#i do have an encyclopedia set that im going to read at some point down the line | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

apocalypticgargoyle · 3 years

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𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝘽𝙍𝙄𝘾𝙆 | 𝙠𝙖𝙧𝙡 𝙟𝙖𝙘𝙤𝙗𝙨 (18+)

edit by 🐓 anon. im still screaming over this.

∘ request: [insert the 14 asking for more Sapnap humor in a pt. 1.5 of Meet the Jacobses]

∘ pairings: edgy!Karl Jacobs x fm!reader

∘ warnings: smut (18+), nsfw, language, drinking, mentions of Todd the frat boy, lots of dialogue, biting, asphyxiation

∘ links: 𐐪 ao3 𐑂 𐐪 previous part 𐑂 𐐪 submit an edgy!karl edit 𐑂

∘ a/n: this one goes out to the babes in the gc. ily.

i stole the Brick idea from the Jesse McCartney movie, Keith. I'm sorry. [tw for that link - sad & jesse mccartney not talking about beautiful souls]

also thank you everyone for your support on this series. when my friends and I conjured this up, I never thought I would be at the point where I get to share peoples art/paylists/etc. I'm so thankful for all of you.

okay I'll stop crying. happy reading and have a great week! :)

The sun beat down against your skin, your mind drifting to whether or not you should apply more sunscreen. Karl jumped into the light blue water in front of you, the water splashing out to almost completely soak you. You frowned at him as he came up for air, blowing you a kiss mockingly.

Sapnap’s cousins started tackling Karl, the chorus of laughter echoing around the pool. You stretched your legs out beneath the table, leaning into the shade of the umbrella as you watched them roughhouse.

Sapnap came out from the pool house, opening a beer bottle for you before taking the seat beside you. He sighed, buttoning the top of his shirt as he watched the boys. “Did you have a good time at the party yesterday? I dipped after an hour,” he asked, pushing his sunglasses to rest on top of his head.

You shrugged slightly, taking a sip of your drink. You couldn’t wait to tell your roommate how lavishly you’d been living. The fact that you were lounging by a heated pool, drinking beer from Copenhagen with the sons of millionaires was nearly mind-boggling to you.

You wet your lips, squinting your eyes as you looked at him. “I honestly have no idea. I was kind of just there as a Karl accessory,” you joked, making him chuckle softly.

“Yeah, I get that,” he flipped off one of the cousins as they threatened to throw water at him. “It’s always the Karl show around here,” he added. You raised your eyebrows at him and he backtracked. “I didn’t mean that in a bad way. He’s a good guy; everyone’s just obsessed with him.”

You nodded slightly. “Yeah, he’s definitely the star baby,” you joked, making him laugh. “I need to ask you…” You bit your lip voice trailing off as you searched for the night words.

He sent you a closed-mouth smile. “About my mom and Karl?” He asked, biting back a blithe expression. It shocked you how calm he was about the situation.

You chuckled nervously. “I swear I won’t bring it up again, I’m just,” you cut yourself off, unable to describe the question marks pulsing through your thoughts.

He snorted, taking a sip of his drink. “I know right,” he reassured. “When I found out, I almost broke Karl’s nose,” he chided. “Not that I was like… angry it was my mom but out of how weird it was.”

“Yeah it is really fucking weird,” you agreed, laughing slightly.

He gestured as if to thank you for understanding. “I mean, Karl’s a great guy. He was my best friend for a long time but…” He made a face suggesting his discomfort and you snicked. “That’s my mom, man.” You giggled wholeheartedly at this, making him laugh too.

“What are you guys talking about?” Karl asked, seemingly appearing out of nowhere, dripping wet from his pool time adventures.

“Speak of the Devil and he shall appear,” you joked, making Sapnap wink at you. “Tacitus’ Annals,” you answered, making Sapnap nod at you.

He chewed on his lip, with a calm expression as he supported your lie. “I was telling your girlfriend how much I enjoyed his love of Nero,” he continued, you bit back a smile.

Karl ruffled his hair out in a towel. “Come on now,” he grumbled, calling the two of you on your bullshit.

Sapnap squinted as he looked up at him. “Karl supremacy. As always,” he answered with a touch of quiet sarcasm, making Karl roll his eyes playfully as he took to the other seat beside you.

Karl ran his fingers into his hair. “You wanna get matching tattoos together, Sapnap?” He quipped; Sapnap sending him a smug expression.

“Why? What were you thinking?” He asked, knowing he was walking into whatever Karl was setting up.

Karl pulled the leg of his swim trunks off his leg a bit, furrowing his brows. “I wanna get your mom’s name on the top of my thigh,” he teased, biting his lip. You rolled your eyes playfully.

Sapnap let out a sarcastic laugh. “Oh my God, that’s so funny. I totally didn’t see that coming.”

Karl took a sip of your beer and you spoke up. “I think you’d look good with a tattoo, Sapnap. All jokes aside, you’ve got a great body,” you mused, sending him a wink. Sapnap bit back a smile looking at Karl, who you could already tell was glaring back at him. “Side note, I was meaning to ask you. There’s a guy that’s in Karl’s frat,” you paused, trying to remember what Karl had said Todd’s real name was when you were pinning his auction number on him.

Sapnap raised his eyebrows. “Oh, Mark?”

You pointed at him. “Yes, the fake Romney.”

Sapnap snorted. “He did that on campus too?” Karl nodded, a look of disappointment spreading across their faces.

“Speaking of Todd Mark, the king of the Brick” Karl kicked his feet beneath your chair before continuing, “I heard there’s a bonfire tonight,” he probed, making Sapnap slowly shake his head in disapproval.

You raised an eyebrow at the two. “What’s the Brick?”

Sapnap seemed to have already made up his mind on the situation. “A fucking cesspool,” Sapnap grumbled, sipping from his bottle as Karl tsked. Sapnap tilted his head. “You really wanna take her to the Brick? People get together and smoke crack over there. The fact that,” he paused to furrow his brows at you slightly, “Todd Mark? is the benefactor should say something,” he stated, lips curling into an uneasy expression.

You peered over your shoulder at Karl as if to ask if he were crazy. Karl swatted off your gesture. “They don’t smoke crack this time of year. All the locals are back visiting for break.”

Sapnap shook his head again in unease. You chewed your lip, leaning back in your chair. “I don’t know… Sapnap, do you wanna have a movie night instead?” You joked, making Karl sigh behind you.

Sapnap mimicked your mock severity. “Yeah, a stay in and cuddle?”

“Of course,” you repeated.

Karl wheezed. “No, we’re going.”

Without missing a beat, Sapnap chimed back. “Maybe you can take my mom instead?” Karl’s expression flattened at his words and you nodded, high fiving Sapnap in mock victory.

Despite Sapnap’s hesitation, you all went to what they referred to as The Brick. In reality, it was a spot on the edge of a lake. They only called it the Brick because of Todd’s dad, a racecar driver who claimed the post back when he was in high school and later bought it. A large bonfire burned in the center of the space, various people around your age and a bit younger were either dancing to the music coming from one of the souped-up sports cars or shotgunning beers. You pushed away the thought of your stingy fire marshall back home who―more than once―had reported you and your family for “overactive cookouts.”

“Overactive,” meaning your dad and Clay were failing at not catching hotdogs on fire when the two would get lost in a chat about a mutual videogame when the families would cross the fence line in the summer.

As soon as you had stepped foot on the gravel, Karl was welcomed back like some kind of celebrity, so you stayed close to Sapnap. He would lean towards your height, pointing people out that Karl had mentioned in the past or those worth noting. You nodded along, soaking in what he had to tell you and laughing at his jokes.

A random guy strolled past the two of you, making Sapnap purse his lips. “Hey, Sapnap. How’s your mom?” One of the countless jokes thrown at him since you’d arrived.

He tilted his head with a mock look of questioning. “Didn’t your parents just get divorced, Jeff?” He deflected. Jeff’s face dropped slightly as he moved on. You always found yourself struggling not to laugh at how well Sapnap was at counteracting the jabs at his mom and Karl. Most of you felt guilty for how long he had dealt with it.

Karl watched you carefully as you sat down beside Sapnap on one of the vast benches; hands shoved in his pockets as the group around him caught up. You were glad to have someone around like Sapnap, despite the fact that you often went to parties. In the past, it was more of a bi-annual thing, but since being with Karl, you found yourself shoulder to shoulder with nameless people in a line doing shots every other Thursday.

You laughed as Sapnap joked about avoiding the drinks at the Brick because of the mites in the water and the STDs in the beer. “So, I never asked how you met Karl?” He queried, sticking his hands into the pocket of his Baja hoodie.

You smiled slightly. “Uh…” Shameless thoughts of you on your knees in a random building when you barely knew his name paced through your head like a quickfire of serotonin. “We had a lecture together and he liked my handwriting.” Sapnap smirked, chuckling slightly at your words.

Karl’s eyes were trained on the two of you, demeanor shifting each time one of you leaned towards the other to hear over the music or the two of you bumping each other’s arms to grab your attention. You knew he wasn’t jealous, but his look of curiosity was almost hilarious to you. Sapnap stuck by your side while Karl introduced you to his friends. He was basically your encyclopedia on the newer people as Karl would go off on a tangent with them.

The fact that Karl was so close to all of them and was so popular made your heart swell with pride. You were used to Karl’s deadpanned glares at most of his frat brothers and his snide comments, but now he was welcomed back like he was some kind of hero returning from the war.

After saying goodbye to Sapnap for the day, you threaded your fingers with Karl’s, enjoying the time where it was just the two of you. He brought the back of your hand to his lips, smoothing a kiss against your skin. “So… Sapnap’s mom…” you began, making him chew the inside of his cheek. “Where… did it happen?”

He looked down at you with a perked eyebrow before raising his sights forward, pulling you off the street where the two of you were walking. You followed him as the pair of you snuck through between the houses and across the backyards until the two of you were at Sapnap’s house again. Through the front windows, you could see him talking to his sibling in the kitchen.

Karl grabbed your hand, leading you along the side of the estate and toward the pool house. You wanted to groan at the thought before he pulled you through the door with him. “Are you serious?” You hissed, looking around at the dark place. Karl fought not to smirk as he peered out through one of the windows, watching the lights in Sapnap’s house turn out.

The moonlight streamed through one of the slender windows, illuminating his face and washing his features clean. Your gaze trailed along his arms; his tattoos peeking out from beneath his hoodie as he reached up to lock the door.

He turned back to face you, walking closer to you. “Did you have fun today?” He asked, plopping down on one of the couches and pulling you into his lap. He moved your arms to rest around his neck, pressing his lips to your skin. “I feel like I didn’t see you at all. Sapnap’s a bogart,” he muttered jokingly, settling his hands on your hips.

You scoffed before leaning toward him, pressing your lips against his. “Make it up to me,” you murmured, raking your fingers into his hair. “I think I selfishly need you to ruin me here; you know. Like a cleansing of you and Ms. Scarlet,” you chided.

He bit his lip, eyes pulsing with lust as he fought not to grin. You pressed your lips against his, turning to lay back on the couch and yank him on top of you. He chuckled into your kiss, as your hands moved to curl into his hair. His lust was a taste you could get drunk off if given the chance as his hands traveled the length of your body, moaning as you ground your hips against his, gripping into his clothes.

