#it was a national holiday for a while (not any more)

[redgoldsparks]

My very last comic for The Nib! End of an era! Transcription below the cut. instagram / patreon / portfolio / etsy / my book / redbubble

The first event I went to with GENDER QUEER was in NYC in 2019 at the Javits Center.

So many of the people who came to my signing were librarians, and so many of them said the same thing: "I know exactly who I want to give this to!" Maia: "Thank you for helping readers find my book!" While working on the book, I was genuinely unsure if anyone outside of my family and close friends would read it. But the early support of librarians and two American Library Association awards helped sell two print runs in first year.

Since then, GENDER QUEER been published in 8 languages, with more on the way: Spanish, Czech, Polish, French, Italian, Norwegian, Portugese and Dutch.

It has also been the most banned book in the United States for the past two years. The American Library Association has tracked an astronomical increase in book challenges over the past few years. Most of these challenges are to books with diverse characters and LGBTQ themes. These challenges are coming unevenly across the US, in a pattern that mirrors the legislative attacks on LGBTQ people. The Brooklyn Public Library offered free eCards to anyone in the US aged 13-21, in an effort to make banned books more available to young readers. A teacher in Norman, Oklahoma gave her students the QR code for the free eCard and lost her job. Summer Boismeir is now working for the Brooklyn Public Library. Hoopla and Libby/Overdrive, apps used to access digital library books, are now banned in Mississippi to anyone under 18. Some libraries won’t allow anyone under 18 to get any kind of library card without parental permission. When librarians in Jamestown, Michigan refused to remove GENDER QUEER and several other books, the citizens of the town voted down the library’s funding in the fall 2022 election. Without funding, the library is due to close in mid-2024. My first event since covid hit was the American Library Association conference in June 2022 in Washington, DC. Once again, the librarians in my signing line all had similar stories for me: “Your book was challenged in our district" "It was returned to the shelf!" "It was removed from the shelf..." "It was moved to the adult section."

Over and over I said: "Thank you. Thank you for working so hard to keep my book in your library. I’m sorry you had to defend it, but thank you for trying, even if it didn't work." We are at a crossroads of freedom of speech and censorship. The future of libraries, both publicly funded and in schools, are at stake. This is massively impacting the daily lives of librarians, teachers, students, booksellers, and authors around the country. In May 2023, I read an article from the Washington Post analyzing nearly 1000 of the book challenges from the 2021-2022 school year. I was literally on route to a festival to talk about book bans when I read a startling statistic. 60% of the 1000 book challenges were submitted by just 11 people. One man alone was responsible for 92 challenges. These 11 people seem to have made submitting copy-cat book challenges their full-time hobby and their opinions are having an outsized ripple effect across the nation. WE NEED TO MAKE THE VOICES SUPPORTING DIVERSE BOOKS AND OPPOSING BOOK BANS EVEN LOUDER. If you are able too, show up for your library and school board meetings when book challenges are debated. Send supportive comments and emails about the Pride book display and Drag Queen story hours. If you see a display you like– for Banned Book Week, AAPI Month, Black History Month, Disability Awareness Month, Jewish holidays, Trans Day of Remembrance– compliment a librarian! Make sure they feel the love stronger than the hate <3

Maia Kobabe, 2023

The Nib

#maia kobabe #banned books #library funding #comics #book challenges

[brenbofen]

What headcanons do you have for a Poly between reader neuvilette and zhongli?

Grabbing the attention of two old men who also happen to be dragons♥︎

Broadcaster Message - love me some dragons, thank you for this anon. didn’t include nsfw cause i wasnt sure if you’d want that, feel free to come back if you want some headcanons for them!!

Notes 🗒️ - Zhongli x Neuvillette x Reader, They’re possessive, Lots of headcanons related to how I think dragons work, Furina mentioned like once.

Having two old possessive dragons fight for your attention, that’s what your relationship is. You always have one of them clinging to you, a hand always on your back or holding yours. Eventually they learn to share you, but they still get fussy if you give more attention to the other.

I imagine you would stay at Zhongli’s home in Liyue and Neuvillette’s home im Fontaine, traveling back and forth between the two nations. During festivals and holidays in one nation the other will usually come and visit.

At home they love being in their half-dragon forms, or even full dragon forms if you’re okay with it!

Zhongli curling around your legs while Neuvillette buries his face into your stomach, they’re basically like two big clingy puppies!

They get so sad when you’re gone for extended periods of time, especially Neuvillette. It’s not very often, but sometimes Neuvillette gets so sad and pouty without you and Furina would basically be forced to give him a short vacation to visit you to stop the rain in Fontaine. She also partially does it because Zhongli would have her head, but she doesn’t admit that.

Usually with Neuvillette you can tell when he’s missing you upset because he’ll always have a slight pout on his face and it will be pouring in Fontaine. Zhongli is a bit harder to figure out. He usually buries himself in work at the funeral parlor and becomes a bit quieter than usual.

The two of them are so possessive of you, primarily because of there instincts. There’s been several times someone had gotten too touchy with you for their liking and they’d come up behind you, hand on your waist while you hear a low growl emanating from them.

They purr!!! I just know they do. Zhongli does it a bit less than Neuvillette, his are also a lot softer and quieter so it’s harder to tell when he is.

They also love cuddling with you. Neuvillette wrapping his arms around your hips with his face pressed into your tummy and Zhongli burying his face into your neck or hair, hands resting on your chest and jaw. The sound of their purring just filling the room because they’re so happy to be with you.

They really like if it you play with their hair, especially Zhongli. He loves feeling your fingers dragging along his scalp! Neuvillette is a bit nervous about it because of his horns but once you do start to comb your fingers through his hair he just melts. Absolutely would let you style his hair if you asked.

Zhongli would take you out on a lot of dates to fancy restaurants, long walks through Liyue, really anything! Neuvillette prefers to spend his time with you at home, cuddling in bed or having you sit in his lap while he works on something in his office.

They can and will shower you with gifts, especially jewelry. It’s partially because they’re dragons. Their instincts tell them to cover you in gold and jewels, because you’re their treasure!

Zhongli would absolutely call you his treasure, no hesitation. I don’t think Neuvillette would be very big on petnames alternatively, I just can’t think of any he would use.

I ran out of ideas, m sorry 🙏🙏😞😞

#📺 brenbofen’s stories #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact headcanons #neuvillette x reader #zhongli x reader #do they have a ship name?? #zhonvillette??? #neuvli???? #i saw someone call them law and order #zhongli x neuvillette x reader #dragon zhongli #dragon neuvillette #📺 brenbofen rambles #zhongli headcanons #neuvillette headcanons

[wileys-russo]

request for bf lessi x reader where sick grace clinton and clinging on the reader more than usual. Lessi doesn’t like that her cuddles are being stolen

mother hen II a.russo

you'd first met your girlfriend when you were both just fifteen, she was boisterous and outgoing and drew in everyone around her like a magnet.

alessia was easy to talk to and within just a few days of knowing her you felt so at ease in conversation it was like you'd known her for years.

you lived on opposite ends of the country but were always texting or calling with one another as you grew closer, in fact you often teasingly blamed the blonde for getting you into trouble at school because she would always text you while in class.

as you grew older you both in your own ways realised that maybe you harbored some feelings for one another that grew beyond the tight friendship that had blossomed over the years.

though as time had passed alessia had matured and become a little less outspoken, and so with an astounding fear of rejection at the back of her mind she kept these feelings to herself, as you did the same.

but naturally in your later teens you couldn't ignore the feelings between you both forever, and when you were dared to kiss one another on an under 19's national camp during a game of spin the bottle, everything shifted.

still neither one of you came forward with how you both felt, but your interactions changed. hugs lingered a little longer and filled you with a different sort of comfort and warmth, your touches seemed to feel more personal and concise.

things changed yet again when she left for college, that hug was something different all together and alessia had forced herself not to look back at you as all of her friends and family cheered when she walked through the departures terminal at the airport.

you didn't stop speaking of course, it was more difficult with the time differences but you'd both made a pact not to let that cause you both to fall out or drift away.

when alessia would come home on breaks and holidays everything fell right back into place like she'd never left, it never became any less easy to talk to her, but there was always an underlying tension that neither one of you wanted to point out for fear of what it might mean.

you signed with manchester united the year before alessia did on a three year contract, the blonde was endlessly proud of you and even made sure to come home for the celebrations of your first professional contract.

after a few drinks and away from the watchful gazes of your friends and family you were laid together in alessia's bed in her childhood home, a room which seemed frozen in time as it had never changed in the slightest over the years she was away.

maybe the confidence to finally tap into the unspoken electricity between you both was fueled by alcohol, or maybe you'd both just grew tired of dancing around the truth for so long.

the kiss was years in the making and the relief which flooded both of your bodies when afterward you both came clean about the feelings harbored toward one another felt like the weight of the world was lifted off your shoulders.

when alessia returned home for good you were over the moon, even more so when she accepted her own contract at united and you could finally be together in a way you'd both long yearned for.

you played together for two seasons in manchester, came out to your families and reveled in developing the newfound connection and relationship between you, exploring it together and growing more and more in love with one another as the months passed.

but when your contract with united ended and the past season you'd spent more time on the bench than on the pitch, meaning the senior national team call ups stopped coming, you suddenly had a big decision to make when other offers from new clubs came flooding in.

alessia had promised no matter what your decision was, it was yours to make and she would be by your side in full support regardless, she loved you truly and purely and nothing would change that.

with promised minutes and a bumped up salary you accepted the offer from tottenham with constant reassurance from your girlfriend that compared to country to country distance, manchester to london was nothing.

it wasn't always easy but you made it work, and when eventually alessia joined arsenal you could be together again in the way you both missed dearly.

the striker got her own apartment with intention of it becoming shared once your own lease was up, and hardly spending a night away from one anothr the moment your lease ended you moved in for good.

if there was one thing that came to mind when someone spoke your name, one shining attribute that trumped the others, it was the selfless drive you had to look after everyone around you.

though in hand that often meant you'd put others needs before your own and it pained alessia at times to watch you prioritize others over yourself, she knew no matter what she said you wouldn't change and your intentions were never ever with any malice.

you were just quite simply, a good person.

your girlfriend was nothing short of protective, she had been ever since the two of you were just friends. when she was younger it was worse, if someone else had your attention she'd go out of her way to do anything to gain it for herself.

make a joke, make a scene, show off, be loud, anything she could to have your sole attention and with how fond you were of the taller girl it worked near every time, your teammates just rolling their eyes at the obvious need alessia had to command your entire focus.

when you started dating you were well aware of your girlfriends tendencies to judge a wandering eye thrown your way, even if it was nothing more than just that.

the moment alessia felt threatened in the slightest you were made aware. if it was being tugged into her lap, her lips kissing at your neck or jaw, hugged tightly from behind, your head gently turned to only be looking at her.

it amused you to no end just how possessive the striker could become, and though you knew it wasn't with any malice you would always chatisize her for it before assuring her that she was the only girl you had eyes for, watching as she would melt back into a puddle of puppy dog eyes and a pout.

alessia was always the more outgoing of the two of you and you were always more level headed, the two of you together was a balancing act that perfectly matched what the other lacked.

though that care and drive to look after others meant you'd adopted some of the younger members of your club team as your own of sorts, first and foremost which was grace.

having already been quite close with her during your shared time at united, when you'd moved to the club she was on loan at the twenty year old was over the moon and you found her attached to your side from day one.

that extended beyond the pitch of course, and at times alessia wanted nothing more than to throw out your seemingly adopted daughter when she overstayed her welcome at your shared home.

though admittedly alessia also had a soft spot for the young scouse and with a bat of her eyelids and a plea the blonde couldn't stay mad at her for long. especially not with how much you clearly cared for grace, which alessia recognized wasn't all too dissimilar to her own close relationship with mary.

but this week in spain on camp with a seemingly harmless cold sweeping the team everything had shifted, and that soft spot alessia harbored for the younger girl was wearing dangerously thin.

when you and alessia had found out camp would be in spain and you were both named in the squad you were over the moon, with demanding schedules and league titles to be fought for you'd not had a vacation in well over a year and you'd both grown beyond exhausted of the drizzly grey weather of england.

alessia was looking forward to sun, football, time with close friends and of course some quality time finally playing alongside her girlfriend for the same team.

but when the cold had you down for two days all of that went out of the window as you stayed behind to work in the gym when she was out on the pitch.

but despite your warnings alessia still stuck to your side anytime she could, and with a strong immune system never fell victim to the cold you had, relieved when you'd finally slept through the night without coughing or sniffling and woken up with the color returned to your face.

but there was another person who'd been around who did not have such a strong immune system, grace.

thankfully it hadn't hit her as hard as it did you and she was still able to train with the group like normal, just needing a few extra breaks here and there.

but with you still worried for her, alessia suddenly lost you as her training partner and watched as every session you hovered by grace and paired up with her instead.

"jesus christ less you're gonna take my head off this is just a drill!" mary yelped as she dove out of the way of the ball spiraling straight at her face which cracked the back of the net with a swoosh.

but the blonde didn't even hear her, attention already switched to watch you training at the other goal across the field, eyebrows knitted into a frown watching as you stood to the side awaiting your turn, grace leaning into your side as your arm was drawn over her shoulder.

"don't tell me you're jealous. they're like sisters less urgh!" ella shoved her best friend with a teasing smirk, snapping her attention out of it as she shoved her back.

"no! don't be stupid tooney." the blonde rolled her eyes and readied herself for another kick, the pass sent in by lotte as her boots smacked against it with a thump.

"alessia!" mary yelped as again she dove out of the way, the ball sailing right at her face somehow even faster and harder than the other one did. "sorry mary!" alessia winced as the older girl groaned from the ground.

the whistle blew to signal training was over and as much as your girlfriend wanted nothing more than to plant herself at your side she quickly hurried over to help mary up.

"don't use me as a punching bag for your relationship issues, or at least kick the ball away from my head less!" mary huffed as the girl hauled her up to her feet and brushed the grass and dirty away from her knees.

"i don't have relationship issues i have grace issues." alessia rolled her eyes after hugging mary in apology. "ohh i see. you're all moody because your girlfriends too busy looking after her adopted daughter when she's sick instead of paying attention to you, poor little less!" mary cooed teasingly pinching her cheek and pulling her into her side.

"anytime i think i get five minutes alone with her grace appears with a headache or a runny nose or a sore throat. she's barely sick she's fine, she's been training the whole time!" alessia rolled her eyes with a huff, marys body vibrating with laughter.

"mary its not funny! can't you look after her?" the striker whined with a frown at the girl who held her hands up. "i've got my hands full with the hopes of england, sorry less." mary sighed holding them up as alessia rolled her eyes and swatted them away.

"hi baby." though she perked up at the sound of your voice and span around with a beaming smile. "less!" you laughed as the taller girl picked you up into a bear hug, settling you back onto your feet and continuing to hug you tightly.

"i missed you." the blonde mumbled as you rubbed her back and laughed. "lessi we were apart for like thirty minutes." you grinned, gently pulling away though alessia made sure to keep a tight hold on her hand.

"lets go lay by the pool babe, suns lovely." alessia suggested as you nodded your agreement, laughing at the way your girlfriend practically dragged you with her.

"less!" you laughed louder as the taller girl all but threw you onto the sun lounger, crawling on top of you with a grin. "hello gorgeous." the blonde smiled eagerly as you shook your head.

"mmm that feels nice." you sighed happily as the taller girl laid down on top of you, gently kissing at your neck and jaw as your arms wound round her back scratching lightly up and down at the skin beneath her training top.

"so does that." alessia smiled against your neck, head popping out to hover over you again, not missing the way her eyes flickered down to your lips. "not getting shy are you now baby?" you teased, the girl never hesitant about kissing you.

"no but someones getting cocky." your girlfriend grinned back, lips hovering over yours, curling into a smirk as you leant up to capture them in your own and she pulled her head back.

"its not nice to tease alessia." you raised an eyebrow, her hands wandering to grab your hips, thumbs rolling circles as she continued to smile and hover over you.

though right as it seemed she'd finally given in, leaning down and pressing her lips against yours a ball thumped and hit her in the back of the head.

"now now you two there are children round here! nobody wants to watch you eat each others faces in broad daylight." mary grinned as alessia groaned into your shoulder and rolled off of you, grabbing the ball and hauling it back at millie who caught it with a beaming smile.

"back to your room or mine babe?" your girlfriend asked hopefully with a coy smile as you laughed and pushed her head away from you. "here i was thinking you just wanted to soak up the spanish sun, work on a tan, admire the poolside view...when you only want me for my body." you tutted with a shake of your head.

"i do not! i love everything about you, including your body." alessia corrected, sitting up as you rolled your eyes affectionately and she grinned cheekily.

"in fact, if i told you you had a beautiful body would you hold it against me?" alessia smirked with a wink, dropping down on top of you again and kissing all over your face making you laugh and halfheartedly shove her off.

but right as alessia went to properly kiss you again now the girls had wandered away, a whiny voice yelling out your name had her smile dropping.

"we're not here." her hand covered your mouth as you glared at her and pulled it off, sitting up as alessia rolled onto her back and sighed deeply, grace appearing a few seconds later.

"whats wrong gracie?" you smiled as the girl dropped down on the lounger on your other side, melting into you as the taller girl wrapped her arms around your torso and you ran a hand through her hair.

"me heads fuckin killin!" grace huffed with a scowl as you pressed the back of your hand to her forehead. "you feel a little warm but thats probably just from running around at training. did you ask for another advil?" you frowned, rubbing circles into her back as alessia glared at the younger girl who simply stuck her tongue out at her and nodded.

"maybe some sleep? we've not got anything else on until dinner." you suggested softly as grace nodded, moving around until she was laying down comfortably with her head in your lap as alessia's eye twitched.

"maybe you should sleep in your own room in your bed!" alessia warned, flicking grace's ear as you clicked your tongue at her and smacked her hand away. "tell ya bulldog girlfriend to stop pickin on me." grace mumbled as alessia's eyes widened.

"less! act your age." you warned before she could retaliate, the smug smile on grace's face having alessia wish she could smack it off as alessia stood up with a huff.

"where are you going?" you sighed as she stood at the end of the lounger with a scowl and her arms crossed over her chest. "away from our apparent adopted child who i did not want!" grace whined as alessia pinched the back of her ankle, the younger girl kicking at her lazily.

"less she's sick!" you laughed as the blonde sent you a pout and a frown. "yeah less i'm sick." grace echoed, turning her head to look up at the older girl with a grin who shook her head. "did you say she had a temperature?" alessia questioned as you nodded.

"a little. but at least you sound clearer and you're not coughing." you directed the last few words at grace, rubbing her back as alessia's eyes narrowed. grace may have been sick a few days ago but now your girlfriend was sure she was just putting it on for attention.

"oh wait i have to ask sarina something! less be nice, she's sick." you sternly warned your girlfriend who gave you a soft smile as you pried grace off and stood to hurry after your coach who was wandering past with a few of the girls.

"come on russo ya know you'd love a cuddle." grace grinned patting the lounger as alessia scoffed. "with my girlfriend? yes i would. but you won't leave us alone you little shit." alessia again pinched the midfielders ankle who whined.

"keep pickin on me and i'll just tell her, good luck getting a cuddle then." grace grinned as alessia withhheld the urge to scream. she'd always looked at grace like an annoying little sister but it seemed this camp she was determined to really settle into that role.

"do you still feel warm?" alessia sighed as grace perked up, assuming your girlfriend was about to give in and baby her just like you'd been. "a bit." grace shrugged as alessia nodded and gestured for her to sit up.

"why?" grace asked though before she could even blink suddenly she was over alessia's shoulder as the taller girl strode off toward the recovery area. "less! put me down man." the girl tried to roll off but the taller blonde held on tightly.

"nah i'm just helping you get better. you're hot? better cool down." alessia grinned, stopping and suddenly dropping grace into the bright orange bins which were acting as on sight ice baths, the younger girl gasping and spluttering as alessia doubled over laughing.

"you're dead!" grace launched herself out of the bin and lunged at alessia who yelped as a wet body attached to her back, shivers running down her spine as grace dumped a handful of ice down her top.

"oi!" both girls stopped dead in their tracks, alessia turning as grace's arms tightened around her neck, both of them sporting matching guilty smiles as you stood in front with a raised eyebrow and hands on your hips.

"she started it-" "this is all her fault she-"

but both girls fell silent as you held up a hand. "i don't care. grace go to your room and take a hot shower before you get sick again!" you warned, the younger girl dropping from alessia's back and hurrying off at the stern tone in your voice.

"i love you?" alessia tried with a guilty smile, stepping toward you as you shook your head. "are you twenty five or twelve?" you chatsized as she scrunched her nose up. "i really love you?" the blonde repeated.

"i feel sick?" she tried again with a fake cough as you were unable to stop the corners of your mouth upturning into a smile as alessia cleared the remaining distance between you both with a few steps.

"very cute." you hummed with a roll of your eyes. "think i might need some extra cuddles, some extra kisses...just so i feel better." alessia grinned, hands playing with the bottom of your top as you took in her half drenched state with a sigh.

"you are a child sometimes alessia. you know that right?" you sighed tiredly as your girlfriend just shrugged, cold hands sneaking up your top to settle on your sides causing you to flinch.

but before another word could be said her head turned away from you and she let out a few sneezes causing you to raise an eyebrow. "baby i'll give you attention, you don't need to fake being sick." you rolled your eyes with a smile.

"...that wasn't fake."

#woso community #woso #woso x reader #woso imagine #alessia russo x reader #engwnt #alessia russo #woso fanfics #woso blurbs

[viadescioism]

Kwanzaa:

Kwanzaa, an annual holiday celebrated primarily in the United States from December 26 to January 1, emphasizes the importance of pan-African family and social values. It was devised in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, Inspired by Africa’s harvest celebrations, he decided to develop a nonreligious holiday that would stress the importance of family and community while giving African Americans an opportunity to explore their African identities. Kwanzaa arose from the black nationalist movement of the 1960s and was created to help African Americans reconnect with their African cultural and historical heritage. The holiday honors African American people, their struggles in the United States, their heritage, and their culture. Kwanzaa's practices and symbolism are deeply rooted in African traditions and emphasize community, family, and cultural pride. It's a time for reflection, celebration, and the nurturing of cultural identity within the African American community.

