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poppy-metal · 2 years

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Here is just a broad concept of the my babysitters a vampire!au. The setup and dynamic im thinking of. May turn this into a series, who knows. Let me know how you feel about it!

"I'm telling you," Dustin says, completely serious. "My babysitters a vampire."

Steve shares a look with eddie, eddie just looks amused, like he might actually entertain the notion just for shits and gigs. Steve doesn't like to play pretend. "Uh huh, and I'm secretly madonna." He says, flipping through a magazine distractedly.

"Hey, now." Eddie says, holding up his hand in a 'far be it from me' gesture. "We don't presume what little stevie gets up to in his free time."

Steve rolls his eyes so hard he feels they might rock back into his skull and ping pong around. "What im saying, is the gates closed. For good, this time. That means no monsters. And it also means you, my friend-" he points to dustin "Are delusional. Didn't that new movie just come out with the beach town and kids thinking their neighbors are vampires or something?"

Eddie and Dustin look at eachother and then look at steve like he just said something absolutely horrendous. Eddie is shaking his head, wild hair moving as he does. He hops of the counter, which he'd been rudely sitting on, steve had nitpicked and nagged at him for it but Eddie had just waved him away with a ringed hand and called him 'mom' sarcastically and steve had snapped his mouth shut with another eye roll. His heavy boots slam onto the floor of the video store, and he walks over to a poster add that Robin had put up the other day.

He flicks it sharply with a finger. "This movie you mean. The one that's literally right here, glaring at you, right in your feild of vision. Big and obvious."

Steve looks at the poster. "Huh." He snaps his fingers. "The Lost Boys, that's right. See? I knew i knew it."

"Your lack of movie knowledge genuinely makes me sick, harrington."

"Anyway!" Dustin cuts in, glaring between the two men. "The movie is good, but that's not the point. My babysitter. Is. A vampire. I'm talking full blood sucker. Fangs and all. All the signs are there!"

"Wait, wait, wait." Eddie drawls, slicing his hand through the air in a X motion, coming back to hop on the counter, ignoring steves 'c'mon man.' He steeples his fingers and leans his elbows on his knees, keeping eye contact with Dustin. "What are these signs you speak of?"

Steve throws his hands up, "I can't believe you're encouraging this."

Eddie waves him off, again. "Quiet, mother, dear. I'm listening to our kids troubles. Go on, child, speak."

Dustin heaves a sigh and starts pointing out facts with his fingers, one by one. "First, she had to be invited in. Was totally weird about it, i even moved to the side and she just stood there. I was creeped out! Finally she said something like 'you gonna invite me in or what, kid?' And i did. I wasn't suspicious at that point, you see. Which brings me to instance number two."

Eddie is leaning forward, interest piqued, and Steve studiously goes back to his magazine, although he's loathe to admit his ears are perked and listening. What can he say? He's nosy. Maybe a little concerned, but that would mean he's starting to believe the kid and, no, he's not entertaining this wild idea that defiantly spurred from watching the found boys, or whatever, late one night.

"She can't eat garlic. I was willing to write this one off as an allergy, don't look at me like that steve, but it was the way she acted. I asked her to make garlic bread and she looked physically ill! Sick to her stomach in fact. This is when my little radar went off."

"Your little radar," Steve repeats dryly. Dustin and Eddie ignore him.

"Instance number three is probably the most telling one yet." Dustin pauses for dramatic affect. "She doesn't have a reflection."

Steve looks up from his magazine at this, frowning. "What do you mean, she doesn't have a reflection?"

"I mean she doesn't have a reflection!" Dustin whisper shouts back. "I walked in on her at my mothers vanity staring all creepy like into the mirror. And there was nothing reflecting back! Zilch. Nada."

The boy shudders, "She also can only babysit me at nights. Need i say more?"

"Yes" Steve says at the same time Eddie goes, "No, i think that about covers it."

They look at eachother. "Dude." Steve says, "We totally need more information before jumping to conclusions. I'll admit the mirror thing is weird, but really? A vampire in hawkins? A vampire at all?"

"You're right." Eddie allows and steve sighs in relief. Eddie taps his chin in thought, "She could also be a ghoul, of sorts, based on the information. The two are often mixed up."

The relief was short lived, it seemed. Steve blinks. "Often."

"You'd be suprised."

"I'm really not."

"Guys." Dustin interjects again, his tone chiding. "Back to the issues at hand please?"

Steve closes his magazine, "I don't see an issue."

"The issue where my mortal soul is in peril! Hello!"

Eddie pats his shoulder, "Alright, Alright. Steve and I will look into it, buddy. Your soul is completely safe."

Dustin sags in relief but steve is glaring at eddie. He'd planned on spending his weekend at home. Relaxing, for once. You know the thing he hadn't done in 4 years since this shit show started. Maybe have a drink, put on his comfy loafers and take a nap. "We're doing what now?"

He feels his relaxing weekend slip away from between his fingers and wants to weep.

Eddie just smiles, all dimples. It's jarring really, how easily a guy like eddie smiles. You take one look at him, and you think he'd be all tough as nails and steam blowing through his nose. But he's actually the sweetest guy steve's met. It's hard to stay foul mooded around him, and trust him, steve's tried.

Eddie knocks his knuckles against the counter, "We're gonna stake it out." He points at dustin, "Youuuu, carry on as usual. Invite her in, do whatever babysitties do. Steve and I will come over and say we just wanted to check on our dear old friend. We'll see for ourselves if this chick is fanged out."

Jesus christ.

Steve is rubbing at his temples when eddie sticks his hand out. Steve eyes it like its gonna bite him, frowning as much as he can frown.

"C'mon stevie," Eddie presses, "Lets go monsterhunting."

"Jesus, don't call it that." Steve gripes, but he puts his hand in eddies, lets the man shake it dramatically. "Fine. Whatever. Not like i had plans, anyway."

"We know." Eddie and dustin echo at the same time.

Meanwhile, you frown at the compact mirror in your hand, irritated by this whole no reflection business. Being a fledgling vampire is so annoying. How are you supposed to know if your makeup is okay? If your lipgloss is smudged? Your eyeliner? Its heinous. You'd think vampires, after being around for thousands of years, would have updated their terms and policies.

You guess there's relief in the fact its just dustin you're babysitting. No cute guys. Or girls. You'd given that up a month ago when you'd been bitten by your shitty ex.

No more dates, because the probability of them ending in bloodshed was high. Lust made your newfound hunger for blood that much worse. That's why you'd taken this gig. Nothing cooled the loins like annoying teenagers.

The bloodlust was still there though, steadily growing and creeping up on you as the nights passed. You could feel the empty pit in your stomach growing like a void.

You refused to go back to your maker, your ex, for help. You'd sworn him off after the whole turning you into a undead monster thing. Even though you knew, as a fledgling, you needed his help more than ever to guide you through this.

But he was a bad vampire. The kind in horror movies. The kind that would teach you how to hunt and kill innocents. You didn't want to be that. You wouldn't let Yourself.

You was just. So hungry. So very, very hungry.

#poppy speaks #my babysitters a vampire!au #steve harrington x reader #eddie munson x reader #st x reader #stranger things x y/n #stranger things x reader #eddie munson #steve harrington

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starry-night-author · 1 year

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Loveee the new post 😩😩😩😩 make it a series if you would like

Thank you so much!! I think the most recent one when I got this ask was prompt #15, but lmk if that's not the one you were talking about! <3

Also, I have to admit... this is mostly just domestic fluff.

Prompt #15 (Pt.2)

(Part 1)

"I'm not talking to you," Villain huffed, folding their arms.

Hero raised an eyebrow. "I literally haven't even said anything." They'd just arrived for their night together with Villain, slipping off their coat. Villain sat on the bed, legs and arms crossed, refusing to look at them.

"You know why I'm mad," Villain shifted, turning their whole body away from them.

Hero did. Still, they couldn't help but tease. "No... I don't think I do. Did I walk in wrong?" It took everything in their power to keep the smile off of their face, the amusement out of their voice.

Villain glared at them. God, they were so cute.

"That's not it, then?" Hero stepped over to the bed, and Villain turned further around. "Did I make too much noise coming down the hall?"

They were now right at the edge of the bed, the mattress pressing into their thighs as Villain turned themself completely around, still pouting. "Or did I walk too quietly and startle you? I don't think I saw you jump when I came in."

Villain found a way to pout harder.

One knee on the bed, Hero leaned forward, arms wrapping around their foe from behind. "C'mon, what is it, Villain?"

"I'm not talking to you until you figure it out," Villain still wouldn't look at them, but they didn't pull away from Hero's hug.

So Hero hugged them closer, moving so their chest was pressed against Villain's back. They rested their chin on Villain's shoulder as well, leaning their head against their foe's. "Give me a hint, at least?"

Villain rolled their eyes. "Seriously?"

"Seriously! I'm drawing a blank here."

Villain leaned back against them, not responding.

"Villain, just tell me..." Hero whined teasingly. "I can't think of anything!"

"Yes you can! You just want me to say it."

"Say what?"

Villain didn't reply, and Hero knew they'd have to drop it soon before their enemy really got fed up.

"Hm..." Hero tilted their head the other way as they pretended to think. "Let me think back... could it have been something that I did last night? Or... a few weeks ago? Or..."

"I hate you," Villain grumbled.

Hero couldn't hold their laugh in, still hugging Villain tightly as they snorted, almost right in the villain's ear. "Ohhhh so that's what this is about. You're just mad because I beat you."

"It's not even that!" Villain exclaimed, pulling away. Hero let them go, sitting back and watching as Villain moved to the headboard, twisting around to sit against it. "My trap didn't work! It was going to be genius, and you figured it out!"

Right, Villain's traps that they took such pride in. The one they'd specially designed for Hero's team only earlier that day, and Hero had figured out how it worked and how not to fall for it. In the end their team had been able to capture Villain, but the criminal had slipped through their fingers just as they were calling for reinforcements to take them away.

Hero tilted their head in sympathy. "I'm sorry. But it's literally my job!"

"I'm still allowed to be mad about it." Villain drew their knees up to their chest. "And that one was particularly good!"

"It was," Hero agreed. "I only figured it out because you'd mentioned a similar trap you'd done once, and once I started to compare that to what was happening around me, I could get a general idea of where it was going."

"Wait, you only figured it out because I'd told you about it before?" Villain sat up with interest.

"Well, something like it." Hero clarified with a shrug.

"So I am still a genius!" Villain exclaimed triumphantly. They slammed their fist down on the bed. "No one can best my traps! I knew it!"

Hero chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "So that's what this is really about? We've gotten to the middle of this onion of anger?"

"I have a reputation," Villain sniffed haughtily. "No one's figured out my traps before, and you only did because I'd told you about it before, so it doesn't count. I have been bested by no one!" They announced.

Hero laughed again, walking across the bed on their knees to sit in front of Villain. "So you're not mad at me anymore?"

"I guess not." Villain yawned. "But I don't want to... do anything tonight."

"Then why'd you show up?" Hero questioned.

"Because I still wanted to see you," Villain cast them a smile, and Hero's heart melted. "I didn't have anything else to do."

"I wanted to see you too." They were irresistible as always, and Hero leaned in to kiss their cheek. "What do you want to do then?"

They ended up using Hero's watch to project a movie on to one of the walls, turning the lights off and snuggling up together to watch. The best position they'd found was to have Hero laying behind Villain, almost spooning them as they watched.

And it was just as the credits started rolling that Hero noticed Villain was breathing slower, their eyes closed and their body relaxed back against their enemy's. Hero grinned, pulling the blanket up higher over the two of them and reaching over Villain to their watch to switch it off.

They gingerly pulled Villain closer, shifting their arm underneath them to hold them tightly, resting their chin on top of their head.

They were warm, and their breath soft as Hero got comfortable next to them. Hero had never been in a relationship like this, and they had to admit they didn't think they'd ever be able to get by without someone to sleep next to at night. They slept better with Villain than they did by themself.

There was something so comforting to them about having someone else there.

Hero didn't know if it was the presence of another person or just Villain themself. Different parts of them wanted to believe either option.

They gently kissed Villain's head, wrapping their arm around them one last time before settling down.

"G'nigh't, Villain." They whispered softly. "I love you so much."

It wasn't much longer before Hero fell asleep, and the moon fully rose. It cast a long whitish beam through the room, draping itself like a bright veil on the bed, landing across Villain's blushing face.

They hadn't fallen asleep yet.

(Part 3)

#NYEHEHEHEHE #thanks for the ask!#anon ask #hero x villain #villain x hero #hero #villain #writing #prompt #writing prompt #hero x villain community #heroes and villains #starry-night-author

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taones · 1 year

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If You Can Hold On (2) - A.A, S.K, S.D

rewrite of the second part of the series (first part here and original series on my masterlist) enjoy <3

pairing ~ poly asadaisuga x gn!reader

warnings ~ pining, angst, Daichi sleeps shirtless bc c'mon now, reader is in the pool being sad but no mentions of drowning! not edited bc I'm lazy

Soft murmurs woke you from your restless sleep. After their last conversation, it had obviously been hard for you to get any good rest. The car rolled to a stop inside a motel car park, bathing you and its other occupants in the red sign light.

“I went in but they only have one room so the four of us will have to share”

The disappointment in Daichi’s tone was palpable, like an arrow through your heart. You guys were best friends, you had obviously shared rooms and beds before. Why would it matter now? Ever since you had known them you had been comfortable sharing beds etc, even after they started dating. The fact it was different now obviously made you think back to the conversation you overheard. Maybe the person they were adding didn’t like you or they thought it would be inappropriate considering they were courting another person.

You felt Asahi shift beside you and slammed your eyes shut once again.

There was no way you were letting them know you were awake. If you had to face them before you fully calmed down, there was no question on if you would end up crying. Also you deeply did not want to give Asahi his hoodie back. There was a lingering feeling in your mind that you would never have an opportunity to steal it again. A sharp twinge of panic rocketed through your stomach at the thought. Of course, there was a chance their new s/o wouldn’t mind, but not many people were comfortable with their partner being that close to someone else.

“It’s okay” Asahi soothed, “i’ll carry them”

Yeah, like you were going to let that happen. If any one of the three men touched you right now you were sure to burst into tears. Deciding that was the best time to break your facade, you pretended to stir. You hoped the red lights didn’t reflect on the glimmer of tears in your eyes. The cold, wet gravel seeped through the mesh of your shoes as the boys started leading you towards the room. No noise was made apart from the crunches under your feet - small victories, you mused to yourself. You adjusted your bags in your hand so you could grab the room key from Daichi’s hand. It was bronze in colour with a red plastic tag, slightly faded but you were able to make out the number 32 on the front. Locating the room, you were quick to pull away from the rest of the fatigued group, finding it easy to speed away from the sleep-addled men under the guise of dinding some comfort from the rain. Behind you, Daichi held his hand to his chest as if your hasty touch had scalded him. You chewed on your lip slightly, feeling bad at the upset you might have caused. Only hoping he would take it as you being tired, you shifted your gaze to the room door and marched on.