He leaned off of you momentarily to pull his shirt over his head as you slipped out of yours, you wrapped a leg around him, pushing him onto the couch instead and pinning him between your thighs as you straddled him, running your hands up his tattooed chest and connecting your lips again.

One of his large hands covered your breast as you began to grind your hips against his. His teeth grazed against your skin as he caressed your body while you moved against him, trying to create as much friction as you could against his jeans. He ran his fingers along the hem of your underwear, his lips curling into a smirk as he moved slightly to get a better look. "These are nice. Did you plan this?" He leered, snapping the elastic against your hip playfully. You rolled your eyes, pulling his chin towards you and pressing your lips against his. Every movement of his body seemed to lick at the fire deep within you.

You smirked breathlessly as his lips settled against your collarbones. “These are my church clothes. I had no other motive,” you jousted. His hand reached up to rest against your collarbone, his fingers lightly curling around your neck.

“Of course, how could I not realize,” he jabbed, pressing his lips and tongue against your neck. You moaned, tugging at his zipper before wrapping your hand around his cock, pumping him into harder arousal. He groaned against your neck, bucking into your hand lightly. His head tilted back against the couch beneath you, cheeks flushed at the attention. His teeth nipped at your skin as you ground yourself against his thigh, basking in his noises of pleasure.

His cock pulsed in your hand, making him grab your wrist and pull you beneath him. He gripped one of your legs, resting it in the crook of his elbow as he pushed himself into you, connecting your lips to swallow your moans. The feeling of him inside of you sent a wave of pleasure through your body. His voice was low in your ear, murmuring your name as if it were a curse. You moaned as he took one of your hands, lacing your fingers together beside your head as he kissed you again, tongue slipping into your mouth.

His thrusts became more rhythmless, his hold on you driving him deeper as the pool house filled with the noises of your whimpering moans. Karl’s breath was warm on your neck as he took advantage of your submissive state. He moved his hand from around your leg, wrapping his fingers around your neck again. Your body shivered, waiting for the pressure of his hand as his hips rocked against yours.

He chuckled darkly, teeth grazing against your shoulder before his lips hovered beside your ear. “Beg for it,” he commented, voice strained as he thrusted into you.

You swallowed, fingers digging into his back. “Choke me,” you groaned, “please.” His hand tightened around your neck, breath hitching in your throat as his thrusts became rougher. He bit back a smug grin at the way you reacted to his antics, relishing in your body beginning for more.

He relaxed his hand, pressing his lips to yours as you struggled to inhale. Heat ran through your body as your leg curled around his waist, nails raking down his back.

You leaned away from his lips, voice coming out unevenly as you moaned his name. His movements became sloppier as you groaned in bliss, tugging the flesh of his bottom lip between your teeth. You tipped your head back slightly as you reached your climax, riding out your pleasure and sending him over the edge as he pulled you closer to him, his hands digging into your hips as he encouraged you to continue grinding against him. You exhaled deeply, pressing your lips against his neck and his cheek before kissing him breathlessly as your movements slowed.

You pulled on your shirt, Karl’s hands moving to rest on your hips as he pressed a kiss to your neck. “Should we leave a note for Ms. Scarlet?” You joked, making him chuckle as his arms wrapped further around your waist, cheek pressing against your shoulder.

“Who?” He teased.

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bobbys-naughty-corner · 3 years

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Garou x reader

Hoevember #2 (this is trash. And im not proud of it)

You idly watch him in the shadows. Each time he beat the shit out of a hero, every time he walked aimlessly around looking for heros to just destroy, you were always watching. Right now you were watching him sit with a kid who was reading an hero encyclopedia. “Hey who’s that?” The kid asked Garou. Garou looked down from the sky to where the kid pointed to. You stood behind a tree not really trying to hide. I mean why would you, he knew you were watching him he actually caught you a couple of times. “Oh her. Some crazy chick.” He leant his head back to stare at the clouds. “Like a crazy ex girlfriend?” The boy asked and Garou nearly chocked on his breath. “Hell no!” Garou did admire your body but when he would get close to you, you would run away. You didn’t have enough courage to speak to him properly but you would buy him little bandages and food and leave it for him in some spots. He liked that you followed him, a hot girl flowing him around too shy to even approach him. You were teaching him. Today though, you had worked up enough nerve to approach him. You had made him food that morning and now that it was sunset it was already cold but you were just waiting for the perfect opportunity. But that kid was there. He’s just a kid YN, you can just punch him and he’ll go running away. No no you can’t hit kids! Just ignore the boy. You took the first step from behind the tree and nearly trembled when Garou stared at you. Your legs wobbled as you took small slow steps towards him. Garou got up though and started to walk away leaving the boy alone. You froze as you watched him leave the park. The boy ran up to you and started interrogating you. “What’s your business with him?” “Who are you?!” You stammered on one word as he kept asking you questions. Garou now lost from your view 😔. You pouted and decided to walk away. You hung your head as you walked away, sad that the first time you were not afraid to talk to him he walked away. You walked down the block, eyes glued to the ground and feet dragging against the concrete. Your wrist was yanked into an alleyway, nearly tripping over your own feet as you were pulled aggressively. Your mouth covered by a big palm and body pressed against the dirty brick wall. “What do you have in there?” The stranger asked you about the bag you carried food in. His hand removed itself from your lips allowing you to speak. “F-f-food” you stuttered out of fear. “Oh, for who?” His voice was right at your ears the breath from his mouth hit the bottom of your ear. “M-my b-boy f-friend.” You lied. “What his name?” The man asked again, pressing his body against yours. You bit your lip, fearful of lying about dating Garou to a random stranger. “G- Garou.” You whimpered out. “You don’t say?” The man let go of you and grabbed the bag. You turned and your eyes were filled with hearts 😍. Garou was digging through the bag, he pulled out a bento and a fork you left for him. He opened the food and his eyes widened. “This looks amazing.” He closed it back up and rubbed your head. Your eyes unable to leave him, taking in the best sight you’ve ever seen. His smile, he was smiling at you. Garou then grabbed your wrist and dragged you out of the alleyway. Pulling you along the street taking to you to an unknown destination. You couldn’t faght back but the touch of his warm hands was too good. He was so close and you didn’t want him to get any farther from you. His hand slid down to yours and entangled his fingers in yours. Your heart wanted to soar through the sky. Hand in hand down the block. 🥰 it was like one of your dreams. One of your sfw dreams 😏. You imagined baby angels around you singing and playing little angel instruments. You jogged closer to him and hugged his arm. Resting your head on his shoulder. He didn’t even push you off, no flinching or complaints. You tried to hide the big ugly grin that was creeping onto your face. As you both continued walking you noticed the buildings began to look too familiar. Once you rounded the corner you saw your apartment complex and you nearly stopped walking.

When entering the building your body began to sweat. You didn’t want him to leave just yet. And what about seeing him again? Everything was happening too fast, you wanted time to slow down. Like real slow. When he stopped at the elevator you hugged him tighter. As the elevator descended down so did your heart. You prayed in your head for just something to happen to make him stay. When the elevator dinged and opened you were pulled out of your thoughts as people exited the small box. You pouted as you both entered and just stood quietly. He pressed the button to your floor and you briefly wondered how he knew what building and floor you lived on. Maybe you can pretend that you left your keys in the house and locked yourself out. He wouldn’t believe that. His arm removed itself from your grasped which made you whine a little like a baby but you stopped when he only changed positions. Putting his arm over your shoulders and pulling you closer to his body. Your heart rate sped up and you moved closer. Your nose took in every whiff of him 😤🤤. The elevator stopped and opened allowing you both to exit. Before you can walk down the hall to your door you stopped him. He looked down at you confused. “I- I don’t want to go home just yet.” You said quietly. He put the food down and pushed back your curly hair to get a good look at you. You buried your face in his chest and held into him. You’ve waited to long to touch and talk to him. It’s only been about 15 minutes since the park. It wasn’t enough for you. “I’ll go in with you.” He said rubbing your back. Instant smile across your face 😀. Like a phsyco trying to look nice. You pulled him to your door and quickly unlocked your door and once again pulling him. It was a nice single bedroom apartment. Your parents got it for you when they went overseas to London. You’ve been on your own since sophomore year of high school. Now a senior, you we’re accustomed to living alone. You never had guest over so you wanted to impress Garou, a lot. You took the food and transferred it to a pan and let it heat up in the oven. You grabbed your nice plates, cups and silverware. You poured him sparking water and brought it to him. “So what’s with the stalking?” He asked suddenly. You blushed and almost didn’t answer. “You were never approachable until you were with that kid. I was just waiting on a opportunity to say hi but heros would always harass you.” You gritted your teeth at the word heros. You put the water away and waited for his food to cook. Garou got up from his seat at the table and walked over to you. “So my girlfriend was afraid to approach me because of heros? You scared of them?” He gently pushed you against the counter. You blushed more at the word girlfriend. “I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to use that word before I just panicked.” You blurted out. “What word? Boyfriend? You don’t like me?” He wrapped his arms around your waist not wasting 😉 anytime getting real physical. “Of course I do! I just didn’t know it was you I was talking to. I think your food is ready.” You went to turn off the oven but he stopped you. He tugged you back to the counter and sat you on top of it. “How much do you like me?” He asked getting really close, setting himself between your thighs. “Enough to let you in my house.” You scratched your hair. “Yeah, you were really eager to let me in.” His hands slide up your thighs and you flinched under his hands. “I don’t like being home alone.” You told him trying to find something besides his face to look at. He was extremely close, his nose just barely touched yours and his hands were at your waist. “Hmm, so you like my company?” He said. “I like your presence yes. This is the first time being around you but I can also say I like your company.” You placed your hand on his chest to push him back some but feeling his muscles under his shirt surely distracted your thoughts. “So what do I have to do to get my girlfriend naked in the bed for me?” He said lifting your chin to stop your gaze at his body and to his eyes.