Kwanzaa is a blend of various African cultures, reflecting the experience of many African Americans who cannot trace their exact origins; thus, it is not specific to any one African culture or region. The inclusiveness of Kwanzaa allows for a broader celebration of African heritage and identity.

Karenga created Kwanzaa during the aftermath of the Watts riots as a non-Christian, specifically African-American, holiday. His goal was to give black people an alternative to Christmas and an opportunity to celebrate themselves and their history, rather than imitating the practices of the dominant society. The name Kwanzaa derives from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," meaning "first fruits," and is based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa. The holiday was first celebrated in 1966.

Each day of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of the seven principles (Nguzo Saba), which are central values of African culture that contribute to building and reinforcing community among African Americans. These principles include Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Each family celebrates Kwanzaa in its own way, but Celebrations often include songs, dances, African drums, storytelling, poetry readings, and a large traditional meal. The holiday concludes with a communal feast called Karamu, usually held on the sixth day​​​​.

Kwanzaa is more than just a celebration; it's a spiritual journey to heal, explore, and learn from African heritage. The holiday emphasizes the importance of community and the role of children, who are considered seed bearers of cultural values and practices for the next generation. Kwanzaa is not just a holiday; it's a period of introspection and celebration of African-American identity and culture, allowing for a deeper understanding and appreciation of ancestral roots. This celebration is a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the African-American community.

"Kwanzaa," Encyclopaedia Britannica, last modified December 23, 2023, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Kwanzaa.

"Kwanzaa - Meaning, Candles & Principles," HISTORY, accessed December 25, 2023, https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/kwanzaa-history.

"Kwanzaa," Wikipedia, last modified December 25, 2023, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kwanzaa.

"Kwanzaa," National Museum of African American History and Culture, accessed December 25, 2023, https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/kwanzaa.

"The First Kwanzaa," HISTORY.com, accessed December 25, 2023, https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/the-first-kwanzaa.

My Daily Kwanzaa, blog, accessed December 25, 2023, https://mydailykwanzaa.wordpress.com.

Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family, Community and Culture (Los Angeles, CA: University of Sankore Press, 1998), ISBN 0-943412-21-8.

"Kente Cloth," African Journey, Project Exploration, accessed December 25, 2023, https://projectexploration.org.

Expert Village, "Kwanzaa Traditions & Customs: Kwanzaa Symbols," YouTube video, accessed December 25, 2023, [Link to the specific YouTube video]. (Note: The exact URL for the YouTube video is needed for a complete citation).

"Official Kwanzaa Website," accessed December 25, 2023, https://www.officialkwanzaawebsite.org/index.html.

Michelle, Lavanda. "Let's Talk Kwanzaa: Unwrapping the Good Vibes." Lavanda Michelle, December 13, 2023. https://lavandamichelle.com/2023/12/13/lets-talk-kwanzaa-unwrapping-the-good-vibes/.

#kwanzaa #black community #black culture #pan africanism #black history #happy holidays

[phoward89]

Banner by me. Dividers by @saradika

Summary: Coriolanus leaves you in the care of his cousin, Tigris, while he goes about his day at the Citadel. Sadly, the pitiful look in her eyes when she looks at you doesn't go unnoticed.

Warnings: Coriolanus Snow is his own warning! Possessive!Coriolanus, Obsessive!Coriolanus, DelusionalCoriolanus, Dark!Coriolanus, Soft Dark!Coriolanus?, Head Gamemaker!Coriolanus, Cheating/infidelity (not on reader), Reference to prostitution, Talks of prostitution, Poison, Murder Plans

Story Masterlist

This chapter's a bit long.

Chapter 4:

The bright light of the morning sun shines thru the large floor to ceiling window in the master bedroom of the penthouse, causing Coriolanus to groan and blink his groggy eyes open. He craned his head down, only to see that you were still fast asleep and tucked into his side. The sight of you sleeping soundly with his arm protectively wrapped around you brought a smile to his usually stoic face.

He thought that you looked beautiful as you slept. Well, he thought that you were beautiful no matter what, truth be told. You could be wrapped up in his silk sheets, in the most expensive designer dresses, or in a sack dress and he'd still think you’re beautiful.

To Coriolanus you were more beautiful than any of the rarest diamonds in Panem. Hell, the world. And you were all his. His precious gem to polish and cherish.

To own.

He was disappointed that he couldn't see the love bites and bruises he left on you due to the sleeping position you were in. He really wanted to see his marks on your radiant skin. Just thinking about it made his morning wood even harder than it already was.

If you weren't having so much trouble sleeping due to nightmares, he would've waken you up and had you suck his cock. Of course he also wanted to feast on your cunt for breakfast as well, but sadly he couldn't. He had to let you get some rest, plus he needed to get to the Citadel.

He had a busy day ahead of him, so despite how much he wanted to, he couldn't spend the entire day in bed with you. Damn his duties. One day when he's all powerful (the President of Panem) if he wants to spend his entire day in bed fucking you then he will.

Hell, maybe he'll even make a national holiday where all citizens get a day off in your honor just so he can stay in bed having his way with you once he's Mister President. Yes, that's a lovely idea. He'll make your birthday a national holiday; name it Darling Rose Day.

With a heavy sigh, Coriolanus gently untangled himself from you and went to take a shower. It doesn't take him long before he's back in the room he shares with you, towel wrapped around his waist and a smirk plastered on his face as he takes in the sight of you snuggled into his pillow. Seeing you long for his scent, for him, in your sleep gives his already inflated ego a boost.

He doesn't want to disturb you by turning on the lights, so he uses the sunlight streaming into the room to help him see what's in his closet. He didn't have much in there, just a few suits and dress shirts, but it was enough to ensure he looked presentable on the days he chose to seek refuge in his penthouse from his bitch on a wife.

A bitch of a wife that would be no more after tonight's dinner at Avelina’s.

A lush that would choke on her own blood after eating a couple bites of their appetizer.

Their seafood appetizer.

Yes, he had everything planned out perfectly considering he literally concocted the plan last night (around midnight or so).

Coriolanus’ smile went from ear to ear as he thought about how he was going to be running the Cardew (now the Snow) bank since Livia was the only one in her family left (damn those deadly shellfish allergies) along with having you. And if that wasn't enough to make him happy, well he’d soon be announcing that he was putting his name in the hat as one of the men running for president (President Ravenstill would be getting a bit sicker within the next few days and his cabinet along with the ministry would have to announce a campaign season and voting season for a new president.).

Deciding to pull out a white jacket to pair with the white shirt and black pants he wore last night to pick you up (they were perfectly clean given he only had them on for roughly half an hour or so), he quickly dressed and left your room.

Once in the main room, he called Tigris on the video phone and told her to come to the penthouse to watch over you while he was at the Citadel. The response expected wasn't the one he got.

No…

What he got from Tigris was a sour look paired with the question of, “Why did you sign her out of the hospital if she's not ready to be alone, Coriolanus?”

He let out an aggravated sigh. Why couldn't his cousin just say yes and leave it at that? Did she have to push back about this?

“Tigris, she's perfectly capable of being alone.” He told his cousin, not wanting her to think that you were a basketcase when you weren't.

Tigris was about to say something, but Coriolanus beat her to it with the long-winded remark of, “It's just that I don't want her to be alone in the penthouse after everything she's been through. I thought a friendly face might make her first day out of the hospital easier for her.”

Once you felt more comfortable in the Capitol, Coriolanus planned on introducing you to Clemmie. He felt that she'd be a good friend for you; could help you navigate the social circles of the Capitol housewives and socialites.

Clemensia Dovecote was known for serving cunt everywhere she went and that was just the kind of friend you needed in the Capitol.

Between him being your lover, Clemmie being your friend, and Tigris being your personal stylist (and friend as well) he was sure you'd quickly learn how to fit in.

Then, another reason for Tigris to come see you popped into his head. “Plus you do need to work on both her exit interview and crowning dresses.” Smirking, he finished his thoughts with the rhetorical question of, “What better way to start working on her dresses than to spend the day with her?”

Tigris' warm blue eyes turned frosty as she disdainfully bit out, “You're concerned about her being alone after what she's been through as if it isn't your fault that she experienced all those horrors in that beautiful deathtrap of an arena you designed special for that Quarter Quell?” Giving him a look full of judgment, she said, "Oh, that's rich coming from you, the head gamemaker.”

Oh how Coriolanus wanted to reach into the video screen and smack Tigris upside her light blonde and black highlighted head. How dare she speak to him like that?

If it wasn't for him being head gamemaker she wouldn't have a fucking job since he's the one that made her into one of the most sought after stylist in the Capitol.

Hell, bitch should be grateful.

But no…ever since he got back from his summer stint as a peacekeeper in District 12 she's been cold and offish to him.

One day he's going to say enough’s enough and cut her off, but today isn't that day. He needs her to be your friend; to design your dresses and be your personal stylist. Hell, he still needs her to be his stylist.

She knows all his measurements and inseams; he doesn't want to have to deal with somebody new learning all of that.

“Tigris, I need to go to the Citadel soon so just come here with Y/N’s clothes and spend the day with her.”

“Why do you care so much for Coriolanus? She's just another district gutter rat that won those barbaric games you design.”

The platinum blonde’s icy eyes turned hateful upon hearing his cousin call you a district gutter rat.

How dare she?

You weren't like the rest of the people from the coal district. You were different.

A diamond made out of the pressures coal undergoes.

His rare diamond that was too good; too beautiful for district life.

“She's not a district gutter rat; she's going to be my wife. Now, are you going to come over or do I have to have somebody go and fetch you?” Coriolanus snapped, feeling rage consume him.

Tigris’ eyes (which were heavily lined with too much black eyeliner and made her look like a cat if you asked him) went wide. “Your wife? But, Coriolanus, you're already married!”

“Well, I see I'll be sending somebody by to fetch you. Make you to bring your key, I'll be at the Citadel when you arrive.” He told his cousin in a clipped tone before hanging up and ending the call.

He ran a hand thru his flawlessly slicked back hair and let out a long sigh. That call was worse than some of the ones he has with political sponsors and that's saying something.

He turned his head and looked down the hall, to where you were still sleeping soundly in his bed, before rising from his chair and making his way over to the foyer. With a smirk on his lips he walked out of the penthouse. He knew that the next time he walked thru the door he'd be free to be with you.

Forever and ever.

When you woke up it was alone in the large king sized bed. You were still in the same spot that you fell asleep in, the only difference being that you were clutching onto Coriolanus’ pillow. Your nose was buried into it as well, breathing in his scent that was a mix of roses and musk.

You let out a groan from how brightly the sun was shining thru the window; burying your face deeper in Coryo’s pillow. The strong scent of roses was intoxicating; nearly overpowering your senses, as you hid away from the bright sunlight.

You didn't have the opportunity of using the platinum blonde man's pillow as a shield from the sun for long.

The door opened followed by Tigris' cheery voice proclaiming, “It's nearly noon, Y/N. It's time to get up.”

“Close the drapes, it's too bright in here.” You complained.

“My cousin doesn't have practical drapes, just decorative curtains that don't close.” Tigris told you, a suitcase full of your clothes from your time as a Hunger Games tribute rolling behind her as she walked further into the room. “I brought your clothes; I figured Coriolanus wouldn't have any for you here.”

“He let me borrow a shirt last night; said he'd have you come over with my things.” You explained while lifting your head from the rose scent pillow it was buried in.

Tigris' brows furrowed. You said Coriolanus gave you a shirt, but your back was bare. Surely he didn't…

As you sat up in bed the blanket around you shifted, causing the stylist (whose blonde and black striped hair along with her heavy lined eyes were similar to her feline name) to gasp.

Her hand shakily covered her mouth as her eyes took in the bite marks on you. Silently, she counted them. A large one on your collarbone that seemed deep. Looked as if it went down to the bone, as if her cousin sunk his teeth in deliberately to brand you. Then you had a one on the side of your breast left breast. It was plum and dark purple; it looked angry and ugly.

And if that wasn't enough, the left side of your cheek had a purplish-reddish bruise on it.

A bruise that was a large imprint of a hand.

She looked at you like you’re broken while rushing over to you. “Sweetheart, did he hurt you?” Tigris asked, sitting next to you on the bed and reaching out to gently touch your swollen cheek.

Your brow scrunched up, wondering why she asked that. Then you realized the blanket had shifted and she probably saw the marks Coryo left on you last night (err this morning?) when you were fooling around.

Oh how embarrassing.

“No.” You quickly shook your head. “He didn't hurt me.”

“But, Y/N, it looks like he did.”

“But he didn't, Tigris.” You protested.

“Did he-” You knew what she was going to ask and the question disgusted you. So you cut her off.

“God no, he didn't make me do anything!” You quickly shouted at her.

Despite being a bit dominant and slap happy, Coriolanus did respect you enough to ask you what you wanted. To tell you to use your words; tell him what you wanted to do.

He knew how far to push and when to ease up. You felt that your first sexual experience with him was breathtaking.

It was an experience you'll never forget.

The fact that Tigris could think her own cousin could do something so horrible to you pissed you off. How could she think so low of him? Was it because he had marriage problems or was it because she knew he liked you?

The stylist shook her head, only to sadly say, “He did something with you, sweetheart or you wouldn't have a bruised cheek and such painful bite marks on you.” A look of pity flashed in her eyes. “He's too old for you and you're an innocent girl. Coriolanus should've never coerced you to do whatever happened last night.”

“He didn't coerce me into anything. Whatever happened between me and Coryo was consensual.” You told Tigris, taking her aback since you used her cousin's nickname.

Coriolanus never let anyone call him Coryo anymore. Him telling you to use it meant that things were worse than she thought. That he was probably going to keep you held hostage in the Snow penthouse to earn your trust and break you in before he turned you over to the highest bidder.

Oh yes, Tigris knew all about her cousin's disgusting side hustle of pimping out desirable victors to rich capitolites for cold hard cash.

She hates that he does it. Every time she tries to confront him he just tells her that she has no room to judge since she sold herself to buy them half rotten food and outdated ill fitting clothes.

That at least he was doing something useful with the money.

She never asked him what he was doing with the thousands if not millions of money he made being the biggest pimp in all of Panem. She was too hurt that he cruelly threw a very painful part of her past up in her face.

Tigris honestly should've cut him out of her life years ago. Sadly, despite all of his evil deeds, she still loves him. Also, she feels that she sort of owes him for her stylist job so she deals with him occasionally.

He does have the power to get her fired; take away her boutique and condo if he wished.

Tigris couldn't help but think that Coriolanus was full of shit this morning when he told her that he wanted to marry you. She thinks he just told her that so she'd come over and make you look pretty for him.

You didn't like the way Tigris was looking at you as if you were a wounded animal. She wasn't giving you the same warm and friendly looks she did before you went into the arena.

Now she looked at you as if you should've died back in the games.

Her eyes held so much pity in them that you couldn't handle it.

Coriolanus didn't look at you as if you'd crumble so why was Tigris looking at you like that?

“He's a married man, Y/N. He's also heavily involved in politics.” The stylist reminded you, making you feel sick to your stomach.

How could you forget about his wife, Livia?

Now you feel bad. Oh no, you're the other woman. Even though he said that he was getting rid of her it didn't stop you from feeling guilting about being an accomplice in his infidelity.

Feeling dirty, you looked at Tigris and asked, “Can you show me where the bathroom is? I'd like to shower.”

“Of course, sweetheart.”

After opening the bathroom door and giving you a gentle push inside, Tigris told you she'd bring you a change of clothes and left you to your own devices.

You felt so small in the large, navy blue tiled bathroom. Hell, the bathroom was larger than your bedroom back home.

Why was the bathroom so big?

You slowly moved your head this way and that, taking in the large layout of the room.

One wall was lined with shelves; you assumed they were for towels. Also against that wall was the toilet, a marble topped vanity, and a large mirror.

A vanity in which the sink looked a bit lost in the middle of it.

Oh…

This was Coriolanus’ private bathroom.

And the reason you knew that was because of the shaving kit, jar of shaving cream, and bottles of aftershave and cologne stacked on the vanity- neatly below the bathroom mirror.

Of course, he has the biggest bathroom in the penthouse.

Shaking your head, you placed your focus on the large shower in the far back corner of the room. It looked to be an octagon shape, which you thought was weird. The door to the shower was frosted and larger than the front door of the mayor’s house back in 12.

Wow…just…wow…

And alongside the shower stall was a large claw bathtub. It baffled you how somebody needed both a shower and a bathtub in a room larger than some people's houses back in District 12.

Never in your wildest dreams did you ever think you'd be in the large and over the top bathroom of Panem's head gamemaker, Coriolanus Snow, but here you were.

Should you pinch yourself to make sure this is real?

Nah. The aches on your body from the activities you and Coryo had partaken in are enough of a reality check for you.

Hearing the click-clanking of Tigris' heels coming from down the hall, you rushed into the shower and turned on the water.

You weren't used to hot water flowing out of a showerhead (having lived in the Seam your entire life you, sadly, were used to time tub baths with lukewarm water that was heated on top of the stove) so when the water hit your body, you jerked in surprise.

You also let out a hiss, but that was because of how the scalding hot water felt like daggers piercing the deep teeth marks on your collarbone.

Teeth marks that Coriolanus left last night when he got a little carried away with his nips and suckling on your neck and chest. Or at least you think he just got carried away because he always seemed like such a put together and reserved man.

Or at least that's the image he portrayed publicly for the media.

A knock sounded on the door, followed by it slowly opening. “I'll put your dress on the vanity.’ Tigris told you while walking into the room. “There's a towel on the rack by the shower door.”

You already knew that. You saw it.

“Thank you.” You called out while reaching for the nearby bottle of shampoo.

A pink bottle with roses printed all over it.

What the hell’s with Coryo and roses?

You noticed though that the bottle of conditioner was purple and couldn't help, but wonder what that smelled like.

You heard Tigris leave the room as you began to lather up your hair with the strong floral scented shampoo.

The scent of roses.

Coriolanus’ scent; a scent that you'd share with him til the end of the line.

After leaving your clothes on the vanity, Tigris laid out her sketch book and sample swatches on the dining room table. Then, once her impromptu work space was set up to her liking, she went into the main room and called her cousin on the video phone.

After about 3 or 4 rings Coriolanus' face appeared on the phone's tv screen. “Tigris, how is Y/N this afternoon?”

Tigris just gave her cousin a disgusted look. “She just woke up and she's in your shower right now trying to scrub off all the filth leftover from your unwanted touch last night.” She bluntly told Coriolanus since she felt she needed to be your voice.

That since you were so young and innocent that she needed to try and stop her dark souled cousin from corrupting you.

From ruining your life.

Coriolanus’ icy blue eyes went wide at his cousin's words. Was she implying- fucking hell! “I didn't touch her in any unwanted ways, Tigris. Believe it or not, I am a gentleman when it comes to such matters.”

“I saw the bruises and the bite marks you left on her, Coriolanus! Don't tell me she wanted you to do that to her, no woman in her right mind wants that done to her!”

Ah, so this wasn't about you and him, but about the stylist’s past demons haunting her. Oh, she just has to let go of the past. Whatver happened to her, well, she was paid for it.

Projecting her feelings onto his darling rose wasn't the answer tho. It wouldn't make Tigris’ shame go away.

Why couldn't she just be grateful that he made her a fashion icon and just befriend you like he asked? Why does she have to make everything so complicated with her soft ways and overly compassionate feelings?

That quality is going to get her hurt one day…

“Did you talk to her about it? If so, then you should believe what she told you.” The head gamemaker told his cousin while looking over the paperwork on his desk for his darling rose’s Capitol residency permit.

A permit that was a K-1 Visa.

Better known as the 90 Day Fiance Capitol Citizen Sponsorship Immigration Form.

Yes, he was going to marry you to keep you tied to him forever.

It was the only way to keep you safe. To keep the rich and vile creatures of the Capitol from trying to steal you away from him.

Nobody would dare try to steal his wife. Everyone was afraid of him; knew trying anything with Mrs. Coriolanus Snow would get them a certain date with death.

One that he'd personally send them on with the aid of his many poisons.

Tigris looked towards the hall, checking to see if you were still in the shower, before telling Coriolanus, “That girl”s too sweet and innocent for you, Coriolanus. She's been thru so much at your hands already; just let her go.” Feeling her resolve grow, she added in, “Don't use her as your mistress because your bored with Livia; don't break her in for your clients either. Just send her home to her family.”

The head gamemaker looked up from the paperwork in his hands, only to let out a dark chuckle. “I see you don't listen to me anymore. I told you this morning that I'm going to make Y/N my wife.”

“Coriolanus, you can't divorce Livia to marry the latest victor. It’ll sink you politically.”

Coriolanus knew that. It's the reason why he's slipping some poison into the wine glasses at dinner tonight.

He needed Livia dead and buried so he can spin a second chance love story narrative concerning you and him to the Capitol.

“Tigris, as much as I want to continue this conversation, I need to complete some important paperwork.” He told his cousin before abruptly hanging up on her.

Tigris just stared at the black screen of the video phone. She couldn't believe how insane Coriolanus was acting over a girl he barely knew.

Oh god, she hoped he wasn't obsessed with her because she was the first victor (and a female) from District 12 in the last 15 years. The first being Lucy Gray, who she assumed he loved. Who, as she understood, mysteriously disappeared around the time Coriolanus was discharged and returned to the Capitol to study under Dr. Gaul at the University. Around the same time he became the heir to the Plinths fortune.

Oh no…

She hoped her cousin didn't hurt or kill Lucy Gray. She hoped he didn't have a hand in Sejanus' death as a traitor either.

