leading Rose off to a quiet corner—where he managed a stuttered and stilted confession. He honestly had no idea how Marinette managed to understand it, but she must have because she gave an enthusiastic “Yes!” and the next thing he knew they were making plans to explore the city together on Saturday.)

-

It's the job of the Black Cat to recognize when something’s not working, and to get rid of it. Destruction is necessary for Creation to truly thrive. And, sometimes, that means destroying what Creation loves. But, sometimes, the thing Creation loves is the vine that's choking her.

(Or enables the vine that’s choking her.)

#miraculous ladybug #chat noir #ladybug #rena rouge #alya salt #alya learns a lesson #lila salt #adrienette #ml fanfic

[barnes-dameron]

Just a Little Mix-Up

*gif not mine*

Modern!Poe Dameron x reader

Word Count: 3.8k

Summary: Two identical folders: one containing boring office work, the other containing race pictures of you. What happens when your crush of three years, Poe Dameron, accidentally has the latter? 

To say that your heart was going the same speed of a race car during the final lap of the Daytona 500 was an understatement. You prayed that the world would open up and swallow you rather than have the most embarrassing event in history happen to you. You tried to think back on what went wrong; what you could’ve prevented from something like this happening to you. 

The last thing that you wanted to happen, happened. Poe Dameron, your crush of three years, has ever exposing pictures of you. After a deep breath in effort to clear your mind, you went back, and assessed the events that led up to this horrific one. 

One month ago...

The cafe was alive with both loyal and new patrons as the usual band played their new music. You always loved this place. The people were always interesting, the music lifted spirits, and everything on the menu was perfected to a delicious and savory taste. There was no way you could’ve found this place on your own. Finn, a friend from the office at which you both worked, invited you to the cafe one evening to meet his friends, Rey and Poe. 

The moment you saw Poe, butterflies erupted in your stomach. The last time something like that happened was a middle school crush. You thought he would be charming, but instead he was a huge dork with the brightest smile in the galaxy. It relieved you to know that he was human instead of some mythical god. After that night, it wasn’t just Finn inviting you out but Poe as well. On multiple occasions, Poe has freely confessed to you that he enjoys your company and sarcastic sense of humor. Especially since he could make jokes with you that Rey and Finn wouldn’t understand. Apparently, to him, you two have more in common than what he has with Finn and Rey. These interactions only made your feelings grow, but you always kept them to yourself. You didn’t think you weren’t enough for him or anything. But the fear of losing his friendship and the risk of the friendship being awkward in case of rejection prevented you from voicing your own feelings. However, you were content with the friendship for now. At this point, you and Poe were so comfortable with each other that he would put his arm around your shoulder while walking or sitting. Whenever you got cold, he would lend you his jacket. You hated how you cherished these little displays of affection. You consistently have to remind yourself that things are platonic, and will remain platonic. 

But you weren’t at the cafe for Poe. You sat a table, waiting for your friend, Lina. You and Lina have been friends since high school, and were always there for each other for the good and the bad. Sometimes you would talk to her about Poe, which she always replies with “Don’t be a baby, and just tell him,” to which you ignored. She texted you this morning saying she wanted to see you. 

Lina came in, greeted you with a hug like always, and sat across from you at the table. After some small talk and catching up on each other’s lives, Lina’s demeanor changes before your eyes. Her usual smile disappeared, her stare turns towards the table, and she starts to fidget with her hands. 

“Y/N,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I need to ask you a favor.”

Your heart sank. Surely this must be something serious if she’s so nervous to ask. 

“Of course,” you replied. “Anything.”

“So you know I’m in fashion school,” she began, and only going further after a nod from you. “Well, there was an assignment where we design and reproduce an article of clothing. For the assignment, we need to bring in the clothes and have pictures of someone modeling the clothing. My model dropped out on me, and I need a new one. And I was wondering if you can do it?”

The question confused you, but you were glad it was this kind of favor and not one asking for an organ. This would be a walk in the park. 

“Are you kidding me?” you said. “Lina, I would love too. It sounds like fun.”

“Really?” she squeaked, light returning to her eyes and a smile reemerging to her face. 

“Yeah,” you replied. “What kind of clothing is it?” 

“Lingerie,” Lina said. 

Your heart stopped. 

“Lingerie?” you repeated. “Lina, I can’t do that!”

“Why not?” she retorted. “Give me one reason you can’t model lingerie?”

“Look at me,” you said while making a hand gesture towards your body. “I don’t have the confidence to pull it off. And frankly, I’m not comfortable with your class seeing half naked pictures of me.”

“Okay,” Lina started. “You have a great body and you could totally pull this off without a problem. Once you try it on and we get some good music on, you’re not going to want to take it off. And besides, my professor will be the only one seeing it. Other than her, me, you, and the photographer, no one else will see those pictures. You can trust me on that.”

Maybe it was her reasoning or your kind heart, but you made the decision that would set the spark to the bomb that would become your downfall. 

“Okay,” you sighed. 

Two weeks ago...

You stood in the dressing room, facing the mirror while cringing. Why did you agree to this? You looked over yourself in the black lingerie set that Lina designed and made. Your breasts were pushed up to the max, the lace clung to your torso like a second layer of skin, and the panties barely covered your front much less the back. Lina styled your hair and did your make-up before you went in to change. You probably would’ve stayed in the changing room if it hadn’t been for Lina’s impatient shouts. You sighed heavily, and opened the door. 

“Look at you, sexy,” Lina said as soon as she saw you. 

You rolled your eyes, and approached her. 

“Lina, I look ridiculous,” you hissed, not wanting the photographer to hear. 

“Okay first off, don’t say that because I designed that,” she replied, holding up a finger to accompany her offended look. “And second, you look great. You’re just not used to seeing yourself this gorgeous.”

There was a certain truth behind her words. You rarely ever put on lingerie, and rarely had a chance to do so. Ever since meeting Poe, your love life went down the drain. Every man you met who seemed remotely interested in you, you immediately turned down. You came to terms that you liked Poe, and it wasn’t fair to pretend to reciprocate feelings towards other men who aren’t him. Maybe if something does happen between you and Poe, you could wear this for him. Lina did say you can keep it after her professor grades it. 

“You’ll feel better once I put on music,” Lina said kindly, while stroking your arm up and down. 

She was right. Once the music was turned on, your whole demeanor changed. You went from shy and embarrassed to confident and outgoing. You posed left and right, showing off certain parts of the lingerie. You felt sexy. You showed off your ass and breasts, flipped your hair while giving the over the shoulder look, and gave flirty and seductive looks to the camera. At this point, nothing could’ve brought you down. You felt euphoric and gorgeous. For the first time, you felt like you were on top of the world. Once the shoot was done, you, Lina, and the photographer examined all the pictures. 

“Damn, Y/N,” Lina exclaimed. “You look so sexy. These pictures could be on the cover of Playboy.”

“These might be the best pictures I’ve ever taken,” the photographer mumbled to himself. 

“Okay, cool it,” Lina warned. “Can you print all of these?”

“Yeah, no problem,” he said. “I could get them to you after about a week and a half. I still got to play with them a bit.”

“Okay,” Lina replied. “Just make sure you don’t play with yourself while playing with the pictures.”

You couldn’t but laugh while watching the interaction. As you made your way back to the changing room, Lina caught up. She walked besides you when saying:

“I’m serious. You looks so hot, I swear some of those pictures look like scenes from some porno.”

You laughed again, before shaking your head. 

“Well, I’m glad you liked them. Just make sure that no one else sees them.”

“I promise,” Lina swore. 

You smiled at her before walking into the changing room. A part of you didn’t want to take the lingerie off. You wanted to keep it on. You wanted to call Poe while wearing it. You wanted to show it off to him. But reality came back just as fast as the fantasies. You took off the outfit, and set it aside. Little did you know that the outfit was the device to your own destruction. 

Yesterday

After a long day from work, Finn invited you to his apartment for dinner. You immediately accepted his offer, knowing that you’d get to see Poe. You told Finn you had to stop by the printing place before going though. Lina asked you to get the photos from the shoot since she’ll be in class. 

The photos were the size of average pieces of paper and came in a plain manila folder. Simple pick-up, but the cashier did give you weird looks and wrote his number on the back of receipt. You immediately knew that he looked at the pictures, but you figured you’d never see him again so why care?

Once outside the printers, you opened up the folder and skimmed through the pictures. You couldn’t even recognize yourself. It was like looking at your alter ego. Your sexy, confident, alter ego. You smiled to yourself, secretly loving how you looked in the photos. Shaking your head, you closed the folder and headed to Finn’s place.

Once you got there, you saw that Rey already arrived and was helping Finn out by setting the table. When she saw you come in, she came over to greet you as you placed the folder on the kitchen counter. 

“Hey Y/N,” Rey said, coming up beside you. “What do you got there?”

“Just something for my friend,” you replied, shrugging off the topic. “But I think the real question is, what is Finn cooking over there?”

The two of you laughed, while Finn mocked you two from his place at the stove. He wasn’t the best cook, but he was better than the three of you combined. Rey grabbed some beers from the fridge, and you talked about how Finn accidentally used hot sauce on his lunch instead of ketchup today at work. You were doing well until Poe came. 

Your heart began to pick up as you watched him take off his jacket. Poe let out a loud sigh before slamming down a manila folder on the counter. 

“I’m so overworked!” Poe yelled, before going straight to the fridge for a beer. “Leia has been giving me so many project lately since Ben has been slacking off. I mean, what is that guy even doing anymore? I’ve got so much work that I had to bring some home.”

“Oh, that sucks,” you said, immediately scolding yourself after saying that. 

That’s the best you got, you thought to yourself. 

“I really need this,” Poe sighed, after taking a long swig from his beer. Poe moved around the kitchen island towards you, wrapping an arm around your shoulders and pushing you against his chest in a half hug. You heard Poe hum, which went straight through you and caused your heart to skip a beat. He let you go with a smile on his face. “I needed that too.”  

The dinner went smoothly, but you did have a little too much to drink. You were still sober enough to get home, but you were a little tipsy. You gave out your goodbyes, grabbed your folder, and left Finn’s apartment. 

That little mistake will cost you dearly in the end. 

Earlier today...

You met up with Lina at the cafe per her request. It started off as an ordinary day. You ordered your drink and waited for Lina to come. And when she did, you two talked about your respective personal lives, catching up on the past couple of weeks. 

“Oh, hey,” Lina said, changing the conversation. “Did you pick up the pictures?”

“Yes, I did,” you replied proudly, producing the manila folder from your bag and placing it on the table. “And you were right. Some of them were border-lining porn.”

Lina took the folder with a laugh escaping her lips. You watched as she opened the folder and gave out a mocking laugh, different from the previous one. You gave her a confused look before she said, 

“Very funny, but where are they?”

“What do you mean?” you asked. “They’re there, aren’t they?”

“Y/N,” Lina said, her voice tone changing to a more serious one compared to her carefree attitude. “This is just budget forms and analysis sheets from Organa Co. Where are the pictures?”

In that moment, the memories from last night flashed before your eyes. You remembered there being two identical folders on the counter, but you for sure thought you picked the right one. Your heart began to race at the implication. 

Poe Dameron has the sexy lingerie photos of YOU. 

Your mouth began to dry and heat rushed to your face. You got up from your seat at the cafe in a hurry, grabbing your bag and the folder. 

“I have to go,” you uttered, before sprinting to the door and down the sidewalk. 

The present... 

You ran down the sidewalk, avoiding people the best you can in effort to reach Organa Co. in time. A part of you hoped that Poe didn’t see the pictures last night when he got home. You hoped he just went straight to bed after drinking so many beers at Finn’s. You hoped that he didn’t have time yet at work to open the folder. 

You cursed yourself for grabbing the wrong folder. You cursed the model who cancelled on your friend in the last minute. You cursed Lina for choosing to make lingerie instead of a jacket or something else. But mostly, you cursed yourself for agreeing to model and posing for those pictures. You could’ve said no, but you had to say yes.

Sweat began to glisten on your skin as your work blouse clung onto your upper back. Multiple times you had to push the hair out of your face in order not to bump into the street carts and newspaper stands. Your heels began to break out in blisters the faster you ran, but you ignored the pain. Quite honestly, you preferred the pain over suffering humiliation from the only man you have a crush on. 

As you approached the building, a short sigh of relief came to your lips. But your mission wasn’t done just yet. You pushed through the glass doors and went up to the third floor where you knew where Poe worked. At this point, you didn’t care about your disheveled appearance. You just wanted your damn pictures. 

You walked into the office with a calm atmosphere around you, contradicting your appearance. You walked between the aisle way of desks in seek of Poe’s small office space. You tried to ignore the stares you got from the other employees, but they were burning into you as if someone were pressing hot spoons against your skin. Your grip on the manila folder tightened as you approached the door with the plaque that read “Poe Dameron: Manager.”

You took a deep breath, trying to still your beating heart for even a minute. Closing your eyes briefly, you knocked on the door, the sound reverberating within your ears. You heard a muffled “Come in,” and then opened the door. 

Poe was sitting at his desk. His dark curls were combed and put in a place that was appropriate for his work setting, much different compared to his late nights with friends where they ran wild. His button up shirt hugged his biceps and stretched over his broad chest, the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. You couldn’t ignore the smile that appeared on his face when his beautiful brown eyes landed on you. 

“Y/N,” he said, surprise and excitement in his voice. “What are you doing here?” You watched as Poe got up from his desk and moved around it to perch himself on the front, leaning against the edge. “Not that I mind the surprise.” 

“Hey Poe,” you replied. You scolded yourself for being so unprepared. You should’ve rehearsed what you were going to say. You couldn’t be like ‘Hey Poe, you know those sexy pictures of me? Well, that’s not me trying to make a move on you or anything, those are for someone else. Can I have them back? Thanks.’ You scrambled through your mind to think of the right words to say in a situation like this. “I think there was a little mix up last night. You see, I accidentally picked up your folder instead of mine.”

“Really?” Poe asked. “Huh, I didn’t notice.” 

You have never been more relieved in your entire life. The headache that appeared during the elevator ride up, disapparated. Your breathing came back to normal, and your heart returned to a steady pace. Poe got up from his position and grabbed the manila folder off his desk and held it out to you. You held out your folder in return as the two of you traded off. Once the picture folder was in your hands, you held it to your chest. 

“I’m so sorry,” you breathed out. “This is totally on me.”

“No worries,” Poe replied. “Last night, I was so tired that I didn’t even want to look at work. And today was so busy, that I didn’t even get a chance to glance over the papers in the folder.”

“But you got the right folder now,” you joked, trying your best to remove any tension out of the air. 

“I do, even if I didn’t noticed,” Poe said in the same joking manner. 

“Well, I’ll leave you to your work, then,” you said, making your way towards his door. “Thanks, Poe.”

“No problem, Y/N,” Poe replied, moving around his office to walk you to the elevator. “Thank you for delivering me my folder. Feel free to stop by whenever.”

“Thanks,” you repeated. “Bye, Poe.”

“Bye, Y/N,” he said. 

The elevator doors closed. Now alone, you couldn’t help letting out the laugh that was bubbling up in your chest. He didn’t even look at them. The two of you are fine, and now nothing awkward will be hung over you guys whenever you see each other. You wanted to dance, to scream in victory, but you restrained yourself. That could wait. But, you couldn’t wait to get these pictures out of your life. But you’ll keep the lingerie... 

Later that night...

The sky faded from a baby blue to dark navy as the street lights outside of Poe’s office windows began to turn on. One by one, employees left the office, saying their goodbyes and good nights to Poe as they walked past his office to the elevator. Poe would either wave or return the same pleasantries. Per usual, he was the last to leave the office, but that was part of the job. After the last person left, Poe took one last look around the floor. Once he decided it was clear, he went straight back to his office, and closed the door. He could never be too careful, something that he carried with him from his military days. 

Poe sat in his chair, but pushed it back to access his bottom drawer. Once it was opened, he laid his eyes on the holy artifact. He’d never done this before, and a part of him was against doing such a thing. However, the rational side lost the battle to his desire. He reached in and grabbed the picture and placed it on his desk. 

He felt bad about lying to you, but he knew you like the back of his hand. Poe didn’t want to risk your friendship over something like this. However, he felt even more guilty on keeping one of the pictures from the stack. But it was his favorite. 

You had your back to the camera, but your face was turned to the side so it was still visible, showing off your beautiful profile. He liked the way your skin looked so soft. You were sitting on the edge of something, he couldn’t tell what, but he admired the shape of your ass and how the panties barely gave cover, leaving much exposure. 

Just looking at the picture made Poe’s mouth water and his pupils dilate with lust. He’d be lying if he said he never thought of being with you in an intimate way. He couldn’t help it at times. Ever since Finn introduced him to you, Poe knew he wanted to be with you. He has been trying to hint his intentions on a relationship with you multiple times, but it seems like you mistook his signals for platonic exchanges between friends. Poe wanted to have something more. He wanted dates without his friends accompanying him, kisses that were on the lips instead of on the cheek, and of course, he wanted to make love to you. He didn’t want to fuck, because to him that was impersonal. No, Poe wanted to be in the moment with you; to feel you, to pleasure you, to love you. 

He couldn’t remember how long he stared at the picture. His eyes gleamed over every detail: every scar, every birthmark, every stretch mark, you name it. Poe didn’t even look at the time on his watch until he began to feel the tightness in his pants. Yeah, he’d been staring at it too long. He took a deep breath, got up from his chair, and grabbed his bag. Poe looked down at the image one last time before heading out, debating to himself. Should I leave it here and wait for a good time to give it back or take it with me?

Poe shook his head, turned off the lamp on his desk, and walked out of the office. It didn’t take long for him to comeback, and snatch the picture from his desk. 

“Yeah,” Poe whispered to himself. “You’re coming with me.” 

#poe dameron #poe dameron x reader #poe dameron x you #poe dameron fic #Oscar Isaac #oscar isaac x reader #star wars #Star Wars The Force Awakens #star wars the last jedi #star wars rise of Skywalker #love #fanfic #writing

[shemakesmusic-uk]

Wallice has shared her subversive new single 'Hey Michael'. 'Hey Michael' amplifies her blood-thirsty nature, a revenge anthem that finds Wallice turning into a worse villain than her erstwhile love interest. A song about toxic tendencies and how they manifest in our lives, 'Hey Michael' twists and turns around American Psycho imagery. Wallice labels "a revenge anthem for anyone who has encountered a gaslighting, manipulative person. It’s what I wish I would have said to all the ‘Michael’s’ I have met in my life. It can be substituted by many names, we all know or have met a ‘Michael’ though. Somehow the world revolves around them and they just can’t catch a break, because they never do anything wrong and it’s usually your fault. You should have listened to your gut instinct and swiped left on this Michael. This isn’t a man-hating song, it’s just something many people can relate to. Sometimes it’s embarrassing to admit just how bad a friend, date, or romantic partner was and a lot of the time, I would just smile and laugh off stupid remarks but when I think back, I wish I had told them off. But at the same time, my persona in the song is not the best person either. I literally say: I think I want to start a fight, which one is your girlfriend? The whole song is funny because I am so focused on how shitty Michael is that I don’t even think about how shitty I might be as well." Directed by Phil Stillwell, the video takes place at a house party, with Wallice interacting with various 'Michaels' before her behaviour spirals into something much, much worse. [via Clash]

In the same vein as Massive Attack’s suburban groove and social commentary in the mid 90’s, KITA have captured the rhythm and heartbeat of suburban Pōneke; a city abuzz with a vibrant music and dramatic performance scene in their brand new track and official video, ‘Private Lives’. Weaving together elements of vintage rock, pop and soul, and warm hints of synth, KITA have created a skin-prickling piece of magic with ‘Private Lives’, a deeply beautiful track penned in 2020’s lockdown, that delves into the unknown of what happens when the blinds are shut – the parts of life that are unseen by others. "Standing from my kitchen window during lockdown in Aotearoa, sinister thoughts entered my mind about what could be happening behind closed doors for people”, says front-woman Nikita 雅涵 Tu- Bryant. The video tells the story of a father and daughter’s relationship amongst snapshots of everyday life and its monotonous anonymity, while things aren’t always what they appear on the surface. Late at night the father can finally reveal his true self, adorning makeup and sequins, only to be spied by his daughter. The two then share a special moment of dressing up and dancing together, a true celebration of individuality, self-love and the beauty of self-expression.

'Just Chemistry' is the third single from Dance Lessons, a London-based, female-fronted and produced trio, creating what they define as Serrated Pop. 'Just Chemistry' is a delicate hymn to the unspoken. Dance Lessons return with their signature sound – minimal production, sleek vocals and intricate arrangements. Ann says: “'Just Chemistry' is about the over-complication of our relationships. It’s about the things that are left unsaid in-between the awkward text messages and conversations, and how the absence of knowing can be misinterpreted as doubt. Last year was a difficult one. For a long time, I felt at the mercy of my emotions. I doubted where things were going. I lived in the future and found it hard to commit to the present. But these moments of not knowing can be equally thrilling and beautiful. And that’s what the song is about: finding beauty in the unspoken. In most cases, it’s chemistry that makes us fall in love. Things end, all is temporary. Let’s not go to war with one another over it.” Nat says on the video: “A friend told us about this weird and wonderful house in North London that feels a little like stepping into an acid trip. We obviously wanted to check it out. It’s completely surreal, all over the place (in a great way) and generally eclectic, which felt inherently us. We instantly wanted to do something there and asked the owner for permission to shoot a music video. We filmed during lockdown and were let loose embracing all the oddness of it. Ann also designed and created the outfit she wears in the video, something she does with most of her wardrobe. It was shot, directed and edited by our hugely talented friends Ben Hanson and Simon Frost from Borderland Studios.”

Returning with her first offering of the year, North London’s rising star Laurel Smith is ready to reveal her anticipated new single, ‘Out the Cage’ accompanied by an action packed and thrilling cinematic style music video directed by Jeremie Brivet and Jai Garcha. Sticking to her winning recipe of moody, dark, electro-pop production paired with effortlessly edgy tales of narrative lyricism, ‘Out the Cage’ is the next huge single from the young, innovative artist that is sure to follow the same trajectory of success as its predecessor, ‘Game Over’ released late last year. A songwriter and recording artist, Laurel Smith has been writing songs since the age of sixteen. With each single she’s released, Laurel has continued to adapt her sound and aesthetic, consistently honing her craft and evolving her brand. She has carefully carved out her place in an ever crowded industry and proceeds to turn heads at every corner. “‘Out The Cage’ is a song about breaking out from your constraints, both physical and mental. Although it can be interpreted in any way, when I wrote it I created a story around a bored housewife, falling out of love with her husband, she fantasises about tying him up and leaving him to be a badass assassin in a video game type world, roaming the city at night and living a life of unpredictability and excitement”.

Hailing from the Philippines, singer-songwriter Laica is coming off a breakout 2020. Now the 21-year-old is gearing up for the release of her debut album I’m so fine at being lonely. The first single off the project, 'love u lately' is here, accompanied by a music video directed by Cooper Leith. 'Love u lately' is a relatable and infectious track. The song revolves around dating, understanding mixed signals, and the confusion that surrounds that world. Lyrically, Laica walks us through her experiences here, voicing her thoughts and frustrations about someone who she just can't seem to read right. Production-wise, the track is carried by a pulsing synth and a groovy bass. Together, the track feels upbeat. The vibe created by the production stands in contrast with the more emotional lyrics, making the track complex and interesting. The music video takes the concept of 'love u lately' to the extreme, in a fun and playful way. Laica is seen capturing her dream boy and attempting to use witchcraft to finally win him over. The video has a very DIY feel, which could serve to add to the reliability of the track. It’s a great extension of the track and taps into everyone’s most fantasy-driven realities. [via Earmilk]

At first, Emily C Browning wasn't sure what to think. Spurned, rejected, and cast aside, she was angry, furious, and - at times - utterly bereft. Usually she'd utilise songwriting as a vessel for her emotions, but when she was so conflicted, and feeling so negative, that it just didn't enter her mind. The Christchurch, New Zealand artist needed to take a step back, and when she located some perspective, she was ready to act. New single 'I Wasn't Into You Anyway' is a soaring slice of revenge, one that finds Emily C Browning taking full control of her music. Her first solo production credit, its reminiscent of those surging, empowering Maggie Rogers bops, while also containing similar DNA to Sharon Van Etten's work. Lyrically, it's absolutely her own creation, with Emily leaning on those often-hidden feelings. She comments... "Everyday for a month I wrote in my journal: I want to write a song about feeling rejected. But I couldn’t figure out how to keep it light and funny, it can be quite a painful topic and I didn’t want to sound too heavy. But I kept working on it everyday and came up with this song. I then spent another month recording it, trying to capture a sound that stayed upbeat and playful. I put so much time and energy into the song that I ended up completely forgetting about the person who rejected me in the first place (honest, I swear)." [via Clash]

Alt-pop force Holly Humberstone returns with new single 'Haunted House'. The songwriter's potent debut EP Falling Asleep At The Wheel was a sensation, racking up more than 100 million global streams. A bona fide phenomenon, Holly returns with a single that displays a more nuanced, reflective side to her work. 'Haunted House' digs into childhood, and looks at the way memory can frame the way we construct our identities. She comments: "I wrote this song about the old and characterful house I grew up in. The house is such a huge part of who I am and our family. With my sisters and I moving out and living separate lives, coming home feels very comforting and one of the only things keeping us all connected." Playing with concrete imagery and no small degree of invention, 'Haunted House' connects art to life in an enchanting fashion. She adds: "The house is almost falling down around us now though, and we’ve realised that pretty soon we’ll be forced to leave. There’s a cellar full of meat hooks and a climate so damp mushrooms grow out of the walls. Loads of people have probably died here in the past but I’ve always felt really safe. It’s like a seventh family member. It’s part of me." [via Clash]

In 2019, the Boston-born and Brooklyn-based indie rock album Crumb released their debut album Jinx. Crumb haven’t yet announced plans to follow that album up, but they’re definitely working towards something. Last month, the band came out with a one-off single called 'Trophy.' Now, they’ve followed that one with two new tracks, and they’re both winners. The new songs 'BNR' and 'Balloon' both fit nicely into Crumb’s comfort zone. The band’s sound is a rich, sophisticated take on psychedelia, with blissed-out lead vocals from Lila Ramani and with some great funky drum action. The band co-produced both songs with Foxygen’s Jonathan Rado, who’s done great recent work with people like Father John Misty and Weyes Blood and the Killers and who knows how to make oblique ’70s-style pop sound good. But Crumb themselves deserve a ton of credit for coming up with a sound this layered and weird. They’re the rare circa-2021 band who might remind you of Broadcast. In a press release, Ramani says, “‘BNR’ is an ode to my favorite colors. I had a weird obsession with those colors in winter 2018-2019 and felt like they would follow me around everywhere I went." 'BNR' also has a cool music video. Director Joe Mischo starts the clip off as a hallucinatory reverie, but he turns it sharply towards horror at the end. [via Stereogum]

Last year, Limerick poet/musician Sinead O’Brien released her debut EP, Drowning In Blessings. It was a unique work, a handful of songs featuring O’Brien’s sing-speak over spindly, post-punk guitars. It garnered O’Brien a bit of buzz overseas, and it left you wondering where she might take her music from there. Now, O’Brien’s back with a new song called 'Kid Stuff.' “‘Kid Stuff’ shows up all different tones on different days,” O’Brien said in a statement. “There’s something alive in it which cannot be caught or told. It is direct but complex; it contains chapters. This feels like our purest and most succinct expression yet.” Like Drowning In Blessings, 'Kid Stuff' found O’Brien working with Speedy Wunderground mastermind Dan Carey. Musically, it hints at a level up moment for O’Brien. There was something alluring and jagged about Drowning In Blessings, but 'Kid Stuff' places her usual approach over a song that is surprisingly groovy — maybe even a little danceable. It comes with a video directed by Saskia Dixie. [via Stereogum]

Das Beat are made up of German actress and vocalist Eddie Rabenberger and Agor of Blue Hawaii. The pair have just shared their first single 'Bubble' online now and are set to release their debut EP Identität on June 4 via Arbutus Records. Born in Berlin during 2020’s legendary lockdown, Das Beat seeks to blast both boredom and boundary. Dabbling in German New Wave, Italo Disco, Indie & Dance, their sound is unified by vocals from Eddie Rabenberger, sung in German and English. Amidst playful lyrics one finds a strong underlying pulse (das “beat”), pinning down the duo’s meandering atmospherics, dreamy synths, guitars and percussion. The duo is half-Canadian and half-German. Agor (of Blue Hawaii), moved to Berlin from Montreal in 2018. Eddie is a theatre actress originally hailing from a small town in Bavaria. Together they find a strange but alluring symbiosis - like Giorgio Moroder meets Nico, or Gina X Performance meets The Prodigy.