“Huh?” You we’re too busy filling your mind with nasty thoughts you didn’t hear a word he said. “I said, how intimate can we get? You already established that we’re together and I don’t take that lightly, there’s very few people I keep around me and you added yourself to that group of people. And seeing how you’ve been trailing behind me for a couple of months I’ll take that as the beginning of our relationship.” “A kiss!” I interrupted him. “I want a kiss, please.” He laughed a little before cupping my cheeks and stroking it with his thumb. For such a violent man he was so gentle. “Your shyness seems to come after your bluntness.” I was about to speak but he pulled me in for a kiss. No tongue, no caresses just our lips touching. A regular first kiss, well as regular as it could get. You weren’t expecting him to be a lustful beast, he was still an 18 year old boy and your were the same age. But it was really nice, his lips weren’t chapped or busted and he tasted like gum. Kids bubblegum, from the park. The kiss only lasted seconds, he pulled his head away and smiled. But it wasn’t enough for you. You wrapped your arms and legs around him, “another”. He didn’t give it a second thought. His lips were back on yours. The kiss more heated, lips moving against each other as his tongue fought with yours. He let you be the first to play in his mouth before he would make your lips sloppy from his saliva. Your left hand trailed down his arm until you reached his wrist and brought it under your skirt. When his fingers rubbed the location of your clit you jumped a little. It was invited but unexpected at the same time. Like inviting a friend over for lunch and they show up in a corn costume. His fingers put more pressure on your core as he felt you getting wet from the kiss. Your uniform skirt hiding his hand making every move he made under there a mystery until you felt it. He removed his lips and dragged his lips down to your neck. “Bedroom?” He asked you for directions. “End of hall.” He quickly picked you off the counter and carried you to the end of the hall. Your back hit the bed and he was so quick to get his shirt off. You followed suit and began to unbutton your uniform. Taking your time and being very careful not to pop any button since you had limited supply of school shirts. When you had the shirt off he gazed down at your body. Breast sitting pretty in your lavender bra. Garou lifted your legs and spread them, kneeling at the edge of the bed putting your cunt in his field of vision. “You should see how wet you are. But I’m sure you feel it. Do you feel embarrassed? It being your first time being intimate with someone and you’re so easily letting me go to town on you.” You gasped when he pulled the fabric down your legs. “How would you know that?” You covered your face. “I could’ve had plenty of people before you.” It was true, you were a very attractive, smart and easy going girl. “You’re not the only one whose been stalking sweetheart. And you’re not the first virgin to like bad boys. But do indulge me on one of your previous encounters. I would like to hear who about who was here before me.” He sounded a bit possessive, you shook your head. “Why not?” He spread your folds and watched the sheets darker under you. “I haven’t done anything like this with anyone.” You weren’t embarrassed at that since you didn’t see anyone as a romantic interest until you saw him. “Was you saving yourself for me?” He teased, prodding a finger at your hole making you squirm in discomfort. “I was saving myself for a hero, I got distracted by you.” You were lying but Garou didn’t like the sound of that. He stuffed his finger in you and added another when he didn’t get the reaction he wanted. You Squeaked from the new intruders. “Not cute.” He said. You hissed when he stretched his fingers apart. Your hands grasped his wrist. He got up still making “animal puppets” in your vagina. Unaware of his sweatpants discarded amongst the heap of clothes that piled up. U jumped, feeling it by his fingers.

You felt his penis work it’s way inside while his fingers stretched you open for him. You bit your bottom lip and tried to bare with the pain. “Ouch.” You say as he removes his fingers and slides his penis the rest of the way in. “Who was it going to be?” He shifted his weight over you, putting both hands by your head. He watched your face and made sure to make you as comfortable as possible. You wiggled your hips a little trying to get yourself together but moaned from his thrust. He began to move after he saw you move and kept a slow and steady pace. “Who was it?” He asked you again, a little aggravated that he had to repeat himself and the thought of you liking a hero didn’t sit right with him. “Stinger,” you moaned out. His hips stopped moving when the name settled in his ears. “You liked that hero?” He said disgusted. As if he had his mind on someone else. “Maybe. But that was before I saw you.” Your arms put themselves around his neck as if they belonged there. “So I was the second choice?” He muttered. He scooped your legs over his shoulders and removed your hands, pressing them against the sheets. He said something else under his breath but you couldn’t hear him. He was just talking to himself out loud, while his dick just sat in you. A perfectly normal situation. His grip on your arm got stronger and it almost started to hurt. You could feel the strangling of your veins, your nerves picking up an odd pounding as the blood couldn’t circulate properly. “Garou.” You called to him softly. Your forearm raised and tapped his elbow. He wasn’t bothered by your voice or you touch. His hips rose and fell back down ripping a strangled groan from you. It was so sudden. His dick pounding away at your cunt. Both areas heating up rather fast. Sweat making the claps of hips sound wet while the sliding in and out of his girthy length made the most nastiest of sounds. Almost like playing with slime. It made your eyes roll back, your spine arch up and toes curl. Your nails scratched his sides and he moved, he let out little grunts from the pain but he didn’t stop or falter his penetration. He did however move up, grinding against you as his body held you down. He released your arms and pressed his chest against yours. Taking smaller, faster and harder thrust. It nearly gave you an immediate orgasm but it was missing something. Like a topping on a sundae. You moaned in his ear and he just loved to hear it. It was like music to his ears, a serenade of high pitch sounds emanating from your vocal cords. Your body begged for him to touch you with his hands, wanting more physical contact than he was giving. You moved your hand between your bodies, trying to sneakily touch your clit for extra help. Garou felt your hands wiggling down against him and quickly got the message. His hand beat you there and rubbed slowly up and down your clit. You shuddered and sank further under him. He basically had your whole body in his hand and was giving it gently loving strokes with the tip of his finger. Your was pulsed around him, clenching and unclenching his cock. “Feels good huh? Tell me what’s going through your mind right now.” You were so close to an orgasm you couldn’t even speak. But you did put some words together between the gumble of incoherent crap that was flowing out your mouth. “....good...stinger...better...” what you really said was ‘you feel so good~ I never liked Stinger (😡). You were always better.’ But of course it came out as if you were saying stinger was better. Garou sat up and pulled out. He flipped you onto your stomach and really let you have it. His hands struck your ass. You bit your lip hard, it was so pleasurable. His hands came down with a open palm. And you waited for it. Hands gripping the sheets and ass raised asking for more. After a couple of slaps he had you sitting on his lap, legs spread, back touching his chest with his fingers back to rubbing you. You bent your head over his shoulder letting out every sound that was made from you freely into his ear. His dick tapping your back as it throbbed behind your ass.

“Garou, just fuck me please. I’ve been waiting for a long time. I never like stinger, I always liked you. Please take me, any way you want.” You said reaching behind yourself to stroke him. He kissed the side of your neck. His palm rubbed your clit as his fingers fucked your hole. Your legs shut on his hand as you came on his fingers. Your held his wrist as your body spasmed and your back arched the opposite way making your body curl up. Garou got on his knees and helped you onto your back. Your hand came up to his hair and rustled it out of shape. His dick went inside you no problem. The slick between you made nasty sounds and made you feel sticky. “Oh Garou, you feel so good. Please more.” You cried. “Oh look whose the little chatter box all of a sudden.” His hips met yours with harsh, rough thrusts. You smiled to yourself but it was clear as day on your face. “You like that baby? It’s nice to know you’re a masochist.” He sat up and picked up your hips. I hands lifted and pulled your hips to meet his with each thrust. It drove you crazy, you couldn’t speak. He sped up and you felt the biggest urge to pee. “You’re getting really wet.” Your thighs jiggled as they shook, “oh FUCK!” He stopped suddenly and pulled out. Your lucky gushed your orgasm on him as he came over your woman hood. Panting heavily from your previous orgasm. “I like you a lot Garou. You’re the coolest villain I know of. I don’t care if you don’t want a relationship. I just want to be around you, I’ll be here for any of your needs.” You said out of breath. Garou kissed you, “you’re mine.” He growled out. You hugged him and gleefully giggled, excited at your new relationship.

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xsister-serpent · 5 years

Text

Soggy Cereal

Summary: Reader has been going through a bit of a rough patch lately to the point where she cannot bring herself to see her friends. Tom being one of her closest friends finds her and tries to be the best man he can be for her.

A/N : Based off @painfullythickimagines of this ask i had requested. It’s been a long time coming and this legit has helped me out with getting back into the grove of writing.

You haven’t been feeling to great lately. The things you once adored now were things you felt indifferent about. It was the void again. That gnawing feeling in the back of your subconscious. Although this wasn’t your first time with your low points, you still had it there tucked away in the corner. Some days it wasn’t there at all, other days however it was an oozing wound. You forced yourself to get out of bed and eat something. You brought down a cereal and poured it into a bowl along with milk.

You stared at the bowl taking a small spoonful of it in your mouth. After a first bite, your stomach felt full. But you knew it wasn’t. Picking up your phone you saw numerous messages from your friends. Some were pictures of Seb and Chris arm wrestling. Hardy and Henry sent you a Snapchat of them with their dogs at the local dog park. Jason had sent a video of Holland getting wiped out by a wave. A message came through from Tom, one friend you had grew close to. He asked if you were okay seeing that you hadn’t been replied to anyone theses past days.

You replied you were fine and locked your phone. That was a lie of course but he couldn’t see you like this. Hell you didn’t want any of your close friends seeing you like this. Placing your phone on vibrate you tossed it on top of your bed. You needed a bath, a hot one. You knew the void was going to try to take you to your lowest, you had gotten so far. You weren’t going to let it win not this time. You pulled out candles and your favorite bath scent. You slipped out of your clothes and waited till the tub was full.

You fully avoided the mirror as you walked past it. You couldn’t stand yourself to look in it. Too many imperfections. The heat felt good against you. Like a warm scented blanket you basked in it. The void became tiny once more. You closed your eyes for a bit as you inhaled the scent listing things you were grateful for. Your family, your friends, and lastly Tom. For a split second you heard his voice drift in your head. You imagined his laughter, his smile, the way he’d always get teased about being a walking encyclopedia. A force suddenly to a hold of you causing your eyes snapped opened in shock.

“Y/N! Y/N WAKE UP!” Tom yelled in worry as he shook you.

“TOM?! WHAT THE HELL!!” You screamed as you covered your chest.

“Y/N where were you?!! I called you ten times!” he sighed as he went out of the tub.

“TOM IM NAKED! IN A TUB!” You shouted covering what you could, “Get out!”

Tom suddenly turned around placing his hands on hips , completely ignoring your nakedness “I called you ten times Y/n! Ten times! I find you in the tub asleep for what in hour?! God i was worried sick!!”

“If you get out of the room and wait, I will explain everything.”

“Fine,” he huffed as he retreated out of the bathroom.

You calmed your nerves as the tub drained itself. He’s just trying to be a good friend, you told yourself. Suddenly the void answered, ‘A friend who you don’t deserve’.

With a sigh of guilt you half assed your self care and went to find tom. You walked into the kitchen to find him there, his arms folded with a concern look.

“What’s going on?” He asked, “First you say you’ll come to movies then cancel very last minute, knowing full well we planned this for month. We go out for the flea market where you again don’t show up. We go out to dinner where you hardly talk to anyone..”

The concern in his voice made the guilt pool into your stomach. Tom’s eyes tried to read your face, “I know something is going on, but I have to hear it from you.”

The was a still silence between you now, one that was so thick you could strike a knife through it. You pulled from his gaze and looked the floor, “What gave it away?”

Tom motioned the soggy cereal next to the empty bottles of water. Your hand went behind your neck as you tried to come up with an answer. An answer that didn’t make you sound like a manic.

“Okay,” you began, “I’m- I’m going through a weird funk right now. I sometimes withdraw away from people I love because I don’t want to be a burden. I disappear because I don’t want you, or anyone else to see me like this. The best thing I can do, well not the best, but it helps, is that I put on phone on vibrate cause I needed a break from it. It’s shitty way of dealing with things, but it helps keep the void away.”

Tom took in your words. His piercing ocean eyes clinging to every word. You waited for some kind of retaliation from him. He should be mad, you left him with no trace and worst no call back. You glanced at him waiting for him to explode. Instead his hands went to his sides.