But somewhere deep inside of her soul, Tigris knew that Coriolanus did something horrible to both his first love and the true heir of the Plinths fortune.

“Coriolanus, what are you doing going to your study? I thought you were taking me to Avelina's for dinner?” Coriolanus heard his wife's screeching voice ask as he walked down the hall, away from where she was in the main foyer.

She was sitting on an entry bench, dolled up and waiting on him to take her to dinner.

She'd just have to wait a little bit longer.

“I need to put away some paperwork, Liv. Then I'll be right there to take you to Avelina's.” Coriolanus told his wife because he couldn't tell her the real reason he was going to his office.

Poison.

He kept a case of poisons and antidotes locked up in the bottom drawer of his desk. Tonight, he was getting a vile of sweet, but deadly tasting poison to dump into their drinks.

Both of them will choke on their own blood tonight, but only one of them's dying.

And it ain't him since he's built up a partial immunity to this specific poison he'll be using.

“Hurry up, Coriolanus! I don't want to get stuck at a table by the kitchen door like last time!” Livia shouted as Coriolanus entered his study and made a beeline to his desk.

She acted like it was his fault that her favorite restaurant was a hot spot for every fucking socialite under 40 in the Capitol; that seating was hard to get and wait times were atrocious.

Oh yes, everything that went wrong in Livia's life seemed to be Coriolanus’ fault. Or at least that's how her endless nagging made him feel. Like she was blaming him for dumb, petty bullshit.

Whatever. It didn't matter anymore because she'd be dead within an hour.

Quickly, he pocketed his vial of poison, locked up his bottom desk drawer, and exited his office. “I'm on my way, Livia. Car’s outside with Bentley; just have him let you in.” Coriolanus called out to his wife as he started walking down the long hallway leading to the main entrance of the house.

Livia didn't reply back to him, but Coriolanus knew that she heard him since he heard the front door slam shut. He couldn't help but chuckle manically. For once in her life the shrew actually listened to him. And it was on her last night breathing too.

How ironic was that?

Oh, he was going to enjoy dinner tonight. Maybe he'll sue Avelina's for a wrongful death suit; bankrupt the owners and take everything they have?

After all, everything that's going to happen tonight's only business.

Tags: @kuroosbby001, @purriteen, @poppyflower-22, @meetmeatyourworst, @whipwhoops, @bxtchopolis, @readingthingsonhere,@savagenctzen, @ryswritingrecord, @erikasurfer, @tulips2715, @universal-s1ut, @thesmutconnoisseur, @squidscottjeans, @sudek4l, @wearemadeofstardust0, @mashiromochi, @gracieroxzy, @belcalis9503, @shari-berri , @aoi-targaryen, @whiteoakoak, @spear-bearing-bi-witch, @gisellesprettylies , @loverandqueenofdragons, @qoopeeya, @mfnqueen1, @tatumrileyslover

#coriolanus snow #tbosas #the ballad of songbirds and snakes #the hunger games #thg #coryo snow #coriolanus snow x reader #coriolanus fanfiction #coryo snow x reader #coryo snow smut #coryo x reader #coriolanus x reader #coriolanus snow fanfiction #corionalus snow #coriolanus snow smut #coriolanus snow x you #tbosas fanfiction #tbosas smut #tbosas x reader #dark!coriolanus snow x reader #dark!coriolanus snow

[biconickyoshi]

Zuko and Aang as they appear in Book 2: Water of my slowburn Zukaang AU, The Avatar and the Fire Prince!

Overall Synopsis (for new readers):

In the year 96 AG, a freshly burned and banished 13-year-old Prince Zuko discovers a strange boy frozen in an iceberg. When Zhao interferes with Zuko's plans to deliver the Avatar to his father, Aang helps Zuko and Iroh escape. They take refuge in the abandoned Air Temples, Aang searching for any remnants of his people that he can find. Along the way, he teaches an indoctrinated Zuko about the true nature of the Air Nomads. Zuko must come to terms with the fact that everything he has been taught was a lie, while Iroh must acknowledge and face the sins of his past. Eventually, Aang and Zuko become close friends, and Zuko begins to feel things he has never felt for anyone before. However, Zhao will not give up easily, and will do whatever it takes to capture the Avatar and his traitor accomplices.

Book 2 Synopsis:

Zuko and Iroh have now officially denounced the Fire Nation and the Royal Family and are dedicating themselves to helping Aang fight against the forces of their homeland. After narrowly escaping Admiral Zhao at Crescent Island during the winter solstice of 96 AG, Aang, Zuko, and Iroh travel south in search of the Southern Water Tribe village Aang has been dreaming about. The village is in danger: the Southern Raiders are coming, and it will be up to our trio - with the help of a couple of Water Tribe siblings - to unite the remaining villages of the Southern Water Tribe so that they will stand a fighting chance.

I got an iPad for Xmas and I’ve spent the past couple days working on this! :) I’m super happy with how it turned out!

Zuko’s about 14 here - his hair length is how it looks about halfway through this Book. I’ll probably do another piece to show what he looks like at the end of the Book since his hair is a lot longer now with it being almost a year since he cut it in the AU’s timeline (we’re now approaching the Northern Water Tribe storyline). I’ve also never drawn weapons before… so I hope his broadswords don’t look too wonky 😅

Aang is about 13 here. He’s wearing a new outfit as well, which I thought made sense since this AU takes place over 3-4 years instead of less than one year like in the OG series. Aang’s gonna grow a lot over the course of this AU, so he can’t just keep wearing his Air Nomad trainee clothes indefinitely lol.

I plan to do a lot more pieces in the future as I get the hang of digital art, so I would like to draw more characters (like Iroh, Sokka, and Katara) and more looks for Aang and Zuko. I’m also really excited for Book 3, which will be Earth in my fic (Earth is my absolute favorite season of the OG show). Zuko’s hair will probably be long enough to pull back into a ponytail again at some point during that book… Though this time it will be a different style :) gotta do some brainstorming for that one!

I’m close to wrapping up the next chapter, in which our characters make a return to the Northern Air Temple! I haven’t had as much time to work on it recently just due to all the holiday stuff that’s been going on. It’s probably gonna be a shorter chapter as well (which I don’t mind, I hope y’all don’t either). But after that, we’ll finally be in the Northern Water Tribe! :)

#the avatar and the fire prince #taatfp #my art #atla #atla au #zuko #aang #atla fan art #avatar the last airbender au #zukaang #zukaang au #zukaang fanfic #atla fanfic #zuko x aang #aang x zuko #ao3

[leennaan]

Alessia Russo// Take on the world pt.3

It’s the third and final part of this story. I hope you enjoyed it☺️ as always happy about feedback.

Special thanks to @babsisbakery who helped me with some ideas 😁

The song mentioned in this little series is “Take on the world” by You me at six. If you don’t know it go check it out😊

Warnings: Big time jump, Flashbacks, mentions of eating disorder. If this triggers you in any way please do not read, your health is more important than this story.

January 2024

Playing with the Ring on your finger you were nervously standing outside of a meeting room in London Colony. You still couldn’t believe that you were actually here. Standing in the Arsenal training gear, waiting that you were allowed to go into the room where all your new teammates were sitting.

It was the first team bonding night with all the new signings you included. Only difference being that no one besides Kim, Leah and Lotte knew that you had signed. Besides the fact that it was a last minute signing you also wanted to surprise Lessi. You still couldn’t believe that you had actually made it this long. Your relationship was stronger than ever eventho still no one besides your old College-Teammates, family and best friends knew of your relationship let alone about your engagement last summer.

After being knocked out of the tournament in the round of sixteen you where incredible frustrated and blamed yourself endlessly, being one of the penalty takers who missed there shot resulting in Sweden advancing to the quarterfinal. But you decided to be there for Alessia whose journey with her national team wasn’t even close to over. You supported her from the stands until the final step. Reaching the Final wa a dream come true for your girlfriend that sadly ended in tears. Under the cover of being close friends to both Alessia and Lotte you were allowed on to the pitch where your Girlfriend collapsed into your arms. “I am so endlessly proud of you, Baby.” You had whispered into her heat holding her close. “It hurts so bad. I should have done more. I am the striker I should score the goals.” “I know it hurts right now and that you want nothing more than blame yourself but I can tell you tomorrow you are going to be so proud of what you achieved. You did something special.”

Over the curse of the night the mood changed in all the England players like you predicted. After the party and the rush back to England where Alessia had to train with her new team for the Champions League qualifications you decided that you both needed a rest. So after the Qualifiers that siding went like plan for Arsenal, you went on holiday together. Italy to be precise. Alessia showed you all her favorite spots and took you to dinner in the best Italian restaurants you ever visited. After one late night date you both strolled down an empty beach until you reached a little area where candles were set up. With a questioning glance you turned around only to find Alessia kneeling before you. Gasping you looked at her tears already streaming down your face. “You know I promised you that one day I would go down on one knee. We went through so much together. And I know with the long distance it’s not always easy but you are the most beautiful, special and loving person that I know. I can’t imagine life without you and I don’t think I would even be standing here right know without you. You are my missing part, my best friend, my love. Like we always said. Together we take one the world. Would you take on the next big adventure with me and do me the honor of becoming my wife?” While Alessia spoke a few tears also escaped her eyes and you could clearly see all the love you felt for her reflected in her eyes.

“Yes. A thousand times yes. I love you so much.”

You were pulled from your thoughts when the door opened and Lotte stepped out of the room and in front of you. While pulling you into a hug the brunet expressed her excitement. “I still can’t believe you are actually here. Alessia is going to be so happy and excited once she realizes.”

Your transfer happened really quickly with Arsenal already being interested in you last summer but with your contract still up with FC Courage and your belief in winning the NWSL with your team which you to the surprise of a lot of people did, you and your old club declined. It was a really hard decision because you knew that Alessia was signing with the London Club and after now almost four years of long distance you were tired of it. And when the end of the winter transfers window neared and no WSL Club showed interest in you, you started to regret your earlier decision. Just before you put pen to paper at Gotham once more Arsenal resurfaced. With that the decision was made and here you were.

“UNC Girls back together right?!” You laughed. With Emily also signing there were now four former UNC Players at the Club.

You noticed Lotte spotting your guitar that was still in its bag. “What’s your initiation song going to be?” She asked.

“Not telling you. It’s another surprise for Less.”

“You two are still disgustingly cute you now that? I thought after four years it would subdue but I guess not.” Lotte laughed. “Come one I think it’s time. Everyone else has already done their initiation. I’ll go in first and give Leah the signal. You just come in behind me. There is another sliding door that’s not completely closed you can see into the room, but Less won’t see you.”

You nodded and followed Lotte to the sliding door. You could see the girls sitting on different round tables chatting and snacking on sweets.

When you saw the blonde locks of your girlfriend you couldn’t help the smile. It was still so good to see her eating carefree.

The first few months after Alessia went back to England worked surprisingly good. You once again called at least once a day. Talking and just being together. But soon you noticed that something changed in Alessia. Her eyes lacked that twinkle and her smile didn’t feel real. You noticed her loosing weight and skipping meals. Where you once had cooked meals together she would say that she had already eaten. When she completely ruptured her hamstring only month after coming to Man U it all got ten times worse.

Her hair got dull, you could start to see her cheekbones and collarbones.

You tried to talk to her but with no result. She always told you that everything was fine and that she was feeling great besides her hamstring Ofcourse. So you decided to take matters into your own hands. Talking to your teachers and Coaching stuff you were allowed to leave for winter break a week earlier and booked a ticket to Manchester. You asked Lotte for Ella’s number who helped you surprise your girlfriend.

And it was the best decision you could have made. Alessia was so happy to see you and within two days she broke down in your arms.

“I think I need help.” She had sobbed. “I… I am so scared to eat. At first I just counted my calories but I know what I do is not healthy anymore. I thought I looked better but then my hamstring happend. I know my body isn’t strong enough but I don’t want to gain weight.” You had tried to console her the whole night. You told her that she looked beautiful, that you loved her and that she wasn’t alone.

The next daythe two of you talked to her team psychologist. You were there for her the whole time. And slowly over the next two weeks you watched her smile return. She started to cook for the two of you. Healthy foods without measuring the calories. Sometimes it was harder for her sometimes it was easier.

Sadly you had to go back to the US shortly after New Year but you still cooked together over FaceTime and eating together afterwards. Sometime Alessia would fall back to old habits and trying to skip a meal but you were always there to help her through it.

“Guys! I need your attention once more. I know you all thought that Emily and Sarah were the only signings but we’ve got one more surprise. She plays for the US national team. Has just won the NWSL with courage and is another addition to our UNC Squad.” While Leah introduced you, your eyes were solely on Alessia. You could see how she slowly figured it out and when it finally dropped she gasped. Hand flying to her mouth and tears starting to appear in her eyes.

“Y/n it’s your stage.” Leah waved you in. It was planned that you would right away start to play your song.

You came in playing the accords on your guitar. As it was an original that only Alessia knew a few pieces of there was no back up music playing.

“Hey guys. This song is an original piece that is really special to me. I wrote it about my relationship to a very special person. I hope you like it.”

Alessia was already in tears. Lotte had sat herself next to her pulling her into her arms. Emily as well was sitting next to your girl. She grinned at you. Smiling you started to sing.

“Just say the word

We'll take on the world

Just say you're hurt

We'll face the worst, oh

I can see, see the pain in your eyes

Oh, believe, believe me, and I have tried

No, I won't, I won't pretend to know what you've been through

You should know, I wish it was me, not you”

You would never forget the pain in Alessias eyes when she told you about her grandfather. How you had wished to be the one in pain. You never had lost someone so close to you before but you desperately wished you could take the pain from Alessia.

“And just say the word

We'll take on the world

And just say you're hurt

We'll face the worst

Nobody knows you the way that I know you

Look in my eyes, I will never desert you

And just say the word

We'll take on the world”

From the beginning of your relationship the both of you sticked together. No matter how hard the way was. You trusted each other. Now for years later you only needed to look at her to see what she needed. Yes you both knew each other better than anyone.

“And it's the fight

The fight of our lives

You and I, we were made to thrive

Oh, yeah

And I am your future

And I am your past

Never forget, we were built to last

Step out of the shadows and into my life

Silence the voices that haunt you inside”

Long distance was hard. But you always made time for each other. Both leaving everything behind to sea the other in person if needed. Never once thinking that you weren’t meant to be.

And just say the word

We'll take on the world

And just say you're hurt

We'll face the worst

Nobody knows you the way that I know you

Look in my eyes, I will never desert you

And just say the word

We'll take on the world

We'll take on the world

Oh, oh, oh, oh

And nobody knows you

The way that I know you

And nobody knows you

The way that I know you

“We'll fight, we'll crawl, into the night

I won't let go, with you by my side

The calm, the storm, we'll face it all”

Of course there were fights but never for long. You promised each other to never go to bed angry. You were just better together.

And just say the word

We'll take on the world

And nobody knows you

The way that I know you

Look in my eyes, I will never desert you

And just say the word (just say the, just say the word)

We'll take on the world

Take on the world”

Slowly you let the sound die out. Alessia had stood up once you were finished and you put down your guitar. Opening your arms she run to you. Catching her in your arms. “Is this for real?” She whispered in your ear. “Yes Baby. I signed my contract last week.” She laughed and pulled you even closer. “Can I kiss you? I don’t care if anyone knows. We are finally together and I want everybody to know who my beautiful fiancée is.” Instead of answering you, she kissed you, hard.

Wolf whistling sounded around you but the both of you didn’t care. “How I missed this, how I missed you.” The blonde whispered before pulling away from you but still touching you.

“Care to explain Russo?” Asked McCabe and your girlfriend laughed. You already knew a lot about your new teammates due to Alessia and also Lotte, so you weren’t surprised by the women’s comment.

“So guys this is Y/n she played together with Lotte, Em and myself at UNC. And she is my fiancée, we have been together for four years now.”

A lot of questions came your way but you didn’t care not a bit. You were just happy to finally be with your girl.

Y/n Y/l/n and Alessia posted to their instagram

Four years with you! From College to The Arsenal. “Together we take on the world.” From strangers to friends to lovers to fiancés. “You are my future. You are my past.” Love you endlessly ❤️

#woso #woso imagine #alessia russo #alessia russo x y/n #alessia russo imagine #alessia russo x reader #arsenal women fc #unc reader #arsenal women #lotte wubben moy #emily fox #Leah Williamson #woso x reader

[reasonsforhope]

"New Mexico will establish a permanent absentee voter list and remove barriers to voting on tribal lands under sweeping legislation signed into law Thursday [March 30, 2023] by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.

The measure also will automate voter registration during certain Motor Vehicle Division transactions and more quickly restore the voting rights of people exiting prison after a felony conviction. It was supported this year by Democratic legislative leaders and Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, after a similar measure died in the final moments of the 2022 session amid a GOP filibuster...

Republican lawmakers fiercely opposed the bill this year, too, contending automatic voter registration and other measures aren't necessary in a state that already allows same-day registration. But advocates of the legislation, House Bill 4, celebrated Thursday [March 30, 2023] as Lujan Grisham signed the bill during a ceremony at the Capitol with Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver; House Speaker Javier Martínez, D-Albuquerque; and others.

Native American leaders described it as critical step toward protecting the voting rights of people on tribal land, especially those without a traditional mailing address. [More details in/moved to the last key point!]

In a signing ceremony at the Capitol, Lujan Grisham said the legislation would serve as a template for other states. "We want to send a message to the rest of the country — that this is what voting access and protection should look like," the governor said...

Absentee voting: Sign up once

The legislation calls for a permanent absentee voter list to be available in time for the 2024 elections. Voters could sign up once to get absentee ballots mailed to them before every statewide election. People on the list would also get notices mailed to them seven weeks before Election Day. Any election-related mail returned to the county clerk as undeliverable would trigger the voters' removal from the absentee list.

Automated voter registration

Automatic voter registration during some transactions at MVD [DMV] offices — such as when a person presents documents proving citizenship while applying for a driver's license — would begin in July 2025. Newly registered voters would be told they've been added to the voter rolls and that they'll get a postcard in the mail allowing them to decline the registration. For MVD customers already registered to vote, their address would be updated in the voting rolls if they renew their driver's license with a different address.

Restoration of rights

The legislation will restore the voting rights of felons when they leave custody rather than after they complete probation or parole. Inmates would be granted the chance to register or update their registration before release. The Sentencing Project, an advocacy group, estimated the measure will restore the voting rights of more than 11,000 citizens.

New holiday

The bill makes Election Day a school holiday.

Drop boxes

The legislation requires each county to have at least two secured, monitored boxes for people to drop off absentee ballots. State election officials are empowered to waive the requirement or grant requests for additional containers, depending on the circumstances of each county.

Native American voting

The proposal establishes a Native American Voting Rights Act.

[Moved here from earlier in the article]

The measure requires collaboration with pueblos, nations and tribes on establishing polling places, early voting locations and precinct boundaries. It also allows members to register to vote or receive absentee ballots at official tribal buildings — a necessity, supporters said, for residents who don't receive mail at home. "It is truly monumental reform," said Ahtza Chavez, executive director of NM Native Vote and a member of the Kewa Pueblo and Diné Nation. "It requires collaboration with tribes at all levels.""