The room itself was painted a gaudy yellow, with a brown patterned carpet that had obviously been unchanged since the motel itself was built. There was a large bed in the middle of the room, big enough for the four of you easily, but your eyes were driven to the sofa to the side of it. It was a loud red, sticking out sorely from the rest of the room. The harsh red was an assault on your retinas. How fitting, you thought to yourself. Scoffing, you laid your bags on the couch, pulling out some shorts and one of Koushi’s t-shirts to sleep in - rushing into the bathroom to change as soon as the other men walked in.

Thinking you had escaped, you sighed and leant against the door. Only to hear the voices of the three men loud and clear. The thought of escaping out of the tiny bathroom window became suddenly very tempting.

“I wonder what’s wrong with y/n” Koushi asked, seemingly dismissive.

“I’m sure we’ll find out soon, they don’t hide anything from us”

You scoffed again under your breath, if only they knew. Still, you couldn;t fault Daichi for comforting his partner.

“Wait look what I took the other day Suga, it’ll cheer you up”

You heard Azumane pull out his phone and then a resounding ‘aww’ from the grey haired man.

“I wish we could ask them to join us sooner but we have to wait till we’re back huh?” Suga lamented, “wish this trip could be over already”

Ouch, that one hurt.

He was obviously showing a photo of this mystery person. You really didn’t understand why they hadn’t told you yet. It wasn’t like they could predict your horrible reaction, or that they even knew about your feelings. It made the doubtful pit in your stomach grow and twist, pulling you into a nauseous state. If they really wanted this to be over so soon after it began, there was really no point in you staying. They were obviously preoccupied with this other person - it was like you were never even there to begin with.

A knock on the bathroom door made you jolt. Reluctantly, you peered at yourself in the dirty mirror and cringed at the sight. There were tear tracks dried onto your skin and your eyes were rimmed with an irritated colour. The sadness couldn’t be more obvious. Hastily, you rinsed your face in the sink, patting it down with your t-shirt. Taking a moment to breath and calm yourself, you turned the door knob.

Daichi’s concerned face met you on the other side. Well, there goes being inconspicuous. You shot him what you hoped was a reassuring grin and pushed past his shoulder slightly. It was obvious he wanted to say something to you, but he stayed silent. They all watched you hastily grab a blanket off of the end of the bed and reach for the door. Not looking back you called behind you.

“I’ll be right back i just have to, uh, make a call so don’t wait up”

Well done, very convincing, you mused as you shut the door behind you.

The gravel once again let the damp seep into you. Cold air prickled the skin on your legs while you walked towards your destination. Like all good motels, there was a pool a little bit away from your room, cold and full of rain water from the earlier weather, but it was a welcomed solace from the suffocating presence of the room. It was dimly lit but had no cover, so you assumed nobody would yell at you for using it. The water was surprisingly clear and cold from the earlier rain. Perfect for you to dangle your legs in while you waited there. Rain always calmed you when your thoughts were racing and you assumed the pool would work the same way. Relationships and people might change to you but water, the feeling of it moving over your skin, that would always be the same.

You thought back to one of your earliest memories with all three of the boys, after you had come to the realisation you were hopelessly in love with all three. It was during first year, towards the end of the summer months, when the leaves had begun to tinge into soft yellows and deep reds. The rain had started pouring that day unexpectedly, breaking through the muggy weather that the last three months had left behind. The icy cold raindrops were a welcome feeling on your heated skin. All three of you had ran from volleyball practice to the courtyard outside, spreading your arms towards the sky like uniform-donned angels - thanking the sky for it’s gift. Of course, you had all got soaked but you smiled even after you had all separated to walk home.

Simpler times, you thought to yourself sarcastically. The feelings had been so new and exciting at the time, hardly the depressing lingering in the back of your mind as it had been recently. There had come a time in school, you’re not sure when, where you had sort of accepted it would never happen and promptly gave up. Whether this was before or after the three announced their relationship, you had forgotten. Not that it mattered either way.

Reflections in the water rippled when you dipped your legs into the surface. You stared as your reflection was distorted, mussed about in the small waves. The water settled once again and you were left with the cold, hard truth of the image you had become. Your rimmed eyes and tear tracks seemed to only accentuate the already exhausted look on your face. It was as if you hadn’t slept in weeks. Suga liked describing the sparkle in your eyes when you got excited about something - apparently it reminded him of a snowglobe or something, whatever he had said. You sighed, meeting your own eyes in the water. They were empty of any sparkle.

You swished your legs around the water again, a weight lifting off your shoulders as your face was contorted once again by the waves.

A ringtone rang out from next to you and you scrambled to shut it off. Bringing the phone up to your ear, you were met with the soothing (if not minorly monotone) voice of your club manager and best friend.

“Hello?” you sniffed into the receiver.

Luckily for you, Kiyoko had escaped your seemingly never ending list of crushes. She had been a fast friend when you had met and, luckily for her, she was currently driving somewhere around the Japanese countryside with her girlfriend.

The dark-haired girl was also one of the only people in the world that knew your secret. Which was most likely the reason for her phoning.

“How are you holding up y/n?”

You scoffed.

“As good as i can i suppose” you joked, shoulders tensing at the lack of response.

“Okay, i’m doing horribly, i swear they’re doing it on purpose”

She hummed, never one for many words.

“Did you know they wanted to add another person to their relationship? They won’t talk about it when they think i’m awake but i caught them in the car. They seem so, so excited and i hate that i can’t just be happy for them”

Gnawing on your lip, you waited for a response.

“Do you need us to come pick you up?” she questioned, almost hesitantly.

You stopped and thought about it. Was it the best idea for you to stay? There was a feeling poking at the back of your brain that this trip would go horribly wrong but you weren’t too sure it would be the best idea to leave either. There was no real excuse you could give the boys and you had been planning this for a while. Chewing on your thumbnail, you made a choice.

“I don’t think you need to get me” you began, “i’ll see how it goes but, uh, be on standby i guess”

A melodic hum rang from down the phone. You weren’t sure what it’s inflection was.

The call ended quite quickly after that. It was expected, the hour was late and Kiyoko definitely had better things to do than audibly observing her friend having a breakdown. It would be a lie to say you didn’t sound as pathetic as you looked. The rain had started falling again towards the end of your conversation so you had stuffed your phone in your pocket and hugged the worn blanket tighter around your bare arms.

You had failed to see a shock of cropped, brunette hair disappearing behind your room door.

The cold rain drizzled down your scalp and down your neck, leaving goosebumps in it’s wake. The rain seemed to peel some of the pressure of of your shoulders. It gave you something to focus on so that you didn’t have to think so hard for a while. Quieting the thoughts spinning round your head like whirlpools. Closing your eyes, you laid back on the wet tile and imagined spinning your hands around in the frigid water, creating your own whirlpools. Ones so powerful you could jump right in and they would suck you away from the motel - to wherever you wanted to go. Maybe you could stay underwater for a while, away from everyone. Kiyoko was a strong swimmer, she could bring you food and company. Maybe you could make some less complicated friends with the fish and little crabs that lived on the seafloor.

When you peeled open your wet eyelids, your reality confronted you like a slap to the face. The motel was still the motel, and the pool's surface remained unchanged.

“y/n!” yelled a voice from behind you.

Rolling your eyes, you peered up from between your lashes. Suga had run out of the room, holding one of his partners' jackets above him in a mockery of a shelter from the rain. You would think he would have the sensibility to choose a waterproof one.

His shoulders were drawn close to his body under his knitted cardigan, silvery brows drawn close to each other. There wasn’t much exchanged between the two of you but the worry on his features was hard to miss. You suppose you did look somewhat like a corpse at the time. Even worse - a cold, damp one. Even now, you looked back up towards the sky and snorted at your own silliness, as if they were even thinking about that.

Asahi looked at the exchange from the winder, choosing to accompany his boyfriend outside when he saw your body twist and return to its previous position. Being one of the more sensibly dressed of your group - he grabbed a parka and headed out next to the shorter man, perching his chin on Suga’s shoulder.

“I wish i knew what was going on in their head sometimes” Asahi commented from next to Koushi’s ear.

His voice was soft enough and they were far enough away that you couldn’t hear them. In all fairness, without facing them anyone would have been completely unaware that they were talking. They both observed your sodden state, noticing your eyelids fluttering closed as you slipped off to sleep.

“I would love to know how on earth they can sleep in this weather” Koushi commented dryly, “they’re going to catch their death because of the damn rain one of these days”

The brunette chuckled, wrapping his arms around his lover’s waist. Asahi had a comforting effect on almost anyone that truly knew him. A real gentle giant, his presence had the ability to both command attention and become a bean of solace for anyone that needed it. It was hard not to feel comfortable around Asahi Azumane. Something his boyfriend could attest to enthusiastically as his shoulders finally withdrew from next to his ears.

“They seemed happier out here in the rain than they have on the entire trip so far”

If he hadn’t been right next to his jaw, there is no way the taller man would’ve heard Koushi’s bitter muttering. And some part of him wished he didn’t, because then he wouldn't have to face the fact that his statement was entirely true. Even now, as you drifted off into sleep, the smile that had been missing the entire trip had somewhat returned to your face. It was refreshing to see but the two men only wished they had been the cause, not a weather pattern. The lines of your body were less harsh, less bunched up into each other. Your limbs hung loose on the tiles and the water instead of coiling and wrapping around each other like fishing line - the desperate attempt to make yourself smaller had not gone unnoticed by your companions.

Asahi bit his lip.

“We should get them inside” came the sleep-addled voice of their third and final partner.

Daichi was dressed the least sensibly of all of them, only wearing a pair of chequered pyjama pants. Of course, as he was leaning in the doorway and not actually outside, there was no need for much else. A flower of guilt had bloomed in the pit of his stomach at overhearing the other two’s conversation. Your behavior had not gone unnoticed by him, but he had initially assumed you were just tired. It was overtly obvious to him now that something was very wrong.

The three men trudged the small distance to your snoozing figure, not caring much if they got soaked. Daichi sat you up next to the pool as the other two worked on drying your chlorine-coated legs. The coarse fabric of the towels did little to disturb your slumber, only causing your knees to draw up to your chest and a small hum to escape your parted lips. The gaze of the shorter brunette man would probably have burnt holes in your skin had you been awake at the time. However, the contentment of your slumber went undisturbed and you turned your face into his bare chest, snuggling into it.

part two is up! i've already finished part three so I will hopefully post that tomorrow <3 reblogs and comments are always appreciated, stay sexy!

#asadaisuga #asadaisuga x reader #haikyuu imagine #daichi x reader #daichi sawamura x reader #asahi x reader #asahi azumane x reader #sugawara x reader #sugawara koushi x reader #haikyuu angst #haikyuu hurt/comfort #poly haikyuu

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dabisqueen · 2 years

Text

Rockstar Dabi (Touya) x fem!Reader

⇢ word count: roughly 6.9K

⇢ series plot: after receiving a VIP ticket to a concert of the most popular rock band, you go and it proves to be a life-changing event.

⇢ current plot: With you being back at home again, Dabi is spiraling out of control. And then one day, you receive a mysterious phone call.

⇢ warnings: 18+, minors DNI, kissing, fellatio (m receiving), fingering, kind of dubcon, a*** sex, creampie, orgasm, substance abuse, angst, hurt, major character... oops,.did ì say this??

Personal note: it's been half a year since i started this series and it has finally come to an end (maybe). I don't know how to feel. Sad, happy… all of it actually. I am so glad you all joined me on this Rollercoaster ride of emotions and hurt. Hope you enjoyed it.

Thank you @/hunajan for being my beta again!

It was late at night when Tenko came back and shuffled his way down on the plush carpet of the hallway. He was just unlocking the door when he heard a rhythmic thumping and muffled moaning coming from Keigo's suite.

It happened often enough that Keigo had groupies over. So without thinking much about it, Tenko stepped into his suite and locked the door behind him.

The next morning came way too early, with the band having to move on to the next city. After packing his bags and ringing for the luggage boy, Tenko opened the door and stepped outside into the hallway. He was surprised to see Dabi and Hawks entering the hallway together from Keigo's room.

It took a few moments before realization was hitting him. Hard.

"Dabi, what's going on?" Tenko looked around, not seeing you.

"Well, what did it look like," Keigo laid his arm around Dabi's shoulder, a pleased grin spreading on his face. "We spent the night together."

"Dabi, what the fuck did you do?" Tenko looked at him, his crimson eyes glowing behind unruly bangs.

But the lead singer scoffed in response, "C'mon Tenko, don't play innocent."

“What are you talking about?” He replied with a frown.

"That you were trying to steal my girl!" He spit back.

"Stealing...?" Tenko’s eyes were large in shock, "Dabi, what the fuck is going on?"

"Don't pretend, Keigo showed me the pictures!" His finger dabbed in Tenkos direction, his face starting to contort with anger, "You fucking kissed!"

"We kis—what?" Stunned for a moment, he then turned to Keigo, rage in his voice, "Keigo, you idiot, what have you done?"

Keigo shrugged, "Just showed him the truth."

"What truth?" The drummer narrowed his eyes.

"That she's just another girl trying to get some dick.” He grinned, but his smile never reached his eyes.

Tenko’s eyes flicked back to Dabi's bright azures, "She didn't kiss me, for fucks sake! It was me who gave her a peck on the cheek!"

Dabi crossed his arms on his chest, cocking his head. "Oh really. What about taking the cab together?"

“I hopped off before she reached the mall." He growled. " I can't believe this shit. Dabi, I asked her for advice regarding this girl I'm dating!"

"You're… dating someone?" He looked baffled, "I thought you and her–"

"Yeah, what did you think? That we were cheating on you?" His crimson eyes glared at Dabi from underneath his pale bangs. "How lowly do you think of me?"

His words stroke like a jolt of lightning, leaving Dabi swaying on his feet, a crippling cold gripping his heart. He stayed voiceless, letting the silence take over.

"But Keigo said…" he finally muttered.

"Keig– what the fuck!" Tenko rasped through gritted teeth, "What have you done?"

"Whatever, this is annoying. He's better off without her anyways, see ya later," and he pecked Dabi on his cheek, squeezing his butt before walking off.

"And you think you're better for Dabi than her?" Tenko yelled after him, "Keigo, I swear to God, you're gonna fucking pay for this!"

Then he spun around to face Dabi, who stood in front of him, pale, all color drained from his face. His chest heaved up and down, his mind having a hard time processing what just happened.

"Dabi," Tenko rasped, growing impatient. "What mindset were you in when you did this?"

"I–I think I had a few drinks." He stammered, still trying to wrap his sober mind around the news.

"Just a few drinks, huh?" Tenko cocked his head, pale locks falling off to the side.

"M-Maybe a few more. And I took some…" Dabi's eyes flicked to the floor and back to his band mates.

"Goddammit Dabi, you need to stop taking this shit." Tenko was slowly losing his composure. "It's gonna ruin your life. It's gonna ruin you!"

Dabi lowered his head, his stomach in knots.

"Man, you need to lose your insecurities. She only wants you!" Tenko inhaled deeply before continuing, "She told me so herself."

And Dabi knew his band mate was right. He felt the truth like a hard punch in the gut, shocking and painful enough to make his stomach acid rise to his tongue.