St. Vincent has fully embraced the ’70s aesthetic for her retro-sounding new record, Daddy’s Home. Now, she’s diving headlong into the animation styles of the era with the video for 'The Melting of the Sun'. Presented as a “betamax deluxe release” rip from “Candy’s Music Video Archives,” the clip blends live action shots of St. Vincent herself with the wavy, intermittent animation frames any Schoolhouse Rock student is familiar with. The psychedelic lines fit a song called 'The Melting of the Sun' perfectly, as do the drawings of the legends mentioned in the song’s lyrics like Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell, and Tori Amos. St. Vincent co-directed the clip with Bill Benz, while Chris McD provided the animation. [via Consequence]

Bay Area slowcore trio Sour Widows have released a new single, 'Bathroom Stall,' from their forthcoming EP Crossing Over, which they announced last month with its title track. The song’s build-up is subtle and poignant like Sufjan Stevens, but Maia Sinaiko’s evocative, sweeping vocals are one-of-a-kind, and the lyrics are graphic and tragic: “Do you remember it like I do?/ Your lips turned blue I had my fingers in your mouth/ And I couldn’t get them out.” Sinaiko said of the song: "This song is about a relationship I had with someone who struggled with addiction, who very tragically passed away three years ago while we were together. It’s about some moments we shared, and how it feels to walk around carrying that person and those experiences with me while the world stays normal. I wrote the song because I wanted to preserve and document what happened to me. to write out the scary stuff and just let it sit there forever. I think its funny that its called 'Bathroom Stall' and that it has that image in it: the song goes from heavy and dark to ordinary and totally pedestrian in a sentence, which feels absurd. And that’s kind of what it’s like to grieve. That’s kind of what’s hard to explain about grief, how absurd it is. Part of you goes to a different planet and part of you stays walking around like an alien on Earth, going to the bathroom and looking at the moon and shit." [via Stereogum]

As JUNO-nominated singer Kandle Osborne prepares to launch her new project, Set The Fire this spring, she shares the album’s third single, 'Misty Morning.' From being penned on a napkin while abroad to a Vancouver studio, 'Misty Morning' is a sonic journey that echoes soulful vulnerability and an honest reflection of realizing true love. For the video, Kandle reconnects with 'Honey Trap' director, Brandon William Fletcher, to create classic 40s noir-inspired cine-magic, filmed along the Vancouver coastline and within the lush landscape of Stanley Park. Kandle says: “‘Misty Morning’ is my first real love song, captured on a napkin while in Ischia, Italy when I was truly happy. My songwriting usually comes from a place of turmoil and catharsis, but this was simply a snapshot of a perfect, vulnerable moment. In recording it, I wanted to hide behind lush orchestration, but my producer/ best friend Michael Rendall had other ideas. He wanted to strip it down to just piano & a single vocal to take me out of my comfort zone and re-capture the open-hearted feelings I had while writing it. The song and the recording both hold for me a time when I dropped my guard for pure authentic love in spite of all my flaws and failures. In that moment, I felt my true value as a whole person for the first time.”

On 'Vertigo,' Alice Merton’s first single of 2021, the 27-year-old describes the long road from uncertainty back to self-confidence. It emphasizes the unrest that seizes her again and again, the thought: “Why can’t I just let it go?” These contradicting thoughts and emotions that are so familiar to all of us sum up to an overwhelmingly positive effect - 'Vertigo' leaves you empowered rather than anxious: A powerful indie pop arrangement with distorted guitars, plus Alice Merton’s crystal-clear voice. The result is reminiscent of the British Invasion, with no air of self-doubt. With its energetic live qualities, 'Vertigo' feeds an appetite for summer festivals and concerts that will definitely return at some point. Largely responsible for this is the Canadian producer Koz, a multiple Grammy nominee, who has worked with Dua Lipa ('Physical') among others. Here, too, he adds on to what has already made Alice Merton stand out from the crowd in the past - her classic pop appeal - with an uncompromising and indie attitude. This enables Alice to take another big step: She equally encourages a shaken generation and herself that there will be easy summers again. That you can dance again and lie in each other's arms. That it is absolutely fine to have many facets, to not always be clear, and that strength and weakness are not mutually exclusive.

Canadian artist Olivia Lunny's new release 'Sad To See You Happy' is a shamelessly poppy track centering an acutely relatable break-up narrative. The Canadian artist follows up her breakthrough success with a bouncy cut to soundtrack 2021’s long-awaited spring. There's a relatable tale of break-up at the heart of the gloriously poppy new single, belied by percussive instrumentation that creates a warm, nostalgic feel. [via Line Of Best Fit]

After sharing the single last month, Charlotte Adigéry is now revealing the brand new video for ‘Bear With Me (and I’ll stand bare before you)’. The first new music since her 2019 debut EP Zandoli, Charlotte says of the video, “The video is about being confined thus confronted to the way we live. The cruel irony of having the privilege of standing still, questioning and observing my life in all safety while others are fighting for theirs. On the other hand, the video is about trying to stay sane while feeling that the walls are closing in on you. Embracing boredom and finding joy in the little things in life.” Director Alice Kunisue adds, “When I listened to Charlotte’s song and what it meant for her and Bolis, I wanted the video to visually encapsulate that feeling of being stuck inside and confronted to our deeper selves while paradoxically sensing the chaos going on in the outside world without being able to do anything about it. Choosing to film an apartment room from one single angle was a way to reflect that narrowness of thought that we all experienced, but also a constraint that allowed us to explore and develop visual ideas within a narrow system, in a way having to think only inside the box, which artistically was a fun challenge.” [via DIY]

Millie Turner has shared a video for ‘Concrete Tragedy’. It’s a cut from her upcoming mini-album Eye Of The Storm, set for release on May 16, which also features a rework of breakout song ‘(Breathe) Underwater’. “This video is a visual representation of dancing on your own,” she says of the clip. “Combining the many parts of who we are when we’re by ourselves, I wanted it to feel like you’re entering a world of imagination that comes alive when we express ourselves.” [via Dork]

Doja Cat and SZA have come together for a new single called 'Kiss Me More.' When the song was announced Wednesday night, the internet flipped out, which is to be expected with these two — especially Doja Cat, who is regularly going viral these days for all kinds of reasons. When it comes to collaborations, she always finds the best people. That includes Saweetie, who appeared on Doja’s recent 'Best Friend' but then claimed that it was released against her wishes. Given SZA’s long history of public frustration over TDE Records holding back her new album, she is probably happy to have any new music out. Despite recent single 'Good Days' hitting the top 10, her restless fanbase is still awaiting a follow-up to 2017’s iconic Ctrl. 'Kiss Me More' is the first single from Doja’s new album Planet Her, scheduled for release this summer. It returns to the disco vibes of Doja’s #1 hit 'Say So,' this time with no apparent resemblance to any Skylar Spence song. [via Stereogum]

#videos of the week #wallice #kita #dance lessons #laurel smith #laica #emily c. browning #holly humberstone #crumb #st. vincent #sour widows #kandle #alice merton #olivia lunny #charlotte adigery #millie turner #doja cat #sza

[wroteclassicaly]

Dibs

A/N: Heeeeeeeey, loves! I’m back and pretty proud of this one! It’s a two part story, this obviously being the first part. Smut will be in the next one. I’ve wanted to write this idea since I came up with it the night of the season premiere. 

Reader is plus size in this one. She is also Chef Bertie’s daughter. There’s some major self-esteem issues and some self-bashing in this one, so be warned. I hope ya’ll enjoy! Lemme know what you think? :) 

P.S. I’ve changed a few things around to fit the reader in. Dialogue, mostly. It’s not that much of a change though, so don’t worry. 

Also, I can’t seem to get my taglist to work right, so I don’t tag anyone. I’m sorry. :(

Pairing: Xavier Plympton x Female reader

Word count: 2,691

Warnings: Explicit language, references to smut and virginity, self-esteem issues, poor body image issues

Looking forward to something during the summer months wasn't usually your forte, but this season seemed to be taking drastic approaching turns already. You'd been coerced into coming help your mom work the kitchen of Camp Redwood. Massacres and legends galore, bugs and snakes touring your housing. Sounded so fun to you. Your mom didn't want to leave you at your home alone, so you hesitantly agreed to get away from the dangers in Los Angeles and help out at the camp with her.

The drive up you imagined all sorts of various and vile scenarios. Woods and stories caught your imagination and refused to leave without a searing tongue lashed haunting. Your mom had assured you things would be okay this time around, that she wouldn't let anything happen to you, but it still felt so unsettling to be surrounded by nothing but dirt and trees and a large body of midnight fresh water. For your mom, however, you opted for the positive side of things, and sucked it up. You met with the eccentric and eerie Margaret, hovering closely to any exits you could think about, then escaped to the cabin you would be sharing with your mother to put your things away.

Margaret had informed you and your mom that a group of counselor volunteers would be arriving in the afternoon, leaving your stomach to tumble into the anxiety founded pits it always was. You hated much social interaction, even living in one of the world's largest cities. You avoided leisure activities and parties that were too high octane. You cared only about the peace and quiet, a few close friends, your books, and your music. You were grateful you had been permitted to bring along some albums and your record player, because without it, you could not function.

Setting out your music, you had tasked yourself out to sweep and mop the dining hall and kitchen. Covered in sweat and grime, hair pulled back into a messy mopped bun, the entire area became brand new once more. So much so that you had to stand and admire, the enriching draped melodies from Stevie Wonder casting a serene, echoing production to highlight your hard work. You hadn't noticed until Margaret jabbed a nail into your tank top clad shoulder, causing you to nearly deck her in the face with your broom handle. She raised a manicured brow, annoyance perched on her poker faced features, asking you to come meet the newest additions to the staff, as they would be arriving soon and you still had to bring food into the kitchen pantry.

Reluctantly, you followed your camp leader out into your new life for the next few months.

~*~

Present day: The First Night

Your insides feel as if they have all been twisted together like licorice, coolness spreading through your veins, erecting goosebumps all across your flesh. You self-consciously grip your noticeable stomach, already prepared for an array of flashy and skimpy clothed girls to accompany muscular, tight fitted guys. You don't fit in. Not being more than overweight, but what doctors seemed to call obese, with a swell to your face and the rest of you in places all around your thick form. In this day and age, not many girls your size are praised or celebrated in music and on television.

Sure, there were a few, but the movies you have seen are the overweight girl being an extra, a classmate, the bestfriend, the loner, the reject, or the propping joke. Fat is funny in LA, you aren't stupid. And no matter how far you run from it, you'd have to face scrutiny, even here. Your thinking is pregnant with triplets on this one, as you don't even bat a blink walking out with the Carrie White's mother - Margaret White -esque Camp owner, to meet everyone. Worn sneakers and boots from different brand names dusted in California soil is what you see before meeting the eyes of a very petite brunette.

That's the first counselor that smacks your self-esteem straight into the pits of hell. And the blonde girl near her in the colorful and tight outfit? Yeah, you want to find a hole and dig it twelve feet under. Six feet for your humiliation, adding on an additional six for your fat ass body. You want to run, but, yeah, right.

If you don't speak then you will look stupid, more so than you do now, covered in perspiration and dirt smudges. Margaret makes an introduction that collides right into you stepping behind your mom, getting an eyeful of the two handsome guys with the girls, reaching for a crate of eggs, attempting to look busy as to bay the awkward pause. Everyone says a few brisk words of greeting, those male counselors snickering. Why did you come here? The risks back home are far more tempting right about now.

Your nose catches the scent first, the sound of the person's shoes hitting ground second. Clad in this overly musky scent that seems to glide itself across the air, a rapturous, creamy silk-like voice hits the atmosphere and flips you head over ass.

"Dibs."

Your mom is snapping back with her wit, shoving her crate into his hands and moving away from his speechless face to leave you visible. Standing still, your box seemingly heavy, body light, you can't but help yourself to a heaping serving of observation. His pants are tan, or white, belt tightly securing those defined hips, his sneakers stretched over long feet (don't they say long feet mean... okay then, holy fuck), and sea-foam green muscle tank that leaves nothing to the imagination, except how much leverage you'd have to straddle his chest...

"And this is Y/N. She's joining us with her mother, whom is Chef Bertie. She won't be bunking with the ladies, however. But I still expect of all you to get along and make her feel apart of things, as she will also be partaking in counselor duties for the summer." Margaret's voice interjects, right smack into your looking into this guy's angelically crafted face.

You can't see what color his eyes are over his designer frames, just blue hued glimpses reflected off California sunshine. His plump lips are wet with amusement and surprise at your reveal, jaw sharp and alert, so arching and shaped it can cut through glass. There's a small cross dangling from his left ear, his hair is frosted at the top. He looks like some guitarist that has actual angel wings. His arms are steady, hands big.

You can swear there's a saxophone player somewhere playing a soundtrack for this very moment. You kind of, no, record SCRATCH that, you definitely need to find a seat somewhere and pour a glass of ice water over your head. For a fleeting moment you think you might need to attempt Olympic running towards the infirmary, cause this is some sort of General Hospital soap opera scene. You can't stop yourself from how you do react though. Biting your upper lip, eyes dashing mad all across his body, you're engulfed in more than the summer California heat.

You see the metal of his silver cross earring catch the light, and you know that even God himself can't help you now. Looking at this man in the blue shirt, you feel as if you've committed a lifetime of the most blood deep sins. You feel the need to ask Margaret to save you in the lake, some prayer needing to happen before you feel anymore guilt for objectifying this stranger. What feels like never-ending hours is merely a minute at most, making you look even more awkward and ignorant. Margaret does save you this time, introducing each counselor, the sensual blue eyed boy called Xavier Plympton, to your amusement, then with a seemingly arrogant grin on her peach painted lips, demands you take Xavier and the other two attractive male counselors - Ray and Chet, to finish carrying the crates of fruit and eggs to the kitchen pantry.

A dying 'hi' towards the friendly faces of the group is all you muster, rolling a shoulder back to the truck for the boys to take the hint. Xavier already has his share from what your mom gave him, so it's quick work for the other two. You don't talk, don't look at any of them on the way into the large dining area and back into the kitchen where your mom is hard at work. All the guys pile beside you, so you figure that now is the time to find your damn voice box and activate its fucking switch.

"You can just leave the stuff here, guys. Some of the other staff is in charge of stocking it anyways. They're real particular on everything, you know? We appreciate your help!" You ramble on, eyes widening when you spot Xavier - shades now clipped to his collar - smirking at you, pearly whites gleaming tauntingly.

Everyone, yourself included, all discard your food onto the chipped wooden counter. You fold your hands into fists on its hard surface, knuckles pressing together, lips pinched tight, feeling this tickle attack you from the tips of your toes and back, leaving you absolutely parched and winded both.

"So you're the Chef's daughter, huh?" Ray is the first to speak to you.

You turn to his direction to see him leaning a few feet beside you, propped against the end of the countertop by his elbow. His smile is genuine, calm, excited even.

He must really have wanted to be here this summer.

"Yeah." Is your proud response. Your mom is a hard worker with a zero tolerance policy for bullshit or dumbasses, so you're very proud to call yourself her child.

"Kind of a given you'd be here with her, right? That's cool. Most kids wouldn't volunteer their time to help their Mama at some sweaty ass camp in the middle of nowhere. You even gettin' anything in return from this?" Ray questions again.

Your body warms a little, not used to this duration of a conversation, let alone by someone this cute, this cool, who seems nice enough. You find yourself softening towards his presence, friendly and open in your answers.

"She'll share whatever she makes with me, so it's a win win. I have to clean the camp, so I'll also pull in my own money, then we put it all together. Living in LA is fucking expensive."

"Wait-" Chet cuts in. "You still live with your mom? Aren't you in your twenties or some shit? Don't you have any plans back home?"

Yup, there it is.

You were expecting some sort of snide commentary from at least someone in this group. You're unsure how to answer. It's not that your lifestyle is something you're ashamed of, it's just that you're beyond sick and tired at the ridicule it brings. Your mood is deflated, head bowing a little at Chet's laughter. Maybe it's not malicious, but to you, it isn't funny either.

"At least she didn't blow a chunk of cash on condoms and cheap ass cologne to impress Brooke. No one likes a cocky counselor, Chet." Sounds to your left.

Ray snorts into his hand, easing back at Xavier's biting remark. Your jaw becomes unhinged with a loud giggle that makes Xavier lick his tongue across the top edge of his teeth. He's super focused on you, sharing this knowing that eases and unsettles you all at once. Ray and Chet begin a bicker at Chet's expense, Xavier continuing to watch you in a similar fashion as you were observing him earlier. The floor feels like lava under your feet, your legs jello.

"Better get back outside, kids. Boss lady will be getting impatient." Your mom's helper speaks to you from the kitchen.

You give him a nod, trance broken. Moving one foot in front of the other is hard, but you get it right, breezing past Xavier and the rest, right back into the summer heat wave.

~*~

After the conversation your mom directed over her history with this Camp and her current decision to return, Margaret invited you to tour the grounds again with everyone else after formal introductions were completed. You weren't going to disagree, not with the possibility of sneaking looks in Xavier's way, hearing the things that came from his perfect mouth. You're fucking sickening, like some dingbat ditz on a sugar high that's having an affair with lust. The whole tour was boring and subpar, but worth it to see Xavier in action. Margaret stops everyone outside the cabin with, in your opinion, the finest views, to preach her rules onto everyone.

You're cringing, already choking on heaps of unshed laughter and snorts. Everyone but Brooke seems to be amused. Brooke seems the most like you, so it's a comfort. Xavier has his debate locked and gone, metaphoric smoke trailing behind of his tongue, following his words like a steaming mug of honey-hot tea. After his fist bump with Ray he makes sure to give a nodding little grin your way.

A bashful smile colors your mouth.

"Y/N is true to her pure body, to herself, to the Lord. She hasn't polluted it with the perversions of today, have you, sweetheart?" Margaret's voice is that bucket of ice water you could've used earlier.

You have to grab onto the other side of the doorway to keep it together, your heartbeat in your throat. How in the fuck does she know what you do, or for that damned matter, if you've done anyone before? The entirety of everyone's attention is on you now. Your eyes are sharp on Margaret's, her joy apparent. You see right through her bullshit.

She can read people, and she's just used that to her very public advantage.

Whatever. Fuck her.

"I don't know how you’d know about my personal life, or why it matters towards the situation of a damned summer camp, Miss Booth." You snap, cheeks hot with anger, neck flushed with adrenaline. 

Her head twitches as if she's some robotic experiment in a lab, but she catches herself, a plastered on smile melting back into place. "Damned is the farthest thing from the grounds on which this Camp sits, Y/N. And as for your earlier inquiry? I have known your mother for half of my adult life, so that means I also know you."

You're in place, still stunned. How does knowing your mom have anything to do with Margaret knowing you're a virgin? It's not something your mom would broadcast to anyone. Luckily, it's a dropped topic. You're given looks you expect, especially by Chet and Montana. Ray and Brooke, who stops to turn around and give a compassionate smile, are the more sympathetic and understanding.

That leaves... him. You're petrified to turn and see his cliché reaction. He doesn't say anything, not at first, only moving past you. But when stops, a partial pivot, there's an almost relieved expression on his face. The breeze picks up a little, making you brush a lock of escaped hair from your messy style.

The grass and dirt crunches under his weight as he approaches you, stopping a decent distance. You can't breathe, can't comprehend anything out of this shared airspace. The wind has the little cross swaying against his lobe, his lips are plump, the blue in his eyes darkening to the shadows of the summer shade. There's rain on the air. It's going to rain tonight.

"You know I teach at an exercise studio in Los Angeles, Y/N? I'm good at helping people learn."

So he's baiting me to come to his gym with my fat body? Prolong the shame?

You want to further scold yourself for thinking he'd be anything but a shallow Hollywood hottie. Typical.

Before the tears even make themselves form, Xavier is moving closer. You don't stop him, don't take the out his slow and respectful pace is giving you. He's tilting in a little more so that wisp of frosted hair brushes your nose, his breath warm and minty.

"A virgin, huh? I guess it works out that I'm a teacher."

#xavier plympton #xavier plympton x reader #xavier plympton x you #ahs fanfiction #ahs fic #xavier plympton fic #xavier plympton fanfiction #ahs #ahsfx #american horror story #ahs9 #ahs: 1984 #ahs 1984 #kristenwrites #ahs 1984 fanfic #ahs 1984 fanfiction #american horror story fanfiction

[middleinthenight21]

‘’Ain't that the worst thing you ever heard? 1''

 @ravenfan1242 You are beautiful and I have no words

Thank you ❤❤

***

They didn't talk for a week, and that was enough so that the tension could be cut with the edge of a knife. She could feel it, his emotions were always easy to detect, his aura shone in different colors, marking the yellow tones representing happiness and joy, emotions that were difficult to achieve for someone who is half demon, whose control over her feelings and emotions contained her powers or these would consume her human side, and unwittingly would be liberating her father to destroy the world that for years participated in her salvation.

She was sitting next to him with the phone in his hand taking selfies for his social media and interacting with his followers, Raven had a book in her hands as she slurped a tea pretending that her mind absorbed every single letter, But she couldn't stop thinking about the moment everything broke down.

Were they too different for it to work? Should she have been surprised when everything went wrong?

She felt his indifference, as he also pretended not to have seen it and she could not blame him. Nor could she blame herself.

Sometimes she wondered what would become of her if she were a normal girl, if her fate wasn't a constant struggle, her worst nightmare ran through her veins and had imprisoned a demonic being destroyer of worlds in a glass resting on her forehead that responded to the name of her father, who was also the murderer of her mother and all the people who were part of her upbringing, What would happen to her if she was still that girl?

She had no right to forget all those people, who died on a childish whim.

She did not forget her heritage, going back to the worst-case scenario, but even with all that she could not help but see more. She glanced sideways at Garfield, who was resting on the sofa with a small smile on his face, tapping into his phone, felt a pinprick of emotion running through his body, his sadness resting between the layers, and she continued to dig as soon as she could contain it.

It wasn't hard to feel his emotions, Garfield was never someone who held back and lived every day as the last. Two drops from different ponds.

When they started dating months ago, everyone in the tower applauded. He was so happy that he wanted to post it on each of his social networks, but Raven had grimaced, because she wanted to keep her privacy to herself; no one should know. She wasn't ready for a public-domain relationship, she wasn't happy that everyone knew about her intimacy, so she wouldn't let him.

Garfield turned out to be a loving boyfriend, he wasn't afraid to touch her in front of the titans, when they watched movies he'd circle her shoulder resting his head against hers, After the missions he'd come over and put one hand down on her waist and smile happily for defeating all those bad guys by placing a kiss on her forehead, every time he had a chance to touch her he did, like she was something he could claim. Raven wasn't used to being touched, her last tokens of affection she remembered had been from her mother, before her life was completely transformed and ended in hell where contact with her father and half-brothers was as painful as the flames of fire, it had made her reluctant to show affection to her friends. She never initiated contact, nor desired to receive it, but Garfield was cut from a different cloth.

She was awakened by that feeling, that emotion of desire that she detected whenever the young man's thoughts moved away from reality, as if he were desperate for something or someone he would never have, and it was not her.

Raven figured it out. She was just hoping that one day she could forgive him, but she had understood, she didn't own his heart and she had grown tired of thinking that it would be Terra's life if she had given herself one more chance and stayed with them, Garfield would sigh every time he appeared in the halls, his emotions were strong enough for her powers to be detected from her room. It was different than what she noticed when they were together.

She remembered how his jokes and good humor could ease her reserved personality, cast his head back laughing like a little boy, as if he had never witnessed gruesome crimes and the deaths were only obstacles that jumped with a smile on his face, but there was a sadness in his eyes that he refused to reveal before her. Maybe his was a masterpiece until the two of them destroyed it.

He gave her flowers and let them die, she'd wanted him to open up, be serious for a few moments and tell her what was hurting him, but he didn't.

She wanted him to sit next to her and have a moment of peace, a space where he would walk away from social media and try to understand each other. Raven felt like she was the one who noticed the internal bleeding, she didn't mention it, and he kept giving out samples that didn't fill her heart anymore, she just felt cold every time he kissed her.

She knew he was doing his best.

Raven hadn't seen him until that breakfast. That morning she rose early, the sun hardly caressed the city, the fog covered the port and from a distance she saw the activity on the dock, small figures loaded the forests, collected the nets and filled containers with products of the sea; That tiny boat that took tourists along the coast of the city was hoisting their fictional pirate flags.

The steam from her tea burned her fingers, but she didn't care. It was a typical winter morning covered by a gray sky like a thick, spoiled soup, and the teenager sat in the chair facing the window in her pajamas, which consisted of a thin fabric blouse, shorts and thick woolen stockings.

She drank her herbal infusion, poaching on her tongue.

Turned off her father's voice, but her mind was restless and distant. She thought Garfield was probably still sleeping, seeing her consume tea would make him grimace and express how disgusting it is to drink hot flavored water; he would eat his yogurt with cereal and make so much noise until others would be bothered.

'Isn't it too early? ' Damian showed up in a sweaty sport outfit. Titus was walking behind Batman's son with his tongue hanging out of his muzzle, gasping, but he was still wagging his tail when he saw her in the kitchen "Come" He took the leash off his pet.

Damian had grown since he first arrived three years ago. His bones grew so big that Raven felt her pain at the first sprout of growth, his hair was short and dark black like the color of tar, his eyes green and his chin took a square shape; Anyone who saw him without his Robin costume would relate him to Bruce Wayne, it was his vivid image, except for the color of his eyes and the toasted tone, inherited from his Arab ancestry.

"Good morning to you too." After all this time she had to remind Damian of his manners. She drummed her fingers to the rhythm of a loose melody on the table. The marble brought the cold on her skin, it was like touching a snowflake "You want to take a cup of tea?"

He nodded, passing a towel around his neck to keep the perspiration away. His sweatshirt was broad in a black hue matching the pants, probably from a European designer whose surname she could barely pronounce.

They sat in front of each other in silence. They weren't very talkative people, Damian had been one of the few people who kept their emotions and feelings hidden behind an impenetrable wall, trained since childhood to be the perfect soldier and not make mistakes, never give the enemy the chance to use any emotion as a weakness, yet he was the person who understood most possibly because they had no social skills and had pasts from which they could not escape. Birds of the same feather.

Both had made an involuntary connection by saving each other.

There were uncomfortable silences, he was not easy to deal with and preferred to maintain distances before interacting, he had heard the whispers saying how creepy she was and did not fit in the middle of the group, In spite of being a heroine, there was an aura of mysticism and rarity that she couldn't shake off.

Damian turned out to be the least social Robin, keeping his appearances in the alleys of Gotham, patrolling and fighting criminals since he was a child, a stranger. He listened to the news in the online newspapers, testimonies from apparent nearby sources, and home video footage of witnesses as the team ended up with a criminal showing Robin's distance from the Teen Titans.

A few weeks ago, a video had gone viral that showed him after a battle where Damian was wounded, and Starfire came up to help him stand up but rejected her by waving his arm. The others weren't surprised, it was just Damian being him, however, people made it a topic of discussion whether or not Robin was a jerk to his peers, None of them would have found out if it wasn't for Garfield who expressed his dissatisfaction at seeing Robin in trends and not his name, but seeing what was going on, he told the team.

Damian snapped his tongue over the subject and went to his room. The whole drama moved people into twittering on Twitter about Robin's bad behavior towards the team, Justice League even with Batman himself showing blurry pictures of his fight a few years ago with Batman and before you know it Robin was canceled on social media without having any.

Garfield calmed things down by sending a friendly Tweet, but it was too late, and Robin's name was already tainted.

Now Robin was dealing with the constant images and videos taken on missions criticizing what he did. It would be easier if Damian was an anonymous person, but he's the son of one of the most powerful billionaires in the whole world and people were obsessed with knowing who he was dating and how the years made him into someone desirable in the eyes of teenage girls there were constantly photos of his body being on social networks under yellow titles such as: Bruce Wayne's son is already a man, look at his picture, Incredible!