“I can understand the break truly,” he admitted, “But promise me you’ll reply to my text, at least to let me know you’re okay. Just a simple K is good enough for me.”

He took a step forward closer to you, “I thought the worst y/n. When you disappear it…it doesn’t feel right.”

“I didn’t think anyone would noticed,” You whispered looking downcast.

“I do.”

You glanced up at Tom in shock.

“I always do.”

His tender gaze pierced your guilt in your chest. A swell of tears gathered at your eyes as your shame came into light. Tom warped his arms around you as you felt your shoulders sag.

“I’m sorry,” you stammered as you held back the tears, “I’m a real shitty friend.”

“No, no you’re not y/n,” he soothed as he held you, “Please stop beating yourself up, you’re worth more than that.”

You felt your tears drip down your face as he held you. You didn’t whimper or let out a sob. It was a quiet cry, a silent one that had struggled to get let out. You gripped onto tom as you closed your eyes letting what you could out. The tears burned as they rolled down and your snobs began to croak. All the while Tom held you soothing out your hair as you cried.

“it’s alright y/n,” he spoke he held you close, “It’s alright.”

He was where he needed to be, holding you. For what seemed like eternity you felt your breathing became smoother and the war in your mind had eased. With a long exhale you gathered yourself together letting go to tom. You saw the tear stains on his shirt and quickly tried to pat them away, “Sorry.” “Don’t be,” Tom waved off as he handed you a napkin, “I hated this shirt anyway.”

You chuckled as you wiped your nose.

“Ah there’s a laugh,” he hinted with a smirk.

You suddenly spotted the cereal bowl sitting in the center of the counter, “I should probably throw that away huh?”

“Yeah, it doesn’t look too appealing now. Here let me,” Tom spoke as he emptied the bowl into the sink, “Have you eaten anything else?”

“Just chips and water.”

As if on queue your stomach growled loudly.

Tom paused as he looked back with disappointment, “Y/n…”

“I know, I know,” you sighed.

“Alright, then what would you like to eat?” He replied as he rinsed the dish.

“No tom don’t waste your-“

“Y/n I’m offering.”

You folded your arms across your chest in protest, “Tom..”

“Y/n,” his eyebrow arched copying your stance.

He reached your forearm gently giving an assuring squeeze, “Please, let me do this for you, okay?”

You unfolded your arms. He had won this round. You pause in thought as you searched for ideas, “Is a sushi okay with you?”

“Of course it is,” Tom smiled as he finished the dishes, “I’ll give them a call. Cali Rolls right??”

You nodded, “you know me too well.”

You went back into the bathroom and splashed your face with cold water giving you a somewhat refreshed look.

“What rolls do you want?” Tom called from the other room.

“A Washington and crunch please, oh and miso soup.”

Tom placed the order and hung up the phone. You returned to the front room and went to tv placing it on. You searched your DVR for your recorded shows. You selected a paranormal show and changed the futon couch into a bed. Tom began to help you setting it up with pillows and fluffy blankets. The two of you settled in the couch.

“So catch me up on this,” Tom spoke as he slipped off his shoes.

As you begin to explain you could feel his eyes hanging on to each one of your words. It was his attention that made you feel something. It was the same from the other times you had hang out just the two of you. You felt his body come a bit closer to you, not that it scared you but it was if he was testing the waters. You both went back the show, now wasn’t the time to thing about that. Your mind was recovering and you weren’t sure if he could handle it.

The door bell chimed causing you both to be startled as the show became intense. Tom paused the show, “I could’ve sworn my heart nearly jumped in my chest.”

“Oh come on this is nothing,” you chuckled.

“I swear, here,” tom took your hand and placed it on his chest.

Your eyebrows rose as you felt his heart pacing fast, “Tom we can change it.”

“No no,” he waved off as he slid out of the futon, “It’s getting so good.”

You laughed as he made his way to the door collecting the order. He paid the delivery man and went back to the bed. “Here you are deary,” he spoke as he gave you a foam box.

“Thanks,” you replied as you both began to eat the fresh rolls.

Tuning back to the TV, you let out a content sigh. The emptiness was replaced with this now. You knew of course it would be there, but this drowned it out. You glanced at Tom who was intently watching the TV. You moved your attention to the TV before he could glance at you. Soon the foam boxes were all that was left. The food was gone and the water glasses were empty. You placed on the soft lighting in the room giving it a warm glow.

Tom glanced at his phone, “Well everyone is relieved that you’re home, poor Seb thought you had blocked him. In which I won’t blame you if you do, he’s memes are terrible.”

A light laugh escaped your lips along with his. You sunk down into the bed and cuddled onto the body pillow.

“Can you promise me something?” you spoke catching his gaze.

“Yes,” he replied laying down beside you.

“Promise me you won’t tell any of the guys you saw me like this? I don’t want them to worry about me too much.”

“Cross my heart.”

In which he did. Tom moved a bit closer to you, “Can you promise me something?”

You nodded.

“That you’ll tell me everything, even if it’s dark. I want you to know that i’ll be there with you.”

You smiled and kissed Tom on the forehead softly. His ocean eyes gazed down at you. You had seen this look before, one full of love. But you were unsure. You indecisively moved away only for his hand to reach for your forearm.

“You’d still look at me that way even when I’m like this?” You asked placing your hands behind your head.

“Of course,” he replied, “You don’t scare me, y/n. I know I can’t protect you from it, but I can damn well help you through it.”

His eyes became alive with adoration.

“You’re the strongest person I know. I-i know this is a bad time but if I feel like I don’t tell you this now, I’ll go completely insane,” he said sitting back up right, “I love you. I can’t- i won’t keep it a secret anymore. I know it’s horrible timing, and it’s perfectly fine if you don’t feel the same. I’ll be whatever you want me to be, a friend, a lover I don’t care. Just let me be there for you.”

You looked a little taken back as you let his words sink into you. You love him, said a soft whisper. He was there for you, he’d went that extra mile for you. You touched his face caressing his cheek with your palm. Your lips met his in a soft kiss lighting a spark inside you.

“I love you too,” you admitted, “Thank you, for being there and being patient.”

“It’s not a problem, not with you,” He smiled.

You embraced Tom as he wrapped his arms around you making you feel secure and safe. You knew this wouldn’t be end of your struggle, but this, his warmth his caring touch was enough to chase it away. It was perfect.

#tom hiddleston #tom hiddleston x reader #this was super personal #and a little tough to write but i'm glad I did

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rezdogsyonder · 4 years

Text

Need (3)

Pairing: Professor!Rogers x Reader

Summary: The professor realizes just how mich he wants you.

Warnings: stalking, mention of blood.

A/N: This part will mostly be in Steve’s point of view. Kinda. I’ve decided reader wears glasses and idk why I wrote this, this way.

**********

‘Why am I doing this? I shouldn’t be doing this.’ Steve thought as he kept following her from a safe distance.

**********

He wasn’t following you at first; he stayed back in his office for probably an hour...or three. He didn’t keep track. He needed to turn in a book, a history book for revision, and comparison. He is writing his own book, telling what actually happened while in the Howling Commandos.

By the time Steve got to the library the sun was setting, and it was a complete ghost town inside. Only spotting two people on his way to his destination. One of them being a janitor. The top floor of the library is where he needed to go, it’s where the special collection is kept. Normally these kinds of books aren’t allowed out of the library, but being older than most of the books in their library has its perks.

Putting the book back in its respective place, and about to return the checkout card, that is when I sees you once more. Hiding out in the back corner, at a table that is covered in notebooks and colorful pens and highlighters. Looking so deep in focus, biting your lip, and flipping through papers only to turn back to your notebook.

Hair tossed up in a messy bun. Glasses hanging at the end of your nose. You look at little bit more disheveled than what he remembered from a couple hours ago. White V-neck t-shirt under a navy blue cardigan. You looked beautiful.

Deciding to stay, Steve began to look through more history books, encyclopedias, and records that would help with his little project. If he was going to stay he might as well get some work done too.

He sat at a table across a very long isle from you. A seat that made sure he could still watch you, without you seeing. If he had, to he could just scoot his chair forward and he would be out of sight.

Steve is there for another 40 minutes or so before he sees her putting all of her notes away. He quickly stacked everything and put it all in his bag, then walking out before she sees him. Waiting by the entrance for you.

‘Why is she out this late? Doesn’t she know this is a dangerous city?’

Then he realized. He shouldn’t be here, he could get fired.

‘Why am I doing this? I shouldn’t be doing this.’ Steve thought as he kept following her from a safe distance.

He was going to turn back, he really was, but she just seemed so vulnerable. How far does she live? ‘I’ll just make sure she gets home safe.’ He decides, but he truly know that now he’s hooked, and he’s not going to stop.

And he didn’t. He not only followed her home but he found out what apartment she lives in. First floor, not very safe, at least the windows to her home are high. Less of a chance of robbery. He also saw her roommate, he recognized her from the coffee shop. Watching her clean up her room Steve realized something.

He’s got it bad.

**********

He held himself back from following her again. Not really by choice. He didn’t see her at the library again. He also avoided the cafe she works at. Not wanting himself to get too close, too fixated. It has been three weeks though, and he doesn’t know how much longer he can keep himself from you. Of all of his classes, yours was his favorite.

You have his class twice a week, every Tuesday and Thursday. Both scheduled at 4:30. He has kept his distance and she has been nothing but a model student.

Steve needs a teachers assistant, and he thinks he’s already found her.

**********

The essays Steve had assigned are finally almost done being graded. Deciding to leave yours last. When he was done going through, your essay was nearly perfect. Maybe he was biased, but he really thought that you’re paper deserved an A.

A grade he rewarded to only six other people. He was going to write an A when an idea struck him.

He grabbed his red marker and marked the paper with a C, writing “see me after class”.

He smiled at his plan and quickly filed it into the bottom of the stack of essays to hand back as students began filing into his classroom.

It’s Thursday.

**********

You got to Mr.Lee’s class 15 minutes early as per usual. You like being a little bit more than punctual. This was one of your favorite classes to be in but to be honest you’d be glad when it’s over. Math made sense to you but it took work. A lot of work.

Last class, there was a test and you were dying to see how you did. Mostly because he said that this test will be just like the mid-term and a good chunk of the final. You tried really hard, going to the library more often than usual. Well, it isn’t a big accomplishment, you only go the the library once a week. For like 4 hours, but still.

You’re practically bouncing in your seat all class period, since the average score on the test for this class was 82% Mr.Lee thought that we can have a reward. It’s his top priority that his students are understanding his material, and that’s why you like this class.

We are currently watching a movie and those who wanted to leave could, but they would have to wait longer to view their score. You stayed because you worked too hard to wait any longer.

But finally the end of this class was drawing near, and Mr.Lee just checked his watch and was pulling out a big stack of papers. Trying to stay calm just in case your score was bad, and why did this class have to be so big?

He was finally get to you, and he set your packet face down on your desk. Did he put the other students tests face down? You weren’t even paying attention. Now that you have your test, you can leave the class.