"I'm so fucking stupid." He started to clench his fists.

"Where is she anyways?" Tenko looked towards Dabi's suite.

"She left last night." The black haired male admitted quietly.

"Fuck." Tenko dug in his pants to retrieve his cellphone. "Ok, lemme call her."

Dialing your number he held it up to his ears. After a few moments, he hung up and stared at Dabi, expressionless. "It says the number is unavailable."

"Shit–" Dabi breathed shakily and pulled out his own phone, repeating the steps.

He cursed under his breath, his heart descending to his stomach when he heard the robotic message saying that the number was no longer in service as well.

"She blocked us." Tenko groaned, raking his hand through his coarse hair, "Fuck man, you really messed up big this time."

Dabi's pupils were blown wide as he moved his eyes over the screen of his phone. Silence engulfed both men again as they looked at each other.

"Cmon, there's no use in standing here. We need to leave, the plane's waiting." Tenko squeezed Dabis's shoulder in reassurance. "We'll find a way, ok?"

And with one last look into Dabi's face, Tenko turned to strut off, stuffing his phone back in his back pocket, leaving Dabi behind, head hanging low.

He knew he fucked up this time. For good. He turned frantic, panic arising within him. A panic that was numbing, like a cold heat spreading through his body and gripping his heart tightly. His hands started shaking, it felt like he was gonna explode, that he was gonna go crazy, a dull pain and tightness spreading through his chest.

He gasped for air as he pressed the flat of his hand over his heart, cold sweat starting to spread on his forehead. His legs started to tingle and he dropped to his knees.

With sweat dripping down his temples, one hand still pressed to his chest, he started rummaging around in his bag. He continued wheezing until he finally found what he was looking for.

With trembling hands, the pressure on his chest still increasing he retrieved the pouch with a saccharine looking powder in it, ripped it open to dust the powder on the back of his hands.

Dropping the sachet on the plush carpet, half its content spilled on the long soft fibers, he lowered his head to snort up the powder – first in one nostril, then in the other.

It instantly hit the back of his throat, where it dripped down, while his nose and back of the mouth turned numb.

Relaxation spread through his mind and body and he leaned his back against the wall, head falling back as his eyes closed shut. A warm euphoria consumed him, all fears, all worries fading until there was nothing there anymore.

A weary smile crept across his face, that soon turned into a wide grin as he started chuckling, his entire body soon shaking with mad laughter before he brushed his nose off with the back of his hands, got up on uneasy legs and grabbed his bag.

Sachet of powder laying on the plush carpet long forgotten, he turned towards the elevator, preparing to meet up with the others.

When you finally stepped in front of the front door to your apartment, it felt like a major relief.

Setting the small suitcase on the floor, you lifted a hand to gently knock against it, too exhausted and tired to search for your keys.

Your roommate found you standing on the other side of the door, eyes red and puffy as you looked up at her.

“Oh baby, what happened? Are you okay?” She took your luggage and helped you inside, assisting you with getting your coat off.

“I am…” Your voice tipped.

Your eyes grew hot again, while you wondered if you even had any tears left to cry. But then your lower lip started to tremble and you sank your teeth into it – but the dam broke nonetheless and tears started streaming freely down your cheeks. Your roommate reached out to squeeze your hand and pull you in for a warm embrace.

She didn't say anything but the gesture was enough. She patiently waited until you found the strength to speak.

“We—split. This time for sure…” You sobbed as she squeezed you tighter against her.

She nodded, trying to comfort you with a reassuring smile.

"Cmon, Don’t cry. It's not worth it." She guided you towards the couch, stuffing a pillow under your arm after you sat down and turned to drape a warm blanket over you.

The couch slightly dipped in when she took a seat next to you, wrapping her arms around you for an embrace, palms stroking reassuringly over your back. She didn't say anything, simply held you, her chin resting on your head as she let you cry.

She stayed like this until the turmoil inside your stomach had subsided before getting up to prepare a hot tea for you both.

For the duration of the next few days and weeks, you stayed inside your apartment. Your roommate was your pillar of hope, your strength. She took care of everything, the cooking, cleaning as well as comforting you whenever she could. At night, she would sleep by your side, stroking your face when you had woken up again, crying over him.

By the time the crying bouts were over, you were left hollow inside - only loneliness, shame, fear, and hurt left. It felt like you had a gushing wound in your heart, like you were suffocating. And it hauled you down deeper into a frozen lake of emotions with every day passing by.

Regardless of how often he or Tenko tried to call or write you a message, there was no reply. Everything was answered by silence, and Dabi knew he deserved it. Still, he missed you so much, missed your voice, your laughter, the way your warm body felt when you leaned against him. He knew he had found the one person who could save him. Who he truly had fallen in love with.

Realizing that it was too late for all this, a deep feeling of hatred overcame him – one towards himself. The pain and rage inside him grew so deep and dark, it was like a black hole that consumed his soul, leaving him empty and without the energy to live.

Distraction came in form of a variety of pills and crystalline powder which were easily handed to him whenever requested. They helped him forget the agony he was feeling, helped him forget who he was. Taking them made him feel less worthless, even if it was just for a short period of time. Not being able to cope with the resurfacing heartache he was feeling when they wore off, he started requesting them more frequently.

And they were handed to him more than willingly. Because a rockstar in a constant state of haze and fake euphoria was better than one in distress.

The burn still lingered in his nose from the cocaine, the pungently bitter taste of it dripping down the back of his throat before he chased it down with a bit more whiskey. Alone in his dressing room, he didn't even hear the chanting of the crowd outside, not caring about them anymore.

Even the cigarette he had lit did nothing to calm his nerves and he considered taking another gulp from the bottle to numb all the emotions he didn't want to deal with.

Sucking in his cheeks, he took another drag, letting the smoke billow out of his parted lips.

Fuck this shit. Flicking the cigarette carelessly to the floor, his trembling hand reached out for the prescription pills sitting in front of him on the vanity. He noticed how boney his fingers had become. He didn't recall them ever being this thin, but at the same time he didn't remember having eaten I relentless days.

He chuckled to himself, and tried screwing open the orange prescription pill bottle. His fingers slipped and he grabbed the lid tighter, ripping it off in one hectic movement. The bottle toppled over, its content spilling on the counter. Plucking up several of the pills, Dabi laid them into his open sweaty palm, rolling them around a few times.

Wrapping his free hand around the neck of the whiskey bottle, he popped the pills into his mouth and lifted the bottle to take a few deep gulps, washing them down with the amber liquid.

Slamming the bottle back on the vanity, he stumbled back, stopped swaying before grabbing his guitar and kicking the door to the hallway open.

The tour was overall plagued by repeated instances of rough performances on Dabi's behalf, with him swerving around the stage or staggering his way through the concert and stumbling through the vocals.

Standing on the stage, Dabi's eyes peered cold and emotionless into the black void of the sky. The sounds of his own voice, the ones of his bandmates and the instruments barely reached his ears.

He wasn't even sure which song they were playing, and Keigo continued to steal concerned glances at him.

At one point, the bassist turned toward him and asked: “You need a break, man?"

But Dabi only clung onto the microphone stand and mumbled into it, not even looking at his bandmate, "No man, I need a fuck."

The crowd didn't even notice Dabi swaying, they were too immersed in screaming, too frenzied over his comments, not noticing the severity of the situation.

After the concert, Tenko and Keigo rushed Dabi back to the hotel, avoiding the waiting paparazzi, hungry to see yet again another rockstar spiraling towards their demise.

After they arrived and parted, Keigo draped his arm around Dabi's neck and guided him out of the elevator.

"Cmon, let's celebrate," he cooed, placing a chaste kiss on his temple.

"I want to sleep—" Dabi grunted in response, arms hanging low at his sides as he let himself be led to his suite on shaky legs.

Arriving at the room's bar, Keigo pulled out a bottle of whiskey and poured the amber liquid into two glasses.

"Here, have some, it'll make you feel better." He nudged Dabi before bringing one glass to his own lips.

Dabi took the drink and lifted it into his mouth, taking a big sip. His gaze had become hazy, staring off into the distance as he finished its contents.

Setting the glass back on the counter, the blonde leaned in closer and grazed Dabi’s ear with his lips whispering, "Did you mean what you said onstage, Dabi?'' before sucking his lobe into his mouth.

Dabi closed his eyes, a shaky exhale leaving his lips, while Keigo continued his eager ministrations.

"Keigo, what are you doing," he growled, his focus unsteady.

"Just giving you what you requested," Keigo's hand weaved into his bandmate's soft raven hair, pulling him closer as his lips started trailing down his pulse, placing soft little kisses on his skin.

When he paused, he muttered "I want you," before cupping Dabi's cheek and turning his face, lips hovering over his.

Then the bassist's mouth was on his, firm lips pressing against Dabi's as his tongue slipped in, tasting him, the burn of the alcohol on his tongue.

Visions of you flashed before Dabi's eyes and his stomach churned while he tried so hard to forget you. He just couldn't. Not your smile, your scent, your everything. There was only one way to end this nightmare.

Plagued by the pain in his chest, he gave in to Keigo's advances, lazily working his mouth against his bandmate's before he was pulled off the stool. He started stumbling towards the bedroom in Keigos embrace, his bandmates hips pressed against his body, making him feel the hard erection he was having because of him.

On the bed, Keigo was quick to remove Dabis shirt, latching his lips onto his nipple and starting to suck on it while the other started moving back and forth over the growing bulge in Dabi's pants.

"Keigo–" Dabi had his eyes closed, panting heavily while Hawks sat back on his heels, taking his own shirt off.

"Shush, lemme make you feel good, " Keigo cooed, moving to scoot his own pants off.

He stared at Dabi lying below him, dick straining against the fabric of his pants.

Placing his palms on Dabi's stomach, he started to brush up and down, savoring the touch, Dabi's warm skin underneath his palm.

"I always fucking miss ya," Keigo breathed, leaning down to start peppering gentle kisses on the skin on Dabi's stomach. "Every minute…"

The dark haired man stayed quiet, his forearm draped over his eyes. But the bulge and his strained breathing told Keigo what he needed to know – that Dabi wanted him too.

"I'm gonna make you feel so good, I'm gonna make you forget it all." He paused and added quietly, "And forget her."

It sent a pang through Dabi's chest, but it was quickly gone, the drugs and alcohol taking over, clouding his mind.

He felt Keigo's fingers swiftly undoing the belt and buttons of his pants, calloused fingers sliding underneath their hem and pulling them down.

Keigo was enthralled by what he saw in front of him. Even though they'd been together many times before, he'd always held his breath when he saw Dabi's cock. Girthy, slightly curved and adorned by metal piercings, it was simply mouthwatering pretty.

Sliding the pants off Dabi's legs, he went back up, gulping once before dipping down to kiss Dabi's length.

"Oh fuck," Dabi sharply inhaled between gritted teeth, eyes still closed.

Keigo took Dabi's length into his mouth, bobbing his head up and down a few times before releasing it with a wet pop, continuing by spitting on his fingers.

With his hand resting on Dabi's thigh, running soothing circles in it, two of his fingers spread his spit around Dabis' pink hole.

With a hiss, Dabi felt Keigo's finger slide inside him, past the tight ring and he arched his hips, trying to ease away from the stretch.

While Keigo kept muttering "Doing so fine, I know you can take it," he kept sliding his finger in and out, first one, then two, scissoring them to try to stretch the tight muscle. Keigo spit on Dabi's hole before plunging inside again, adding a third finger.

"I can take care of you," Keigo slurred, totally enthralled, "I will make you happy again. You will be happy with me again…"

Dabi threw his head back, a hoarse whimper leaving his lips as he felt so utterly stretched out. By now, he was a panting mess below Keigo, his thick cock throbbing and twitching on his abdomen with every slide of Keigo's fingers.

His bandmate pulled out and spread Dabi's legs apart, kneeling in between them.

"Are you ready, babe," Keigo purred, pushing his boxers down to free his aching cock.

But Dabi couldn't answer, his arm falling off to the side, his empty gaze fixating the ceiling, his breath coming out in short puffs.

"Ok," Keigo took his cock in his hand, letting a glob of spit fall on it to lubricate himself.

Lining it up with Dabi's entrance, the tip pressed against his hole. And bracing himself to either side of the other man, he slowly started slipping past the tight ring.

"Oh shit,” Keigo muttered, his head falling forward, eyes screwing shut when he felt Dabi's tightness around him.

Dabi's brows knitted together as he choked on his gasp, his hands fisting the bedsheets till his knuckles turned white.

Keigo pushed inside a bit more, then pulled back out. It was torture for Dabi, who moaned and groaned as sweat beads formed on his forehead. Deeper and deeper with each push it slipped until Keigo was buried balls-deep inside of him.

"Fuck, how I missed this." He panted, "How I missed you."

Looking up, he was worried seeing Dabi with his head turned, lips pressed into a thin line and eyes screwed shut.

"Dabi," he whispered, "I promise, I'm gonna make you forget," and with that, he started moving.

It was heavenly for the bassist. Not a pussy on earth could compare with the tightness and the heat of a man and Keigo groaned as he continued moving. With every thrust forward, Dabi's head bobbed against the headboard, his eyes staying closed.

Keigo increased the pace, the urge to make Dabi feel good so overwhelming — he wanted it to be like it was in the past, having his bandmate lay underneath him with lust blown eyes, the pleasure so intense for both of them, that they couldn't hold out for long.

He wanted to make him his. Smacking his hips forward, he grabbed Dabi's pierced dick and finally got a response when the man underneath him gasped for air, his eyes flying open.

"Hi there, pretty," Keigo cooed and started pumping Dabi's cock, letting a glob of saliva run off his tongue to drip on its tip, smearing it around for lubrication.

"Fucking feels so good – shit," Keigo grunted, leaning down to place a sloppy kiss on his neck, then latching onto his nipple.

He continued rocking back and forth, the sound of his balls slapping against Dabi's ass as well as of his dick sliding in and out of him echoing through the room.

Sweat beaded off his forehead as he felt himself hurl towards his high, feeling Dabi's cock starting to twitch in his palm, seeing his balls tensening up.

"Fuck, I'm close," he groaned, addicted to this all – to Dabi.

He leaned back, pistoning inside of Dabi now, mouth opened into a silent groan as his balls suddenly tightened. A deep growl left his lips, his hips stuttered and he came, filling Dabi's insides with hot ropes of cum while he continued pumping Dabi's cock.

Dabi bit his lips so hard it drew blood as he also reached his high, thick ropes of hot cum spurting onto his abs, shooting up all the way to his throat.

Keigo panted heavily as he leaned down, starting to drag his tongue over Dabi's chest, lapping up the salty cum while he kept pumping his cock, squeezing the last drop of his essence from its tip.

He continued licking all the white cream off Dabi's body, slowly softening inside until he slipped out with a soft pop.

Collapsing next to him, his flaccid cock rested on his thigh, glistening with cum in the dim hotelroom light.

"Fuck, I love this." He turned his head towards Dabi, reaching out to grab his hand, "I love you."

But Dabi didn't respond. He laid there, empty gaze staring at the ceiling.

After a few minutes he started to stir, scrambling off the bed and stumbling towards the bathroom.