-via Albuquerque Journal, March 30, 2023

#new mexico #voting rights #voting matters #united states #us politics #good news #american politics #voting #election 2024 #native american #indigenous rights #first nations #felon voting #election day #lujan grisham #michelle lujan grisham #hope #hope posting #elections

[verysium]

ACT 1, SCENE 3: blue lock headcanons

sae is into skincare: lotions, serums, the whole set. he and rin used to have self-care nights as children during which they would sit in bed with matching face masks and watch cartoons on the family tablet. if they were in a good mood, they would let you join.

barou listens to classical while working out. no joke. this man is so insanely focused he will shoot goals and play paganini at the same time. his work ethic is low-key why you were attracted to him the first place.

nagi is lazy to the point he will deliberately buy five pairs of the same exact pants just to save himself the trouble of having to choose an outfit in the morning. thank god for reo otherwise nagi would still be dressing like he just crawled out of bed. he still can't do much about his bedhead though.

rin desperately wanted to join sae in the deeper end of the community pool; however, he was deathly afraid of drowning. his only logical solution was to cover himself in pool floaties while he dipped a single toe into the water. even to this day, he still has traumatic memories of that experience. you need to hold his hand every time.

kaiser acts like his football prowess comes entirely from natural talent. in reality, he trains to an obsessive degree behind the scenes. you could come home at midnight, and he would still be there replaying every single highlight of his recent game. he is the type to keep detailed notes about all the players he went up against.

isagi likes to walk around his hometown of saitama and just observe the snapshots of life around him. whether it's a street vendor, children playing on a grass patch, or a couple in the sunset, he secretly enjoys these little vignettes of human experience. he would become sentimental when it comes to you. sometimes you have to pull his head out of the clouds.

nagi has parents who work overseas, so the most he sees of them is through video calls or holiday presents. occasionally, he also gets a birthday card shipped through international mail. when you threw him his first surprise party, he secretly felt touched because his family was never big on physical celebrations.

sae is ridiculously good at anything that involves data and calculations. he participated in a math competition one time in junior high, and he would have made it to the national level had he not been entirely focused on football. refused to tutor rin in algebra though because apparently his little brother has to figure out everything for himself. if it were you though, he would begrudgingly agree.

bachira holds the world record in procrastination. his notebook, pencil, and eraser are still as untouched and pristine as they were on the first day of the academic school year. he does not know what a book is, nor has he read one. he only studied because you refused to cuddle with him otherwise.

ego eats so many cups of instant ramen noodles that his glasses begin to fog up from time to time. anri has to clean the frames and lenses weekly just to make sure his myopic self can even see. at this point, she's the real MVP of the entire series.

barou likes to open the windows right after it rains because he enjoys the sweet smell of petrichor. his ideal day would be spent lounging on a couch with some tea and a novel. it would be even more perfect if you snuggled under the blankets with him.

niko sometimes wakes up in the middle of the night, immensely insecure about his forehead. he thinks it looks giant though it really isn't. you have to brush his fringe back and pepper kisses down his face and remind him that a big forehead means a big, sexy brain, so it really isn't that bad. he believes you and goes back to sleep.

shidou would make fun of boomers. in fact, he'd ridicule every single person he considers past their prime. he does not believe in any form of authority, nor does he like being told what to do. if he had his way, he would have turned the entire world into anarchy a long time ago. the only reason why he doesn't wake up and make himself everyone's problem is because he doesn't want to upset you.

kaiser knows he is very well-endowed physically, so he purposefully walks around your apartment shirtless. if he catches you eyeing him, he will make a big deal out of it. tries to not-so-subtly flex his biceps every time he reaches for the milk carton.

reo loves cocktail dresses, especially in the wine red shade. something about the accentuated figure and natural curves gives him goosebumps. his favorite part of you is when your tummy slightly protrudes after you've eaten too much. you might think it's embarrassing, but he thinks it's adorable.

rin only uses shower gel, mostly because he learned his lesson after using the locker room shower stalls. never use bar soap, always use bottled. he's also the type to always have shower shoes. sae taught him that.

bachira is the type of student to completely misread the question and still not feel bad after the teacher points it out. oh no, he was actually supposed to solve for x, not just circle it? he'll shrug it off like nothing ever happened. at least he tried. the teacher should be grateful for his effort.

sae says he does not understand the sentiments behind cute couple traditions but then proceeds to get upset when you show up to his game without wearing his jersey. would definitely get you matching bracelets for your anniversary.

aiku has a high spice tolerance. he would definitely drown his food either in sriracha or buldak sauce. if you can't handle spicy though, he would set aside a separate plate just for you and manually spoon out the food just to make sure you have something to eat too.

aryu never has dry cuticles. he is always trimming and filing to perfection. sometimes he has beef with your nail tech because he thinks he could have done so much better on your acrylics. refuses to let you go to a salon because he already has all the tools and expertise necessary.

sae does not know how to cook. his manager has always ordered take-out for him. the one time he tried to use a microwave, he completely misread the package instructions and nearly burned the entire building down. called you up with the straightest face afterwards to tell you that the smoke alarms were not shutting off.

barou unconsciously caves into peer pressure. every single new trend makes him rethink his personal style. however, he views it all with an old man mentality. like what are these youngsters doing these days? dying their hair every possible color of the rainbow? he has to do that too. proceeds to call aryu to add red streaks into his own hair. sometimes you have to remind him that external opinion should always taken with a grain of salt.

chigiri has a major sweet tooth. if you so much as bake him one single treat, he will have made plans to put a ring on your finger before he even finishes the damn pastry. his ideal partner is someone mature and understanding who can take care of him well. definitely likes the homemaker type.

gagamaru is the seeing friend in your relationship. no matter how many trips he makes to the optometrist, he will always come back with perfect 20/20 vision. definitely a nature enthusiast, and he loves hiking. even if you're blind as a bat, he will always be there to hold your hand in the dark.

© verysium 2023 / please do not translate, repost, or plagiarize any of my works

#blue lock #bllk #headcanons #fics #sae itoshi #barou shouei #nagi seishiro #reo mikage #rin itoshi #michael kaiser #isagi yoichi #bachira meguru #ego jinpachi #anri teieri #niko ikki #shidou ryusei #oliver aiku #aryu jyubei #chigiri hyoma #gagamaru gin #sae x reader #barou x reader #nagi x reader #reo x reader #rin x reader #michael kaiser x reader #kaiser x reader #isagi x reader #blue lock headcanons #bachira x reader

[ijuststareatstuffhereok89]

"That's a Wrap!"

Loki’s not-so-triumphant return home from prison is delayed due to a winter storm as the Avengers all find themselves snowed in at the Tower for Christmas. As your holiday mood sinks, the others find a festive way to lift your spirits.

Pairing: Loki x Avenger!Reader Genre: Comfort, longing fluff with a touch of suggestiveness Content Warning: slight nod to bondage, but nothing else Word Count: ~2k

Prompt: The Avengers sneak Loki back from prison and wrap him up as a goofy present for Reader, who's always carried a torch for him.

For @lady-rose-moon's Secret Santa gift!

“It’s kind of funny,” you said softly as you sensed someone joining you in the darkened room. 

“What is?” asked Natasha, forgetting that you had heightened perception, so not even she could usually sneak up on you. You could smell the two mugs of spiked cocoa she was carrying as she came in to sit beside you, the vague scent of butterscotch shots mingling in with the rest.

“The snow’s still kind of pretty, even if it’s completely disabling the city,” you answered bitterly, pressing your forehead to the cold pane in front of you. “If we went outside right now, it would probably be gray and graveled slush all over.”

Nat sighed, putting the mugs on the table between you. “But from up here it looks like a postcard.” 

“Right.”

It was the worst blizzard New York had seen since 1993. Whiteouts blinded anyone daring to walk outside. Frigid gusts whipped snow drifts against the sides of buildings, burying doorways and windows, trapping people inside. Any car making an attempt on the road turned into a boat that went sailing freely down the icy thoroughfare, careening out of control. Temperatures settled well below the threshold required to close schools. Wind-whipped ice pellets stung the skin while the air froze eyelids shut. 

The redhead paused for a moment, setting the mugs down next to you but making no move to sit. “I thought if you wouldn’t go to the party, I’d bring the party--”

“--thanks,” you mumbled, unsure if you wanted any at the moment. 

The Black Widow bit her lip, still somewhat ill at ease in gentler social situations. “So, you were really hoping he’d be home by now, weren’t you?” She asked it with a little too much caution, as if the wrong inflection would be enough to spark a meltdown. 

“I know you all know,” you mumbled bitterly. “Don’t worry about skirting around it anymore.” 

The right corner of Nat’s lip curled. “Thanks. That was getting annoying.” 

After the parole of your unwitting beloved, one Loki Laufeyson of Asgard and Jotunheim, was granted and ordered to be served on Midgard, you were practically giddy. Finally after years of talking to him as a prisoner under your observation when you and Steve made trips to Asgard, your hard work convincing both Odin the King and the United Nations paid off, and you’d won freedom for your flame (at least partially). 

However, you’d hoped he’d be delivered back to Earth by the holiday, as you’d planned it in your head to make your first date a sweet, light-hearted Christmas Eve outing. It would be such a change from the harsh dungeons of the palace he’d once more willingly called home. 

That was when the weather turned, and it made any aircraft landing impossible. The storm began on the 22nd, and it was still raging two full days later. It was ripping the city apart at the seams, making even walking to the curb an impossible task. 

Shrugging, you turned away from her and looked out the window again, ignoring Nat when she gently nudged one of the mugs toward you. “Am I wrong for being into him?”

“Yes,” Natasha said without skipping a beat. “Especially considering you’re planning on asking an intergalactic war criminal to get in bed with you.”

“So I like ‘em bad,” you mumbled. “And besides…he’s on parole now. Or probation.Whatever.”

Nat twisted her lip. “You know how I feel about him. And that my feelings would never change, even if he was vindicated.” 

“Noted.”

“But,” she went on after a pause, “It still really sucks seeing one of us so depressed on Christmas eve, no matter what the reason. Please come downstairs. We’re doing the Secret Santa gifts, and Thor had your name.” 

You scoffed and rolled your eyes. “How come Thor made it home?”

Chuckling, Natasha took a sip of her spiked cocoa. “Is that any way to talk about your possible future brother-in-law?”

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” 

You woefully looked out into the snowy twilight, pressing your forehead against the cold glass. Natasha groaned. “Okay, I tried,” she said, getting up, not bothering to grab her own cup. “I’ll tell Thor to put some holes in the box until you feel like coming down.” 

Winking, she went slowly for the door, deliberately waiting for you to make sense of her clue. You got up, still skeptical. “He didn’t bring back another direwolf thinking it was a husky, did he?”

She didn’t turn around, only pausing in the doorway to say, “I guess that remains to be seen.” 

Thor was always well-intentioned, but his meatheadedness often got you all into trouble, and tonight it would be specifically on your account if things went awry. “Did he really get me something…dangerous?” 

“Oh, it’s dangerous,” Nat promised. 

Shit, you thought, going to follow Nat downstairs after all. Even if you didn’t want to be there, if Thor had inadvertently caused danger with your ‘present,’ you had to at least take some responsibility for it. It still didn’t stop you from cursing Thor in every way possible while you reluctantly trailed Nat down to the lounge floor. 

The air was much hotter on the floor below, and the sudden burst of bright fluorescent lighting forced you to squint for the seconds it took your pupils to adjust. You’d been sitting and sulking in the dark for a while. 

“There she is!” chortled Thor Claus, wearing an obnoxiously oversized Santa hat that nearly slid down his face as he rushed over to greet you. “Happy Tidings!”

“Eyyy look who’s here!” chimed in Tony from the bar in the corner, where he was disseminating drinks. “Eggnog? With or without the special ingredient?”

“With, please,” you said quietly. “But I’m not staying long. I’m only here because someone warned me about my gift going rogue, Thor.” 

Thor smiled at Nat, who winked from behind you so that you couldn’t see the message. “Friend, it has done no such thing--”

Tony interjected. “--but it is getting a bit crabby!”

Steve rolled his eyes from the sofa while Bucky giggled on his lap. “Yeah, please just open it!” he begged.

You twisted your lip skeptically as Thor pointed. “It’s under the bejeweled arbor,” he said. 

Scott Lang nearly spat out the beer he was drinking. “It’s just a Christmas tree, Thor, pal!” he called. 

The room was as merry and bright as one would expect for the occasion. Tony hadn’t skimped on a caterer, and they’d delivered a twenty-foot spread of every fathomable Yule-centered food. Vision was blinking red and green (Wanda couldn’t keep her eyes off of him). Nat went off to join Bruce Banner closer to the large tree in the center of the room, which was also where you began to head. 

As you approached the tree, everyone else in the room seemed to cease their own activities in order to follow you, whether physically or with their attention. You noticed the low hum of diverse conversations blending together had ceased. 

“What--?” you began asking before something caught your eye at the base of the fifteen-foot tree. 

Sitting on his legs, tied and wrapped from neck-to-toe in metallic green Christmas wrapping, was none other than Loki, a large red bow plopped sloppily on top of his long black hair. Someone had hung a large holly wreathe around his neck, and above his head, dangling on a bit of fishing line, was a sprig of mistletoe. He was in profile to you, but the moment he could gather from the room that you’d spotted him, he looked for you. 

He smiled in spite of his situation when he met your eye. However, his cheeks began to turn pink. 

“Um…Merry Christmas?” he asked quietly, causing half the room to erupt in roaring laughter. 

“But…I thought…how?” you said, unable to line up a complete thought as your brain was simultaneously attempting to process the surprise that Loki had come home after all..and that he was restrained and sitting in a submissive’s humble pose at your feet. 

Thor was so proud of his little trick. He followed you back to the tree, his fists proudly sitting against his hips as he posed like Heracles. “He came back with me.”

“We were going to call you,” said Nat, still laughing (and, admittedly, gaining some satisfaction at Loki’s humiliation). “But then he said something that made Thor and I come up with this idea.”

“Oh?” you asked with curiosity, kneeling in front of the God of Chaos, bound helplessly in crepe paper, cupping his face in your hands. “What did you say?”

Loki raised a brow. “I said nothing,” he bluffed. 

“The first words he said were to ask of your health and whereabouts,” Thor said gleefully. “And that’s when the Woman of Stealth and I invented this humorous plot to bring you some Yuletide cheer!”

You couldn’t help but eye Loki up and down, literally delivered to you wrapped in shiny paper. “It’s certainly cheering me up!” you said, your mood elevating with each laugh.

Loki’s cheeks continued to go red and warm. 

“He still needs to loosen up a little,” suggested Scott. 

“Let’s force-feed him some ‘nog! Anyone got a bib and a funnel?” asked Tony, raising his voice. 

You rolled your eyes. “Jesus, guys, isn’t this enough?” 

Loki smirked and sighed as you leaned over to kiss his forehead gently. “I’m quite thankful you got here before they made good on their threat to…what was it…’don me now in gay apparel’?” 

Scott shrugged as Thor and Nat turned to him expectantly, the copious amounts of drink starting to slosh around in his brain. “I thought he’d look less scary in a reindeer outfit!” 

“Well,” you said, “let’s at least free you from these Christmas trappings--”

“--no!” Loki quickly refused, nearly causing you to flinch. “They…the humiliations are manifold…” he began to explain. 

Thor chimed in unceremoniously. “He’s completely nude underneath his paper bonds!” 

You gasped as Loki nodded in the affirmative. “While I assure you I would have no qualms with showing the chiseled, superior physique of Prince Loki to this room of peasants, I have been told doing so will result in having garlands and snowglobes thrown at me.” 

“And that’s a promise. I think we’ve all had enough exposure to Loki’s scepter around here,” said Stark. Several people in the room nodded in agreement. 

Loki groaned, annoyed and further embarrassed. “Thus, I’m stuck until the party ends, after which you WILL be unwrapping your…err…gift, in privacy.” He struggled gently against the layers of paper tightly wound about him. 

You reached up to straighten the bow on his head. “That’s better. And I’ll be more than happy to open my christmas present in the privacy of my bedroom later.” 

The rest of the evening was spent in good cheer all around, thanks in part to you gently feeding Loki sips of Stark’s alcoholic eggnog until he was ready to willingly partake in the merriment. It didn’t hurt that you added the incentive of a promised kiss under the mistletoe after the others left. 

Finally, the last of the revelers made their way to their bedrooms, you fulfilled your promise to Loki, not able to help yourself as you slipped a finger under the tapped wrappings at his throat, using your long nail to gracefully slice a long cut right down the middle. You peeled the green paper away just enough to expose his bare chest, stopping your breath at the sight. Loki added a sly, sexy grin to the image, completing the statue of the hottest Christmas gift you’d ever received. 

“Oooh,” you moaned with excitement, “Merry Christmas to me, indeed!” 

Part of @fictive-sl0th's 2023 Secret Santa game

Secret Santa 2023 taglist: @joyful-enchantress @mochie85 @muddyorbs @holdmytesseract @sailorholly @lady-rose-moon @superficialdomina @cultofcarter @coldnique @ijuststareatstuffhereok89 @smolvenger @loz-3 @catsladen @lokisgoodgirl @acidcasualties @divine-knight-hand @quirkiest-turtle @glitchquake @nyxlaufeyson @fandxmslxt69 @holymultiplefandomsbatman

#loki #fanfiction #mcu #mcu loki #loki fanfiction #loki x reader #mcu fanfiction #loki laufeyson #loki/reader #loki christmas #christmas fanfic #avengers christmas #avengers fanfic #mcu christmas #2023 secret santa

[qqueenofhades]

Man, the Russia/Ukraine war has led to a lot of terrible takes from far leftists. I have a mutual from Brazil, a self identified socialist, who is convinced that Ukraine is full of nazis. While they don't support Russia, they questioned why they have to be "pro-Ukraine" or "pro-Russia". They call Ukraine a "nazi hole" but call Russia merely "fascist". Am I wrong in thinking that they've been influenced by Russian propaganda? I know Ukraine does have a nazi/far right problem, but so does the US? And most European countries? idk they strongly hate the US/US government too, and it seems to create some kind of brainrot. at least they don't blindly support China or Russia like tankies do (nor identify with them), but it's still frustrating to take a neutral position on a pretty black and white situation.

I don't want to confront them 1) cause I'm not the type to argue over serious things like this and this may break our long friendship and 2) I'm not super educated on the nazi situation in Ukraine.

Anyway thank you for letting me rant in your inbox.

Yes, Russia has specifically focused its propaganda efforts on Latin America, Africa, and other regions that HAVE suffered from Western/European/American imperialism and are thus predisposed to take the worst view of them/believe that this situation is their fault somehow. This is similar to what the USSR did in newly postcolonial Africa in the 1960s and 1970s, positing themselves as offering the shared hand of communist brotherhood from Western oppressors. Because of more recent events like the invasion of Iraq, which was fully as unjustified as the invasion of Ukraine, Russian propagandists and their eager tankie/leftist foot soldiers have also got a lot of mileage out of "whataboutism." This is likewise an old Soviet propaganda technique designed to deflect any criticism of the actual situation by disingenuously asking "what about this other one!!!"

Likewise, the idea that Ukraine has a "Nazi problem" is itself propaganda. In the last election, far-right/Nazi-identified parties won barely 2% of the vote and AFAIK, no seats at all in the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian parliament). This is far lower than the nearly half of the USA voting for the far-right/Nazi-sympathetic Republican Party, and as noted, the far right elements in the UK and Europe. The idea that Ukraine is "full of Nazis" (with a Jewish president who just celebrated iftar with the Ukrainian Muslims/Crimean Tatars during Ramadan and instituted observance of Muslim holidays nationwide, very Nazi of him) is a line used by Russian propagandists to "justify" their attack and appeal to national memories of the Great Patriotic War (World War II) and the struggle against the Nazis, which is the central cultural grievance/memory in modern Russia. The Putin regime has referred to anyone they don't like, but especially the Ukrainians, as "Nazis" for a long time now, so it's supposedly their holy duty to kill them/commit ethnic cleansing/forcibly reunite the "fraternal" people of "Little Russia," as Ukraine has been called since the 17th century, with "Great Russia." And yeah, no.

Because the West and Europe has been pretty solidly on Ukraine's side, Russia has therefore cultivated countries like China, India, Brazil, etc, who have all suffered from Western interference and are looking to move into the first rank of global superpowers. This is, as noted, similar to the competing systems of influence built during the Cold War, but it also relies on much deeper Russian grievances that go back to the medieval era. Anybody who knows a thing about actual Russian history would therefore know that every single word it says about the Ukraine situation is a lie, but because that lie is useful for many other countries and fits into their own understanding of themselves, it is easy to repeat and act like it's a so-called superior moral position. This is also why US/American tankies so eagerly lap up Russian propaganda, because it plays into their moral sense of themselves as far better than the rest of the West and "righteously" discovering that the West is responsible for all the evil in the world etc etc. While non-Westerners are just helpless misunderstood puppets with no real agency or ability to make complex choices. This totally makes sense!!!

#anonymous #ask #russia ukraine war #russian history #as ever tankies are the fucking absolute worst and wrong about everything

[princessaxoxo]

Baby, it's cold outside

Boyfriend!Sy x girlfriend!reader

Summary: You spend a chilly night by the fire with Sy.

Warnings: 18+ only, nsfw, fluff, unprotected sex (p in v), oral (m & f receiving), fingering, if I missed any please let me know.

Word count: 928

The powerful winds that were howling outside due to the blizzard caused the air inside your house to feel chilly and the windows to rattle. Sy and you were snuggled together on the couch, enjoying hot cocoa while watching National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. 

This was his favorite guilty pleasure Christmas movie, as the two of you made it a tradition to choose one and watch it each year. Though the movie seemed corny to you, Sy was laughing uncontrollably and infectiously, making you chuckle as well.

“Looky there, will you finally admit you like this film?” Sy asked and began pampering your face and neck with kisses, making you chuckle louder. “Huh, honeysuckle?"

“Absolutely not, sweetums," he hummed at your response. Then he threw you onto the couch, making you yell, and pinned your hands above your head. "Darlin', I'll convince you that the greatest holiday film is National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."

"And precisely how are you going to accomplish that?" you asked, shaking your head. He released your hands and raised his head. With a sly smile, he continued, "Honeysuckle, I could tell you, but actions speak louder than words."

Sy’s whiskers tickled your face while his sultry, smooth lips glided with yours, his tongue gently dominating yours. With attentive moves, he took off your sweater and planted tender little kisses on your shoulder. He grabbed ahold of your breasts, kissing the top of them before reaching behind your back and unclasping your bra. His tongue immediately started to lick around your nipple, switching between both. "Sy." You started to run out of breath.

With a fast motion, his fingers skimmed over the top of your pajama shorts and pulled them off, along with your favorite Christmas panties. After giving your inner thighs a hard smack, Sy moved in and planted a kiss on the tender regions. 

Sy let his shirt fall to the ground after slipping it off. Grasping your thighs with his forearms, he pulled you into his face, split your folds, licked tenderly on the clit, and groaned. As you started to grab and ride his face, he started to lick you like a starving man, thrusting his tongue in and out of your cunt.

Gasping out loud, you were taken aback when two fingers suddenly filled you. As he removed his lips from your clit, you whimpered. But when his fingers accelerated inside of you, the sound of your wetness grew more audible. He curled them perfectly, finding the precise area to give you a cry of joy and make your legs and thighs tremble.

He stood unbuckling his pants and undoing his belt, and you watched, mesmerized. Quickly removing both his boxers and pants.

Stroking his cock, Sy said. “Bring that pretty mouth of yours over here, darlin’.” Eagerly, you crawled towards him, "Open your mouth, stick out your tongue, but don't suck." Parting your lips, you exposed your tongue. And with his cock resting on your tongue, he began to glide up and down while admiring the view of you on your knees for him.

“Honeysuckle–suck.” At his command, you start licking a wet circle around his leaking, bulging tip. “Atta’ girl.” Sy said. He started moving toward the back of your throat. Trying to take in as much of him as possible, you moan along his sturdy length.

Grasping his robust thighs with your hands, you continuously bobbed your head up and down while slurping and moaning on his cock.

Tears began to brim your eyes as you looked up at Sy, “Goddamn darlin’, look at you, so beautiful with my cock down your throat.”

You could feel the muscles in his thighs tensing beneath your hands as his jaw slackened, signaling his impending arrival. Shortly after, you felt his salty liquid spurt into your mouth and down your throat as you swallowed his load.

“Lay back for me, honeysuckle.” He climbed on top of you as you lowered yourself, holding your face in his hands and giving you a passionate kiss. You whimpered as his cock pushed between your creases and then into your cunt with a single thrust.