Damian took a hard sip of his tea.

"How was the warm-up? "

He shrugged "I guess good."

He finished taking the last sip of his hot drink and got up to wash his cup.

"Do you have the first edition of David Copperfield?"

Raven raised an eyebrow, now curious. She turned around leaving her cup still soaped and her wet hands dripping on the floor "Have you read David Copperfield? "

He frowned analyzing the cover and back cover. The book was covered by a thick soft green fabric to the touch, had stains and pages fattened with a yellowish tone, plus a permanent old aroma, Raven had gotten it in a used book store and cost her two months' savings, but it was worth it.

Damian nodded and her heart leapt from emotion, but quickly neutralized "Yes. A few years ago."

"What did you think?"

"It was fine."

Frowned "I love your emotion."

Raven turned around and finished washing her cup by taking advantage to store the few dishes from the dinner the night before. Okay, maybe David Copperfield can be just ''It was fine'', but it's a book that needs to be analyzed more deeply and had more meaning.

"It's not bad" She froze "In fact, it's a good book, although a little childish for my taste and we all know that David wasn't going to stay with Dora."

She smiled "I have to agree with you. I think David always knew that the right one was Agnes, but he doesn't belittle Dora or that he didn't love her."

Arms around her waist stole the words she was about to say. She looked down, encountering green limbs, which left her quickly to kiss her hair muttering between yawns a greeting.

Looking at him, he was still in his pajamas and judging by his messy hair he had just woken up.

"Hey, Damian, you're all over the internet."

He folded his arms wincing at the sight of Logan, if there was one thing Damian hated was lazy and noisy people, Garfield getting up late and stirring the refrigerator in search of his favorite yogurt was the combination.

"Am I still canceled?"

Her boyfriend smiled with his mouth full of dried cereal "Robin, of course he did. Damian Wayne, heir of Wayne Enterprise, went out for a run with his pet, it was so adorable and hot that you're all over the gossip pages."

He picked up the phone showing a collection of photos of Damian jogging through a city park accompanied by Titus, in some photographs he was shirtless shaking his clothes from his pet's hair, in others he gave the dog a bottle of water to drink, Which drove the internet crazy.

"Worse."

And walked away.

Garfield shrugged, brushing the subject aside. Raven hugged the book on her chest and waited for him to finish breakfast, the silence was a monster that consumed her inside and wanted to break this, but she didn't know how.

She looked at his face, wondered if he noticed it too.

It made her feel like she was crazy, like she saw things that were never there. Raven wanted to know why they were keeping this thing afloat when it clearly leaked from the start, because he didn't see it, because Garfield kept clinging to it, she wanted to ask, but he was never that open.

He smiled at a post and slid his finger down, surely sharing with his followers.

Raven let the relationship go first, before it ended up destroying them both. He didn't love her.

It was a painful but powerful truth and she had refused to understand it until then.

No matter how much her heart was broken, she could not replace anyone or love a person who gave his heart to another. She'd made mistakes in her past, her road to hell had been full of good intentions, yet she wouldn't do that to him, she wouldn't do that to herself, In her time on earth he learned a thing or two about relationships and hers was doomed to failure from the beginning.

The others had known it. When the demonstrations of affection ended, they understood that the story had an end.

Not all couples are like Dick and Kory, who in spite of time and distance kept sticking together, going back to each other at some point; Raven had seen the connection to the minutes of seeing them facing each other, felt the nerves, lust and love floating between the heroes, like a thread that was electrified with every touch. She knew it.

When she was a child she had not believed in love, that of myths and legends that were so tragic and passionate that culminated with the death of lovers, nothing but explanations of natural phenomena, however, she did not expect herself to understand it in a bad way.

***

Walking down the street carrying the grocery bag for that weekend, they were heavy packed with a collection of products of different shapes and sizes that struggled to escape from the cloth bags.

It would have been a good idea to be accompanied, so I could share the work with someone else. She volunteered to make the purchases trying to get away from the tower, even for a while and did not accept the offers of her companions.

She wanted to be alone for a few minutes, but she didn't expect how difficult it would be to walk the streets with two bags loaded to the brim. The fabric was strapped through the circulation of her fingers, and her limbs were pulling as if she was carrying the bluntest weight in the world. She snorted, reminding herself that she should exercise more in the future.

An apple fell from the bag rolling into an alley and cursed.

'"Girl idiot, you deserve everything that happens to you"

"Shut up."

A figure cleared up next to her and was familiar. Damian was dressed in civilian clothes (which is strange) he wore a sweatshirt three times his size, some loose pants and on his face a white mask that made others think he wanted to get away from a potentially dangerous illness, but he never got sick. She never saw him once.

This covered outfit was given to be nothing more than a disguise so that no images of him would emerge and then she thought about what people would say if Damian Wayne were close to a stranger in an activity as casual as carrying grocery bags. She could feel the annoyance, caution and irritation of her friend, which was normal in him, but this time it was directed outward, towards anyone with a cell phone in their hands.

She genuinely felt sorry for him, for Robin was an identity where he had always felt comfortable and allowed him to go unnoticed. Damian always preferred action to conversation, privacy to public demonstrations and didn't ask for recognition; she looked at him sideways wondering what it felt like to be embedded in a family of vigilantes, the weight on his shoulders, to bear an inheritance so great that he could not escape. Raven could relate to that.

She remembered something.

"Weren't you on patrol?"

His eyes turned to the apartment building, a white-colored concrete block; it looked like a residence for wealthy people. She was able to feel his reluctance to talk about the issue of patrols.

"It's no longer so simple" He folded his arms "Every time I fight criminals, I only see the cameras pointing at me. People make work difficult."

Robin's name was currently repudiated, she found it somewhat strange since the reception of the previous Robin was good, and every child wanted to be Batman's helper. Boy Wonder.

She adjusted one of the bags over his shoulder with a grimace.

"You're popular on Twitter."

"Being canceled is not the same as being popular," he snarled. His voice behind the mask sounded thick "Before I can avoid it a new act is already being added to a thread. People have a lot of free time."

She gave herself a few minutes to think "Garfield calls it cancellation culture."

He made a face when she mentioned that name.

"I heard you broke up."

Raven put her head down. It had been three weeks since that conversation at breakfast, the wound was not fresh, but it was still there; she wondered if she had made a good decision. The doubt haunted her every time she heard him laughing with Jaime while they were playing video games and watching him approach other people giving out hugs, but it wasn't so painful anymore. She made peace with not having him in her life.

She was surprised that Damian brought up the subject of her previous relationship, not that he was very interested in the Titans' love life, and when they announced the relationship he put on an expression of boredom. Raven didn't expect any reaction, he never got along very well with beast boy barely withstanding his screams.

They were friends, so he'd have something to say, wouldn't he?

Damian always had an opinion.

"We did," she replied.

They passed by some shops where big posters were displayed announcing discounts, apparently wanting to get rid of last season's products. Jump City was located at the beginning of the summer, the rays of sun burned the skin of its inhabitants and dyed the city of an apparent atmosphere of festival proclaiming in each of the local media the upcoming events and fairs.

A group of teenagers was making their way to a clothing store. One of them pointed at Damian's face with her cell phone, and he hid his face in the sweatshirt, walking faster, holding her arm, and got into a car parked a few blocks away.

He looked back "We lost them."

She had not realized the extent of the people's persecution of Damian. She glanced at him sideways as he took off his mask showing his sculpted jaw, his face was free of imperfections and he looked like something from an old film where he played the gallant protagonist.

In Azarath there was a word to describe how precious and charming beyond words, that beauty that hurt and made you wonder if something like this could exist, she had not found a translation or a word that could describe that feeling, so she left him as he was Arratax sounded in her head when she looked at his profile. Raven knew that Damian was conceived and trained to be perfect, designed, but that didn't stop her from feeling a pinprick of anger, for a demon's daughter, someone with unholy blood, beauty escaping from her hands.

"I hate this."

Raven arranged the bags in the back seat of the car. You could feel the aroma of new leather, the interior is luxurious and well cared for, it was probably a car made to withstand high speeds, last generation, probably exclusive.

"Do you think someone filmed you?"

He put his hands on the steering wheel "I don't think so, but they did take pictures of me."

She grimaced.

"I'm sorry" Raven apologized for all the shit that was going on, even though she had nothing to do with it.

Damian stared at her for a few seconds with a frown, as if he were figuring out the meaning behind her words, measuring whether there was a double intention. He started the car quietly and headed for the Titans' tower.

She looked out, the buildings and houses passed through her vision in a blink of an eye and leaned her head against the glass. She closed her eyes, quietly repeating a prayer taught to her by the monks, a plea for tranquility and new beginnings.

After months of a stormy relationship, a painful breakup and change after that, she needed some peace. For the first time in a month she really felt calm, yet it still seemed to her that this summer had been cruel, full of ups and downs.

She started it by being in a stable relationship, or at least that's how she classified it, if they'd told her she'd break up with Gar, she wouldn't have believed them because everything was fine. What an irony.

"Whatever," he said. His fingers tapped softly on the steering wheel like he was sending out a message in Morse code "It's not like it matters."

Raven bowed her head.

In her hands rests a book, she had not been able to finish it during these three weeks, unable to focus her attention on words. She kept the stories of Edgar Allan Poe clinging to her chest, as if to guard the letters.

"Have you read The Raven?"

"I think we all have. It's the writer's most popular story."

Damian folded through the intercept; his greenish gaze fixed on the road. There was something comforting about talking about books while he was driving, an atmosphere hovering over the two, a soft, protective mantle.

"I read it for the first time in the library."

She had to imagine that the Wayne mansion had its own library, after all Bruce Wayne was known to be a billionaire who visited charitable events talking about current issues with powerful people. He may be a playboy, but that didn't make him a fool.

His library probably had first editions and collections that would cost houses.

"What's your favorite?"

He glanced at her sideways, it was a fleeting glance. His brow was still wrinkled in a frown, and his mouth twisted in a grimace, like a pouty child when he was rebuked. Damian didn't like to talk, rarely had he shared with the Titans beyond the missions, so they saw him with a book in his hands, name a certain character or quotes were surprised, But Raven knew it, saw the momentary interest every time he watched her read or made sure she wasn't disturbed.

He was full of surprises.

"Oliver Twist."

His gaze relaxed and for a few seconds his mind escaped, as if flying in a different direction. She didn't need to be empathetic to understand that it was a private memory.

The rest of the journey was peaceful, but Damian gradually became more bitter, spoke less and frowned more, as if a being were returning to his body.

Damian Wayne's exhibition and Robin's cancellation had only made him distant (more than usual), he realized how his friends could find themselves in the tabloids and media for more than missions if they were discovered by his side. Damian Wayne captured attention for his heritage, Damian Al Ghul was destined to lead the world's most powerful league, Robin is the companion of one of the most popular and beloved heroes, who is also part of Justice League, But the Damian who drank tea cups and added brown sugar reading poetry, won prizes at the fair for children and was amazed at the taste of sweets, enjoyed the silences and whispering conversations; that Damian didn't appreciate it.

Raven sighed as the car pulled up in front of the Tower of the Titans.

Back to reality, it was said. She had pretended to be a lonely evening, she wanted to engage her thoughts in something other than that fateful morning, in her failure of love that her father mockingly reminds her of declaring that demons fell in love, that it was her fault and doomed to destroy everything, just like she was meant to destroy the earth.

She had been angry, tired and hurt, and the walls of her room already threatened to drive her crazy. Normally she would be in her room meditating, drinking tea or reading a book, but not anymore.

She needed to get out.

She seriously considered making up an excuse to be away for a while. She looked upon the city, the rays of the sun reflected on the windows of the buildings like lit candles, and the mountains were dyed a pastel pink shade.

The first stars appeared in the sky. It was getting dark.

"Thank you for the ride."

She felt the need to speak, though she knew she would get no answer from Batman's son, so she got out of the car with the grocery bags. "You're welcome."

Raven stopped wondering if she heard, but the car was already pulling away.

***

In her head everything went well, he called her and replied with a smile, but it was all a montage.

A montage she wanted to erase from her head.

Garfield would knock on her door, offer a smile in peace and feel the world fall at her feet. His heart would pound into his chest, his fingers would itch to get her close, to taste her skin, and how it would feel to say she was his. The worst lie ever.

She sat on the floor of her room facing the window, the city was a dark painting filled with thousands of lights turning on and off. The sight comforted her, sheltered her heart and she remembered why she was doing this.

Raven turned off the light and remained silent, just looking out.

She had been described as a lonely person with whom she was difficult to deal, her past was a chain she could never cut, could learn to wear the chain and share when she weighed the chain. A few years ago, she had said she had a bad judgment, believed that she had not changed at all.

She wondered if she would ever learn from her mistakes.

Love was not for her; she was much better off alone; no one had to deal with a demon's daughter. As much as she hated her father and would ignore each of his words, she recognized that he was right in a sense, people like her were not meant to be loved, for others to give them their hearts.

I could live with that.

***

After that mission Robin's name echoed on social media, apparently someone had taken a picture of the moment the superhero hit Beast Boy in the stomach after he yelled in his ear. Damian's reaction was bad, he didn't like surprises, so every time someone managed to scare him, he would respond with blows.

That's not what they said on Twitter.

Garfield was a beloved titan, as much as his peers rolled their eyes when they saw him doing live on their social media and posting everything that happened to him was not a world opinion, his more than five million followers lived for each of his interactions, So, they didn't react well to the image.

Garfield tried to calm the situation, But the photograph of Robin's fist crushing his stomach and the justification he gave was enough for his followers to believe he was some kind of martyr and make petitions gathering signatures so that the Boy Wonder would no longer be part of the Titans.

"OMG… Robin assaulting another of his companions, what a surprise'"

"Beast Boy is a love. He doesn't deserve this''

''We should all cancel Robin. I don't understand how Batman can have him as a partner, and even the Titans, he just shouldn't be there''

''Beast Boy is a very calm person, he's never bothered anyone, but Robin treats him very badly #JusticeforBeastBoy''

The hashtag became a worldwide trend with the video going around the world. The Justice League intervened saying that Robin is just a boy and that his action did not reflect on the Titans, and Batman found himself contacting Starfire.

Damian rolled his eyes away from the situation. In the last few days he was quiet, spent his days training or patrolling being invisible, a shadow appearing to save them and disappear in smoke.

In the few moments he was in the tower he was absent when he heard any comments about social media, Starfire had suspended the posting of photos on the tower or other titans, as well as the mention of a certain team member.

Garfield protested, but Kory's frown was enough for him to nod.

Being around Damian had only caused her emotions to overwhelm her.

The teenager was a tide of anger and frustration, she felt it in his veins, like a monster waiting for a provocation to come out. His emotions were there, deep down he was affected by the situation, had something else to show besides latent anger.

She was not mistaken when she said that inside he is a noble and generous soul, she still believed he was that person, but sometimes she would like to do more than just scratch the surface.

Interrupted her meditation by paying attention to his blade by tearing apart a hologram. He was not wearing his uniform, only a pair of shorts and a loose T-shirt revealing his arms, his frown falling drops of sweat and holding the sword stronger than necessary. The last time he was like this was after a discussion with his father about a mission.

"You've been gone five hours, Damian."

He didn't pay any attention. "It's okay. Ignore me."

Raven was not in the mood to put up with Damian's mood, could normally bear his rough edges and understood that none was easy to deal with, however, this time she preferred to walk away.

She headed for the exit.

"Are you still reading Edgar Allan Poe?" He frowned.

She was struck by surprise, took a few moments to understand his words and process a response.

Was he stopping her?

"Yes" She turned. He looked into her eyes but bowed his head and the sword swung in his hands without purpose. "I almost finished the stories."

Damian sighed.

He ran a hand through his hair. His face is covered with sweat, small drops descended on his forehead and he put the sword in the holster; he walked towards the controls and for a minute she thought he would reschedule the program from the beginning, but he took a book out of a backpack.

Raven wanted to look away, she sensed it was a book she planned to read, but the title made her look back at the play. She recognized it wherever she saw it, she'd been looking for it for days on the internet sighing disappointed at the price.

The first edition of The Raven had been sold out, yet the price was enough to make her pocket hurt. The book is dark, of a worn color, on the cover a raven on a pillar with the title barely standing out from a yellowish shade, and its pages thickened over time.

"How?"

He shrugged "Family Library."

Oh.

"Keep it" He paused "If you want it… "

Only Damian could make accepting a gift sound like an order. She made a mental note not to underestimate his detective skills, however, by her lips slipped a smile against any thought of exhaustion about the behavior of the younger Wayne.

He handed her the book, while he was away with the sweat on his forehead with a towel. She stared at the work passing one hand across the cover feeling the softness of the paper, as well as the relief of the title and the dust accumulated between its pages, as if it were awaited by Raven for a long time in the most hidden place in the world.

"Thank you very much, Damian."

He did not respond, but she could feel his shoulders relaxing and the tension seemed to leave his body. The emotion came to her like a wave on a quiet day, a softness that invaded her spirit and almost let out a sigh.

There was something intimidating about the scene, Raven holding a book leafing through its pages like devouring its contents, Damian drinking water and wiping sweat from the body.

They had a good relationship, they went through a few moments of roughness when they met and that is that the circumstances could not have been worse, but they were forged since then. She begged him to stay away, now she just wanted to keep him close.

Her heart was forming new strings around him, handled by the worst puppeteer she'd ever met in her entire life. She put that feeling away before it came up, it was just excitement for the gift and nothing else.

You want to take advantage of the boy. Her father's voice roared in her head, a tone of mockery and the smile disappeared from her face, Are you that easy, you filthy witch? Demons devour love, feed on feeling, and make it worse. We are made for this, ungrateful. When are you gonna learn?

Raven frowned at that.

She stared at the book, it was so beautiful that in a few seconds it became a sign of uncertainty, a reminder of the fate of all this. She wanted to return it, just like the little injection of feelings that shook her heart and nip it in the bud like a rotten thing before it branches off elsewhere and she couldn't do anything, just cry in the dark at the end.

She watched Damian, the boy was at the height of his reputation, each of those people who took the time to write comments against him hated him, repudiated his image and wished him out, as Damian Wayne was no better, the world was leaning at his feet and was haunted by magazine photographers starving for an update on the life of the Prince of Gotham's son, So much so that it affected the teenager's personal life by avoiding going out, and when he did, he tried not to be recognized on the streets. She felt that people should see him beyond titles and flaws.

Do you want to ruin this one too?

"What is it?"

He put the towel aside and came over. When there was something that aroused his curiosity, he demanded an answer and was content with nothing but the truth, she felt exposed and overwhelmed, perhaps it was because of her father's voice that no matter how much it cost her he was right, she never learned from her mistakes.

Put an end to it before the prologue is written and ends badly.

Raven retreated in one step, then two, but Damian continued to approach.

"What is it?" he repeated.

She opened and closed her mouth like a fish, unable to utter a single word, but what would she say? what if this was just a nice gesture and she was confusing everything, she didn't want to ruin a friendship by a prick of confusion.

She Looked into his eyes. In a second her whole mind lit up completely and she realized that that feeling was not unknown, his green eyes brought her hope and strength in the moments when the world was falling apart even when they were just getting to know each other, they had seen so many bad things, they could have opted for a life of pain and destruction, but here they were waiting for the best, that kind of familiarity embraced her and made her entrails turn.

The feeling was not new.

They were inches away. She raised her head squeezing her lips out of sheer nervousness, wanted to divert attention to whatever it was, but Damian's eyes were demanding, being empathetic she felt his anxiety about knowing what was going on, It was almost as if he was calling her and emitting a magnetic force that made it impossible to lie to him.

She embraced the book on his chest "I…'

"You're all over social media, Wayne"' Jaime stopped dead. He appeared holding a cell phone and showing the teenager casually conversing with a waitress in a restaurant; the latino exchanged a glance between the two and scratched his hair, insecure "I'm sorry."

Damian frowned and rolled his eyes as he processed the words. He collected his belongings with angry grunts, probably tired of all the media scandal surrounding his life.

He made a grimace of discomfort.

"Brother, everyone is linking you to the waitress and all the girls are suffering," said Jaime. He had pretended that the words were a mockery, but no longer knew if his friends would take it as a joke, in any case, not that he had a sense of humor; he would swear that he was not welcome "Rae, you should read the comments."

She looked away from him.

Raven shrugged "I'm not interested."

"I don't want to know anything!" Damian put his backpack on his back and walked to the door in strides "I can't order coffee anymore" he snarled.

Garfield showed up with his tablet accompanied by Conner "Look what they did to Robin…"

Damian pushed him, and he slammed the door so hard he sent a draft of air. Beast Boy backed away issuing complaints, the device almost slipped between his hands like butter.

Conner laughed, gripping his stomach, mocking his friend.

"What's wrong with him?"

Raven sighed.

Sometimes she was surprised at how dense the three are, Jaime could be calmer, but as for the feelings and what his companions experienced, he was totally unaware of it, while Garfield only saw the truth if he came face to face and danced to it.

About Conner, well, she doubted he saw anything but his own vanity.

"He's frustrated," she said.

Garfield and Jaime exchanged glances, finally shrugged, while Conner continued to mock his friends for a reason that eluded her knowledge. She was used to people reacting like that when she spoke, as they related it to her powers and her mysterious aura, they assumed that she saw something that others did not, in some cases it was real, in others the problem was them.

Raven stared at the book.

The gift in her hands, the beating of her heart, the fire in her cheeks, which would burn to ashes.

She wasn't meant to love.

#damirae #fanfiction

[hecohansen31]

Hello love! 😊 I’d love to request an Alfred imagine with the prompt “ i love you. i know that’s not enough, but i do. ” if that’s alright! I hope you have fun writing and thank you!! 💕

WARNINGS: Unsupportive Family, Slight Slut-Shaming, Reader Used To Be An Escort, Mention About That, Insecurities

“Hey sweetie, are you ready?” asked Alfred, as he gently moved to check on you, meanwhile you stared at the mirror of your private toilette, having finished getting ready a few minutes before he knocked in.

You were ready, simply needing to get your bag and coat, but a part of you didn’t want to honestly get out and was trying its best to withhold you from feeling truly finished with getting ready, adding a few touches at your make-up and adjusting your hair, as you examined your dress, thinking about whether it would be too scandalous or…

… you were scared shitless with worry.

It would be your first official night-out with Alfred and although not much would be done, since you were supposed to simply go out with his family at one dinner to celebrate the successful months they had been going through, after Alfred had taken up the lead, showing Ecberth he was a worthy heir.

And there was a lot of rumor about Alfred being declared his true heir during this dinner.

Which scared you and made you nervous.

Even more than the thought of facing again Judith, but now with the knowledge that she was aware of your escorting past, although Alfred had insisted that nobody in the family truly cared about it.

But you knew perfectly that his family had been completely against the idea of you getting back together, having accidentally seen a few messages between him and his brother, where Aethelred told him that keeping you in his life would have costed him many promotions in the family business, maybe even his designated role.

Although Alfred handled quite a bit deal of the company and Ecberth was supposed to be actually taking his time off the company, the old man had quite the control over the company and mostly owned its shares, and he hadn’t yet passed them down to Alfred, alongside the key of their family corporation.

And you didn’t want to cost Alfred his dream.

You knew that Alfred would have been a perfect leader for the business.

He was passionate and someone responsible, and you couldn’t believe that he’d have to back down from that, simply because of who he fell in love with.

But that had never stopped him, he had instead fought for your love, even when you had left him, thinking that it was the best thing, and although you wouldn’t do it anymore, you couldn’t withhold the truth.

If he was too blinded to see everything, you’d have to show him.

“… yeah, I am sorry, I don’t want us to arrive late” you commented softly, eventually decking a light layer of lip-gloss on your lips, as you adjusted your hair, grabbing the clutch you had chosen for the night out.

“Oh no no, don’t worry!” reassured you Alfred, as he checked the clock, showing that in fact you would have been quite early if you got out right now “… I just wanted to check on my very pretty girl”.

You blushed at the soft compliment.

Alfred filled you day and night with them, completely smitten with you, the same way you were with him, taking in his elegant outfit, with his unlaced tie, since he knew you had claimed that role for yourself.

And in fact, you approached him, moving to adjust his tie, and thankfully he laid a kiss on your cheek, carefully avoiding your lips, mindful of the sticky substance on them.

“Your pretty girl is ready, sir” you joked, looking at those beautiful eyes, as Alfred stared in yours, before you ducked your head, knowing what would be happening tonight, and truly scared of the worst outcome, since you were slightly worried of his family’s judgement.

You knew that it wouldn’t make Alfred change his mind, he had made sure that you knew that nothing would have, but you were scared it’d hurt him.

It’d make him feel rejected, something about which you knew something, worried that that feel would bring to Alfred on the long time resentment solely you, eventually breaking you apart, in a more painful way.

But you hadn’t been able to voice your worries, aware that they’d ruin the enthusiasm that Alfred had been showcasing towards this event.

And you didn’t want to ruin his big night.

So, you tried to push a smile on your face, already getting yourself ready for the veiled insults and annoying questions.

But you’d do everything for Alfred, although you were scared and uncomfortable.

“… if you don’t want to come…” mumbled Alfred, sensing a bit of uneasiness, as you hid your eyes away from him, focusing them on checking whether you had everything you needed in your clutch “… we can ditch them, I’ll say I have had an health emergency and I don’t…”.

“You know I’d do anything for free expensive food” you commented, making your boyfriend laugh, something that brightened completely your prospect of the night, as Alfred, gently brought an hand around your waist, but you sneaked away, knowing that if he looked closely, you wouldn’t have been able to hide your feelings much longer “… and don’t even think about a quick ‘play time’, Judith will kill us if we arrive late”.

“I’d take the risk” he replied with a playful smirk that made you, the expert seductress, blush.

He was picking up on your knowledge, shit!

And he was getting quite good at it.

“… don’t even try” you put him back in his place, gently touching his chest, as you brought him closer to you “… because if you don’t act good, there won’t be no ‘play time’ after we come home”.

And he almost stood at attention in that moment, making you laugh, as you grabbed his hand and pushed him towards the door, with a small stop at the door for your coats.

And soon you were in one of the most expensive restaurants in London, the waiters thankfully being paid enough to be cordial, as they took your coat and showed you the table, where only Ecberth and Judith stood, something that made you at deep unease, but you tried to hide it with a smirk meanwhile Alfred, always the gentleman, pushed back your chair to let you adjust it.

Ecberth’s eyes were inscrutable, but Judith’s shone of disdain laced with anger, so you were grateful of Alfred having sat next to his mother, to block that gaze.

She complimented your dress, a relaxed purplish night gown, with shiny inserts that brought attention with elegance to your curves, the cleavage being extremely matronly, enough to make you feel a bit older.

But still Judith’s comment on it was a veiled insult.

‘Beautiful dress, did you buy it with your own money?’.

Which basically meant: ‘are you still using my son for his money?’

Which you could understand, but it was still awful to hear.

During the time you had been together, you had done all the steps to show that you weren’t with Alfred for the money, living separately from him for quite some time, before you moved in his house, refusing his work offer and his help in finding your job, meanwhile you worked your ass off to afford the dress you were wearing.

With no help from Alfred.

But you were cordial, making small talk as you explained to her that you had been actually quite lucky with a sale at a local high-end shop, adding also that lately you had also been given a promotion at job, so you had started being paid more, gaining experience and compliments.

‘That’s nice to hear’ commented Ecberth, although his tone was neutral ‘… I am glad that Alfred has such a headstrong woman to his side’.

And you didn’t know whether he was sarcastic or serious.

So, you tried your best to simply smile at him and thank at him, calmly as Alfred went through a list of your accomplishments during the months you had been together, and Ecberth and Judith both tried to listen attentively through it, although you were sure that the latter was trying to figure out some new insults for you.

You were actually glad when Aethelwulf walked in, alongside an annoyed Aethelred, Alfred’s father being the only one who truly supported your relationship with Alfred, being kind of that man that would be calm and happy as long as his own sons were happy.

You were less enthusiastic for Aethelred, mostly because he had been an asshole to you, when he had first met you, but he seemed tame enough now, as he hugged Alfred, and came to sit on your side, something that brought a breath of relief, meanwhile Aethelwulf moved to sit in front of Judith, an attempt to hold back the protective woman.

Soon the table was full and although you felt eyes on you, harmless chatter soaked up the room, and you were happy to exchange a few polite words when your opinion was asked.

