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wonwoosthetic · 3 months

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series masterlist

word count - 2.1k

pairing - minnie x mingyu (feat. wonwoo at the end)

summary - mingyu thought to have found the perfect chairs for their new apartment… much to minnie’s dismay

a/n - as I went through my mimiwon google poll, a lot of you guys asked for more domestic scenarios and since I also once asked if you'd be okay with short writings, I thought I could post this as well :) just a little something I came up with back when I saw one of their chairs in Mingyu's live haha, kinda random but I hope you like it! <3

Chairs 🌷 Minnie

"Nini!" The familiar loud voice bounced off the walls of their apartment. The female member was sunken into the couch, her laptop propped up on her lap. She had thrown on a slightly thicker sweatshirt due to the colder weather, with a short shirt underneath, knowing she'd probably take off the first layer later in the day.

Each one of the three had been busying themselves separately for the time until their manager would pick them up and bring them to the company's building for their scheduled practice.

"What?" She shouted back at her fellow '97 Liner, who had been in his room, but his quick footsteps suddenly echoed through the hall until they stopped in the living room, right by the couch. Dressed in simple grey sweats and a white shirt - almost a signature look of his.

Mingyu grinned at the girl. "Look at your phone." Said device was on the coffee table, face down to not distract her from the very serious shopping spree Minnie was currently indulging in.

Her eyebrows scrunched together in confusion as she glanced to the side, up at the taller member. "You're standing right next to. Show me."

"No," he shook his head, "look at your phone."

Not wanting to start a pointless argument in the middle of the day, she leaned forward with a slight sigh to snatch her phone off the surface. Turning it around, the notification she had heard only a few seconds ago was beaming right in her eyes. With one quick click and the face-id feature, the group chat the three dormmates had created after moving in together opened. Mingyu's message, a picture, was right at the bottom. "The chair?" She thought out loud. The rapper had sent a screenshot from a website, showing a white woven chair. As all three of them were getting ready to move into the new place they had chosen to rent, the hunt for new furniture had begun. Some of their old stuff, they'd of course bring along, but as their current apartment was slightly smaller, they'd have a lot more space to fill in the future. Some of that space would be filled with a new and bigger dining table, that would ideally have chairs as well.

Mingyu nodded excitedly. "I just ordered them."

The girl's head snapped towards him, her lips slightly parted. "Huh?"

"Four of them. But I think six might be smarter. For more people, right?"

"You didn't order them." Her statement was possibly supposed to come out as a question, but it surely didn't sound like one. As she took a quick peek back at the picture an almost chuckle fell from her lips.

"I did," he repeated, nodding once again. With a few steps forward, the '97 Liner sat down next to her, grunting as he let himself fall onto the sofa.

"No, you didn't," each time, Minnie tried to convince herself of the fact that this man just admitted to buying four, almost six, of those garden stools, only for them to be put into their new dining space.

"I really did," Mingyu chuckled, not catching up with her distressed reaction. "Look," he held up his phone screen, "We have a similar dining table and it looks good," showing her a picture on the original website.

"But..." The female member stopped herself, "Why did you order them?"

"We said we'd go for a European style, so... you don't like them?" Finally, he had caught onto it.

Minnie could only shake her head, her eyebrows scrunched up apologetically as she locked eyes with him.

"What? Why not?" The rapper gasped.

She shrugged, "They don't look good."

"Yes, they do," he glanced back down at the screen, "If you sit on them, you'll feel like you're in Greece."

"Why would I want to feel like I'm sitting in Greece when I'm in my dining room? Maybe for the terrace, but definitely not for inside!" The girl started arguing.

"You said you liked the European style," Mingyu commented back, his voice getting slightly louder in annoyance.

"Yeah, European as in like... Scandinavian. Not beach style. This isn't cute for a dining room."

He shook his head, pushing himself back to stand up. "Look at them once they're here, and then maybe you'll like them. How would you know that now?"

Minnie was quick to shake her head, her laptop already back on the coffee table. "No, because I don't like this style in general. And my mom's an interior designer, I think I have a pretty good eye then."

He shrugged, "Maybe you don't."

The female member scoffed, thinking for a second if she should continue that exact conversation, but decided against it. "Why would you even order them without asking us first? I ask you guys about everything too!"

"You didn't when you ordered that knife set," Mingyu pointed out, on his way to the kitchen, but turned around when he noticed the serious stance the girl had taken.

"Are you serious?!" She huffed out, "What's bigger? The only four chairs at the dining table or three knives out of many more that we'll have?"

"But I'm gonna use the knives the most probably," he argued. A good point, but Minnie wasn't going to admit that in the heat of the moment.

"I'm gonna use them too!"

"Yeah, but me too! And you didn't ask me about them," he stated, now walking back to open the fridge door, and getting the bottle of water he was looking for.

"Okay!" The female member shot up from her place on the sofa, palms up. "Go and ask Wonwoo what he thinks of the chairs."

The oldest of the three was on the better end of the situation as he had been sitting at his gaming set-up for the past two hours. The noise-cancelling headphones being the biggest blessing as they kept him guarded off every single word that came from the '97 Liners.

"He said he doesn't care about the furniture. And," he added sheepishly, "he actually likes the European style."

"Mingyu! This isn't European!" Minnie whined out loud, holding her face in her hands. A frustrated sigh tumbled from her lips. She took a deep breath, trying to collect herself and not get too riled up over some chairs he had ordered, but he was really testing her.

"You know what?" With her phone in her hands, she started to make her way away from the couch and over to the small hallway that would eventually lead to the gamer's room. "I'll go and ask him since you clearly don't understand why this is-"

"Wait-"

The girl's rant was quickly interrupted when the taller member got a hold of her arm, pulling her in, making her back hit his chest and keep her from walking further.

"Let me go!" She fought against his tight embrace. But with no luck. "Mingyu, I swear to God-"

He tightened his arms around her, "Just listen to me-"

"Let me go and I'll listen," Minnie argued, stopping her frantic movements to try and shake him off.

"No, look-"

"I'm not listening."

The rapper sighed, "You'll go running as soon as I let go of you."

"No, I won't," she scoffed, turning her head to look up at Mingyu, only to find him with a smirk plastered on his face.

"Oh, yeah?"

"Yes." She spoke quietly, closing her eyes and nodding her head in etiquette.

As genuine as she sounded, the '97 Liner had known her for long enough to know how good of a romancer she had become, knowing just how to use her words and facial expressions for her benefit.

He grinned, "But listen to me first-"

"Mingyu! NO!" The girl started giggling in his arms, her hands coming up to wrap around his wrists, trying to push them off, which laughing only made it harder than it already was. "Leave me alone."

"Promise you won't go running off to Wonwoo-hyung," he tried to argue with her, a smile still evidently on her face, as well as on hers now.

Minnie rolled her eyes with a chuckle, "Sure, whatever, I promise. Just let me go," whining the last part out loud, trying to free herself with one last wiggle of her shoulders.

"That doesn't sound very convincing," Mingyu laughed at her attempt, only tightening his grip and pulling her deeper into him, getting a groan from the female member in return.

Her head snapped back, her hair tickling his chin for a split second.

"I'll scream." She suddenly threatened, getting a chuckle and 'tsk' in return. "You don't believe me?"

"Minnie-"

"OPPA-!" Her shrill voice echoed through the open room and hallway, only to be cut off within a second by Mingyu's big hand covering her mouth.

"Are you crazy?!" He glanced down at her with wide eyes, genuinely surprised by the sudden outburst. "What are the people underneath us gonna think?"

"I told you, I'd do it." He could feel her grinning underneath his palm, making him roll his eyes. His hand left her face before turning her body around in his embrace, now chest to chest with the smiling girl peeking up at him

"You're really annoying sometimes," he commented, not able to hold back copying her expression with the way she was looking at him.

With a finger to his chest, she blinked up, "But only sometimes," her lips curling into a sheepish smile.

Minnie patted the big muscle underneath his top, "Cancel the order," fluttering her eyelashes extra much, "Please."

"Maybe."

Her act immediately fell, her arms dropping down to her sides while his was still around her shoulder.

"But-" she was once again cut off, only this time by the messenger sounds from both of their phones. He reached into his back pocket, giving the girl the possibility to wiggle out of his embrace, now standing in front of him with her arms crossed.

After one quick look at the screen, he spoke up again. "We have to go." Informing her that the manager was probably already waiting for them downstairs.

"Cancel the order first," the female member didn't back down, continuing her argument.

Mingyu sighed, "Later." Before turning around to get to the front door to put on his shoes and jacket, "Get Wonwoo-hyung."

"Mingyu, cancel it, I'm serious. They're ugly," she continued, but he glanced passed her and raised his voice to call out for the older member, who was already coming out of the door to his gaming room, fixing the sweater he was wearing.

"Yeah, yeah, I'm here," he passed the girl, joining Mingyu in the hallway. Minnie looked at him almost offended. "You didn't hear me when I called out for you but when he does it you're up in a second?" Putting the fact that he was probably not wearing his headphones anymore these few seconds ago.

"When did you call for me?" Wonwoo wondered, crouching down to get his left foot into the sneaker.

The girl scoffed with a chuckle, walking up to him, "Wow... good to know you wouldn't hear if I was getting murdered."

Mingyu rolled his eyes with a sigh when the '96 Liner glanced at her in confusion and slight concern at the same time.

"Don't say stuff like that," reaching out to tap her chin. Minnie just shook her head and moved to her own pair of shoes in the corner.

The younger rapper was waiting for her, already in his outerwear, holding out his hand with her jacket in his grip. Without a word, she snatched it from him.

"You're being overdramatic," he commented, grazing a hand over her head of hair.

"Cancel the order, and I won't be," she shrugged off his statement, brushing past him to get to the door, but with his much longer legs, he had caught up with her, getting a hold of the handle first. He opened it and motioned for her to walk out first, chuckling even before his answer dropped from his tongue.

"Maybe later."

"Mingyu-" she turned back around, ready to smack him, only to be pushed further out the door by Wonwoo rolling his eyes in amusement behind her.

You better bet she was sulky about the situation during their practice session as well. And maybe the multiple times she then stepped on Mingyu's foot weren't all that accidental after all.

Taglist: @waosobii @chaebb @lunarxsun @hoe4wonwoo @kimhyejin3108 @soobzao @billboard-singer @cosmicwintr @zwiehe @alixnsuperstxr @angie-x3 @smooore @allthings-fandoms

#minnie 🌷#seventeen #seventeen oc #seventeen 14th member #mimiwon #minmi #mingyu #wonwoo #fluff #kpop #Addition #kpop oc

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kittykat-25 · 2 months

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One Of The Guys - Part 10

Parings: ??? x F! Reader

Genre: idol au, Friends x Lovers, angst

Warnings: Feminine pet names(pretty girl, Bubs,, cupcake, baby)

Summary: You tried really hard not to be a cliché, falling love with your best friend. How unoriginal. But when your best friend is Kim Hongjoong what are you supposed to do?

Now Playing: One Of The Guys- Jessia

Two Weeks Later

You had just locked the door to your apartment when your phone started ringing. Looking down you saw Wooyoung’s name. “Wooyoungieeee how are you?” You sang into the phone. “Bubs I miss you!” Woo said as soon as you answered. You both laughed, “I miss you too Woo. Yall come home soon right?” “Yeah a week left. We’re doing a variety show then coming back.” You continued the conversation as you walked down to the lobby, waiting for the all too familiar black car of Chans to pull up.

Wooyoung was quiet for a second before asking “how’s it going with Chan? Still strong? the pictures you sent of you guys were cute.” You smiled thinking over the past few weeks. He really only left your side to work or when his schedule got hectic. “You might’ve been right about some things…” you said quietly. Wooyoung perked up, drawing the attention of a certain captain who had been listening to every word Woo said to you. “About what?!?” He asked voice raising an octave.

Mingi looked over and Woo checked before putting the phone on speaker but turning down the volume. Thinking everyone else was sleeping. “I’m falling for him so hard guys.” You said, your voice full of hope. You sat down in the chairs of the lobby. Wooyoung smiled at Mingi while Hongjoong felt like his heart was being shredded. Being away from you but hearing about you from his members had only made his quest for you more important. He needed you to be his.

Mingi cut his eyes to Joong, seeing his eyes closed they continued the conversation. “Does this mean you’re over the other one.” He asked quietly. You sighed, “what I feel for Chan has made me see that nothing I felt for Hongjoong was real. It was all a school girl fantasy. Not the solid stable love I have.” Hongjoong did everything he could to not say something. These two knew you had liked him and said nothing to help their brother. Pushing you towards Chan instead. He heard you say your goodbyes to the boys and them rustling back into comfortable positions in the van.

Hongjoong had about five minutes before Wooyoung came back to get what he needed. His plan forming on the car ride back to the hotel. Unlocking Wooyoung’s phone he went to your contact and screenshotted all the text about Chan from you, sending them and the pictures of the two of you to himself. He quickly deleted everything and put Wooyoung’s phone back. Not caring about the damage this would cause. Only that you ended up back in his arms. Where you belonged.

He gathered everything he had sent himself and composed an email, inserting all the text and pictures into it. He reread the email and his send. Knowing this would surely be the end of your so called relationship with Bang Chan. Wooyoung walked into the dressing room as Hongjoong stretched out his legs, feeling much lighter than he had in days. “Why are you so smiley?” Wooyoung asked. “I just have a good feeling about this show Wooyoungie? Don’t you?” The captain responded as he stood up and walked out of the dressing room. Wooyoung shook his head before throwing all of his things into a bag, checking he had what he needed and followed their leader to the stage.

As Chan walked into the dorms the smell of baked goods filling his nose, he sighed, another long day and he hadn’t gotten a chance to see you at all this week. He closed the door and heard footsteps. Looked up he was greeted by Han, covered in flour. Laughter flowing out of the kitchen. One he recognized quite well, Han’s eyes widened, “Channie Hyung!” He basically yelled. All voice from the kitchen ceased. He shook his head, walking past Han who tried his best to keep him from the entry way. “Everything’s fine Hyung you don’t need to go in there!” Han kept saying tithing to pull Chan back.

He could see why as he came face to face with you, Felix and Seungmin covered in flour, egg dripping out of Felix’s hair. You were on the floor crouched down, laughing so hard your face was red. “Chan it’s not that bad!” Felix started to say but Chan only had his eyes on you! You looked up and the pure happiness radiating from you almost brought Chan to his knees. “Hey pretty girl.” He said, his voice almost a whisper. “You’re home early! We were baking you a cake!” You said standing up, flour falling from your clothes. Chan looked at the two younger boys, a smile on his face.

You looked at them a well adoration mixed in with the joy. “I didn’t let them set anything on fire. Don’t worry.” You said brushing the flour out of Seungmin’s hair. Chan melted at the act and the fact that Seungmin just smiled and let you. His kids welcoming you with open arms. “You chose to bake with these two? You’ve seen how that goes!” He said glancing around the wrecked kitchen. “Minho is going to kill you.” Felix laughed, “he saw it but y/n gave him a sliced of cake she brought and he just took it without saying a word.” Chan shook his head, “I’m going to shower, don’t let them set the dorm on fire please.” He said glancing at you. You raised up and kissed his cheek, effectively getting flour all over him as well. Seungmin groaned covering his eyes while Han make gagging noises.

Chan rolled his eyes and kissed you once before walking out, obviously to the smiles the guys all had on their faces. Once Chan left you returned to your baking, silence followed. “Say whatever you want to say.” You said to no one specifically. Felix stopped whisking and turned towards you, “thank you y/n. You make Chan happier than we’ve seen in a long time.” You blushed and nodded. “He deserves it, to be happy. He’s an amazing person.” Chan standing outside the door still smiled, a blush coating his face as he made his way into the bathroom. Planning a special date night for you soon.

A few days after the baking disaster you were sitting in the cafe outside of JYP waiting for Chan for a date night. He had gotten called into a meeting unexpectedly. Assuming it was about a comeback or helping the new trainees you patiently waited and called Wooyoung. “Y/n?!” He called into the phone, “hi Woo! How’s the break going?” You asked knowing he was at home relaxing after their comeback schedule. “Great, I’ve been unbothered all week. What about you?” You smiled, “been good, spending a lot of time with the kids and Chan. We’re about to go on a date actually. I just wanted to check on you.” Wooyoung laughed, “I’m good! Have fun and don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” He called before hanging up.