His thrusts accelerated as you encircled his waist with your legs and lightly scraped his back with your nails. Curving your back off the carpet, you closed your eyes, and Sy said, "Darlin', keep those pretty eyes on me."

When you opened your eyes, the sound of wet skin slapping together, combined with your groans and his grunts, filled the room. You were getting closer to your own climax with every hit of his sac against your flesh.

With your breasts bouncing up and down, Sy reached for your nipple and teased it, bringing you to your orgasm. Sy’s balls tightened at the sight of your orgasmic, stunning face before he filled your cunt with his seed.

You two started trying to get your breath back. A shiver ran throughout your body as his thumb brushed your cheek. Before giving you a kiss, he added, "I'll get us a blanket, honeysuckle."

His ass flexed with every step as he got up from the floor and gathered a blanket, and you couldn't take your eyes off of him. Upon his return, he draped the blanket over the two of you, brushed your hair back from your face, and caressed your delicate skin, which was illuminated by the fire that had slowly lowered in the living room. "Okay, sweetums, the best holiday film is National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation."

Sy nodded his head, smugly smiling. "Yes, it is, darlin', and don't forget it."

Taglist: @viking-raider @ellethespaceunicorn @chloe92 @juliaorpll78 @identity2212 @kingliam2019 @beck07990 @shellyshellshell

#henry cavill #first post #henry cavill smut #henry cavill x reader #smutty #henry cavill fanfic #fluff #henry cavill characters #henry cavill fanfiction #captain syverson #sy henry cavill #syverson x reader #syverson fanfiction #syverson fluff #syverson smut #sand castle #captain sy x reader #syverson fanfic #captain syverson fic #captain syverson x you #captain syverson sand castle #captain syverson fanfiction #syverson #captain syverson x reader #captain syverson smut #boyfriend syverson #reader girlfriend #chrismas

[ssahopelessly]

Gift Exchange

Synopsis: It’s the holidays at the BAU and that only means one thing - Secret Santa gift exchange.

Prompt: “Character only wanted to reveal that they are someone's Secret Santa at the BAU Christmas Party but they end up confessing a lot more than that.” from @imagining-in-the-margins Office Party challenge. {A.N. I did not see this prompt until AFTER I wrote this but close enough.}

Warnings: Spencer Reid x fem!reader, work-place crush, Secret Santa, Spencer is dumb and scared of his own feelings. It’s basic fluff. [let me know any I missed]

Word Count: 4.5k

Masterist

You had only been at the BAU for a few months when suddenly it was the end of November. Thankfully, there hadn’t been a case, so you were able to slip away for an extended weekend to relax and renew before the workload of the final month of the year. Derek had taken you under his wing in a way, and upon your December return, warned you that normally December was the unpredictable predictable month. “What does that even mean?” You had asked while walking into the roundtable room one Monday morning.

“Kid, the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is notoriously crime ridden. People lose their minds between financial stress and familial stress, and- look, all I’m saying is don’t make any solid plans for the month of December.” With Derek sitting two seats to Spencer's left, you squeezed yourself into the space between them, careful not to bother Spencer’s personal space as you brought yourself closer to the edge of the table.

“What about New Years?” You had tried to ask him, running the potential for an end of the year getaway in your head.

“Actually,” It was natural Spencer cut in, never able to miss a chance to share the information he knew, “the month of December mostly sees crimes revolving around material and monetary gain, crimes like theft and larceny increasing by 20% according to the National Crime Victimization Survey. The summer is when studies show the most violent and heinous crimes occur, specifically on the hotter days.” Derek rolled his eyes, beginning to flip through the small collected pile of paperwork he had carried into the room with him.

“Good morning Spencer.” You chose to greet him, already feeling the easy joy that came from being in his presence.

“Good morning.” It was an effort to not notice the way his voice shrunk back in on itself as your knee accidentally bumped him under the table, not quite catching the side glance Derek was giving you both either.

Unbeknownst to you, there was a running pool in the office. Just a small wager of $50, Derek had bet Emily that Spencer wouldn’t make a move before the New Year. Emily, ever confident in Spencer, insisted Spencer would make some gesture if the proper environment had presented itself. They were both coming up empty handed against the running clock as it had been a few months and neither you nor Spencer seemed to want to push anything further than coworkers, maybe friends.

What they had somehow missed though, were the small lunch runs you two would do for the team, or the few times Spencer had lended you his coat in the colder states, or the way he stayed late in the office with you to help with paperwork. They had missed the moments alone with Spencer that had meant everything to you. Well everything, if having a crush on your coworker wasn’t completely unprofessional and if you also weren’t always surrounded by the people who should be able to read that truth out of you.

The rest of the team had filed in, Penelope the last one to enter, just behind Emily and JJ though. “Okay my lovelies, before I present your next adventure, a small side quest!” Penelope put her things down on the table before picking up a small gift bag, rattling its contents around to your confusion. She clocked it before you could say anything and motioning her hand underneath the bag, motioned to everyone around the table. “Secret Santa!” There was a small groan through the room that was then met with a stern glare from Penelope herself before she returned to presenting the festivity. “I’ll pass the bag around so you all can draw your people. The gift limit is $25 so, no pressure.” She passed the bag to Aaron who, without much ceremony, pulled his drawing out and quickly read it as he passed the bag to Derek. Derek however, closed the bag at its opening and shook the contents before drawing his pick, trying to keep any emotions from his face as he passed it to you.

“What happens if we draw ourselves?” You asked as your hand slipped into the bag and felt around the slips of paper.

“Then put it back, draw again.” Penelope offered as she watched you try to make your drawing. And you tried not to think too much about how you wanted to draw Spencer’s name. Surely if you had asked, he could give you the odds of that right now. But also, the longer you took, the more attention you were drawing to yourself and it was just a work gift exchange anyway, you could always find another time to give him a gift later. Your fingertips graced over one slip for the final time and pinching it between, you drew it out of the bag. Leaning back in the chair you opened it to see one name singularly scribbled in her favourite glitter gel pen: Penelope.

“Not me!” You cheered with minimal enthusiasm, passing the bag to Spencer. There was a slight tremble to your hand when your touch graced his, but you tried to ignore it as you slipped your pick into your work folder, trying to push the small let down from your mind.

“Can I request no home made gifts this year?” Rossi had asked from his spot across from Aaron, leaned back in his chair as the bag continued around the table.

“Are you talking about the homemade socks I got you last year?” Penelope whispered out, small upset hanging off her jutted bottom lip.

“The socks I helped her make last year?” Spencer chimed in with reflected upset. Dave looked like he regretted his request but persisted.

“Kids, look, I love the thought and effort that went into them but they’re not really my style. They were ithcy and- not all of us can show up to crime scene with silly socks and be taken seriously.” Spencer smiled and shrugged at the allusion to his fashion sense. Eventually the bag made it around the table and Penelope delivered her case, with Hotch giving the room the standard wheels up in 30 order, everyone quickly dispersing to collect their things for this new case.

As everyone made their way out of the room, you tried to linger in an attempt to talk to Spencer. “Who’d you get?” You asked when it was just you two in the room, keeping your voice low so only he could hear.

“What?” He hadn’t given you his full attention, mind focused on getting his things into his satchel precisely how he wanted them, a task you had seen a few times before.

“For Secret Santa?”

“Oh. I- I can’t tell you that.” His attention still didn’t fall to you as he closed his bag and started making his way down the few stairs to his desk. You stayed hot on his heels, wanting to discuss secrets like you were a kid again. But he still didn’t pay you any attention, making himself busy with the things on his desk, moving what he could to the drawers as if that would help the clutter that always lingered on the surface. .

Purposefully putting yourself in his way, you took a seat in his desk chair, offering your best pleading eyes as you looked up at him, “Please?”

“It’s a secret! What if I told you and then you told them?” Spencer finally did look down to you, and for the first time you saw a bit of irritation in the way he was looking at you, but his voice still stayed low in the near whisper you had been maintaining.

“I wouldn’t. You know I wouldn’t.” You tried to reassure him.

“I know but…” You were distracted by the way he bit lip before shaking his head, hair falling from behind his ear. “I can’t. I’m sorry.”

“I’ll tell you who I got.” Was your offered bribe, to level the field of secrets. But Spencer was firm in his decision, shaking his head as he reached for his go-bag. “You’re no fun.” The words seemed to have no effect on him, a small soft smile still pulling at his lips.

“Sorry.” Letting your smile reflect his, you rolled your eyes before going back over to your desk to get ready for the jet, trying not to think about how the anticipation of who got you was going to consume your thoughts.

-

A month had come and gone and five days before Christmas, just as you had returned from what was thankfully a short case, the team managed to hold their little holiday party at Rossi’s. Your gift for Penelope had been something you picked out after a week of consideration and kept put away in a nice gift bag at the back of a drawer that should’ve been full of paperwork.

You weren’t supposed to profile each other, but as the days passed you grew only more curious about who had pulled your name. No one paid you extra attention, no blatant ‘what’s something you want for Christmas’ and in the same way, Spencer never said anything more about Secret Santa or who his pick was. You tried everything to get him to tell you, but he remained firm in his practice of keeping this one thing from you.

It was unanimously decided that Rossi would host the get together like he did all big team events, the team slowly trickling into the house after only having three hours between getting off the jet and agreeing to be there. Once everyone was there, and had their share of snacks from the provided buffet, Penelope gained control of the room like it was the roundtable room all over again. “Okay, this year, whoever has worked in the bureau the longest gets to go first.”

“Oh, wow. Thanks Garcia.” Dave didnt even have to move far, passing a small box to Aaron. You could’ve sworn a “Merry Christmas” was grumbled out, only evidence of so being the smile and laughter that pulled at Aarons mouth as he took the lid off the hand sized box.

“Wow, a gift card to Sutton Suits.” To his credit, Aaron did actually sound excited, which seemed to lighten Rossi for just a minute.

“Tell Oscar I sent you, and he’ll slip a quality cigar into your purchase.”

“Noted.” Their laughter died amongst them as Aaron then passed a red plaid gift wrapped object to Spencer, a sense of wonder settling over the room. Spencer was smiling though, now on the edge of his seat as his fingers slipped along the surface of the gift wrap, looking for a seam.

“You’re my Secret Santa?” He asked in a way that a laugh came out, gently tearing the paper away to reveal another book for Spencer’s collection.

“It’s a compilation of the ranked, most challenging published crossword puzzles from the last 35 years. I thought you’d enjoy.” Aaron explained to both Spencer and the team, your attention captured by Spencer as he pressed his thumb along the edge of the book, flipping through the many crossword puzzles that lined the pages. That one smile you’d grown fond of pulled at the corner of his mouth before he looked back at Aaron, full smile overtaking his face.

“Thank you, Hotch.”

The rest of the exchange went a little something like that. Derek got JJ some gift certificates to a new gym that was opening near her house, and JJ in turn got Derek a bulk bag of door hinges since “you don’t seem to know what those are” but then added he could use them in his house renovations. Penelope got Emily a scrapbook of photos full of Sergio and all the adventures she missed while in WITSEC and Emily got Dave a bottle of whiskey, which he thanked her for getting “the right kind” but then scolded her for spending too much on a gift.

By the time it was your turn, you had realised two things: Spencer hadn’t gone, and no one had given you a gift yet. And you surely hadn’t pulled your name but when you looked over to him, to suggest he go so you could confirm your new forming theory, he wouldn’t look at you. “Has Spencer gone yet?” You asked more so to Penelope, who had essentially made herself the leader of this whole exchange. The puzzled expression of her face held as she looked over to him, a small pout forming on her lips.

“No, no he has not.” The anxiety was creeping up the back of your neck, and just when you thought he had been caught, that you would get your answer, ever the gentleman he was.

“It’s okay, you can go.”

“But you’ve been at the BAU longer.”

“It’s fine. Go.” His voice softly encouraged you from where he sat, next to David’s Christmas tree. Pulling the bag from the side of your chair, you passed the glitter covered gift bag to Penelope, who beamed like she just won the lottery.

“You’re my Secret Santa?” She seemed genuinely excited, weighing the bag in her palm before tearing away at the tissue paper.

“Surprise!” You watched as her jaw fell, hand pulling out the first item. A pink bedazzled stapler, tiny pink rhinestones covering the whole surface.

“Shut up!”

“And there’s pink staples inside, just for you.” Your voice grew quieter as she still seemed ever so thrilled to be opening a present.

She pulled the matching tape dispenser out before finding the pink legal pad and new pink poof pen, one that lit up when the ink was pressed to write. “Where did you find all of this? My dreams?”

“I have my ways.” Putting everything back in the bag, she got up to give you a hug, pulling you tightly into her arms as everyone around you laughed and cheered. Their applause died down when she sat back down, all the attention falling to Spencer.

“Alright lover boy, your turn.” When you watched him then, you could see how nervous he had become, a slight tremble in his hand as he pulled the massive bag from its hiding spot, a bag that stood up to his knee height from the floor.

“You probably figured it out by now.” He whispered to you as he brought the bag closer.

“What’d you get her? Your heart?” Derek remarked from where he sat next to Emily, who was quick to elbow him in the side. Spencer must have registered his words as he had a jerk reaction to it like he briefly choked on something, but he was quick to return to his normal behavior, avoiding your eyes as he returned to his seat. From there though, he seemed more comfortable to make eye contact with you, lips curling in to lick them before trying to find his words again.

“What is it?” You beat him to it, but the smile that had formed on your lips seemed to put him at ease as he reflected it to you.

“Just open it.” Was his simple instruction as he leaned back in his seat, knee bouncing in subtle anticipation. Prying the sealed gift bag open, you were met with a familiar black fabric, though without the pilling that you were almost used to. With both hands you pulled it from the bag on the floor, up into the air to get a better look at it. It was a new black peacoat, your size and everything. Bringing it to your lap, you immediately looked to Spencer who was biting his lip, waiting for your response.

“Thank you!” Were the few words you were able to come up with, the simplicity seeming to make Spencer relax again

“Well come on, try it on for us!” Penelope called from her seat, reminding you that the whole team was watching this gesture in action. Standing, you unfasted the buttons and slipped your arms into the satin lining, already imagining how warm the cold weather cases were going to become.

You tried not to think of the first time Spencer let you borrow his jacket, how it was still warm from his own body heat. How the scents of his cologne and laundry detergent wafted around you like a scarf, forcing you to smell and think of him despite trying to focus on the crime scene you had been visiting that day. How the second and third cold weather case you had again asked for the jacket, but by the fourth and fifth case and so on he had offered it to you, always smiling when you slipped it on. “Borrowing your boyfriends jacket?” Derek had taunted you one day, in earshot of Spencer who failed to fight the blush on his cheeks. It was such a simple thing, but knowing you had your own black peacoat, and that of all people, Spencer, had been the one to get it for you meant everything.

Slipping a hand into a pocket, you felt a piece of paper, small and folded hiding within. Immediately looking back to Spencer, he just offered you a smile and a wink, patting the same spot on his cardigan as if he knew what you were about to say.

“Ooo la la, why have we seen this look on you before?” JJ asked more to the room than you specifically, and again you looked to Spencer, who seemed to be in his own thoughts, a small blush rising to his cheeks.

“Because she always borrows my jacket, I thought she should have one of her own.” There was something in the way he was looking at you, a gentle fondness that you had only ever seen from him a handful of times.

“And all for $25?” Emily added to the questioning. “Where did you get such a deal?”

“Alright, that’s enough.” Aaron tried to spare you both and reign in the team. “That is a nice coat though. Well done.” The blush had stayed on his cheeks and while you slipped the coat off your arms, you made sure to reach for the note before slipping the coat back into the bag.

“Now, we eat!” David cheered over the room, everyone vacating their spots to head towards the kitchen. You lingered in an effort to read the note, opening it in the palm of your hand.

“I need to talk to you.” Scribbled Spencer’s hand writing before signing off on it with a singular S.

“Are you coming?” His voice caught your attention, unaware he was beside you this whole time.

“Spencer, I-“

“Later.” He was quick to cut you off before motioning with an extended hand for you to walk in front of him towards the dining table.

-

After dinner, night started to fall noticeably over the Rossi Mansion. All conversations had lost their focus and everyones laughter was bordering into delirious bouts of nonsense. Before anyone could leave, Dave asked that people either make leftover plates to take home or help clean up the dishes into the kitchen so all he really needed to do was wash them (or load the dishwasher, whichever one happened first).

With everyone winding down and getting ready to say their farewells for the evening, you tried to get Spencer alone for just a second, yet he always seemed to find something to do. It wasn’t like he was avoiding you, he kept looking at you, smiling that same soft smile, but he also made an effort to not be alone in the same room as you. “Everything okay?” Derek had asked as you watched Spencer and Penelope clean up the wrappings and trash of the Secret Santa gift exchange.

“He’s avoiding me.”

“What?”

“He bought me this nice ass jacket and now he’s avoiding me.” You mused aloud, never bothering to actually look at Derek, still watching how Spencer would bend down to reach between the chairs for scraps of torn gift wrap. “Why would he do that?”

“Listen, we are profilers,” Derek started, now also watching Spencer, “but there’s no science for what goes on in his mind.”

“I-” Were you really about to air out your inner thoughts to Derek, surely the one person on the team who would give you advice if not for the cost of also holding those same thoughts over your head later? “I need to talk to him. But he’s…” Your words fell short as you watched Spencer look around the living room, confirming all the trash had been picked up. He started pulling on his sweater before he looked at you, saw Derek, and immediately turned to Penelope and Emily to offer his assistance in loading their cars. “Avoiding me.”

“It’s not you.”

“What?”

“He’s avoiding himself.”

“It’s Spencer. He-” You thought about how forward everything had been. The jacket, the note, the concept of the present itself. How one minute he was confident and charming and the next second he was unsure and slightly distant. “Why would he do that?”

“Say the first part of your sentence again.” A chuckle came from Derek’s lips as you thought it over: It’s Spencer.

“Why would he do that?” You repeated, hoping to maybe get a different answer from him.

Taking too much enjoyment in the obvious pining, Derek just laughed, “Back to the first answer: there’s no logic, rhyme or reason.”

“It’s Spencer.” You concluded aloud now for your own understanding, hoping everything would start to make sense.

“You got it.”

Spencer had come back inside just for Dave to start corralling everyone out of the house. “You don’t have to go home, but you cannot stay here.” He had said as everyone started to say their final goodbyes for the night. There were hugs all around, many variations of holiday wishes for the extended weekend everyone was about to embark on.

“Hey, can you give Spencer a ride home?” Emily had asked as she pulled away from her goodbye hug.

“Excuse me?” He called several feet away from where he had been on the fringes of a conversation between Aaron and JJ.

“Is everything okay?” You had asked her, looking her once over as if the answer was somewhere on her person.

“Yeah. Penelope ordered something to my address and I’m supposed to drop it off at her apartment after and, well I forgot. Besides, don’t want to keep Reid out past his bedtime.” She had tried to joke but he crossed over to your conversation now, slight upset over his face.

“I don’t have a bedtime!” He had tried to protest.

All to be met with a “yes you do,” from the members of the team that were still left. The pout in protest pulled his bottom lip out from under his top, and he finally turned to look at you. His attention shouldn’t have felt like a reward, but being treated with an imaginary ten foot pole in his attempt to keep distance wasn’t a fond feeling either.

You tried to offer him some semblance of comfort but he just turned on his heels to grab his bag from Emily’s car, sulking back over to your car. “Good luck.” Emily whispered to you before turning back to her car.

Climbing into your car, you noticed how Spencer was content to sit completely still and rigid in his seat, his knee bouncing as he brought his fingers to press to his lips.

“Are you okay?” It was an attempt at bursting the bubble that had formed around you two, keeping you in separate worlds from the other.

“I’m fine.” He huffed, answer too short and to the point.

“You’re lying.”

“No I’m not.” You heard it then. The rise of an octave, the unbelievable deflection.

“You are.” He settled further into his seat as you drove out of the DC suburbs and closer to where your apartments were. “Did I do something wrong?” Your voice fell then, insecurity creeping in at the thought that maybe you had unknowingly done something to upset him.

“What?” His voice wasn’t high in pitch this time, but soft in tone as he snapped his attention to you. “Why would you think-”

“Well, you gave me a really nice gift and asked to speak to me later and then spent the rest of the evening avoiding me. So I thought maybe I just did something to offend you, so…”

“I’m not… offended.”

“You’re not?”

“No.”

“Then what is it?”

“I,” his head fell back, hitting the head rest before he blew out some air from his pressed lips, looking over to you to watch your reaction to his next words, “I like you.”

“Well yeah. I mean we’re friends, have been friends for quite some time now.”

“No, I mean… I like you, like you.”

“Oh?” A silence had settled as you both took a moment to take in his words, then hoping the other would say something to end the silence. “Are you sure?”

“Am I sure?” It offered him the chance to laugh. Not like he was insulted, but more he thought it was funny that you weren’t sure if he was sure.

“I mean- I think I get it. But why did you spend the rest of the night avoiding me?”

“Because,” you came to a red light while you waited for his answer, looking to him to see he had already been watching you, “I was scared you wouldn’t feel the same.” He started to shy away from you again, eyes avoiding meeting yours no matter how long you thought you’d been staring at him.

“What if I do?” You reached for his hand in between your two seats, fingers gently securing through his, waiting to see if he would pull away. This grabbed his attention, hopeful eyes finally looking into yours now. “What if I do, like you, like you?”

“Then I would be thrilled.” It was sweet, the feeling of understanding, of mutual endearment for the other while he held your hand there, paying no mind to the red light above you both. But like a sign from above, it turned green, reflecting off the interior of the car.

There were so many things you wanted to commit to memory, in the same way he would without half the effort. You wanted to remember the way he looked at you, the way it felt to be under his gaze with this new meaning. You wanted to remember the way it felt to hold his hand, or the way it felt to have his thumbing small circles into your hand. The way you couldn’t fight the smile as it took over your lips, or the way he seemed to feel the same way. But most of all, you wanted to remember how it felt to be in that moment with him, mind swimming with possibilities of what this would mean for the future.