You were actually surprised that Aethelred pushed up a cordial conversation, even going as far as to apologize to you for your first meeting.

‘I wasn’t in my best mind, although… I mean… I wasn’t wrong’ a snobbish smirk was on his face ‘… but I shouldn’t… I was mean to you without a reason, and I am sorry’.

‘Don’t smash your wine on my dress, this time’ you joked softly ‘…apologies accepted’.

‘Thank God!’ he had raised his glass, although he was more careful this time ‘… because that idiot of your boyfriend has held a grudge against me ever since, insisting that I apologized, although I would have… I just…’.

You were glad to notice that his relationship with Alfred was less tense, and you wondered if it was because you had put Alfred in bad light, hence Aethelred was sure that your ‘dark influence’ would have ruined his brother’s reputation enough that Ecberth wouldn’t have chosen him.

And that made you almost choke on the bite you were eating, something that didn’t go unnoticed by Alfred and Judith, both of them, pushing their gaze onto you, as Alfred lightly rubbed your back to relax you, and you were glad to use this as an excuse to move away from those inquiring eyes, but not before you heard Judith utter:

‘She isn’t one of us, truly’.

And that made you sprint towards the bathroom, although your heard Alfred immediately chastising his mother and then get up from his own seat, but you quickly closed the door of the bathroom stall, glad that in such an expensive restaurant they had luxury private bathroom in their stalls.

And there you broke down, crying.

You couldn’t do it.

Not only because you felt horrible at the thought of not being enough for Alfred, a thought that had entered your mind and wouldn’t leave it, but because you were horrified by the thought of ruining Alfred with your ineptness.

And you couldn’t tolerate it.

Why had you thought that accepting his offer of coming back was a good idea?

Why the fuck had you come back?

Gosh, you couldn’t do this.

You had to fucking escape.

Not solely for your mental health, but also for Alfred’s sake.

But right when you were halfway through developing a plan to escape through a window in the bathroom, your heard a light knocking and you answered with a shaky ��yes’, worried that it was a stall mate, who thought that your sobs were too loud.

“Hey sweetheart, it’s me, Alfred” you mentally cursed at your lover’s worriedness.

“Alfred, this is the girls’ bathroom” you tried to make him desist.

“Then can you open the door to me, because I don’t think that many ladies will look at me nicely if they catch me there, and I wouldn’t want to scandalize some old lady, who doesn’t know that bath stalls can also be for both sexes without distinction”.

You giggled softly at his humor, as you slightly opened the bathroom stall, aware that if you hadn’t done so, Alfred would have insisted and you were aware that his already tainted reputation would be permanently stained if he got caught in ladies’ toilette.

Alfred snug inside, and you noticed that he had ditched the jacket, pushing his sleeves up his arms and showing his slightly muscly arms, onto which you gripped lightly, as he came to you, immediately noticing that although you were wearing waterproof mascara, your eyes were puffy and red.

“… sweetheart, I am sorry, for mom’s words…” he commented tightly “… we shouldn’t have come, I knew that she hadn’t still gotten over …”.

“My previous job isn’t something that she has to get over” you replied harshly, aware that you shouldn’t have dropped all your anger against him, but you decided to use that to make Alfred aware of why you weren’t perfect of him “… and it isn’t something that I am ashamed of”.

“I know, I know!” Alfred rushed to say, understanding his mistake “… but she has her old mentality and…”.

“… this doesn’t justify her being this cruel to me” you were hitting all the low points and you felt Alfred shifting away from you as he ducked his head low, and then he acted, gently gripping your hands back and pushing you lightly to calm your agitated body.

“I know. And believe me I gave her a piece of my mind” you couldn’t help but clench your legs together at his angry tone “… but I don’t think that this is what is truly about, so please don’t try to put on a show, (Y/N), we can’t go back to that hole”.

The hole in which you had disappeared thinking that it was better for him.

“I love you. I know that’s not enough, but I do” you didn’t mean to break down in front of Alfred, but his eyes requested the desperate truth “… your family doesn’t approve and everybody outside of it doesn’t either… I am not… I am not the perfect girl for you, and I’ll for sure destroy your career, I know…”.

“Sweetheart” Alfred made you realized that you hadn’t breathed a single second for the entire discourse you had uttered “… breathe”.

“I just… I am not perfect” you commented, finally able to say those words you had been holding onto for all that time “… I am not the girl for you”.

A minute went by and you were almost sure that Alfred understood your reasoning and accepted it, finally realizing he deserved more.

And then he was closer to you, making you raise the face that you hadn’t realized you had ducked down.

“… who says it?” your eyes looked at him confusedly “… who says that you aren’t the perfect girl for me?”.

“Your mother, the press, your grandfather…” you stared listing, but soon, your comment was interrupted by Alfred, tightening his grip onto you, but in an almost reassuring way, as if to make you stay there with him.

“… are any of those people me?” he counterattacked you, leaving you breathless “… the only person whose life will be truly changed by a relationship with you”.

You knew that, but yet…

“… I just don’t want to make you regret it” your voice was a tight whine as you felt tears leave again “… I know that you… I know that this will affect you, because your reputation has been shadowed by me, so please don’t… please think about yourself, first”.

“I am” he promised you “… I think about myself each time I woke up with a breakfast ready on a Saturday morning, because I had a rough week and you wanted to cheer me up, I think about myself whenever you manage to solve work problems with me although you had a tough day, yourself, and I think about myself whenever I get to wake up beside you”.

It… took you by surprise, but you still felt fear in yourself.

“… it is my choice” he commented tightly “… and I’ll for ever choose you over anyone else”.

And that hit you completely.

And suddenly any reserve you had was lifted.

And you cried like a baby in his arms.

“… I am sorry… I am so fucking sorry” you chanted over and over, as Alfred comforted you.

“Don’t worry, sweetheart” reassured you Alfred “… I know and understand you, but you are not a bother, you’ll never be that for me”.

He let you adjust yourself, suggesting that you quickly took a quick run back home, with the excuse of a ‘stomachache’ of yours, both aware that you wouldn’t be doing much more right now sadly, not feeling emotionally well to face them again.

Alfred left you to collect yourself, as he went to explain everything knowing that his family would welcome him better than you, mostly for this kind of things and you joined him as he had finished his apology, faking the damsel in distress.

“Oh yeah yeah, I sadly understand that health can be quite problematic” commented softly Ecberth “… but then I’d like to say something before you both go, and I’d like everyone to hear it, actually”.

You couldn’t help but feel sicker now, aware that Ecberth’s discourse wouldn’t be pleasant towards Alfred.

“… I’d like to say and toast to the new general CEO of the York company, my grandchild Alfred”.

Realization and surprise shone on Alfred’s face, meanwhile all the others looked positively surprised by this confession, and you, yourself were extremely confused at seeing Aethelred being the first one to applause at that news, with a genuine smile on his face, as Alfred, instead turned to you with a bright smile.

But what surprised you were Ecberth’s eyes set on you, as he delivered the final part of his speech.

“… because he has proved to me that he knows what truly matters in life”.

---

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Vikings Taglist:

@flowers-in-your-hayr

#Alfred #Alfred The Great #Alfred Reader #Alfred x Reader #Alfred Imagine #alfred fic #Alfred The Great Fic #Alfred Ask #Alfred Drabble #Alfred Blurb #Alfred Fluff #fluff #Alfred Angst #Angst #Vikings #Vikings Imagine #History Vikings

[artificialqueens]

Galactica, Chapter 8 (Group Fic) - TheDane/Veronica

A/N: Guess what? We’re posting this today instead of tomorrow because we just love you guys so much, and your comments made us very productive today! Click here if you’re looking for previous chapters (or here if you’d rather read on AO3). 💫

Last Chapter: A wild night in the club led to a miserable, hangover-fueled day for Violet--and then a frustrating week, as Fame rejected all of the assistant candidates.

This Chapter: In a last-ditch effort to find a new assistant for Fame, Violet gives Courtney a shot.

***

Never in Courtney’s life had she seen a room as white, spotless and intimidating as Galactica’s reception area. She sat on the pristine sofa, hands folded in her lap, anxiety gnawing at her stomach. She’d been sending out resumes for almost 2 months, ever since she’d gotten to New York, in a desperate attempt to find a job--any job--that would allow her to stay in the United States.

This was only her second interview so far, the first one being a disaster - she’d missed her train connection and arrived late and sweaty from running ten blocks, and then the hiring manager had spent the entire time talking straight to her chest, patting her on the ass as she left while telling her that she was unqualified.

Of course she was unqualified.

Courtney was a 21-year-old who’d just graduated a few months earlier with a philosophy degree and zero office experience. Her current under-the-table job, waitressing at an Aussie-themed steakhouse in Times Square, was not going to keep her in the country. (Although she was grateful to her friend Morgan for hooking her up with it, since she’d be flat broke otherwise.)

Courtney had to stay in the country if there was any hope of her real dream coming true, which was to become a professional singer and songwriter, and maybe even a Broadway actress, if she was lucky. If she could ever get so much as an audition, which had also not happened yet. The best she’d done so far was sometimes singing with Adore’s band, but punk rock wasn’t really her style, and though she was grateful to her bestie for giving her a shot, it always felt awkward and wrong.

While she waited to be called for her interview, she prayed with all her heart; she wasn’t sure she believed in god, but it couldn’t hurt, right?

She prayed that her connection to Adore would mean something here. That Violet would remember her. That Miss Fame would like her. That the hours she’d spent carefully putting together her current outfit, getting her roots touched up and press-on nails to cover her real ones (bitten down to the quick) wouldn’t all be a waste.

Courtney heard the sound of heels coming down the hall, and then Violet appeared from around the corner. Courtney felt relief washing over her, happy to see the beautiful girl she had instantly bonded with the other night.

It was actually amazing that Violet had come through for her, making sure that her application had made it to Fame herself. Courtney smiled brightly.

“Good morning, babes!”

Violet gave her a cursory smile back, quickly checking her watch. “It’s almost noon.”

“Oh, yeah,” Courtney swallowed, feeling like an idiot as Violet looked her up and down like a zoo animal. “I was just making conversa-”

“This isn’t a place for small talk,” Violet said, then pointed at her purse. “Leave that with Roxy.”

“What?” Courtney clutched the bag to her chest. “No!” It was one of her favorite accessories, a star-shaped silver handbag with pink iridescent piping. Not to mention, it contained her phone, wallet, keys, and pretty much everything important.

“Courtney.” Violet made a small, aggravated noise. “If you want any hope of getting this job, you will leave that thing here at the front desk where Miss Fame can’t ever see it.”

Whoever this Violet was, she was very very different from the fun, friendly girl she’d met at the club.

“Okay,” Courtney agreed reluctantly, handing the bag over to the receptionist, who pinched it between her thumb and forefinger as if it was covered in dog shit.

Courtney rolled her eyes.

It wasn’t an expensive designer handbag. So what? Surely she wasn’t the first girl to own a fun, cute, novelty purse.

“Come with me,” Violet then said, taking off back down the hall.

Courtney hurried after her, following her into an immaculate conference room with a huge table. Violet gestured to one of the chairs.

“Sit down please.”

Courtney sat, nerves still on edge.

“So…” Violet sat down across from her, notebook open, looking at Courtney’s resume. She clicked her pen. “How much do you know about Galactica? Miss Fame? What research have you done on the company?”

“Oh, um…” Courtney paused, deflating a bit. She’d been prepared to talk about herself, not realizing that there was going to be a quiz. “Well, I know that it’s a very...uh, influential fashion house. And that Miss Fame is the CEO. And…”

Violet waited for another second, before she sighed deeply.

“Let me explain. Miss Fame is one of the busiest and most sought-after people in town. She started this company with Raja Gemini when she was only 26 years old. They got accepted and won the Fashion Fund on their first try. They’re visionaries. Why do you want to work here?”

“Well, I’ve always loved fashion-”

“Have you now?” Violet said, giving her a stern once-over.

Courtney felt like those judgmental eyes would melt her very soul, and suddenly became extremely self-conscious about her choice of outfit. Was her skirt too short? Did her jacket not fit right? Was she wearing anything as offensive as that purse she couldn’t even take into the office? She gulped.

“Y-yes.” It was the truth, even if Violet didn’t believe her. Ever since she could remember, Courtney had loved putting together fabulous outfits. Usually with her brother, both of them getting glammed up and prancing around the house, pretending that they were posh ladies with all the money in the world. And when they were older, he was the one who dressed her up and escorted her to talent agents and auditions--her own little stage mom. “And I did some modeling as a kid in Brisbane.”

Violet rolled her eyes. “Please don’t say that, it won’t impress her at all.”

“Alright. Well, it seems like it would be a really exciting job. And Adore always talks about how wonderful Fame is-”

“Miss Fame,” Violet corrected her. “You aren’t her friend, call her Miss. And don’t mention Adore.”

“No? But she said-”

“She’ll think it’s tacky. She would never hire someone because of a personal connection. If you get the job, it’ll be on your own merits, not because you know Adore. And not because we danced in a club the other night. Don’t mention that either.”

“Okay. Got it.” Courtney bit her lip. This whole situation seemed less and less likely to work out, the few advantages Courtney thought she might have coming in slipping through her fingers like sand.

“Look, Courtney. Working as Miss Fame’s assistant is not some frivolous job full of exciting parties and fancy clothes, okay? It requires you to be organized, and smart, and always stay ten steps ahead of everyone. You’ll need to anticipate Miss Fame’s every need, before she even knows she has them. Is that something you think you can do?”

Anticipate needs before Miss Fame knows she has them? What in the fuck was Violet talking about? She wasn’t a psychic. But this was a job interview, and Courtney supposed that she should nod and smile.

“Yes. Yes, of course,” Courtney said. “I’m...very intuitive.”

“Mmhmm. And how are you with Microsoft office?”

“Pretty good, I think. And I learn very fast,” Courtney said.

“What about communication? Written, verbal...are you a good communicator?”

“Very!” Courtney exclaimed, gaining a little bit of confidence. Finally, something she knew she could handle.

“I’m gonna be honest with you. You don’t have a lot of experience and she has been very, very picky. So your best bet, when you go in with her, is to keep your mouth shut and just listen. This job isn’t about you, it’s about what you can do for her. You don’t matter. Does that make sense?”

Courtney nodded slowly.

“I hope you don’t think I’m being harsh. I’m just trying to prepare you so that you have half a chance.”

“Oh, I know! And thank you, honestly. I really need this job. My visa is-”

“For god’s sake, don’t mention your visa. If you get the job, HR will deal with that.”

“Right, of course.” Don’t mention the visa. Don’t mention Adore. Don’t mention the club. Don’t mention modeling. Courtney’s head spun, praying she’d remember anything she was allowed to say when Fame asked her questions.

“Look. Everyone in New York wants something from Miss Fame. If you’re her assistant, your most important job is to be the gatekeeper. You need to say no to people without them realizing it’s happening. You protect her from all the madness, support her so that her brilliant creative mind can thrive. Do you understand?”

“Yes. Definitely.” Courtney nodded emphatically, and she saw the first thing that almost looked like a smile on Violet’s face since she had arrived.

“Good.” Violet glanced at her watch. “I need to get back. You can stay here until she’s ready for you. But remember...don’t say anything unless you’re answering a direct question. Okay?”

“Okay,” Courtney said.

“Good luck Courtney, and don’t fuck it up.”

With that, Violet picked up her things and sailed out of the room, leaving Courtney alone. She held her breath for a full 10 seconds before letting out a huge sigh, head dropping onto her arms.

Soon, the sound of heels approaching again caused her to jump, spine ramrod straight as Violet threw open the door and snapped her fingers.

“She’s ready. Let’s go.”

***

Fame leaned back in her chair, assessing the girl in front of her with a discerning eye.

She was certainly a pretty little thing, bright-eyed and well-groomed, definitely the right look. Of course, her shoes were cheap and a bit scuffed, the chunky heels absolutely horrifying, but that could be fixed.

She was trembling like a leaf--although Fame didn’t particularly mind that part.  

Courtney had said very little (another mark in her favor), but from what she had offered, Fame appreciated the accent right away. Something about an Australian accent tended to both impress and intimidate Americans, which could easily work in her favor.

After watching her suffer in silence for a few moments, Fame leaned forward, asking, “So...Courtney, was it?”

“Yes.”

“What do you think you’ll bring to this job that no one else can?”

“Well...I work very hard, and I’m very organized, and, uh...I’m really good at playing dumb.”

Fame tilted her head. Well, this was certainly an interesting answer.

“Go on.”

“Violet, she said that most of the job is protecting your privacy and being a...gatekeeper for people who want your attention. That you have to do it in a nice way.” Courtney cleared her throat, continuing nervously. “I think I would be good at pretending I don’t know things, like where you are when you’re in the middle of something that they’re not allowed to know about. Like, um, acting innocent or like...”

Fame continued to listen, eyes narrowed slightly, watching with amusement as Courtney cringed a bit.

“I’m sorry, that was very long-winded. I think I’d be good at making people feel good even when I’m saying no to them.”  

“Hm.” Fame lifted her resume, looking it over one more time. She was inexperienced. Very inexperienced. But there was something about her that Fame found charming, even shrewd.

Besides, if she took longer to train, well, then Violet would just have to stay longer. Which was no skin off Fame’s back.

“Thank you, Courtney.”

“Oh.” Courtney seemed to realize that this was her cue to leave, standing awkwardly. “Thank you so much for the opportunity. It was an honor to meet you,” she said, looking like she wanted to say more, but deciding against it. Another plus.

“That’s all.”

***

Violet had never been happier to see the end of the workweek than when the clock struck 7 on Friday.

Fame would leave soon and then Violet would finally have time to tie up the loose ends of the day, which had gone by like a whirlwind.

Violet kicked off her shoes to rest for just a moment. She was feeling utterly exhausted but victorious.

Courtney had been hired, the girl shrieking so loudly when Violet had called to tell her the news that she almost burst Violet’s eardrum.

Violet leaned back, looking up at the ceiling, her eyes slipped closed. It was just a moment, just for one single moment.

“Ahem.”

Violet heard the cleared throat, but she was so tired she could barely open her eyes. The front doors were closed, the alarm set up on most floors, so it had to be someone from their own company.

“What can I help you with?”

“Is Fame still here?” Violet didn’t recognize the voice, the tone of it clearly male, but it didn’t matter who it was. They weren’t going to be allowed in.

“She is, but Miss Fame is not taking anymore meetings for today,” Violet sat up straight, and opened her eyes, “so if you could plea-”

Violet froze in place, the man in front of her someone she knew very, very well.

“Mr. Bertschy!”

“Hello.” Patrick smiled.

“Oh god, I am so sorry.” Violet stood up straight, quickly smoothing down her dress. Of course it was Fame’s husband. Of course. He often worked just as late as Fame, and since his offices were also in the building, he had keys and codes for everything. “I’ll call her right away for you sir, I’m so sorr-”

“There will be no need for that, Violet.”

Violet stopped immediately as she heard Fame’s soft voice coming from her office, the woman herself walking through her door seconds later.

“Hello darling.” Fame smiled, a tenderness in her eyes as she walked over that Violet very rarely saw. Fame leaned forward, gently kissing her husband.

Violet looked away quickly, Fame always preferring to keep her privacy around employees, from what Violet knew.

She felt like an absolute idiot that she hadn’t made the connection that the visitor would be Fame’s husband, Violet herself making the very dinner reservation they were on their way to now.

“Are you ready to go, darling?”

Patrick nodded and Violet hurried over to get Fame’s coat and purse from the closet. She walked over, holding it up so Fame could slip into it, the scent of her perfume filling Violet’s nose as she did just that.

“I expect everything to be ready Monday for our new employee.” Fame took her purse. “It will be your responsibility to train her, so be prepared to work overtime.”

Violet nodded. “Yes Miss.”

“Good.” Fame took her husband's arm, the two of them walking to the door where Fame stopped.  “Oh, and Violet.” Fame looked over her shoulder. “Put on some shoes.”

Violet looked down, horror rushing over her when she realized that she had forgotten to put her shoes on.

“Yes Miss, it will happen Miss, right away.”

***

Katya would be hard-pressed to name a place in the world she loved more than their building’s rooftop. What had begun as a little community herb garden and grilling station had expanded over the years into a sanctuary. The rows of trees and potted plants lining the sides provided shade, their own little oasis in the urban jungle. They were chosen specifically to attract birds and butterflies as a tribute to Max, her very favorite birder and someone whom Katya relied on as a source of calm in a hectic world.

With permission from Fame, Katya had blown through the last of her own personal trust fund with a complete renovation to the barbecue area, turning it into a fully functional outdoor kitchen and lounge area, perfect for their weekend brunches.

Trixie had gently questioned her at the time; as someone who grew up with so little, he needed money in the bank or he’d get anxious. But what he might never understand was how much joy Katya had gotten creating a place to share with their friends and neighbors, how the time they spent together was more valuable to her than money had ever been.

Katya’s father was an ambassador, and after their family moved to Washington D.C. from Russia when she was just 3 years old, her life was full of stiff formal dinners, itchy fabrics that made it impossible to sit still, and so many rules that it made her head spin.

What followed were years of stuffy New England boarding schools and regimented summer camps. Every second of every day was planned for her: Latin and classical piano, cotillion and horseback riding lessons. Katya tried, she really did, to live up to all of the overwhelming expectations, but at some point along the line, the pressure was too much and she’d just caved in.

Katya shook her head, not wanting to think about the dark years, how hard it had been to get to this point. Instead, she inhaled deeply, looking across the patio at her wonderful boyfriend, doing his very best to squeeze oranges into juice for their brunch.

“Looking good, sugarbutt!” she called out. “Work those muscles.”

Trixie flexed for her, making her giggle delightedly before returning to the table, arranging the baskets of warm breads and pastries that she had been baking since 6 am. She unwrapped the fruit and veggie platter, artfully carved into elaborate rosettes and whimsical little animals, admiring a particularly cute little kiwi turtle, giving him a secret kiss just before the door swung open to reveal their first guest.

“Kimberly!” Katya skipped over to Kim, greeting her excitedly. Helping her with the mountain of French toast and platter of bacon that she’d brought to share.

As usual, her generosity was overwhelming to Katya, part of the reason that she was one of her favorite neighbors. The other part being her absolute artistry. Katya had been in awe of her makeup skills since the first time she’d seen her work, that Galactica show she’d attended with Trixie so many years ago, nervous to return to a place which had been the scene of one of her most dramatic failures in life.

She and Kim were soon chattering away as they set the table, discussing the latest collection at the Brooklyn museum, an anime-inspired artist who they both adored.

Max showed up next, with a beautiful garden veggie frittata and a carafe of hot tea.

“Thank you, Maxi, this looks delicious,” Katya said, giving him a tight squeeze.

Shangela arrived soon after, with a tray of Southern-style mac and cheese that caused both Kim and Trixie to burst into spontaneous applause, and a large bouquet of colorful flowers, presented to Katya with a wink. Shangela was someone that Katya thought she’d never win over - she’d created a major headache for her during her brief time at Galactica, and would certainly not have blamed her if she’d kept a distance.

But Shangela was a forgiving sort of person—after all, she worked daily with her ex-girlfriend—and had no problem at all giving Katya a chance on her own terms when she moved in. Soon, they’d established a mischievous sort of friendship, a playful flirtation and little inside jokes that Katya wouldn’t trade for anything.

Shangela was just explaining the intricacies of her mac recipe to Kim’s wide-eyed appreciation when the door opened again, revealing Violet in a characteristically chic set of work-out clothes—only instead of brunch offerings, she held a yoga mat in her hands, a surprised look on her face as she backed away.  

“Oh, I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to interrupt…”

“Don’t be silly!” Katya called, beckoning her over. “So glad you’re here!”

“I’m, uh…” Violet glanced at the yoga mat in her hands, tugging at the bottom of her matte black tank top.

“Trixie…” Katya put her hands on her hips. “I told you to invite Violet to brunch. You didn’t forget, did you?”

Trixie set the pitcher of orange juice on the table, a sheepish look on his face.

“Oops.”

“Ha! Busted,” Shangela teased, punching Trixie on the arm.

“Hey, come on. It’s been a rough week,” Trixie defended himself.

“I know,” Katya said, putting her arms around him from behind. “Violet, please stay. I promise next time, you’ll get a formal invite, but trust me, we’re thrilled that you’re here.”

“Oh, I...don’t know if-”

“Hey hey hey, it’s my favorite people…” Pearl said, strolling up to the table. The last to show up, as usual, holding a partially empty bottle of vodka and container of strawberries.

“Aren’t those the strawberries that Katya bought?” Trixie asked, one eyebrow raised. He gestured to the platter, where a handful of said strawberries had been transformed into jaunty little penguins.

“Are they?” Pearl asked.

“And thank you for bringing them up to share with our friends!” Katya enthused, hugging her roommate tightly. “You’re so thoughtful.”

Pearl cast a glance over at Violet, lips turning up in a smirk as she assessed her skimpy attire.

“Nice shorts, pumpkin.”

“I-I didn’t know, I’m sorry, I-”

Katya watched as Violet attempted to stammer out a reply, immediately noticing how pink her cheeks got under Pearl’s bold gaze. Well, that would either be the cutest match in history, or end in total disaster. For Violet’s sake, Katya hoped for the former.  

“Don’t be sorry. You look cute.” Pearl gave her a sexy wink and sat down, pouring some vodka into her glass.

“So, are we brunching or what?”

The rest of the group slid into their seats, helping themselves to the bountiful spread.

Max raised a judgmental eye at Pearl as he asked, “I assume you’re the one responsible for the racket at 3 am?”

“She said she’d be quiet,” Pearl shrugged, barely containing a sly grin. “Not my fault she lied.”

“No it ain’t, baby,” Shangela laughed, giving the blonde a fist bump.

“Can we please say grace? I’d like to give thanks that I don’t share a wall with Pearl,” Kim chimed in.

“Awww, Kimmy. Don’t be jealous,” Pearl licked her lips, “I’ve always got time for you.”

Kim threw back her head in laughter, a piece of Katya’s blueberry muffins in her mouth as she said, “Never change, Pearl. The women of New York would really be losing out.”

Katya seemed to be the only one noticing Violet’s face getting redder and redder at all the talk of Pearl’s sex life, as tame as the discussion was. Her fingers were twisted into the hem of her top, and seemed to be pulling at a loose thread.

All too familiar with the telltale signs of anxiety, Katya put a reassuring hand on her back and began to fill her plate. Something told her that Violet wasn’t big on rich, indulgent foods, so she began with a slice of fresh whole-grain bread and then some of her favorite little fruit creatures: a few of the penguin strawberries, of course, a kiwi turtle, and a little tangerine bear. She lined them up on Violet’s plate like she was arranging toys for a child, feeling unusually protective of this strange and beautiful new friend.

It took Violet a few moments to tear her eyes away from the very conversation making her so uncomfortable. She saw Katya’s handiwork and then glanced up at her, the two of them sharing a secret smile of camaraderie before Katya placed one last offering on her plate: an elaborate carrot rose.

Violet giggled, mouthing ‘Thanks,’ and Katya winked, leaning back happily to bask in the warm sunshine. Yes, she’d fit in just fine.

#rpdr fanfiction #thedane #veronica #galactica #lesbian au #fashion au #pearlet #trixya #violet chachki #pearl liaison #courtney act #miss fame #katya zamolodchikova #trixie mattel #kim chi #shangela laquifa wadley #max malanaphy

[kittyotakunoir666]

Felinette Month Day 7: Couple’s First

Felinette Month Day 7: Couple’s First

This might follow up with my New School, New Friends story but it’s not set in stone but the first scene is from when they meet.

D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 D7 D8 D9 D10 D11 D12 D13 D14 D15 D16 D17 D18 D19 D20 D21 D22 D23 D24 D25 D26 D27 D28 D29 D30

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

First Meeting

Marinette had just transferred into her new school after being bullied out of her last one. She had gotten to school early to get her schedule and now she was waiting for her new class representative. She decided to look over her schedule. 

After looking over the schedule, Marinette looks up from her paper and notices a blonde boy making his way to where she and the front office lady are waiting. By the looks of it, the class representatives wear a different uniform than the other students. He had on a white-collar shirt, a black blazer with red buttons over it, red and black plaid pants, black shoes, a black and green watch, and was carrying a black satchel. 