You hung up and realized you had a text from Chan asking to you to come to the conference room. Nervous you made your way into the building, Changbin waiting in the lobby for you. “Bonnie what’s going on?” You asked as he lead you to the elevators. “I don’t know. I was just told to get you.” He opened the door to the conference room and Chan stood coming to get you. Grabbing your hand and leading you to a seat beside him. The CEO and JY Park along with the SKZ staff all staring at you. “Chan?” You asked. “Ms. Y/LN. do you know anything about this?!” The CEO asked as he pulled up an online article.

Across the screen was a picture of you and Chan that you had taken on one of your dates. Your text scattered the background. A whole Dispatch article about your “hidden affair.” Your mind went blank, Chan gripped your hand tighter when you started shaking. “Clearly she didn’t know anything about it. Just as I told you. Y/N would never do this.” Chan said staring down his boss. “Well Chan someone got these from somewhere and sent them in. And now we have to clean it up.” He said back, annoyed. “We’ll release an article saying it all fake. Just clean it up quickly.” JYPark said. “No, I’m not going to deny that I’m in this relationship.” Chan said standing up. Pulling you with him. “Chan please be logical.” He started, “with all due respect sir. I love her and I refuse to deny being with her. Stay will learn to accept it and I don’t care what anyone else has to say. But I will not say that it’s fake when this relationship is anything but that.” He bowed and walked out of the room. You quickly bowed and followed along.

He stopped once he got past a wall pulling you into him. You hadn’t realized you were still shaking until you stopped moving. “I’m so sorry Chan I don’t know how they got out.” You said crying. “Baby no, it’s not your fault. We will find out who did this.” He said pulling you into a hug. “Your career, Stay, all of it is at risk Chan.” He cupped your face wiping your tears, “y/n I love you and I am not going to let anyone bully me into denying that.” You met his eyes, all the anger from before replaced with pure love. “I love you too Channie.” You said smiling up at him. “This is not how I wanted to tell you.” He said dropping his head to yours. “That’s okay. It doesn’t change how we feel.” You said cupping his cheek.

He kissed you lightly as the other members came around the corner. “Dear god my eyes please stop!” Hans said, Minho slapped his arm. “Leave them alone.” “Hyung what’s going on?” IN asked. Chan wrapped his arms around your waist, “someone leaked our pictures and y/n’s text about us.” Changbins fist clenched, all of the boys visibly angry. “Some of the more toxic fans are already calling for her head. They’ve tagged her social medias in the comments.” Minho said quietly as he scrolled through twitter.

Chan pulled you closer to his side. “I don’t want her going anywhere alone. It won’t be safe until they calm down.” The boys all nodded in agreement. Knowing how extreme some fake toxic fans could get. You checked your phone, social medias already blowing up with threats. You silently muted all comments and made your account private. “Do we know who?” Hyunjin asked. Chan shook his head but you spoke up, “I have an idea, but I have no proof.” All the boys head swiveled towards you. You looked up at Chan, anger coursing through you, “Hongjoong.”

As Hongjoong sat in the studio reading through the dispatch article, smiling to himself. There was no way your relationship would survive this. And when Chan picked his career over you, like any idol would, you’ll come crying back to him for comfort. And he’d be happy to give it to you. Finishing the article he looked at his phone, waiting for the text. Ignoring the ones from his members, focused solely on you.

He smiled when your name popped up, you were so predictable. “Hey Doll, you okay?” He said, throwing on the extra charm. “Why? Why would you do this?” You said, voice full of hurt and anger. “I don’t know what you mean Doll. Why don’t you come to the studio and we can talk about it.” He said, leaning back in his chair. “No. You crossed a line Hongjoong. You are risking Chans career and my safety. Over what? Having to share me?! You don’t own me.” You said, voice rising. “Come on Doll. Do you really think he’s going to risk his career for you? Just come back here where you belong y/n.” He said, voice full of cockiness. You laughed, it wasn’t your usual laugh he heard. It was dry and full of bitterness, “No. you are dead to me Kim Hongjoong. I will never forgive you for this.” The phone clicked as you hung up. Hongjoong’s heart dropping as he processed your words. What had he done?

A/N: HIIIII I hope you guys are enjoying the chaos🫣 Part 11 is going to have a time jump so beware!!!

TAGLIST🥰

@vampzity @sanslovesblog @sundaybossanova @skzline @edenesth @owmoiralover @scarfac3 @blackb3|| @ateezswonderland @amuromio @the-multishipper @mingisbbokari @chngbbnwf @vic0921 @woosmaid @sunset-heart

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legacygirlingreen · 2 months

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Part VI Chapter 5: The Repository I // Sebastian Sallow x Reader

A/N: Hi guys! I am finally back with my main story (I know it's been so long!) I have been dreading this since I HATE writing action but it's finally here. The repository! I hope you all enjoy, especially with my strays from canon... I did not edit this because I was too eager to get it out to you all. in the following days ill come back and edit... Anywho much love to those who continue to support me as always. @strawberrypinky my bestie. Anyone who wants to be added to the tag list I am going to try and start please let me know. I also love hearing your ideas so if you have any sound out. <3

Screenshot by @dvinaamesca

Audio for this chapter found HERE & HERE

As always this is Sebastian x y/n but there's almost NO usage of that so if you'd rather insert your MC or OC feel free to do so, just know it is female pronouns!

Masterlist for the other chapters is HERE

Word count: 9.3k

Warnings: violence, mentions of fighting, you know what the repository is about, BRIEF allusions and mentions of kidnapping / almost sexual assault

“Ready whenever you are Weasley.” Sebastian said, looking to the Gryffindor boy who stood towards the back of the great hall with Lucan, both of them holding vials of a mysterious liquid. If either of them wanted to risk their own safety with a Garreth original concoction to help him and the others escape, he wasn’t going to dare question it.

Carefully slipping behind a group of 3rd years at the hufflepuff table, being consoled by the flying instructor, Sebastian made his way to the side door of the great hall, leading out into the quartyard and the outside of the hufflepuff common rooms. As he came to stand by the others, he looked back to the Gryffindors they intended to leave behind, giving them a nod as he turned his attention back to the group.

“We won’t have long to slip out of here once they cause a diversion so we will all need to get working on breaking the charms on the door the second weasley causes a commotion. Natty, you’re the best with charms, mind taking charge?” he asked her as the girl nodded.

“Everyone is aware of where they are to report as soon as we get out of here? We will have to move quickly since they likely already shut down the floo network.” Sebastian whispered, seeing Mr. Moon inching closer and closer to them.

“Of course Sebastian. And we all plan to stay in groups of two so that no one is left alone.” Amit responded, ready to head with Samantha to the Ravenclaw tower to retrieve his notes on the goblins drills to identify points of weakness on their machinery.

Sebastian felt a weight drop in his stomach, as if the adrenaline finally was about to kick into gear. He was ready. He only hoped that he would be able to lead their classmates into battle carefully and safely. He understood the risk they were all taking, and appreciated their willingness to help.

Suddenly a loud bang filled the great hall. Everyone turned their heads to see bright fireworks going off near the entrance as the professors all rushed to discover the cause for commotion. Shrieks and laughter filled the room as Garreth and Lucan were both at the center of the disruption.

“Now!” Sebastian said as Natty attempted to remove the charms placed on the side exit. Just as they were getting somewhere, a figure came up directly behind Sebastian.

“Ah Mr. Sallow… attempting to make a hasty exit are we?” Mr. Moon spoke as he turned around.

“I -” Sebastian thought their plan was done for, knowing that more than likely the man would prevent them from leaving. He watched with surprise as a look of mischief crossed the man’s eyes and he sent a small charm towards the door, allowing it to crack open.

“Go. I’ll cover for you all.” he said with a wink, casting a large disillusionment charm over the entire group, and turning back around with a whistle.

“Now’s our chance, let’s go” Sebastian whispered as they all made their way out of the great hall.

Once the doors slid shut and locked back into place, the illusion was dropped, each of them coming back into view once more. The group picked up the pace, rushing around past the yawning gargoyle as they all rushed to the quad to re enter the school’s halls to disperse wherever they needed. Once inside, Natty, Leander, Everret and Imelda took off towards the library annex and the front of the school. Samantha and Amit rushed towards the ravenclaw tower above them, as Sebastian and Poppy followed, ready to head towards the Astronomy Wing from the bridge near the ravenclaw common room. As the group dispersed, the castle’s shaking continued to grow more and more intense.

As the group rounded the stairs that lead to the ravenclaw common room, Poppy called out to the two students by saying “We will have the others pick you up from the rooftop!” before her and Sebastian rushed down some of the stairs leading towards the Defense against the Dark art’s tower.

Sebastian was surprised seeing how much faster than him the small girl moved, considering how much shorter her legs were than his own, but he didn’t question it. They had the most ground to cover, and needed to find her knapsack in the room of requirement, as well as Highwing and possibly Calico before they headed off. Sebastian knew the hippogriffs were fiercely loyal to the girl, and having them in the fight would prove handy in tracking her location.

Soon the pair found themselves out of breath and in front of the room’s appearing doors. Sebastian hardly waited, as he pushed his way inside, rushing towards the vivarium she kept the creatures in when a small voice called out behind him.

“Mr. Sallow! Ms. Sweeting!” turning around Sebastian saw Deek looking frightened at their hasty entrance.

“Deek, I’m glad to see you’re alright.” Sebastian said, frantically looking for the old leather bag she stored in the room.

“Deek heard what happened to our friend and he sent the phoenix to help. Was he able to locate the camp Ms. Sweeting?” Deek asked, walking towards a small shelf, pulling a chair to sit directly under it, before climbing up onto it.

Poppy only nodded, using this time to catch her breath as she avoided looking at sebastian.

“Good. Those poachers are always up to no good. I am glad our friend is alright.” Deek reached up, retrieving the leather bag Sebastian was looking for easily before handing it off to him”

“Deek went ahead and already put Highwing inside. I figured it might come in handy having them if she came to the room. You’ll take them to her for him right? Deek is so honored to serve such a kind witch like her.” he said, nervously fidgeting as he handed Sebastian the bag.

“I promise we will Deek, thank you for your help.” With a snap of his fingers, the house elf left them standing there in the dimly lit room.

“Ready?” He asked the hufflepuff girl, noticing the way she was staring at something above one of the planting stations on the wall. Just as Sebastian was turning back to the hall leading to the door she let out a loud wail, collapsing to the ground faster than he could react as she folded in on herself.

By the time he made it to her shaking frame, Poppy was tucked into fetal position, rocking back and forth as she struggled to breathe, all the while tears rained down her face. Somewhere between the loud cries and struggled to breathe he could hear her attempting to speak but couldn’t tell what she was saying.

“Hey, shhh Poppy…” he cut himself off before reprimanding the girl on the poor timing of her outburst as he saw a moving portrait of his witch and the girl along the wall.

“I , I…” she started to say as he tried his best to figure out what was upsetting the girl.

“Hey Sweets , you gotta breathe alright? Not doing anyone any good by hyperventilating and I really hate to leave you behind but if you’re not well enough to fight-“

“No!” She shouted, startling him. In her brown eyes Sebastian could see a look reminiscent of a cornered animal, so he leaned back slightly, giving her some space.

“I -“ Poppy spoke looking at his outstretched hand in the gap between them where he’d paused it before she continued crying. “I’m so sorry” the hufflepuff girl wailed as she covered her face with shaky hands.

Finally taking the risk he leaned forward enough to put a hand on her shoulder as he felt the tremors wracking her body as she cried. If he left her, he was concerned she’d join them later and alone, so he needed to calm her and do so quickly.

“Poppy,” he said with a sigh as she continued crying into her palms. She refused to look at him so once again he repeated her name much more firmly this time. “Poppy.”

The girl paused, sniffling before removing her hands as he looked at her blotchy cheeks and he sighed as he removed his hand from her shoulder.

“It’s not your fault Poppy, I don’t blam-“

“It is my fault! If I hadn’t asked her to accompany me then she wouldn’t have gotten hurt!” The girl said before once again dissolving into tears.

“Rookwood could’ve gotten to her any time, it’s not your fault… she’s had a lot of dangerous people after her for a while now. It was only a matter of time before-“ Sebastian tried his best to reason with the girl, and while he found the words heavy upon his tongue, deep down he knew their truth. He couldn’t blame Poppy for what happened. Perhaps a much younger version of himself would. It would be an easy scapegoat for what happened since the hufflepuff girl had indeed abandoned his love, but his resolve in loving the girl in question caused him to see this wasn’t Poppy’s fault. She was only doing as she was asked from the little bits and pieces he had heard. He just simply wanted to know more…

“Poppy what happened?” He asked her gently after a prolonged period of silence overtook the space and she sucked in a deep breath before telling him everything.

How they had flown over the area, arrived near Feldcroft and found a camp. What they overheard and how his love slipped into the camp in secret and found the journal off rookwoods desk, before all hell broke loose. How she begged the girl to get Anne to safety. How as she left all she heard was the ashwinders using crucio. What happened with Solomon on feldcroft and how she had refrained from telling Anne the truth. How she had come back to the school and retrieved the potions master, enlisting the help of the centaurs to free her. The horrid state his love had been found in - battered, bruised and bare.

Poppy shivered as she explained watching the girl hobble out of the camp wearing essentially only Professor Sharp's overcoat before Rookwood emerged. How she killed him in anger and frustration but did so by repelling his own usage of the killing curse before collapsing and having to be carried back by the professor.

She told him about the fight in the hospital ward between his love and Solomon as his uncles sins had been revealed. How the staff watched in horror as she repeatedly punched the man over and over again until she bloodied his nose and busted his lip, all the while having the injuries from her imprisonment still visible. As the school had started shaking they left the hospital ward the same time poppy had been ushered out with Garreth Weasley who had come back by having heard the girl was back safe after helping by finding his aunt to inform her.

Sebastian gladly accepted her fast and nervous explanation of the events he’d only been allowed brief snippets of until now. Taking a deep breath as she finally seemed to have stopped crying, Sebastian reached a hand out to her shoulder to comfort her in a way that wouldn’t be inappropriate.

“Poppy it’s not your fault. You were doing as she asked of you… and in doing so you helped my sister. You also went back to help her. I don’t blame you, in fact…” he trailed off as the girl looked up to him from where he knelt next to her on the floor as he spoke. “I should be thanking you. You helped save Anne, my sister is getting the help she needs because of you. You saved her life by going back. That means the world…” he told her as he felt a surge of gratitude.

“But-“

“We don’t have much time, and she needs us. How about we hash this out later okay? Just please know, I don’t blame you. And I’m thankful to you for helping Anne. We are all really fortunate to have you as a friend…” he confirmed as he offered his hand out to pick her up off the floor. Looking around the room he noticed an assortment of cloaks, glasses and items she had discovered exploring with protective charms.

Looking at the loom in the corner he saw something much more his size than her own. As he picked it up, underneath was a page that had descriptions of what beast items had been used alongside ones she intended to acquire eventually to add. At the top she saw his name with “ancient magic keeper”. Unsure what it all meant, and realizing the depth of the danger they were marching into, he decided to make the executive decision to take it now, knowing if she was still alive a part of her would be relieved to see him safe.

“Poppy, grab some stuff out of the chest she has of items from the tombs we’ve explored. They have protections on them. Most of them are ridiculous but… every little thing we can do to help out is important. We can take some with us for the others as well” he explained before hauling off into the other room where he knew she kept a dressing screen and stripping off his dirty clothes from completing the keeper trial pulling on the cloth and leather suit she’d weaved for him. He was always impressed with her ability to recognize the needs of others so thoroughly and realize them into perfect gifts. Shaking his head he rejoined poppy as she had finally sifted through the more useful items such as cloaks and scarfs, holding them as he emerged.

“She’s been working on that for a long time.” Poppy explained and he nodded.

“I can imagine… It's really detailed. I can feel the magic protecting it” he said while dropping his normal cloak to the floor while helping her grab items for the others in his hand not holding the leather bag. He’d come back for his uniform later, right now they needed to hurry.

“Let’s go meet up with the others atop the astronomy tower, come on” he said as they left the room and headed off quickly.

Just as they made it to the top observation deck a flash of blue round the side of the stone tower.

“Did someone call for a lift?” Everett asked as Imelda flew next to him. Sebastian saw Natty on the back of the broom already behind Everett and when he asked who he was meant to be joining, Leander awkwardly climbed higher into view as he clung to his broom for dear life. Poppy began to climb over the railing, hopping behind Imelda without much word.

Just as he went to ask about the extra broom Amit showed up with Samantha riding next to him, along with a face he hadn’t expected.

“Larson?” Sebastian asked at seeing the Ravenclaw in their class who rarely spoke up. Amit offered an explanation for why they were there, not waiting at their common room’s roof, as well why the blond was now suddenly with them.