Pulling out your phone you call a familiar number, “Wade?” You met him on you way to a book store last year, he actually saved you from being mugged when you thought it was a good idea to take a shortcut through a back alley.

“My common sense it tingling,” you hear him the material of his mask being moved around, “What did you do this time Y/N? Something that shows you’re intelligent I bet. That’s the main trope of your story’s character.”

“You know you don’t sense sometimes, but maybe! I took a test the other day and I’m scared to look. I was hoping a call to you would help calm my nerves.”

“Would an in person meet and greet help?”

“What do y—” you couldn’t finish your sentence before a body landed in front of you on the sidewalk. You let out a loud shriek, then you heard a voice.

“Holy fuck knuckles! That shit hurted.” And you realized who it was.

“Fuck I hate you sometimes.” You sighed.

“I’m hilarious so don’t hate. And that was about as much fun as a sandpaper dildo,” he sits up at looks at you, “wanna kiss it better?” He says gesturing to his backwards foot.

You bend over and turn it back around, despite his cry of pain. Then you offer a hand so he may stand.

You looked down, “ah shit you got some blood on me.” It was only a drop, probably the size of a quarter on your white boyfriend cardigan. Wade pokes his arm and draws a smiley, using the dot on your sweater as an eye.

“Gross.” You smiled.

“Hydrogen peroxide will get that out.” You nodded and began unbuttoning it to take it off. Leaving you in your baby pink cami that was tucked into your high waisted back jeans.

“So... Wanna see my score?” You held out the packet.

“Ah... mhmm... yes.” He mumbled through his mask as he flipped through the pages. “Y/N I’m sorry to have to tell you this but it looks as thought you’ll have to drop out.”

You hit him, “Shut up, let me see.” You snatch it out of his hand before you finished your sentence. By it before you look at your score you smiled at him, “I guess your ‘inperson meet and greet’ did help.”

93%. You were struggling in that class and this will surely boost your grade back up. Squealing you jump at Wade, hugging him. He twirled you around.

“Celebratory chimichangas?” He put you back down and began walking, knowing you’d follow.

“Yeah actually I have roughly an hour and a half before my next class.” You said you you looked down at your phone. “Where should we go?”

“There’s this beautiful woman that has a restaurant somewhere that way.” Wade said point in a general direction.

You didn’t really believe him but two blocks in the direction he pointed was a small restaurant. You wouldn’t have noticed it if Wade hadn’t pointed it out. The lady that ran it was a sweet little old woman.

The food was great, and Wade was able to keep you occupied the entire time. You didn’t even realize how much time had passed before there was only 5 minutes before your next class started.

“Oh SHIT! Fuck IM LATE!” You scrambled pull out your wallet, but end up spilling everything. Wade starts to help you pick up everything that fell out, he stood up with five of your notebooks.

“I paid ahead of time. Sorry read ahead in the script. But let’s go!” He waved at the little lady behind the counter. “Goodbye, my princess.” And blows her a kiss.

“Come on we have to run, slow ass.” he starts pulling you to go faster.

“Jesus, I’ve never been late before. Oh my god.” Starting to get out of breath. About a block and a half closer.

“Really? Never would have guess that.” He says sarcastically. You two are back on campus, and you need to pass two more buildings.

“There! It’s right there,” you say running faster, you get to the front of the building. Wade hands you back your notebooks. You lean over trying to catch your breath.

“4:28. Why was it so important to be on time to this class?”

“Well turns out Mr.America is also Mr.Punctuality.”

“Cap is your teacher? I better skedaddle before he try’s to cut off another arm. Goodbye sunshine.” He taps your nose. “Boop.”

“Bye!” You waved and headed inside, going to the second to last classroom on the left.

You check the time again 4:29, you weren’t late. But it looks like the teacher is going to be. All that worrying for nothing. Not knowing that you were the reason for his tardiness.

**********

Mr.Rogers did show up for class but was about five minutes late. Other than that class went on like normal, you took your notes and worked. Used to the feeling of somebody staring at you, you didn’t want to know who thinking that acknowledging them will encourage them.

‘Wow she looks so adorable, pink suits her well.’ He thought as he watched her, but he began to grow angry as he realized that these boys were looking at his girl.

It was nearing the end of class, so he began passing out the essays. Saving yours for last. Today’s class was small, most students skipped his class once they realized that he wasn’t going to talk about Captain America or the avengers.

Once he got to you he placed your essay on your desk face down gently. He felt a little bad, turning around quickly so he didn’t have to see the disappointment on your face.

You forgotten about the essay, but you thought you had done well when you turned it in. You were having a good day, but this just ruined it. A big C on the corner of your paper. You felt tears beginning to well in your eyes but you blinked them away before they could fall.

You look at the clock and there is 2 minutes left, but the professor dismissed everyone already. You begin packing your stuff up, when you feel a little chilly. Sighing you pull out your cardigan and look at the smiley. Maybe you’ll call Wade again after this. You put it on hoping people will think it’s just a cute little design.

The class was now empty and you walk to the office connected to this classroom. It was more plain than you’d expect, and a lot cleaner too. Almost every other professor’s office you’d been to had been a complete mess. He was sitting behind his desk.

“You said to see you after class?” You say timidly. He gestured to the seat in front of his desk, and you take a seat.

“Yeah let me see that,” he holds out his hand and you lean forward to give him your paper, “I just needed to talk to you.” He crossed out the C and wrote an A right next to it, and stood up.

“What did you need to talk about?” You felt a little better with an improved grade, but a nervous pit in your stomach began to form. We’re you in trouble? He walked around and leaned against his desk in front of you, handing your paper back.

“I have been needing to choose a TA for the semester, and I was wondering if you would like to fill that position?”

“Oh my gosh really? I would love to! What would I need to do?”

He smiled, “Well, regular TA responsibilities like grading, tutoring or mentoring students if and when they need help, stuff like that.”

“Wow, thank you for this opportunity.” At this point you wouldn’t be able to stop smiling.

“It’s no problem. This job will suit you, I can tell.” He sighs and rubs the stubble on his face. “But, you will have to sign a few papers.” He slid walked back behind his desk and pulled a small packet out of his desk drawer. “This isn’t what you would sign with other teachers, but I’m sure you’re aware of my previous profession.” You nodded. “This is just protecting my privacy and it’s basically saying that you won’t do anything that would take away that privacy.” He slid the papers over to you, then putting a pen on top.

“Yeah, okay.” You didn’t read through it before signing, as Mr.Rogers just explained it to you. You put the pen down. “What now?”

Yes, what now? Steve thought.

7 notes · View notes

jae-bummer · 7 years

Text

My Idol: Part Seven

My Idol From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

My Idol is a South Korean competitive reality dating game show. It currently airs on Wednesday nights on Jae-bummer’s blog. First broadcast in 2016, the show offers the opportunity for a lucky fan to go on seven blind dates with seven idols. The idol plans the date with the show throwing in specific missions to complete during the day. At the end of the initial dates, the show opens up an audience vote to decide what three idols will move on to the second date.

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 5 - Part 6 - Part 7 - Part 8 - Part 9 - Part 10 - Part 11 - Part 12 - Part 13 - Part 14 - Part 15 - Part 16 - Part 17 - Part 18 - Part 19 - Part 20 - Part 21 - Part 22

You shifted on your couch again, furrowing your brows as you attempted to focus on the television screen. The cushions you were lounging on had suddenly felt scratchy, uncharacteristically stiff as you attempted to get comfortable. You realized it was useless at this point. The only thing occupying your thoughts was My Idol, and more specifically, the men you had met through it’s dating process. You were terrible at trying to entertain your thoughts and find any sort of solace as your mind kept wandering back to them...

Im Jaebum, the surprisingly soft and sexy leader. As if rewinding an old movie, you thought of the moment when his lips had touched yours, swift and accidental. You recalled the exact shade of blush that consumed his whole face as he looked up from the ice, just as surprised at his action as you were.

You shook your head, your mind immediately launching to the cheerful Kim Taehyung, who was already planning your second date during your first. You smiled as you thought of his large hand incasing yours, so focused on protecting you and making sure you were comfortable at all times.

And last your mind wandered to Jay. What a rollercoaster of emotions his date had been. You closed your eyes so tightly that you began to see stars, unsure if you wanted to recall the dates conclusion. He had kissed you, gently and deliberately, making sure he left an impression on you.

And the viewers.

You bit your lip, opening your eyes. You knew he had kissed you for the fan votes...but ultimately, didn’t that mean he had kissed you because he wanted to see you again?

Sighing, you looked at the time displayed on your phone screen. You would be meeting this week’s idol at a coffee shop about a block away. It was an after dinner date that would go into the night, the first of it’s kind during your stint on the show. Almost as if on cue, a heavy knock landed on your door, signaling the arrival of the camera crew.

Three down. Four more to go. You could do this.

“Hey guys,” you sighed, looking at Armpit and Sweaty respectively. They nodded to you, stepping backwards as you exited your apartment and locked it up. “Nice night for a walk isn’t it?”

“I’m not big on walking,” Sweaty grunted, following behind you as you shuffled down the hallway and out onto the sidewalk.

“Good thing you have a job that requires a ton of it then,” you muttered, digging your hands deep into your pockets. “Do I get any hints on who my date is tonight?”

“Yeah, it’s an idol,” Sweaty spat, chuckling at himself. He elbowed Armpit to join along in the laughter, but Armpit simply rolled his eyes.

“Wow, you should probably quit your job immediately and become a stand up comedian,” you hissed, looking over your shoulder to glare at him. “You have an unexplored talent there.”

Sweaty began to grumble to himself beneath his breath, barely able to keep up with your quick steps. You were anxious to see who you would be meeting tonight, but it was also incredibly cold outside. You continued your trek in silence, only speaking when you began to approach the destination.

“Alright, hold on,” Armpit heaved, attempting to catch his breath. “Let us set up a little bit before you go in.”

“Can’t you set up inside?” you whispered, your breath appearing in the air before you. “I can’t very well go on a date if I’m frostbitten.”

“Quit being dramatic,” Sweaty argued. “It’ll only be a few minutes.”

You rolled your eyes as you stopped in front of the coffeeshop and looked up. “Momo Coffee” the sign read in bright letters. You furrowed your brows, searching your brain for the familiarity of the shop name.

“Momo coffee...momo coffee...” you whispered, chewing on your lip. “Oh! Monsta X!” You spun on your heel, facing the cameramen. “Is it a member of Monsta X?”

The two men looked wearily at each other as they fiddled with different pieces of equipment. “Why would it be Monsta X?” Armpit finally muttered, not bothering to look up.

“Wonho’s mom owns this shop!” you nodded happily, proud of the fact you had unearthed from the deepest recesses of your brain.

“Could be a coincidence,” Sweaty mumbled. “If it’s owned by an idol’s mom, wouldn’t other idols know about it?”

“Well...yeah, but-” you began, but the wind was quickly taken out of your sails. “You guys suck.”

“Yeah well, we think fondly upon you as well,” Armpit sighed, shouldering his camera and jutting his chin out in the direction of the coffee shop. “You can go in now.”