“Good morning Mlle Bauer” The boy greeted the front desk lady

“Good morning to you too Felix” Mlle Bauer greeted the boy known as Felix, “We have a new student starting today and I know you would normally only handle the business side of being a representative but Rosemarie had an appointment today she couldn’t miss”

“It’s alright Mlle Bauer, I knew about Rosemarie’s appointment,” Felix assured Mlle Bauer, “Now where is the new student?”

“Right here” Marinette giggled. She knew she was small, her mother is still half a head taller than her.

Felix’s eyes widen as he looks at her because he is one foot taller than her. “My deepest apologies I hadn’t seen you standing there” 

“It’s alright, it happens all the time” Marinette reassured him, “I am 4 '11'’”

“I see well I apologize again Mlle?” Felix Inquired

“Marinette Dupain-Cheng” Marinette greeted the boy and extending her hand

“Felix Culpa” Felix introduced himself taking Marinettes hand and giving her a firm shake

First Confession

Felix and Marinette were hanging out at Marinette’s place after school. Felix had stayed for dinner at the recommendation of Sabine, he set a reminder on his phone about this day to tell his mother later about the invitation from Sabine. After dinner, Marinette and Felix moved to the living room while Sabine and Tom went to their room. They had just finished playing  Ultimate Mecha Strike III. Felix lost immensely.

“How?, Marinette, How?” Felix exclaimed, “You had less than half your life”

“I’m Marinette” Was all Marinette said

“I’m starting to get that” Felix said with a smile

“Wanna watch some movies?” Marinette asked as she grabbed the remote in case he said yes

“Sure,” Felix agreed, “What movie do you wanna watch?”

“Let’s watch ‘To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before’, It’s such a good romance movie” Marinette suggested, “Or do you have a movie in mind?”

“No, I’m okay with watching that movie,” Felix assured her.

So they began to watch the movie and since it was already late Marinette began to doze off. So when Marinette finally fell asleep, her head fell onto Felix’s shoulder which surprised him. He then saw that she had fallen asleep so he moved her gently onto his lap. He stared at her sleeping face, forgetting the movie completely and carefully put his hand on her cheek.

“You came into my life without even knowing how much you would change it, you took your time in getting to know me for me and accepted me and my walls, you accepted my friends, you didn’t judge me for all my faults, you helped me with my anxiety, you are are the most caring person I got to know  and before I knew it,” Felix whispered, “I had fallen in love with you”

First Date

Marinette was nervous, no, she was beyond nervous. She was feeling very anxious and excitable. The reason being was that she was finally going on a date with Felix. So she called the girl squad over; Ruby, Terra, Allegra, Rosemarie, Jake, and Nyx. They were helping her get ready for the date and helping how she was going to do her hair. Marinette was trying freaking out and was changing in and out of a lot of outfits behind the room divider freaking out, Ruby was on Marinette’s bed laying on her stomach, Terra and Allegra were on each other on Marinette’s lounge, Rosemarie and Jake were sitting on the floor, Nyx was in the computer chair. They were watched as Marinette was freaking out on what to wear when Ruby decided to interrupt her rant.

“Do you know where he’ll be taking you?” Ruby asked Marinette

Marinette stopped and looked at her then looked at the others before responding, “All he said was to dress formally but not too formal.”

“Let us raid your clothes to combine a perfect outfit,” commanded Rosemarie

Marinette sighed in defeat and nodded her head. Jake and Terra looked through her shirts, skirts, and dresses, they found an empire red dress. Rosemarie was looking through the jackets and coats she found a black short long sleeve dress jacket. Allegra was looking through bracelets and earrings and found a gorgeous black bracelet that went wonderfully with the simple black dangle earrings she also found. Ruby was looking at the shoes and trying to find ones that would look great with the empire dress along with looking for the perfect bag and she found red 3-inch heels and a red and black wallet purse. Nyx was in charge of Marinette's hair, nails, and makeup so she got to work on Marinette's nails so they had time to dry so she painted those a red shade, gave her a natural look with slightly dark lipstick and had put half her hair up with a hairpin and curled her hair.

They had just finished when Marinette's mom called to them that Felix was there. So the group headed down first and gathered next to Marinette's mom. Then Marinette came down looking more gorgeous than normal leaving Felix breathless.

“For the first time, I understand the difference between pretty and beautiful,” Felix said

This made Marinette blush and the group squeal. Sabine then took some photos and sent the couple on their way. Felix opened her side of the limo and then went to his side and they were on their way. They arrived at the restaurant and to them, it felt natural. There were no first date jitters, no nervousness that was there before, and no awkwardness. 

After dinner, they had walked around Paris and ended up underneath the Eiffel Tower. Where they danced, laughed, and had their moments. They were having the time of their life and they didn’t want it to end.

First Fight

Felix was running. He had just seen Marinette being held by Adrien in what seemed like an intimate hug and he didn’t know what to think. Marinette had let go of Adrien and was just about to say goodbye when she saw Felix in the corner of her eye. Both their eyes widened and Felix began to take a few steps back before running away with Marinette calling his name and running after him leaving Adrien just standing there.

“Felix, Slow down” Marinette yelled to him. 

Felix ignored her and kept running until they ended up under the Eiffel Tower and  Marinette tackled him. She then used her strength to hold him there so they could both catch their breaths. The streets were almost empty with it being 8 pm. 

“Marinette let me go,” Felix commanded, “How are you holding me in place?”

“Shut up and listen,” Marinette demanded, “Whatever you think you saw was not the thing you saw”

“Really because what I saw was you and Adrien in an intimate embrace,” Felix accused her, “What do you still have feelings for him?”

“Felix I told you it wasn’t like that,” Marinette told him

“What was it Marinette because I don’t know what to think anymore,” Felix asked

“What you saw was me rejecting him,” Marinette answered

“Really because it didn’t look like it to me,” Felix scoffed

“Well that’s exactly what it was and if you can’t accept that then call me when you calmed down and actually thought about how I’m with you because I want to be with you,” Marinette hissed at him finally releasing him and getting up. 

Marinette walked away to go home leaving Felix on the ground with his thoughts.

First Kiss

Felix and Marinette were on another date just walking through Paris while there was a light drizzle of rain so they weren’t really getting wet. Marinette was wearing a pink v-neck strap top, white dotted skinny jeans, a red wine cardigan, white heeled shoes, a pink hobo bag, disc earrings, and a disc necklace (this). Felix was wearing a white button-down dress shirt, essential chino pants, Justin sunglasses, rugged handcrafted lace-up boots, and a black wool overcoat (this). They were walking, holding hands, and talking.

“It’s such a wonderful day for a walk,” Marinette commented as the began to arrive at the Eiffel Tower. There was a street band playing some music.

“It is,” Felix agreed, “remember how on our first date we danced under here”

The street band began to play ‘Perfect’ by Ed Sheeran and Felix took Marinette’s hand they began to dance to the music. The few people who were there stopped and began to watch with a few taking out their phones and recording them. As the song finished and as did their dance they finished it with a kiss. They pulled away when they heard the claps of their audience and both blushed as they bowed.

First ‘I Love You’s”

Marinette and Felix were just hanging out and having a picnic at the park near Marinette’s home. They were both doing their own thing when Felix stopped reading his book and just stared at Marinette. Marinette was designing and was so focused on what she was doing she didn’t notice Felix staring. Meanwhile, Felix was enjoying the view of Marinette in her element. He adored her and would do anything for her.

 So before he knew it he spoke saying, “I love you”

This made Marinette snap out of her focused faze and stare at him. Felix meanwhile was freaking out because he just said ‘I Love You’. They stared at each other for a moment with both having wide eyes but Marinette was also gaping. 

Marinette then launched herself at Felix and gave him a kiss before whispering into his ear, “I love you too”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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#felinette #felinette month #felinette month day 7 #Couple's First #marinette dupain cheng #felix culpa #a bit of Adrien

[jiminssizzles]

Track 1: Daylight

Summary: Eunice expects this vacation to help her relax a bit and to meet her long time internet bestfriend, Gail. What she didn’t expect is she’ll meet Park Jimin too, and he’s not that ordinary.

Pairing: Park Jimin x OC

Genre: fluff, crack, angst (if you squint), and more fluff

Rating: PG

Warning: Pining is kinda annoying, but we’ll get through it. :>

Word Count: 14k+

Author’s Note: I would like to thank my amazing, talented and artistic friend, @minyoongail​ for proofreading, judging the genre, creating the warning and this AMAAAZING moodboard. :> 

Intro // Next Track

• ○ • ● • ○ •

“Are you really going?” Gail asked Eunice as she rolls on her bed.

“Only for a month.” Eunice paused for a while, deciding to tease her best friend a little. “Mom did not stop bugging me until I agree. As much as I want to be here on the peak season, I think I also need a breather from all the planning at work and the overflowing orders in the business I’ve been handling.”

Gail screamed on the other line, “The heck is with that voice! You’re going to K O R E A, and you’ll finally get to meet M E, your B E ST F R I E N D.” Eunice might not let Gail know this, but she is also excited to finally see and meet her.

“Who says I’m staying in Seoul? I’m not! You know that.” Eunice replied while piling her clothes on top of her bed. She tried her best to arrange her luggage when she also knows best that she can’t do this alone.

“You’re staying here for a month and you can’t even give 3 days or a week to me? Unbelievable, Eunice.” She held back her laugh, eventually giving up on teasing Gail. “I’m just joking, how are you so gullible?” Eunice answered. “Of course, I’m coming to see you. I’ll see you on the last week of my stay, okay? I’ll tell my mom that I’ll be going to Seoul before we go home.”

Gail squealed. Until now, Eunice don’t know how she became this close to Gail. She just remembers crowdsourcing on Facebook to find her a Graphic Artist that can design the logo of her online shop that sells earrings… 2 years later, the two of you still talk every damn day.

“Thank you for reassuring me, my best friend.” Gail’s giddiness can be felt even if this is just a phone call. “You know how I feel about meeting someone from the online world for the first time.”

“What? What do you feel? Regret? Hatred?” Eunice joked. “Stupid. I feel excited!” Gail defended herself.

“Whatever you say, Gail.” Eunice knows how much Gail hates talking about meeting up with the people you met online. She even told Eunice that she is the only exception as she’s not going to make the same mistake twice, but that’s not Eunice’s story to tell.

“Hey, I have to hang up. Still need to finish packing and my flight is early tomorrow.” The two bid each other goodbye and hang up.

Eunice lays on her bed along with her pile of clothes. She stared at her best picks and realized one thing – they’re either black, white or army green. She decided to at least get her shoes before completely collapsing in bed. Black boots, black sneakers, black slip ons – why do I have the same color of shoes but in different types? She whispered to herself.

“Fuck this. Can you all just walk yourselves to my bag?” This is how she slowly gave up as she knows that she’s not that good at organizing things.

• ○ • ● • ○ •

Eunice settled on the bedroom given to her by her aunt in Busan. She has 3 weeks to enjoy everything here before she goes to Seoul to meet Gail on her 4th week here in Korea.

After arranging her things in the closet, she heard her Aunt call her from downstairs. While they were having dinner, her Aunt asked her for help on the Karaoke Place she owns. This is her business ever since she moved here in Busan. She told Eunice that she has a promo for 3 days that will need an extra hand in the place as they will be jam-packed, said her Aunt.

Since she still doesn’t have anything planned on her vacation, she decided to say yes to her Aunt.

Her aunt was right. Eunice arrived early at the karaoke place that her aunt owns but it’s already jam-packed. She didn’t know that karaoke places in Korea are popular.

“Imo, is it always like this?” She asked her aunt as she finished leading the family who reserved the largest VIP room.

“No, mija.” Aunt Jess handed Eunice the tray of complimentary drinks so she can serve the people she led to the VIP room. “It’s just that I wanted the business to be known before the holiday season arrives so I’m at 50% off right now.”

She clicked her tongue while pointing at her aunt approvingly. “Now I know where I got my business skills from.”

As she’s not yet used to carrying trays with multiple glasses, she carefully made her way to the VIP room. While being lost in thought, a boy wearing an all black outfit stopped in front of her.

“Can I help you?” The both of them asked in Korean. Both shocked with how they said the same sentence in the same tone, they both try again.

“No—I mean, do you work here?” Eunice asked first. He gave her a shy smile, but that shy smile formed crescents in his eyes and made his cheekbones sharper, although she’s not really sure as he’s wearing a face mask. “Ani. I just figured that you’re going to the VIP room. I’m on my way to the front desk anyway. I’m a guest.”

“You’re a guest? I’m sorry, sir.” Eunice slightly bowed. “I’ll just take this to your room, but what do you need from the front desk? I can assist you, you know.”

“Sir? You’re not from here, aren’t you?” He asked. As much as she is interested in talking to him longer, she’s also thinking about why is he prolonging this conversation. “Nah. Just staying for a vacation.”

“I’ll take this.” He took the tray from her. “My family’s a regular here. I’ll take this to them and you can accompany me back to the front desk.” He did not even wait for her answer as he took the drinks to the VIP room which is just 5 steps away from where the two of them are right now. It did not take him long before he got back.

“I’m Jimin, by the way.” He started walking, so she walked with him. “I’m Eunice.” Her hand automatically implied that she want to shake hands with him, out of habit. He quickly took it and smiled at her, although all she can see is his eyes.

He did not stop making small conversations as the two of them walked to the front desk. “Well, here we are.” Eunice made her way behind the front desk to accommodate him. He immediately handed his credit card to her. “Please use this for the VIP room we reserved.” It was a black card and even though she doesn’t live in Korea, she knows that this is only for filthy rich people.

She was about to say something when he placed his cute finger in front of his mouth signing shh, “Don’t don’t don’t react.” He says shyly. “I was just gonna say that you can pay later,” as she tries to defend herself. “Yeah, I know. It’s just that we made this reservation for about 2 months ago and we keep on moving and moving and moving it that’s why I’m already shy, plus your aunt is really accommodating when it comes to my family – at least that’s what they always tell me.” Although his mask is covering almost ¾ of his face, she’s still sure that he’s smiling right now.

“Alright.” was all she can say. She started processing his payment and realized that everything is already pre-ordered including the food that the crew are about to serve to them. “Way ahead of your time, sir,” she commented. He nodded slowly, “I am. I am.”

After processing his payment, he said his thanks and went back to the VIP room. She knows that she is crushing on him from the time that he offered her help with the tray, but she also knows that this day would end and she would not care again for those little crushes she makes while interacting through the day. This is what she lives by – that if it would not matter in the end of the day, then maybe it’s not something to stay.

After the first half of her shift, she decided to tell her aunt that she’s going on a break. On her way out, her aunt tapped her shoulder again to give her money. “Imo, it’s fine! I can manage.” She rejected her offer with respect, thinking that she’s adopting her for a month and she can’t just accept more because then she’ll be too shy. She gave her a pinch on your left cheek. “You’re not here every year, at least let me make up for all the years that I could’ve been with you guys back home.” She just smiled and accepted the money. “I still love your cheeks, you fluffball. Also, I’m calling it a day for you. All of the reservations are well taken care of. You can just come back tomorrow.” She said while smiling brightly.

Once she was out of the karaoke place, she pulled out her phone from her pocket so she can look for a coffee shop in the area. She’s dying to continue reading the “City of Fallen Angels” from The Mortal Instruments series. She feels grateful that she wore an all black outfit completing it with a leather jacket and Timberland boots as the cold winds gently brushes through her. It’s cold here but she couldn’t care less, she loves the cold so much.

“Hey, it’s Eunice, right?” She turned to her left and saw Jimin. “Oh, Jimin. You’re done?” She tilted her head slightly to look at his family. He’s still wearing his mask which she finds necessary since it’s really cold outside. “Yeah, we are.” She saw his family still talking to her aunt while giving their thanks. “Are you going home?” He asked.

Her eyes went from him, to the phone and book she’s holding. “I was hoping to spend my time in a coffee shop, but I’m still searching for coffee shops nearby.” She honestly said. He quickly glanced at his family. “Uhm, I know this may sound odd, but do you mind if I go with you? I swear I know the area like the back of my hand. I grew up here. I also know where we can go.”

He looks harmless to her, though, she wanted to see what’s under that face mask. He might feel that she’s judgmental if she wanted to see his face first, but her stubborn mouth failed to control itself. “I guess it’s okay… but can I at least see what you look like? My mom told me not to go with someone if I feel suspicious about them.” He sighed and answered, “I understand. Wait here, okay?” She just nodded while he ran to his family.

She noticed how cute his little movements are. Yes, he’s wearing an all black outfit (the same as her) but his jacket is so fluffy and the scarf tied in his neck is a great addition to the cuteness of him as a whole. She just looks at him while he talks to them quickly and now she sees them waving goodbye to him.. and to her. She also waved at them and sees him running back to her.

“Well, yeah, okay, I’ll show you my face, but not here.” He answered when he got back. “Why? Are you wanted?” Eunice teased him. “Wanted by many.” He quickly replied and teased her back while moving his eyebrows up and down. “I know you got a smug face under that face mask.” She can’t help rolling her eyes at him. “Just show me where can we drink coffee.” She finally agreed.

She walks with him for a few blocks. As someone who is usually in the office or at home, she’s thankful that she finally gets to stretch her legs again and just feel the cold breeze. “I swear, we’re near the coffee shop.” He blurts out.

“What? I’m not even complaining.” Eunice continued looking around and familiarizing herself with the place. “Just making sure you’re not getting bored of me.” Jimin said. She just nodded and gave him a small smile.

While familiarizing herself with the place, she also noticed that she’s also familiarizing herself of Jimin – the way he walks, the way he talks, the way he doesn’t stop brushing his silver hair using his fingers and the way his chinky eyes look like he could not see anything when he smiles. Jimin caught Eunice staring so she immediately trained her eyes to the ground.

“Here we are.” She looked up and saw a coffee shop that looks rustic and is surrounded by plants and trees. “Coffee Park, huh.” Jimin just smiled at the mention of the name he came up with and pulled open the door for her. “Let’s go?”

Jimin looked around and saw that nothing much has changed in the coffee shop that he started way back in 2016. This kept him busy before they went to the Wings Tour. He gave her a glance as he attempts to share that this is his own coffee shop, but he ended up staring at Eunice as she stares at the menu behind the cashier.

Jimin noticed her chubby cheeks, her eyebrows that are naturally perfect, her eyelashes, her lips that are twitching while her eyes are fixated on the menu in front of her. He thought of how cute her short hair rests well on her shoulders, and how cute those big curls on its ends. Here I am again with a short-haired girl. He thought.

 “What?” Eunice asked Jimin when she noticed the staring. He quickly looked away. “What would you like to order?” He fixed his eyes on the menu also and Eunice tried to stop herself from smiling. “I’ll get a caramel flavoured iced coffee. How about you?” She turned to face him.

“Okay.” He replied. Jimin walked to the counter and she saw the man’s surprised look when Jimin stood there. “Jimin!” The man behind the counter exclaimed. “When did you arrive?” She heard him ask Jimin. Since she’s already awkwardly standing there while watching them, she made it more awkward by standing next to Jimin with the intention of giving her money to him just in case he wants to order for the two of you.

“I just arrived last night. How are you, Soo Ri?” He replied to the man behind the counter. She noticed herself looking around just so she would not look stupid, when she already knows she looks stupid. “Oh, Soo Ri, this is Eunice. Eunice, this is Soo Ri, one of my friends from middle school.” Eunice smiled at Soo Ri and bowed a little.

“Nice to meet you, Eunice! What can I get the two of you? I’m sorry for beaming at Jimin, I didn’t realize he had someone with him.” He started pressing the touch screen in front of him. “Eunice wants a caramel iced coffee and I’ll get my usual.” Jimin answered for both of them. Eunice handed him the money, but he’s quick to reject it.

After rejecting it, Eunice handed it over to Soo Ri, since he’s the cashier, not Jimin, after all. To her surprise, Soo Ri rejected her payment, too. “It’s on the house, Eunice. Don’t worry about it. Just go relax yourselves and I’ll bring your coffee to you.” He just smiled and started  making the orders. Jimin just smiled at Eunice and asked her to walk to the couch that he’s eyeing on.

The interior of the coffee shop looks rustic to her as outside, but she appreciates that each table with couches is inside a cubicle making it more private for each customer. Jimin waited for her to sit first. Eunice stayed silent because she doesn’t really know what to tell him and what his intentions are for going with her. She’s just guessing that the heavens are blessing her on the first day here so she’ll have a good memory when she gets home, or Jimin is just plain bored.

Jimin took his seat in front of Eunice. After he settled down, he removed his face mask so quickly that she did not even get to be ready to see his face. He smiled and Eunice knew that was it. She certainly had a crush on him, but she knows herself, she wouldn’t even let him notice. With that trained poker face of hers, she just said, “I’m glad you don’t look like a burglar.”

He laughed, “What a judgmental girl.” Eunice knows he was joking, so she laughed with him instead. Eunice can’t tell him that he’s so gorgeous, that he can’t say anything to his face ‘cause look at his face, and that she would admit that even if he’s a guy, he’s a whole lot prettier than her. “I’m not!” She’s quick to retort. “I’m just wondering why’d you go with me. We barely know each other.”

Jimin scrunched his nose a little, “I just want to be friends with you.” She just nodded at his reply, “And why is that?” She asked again. “No reason. It’s not everyday I meet someone new so I thought I’d like to be friends with you.” Jimin knows it’s a lame reason, but she seems to take it well. Not long after that, Soo Ri arrived with the drinks while he gave two cheesecakes to the both of you. Eunice just said her thanks then looked at Jimin again.

“Why is this free?” Eunice blatantly asked. “I’m thankful but I just want to know.” She tried best to sound calm and friendly as possible. Her friends back home always complain that it’s either she doesn’t talk, or she talks like she’s mad all the time. Jimin, on the other hand, is still surprised that she doesn’t know him. Sure, BTS is worldwide famous like how Jin is worldwide handsome, but he’s never encountered someone like her who doesn’t even react with You look familiar to him.

“The coffee shop is mine.” Jimin answered shortly. “Jinjja? Wow wow woooow!” Eunice answered giddily. “Yes, it’s mine that’s why this is free and you’re my friend now so you can come here anytime you want and get freebies as much as you want.” Jimin smiled to himself when she saw her beaming at the information. Maybe this is why he wanted to spend time with her. It’s been a while since he felt normal. Not Park Jimin, BTS member that is followed around by cameras every day, he’s just Jimin right now. He liked how unamused she is of his presence and although he’s curious of her not having a slight idea of BTS, he’s still grateful.

“You’re joking when you said that I can get everything for free anytime.” Eunice accused him of lying. Of course, he still needed profit from his business. “Nope, I’m not.” He said as he takes his first bite of the cheesecake. “I’m staying here for 3 weeks, Jimin.” She joked. “Fine with me.  You can get your coffee here everyday.”

“I’m not gonna do that.” She replied, breaking the joke. “You still need to have profit, you know. I support my friends’ businesses, no matter how big or small.”

“Trust me, Eunice. This is just a past time, so it’s okay.. but if you say so, suit yourself.” He smiled again. He always just smiles at her cutely and scrunches his nose that the two of you did not even notice that you’ve been throwing each other questions for an hour now.

“So, where are you going after your 3 week stay here?” He is now leaning on the couch in front. He started to get comfortable with her although she feels like he’s still hiding his face as he does his best to turn his back to the public eye, but she did not ask him what it is about.

“To Seoul. I’m going to meet my online best friend there.” Eunice suddenly remembered that she hasn't told Gail that she’s here in Busan with a cute guy. She just took a mental note to share it with her later once she’s back in her aunt’s house. “How sure are you that she’s real?” Jimin asked.

“She’s real because we’ve done a lot of video calls in the past and we talk all the time.” Eunice defended herself and Gail from him. He just laughed. “I’m going to Seoul too almost as the same time as you. I stay there most times. Who knows? I might know your best friend.” Jimin just told her that when he’s sure that he doesn’t know Gail. His friends are not that many and he spends most of his time with the 6 boys.

“Hmmm. I’ll let you see her. Wait wait.” She quickly scanned through her gallery which gave Jimin time to stare again. He knows it’s too early to think about wanting to date Eunice, but he was already considering giving it a try. This is just your first day of being friends, but he never met someone as familiar as her. He’s not sure if he’s feeling familiar or if it’s still because not everyone treats him as normal as she does. Eunice turned her phone to face him, showing Gail to him.

“This is a screenshot from our video call last night.” She pointed at Gail’s face. “This is her. She’s a Graphic Artist in Seoul. She loves art so much that she even drew on her wall.” Eunice noticed Jimin staring at the picture that she’s showing. “What? Do you want me to introduce you to her?” She’s very kind to offer even if he’s cute and way out of her league and she wants him for herself.

“That’s not necessary.” He replied with a cough. “Oh, I thought you wanted to meet her since you’re staring at her intensely.” Eunice teased. “I’m not! I’m just thinking if I’ve ever seen her somewhere before just so I can help you identify her right away when you’re in Seoul.” Jimin defended. “So, what do you do for a living?” Jimin suddenly asked, completely veering away from the topic that is Gail.

“I have office work during the day and I handle my small earrings business all the time.” Eunice replied with enthusiasm. She knows she’s here to relax, but she can’t help talking about things that interest her – that is her work and her business, no matter how stressful it gets. “Really? I love earrings!” Jimin exclaimed.

Eunice started telling him how she got into the earrings business. Jimin just listens to her intently while his mind wanders back on the picture of Gail showed to him. It’s not Gail he’s staring at. He’s staring at the shelf above Gail’s bed as he saw a complete set of BTS album merchandise from 2 Cool 4 Skool up to Persona. Now, he’s wondering if Eunice doesn’t really know him or she just doesn't want to tell him. Then again, maybe Gail hasn’t mentioned BTS to her ever. But still, the thought lingers in Jimin’s mind.

“Since you’ll be giving me coffee for my whole stay here, do you want to get the whole set of my newly designed earrings for men this year?” Eunice asked him, but also backed down right away. “But considering you’re filthy rich, I doubt those are in any match of the collection that you have.”

Jimin flicked his finger on her forehead. “I am not filthy rich! I have been telling you since we went out of that karaoke place! And yes, I would love to have the whole set. That would suffice for all the coffee that you’ll be getting from me.” Jimin is happy that she’s finally welcoming the idea of getting coffee here anytime she wants. That would mean there would be a lot of times that he would see her.

“Okay. I’ll give it to you before we part ways. I’ll have it shipped here in Busan.” Eunice answered. “Wow, you’re like a CEO.” Jimin answered playfully. “So are you, Mr. Park Jimin of Coffee Park.” The two of them did not stop bickering on who gets more for a living when his phone suddenly lit up, showing his eomma’s contact name. He mouthed the word ‘wait’ before answering.

“Eomma, is everything alright?” .. “I’m here at the coffee shop.” .. “No, no, I’m still with Eunice.” .. “What? What do you mean JK and Hobi-hyung?” .. “Oh, okay. Wait, eomma.”

Jimin looked at her while he covered his phone with his cute hand. “Eomma is asking if you want to have dinner in our house. I also have some friends over there that you might want to meet. I mean, I would like to introduce you to them.” He already asked, but why does he look shy all of a sudden, but this is more embarrassing for her so she’s quick to reject the offer as lightly as she can. “Oh, I can’t tonight, Jimin. It’s my first night to have dinner in imo’s house and some of our relatives will be coming over to see me. I’m sorry!”

He gave you a thumbs up and went back to talking to his mom. “Yes, eomma. Yes, I really did ask her! Why are you doubting me?” He’s letting out soft giggles as he talks to his mom. “I’ll be home before dinner. Just please tell them to wait for me. Thank you, eomma¸ I’ll see you later.” He ended the phone call and faced Eunice again.

“Sorry about that. My mom didn’t believe me when I told her that I already asked you to come over. She thinks I’m chickening out or something.” He honestly said. “Chickening out? Are we like on a date or something?” She also honestly asked. “No.. noooo. It’s not that. She just haven’t seen me with a girl for so long that’s why she’s enthusiastic about me having a new girl friend.” He made sure to emphasize the space between girl and friend.

Eunice just nodded, not sure what to feel and what to react at that. “But don’t get me wrong, Eunice, okay? It’s not that I don’t want to date you.. I mean it’s not that I want to date you.. but you get me, right?” He looked at you with his puppy eyes as he seek for your affirmation.

“Why do you say a lot of words, Jimin?” Eunice jokes. They started laughing again and telling each other stories of their own separate lives.