“We got to our common room and when I got to my room I found Andrew had been left behind. When the professors ushered everyone out they forgot to check the roof somehow and Andrew got locked out. He was just making his way out to find out what happened when Samantha and I arrived. He offered his broom along with our Quidditch captains that he, uh… borrowed…” Amit explained as Sebastian looked to the only open spots to hop on.

Before he could even ask Andrew to spare him from having to sit with Leander, Samantha explained their quick rational, ruining his plan of riding with the Ravenclaw not the Gryffindor : “Andrew has offered to go to Hogsmeade and find Officer Singer and get help” Dale spoke and he sighed. It was a smart addition to their plan and he nodded to the young man.

“Sallow stop stalling and just get on with Preset. It won’t kill you.” Imelda called out with an annoyed eye roll and he rationalized that while his housemate was correct, it didn’t mean he had to enjoy it.

“Alright. Thanks Larson. Prewett, make room” Sebastian grunted out, levitating the items he carried over to Poppy’s outstretched arms before climbing over the rails, reaching towards the ginger as he jumped, landing on the back of the broom unceremoniously.

“Do me a favor and don’t fall off” the boy said and he huffed in reply.

“Prewett please don’t get us killed on this thing” he said as he reached around behind himself to grab the broom for stabilization instead of the boy near him.

“I wasn’t planning on it, Sallow” Leander said with an eyeroll.

“How much further?” Solomon grumbled out as they made their way down the steps into the repository. Opening the door she saw a long walkway leading to another door with the ruin she’d grown so acclimated to seeing at this point.

“A problem Solomon?” she hissed out as she felt each step burn her lungs further from the anguish delt during her captivity. Unfortunately fate was forcing her from one bad situation into another and although she wishes she’d been granted the simple chance to see Sebastian - possibly say goodbye if things went south - Fig’s confirmation he was safe meant the world.

Glancing over her shoulder to see her Lover’s guardian walking alongside professor Sharp as Fig made his way leading the pack, she waited for his response. His eye roll is almost invisible due to the forming black eye. It reminded her of the way her knuckles had fallen against the man’s face and she simply huffed in response and turned back, attempting to prepare for what was to come.

“The others should be joining us shortly” Eleazar informed the group and she nodded, relieved to know that the other professors would soon be assisting and that for once she wouldn’t be dealing with the keeper business on her own.

As they made it to the end of the walkway and pushed open the final door the ground beneath them shook violently, nearly sending everyone to their knees as a large drill became visible off in the distance. She had seen drills like this once before, off with Amit in a mine when Lodgok was still alive. Lodgok. She tried not to grimace as she was reminded of her goblin friend who had died to help wizard kind defend themselves against his brother.

“Damn. The Goblins” Fig announced as the others regained their balance.

“I wonder if Ranrok is with them?” she pondered, looking for a safe way down now that the cavern was beginning to collapse onto itself.

“One way to find out. Over here.” Fig called from the right and she saw a winding path leading down, following behind him as the professor and Solomon picked up the pace to join.

Rushing ahead she tugged at the leather harness she’d snagged on her way down to the map chamber, hoping it would do its best to protect her for the fight ahead. The material scratched the newly developing scars in a way that was uncomfortable, however she’d have to ignore that for the time being.

As they rounded out to flat ground she saw movement ahead, along with some goblins standing next to one of the drills.

“Quickly. We’ve got company ahead” she rushed, leaving the men behind as she charged in without pondering the consequences. So often when dealing with this threat she snuck around, using the disillusionment charm Sebastian had taught her. On missions to keeper trials, seeing Lodgok, with Sebastian chasing Isadora’s memories - each time she usually resorted to sneaking around and only using violence when necessary. However today, watching these goblins wielding such dark magic, attacking a school to which she’d found a home, she was seeing red. They would pay for what they had done with blood.

She had leveled several goblins using ancient magic in a fit of rage without even realizing it, that was until Fig placed a palm against her shoulder, indicating that the path was now clear and she nodded, following after him, leaving Solomon Sallow stunned for a moment. In his mind, he’d always viewed the girl as innocent. She so sweetly regarded his niece and acted nothing but a love-smitten girl to his nephew, yet watching her effortlessly reduce a horde of goblins in her bath to nothing but a pile of ash, he shuddered at what she was truly capable of.

He was worried what would happen when she finally unleashed the full extent of her anger upon him for what he’d done to Sebastian.

“What in Merlin’s name was that? What kind of dark magic are you wielding?” he asked in fear as the other professors shrugged, having seen the girl wield this magic before.

“That is what happens to those who choose to harm others…” she hissed as his blood ran cold. Solomon actually stepped back, fearful as he watched her eyes darken and the grip on her wand tighten. The scar running from the top of her eyebrow, coming down to her right nostril only adding to the illusion that his girl he’d allowed in his home was truly dangerous.

“Now is not the time” Professor Sharp told her firmly, breaking the trance she had fixed upon Solomon and she huffed, turning to face the path ahead once more.

Aesop Sharp used a modified version of the blasting charm, knocking the large goblin made drill out of their path as everyone continued ahead.

The blood thrumming behind her ears had drowned out the loud sounds of stones falling, drills piercing the school’s sanctity and the shouts from both the goblins and her allies. In the midst of the rubble, smoke, water’s spray and ash she hardly could focus on the task at hand. Her mind being plagued by a sole thought: Sebastian Sallow.

Fighting to keep him safe.

Fighting to end this goblin threat so his home would be free.

Fighting to seek justice for Anne.

Fighting to get back to him and the life she wished to build.

Rushing ahead, Professor Fig led them all into a crouch underneath a rock blocking majority of the path. As they came to the other side safely, the wall to the left exploded, a large armored troll barreling through as another erupted on the opposing wall.

As terrifying as the sight would have been to some, all it did was trigger her memory. Suddenly she was back in Hogsmeade, that first day she had spent at Hogwarts. Professor Weasley had granted her the choice in who would accompany her, and the boy whom she’d met in the common room, as well as defeated in a duel never straying from her mind.

Their playful banter as they walked, and how he had slipped off while she got her wand, leaving a slight longing to see his chocolate iris as she was handed the elegant dogwood she’d grown accustomed to carrying. As soon as she found him again in the square, they were quickly faced with a troll, similar to the one swinging its club at her now.

She tried not to become distracted as she fought it, occasionally hearing spells muttered by the professors and Solomon as they all attempted to fight off the trolls and emerging goblins. Yet, she truly couldn’t help but see the way Sebastian had pushed himself between her and the danger, ready to protect her.

The mind was such a wild thing, as she could almost feel his arm wrapping itself around her waist protectively as he pulled her to the side as that troll had barreled near her. Except this time when she blinked she saw it was not Sebastian at all. This time, it had been the much larger frame of Aesop Sharp as his eyes sternly looked to her for confirmation she was alright before he turned to continue the onslaught of spells.

Soon the four of them reduced the enemies ahead to the ground, as it seemingly became aware that the path ahead was veiled. As she rounded a small outsticking section of the rock, a bluish glow of ancient magic allerted her.

“This is the way forward,” she said, as the men looked perplexed at the normal stone wall. It wasn’t until she pushed a bright blue beam of magic towards it, did ice like shards spray around them, and a path was revealed.

They all entered the darkened cave as suddenly four wands illuminated with the hushed combined voices speaking Lumos. While dust reigned down on them from the moment above she once again was reminded of how not long ago in a similar mine her and Sebastian had whispered the spell to get past some devil’s snare on their way to seek answers about Isadora.

Finally coming out of the darkened section of cave she dropped her wand, rushing ahead and leaving the men behind. Adrenaline flooded her veins and she’d be damned if she wasted the universe’s way of keeping her safe by creating the sense of urgency around dispelling this Goblin threat. Reaching this level of goblins, she realized they had been under the school a while in this portion. Small wooden structures and supplies had been moved in, and there were many more enemies here.

“Such Arrogance” a goblin close to her called out and she couldn’t help the frustrated grunt that escaped her as she lifted him into the air, using Accio to haul him through the space as she knocked him to the ground.

As one came close to professor Fig’s back she recalled one of the spells that had become her favorite: Confringo.

The way Sebastian had pressed his chest into her back the day he’d shown her the undercroft, instructing her through the spell’s movement before stepping back and allowing her to ignite the chandeliers. She’d never forget the way he smiled so brightly she saw his white teeth, noting the way their slightly large shape was both slightly awkward but so incredibly endearing.

As the goblin ahead was sent back in a fiery blast that erupted from the end of her wand, she was brought back to reality. She wasn’t in the undercroft with Sebastian. And it would do her good to remember so as she faced this threat. But trying to retrain one’s mind to forgo a love so grand, so deep that it was as if he was ingrained in her very soul, even in the face of danger, was no easy task.

Solomon sent the last of the goblins in their path to the ground with a spell she hadn’t truly heard, not that she cared. Looking around, once again she saw a wisp of magic, signaling the others as she shattered it and pressed forward. As they emerged this time on the other side of the cave, they came to a large open section.

The path leading to a drop off was narrow, and in the process of rushing forward she nearly fell down, only being stopped by Solomon’s quick reaction of grabbing her arm, hoisting her back. She didn’t have a chance to react to it as her eye’s suddenly focused on what lay ahead.

A whole army of goblins, several large armored trolls and even some spiders lay in their path to the repository. Bloody Hell.

“Merlin be with us” Fig whispered as she suddenly felt the resolve which had carried her thus far beginning to crumble. She had dealt with much, but the vast majority of those times there had been a fraction of enemies in her path. This was simply the sort of battles detailed by muggle epic’s and she wondered how she was expected to traverse this alive to even be able to defend the ancient magic store.

“I-” she muttered, backing away from the ledge in fear as the men turned towards her, knowing that they didn’t have a choice. Fig knew that at the end of the day they’d need to get her across this battle zone, even if they did so carrying her. She was the only one who could open the repository to protect it.

Suddenly all she wished for was to be back in Sebastian’s arms the way she had a few days prior. When he saw her and Poppy off. When he held her so tightly, afraid to let go. Had he known the dangers ahead? Was it the universe trying to grant him a precious goodbye with her? Was she destined to die down in this cave without the opportunity to see him once more?

“Hey -” she was so worried she hadn’t noticed the way the concerned former Auror had knelt down near her until Professor Sharp’s eye’s scanned her face. He had seen her apprehension a mile away. While the girl had done so well, he knew at some point she’d start to allow the situation to wilt her strength. Removing the only helpful potion he had on him at the time, he thrust the focus draught into her hands, removing the cork, and forcing her to down its contents.

Her hyperventilating temporarily stopped and she nodded, ready to push on, but the pit was only growing harsher in her stomach. As they stepped towards the walkway to the right suddenly the loud sound of people apperating filled the air.

Looking to the left, the four already battle worn individuals saw their backup in the form of the other professors. Relief flooded her veins as she adjusted the grip on her wand. At least they would all have people protecting them from above as they ran through this battle.

“The Goblins have somehow evaded the school’s defensive charms” she heard professor Ronen call out to the others as their group made their way down to where they could be seen by their assistance.

“Lead them this way, we will make quick work of them!” she heard Natty’s mother shout as the professors began firing at the goblins ahead, clearing a path as they made their way down.

“The others are clearing a path for us, let’s hurry” Professor Fig shouted as they all rushed forward, taking advantage of the empty battlefield.

Coming across a small land bridge made of stone she saw Hecat standing atop an embankment, clearing the grounds for them as she shouted a thankful remark at the DADA instructor. “Couldn’t have had better timing Professor Hecat” she remarked playfully, knowing that under similar circumstances Sebastian often resorted to humor in order to calm himself. She found the strategy to be helpful as the older woman smiled down at her while knocking down a goblin and saying, “I couldn’t allow the school’s best duelist to face this alone now could I? Who else would be around to win at that illicit school club without you around?” the woman teased her back, knowing that the girl was attempting humor in this frightening situation to ground herself.

“Thank you professor” Fig called out, signaling the lagging Sharp and Solomon to catch up.

“You wouldn’t dare Sharp” Solomon grumbled as they caught up.

“Don’t tempt me Sallow” the former Auror’s bickered as they continued firing curses.

“Now is not the time for this” she reminded them, despite the burning desire to see whatever pain Sharp was intended to inflict upon her love’s guardian.

This battle would not be easy but they could not resort to fighting each other at this moment. Just as the area ahead looked clear, the largest troll she’d seen to date came barreling ahead.

“Especially not when we just got company….” she signed, raising her wand ready to fight alongside the others.

With the lead of Imelda, the group of students finally set down at the base of the goblin-created cave. Inside Sebastian could hear shouting and spells being cast.

Sebastian had asked to set down the brooms in order to pass out the gear he and Poppy retrieved from the Room of Requirement as he eagerly removed himself from behind Leander.

Taking the leather bag from Poppy, he used magic to remove both Highwing and Calico, the two hippogriffs the girls had rescued from its contents. He would be damned if he let Pruitt fly him into battle. The boy was utterly dreadful on a broom.

“Woah, easy now highwing” he found himself attempting to settle the hippogriff before turning to Poppy. From what he knew of the girl he knew she likely would be more comfortable with a beast.

“Poppy, would you like to take-” he started to say as the hufflepuff girl quickly cut in, rushing towards the darker creature to gently stroke it’s feathers.

“Oh yes!” she spoke as she turned towards Calico and continued praising him saying, “Oh what a handsome hippogriff you are indeed!” Despite the mortal danger looming, Sebastian still found it within him to chuckle at her childlike wonder regarding the creature.

“Any last minute advice?” Natty asked as they readied themselves.

“These are ridiculous” Leander mentioned holding up a pair of glasses that had a single eye of newt.

“Then don’t take them. I figured you prefer as much protection on that ugly mug of a fac-” he started as Poppy shoved past him, reaching for Calico.

“Sebastian, focus” Natty told him and he grunted.

“I haven’t exactly thought this far ahead. I usually just march in-” he started as the ginger grumbled, having pushed a pair of quidditch goggles onto his face reluctantly while wrapping the most hideous patchwork cloak known to man over his shoulders.

“I don’t love the thought of going in unprepared Sallow. That’ll get us killed. So unless you have a plan, perhaps this wasn’t a great idea” Leander said.

“Actually…. I have a plan…” Amit spoke out, disrupting the argument as everyone turned to him.

“Go ahead Amit” Sebastian said, ready to simply get in there and help.

“Well since you and Poppy have those… beasts… why don’t you both focus on finding y/n… as for the rest of us, we will make sure we are paired up. One person focuses on flying and keeping a safe distance while the other casts spells, uses potions or the plants we collected. The goblins, from what I've seen, have such a short range on the magic they can conjure, so if we fly above them we should be safe…” he explained as Sebastian nodded.

“Sounds good enough to me. Poppy and I can take up the rear-”

“I want to stay near the front with Imelda,” she said quickly.

“Fine. But once I leave to find her, you will need to pull up the rear Poppy” he explained, hoping up on the back of Highwing. Luckily he’d spent enough time around the creature that it allowed him with ease.

Poppy only nodded, looking at Imelda nervously, as the Slytherin gave the hufflepuff girl a nod of encouragement while she climbed on the back of Calico.

“Last chance to turn back” he warned the others and when no one left he simply encouraged the creature she loved to lift off, flying into the cavern and hoping by some miracle he got down there before too much death and destruction was dished out.

Pushing the beast to hasten Sebastian tried his best to focus so he could get to her safely.

“Come on Highwing… let’s go get our girl” he whispered into her feathers as the animal seemingly responded accordingly to his words.

“Bombarda!” Sharp yelled at the troll, sending it flying backwards as the last of the trolls in their way was defeated. However, as the beast fell down, it knocked into a giant stone structure on its way over the cliff to their right.

As the girl looked up all she saw was that large rock coming down to crush her and before she could react, she witnessed magic halting it midair. Suddenly the rock was lifted into a makeshift bridge connecting to the repository. As she turned around Professor Weasley smiled and held it there for her as she rushed forward. Behind her Fig and Sharp were dispelling the few goblins around them as Solomon pushed past her to the repository.

Following behind him, she hoped the others would soon follow and that someone would prevent the goblins hot on her trail from harming her as she ran quickly across the unstable structure. Just as she got close enough to see Solomon’s face, she saw it fall as Matilda was struck, dropping the land bridge as she reached out to the man. Solomon reached forward, grabbing her arms just in time and pulling her to solid ground as the rock fell, the goblins attop falling to the depths below with it.

“Thank you-” she said and the man nodded looking down. It was impossible not to see Sebastian in his eyes, as they shared so many of the same features, but the darkened eyes with gold flecks being their main similarity.