-

Tell me what you think here.

#spencer reid #criminal minds #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid fandom #spencer reid x you #oneshot #spencer reid fluff #spencer reid imagine #spencer reid fanfic #mentioningmargins #christmas #holiday #secret santa #gift exchange #ssahopelessly #fem reader #spencer reid x fem!reader

[gunnerfc]

🎄WOSO FICMAS: Dec. 12 - Fridolina Rolfö 🎄

Fridolina Rolfö x Reader (Arsenal & Sweden) | WC: 745

Dec. 12 prompt: cuddle during the team's christmas movie night

-> any translations come from google!

-> woso ficmas masterlist can be found here!

With the holidays approaching and clubs giving players time off, you and your Swedish national teammates could spend time together away from the pitch. With the club seasons picking up and certain players rehabbing injuries, it made it hard for almost everyone to see each other. The captains of the team decided that there needed to be a team movie night before everyone went back to their respective clubs after the break.

This is how you found yourself in Caroline’s home surrounded by most of your teammates, still waiting on the arrival of some of them. You were in the middle of an intense conversation about the past London Derby with Zećira and Johanna, neither wanting to accept that Arsenal did in fact win that match. Too preoccupied with the conversation with the two Chelsea players, you didn’t notice when Fridolina and Stina joined the three of you on the couch. 

“man kan inte alltid vinna, vet du? (you can’t always win, you know?)” your Arsenal teammate teased interrupting whatever excuse the goalkeeper was trying to say. Stina was especially happy with the Gunners’ win after scoring the late game-winner. 

The Chelsea players switched their attention to Stina, once again voicing their displeasure with losing. Frido could only laugh at the four of you, finding the argument amusing. 

“Frido, hjälp oss här! (Frido, help us here!)” the youngest of the two West London players whined, hoping the blonde would come to their defense.

“Nej, jag gillar när Chelsea inte vinner. (No, I like it when Chelsea doesn't win.)” the forward joked, earning a loud laugh from you and Stina while the Chelsea players rolled their eyes. 

The conversation shifted to how Frido’s recovery was going back in Spain and then to how everyone planned on spending the summer now that Sweden was out of the Olympics. You moved your hand to hold your girlfriend’s as she spoke about her recovery, knowing how much she missed being able to play for both Sweden and Barça.

Once everyone had arrived at your captain’s house, the team was instructed to write down the title of a movie to be drawn out of a bowl to make it easier to decide which movie to watch. You were quick to scribble down the title of your favorite Christmas movie, tossing it in the bowl before finding a seat before you were forced to sit on the floor. A slight shiver ran down your spine, the Swedish cold affecting you more than you thought it would. You knew you should have listened to Frido when she told you to wear a long-sleeved shirt or at least take a hoodie, but you refused, saying something along the lines of being used to the cold.

The blonde was quick to join you on the couch, a knowing smile on her face as she watched you slightly shake from the cold. You were waiting for her to say “jag sa det till dig” (I told you so), but it never came. Instead, she picked up the blanket that was thrown over the back of the couch, moving it across the two of you. Your teammates soon followed after putting their suggestion into the bowl, some racing each other to a spot on the couch to avoid the floor. 

You were too focused on the warmth your girlfriend was providing to pay attention to what movie Magda picked from the bowl but you could hear a few groans from your teammates, letting you know they were not thrilled with the selection. With everyone now settled in front of the TV, Caroline had the opening credits to the movie rolling. You were hardly paying attention to the movie, more content with being wrapped up with your girlfriend, the cold no longer affecting you. With a quick kiss on the blonde’s cheek, you settled into the couch, eyes now focused on the bright screen in front of you.

As the movies continued, Frido moved closer, wanting to be as close to you as possible. With a new movie now starting and your girlfriend fully tucked into your side, you let out a small content sigh, having missed spending time with all your national teammates. You caught some of your teammates’ eyes, teasing smiles on their faces at the sight of you and Frido cuddling, but they knew to keep their comments to themselves for now. However, you knew their silence wouldn’t last long and the first chance they got to tease you, they would take it.

#woso x reader #barca femeni x reader #swewnt x reader #fridolina rolfö #fridolina rolfö x reader #woso

[thelittleliars]

P.S. I Want You | Chapter 4

Natasha Romanoff x fem!reader

Warnings: dirty talk, mentions of fireworks, (i think that's it)

Words: 5.3K

AN: I wrote like 95% of the chapter months ago and only recently it felt like the right time to edit it and change some things. I had plans for a chapter 5 & 6 happening but I'm honestly not really feeling this series anymore. I still love it dearly and that's why there will be another chapter at one point. I can't leave it all hanging like this! P.S. I Want You Masterlist

Morning rolled in way too fast for your liking. You did sleep in but it simply wasn't enough as you still felt very tired. The sound of your doorbell ringing worsened your mood, you grumpily stood up and walked towards your front door. You let out a breath of air before taking a long breath in and prepared yourself for social interaction but it was as if the universe was having it with you that day because when you opened the door, you somehow knocked your elbow against it, the pain hurt like hell. "Fucking shit!" You shut your eyes before collecting yourself and look at the person standing in front of you. Natasha stood there all shy and for a moment you didn't realize that it was her but when you did you tried to remember what happened the night before. It came to you fast that the two of you fell asleep on your couch. With one look at her clothes you instantly knew she had left at some point at night. You didn't know why you felt sad and betrayed that she just left without waking you up and telling you it face to face but the fact that she was here again had something to mean right? 

She looked in your eyes for a while before asking if she could come in. You of course let her in and closed the door after she stepped into your apartment. Why she was here so early and in a new set of (changed) clothes was something you were wondering but had no desire to ask with that sour mood of yours. Without another word you went into your kitchen, Natasha followed you silently and only spoke when she saw you started to make coffee.

"I hope you're not mad at me for leaving without a note. Everything was suddenly too much for me and I had to get some air. This morning I felt guilty for leaving you so I wanted to buy you coffee to make it up to you but literally everything seems to be closed today." She frowned. 

You shook your head. "I'm not mad even if it might seem right now. All I need is coffee to wake up properly." 

"Okay." The small grin that appeared on her face made her look even more adorable but you didn't tell her that. Instead you told her to wait here as you wanted to freshen yourself up. Natasha took a look around your apartment again as you quickly brushed your teeth, made your hair and changed clothes before grabbing your phone from your nightstand and headed back. "No wonder everything's closed today. It's the 20th - St. Stephen's Day!" You grabbed two mugs and poured the fresh hot coffee in it, then walked over to the kitchen table where Natasha had sat herself when she saw you entering the room again. You quickly walked back to get the milk. "Need any sugar for your coffee?"

She shook her head. "No, I drink it black. Sometimes with milk to switch it up." At first she only sipped on her coffee to test the taste of it, which was heavenly, she had to complimented your coffee making skill that made you giggle. You appreciated her words anyways. "St Stephen's Day huh? Does anything open at all today?"

"Museums and thermal bath are open and so are most restaurants but that's it. Today's national holiday is to celebrate the name day of the first king of Hungary, King Stephen but also the day of the foundation of Hungary and 'the day of the new bread'." You told her as much as you could, which was barely anything but she still listened intently. And boy you felt how intently she listened to every word that came out of your mouth. Her gaze was hot as it wandered around your face, taking in every micro expression as you talked, and every now and then went to your lips. She knew you noticed it as she saw your ears turning into a shade of pink. "Would you be up to go to a museum? Wait not forget it. It's gonna be packed." You were embarrassed that you didn't think it through before opening your mouth to suggest something. What you didn't expect was how sweet Natasha was reacting. "I wouldn't mind going with you but after what happened last year I don't think it's the wisest to go outside when it's packed. There's a high chance of people recognizing me and I don't want to ruin our time together. I came here for you and only you, not for other people recognizing an ex-fugitive and Avenger."

"So a day in? Just you and me and our sexual tension." You wiggled your eyebrows. Natasha was suddenly taken aback from your boldness, she also wasn't expecting you voicing your sexual attraction so openly. You constantly look so innocent that she hadn't gotten in her head yet that your mind is very dirty. "I give it to you. You hide the lust well, I almost don't see it in your eyes but there are seconds where you crack. And what I see then.. oh lord it's fucking sexy." The redhead's body froze, her eyes widen in shock and desire, her breathe got faster as she tried to stop the thoughts from rushing in her head, she failed miserable though. She slowly could feel how turned on she got, that's what had her shift in her seat, you saw it and hid your smirk behind your mug as you drank the coffee. "It's quite hot in here maybe I shou-" She cut your teasing short. "NO! I mean it's not that hot in here. A window should do it otherwise I recommend a cold shower." 

You smiled at her before you looked down at your mug. "I'm sorry for teasing you so shamelessly. I don't know what came over me. All I know is that you gave me a huge boost of confidence." 

"Wow look at that. First being so bold and now getting all shy? 

"It's all your doing! You drive me so crazy that I don't know how to act around you." 

"I do have that affect on people." She smiles smugly. It's as if she wanted to kill you. 

"Have you had breakfast yet?" You changed the topic. She told you that she didn't had anything but your coffee so when you offered to make something she quickly agreed. It was not much but you both were alright with scrambled eggs, bread with cheese or jam and some oatmeal. The two of you ate quietly breakfast quietly, only asking each other a few questions occasionally. Afterwards you retreated onto the couch with another fresh cup of coffee. As you watched a tv show you couldn't help but stealing glances at her. The woman looked so stunning with her loosened braid and the redness of her hair.. it amazed you each and every time you saw it, even drove you almost mad because you couldn't believe how she was real. Your glances turned into a stare at some point. When you got caught you got lost even more in wondering how she could be real that you didn't notice how close she came and where her hands went. "Y/N?"

"Gosh Nat." You almost moaned because of her beauty. "How are you even real? I have trouble believing that you're not heaven sent." The moment you finally realized her closeness to you, it felt like as if your heart wanted to jump out of your chest, it was beating that fast. "Right now the biggest urge I have is to make you mine. You intrigued me the second I first saw you and the more you wrote me your postcards, the more I knew I won't ever be able to let you go. We don't know each other that long and I honestly don't know that much about you but I like you a lot. But I'm honestly so afraid to scare you away by asking you to be my girlfriend so instead of asking I'll just let you know my feelings and when you're ready you can ask me or simply say an answer. Until then can I kiss you to still my urge?" You were right of having to be afraid of asking, Natasha was too overwhelmed and scared to answer. Though she had no doubts about kissing you so she leaned forward and closed the gap. Those soft kisses she indicated turned into a full make out session because you couldn't seem to get enough of her. Something in her mind had switched and everything turned more heated. Open mouth kisses lead to tangling fingers in each others hair and hot kissing trailing down your throat. "Oh sweet fucking Jesus." You cursed and moaned quietly. "I want to fuck you so bad and then I want you fucking me til it's dawn." 

Natasha stopped and looked into your eyes that were hazed. "You sure do have one hell of a dirty mouth for a virgin." You raised an eyebrow. "I'm way too old to be a fucking innocent virgin. Virginity is overrated anyways." 

"Who needs an innocent virgin anyways when you can get a dirty mouthed virgin because that - that is way sexier." You smashed your lips against hers again all while grabbing her waist to push your bodies so close together that there wasn't any space. Despite the kissing getting wild again, you nor her made a move beyond that. You both kind of knew it wasn't the right time. "I think I need an awful cold shower." 

"Me too. How about we save water by taking one together?" She teased you a last time. You groaned and hid your face in her neck. 

"You're the worst." You mumbled as you continued to hold her.

Later that day, hours after Natasha had gone to the place she rented and you had a cold shower, you hit her up with a text message.

Today 6:34 PM Fireworks along the Danube start at 9pm. Wanna go with me? I can give you a cap and sunglass as cover.

Today 7:22 PM At what time should I be at your apartment?

Today 7:24 PM Around 8:30 would be great.

Today 7:29 PM Okay sounds good. See you then :)

Exactly at 8:30 pm the doorbell of your apartment rang. Natasha was punctual and that impressed you significantly. You were once again shocked when you saw her in a grey black striped hoodie and a grey-brownish jacket over it. That outfit suited her so well. After giving her a compliment, you grabbed your keys and stuffed them into the pocket of your pants. 

Together you took the metro that stops at the Parliament. There were already a tons of people which shouldn't be a surprise but it was anyways. You took Natasha's hand in your own to move through the crowd without loosing her. After a couple of minutes you found a perfect spot to stay and watch the fireworks. "I really hope that not more people will come right now. I hate when crowds basically squeeze you to death."

"You have me here so you won't get squeezed to death. I'll protect you." 

"Well thank you my dear knight in shining armor." The redhead didn't say anything, she only raised an eyebrow. "Sorry my bad. I meant to say thank you my dear Avenger."

Natasha scoffed and shook her head. "You're unbelievable." You grinned at her and asked her why that was so. "You didn't know about the Avengers until a few days ago and now you're poking fun at me!"

"Wrong. I knew about the Avengers just not that all of you are the Avengers or what you look like." You explained. The banter continued until they started the firework show. And it blew you away, fireworks always blew you always since it fascinated you deeply. The sound, the colors, the patterns, the explosions. Somewhere in the middle Natasha turned your head towards her and pulled you into a sweet kiss. During that moment it really felt like a once in a lifetime kiss that created butterflies in your stomach. It was probably the start of you falling for the Black Widow. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On the other side of the world, Yelena laughed her ass off as Kate showed her what tabloids had written about her sister. She found it extremely funny that Natasha had gotten recognized overseas this quick. She had left New York only 3 days prior and now headlines were flying around without stopping anytime soon. 

Black Widow was seen with alleged girlfriend in Budapest.

Black Widow back in Budapest! 

Black Widow spotted kissing an unknown Woman in Budapest. 

Black Widow getting cosy with a local in Budapest. 

Yelena not only sent screenshots of the headlines of the articles to her sister but she also sent the blurry photo that showed you and the redhead kissing in the middle of the crowd. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today 12:44 PM When are you off work? 

Today 2:16 PM At 4pm, why? 

Today 2:17 PM I'll be waiting for you at your apartment then. Need to talk to you as soon as possible. 

Her text seemed very urgent to you, it  confused you to why she needed to talk to you asap. The curiosity was killing you especially because you couldn't just call her to ask what was up. You were still at work, you had your break a little before Natasha first wrote so there was no way you were able to get another one. For the remaining two hours you were plagued by wondering what Natasha wanted to talk about. It made you incredible nervous when you saw that she wasn't standing in front of your door. You quickly unlocked your door and went inside. Natasha was pacing around your open living room and only stopped after the sound of a door closing. She quickly shoved her phone into your hands, the chat with Yelena was open - you noticed the tiny heart behind your name, the blurry photo of you together was the first of the many screenshots Yelena sent Natasha. You had to admit that the photo was pretty cute and made you feel all warm inside but that was before reading the countless headlines.

"I thought we were safe yesterday!" She started pacing again. The frustration on her face was something you noticed instantly. You stood there nervous, not knowing how to feel about everything. There weren't paparazzi's here so you should still be safe in a way. 

"Nat look, we tried our best among the thousands of people that were on the streets. I know it only took one to recognize you but we are still lucky that the photo is very blurry to even make out my face." You tried to see the positive side of the situation. "And now when we go outside together then well I guess I have to wear a cap and sunglasses too. But I don't mind that as long as I'll have you."

She stopped in her tracks as she needed to be still in order to analyzing your face. The sigh you heard from her sounded defeated, you can only imagine what she must be feeling like. "I don't want you to hide yourself just to be with me but if that's the only way not to drag you into this public shit.. god this is so fucked up!"

"We just have to lay low for the next couple of days. And after that we just need a cover."

"What if I cut and die my hair?" 

"W-what?" You wouldn't mind seeing a new hairstyle on her but it still shocked you. 

"Nobody would recognize me of I cut my hair short and die it blonde. I always wanted to try it out and this is the perfect opportunity for it."

"Are you sure Natasha?" She nodded. "Okay uhh one of my co-worker's husband a hairdresser. They're both always discreet with things. I could ask her tomorrow at work." 

"You'd really do that?" You nodded. "Then yes please ask her." She walked over to you and gave you a kiss. "Thank you." Once again you only nodded your head. Suddenly your stomach grumbled loudly, you had yet to eat something before starting dinner. Natasha playfully scolded you for not having eaten yet. You then took an apple and ate it in front of her. "Do you want to stay for dinner?" She hesitantly agreed your invitation. "Okay good. I need to go to the grocery store though. Wanna stay here or come with me?" 

"I think it's best to stay, if that's alright with you?" You assured her that it was fine and to make herself feel at home. Grocery shopping didn't take long but you came back to Natasha sitting in your reading chair with your fluffy blanket and a book in her hand. A cup of hot coffee or tea and a lit candle were on the small wooden table next to her. The sight of her melted your heart and since it seemed like she hadn't heard you coming in, you took the chance to secretly take a photo of her. After looking if the photo came out good you proceeded putting all the groceries in the kitchen.  

Then you were leaning against your bookcase that was near her. "How's the book?" You asked softly, not wanting to startle her. She immediately put a piece of paper in the book and closed it. "It's amazing." Her attention was fully on you. 

You smiled at her answer. "I'm glad to hear it. That's one of my favorites." 

"I figured." She replied. "You have a lot of different editions of the book and you even put those post it notes in it." She pointed to the colorful index makers you had put in it. And since you loved annotating every book you read, you had your stuff for that in a small box on your shelf. 

"I'm usually very picky and cautious of giving other people my books but if you're certain that you want to finish the book then I'll even allow you to annotate it too." You came closer and pointed to the markers. She was thinking about it before something else came to her mind. Natasha decided to snatch your hand and pulled you onto her lap. She then gently put the book onto the table. "I might want to finish something else first." The woman told you as she leaned towards your face. 

"Something or someone?" You asked while watching her eye movement closely. She sighed and rested her forehead against yours. "You're driving me crazy."

"What if we just decide to have sex?" You asked boldly. "I mean we're both adults with clear conscious of what we'd do. We also went on a date already.. so what do you say?" She sighed. "I don't want your first time to be rushed. I'm afraid that one day you'll regret losing your virginity to me." Her concern was heart warming and instead of answering as softly as her you needed to make it more jokingly. "Aren't first times always something you regret?" You raised your brow. 

"Let's wait and see if you still find me attractive with short and dyed hair." She countered back. You gave her a sad smile. "Not gonna lie, I'll miss your red hair." You rested your arms on her shoulders and put your hands in the nape of her neck playing with her hair. "I definitely need a photo of us where you still have your red hair."

"You have that paparazzi or rather fan photo." That was true but it wasn't the same. "But it doesn't show my pretty side." You pouted. 

"You have a pretty side? Since when?" She joked. You put your hand over your heart. "Man this is cruel. My confidence took a hard hit from your words."

"Let me make it up to you with a kiss." She said before she kissed you gently.

"I need more than one kiss." She was about to kiss you again when your stomach announced itself. You kissed her quickly before standing up. "Apparently my body need me more than I need kisses. Sorry! I really should start dinner." 

"Now this is what you call cruel." She groaned while you giggled. 

Natasha went back to reading as you cooked dinner. You did a simple creamy tuscan chicken pasta for her. If you had more time you would have made Csirke Paprikás (Chicken Paprikash) but the spaetzle for that dish take a while to make. Maybe you could invite her to stay over the weekend and surprise her with the delicious food. 

When you were finished cooking, you set the table and called Natasha to come. Both of you made light conversation over the food that the redhead seemed to love. As it was getting later she said her goodbyes and thanked you again for dinner. For the first time in a long time you slept like a rock that night.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next day around 12 pm Natasha received a text message from you, telling her that the hairdresser husband had some free time and could squeeze the redhead in if she was sure to really cut and dye her hair. 

Natasha was very conflicted if she really should do it but she knew she had to choose quick so she didn't think about it too long before she texted you her answer.

Cancel it. I have a better idea. 

You didn't hear another word from her that day and half of the following day. Shortly after she knew your work day were over she asked via text message if she could come over. You texted her back, saying she was welcome anytime. So it wasn't a surprise to see her in your apartment when you arrived home. "How'd get in?" You asked her as you studied Natasha. She still had her red hair and it was also still the same length as before. 

"Picked your lock." Then she shrugged like it was nothing. You closed the door behind you before taking off your shoes and walking further in the room. "I need to buy a better lock then. So.. you haven't changed your hair."

She hummed and nodded in agreement. With slow but steady steps she was quick to be right in front of you. "Something constantly reminded me the sad and longing expression you had on your when I said I'd change it up." That was only part of the whole truth. She couldn't never admit the other part out loud. She'd come off too strong otherwise. 

"You should do what feels right for you and not get influenced by others." You told her. "Though I'm actually a tiny bit glad you're still a redhead."

"You sure are into redheads huh?" You blushed deeply since she was spot on. "I'm flattered." 

"Y-you're flattered? When you look like that." You looked up and down her whole figure. "Like a  - like a literal goddess and I look like a potato!" She leaned towards your ear, feeling the hot air that was her breath, it gave you goosebumps and as soon as her raspy voice hit your eardrums you got weak in the knees. "Potatoes might look average to some people but once you change them into fries, those 'potatoes' are suddenly pretty popular."

"You're seriously comparing this with actual potatoes??" She nodded. "Yeah why not?"

"Because that doesn't make me feel less flustered." You admitted quietly while she smirked at your confession. "Oh my, Y/N does this little teasing actually turn you on?" 

"How couldn't it? I mean with a voice like yours..! Anyways -" You tried to change the direction of the conversation but she cut you off. "No, no don't change the topic on me now this is too interesting. Tell me, what are things that turn you on?"

"You can't be serious Nat."

"Do I look like I'm kidding?" She looked so serious that it kinda frightened you. "I uhh-" Your brain was empty, you didn't come up with anything. "You put me on the spot and now I can't think of anything!" Natasha giggled, she loved the affect she had on you. "Enough about me, what is something that turns you on?"