• ○ • ● • ○ •

That night, Eunice went home with a smile on her face. She is in the mood to greet everybody happily and even stayed for a while downstairs to talk to her relatives. Her aunt is even funny for teasing her about Jimin. Everyone at Busan knows Jimin is an idol, but her Aunt Jess did not give even a slight clue that he is. She was surprised that Eunice doesn’t know that, but she just kept it to herself because if Jimin did not tell Eunice, maybe he has his own reasons.

Jimin came home immediately after walking Eunice home. He knows that Jungkook and Hobi might be pissed at him for making them wait that long, but he couldn’t care less. When he arrived, the two quickly tackled him and flicked his forehead a bunch of times.

“Ya! Stop that boys! It’s time for dinner!” Jimin felt relieved when he heard his mother calling them to the kitchen. He quickly pushed Jungkook and Hobi away from him and ran to the kitchen. “Eomma, they’re hurting me!” He joked while hugging his mother from behind. They just laughed it off and ate dinner.

Jungkook brought out the liquors they bought on their way to Jimin’s house. The three of them decided to meet up even if it’s Bangtan’s 1 month vacation at the moment. Jimin technically begged the two to hang out with him in Busan just so he would not be in his coffee shop all the time.

But things changed.

“Jimin-ssi, where have you been?” Hobi asked him while opening the first bottle of soju. “I was at Coffee Park.” He clinked his own bottle with Hobi’s and drank the first gulp.

“Your mother said that you were with a girl.” Jungkook declared with an accusing tone. Jimin pinched Jungkook’s cheek in reply, “Aigoo, is my Jungkookie jealous? I still love Jikook, don’t worry.” He joked. “Aish! I won’t find myself a girlfriend because all the girls are thinking that I’m with you!” Jungkook playfully punches his arm.

“Yes, I was with a girl.” Jimin confessed. “I just met her a while ago.”

“And?” Jungkook and Hobi said at the same time.

“And, I think I don’t need the two of you here anymore.”

“Aaaah!! You’re so mean!” Hobi placed his hand on top of his heart, acting really hurt. “Tell us what she’s like.” The sudden mood change made Jimin laugh.

“Well, for one, she doesn’t know BTS, but she knows the song Euphoria.” Jimin looked at Jungkook and mocked him. “This maknae gets everyone!!” He ranted. “But really, she doesn’t know BTS. I like it.. I mean, I like that she treats me normally. I miss that feeling. That feeling that people just treats me as Jimin. I only get that when I’m here at home, that’s why I’m always longing for home. It feels like I don’t need to put my walls up, and I can just be myself.”

“So you like her?” Jungkook asked. “On the first day of meeting her?!” Jimin jokingly raised his voice, “You don’t decide that you like someone on the first day, Kook!” He added.

“Ya! You never decide on these things, you just feel it.” Hobi interrupted Jimin and Jungkook. “I’m telling you, guys. The time you’ve known her doesn’t matter, let alone the way she treats you. If you like her, you like her.”

“Woooow. That’s really deep, Hobi-hyung! Too bad, I’m only excited right now for the tattoos I’m planning to ink on my arm!” Jungkook exclaimed.

“If that’s the case, Hobi-hyung, maybe I like her.” Jimin sighed. He is not really scared of liking girls, he’s scared of the aftermath. Dating will never be easy for idols. He accepted that long ago. He’s scared of liking Eunice, and what if Eunice likes him back? Will he ever give her the commitment she deserves? Will she accept that he’s only free for this month and he’s not even sure when he will be free again.

He’s scared of those things.

But he still found himself visiting Eunice the next day.

• ○ • ● • ○ •

For the next 2 days that Eunice has a shift in the karaoke place, Jimin always visits to ask her to go with him for coffee. Eunice hesitates at first, continuously teasing Jimin that he’s already a big boy and he can go grab coffee by himself – but drops it also and still goes with him.

Those 2 days turned into a week. After the first week, Jimin is already familiar with Eunice. Heck, familiar is not even the word, Jimin is already fond of Eunice. That talk with Hobi and Jungkook scared him a lot, but he can’t stop himself from picking her up and asking her to go to random adventures with him.

By that time, he had already noticed that Eunice liked wearing black or white or army green clothes, that she always carry a small notebook with her – for sudden writing ideas or design ideas for the earrings, that she is the boyish type of girl which always results in them trying to step on each others’ sneakers, that there are times wherein she’s just quiet because she’s too lazy to talk, and that she’s a whole individual that is okay and doesn’t need anyone else to make her happy.

That scared him also. Being friends with her is going great, but if he wanted to take this to another level, will he even have a place in her life?

• ○ • ● • ○ •

Eunice went straight to bed after doing her nightly rituals on a Wednesday night. She opened her phone gallery to browse photos of her stay in Busan. Who am I even kidding? She told herself. She opened her gallery to look at all the stolen pictures she’s had of Jimin from the past week. She just wanted to fill a photobook from this trip, but all of her fun time consists of either her family or Jimin.

She likes it when he’s around, although she always acts unbothered when she sees him outside the karaoke place or her aunt’s house. She has a stolen photo of Jimin from the first time they went to Coffee Park, or the 2nd and 3rd day he picked her up from the karaoke place to eat Korean street foods, or the 4th day when she finally got to eat legit Korean Barbeque, or the next days that they spend their time in the arcade, continuously bickering on who can get more tickets just because they both want the biggest stuffed toy there.

There’s a sudden message notification from KakaoTalk.. which is Jimin.

Jimin: Hey :)

Eunice: Yeah? What can I do for you?

Jimin: Remember how we talked about stars?

Eunice: Nope. I talked about stars, you talked about seagulls.

Jimin: Alright! Remember how you talk about your love for the stars and how I talk about my love for seagulls?

Eunice: Yes! I remember. That was a fun topic we had a while ago! :)

Eunice smiled a bit, while Jimin shook his head. Both lying on their beds, they both look like kids squirming on the sight of their favourite cartoon character.

Jimin: Ha. Ha. Guess what?

Eunice: What?

Jimin: I told you to guess, not make me say it easily, freak. 

Eunice: Jimin, are you taking me to see the stars?

Jimin: What

Jimin: How’d you ??

Eunice: Are we going on a trip?

Eunice: On your favorite rocket ship?

Jimin: Ha ha again, funny. 

Jimin: But yes, we’re going on a trip

Eunice: Jinjja? Did I say yes already? I’m sorry I quite forget things

Jimin: Hehe. I’m just about to ask you, but I know you’ll go with me so I just made a statement.

Eunice: *sigh sticker*

Jimin: You don’t wanna go? *pout sticker*

Eunice: Stop with that face

Eunice: Yeah, I’ll go. When do we leave?

Jimin: Yay!! I knew you’d come!!!! :) :) :D

Jimin: Tomorrow, afternoon. Let’s go to the grocery tomorrow morning and cook food we can take. :D :) :D

Eunice: God, why do you smile so much!! Okay meet me at 9?

Jimin: Okay!! See you tomorrow!! Goodnight, YOUnice.

Eunice: See you tomorrow. Goodnight, JiMEn.

Eunice wasn’t supposed to say yes. They’ve known each other for a week.. and days more, but she still doesn’t understand why Jimin goes with her or she doesn’t want to assume. Also, she doesn’t understand how and when did they become comfortable with just going out alone. Back home, she can die from awkwardness whenever she tries to bond with someone not close to her with no one else around. Things are just different with Jimin.

Her phone notification rang again. Seems like Jimin is not yet done, she thought to herself.

Jimin: Haha. Good one. Take extra clothes with you. We’re going back on Friday.

Eunice: What??????????????????? Who told you we can spend the night together, dumb

Jimin: I won’t bite you, dumber

Jimin: and who told you we’re sleeping together?

Jimin: Trust me on this one

Jimin: Can you trust me? Can you trust me?

Jimin silently laughs as his brother wants to sleep in his room that night. He doesn’t want to wake him up. After sending his last message, he realized that Eunice will not get the reference of Can you trust me? since she doesn’t know BTS. She probably doesn’t know Hold Me Tight, too.

Eunice: No

Jimin: But, I swear!! Trust me or you won’t get the stars you’ve always wanted

Eunice: I’ve known you for like 10 days

Eunice: How do you even know which string to pull on me?

Eunice: I kinda hate you

Eunice: But okay, I’ll bring extra clothes hahahahahahahaha

Jimin: Hahahahahahahahahahahhahaa thanks for trusting me

Eunice: No, that’s for the stars!! Goodnight, JiMEn

Jimin: Fine. Goodnight, YOUnice

Jimin: see you tomorrow!!!! :)

• ○ • ● • ○ •

It's already 8 AM and Eunice hasn't replied to Jimin yet. They agreed to meet at 9 AM but he feels like she's not yet awake.

He decided to just fetch her at home. He dropped by Coffee Park to get coffee for Eunice then went to her house.

Eunice's aunt opened the door for him. She beamed upon seeing Jimin on their doorstep. "Jimin!" She exclaimed. "Eunice is still in her room although I'm not sure if she's up. Come in!"

Jimin smiled and went inside the house. "We have scheduled something to do today and she asked me to meet up at 9. I was worried that she's still sleeping as she did not reply to me yet." He explained.

"Well, if that's the case, let me go check on her quick if you can enter her room. I overheard her still laughing at 2 AM last night when I went to the bathroom." Aunt Jess redirected Jimin to the couch. "Wait here, okay?"

He just nodded and sat down like the good boy that he is on the couch. Aunt Jess did not take long to go back to him and lead him to Eunice's bedroom.

"Are you sure that it's okay for me to go in?" Jimin asked, making sure that this is okay for them. "Yeah. Go. You're the only friend that she has here, unless you two are dating already?" Aunt Jess teased. "No! Not.. yet, I guess?" Jimin shyly smiled and brushed his silver hair out of habit. "I'm not forcing anything for the two of you anyway! Don't get too worked up." Aunt Jess giggled. "You two just look cute together. Just go in, Jimin. That's just Eunice. Don't tell me you're shy when you can perform in front of millions of people?" She teased again.

"Aunt Jess! She doesn't even know yet.." "I know that she doesn't know, but I think you have your reasons so just go. You can handle this." Aunt Jess opened the door for him and he just nodded his thanks.

Jimin wasn't wrong. Eunice is still asleep. She's facing the right side with a laptop in front of her. He thinks she fell asleep talking to Gail.

How is she still beautiful in her sleep? He thought, but shrugged right away. As much as he wants to just stare at her all day, they also need to move so they can push through on what he has planned.

Jimin sat on the floor, facing the bed. He placed the iced coffee on Eunice's bedside table, along with a stem of rose and sunflower. Tapping Eunice's shoulder repeatedly, he keeps on calling her name softly.

"Mmm?", Eunice stirred and moved a little.

"We have to go to the grocery, Eunice.." Still speaking softly to not freak her out.

"It's so early, Jimin." She turned on her left to face Jimin sitting on the floor. With still droopy eyes, "Why are you in my room?". Jimin just laughed and held her hand, "Come on. We're gonna be late."

"I smell coffee." Eunice softly said with her eyes still closed. She might not have noticed the things Jimin placed on her bedside table as it's really dark in her room, considering that she even had black curtains.

"Open your eyes, dumby.." Jimin squeezed her hand and gently tugs it. "..and get out of bed. We're wasting time."

She sighed in defeat, "Fine. Open the lights. I don't care, blind me." She joked, but Jimin did what she said. He flicked the light switch on and saw Eunice's reaction when she saw the iced coffee, sunflower and roses.

Eunice tried her best not to smile, but obviously she failed. "5 minutes, Jimin, please." She turned around again and pulled the blanket over her whole body including her face.

"Eunice.. we don't have time!" Jimin pulled the blanket from her and saw that she's a blushing mess which made him throw the blanket back to her.

"Fine. 5 minutes. I'll wait downstairs." He made his way outside the door and shut it. He held his chest and sighed deeply.

That's it, Jimin. He told himself. That's the reason you do this -- for that smile that makes your heart flutter and for that eyes that glisten with delight, especially if you're the reason.

• ○ • ● • ○ •

Both Jimin and Eunice finished with buying groceries and cooking an hour after lunch time. Aunt Jess didn't want to allow Eunice to spend the night somewhere far and with a boy, if she might add, but she also realized she's not a baby anymore and that boy is Jimin whom she knew even before he became an idol.

"Don't do anything stupid, you two." Aunt Jess helped closing the car door as the two settled inside the car. "Imo! Don't you trust us?" Eunice jokingly whined. "I do! I'm just reminding you. Have fun kids!"

The both of them waved their goodbyes as Jimin drove off. "Is it far?" Jimin raised an eyebrow without looking at Eunice. "The place where you're taking me, is it far?" Eunice repeated the question as she opened a bag of chips.

Automatically feeding Jimin, he reached for the chips using his mouth and started chewing. "Not really, an hour or two kind of drive. Are you excited?" He asks while giving Eunice a quick glance.

"A bit. But I'm sleepy. Will you be okay driving while I sleep?"

"Eunice, how are you sleepy all the time?"

"Ya! I did most of the cooking! You just peeled garlic." She protested which earned a laugh from Jimin.

"Okay, bubb. You can sleep."

"What does bubb even mean, Jimin?"

"When did you care what I call you? Just sleep, I'll wake you up when we arrive." 

Eunice closed her eyes and faced the window so Jimin would not see her smile. She really doesn't care what Jimin calls her. This time around, she can't restrain herself from asking because she knows 'bubb' is a form of endearment -- and Jimin is making her heart flutter when she cannot even remember the last time she felt it beating through her chest.

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

They arrived at the place at around 5 PM in the afternoon. Eunice took her time in taking the place in as Jimin went to get their things and food in the back of the car.

The place is well lit, with a lot of camper vans. It has a view of the sea and the beach. Each camper van has a small tent outside for dining purposes and a grill. There are also trees that has lanterns hung on its branches.

"Are we the only ones here?" Eunice asked Jimin as she helped him carry their things. "No. It's just an un-peak season."

"Who uses un-peak season?" Giggling at Jimin's words, "Well, shall we?" Jimin smiled at her with his natural crescent eyes and lead her to the camper van given to them.

Inside the camper van, there are 2 single beds, a sink, a table and a cabinet, both for food storage and clothes. The single beds are on both sides of the camper van. The both of them are quick to place their things on the bed and Jimin is the first one to head out.

"Come on, we still have time to catch the sunset." Jimin held out his hand when Eunice was hesitant to take it, but she didn't want to ruin the peace and quiet moment that they are sharing so she just took it.

They walked to the beach and chose a spot where they can sit. Jimin opened the two cans of beer that he took from their stack and handed one to Eunice. She saw Jimin's eyes lit up as soon as he saw seagulls flying which made the view more worthwhile to stare at. She trained her eyes back to Jimin and saw how amazed he is.

"I thought you grew up here in Busan? How come you don't visit your seagull friends often?" Although both of them are together everyday, they still try to get to know each other more without a mutual statement. The fact that their conversations are just a natural overflow makes them more drawn to each other, which they don't know how to handle in the first place.

"I did! But I left when I was a teen because I had something waiting for me in Seoul." Jimin said with a sigh. They've been talking a lot, but they never really went to the specifics -- like what does Jimin do in Seoul, or what is Eunice's company industry.

"What is that?" Still curious as she drank her beer. "I'll tell you when the time is right." Jimin answered with that which sends a message that the conversation should be shifted into something that is not.. well, this.

"You're not a drug lord, aren't you?" Eunice teased him to ease up the mood.

"I'm not! Why do you always assume that people are bad?!" He laughed.

"I don't, Jimin!" Eunice playfully punched his arm. "I'm just under the impression that people are good, but they are not perfect, and they will do something wrong to me once or more, but I'll still look on their good sides."

"Everyone makes mistakes, you know that, Eunice." Jimin quietly stated. As much as he wants to tell the truth that he is an idol, he doesn't want something to make Eunice feel how far they are apart. He already thought of the lingering cameras when he's in Seoul, or the fact that Bang PDnim doesn't like it when they date. He even remember him saying that he's the only one who knows who is for the seven of them.

Father figure to mother figure -- 99999%, Jimin thought.

The sun started to set while Jimin is thinking about those things.

"What if I do something wrong to you?" He can't help but ask. He does not even know if he can find the right timing to tell her about a big part of him, because that would also mean a big part of her will be exposed to the public -- that is, if they continue to be like this, always together.

He sees Eunice's eyes fixed on the setting sun, "We'll always have tomorrow to fix that, Jimin."

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

The two of them opted to go back to the camper van before they have dinner. They arranged their spaces in the camper van while Eunice played her music out loud from her phone."We still have time before dinner, right?" Grabbing her The City of Fallen Angels book, Eunice found a comfortable spot to read on.

Jimin simply nodded, singing along with what Eunice is playing. "You know what, I'm starting to think that Busan is the City of Fallen Angels." He said while looking at Eunice.

"Why is that so?" She asked, bringing the book down for a while.

"Because you look like one." He nonchalantly said and went out to set up their dinner. 

Eunice smiled and bit her bottom lip to stop herself from giggling. Jimin might be joking, or not, but he still makes her feel things that are foreign. Feelings that are already forgotten as it has been so long since she last really looked at a guy.

She went out and helped Jimin in setting up the dinner table outside the camper van. They took out the pasta that Eunice cooked earlier and the electric grill that they can use to cook barbeque. It all went by smoothly. They did not take their time eating dinner, considering that they are both eager to stargaze as soon as possible.

As soon as they finished dinner, Jimin held out his hand again. Eunice was hesitant to hold it again.

"Come on, bubb. Don't ruin the moment." He softly said while gazing at her with those gentle eyes and showing that inviting and shy smile. For the second time, that day, she took his hand again.

The walk to the beach is accompanied by a cool breeze. Jimin did not let go of her hand. He’s holding the blanket that they’re going to use on his other hand. She helped him spread the blanket out on the shore.

She was the first one to sit on the blanket, Jimin following right after. She can’t help but appreciate the surroundings -- how this view is perfect, how she can clearly see the full moon that reflects on the sea, how the stars shine brighter here since there are no city lights, and how Jimin is just sitting beside her, not saying a word, but she feels happy.

“Do you like it here?” Jimin suddenly asked. “Of course, I like it here. You’re the first one to take me stargazing.” She answered without looking at him. “That, and here, in Korea, do you like it here?” He clarified. “Yeah, I do, but I miss home, though.”

Jimin, wanting to know more about her, asked about her parents, life in school, pet’s name, and more. In exchange, she asked him the same questions which he answered wholeheartedly. 

“Do you have someone right now?” He laid down, putting his arm under his head. “Like a boyfriend, you mean?” Eunice arched a brow questioningly. “Yes. Do you?”

“No, I don’t. Wouldn’t be here with you if I have someone right now. Infidelity really ticks me off.” Eunice took a deep breath, “Liars also.” She added. Jimin sat upright again. “Really? I mean, all of us doesn’t want to be lied to.” He fiddled with his fingers, trying to find the right time to tell Eunice about the world he has in Seoul -- and outside it.

Jimin was about to tell Eunice when she suddenly asked, “How about you? How many girlfriends do you have?” He saw her laughing at her own accusing joke. “I don’t even have one right now!” He exclaimed, unconsciously brushing his silver hair with his fingers again.

If he can’t tell her that he’s an idol, at least, he wants to share something personal to her. “I had two girlfriends, though, obviously, none of them worked.”

“Why? Tell me about them!” Suddenly, she looks more interested. “What? I write, sometimes, Jimin. I really want to know about all sorts of love.” She states, in her defense.

“Alright, well, the first one did not work because she just wanted to try having a boyfriend. Turns out it was a one sided love and I was the only one who liked her that much.” Jimin saw Eunice pouted. “-- but that’s okay! We were in middle school back then. I just thought of it as a children’s lesson.”

“If you say so,” she removed her pout. “Then the second one?”

“The second one ended just earlier this year, we’ve been in an on and off relationship for 3 years. We fought about a lot of things, but mostly, it’s about the time.” Eunice just fidgets on her fingers, thinking about how recent that break up is and maybe they can still go on even with her here.

Why was she even thinking about her in Jimin’s life?

“Ya! It already ended earlier this year, I have no plans on getting back together. I deserve better.” Jimin said as he held her hand.

She just smiled at him, without removing her hand from his hold. Whatever this is that’s going on between them, none of them have the courage to ask. At least, they’re on the same page of knowing each other more before diving into a deeper level.

“I’ve had two boyfriends too. The first one was like your latest, we were on and off for four years. By the time that he changed, I don’t have it in me anymore to continue what we have. I just got tired, maybe. Just like you, I deserve better.” Eunice trained her eyes on Jimin’s thumb that is slowly grazing on her hand that he’s holding.

“Did he cheat?” He asked, giving her a slight pout. What a cutie. She thought. “Yeah, on the first year of our relationship, he did. At the time, I thought I could never find anyone like him so I forgave him when he apologized. Shit, right?”

“Yeah. Don’t do that again.” He smiled at her, urging her to go on with her story. “The second one was pure bliss!” She sighed. “We were really happy, I thought I finally found the one to spend my life with. I’m young, I know, but I was ready, and I was really looking forward to the future.”

Jimin felt a pang of jealousy. Why is he overreacting over something that’s already done? Besides, this is just a crush on Eunice.. or fondness? He didn’t know. One thing is clear, that he doesn’t want anyone to have her than him.

“Then, on the day of my birthday, he just blurted out that he doesn’t love me anymore.” Eunice gave Jimin a small smile, but he knew better. That memory hurt. “Why do people fall out of love when the two of you are perfectly okay? Maybe, I was the only one happy.” She added to her rants.

He cupped her face and gave her a reassuring smile, “You don’t have to go through that ever again.” He wanted to say a lot of words, but he feels like it’s too early, and he might scare her away. “When’s your birthday?” He asked.

“Hmmmm, some time in December.”

“Really? Two of my best friends are December babies too!” Jimin pinched her cheeks and kissed her forehead.

Eunice did not know how to react to that. She opted for, "Two of your best friends? How many do you even have?"

Jimin doesn't know how to react, so he just brushed it off and said, “We’ll go do something special on your birthday, okay? And I have six best friends.”

“That’s months away, Jimin. How sure are you that we still talk by then?” Jimin doesn’t know how to answer the question. Instead, he mustered all the courage that he could, silently wishing to the stars that this won’t go to waste, silently praying that the universe is still with him up to this day.

“Hm, how would you feel about dating me?” He bravely asked. Too early, his subconscious whispers.

He waited for a good ten seconds, twenty seconds, thirty seconds, with Eunice just staring at his face. “It’s okay if you don’t want to, I mean, we just met and---”

“I want to get to know you better.” Eunice cut him off, “--but okay, but I want it exclusive.” She whispers.

Jimin can’t help but smile, “Exclusively dating? You got it, bubb.”

Eunice just looked up to the stars, trying her best to hide her smile. She thought the universe’s luck left her already when her best relationship ended.

Guess it’s not the best yet.

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

"Imo, I'm going to miss you." Eunice hugged her Aunt Jess for the fifth time already. She wasn't due to return to Seoul for 3 days, but her manager from the office asked her if she could meet one of their suppliers while she's still in Korea. "Sucks to have a lot of commitments." She let out her pout that has been coming out since yesterday when she heard that she had to work on her vacation.

Aunt Jess pinched her cheeks, "I'm going to miss you too! Besides, I think I'll go visit you next year. I miss your mom too." Her Aunt gave her a kiss on her cheek and all the things she wanted her to take home in her home country. "Where's Jimin, anyway? I thought the two of you are going back to Seoul together."

"He's loading my things on his car. He told me to say goodbye to you since I'm so bummed that I had to work. Thank you for letting me stay, imo."

"You went here for vacation and you get a boyfriend? Aigoo, my mija is not a baby anymore." She teased. Jimin suddenly entered the front door and looked at Eunice, "Let's go?"

"Okay." Eunice gave one last hug to Aunt Jess, and so did Jimin. "You two take care, okay? Call me when you get to Seoul!"

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

"Bubba, wake up." Jimin tapped Eunice's cheek as they arrive before lunch time. "Stop drooling on my car seat." He joked.

Eunice's eyebrow scrunched, still with closed eyes. "I'm not. Let's eat, please." She opened her eyes and stretched before going out of the car.

"Is Gail here already?" Jimin went in front of Eunice and arranged her hair as she never finds it in herself to comb it when outside. "I'm not sure. I texted her already, though. How about JK? Is he nice?"

Since it's their first time meeting, she can't help being curious on how will it go. Gail for sure would be exciting, but meeting one of Jimin's friends?

Jimin was the first one to see Jungkook walking towards them. He waved and Eunice finally turned on his direction, finally seeing Jungkook for the first time.

"Jungkook?" She said.

Jungkook is definitely shocked, but Jimin's face is unimaginable. "You know Jungkook?" He asked Eunice.

"He sang Euphoria, right? Oh my god. Oh my fucking gosh. I think I'm gonna have a mental breakdown, bubb." She held her chest and looked at Jimin, pouting.

"You know Jungkook, but you don't know me? Aiiish, Eunice, you're on a different level of surprising me!" Jimin felt jealous at the time because he doesn't understand how she knows Jungkook, but not BTS, not even him.

"What do you mean I don't know you?" Eunice raised one of her eyebrows when she felt someone hug her from behind.

"Eunice! What the hell are you doing here outside? It's so nice to finally see you!" Gail hugged her tighter and only then did the two squealed in delight for seeing each other for the first time. "Gaaaaail! Hi! I miss you so much, it fugging hurts!" Eunice faced her and hugged her tighter.

"Who did you bring?" Gail asked then looked at the two guys behind Eunice. She was told that her best friend was dating someone. As for how the guy looks, Eunice wanted her to see for herself just so she could appreciate his glory more.

"Are you dating Park fucking Jimin or Jeon fucking Jungkook?!" Gail asked another question while Eunice is still lost.

"How do you know Jimin?" Eunice asked. She saw Jungkook facepalmed himself and looked at Jimin in a funny way.

Gail held Eunice's hands, "Eunice, honey, remember how I told you to fucking check out BTS for once but you never listened to me?" Eunice nodded, finally putting the pieces together.

"You're an idol?" She finally asked Jimin.

"I am." He answered, nervously. The shock is evident in Eunice's voice, but it's mixed with something more - like wonder, answers, and an unspoken why didn't you tell me this?

Gail, knowing her best friend too well, just braced herself on how Eunice is going to react.

"And you did not tell me? Wow, and you told me you hate being lied to also."

"But, I didn't lie." Jungkook made a face that looks like he's telling Jimin to not answer like that again.

Gail, also feeling awkward on being present on this conversation, took a step back beside Jungkook. "Yes, you didn't, but I thought we were getting to know each other and I was kept in the dark on a big part of you." Eunice voiced out and went to Jimin's car to grab her things.

"Eunice, come on. It's not a big deal.. I'll explain." Jimin tried to stop her from pulling her stuff from his car. 

"I just need.. time, Jimin. Can you give me that? I know it's not a big deal, maybe it's not, for you. These past few weeks, I've been baring my soul to you, not letting a single detail slip unsaid, because I want you to know me. Now, I finally understood why imo always tells me to be lowkey with you. Imagine if we weren't this careful." Eunice looked around, taking in the sight of a private villa that Jimin rented for them, telling her that it'd be better if they can just lounge with their best friends.

"Come on, Gail." Eunice left Gail with no choice so she just helped her carry her stuff. Before leaving, Eunice gave Jungkook a small bow. "I'm sorry, Jungkook. It was nice meeting you."

Then they left.

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

Eunice is slumped on Gail's living room couch, eating a pint of cookies and cream ice cream to clear her mind.. and also to suffice for the meal they missed due to what happened earlier.

She was about to take a spoonful of ice cream in her mouth when Gail smacked the back of her head. "You always tell me stories on how stubborn you are, what a way to prove it to me on our first day meeting!" So it starts, the lecturing starts.

Scanning the surroundings, Gail's bed is already on view as she lives on a studio type apartment. Apart from the wall that she always sees whenever they do video calls, she also saw the other side of the room wherein a lot of BTS posters were stuck on the wall. Eunice can't help but look at all the Jimin versions existing. Jimin with dark hair, with orange hair, with pink hair. She felt that pang in her chest for not seeing the signs earlier. All those trying to not be seen in public, and the lack of social media pages, plus the lack of details when it comes to what he does in Seoul.