“Fig!” she shouted and the man turned briefly to see her trapped on the other side with Solomon. Seeing that there was no longer a way across, he quickly retrieved the wand, tossing it to her as she used magic to catch it.

“Go! Defend the repository! We shall find another way around to help you when we can!” Fig shouted before returning to fight the goblins alongside the other professors.

“But” she began to protest but Fig shook his head, shouting “Go!” before resuming his fight with the other professors and the goblins.

“Well, I guess we are on our own” she said dejectedly, not wanting Solomon to be her only line of defense. She couldn’t trust him if he would endanger his own wards, but given the circumstances she didn’t have a choice.

“About what happened-” he tried to speak and she merely held up her palm to stop him.

“Some other time.” she said, encouraging him to follow as she pushed ahead, finding the opening to the repository guarded by two large pensive guards. At first they remained still, but she knew soon they would lift their weapons and likely attack them both.

“Where are we?” Solomon huffed out, ignoring the splendor of the cavern. Oh how she wished Fig was here. She’d been on this journey all year, and it was finally leading here. To be with someone who didn’t understand the momentous moment this was - someone she truly wanted to harm given the circumstances - felt sickening in a way.

Sighing, she responded, “The final repository”. Despite wishing she was far away from Solomon Sallow, she still had wonder and intrigue in her tone.

In the time she’d known Sebastian’s uncle, she’d always wondered truly how bad the man could be. Given the revelations she’d had in the past twenty four hours, combined with the things Sebastian had told her, it shouldn't have been such a shock. The man frequently spoke down on his deceased brother. He treated Anne as if she was some wounded pet to look after, and not a young woman deserving of basic respect. He tormented his nephew from the day that boy stepped foot in Feldcroft, stripping him of a physical identifier and means to which the late Alice Sallow had shared with her son. Yet, the venom to which laced itself in the man's voice finally gave the girl a glimpse into what it really must’ve been like for Sebastian to grow up with this man - this dreadful, horrible, evil man - as a guardian. “You say that like it’s supposed to mean something girl”.

“It means something to me” she returned, hoping that he would just shut his mouth and deal with the situation on hand but the man continued to plague her by asking, “What does it mean?”

“It’s a long explanation that we certainly don’t have time for,” she grumbled, stepping forward. Finally close enough to trigger the guards from their sleep, they came to life, lifting their swords with a loud and ominous sound. Trying to warn the man, who seemingly had become distracted by the room itself she called, “Mr. Sallow” in order to alert him.

“What?” he responded in annoyance so once again she called his name. Finally sensing the danger he turned to her in anger, shouting “What sort of dark magic is this?” Solomon raised his wand ready to strike. She simply pushed his arm down, hoping he wouldn’t engage the guardians.

“Uncle Solomon, please!” She resorted to calling him by the name which her love used, hoping to appeal to the man's better nature, to no avail.

“Stand back!” the man shouted, pushing her to the side as she grew annoyed. Once again she called his name in warning and he kept going, shouting “What are these things?!” as the guards stalked closer.

“They are guardians!” she spoke, hoping her knowledge would convince the man to listen to her warnings but he continued to ready his wand to strike.

“Guardians of what?” In the man's voice she sensed his fear, but his stubbornness - a trait it seemed followed all the Sallow’s - was stronger.

Finally annoyed with his inability to listen she told him, “Stop! You cannot fight them!” Deep down she knew that these guards were only taken down by ancient magic, and only partially slowed by ordinary magic.

“The hell I can’t! I was an Auror!” he called back, nearing a spell as she desperately pulled his arm, the man shoving her off aggressively.

“You are going to get yourself killed!” she told him but he still refused to listen to her.

As if it all made sense the man turned to her angrily shouting, “But Sebastian will kill me regardless if you die!”

Sebastian. Wait Sebastian! She quickly drew the wand that he had collected for Fig on her behalf from Olivander, holding it out to the guardians shouting “STOP”. Suddenly the guards halted, turning their swords inward as they allowed them to pass without attacking.

“But - how?” he stuttered as he watched the young girl wallace ahead without fear between the now paralyzed statues.

“I told you. There’s an explanation for this. For all of this” she told the man. Turning her head she saw him contemplating as she informed him, “come along” as finally Solomon began to trail behind her once more.

“What in Merlin’s name is that-” Solomon asked her as he got the first glance at the magic ahead. She could sense it's dark energy even from this far away.

“It’s the magic I wield, ancient magic, but it's been corrupted by negative emotions and pain by a former wielder of the same magic. The house atop the hill where Anne was cursed… she lived there many years ago… Rookwood thought the magic was his birthright given his descendant Charles was also a keeper of this magic” she admitted to the man.

“Thats- that’s what the goblins have been wielding isnt it?” he asked and she nodded.

“It’s up to us to defend it” she told him with a sigh. She watched the older man’s eyes soften for a moment as he looked at her.

“You’ve been doing this? The whole time? You are hardly of age and you are the sole thing holding wizard kind’s fate in your hands?” he asked her, his words void of anger.

“Yes,” she told him honestly.

“How much of this has Sebastian gotten himself involved in?” Solomon asked.

“Enough to help me get answers but he’s never been close to this amount of danger. I don’t want him near this. This magic is what almost killed me once. Likely will be what kills me in the end…” she said quietly as she looked on at it.

They didn’t speak for a moment as the weight of what she spoke hung in the air. She knew deep down that at the end of this long journey either Ranrok would kill her and take the magic, or she would have to kill the goblin to prevent a full uprising.

“I had no idea Sebastian had gotten himself involved with something this complex. I am honestly surprised he hasn’t tried to prevent you from getting involved in danger given how much he has grown to care for you” the man spoke and she shook her head.

“He only wished to help. He knew he couldn’t stop me. He knows this is too important to let childish whims prevent me from my legacy…” she said sadly, thankful he had supported her so well given the obsessive nature to which he initially had when she met him surrounding Anne’s curse. Over the year, his mind had cleared, his resolve and maturity finally seeing the light of day at the encouragement she provided.

“But he loves you, so much so that-” Solomon was interrupted by a voice she had only heard a few times, and it made her blood run cold.

“The arrogance of wizard kind. Goblins built this repository, it belongs to us.”

When Sebastian and the others finally made it to the base of the opening created by the drills all he saw was utter chaos.

Smoke, ash, debris, fallen goblins, fallen trolls, rubble and smashed wood all lay along the ground. As they flew overhead he tried to find the bulk of the firefight, tightening his thighs along the hippogriffs back as it sped ahead. Soon he flew above professor Garlic and Onai surrounded by Goblins as he yelled to the others.

“Look down there! Professor Garlic needs help!” the ginger shouted as he continued to look down on the platform with worry.

“Hold on a second, wait-” Sebastian tried to warn the boy that keeping the distance was the safer option. Having seen Leander in crossed wands he truly did worry the boy was going to get himself killed.

“Unlikely Sallow!” he said, veering off from the group as Sebastian’s eyes grew large.

“Leander! What are you doing? We had a plan!” he shouted over the noise, hoping the boy would listen to reason but the gryffindor only flew lower to the ground.

“To hell with the plan, this place is a madhouse. Just keep going!” He informed them all before he sped ahead, dismounting without a second thought and dropping next to the herbology professor. Sebastian watched in shock as the boy very bravely opened his robe pockets and began to toss several cabbages out, preventing the goblins from advancing.

“Mr. Prewett!” Maribel shouted upon seeing the cabbages chase after the few remaining goblins

“Thought you could use a hand professor!” he said, before reaching in and grabbing a venomous tentacular and throwing it to the ground as it began attacking the closest goblin nearby as Leander continued proving his point by saying “nasty little buggers aren’t they!”

“Wonderful thinking I suppose. Magical plants can be deadly after all” the herbology professor said. Well so much for their plan. Sebastian reasoned as he watched the only ounce of Gryffindor bravery Leander Prewett ever displayed as he tossed a venous tentacular at their professor who simply smiled and began using the plants to protect themselves.

“Well that plan lasted about a few seconds” came a voice beside him as Sebastian turned his head seeing Everette Cloptan with Natty still riding behind him. He could see the look in the Gryffindor’s eyes and knew that she too would likely disembark, and when Natty spoke it only confirmed what he figured.

“Everett set me down there with my mother” was all she spoke as the broom dropped low, and Natty hopped off to join her mother as Everret nodded, flying off to keep an eye out above.

“Natty! What are you doing here?” her mother asked sternly.

“Helping my friend” Natty responded without backing down as she quickly uncorked a potion she’d stolen from Sharp’s classroom and downing its contents. Sebastian watched as lightning finished off the rest of the enemies and he circled around once more.

“This is too dangerous for you here” the professor spoke as she continued using charm work.

“That is for me to decide. I will not stand by and let others die on my behalf this time” he heard the girl speak as he grew sullen. His love had told him once that Natty’s father died protecting them in Africa.

“We shall discuss this later” he heard professor Onai speak as he flew ahead once more. He lingered nearby, worried about one of his more close friends from their year but when Everett returned with news he decided that Natty was more than capable of handling herself.

“I'll scout ahead. Imelda you up for a bit of friendly competition?” he asked and Sebastian admired the boy's ability to look past the danger and still see the fun in the situation. It made him wonder why he hadn’t spent more time with Clopton during his time at Hogwarts beyond the occasion of shared detentions. If they made it out alive, perhaps he should make the effort to befriend the boy.

“As if you could ever dream of being as fast as me clopton… lets go” his housemate shouted as the two rushed off on their brooms, racing ahead.

“Natty, I am going to go ahead if you are alright here” he told her, as the girl looked up to his hovering hippogriff mount.

“We’ve got this covered, go find out friend” she spoke with a nod as Leander also commented “we can cover the entrance, don’t worry about us Sallow” so he decided to take his leave before flying off further into the cavern.

Soon he stumbled upon Amit and Samantha flying near professors Ronen and Hecat. Swooping down he sent a large spider near Professor Hecat flying with “confringo” as he hovered near her. The older woman scolded him despite her smile by saying “Mr. Sallow when I recommended honing your dueling skills this is not what I meant”.

“Yeah, yeah. I’ll serve the detentions later- Diffindo!” he paused mid sentence to slice through a goblin approaching highwing before once again turning towards the professors.

“Where are the others?” he asked as the woman’s eyes widened in shock. Suffice to say none of the professor’s had anticipated students to join the battle, but their assistance seemed to be welcome as they helped disrupt the battle enough for the professors to get the upper hand.

“She went with Fig, they are ahead with Weasley and Sharp” Ronen commented, pointing to a large area where he could see Eleazar off in the distance.

“Thank you professor-” he began to say before losing his train of thought at the witnessing of the two ravenclaws circling around them on a broom. Samantha was shrieking as she repeatedly fired “accio” at goblins to hoist them into the air and then dropping the spell as they fell from the great height. The sight almost made him laugh at how she clung to Amit and didn’t pay attention to the goblins as they fell to their deaths from her actions.

“Amit, don't fly too close to them!” she scolded the boy who seemingly only nodded before coming in closer to where they all were.

“Hello there professors, I presume you could use a hand” he spoke calmly to the group as Samantha continued looking around them frantically.

“Don��t mention it Mr. Sallow. Mrs. Dale that’s a very unique use of the spell I taught you in class, but I suppose an effective one” Ronen spoke as he geared up to leave once more, knowing that they likely had things covered in this area of the battle. Just as he was about to take off Hecat stopped him.

“Mr. Sallow. Don’t forget that sometimes surprising an opponent is more effective than burning them to a crisp” she commented as he turned to face her.

It reminded him of the first day he met his love. During that class Hecat taught them a simple levitation charm and his girl had bested him in a duel in front of their class. To this day its still the only one he’d ever lost.

“Levioso. I know. I’ll be going now if you… and that unique use of accio has things covered here” he told the woman who simply smiled and said, “clever indeed. We shall watch your back. Go find her”. The woman gave him a reassuring glance before resuming the battle and with that he was off once more.

Rushing ahead, he abandoned them as Imelda flew in with Everrett hot on her tails to start assisting the professors.

“Sebastian!” Poppy shouted, catching up with him as they headed towards the main firefight.

“Ronen said they were just ahead, come on” he shouted, abandoning the hufflepuff as he chased off in the direction he hoped she would be.

When he arrived Fig, Weasley and Sharp were circled by a massive amount of goblins and he was thankful Highwing seemingly took charge, smashing into a large pile of them without warning and he rolled off the hippogriffs back in time for the beast to start absolutely ripping them to shreds. Using “diffindo” he landed with an abrupt start and jumped to the ground next to the professors.

“Mr. Sallow! What in Godric’s name are you doing here?” the man asked him in shock upon seeing the boy, whom he left petrified in the hall outside his class.

“Ronen said she was with you. Where is she?” he asked out of breath.

“We got-” Fig stopped to temporarily fire off a spell at the several closing in goblins, finally reducing the field to nothing as he turned to face the young man, “separated…” he said.

Seeing a goblin with his back turned, Sebastian decided to heed Hecat’s suggestion as he used the levitation spell and turned towards Fig once more. “I see all the professors here. Tell me she’s not alone” he started to panic at the thought.

“She’s not alone. She’s with your uncle” Aesop said as he immediately begun to panic. “But, that’s - and he-” he stuttered as the ground beneath their feet violently wrecked, throwing them all to the stone below. He heard Poppy and the others begin screaming as the earth around them shook so intensely and stones fell. He used non verbal magic to attempt to shield himself, but some of the rocks pushed through and he yelled, as his arm felt the full impact of falling debris.

As soon as it began, the shaking stopped and the dust settled. “Is everyone alright” he heard Professor Sharp ask and he shook his head some, attempting to lessen the throbbing in his shoulder.

He vaguely heard Imelda telling the man everyone seemed alright as he finally stood to his feet and brushed himself off, his palms collecting blood from his shoulder as he did so.

“We need to find a way across” Fig spoke to the group and he agreed wholeheartedly with the man.

“I’ll go ahead” Sebastian said as he limped towards Highwing, hoping he could get there faster on the back of the creature.

“But Sebastian… you’re hurt…” Poppy spoke out with a gasp and he shook his head.

“I’m fine, I have to get-” he was cut off but a noise he never wanted to hear again in his life. A sound so wretched and disheartening that it made his chest hurt. It made the blood in his veins grow icey as his head swiveled in the direction it had come from.

A loud, feminine scream was heard across the cliff separating the ruin door to the repository and where he stood.

He knew that scream. It was her.

To be continued…

#hogwarts legacy #sebastian sallow #sebastian sallow x you #sebastian sallow x reader #sebastian sallow/reader #sebastian sallow x slytherin!reader #fluff #hogwarts legacy fandom #anne sallow #ominis gaunt #aesop sharp #solomon sallow #hogwartslegacy #leander prewett

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collisvng · 6 months

Text

CHAPTER 1 | BADASS BALLERINAS

THE END ZONE 🏈🩰✨

Pairing 🤎 Seo Changbin x Fem! Reader︎

Genre 🤎 SMAU, University/College AU, Ballett/Football AU, Fluff, Angst, Crack—all of that good shit lol︎

Synopsis 🤎 By recommendation of his coach, Changbin decides to take a ballet class in order to improve his agility and coordination on the field. It seems like a harmless and fun activity at first. But what happens when his ballet partner starts to make him choose between the two?

Warnings 🤎 Swearing, brief mentions of food, alluding to weight insecurities, and Han being weak as fuck (lol)

Taglist 🤎 Open!︎ ✨

Word Count 🤎 3,254 + 7 sm screenshots!

In Collaboration With 🤎 @channie-143

✨️MASTERLIST✨️

WHEN YOU ARRIVED AT THE DANCE HALL...

Minho was already at the barre. He was observing himself in the mirror, making sure each warm-up he did was fluid as he gripped the handrail to help steady himself. Plies, tendus, and degages expelled themselves from his body in the most graceful yet precise movements.

He spared you a glance as you walked in—setting your bag and water bottle down near the entrance before you made your way across the floor. When your eyes met, you both acted estranged and looked away.

“You know for someone who hates mornings, you really do make the effort to be the first here.”

“I could say the same about you,” Minho stated as he brought himself into first position once again. “Although you always seem to get here after me. You must like being in second place.”

“Can’t be second place when I’m the class favorite,” you said, finally turning to face him. “Cute of you to think otherwise though.”

“Since when was this?”

“Since last semester when the instructor literally told me I was her favorite.”

“Hm,” he pursed his lips to the side. “I don’t recall that ever happening. And you don’t really have any proof either, sooo…”

His eyes never met yours and you smirked.