"The other person being dominant especially in a domestic environment. And when someone plays with my hair." She clears her throat and looked away after she said the last sentence. The woman had said the other reason that she swore she wouldn't admit out loud of why she did not cut her hair cut. You gasped as you realized exactly that. "I guess there are more things but I-" You cut her off with a short unexpected kiss. Natasha thought she'd be embarrassed after admitting something so personal but she didn't feel that way. It was because you didn't judge her, there was no need for judgement in your eyes. She leaned her forehead against yours as she took in the needed comfort you gave her. You saw her relaxing even more when your arms went around her shoulder and your fingers curled in her hair. "I guess your voice is the biggest turn on for me. The different tones of your voice when you talk, especially your teasing voice has just something.. I don't know how to explain it but let's just say the range of your voice is sexy as fuck. But don't get me wrong, I can and do appreciate your voice simply as it is without getting turned on! I don't want you to think that I sexualize anything you do or say." 

"Thank you for being honest and treating me like I'm human." With the way she talked you assumed that most people didn't treat her well and that broke your heart. You were lucky that people weren't cat calling you on streets so you can only imagine how much worse it must be for women who are as stunning as Natasha and also who were in the public eye constantly. "Fuck everyone who doesn't treat you like human! You are not a puppet, you are not a robot or some toy to be played with! You and every other single woman are human beings that simply should be treated like any other human being." You took a deep breath to calm you down. "The idea that just popped into my head is ridiculous. I wanted to show you how you should be treated.. with sex but that's not the only way to demonstrate being treated right or be intimate with one another. So my dear Natasha Romanoff, what does your heart desire? Do you like flowers? Chocolate? Or books? Some people like CD's and Vinyls better. I'd even buy jewelry if you're into that? I'd even make those self made 'friendship' bracelets for us even though I don't have patience for that type of stuff."

"Your consideration is very heart warming Y/N." You felt her playing with the hem of your shirt. It made you think that she was a bit nervous. "I honestly don't know if I like to be showered with so much affection. I had a rough childhood with a much more difficult teenage hood so maybe a hug is all I need right now."

And so you hugged her for a long time. Turned out you needed a hug as badly as she did too. After a while you both moved to the couch and cuddled. At some point though you had the urge to hold Natasha in a spooning position. She agreed when you asked if it were possible to spoon for some minutes. Those few minutes turned into 30 minutes of enjoying each other's closeness. That half an hour was intimate and it somewhat bonded you both in a way you couldn't describe. "Are you ready to get up?" You asked as you planted a kiss on her shoulder. She turned her head as much as she could towards you. "5 more minutes?" You nodded and quickly stole a kiss from her. "I hope you don't mind me stealing so many kisses from you. Also in those five minutes you requested, could be switch positions? I wanna be hold by you now." You pouted with your mouth like a little puppy. 

"Your kisses are always unexpected but I let it slide since they're nice." She then turned her body with her hands on you, ushering you to do the same. You groaned at the sudden warmth change but turned around anyways. The arm that was looped around your waist had a nice comfortable weight and you almost didn't want to change that if you hadn't schemed another plan already. You wanted her hand to rest somewhere else, somewhere where it'd be more cozy, and that would be your boobs. You grabbed her hand and lead it up your t-shirt until the palm of her hand was touching your breasts. "This is so much better." It was the only thing you said. Not even a minute later, you felt soft pressure as she had started to groped your boob gently. The bra you wore was holding back a lot but from everything that you did feel was simply heavenly. "If only I were naked." You uttered the words with an almost inaudible moan. To tease you even further Natasha began to leave warm - nearly wet kisses on your neck. "Oh fuck, don't stop please." The pleading was now turning on the redhead. She never thought that being a little submissive would be so sexy. "Sweet Jesus I'm in heaven."

"We've barely even started yet Detka and you're acting all on edge already." She mused. You groaned again but this time at the little embarrassment you felt. "It was one moan! Don't judge me for something you are doing to me." The redhead grinned then dove back into kissing you. She lulled a few more moans out of you before she stopped. "The 5 minutes are over. Let's get our butts up and do something productive."

"If your 'productive' isn't making sweet love in the bedroom then no thank you." 

"Do you own a strap on or a vibrator?" You shook you head. "Then we won't make sweet love in your bedroom."

"Why are you trying to find an excuse right now? You of all people know that we don't need that to have fun. You have ten wonderful functioning fingers and big mouth to use. Not only that but scissoring, tight riding, abs riding exist."

The Widow looked embarrassed to the ground while trying to find the courage to tell you the truth. She huffed before speaking up. "I have scars." 

"Scars? That's it? Wow that makes you really so inhuman I'm scared." You joked which you then realized was the false move since you saw Natasha visibly tense. "I'm- I'm sorry. I don't know why I said that. Look, we all have scars. Either visible ones or hidden inside of us but those just show us how human we are, that we're not invincible." You took her hands into your. "Nat, having scars doesn't mean you're damaged or ugly. It means you survived the worst and shows how strong you are. And besides the point, I find scars so incredible sexy that I'd fall to my knees and worship every little one you have." She smiled at that before her lips crashed into yours. Hot and wet kisses were happening followed by a swift move of her lifting you up by your ass that got you wrapping your legs around her waist. Before you even knew it your back hit the mattress and your hands were pinned above your head. Her mouth wandered around your whole body, later followed by her hands that left not spot undiscovered. 

Taglist: @dcrogoy , @arcturusseer , @comet-forgot-you , @arualdcg , @kksalexa , @imnatobsessed , @presser24 , @jasminerose28 , @wannabe-fic-reader , @lonewalker17 , @mrsrushman , @ctrlamira , @red1culous , @alianovnasposts

#natasha romanoff x reader #black widow x reader #natasha romanoff #black widow #natasha romanoff x you #black widow x you #natasha romanoff x fem!reader #black widow x fem!reader #natasha romanoff x female reader #black widow x female reader

[sara-scribbles]

Melting the Dragon King’s Heart (Part 2)

Fandom: Twisted Wonderland Malleus Draconia/F!Reader Summary: After falling down some stairs, you wake up in the body of a villain from one of Idia's cheesy romance books. Destined to die a fiery death, you have to figure out a way to change your fate. Word Count: 8,000 Notes: I decided to split this part into two. The original is about 11k words and counting. This way I can work on the final part but also provide everyone with something. Reader uses she/her pronouns Warnings: Physical abuse, emotional abuse

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

After revising the proposal and sending along the messengers, you spent a lot of time filling out paperwork. Malleus seemed to trust you to do more, so you found yourself given more work. Though you’re glad he trusts you more, you hate all the new work.

Because of all the work, you’re unable to do much besides hole up in the office. Thankfully Diablo is always there to bring snacks and remind you of the time. You often get lost in the paperwork and forget to do the basic necessities such as eating dinner. Malleus is always happy to answer any questions you have, and having his office across the way is very handy.

It’s a few weeks later that you notice the castle is abuzz with more activity than usual. You can hear everyone rushing back and forth while signing off on a few things. You can see staff rush by with vases, flowers and linen. 

“Diablo, what’s going on?” you ask the butler, who places a new cup of tea down.

“The palace is preparing for his highness’s birthday,” he informs you. “It is a national holiday so Briar Valley throws a party for the citizens. There’s also a ball that is hosted in his honor where we invite the surrounding kingdoms. This year's theme is a masquerade.”

You had completely forgotten about his birthday. Setting aside your work, you lean forward on your elbow while strumming your fingers on the desk. “What should I get him as a gift?” you muse aloud.

Glancing over at the butler, he pretends to stare straight ahead. After a moment, he sighs before shaking his head. “I apologize, your highness, but I do not think I should tell you what to get his highness.”

“But I don’t really know what he likes…” That’s not completely true, but it would be nice to get something that you know Malleus will like.

“My advice is that as long as the gift has your thoughts and feelings, his majesty will like it.” Diablo bows slightly before leaving.

Letting out a deep sigh, you jot down a list of things you know Malleus likes and dislikes. From your previous conversations, you do know some things. He likes gargoyles, abandoned places, and cold treats. He dislikes whole cakes and gargoyles that serve no function.

“What to get him…” A maid gently raps on the door, disrupting your thoughts.

“I apologize for disturbing your highness, but a letter just arrived.” She hands you the cream colored envelope with a rose wax seal.

Once she leaves, you open the rather thick letter. Reading through it, your eyes slowly widen with each word. Excitement and trepidation fill every fiber in your body. Leaving your study, you make the very quick trip to Malleus’s office next door. Your sudden intrusion startles him from the paper he’s reading.

“He responded!” you exclaim, slapping the letter down on the desk.

He quizzically looks at you before taking the letter. You watch as he quickly scans the contents. “Riddle Rosehearts wants to meet about our proposal,” you explain. “It’s a good sign, right?”

He sets the letter down and nods. “It would seem he wants to iron out the details. I’m surprised he responded so quickly, since I’ve heard he’s the type not to make decisions without careful consideration.” He ponders, “Perhaps he’s been wanting to establish relations with us and this gives him a good excuse.”

“Right! So, when do you want to go?”

“You wish to do this soon?” he asks.

Nodding, you explain, “I think it would be ideal to do this sooner rather than later.”

“Hmm… I have a few meetings to attend with some diplomats from other countries. And then there’s the banquet…” He shifts through a notebook containing his day-to-day schedule. “Maybe we could go… no that won’t work.”

After a while of going through his schedule, he sighs deeply. Brows furrowing, a small frown appears on his lips. “It seems I will be busy for a few months. We may not be able to do this as quickly.”

There’s a pause before you throw out a suggestion. “What if I go and meet with him?”

“Alone?” His frown deepens.

“Yes. I believe I can work on this with him. We won’t sign anything, but it will at least iron out the details.” You want to do this. It’s something you worked on for a while, so it would be nice to be the one to close the deal. And you can’t say you’re not curious to see what the Queendom of Roses is like.

“I know you might be worried about my abilities, but I would like the opportunity to prove myself beyond paperwork and readings.”

Malleus regards you quietly. The frown has left his face but his brows are still creased. “I do not doubt your abilities. I just worry about you being in another country alone.”

A small laugh escapes your lips. His concern for your safety is endearing. “I can bring a guard or two with me, if that will ease your worries,” you quickly add.

That seems to alleviate some of his worry. “Yes, I think that will be fine. When would you like to leave?”

Taking the letter, you fold it back into the envelope. “His highness said he could meet starting next week. How about a week from now? It should give me enough time to send a response back and prepare for the trip.”

“So soon…” he mutters. Letting out a huff, he waves off whatever is concerning him “I will instruct Silver and Sebek to accompany you. Diablo will help you prepare everything else.”

You’re surprised he’s having his two closest knights go with you. “Are you sure? I could take someone else.”

He shakes his head. “These two are one of my most trusted knights, so it would be appropriate that they guard you on your journey.”

Seeing the firm set of his lips, you know not to argue. “Thank you. I will gather some material and start packing.” 

Turning to leave, Malleus calls to you. “How are your parents doing?” he asks suddenly.

You halt, almost stumbling in your steps, before slowly turning toward him. “They’re fine. Why do you ask?”

“I was thinking we can send them an invitation for my birthday ball,” he explains. You can’t read his expression.

Every fiber in your being wants to scream ‘no’ and that you never want to see them. But you know you can’t. You have to keep up appearances for now. “If that’s what you would like, then please invite them,” you respond as calmly as you can.

He’s quiet as he studies you before nodding. “If there is anyone else you want to invite, please let Diablo know. The invitations will go out in about three weeks.” He returns to his papers.

You suddenly have an idea. “Is there anything you want for your birthday?” you inquire, walking over to stand in front of his desk.

“Nothing in particular,” he says, not looking up.

“Really? Nothing at all?” You’re hoping he’d give you some ideas. Buying birthday gifts for Idia was easy since he usually wanted something related to his games or anime.

Malleus finally looks up from his papers. “I’m sure whatever you decide, I will like.”

You resist the urge to groan. “Diablo said something similar, you know…” Placing both hands on his desk, you give him a stern look. “If I give you something you hate, let me know right away. Okay?”

He blinks twice. “I doubt you’d ever give me something I’d hate.” He pauses when he sees the slight turn of your lips. “...but I will let you know if that happens.”

“Great!” Turning on your heel, you leave his office. You miss the smile on his lips as he watches you go with a fond look.

---

The trip to the Queendom of Roses is an uneventful ride. Silver and Sebek do accompany you on horseback. Neither say much so you’re left going over things in your head. You’re not sure how this will go, but can only hope you don’t start a war.

The Queendom is lush and green with picturesque homes. Everything reminds you somewhat of images from the Victorian era. When you arrive at the castle, you’re greeted by the queen’s personal advisor, Trey Clover.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, your highness,” he greets with a deep bow.

Taking his offered hand, you step out of the carriage. “Thank you for having me, Mr. Clover.”

“Please call me Trey. If you’ll follow me, his majesty has prepared some tea.” Silver and Sebek follow a few paces behind as you’re led through the rose garden. Some of the roses, you notice, are white while others are red. And some of the red roses almost look to be dripping in paint.

When you arrive at the heart of the garden maze, you are greeted by the queen himself, Riddle Rosehearts. He’s dressed impeccably, though you wouldn’t expect less from someone who follows rules strictly. Though much shorter than Trey, there’s something about his presence that seems to tower over everyone.

He greets you with a bow. “It’s nice to meet you in person.” He’s polite but firm.

“Thank you for having me.” As you dip into a bow, you can’t help but marvel at his composure. For someone who’s around your age, he carries himself as if he’s much older and wiser.

“Trey, please place her highness across from me,” he orders. Silver and Sebek melt somewhere into the background without a word.

As you take the offered seat, you give him a tentative smile. “You can call me by my name. I’d like to think we’ll be good friends soon.”

He seems to sputter a bit before finding himself. “If you insist. Please just call me Riddle, then.”

As tea is served, you engage in small talk. Though you’re eager to get on to the topic of the proposal, etiquette dictates you share pleasantries. It would be considered rude since the tea and treats were specially prepared. The strawberry tarts are delicious so you don’t really mind.

After enjoying the tea, Riddle wastes no time getting onto the business. “Your proposal is indeed interesting to us, however, I want to ask you something.”

“Go ahead.”

He leans forward, hands propped under his chin. “What would you do if we said no?”

There’s a pause. You hadn’t actually considered they would reject your proposal. After a moment, you carefully choose your words. “I would respect your decision. Ultimately, you do not need to accept the proposal. We are not the type of country to force our will on to another. Though, I do think it would be foolish not to take the deal.”

He gestures for you to explain. “Though the Queendom is rich in crops, you do lack magical resources. As you’re aware, Briar Valley is old and has many deposits of magic, which have been refined into its purest form. I’m sure trading between us would help increase the Queendom’s magical might.”

Riddle leans back as he mulls over your words. Your heart beats rapidly in your chest, wondering what is going through his head. After a few moments, he smiles. “Let us draft up an official agreement, then.”

“You accept?” you ask, a bit surprised considering how serious he had been looking. He almost looked like he was about to reject the offer.

“Yes. I’ve always thought it would be good to become allies with our neighboring countries,” he explains. “I realize we haven’t really interacted in the past, but I hope this will be the start to a good relationship between our kingdoms.”

Relief washes over you. “I agree. I think this will be beneficial to both of us in the long run.” There’s a loud commotion that causes you both to turn and look around. “Is…is everything okay?”

Riddle frowns. “There shouldn’t be any problems… Trey?” The green haired man from before does not appear, which causes Riddle’s frown to deepen.

Then, there’s a loud shout. “Get back here!”

A gray blur bursts through the bushes and makes a beeline toward you and Riddle. A redhead and a brunette follow suit, both looking disheveled. “You can’t be here, Grim!” the brunette shouts.

The gray blur stops short and you realize it’s a cat. A strange cat that can stand on two feet with blue flames coming from its ears. You can’t help but stare as you realize who this cat is. And just as you thought, another person comes through the maze, out of breath. Yūki, the protagonist of ‘Melting the Dragon King’s heart’ and the one who saves Malleus, stands before you.

“Grim! Trey said he’d feed you some tarts later!” Yūki shouts.

“Mrrrawh! I want a tart now!” Grim howls.

Riddle stands up, his chair falling to the ground. His face is bright red. “What do you think you’re doing! We have an important guest and you make a spectacle!”

“Uhh… uh oh!” The cat slinks back at the sudden anger rolling off in waves from Riddle.

The redhead manages to grab Grim by the scruff of his neck. “Gotcha!”

Trey steps in along with Silver and Sebek. “I apologize, Riddle. We weren’t able to catch him.”

You, however, can’t take your eyes off the protagonist. In the books Yūki is a magicless human in a world filled with magic. However, that never stops them from traveling to different places and having adventures with their friend, Grim. It’s during one of their trips that they happen to meet Malleus, and everything else falls into place.

You never thought much about where Yūki’s last adventure was before coming to Briar Valley since the story glossed over everything. But to see them before the start of the novel is strange, yet you’re curious.

Feeling your gaze, Yūki turns to you. Their eyes are bright and filled with wonder. “Hello, your highness.” They bow. “I apologize for interrupting your meeting.” They ignore the others who are still squabbling. Riddle doesn’t look ready to calm down any time soon either.

“It’s nice to meet you…?”

“Yūki! And that,” they point to the cat who’s munching on leftovers, “is Grim. We’re adventures.”

Though you’ve only spoken a few words, you can feel their warmth and sincerity. No wonder they’re able to break the magic on Malleus so easily. They’re like an early spring day coming to thaw the remaining coldness from winter. Ironic, you think.

“An adventure? Where else have you traveled?” you asked, genuinely curious.

“Well, we just came back from visiting the Island of Woe. But we’ve also seen the Shaftlands, Scalding Sands, Coral Sea, and the Sunset Savanna.” They tick off each location on their fingers.

From your memories, you’ve never been anywhere besides your home and then to Briar Valley. The Queendom of Roses is the first place you’ve ever visited. “That’s a lot of places! You must have a lot of fun.”

Yūki chuckles, rubbing the back of their neck. “Yeah… we always manage to get into some kind of trouble, so it’s not that great. I’ve heard Briar Valley is a nice, quaint place…”

“Yes, it’s quiet but the people there are wonderful. You should come visit someday.” The offer is genuine. 

They smile, making their face light up. “We definitely will. I think right now Grim and I are going to rest a bit more here.”

“Is the food good there?” Grim suddenly butts in. There are crumbs all over his mouth, which Yūki begins wiping off with a napkin.

You nod thoughtfully. “I would say so. If you come to visit the castle, I’ll make sure to have our chefs whip up a wonderful meal.” You haven’t had much complaint about the food. Though there are some comfort meals you miss from home.

“Sweet! Let’s go there next, Yūki!” The cat’s eyes light up at the prospect.

They groan while crossing their arms. “I still need time to rest from our last adventure. Anyways, Riddle said we could stay as long as we wanted, which means you’ll have access to unlimited tarts.”

Grim huffs but doesn’t seem too bothered. “I guess you’re right…”

Riddle, having calmed down, sits back in his seat. “I do apologize for the abrupt intrusion from my knights.”

The two who had been trying to catch grim, kneel. “We apologize for intruding, your majesty,” they both say in unison

Trey shakes his head. “Honestly… this is Ace and Deuce. They’re newly appointed knights, so they’re still rough around the edges.”

“I don’t mind. You’re knights are a lively bunch.” The two have the decency to look embarrassed.

“A bit too lively,” Riddle mutters. Letting out a sigh, he gestures to Yūki and Grim. “These two are esteemed guests.”

“That’s right! Me and my henchhuman are super important!” Grim boasts, crossing his short arms while puffing out his chest.

Yūki glances at you with an apology in their eyes. “Don’t go getting a big head, Grim,” they warn jokingly. 

“Too late! His head is already huge,” Ace teases.

“My head’s normal sized!”

You hear Riddle sigh once more as he rubs his temples. It seems any talk about the proposal is over, but you don’t mind. With how lively everyone else is, things are bound to never be boring.

Your gaze once more turns to Yūki. They’re different from what you expect. Seeing them laugh without a care in the world reminds you about something in the book. In the story, Yūki does lament the fact that they won’t be able to travel anymore once they marry Malleus. They put their adventures on hold. You don’t remember the story ever saying that Yūki laughed in such a carefree way.

Meeting your intense stare, they regard you curiously. “Is there something wrong, your highness?”

You wave them off. “No. It just seems like you’re really close with everyone here…”

They nod eagerly. “The thing about adventuring is that you meet people from different backgrounds and walks of life. I enjoy adventuring for that very reason. I guess I can’t imagine staying in one place for too long when there’s places I still haven’t seen.”

“So, would you want to adventure your whole life?”

“Yes, that’s the goal!” Their grin is infectious. 

As Deuce and Ace draw their attention away, you find yourself thinking. Seeing an enthusiastic Yūki and Grim compared to the more subdued versions in the story is so jarring. It’s almost like once the events of the story happen, all of Yūki’s personal dreams and goals get pushed to the back. 

By now you’ve accepted your life as the queen. And perhaps with you here, the story has changed. Perhaps you don’t have to follow the story in order to live. A very selfish part of you doesn’t want to leave Briar Valley like you had originally planned. And maybe that’s okay.

As you watch the two adventures talk animatedly, you make a decision. You’ll figure out how to stop your parents your own way.

---

Returning to Briar Valley after a few days away, something has changed. It seems like Malleus has started following you around more. The moment you stepped out of the carriage, Malleus was there to greet you, which you thought was sweet. However, he’s started coming into your office for nothing in particular. He’ll sit in one of your chairs pretending to read whatever papers or book he’s brought with him. You can often feel him hovering, gaze following your every move. It’s like he’s watching and waiting for something to happen. 

It’s much like how your parents were always watching you, and if they couldn’t monitor you, they had one of the maids do it. Like a bug under the microscope, you never had peace to yourself until you slept. By then, you were too tired to do anything more than just sleep.