"Gail, you've known him for a good lot of years, compared to me." Eunice finally venting out. "I'm jealous. I feel like I can ask you all about Jimin and you can answer all of it right."

"Eunice, listen to me. I know Jimin as an idol, but I don't know him on a personal level. Don't give me that shit right now." She waved Eunice's argument off.

"This is all your fault." Pouting, Eunice threw a chip on Gail. "How is this my fault?!" Gail threw the chip back.

"If you didn't flood my timeline with MAMA tweets last 2017, I wouldn't have muted BTS and BTS_twt on twitter!"

"I told you to unmute them and give them a chance, you twat! It's 2019 and you're giving me that reason when you're just being stubborn for 2 years now."

"Gail, you know how bad I react when I'm in shock. I'm sorry.. I just don't know how to react to that. You always tell me how big BTS is, and take note, I don't know the members, I just know Jungkook. Actually knowing that I date one of them is really driving me nuts! How do I handle this? Do I really deserve this?"

Eunice felt another smack, on her forehead now. "Am I Jimin to answer those questions? You two are the ones dating! I'm sure before he asked you, he already considered all the possible situations. If you're asking me if you're deserving, let Jimin tell you. But if you're going to act stupid now just because he didn't tell you sooner, then I swear I'm gonna kick you. Talk to him."

Gail threw Eunice's phone to her. "Why are you so violent in person?" She asked, then gave Gail a hug. "Thank you, Gail."

Gail immediately wiggled away from the hug, "I don't really do affections that much with friends so.. please."

The two of them laughed it off and enjoyed their ice cream.

Two hours after, Gail saw Eunice's phone lighting up with Jimin's phone call. "Ya! Answer this before I smack your head again!"

Eunice shook her head in disapproval, not wanting to answer the call. Gail took the phone call instead.

"Hello, Jimin.. Yes, this is Gail." Eunice's eyes widen with what her best friend is doing. "I'm sorry that Eunice is not available to talk right now. .. Yes, she's okay. .. She's busy drooling over your photocards on my wall and watching Jimin focused BTS vid---"

Eunice snatched the phone away from her, "Shut the fuck up, Gail." She saw her best friend giggle and sat back down on the couch.

Walking away from Gail and going back to the merch she's been looking at, she finally decided to talk to him. "Hello, Jimin?"

"Eunice! I'm so, so, sorry! I don't want to tell you this over a phone call so will you please see me? I'll take you to your work meeting. That's for dinner, right? I'll pick you up wherever you want."

She heard him sigh on the other line, "Hmm. I'm not actually mad.. I'm just.. busy." She can't help but smile on the photocards that she's been eyeing since she calmed down. "I'm sorry about earlier, Jimin. I was just shocked, and I don't want to be kept in the dark."

Even without seeing Jimin, she knew that he was already smiling on the other line, "That's really not my intention. I've been trying to tell you from the start, but I never got the chance. I'll pick you up, bubb. Send me Gail's address." 

"Why do you get to order me around?" Eunice joked. "Because I can, but also, please send me Gail's address. Thank you." He answered while emphasizing please a lot.

"I will. See you later."

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

Jimin stepped out of his car wearing a white short sleeved polo and skin tight jeans to open the car door for Eunice. Gail, who just went with Eunice downstairs to make sure she's safe, felt that stinging pain because Eunice held on to her tighter when she saw Jimin.

"I swear to God, Eunice, your boyfriend is my bias wrecker." She whispered. "Shut up, he's mine." Eunice whispered back.

"You're not even official yet, so I'll take my chances." Gail teased while waving at Jimin. "Not yet official, but you already call him my boyfriend. Thanks, best friend." She waved her goodbye to Gail and went towards Jimin.

"Didn't know you'd look that good on your work clothes," was the first thing Jimin said when Eunice came near him. "What's so special about this?"

Eunice pointed on her simple white polo tucked in black high waist slacks. "Nothing's really special, maybe it's because you're the one who's wearing it." Jimin answered.

Eunice just raised her eyebrow and went inside the car. Jimin, giggling, followed right after.

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

That night, Jimin insisted on Eunice to visit Bangtan's dorm after her meeting. He just wants her to finally meet his six best friends, as he would say.

"I look like I'm going to ask you guys to endorse something. Can I go another time?" She asked. Jimin just held her hand while driving with his left hand. "No, I want them to know about you now, baby."

"But I did not memorize all of their faces just yet! I would've known them a long time ago if someone just introduced his own self to me properly." Jimi knew that Eunice is pertaining to him. "I'm sorry, bubb." He planted a soft kiss on the back of her hand, "Won't do that again," and another kiss on her hand, "Won't lie to you again," and another kiss on her hand.

"I'm not even an ice cream, but you're making me melt." She whispered. Jimin saw another version of her as a blushing mess as he remembered the first time he brought her coffee, roses and sunflowers.

When they arrived, only Taehyung was in the living room, watching Netflix while eating popcorn. "Lexi, does it really take forever to get coke?!" He shouted while throwing and catching a piece of popcorn in his mouth.

"..and that's best friend number 1, Taehyung." Jimin said to Eunice then tapped Taehyung's back.

"Oh shit, hey, it's Eunice, right?" Taehyung slightly bowed to Eunice and showed her his signature boxy smile. "Nice to meet you," was the only thing she managed to say.

"If only you know how to get your ass away from that couch, then maybe you already have your coke by now." A girl entered the living room holding two cans of coke.

"This is Lexi, my best friend." Taehyung introduced her to Eunice which just smiled teasingly. "Really! She's just my best friend!"

"So defensive. I was just messing around." Eunice replied. Jimin shook his head and winked at Taehyung. He pulled Eunice to the hallway so he can look for the other boys.

"Are they really not dating?" Eunice whispered to Jimin, not letting go of his hand. "Nah. Lexi's always here for like two years already, they're really just friends."

"Really? She seems to like him." Jimin stopped to look at her. "Really? You think?"

"I don't know. I just feel like it, but I don't know the two that much so who am I to judge anyway?"

"Taehyung brought home a lot of girls for the past two years. I just don't think Lexi likes him because if she really does, then she must've been heart wrecked right now for seeing Tae jumping from one girl to another." Jimin explained.

They both shrugged it off to continue the introductions with the other boys. They saw Namjoon and Yoongi at the Genius Lab working on a song, then Jungkook with Jin playing an online game, then a busy Hobi tidying up his room and Jimin's.

"Jimin-ssi! So she's the one you talk about non stop!" Hobi-hyung teased Jimin while cleaning. "Ya! I do stop talking about her." Jimin defensively answered.

"Oh yeah? For 2 seconds? Got it." Hobi-hyung finished tidying up so he sat on his bed. Their bedroom door suddenly opened, showing a panting Taehyung on the doorstep.

"What?" Jimin asked. "Come here." Taehyung pulled him outside. Eunice just heard Taehyung shout, "Just stay there, Eunice!" So she stayed put with Hobi-hyung.

Jhope is not hard to get along with. In a matter of minutes, the two already found something to talk about. The two noticed that they've been hanging out for half an hour already so Jhope asked Eunice if she wanted to grab something to drink or eat from the kitchen.

"Only if you have ice cream." She answered Jhope who stood up fast. "Never fret! Jungkook loves ice cream so much that we never ran out of stock. Let's go!"

The two walked through the hallway, still laughing on the Jimin stories that Jhope keeps on talking about as they were roommates for quite some time now.

When they reached the living room, they only saw Taehyung playing PUBG with Lexi on their mobile phones.

"Where's Jimin, Taehyung?" Jhope was the first one to ask.

As if on cue, Jimin walked out from the kitchen with a girl following him. Shock was evident on his face. Eunice studied the girl's features quickly -- short hair, small figure, porcelain skin and strong facial features. 

"On again?" Eunice asked.

Jimin quickly went to Eunice's side, holding her hand, "No, no. How did you even know her?"

"What's a Jimin research without coming across articles and videos on your alleged girlfriend?" The word tastes bitter on Eunice's mouth. This jealousy is getting the best of her, just because she feels like she doesn't know Jimin that much.

Who was she kidding? She really didn't know Jimin that much.

"But she's not anymore! I told you that at the beach, right?" Jimin, half pleading with his voice, held her shoulders. "Yes. You did. When will you start actually telling me about things? You could've went back to the room to tell me that you needed to talk to her."

"Eunice, come on. Don't let that jealousy eat you up." She noticed that firmness on Jimin's voice, and that hard stare.

"I'm not jealous. We're not even officially together, right? I just don't want to get into the middle of a relationship that has built foundation through the years."

With that, she left the dorm again without another word.

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

"Well, are you really on a different level of stupid, Eunice?" Gail crossed her arms after hearing the story. 

Eunice looked down and pouted, "I'm sorry. It hurts, I swear.. when I saw them come out of the kitchen, I felt that sting on my chest. I feel like I was the intruder."

"Then maybe that's because you love him," she passed the shot glass to Eunice. Gail doesn't really drink so she took the liberty to be the bartender of her best friend.

Eunice quickly downed the shot, "Love? That quick? Love? Scary."

"But worth it." Gail cooed. "I've known you for quite some time now. Saw you at your best and worst, so I guess my opinions matter also on how you feel."

"Just almost three weeks, Gail. Three weeks, and for me to feel this strong about him already? Scary."

"You don't measure time. If you feel, then you feel." Gail stated. "Stupid, you're the one who told me that love doesn't measure time, distance and most especially face!"

"Yeah, I did told you that." Eunice played with the shot glass, still lost in thought.

"Why are we switching roles? You used to be the one to lecture me a lot. Come on, Eunice. You're smarter than that.. although, I'm impressed with Jimin. This is the most emotion I got from you ever since you were heartbroken. You were never this animated." Gail giggled as she remembered all those times that Eunice was the one lecturing her.

Eunice just smiled at her, realizing the same things. "Just don't stress Jimin too much. He's my bias wrecker, you wreck him, I wreck you." Gail playfully answered.

"You're going to choose him over me? Oomph, that shit hurts!" 

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

Jimin is still quiet while sitting on their living room couch. Taehyung, Hobi and Lexi are all with him at the moment, but no one is saying a word. His ex-girlfriend already went home, without a conclusion to the conversation they had a while ago.

"I don't know what to do." Jimin finally blurted out, rubbing his face with both of his hands in frustration.

"What is Jeongyeon doing here anyway?" Hobi asked him, still full of confusion in his face. "I never pegged you to be the playboy type." He commented.

"You know how we always get back together after spending time away from each other, but I've grown tired of it, hyung. I don't like it anymore, heck, I don't think I still love her." Jimin rubbed his temples then leaned on the couch with closed eyes.

"Are you sure?" Taehyung asked. "Since when did you realize that you don't love her anymore?" If there's anyone from Bangtan who is a shipper of you and Jeongyeon, it's definitely Taehyung. He has been with Jimin since the start of the relationship and had always been with him through all the on and off.

Jimin looked at him with a poker face. "What? I was just asking. You know I'll move heaven and Earth for you and Jeongyeon, but if you don't love her anymore then what's the point?" Taehyung tapped Jimin's shoulder. 

"Ya! Lexi! What are you doing to Taehyung?" Hobi joked while staring at Taehyung with a proud look. "Oh well, I think that's growth right there." Lexi boasted.

"But really, Jimin, who do you want to pursue? Like really pursue after tonight?" Lexi asked. "Don't get me wrong, boys, I know it's hard to try to open up to another girl again, since you all try to live your lives privately. Jimin, I understand if you're going to choose Jeongyeon since the two of you already have your foundation.. I mean, maybe it's not hard to try to love her again? Maybe you just grew tired of the games and wanted something mature this time. But Jimin, I'll also understand if you'd want to risk it with Eunice. I could have a friend here in your dorm and have someone new rather than seeing your faces over and over again."

"I still think he should be with Jeongyeon." Taehyung casually said. Hobi smacked the back of his head. "I thought you're growing already?!"

"I think you should just go with Eunice." Hobi stated and massaged Jimin's shoulder. "She fits your just Jimin state, natural, calm and fun."

"Ahh- shit. Here goes nothing." Jimin stood up and walked towards his room.

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

"I AM SO EXCITED!!" Gail screamed on her bed. It's just 6 AM in the morning, but her energy is already ready for the day.

"Shhhh. Let me sleep more." Eunice covered her head with one of Gail's pillows. "No! No, you're not sleeping again!" Gail pulled the pillows and blanket away from her.

"We're going to see BTS today! We will not waste the fanmeet tickets that Jimin sent! I will not let your relationship with Jimin fail!" Gail stated and got out of bed. "You just want to see Namjoon. Shut up." Eunice got out of bed too.

"That too!" Gail happily replied and went to the kitchen to cook pancakes. Eunice went to check her phone and found a message from Jimin.

Jimin: Good morning, bubb! Are you going to the fanmeet today?

Eunice: Maybe.

Jimin: Haven't seen you for so long…. please?

Eunice: idk. might find your gf there with you again

Jimin: you can't find yourself with me if you won't go see me ;)

Jimin: Have to go practice! Eat your breakfast. See you later!

Eunice smiled while walking to Gail's kitchen.

"gods, I miss him." Eunice whispered while sitting on Gail's bar stool. "No one told you not to go see each other after that night." Gail said in a firm tone.

"I guess I just don't have it in me to see him after lashing out on him, but mom, I love him!" Eunice joked as she starts to fangirl over Jimin again. "Where's my breakfast? He told me to eat my breakfast." 

Gail let the plate slide to Eunice with two pancakes. "My god, you're that submissive, aren't you?" She commented.

"Stop mocking me or you won't get to see Namjoon."

• ○ • ○ ● ○ • ● •

The two arrived at the venue 15 minutes earlier than the start of the fanmeet. Eunice is quiet because why does she have to see Jimin in public after that spectacle she stupidly pulled off, on the other hand, Gail is quiet as she can’t control her feelings on finally seeing Namjoon up close. She might just cry.

Eunice looked around and noticed that there are only 20 to 30 people here, waiting for BTS. Since she’s new to these kind of things, she doesn’t stop asking Gail on the details. Like how do they get tickets, or how long does the fanmeet last, or how do they actually meet the boys.

“A fanmeet virgin, I see.” Gail snickered. She is still holding her gift for Namjoon which is an expensive pen. “Just answer me! I feel like I robbed a fan’s chance to see them just because Jimin willingly gave me two tickets to this!”

“Eunice, honey, the tickets Jimin gave you.. is a free pass to everything. Not everyone gets that, only those close to them. As a normal ARMY, no way to get those. Maybe that’s also a free pass to his heart. Hihi.” She continued teasing Eunice until the boys went out of the backstage and sat on the seats in front.

“Can we go last?” Eunice asked and went to the sides so they won’t bother other people.

“Sure, we can. Let me just take Namjoon’s beauty in all its glory.” Gail quietly sat on her seat while staring at the boys. Eunice finally saw Jimin talking to a fan. He is all smiles and just cute. He tries to keep an eye contact with fans just because they can’t stare directly at him.

She’s blessed, alright. Not knowing who Park Jimin was for the first time is such a blessing to her and she realized that only now. Maybe if she knew that he was an idol in the first place, maybe she will be shy and would try to steer clear from him to avoid the public eye.

But knowing him in Busan, and just doing normal things with him really made her think about him a lot. Knowing that he’s just a sweetheart even without cameras, that he likes coffee the same way that she likes it, that he loves seagulls and he loves feeding them early in the morning, that he knows how to genuinely confess his feelings that night on the seashore, and lastly, that after that night that he confessed, he never stopped bringing coffee, sunflower and a rose everyday till the two went to Seoul. He never fails to send her messages that makes her smile. Despite being an idol, never did he made Eunice feel that he’s busy.

Still lost in thought, Gail finally pulled Eunice to line up so they can finally meet them. Gail pushed Eunice to go first since she might be lost if she left her.

The talk with the other boys went by smoothly, some of them even surprised that Eunice came as a fan, but no one overreacted just so the cameras won’t notice. Jimin is sitting second to the last, in between Namjoon and Yoongi. Eunice is fully aware that Gail is just beside her so she moved in front of Jimin while Gail moved in front of Namjoon.

Jimin automatically held her hand and just held her gaze for a good 10 seconds. Eunice broke the silence, “Is this even allowed?” Jimin’s eyes formed crescents as he softly laughed on Eunice’s question. “Yes, it is. I miss you so much.” He whispered and lowered down his face so no one will get to see what he’s mouthing to you.

“Miss you, too.” Eunice whispered too. Jimin’s face lit up upon hearing that, finally getting the courage to continue what he has planned to do. He already asked beforehand for Namjoon to stall so it looks like he’s not the one taking his time with a fan.

“Eunice, I’m sorry for everything. Can we start over?” Jimin asked while trying to keep it lowkey. Eunice just nodded. “I know you just have 3 more days here in Seoul before you go back home, but I’m not letting this slide, and I’m not letting you slip away.” He continued blabbering.

“Jimin, where is this going?” She asked him, still lost. “Please be my girlfriend.” Jimin whispered and gave her the most shy, but endearing smile that he could give.

“What if I reject you in a fanmeet?” She asked. He automatically pouted and lost the crescent in his eyes.

“Or, what if I don’t?” Eunice smiled at him, and the crescents in Jimin’s eyes are both back up again. “Of course, I’ll be your girlfriend, just don’t make me jealous all. the. damn. time.” 

“I love you, Eunice.” Jimin just proudly said. Eunice was dumbfounded as she stupidly doesn’t know how to react.

“Ya! Time to move.” Namjoon whispered to Jimin so Eunice was pushed to Yoongi.

Yoongi just smiled to Eunice and said, “Congratulations. Welcome to the Bangtan family.” 

“Thanks, Yoongi-oppa, but I came with a friend, you take me, you take her too.” Eunice joked. Yoongi showed her his signature gummy smile. “Where’s your friend?” He asked.

“There, with Jimin.” 

Yoongi turned to look at Gail with Jimin when Eunice noticed that he finally smirked.

“All these years of no meeting, and you finally decided to show yourself here, girlfriend.” Yoongi said in just the right amount of volume. Enough for Eunice to hear, enough for Jimin to hear, and definitely enough for Gail to hear.

Jimin and Eunice both looked puzzled, but Gail looks surprised. “Girlfriend?” Gail asked, even if she’s in front of Jimin.

“Omegle.” Yoongi whispered.

“What the fuck.” Eunice whispered as she remembered what Gail always talks about instead of BTS.

“You’re the boyfriend?” Gail asked.

“Your boyfriend.” Yoongi emphasized. “Welcome to the Bangtan family, too.”

---

Author’s Note: Promised myself that each track can stand alone, but I can’t help making this mixtape without its connections. The threads from the fates were meant to tangle with each other after all.

published 02.02.2020, 5:26 PM

#ficswithluv #btswriterscollective #bangtanidx #btswritingcafe #bangtanscenery #park jimin #jimin fluff #jimin fic #bts jimin fluff #bts jimin fic #bangtan series #bangtan fic #jiminssizzleswrites #bts #bangswift

[eduards-stuff]

Welcome to eduard 1 am ramblings

I was recently watching videos on YouTube and seeing a video of a couple meeting through vr and all the struggles they been through and just meeting people in vr.

I started to thin the line between reality and virtuality is cuz as technology progresses and people have like full body tracking with haptic feedback so you can feel peoples touching you and who poked your back the line really starts to blur.

You meet all of these people you interacts with them and some you may start to connect and start a bond with or a date as some do.

And the more you spend time the morr you get attached to things.

At some point I could see people get possibly more attached to the avatar than the real life if there are maybe huge differences because we start associating that imagine or avatar as the person we are everyday and see laugh and act and speak so i could totally see someone get attached that way.

If you have a tiny stylised girl with like ears of a fox and a tail in a specific outfit like a leotard or something aesthetically pleasing and after like months of speaking to her like that you transition to the real life or on a discord call and she's not the "image" you imagined I can kind of see a sort of disconnect between perceived desire of what youd like she to look like and the reality as there is no way the certain avatars to exist so there could definitely be anxiety about it and confusion.

The more vr becomes morr used in gaming and hanging out especially in quarantine I could totally see how it will be used as escapism cuz you can touch people in vr without having to worry about distancing and so much more especially bond intimally.

There are people Who post as girls and try to make it as realistically as possible even with voice modulators it seems.

Imagine the hurt if you had someone you were very interested in and it turned out not only they lied to you but also played along and could maybe discard it all once the facade is up.

Especially in the times of corona losing that type of deep emotional connection in times of need can really mess someone up.

As on the virtual reality it seems we are somehow more vulnerable as some of the social bariers are down as we aren't exactly at shame and at risk with some anonymity but somehow the connection people do are a lot deeper

Been single for a while and wirh the quarantine had been a lot of things that I though of . Soft things, things to do to experience and share wirh someone I really liked and do all sorts of cheesy things too.

I would actually enjoy a candle lit and full moon dinner or something cuz I'm that kind of soft weak bitch whose thst extra

Or something simple or special at home as I also enjoy cooking but and if it makes someone feeling happy would feel like the effort is worth it.

Another thing that would be really nice to do is go to the bitch and have a picnic there bring some food some blankets and pillows in a rent pick up truck

And see the sea/ocean have some food and some drink if the situation call for it and have a projector and warch a movie or some pictures collage that can be set up between the 2 of them.

And then look for a star shower or some kind of cosmic event cuz space is cool!!

While writing like stories and role-playing as specific characters I definitely thought of and found out a lot of these amazing scenarios that I could totally make if the right opportunity arises all in a notebook for like date ideas but thise never really came to be used as I never found someone interested to share these in real life so there' are just bubbles of hope that is like one day to materialise

Maybe some of these some peoppe can do in the virtual reality but then the parting becomes even more painful and the disconnect between reality and fiction becomes even more as we spend more time and are engaged in vr

So would it be worth it ?

To see it possibly be ruined?

What is reality more than just a lot if facts and observations we do for ourselves

I know right I'm 14 and this is deep shit but it does feel kind of true

As at some point you will be able to have full dive vr and actually live 2 totally different lives and possibly love the ability to differentials it anymore

As you start to wonder does your love for someone connected to them or the avatar thay they are acting as ?

As avatars don't really have flaws or imperfections and can be meticulously designed to look like the person you wanna appear as.

You still made those choices and hard work to appear as that thing and the choices of designs you did are yours but the imagine may not always correlate to you when someone looks at them.

Really odd thing how the human psychology does that thing of bonding to ideas an perceptions.

I sure hope a lot of people got what they deserved and wished for cuz it seems like the level of deep hurt not a lot of places can reach

I think this is it for now quite a long ramblings that I've been doing by myself or just spewing to a friend about and left it in the ether but I thought would be maybe healthier to try to find another way of channelling my thought

Or some kind of fixation right now through this writing and sort some of process what i am thinking right now cuz sometimes it is a mistery to me even what i am about to type next as it Jus r flows one word after another without much in mind .

My mind being very empty right now but yeah I should end my ramblings here and scream them into he good and find a different kind of coping mechanics and not rely on someone listening and Just continue screaming into the anonymous void and hope someone understands what I'm saying and I'm not try my insane as I think I am.

Sometimes I have the feeling I really am just predictable and the 1 note but sometimes I surprise myself with emotions being complex and not knowing what to do but to just I guess pine for someone to do amazing things wirh but I know that may or may not come and I'll just have to accept that as it is or try to change that myself in some way

But as far as I'm aware there are a lot of way to do that and find a way to find comfort on someone as social standards and pressure don't let you just walk up to people and say hi or much.

If someone's reading this as I'm screaming into the void you can always reach put and talk and have actual deep conversation.

I think what i may be feeling is what a lot of people have been feeling but more accentuated as I didn't had a place to go in my town as there literally not much to do than go to my library and read a book or take a walk but now not even being able to go there even the rare times I went still affects me and feeling isolated and alone on an island with no one next to them.

I think we all felt like that over the course of 2020 which really sucks the more it goes especially with school starting

I really hate that corona csme exactly when I has hope and plans to go in exchange wirh another person in uni and life somewhere else and meet new people tried so hard at exams to be sure I will be able to go only to be slowly crushed ad corona changed it all and into rejected by then and not being able to join to other places so i just lost the train.

These are the moments I overfixated on things and can talk about them for like 20.000 words before crashing and ssying words like they are knives of sharp air going out of my throat for the next 8 hours after this extensive monologue.

Monologue which seemed to go for ages but we all need a place and a way to express whatever you feeling cuz we all need therapy in 2020 I needed way before that in 2012 but only realised like 2 years ago .

So there we go we all need help and it's okay to just talk about it and just get lost in the sea of posts that hopefully somehow won't end up biting me in the ass somehow back.

If someone was interested enough to psychoanalyse this sheet of had the patience please tell me cuz I'm also dieing to know what made you so bored to do this and what you can interpret from this rambling at what guess what now I've been typing for like 15 minutes quite a feat .

I wonder if Tumblr posts have a limit in character usage I don't know I guess will find out soon shouldn't we at some point well reach it . I should probably go to bed now my moms keep nagging me to go to bed I should finish this and go good night thank you if you somehow got to this 10 k word essay rambling and go to the end I don't know how you had the patience to read though my possibly adhd and hyperfixation ass you're a dsmn legend.

Well see ya good night

[goldgrave-and-glory]

Maybe...headcanons (don’t have to be nsfw but can if ya want) where MC usually sort of dresses in a way that hides their body or “dresses down” and Ilya seeing them for the first time in something form fitting/nice looking that MC got on a whim and is super scared/shy about him or anyone else seeing them in it

I still can’t do nsfw until June 1st, but I definitely have some cute ideas for this >:3 I’m not projecting what

Asra

For all the years he’s known them, Mc has always worn very baggy clothes

They’d become comfortable showing their body around him, but they wouldn’t be caught dead in anything that wasn’t designed to flow or was at least three sizes too large for them

One day, they were out to the market and Mc wanted to wear their favorite old shirt

To their utter horror, it had grown “too small” for them to wear, but it was also their favorite shirt and wore it out of spite

Because damn it if they were going to let their insecurities take away their favorite shirt

They were a ball of anxiety the entire time they were out at the market

Asra noticed pretty early on but decided not to say anything so they didn’t have to think about it any more than they already were

After a few uneventful hours out scattered with a few compliments, they returned to the shop

Asra let them know how proud he was of them for facing their fears

Nadia

Mc had never really been the fancy type, so all the luxury was odd, to say the least

Nadia buys them tons of new outfits for every occasion

They rarely wear any of the clothes because they’re “too small” or “too tight”

She quickly realized the issue

She was very patient with Mc’s inhibitions, but it became very obvious to them that their rejection of her gifts was having an effect on her own self-esteem

They decided to try one of the outfits to humor her

They met her at breakfast one morning in one of her most recent gifts and watched her face light up

Mc is showered in compliments for the rest of the day

They make it a priority to try on every outfit she gives them from now on

Julian

Julian remembers having a similar issue when he was younger that he still sort of struggles with, though not to such an extent anymore

He’d always been self-conscious about how skinny he was and would wear large, dark clothes to keep people from noticing it

So when he noticed Mc using the same coping mechanism (for similar or different reasons), he could immediately empathize with their justification

He told them how doing theater helped him overcome his anxieties and suggested they audition with him for the next play

Surprise surprise, they were both welcomed into the cast with open arms

They had a blast practicing lines and songs and choreography, but the apprehension always spiked whenever costumes were mentioned

Mc’s costume wasn’t anything like what they would wear on a day-to-day basis

It took a lot of pep talks and a lot of threats to back out before they were in costume with Julian backstage on opening night

The first performance went off without a hitch, then the next, then the next

People threw flowers, cheered, gave standing ovations

Mc had people gushing over how stunning they looked in their costume

The more comfortable they felt on stage, the more comfortable they felt in this style of clothing

Of course, no one would ever be a bigger fan of Mc than Julian

Muriel

I mean, this man is practically naked with nothing but a skirt and a tarp on his shoulders

He can’t understand why anyone would be ashamed of their body

He doesn’t question the baggy clothes Mc wears at first thinking that it was out of practicality in one way or another

Eventually, they’re honest with him and he just gives them a confused stare

Huh??  What’s wrong with their body??  Why would they need to hide it??