"Hey, need me to–" But Keigo's question was cut short as Dabi disappeared into the bathroom, slamming the door shut behind him.

Keigo sat up on the bed, eyes wide. He didn't know what to feel, what to think when he heard the sounds of his bandmate gagging into the toilet.

He continued sitting there, color draining slowly from his face while the continuing noises of Dabi vomiting were muffled by the closed door. When it went quiet, Keigo climbed out of bed and stood up to approach the bathroom door.

It was locked and Keigo sighed, hesitating a few seconds before turning and getting dressed.

One last time he knocked on the door, but there was no answer. He heard a movement and the toilet being flushed. Keigo's eyes closed for a second, contemplating before turning towards the door towards the hallway.

Just as he opened the door to step outside, he paused, raking a shaky hand through his blond hair before muttering, "What have I done…"

Dabi stood in the bathroom, the sound of the door falling shut behind Keigo reverberating through the room.

He looked into the mirror, azure eyes staring back at him. They were empty, there was no life in them. And that's when the words sounded through his head.

You're worthless, a nothing.

The glass shattered as his fist hit the mirror. He panted heavily, his fist repeatedly slamming into the mirror before he sank to the floor.

Worthless, nothing.

Dabi wailed out, as he scrambled to his feet, naked, stumbling into the bedroom.

His chest tightened again, the room spinning around him as he fell to his knees. Closing his eyes to block out the turning room, he pulled open the drawer of the nightstand, rummaging around in it until he found what he was looking for.

With trembling fingers, he popped open the small orange cylinder and lifted it up, several pills dropping into his mouth and he strained to swallow them dry.

Then he leaned his naked figure back against the bed frame, waiting for the drugs to kick in.

It had been weeks now, the pain had dulled out, and you had found your way into regular work life as well.

Your roomie was the best support you could hope for — always there to turn off the radio or TV once the LoV music was played or news about the band was distributed. She protected you from anything that would remind you of Dabi and the time with him.

Yet, she couldn't shelter you from the multitude of billboards splattered all across town announcing the upcoming special end-of-tour concert taking place in your town. They went up one day, thousands of led lights flickering to show the brilliant blue logo of the LoV.

And with that came back the memories. You caught yourself more than once with your eyes growing hot, telling yourself over and over again that you shouldn't cry, that this wasn't worth it.

[With your roommate being at work on this Saturday, you were left at home alone, with the knowledge of it being just another day of busying yourself and trying to keep your thoughts revolving around one topic. Him.

You sat on the couch, knees pulled to your chest, too afraid to go outside, too afraid for the memories to resurface again. Burying your face in your arms, you thought about how to survive yet another day of loneliness when suddenly your phone rang.

It chiming seemingly endless before it stopped and frowning, you checked your screen. An unknown number. Ignoring it, you placed the phone back on the table– when it started ringing again. It was that same number and with a deep sigh, you slid your thumb over the green icon, lifting the phone to your ear.

“Who is this?” you greeted.

"Please don't hang up, it's me, Keigo." A low, melodic voice spoke.

Your heart started running a thousand miles per hour and you needed a moment to steady yourself.

"Hey Keigo." You simply answered.

"Please - please just listen. I know this comes as a surprise, but…" You could hear him taking a deep breath, composing himself. “I— I need your help. Dabi needs your help.

Silence engulfed you, the ticking of the kitchen clock echoing like thunder through the room, pounding against your skull. You had to take a moment to process his words.

"Are you still there?" Keigo asked with a breathy voice.

"Yeah, I—I’m here.” you sighed, your nails digging into the fabric of your jeans.

"Please, I'm begging you…" His voice broke, and he had to clear his throat. "Dabi… he's not doing good."

"What do you mean?" You tried to keep your heart from skipping a beat at his words.

"It's bad. I'm—I'm scared." You heard his tone turn panicked.

A cold pressure constricted around your head as you rubbed a hand over your face. "Ok, tell me everything. But Keigo–"

"Yes?" His answer came timid but immediate.

"I want you to be honest. No more lying. No more pretending." There was no room left in your heart for more betrayal, "Understood?"

"Yes, anything you want." He whispered.

You closed your eyes, another storm starting to rage inside your heart. "Ok, now, what happened?"

Keigo didn't leave out any details — how he miscalculated everything, never expecting it to go down this bad.

You heard him break down when he uttered under his breath, "Dabi was literally the only person who knew me, and how I felt."

He continued explaining how he felt all alone when his friend replaced him with you, "It was selfish of me, I admit. I am sorry that I thought it was the only way for him to get back to me."

He paused and you let him.

"I've had a bad past, just like Dabi. We were each other's only pillar of support. I needed him so badly–" you heard him choke on his own words, heard how he teared up.

You heard him swallow and closed your eyes for a second, trying to process all he was telling you.

"But I didn't want him to be like this!" There was pure agony in his voice. "I realized that Dabi needs you."

And then he added quietly, "Not me."

The sounds of fabric rustling in the background could be heard as he moved, followed by silence. Several moments passed in which you could only hear the quiet breathing of him on the other side of the line.

"Keigo, it's a good thing that you realized you did wrong and learned from it." You paused before continuing. "I get that you felt lonely. Still, what you did wasn't ok."

"I know." Keigo said. "I am so, so sorry. I did wrong and I realize that."

You bit the inside of your cheek as you heard him silently starting to sob. You stayed mute, waiting for him to say something and he did.

"I'm scared. Dabi withdrew himself completely and his condition has gotten worse." He swallowed down another silent sob, "I—I have a bad feeling about tonight. Can you please come to the concert and speak to him?"

You were not surprised as tears started stinging your eyes with all that you just heard. It was a lot and you needed some air to breathe.

"Keigo, I need to think about it, ok?" You said with a shaky voice.

"Yeah, I understand." He exhaled, "But I'm begging you – you're the only one who can help him."

After he agreed to send a courier with the ticket and pass, you said goodbye and hung up. Your hands rose to hide your face in your hands. Because even though it was silent, the knots inside your stomach twisted harder, the heat in your eyes almost unbearable.

All the memories — moments and images – everything came crashing down on you. The pain in your chest turned numbing and you bit your trembling lips, your breathing turning ragged.

You kept telling yourself that it couldn't be that bad, that you hadn't heard any bad news about the LoV in a while. But then again, you hadn't really followed them either.

A feeling of unease rose inside you and you started pacing back and forth in the living room. A message notification sounded and you hastily picked up your phone, seeing that Keigo had sent you a message.

Courier dropped off the envelope. It's in your mailbox.

Followed by a picture and the following text:

You can still hate me but please help him.

At first you didn't recognize the person depicted in the blurry photo. But then your hand darted up to clasp over your mouth. It was Dabi. Except it wasn't him, rather a mere shadow of himself, skinny, with eyes and cheeks sunken in, skin pasty and pale.

It was night when you finally arrived at the venue, the concert already halfway over. Showing your ticket and pass to the staff, you were led backstage. It felt weird, like in the old times. Except this time it was different, somehow.

Your heart was beating out of your ribcage, palms sweaty as you entered the fenced off security area in front of the stage. The last song was just finished and the stage went dark. You stopped halfway down the stairs, too taken aback by what you saw in front of you.

The lights went back on and it was only Dabi being illuminated by a circle of light. There was hardly anything left of the once handsome, rugged lead singer of one of the most notorious rock bands alife. He looked more like a shell of his former self - thin, dark shadows lining his eyes, his movements shaky. His unhealthy paleness drastically stood out, even more so in the harsh stage light.

Stepping up the microphone, he waited for the cheers to shimmer down into silence.

Once they grew quiet, a hand naturally grabbed the mic before he started to rasp into the speaker, his voice lifeless and dark, eyes heavily lidded.

"This song…" but his voice broke and he trailed off.

Taking a shaky inhale, he started again, "This song's for someone special. Someone I loved – and lost too soon."

He closed his eyes, the stage lights making his contours pop out in stark contrast. Laying both hands on his standing microphone, he took a few deep breaths, before he started to sing.

(Listen to the song here)

"Uh-oh, uh-oh, uh-oh, oh no, no

Uh-oh, uh-oh, uh-oh, oh no

Uh-oh, uh-oh, uh-oh, oh no, no, no, no…"

His voice was low and gravelly, so full of hurt and pain it sent blazing chills cascading down your body. His eyes were closed, eyebrows knitted as he sang.

"I look and stare so deep in your eyes

I touch on you more and more every time

When you leave, I'm begging you not to go

Call your name two, three, times in a row.

It's such a funny thing for me to try and explain

How I'm feeling, and my pride is the one to blame

'Cause I know I don't understand

How your love can do what no one else can."

You stood there, frozen on your feet while repeating the lyrics in your head, eyes glued to every movement of his lips.

"You got me looking so crazy right now

Your love's got me looking so crazy

You got me looking so crazy right now

Your touch has got me looking so crazy right now."

You realized probably as the only person in the entire venue that this was a serenade that came from his heart, turned into a confession.

"You got me hoping you'll page me right now

Your kiss, you got me hoping you'll save me right now

Looking so crazy in love, you got me looking

Got me looking so crazy in love…"

His veins showed at his neck when he sang, sweat pearling down his face and neck. It was so subtle, that you almost didn't catch it but for a second, a painful expression jolted across his face, a hand darting up to clutch his chest. But then it was over, his hand drifting back to the microphone stand.

When he opened his eyes, they never look bluer than this, brilliantly glowing in the bright stage light. Yet, the usual spark that made them beautiful was gone. And as his eyes roamed over the crowd—

They fell on you. And his face went slack, all expression gone without a trace, suddenly drained of all energy. It was like the world stopped, all noises around you vanishing. It was just his brilliant azures meeting yours, and you felt a connection to him that was stronger than anything you've ever felt. Something invisible, a bond that still existed, far too deeply rooted to ever be severed.

And as his gaze never left yours, he continued singing.

"Uh-oh, uh-oh, uh-oh, oh no—"

He skipped over a tone, paused before he started again.

"Uh-oh, uh-oh, uh-oh, oh no, no

Uh-oh, uh-oh…"

And then he started losing his voice. You felt panic rise inside you when you saw him becoming breathless and starting to sway. It was as if his eyes were pleading for you to help, to stop the suffering.

Keigo had noticed Dabi's predicament and asked into the microphone, “Hey, you okay there man?”

But Dabi didn't answer, his eyes never leaving yours as a dark foreboding gripped your heart tightly. Everyone around you seemed to be oblivious to the fact that something terribly wrong was happening onstage.

He used his microphone stand to support himself, his beautiful azure eyes glued to you and you watched in horror as they slowly dulled over.

Oh my God you thought, your heart racing, beating a thousand miles per hour, oh my God, this isn't happening.

Dabi started swaying on his feet, taking a step sideways, catching himself before his eyes rolled back in his head… and he dropped to the floor.

The entire stadium fell into an eerie silence.

"Touya!" Your chilling scream cut through the quiet as you started running down the remaining flight of stairs.

Everything around you erupted in an instant. Keigo dropped his bass and ran over to Dabi, as Tenko jumped over his drum set to kneel down at his side.

Above all the noises and frantic screaming of the crowd you heard your own voice breaking, screaming Touya's name over and over again.

Panicking fans were jumping the fence and the security had their hands full trying to push back the crowd. Elbowing your way towards the front, your gaze didn't avert the lifeless body on the stage that now paramedics with First Responder bags on their backs were running towards.

You were almost at the front, just a few more feet, screaming Touya's name over and over again as Keigo's head flicked up and he saw you stuck in the crowd.

Jumping to his feet, he ran down the stairs of the stage to where you were caught in the frantic shoving and pulling of the people.

Your heart was beating so fast, it felt like you were running out of oxygen. But then a pair of strong hands gripped yours and pulled you up the stairs and onto the stage. Raising your eyes, you stared right into Keigo's golden ones, wide with fear and glossy with tears.

Stumbling to your feet you started running, slipped and fell, got up again. Hot tears cascaded freely down your cheeks as you finally dropped to your knees next to Dabi.

He looked so peaceful like this despite his pale complexion and sunken eyes.

Paramedics were now charging the defibrillator and you watched in horror as they placed it on his chest. His lifeless body arched up with the first high-energy electric shock surging through him. He slumped back and the men checked his pulse before placing a respiratory mask over his mouth and nose, pumping air into his lungs. Another medic started charging the defibrillator again, its high pitch cutting through the deafening noises around you.

Repeating the procedure while checking his pulse and breathing, other paramedics came running towards where Dabi laid, pushing an ambulance stretcher on a wheeled frame towards them, their free hands holding more medical equipment.

They stopped next to the lifeless singer, adjusting the height of the stretcher to the lowest setting as the other paramedics continued trying to revive him.

The world around you disappeared, the only thing you saw was Touya's limp body, the butterfly needles being stuck in his arm, the breathing mask on his face. As they lifted him onto the stretcher and pulled the straps tight around his body, you knew that it was over. That there was nothing you could do anymore.

And you went numb, a feeling of emptiness overcoming you.

You didn't feel Keigo pulling you up into an embrace as they pushed Touya off the stage. You didn't feel Tenko joining you, following them down the emergency exit to where the ambulance was waiting.

It was like all life had left you, all thoughts and emotions. Even your heart had become lifeless. You didn't feel Keigo setting you down in the Mercedes van, not the door closing, not the car starting to follow the ambulance through the gate down the street.

And you didn't feel the world tilting and turning dark as you lost the battle with exhaustion and fatigue, going limp in Keigo's embrace and slipping into unconsciousness.

#dabi smut #rockstar dabi #rockstar dabi smut #dabi #mha smut #bnha smut #dabi todoroki #bnha dabi #mha dabi #dabi my hero academia #touya todoroki #todoroki touya #bnha #mha #my hero academia smut #my hero academia #dabi x you #dabi x reader

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webslingingslasher · 9 months

Note

bestie i just saw something from reddit saying if ao3 or tumblr existed in ur fanfic would your characters have accounts? and i’m wondering what would peter do if he found troubles accounts, or finds out that she reads spiderman fanfics 😭 like maybe he sees a notification pop up on her phone or something? would he pretend to be upset/jealous i think that’s be funny as shit

trouble's let it slip before that she used to read spider-man fanfic but let's say she was sick and bored and got to browsing and found a new one to read and it's been a few years but it's so so good and all those old feelings come rushing back but it's kinda embaressing so she kept it to herself.

then one night she's reading a few chapters and peter comes to bed and is like

'whatcha reading.'

panic, 'nothing.'

and he's so pushy, 'c'mon, let me see!' and you're so flustered and start with the excuses.

'it's so dumb, and i was just bored and i loved their work when i was in my phase and it's this whole new series they did and-'

peter takes her phone and starts scrolling, skimming around until it's very clear what it is.

'trouble, be honest. do you think about spider-man when i fuck you?'

she reaches for her phone but he pulls it further away.

'no! of course not! he's just... i don't know! the anonymous thing is kinda attractive i guess. you know, anyone could be under the mask.'

peter has a bit a fun, 'like me?'

trouble gasps, like the idea has never crossed her mind and he's opened a new can of worms.