The smell of the coffee shop surrounded your senses, filling you with warmth before you were even out of the cold. You pulled open the door, holding it open for the camera men behind you. You were used to their presence by now and even found yourself looking for them when they weren’t around. You scanned the coffee shop slowly, several patrons turning to look as a bell had jingled upon your entrance. A man sitting at the far side of the cafe looked up as well, his gaze lasering in on you. He wore a mask, so it was difficult to identify his face, but his bangs were fashioned into a comma part, dark brown and wavy. He stood, his eyes disappearing into slits to signify the smile hiding behind his mask.

“Hey,” he called, quickly approaching you. He bowed politely before tugging the mask off of his face. “I’m Monsta X’s Jooheon.”

You nodded, mildly starstruck for a moment. You were so starstruck in fact, that you didn’t even bother rubbing in your correct guess to Armpit and Sweaty. Monsta X was one of your favorite groups and you were terrified that one of their members could possibly be your date for the evening.

“What’s your name?” Jooheon smiled, waiting patiently.

“Sorry, I’m Y/N,” you whispered with a small bow. “Monsta X is my favorite group. I need to calm my nerves for a moment.”

You mentally cringed as the words passed your lips.

“Oh wow,” Jooheon gasped, his eyebrows shooting up. His kind smile never left his face. “You’re a fan? Here, sit, sit.”

He waved you to a nearby table and pulled a chair out for you. You gratefully sat down and winced. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to sound weird. Did I come across as weird?”

Why did you keep talking? Just stop talking, Y/N.

“Not weird at all, very cute actually,” Jooheon chuckled. “I’ll go get us some coffee. Maybe something warm will clear your thoughts.”

It took everything you had in you not to face palm yourself as Jooheon sauntered away. He looked good, but all of the men you had met so far had. His jacket was swung over the seat across from you and you hesitated, talking yourself out of touching the fabric. That would have been entirely too much...but you did it anyway.

You looked up at Jooheon’s back as he waited patiently at the counter, smiling at the barista as he pointed to the menu boards. You realized he had never asked what you had wanted, but it probably would have been pointless if he had. You had never been here before and you were sure he had. He turned around, two coffees in hand, and began to shuffle back toward you. You immediately averted your gaze, occupying your attention with one of the signed photos on the wall.

“Here you go,” he cooed, setting the mug down before you. “I think you’ll like it. It’s pretty sweet, like you.”

You felt your face become hot at his comment. Normally lines like that would never slide past you, but you allowed it with Jooheon.

“Normally I take my coffee dark,” you whispered, stirring at the contents of the cup. “But sweet can be good too.”

“I can order you something else,” Jooheon gasped, instinctively reaching out for your drink.

You shook your head, placing a hand protectively over the porcelain and the other over Jooheon’s outstretched hand. You pushed it away gently and smiled. “If it’s a Jooheon recommendation, it will be perfect.”

“Aigoo, don’t put that much pressure on my decisions,” he grinned. “I picked it because the name was cute and Hoseok’s mom drinks it.”

“This is her shop, right?” you asked, continuing to stir nervously. “Wonho’s mom’s?”

“Yeah, you knew?” Jooheon asked, his eyebrows shooting up in surprise. “You really are our fan then.”

“I am,” you nodded with a small smile.

“So who’s your favorite then?” Jooheon chuckled. You froze for a moment, looking up at him.

“Do I have to have a favorite?”

“Every fan has a favorite,” he grinned. ‘Even when you say you don’t, your subconscious has made the decision for you.”

You nodded, biting on your lip in thought. “Alright, well you’re my favorite then.”

“You’re only saying that because you’re on a date with me!” Jooheon gasped.

“Not true,” you giggled. “Well...partially true. But that’s one of the reasons why you’re my favorite. You’re also talented, smart, and incredibly handsome...plus your last mixtape was lit.”

“Aren’t I supposed to be the one making you blush?” Jooheon grumbled, hiding his smile by sipping on his coffee. He pulled back from the cup and hissed, smacking his lips. “Be careful, it’s hot.”

“Thanks,” you smiled, your sarcasm getting the best of you. “The steam didn’t alert me to that.”

Jooheon’s eyes grew wide as he stared at you. You immediately bit your tongue, mentally checking yourself. You couldn’t talk to someone like that out of the gate. “Sorry,” you whispered, an embarrassed heat returning to your face. “I’m a little...rough sometimes.”

“Some of the best people are,” Joooheon cooed. “Matter of fact, some of my favorite people are a little sharp on the outside.”

“Just try not to get cut on my edges,” you sighed. “If I say something too rude, feel free to let me know.”

“I don’t think we’ll have any problems with that,” he grinned. “How many dates have you been on so far?”

“Three,” you nodded, furrowing your brows as you thought over your contractual obligations. Could you talk about other dates with your current date?

“I know we can’t talk about it really,” Jooheon sighed, seemingly reading your mind. “But I’ve been keeping an unbiased eye on the show when it airs.”

“Have you?” you breathed. So he had seen you with other men? Seen you kissing his competition?

“I have,” he nodded. “I have to say, my coffee date is feeling real inadequate after spa week.”

You cackled, shutting your eyes as the laugh shook through you. Jooheon laughed as well, simply pleased that he was able to make you laugh.

“Thank you for taking me here,” you said quietly after the giggles had subsided. “I don’t think I could take another spa week.”

Your comment made Jooheon’s smile grow even larger. “Ah, so how are the dates going? From your perspective? This whole thing must be a crazy experience.”

“It is,” you nodded. “But I’ve managed to meet some really lovely guys. You included.”

“Aw stop,” Jooheon whined, never losing his smile. “You’re just being nice.”

“As noted earlier, being nice isn’t my initial go to,” you laughed. Jooheon laughed as well, shaking his head. You made an internal note at how wonderful Jooheon’s laugh was. No matter what you said, he always offered up a smile. It made your heart feel warm and your mind feel appreciated. It was definitely something you could get used to.

“Mission,” Armpit grunted, thrusting the envelope Jooheon’s way. You looked at him curiously, lifting your brows.

“And no, you aren’t allowed to rip it.”

You chuckled, thinking back on your previous date and how proud Jay had made you.

Jooheon rolled his eyes, making sure to look up at you kindly before pulling the envelope open.

“Can you trespass into her heart? Deliver your best aegyo to make your date laugh. Finish in 60 seconds and escape the penalty.”

Jooheon looked up, his face surprised. “Why would they challenge me with something I’m so good at?”

You winced, biting your lip. He was admittedly adorable. “Maybe because I’m not known to be susceptible to that type of thing?”

“Obviously you haven’t been around me then,” he grinned. “My charm is impossible to ignore.”

“You know what, Jooheon?” you laughed. “I think I can believe that.”

“All you aegyo scrubs,” he mumbled in his deepest octave. “Watch and learn.”

To Be Continued...

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aurycula-writes · 6 years

Text

A Hint of Vesperan Intuition

Albaer Lamont, heir to Lamont Industries, should not have magic.

Yet here he is, stranded in Vesper with no idea how he got there. To survive a country that enslaves magic users won't be easy without his father's influence to support him. If he doesn't want the Magia Taskforce to capture him before he reaches home, Albaer must figure out how to use his magic quickly, avoid those that would use him for their own gain, and befriend those with the knowledge and abilities that can help him.

Even if that help comes in the form of a pair of the strangest orphans he'll ever encounter.

Introducing the first story of the Eudaimonia series. You can find the first chapter here:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/15417432/chapters/35783445

The next chapter will be posted same day next week. Feedback is welcome!

If you don’t mind reading it here, it’s under the cut:

Chapter 1: "I suggest you go back to wherever you came from soon."

18 Herba 1690 An unfamiliar street corner 5:08 p.m.

Albaer blinked as autos sped by the road in front of him. People bustled all around him, brushing past him without a second thought. Some of the ruder ones snarled at him in rough Vesperan to get out of the way. Too overwhelmed to respond, Albaer moved out of the flow and into the adjacent alley.

Judging by the rude behaviour and unattractive attire of passersby, Albaer assumed that he was in one of the unwanted districts of the city, but he didn't know if there was a part of Eudial where the majority spoke Vesperan. Leaving that line of thought, he still had to deal with the issue of how he got there. He couldn't explain it – a few seconds ago, he was in his room in the Lamont Estate far away from the downtown area. How could he have–

"Look who dropped by our alley, boys!" A rough voice called from behind him.

Albaer whipped around and saw three boys swagger forward. He noted that all of them were bigger than him, both vertically and horizontally.

"Miles, that looks an awful lot like a richie," a rat-faced boy said.

The largest of the boys laughed. “That's right, Barnes. What, you wanna medal for bein’ Captain Obvious?” The rat-faced boy responded with a scowl and a vulgar gesture. He and the other ruffians stepped closer to Albaer.

“Hey, richie!” Albaer backed away. He didn't want their filth to touch him. A quick glance behind him told him his back was on course towards a brick wall. “Give us your money and we promise we won't hurt you!”

Albaer's eye twitched and his hands tightened into fists. He stopped backing away.

“I don't have any money to give to the likes of you!” he snapped in their language. He didn't know what he would do, but he certainly wasn't going to let these – these peasants push him around. “So why don't you and your goons get lost before I make you regret speaking to me?”

The boys burst into roaring laughs. Albaer frowned. Weren't they supposed to do as he said? Father said they would be intimidated by his superiority and run away.

The large-framed boy and the rat-faced boy caught him by his arms and forcibly held him back. Albaer struggled under their tight grip.

"Unhand me, you filth! When my father hears of this, you'll be lucky if you're ever allowed to show your face in this city again!"

The trio did not let him go like he ordered, but laughed harder. Albaer seethed. When he arrived home, he'd ensure they were all punished for their insolence!

The medium-sized boy sneered. “You know what, Flynn? I'm a little scared.”

"Yeah," the assumed leader said with an overacted shudder. "The richie's papa's gonna do somethin' so scary to us that he won't even tell us what it is."

The boys around him sniggered again, drowning out another one of his threats. How were these peasants holding him down so well?

“Hey, boss! If his daddy's gonna punish the guys who hurt junior here, he'll probably have lots of rewards for us for bringin' 'im home," the rat-faced one added.

"I say we take our starting payment.” The large boy stomped hard on Albaer’s foot.

Before the throbbing in his foot could sink in, an elbow collided with his side. Their leader landed his fist into Albaer's face with what felt like the force of a train. He could taste blood after his ears stopped ringing as much. Another blow connected with his midsection. And another. And another. He couldn't even curl up because the other boys' grip on his arms prevented him from moving. He could already feel his arms bruising.

"How much do you think the richie's daddy'll give us for savin' the little tyke from the scary boys who beat him up?" A kick to his shin.

"I dunno, boss. Maybe we should ask the kid." Another kick rammed into his midsection. Now he was kind of glad that he missed breakfast, he noted in between hacking coughs, watching saliva and blood dribble from his lips.

"Though he probably can't answer." Another round of grating guffaws.

If commoners were supposed to be stupider, lazier and weaker than him, then why hadn't they run away from his threats? Why were they capable of beating him without fear of his family's wrath? At least Father wasn't here to see him like this. Albaer didn’t know how well he hid his shame as he tried to glare at them as best he could with a half-swollen face. Judging by the almost painful volume of their amusement, not so much.