It was always like this between you two. Since the day the two of you became friends, your constant bickering is what brought you closer. From class, to practice, to studying together… there was never peace. Everything was like a challenge, and you both loved it. It made it even more fun when the both of you broke character.

You sighed, walking away to the middle of the floor.

“Whatever helps you sleep at night, Lino.”

Minho stared ahead—unresponsive. But the moment he wasn’t within your sight, a small smile tugged at his lips.

He finally decided to face you when your body slowly descended to the floor.

“Not joining me at the barre for once?” he asked, and you shook your head.

“My lower back’s been killing me,” you groaned as you stuck both your legs out in front of you. With your arms reached out in the center of them, you practically clawed your upper body forward until your stomach touched the ground. The extension gave you a sense of relief. “It’s gonna be floor stretches for right now until the teacher comes, if I’m honest.”

A quick nod of approval was given to you before a playful, “good girl” left Minho’s lips. The word EW! left your mouth so quickly that it almost sounded like you were hearing yourself say it in the third person.

But you weren’t, because the voice you actually heard in third person was Hyunjin’s as he entered the dance hall with Felix.

“Can you not say stuff like that?” he glared at Minho, sitting down next to you. “You don’t have to flirt with everyone.”

A tiny laugh escaped your lips as you half-sat up, taking in the sight of Hyunjin and all its glory. White T-shirt disheveled as one side hung off his left shoulder, black tights hugging his legs, and messy black hair pulled partially into a small ponytail—you knew his tired look all too well. His eyes were barely open, and he had a slight grimace on his face.

“Good morning to you too, sleeping beauty,” you teased as you tousled his hair. “Felix must have had fun waking you up.”

“Oh, it was hell!” Felix’s voice echoed through the room. He set his bag next to yours, desperately rummaging through it to find something. You observed his outfit change into a white shirt and black tights, much like Hyunjin and Minho, suspecting that he must have switched out of his comfy clothes before making his way to class. “I literally had to recruit Seungmin to help me wake him up. Which, by the way, was the worst choice ever. He almost had me pay him five dollars in order to get him into Hyunjin’s room when I couldn’t get him up.”

He waddled his way over to you and Hyunjin, joining you both on the floor. He was holding a small, blue plastic container that was faintly see-through enough to see the brownies that were within it.

“Now eat!” He stated, opening the lid to the container and practically sticking it under you and Hyunjin’s noses. “Because I know for a FACT neither of you have. And hurry up, I don’t want the instructor to yell at us for eating in the dance room again.”

As Hyunjin happily pulled a brownie out of the container and ate it, Felix ripped a piece off one and held it out to feed it to you while you were mid-stretch. You giggled a bit, leaning forward to take a bite but not fully being able to take the whole piece from his hand. He grinned from ear to ear, putting the rest of the small chunk you left behind in his mouth.

He repeated the action; feeding you and eating the rest over and over. Eventually, even Minho took a piece of your roommate's chocolate masterpiece, saying his thanks to the “brownie boy” and giving Felix a short-lived head pat. It was all so soft and wholesome, it made you feel thankful.

You couldn’t imagine a better way to start the day than beside these three dorks who made you the happiest in the world.

Eventually, the dance hall began to fill up as it got closer to class time. You all made your way to your respective places at the barre, and Felix managed to sneak his tupperware back into his bag before the teacher arrived and could tell him to put it away.

You gave a little wave to the boys from across the room while you stood next to Minho. As Hyunjin gave you a little salute and Felix waved back, you caught a glimpse of the class’s golden boy.

Alongside you and Lino, a guy by the name of Choi Yeonjun was known as the best dancer in class. He was precise, like Minho, but also had the agility of a feline and the determination of a bulldog. Everything he did was perfect, and if it wasn't he would have to find a way to fix it and make it perfect.

It’s what made him such a great dance partner, which you would know since he was yours last semester. You were quite sad when your instructor broke you two apart this year, explaining that both your talents could be put to good use helping others in the class who needed a “bit of work” with their dancing.

There was also an odd number of people in the class since someone never showed up on the first day of instruction; causing the teacher to practically plead to Yeonjun about the possibility of rotating between two partners—which he happily agreed to.

Thus why Yeonjun stood at the other end of the room sandwiched between two girls, while your partner—

“I’m not late. I’m not late. I’m not late. I’m late— I mean I’m not— FUCK!” Han’s voice suddenly echoed in the distance as you heard the harsh sound of footsteps approaching. Words rambled out of our best friend's mouth as he pushed through the double doors of the dance hall gripping onto the penny board in his hand for dear life. “I am one hundred percent on time and totally did not accidentally hit like three people on my way over here!”

He put his bag next to yours and Felix’s before resting his board against the wall. He accidentally leaned it the wrong way though, wheels sliding down against the plastered wall causing the end of the board to slam into his ankle. He let out a small yelp then grumbled a swear as he flipped the skateboard over and placed it down correctly with the wheels pointed outward.

The class laughed at the ordeal, while you.. Well, let’s just say you’ve seen him do worse.

When he finally walked over in your direction, you sighed.

“A whole minute before class started,” you remarked. “Proud of you.”

Jisung rolled his eyes as he moved to stand behind you. “I told you I was gonna try to not be late anymore. I keep my promises, bitch.”

The teacher walked past, glaring at him as the swear left his lips. His deep brown eyes widened in fright, immediately bowing as he stammered out apology after apology. The instructor chuckled a bit and patted Han on the shoulder.

“Glad you could join us on time today, Jisung,” she teased.

You’ve never seen Han calm down so fast.

*•.¸♡¸.•*

The class went along like normal.

After basic warm-ups and barre training, the class shifted over— moving onto centre work, then across-the-floor exercises.

Eventually, the teacher clapped her hands together and instructed everyone to get into their assigned pairs. You and Jisung eyed one another deucedly, slowly approaching each other until your nose was about eye level with his chin.

“You gonna drop me again?” You mumbled a bit sternly.

Jisung scoffed, a nervous eye roll followed. “Wouldn’t dream about it, princess.”

There was a bit of tension between the two of you, friendly and understanding but still there. With a raise of your brown, Han then slowly made his way around you, placing a hand on your waist as you prepared to lift yourself onto tip-toes.

Par de Deux was one of your favorite types of dance. It was one of the reasons you even decided to become a dance major, in fact. Most partnered dances in ballet were often symbolic of romantical stories or inherent partnerships of love. The women seeming light as a feather as the men danced with them through their acts of enamored virtue. Holding them up as if they were an ethereal cloud to be held.

Feeling a person’s weight and properly handling it was an essential part of Par de Deux. You were responsible for holding your placement. That is your job. Your partner is the one responsible for keeping you on your legs, making you look controlled and winsome— holding you in place, lifting you, and caressing your body like a beautiful flower.

Seeing something so beautiful became so intriguing, you trained to go on Pointe just to one day finally have a dance partner worthy of that partnership. Someone who could make you feel as light as a feather.

You had only experienced this euphoria with two people so far. Once with Minho when you both practiced together a year or two back and once with Yeonjun. Both men, despite their smaller frame, were actually quite strong and full of unswerving confidence. But you could never be Minho’s partner though; the two of you bickered too much and were way too competitive with one another.

That's why you missed having Yeonjun as a partner. In your head, you were his feather.

And as much as you loved Han… He wasn’t necessarily the strongest.

Thus why after a few balancing exercises, when the instructor tested the waters and asked pairs to attempt a simple turn-around lift, you weren’t surprised when Jisung let go of you halfway through the turn.

You fell to the ground briefly as Han panicked and scrambled to pick you up. He managed to get you back on your feet in record time, but not fast enough for the teacher to not notice.

The music abruptly ended and the room fell silent. The loud sound of the instructor’s heels reverberated through the room hauntingly as she made her way over to where you and Jisung stood. Han’s eyes were facing the floor, his hands still on your waist as you stood flat-footed once again, cringing at the very thought of what was going to happen next.

When the teacher gave a disappointed sigh, you could feel Han’s grip on you tighten slightly.

“What am I going to do with you?” Her words came out more concerned than annoyed, which you were grateful for. “I thought pairing you with Y/N would be for the better, but I’m proven wrong each time I look over and spot her on the floor.”

No words came out of Han’s mouth as he stood there semi-ashamed. His eyes looked up briefly, pupils dilated with puppy-like sadness. He opened his mouth to say something—probably to apologize profusely—but was cut off by the sound of the dance hall door opening and closing.

Everyone’s heads snapped immediately in the direction of the sound, yours included.

At the entrance stood a man holding a piece of paper folded in half in one hand, while the other gripped the handles of a duffle bag that was slung around his shoulders. He wore a fitted black T-shirt paired with black joggers and black-framed glasses to match his ensemble. His shirt hugged his broad shoulders along with his chest—something you couldn’t quite take your eyes off of.

He was cute, and buff, and awkward… an adorable combo.

When the teacher greeted him and asked him why he had barged in unannounced, his hold on the paper faltered.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to… um…” He took a deep breath, holding the paper out in front of him. “I was just told to bring this referral to you. I didn’t mean to interrupt anything.”

“A referral, hm?” The instructor said, looking over the paper that had been handed to her.

The boy nodded.

“Coach Park said I needed a bit more cross-training to help balance out some things I need to improve on when it comes to the field. A friend of mine told me you had a spot open, so I went to the admin to get a referral for an add code,” he paused. “You know, if the spot is still open.”

“Coach Park? So you’re on the football team?”

“Yes ma’am.”

The teacher’s eyes hovered over him, then over to where you and Han stood. You could practically see the gears turning in her head.

“Han,” the teacher spoke, “go stand in the corner.”

Jisung’s eyes widened as a small, sad pout formed on his face.

“What?”

“You… Stand in the corner next to Regina… Now, please.”

Big boba pearls frosted over with sadness and confusion met your own eyes as Han complied with the teacher's instructions. He walked over to where Yeonjun stood, giving a small apology as he stood next to one of his partners. The guy in the doorway stood there awkwardly as he watched the whole ordeal.

Wasn’t long before he was picked on as well, though.

When the instructor’s gaze landed on the stocky boy once again, she gave a simple statement asking him to stand next to you. As he did, you realized he wasn’t much taller than you. Not quite your height, not really as tall as Jisung was, but somewhere in between.

“Now pick her up.”

The words spewed out of the teacher's mouth without any hesitation.

A quick nod from the boy, followed by hands hovering around your waist ensued. You could feel the slight warmth from his breath against your neck as he stood behind you contemplating what to do next.

“Can I… Um…” his voice trailed off. “I mean, are you okay with me touching you?”

The sincerity of the question took you by surprise, bringing a bit of blush to your face as you bobbed your head in approval.

Within seconds you were picked up and lifted off your feet with ease. You remained stagnant in the air for a beat or two, feet high enough from the ground that you could almost kick them back and forth, before being placed back down. The fact that he was able to lift you without even so much as a second thought shocked and flustered you to the point of no return.

You could feel the heat rising to your cheeks when you glanced over to see Felix and Hyunjin snickering in their spots about your demeanor. You made sure to keep note of that for later.

It seemed that ordeal was enough for your instructor, as she agreed to let the man join your class as long as he agreed to be your new dance partner. Obviously, he said yes.

You could hear Han pout a bit in his little corner, whom of which you mouthed the words ‘sorry’ and ‘I love you’ to and got a sad smile in return.

Class promptly ended soon after that.

As you, Minho, Hyunjin, and Han all grabbed your things, it became very obvious someone from your group was missing.

There he was, Mr. Lee Yongbook, giddily standing with Yeonjun as they both waited for the mystery man to get his add code. You had never seen either of them interact with the dude before, but when he went over and gave them both a hug it was obvious they were more than just acquaintances.

When his little welcome party dispersed, you decided to finally make your way over to your new soon-to-be dance partner and properly introduce yourself.

All that came out of you though was a cringe-worthy wave and an awkward, “Hi.”

A big smile appeared on his face as he shifted from one foot to the other. Like before, you recognized he wasn’t much taller than you. But the inch difference matched with his muscles made it very easy for you to feel small.

“Hi,” he beamed, “so I guess you and I are partners now.”

“Yep,” you responded before promptly pointing in the direction behind you. “And.. you know Felix?”

“Yeah. He’s best friends with one of my close friends. Plus he’s the mascot so everyone on the team kinda knows him.”

“Right… Right.”

“Yeah.”

“Cool, cool.”

“My name’s Changbin, by the way.”

He held out a hand for you to shake and you took it. After a moment or two, you both realized you had been holding hands for a little too long and let go. A laugh was shared in unison, as the strange tension that was created between the both of you lingered a bit. It was uncomfortable, but not in any way you had ever really felt before.

It was exciting? … Maybe?

After agreeing to meet up over the next few days to help Changbin catch up on some things he missed in the class, he grabbed his duffel bag and headed off. You let him know how serious dance was for you, which he understood. He explained how he would typically have football practice right after ballet class was over, but promised he would always try to randevu before leaving. You thanked him for his reassurance.

You watched him exit through the dance hall entrance and simply stood there in an unwavering daze as you stared at his back muscles, remembering the events from earlier. He picked you up like it was nothing. He was polite. And, now that you had seen him face to face, he was actually pretty cute.

Perhaps you finally found someone who could make you feel like a feather after all.

DING!

Thanks to the abrupt texts Seungmin sent to your group chat, you finally snapped out of it.

Seungmin: bitches. Seungmin: in n out. now. Seungmin: advice column kicking my ass. Seungmin: need fuel. Seungmin: hang out with me.

“Oh so now he wants to love us,” Han pouted as he stared at his screen.

taglist: @marcillfll @jiisungllvr @chrizzlaptop @babrieeee @soupbinlily @pissmori @chlodavids @marnz1990

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hwaightme · 1 year

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Family for Hire (Ch3.5)

(family for hire ml) -> blurb and general tags in series ml

☀️ pairing: single dad!seonghwa x business woman!reader ☀️ genre: romance, family, domestic, fake marriage, slice of life ☀️ ch. summary: adult to adult conversation should be easy, except when it is with someone who you are definitely not indifferent about, and who you had just spent a family-style day with. what will a conversation under the stars bring? ☀️ ch. wordcount: 5.3k ☀️ ch. warnings/tags: language, hwa being tactless, late night stargazing, banana milk hours, some mysterious texts, implied past family issues, fears, children, mixed up feelings, lmk if anything else! ☀️ perma-taglist: @doom-fics @layzfeelit @acciocriativity @justhere4kpop @honey-lemon-goose @byuntrash101 @shakalakaboomboo ☀️ series taglist: @yunnierights @moniesmoon @jackinmyarea @hwalysm @sankatchu @hijeongguk @likexaxdaydream @treasure-hwa @paralumanniluna @naiify @dementedaly @lilactangerine @ameliaag1117 ☀️ a/n: Hello there! big hugs and much love, hope you enjoy this chapter~ (p.s.: who else will never recover after the hwa madrid live? xD)

Chapter 3.5: Starting Something

After dinner, much of the time was spent with you three chatting away, until Nari, who was sat between you on the couch had begun to doze off and knock either into your or Seonghwa’s side. As soon as he disappeared up the stairs, with a sleepy Nari who was clinging onto his neck in his arms, you fished a long-forgotten phone out of your pocket. You saw that you had a few texts from Yunho, which clearly showed his progression from worry to 'don't have too much fun' with a series of wink emojis, making you roll your eyes. If only he knew what kind of a battlefield being in a closed space with a toddler was - even when said child's parent was the most attentive being you swore you had ever met and the little girl turned out to be infinitely precious - unpredictable and blunt, but still a wonder.

In addition to the cheeky messages, there were of course the classic out of hours work emails, which you, on any other day, would have probably gotten to answering that instant, but it did not feel right to do. Some strange desire to be respectful of family hours that were not even yours had overtaken you, and with a swipe, you removed the notifications. Stock markets were not going to crash if you were to delay responding to a basic question about plugging in random numbers into a spreadsheet until they looked right - may the internet be ever in their favour. What had caught your attention was something else entirely. An excited, friendly greeting, followed by a rather odd request - you would not put it beyond the author of the message to be rather bold on his asks, but considering your present plans, it was less than welcome.