'peter, do you have any idea the kind of gaskets i would blow if you were spider-man. i mean, i'd have to marry you.'

'no other option?'

she's adiment, 'nope. now, can you tell me what spider-man says after he saves me?'

'ew, gross. i'm not reading it, take your phone back.'

#frat!peter drabbles

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silent-stories · 1 year

Text

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐀𝐇𝐔𝐈𝐙𝐎𝐓𝐋 - 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝟏

Summary: When Y/N needs help on a hunt, she doesn't expect Bobby to send Dean Winchester to her. Now the two must work together to solve the case and Dean has to deal with Y/N's sarcastic and biting personality, that maybe he likes a little too much.

Pairing: Dean × F!Reader

Warnings: just some swearing

Word count: 2168

Series

It was early morning when Dean's phone rang in the motel room where the brothers were spending the night.

"Hello?" Dean said sleepily after glancing at Sam as he sat up on the bed next to his, his arm in a cast because of yesterday's hunt. He probably should have taken a break from work for a while.

“Dean, it's Bobby. I found you a case, well not me exactly.”

"Awesome! And I thought I could sleep for two hours in a raw."

"'Oh shut up. So, do you want this case or not?”

"What is it about?"

"I have no idea. Y/N called me, she says she's never seen anything like this, she needs backup."

"Y/N? Oh c'mon..."

She was an excellent hunter, a ruthless professional. A person perhaps a little too sarcastic and stubborn, of those who never admitted they were wrong even if they knew perfectly well they were.

"Don't complain. Y/N is a smart girl! And I know you like her even if you pretend you don't, okay?”

"What? No I…" Dean was interrupted by a low, mocking laugh.

"Okay, okay." He said rolling his eyes, even though Bobby couldn't see it. "Sam has a broken arm, he can't hunt like this."

His brother snorted.

"He can stay with me until you are dome with this hunt." Bobby replied.

Dean glanced at Sam, who didn't look really convinced.

"Okay. Where's Y/N?"

"Toledo, Ohio. You can find her at the Devil Return Motel, room 12."

Dean couldn't help but smile, he was sure she had chosen a motel with that name on purpose.

That fucking case had forced her to ask for help, something she didn't do often. Y/N was poring over everything she could glean from searches around the town but she couldn't come to a logical conclusion.

Bernard Dubois, the first victim, had been attacked in his residence and then deprived of all nails and eyes. Other pieces of flesh that appeared to have been bitten off the body were also missing.

Mark Stern, on the other hand, the second victim, seemed to have had less luck: this one had been found in the garden of his residence without teeth, in addition to nails and eyes.

Y/N had been in that town for two days now and that "thing" had already caused two deaths. One dead a day wasn't a good pace and she knew she couldn't do it alone.

When she heard a knock at the door she got up from the old brown couch and went to open it, expecting some old bearded and experienced hunter: she had specified to Bobby how weird this hunt was.

Protected by the chain, she opened the door a little, remaining impassive on seeing Dean.

Dean Winchester was one of the best hunters she'd ever met, hell maybe the best ever but working with him was always terribly difficult for both of them. But that didn't make her like him any less, she just had to put on a little show.

"Y/N, how long! Are you going to let me in or…?” and she closed the door again, almost slamming it in his face.

"Hey!" She heard him on the other side.

She rolled her eyes and moved the bolt so she could finally open the door. Moving away from the entrance they reached the center of the room.

"Don't you check that i'm not a monster or something?"

He asked surprised by such a... frivolous welcome.

When she turned to answer him, she looked up at the ceiling and Dean did the same.

"Anti-demon" nodded Dean seeing the pentacle painted in black. "I would have made it under the rug tho," he added, receiving a look that could have incinerated him instantly.

"What if I was something else?" He asked closing the door behind him.

“I've fitted a silver handle and the mirror says you're not a shapeshifter. Do you want to do your job now or do you want to continue humiliating yourself?” She smiled at him victorious, handing him the sheets with the newspaper articles.

A case with Dean Winchester. It was going to be a hell of a hunt.

Anyone in their right mind would have preferred to stay away from that manipulative and sometimes even seemingly selfish woman. Only apparently, Dean thought, he knew that behind that facade there was a part of her that she didn't show very often. Dean had known her for a long time, they had worked together several times, since before Sam left Stanford to go looking for John with him.

Dean dropped the bag on the mattress and walked over to the table covered in photos and documents, placing his hands on opposite sides of it, followed by Y/N.

On the table, photos and medical records continued to dance before her eyes, as if they were reproaching her incompetence.

"I'll set everything on fire once I find that son of a bitch" she muttered annoyed starting to move the sheets for the umpteenth time, so that they could compare the victims.

Origins, frequented places, age, job, physical traits: everything seemed to not coincide. This implied a lack of pattern.

"Which of the monsters we know prefers to eat the side dish rather than the main course?" She asked Dean, sometimes having the same sarcasm as someone else was an advantage.

Dean gave the papers one last look and then sat down on the edge of the bed. "Rugaru?" He tried passing the list over in his mind.

"A picky Rugaru? I doubt it" Y/N disagreed as she continued to stare at those papers which by now she knew by heart. “Besides, there were animals footprints at both crime scenes.”

"So-"

“Werewolves? Are you serious?" She anticipated him turning her head in his direction just to be able to throw him one of her "and I should collaborate with you?" looks.

“And I said animals footprints. More animals.”

She moved to what should have been the kitchen and picked up a book she'd forgotten on the counter while taking a snack break from her research. She threw it at him without even a warning, at least he still had quick reflexes.

"Otters" she anticipated him again when he saw him open the book, helped by the post-it that marked the offending page.

"Otters? Are you kidding me?" Dean gave her a questioning and somewhat incredulous look.

“Not this time. Otters and dogs" she added, opening the mini bar to get a beer just for her. Little sense of welcome, definitely.

She felt like she was playing Guess Who, but it was a very long and definitely not funny game.

Dean leafed through the book and then went back to reading the documents scattered on the table.

"C'mon, Sherlock. I'm sure you can do it." he teased him opening her beer and taking a long drink.

In both cases the men had been deprived of eyes and nails, feet and hands.

"What creature prefers eyeballs to human flesh?" He asked to himself, trying to remember if he had ever read anything like this in John's journal. Obviously he knew those pages, every note that John had written had been assimilated in a short time during his father's absence. So he was pretty sure John Winchester's diary wasn't going to help him. To make sure, however, he decided to take a quick look.

He sat back on the bed, and pulled his source of information from his duffel bag, the thing that had kept Sam and Dean going all those years. He leafed through it quickly but carefully until he reached the last page. He closed the journar, resigned and he sighed.

"Well, that's weird," he said. "Did the two gentlemen here have absolutely nothing in common?"

"As far as I know, no," Y/N answered after sipping his beer, shrugging. “One of them even lived outside Toledo.”

"But his body was found dead here, right?" the man asked again. Y/N nodded.

"Nah! There must be something. There's always something." He put the diary back in the bag and returned to concentrating on the documents of the victims. He turned to look at the girl, his eyes narrowed.

"Did you check if the two guys knew each other?" he asked, receiving only a suspicious silence in response.

From her guilty expression, he knew perfectly well that the idea hadn't even crossed her mind.

Dean chuckled amused and also very pleased.

“I take that as a no,” he said, patting her on the shoulder. "Don't worry, it happens to the best of us."

He turned away from her and went to arrange his things on the couch in the corner of the room.

“Tomorrow morning we're going to talk to the families of these two. Now it's late and we should sleep."

If she could, she would have hit herself.

How could she not think of such a thing? She had focused so much on love matters to understand if it could be a passionate revenge that she had totally forgotten to ask their families for confirmation. She knew everything about the lives of those fucking dudes and not if they knew each other.

And did you need a Winchester get it? She admonished herself inwardly, shaking her head.

Y/N glanced at Dean as he dropped his dark red shirt and T-shirt on the back of the armchair in front of the couch. “So, do you wanna sleep or not? I bet you haven't slept in at least fifty hours.”

He, on the other hand, hadn't slept for three days. He had had a very difficult case that had given him a hard time and he had also had to take Sam to the hospital, which hunters only did when things were really bad and he had been in the waiting room for hours and then returned at the motel with a pissed off Sam about his arm in a cast.

He hadn't even had time to close his eyes before he got Bobby's call, which was why he was there now.

“You don't need to worry about me, Dean. I have to get some stuff ready for tomorrow." Y/N retorted without even glancing at him, busy fiddling with fake FBI badges.

«No offence, sweetheart, but you don't look really good» insisted Dean, also stripping of his jeans to freely remain half naked. "You should sleep."

«Never as much as you, love. With those dark circles you have, even the monster we're dealing with would run away» she retorted choosing the most suitable badge for that case and leaving it on the table.

"Now shut up and sleep." she said firmly trying to convince him.

But Dean didn't seem to want to listen to her. Of course, he wanted to sleep and send her to hell but he just couldn't do it knowing that she stayed awake when she needed to sleep too.

Y/N fumbled some more with the things in her bag and then turned back to Dean, finding him still wide awake, staring at her.

She huffed, finally giving in and Dean had to hide a smile.

“You're a real pain in the ass, you know that?” She complained as she began to pull off her shoes, followed by her socks and jeans.

"I take the couch?" Dean said uncertainly as she pulled on an extra large t-shirt.

“Didn't you say you wanted to sleep? Well, I assure you that it's impossible to sleep on that couch» she shook his head as he approached the bed and lifted the sheets. «I don't bite, Dean» she invited him to follow her, sitting down on the bed.

"I mean, yes, I bite, but not now," she corrected herself with a guilty smile, leaning back on the bed with his arms folded. "So?"

They were just like cat and dog, except that they fought like an old married couple, but still cared about each other.

Dean raised his eyebrows, thinking about her proposal and moved his gaze to the couch which, to be honest, looked really questionable. Leather, a little scratched at the seams and with not exactly accommodating cushions. He looked at the bed and then once more at Y/N, who was patting the empty seat next to her.

Dean sighed and finally moved. He lay down next to her and rested his head on the pillow, it wasn't the first time they'd shared a bed, only it had been almost a year since the last time.

Maybe, the last time had been when, after drinking a little too much, they had almost ended up doing something else in that bed. They both pretended not to remember that night, anyway.

"Why isn't Sam with you?" she asked.

"Broken arm, he's staying at Bobby's." He murmured in an already sleepy voice.

"Now we should rest," he said then, settling on his side, facing right at her. “Try not to stare at me too much while I sleep, okay?”

Tags: @eevvvaa @spn730015 @supernatural111222 @youcancallmelily @clairenovakanddeanwinchester @dads-on-a-hunting-trip @3amstillawake @supernaturalmess @marvelandsupernatural @agirlwatchingalotoftvshows @candy-coated-misery0731 @impalaslytherin @rudy-the-winged-wolf @dean-winchester-6767 @samanddeansannoyingsis @roseblue373 @waynes-multiverse @random-spn-fan

#dean x reader #dean x y/n #dean winchester x reader #dean winchester x y/n #dean fic #dean winchester fic #spn fic #supernatural fic #spn fanfic #supernatural fanfic #dean fanfic #dean winchester fanfic #dean winchester fanfiction #dean fanfiction #spn fanfiction #supernatural fanfiction

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sp00kycrumpet · 8 months

Text

When Our Paths Cross Again. (Part One)

Pairing: Joel Miller x f!reader

Rating: E

Tags: Soft!Joel; pre-outbeak up till end of Season 1; no use of y/n; sometimes Ellie is the adult in the situation

Warnings: swearing; character death; spoilers (if you haven't watched the series/played the game)

Word count; 7,259 out of 22,020

Will also be posted on my AO3

Notes: This is the first TLOU fic I've finished (I've got a bunch half written) so I hope you enjoy it ㅠ.ㅠ imsonervousomg

"You should ask her out." Joel almost choked on his burger, eyes wide as he stared at his too confident daughter. He swallowed his food and watched her.

"Excuse me?" Sarah just grinned, leaning forward with her elbows on the table like they were sharing a secret.

"The waitress. You keep watchin' her and she does it to you. I've seen enough mushy romance movies to know how this goes. You just gotta make that move!" Joel hushed Sarah as you came over to their table with refills of their drinks. Sarah and Joel were practically regulars at the restaurant; sometimes accompanied by Tommy and you always convinced others to let you wait their table. You insisted it was because Sarah reminded you of your little sister, but in reality it was mainly because of her father. Joel Miller was a handsome man, broad shouldered and warm; and that southern accent melted your heart.

At first Sarah had been shy but the more they came, the more she opened up. She made you Christmas cards and birthday cards once she learned when your birthday was - she even made you a friendship bracelet one year with hers and your initials in beads on it. She presented it with a big grin and showed you hers that matched. She always greeted you with a big smile and a hug. Joel would smile warmly, amused Sarah's best friend was a woman old enough to be her mother. It amused you too but after you learnt Joel was solo parenting, you could sort of understand why Sarah had gotten so attached to you in a sisterly way. He sometimes came alone to get take out for him and Sarah, making small talk with you while waiting for his food. You learnt his favourite movies were the cheesy Curtis and Viper ones, he played guitar and worked as a contractor with Tommy. He played it carefully with you but would sneak little tidbits of information out now and then. You would always greet him with a smile that made his chest feel funny and would sneak your staff discount onto his order. You definitely heard Sarah trying to convince her father to ask you out but pretended not to as you chatted with her about an album she'd recommended to you the week before. You could feel Joel's eyes on you and you eventually turned to him and gave him one of those heartstopping smiles that made his brain turn to mush. Once you left them, Sarah turned to Joel again with a pointed look.

"See!! You get that gross look on your face whenever she smiles at you. C'mon dad, how am I supposed to start datin' if you don't date!" She whined, Joel frowning a little.

"You wanna start datin'?" Now it was Sarah's turn to blush and change the topic quickly. Joel laughed, a rich sound that you heard from your place cleaning a table nearby.

An hour before the end of your early shift a week later, Sarah came in with a look of determination on her face. You put the cloth down you'd been using and headed over.

"Hey Sarah, you okay?" She blinked up at you and a grin pulled instantly over her lips.

"Yes! I was lookin' for you!! You said before that you bake, right?" You laughed a little, surprised by the sudden question.

"Sometimes, yeah. Not to brag but my friends say my raspberry filled cupcakes are the best." Sarah clapped her hands together.

"It's my dad's birthday next week, do…you think you could make him a cupcake? Since I know he'll forget to get a cake." You tilted your head slightly, watching the young girl before you nodded.

"I don't see why not. I'll make one for each of you." Sarah nodded, rummaging in her backpack for her schoolbook. She scribbled down the date and her phone number in case you needed her.

"I'll come by after school on his birthday and pick them up if that's okay? I'll pay you with my allowance." You waved one hand.

"Oh come on, I'm not going to charge you! I enjoy baking and why not for my best friend!" You grinned at her, Sarah gasped and thanked you repeatedly before wrapping you in a tight hug. She darted out of the restaurant when Tommy pulled up outside to pick her up, apparently in on the plan. You just shook your head and got back to work, planning out how you'd make them the best damn cupcakes you'd ever made in your life.