It’s starting to get on your nerves. When you ask him what he wants, he simply says he doesn’t want anything. But you can tell he wants something! But he won’t tell you!

SNAP!

You blink as you stare down at the now broken pen in your hands. Black ink oozes out and drips onto the paper you were working on. Malleus immediately perks up from his spot across from your desk.

“Is everything alright?”

Letting out a long breath through your nose, you summon some magic to clean up the mess on your hand. The broken pen is tossed in the trash. “I’m fine,” you mutter, not looking up.

There’s a pause though you can feel him staring once more. Finding your spare pen, you crumble up the ruined papers. “It seems you’re upset,” he muses. “Is there anything I can do for you?”

“No,” you reply curtly.

Perhaps your tone is a bit too icy because when you look up, you can see the hurt in his gaze. Sighing, you lean forward and cover your face. “I… I didn’t mean to be snappy with you, Malleus. …Why are you hovering so much?”

There’s silence before he answers, “I missed you. Lilia said that if I missed you, I should spend more time with you.”

Looking up once more, you’re not sure what to say. You let out a dry chuckle. “I see… If you want to spend time together, just let me know. I don’t mind spending time together, I just don’t like you hovering.”

“I didn’t realize. I’m sorry,” he apologizes sincerely.

“I’m sorry too for not communicating with you better about this.” You sit back, body suddenly feeling tired. “I’ve spent a lot of my life being watched, and it wasn’t pleasant. I want to spend more time with you, but not like this.”

You glance at him tiredly. There’s a harshness in his gaze but it vanishes too quickly for you to fully understand. “I apologize for making you uncomfortable. It was never my intention.” He lowers his head, his lips are pressed in a firm line.

“I know.” He would never do anything to intentionally hurt you.

“Do you want to take a walk in the gardens?” he asks suddenly.

A break would do you some good. Following Malleus to the gardens, you stroll through the roses. Though the Queendom had lovely roses, there’s something about these roses that you like more.

He leads you to the center of the garden where you sit. You lean against his side, eyes closed, enjoying the fresh air. Malleus traces patterns on the palm of your hand. You sit like that for a while before Malleus breaks the silence.

“While you were away, I walked into your office wanting to see you. It made me realize how little time we spend together outside of our work. I’d like to spend more time with you doing things like this,” he admits.

You hum in agreement. “I’m always open to spending time together.”

Malleus weaves your fingers together with his. “Even if we don’t do anything?”

“Yes. Sitting here and enjoying each others’ company is enough.” Opening your eyes, you smile back at him. “I prefer this over you hovering.”

He nods. “I will keep that in mind. Perhaps next time I should be more clear with Lilia on my question…”

“Or you could ask me. Why not go to the source?” you suggest. It’ll save you from any miscommunication.

“Alright. I’ll come to you if I have any questions or concerns.” He chuckles as he squeezes your hand.

There’s a pause before you ask a question that’s been plaguing your mind for a while. “Why did you marry me? I don’t come from a country that can offer much, so it’s not like Briar Valley gained anything.”

Pulling away slightly, his brows crease. “Did your parents not tell you of the deal?”

“No. They just told me it was an honor to be marrying you.” They had told you nothing beyond that you were to marry a complete stranger. The glee in their gazes as they concocted their scheme to take over Briar Valley remains fresh in your mind.

He mutters something under his breath before shaking his head. “One of your ancestors from long ago sought out my grandmother for a blessing. Apparently their land was on the verge of collapse and my grandmother offered to bless the land once more. In exchange, they or their descendants would have to marry off their first born to her grandson. I wasn’t born then, but it seems grandmother already knew I would be eventually.”

You slowly process the information. “So essentially, it was just timing that it happened to be me?”

“My grandmother never really explained but when the time came, she told me I’d be marrying you.” He runs his thumb over your knuckles. “But I am glad it was you that I married.”

Your face warms as he gazes at you sincerely. “I’m glad too,” you manage to sputter out. Sometimes Malleus can say the sappiest things with a straight face. Yet, you know he’s always true to his feelings. It never fails to make your heart flutter.

Your gaze drops to his lips and stays there for a bit longer than you mean. You haven’t kissed him, and now you’re wondering how it would feel. You wonder if he would be a gentle kisser or would he bite at your lips with his sharp fangs. You wouldn’t mind either way…

Feeling your face warm at the sudden thoughts, you realize that Malleus has shifted a bit closer. Peering back at him, he watches you with half-lidded eyes. His usual bright eyes are dark with swirling emotions.

“Malleus…?” Your voice is barely a whisper.

He reaches up to stroke the right side of your face. He traces the curve of your jaw before gently grasping your chin. There’s a fire burning in his gaze as he leans closer. You stay completely still, barely daring to breathe.

His lips are inches away from you before he asks, “Can I?” His gaze flickers to meet yours.

You nod wordlessly and he-

“KING MALLEUS!” The voice that echoes through the garden causes you to jerk back in surprise. You almost stumble off the bench if not for Malleus’s quick reflexes as he steady’s you with a hand to the small of your back.

“Sebek, I don’t think you need to yell so loudly,” another voice admonishes with little heat.

Nervously clearing your throat, you quickly stand up. “Looks like your knights are looking for you.”

Warily turning in the direction of where the voices are coming from, his eyes narrow. “It would seem so.” He hands clench and unclench a few times before he stands. “I should go see what they want…”

“Right… See you later!” You make haste to leave before he can say anything else. You rush past Silver and Sebek on your way out of the garden.

“Your highness?” Silver calls to you, but you’re too busy running away to stop.

Face still warm, you can’t get the image out of your head. The way Malleus looked at you was like he wished to devour you whole. And you wouldn’t have minded.

---

The birthday party is as lavish as you could have imagined. A full orchestra plays music while guests mingle, eat food and dance. As guests arrive, they each approach Malleus to wish him a happy birthday. Presents are left in a different room as they’ll be opened later. Standing beside Malleus, you can feel your mouth aching as you politely smile at everyone that comes over. 

Speaking of the birthday boy, he’s dressed impeccably in black silk accented by silver thread embroidery. His black mask is much like your own except the gems match the color of your eyes. His hair is slicked back though there are still a few stubborn strands that refuse to stay put. You can understand why he’s the love interest with how beautiful he is. Your heart did a weird flip when you saw him before the party.

“Are you alright?” Malleus asks once another guest leaves.

Meeting his gaze, you give a tired nod. “I didn’t realize how strenuous just greeting people can be.” From what you could remember, no one ever approached. You spent most parties trying to melt into the wall. 

His lips turn slightly down in a frown. “You may rest if you wish. I can handle the guests.”

Shaking your head, you chuckle. “I’ll be fine. It seems like there aren’t too many more people coming.”

“If you’re sure…” He trails off as another guest arrives. This time, you recognize the guest as none other than the ruler of the Queendom of Roses, Riddle Rosehearts.

“Happy birthday and thank you for inviting me,” Riddle says, inclining his head in greeting. You admire the vibrant red mask he has. The design incorporates a subtle rose pattern.

Malleus greets him just as politely. “Thank you for coming, Rosehearts. We are both glad you’re able to come.”

With how many times he’s said the same thing, you can repeat everything word for word. “Is Yūki and Grim here?” you ask.

He shakes his head. “They went to the Coral Sea for something. They should be back in a week or so.”

“Oh…” You did want to speak with Yūki a bit more. You wanted to hear more about their adventures.

Riddle pauses as if wanting to say more. He shakes his head. “This is a celebration, so I will not bring up business. But perhaps we can meet again sometime. I’ll be in Briar Valley for a few more days.”

Nodding, you gesture for Diablo, who stands a bit away. His sharp eyes never miss anything. “Diablo, please discuss with his majesty when we can meet.”

“Of course, your grace.” To Riddle, he bows. “Please let me know when you would like to discuss scheduling, your highness.”

The redhead nods. “I’ll have one of my men reach out.” He turns to you with a smile. “It’s nice to see you again.”

As Riddle leaves, Malleus shifts closer to you. “It seems that the agreement with the Queendom is going smoothly.”

“Yes. Riddle Rosehearts is fair but has a firm hand.” He has his eccentricities, but from your conversations, he’s a good ruler. From the rumors you heard while in the Queendom, he’s loosened up a bit from when he first ascended the throne.

“You should come next time we’re invited to the Queendom of Roses,” you continue. “It’s a lovely place and so vibrant.”

“Do you prefer the Queendom to Briar Valley?” Malleus asks. The way he’s looking at you, you can almost hear sad puppy dog whines.

Biting your cheek to keep from laughing, you shake your head. “Of course not. The Queendom is different from Briar Valley. But Briar Valley will always be home because the people I care about are here.” And that’s the truth. You’ve come to like the people in Briar Valley. And though you won’t admit it aloud, you’ve come to like Malleus a lot more.

Before he can say anything else, a voice that sends chills down your spine breaks in. “Happy birthday, our dear son-in-law.” 

Malleus turns to greet your parents as you try to contain your fear. Though you’ve only experienced them through old memories, your body involuntarily stiffens as you try to hide your shaking hands by clasping them behind your back.

“Duke and Duchess Wynters, thank you for coming,” you hear Malleus say. However, his voice becomes muffled as those old memories try to resurface. To outsiders, they look like a sweet older couple.

However, you know the truth. Their eyes are too cold. Their smiles filled with malice. Their hands are covered in your blood and the blood of others. Their hearts are darker than any ink and colder than ice. You force the memories that are trying to surface and adopt a neutral expression. You’re glad for once that you have a good poker face.

When you meet your father’s eyes, you almost forget to breathe. “Dear?” The sickeningly sweet way your mother calls to you fills your mouth with bile.

You managed to force a smile. “Mother, father, I’m glad you could make it.” As much as you didn’t want to, it would look suspicious if they weren’t invited.

“How could we miss our dear son-in-law’s birthday?” she chortles. “And we miss having you home. You haven’t been home at all since you got married. Your father and I are starting to think you don’t want to see us anymore.” She feigns hurt, but you know the truth.

You bow your head slightly. “I’m sorry. I’ve been so busy with everything that I didn’t realize how much time has passed. I promise to visit soon.”

“You should come too, Malleus,” your father says. “We’d be all too happy to host you for a few days.”

Digging your nails into the palm of your hand, you gently touch Malleus’s arm. “I think I will check in with Diablo,” you murmur.

Malleus nods though there’s worry in his eyes. “Of course. I will see you later.”

“Father, mother, if you’ll excuse me.” You force yourself to walk even though every fiber of your being wants to run.

When you’re out of their line of sight, you head outside to the garden. More guests mingle in the rose garden. Floating lights illuminate the garden making everything seem almost dream-like. Feeling the cool night air on your skin, you let out a big breath. The anxiety is still there, but at least you no longer feel like throwing up.

You didn’t think you’d have such a reaction to meeting the parents. You had memories, so you knew about the vile things they did to their own child. Yet, you had thought since you hadn’t seen them in awhile, things would be fine. But the moment you heard their voices, you lost all control.

Wandering away from the guests, you find a secluded area of the gardens. It’s quiet though the music from inside drifts faintly by. Taking off the mask, you breathe deeply for a bit. If you can avoid them for the rest of the party, you should be fine.

After a few more minutes alone, you decide to return. However as you turn to go back, something catches your eye. In the low light, it looks to be a rope of sorts. You reach down to pick it up but when your hand brushes against the rope, it moves.

You let out a startled gasp as a voice from the bushes grumbles, “You’re either brave or a fool for trying to touch my tail.”

The bushes rustle before a figure sits up. You stare wide eyed at the sleepy-eyed guest. His cat-like ears twitch as he regards you with annoyance. “Are ya gonna just stare at me with that stupid look on your face or apologize?” He glares at you as he pulls himself up and out of the bushes. His mask is nowhere to be seen.

Finding your words, you raise an eyebrow. “Well if you didn’t just leave your tail hanging around, I wouldn’t have mistaken it for something else. Maybe don’t go napping in other people’s bushes,” you bite back.

His eyebrow twitches but you can see the way his emerald green eyes light up. “Heh… you’re a brave one to be speakin’ to me like this.”

Standing up straight, you regard him coolly. “You speak so freely for being one of my husband’s guests, Prince Leona.” 

You remember him now as he came with King Falena of the Sunset Savanna. He barely gave Malleus a glance before stalking off, though his nephew immediately ran after him. You’re pretty sure he didn’t even notice you as he seemed to want to get away as quickly as possible. You had read about Beastmen in the books, but this is your first time meeting them.

Leona was decked out in brightly patterned material that showed off both his lean physique and the wealth of the nation. The deep reds and turquoise complemented the gold mask that hung at his hip.

He scratches his ear nonchalantly. “So, you’re the one married to the lizard. Huh… you’re not what I expected.”

“And what did you expect?” You tilt your head to the side. He has a few leaves still stuck in his hair. Your hand twitches but you resist the urge to remove them.

He smirks. “A weak little herbivore. But it seems you actually have a spine.”

You feel your own eye twitch and his smirk grows wider. “So, what were you doing in the bushes?” you ask, changing the subject before you decide to do something un-royalty like.

Yawning, Leona stretches. “I was trying to take a nap.” He notices you’re staring at him intensely. “What are you looking at?”

Pointing to your head, you gesture around. “You have some leaves stuck in your hair.” He lazily swipes at his head but it does absolutely nothing. “No, you missed! No, no, a little more to the left.”

Grunting, he gives up. “Why do you take them off for me, huh?” He leans closer with a wicked glint in his eyes.

“Honestly…” You know you shouldn’t since you’re a queen and all, but the leaves are bothering you. Reaching up, you gently pick the leaves out of his hair. His hair is surprisingly soft to the touch. “Done!”

Looking up, his face is much too close. “Thanks, herbivore.” Your cheeks suddenly feel warm as his gaze doesn’t leave your face. His eyes are hooded as he watched you like you’re some kind of prey.

“…”

“There you are.” Whatever spell Leona had you under breaks as Malleus steps forward. You move away to a more respectable distance from the second prince.

The look on Leona’s face could kill a man. He scowls as Malleus places his hands on your shoulder. “Kingscholar, it’s nice to see you again.”

Leona mutters, “Whatever. I’m heading back inside.” He walks off without another word. Seems he can’t stand being in Malleus’s presence for even a second.

“He left in a hurry,”  Malleus muses.

Taking Malleus’s hand, you ask, “Did you need something?”

“I was just wondering where you wandered off to.” He glances at the direction Leona left. “You seemed to be very close to Kingscholar…”

“I found him napping in the bushes. He had some leaves in his hair, so I was just helping him get them out.” You chuckle when you notice the slight pout on his lips.

“Hmm… I see.” Sometimes he can be quite childish.

Deciding to distract him, you lead him to a back entrance to the palace. “I know it’s early, but I do have a birthday gift I wanted to give you.”

That perks him up. “You didn’t have to get me anything.”

“Of course I have to. And since you weren’t much help in figuring out what to get you, I had to do a lot of thinking.” You lead him to the kitchen, which is empty. “Stay there.” Finding what you’re looking for, you bring over a plate that holds a miniature cake.

He stares at the cake. “...”

Slicing the cake in half, you hand him a fork. “Just try it.”

Malleus hesitantly takes a piece. You watch as his confused expression melts into shock. “Ice cream?!”

Grinning, you nod vigorously. “Yup! It’s an ice cream cake. The pastry chef helped me make it since I’ve never done it before. It took a few tries but we got it eventually. I used some ice magic to keep it from melting.”

He chuckles as he sets his fork down. “You know I don’t like whole cakes, but you played quite a trick on me.”

Taking a bite of your own slice, you’re surprised how tasty it actually is.  “I thought a small one wouldn’t be so bad, and one filled with ice cream sounds even better. You don’t have to eat cake alone, Malleus.” You set the plate down on the table. “You have Lilia and your retainers. You have Diablo and the rest of the staff, who would love to share with you. And you have me.”

Reaching for his hand, you give it a gentle squeeze. He leans forward pressing his forehead against yours. “Thank you for the present. And thank you for being here with me.”

You recall your almost kiss in the gardens two weeks ago. Not quite brave enough, you gently grasp either side of his face. Moving back, you meet his tender gaze. You press a kiss to his forehead; his breath hitches. The scale markings on his forehead are cool to the touch. Pulling away, you watch as the apples of his cheeks slowly turn red. It spreads to his ears as he stands there frozen.

He doesn’t speak and you wonder if you broke him. “Malleus?”

Blinking a few times, the red has faded away. It’s honestly cute how the tips of his ears are still red. “Can I…can I kiss you?” he asks.

Heart thumping in your chest, you nod. No interruption this time.

You move your arms to drape around his shoulders as he grasps the side of your face. Leaning closer, you admire his long lashes. Closing your eyes, you feel his lips brush against your like a whisper. Then a little more firmly. His lips glide against yours in a sweet and hesitant kiss. He smells like magic, old parchment, and ink. He spends so much time working, you’re not surprised the smell has seeped into his very being.

He pulls away all too soon. He stares at you with the same look as in the gardens. He wants to swallow you whole. His hands have drifted to your waist as he hesitates to make another move. 

You’re not quite done with him. “Come here,” you mumble before dragging him back for a better kiss.

You lead him in the kiss. It’s not hesitant as your mouth moves against his. You nibble at his lower lip before giving him a nice, sharp bite. He grunts before you soothe the sting with your tongue. His body shudders. You slip your tongue into his mouth causing his grip on your waist to tighten. Your fingers play the hair at the nape of his neck, twirling the strands around your finger and gently tugging. Your heart feels like it's going to beat out of your chest as your lungs beg for air.

Finally, you pull away with a gasp. Your face feels hot. He breathes heavily as he holds you flush against his body. Meeting his gaze, his pupils are blown wide. He licks his lips as he regards you. A pleasant shiver runs down your spine when you see his sharp canines glint in the light. You wonder again what it would feel like if he were to bite you.

He leans close again. “Can I have another?” he asks in a hoarse whisper. You’re all too eager to agree.

---

The party goes on long into the early mornings. After your alone time with Malleus, you both returned hand-in-hand. Thankfully it seems the guests are all too tipsy to even notice the birthday boy had disappeared. Only Sebek, Silver and Lilia notice. The green haired half-fae frets over where his master went. Lilia has a devilish smile on his lips while he gives you both a knowing look.

Malleus bids the guests goodnight, though the party continues. You’re about to follow when your parents stop you. Your grip on Malleus’s hand tightens for a second, but you quickly try to relax. 

You smile as sweetly as possible. “Is there something you need?”

Duke Wynter picks off invisible lint on his jacket. “Your mother and I have something to discuss with you, dear.”

Glancing over at Malleus, you want to tell them to fuck off. However, you know you can’t. “Diablo, can you bring my parents to my study?”

“Of course, your majesty.” 

As he leads them away, you turn to Malleus. “I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Of course.” He leans forward and kisses your forehead. Your face grows warm at the gesture. His eyes sparkle as he smiles, amused. “Goodnight.’’

Letting out a deep sigh, you head to your study. Diablo is there waiting at the door. “You may leave, Diablo.”

“Your grace…?”

“You don’t have to stay. I’m just having a chat with my parents.” You offer a too bright smile.

The old butler hesitates before giving a bow. “As you wish. Goodnight, your highness.”

Stepping into the study, you close the doors. Your parents are busy looking around. Walking over, you square your shoulders. “What did you want to talk about?”

Your body tenses before your brain can process the pain. 

SMACK!

Your mask flies off and clatters to the ground. The force of the backhanded slap causes your ears to ring. The left side of your cheek throbs painfully and a metallic taste fills your mouth. You stare at the ground blankly.

“You idiot!” your father hisses. “What did you tell the king!?”

You count backwards in your head from five before answering, still keeping your eyes on the ground, “I don’t know what you mean, father.”

He scoffs. “The war with the Queendom of Roses! We were supposed to have a war with them!”

You had almost forgotten about that. “I thought that making a deal for resources would be more beneficial. The land would have been otherwise destroyed beyond repair if a war broke out. It would be useless to you, father.”

The man paces back and forth. “We could’ve expanded our territory…”

Your mother’s shoes come into view. She grabs your face, tilting your head up so she can stare into your eyes. She squeezes your cheeks together and digs her nails into your skin. Your cheek hurts even more. “Oh, our silly, dumb child,” she tuts, clicking her tongue. “You don’t need to think. Just do what we have instructed and leave the rest to us.”

Her cold, sharp eyes gaze at you with disgust. She releases her hold. “Come, dear, no need to be agitated. We can always start a war after everything is complete.”

Your father stops pacing and sighs. “You're right.” He glares at you. “Stick to the plan,” he orders. You recoil when his hand raises, but by some miracle he decides not to hit you again.

The two brush past you. “Make you sure you heal that unsightly face,” your mother calls. “We don’t want anyone to get the wrong impression, do we?”

The door to the study opens and then closes with a thud. Staring at the wall, you fall to your knees. Hand resting lightly on your cheek, you run on autopilot as you heal it. There are many memories of something similar to this happening. And each time you’re left to tend to yourself.

You can’t tell Malleus. Not yet. If you reveal your parents’ plans, they’ll make sure to bring you down with them. You’re not sure how Malleus would react if he finds out you were trying to control him. Anyone in their right mind would be upset if they found out the truth. He might be understanding, but you’re pretty sure Lilia and the others wouldn’t be.

And there’s still the issue of the weapon. In the story, your parents find a dagger that can kill anyone, including a being as strong as Malleus. Yūki is able to get their hands on the dagger before it can be used. Yet, the story never explains where or how your parents got this magical dagger. It also glossed over how Yūki was able to get it. You need to find out.

So even as your body shakes, you’re determined to take them down.

Tag list: @candlewitch-cryptic, @whatstheoccasion, @nimko, @yo4sblog, @mc-cos-charm, @mochiclouds, @41sh4

#twst imagines #twisted wonderland #twisted wonderland imagines #malleus Draconia #twst malleus #malleus draconia x f!reader #malleus x f!reader #reader insert #scenario