>> heeyyyyy Y/nnnnn boss lady~~~ quick q, can I give your number to someone??? They're cool I promise :))))

You narrowed your eyes, rereading the notification. It would not hurt to have another networking opportunity, right? Wooyoung had never provided you with a faulty connection before, with some even having led to obtaining a new loyal client for the company, and others, like a certain Choi San, having become a reliable source of information, both in business, and in socials. But there was something almost unnatural about how he had approached the matter. First of all, he asked for your permission to send your contact, which is something that he had never done before, and you had never expected him to. Second of all, what was the promise for? Was it necessary? Since when was coolness a measure of influence that one had if all that was to come out of your communications was a new to connection on a professional site? A deep frown had etched itself onto your face as you took a screenshot of the message to send to Yunho for evaluation. An uncomfortable fuzziness occupied your head, and you could not help but want to stop thinking altogether. At least about people.

"Hey, Nari's all tucked in and dozing off... so... oh sorry, am I-" Seonghwa froze in the middle of the living room, which still bore a couple of signs of playtime chaos. He had wanted to take a seat beside you at the kitchen island that served to separate the two conjoined zones of the house’s base floor but refrained once he saw you glowering at the screen of your phone.

"No, no, I am just, uh, you know how compliance people are, email after email from them and nothing concrete." You were quick to brush off the suspicious message, wanting to feel confident that it was nothing important and was just Wooyoung being Wooyoung ‘in the best way possible’, also known as him having the spirit, but going about making good things happen in a very roundabout way. The last thing you could possibly wish for at this fragile moment at the beginning of your grand scheme was any kind of social disturbance.

“Here’s to you saying you wanted to do that back in first year!” Seonghwa chuckled and made a cheers motion with his hand in the air, manoeuvring around you to head into the kitchen.

“Yep… and now I am arguing with them basically every week, they really should learn to elaborate and explain…” you commented vaguely, choosing to not spend any longer on the peculiar message, closing the matter by tapping out a question mark and sending it to Wooyoung, followed by your trusty switch to ‘do not disturb’. You would rather have your attention on the dark-haired man next to you, who was currently appearing to look for Narnia inside of the refrigerator.

“And not email you on the weekends. That’s a crime. Milk?” he agreed and reappeared with two familiar plastic bottles, one in either hand.

“You have banana milk?” the surprise on your face was evidently clear enough for Seonghwa to be entertained, as he was motivated to continue.

“You know it. This is how dads get lit, I’ll have you know.”

“Wild and absolutely radical. How do you live like that?”

“Live fast. Here,” he passed the drink to you, pointing out the attached straw, “let’s go on the front porch, the neighbourhood is really nice at night.”

He was not lying about it being ‘nice’ - the term appearing to be a Park family favourite. In fact, it was much more than that. Perhaps picturesque or idyllic would be the right word. Sleepy houses under a blanket of a deep navy blanket, decorated with bright glittering stars, and not a cloud to remove the illusion of it being endless. Seonghwa had insisted that you wore your blazer again, while he had tugged on a zip up hoodie, insisting that this was so you would not get cold and scolding you when you initially had said that ‘it was no big deal'. Though now, you could not be more grateful for the well-meaning nagging as the chilly evening breeze caressed exposed skin, and you pulled the piece of clothing tighter around you.

When was the last time you and Seonghwa had shared a moment, any moment, alone together? Oh, that was right. You bit your lower lip, accidentally having retraced your memories. Now that you were more or less aware of his side of the story with regards to the confession, and it was easy enough to process; the opportunity was there to forget one entry in the series of misfortunes. However, prior to this final cry, there had been a build-up of occurrences in your life that had led you to grow more desperate, and, whilst you hated to admit it due to your work-pride you had cultivated, grow lonelier. And this build up was not something you would be capable of neither erasing, nor revealing any time soon. In hindsight, Seonghwa’s rejection could had been a better choice for the past you, too.

At least now, with a steadier foot on the ground as both of you began to walk your paths, you were able to enjoy their crossing. And now, as you were peering out beyond the refurbished fence gate and well taken care of greenery, you caught yourself wishing that your experiences and the years of being strangers would not weigh down so heavily on you. You had an inkling that perhaps that was why you could only register today as a billow of emotion – challenge, after challenge, and generally, not something you pondered at all. At best you thought you would just shake hands with Seonghwa, agree on terms and conditions, and be done with it. But here he was, welcoming you into his space, his life.

“This is all… a little crazy, isn’t it?” the question was a natural conclusion to your internal blur, which you physically accentuated with a particularly sharp stab of the milk’s metal film that served as a lid.

“I’ll be honest, for me this is the first ‘crazy' in a long time that isn’t about getting shots, bed times, or proving to strangers that no, I am not ‘some dude’, I am actually Nari’s father. So, if you were wondering why I even agreed in the first place... I guess part of it is that."

Seonghwa informed and lowered himself to occupy the space beside you. 'Part of it', huh. Keeping his secrets, then. The lamp above you flickered a couple of times, though upon closer inspection, with you tilting your head back and resting on your free hand, it was a small group of moths dancing around the illumination. As soon as your partner sat down, you reached out and offered to clink bottles, which he readily accepted with a shy smile.

“Wait, they do that?” after taking a sip through the tiny straw, you inquired. Seonghwa squinted, confused as to what part of the discussion you were referring to.

“What?”

“Like, strangers… asking you-”

“Ah, yeah. It has happened a couple of times. Not so much around the neighbourhood, since people know my daughter and I, but outside…” he trailed off, not knowing whether you would be interested to hear about his experience. Since you had proposed this family deal in a more business manner, he was not sure where that ended and relations that were too personal began.

“…outside?” you urged him on, eyebrows knitted, and concern growing clearer on your face by the second.

“We went to a playground out in the centre once, by the Han river, and this one lady with a pram and a kid, about Nari’s age, right by her side decided that it would be a good idea to ask my own daughter: ‘is that really your dad?’.”

“No way…” you uttered, growing irritated at the well-meaning, but insensitive action, “Do people like that exist?”

“Yeah-”

“So, what did you answer?” you hoped that at least a sliver of university-Seonghwa had remained for that; alas, there was not a trace.

“I just left. Calmed down Nari and left.” he elaborated. What could have he done, anyways? He understood why the woman had been concerned, and it was not the question itself that had internally set him off, but the fact that she had approached his daughter to ask it.

“Fair, but I want to find that mother now and see how she is doing. Just want to talk.” you hissed, pinching some of the grain that had eroded away from the steps on which you were sitting, rolling it between your fingers before angrily flicking it away.

“Ominous.”

“Just talking.”

“You verbally throw hands, Y/N, that much I can remember.” he retorted, with an out of place fondness, not dissimilar to how one would look over a photo album and reminisce.

“Verbal cosmetic surgery, Hwa, it can be more than helpful sometimes. Though honestly she should go get her eyes checked instead if she can't see the likeness." You concluded, taking another sip and looking up at the starry night sky. Now this was something you could get used to, instead of the fine dust particles that slammed against your nearly always closed windows.

A warmth spread over Seonghwa as he listened to you. It was not the first time he had heard about Nari being a mini version of him, but the first time he wanted to ask for an elaboration. In addition to that, you had used his nickname, which he did not realise he had been missing hearing as much as he actually did. Not finding any reason to filter his amiability, he inquired into what you meant.

"What exactly?"

"Oh, come on, it's easier to say what isn't." You retorted, feeling Seonghwa's gaze on you.

"No, really."

You were not sure why exactly he was so bent on hearing you list off random features that had stood out to you but were too tired to resist what probably was just standard father behaviour.

"Well, there's the eyes, of course." You began, imagining the two faces as if they were drawings set out in front of you.

"No way." He intentionally disagreed, biting back a cheeky grin as he saw you scowl and raise an eyebrow, still trained on something invisible ahead of you.

"Yes way!"

"How can you say when you're not even looking at me?"

"How can I say when Nari is in bed, asleep?" You shot back, finally turning to face him, almost gasping because of the intensity with which the man was openly gawking at you. The movement, however, appeared to break his boldness as he lowered his head and glanced at his Crocs - as he had explained, they were the most effective footwear to put on if one needed to pop out of the house for a short while, but you were sold when you saw the Star Wars themed decorations on both pairs which he had presented. So very Seonghwa - some things did remain.

"Fair point... but still, for reference." Barely a mumble reached your ears, but you preferred it, for the sake of your own heart. It did not overpower your strict convictions by volume.

"Right then, mister hypocrisy, the side profile of your singular sensory organ that is reactive to visible light, and your daughter's looks pretty similar if I do say so myself." You deadpanned, listing off what little you could remember from secondary school biology.

Seonghwa nearly choked on his milk, making it bubble as he snorted in response to your unexpected observation. Your hand instinctively moved to pat his back but retracted as he raised his own to show he was alright. Quickly enough the cough was replaced by a chuckle, utterly confusing you.

"Don't mean to be that person, but what's so funny?"

"Ahem, just thought of something totally tactless, don't mind me." He elaborated, mumbling.

"Okay impress me."

"No, no, it's fine."

"If it's a dad joke, I'll just give you an imaginary gold star.”

"Seems, I," he lightly punched his chest a couple of times to get the last of the fit out, "lose my breath around you." You erupted into a loud groan and demonstrative rolling of the eyes, secretly loving the phrase, and how Seonghwa's ears burned up into a bright pink.

"Damn, thanks for the warning, otherwise I would have lost my breath."

You did not think much about what you had said, considering the sentence to be innocent enough and far removed from emotional involvement, however it appeared that Seonghwa was on a roll, or lacking in oxygen as he followed up with a total breach of reason, forcing you to put physical effort into restraining yourself from destroying the plastic bottle with an untimely hand crush.

"Lost mouth to mouth opportunity...”

"NOW MISTER PARK SEONGHWA THAT IS ILLEGAL." You squeaked, unsure of how to handle Seonghwa suddenly leaning closer to you, looking you up and down asking:

"What, conflict of interest for our little business deal?"

You were lost for words, so automatically fell back on highly effective defence tactics:

"What if someone was saying that to your daughter, hm?"

Whatever he wanted to say was lost to his dominating creativity. You observed his expression turn sour as he visualized the scene, but with Nari in the starring role. A good dad, through and through, after all.

He need not explain himself, though to reassure Seonghwa that you meant well and this was lighthearted, you gave him a quick squeeze on his lower arm. In acceptance, he covered your hand with his, keeping it there for as long as he could. It was still a challenge to process that what was happening was real, and not a vivid dream. The day was a journey through time, making him realise just how much his life had changed and took a radically different turn compared to his peers. In all honesty, he had never expected to have any ability to return even a tiny fraction of that reality, and chose to assume that with his new role as a father, he had no right to reminisce. Especially at the beginning, that was almost true - he had no time to think, let alone take steps into the past. But now, when his regrets of his past had transformed into his present opportunities, Seonghwa felt like something in him had woken up after an impossibly long hibernation. If only every tomorrow that was to come, were to be like this.

"Ahem, okay, okay. So, uh, you said eyes? What else?" He tried to return to the previous conversation, and thankfully, you were equally as eager to move on from the unexpected moment of toeing a line that had been drawn by the years and uncertainty.

"There's the nose shape... at least the baby version of it if you get what I mean."

"Definitely would be strange to have an adult nose on a kid's face, yes." Seonghwa agreed, tapping his nose a couple of times for emphasis.

"I am glad we are on the same page there."

"And, what else?"

"Eyebrows for days, oh! And your smiles. Congratulations to her for winning the genetic lottery." You wondered whether the phrase was too much, but Seonghwa's proud grin dissipated your concerns.

"I'll save that for when she is a teen so I can remind her. "

"Oh yeah... that's going to be a thing..." you mused out loud, failing to conceal a twinge of pity as you recalled your own adolescence: not particularly enjoyable for any parties involved.

"Yep. Barely out of the woods ourselves, huh?"

"Yeah... but I think you'll handle it. Of course, I don't have much data to go off, but my first impression is that you are... you are doing a good job, Hwa."

"Thanks... though, Y/N... can I be frank?"

"Yeah, Frank and Frederick and Ferdinand." Mainly for the sake of lightening the mood, you threw out the random garble.

"I am winging it so hard it is unbelievable. And unacceptable."

A regular occurrence for everyone - for as long as one is alive, they continue to learn, absorb the world and patterns around them until they create what is called an identity, and then keep growing the embellishments. Simultaneously, Seonghwa sounded anxious, possibly wishing that he was a parenting pro from the get-go. As someone who had to reevaluate all priorities and step into a caring role, it was an unfortunate side effect of doing things objectively right, to feel as though the best, the real way to address one's kid's needs was always just out of reach.

"Same."

It was a struggle to fully relate, but that did not mean that you would stop trying, if at least for your own benefit. With all your might you tried to conjure an analogy, but the only thing to come close was standard perfectionism and religiously abiding by deadlines. Enough to say 'same'.

"Would have never guessed that was the case." Seonghwa, ever so supportive, despite the fact that you were, unknowingly making him regretful of his sudden career change.

You seemed to be doing well enough, and if the few years of intensive corporate grind had not made your drive and opportunity-seeking nature fizzle out, then combining family and a better paid and degree-based job would not be a problem. Some kindergartens he had considered had extended hours on offer for kids of working parents, with pickup times being later after work; had he gone down that route, he would not be suffering the judgmental gazes of the other kids’ mothers who likely assumed the was an unemployed leech. Admittedly, he had felt a certain level of satisfaction when observing the stunned crowd as your very obviously expensive car rolled into the parking lot to pick up Nari from the activity centre, especially since many of the kids, and thus the parents, were connected to the same school.

He wondered how quickly would rumours spread, and could already imagine himself wearing a satisfied grin as he… technically he could not say anything, could he? Since this was all an elaborate plan and would be over at some point? Well then, he would just have to remain mysterious and let the gaggle come to their own interpretations after seeing an attractive young woman step out from the driver’s side, stylishly dressed in Forbes-chique, and carrying herself like you knew what the future held. In other words, you could threaten them, with a confidence which he could not find within himself.

"Same. You are a natural." You returned the kind words, wishing that it was not such a hard feat for you to do. Conveying numerical fact and artistic white lies was easy enough, but sourcing feelings from the bottom of your heart… problematic.

"If only I felt that way too..."

"Then maybe you would be less careful and therefore less of an amazing dad. It kind of reminds me of the interns at work - the more confident they are, the more likely they are to commit an error." You gave Seonghwa a light pat on his upper arm as you attempted, in your own special say, to comfort him.

"Are you saying people should have low confidence and self-esteem?"

"No, what I am saying is that unshakeable confidence that is beneficial to a person is one that is built through experience. Many, many years of it. I bet you know the car thing." Anything to make the topic relatable to you; you were searching once more for any way to remove yourself from the concept of family, make it more 'user friendly', but this only served to add to the confusion.

"Car thing?”

"You know, the whole thing about some of the most reckless drivers being those who already have a license, have driven just enough to think they are the shit - so like, one or two years, and then... get to experience the joys of insurance, in the best-case scenario."

"Hah, noted. So, basically, stay alert."

"Guess so, but with a kid a lot of it is just a constant learning journey, isn't it?"

"Yep, just people constantly figuring things out. From fees to Nari suddenly not liking a food she was obsessed with for a year to her wanting to try doing something independently when we are running late..."

"You have the patience of a saint, Hwa."

"Job requirement, no?"

"I wish it was."

Silence fell over the two of you as you let the phrase slip. Seonghwa was not sure about how to respond, and you were not sure how to change the topic of conversation without making it sound too jarring.

It was obvious that your mind had gone elsewhere, miles, or perhaps it was more correct to say decades, from the conversation. You were looking inwards, searching for something, trying to clamber up your barriers. But it appeared to be a fruitless venture, as you repeatedly tried to start a sentence, words on the tip of your tongue, only for it to go dry and sabotage you at the last second. This turn of the discussion had striken a dissonant chord with you. Even though Seonghwa would not dare begin to guess why, he knew that it was essential he lightened the mood. It just felt right.

"Then you would be walking on thin ice, Y/N." He leaned over and whispered into your ear, beaming.

"Hey! I'll have you know I am a professional!"

"Yeah, yeah... sure. I have no doubt your market forecasting capabilities."

"Backhanded, but I'll take the compliment... you're right, not with kids." You huffed and took one final slurp of your drink. Compared to your relative optimism a couple of days ago, you could only perceive yourself as a trainwreck.

"I am only joking though, I think you have some talent. You say that but at the same time, Nari really took to you. I can see it. What we have to work on is you not getting jump-scared by everything she does and relax. We will help each other. We're husband and wife after all."

The phrase made you freeze in place. Right. That was exactly what you had signed up for. That title so you could flex it in front of your colleagues, and most importantly your bosses so that you would have a shot at bigger money, bigger dreams. Was this fair on Nari? Was this fair on Seonghwa?