"What's your papa gonna do to us if I do this?" A fist impacted the left side of his ribs. Albaer wheezed.

“Okay boys, save the rest for later. Don't wanna break any goods the kid’s hidin’ by roughin’ him up too much, do we?” The boy they called boss grinned and approached Albaer, grubby hands rummaging through his vest and trouser pockets.

To think that these peons brought him down to this pathetic state. As with adding oil to fire, the thought set off Albaer's already burning anger to the point where he mustered the strength to spit on one of his captors' face. The laughter ceased. The leader's grin grew. Wiping his cheek with the swipe of his sleeve, he swung another fist at his face. Albaer met the boy's bloodthirsty sneer with what he hoped was a bold glare of his own.

In that moment, he couldn’t understand the abrupt rush of power that flooded his body. He tried to move his arms out of the boys' hold once again. Albaer's eyes widened as he saw streams of flames shoot from his hands. The boys released their hold on him to back away from the fire.

Albaer fell back to the wall behind him, pushed off from it and shoved past the boys, bolting out of the alleyway and onto the crowded street. He heard a succession of footsteps in pursuit, spurring him on faster until he heard them fade away. Even then he ran, looking for a place to hide as thoughts thrashed in his head.

He had magic.

His throbbing stomach curled in on itself as he took a left to an emptier street. That explained how he was transported downtown, but what would Father think? No one in the Lamont family had magic. The kind of people to have magic were too lazy to do anything productive. If they weren't layabouts, they were walking disasters. Their horrid powers levelled whole continents during the Warring Era. All the books he received from Father's fourth mistress Enid involved magic users being defeated in some way – did that mean he would become one of those villains?

Albaer's pace slowed to a walk as he surveyed the possible shops he could hide in. Where, why, how could he have possibly have magic? The only magic user he knew that was related to his family in some way was–

The images of a flash of red hair, almost luminous blue eyes and the sounds of warm ringing laughter stopped him in his tracks. Shaking the memories out of his head, Albaer looked up to where he stopped when his injuries started hurting again.

The storefront made up a small section of a larger unit. Mottled grey curtains blocked its display window. A freshly painted medium-sized sign made of wood read, 'CAUTION – WATCH WHERE YOU STEP' and covered the top half of the door. A larger wooden sign with the words, 'Lyon's Discount Bookstore', spelled in a faded black font, hung above the window. The black words and the deep green background peeled in some spots, revealing the grainy wood underneath. He knew, or rather hoped, that his pursuers wouldn’t think to find him at a wreck of a store like this.

Albaer pulled the door open, triggering the ring of a bell. The inside of the store was dim, smaller than the front suggested and smelled of dust and old books. Albaer heard the distant ticks of a clock, but nothing else. Books that weren't crammed into rickety shelves were stacked on every available surface, leaving empty narrow pathways between shelves and to the counter (also covered in book stacks). On a whim, he trudged in the direction of the counter at the back that was previously blocked from sight by a tall heap of encyclopedias. There, he saw a boy and a small girl reading books behind the counter. They looked a little young to be working at a bookstore. But they were also the only ones present, so they were at least allowed to be here.

The boy's pale grey-blond hair was short and tousled except for the long bangs that curtained the left side of his face. He wore the store's deep green on an apron that covered a slightly oversized white shirt. Sitting next to him, the slim little girl wore a blank expression and a dull blue dress that barely covered her knees and frayed at the sleeves. Her dark brown hair, straight with roughly cut bangs, ended at her chin, shorter than any respectable girl he'd seen wore theirs.

The sight of the bookstore occupants distracted him, his knee almost knocking down a nearby stack on the floor. He couldn't say the same for his shoulder that toppled the pile of books on the desk – all of which landed on the reading boy's lap with a chorus of thumps and the rustling of paper.

Needless to say, judging by how the blond glared at him with his one visible eye and the mound of books on his lap and at his feet, Albaer had a feeling that he wouldn't stay long.

Lyon’s Discount Bookstore 5:47 p.m.

'…At that very moment, when he heard the melody, information poured into his head – of the world that took his family away, of the being who composed this music, of his intentions for the world, of who these Knights wanted him to be. And why shouldn't he be that person, be the Dusk King they wanted to be led by?

Why not... play along?'

The telltale sounds of a falling horde of books interrupted the prose and a particularly thick tome knocked the novel out of Léandre's hands. Immediately following that were twenty more volumes of that gods-awful Age of Heroes saga right onto his lap.

Despite his past half-year of employment in the cluttered bookstore, Léandre hadn't had many impacts with the books until this moment. Now that the most chilling moment of Playing Along so far was ruined, he had to deal with newly acquired bruises and clean up all the fallen books. Ceres knew better than to interrupt, and she sat near the right side of the cashier counter, far from the fallen books. Instead, he aimed his irritated glare in front of him, where a clumsy, disruptive boy stood with a flushed expression.

The boy looked about his age. He had a black eye, swollen cheek and less than stable stature. The boy's rust red hair was longer than average, enough to be tied into a small ponytail. He was taller than Léandre, all made up of gangly limbs. His black trousers looked a bit worn. But Léandre could tell, despite the wrinkles and slight singes on the boy's white shirt, black vest and slate grey jacket, that they were tailored to his exact height and made of fabrics worth more than five years' salary. No wonder the local oafs took an interest in him.

"Sorry," the boy said gruffly in response to his irritated staring. His pronunciation was stiff, and his accent rang with a hint of another language, just slight enough for Léandre to be unable to identify it. The ponytailed boy made no move to clean the mess he made, thus confirming his status even further.

Léandre stood up from his seat and picked up the fallen books, choosing not to respond to the half-assed apology. Ceres did the same. He watched the boy from the corner of his eye. The redhead hadn't left and his frown deepened. The silence mounted for a few moments until the boy broke it again.

"Well? Aren't you going to say anything back? I apologized!" the boy snapped, hands on his hips.

Léandre re-arranged the books. "Your apology doesn't fix the mess you made."

"So what if you got a little hurt? At least you didn’t get assaulted today."

Léandre slammed the Standard Rozenite Dictionary hard on the counter right in front of the little upstart, but not enough to disturb any of the book stacks.

"Aw, the little rich boy got a taste of the real world today," he simpered. "Does his highness need his silk hanky to clean his face?"

"Why, you–" A fist knocked down another pile of books. "Members of foreign peerage fight for the chance to speak to me. How dare you, a mere commoner, speak to me so rudely?"

"Very easily, genius. Oh, and do all those rich brats a favour and tell them they aren't missing out. I've had more compelling conversations with five year olds." The loud boy growled as he moved to lift his knee on top of the table. "Oh, did I hurt your poor maiden heart, Princess?" Léandre held his hands up in surrender. "My most sincere apologies!"

Before the redhead could force his way over the table, Ceres stepped closer to the boy and laid one of her hands onto his forearm. The boy stopped in his tracks. He opened his mouth, but she beat him to it.

"Tell us why you're here. If you don't, or if you're here because you want to hurt my brother, please go home."

Her words reduced the boy's snarl to a scowl. He stepped away from the desk and her grip, muttering, "Stupid little commoner girls," in Rozenite.

"Answer her or get out, richie! Before I throw you to the group that mauled you!" Léandre barked in the same language. The boy raised his brows, but quickly changed his expression to a blazing stare that he willingly returned. He half-expected him to continue the argument where they left off.

Instead, the boy took a deep breath and said, "I was going to stay here for a while to hide from the buffoons that ambushed me. If I didn’t cause the commotion, I would have asked you for directions back to the Lamont Estate. Barring that, at least the higher end of the city."

"There is no Lamont Estate in Baskerville," Ceres answered with a more believable serenity, crouching down to pick up the books the boy knocked down. Léandre moved to help her, thanking whatever existing deities for the moment of silence. As he reorganized the fallen books, he snuck a glance at the stunned boy who just wouldn't leave. The frozen, gaping surprise stayed on his face long after Ceres' words.

" …Some sort of magic transported me from my room all the way across the ocean to some backwater city in Vesper?" He groaned, running one of his hands through his hair. "Ugh, this is the worst day of my life!"

Léandre felt like groaning too. He didn't want anything to do with the spoiled brat, so he rolled his eyes instead. "My heart goes out to you, Magic Boy."

"Drop dead, scum!" the boy growled. Léandre watched him carefully as the other's hands balled into fists again. "I am not in the mood anymore."

"Oh, no! You're in a bad mood?" Léandre looked at one of many book lists rather than look at him. "Now I'm too intimidated to answer!"

Ceres interrupted the boy’s growl, shoving a book in his hands and turning to place another stack on the counter. The idiot fell silent. She nodded in what Léandre recognized as gratitude, taking away the book. The boy quirked an eyebrow at her and watched her turn around again to place the tome into a nearby shelf. He opened his mouth to say something again, but squawked when she pulled him into her seat.

"I can take you to the nearest train station."

"What good would that do? It's not like it can cross the ocean and take me back to Rozen." His tone, still gruff and confused, was a touch more polite than before.

"The train will take you to Vessalius. My brother told me once that they have a place called an embassy that can help you." The boy avoided her expectant golden-eyed stare. With nowhere else to look to avoid her gaze, the boy gave Léandre a questioning look tinged with more than a little plea for help.

"She's waiting for you to accept her offer." He moved towards Ceres, placing a hand on her shoulder to turn her attention to him. "But she hasn't considered that I may not let my eight-year-old sister escort an older boy to the far end of the country on her own."

"Come with me, then."

Léandre's eyes narrowed. Why did she always have to offer help to random strangers? He supposed the faster they helped him, the faster he would be out of their lives, but that wasn't her motive for doing most things. Whatever her reasons, he knew the one thing that would dissuade her from following through with her offer was if the boy refused it himself.

He gave her a small, resigned nod before aiming his gaze back at their current problem. "So? Do you want her help or not?"

Ceres hadn't heard Léandre speak this much in years. She never expected to hear most of the talking in insults as he sniped back and forth with the boy she wanted to help. The insults stopped with her offer and going by the boy's frown, he would reject it. But before he could answer, Léandre's boss returned from his meeting with the workers who would help renovate the shop.

"Welcome back, Mr. Lyon," Léandre said in a low tone.

Ceres glanced over to the boy, who looked at Léandre's show of respect with wide eyes and a partially open mouth, like he didn't think her brother capable of it. She’d always found it odd, how people assumed they knew everything about a person they’d known for –she glanced over shoulder at the clock between the shelves– not even ten minutes. Léandre was capable of deference, but only to people he knew that could worsen his situation beyond his ability to maneuver out of it if they found reason to dislike him. It was a useful skill that reduced the number of times she had to step in.

She turned to the old bookstore owner to watch his response to Léandre's conversation with the newcomer, and made note of his raised eyebrows. It didn't look like an unhappy kind of surprise, but more like the good kind of surprised.

"Good work as always, Mr. Bellamy," he said softly, his smile growing. "Now, who's your friend over here? Will I be seeing him around here more often?"

"Oh no, this idiot –er, boy isn't a friend. We just met him today," Léandre hastily said. "He isn't even a customer. He hasn't bought anything."