—

Letting himself in the house a little after eight, Joel felt exhaustion pulling at his bones. He could smell the pizza Sarah had ordered for them as he kicked his boots off and padded through to the living room where his daughter sat. Two large pizzas on the coffee table and a giant bottle of cola.

"You're gonna make me fat kiddo." He teased as he eased himself down to sit beside her, leaning to kiss the top of her head. Sarah just waved one hand.

"Sometimes we just gotta indulge in the nice stuff!" She grinned, picking up a slice of pizza and taking a bite as she sank comfortably beside him, watching the tv as they ate. She eyed her dad quietly for a moment between slices of pizza before making a comment.

"I mean… if you're worried about your weight then you won't want the super special dessert I got for you." Joel perked one eyebrow.

"Now where'd you get money for all this?" Sarah just grinned, rolling a shoulder. Tommy had funded this little experiment; wanting to help encourage his brother to grow a pair and ask out the waitress he constantly swooned over.

"I got myself a high payin' fancy job. But it's super top secret so I can't tell you what it is." She glanced at Joel and grinned, Joel just nodding.

"Oh good. The mortgage can go in your name now then."

"Nah they'd know I told you and I can't risk that." She nodded solemnly, pausing for dramatic effect before sighing and eating some more pizza. Joel laughed, he loved his daughters insane imagination and made a mental note to thank Tommy for giving her pizza money.

Once the pizza was done, Joel gathered up any leftovers and took them through to the kitchen. Joel placed the slices into a container then turned to open the fridge. There on the shelf at eye level sat a little white box. Curious, he opened it and inside sat two cupcakes with a decent amount of frosting, and a small card. He opened the envelope and couldn't help the little smile that worked over his lips.

Happy birthday Joel! I hope you like raspberry cupcakes~

Beneath that was a phone number written neatly beside your name along with the line "You miss 100% of the shots you don't have take." Joel read it over a few times before he headed back to the living room; cakes in one hand and card in the other.

"Somethin' tells me you had a lot to do with this. My birthday ain't till for another three weeks." Sarah just gave a pretend snore in answer, Joel snorting softly as he moved in to sit down. "Well damn, I guess I better eat both of these then." Immediately Sarah sprung back to life, holding out her hand for the cake. "Explain yourself missy." Sarah huffed a little, watching her dad.

"I just… want you to be happy, dad. I see how you two are around each other, it's like a romance movie. I ain't ever seen you smile the way you do at her. So I accidentally gave her the wrong date for your birthday so that maybe, just maybe, you'd take initiative and just go for it."

"I am happy baby, I have you." Sarah groaned and pushed at his knee with her foot.

"Gross. But, you need more. I know being a single dad is kinda your jam but, think how nice it would be for you to be able to date and be happy and be loved how you deserve." Joel tilted his head a little, watching Sarah.

"Now when did you learn to talk so much like an adult?" He offered over her cupcake, quietly taking a bite of his own as Sarah watched him.

"I really like her dad. I think she would make you happy." Sarah pressed again, Joel glancing at her before he nodded a little.

"I'll call her tomorrow." Sarah grinned excitedly, putting her cupcake aside in favour of wrapping her arms around Joel's neck in a tight hug.

"I was almost about to Parent Trap you, but Uncle Tommy insisted this was better."

—

You never used to keep your phone close by but after your little card to Joel, you couldn't help but keep checking it in case he called. Maybe Sarah was wrong and he wasn't wanting to ask you out despite her insistence when they thought you couldn't hear. Maybe you'd ruined your relationship with one of the best customers by taking such a blind leap. You chewed your lower lip as you peeked into your apron pocket for the millionth time to see if there was anything on your little phone. A few days passed and you figured maybe he wasn't going to call, you felt a little disheartened but decided to not let it ruin your week. You said goodbye to your collegues and headed out after your shift had finished, nuzzling your face into your hoodie with a muffled yawn. You were just turning to head towards the bus stop when you heard your name called, you looked up - expecting to see a coworker holding something you'd forgotten - but there in his usual khaki tshirt and dark jeans stood Joel. A hand raised in a wave and you had to stop yourself swoon as your eyes watched the muscles in his arm shift. You smiled, suddenly nervous as you turned to head back to him.

"Hey stranger, did you have a good birthday?" Joel presses his lips together before he gave a little smile.

"While your cupcakes were incredible, I gotta come clean. Sarah gave you the wrong date on purpose. My birthday is in a couple of weeks. But she has some romance movie script in her head for us." You felt your cheeks flush, Sarah wasn't the only one. You'd wondered many what if scenarios before, how it would feel to have those dark eyes looking at you so fondly, or what his hugs were like, or if his stubble would tickle when he kissed you. You nodded a little, shifting your weight awkwardly on your feet.

"She's so funny." You said softly, fiddling with your backpack strap. Two thirty-something year olds acting like thirteen as neither dared speak up first.

"Her next plan was somethin' to do with Parent Trap." Joel smiled, a sight you'd commit to memory forever. You chuckled, nodding a little.

"Well, I'm glad you liked the cupcakes Joel." You replied, feeling a little silly for your sudden moment of bravery when writing his card. You smiled and turned to head and see if you could still make the bus when his voice reached your ears again.

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." It seemed strange to hear his voice repeat your words as you froze midstep and turned to face him.

"I'm sorry?" Joel rubbed a hand awkwardly over the back of his neck.

"That's what you said in that card. And the more I thought about it, the more it just made solid sense. I was gonna call but I couldn't risk chickenin' out once you answer." He glanced up at you from under his lashes, a soft look that made you weak at the knees. "So I figured I'd offer a ride home and maybe suggest a walk or somethin'." You smiled, your heart skipping in your chest as you nodded.

"I'd like that." Joel exhaled when you agreed, just as nervous as you felt. He offered his arm and you looped yours through his with a shy smile on your face. He was so warm and smelt good. The walk to his truck was relatively quiet other than some small talk. He even held the door open like a gentleman, making you smile and curtsey before getting into the vehicle.

"So I thought maybe we could head to Lake Travis? Sarah's at school till four then she's going to see our neighbours for a few hours… unless you just wanna go home?" You glanced up at him, was this the first date? Unplanned and a surprise after an early shift. He still wanted to go even if you looked tired, luckily you always got changed at work so you weren't in uniform at least. You eyed him for a moment before you smiled warmly.

"I'd like that. Maybe we can stop by Starbucks and have a coffee and cake?" Joel smiled back at you, butterflies stirring up a storm in your stomach at how it lit up his face. He agreed and headed off in the direction of the lake.

It was a quiet drive, only forty minutes or so, made longer by the Starbucks break and playful argument over Joel paying for both of you. You eventually gave in and vowed to hide $10 somewhere in his truck. You parked up in a spot with a good view of the lake and the two of you climbed into the back of the truck where Joel laid out a blanket to sit on. You smiled softly, it was so simple but so wonderful. You sat there for a good few hours just talking. Learning more about each other and it just made your crush on this gorgeous man all the more stronger.

"Sarah's great, a little too grown up for her age but she's got a good head on her shoulders." Joel smiled softly as he finished his drink then paused, glancing at you. "I've done nothin' but talk about Sarah haven't I?" You chuckled, placing a hand lightly on his arm.

"It's lovely, it shows how much you adore your daughter. She is pretty incredible." You nodded, Joel smiling warmly.

"I know but… you shouldn't really spend hours talkin' about your kid on a date." He wrinkled his nose a little and you paused at the word, a smile slowly spreading over your lips as you glanced down at your cup.

"This is a date?" Joel paused, realising finally what word he'd used before he glanced at you.

"Ah… it was bold of me to assume… I never even asked. I ain't dated since Sarah's mom. Fuck I'm sorry." You chuckled and looked up at him, leaning to press a soft kiss to his cheek.

"No, I like it. Assume away. This is definitely the best kind of first date, relaxed and fun." You nodded, Joel's cheeks flushing slightly at the kiss as you settled beside him again.

"I figure a traditional dinner date might not be your thing since that's what you work around all day, every day. And I had no idea what movies you like so… I figure a drive out to the lake wasn't too far and it's a nice view." You nodded in agreement, looking up at him with a playful grin.

"Yeah, it is." He glanced at you, a little confused before he realised you were openly flirting and he suddenly felt shy. But bold enough to eventually slide an arm around your shoulders and cuddle you against his side when it dropped a little cooler. You could hear his heart beneath your ear as you settled comfortably, it just felt right. That this was exactly where you were supposed to be. The conversation flowed a little more naturally after that, the two of you talking about anything and everything for hours until Joel's phone buzzed and Sarah was calling to make sure he was actually coming home. He apologised and helped you out of the truck bed, riding home you couldn't help the smile on your face. Stealing glances over at Joel, the way the lights bounced off his features and highlighted his skin. You couldn't believe out of everyone, you were the lucky one spending time with this man. He dropped you at home, the truck idling as you gathered your things.

"I had a lot of fun tonight Joel." You said softly as you watched him. Joel smiled, taking your hand in his own and lifting it to gently brush a kiss to your knuckles.

"If you're interested, I'd like to pick you up next week and take you out again? I'll text you what days I'm free." You blushed and nodded.

"I'd love that." Joel smiled, squeezing your hand gently before letting you go. You climbed out of the truck and watched him drive away until the taillights disappeared. You let out an excited squeal and finally headed inside, your head full of Joel and what possibilities the future held.

—

Unfortunately your shifts didn't align with his the following week, but you managed to squeeze in a couple of quick coffee dates together. Sitting in overcrowded cafes for an hour or less, just talking and eventually his fingers would find yours across the table. He was everything you dreamed of, he was caring but cautious. He explained what had happened with Sarah's mother and how that had put him off of dating until you. You shared your own tales of unrequited love and failed dating attempts. His thumb gently ran along yours as you exchanged stories, lamenting at how people were stupid.

"Yeah but… for their stupidness, I got you to myself." You said softly, your bravery getting the better of you. Joel watched you and smiled tenderly, lifting your hands to kiss your knuckles as he did every time you met up. Always the gentlemen, patient and content to take it slow. As you walked out of the cafe with him, Joel checked his phone for a moment.

"It's my birthday on Friday. If you want, you're welcome to come over and join Sarah and me for cake?" You blinked, watching him. If he was inviting you over for his birthday then he must be serious about you. You nodded and smiled.

"I'd like that. I'll bring more cupcakes." Joel smiled fondly at you as he ran his thumb along your knuckles.

"Perfect. I'll see you Friday then." You nodded, your gazes lingering on each other before you let his hand slip from yours. He smiled, then surprised you with a soft kiss to your cheek before he turned to climb into his truck.

Sadly he had to raincheck when there were issues on the job and he wouldn't be home till much later than planned. You text him back a sad emoji but said you understood; maybe you could take him for a belated birthday breakfast on Saturday instead. He agreed to that and said he couldn't wait to see you again. You smiled softly and headed off to your bedroom to put his gift back in the closet until tomorrow.

—

Of course tomorrow never came. You barely remember much of that night anymore, Austin in flames and people panicking. Those things attacking at random and spread more panic. You tried calling Joel a few times, terrified to be alone but the phone lines were down almost instantly. You packed as much as you could carry into an old boyfriends camping backpack and headed out of your apartment. No idea where to go but you couldn't stay here anymore. You thought you caught sight of Joel running past you with Sarah in his arms, but as you turned to call out to him, he was gone. Scared and alone, you decided you'd try to head out of town and try to make it as far away as possible.

That was twenty years ago now, those little dates with Joel were a thing of the past. Austin was a no-go and you found yourself in Kansas City after crossing paths with a man named Henry and his brother, Sam. They were scared and alone, Sam barely five. As you settled into life in Kansas, Sam taught you sign language while you taught him the joy of comics and enjoying the little things. Henry only trusted you to babysit Sam if he had to go out for work. Kathleen never gave a damn about anyone except her own mission in life.

Henry woke you up in the middle of the night, climbing in through your bedroom window. You sat up, staring at him.

"Jesus Christ Henry, you can't do that! I have a gun on the nightstand." The boy stood there, fear his eyes and blood on his shirt. "Henry…what happened?" Henry swallowed and looked down at his hands.

"I had to… Fedra had the chemo drug to save Sam but they needed something from me. Brian." He muttered, his eyes wild as he watched you. You took him gently by the hands and lead him into the bathroom to help clean him up.

"I would have done the same thing if it were my sister." You said softly, making sure he was clean and uninjured before you took him through to your spare room where Sam's hospital bed was set up. Henry quickly snapped into big brother mode and gave Sam the drugs, reading the poorly printed instructions and hoping it'll help. You helped them as best you could while Kathleen prowled the streets like a bloodthirsty demon, demanding anyone give up Henry and Sam. You found a doctor who could help Sam while hiding them, considering Kathleen was starting to eye you as well. You packed them both a bunch of food and promised to keep Kathleen off their tracks as long as possible.

You didn't know how much time had passed, but somehow Kathleen still trusted and never suspected you. You were careful and never told anyone a thing. You felt your blood run cold when your radio crackled to life and she said Henry had killed again and was on the move. You sighed heavily and followed her to the attic you knew they were hiding in, silently relieved when they were gone. Kathleen was angry, she almost sent you flying down the stairs as she barged past to continue looking for them. People were dying and suddenly everyone realised someone else was here too, and they didn't know a thing that was going on. Kathleen heard whispers through the radios about sightings of Henry and Sam. She gathered everyone together and headed towards the suburbs on the edge of town, the only way out. You headed out early, wanting to catch a headstart and warn Henry. You were quick and light on your feet as you moved through the streets, scanning for any sign of them - or Kathleen. You caught a glint from a window and knew it was one of Kathleen's snipers camping out, an older man named George. You let yourself into the house, walking up the stairs and placing a hand on the old mans shoulder.

"Jesus I coulda shot you. What you doing here?" You sighed, pretending to be as wound up as everyone else.

"I heard Henry and Sam were headed this way with two others. I'm gonna set up my rifle next door but I wanted to see how you're doing after that scuffle the other day." The old man shrugged, tapping his bad leg with the butt of his gun.

"It's just a bruise, looked worse than it is. You're a good woman, thank you for checking in." You nodded and smiled, squeezing his shoulder again as you shouldered your rifle to head out. You heard the man mutter under his breath about a damn distraction before firing. You spun around and heard voices from outside. Two male and one young female. You knew Henrys voice like the back of your hand but before you could react, the radio had been called. You cursed under your breath and moved into the next bedroom, hoping you could get their attention or try to help them get away. Using the sight on the gun, you searched for Henry on the street, catching a blur of a man heading towards the house you're in; you moved back to where he'd come from and finally saw them. Henry and Sam, plus a girl. They looked pretty much unharmed from what you could see, you were trying to figure out how to warn them when you heard the stairs creaking behind you as George shot again. You held your breath and slid down into the shadows as the figure of a man appeared and headed into the room next to yours. He spoke softly with George, you strained to hear what was said but a gunshot made you jump. You fell backwards and smacked your head against the windowsill; you cursed under your breath then slapped a hand over your mouth as the footsteps suddenly turned to you. The muzzle of a gun entered the room first, followed by it's owner. Dark eyes scanned the room before landing on you, you squinted a little in the dim light and raised your gun; aimed perfectly at his throat. His gun slowly lowered as you finally see each other.