You hummed in half-hearted agreement, tuning into the atmosphere surrounding you and Seonghwa. A myriad of questions glimmering above you like the stars dotting the sky. Constellations of misconceptions and miscommunications that were yet to be put right, or learned to be ignored for the better of you both. As you felt the presence beside you lean forward and sigh, breath abandoned to an infinite expanse of anxieties and hushed ruminations, a morbid curiosity began to plague you. Was it too late to do anything? What was it that you were actually trying to achieve here? Was a promotion the result, or the pretense? You rubbed your temples, with your inner wrists, disconcerted by the audacity which your inner conscious seemed to have. If you had said: goal, it meant goal. Funny how you needed to remind yourself of it, even if you had deemed it so important.

After a few more minutes of staring out into the dark, in silence that was filled only by the rustling of the tree leaves, you felt that it was time to leave, if you wanted to remain level-headed and prepared for an interrogation from Yunho. With a stretch, you pushed yourself off the steps and wobbled into a standing position, much to Seonghwa's surprise. Though that did not last long, and his face relaxed in recognition. Turning back, you were about to pick up the empty bottle, but he quickly intercepted, not giving you as much as a chance, only mumbling 'I've got it, don't worry' on repeat.

"But I feel like I have not done anything to help you today?"

"There will be tomorrow. And the day after. And the day after that. Don't worry, if you want your hands full, I can organise that pretty fast."

"No doubts about that. Once events coordinator, always events coordinator, right?"

"Absolutely. And organising a bunch of frat bros is a very good parent prep experience, I’ll tell you that one for free."

"Welp, I hope I won't be as much trouble..."

"I'm not too worried for the beginning, it's once you get comfortable..."

"Right, okay, same rule applies to me then: stay alert."

"In a meerkat fashion." With astonishing speed, Seonghwa rocked forwards and stood up beside you, running a hand through his locks to smooth them down after being rashly disheveled. Then to imitate the furry animal, he bent his arms at the elbow and wrist, earning an amused chuckle from you, along with a grin which you hid behind a closed hand, with a knuckle pressed to your lips.

“And to think you’re a grown man with a kid.”

“To be a good parent, you need to be a little bit like a kid, Y/N. Not through and through, but a smidgen is enough.” When you did not answer, he added more encouragement, hoping that his promises were significant enough to leave a positive effect on you.

Seonghwa would not want to admit it to you just yet, seeing how you were still adamant on abiding by business restrictions, albeit loosely, but throughout the day, he was hesitant to treat your appearance as something temporary. Ignoring time restrictions, he had indulged in fantasies of ‘what could be’ if you were to stay even for just a bit longer. But that was only natural to do after meeting someone from the past, right? To add, he did not want to regret his decision to introduce you to Nari, and Nari to you. If you two were to bond, and then you would take your leave… Seonghwa would never be able to forgive himself for letting you into the little circle he called family. The signs were already there, of his daughter quickly warming up to you, and it was only a matter of time until the point of no return would be reached.

You had heard of the notion that Seonghwa was explaining to you before this – to understand a child you needed to have an ability to tap into an inner child, a healthy, happy and nurtured one, that was. That was where your comprehension stopped, and you had previously ceased to bother. But now, as you were about to part with today and step into tomorrow as a changed woman, you guessed that this might be something worth learning. So long as you could sustain the belief that this was for a role than a calling.

“Right, so, um… I better get going… it’s getting kind of late…” you cleared your throat and announced, stumbling over your words slightly as Seonghwa would not take his eyes off you, following all your gesticulations and reading nuance.

“You sure? I can organise something for you here, so you don’t have to travel. I’d be more than happy to.”

“See, I have this thing tomorrow, and um, before that need to, you know, do some human things and uh, change and stuff…” your rambling did little to make you appear convincing, but Seonghwa was kind enough to not inquire further – you were sure that if he did, you would have cracked. When it came to him, you had always struggled to make up excuses and fables, even if sometimes that could have saved both of you from hurt.

“Okay.” What was new in your dynamic was how accepting and empathic Seonghwa had become. Or who knew, maybe he had always been that way, but in university had tried to hide himself away in the effort to appear ‘cool’.

In a spur of guilt as you followed Seonghwa back into the house to fetch your shoes, you spontaneously offered to drive him and his daughter to kindergarten on Monday morning. You could see the young man hiding his reaction from you by appearing busy.

“And what makes you think we couldn’t find a place in the local one?”

“Because the activity centre was hell knows where?”

“Fair point. And you’re right, kindergarten is equally far, so I’ll gladly take you up on that offer.” He agreed, and provided you the details of timings, and promised to send you the address.

Fumbling for a way to say goodbye, Seonghwa and you stood on either side of the doorframe, knowing that this should not be as hard as you were making it out to be. It was only once you recalled the message you had received sometime earlier that you quickly made your exit, acutely aware of his gaze trailing your journey away from the front porch to the fence, and disappearing behind the bushes. For some time after, he remained in the same place, letting himself come down from the paradise he had invented as slowly as he could, to return to functioning as a single, independent unit, at least until the dangerous play pretend were to continue on the early Monday morning.

Heart beating wildly, you crashed into the front seat of your car and sank deep until you were half lying down and able to look up at the sky. Not that the action helped distract you. Your mind was struggling to process why you were so on edge, and you desperately wanted to replace the sensation with the usual emotional numbness you associated with the concept of familial closeness. What was happening to you? You reached for your phone again, switching the mode back to see more texts flooding in both from your best friend and from Wooyoung. And the implied meaning of messages from the latter were everything but what you needed.

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equallyshaw · 1 year

Text

It’s your day, my love. feat. nico hischier

✿ Warnings: none

✿ Word count: 1.08k.

just a cute blurb!

Two nights ago, Nico and his team lost to the Carolina Hurricanes. Surprisingly he was not in as bad a mood as I had previously thought. The very night, he came home and instantly went to go check on our little girl, Mila. It was 2 am by the time he got into our room and instantly plopped onto the bed as he saw that I was awake. I scooted closer to him and started to rub his neck, massaging the ends of his hair. He flipped over and I saw exhaustion plaguing his eyes, and I also noticed his very cleaned up ‘playoff beard’. “Get some sleep.” I whispered, helping him get his blazer off and he was out like a light. It was now Sunday the 14th, it was the U.S Mother’s Day, and I woke up to my body’s alarm clock around 8 am and found an empty bed. I frowned, pulled on my silk oversized robe and slippers, and headed to the washroom to do my skincare and brush my teeth and hair. I heard a ruckus downstairs and panicked for a brief second hoping Nico had it all under control. And then I heard loud cries and I sighed briefly, before checking in the mirror that I looked presentable and then I was down the stairs. I heard Nico speaking softly in German, and our girl quieted down. I peeked around the corner, seeing the two in the kitchen. I saw the backside of them, as they stood over the sink, looking out in our backyard. One thing I knew I wanted when I moved here full time after becoming pregnant, was that we rent a house with a backyard. Even if it meant, we would not live in New York. Nico being the man that he is, went above and beyond. I smiled at the two, taking a mental screenshot since my phone was on the other side of the kitchen. Our 3-year-old Daschund “Babette”, greeted me with a bark, alerting the two besties. They turned around, and I smiled widely as I mirrored Nico’s smile. I turned towards Mila and she made grabby hands to me, and I quickly grabbed her. “Hi, my sweet love.” I cooed, giving her kisses. She giggled loudly, as I tickled her for a few seconds. “Mama stoooopppp!” She playfully cried and I playfully huffed as she did so. “Don’t huff at me Mutter.” She said sassily, switching to German. I gawked at her, as Nico giggled like a fool plating some food. I smiled, as I put Mila in her high-top chair that we used for our designated breakfast counter. “Meine Güte” (Oh my goodness) I smiled, “Did you help Papa do all of this?” I asked, and Mila nodded wildly. “Helped me with the pancakes and bacon.” He responded, giving my cheek a peck, as he set my ice americano in front of me. “danke meine liebe.” (Thankyou, my love.) I grinned, sipping it. He sat on the other side of Mila, and we all dug in.

It was later in the afternoon now, and Mila was put down for a nap. I was sitting in the sunroom, reading a magazine with Babette at my feet, and the rest of my iced americano next to me. Nico plopped down next to me, pulling out my phone. I turned to look at him for a brief second, before turning back to my French magazine. I felt Nico’s gaze a few minutes later, and when I turned to meet his gaze, he quickly turned away. “Ok buddy, whatcha want?” I questioned, setting down a magazine on the coffee table. He grinned, looking away from his phone. “I was looking at flight’s…” he trailed off, and I quirked an eyebrow. “When do you want to go home?” I questioned, and he shrugged. “I was thinking we could go to Chantilly..” he grinned, making me excited. “Can we??” I said, moving closer and playfully shaking him. He pulled me into his chest and smiled. “Of course! I know how much you miss your family.” He said softly, and I stared at him for a few seconds before leaning in to kiss him. I pulled back, “Have I told you how much I love you Nico Hischier?” I toyed and he did a fake thinking face. “Hmm. I think once or twice.” He said making me laugh. He pulled me back into a kiss before we spent the next hour wasting time.

It was around nine o’clock when I found Nico in our room, on facetime with somebody. I made my way to the bathroom to get ready for bed, and I heard the shrieking and annoying voice of the one and only, Jack Hughes. I loudly and playfully groaned and then stopped waiting for a response. “Engel?” (Angel) He questioned, and I grinned. I walked out into our room, “If it isn’t the implorable Jack Hughes. What do we owe the pleasure, little one?” I joked, and I saw Jack’s shocked face. “How dare you? On my birthday?” Jack joked. “How old is the little baby turning today?” I asked as Nico turned his phone towards me. “Twenty two, so im not a little baby.” He defended himself, and I laughed. “A bitty baby.” I teased, showing my fingers close together, mimicking a ‘small’ amount, and he scoffed. “Nico! Come get your lady.” He said causing us two to laugh. “Happy birthday buddy, I hoped you had a great one. Oh and tell your mom I said happy Mothers Day, how dare you share HER day.” I smiled, leaning into Nico who put his arm around me. Jack smiled then pretended to look disgusted, “Ew gross, save it for the bedroom.” He said and we laughed. “We’re in OUR bedroom.” Nico laughed causing Jack to roll his eyes. “We will talk tomorrow when we see ya, byeeeeee Jack.” I said and Nico said bye as well. “Bye guys, Happy Mother’s Day Camille!” I put Nico’s phone on my bedside table and reconnected with Nico. “Today was a lovely day, thankyou Nico.” I said thankfully, and looked up at Nico who was looking down at me. “Of course my love, it’s your day. Well- every day is your day.” He hummed, kissing me. I smiled as I wrapped my hands around his neck, pulling him in closer. We pulled apart after 15 seconds and just looked at one another. “Love your forever, Miss Camille.” He smiled before reconnecting our lips.

—

@camilledubois: papa & franc ‘my boys’ got me flowers for mamas day !

Tag: francthewiener and nicohischier

435 likes, 24 comments.

@nicohischier: only the best love

@jackhughes: I thought I was one of your boys 😔

↳ @camillesubois: I always have room for you my child!

@lhughes_6: franccccc

@lhughes_6: also Mia won’t be happy she didn’t grace your feed 😒

↳ @camilledubois: our sassy girl will manage

↳ @nicohischier: your * sassy girl will manage

↳ @jackhughes: babe— you are the sassy hischier

↳ @camillesubois: hahaha

@tmeier96: franc the dude, happy Mother’s Day!

↳ @camilledubois: Thankyou mo 🫶🏻

@pally_18: hope you enjoyed your day!

↳ @camilledubois: I did Thankyou!

Hope you all enjoyed!

random tags:

@toothlessdudebros @hockeylvr59 @jayda12 @makarhughes @nicohischierz @hockeyboysarehot @nolanmoylee @slafgoalskybaby @starshine-hockey-girl @bitchinbarzal @rosesvioletshardy @huggybug

#nico hischier #Jack hughes #new jersey devils #hockey #nhl #hockey bkurb #hockey imagine #nhl blurb #nhl imagine #Nico hischier x oc

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wonieleles · 1 year

Text

mint chocolate shirt — prologue

345 words + screenshots below !

obviously it was irresponsible of jungwon to head to the convenience store seconds before he was supposed to leave for inkigayo. however, jungwon couldn’t shake away his nerves, and he remembered his grandma’s secret to calming them, honey lemon tea, so he rushed to get some.

satisfied with his purchase, jungwon headed towards the dorms, where the frustrated staff and his anxious members awaited. sipping on his tea, he checked his phone to see the time: 10:02 am. there was still enough time for them to get to the show on time.

a few sips and gulps later, jungwon finished his honey lemon tea, and crushed his cup before throwing it away in the trash can next to the stoplight. red light, perfect time to send a message. as jungwon’s fingers typed away, he failed to notice the change in light until there were 10 seconds left to cross.

jungwon checked cars on both sides before walking across the street, now replying to his members’ worried messages. unfortunately for him, you saw the blinking 5 on the pedestrian sign, and tried to make a run for it. all while holding your prized mint chocolate chip ice cream.

“splat,” the sound of your mint green colored ice cream hitting jungwon’s white shirt. you stood there in shock, while jungwon stared back and forth between his shirt and your panicked eyes.

“oh my god, i am so sorry. i can like get you some napkins if you need; i swear i have some in my bag,” you rambled as you dug around your tote bag for some tissues. “haha, where is it? maybe i could like just give you some money to compensate instead,” you said sheepishly, looking up from your bag.

before jungwon was able to answer, his phone vibrated, reminding him of the time. and while red smoke was spilling from jungwon’s ears, he had to maintain his calm demeanor. “it’s fine,” he responded with a forced smile, and continued walking back to his dorm—with a fat green stain on his new white shirt.

SYNOPSIS. back in 2020, jungwon accidentally bumped into a girl, causing her mint chocolate chip ice cream to stain his crisp white shirt. with no time to change, jungwon had to go to his first inkigayo performance with a huge green circle on his shirt that his members constantly tease him for. now, two years later, jungwon bumps into you again, only this time, the mint chocolate chip ice cream stains your shirt.

< previous | masterlist | next >

AUTHOR’S NOTE. so that’s why jungwon hates mint choco 😧😧 also sorry for any grammar mistakes i wrote this at 4am and did not edit 😹😹

TAGLIST (OPEN). @0i8ma @mitsukifilms @wooniy @trsrina @jliea @yenqa @0310lvr @kohakun @sunoksunny @felixsunshine28

PERMANENT TAGLIST (OPEN). @yedamdamn @miridicallyyours @jungwonize @linniely @yebin14 @abdiitcryy @stllsph @valewoos @strwberrydinosaur @zi-ever

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arcadiasfiction · 1 month

Text

Chat Text: Part One

After fighting yet another akuma, Cat Noir swung into his bedroom through the open window. Feeling a bit tired, he took a moment to stretch in his black leather cat suit. As he did, his green feline eyes caught sight of his phone which was resting on the edge of his desk.

"I forgot to text Marinette back!" he said, slapping a hand to his forehead. "She's probably really worried. Let me send her a quick text first, then I'll de-transform."

---

“Come back here, you little monsters!”

"Noooo! Ladybug, save us!"

The twin girls laughed as they ran around Alya's legs, trying to escape.

"I will akumatize you!" Alya said dramatically, holding up her hands and clawing her fingers like a T-Rex. At that moment, her phone began to ring. It was Marinette. Alya answered.

"Hey girl, what's up?"

"Alya! Something's wrong with Adrien!"

Alya eyes widened with concern.

"What do you mean? Is he sick?"

"Maybe! I don't know! Let me send you screenshots of his texts, and you tell me."

After a few moments, Alya received the screenshots. The start of the conversation was pretty normal. Marinette and Adrien were working on a school project together, and Marinette was asking what part of it he would like to take on.

Marinette: You ok with doing the report?

Adrien: I'll do whatever you want me to.

Marinette: No. I want you to do whatever you like.

Adrien: Whatever I like?

Marinette: Yeah.

Adrien: Then I'd like to have you here with me.

Adrien: and I'd like to hold your hand

Adrien: and share with you my room-side view of Paris while telling you how much I love you.

Marinette: I was asking what you want to do for the project!

Adrien: I'll research whatever you want me to. Are you happy being with me?

Marinette: Of course!

Adrien: Then I'll be happy to do whatever, however you want.

Adrien: Tell me how you want me to kiss you, and I'll do it.

Marinette: But we've only held hands so far, so idk.

Adrien: I can do something about that, if you want. What would you like, Mari?

Alya tried to swipe for more, but the screenshots stopped there. Something about their dynamic felt familiar, but she just couldn't put her finger on it. Alya fanned her face for a moment before asking Marinette, "So how did you reply to that?"