He’s pretty open in telling them how he feels about their body and asking questions

To be honest, they’re pretty flattered

They begin getting more comfortable out in the woods with him, and they start to realize that baggy clothes aren’t working as the summer months roll around

Normally they’d just sweat it out, but with they’re newfound confidence, they decide to shed off a few layers to beat the heat

Muriel blushes and mumbles some compliments, enticing them to do it more often

Portia

Portia didn’t question Mc’s clothing choice at first because hey, it wasn’t her place to judge how they wanted to dress

Maybe it was just their fashion sense, who knows?

She only starts to pick up on the insecurity when they go clothes shopping and noticed the way they look at themselves in the mirror with disgust

She pushes them to get a few little things that are somewhat out of their comfort zone and try to put them into everyday use

They find they actually really like the clothes she picked out, they just don’t like them on their body

Any time she’d notice them wearing one of the things she’d picked out for them, she’d pile on BOATLOADS of affection and compliments just to make them feel extra special

On top of that, people seemed to genuinely like their new clothes, and so did they

They enjoy going clothes shopping now

Portia sometimes gets choked up when she sees them smile at themselves in the mirror

Lucio

Mc rejecting his gifts is like a blow to the chest every time

His first instinct was that there was something wrong with the gifts, but nothing he sent, at least clothes-wise, would satisfy them

He couldn’t seem to wrap his head around why they would want to wear the same plain, baggy clothes they always had when they had so many other more luxurious options to choose from

When he approached them about it, albeit rather aggressively, they came clean

Mc was expecting the usual “oh I’m so sorry” and “darling I had no idea”

Lucio’s response was “you’re kidding, right?”

They got offended at first and continued to argue

He continued to counter their argument, saying that it wasn’t right for their imagined flaws to keep them from showing themselves in their true glory

Going on about how he chose those outfits to frame and accentuate the parts about Mc he loved the most and how everyone should have an opportunity to witness how lucky he was to have them

In his own arrogant, snobby way, Mc found it….touching

The following night, at one of Lucio’s famous parties, Mc descended the stairs in their latest outfit he’d had prepared

Heads turned, eyes widened, conversations stopped, all completely taken aback by their new glamorous style

None of their faces could compare to the Count’s though

#julian #asra #lucio #nadia #portia #muriel #mc #apprentice #headcanons #asks #julian devorak #ilya devorak #asra alnazar #asra the magician #count lucio #nadia satrinava #portia devorak #pasha devorak #the arcana #the arcana game #the arcana visual novel #the arcana julian #the arcana asra #the arcana nadia #the arcana lucio #the arcana muriel #the arcana portia #the arcana mc #the arcana apprentice

[indeliblymarred]

@missionled​ sent:  ' a human thing ? ' what part in particular are you talking about ? you wanting to kill me ? you wanting to get rid of your feelings ? the guilt of it all now ? the fear ? ❜ recollection of a night not so long ago: zeller drunken and so obviously dismayed by the android's rejection. ❛ ... you said it yourself that night, detective. your words: what am i, not hot enough for you ? am i too old for you ? ' he leaned over the table and in zeller's stolen voice, ' too human ? what's the excuse now. ' a pregnant pause. he stared into zeller's eyes before pulling away and adjusting his outfit, his tie. ' ... i've thought about it. that may be the case. you are too human. irrational ... emotional ... prone to vice ... selfish. ' pauses,, ' you are—exceptionally—human. congratulations, detective. '

The fury in his golden eyes, the hard edge in his raised voice, the lines of anger in his face, Zeller had never beheld the Android in such a state. He had not even thought he was capable of it, he’d been so accustomed to the staunch, obedient, aloof Connor even now months after his deviation. Following that, the Android had gradually been loosening up, but he was essentially the same Connor only with his puppet strings cut. He still had the same framework and programming, which was his instinctual nature. And just like humans, he had expanded beyond his nature, far enough to give Zeller the chewing out of a lifetime.

He cringed into neck when the Android reiterated his past words in his own voice and mist clouded his vision of his bitter expression. His hands were trembling in the restraint holding them behind his back and so were his shoulders due to the strain and tightness of the cuffs. He closed his eyes and felt the moisture in his eyes seep over his lashes as he tried to steady his body so it would stop quivering. But it would not. Because he was terrified. For the first time, he was genuinely terrified of Connor because for the first time, the Android had the upper hand over him. He knew that they were in the interrogation room, but he didn’t know who was behind the glass---if there was anyone there at all. The Android could simply have him all alone to himself. Zeller knew he would be able to alter the security footage with little effort. And he knew that he was deviant, which meant he had free will. And he knew that the Android could have a number of grudges he was fixing to settle. 

Zeller knew he deserved this and worse, deserved the bloody nose clogging one of his nostrils, the mild concussion, the wrist fracture, the scrapes and bruises, all sustained from his struggle with Connor as he attempted to kill him once again. Something he thought he would never do again---swore he would never do again---and yet he found himself with the zip ties in his pocket and leading Connor to a secluded place in the department. It was like he was in a trance, he’d been in it since the night that he’d tried to touch the Android only six days earlier. Ever since then, he’d been fixated on trying to disillusion himself of Connor, of whatever illusion he’d been convinced of that such a being was worth these fantasies, of these urges, of these affections. It was just that, it wasn’t out of retaliation for turning down his advances, it wasn’t due to his humiliation of being rejected by a machine of all things, it wasn’t due to his indignation over a machine having standards that were too high for him, it wasn’t because the mechanical bastard refused to even humor him with just a little kiss...

And so Zeller resolved to break him, to kill him, in order to remind himself that Connor wasn’t a real living being, that he was a machine designed to imitate humanity. That didn’t change with deviancy, his blood didn’t suddenly turn red, his wires didn’t suddenly become veins. Connor was not human, and so he was not worth being wanted, being touched, being loved. He had attempted to convince himself of such things with thought and introspection alone, but thoughts always turned to the shape of his lips, his long eyelashes batting over amber eyes, the slight cleft to his chin and the freckles that sprinkled over his plump fair skin. He saw no other option other than tearing him apart. Of killing him again. Of ripping that baby soft skin off of the white chrome it disguised. Of gouging those eyes out of their metal eye sockets. Of biting off those lips and spitting them out on the floor. Snuff out his feelings by demolishing the object of his affection. Connor would just come back in a new body, like he did last time. It would be alright. It made sense, right? He wasn’t crazy for thinking this could work, right?

That was debatable. Regardless of the methods of his madness, it had not worked. Because Zeller couldn’t go through with it. Thirium pump in hand, he was watching Connor writhe weakly and gasp as blue blood poured from the gap in his chest, the eyes he dreamed about glazing over and losing their light. And then he was putting the pump back in its place, he couldn’t bear to watch him suffer and die because of him once again. The first time was bad enough, but now he was killing him when he was a deviant, when he was fully sentient and autonomous. And for what reason? As a half-brained attempt to reconcile unrequited feelings? It wouldn’t have worked anyway, which Zeller could see now. So strange. He’d been utterly seized by the idea and its inevitable success, but once he put it into action, he knew immediately it was hapless. He already knew that Connor was a machine, he’d already seen his insides, felt his blue blood pour through his fingers, yet he still wanted him. Yearned for him. Every single night. Such a craving would not disappear if he reminded himself of it, he didn’t know why he ever was convinced of that. Zeller wanted Connor despite the conditions of his existence; it had always been that way.

Zeller honestly would prefer that the Android beat him up rather than scold him like this. It would hurt less. It would remind him less of his failures as a person, which Connor listed out very blatantly. It was uncanny. All the things that he hated about himself were the same ones that the deviant listed. He didn’t argue with him or talk back not only because he knew it wasn’t his place to, not only because the Android deserved to air out his grievances, but also because he didn’t disagree. In fact, he agreed. Which made it all the more humiliating. How could he ever think he was worthy of the affection of someone as perfect as Connor? Did he think that by touching such flawlessness, he could become better than he was? Why would he think he deserved to touch his golden plating? No, Connor wouldn’t be able to cure him, Zeller would only tarnish him as he did with everyone who ever loved him. But it didn’t stop him from wanting it all the same, even now. Even as he felt the hate from Connor burn through his skull like a laser.

He bowed his head when he felt the tears begin to spill from his eyes, and he watched as the droplets splattered over the grey tiles. His body began to shake with sobs rather than from fear, though he still felt that as well, but it was being overcome with shame. Guilt. Shame. Those similar but distinct emotions felt like a pair of gloves he’d been wearing for years now. It was easy to slip into feeling that pain again. It was almost comforting, how familiar that suffering was. It certainly helped to offset the extremely unfamiliar situation he found himself in. Zeller didn’t know what to expect from Connor, he’d never behaved with him like this before; never had he been so powerless to him. He deserved nothing less savage and plenty more. And no other time had he ever deserved Connor’s love less, as he would never for the rest of his life---that is if he ever deserved it to begin with, which was doubtful. He’d never felt less human while he was being derided as a human, as if such a thing has happened before. Nothing like this has ever happened, none of it, not since Connor walked into his life and introduced himself as the Android sent by CyberLife.

            “Y-you-you’re right. You know you’re right. I’m---” His voice was low and blubbering with a throat straining against a sob threatening to rip through his chest. “I’m so sorry, Connor. I don’t know wha-why, I don’t have any excuse.” Finally the sob broke out and he let himself weep for a moment, needing the pressure released from his chest. It was difficult to regain composure once he lost it, but he tried to speak through his sobs, “I don’t know... why I thought I could do that. It makes no sense now. It would n-ne... never have worked. I don’t kn-know why I thought it would. I-I’m just...” He heaved a breath and rose his head to look into his colleague and former friend’s eyes. “I guess... I’m just a bad person.”

#missionled #gpsing nearest cliff to jump off of #this is a mess #hi dash this is what mars and i have been up to #xx. YOUR JOY IS MY LOW ( zeller & connor ) #no read mores we die like men #long post //

[tbehartoo]

Fashion Show Butterflies

One of possibly four LukaNette stories for Lukanette September. Check out the tags  #lukanetteseptember2019 #lukanetteseptember2k19 #lukanettemonth2019 for more content

“Hey, Jules,” Luka said with a smile. Furrowing his brows he asked, “What are you doing here? Don’t you have class right now?”

Juleka gave her brother a quick side hug, rolling her eyes. 

“You’ve already forgotten that my class has to model the clothes that your class is working on for your final project?” She gave his shoulder a weak punch. “Lame.”

“Oh yeah,” Luka mumbled. “Designing for the common man. What a theme.”

”You might be making an outfit for me. I’d really love a leather jacket with those studs I was showing you,” she said batting her eyelashes at him. She stopped when he tutted and shook his head ‘No’. “Maybe you ought to make that ‘Designing for the common man Or woman,” Juleka added.

“How about we just use the word person and leave it at that?” a short girl with black hair and bright blue eyes said as she joined the two. “Hey, Juleka!” she greeted the tall girl. “I saw your new bike in the parking lot. That’s a beautiful purple color on the tank. Did you get it to match your hair?”

“Naw,” she mumbled. “It’s just my favorite color.”

“It’s a beautiful shade no matter why you picked it,” Marinette said in earnest.

“Thanks,” Juleka returned.

“I hope you’re Luka,” Marinette said turning to the young man, “otherwise I missed what the teacher was saying - again.” She held out her hand. Luka just stared at it with a frown. “I’m Marinette and I’ll be your model,” her voice trailed off but she held out her hand and patiently waited.

“Luka doesn’t really like shaking hands or full on hugs,” Juleka said quietly. “He’s not usually a touchy-feely kind of person and hasn’t been as long as I can remember.”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” the girl said curling her fingers into a fist. “How do you feel about fist bumps?”

Luka smiled at her in relief and held out his own fist, which she gently tapped.

Juleka’s name was called, and she hurried over to Mr. Haprele for her assignment to a designer. Luka and Marinette stared at each other for a moment.

“You’re so tiny!” Luka blurted and then slapped his hands over his face. 

Marinette hid a smile behind her hand, and Luka swore he heard the faintest giggle.

“Yeah, sorry you don’t have Juleka as your model, she has the height for it. If it’s any consolation, when Alya suggested we transfer into the same public speaking class as the cute guy in line in front of her, I didn’t realize that I’d have to either walk on your runway or mime in the park.” 

She turned and pointed over her shoulder to the brown skinned girl with ombre orange hair chatting with the tall, tanned, well-muscled jock whose bleached bangs had reached for the sky.

“Kim’s a nice enough guy, and they have continued to base their relationship on their mutual love of superheroes, but this class asks us to do a lot more out in public than the other one. I still wish I’d stayed in Mr. Fu’s class where all we had to do was give two speeches in front of like twenty people tops. Here it’s going to be at least what-” she looked into the startled turquoise eyes of the boy beside her, “- like two hundred or even more?” She shuddered. “I’m going to be a civil engineer. The most public speaking I will have to do will be to a city council of ten people who won’t even understand the technicalities of what I’m explaining to them. Why do I need to fall flat on my face for that?”  

“Wait, what does walking the cat walk or miming in the park have to do with public speaking?” Luka asked confused. “Surely you have to well- speak?” 

“Thank you! That’s what I said,” Marinette exclaimed.. “Apparently we have to learn about speaking without saying a word. Body language can convey a lot of information, and we are supposed to learn how to radiate confidence so that our audience will pay attention to what we are saying.”

“You certainly seem to have a lot of confidence,” Luka said as he pulled out the workbook page he needed to mark down his model’s measurements.

“Well I’ll have to let Mr. Haprele know that his previous acting lessons have paid off,” she replied with a smile. She leaned in closer and he bent closer to hear her quiet confession. “To tell you the honest truth, I’m fully convinced I’m going to trip and fall on my face out there. I’m a total klutz when I’m nervous. And standing in front of all those people is already making me nervous.”

“Then why do this?” Luka asked confused. “Surely miming in the park would have let you keep both feet on the ground.”

The cheeks of the girl suddenly bloomed with a rosy color. She took a deep breath and leaned in closer. Luka felt his heart speed up with her nearness, but it didn’t bother him as much as it usually would.

“Well, my friend Juleka told me that her brother was in this class and he’d be one of the designers,” she began. Luka startled. “And when she showed me a picture of her older brother,” she broke off and cleared her throat nervously, “I, uh, I decided I’d prefer to take a chance and walk the cat walk rather than stay safely in the park.”

They spent another silent moment just looking at each other. Luka trying to see if the girl was teasing or somehow taunting him, Marinette waiting for rejection from the boy she’d finally just met.

“Then I’ll do everything I can to help you feel safe,” he whispered. “You won’t have to be nervous walking in what I create for you, because-” he smiled brightly at her, “because I’ll make sure there’s nothing that could trip you up or bring you down.” He gave her hand a quick squeeze, “I’ll take care of everything.”

Marinette’s smile grew at his words and she heaved a sigh of relief. Her blush grew when she realized that he hadn’t let go of her hand.

The night of the fashion show arrived and Marinette’s nerves came back full force.

“Quit fidgeting, Nette,” Luka said soothingly as he straightened the shoulder seams of the bolero jacket she wore. He left his hands on her shoulders until he felt her release the tension she was holding there. “You’re the prettiest person in the entire building and all you have to do is walk to the end of the the little hall, turn around, and come back. We’ve practiced on the runway, you’ve worn the shoes for a week so they feel familiar, and there’s nothing that you can get caught on or trip you up.”

“I know that Luka, but I saw how many people are out there,” she said with a huff. “I swear that are so many butterflies in my stomach I’ll be lifting off and landing on the moon soon.”

“Marinette, you need to breathe with me,” Luka said as he reached for her hands to help ground her. “Breathe in.” He counted to four. “Now hold it.” He counted again. “Release your breath and your nerves,” he prompted her.

It only took a few more rounds for Marinette’s pallor to ease, but Luka could feel how she was still trembling.

“I have an idea, but I need to check with my teacher,” he said. “I’ll be right back, but remember I promised to keep you safe.”

“I know you will,” she said through a tremulous smile. “You’ve been so thoughtful about everything.”

“Well I do think an awful lot about you,” he said with a wink before going to talk to his teacher.

When time came for Marinette to go on she took a deep breath and stepped out boldly and with confidence. 

Luka was at her side allowing her to use his steady arm to keep her securely on the stage. 

When they got to the end of the run way Luka took her hand from his arm and turned her around like a music box doll. The skirt she was wearing twirled like a cloud, her dazzling smile was truly angelic. Luka nearly tripped on their turn around, but Marinette kept them upright.

“I’ll keep you safe, too,” she whispered as he blushed.

They made it to the backstage area and began celebrating.

“You did it!” Luka said smiling down at her.

“We did it,” Marinette gently corrected as she gingerly wound her free hand behind his back.

Luka bent forward so that their foreheads touched. It was the most physically intimate he’d ever been with the girl over the last few months, but it felt natural to be so close to her this way.

“You’re right,” he whispered for only her to hear. “We did it.”

He placed a feather light kiss on Marinette’s forehead and stepped back. While he was happy to be near Marinette, he was reaching the limits of his comfort and needed to break all connection to her.

Marinette smiled up at him. “Let’s go sneak in the back so we can see Juleka walk,” she suggested eagerly.

Luka merely nodded and followed her to the backstage exit. As they made their way through the hallway to the house where the audience sat, Luka realized that Marinette was pulling far ahead of him. He didn’t want her that far away. He reached out and brushed the back of her hand. Immediately she hooked her pinky around his index finger and tugged him along.

Luka’s grin widened. He was going to make sure Juleka’s new jacket had all the studs her could possibly afford.

#lukanetteseptember2019 #Miraculous Ladybug #marinette dupain cheng #luka couffaine #LukaNette #Fashion Show AU

[sagamemes]

love and other disasters (2006) sentence starters.   below the cut, you’ll find a total of 140 lines of dialogue from love and other disasters. as per usual, feel free to alter diction, pronouns and anything else your heart desires. i’ve edited slightly to fit roleplay and randomised the order. warnings for sexual themes, aids mention, marihuana use, cheating.

❝  well, actually i was just having lunch across the street and came to tell you the good news in person.  ❞

❝  why is it that as soon as i fall in love with a man, he abandons me?  ❞

❝  we fuck and then you say you don’t want a relationship.  ❞

❝  so despite your fragile beauty, you’re actually built like an ox.  ❞

❝  what other secret are you keeping from me?  ❞

❝  what’s more important, true love or fashion?  ❞

❝  you’re straight? since when?  ❞

❝  why else would someone like you have a coffee with someone like me?  ❞

❝  you make me sound like an exchange student.  ❞

❝  i can’t believe i drove him out of the country.  ❞

❝  what’s the point of shagging someone ad nauseam if you’re never going to love them?  ❞

❝  it’s okay. i forgive you. so you can stop feeling sorry for me or guilty or whatever.  ❞

❝  i think accidental meets are better... that is not to say accidents can’t be planned.  ❞

❝  i had to give his ego cpr.  ❞

❝  it’s just sex. he fills a void. literally.  ❞

❝  news of my crush just travelled across the atlantic ocean!  ❞

❝  you’d know if you were great.  ❞

❝  i suppose i first noticed when i was around 8. i thought it was just a phase, you know, but eventually, i had to accept the truth. i like women. ❞

❝  it’s a romantic comedy! how do you think it ends?  ❞

❝  i’m like, fuck that. i know i’m talented. i don’t need some ____ degree to tell me.  ❞

❝  have you ever thought this whole ‘true love’ thing might be a conspiracy?  ❞

❝  [full name] may be a giant, but you are a giant in waiting.  ❞

❝  three years and you still treat me like a one-night stand!  ❞

❝  the stages of a relationship can be defined by farting.  ❞

❝  no, actually, i’m very out of shape and that nearly killed me.  ❞

❝  i was so caught up in my head i missed out on getting to know you. and i would like to get to know you. i mean, if you’re willing to give me another chance?  ❞

❝  i've never actually been in a relationship except in my own head.  ❞

❝  so how do i get to know you?  ❞

❝  i don’t know that [name] is the love of my life. but i’ve decided to give him the chance to be.  ❞

❝  are you asking if i’ll still love you?  ❞

❝  there’s nothing more important right now than global poverty. i mean in the warming sense.  ❞

❝  that boy---gay as a goose.  ❞

❝  i think you’re exactly the kind of person they would have wanted me to marry.  ❞

❝  we had a row about his car. i told him i don’t generally get into vehicles that cost less than my handbag, he accused me of being a spoiled bitch.  ❞

❝  if you’re going to get any more in touch with your inner child, you’re going to need an inner nanny.  ❞

❝  was i right or was i right?  ❞

❝  he went to [public/private/boarding] school. he probably enjoys being spanked.  ❞

❝  where did you learn to speak [language] like that?  ❞

❝  what’s more important, anything or fashion?  ❞

❝  you /are/ a desperate fantasist.  ❞

❝  do you want to go to bed? you know, have sex.  ❞

❝  it would’ve meant breaking your rule to only to have sex with people you don’t really love and to only love people you don’t have sex with.  ❞

❝  i had no idea that under that shy, sweet exterior was such steely confidence!  ❞

❝  i’m afraid you’re drunk.  ❞

❝  truth is way too complicated. and unsatisfying. and hard to believe.  ❞

❝  i’m going to this black tie thing for my roommate.  ❞

❝  that’s not love, [name], that’s the flu.  ❞

❝  we work in fashion. everyone is an overpampered monster.  ❞

❝  [name] is going through a nasty divorce. she needs positive affirmation.  ❞

❝  i’m sorry, but [full name] stands for everything i absolutely despise.  ❞

❝  i think people shouldn’t bite the hand that feeds them.  ❞

❝  how very ‘all about eve’.  ❞

❝  i’m just nervous. he’s meant to have a ferocious temper.  ❞

❝  i’m probably gonna get fired tomorrow, but it was worth it just to see [name] in action.  ❞

❝  he came over and we shagged. then i asked how he felt about monogamy.  ❞

❝  and this is the person you think you could be in love with? someone you’ve never even spoken to? someone you’ve never even met?  ❞

❝  the only thing that’s changed is what might happen between you two.  ❞

❝  i mean, i had a bad age five. i had a terrible age five, actually.  ❞

❝  maybe love isn't something that happens to you. maybe it's something you have to choose.  ❞

❝  you could’ve worn something nicer.  ❞

❝  you want a brownie? i made them myself.  ❞

❝  i’m not miserable, and i believe in true love.  ❞

❝  well, you know what they say, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’.  ❞

❝  [name], pick out the sexiest outfit and go home immediately!  ❞

❝  i think my parents would have really liked you.  ❞

❝  i can’t believe you’re cooking dinner for some guy you met yesterday.  ❞

❝  an affair? you’ve only been going out for two weeks!  ❞

❝  nothing like a happy set.  ❞

❝  well, i better be off. my flight’s at 9 and i’ve still got to pack.  ❞

❝  my memoirs, darling. i’ve decided to publish.  ❞

❝  i’m sure you’re far prettier than [name]’s wife.  ❞

❝  everyone’s miserable because they’re looking for this nonexistent ‘thing’, or else they’re miserable because they think they settled for less.  ❞

❝  do you always judge people so quickly?  ❞

❝  you and [name]? you and---you and [name]? oh my god! oh, look, i... i.... i won’t say a word, i promise. cross my heart.  ❞

❝  i’m a superficial assistant at a major fashion magazine. you’ll ruin my reputation.  ❞

❝  stop doing research and would you write your goddamn screenplay!  ❞

❝  when’s the last time you’ve considered falling in love?---i’m not talking about some character in a book or a movie.  ❞

❝  [name] would have loved to come tonight, but thanks to the conspiracy of silence between the catholic church and the tories in the face of aids, he can’t.  ❞

❝  love isn’t always a lightning bolt, you know? maybe sometimes, it’s just a choice.  ❞

❝  there’s quite a bit of hash in them.  ❞

❝  i’m following your advice. i’m breaking my rules.  ❞

❝  i know i should have said something before. but every time i started, it seemed like the wrong time.  ❞

❝  everyone knows you can’t be drunk and tango. so if i can tango, then i’m not drunk.  ❞

❝  would it be alright if i borrowed an outfit just for tonight? i have kind of a date.  ❞

❝  actually, i can’t believe i haven’t tried to fix you up with him years ago. he’s perfect for you!  ❞

❝  can we not talk about my non-existent film career right now?  ❞

❝  well, i suppose i’d never have lived up to your fantasy anyway.  ❞

❝  you’re almost out of shampoo so i had to use soap.  ❞

❝  you broke up with him a month ago!  ❞

❝  i just remembered. i need a pedicure.  ❞

❝  for the last six months, you’ve been saying one thing and doing another.  ❞

❝  there is no need to be nasty to me just because i don’t remember people’s names.  ❞

❝  hello? i’m waiting! [name], when i have to ask for it, it’s too late!  ❞

❝  that’s the problem with life. it’s nothing like the movies.  ❞

❝  apparently, he shags her four times a day and inspires her to write new volumes of poetry! isn’t that great?  ❞

❝  i happen to care about [name]. a lot. and i hate the fact that he feels more than me. and i hate the fact that i'm not in love with him. because i know i should be. because he's smart and sweet and decent and i don't want to hurt him. so i keep hoping that i’ll grow into it.  ❞

❝  you could’ve worn something, full stop.  ❞

❝  we can’t have you all alone in [city] on a friday night!  ❞

❝  so then i had to fuck him.  ❞

❝  he calls me five times per day, begging me to go out with him. apparently, my voice haunts him.  ❞

❝  oh, these are lovely, but [name] hates flowers.  ❞

❝  i promise i won’t make a pass.  ❞

❝  i’m going to enjoy making her feel stupid about this one.  ❞

❝  but you don’t like me in that way.  ❞

❝  oh, so you’re saying i should forget about him for purely geographical reasons?  ❞

❝  why are you reading a cookbook in the nude?  ❞

❝  since when do you say ‘lots of love, big kiss’ to your boss?  ❞

❝  i can’t explain it, but... it was amazing. because it was like i was finally seeing the person i’d been waiting for my entire life.  ❞

❝  we’re related, but only by birth. so don’t hold it against me.  ❞

❝  i mean, thanks to a chance encounter at a beach party, you hook up with one of the world's top fashion photographers. first class travel, exotic locations. you really hit quite the jackpot.  ❞

❝  i just wanted to tell the truth and somewhere along the line it got mixed up with a bunch of lies.  ❞

❝  i thought this whole dead animal thing was ten years ago.  ❞

❝  you don’t talk about monogamy /after/ you shag a guy...  ❞

❝  whoever designed those heels must really hate women.  ❞

❝  you’ve got to go. i’ve got friends coming over for brunch. ❞

❝  he never even showed, which proves my theory: he must think i’m a stalker freak.  ❞

❝  he’s in love with you, [name]. you’re not in love with him. it doesn’t get more simple than that.  ❞

❝  well, unless you want me to feel totally humiliated, say ‘yes’.  ❞

❝  i just don’t see much of a future together.  ❞

❝  you’re an artist, [name]’s an artist.  ❞

❝  he said you really sorted him out on the relationship front. and i could certainly use some help there.  ❞

❝  you’re not stupid, you just saw what you wanted to see.  ❞

❝  i just remembered [name] might have a boy at the house. can i stay at yours?  ❞

❝  we’re having a strictly phone-based relationship.  ❞

❝  i can’t help it, i’m naturally dramatic!  ❞

❝  oh, you know, i said how great he is, how he’s going to make the right [girl/boy/person] happy, how it’s really not him, it’s blah blah blah...  ❞

❝  i’m feeling small enough as it is.  ❞

❝  look, most great artists have to deal with rejection in their lifetime.  ❞

❝  see, this is exactly why i don’t want to be in a relationship with you!  ❞

❝  i’m always like this when i have to see my mother.  ❞

❝  maybe true love is a decision. you know, a decision to take a chance with somebody. to give to somebody without worrying whether they'll give anything back. or if they're gonna hurt you, or if they really are the one.  ❞

❝  the problem with straight men is that no matter how hard they try, they still need to control, to dominate.  ❞

❝  thank god you’re gay!  ❞

❝  you seem to think the only reason anyone would be with him is for this ‘jackpot’.  ❞

❝  i never felt ugly or fat.  ❞

❝  i’m not getting married without a maid of honour.  ❞

❝  he’s just the sweetest, funniest guy i know. if he wasn’t [straight/gay], i’d have married him ages ago.  ❞

❝  i’m a fantasist, not desperate.  ❞

❝  you don’t know me. and if you did, you’d know i’d never take advantage of [name].  ❞

#rp sentence starters #rp sentence meme #ship sentence meme #rp meme #rp ask meme #* meme. #* sentences.