"No fucking way." You breathe, Joel Miller stared at you in bewilderment before a noise from the other room pulled his attention away. It was George's radio, Kathleen was asking for information and Joel ran back through. You pushed yourself up, rubbing a hand over the back of your head as you turned to look out of the window as you see Kathleen and her brainwashed army tracking down Henry and the kids. You couldn't hear them properly but before you could even try to figure anything out, the ground behind them collapsed and opened up, hundreds of infected clambouring out and making quick work of everyone on the floor. You cursed under your breath and steadied yourself before starting to pick some of them off; doing your best to keep Henry and Sam safe between shooting any that may stray towards the house. Pops from the next room told you Joel was doing the same. You held your breath as you watched Henry and Sam clambour underneath a car for safety, you shot a few infected that approached them before turning your attention to the main horde. Fear ran up your spine at the sight of the huge bloated mass literally ripping people apart like paper. You'd heard rumours of such a monster but just assumed it was urban legend. You fired at it a few times before figuring it was a waste of ammo and turned your attention back to Henry and Sam, watching as the young girl made a bee-line for them and dragged them out from their spot before all three bolted for the house. You heard Joel approach your room again, lingering in the doorway for a split second before nodding his head towards the stairs in a silent request to come with him. You dropped the rifle and pulled the glock from your hip holster before following him closely.

Once outside, he called to the trio and gestured for them to come this way. Sams eyes went wide as he saw you, a moment of childish joy at a familiar face as he ran past you towards the backyard. Kathleen seemingly appeared from nowhere, yelling at Henry. Everyone saw the infected child creeping up behind her but no one made a move to alert her or stop it. Even as it pounced and dragged her to the floor. Joel glanced at you before turning to follow the others. You stepped closer, aimed then fired two shots. One at the infected and one at Kathleen. She as a nightmare alive, you couldn't stomach facing her as one of those things. You holstered your gun and sprinted after the group.

"This way!" You called out, leading them out through the gate at the back of the garden that would be their final break for freedom.

Once out of the cul-de-sac and into relative safety, Sam wrapped his arms around you and hugged you so tightly you could have sworn he'd leave an imprint of his face on your stomach. You smiled warmly at the boy, signing to him that you told him you'd see him again. He smiled and adjusted his bag before running off to catch up with the girl. You turned to face Henry, trapping him in a hug as well.

"That could have gone so wrong…" He muttered, walking beside you as Joel walked behind as look out. You nodded, pushing your hands into your jacket pockets.

"I know but I knew you'd make it. I stuck close to Kathleen so I always knew any info she did on you. When I heard you were headed this way, I knew I had to do something. There's a motel about two miles down this road, I cleared it last month as a precaution." Henry nodded.

"Thank you." He said softly, glancing over his shoulder at Joel before everyone walked in relative silence, the only words were directions that you gave.

At the motel, you led the way to the one room you knew was still habitable. Digging out a pack you'd stashed behind a broken vending machine that had a little food in it and some bottles of water. In the room, you shared them out.

"It's not much but it'll do till morning." You nodded, handing Joel a bottle. He watched you quietly before taking it, the girl throwing a curious glance at the man given he barely took his eyes off of you. Once everyone had eaten a little, the kids went into the bedroom to read comics while the three of you sat in the living room.

"So how'd you two know each other?" You asked, glancing between Joel and Henry. Joel shrugged a shoulder.

"I woke up yesterday to Sam holding a gun in my face." He muttered, Henry rolling his eyes as you stared at him.

"Unloaded. We just… had to be sure they weren't with Kathleen. Joel really didn't want to go together but Ellie and Sam helped convince him otherwise." Henry smiled softly, his gaze wandering to the two in the bedroom. The three of you talked quietly for a bit, Henry getting up eventually to tell Sam it was time to sleep. Once the bedroom door closed, Henry took his place in one of the chairs. Joel caught your eye and inclined his head towards the front door.

"Hey Henry, we're just going to step out for a moment. You'll be okay?" Henry nodded, sinking comfortably into his seat.

"I'll probably be asleep before you get back anyway." He mumbled, folding his arms over his chest as he gave in to the tiredness. You smiled, squeezing his shoulder as you passed him and moved to the door where Joel waited.

Outside the room, the two of you stood silently for a brief moment before Joel surprised you by wrapping you up in the tightest hug. You held him close, all those old memories and feelings bubbling to the surface.

"I can't believe of all the people I run into, it's you." He said softly as he finally stepped back. He looked older and tired but he still looked as handsome as the last time you'd seen it.

"Me either. I often wondered what happened to you." You replied, your eyes never leaving his face. "The grey suits you." You smiled, lifting a hand to gently brush your fingers through his mess of curls. The two of you fell quiet after a moment, leaning against the railings of the balcony walkway.

"Where's Sarah? And Tommy?" You asked, Joel's jaw tensing slightly as his eyes fell to his hands on the metal.

"Tommy's somewhere in Wyoming. That's where we're headed next." He nodded, taking a steady breath. "I lost Sarah." You felt your heart ache, for both Joel and the loss of Sarah.

"Oh Joel… I'm so sorry." You said, placing a hand against his forearm. He watched your fingers against his skin before his gaze moved to the parking lot below.

"Sometimes I feel selfishly glad she didn't have to see the shitstorm the world turned into. But mostly I just miss her." You nodded a little in understanding.

"When did it happen?" Joel shifted his weight on his feet, moving to stand up properly and stretch his back.

"Outbreak day. We were tryin' to escape Austin. The car flipped and we had to move on foot. I was carryin' her cause she hurt her ankle in the crash and some fuckin' powertrip soldier shot at us. She died in my arms." He muttered, flexing his fingers a little. You nodded a little, you'd seen it before. Fedra were scum and it only took a soldier on a bad day to ruin people's lives.

"I'm so sorry Joel. I can't imagine how that must feel." He exhaled slowly and nodded, folding his arms loosely over his chest.

"I can't believe of all people I find you though." He muttered, glancing at you as you resumed leaning against the railings.

"Me either. I thought I saw you on outbreak day but… everything was so chaotic and loud that I didn't think to call out. I…did what I could to survive. Kept moving then I ended up here. Kathleen took me in, I befriended a few people like Henry and Sam. But over the years… Kathleen changed and she became more of a dictator. When her brother was killed she just lost it… I did what I could to help them without her knowing but it was so risky. But I wasn't about to let them get killed. They're good boys." You nodded, leaning to rest your chin against your forearms as you watched the horizon. Joel hummed quietly, glancing back at the door before facing you again.

"That uh, that girl in there. That's Ellie. She's… she's immune." You blinked, staring at him.

"Joel… what? How?" He shrugged, rubbing his palm against his jaw .

"I don't know how it works. I've seen it with my own eyes. She got bit and nothin', it healed like it was just a papercut. I'm takin' her to Wyoming to try and find Tommy. Then off to the Fireflies hospital cause they say they can make a cure from her." He paused a moment, watching you as you tried to work it all out and if he was just following a lie. "You're welcome to come with us?" You lifted your head to look at him, studying his face before nodding.

"I'd like that. The five of us would make a good team." You smiled a little, muffling a yawn into your shoulder before standing up straight. Joel nodded, glancing around then shifted his gaze back to you. Quiet fell and the two of you just watched each other for a moment.

"I missed you." You said softly, your eyes on the broken watch around Joel's wrist. He was quiet, you worried if it was too bold to say so soon. But instead he just reached out a hand to pull you close, his arms wrapped tightly around your shoulders as he rest his chin against the top of your head. You sighed quietly and nuzzled into him, snaking your arms underneath his jacket to feel his warmth against you. You could hear his heart beating and the way his muscles shifted as he breathed, it instantly took you back to that evening by the lake. He was real and alive. Your eyes closed as you breathed him in, savouring this moment in the back of your mind.

"I missed you too." He eventually replied, his voice soft as you leaned back to look up at him. He looked even more guarded than he had when you first met, you wondered what he'd had to deal with to survive this long.

"C'mon. We got a long way to go tomorrow." You hummed in agreement and followed him back into the room. Henry was already asleep, his chin resting against his chest as he snored softly. Joel handed you Ellie's sleeping bag before getting himself comfortable on the floor with his own bag. You smiled softly and spread it out to sleep on before draping your jacket over yourself as a makeshift blanket. In the darkness of the room, your gaze slowly drifted to Joel and found warm comfort in his relaxed face as he slowly drifted off to sleep.

—

Morning came too quickly and with a loud yell as Ellie came tumbling out of the bedroom with Sam on top of her, snarling and gnashing his teeth. Everyone woke up with a start as Ellie yelled for Joel for help, you sprang to your feet with your eyes wide as Joel went for his gun. Sam had turned. Fear rooted you to the spot as you watched, Henry firing off a shot and yelling at Joel didn't even pull your eyes away from the kids as you quickly grabbed your own pistol from the table behind you. Before you could react, Henry fired. Sam fell off of Ellie and lay still. The silence in the room was thick as Henry stared at the body of his brother, wide scared eyes moved from Sam to everyone else in the room.

"What did I do?" He gasped, breathing heavily as Joel edged closer and gently tried to coax him to hand the gun over. Henry's eyes moved to you, filled with pain and sadness as he lifted the gun to his own head. You jumped and tried to cover Ellie's eyes out of instinct as the shot rang out. Ellie whimpered, fists tight on your shirt as she stared at the chaos in the room as Henry slumped to the floor.

No one said a word as you and Joel set about wrapping them both up in the sheets off the beds, Ellie gathering everyone's belongings together. You took a private moment in the bathroom to sob into a towel, in less than twenty four hours you'd been reunited with Joel but lost two friends. No one commented on the obvious wetness of your cheeks or redness of your eyes as you headed out, carefully taking Henry and Sam to the two graves Joel had dug. Still no one spoke, just worked silently to bury the brothers. You watched as Ellie placed Sam's board on his grave with 'I'm sorry' written on it. She quietly asked which way they were going and Joel nodded with his head, Ellie slowly heading off that way. You stood beside Joel, staring at the two mounds of dirt as you brushed the dirt off your jeans.

"You okay?" Joel asked softly, you glanced at him resisting the urge to bite that it was a stupid question and instead just shrugged. He nodded, not pushing anymore as Ellie called out to you both. You grabbed your bags and headed out after her, everyone lost in their own private thoughts for a while.

It wasn't until you stopped for a break that the silence was broken.

"Did you tell her?" Ellie asked, her eyes flicking from Joel to you then back again. Joel nodded and Ellie sighed softly. "And we can trust her? Just because she got us out of the city?" Joel frowned a little, swallowing his food.

"I knew her back in Texas. I've known her for a while. We can trust her." He mumbled, Ellie eyeing you a little before she leaned back against the tree she sat under.

"I know trust is hard to come by around here, but you have my word that you can trust me. Or at least I hope I can earn your trust." Ellie pursed her lips a little before twisting around and digging in her bag for a moment, you and Joel exchanging curious glances as she eventually turned back around. She was quiet for a brief moment before she fixed you with a serious look.

"I once heard a joke about amnesia... But I forget how it goes." You stared at her for a moment, noticing the muscles in her face twitch as she tried to not smile. Only to lose that battle when you burst out laughing, Ellie grinning as Joel rolled his eyes and shoved his thermos back into his bag.

"I swear, you're just pickin' the worst ones out now."

"She laughed!! Fuck you I'm funny." She puffed her chest up, proud someone finally laughed at the stupid puns she spent hours trying to memorise.

—

Travelling was tiring and slowly getting colder, but Ellie would keep asking random questions or poke at Joel for information. Eventually turning to ask you things when he kept up his apparent normal scowling silence.

"Was he this grumpy when you knew him in Texas?" She whispered to you during a break when Joel wandered off to check the area. You chuckled and shook your head.

"If he was, I never saw it. He was quiet like this but… he smiled a lot and when he did talk, he would get really passionate about certain things." You nodded, glancing at Ellie as she tried to picture it.

"How did you know him?" You debated it for a second before giving a half truth.

"I was a waitress at a restaurant he used to come to a lot. When you have regulars, you tend to get to know them to a degree. Joel and I were… pretty close." You smiled softly, thinking back to your little coffee dates. It seemed like a dream now. Ellie narrowed her eyes for a moment before pulling a face.

"Ew. You like him." You blinked and looked at her, opening your mouth to retaliate when the crunch of snow behind you signalled Joel's return.

"What?" He said, both you and Ellie watching him before Ellie shrugged and carried on along the road.

"Just seeing if she'll answer my questions since you don't like to talk." She commented, you just smiled at Joel and shrugged a little. Joel shook his head and followed the girl. This Joel was quieter, he barely smiled and you never heard him laugh. The new world changed him, losing his daughter no doubt did the most to do that. But behind the walls he'd built up around himself, you knew old Joel was still in there. You could see it in the way he quietly looked after Ellie, the way he would put himself in front of you both, the way you would sometimes catch him watching you. Something in his eyes sometimes would have you wondering if he still had the same feelings towards you but was too scarred from years of loss to pick that thread up again. You promised yourself you wouldn't make things awkward by bringing it up. Ellie slowly warmed up to you, telling her puns when things were quiet for too long or asking you about things she'd never seen or experienced, or her favourite topic was poking fun at Joel and what she dubbed his "asshole voice".

(Part Two)

#joel miller x reader #pedro pascal #the last of us #joel miller #ellie williams #tlou fic #fluff I guess #joel tlou #joel x reader #no use of y/n

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rising-volteccers · 6 months

Text

Work and life has been occupying my time but I'm happy to at least write this idea out. A self indulgent piece where Friede ruminates about the events post HZ025. Feels like I'm a bit rusty with writing so hopefully this is still an enjoyable read!

Series: Pokemon Horizons

Characters: Friede, Murdock (minor)

Once the adrenaline wore off, it took considerable effort for Friede to not sway on the spot. The danger had passed now that the Brave Asagi steadily flew away from the destroyed castle. The past hour of vigilance showed that the Explorers were not pursuing them, likely out of Pokemon to face the entire crew in battle if it came down to it.

Having caught a glimpse of other members aside from Amethio and the person that ambushed him way back in Levincia, the Explorers were proving to be more dangerous than ever. It truly was a close call that Charizard still had the speed to escape from Glalie's Self Destruct even with the damage done to its wings.

Friede took over steering the ship from Murdock earlier while Mollie gave the kids and all their Pokemon a check up. In his mind, ensuring the safety of his crew took top priority. He wasn't hurt anyway. Just… tired.

"Hey, why don't I take over while you get some rest?" The gentle touch on his shoulder slowly drew Friede's attention from the wheel, turning bleary eyes towards Murdock's worried visage.

"I'm fine."

"You'd be more convincing if you didn't look like a strong breeze would knock you over," Murdock countered, raising an eyebrow. "C'mon, you look exhausted."

Whatever response he had died the moment Friede hastily covered a yawn that slipped out. Now that Murdock pointed it out, he couldn't pretend that his body wasn't craving rest after such a stressful night. This was different from burning the midnight oil back when he did his PhD, nor pulling all nighters where he piloted the ship through rough weather.