The boy scowled again, which lessened when he spoke to Mr. Lyon. "I'll have you know that I'm no mere boy oridiot. My name is Albaer Lamont, rightful heir to the Lamont Family and its associated industries."

"Ceres insisted that we assist him in something," Léandre cut in a slight note of worry colouring his tone, "so may I please have four days off starting tomorrow? I apologize for asking this of you, sir. I know you need the help for renovations soon and that what I'm asking of you is impossible. But if I don't agree to do this, my sister will try to help him without me, and–"

Mr. Lyon stopped her brother's rambling, placing a hand on his shoulder. Léandre flinched. She dropped her gaze to the floor when she felt her stomach drop. Ceres knew firsthand that Léandre would rather chop his own hand off than lead her to do something she didn't want to do on purpose. That didn't stop her from feeling guilty with every action he’d done for her sake, no matter what it cost him. She didn't realize that travelling to the capital would take two days one way. Léandre couldn't lose his job – his longest held job, and with Mr. Lyon as his boss, of all people! – because of her.

The greying bookstore owner didn't respond to the flinch. Instead, he glanced at the three children before him and gave her a very quick wink.

"I understand, Léandre," he said in the same gentle voice, and she couldn't help but think that he was saying that to her too. "It won't be easy, but I can wait for you for those four days. If you don't make it back within that time, I will have no choice but to give your job to someone else."

Now it was Léandre's turn to wear the good-surprised look.

"Thank you, sir, but why...?" he trailed off.

Ceres wondered how the bookstore owner could look so sad even though he was smiling. "At your age, my children and grandchildren have always had time to enjoy their childhood. And that is why I will do my best to give you that same chance, before the two of you grow up too quickly."

“Thank you, Mr. Lyon,” Léandre said, bowing his head.

Ceres did the same, unsure of whether bringing Albaer Lamont home would be as pleasant a childhood memory as Mr. Lyon made it out to be. She hoped it would, but that wasn't why she needed to do this.

Albaer watched in bewilderment as the two siblings bowed their heads in gratitude, feeling more confused by the minute. The elderly man couldn't possibly pick up the slack on his own. So why was their employer being lenient? Everything he'd allowed with no complaint, from his and Bellamy's argument to giving him four days off, was unheard of! He should have fired Bellamy for his audacity, not let him run off to do something he wouldn't even specify! Not that Albaer didn't appreciate his unbelievable lenience, but he saw no reason why the store owner would let it happen.

Surely Father was aware of his disappearance by now. No doubt that if he did, there was already a reward to bring him home. They all must have agreed to help him because they hoped to gain favour from his father. He was an idiot for giving away his name so easily! It was as Father said – he was with these peasants for barely half an hour and they were already eager to take advantage of him! Albaer had half a mind to storm out then and there.

But he couldn't help but watch the bookstore owner fuss over the two commoners as they discussed final arrangements before they left for the nearest train station. The older Bellamy was stiff and his replies curt as he removed his apron. The younger showed no outward reactions, merely responding to the questions with as much enthusiasm as Albaer imagined a rock would have.

All things considered, he remembered Enid's words – he could dislike the help all he wanted, as long as he accepted it. One way or another, he'd at least learn something from it. Despite the growing possibility of his escorts-to-be being backbiters, they were also different from what Father said peasants would be like in their specific personalities. They weren't snivelling cretins, and they weren't stupid. Bellamy's fluency in Rozenite proved that much. He only spoke two sentences, but it was lightly accented and used expressions, however insulting, that a beginner wouldn't know.

If he was being honest, they weren't like anyone he'd ever met or read about before. In The Age of Heroes, girls wanted to play princess or go flower picking, trailing after the knights who would humour their requests during their rounds in the kingdom. Ceres Bellamy wasn't the type to know what playing or happiness even was. He supposed, in that way, Bellamy's employer's words about them not having a childhood made sense. Maybe all commoner girls were like that. That was what decided it for him.

Albaer resolved to use their greed for a reward to bring him home. It wasn't like Father pandered to the demands of parasites anyway.

"Hey, Magic Boy! You're not going to get home in the back of the shop gaping like you've lost your brain. We'd love to help you find it, but we're on a tight schedule."

Albaer opened his mouth, a retort ready on his lips, only to find them already waiting on the other side of the open doorway. Gnashing his teeth together, he stomped as best he could around the books to catch up to them.

"Ah, young man?" A voice called from behind him. He stopped and turned to face the old shopkeeper, whose stare examined him from head to toe. It was different from the gentle looks he gave to the Bellamy siblings – it made Albaer feel uneasy, so he didn't sound as confident as he intended to.

"W-what is it?"

"Please cherish what is given to you," he said. "From those that have little, appreciation is the most they might ever receive."

Raising an eyebrow in curiosity, Albaer was about to ask him to clarify.

Bellamy, however, was no longer in sight of the doorway when he cut him off, sounding much farther than he was a few moments ago. "Any day now, Lamont!"

"Keep your hair on, Bellamy, I'm coming!" he snapped back before nodding to the bookstore owner and running the rest of the way out of the store.

By the time he caught up to the siblings, they were waiting for him again with varying levels of patience at the end of the street. Miraculously, Bellamy only gave him an aggravated glance and strode forward at a quick and light pace. If Albaer wasn't taller than him, he wouldn't have kept up with him, so it was a wonder how the younger Bellamy managed. The ash blond wore a ratty black coat with a hood over his head and a drawstring rucksack slung over his shoulder. His body language was coiled, yet was as busy and nondescript as the people around them.

Turning his attentions to his surroundings, Albaer surveyed the streets. The first thing he couldn't ignore was how everything and everyone behaved as if the word enthusiasm didn't exist in their language (it did, he checked). The streets were so dusty that he could taste mud in his mouth, the buildings and shops they passed were a dreary grey with grime, display windows were as dirty as the streets around him, and the sky refused to remove its filthy overcast. Albaer didn't even know why the sky looked like that in the first place. It was already mid-Herba, where was the sunny day and fresh breeze?

No really, he needed a breeze right now. Albaer knew what the townspeople did with their garbage –he almost vomited in his mouth when he stepped in something that resembled a spoiled, half-eaten meat pie– because they tossed it onto the streets without a care. They passed a man with a pungent, sour reek puking in an alley. Anything that didn't smell rotten or like it belonged in a toilet gave off the stench of smoke. As for the locals, don't get him started. They all wore baggy clothes that were either varying sizes of too big or too small. Everything they wore either tried to blend in with the dull scenery or were a mash of faded patchy colours that clashed with the residents’ red, black or brown hair.

Those who weren't trying to get somewhere or working in stores either lurked in alleyways and watched passersby or begged in the streets. His face tightened in distaste as he narrowly dodged a woman wearing too much makeup staggering past them. At least Father was right about the rest of the commoners being too lazy to do anything productive. Maybe Albaer had the luck of encountering the few that weren't.

"Magic Boy–" Bellamy began.

"Try and speak louder, will you? I think there are a few people on the other side of town that couldn't hear you," Albaer hissed.

"I trust that you're capable of paying for your own ticket," he said as if Albaer didn't interrupt. Albaer didn't retort right away, his face wiped blank as if the realization that he wasn't carrying any money on him was a crash landing airship. He seldom went into the city, so there was never any need to bring money with him. Besides, the servants or Father would always be the ones to pay for whatever he wanted.

Albaer's cheeks reddened as Bellamy stopped and turned around to face him when he didn't answer. He felt his face heat up even more when Bellamy's face took on a look of exasperation as he sighed. "I don't know what I expected."

Albaer spluttered. "You didn't even hear what I had to say yet!"

"Please." Bellamy rolled his eyes, moving forward once again. "As if it wasn't obvious. I shouldn't have asked a person who got mugged."

"I wasn't mugged."

"Oh?" The dryness packed into the single syllable could have peeled paint. "So you richies are so bored with your lives that you've finally turned to self-inflicted injuries as a form of entertainment? Consider me impressed."

"It's not that! It's more like...they couldn't steal what I... don't have," Albaer muttered, looking anywhere but at the hooded boy in front of him.

"So sorry Magic Boy, but would you mind repeating that again?"

Albaer barely held back a sudden, burning desire to punch Bellamy's face. "What kind of businessman holds his own money when there are servants who do the paying for them?"

"One that can pay for his own train ticket when he's stranded in a foreign country," Bellamy answered, not missing a beat.

Albaer growled. Not that it fazed the other boy. "I suppose you're too poor to pay for your ticket either, peasant. Even worse, you have to pay for your sister on a store clerk's wage. How many years' salary is it going to take to pay for the two of you? Or are you too proud to admit that you scammed the money out of your boss?"

Before Albaer could say anything else, Bellamy pushed him against a brick wall by his collar. His visible brown eye and snarl chilled him all the way down to his toes. The girl-Bellamy stood by his side, her body tense and her expression as blank as ever. If he didn't know any better, Albaer would have suspected that she would step in if they got out of hand.

"We could leave you here, you know," Bellamy hissed. Albaer met his cold fury with a fierce glare. He tried to struggle out of his grip, to no avail. To Bellamy's credit, he didn't seem to have noticed. "I didn't have to risk losing my job and Ceres didn't have to go out of her way to make sure you safely arrive to the Rozenite embassy. We could just leave you out here to fend for yourself."

"I would be fine without your help anyway!" He had a better shot than he thought he did before. Albaer could still remember the sensation of flames bursting from his fingertips and grudgingly wished he knew how to use it now.

The defiance in him faltered when Bellamy's expression twisted into a cold smile. "You don't get it, do you?"

He motioned with his head to the street beside them. Five servants inched by, levitating a first edition Cristo grand piano. Only two servants were Renan, indicated by their white hair and red eyes, but all of them had a bold red M on their left cheeks. Their faces shined with sweat. Trailing behind them was a man who wouldn't have been out of place at one of Father's business meetings. Their presumed master frowned and touched the signet on his ring. Albaer heard sizzling as the marks on their faces glowed red. They shuffled along faster.

Albaer forced himself to look at Bellamy again, whose smile seemed bitterer than it did before. "They don't only do that to Magias, you know. They do it to it to Renans, criminals, illegal immigrants. Imagine what they would do if they caught you." He released his grip on him and held out his hand. "I suggest you go back to wherever you came from soon, and the best way to do that is through our help."

Albaer always thought that Father, a native of Vesper, hated magic for personal reasons, and maybe he did. But Albaer suspected that growing up with sights like what he'd just witnessed had something to do with it too. His newly found magic, he concluded, would unquestionably have to be another secret he had to hide from Father.

Not to mention, the Bellamy siblings chose to help him. Bellamy didn't spare a moment to show him he'd have rather worked at that shabby bookstore than help him in hope of a reward. But then why were they helping him? Maybe it wasn't the right time to ask them. Maybe if he accepted their help, he might learn the answer along the way.

Albaer accepted the outstretched hand. "You'll be having me then, if you really don't mind."

“Don't kid yourself; of course I mind.”

“Well, you aren't the only one, you b–"

#original fiction #industrial fantasy #AHVI #original work

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