Coughing came from the other end of the line.

"I uh…blacked out. I don't remember."

Sure, she did. Alya narrowed her eyes, doubtful.

"But you guys have been dating for like over a month now…"

"No, Alya! You don't understand. He never texts like this. Here's a conversation we had yesterday. This is how it normally is."

Alya's phone pinged with another set of screenshots.

Adrien: Hey, Marinette!

Marinette: Hey Adrien!

Adrien: I was just thinking about you.

Marinette: That's nice. Me too!

Adrien: How's it going with designing the menu for your parents' bakery?

Marinette: It's going great. I can't wait to show you the redesign!

Adrien: Can't wait to see it. I love how talented you are Marinette. It's impressive.

Marinette: Thanks!

Adrien: Want to go grab some ice cream?

Marinette: Of course! Let me ask my parents.

Adrien: I can't wait to see you!

Marinette: Same!

Alya frowned. The second conversation did sound much more like him.

"Maybe his cousin Felix stole his phone and is playing tricks on you."

"I hope not! I need to check with Adrien tomorrow to see what this is about."

"Did you ask him while you guys were texting?"

"I did and well… I'll just send you the shot."

Another screenshot arrived.

Marinette: Let's focus on the project!!! Adrien! You ok today?

Adrien: I'm fine. But you seem a bit tense. You ok?

Marinette: I'm alright.

Adrien: Want to watch a movie with me tonight? It'll help you relax.

Marinette: No. We have homework and this project!

Adrien: You're wearing that annoyed pout right now, aren't you?

Marinette: No.

Adrien: That's too bad. I love your pout. I also love when you wear your hair down, but then you're just beautiful all the time, Mari. I want to see you.

Alya cleared her throat.

"Either someone stole his phone or he's totally delusional."

"Yes! And I didn't ask anymore because I was scared."

"Scared you would black out again?"

"Uh--something like that. I'll just have to wait until school tomorrow. I'm sure he'll have an explanation."

---

Adrien, now de-transformed and back in his typical casual shirt and jeans, sat at his desk with his phone in his hands, stunned.

True, he was in a hurry to get back to her. But in hindsight, Adrien realized that sending text messages to Marinette while he was still Cat Noir was not the best idea. Anxiety washed over him as reread his text conversation with her. He ran a hand through his blond hair.

"Plagg, this is a disaster!"

"Disaster is my middle name," said Plagg while chomping on a cheese wedge.

"I was only going to send one text. I don't know what came over me!"

"That Marinette is your main cheese, so it's only natural for your feelings to overflow. It's like coming across a tasty piece of Camembert. It is poetry."

Adrien massaged his face with his hands. "I know we're dating now, but this is just too much. Ladybug didn't like when I was like this, and I'm sure Marinette would find it weird too. I'll try to smooth things over tomorrow."

"From the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks."

"Plagg, don't rub it in!"

---

How is Adrien going to fix his texting faux pas? See in Part Two!

#miraculous fanfic #plagg kwami #adrien agreste #miraculous adrien #marinette dupain cheng #mlb fanfic #miraculous plagg #cat noir #chat noir #miraculoustalesofladybugandcatnoir #marichat #adrienette #alya cesaire

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totesnothere04 · 9 months

Text

Deviant With a Big Defect: Pt.5

The Bad Batch x Sister!Reader, Obi-Wan x Reader

Disclaimer: I don't own any of the fanart, screenshots, or gifs.

Warnings: None IMO.

Part 4

Not Ready

"You have everything right?" Tech asked as you approached the hangar.

"Yes, Tech I have everything. Both my blasters, both of my knives, my tools, my datapad, and extra blacks." You said slightly annoyed.

"I just want to make sure. We don't know how long you'll be gone this time." Tech said. You look behind him at Wrecker who was trying his hardest to hold in his tears. The moment you stepped into the hangar you turned to Wrecker, and opened your arms for a hug.

"Come here, big guy." You say and he picks you up in a hug.

"Why don't we just take you back to the bunk, and say that you went?" Wrecker asks and you shake your head.

"I don't want to be court marshaled for deserting." You tell him and he sniffles and then puts you down. You turn to Hunter and he pulls you into a hug as well.

"Be careful out there, and for the love of the maker... Don't engage another Sith." Hunter says and you chuckle.

"No promises." You say and he deadpans as he looks at you. "I don't regret my actions, because two Generals are alive thanks to me." You turn to Crosshair who casts a quick glance around the hangar to see if anyone's looking. When he's satisfied that no one is looking he gives you a quick hug.

"I'll see you when you get back... Whether you're conscious or not." Crosshair says and you smile lightly at him.

"I'll see you when I get back Crossie." You say then smirk at him and he sends you a small glare. You stare at him for a second then finally work up the courage to look at Tech. The moment your eyes meet you both allow tears to streak down your cheeks. You both grip onto eachother and hold on tight. You bury your head in the nape of his neck, and he does the same to you.

"Please don't come back close to death again. Be safe, be careful." Tech whispers and you nod.

"I'll try Tech. But if it's between my life and my Generals you know the option I'll pick." You whisper and he nods.

"I know, but... You mean a lot to all of us, and I can't stand losing you." Tech said and released you from the hug.

"I know, but we know the risks as soldiers. I promise I'll try my hardest though." You say and turn to the ship. "Make sure you and the boys pass your exams, and I'll be back before you know it."

"I will." Tech said as he retreated to Hunters' side. You boarded the ship and turned to look out of the hatch as it started to close. The boys waved and you waved back. When the hatch closed you made your way deeper into the ship and found your escort.

"C-captain." You heard the familiar stutter and you smiled.

"James? I thought you were a pilot. How did you end up as my escort?" You asked him and he removed his helmet.

"I v-volunteered." He said happily. "P-plus whe-n I h-heard about y-your in-jury I've b-been w-worried."

"I'm okay. I promise." You say and he nods.

"You're a l-legend in th-the 212th n-now." James said and you smiled widely at him.

"You're stuttering less than you used to. I think a new name did wonders for you, James." You said and he nodded. "But I'm just like every other clone. I'm nothing special." You said and he rolled his eyes.

"Th-at's a lie C-captain." He said and you chuckled.

"Why is that?" You asked.

"B-because y-you're a girl and y-you l-lived." James said and you shook your head.

"That doesn't make me special." You told him and the ship jolted forward a bit. You hadn't even felt the ship jump into hyperspace so dropping out of it was sudden. "So where are we?"

"Christophsis." James informs you and you smirk.

"No stutter that time." You said and he chuckled. The ship shook a bit as it landed and you made your way off the ship with James following behind. At the bottom of the ramp, General Kenobi and Commander Cody were waiting.

"Captain, it's good to see you again." Kenobi said and you bowed your head.

"It's good to be back." You said and Cody cleared his throat.

"I know you'd rather be back home helping your Unit pass their final exams." Cody said. "Which is why the General has granted you permission to go back a week before their exams."

"So that you can be present and ship out with them the moment they're able." Kenobi finished and you smiled.

"Thank you, sirs." You said and Kenobi waved it off.

"No need for thanks. It's basically me repaying you for saving my life." Kenobi said then he shifted his attention to James.

"You're free to go James." Kenobi says and James salutes him.

"Yes, sir." James says then leaves.

"We have much to catch you up on (Y/n). The Separatists seem set on taking Christophsis and we need to stop it." Kenobi said and you started thinking.

"Well it is a major mining hub and a good portion of the republic materials come from here. It would make sense why it would be such a big target to the Seppies." You say and they nod.

"Yes. Which is why it is so important to protect it from the Separatists." Kenobi said. The three of you reached the command center and went up to the holotable. You put your left palm flat infront of the droid plug-in and it opens. Your sconce emerges and you plug into the table and start searching through their notes.

"You already have a plan?" You ask as you find the plans and Cody nods.

"Yes. We're just waiting on General Skywalker to be available to make it out here. In order to ensure the Separatists are defeated and stay away we need to show military and tactical prowess. Generals Kenobi and Skywalker along with both the 212th and the 501st should do just that." Cody said and you nod.

"Yes, Captain Rex does seem to keep Anakin in line... Somewhat." Kenobi said and you cleared your throat to keep from laughing.

"Seems there's context to that, but I won't pry." You say quietly and Kenobi chuckles.

"You have no idea." He says.

"So when can we expect General Skywalker and the 501st?" You asked.

"Well at the moment they're locked in combat. It isn't clear when they'll be available next." Cody says. "For now we pick and choose our battles, and wait with bated breath."

3 Days Later

You stood in the middle of the sparring ring with your wooden weapon. Cody and two others were circling you waiting for the right opportunity to strike. They all have wooden sparring poles as well and you wait. You had yet to be beaten in a sparring match by any of the guys in the 212th. So naturally, this match pulled the attention of every off-duty trooper and General Kenobi. You twirled the pole around you and stopped in your fighting stance.

Cody took this as the green light to engage and struck first followed by the other two. You deflected all of their blows and dodged to the side as Cody swung at you again. As you spun around one of the clones you lightly smacked his back with your pole. He threw his hands up to signal he was out. The next clone was almost as easy since you tripped him and then tapped his side just as quickly. You turned your entire focus back on Cody. The two of you circled the ring and studied eachother. He spun and feigned left then went right but you had deduced he would do this. You blocked his hit then retaliated with one of your own. The exchange between the two of you continued until you got the upper hand and tripped him then tapped his chest. He groaned and then got up with a helping hand from you.

"I was sure I'd be able to show you what the 212th is really made of." Cody said and you chuckled.

"You are all talented in one way or another, but I had a lot of one on one training." You say and he sighs.

"I just think someone needs to be able to beat you. At least one of my boys." Cody says.

"Well, I'll give it a go." Kenobi says and everyone sits watching. Kenobi picks up the wooden staff and weighs it between his hands. He twirls it and stops in his fighting stance and you reciprocate the action. You attack first and he blocks your attack and smacks your staff away. You both circle eachother like hunters stalking their prey. He tries to trip you but you bat away his staff and try to spin a tap to his neck. He ducks beneath the staff and tries to land a hit to your back during the follow-through of your swing. You anticipate this and block it then turn to look at him. This process continues for what feels like an eternity when your back finally hits the floor. You feel the tip of his staff tap your chest and you exhale.

"It would seem that I was taught a lesson by the General of the 212th." You say and get back up with Kenobi's assistance. All the men in the 212th congratulate Kenobi and make their leave.

"I would love to spar with you again. That was rather fun." Kenobi says and you chuckle.

"I enjoy sparring. It's one of the things my brothers and I do quite often. We get competitive and keep count though." You say and he leans against a wall.

"What are your scores against all of them?" He asks and you put away the wooden staffs.

"For Wrecker, it's 75 to 1 in my favor. I was distracted during the one he got. For Crosshair, it's 45 to 31 in my favor. For Hunter, it's 40 to 36 in my favor. For Tech, it's 38 to 38 tied between us." You say and Kenobi let's off a small smile.

"You and your brothers seem very talented when it comes to fighting." He says.

"Thank you General. We've trained a lot." You say and he chuckles.

"When it's just the two of us you can call me Obi-Wan." He says and you nod.

"If you don't mind me asking... What was it like growing up in the Jedi Temple, General?" You ask and he rolls his eyes at you.

"Obi-Wan for one. Two, it was peaceful and rewarding. When I was assigned to my Master he taught me that balance was necessary for the Force. He was an amazing man." Obi-Wan said and you set your flesh hand on his shoulder. You could almost feel his sadness as he spoke of his Master.

"I'm sorry you lost him." You said and he exhaled.

"The Force will take even the best of us when it's ready to. It doesn't care about their affiliation or what position they hold." He says as he wipes his hands off on a rag.

"Then why were you so upset over the possibility of me dying to Dooku?" You asked and he seemed taken aback and slightly confused.

"I'm not sure." He said then threw the rag in a bin. "It was almost like losing my Master all over again, except different... If that makes sense."

"In a way it does, but it would make more sense if it had been General Skywalker. We had only met a couple of days prior. Sir, I'm a clone. We're made to be easily replaced." You tell him and he shakes his head.

"No. You're all different in the Force, and it tells me there's something special about you. That you're important in some way." Obi-Wan says as he finally looks you in the eyes. Your breath nearly gets stolen as you gaze into his bright blue hues. Blue eyes were a rare defect you had only seen on some of the other clones. Neither of you realized you were slowly moving closer to eachother until Obi-Wans com started to beep. He cleared his throat and shook out of whatever trance the two of you were in.

"Obi-Wan." He said.

"Obi-Wan we wanted to let you know that Kyra and Jut will be arriving on Christophsis shortly." The male voice said.

"I didn't know tattoo artists did field work, Master Windu." Obi-Wan said with a hint of amusement.

"They do when we've commissioned them for the clone army." General 'Windu' says.

"I'm sure some of the men will be happy to hear this." Obi-Wan says then the line goes silent.

"The Jedi Order commissioned tattoo artists for the clone army?" You asked him.

"Apparently. These specific tattoo artists are the ones that do any piece a Jedi might want. Come on I'll introduce you to them." Obi-Wan says and you fall into step next to him. "Certain Jedi like to mark themselves with their tribal tattoos, even though they're no longer affiliated with their tribe or clan. Other Jedi get markings showing their rank or devotion to the order." Obi-Wan tells you and you smile happily.

"This is fascinating. I would've suspected that the Jedi wouldn't be allowed tattoos." You said.

"We aren't clergy." Obi-Wan says with a chuckle.

"Do you have a tattoo?" You ask him and he seems to freeze. When he realizes you noticed he smirks at you.

"I do, and maybe one day you'll get to see it, my dear." He says with a wink and you nearly choke on air.

"D-did you just flirt with me?" You ask him astonished.

"Yes." He says and you stare at his back dumbfounded. You catch up to him as he reaches a transport that just landed. The hatch opens and two girls walk down the ramp carrying bags. "Kyra, Jut!" Obi-Wan says happily and they smile at him.

"Kenobi." The Nautolan woman greets Obi-Wan. "Where are we setting up shop?" She asks.

"The only sterile environment here is the medical bay." He says and the two girls nod.

"That'll do." The purple Twi'lek says. You and Obi-Wan lead the girls to the medical bay and you watch them pull out their tools. "What's your name hun?"

"Oh. I'm (Y/n), temporary Captain of the 212th." You say and she nods.

"I'm Jut. You lookin' to get a tattoo?" She asks and you nod. "Then you're my first customer. Tell me what you want."

"But I was just sparring. I'm all sweaty." You say and she nods again.

"Then I'll design it while you get cleaned up." She sits down pulling out a datapad and a stylus.

"Well, I want it to go down my spine. At the top, I want '99', a skull under that, goggles below that, a grenade under that, and a crosshair under that. I also want the omega symbol on the back of my neck." You say then look up at her. She and Kyra were smirking at eachother.

"You're our first client here. We'll both be working on you." Kyra says then she and Jut set to designing your tattoo.

"I'll be back." You say and rush off to freshen up. Obi-Wan went on to do his own thing after you left. When you got back they were finishing up with their equipment. They took notice of you at the door and patted the medical bed.

"Lay down face down so we can get started. Remove any clothing blocking the area." Jut says and you do as requested. "What do you think about this?" She asks then shows you their sketch.

"I like it." You say and smile at it. The outside edges look like an odd tree, while the symbols you asked for were lined directly up the middle.

"This might hurt, but from your scar you might be accustomed to pain." Jut says and you lay down. Both women set to work on each side of you, and the slight sting of the needle wasn't as painful as you thought it would be. The three of you struck up idle chat and the atmosphere was almost carefree. It was odd for a military med bay to feel this way. Sooner than you expected they were done.

"You'll want to apply this cream when you can. It will keep it hydrated while allowing it to breath so it can heal." Kyra instructs and you nod.

"Thank you! Have they asked you to go to Kamino yet?" You asked and they nodded.

"That's our next stop." Jut says and you nod again.

"Alright. Well, I will leave you two to get to your next clients." You say as you put your top back on and then your armor. You make your way to the command center and find Cody talking to Obi-Wan. "General, Commander." You greet them and they both smile at you.

"Heard you got a tattoo (Y/n). Hope I get to see it sometime." Cody says and you shake your head.

"It's on my back. Only way you get to see it is if I end up in the infirmary again." You tell him and he chuckles.

"The boys back home are going to be jealous." Cody says.

"Not for long. Kyra and Jut are going to Kamino next." You tell him.

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#obi wan x reader #sw tbb #the bad batch x reader #the bad batch #star wars fanfiction

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