Things could have ended up differently. The possibilities ran rampant in his mind, refusing to quiet down. That in turn pushed him to power through in hopes of keeping himself distracted. Friede knew it was a temporary solution as eventually, he could no longer ignore his body's want for rest.

"Really, get some rest. I'll handle the ship for now. Promise I'll let you know if something changes, okay?"

Arguing otherwise would use up energy he didn't have so Friede eventually dipped his head, slowly pulling away from the wheel to give Murdock access. It was quite the feat to not stumble his way out of the Captain's deck and down the small steps towards his room.

Once he closed the door behind him, Friede heaved out a deep sigh, shoulders drooping. He briefly closed his eyes whilst leaning against the door, then pulled away to shed off his goggles, jacket and boots. Ordinarily he'd take a quick shower to wash off the dust and grime from his body but…

Friede haphazardly dropped everything on the chair before crashing in his bed, burying his head in the pillow and not bothering to lift his feet from the floor initially. After a few minutes of simply staying in that position, Friede eventually dragged himself into lying properly on his bed.

Within the dim room, tired eyes stared at the ceiling. Friede hated that despite how exhausted he was, sleep wasn't coming easily. He thought he'd passed out the moment his head hit the pillow but his mind continued to buzz incessantly about today's (yesterday's?) events.

Friede thought they covered their tracks pretty well. Taking the train instead of the airship, going through the secret entrance towards the Old Castle; essentially leaving little trace of their presence for the Explorers to track. Then again, Amethio and his grunts did pinpoint their location back in the Galar Mines. Their persistence was commendable, if annoying.

Speaking of Amethio…

That expression he made after Ceruledge fell to Charizard's Tera Blast kept popping up in his mind. Friede never saw him look like that before. Throughout their various clashes, Amethio rarely showed emotions aside from the bursts of annoyance whenever he thought that Friede didn't take him seriously.

See, that was the thing that confused him. Friede did take him seriously. Amethio proved to be a formidable opponent, one that pushed him and Charizard to perform their best. Deep down, he enjoyed their battles as it showed him that he always had room to grow and improve. Friede might have trouble remembering things but he never forgot the stuff he learnt from their battles.

All their previous matches got interrupted in some manner or shape, resulting in no clear victor until now. Friede always battled with the intention to win but he wasn't hard pressed if he lost either. Had the circumstances been different, where Amethio wasn't an enemy…

"It wasn't a battle I could afford to lose," Friede muttered, throwing his arm up to cover his eyes. If he lost to Amethio at that moment, Liko and Roy would be in danger. Sprigatito and Fuecoco were getting stronger but they were no match for Ceruledge. Their safety was his number one priority, thus Friede had no choice but to pull out his trump card.

Friede knew from the get go that Tera Dark Charizard had an advantage over Ceruledge. He never used it in their battles up until then due to the finicky nature of the Tera Orb being a one time use item until he could get it charged again in Paldea. He trusted Charizard's strength to match up against Ceruledge regularly.

At that moment, when he saw that Charizard was going to lose under Ceruledge's charged up Psycho Cut, Friede knew he had to use it. Charizard had to surpass its potential.

In his eyes, anyone that was able to push Charizard that far deserved respect.

Sorry, you forced me to stop holding back. Friede meant it as a compliment but in hindsight, it sounded pretty disrespectful to his opponent. With all the comments Amethio made about him not taking him seriously, that probably cemented that belief.

Friede might enjoy a little teasing and banter to rile Amethio up but he never meant to genuinely make the teen feel… bad? Sad? Whatever emotions he wore at that moment.

Once again, Friede can’t help but wonder. Why was someone like Amethio a part of the Explorers? He didn’t look that much older than Liko. Seeing those two grunts defer to him for orders meant that he ranked decently high in the Explorers, which begged the question: why?

Why was Amethio so persistent with this mission? Whose orders was he following that he followed them across multiple regions? From Friede’s personal observations, he didn’t seem like a bad person at all. He had better morals than some adults Friede met in his life. Never ganging up on him despite having the advantage. Cared for his subordinates if their loyalty told him anything.

Honestly, if Amethio wasn’t on the Explorers side, Friede wouldn’t mind having him be a friend, or at the very least an ally.

Yet so long as they stood on opposite ends when it came to Liko and her pendant-turned-Pokemon, they’d continue to clash.

Friede heaved out a deep sigh, dropping his arm. Half lidded eyes stared at his ceiling again. Thoughts about Amethio aside, he really should try and get some sleep. Murdock won’t let him pilot the ship if he didn’t, and the last thing he wanted was for him to sic Mollie on him.

Friede turned onto his side facing the wall, closed his eyes and willed his brain to quiet down until he fell into an uneasy slumber.

#Pokemon Horizons #Anipoke #Pokeani #Professor Friede #Murdock (Pokemon)#Hana writes stuff

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integra1127grimmreaper · 6 months

Text

You Made Me Love You

Ike Evans Masterlist

Series Masterlist

Warning: light angst, cheating, smut, swearing

Summary: You internally battle with yourself over your love for your boss. Inspire by - Patsy Cline's - You Made Me Love You.

"There she is... Miss..." Ike's voice rang out through room as Lauren practiced coming down the stairs in preparation for her bat mitzvah.

"Daddy... stop it" Lauren moans out in annoyance.

"Alright, I'm sorry... I'll stop" Ike responds, only to do it again.

"Vera..." Lauren complains, causing Ike to chuckle when Vera swats him against the stomach.

"Alright, I'm sorry..." Ike finally ceases, stepping toward her then.

"You just- you look so beautiful... I couldn't help myself."

Smirking at his silliness, you catch the quick look he shoots you but turn your attention back to Lauren when Vera steps closer.

"Can you do it, Lo? You'll be in heels..." Vera enquires.

"And five hundred people will be watching" you comment as well.

"Heels...?" Ike remarks in astonishment.

"Five hundred people?"

"And there'll be dry ice smoke" you mention nonchalantly.

"Just, you know... curling up over your ankles."

"Really...?" Ike deadpans.

"Dried ice smoke?"

"Pink..." you smirk, causing him to roll his eyes at you.

"Well, it all sounds wonderful" Vera happily remarks.

"C'mon..." Ike scoffs.

"Pink dried ice smoke...? It's a bat mitzvah, not a beauty pageant."

"Exactly..." you smugly nod.

"It's Lo's coming of age celebration; therefore, it has to be extra special."

"As entertaining as this is..." Vera butts in giggling.

"I have to go speak with the caterers. I'll leave you two to further argue over dried ice smoke."

"We're not arguing..." Ike sighs in response.

"If you so, love" Vera giggles, patting his chest and tipping upward for a kiss.

You stood internally cringing at the scene in front of you, a fake smile plastered on your face as you pretended it wasn't bothering you. But Ike knew better, he knew how much it bothered you. No matter how huge a smile you flashed everyone around you, he would always see right through it; your eyes... your eyes were the sign that gave away your true feelings.

To everyone that saw your smile, they would believe you to be happy, yet if they had taken the time to truly look into your eyes; they would instantly see the dead look in them whenever Ike and Vera showered one another with affection around you.

"Alright" you snap out of your thoughts the minute Vera left.

"I think we should practice the father-daughter dance a bit."

Ike throughs his back with a loud groan.

"As long as I don't have to dance in pink smoke..."

"Nope" you shake your head, flashing a broad smirk.

"For you, I'll make sure it's purple instead."

Ike shoots you a warning glare, while Lauren giggles her head off at his expense.

"This song's boring..." Lauren whines halfway through the dance practice.

"Well, why don't you pick another song then" you offer.

"You ok?" Ike asks whilst Lauren was going through the music choices.

"Yeah, I'm fine" you shrug off his concern, (knowing damn well that he wasn't buying your lie), yet you continue to pretend nothing was wrong.

"Hey..." Ike grabs your hand to turn you toward fully face him yet is interrupted then by the song Lauren had chosen.

"That's not the best choice for a father-daughter dance, Lo..." you remark, turning back toward her.

"But I love Patsy Cline" Lauren protests.

"Fine" you sigh, caving into her puppy pout.

"You can listen to it finish, then back to the original chosen song."

Lauren flashes you a bright smile, a little flicker of mischief appearing in her eyes then.

"This is a beautiful song to waste. Why don't you and Dad dance to it?"

"I don't think that's a good idea..." you hastily respond.

"Aw... c'mon" Lauren whines, flashing you those puppy eyes again.

"It's fine" Ike comments, taking hold of your hand and puling you into his arms to dance.

Letting out a tense breath, you rest your right hand onto his shoulder.

"Fine."

Lauren claps in victory as Ike pulls you flushed against him; forcing you to rest your head against his chest. Finally giving up the fight, you allow your eyes to drift shut as you let the music take over.

You made me love you I didn't want to do it I didn't want to do it You made me want you And all the time you knew it I guess you always knew it

This song was actually quite fitting for the situation with Ike; you never had any intention of starting an affair with Ike when you started work for him a year ago, and yet you were. Six months into a heavy, passionate affair.

You tried your utmost best to fight the attraction you had for him since day one, but Ike was a determined man when he wanted something and that something had been you. As hard as you fought to never give into your desires, Ike eventually wore down your defenses and before you knew it; you were hopelessly in love him.

You made me happy sometimes Sometimes you made me glad But there were times, dear You made me feel so bad

Although you were at your happiest whilst in his arms with how madly you were in love him, there were times of saddest too. Those were, whenever Vera was in his arms instead of you.

They say love makes you stupid, and stupid you most definitely were, stupid enough to fall in love a married man.

You made me sigh for I didn't wanna tell you I didn't want to tell you I want some lovin', that's true Yes I do, indeed I do, you know I do

This was never going to work; you knew it most definitely. If only Ike could realize it too. This was nothing but a fantasy, one that would end up in heartache.

This wasn't what you wanted; you wanted his complete love, you wanted a real relationship, not sneaking around with another woman's husband. Yet as much as you craved it, you didn't have it in your heart to break it off with him.

You wanted him to make the decision of being with you, instead of Vera on his own.

Give me, give me, give me What I cry for You know ya got the brand o' kisses That I'd die for You know you made me love you

The song had finished yet it hadn't immediately registered in your foggy mind, not until you feel Ike lift his chin off from where it had been resting on the top of your head.

Lifting your head from his chest, you're met with the dark lust filled stare Ike usually projects whenever he wants you.

"Ahem" you take a careful step back and turn to Lauren.

"I think that's enough for today, Lo."

A bit disappointed, Lauren silently nods, shutting the record player off.

"You coming Dad?" Lauren enquires, making her way to the exit.

"You go ahead, I need to discuss some stuff with Y/N" Ike responds, causing you physically cringe whilst you pretend to be tiding up.

You made me sigh for I didn't want to tell you I didn't wanna tell you I want some lovin', that's true Yes I do, indeed I do, you know I do

You hear his footsteps coming closer to you, and when they stop directly behind you, yet continue to ignore them.

"Sweetheart-"

"Not now, Ike" you cut him off, continuing to tidy up in silence.

"Baby, look at me" Ike pleads.

Shutting your eyes for moment and taking a deep breath, you finally turn toward him.

"What is it, Isa-"

You're cut off by his lips harshly slamming onto yours.

"Are you insane?!" you rip your face from his grip with a soft screech, frantically scanning the room.

"Someone could have walked in and seen us."

"Don't care" Ike shrugs nonchalantly, causing you to roll your eyes with a scoff.

"Well, I do. The Atlantis is brimming with enough whores, I don't want to be add to that list."

Ike scowls at you, growling out then.

"You're not a whore."

"Says you" you snort in retort.

Letting out a frustrated sigh, Ike grabs your arm, dragging you along the corridor towards the restroom.

"What the hell are you doing?!" you scowl as he shut and locked the door after dragging you inside.

"Reminding you who you belong to" Ike growls, spinning you around toward the mirror.

Head spinning from the sudden movement; you grasp hold of the counter to steady yourself, eyes making contact with Ike's lust blown ones in the mirror.

"Ike-"

"Shut up" Ike pushes you roughly down onto the counter, grabbing at the waistline of your capri pants to tug it down, along with your panties.

"You're going to shut up, stay right there and take whatever I give you."

You stared wide-eyed at the angry look on Ike's face reflecting in the mirror as he hastily undid his pants.

"Next time you think of giving me the cold shoulder, remember one thing" Ike grits out, kicking your feet apart, leaning over you then to notch the head of his cock against your entrance.

"You're mine..." he utters out, burying himself in you with one hash snap of his hips.

"Fuck Ike..." you whimper out at the sting of him stretching you out.

"What did I tell ya 'bout speaking...?" Ike bucks roughly into you in warning.

You bury you face into your hands to stifle any noise, only to have Ike pull your head back up by the hair, to look into the mirror.

"Nuh-uh..." Ike tisks as he harshly thrusted in and out of you.

"You're going to watch as I fuck you. Remind you, who you belong to. Got it."

Biting into your lip; you stared silently into the mirror at the dark scowl on Ike's face, attempting a weak nod as he fucked you like a man on a mission.

"Jesus, baby, ya feel so fuckin' good..." Ike groans out, leaning further onto your back and gripping hold of your hands that was on the counter for better perch as he pounded into you from behind.

It was impossible for you to respond, even if you had been allowed; soft whimpers being the only thing you could muster as Ike's heavy breathing and grunts sounded off against the side of your neck.

Lifting his face from your neck, Ike flashes you a boyish smile in the mirror.

"You're my girl, aren't you...?"

Bitting into your lip; you nod at him in response, a loud whimper spilling from them as you feel your oncoming climax begin to build.

"Fuck..." Ike shuts his eyes with a loud groan as your walls contract around him, egging him into going harder, deeper.

"That's it, Baby... Cum for me. Cum around my cock!"

And just like that, on his command; your orgasm hit like a freight train. Eyes shut tightly, nails digging into your palms; you cry out loudly as you clamp down hard around him.

Ike lets out an animalistic like growl, doing something he had never before done, sinking his teeth into your neck and cumming deep inside you then.

Give me, give me, give me What I cry for You know ya got the brand o' kisses That I'd die for You know you made me love you

"You're mine... Never letting you go..." Ike breathes heavily against your neck as you both try to steady your heart rates.

"Ike..." you murmur in a broken voice as you stare wide-eyed at both your reflections the mirror. The image of him still lying on top of your back, still buried inside you, causing panic to rise within you.

Finally lifting his head, Ike stares silently at you in the mirror for a few seconds as the possible implications of what he had done hits the both of you.

Letting out a heavy sigh; Ike lifts off from you, causing both of you to hiss out as he gently removes himself from within you.

After having redressed in silence; Ike finally breaks it by pulling you tightly into his arm.

"We'll figure it out..." he states, pressing a kiss into your hair.

"Ok..." you manage to croak out through the lump that had formed in your throat.

Pulling back a bit, Ike cups your cheek as he stared deeply into your eyes.

"I Love You."

A broad smile spreads across your lips then as you stare back at him.

"I Love You too..."

#ike evans #magic city #ike x y/n #ike x reader #isaac evans #ike #jeffrey dean morgan #jdm

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